JP6565069B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs a game.

  As a gaming machine, a predetermined number of bets are set, and a slot machine in which a plurality of types of identification information are variably displayed based on a start operation, and a gaming medium such as a gaming ball is played by a launching device. And a pachinko gaming machine in which a plurality of types of identification information are variably displayed when a game medium is won in a starting area such as a prize opening provided in the gaming area.

  In this type of gaming machine, there is known a device that lowers the volume of a game sound when a situation in which no game is played is detected (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2002-272904 A

  In addition, the situation where the game by the player is not played by some kind of performance is considered. In this case, if the volume of the game sound is lowered because the game is not being played, there is a possibility that the execution of the effect is hindered.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can prevent unintentional execution of performance from being hindered.

(1) A gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine),
Sound output means for outputting sound (eg, audio output circuit 94, speakers 53, 54);
Control means (for example, sub-control unit 91) for controlling the output volume of the sound output means;
Operation means operated by the player (for example, operation of the MAXBET switch 6, operation of the start switch 7, operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, operation of the checkout switch 10, operation of inserting a medal into the medal insertion unit 4) ,
Clocking means (for example, the sub-control unit 91) for measuring the elapsed time from a predetermined opportunity (for example, timing when the game is started by operating the start switch 7, timing when the third stop operation is performed) ,
Production execution means (for example, sub-control unit 91) capable of starting any one of a plurality of types of production (eg, production A, production B, production C) accompanied by sound output;
Volume operation means (for example, a volume adjuster 57) for setting the output volume of the sound output means;
With
The control means reduces or silences the output volume of the sound output means when a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) elapses without the operation of the operation means being performed after the time measurement means starts timing. Perform volume reduction control,
As the predetermined trigger, there are a first trigger (for example, timing when the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started) and a second trigger (for example, timing when the third stop operation is performed and the game is ended). ,
The execution time (for example, 45 seconds) of the specific effect (for example, effect C) having the longest execution time among the plurality of effects is started from any of the first and second triggers. If the a be rather short than the predetermined time that,
The volume operation means can be operated while the sound output means is outputting sound,
The control means ends the volume reduction control when the volume operation means is operated during the volume reduction control.
A gaming machine characterized by that.

According to such a configuration, a game effect can be prevented from being hindered by a decrease in output volume or mute, and execution of the effect can be prevented from being unintentionally inhibited. In addition, according to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an effect of a game from being hindered by a decrease in output volume or mute when any effect is executed. Moreover, according to such a structure, a sound volume can be returned according to operation of a volume operation means.

(2) In the gaming machine described in (1) above,
The time measuring means may measure time regardless of whether or not an effect started from the predetermined opportunity is executed.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the processing from becoming complicated by performing common control.

(3) In the gaming machine according to (1) or (2) above,
Production operation means (for example, production switch 56) used for production operations;
Game progress operating means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) used for an operation to advance the game;
First promotion means for executing a first promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect operation means (for example, an effect that prompts the operation of the effect switch 56);
Second promotion means for executing a second promotion effect for prompting the operation of the game progress operation means (for example, an effect for prompting the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R);
With
When the effect operation means is operated during the execution of the first promotion effect, a notification regarding a privilege (for example, notification regarding a navigation stock) is performed,
The control means reduces the volume of the predetermined sound while the first promotion effect is being executed while the predetermined sound is being output from the sound output means, while the second promotion is being output during the output of the predetermined sound. When the effect is being executed, the volume of the predetermined sound is maintained (as shown in the times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, when the first promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM is reduced, As shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9, the BGM volume is maintained when the second promotion effect is being executed).
The volume of the effect sound output when the second promotion effect is executed may be set larger than the volume of the predetermined sound .

According to such a configuration, the player can concentrate on the operation of the production operation means .

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
Regardless of whether or not the control means performs the volume reduction control, the error volume when an error occurs may be constant.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately recognize an error.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
Volume operation means (for example, volume adjuster 57) for setting the output volume of the sound output means
With
The volume operation means can be operated while the sound output means is outputting sound,
The control means may set the volume according to the operation during the volume reduction control when the volume operation means is operated during the volume reduction control.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to suitably set the volume during volume control.

