JP6518224B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a reel-type gaming machine.

In a gaming machine represented by a revolving drum type gaming machine, a numerical value corresponding to the number of gaming media (game medals) inserted and among gaming media acquired and not provided for gaming is electromagnetically A function (storage device) to be stored in is provided, and a numerical value stored by the function is generally referred to as a credit. With this function, the player can use the bet button to sequentially provide game media from among the stored game medals for use in the game.
As a game machine of this type, Patent Document 1 below is exemplified.

  In Patent Document 1, when an operation (settlement operation) of replacing stored credits with a game medium is performed, the player is notified of bonus winning if the bonus winning flag is set internally. A gaming machine is described.

Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2000-5377

  Although the bonus winning notification described in Patent Document 1 is triggered by the player performing the settlement operation by his own intention, it is assumed that the player in this case has the intention to stop the game. Ru. Therefore, depending on the situation in which the player is placed, there is a possibility that the game can not be continued even if the bonus winning is informed. The bonus winning notification in such a situation may rather make the player feel uncomfortable, and it can be said that the bonus winning notification described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and provides a gaming machine which gives a player a higher interest by the effect of suggesting the gaming state.

According to the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine which executes a game using a gaming medium , wherein the start receiving means for receiving a start operation by the player and the player after the start receiving means receives the start operation by the player. The stop accepting means for accepting the stop operation by the player, the plurality of reels which start the rotation upon the start operation by the player and stops the rotation upon the stop operation by the player, the settlement button, and the settlement button. Detection means for detecting depression, storage means for storing gaming media as credits, gaming state control means for shifting to any of a plurality of gaming states, and transition to a special gaming state advantageous to the player a flag control unit to establish a special flag indicating that it is confirmed, the combination of symbols of the plurality of reels is stopped and displayed as a result of the stop is winning If the number of credits stored in the storage means exceeds the upper limit as a result of being determined to be a prize by the display symbol determination means and the display symbol determination means for determining whether or not to be present, the display symbol determination means run the payout process of paid out game media corresponding to the number has exceeded the upper limit from the repository, and, if satisfying the predetermined condition, the game media corresponding to the number of credits being stored prior Symbol storing means wherein the dispensing control means for executing a settlement process to paid out from the storage box, and a storage case determining means for determining whether the game medium has reached or exceeds a predetermined contained in the repository, wherein the predetermined the condition, a first condition that satisfies the depression of the payment button is detected by said detecting means, said special flag by the flag control unit is performed when satisfied The second condition that can be satisfied by a fixed determination is included, and the first condition is a condition that can be satisfied prior to the start operation in a certain game, and from the execution timing of the payout process in that game It is an unsatisfiable condition until the end of the game, and the second condition is an unsatisfiable condition prior to the start operation in a certain game, and from the execution timing of the payout process in the game It is a condition that can be satisfied until the end of the process, and the payout control means is also capable of performing the settlement according to the satisfaction of the second condition even when the settlement process is executed according to the satisfaction of the first condition. Also when the process is performed, the common process is performed, and the determination by the storage determination means is later than the execution timing of the payout process and is performed according to the satisfaction of the second condition. There is provided a gaming machine which is later than the execution timing of the settlement process .

  According to the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine which provides a player with a higher interest by the effect indicating the gaming state.

It is a front view of a game machine. It is a perspective view of the hand area | region II enclosed and shown with a broken line in FIG. It is a figure showing the back of a front door. It is a figure showing a game machine except a front door. It is a figure which shows the electric constitution of a game machine. It is a functional block diagram of a gaming machine. It is a flow chart which shows the main flow concerning the game progress in this embodiment. It is a flow chart which shows the main flow concerning the game progress in this embodiment. It is a flow chart which shows the main flow concerning the game progress in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing flow regarding medal management. It is a flowchart which shows the processing flow regarding medal management. It is a flowchart which shows the processing flow regarding medal management. It is a flow chart which shows the processing flow about settlement-of-accounts processing.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described using the drawings. In all the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.
Unless otherwise noted, the direction shown in the description of the present embodiment is taken as the direction when the player faces the gaming machine 10, that is, the direction in the front view of the gaming machine 10 shown in the figure.
Further, in the following description, it is assumed that the gaming machine 10 is powered on and operates normally unless otherwise noted.

<Overview of the gaming machine 10>
First, an outline of a gaming machine 10 embodying the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 6. FIG.
FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 10.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hand region II shown enclosed by a broken line in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine 10.

  The gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment is a so-called roll-to-roll type gaming machine, and is a gaming machine that executes a game using a game medium (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a medal). The gaming machine 10 includes storage means, gaming state control means, flag control means, and payout control means.

The storage means stores medals as credits.
Here, the storage of medals refers to a function of storing numerical values (credits) corresponding to the number inside a gaming machine instead of part or all of the medals owned by the player.
The storage means in the present embodiment is realized, for example, by the storage control unit 112, and the number of medals stored by the storage control unit 112 is displayed on the storage number display LED 25b.

The gaming state control means shifts one of the plurality of gaming states to any one.
The gaming state control means in the present embodiment is realized by, for example, the gaming state control unit 110.

The flag control means establishes a special flag indicating that the transition to the special game state advantageous to the player is determined.
Here, the special game state is a game state advantageous to the player, and includes the following (A) to (D).
(A) A game state in which the probability of winning is higher than the normal gaming state in the winning combination relating to the winning (so-called regular bonus, bonus game such as big bonus)
(B) A gaming state in which the probability of winning in relation to replay is higher than the normal gaming state (so-called replay time, hereinafter referred to as RT)
(C) A game state in which the frequency of executing effects to notify the player of a specific winning or re-winning game occurrence is increased (so-called assist time, hereinafter referred to as AT)
(D) A game state in which RT and AT are combined and awarded (so-called assist replay time, hereinafter sometimes referred to as ART)
(E) A game state in which the probability of transition from (I) to (D) above is higher than in the normal game state

The flag control unit in the present embodiment is the flag setting unit 130 when the special gaming state is a gaming state (the above-mentioned big bonus, regular bonus) transitioning triggered by a winning flag set by lottery by the internal lottery unit 120. Is realized by
Alternatively, the flag control means in the present embodiment transitions to a gaming state (the above-mentioned AT, RT, ART) triggered by setting of a specific flag different from the winning flag set by the internal lottery unit 120 in the special gaming state. Etc.) is realized by the gaming state control unit 110.

The payout control means automatically reduces the credits stored in the storage means at least in part when the special flag is established, and automatically pays out the medals corresponding to the reduced credits. Run.
Here, “automatically reduce credits” means that credits are reduced regardless of the presence or absence of an operation by a player.
The payout control means in the present embodiment is realized by the payout control unit 111.

As described above, the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment produces an effect that the credit is automatically reduced in at least a part of the setting of the special flag that determines the transition to the special gaming state. Therefore, the player can recognize the transition decision to the special game state with the effect. Since such an effect is novel, it attracts the player's interest strongly.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described in more detail.

<About the structure of the gaming machine 10>
The structure of the gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.
FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 10.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hand region II shown enclosed by a broken line in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a view showing the back of the front door 20. As shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is a view showing the gaming machine 10 with the front door 20 removed.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10. As shown in FIG.

The gaming machine 10 includes a rectangular parallelepiped outer frame 90 having an open front, and a front door 20 pivotally supported to the left edge of the outer frame 90 so as to be pivotable open and closed, and a gaming machine main body 60. .
More specifically, three hinges 96 (96a, 96b, 96c) are provided on the left edge side of the outer frame 90, and the front door 20 is pivotally supported by the upper hinge 96a and the lower hinge 96c, The gaming machine main body 60 is pivotally supported by the upper hinge portion 96a and the middle hinge portion 96b.

On the front side of the front door 20, as shown in FIG. 1 or 2, the upper panel 21, the lower panel 22, the bet button 23, the menu selection button 24, the status display LED 25, and the start lever 26; A stop button 27, a medal insertion slot 31, a settlement button 32, a medal return button 33, a door lock 34, a medal discharge port 35, a decoration LED 36, a lower plate 37 and a speaker port 38 are provided. ing.
Further, as shown in FIG. 3, on the back side of the front door 20, as shown in FIG. A selection button board 46, a medal selector 47, a setting change device 48, a speaker 49, an insertion medal passage 51, a payout medal passage 52, and a return medal passage 53 are provided.
In addition to the front door 20, as shown in FIG. 4, the gaming machine 10 includes a gaming machine main body 60, a power supply 91, a medal storage 93, and a medal auxiliary storage 95. .

In order to open the front door 20, it is necessary to insert a door key (not shown) into the door lock 34 and release a lock mechanism (not shown) for locking the front door 20 and the outer frame 90.
When the front door 20 is opened, a power supply 91 is provided below the gaming machine main body 60, as shown in FIG. The power supply device 91 is a device for supplying electric power to each component of the gaming machine 10, and the operation of the power supply switch 92 controls start and stop.
When playing a game of the gaming machine 10, it is necessary for a person in charge of the hall or the like to operate the power switch 92 to activate the power supply device 91. Preferably, the gaming machine main unit 60 has a function of maintaining the gaming state being executed at the time of power-on even when the power supply from the power supply device 91 is turned off. This is to prevent the player from disappointing, for example, when the power supply is stopped while the game is in progress in the development advantageous to the player as in the bonus game.

Moreover, the setting change apparatus 48 is provided in the back surface side of the front door 20 opened. The setting change device 48 is a device for setting a game setting value, and includes a setting key switch 48a, a setting change switch 48b, a setting display LED 48c, and a setting key cover 48d. The setting key switch 48a can operate the setting change device 48 by inserting and operating a setting key (not shown). The setting change switch 48b is a switch that can be operated in a state in which the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 48a, and when pressed, can change the game setting value. The setting display LED 48c is an LED for displaying the set game setting value, and is a 7-segment display in the present embodiment. The setting key cover 48d is a cover that covers the setting key switch 48a. By sliding the setting key switch 48a to open the setting key switch 48a, the setting key can be inserted into the setting key switch 48a. Note that FIG. 3 illustrates the setting key cover 48d covering the setting key switch 48a.
Here, the game setting value is a value indicating the ease of provision of a benefit (bonus game etc.) advantageous to the player. The higher the value, the easier the benefit is provided, and the lower the value, the less the benefit is provided. Preferably, the setting change device 48 is operated to set the game setting value before starting the game by the game machine 10. This is because when the game setting value is changed, the game state is generally reset.

The front door 20 has an upper panel 21 and a lower panel 22 on the front side.
Since the upper panel 21 is formed of a transparent member, the player located in front of the gaming machine 10 must visually recognize the gaming machine main body 60 disposed on the back side of the upper panel 21 through the upper panel 21. Can.
Further, the lower panel 22 has the model name of the gaming machine 10 and characters relating to the model on the surface thereof, and the model name etc. indicated by the lighting of a back light (not shown) installed at the rear is visually recognized It becomes easy to do.

The gaming machine main body 60 includes main components for controlling the game executed by the gaming machine 10. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, in the gaming machine main body 60, the effect display area 62 is formed on the upper front surface, and the reel frame 64 is formed on the lower front surface.
The effect display area 62 is a display screen of the effect display device 63 built in the gaming machine main body 60, and can display various effects or various information regarding the game of the gaming machine 10. As the effect display device 63, for example, a liquid crystal display type display device or the like can be adopted. The effect displayed in the effect display area 62 is interlocked with the sound output from the speaker 49 and the light emission of the decoration LED 36, and can preferably evoke the player's interest.
The reel frame 64 is a window frame formed on the front side of the plurality of reels 65 (65L, 65C, 65R) built in the gaming machine main body 60, and is divided into an inner area and an outer area. The inner region of the reel frame 64 is formed by a hollow or a transparent member, and a part of each reel 65 is visible through the inner region. Further, the outer region of the reel frame 64 is formed of an opaque member (including a member obtained by coloring a translucent member or a transparent member), which makes it difficult to visually recognize the reel 65 through the outer region.

The reel 65 is composed of a reel 65L, a reel 65C, and a reel 65R, and starts rotating in response to a start operation by the player (the operation of the player with respect to the start lever 26), and a stop operation by the player (stop button In response to the player's operation (27), the rotation is stopped.
At this time, it is required that the time from the start of rotation of the reel 65 in the previous symbol variation game to the start of rotation of the reel 65 in the symbol variation game exceeds a predetermined delay time, so-called weight time. That is, when the start lever 26 receives the operation of the player before the wait time elapses, the reel 65 starts rotating after waiting until the wait time elapses. The wait time in the present embodiment is set to 4.1 seconds.
In addition, when each reel 65 in this embodiment is rotating, in principle, the reel 65 rotates from top to bottom. In this specification, the rotation from top to bottom in the reel is referred to as "forward direction", and the rotation from bottom to top is referred to as "reverse direction".

In the symbol variation game in the present embodiment, the symbols displayed on the reels 65 are variably displayed by rotating the plurality of reels 65 on which a plurality of symbols are represented, and the rotating reels 65 are stopped. The combination of symbols is displayed by stopping.
That is, the symbols relating to the symbol variation game are represented on the plurality of reels 65 (reel 65 L, reel 65 C, reel 65 R) in the present embodiment.

Rotation control of the reel 65 is executed using the reel sensor 66. The reel sensor 66 is a sensor that detects the amount of rotation of the reel 65. Here, the amount of rotation is the rotation angle of the reel 65 based on a predetermined position.
One reel sensor 66 is provided for each reel 65. Specifically, the reel sensor 66L is provided for the reel 65L, the reel sensor 66C for the reel 65C, and the reel sensor 66R for the reel 65R.
The rotation control of the reel 65 will be described in detail later.

  A reel illumination board 67 (67L, 67C, 67R) is provided inside the reel 65, and lighting of the LED mounted on the reel illumination board 67 facilitates visual recognition of each symbol represented on the reel 65. ing. That is, the LED mounted on the reel illumination board 67 functions as a backlight for symbol display by the reel 65.

The start lever 26 can receive an operation (start operation) by the player as a trigger for starting the variable display in the symbol change game. Specifically, the player's operation on the start lever 26 is to tilt the start lever 26, which is provided substantially perpendicularly to the front door 20 in the initial state, in any direction.
The start lever sensor 44 can detect whether the start lever 26 is in the on state or in the off state. More specifically, the start lever sensor 44 detects the start lever 26, which is substantially perpendicular to the front door 20, as the off state, and detects the start lever 26, which is tilted in any direction, as the on state. .

In the present embodiment, when the medal has not reached the predetermined number of inserted cards, the symbol variation game is not started even if the start lever 26 receives the operation of the player. In order to reach the predetermined number of input sheets, at least one or a combination of the following operations or processes is required.
(I) Insert medals from the medal insertion slot 31 to increase the number of inserted medals.
(Ii) The credits representing the medals stored in the gaming machine 10 are reduced by pressing the bet button 23 to increase the number of inserted coins.
(Iii) When the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning game is won in the previous symbol variation game and the corresponding symbol combination is stopped and displayed, the replay is operated in the next symbol variation game (the game) to increase the number of inserted coins. In this case, even if the player does not perform the operations (i) and (ii), the number of inserted game automatically becomes equal to the number of inserted game of the previous symbol variation game.

  When medals are stored (credits increase), for example, (i) when a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 exceeding a predetermined number of inserted sheets, (ii) a prize is won in the symbol variation game, and the prize is In the case of winning a medal as a bonus, etc. may be mentioned.

A medal selector 47 including a medal selector main body 47a, a medal blocker 47b, and a medal passing sensor 47c is provided on the back side of the above-mentioned medal insertion slot 31, and the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 is the medal selector 47. Are sorted out into acceptable medals and unacceptable medals.
For example, in the standby state (the state where the power is turned on but the symbol variation game is not executed), etc., since the medal can be received, the medal selector main body 47a operates the medal blocker 47b having a solenoid. When the medal blocker 47b is activated, a protrusion (not shown) provided in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51 is buried, so that the inserted medal passage 51 is allowed to pass the medal. At this time, when a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 31, the medal flows down to the inserted medal passage 51, and is detected by the medal passing sensor 47c provided in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51. It passes through and is stored in the medal storage 93.
Further, during the execution of the symbol variation game or when the credit reaches the upper limit value, etc., since the medal can not be received, the medal selector main body 47a stops the operation of the medal blocker 47b. When the operation of the medal blocker 47 b is stopped, a projecting portion (not shown) protrudes in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51 to inhibit passage of the medals, so the inserted medal is in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51 And at a position not detected by the medal passage sensor 47c. The medals staying in the inserted medal passage 51 fall into the return medal passage 53 by their own weight or by the operation of the medal return button 33, and are discharged to the lower tray 37 via the medal discharge port 35.

  In addition, when the medal is awarded exceeding the upper limit value of the credit, the medal corresponding to the awarded medal number is discharged from the medal storage 93 to the lower plate 37 via the medal discharge port 35.

As the bet button 23, the gaming machine 10 has a maximum bet button 23a and a single bet button 23b which are mounted on a bet button substrate 45. The maximum bet button 23a can increase the number of inserted sheets by subtracting three credits at maximum by one press, and the single bet button 23b can increase the number of inserted sheets by subtracting one credit by one press. Can. Further, even if the bet button 23 is pressed, if the subtraction value of the credit in the symbol variation game has reached the predetermined insertion number, the credit can not be subtracted beyond that.
In addition, a maximum bet button sensor 45a and a single bet button sensor 45b for detecting that the maximum bet button 23a and the single bet button 23b have been pressed are provided on the bet button substrate 45, respectively. The above processing is performed in accordance with the detection of the sensor.

Further, the maximum bet button 23a is used as an application (bet button) for subtracting the credits and increasing the number of inserted sheets according to the operation as described above, and also accepts an operation for promoting the progress of the effect at the time of performing some effects. It may also be used as a use (push button).
When the maximum bet button 23a is used as a bet button, it is limited to the state where the insertable display LED 25f is on. On the other hand, when the maximum bet button 23a is used as a push button, the button suggestion effect is not necessarily limited. For example, the maximum bet button 23a may be used as a push button for an operation on a menu screen described later.

The bet button substrate 45 is provided with a push button sensor 45c that detects depression of the maximum bet button 23a when the maximum bet button 23a is used as a push button, and is distinguished from detection by the maximum bet button sensor 45a. .
The maximum bet button sensor 45a is managed by the CPU 101 mounted on the main substrate 100, while the push button sensor 45c is managed by the CPU 201 mounted on the sub substrate 200.

The gaming machine 10 also has a menu selection button 24 on the left side of the bet button 23 described above. The menu selection button 24 is constituted by the cross key button 24 a mounted on the menu selection button substrate 46 and the decision button 24 b positioned at the center of the cross key button 24 a.
The menu selection button 24 is a component that receives an operation related to the menu screen. Here, the menu screen is a screen showing the operation method of the gaming machine 10 displayed in the effect display area 62, commentary information on the game, etc., and corresponds to the above-mentioned predetermined display.
The player can view the menu screen by operating the menu selection button 24. For example, when the determination button 24b is pressed in the standby state, a list of menus and a cursor are displayed in the effect display area 62. The player moves the cursor to a position indicating an arbitrary menu by operating the cross key button 24a, and when the player depresses the determination button 24b when the cursor indicates any menu, the menu displays the effect It is displayed in the area 62.

The menu selection button substrate 46 is provided with a cross key button sensor 46 a and a determination button sensor 46 b.
The cross key button sensor 46a can detect in which direction the cross key button 24a is pressed (in any of the upper, lower, left, and right directions with respect to the center of the determination button 24b).
The determination button sensor 46b can detect that the determination button 24b has been pressed.
The cross key button sensor 46a and the determination button sensor 46b are managed by the CPU 201 mounted on the sub substrate 200, similarly to the above-described push button sensor 45c.

In addition, the gaming machine 10 is provided on the right side of the bet button 23 with a state display LED 25 for displaying the number of inserted medals, the number of stored medals, and the like. The status display LED 25 is composed of a plurality of LEDs or 7-segment displays mounted on the status display LED board 42.
The number-of-inputs display LED 25a of the status display LEDs 25 is constituted by three LEDs, and the number of LEDs to be lit increases one by one each time the number of input is increased.
The number-of-reserved-number display LED 25b of the status display LED 25 is formed of a 7-segment display, and represents the number (credits) of the stored medals by numbers.
Among the status display LEDs 25, the number-of-acquisitions display LED 25 c is configured of a 7-segment display, and represents the number of medals acquired by winning with numbers.
Among the status display LEDs 25, the replay display LED 25d is configured by one LED, and lights up when the replay is stopped in the symbol variation game.
The game start display LED 25e of the state display LED 25 is configured by one LED, and indicates that the symbol variation game startable condition is satisfied by lighting of the LED.
The fillable display LED 25 f of the status display LED 25 is configured by one LED, and indicates that the medal can be inserted by lighting of the LED.

The plurality of stop buttons 27 (27L, 27C, 27R) receive the start operation by the player and then receive the change of the symbol in the symbol change game, that is, the stop operation serving as the trigger for stopping the rotation of the reel 65. The stop button 27 can receive a stop operation triggered by a stop enabling condition established after the reel 65 starts rotating.
Specifically, the player's operation on the stop button 27 is to press the stop button 27. Further, the stoppable condition is a precondition for executing stop display in the symbol variation game, and specifically, the speeds of all the reels 65 (65L, 65C, 65R) reach a predetermined speed. In the case where there is a stop possibility condition is satisfied.

The plurality of stop buttons 27 (27 L, 27 C, 27 R) are mounted on the stop button substrate 43 and provided one by one for each reel 65. Specifically, the stop button 27L receives a stop operation for stopping the reel 65L. The stop button 27C receives a stop operation for stopping the reel 65C. The stop button 27R receives a stop operation for stopping the reel 65R.
The stop button substrate 43 is provided with stop button sensors 43a for detecting that the stop button 27L, the stop button 27C, and the stop button 27R have been pressed, respectively, according to the detection of this sensor Stop control of each reel 65 is performed.
Although it is possible to press the stop button 27 mentioned here in any order of the player, a penalty may be imposed if the stop button 27 is not pressed in a predetermined pressing order.

The stop button 27 in the present embodiment includes the stoppable display LED 27a, and the periphery thereof is covered with a light transmitting member. Then, the stop button 27 has a specification for notifying the player of the establishment of the stop enable condition by the lighting color of the stop enable display LED 27a.
As described above, since it is possible to determine whether the stop enabling condition is satisfied or not based on the color of the stop button 27, the player can smoothly perform the stop operation sequentially.

Due to the stop operation received by the stop button 27, the reel 65 corresponding to the stop button 27 that has received the stop operation is stopped. The stop position of the reel 65 can move up to four frames based on the position of the reel 65 when the stop button 27 is pressed. Control from when the stop button 27 is pressed to when the reel 65 stops is generally referred to as slip control.
Here, the piece is an area given to one of the symbols shown on the outer periphery of the reel 65, and refers to the dimension in the vertical direction of one relevant area or one relevant area. In the present embodiment, the outer periphery of the reel 65 is equally divided into 21 frames, and one symbol is arranged for each frame.
In the present embodiment, the stop of the reel 65 also includes a state in which the reel 65 swings with a fluctuation width of less than one frame based on a predetermined frame.

  The inner region of the reel frame 64 has dimensions of three frames in the vertical direction. Further, each reel 65 is controlled to stop so that three symbols fit vertically in the inner area of the reel frame 64 so that the player can visually recognize the three symbols via the inner area of the reel frame 64 It has become. That is, since three reels 65 are arranged in the left-right direction, when each reel 65 is stopped, the player can visually recognize three symbols × 3 reels = 9 symbols.

As described above, when the respective reels 65 are stop-controlled, the substantially straight lines (indicated by alternate long and short dash lines in FIG. 1) formed by the symbols stopped at the upper, middle and lower stages among the symbols stopped at each reel 65 are line L1 Line L2 Line L3 will be referred to.
Further, a substantially straight line (indicated by a dot-and-dash line in FIG. 1) formed by an upper stage of the reel 65L, a middle stage of the reel 65C, and a symbol stopped at the lower stage of the reel 65R is referred to as a line L4. A substantially straight line (indicated by an alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 1) formed by the lower part of the reel 65L, the middle part of the reel 65C, and the symbol stopped on the upper part of the reel 65R is referred to as a line L5.

  During the rotation of each reel 65 (during the execution of the symbol variation game), an image displayed in the effect display area 62, an audio output from the speaker 49 or an audio output from the speaker 49 to attract the interest of the player and evoke the game Various effects configured by lighting and extinguishing of the decoration LED 36 are performed.

In front of each speaker 49, a speaker port 38 is provided. More specifically, a speaker port 38a is provided in front of the speaker 49a located at the upper right (upper left in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A speaker port 38b is provided in front of the speaker 49b located at the upper left (upper right in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A speaker port 38c is provided in front of the speaker 49c located at the lower left (lower right in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A speaker port 38d is provided in front of the speaker 49d located at the lower right (lower left in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine.
Each of the speaker openings 38 is provided with a large number of cavities, so that the sound output from the speakers 49 can be appropriately output.

The decoration LEDs 36 are arranged in such a manner as to surround the effect display area 62 or the reel frame 64. More specifically, on the upper right side of the effect display area 62, the decoration LED 36a mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41a and the decoration LED 36b mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41b are arranged. Further, on the lower right side of the effect display area 62, a decoration LED 36c mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41c is disposed. Further, on the lower right side of the reel frame 64, a decoration LED 36d mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41d is disposed. Further, on the lower left side of the reel frame 64, a decoration LED 36e mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41e is disposed. Further, on the lower left side of the effect display area 62, the decoration LED 36f mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41f is disposed. Further, on the upper left side of the effect display area 62, a decoration LED 36g mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41g and a decoration LED 36h mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41h are disposed.
Each decoration LED 36 may be lit in a single color or may be lit in multiple colors.

When a combination of symbols corresponding to a winning is stop-displayed on a predetermined activated line as a result of the symbol variation game, the number of medals specified for the winning is awarded. Here, the effective line may be any one or more of the lines L1 to L5. In addition, the effective line may be an arrangement of symbols that do not correspond to any of the lines L1 to L5.
As a matter of course, not only the combination of symbols corresponding to winning, but also the combination of symbols corresponding to the above-described replay and bonus games may be displayed on the activated line.

When the credit reaches the upper limit during execution of the payout processing of the awarded medals, the gaming machine 10 pays out from the medal storage 93 the number of medals corresponding to the number exceeding the upper limit. In addition, when the settlement button 32 is pressed, the gaming machine 10 pays out from the medal storage 93 medals of the number corresponding to the credits at the time of pressing.
The process of paying out the medals stored in the medal storage 93 is executed by a payout mechanism (not shown) built in the medal storage 93. More specifically, the payout mechanism acquires medals for the number of payouts from the medals stored in the medal storage 93, and discharges the medals from the medal payout opening 94 toward the payout medal passage 52. The medals discharged to the payout medal passage 52 are discharged to the lower tray 37 via the medal discharge port 35.

In addition, in order to prevent the medals from overflowing from the medal storage 93, a medal auxiliary storage 95 is provided beside the medal storage 93 for a part of the medals stored in the medal storage 93 to flow down. There is.
In addition, a storage error sensor (not shown) is provided to detect that the medals stored in the medal auxiliary storage 95 have reached a predetermined level or more, and the gaming machine 10 receives the medal storage 93 according to this detection. And an error prompting the user to collect the medals stored in the medal auxiliary storage 95. The above-described effect display area 62, the decoration LED 36, and the speaker 49 may be used to notify this error.

<Electrical Configuration and Functional Configuration of Game Machine 10>
Next, the electrical configuration and functional configuration of the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described mainly with reference to FIG. 5 or 6. However, since the components illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4 described above are also referred to, it should be referred to as appropriate.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10. As shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine 10.

  The gaming machine 10 incorporates a main substrate 100 and a sub substrate 200 as main components. Although the main substrate 100 or the sub substrate 200 is illustrated in FIG. 5 as if it were a single electronic substrate, it does not have to be a single electronic substrate. That is, the main substrate 100 or the sub substrate 200 may be realized by combining a plurality of electronic substrates.

The main board 100 controls the display of each LED included in the state display LED board 42 based on the control information input from the various sensors 40 a, makes the medal storage 93 pay out the medals, and causes the sub board 200 to Generate a command to output. Electronic components such as the CPU 101, the RAM 102, and the ROM 103 are mounted on the main substrate 100, and various processing related to gaming is performed by executing processing of data and control signals exchanged between the electronic components and the various sensors 40a and the like. The function is realized. Here, the various sensors 40a include the above-described start lever sensor 44, stop button sensor 43a, maximum bet button sensor 45a, single bet button sensor 45b, medal passage sensor 47c, settlement button sensor 82, and the like.
The sub substrate 200 controls the decoration LED substrate 41, the speaker 49, the effect display device 63, and the like based on a command input from the main substrate 100. On the sub substrate 200, electronic components such as the CPU 201, the RAM 202, and the ROM 203 are mounted, and processing of data and control signals transmitted and received between these electronic components and various sensors 40b and the like is performed. Such processing is realized. Here, the various sensors 40b include a push button sensor 45c, a cross key button sensor 46a, a determination button sensor 46b, and the like.

The functional configuration realized by the main board 100 includes the gaming state control unit 110, the internal lottery unit 120, the flag setting unit 130, the rotation control unit 140, the display symbol determination unit 150, and the command generation unit as shown in FIG. 160 are included.
Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the functional configuration realized by the sub substrate 200 includes a sub generalization unit 210, an effect display unit 220, an audio output unit 230, and an LED light emitting unit 240.
Note that the components illustrated in FIG. 6 are not limited to all the functional configurations included in the main substrate 100 or the sub substrate 200, and functional configurations not illustrated here may exist.

  The gaming state control unit 110 manages a gaming state related to a game (symbol variation game) executed by the gaming machine 10, and executes at least the following processing.

For example, the game state control unit 110 monitors whether or not a game can be performed, and stops (suspends) the game when it is impossible to play a game.
Here, as a case where it is impossible to play a game, (i) when the front door 20 is opened, (ii) when there is no medal in the medal storage 93, it corresponds to (iii) credits stored. When the process (settlement process) which discharges a medal from the medal discharge port 35 due to the depression of the settlement button 32 is performed, etc. may be mentioned.

In addition, the storage control unit 112 of the gaming state control unit 110 stores credits and manages the increase and decrease thereof.
More specifically, when depression of the maximum bet button 23 a or the single bet button 23 b is detected, the gaming state control unit 110 subtracts a predetermined value from the stored credit.

  Further, the payout control unit 111 of the gaming state control unit 110 executes a settlement process described later when the depression of the settlement button 32 is detected by the settlement button sensor 82, and is stored by the storage control unit 112. The medal corresponding to the number of credits is paid out from the medal storage 93.

  In addition, when the combination of symbols being stopped and displayed is determined to be winning by the display symbol determination unit 150, the storage control unit 112 of the gaming state control unit 110 is equivalent to the number of medals allocated as a benefit of the winning The value to be added is added to the stored credit. In this addition process, when the stored credit reaches the upper limit value, the payout control unit 111 of the gaming state control unit 110 causes the medal storage 93 to pay out medals corresponding to the number of medals that have been exceeded.

  Further, the gaming state control unit 110 manages the condition displayed on the state display LED substrate 42 and the condition under which the stop operation for the stop button 27 can be received (the condition under which the above-described stop is possible). Here, the conditions displayed on the status display LED board 42 include the number of inserted medals, the number of medals stored (credits), the number of medals acquired by winning, the presence or absence of replay, the condition for starting the symbol variation game And conditions for medal entry are included.

Further, the gaming state control unit 110 manages the game setting value set by the setting change device 48. The game setting value affects the winning probability of the winning combination randomly selected by the internal lottery unit 120, the occurrence probability of various effects controlled by the sub substrate 200, and the like.
In addition, the winning combination according to the present embodiment includes a winning, re-playing, an article or an article continuous actuation device.

  Further, the gaming state control unit 110 manages a lottery table to which the internal lottery unit 120 refers in the game. The lottery table referred to by the internal lottery unit 120 is stored in advance in the ROM 103, and it is preferable that a plurality of lottery tables be provided. The lottery table referred to by the internal lottery unit 120 may be different between the lottery table referred to in the normal gaming state and the gaming state advantageous to the player such as ART or bonus game.

In addition, the gaming state control unit 110 can shift from the normal gaming state to a gaming state advantageous to the player such as ART or bonus game in response to the establishment of the predetermined condition. Furthermore, the gaming state control unit 110 can shift from the gaming state which is advantageous for the player to the normal gaming state according to the establishment of the predetermined condition.
Here, “establishment of a predetermined condition” means, for example, winning a specific winning combination, winning a specific winning combination, winning a predetermined lottery, or a medal obtained in the gaming state The number may exceed a predetermined number.

The internal lottery unit 120 acquires a random number and refers to a lottery table stored in advance in the ROM 103 to determine which winning combination corresponds to the acquired random number.
The flag setting unit 130 sets a winning flag indicating that the winning combination randomly selected by the internal lottery unit 120 can be established. Here, that the winning combination is established means that the combination of the symbols corresponding to the winning combination drawn by the inner lottery section 120 is stopped and displayed on the activated line as a result of the symbol variation game.

The rotation control unit 140 controls rotation of the reel 65 by driving the reel motor 68. For control of the rotation control unit 140, for example, control for executing a symbol variation game by rotating a plurality of reels 65, and for effect performed during execution of a specific effect (for example, so-called freeze effect) Includes reel control.
More specifically, the rotation control unit 140 outputs a pulse signal to the reel motor 68 so as to rotate each of the reels 65 at a predetermined speed during the execution period of the variable display of the symbol. The reel motor 68 is a stepping motor, and can input each pulse signal output from the rotation control unit 140 to rotate the reels 65 in various rotation modes.
The rotation angle (the number of moving pieces) of the reel 65 increases in proportion to the length of the pulse signal output from the rotation control unit 140. In addition, the rotational speed of the reel 65 increases in proportion to the frequency of the pulse signal output from the rotational control unit 140.

The display symbol determination unit 150 determines which combination of symbols the symbol combination stopped and displayed on the activated line in the symbol variation game corresponds to.
For example, the above-mentioned example of the effective line is one specific example, and is not particularly limited in the practice of the present invention.

The command generation unit 160 generates a command to be transmitted from the main substrate 100 to the sub substrate 200. The command generated by the command generation unit 160 includes a determination condition of each effect to be executed by the sub substrate 200, and the like.
The command generated by the command generation unit 160 is, for example, immediately after the operation of the start lever 26 (rotation start of the reel 65) or immediately after the operation of the stop button 27 (rotation stop of the reel 65). Transmitted to The timings mentioned here are one specific example, and the command generated by the command generation unit 160 may be transmitted to the sub substrate 200 at another timing.

The sub generalization unit 210 controls the effect display unit 220, the audio output unit 230, or the LED light emitting unit 240 based on the command transmitted from the main substrate 100.
The effect display unit 220 has a function of controlling the effect display device 63, and interlocks with the symbol variation game executed by the main board 100 to cause the effect display device 63 to perform the effect by the display output.
The sound output unit 230 has a function of controlling the speaker 49, and causes the speaker 49 to perform effects by sound output in conjunction with the symbol variation game executed by the main substrate 100.
The LED light emitting unit 240 has a function of controlling the LED mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41, and interlocks with the symbol variation game executed by the main substrate 100 to cause the LED to execute the effect by the light emission output.

Further, the sub-supervisory unit 210 controls the effect display unit 220, the sound output unit 230 or the LED light emission according to detection signals input from the various sensors 40b (push button sensor 45c, cross key button sensor 46a, determination button sensor 46b). The unit 240 can be controlled.
More specifically, when the sub-supervisory unit 210 inputs detection signals from the various sensors 40b during execution of a part of the effect or displaying the menu screen, the sub-oversection unit 210 operates on the effect display unit 220 and relates to the effect display area 62. Change the display, work on the audio output unit 230 to output sound effects from the speaker 49, work on the LED light emitting unit 240, and make the decoration LED 36 mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41 emit light with a special light emission pattern it can.

<About the processing flow concerning the game progress>
Next, the main flow relating to the game progress in the present embodiment will be described using FIGS. 7 to 13. However, since the components illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6 described above are also referred to, it should be referred to as appropriate.
7 to 9 are flowcharts showing a main flow relating to the game progress in the present embodiment.
FIG. 10 to FIG. 12 are flowcharts showing the processing flow related to medal management.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process flow related to the settlement process.

The main substrate 100 executes one symbol variation game while performing a series of processing from step S102 to step S152 shown in FIG. 7 to FIG. 9, and repeatedly executes the series of processing. It can be repeated.
Note that each process shown in FIGS. 7 to 9 is one specific example, and processes other than the processes mentioned here may be performed by the main substrate 100. In addition, at least a part of the series of processes illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9 may not necessarily be performed by the main substrate 100.

First, the gaming state control unit 110 executes a game start process which is a process necessary in advance to start the next symbol variation game (step S102).
The game start processing according to the present embodiment includes, for example, the following processing.
(I) A process of storing various data related to the previous symbol variation game.
(Ii) processing of clearing data indicating symbols stopped and displayed in the previous symbol variation game.
(Iii) A process of acquiring the game setting value set at that time.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 executes medal acceptance start processing which is preparation processing for putting a medal on the next symbol variation game (step S104).
The medal reception start processing according to the present embodiment includes, for example, the following processing.
(I) A process of operating the medal blocker 47b.
(Ii) A process of applying the same number of medals as the medals placed on the symbol variation game to the next symbol variation game when replay is activated as a result of the previous symbol variation game.

  Subsequently, when the re-game is not activated as a result of the previous symbol variation game (NO in step S106), the gaming state control unit 110 sets the medal to be performed based on the detected operation or the state of the gaming machine 10 The medal management process which is the process which concerns is performed (step S108).

Here, the medal management process (step S108 in FIG. 7) by the gaming state control unit 110 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 10 to FIG.
First, the case where the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 is detected by the medal passage sensor 47c (YES in step S202) will be described with reference to FIG. Although not shown in FIG. 10, in order to normally detect the medal passing sensor 47c, a check on the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 31, a check for securing the normal operation of the medal selector 47, etc. , May be performed separately.

If step S202 is YES, the gaming state control unit 110 turns off the game start display LED 25e (step S204). In the process of step S204, if the game start display LED 25e is turned off at the time of the process, the light is maintained off, and if the game start display LED 25e is turned on at the process time, it is switched to the light off.
Next, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not the symbol variation game this time is due to replay operation (step S206). If it is due to the re-game operation (YES in step S206), the processing flow of the medal management processing is ended without performing the subsequent processing.
On the other hand, when it is not due to the replay operation (NO in step S206), the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not the current number Nb of times has reached the set upper limit (steps) S208). Note that the upper limit of multiplication in the present embodiment is 3.
If the product number upper limit has been reached (YES in step S208), 1 is added to the storage number Nc stored by the storage control unit 112 (step S212), and if the product number upper limit has not been reached (step S208) 1) is added to the current multiplication factor Nb (step S210).
When the process of step S210 or the process of step S212 ends, the process flow of the medal management process ends.

  Subsequently, when the single bet button 23b is operated without detecting the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 by the medal passage sensor 47c (NO in step S202) (YES in step S214) or the maximum bet button 23a. Will be described with reference to FIG. 11 (YES in step S224).

When the single bet button 23b is operated, if the current multiplier Nb reaches the set multiplier upper limit (YES in step S216), the gaming state control unit 110 updates the insertion number display LED 25a ((step S216) Step S218). Specifically, in step S218, the gaming state control unit 110 turns off all the insertion number display LEDs 25a.
Then, the gaming state control unit 110 adds a value corresponding to the current multiplication factor Nb to the storage number Nc stored by the storage control unit 112 (step S220), and returns the multiplication factor Nb to zero (step S222). ).

After performing the process of step S222, the gaming state control unit 110 executes the storage and insertion process (step S226). Alternatively, when the single bet button 23b is operated, the current multiplier Nb has reached the set upper limit (NO in step S216), or the maximum bet button 23a is operated (step Also in YES in S224, the gaming state control unit 110 executes the storage and insertion process (step S226).
The storage input process executed in step S226 subtracts 1 from the storage number Nc stored by the storage control unit 112 until the current multiplier Nb reaches the “setting request number”, and the multiplier Nb Is a process to add 1 to. Here, the “number of setting requests” is the number of multiplications requested by the operation of the bet button 23 which is the trigger of the present storage input process. More specifically, the setting request number is 3 when triggered by the operation of the maximum bet button 23a, and 1 when the operation is triggered by the single bet button 23b.
Although the process of step S226 is executed even when the product Nb reaches the set product upper limit when the maximum bet button 23a is operated, the product Nb is equal to the setting request number. Therefore, the process of adding the multiplication factor Nb is not performed substantially, and there is no change in the appearance of the insertion number display LED 25a before and after step S226.

By the way, the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 is not detected by the medal passage sensor 47c (NO in step S202), the single bet button 23b is not operated (NO in step S214), and the maximum bet button 23a is also The case where the operation is not performed (NO in step S224) will be described with reference to FIG.
In this case, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not depression of the settlement button 32 is detected by the settlement button sensor 82 (step S228).
If pressing of the settlement button 32 is not detected by the settlement button sensor 82 (NO in step S228), the process flow relating to the medal management process is ended as it is.

On the other hand, when depression of the settlement button 32 is detected by the settlement button sensor 82 (YES in step S228), the gaming state control unit 110 determines that the storage number Nc stored in the storage control unit 112 exceeds zero. It is determined whether or not (step S230).
If the stored number Nc is zero (NO in step S230), the process flow relating to the medal management process ends. On the other hand, when the storage number Nc exceeds zero (YES in step S230), the gaming state control unit 110 executes a settlement process described later (step S232).

Subsequently, the execution of the settlement process by the gaming state control unit 110 will be described with reference to FIG.
First, the gaming state control unit 110 turns off the insertable display LED 25f, stops the operation of the medal blocker 47b, and inhibits the medal passage in the inserted medal passage 51 (step S302). Furthermore, the gaming state control unit 110 turns off the game start display LED 25e (step S304). Then, the gaming state control unit 110 outputs a command indicating that the settlement process is to be started to the sub board 200 (step S306).

Next, the payout control unit 111 causes the medal storage 93 to pay out one medal (step S308) and subtracts one from the storage number Nc stored by the storage control unit 112 (step S310). Then, the storage control unit 112 updates the display of the storage number display LED 25b so as to correspond to the storage number Nc subtracted in step S310 (step S312).
Subsequently, if the storage number Nc stored by the storage control unit 112 exceeds zero (YES in step S314), the process returns to step S308. That is, the processes from step S308 to step S314 are repeatedly executed until the storage number Nc becomes zero.

On the other hand, when the storage number Nc stored by the storage control unit 112 is zero (YES in step S314), the gaming state control unit 110 outputs a command indicating that the settlement process is ended to the sub board 200 ( Step S316).
Then, the gaming state control unit 110 turns on the insertable display LED 25f and operates the medal blocker 47b to allow the medal passage in the inserted medal passage 51 (step S318), and the processing flow related to the settlement processing ends.

  In the present embodiment, an aspect in which the settlement process can be performed when the storage number Nc exceeds zero has been described, but even when the number Nb exceeds zero according to the detection of the settlement button 32. A process for paying out the product Nb may be added to the above-mentioned settlement process.

  The description is returned to the flowchart of FIG. If the re-game is activated as a result of the previous symbol variation game (YES in step S106), the process proceeds to step S110 described later without executing the process in step S108.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 executes a reel rotation start check, which is a process of checking whether a condition for accepting the start operation to the start lever 26, that is, whether the condition for starting the symbol variation game is established. (Step S110).
For example, the following items are included in the startable conditions of the symbol variation game checked in the reel rotation start check according to the present embodiment.
(I) A number (prescribed number) of medals necessary to start the symbol variation game have been already applied.
(Ii) None of the stop buttons 27 are operated.
(Iii) The start lever sensor 44 is operating normally.

When it is confirmed by the check in step S110 that the startable condition of the symbol variation game is satisfied, the gaming state control unit 110 waits for detection by the start lever sensor 44 in a state where the game start display LED 25e is lit. (NO in step S112).
In addition, while waiting for detection by the start lever sensor 44, the gaming state control unit 110 repeatedly performs the processing from step S106 to step S110 described above.

  Subsequently, when the operation of the start lever 26 is detected by the start lever sensor 44 (YES in step S112), the internal lottery unit 120 executes an internal lottery using a lottery table relating to the winning combination (step S114). In the case of the winning flag corresponding to the winning combination or the non-winning, the non-winning flag is set by the flag setting unit 130 (step S116).

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not the above-described wait time has elapsed, and stands by until the wait time has elapsed (NO in step S118).
When the weight time has elapsed (YES in step S118), the rotation control unit 140 starts rotation of the plurality of reels 65 (reel 65L, reel 65C, reel 65R) by driving the reel motor 68. (Step S120). At the timing of processing step S120, if the above-described wait time has not elapsed, the rotation control unit 140 waits for the elapse of the wait time to start rotation of the plurality of reels 65.

In addition, whether the value of the symbol number during passage detected by the reel sensor 66 (reel sensor 66L, reel sensor 66C, and reel sensor 66R) is normal while the rotation control unit 140 is rotating the reel 65 A reel rotation error check, which is a process of monitoring whether there is an abnormality, is executed (step S122).
In step S122, when it is determined that the value of the symbol number being detected being passed is abnormal for any of the plurality of reels 65 (YES in step S124), the rotation control unit 140 determines that it is abnormal. The process of step S120 is performed again on the reel 65 that has been set. This process is also referred to as reel restart.
In addition, in step S122, when it is determined that the value of the symbol number being detected being passed is normal for any of the plurality of reels 65 (NO in step S124), without restarting the reels, Move to the next process.

Further, the rotation control unit 140 monitors whether or not the rotation speed of all the reels 65 has reached a predetermined speed, and while the predetermined speed has not been reached (NO in step S126), the above-described step The processes of S122 and step S124 are repeated.
Then, after the rotation speeds of all the reels 65 reach the predetermined speed (YES in step S126), the rotation control unit 140 checks the presence or absence of a request (stop request) for stopping the rotation of the reel 65. The reel stop acceptance check is executed (step S128).
In the reel stop acceptance check according to the present embodiment, when the stop button sensor 43a detects the operation of the stop button 27 (stop button 27L, stop button 27C, stop button 27R), the reel 65 corresponding to the operated stop button 27. The game state control unit 110 outputs at least a process stop request, and the rotation control unit 140 receives at least the process.

When the rotation control unit 140 receives the stop request in step S128 (YES in step S130), the rotation control unit 140 combines the symbols displayed in the frame of the reel frame 64 as a result of the symbol variation game. The symbol combination control which is the processing to be determined is executed (step S132).
When the rotation control unit 140 does not receive the stop request in step S128 (NO in step S130), the process proceeds to the next process without executing the above-mentioned symbol combination control.

The symbol combination control according to the present embodiment includes, for example, the following processing.
(I) The symbol number of the symbol passing the reference position at the time of receiving the stop request is stored at a predetermined address of the RAM 102 as the symbol number at the time of stop acceptance.
(Ii) The turning control unit 140 indicates that the stop acceptance symbol number is based on the winning acceptance flag or the non-election flag set in step S116 and the stop acceptance acceptance symbol number stored in the process of (i). The symbol or any symbol within the range of four frames in the rotational direction from the symbol is determined as the symbol to be stopped at the reference position.
(Iii) The rotation control unit 140 causes the symbol determined in (ii) to stop at the reference position.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 executes a stop display time output process which is a process of outputting a command including an effect request accompanying the stop of the reel 65 in step S132 to the sub generalization unit 210 via the command generation unit 160. (Step S134).
The command output in step S134 does not have to be executed each time processing, and may be executed if it is determined by the gaming state control unit 110 that an effect is to be executed.

When all the reels 65 have not stopped when the stop display time output process is finished (NO in step S136), the process proceeds to step S122 again, and the processes from step S122 to step S134 are repeated.
Further, when all the reels 65 are stopped (YES in step S136) when the stop display time output process is finished (YES in step S136), the determination process by the display symbol determination unit 150 is performed (step S138).

In step S138, when the display symbol determination unit 150 determines that a winning is achieved, the winning is established, and a predetermined number of medals are awarded as a benefit corresponding to the winning (step S140).
The medals assigned in step S140 are stored and stored as the number of credits in principle. However, when the number of credits reaches the upper limit, the gaming state control unit 110 controls the payout mechanism (not shown) built in the medal storage 93 to count medals corresponding to the number exceeding the number of credits. , From the medal storage 93 to the medal discharge port 35.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 performs a command including a request relating to an effect that all reels 65 have stopped, that is, an effect to be executed in the stop period after the final stop operation for the current game is received. The all reels stop display output process, which is a process of outputting the information to the sub generalization unit 210 via the command generation unit 160, is executed (step S142).
The effect requested in step S142 includes, for example, a bonus start effect to be executed when the game is shifted to the bonus game along with the stop display of the bonus symbol.
Note that the command output in step S142 does not have to be executed each time processing, and may be executed if it is determined by the gaming state control unit 110 that an effect is to be executed.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether the above special flag is set (step S144). When the special flag is not set (NO in step S144), the process of step S150 described later is performed.
On the other hand, when the special flag is set (YES in step S144), the payout control unit 111 determines whether or not the settlement process is to be performed (step S146).
The checkout process of the determination target in step S146 is the same process as the series of processes shown in the flowchart of FIG. In addition, for the determination in step S146, the payout control unit 111 may perform a random number lottery for the determination, or may refer to the gaming state during stay (for example, in the normal gaming state, affirmation It makes a decision, a negative decision etc. in the bonus game).

If it is determined that the settlement process is to be performed (YES in step S146), the gaming state control unit 110 (the payout control unit 111) executes the settlement process (step S148).
On the other hand, when it is determined that the settlement process is not performed (NO in step S146), the process of step S150 described later is performed.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 executes an overflow check which is a process of checking a storage error sensor (not shown) provided in the medal storage 93 or the medal auxiliary storage 95 (step S150).
When it is confirmed in step S150 that the storage error sensor has detected an abnormality, the gaming state control unit 110 sends a command including a request for an error display to the sub control unit 210 via the command generation unit 160. Output. Further, the sub-supervisory unit 210 controls the effect display unit 220 to display an error display on the effect display device 63, and controls the sound output unit 230 to output an error sound from the speaker 49.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 executes a game end check which is a process related to the end of the symbol variation game (step S152), and a series of processes are ended.
Items to be checked in the game completion check according to the present embodiment include, for example, the following items.
(I) End the operation of the re-game.
(Ii) ending the bonus game.

As described above, the payout control unit 111 determines the transition to the special game state by automatically executing the settlement process in at least a part of the setting of the special flag in which the transition to the special game state is determined. Alert to
In principle, the player's interest is strongly attracted to the fact that the settlement process executed with the depression of the settlement button 32 is automatically executed.

Further, as described above, the payout control unit 111 performs the settlement process (automatic payout process) after all the reels 65 are stopped in the game in which the special flag is established, that is, after the determination in step S136 is affirmed. It is configured to be executable.
Since it is comprised in this way, rotation of the reel 65 (variation display of a symbol) will not be interrupted by automatic payout processing.

Further, as described above, when the payout control unit 111 acquires medals as a result of stopping all the reels 65 in the game in which the special flag is established, the payout control unit 111 causes the storage control unit 112 to store the acquired medals as credits. After at least one of the processes for paying out the processed or acquired medals, that is, after the process of step S140 is finished, the settlement process (automatic payout process) can be performed.
With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the situation where credits remain after the automatic payout process.

<About the modification of the present invention>
Although the present invention has been described above in accordance with the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, as long as the object of the present invention is achieved. And various modifications, improvements, etc.

  The above embodiments have been described on the premise of the functional configuration illustrated in each drawing, but each component of the present invention may be formed so as to realize the function. Therefore, each component of the gaming machine of the present invention does not have to be an independent entity, but a plurality of components are formed as a single member, and a single component is formed of a plurality of members. , That one component is part of another component, that part of one component overlaps with part of another component, etc.

  Several flowcharts were used in the description of the above embodiment. Although these flowcharts include a plurality of steps described in order, the order of the description does not limit the order and timing of executing the plurality of steps to one aspect illustrated. For this reason, when carrying out the present invention, the order of the plurality of steps can be changed without causing any problem in content, and even if some or all of the execution timings of the plurality of steps overlap each other Good.

In the above embodiment, although the mode in which the automatic payout process can be executed after step S140 of the main flow (flowcharts shown in FIGS. 7 to 9) has been described, the implementation of the present invention is not limited thereto.
For example, the automatic payout process may be executed triggered by the operation (start operation) of the start lever 26, or the automatic payout process may be executed triggered by the first stop operation or the second stop operation.

The present embodiment includes the following technical ideas.
(1) A gaming machine which executes a game using a game medium, and storing means for storing the game medium as a credit, a game state control means for shifting to any one of a plurality of game states, and a player Flag control means for establishing a special flag indicating that transition to a special gaming state advantageous to the player is established, and at least a part of cases where the special flag is established are stored in the storage means A game machine comprising: payout control means for automatically reducing credits and executing an automatic payout process for dispensing game media corresponding to the reduced credits.
(2) Start reception means for receiving a start operation by a player, stop reception means for receiving a stop operation by a player after the start reception means receives a start operation by a player, and a start operation by a player A plurality of reels which start pivoting and stop pivoting in response to a stop operation by the player, and the payout control means halts all the reels in the game in which the special flag is established. The gaming machine according to (1), wherein the automatic payout processing is executed thereafter.
(3) When the payout control means acquires game media as a result of stopping all the reels in the game in which the special flag is established, processing for storing the acquired game media as credits in the storage means or The gaming machine according to (1) or (2), wherein the automatic payout processing is executed after at least one of the processing for paying out the acquired gaming media is finished.

10 game machine 20 front door 21 upper panel 22 lower panel 23 bet button 23a maximum bet button 23b single bet button 24 menu selection button 24a cross key button 24b determination button 25 status display LED
25a Input number indicator LED
25b storage number indicator LED
25c Acquisition number display LED
25d Replay Display LED
25e game start display LED
25f turnable display LED
26 Start lever 27 (27L, 27C, 27R) Stop button 27a Stoppable display LED
31 medal insertion port 32 settlement button 33 medal return button 34 door lock 35 medal discharge port 36 (36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, 36e, 36f, 36g, 36h) decoration LED
37 Lower plate 38 (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) Speaker port 40a, 40b Various sensors 41 (41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 41e, 41f, 41g, 41h) Decorative LED board 42 State indication LED board 43 Stop button board 43a stop button sensor 44 start lever sensor 45 bet button board 45a maximum bet button sensor 45b single bet button sensor 45c push button sensor 46 menu selection button board 46a cross key button sensor 46b determination button sensor 47 medal selector 47a medal selector main body 47b medal Blocker 47c Medal passing sensor 48 Setting change device 48a Setting key switch 48b Setting change switch 48c Setting display LED
48d Setting key cover 49 (49a, 49b, 49c, 49d) Speaker 51 input medal passage 52 payout medal passage 53 return medal passage 54 storage medal passage 60 game machine main part 62 effect display area 63 effect display area 64 effect display device 64 reel frame 65 (65 L , 65C, 65R) reel 66 (66L, 66C, 66R) reel sensor 67 (67L, 67C, 67R) reel illumination board 68 reel motor 82 settlement button sensor 90 outer frame 91 power supply 92 power supply switch 93 medal storage 94 medal pay Exit 95 medal auxiliary storage 96 hinge section 96a upper stage hinge section 96b middle stage hinge section 96c lower stage hinge section 97 payout control board 100 main board 101, 201 CPU
102, 202 RAM
103, 203 ROM
110 game state control unit 111 payout control unit 112 storage control unit 120 internal lottery unit 130 flag setting unit 140 rotation control unit 150 display symbol determination unit 160 command generation unit 200 sub board 210 sub generalization unit 220 effect display unit 230 voice output unit 240 LED light emitting units L1 to L5 line

Claims (2)

A gaming machine that uses a game medium to execute a game,
Start receiving means for receiving a start operation by a player;
Stop receiving means for receiving a stop operation by the player after the start receiving means receives the start operation by the player;
A plurality of reels which start pivoting in response to a start operation by a player and stop pivoting in response to a stop operation by the player;
Settlement button,
Detection means for detecting depression of the settlement button;
Storage means for storing game media as credits;
Game state control means for shifting to any one of a plurality of game states,
Flag control means for establishing a special flag indicating that transition to a special game state advantageous to the player is established;
Display symbol determination means for determining whether or not a combination of symbols stopped and displayed as a result of stopping the plurality of reels is a prize;
If the number of credits stored in the storage means exceeds the upper limit as a result of being determined to be a prize by the display symbol determination means and the game medium is given, game media corresponding to the number exceeding the upper limit is stored run the payout process of paid out from the compartment, and, if satisfying the predetermined condition, executes the settlement process for paid out game media corresponding to the number of credits being stored prior Symbol storing means from said storing box A payout control means,
Storage determination means for determining whether or not game media stored in the storage have reached a predetermined level or more ;
The predetermined condition is
A first condition which is satisfied when the pressing of the settlement button is detected by the detection means;
A second condition that can be satisfied by a predetermined determination performed when the special flag is established by the flag control means ;
The first condition is a condition that can be satisfied before the start operation in a certain game, and is a condition that can not be satisfied from the execution timing of the payout process in the game to the end of the game,
The second condition is a condition that can not be satisfied prior to the start operation in a certain game, and is a condition that can be satisfied from the execution timing of the payout process in the game to the end of the game,
The payout control means performs a common process also when performing the settlement process according to the satisfaction of the first condition, and when performing the settlement process according to the satisfaction of the second condition,
The gaming machine , wherein the determination by the storage determination means is later than the execution timing of the payout processing, and is later than the execution timing of the settlement processing performed according to the satisfaction of the second condition . The gaming state controlled by the gaming state control means includes a normal gaming state and a bonus gaming state in which the probability of winning a winning combination relating to winning is higher than that in the normal gaming state.
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined determination is affirmed in the normal gaming state to satisfy the second condition, and negated in the bonus gaming state to not satisfy the second condition.

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