(7) A gaming machine (slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine) that performs a game,
Production operation means used for production operations (for example, production switch 56 of slot machine 1, production button of pachinko machine),
Game progress operating means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R of the slot machine 1, a hitting operation handle of a pachinko gaming machine) used for an operation for progressing the game,
A first promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect operation means (for example, an effect that prompts the user to operate the effect switch 56 as shown in the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, an operation of an effect button in a pachinko gaming machine) First promotion means (for example, processing in which the sub-control unit 91 executes the first promotion effect)
A second promotion effect that prompts the operation of the game progress operation means (for example, an effect of navigating the correct procedure of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R as shown in the liquid crystal display 51 at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9) Second promotion means (for example, a process in which the sub control unit 91 executes the second promotion effect) for executing a right-handed effect in the pachinko gaming machine;
Sound output means for outputting sound (for example, BGM, first promotion sound, second promotion sound) (for example, processing in which the sub control unit 91 outputs BGM or the like to the speakers 53, 54),
When the effect operating means is operated during the execution of the first promotion effect, a notification regarding a privilege (for example, granting of navigation stock) is made (for example, on the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9). As shown in the figure, when the indication “PUSH!” Prompting the operation of the production switch 56 and the voice output “Press this button!” Are output, the operation of the production switch 56 suggests the addition of navigation stock. "WIN!" Is displayed on the screen)
When the first promotion effect is being executed during output of a predetermined sound (for example, BGM), the sound output means reduces the volume of the predetermined sound (for example, as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9). On the other hand, when the first promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM is reduced.) On the other hand, when the second promotion effect is being executed while the predetermined sound is being output, the volume of the predetermined sound is maintained. (For example, as shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9, when the second promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM is maintained).

  According to such a configuration, when the first promotion effect is executed in which the operation of the effect operation unit is prompted when the notification regarding the privilege is performed during the output of the predetermined sound, the volume of the predetermined sound is reduced. . For this reason, it is possible to concentrate the player on the operation of the effect operating means. Further, attention to the operation of the production switch 56 can be increased.

(8) A gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine),
Sound output means for outputting sound (for example, speakers 53 and 54);
Setting means (for example, a volume adjuster 57, a volume setting screen) for setting a volume setting value indicating an output volume output by the sound output means;
Control means for controlling the output volume output by the sound output means in accordance with the volume setting value set by the setting means (for example, the sub-control unit 91);
Detecting means (for example, sub-control unit 91) for detecting whether or not a game is being played by the player;
With
When the detecting means detects that no game is being played by the player, the control means performs volume reduction control for reducing the output volume according to the volume setting value, and the setting means A volume setting value (for example, V4) is set, and an output volume during volume reduction control (for example, the volume reduction control maximum volume in FIG. 8) is set to a volume setting value (for example, a volume reduction control maximum volume in FIG. V1) may be set, and the game machine may be characterized by being smaller than the output sound volume (for example, the sound volume normal control minimum sound volume in FIG. 8) when the sound volume reduction control is not executed.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not the current volume is a volume during volume reduction control. In addition, it is possible to distinguish between a situation where no game is played and a situation where the volume is low.

It is a front view of the slot machine of the embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a perspective view which shows the internal structure of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement | sequence of a reel. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows an example of a volume controller and a volume setting screen. It is a timing chart which showed the timing which performs volume reduction control in the case of producing an effect when a start switch is operated. It is a timing chart which showed the timing which performs volume reduction control in the case of producing an effect when the 3rd stop button is operated. It is a figure which shows the output sound volume at the time of the sound volume normal control in each sound volume setting value, and a sound volume fall control. It is the timing chart which showed the relationship between output control of BGM and execution of a promotion effect.

  The form for implementing the slot machine which concerns on this invention is demonstrated below based on embodiment.

  Inside the casing 1a of the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, reels 2L, 2C and 2R (hereinafter referred to as a left reel, a middle reel and a right reel) in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer periphery. ) Are juxtaposed in the horizontal direction, and as shown in FIG. 1, three consecutive symbols out of the symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, 2R can be seen from the see-through window 3 provided on the front door 1b. Are arranged as follows.

  As shown in FIG. 3, “red 7”, “blue 7”, “white 7”, “BAR”, “watermelon”, “cherry a”, “cherry” are respectively provided on the outer peripheral portions of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R. A plurality of identifiable symbols such as “b”, “bell”, “replay a”, “replay b”, and “plum” are drawn in a predetermined order. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheries of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in upper, middle, and lower three stages in the see-through window 3 provided at the approximate center of the front door 1b.

  The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated by reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R (see FIG. 4) provided in correspondence with each other, so that the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are continuous with the see-through window 3. On the other hand, when the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are stopped from rotating, three consecutive symbols are derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3 as display results.

  Inside the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R that detect a reference position for each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and a reel LED 55 that irradiates the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R from the back side. , Is provided. The reel LED 55 includes 12 LEDs corresponding to three consecutive symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and can irradiate each symbol independently.

  A display area 51a of a liquid crystal display 51 (see FIG. 1) is disposed at a position on the front side (player side) of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R of the front door 1b. The liquid crystal display 51 has a transmissive liquid crystal panel in a state where no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal element, and the transmissive area 51b corresponding to the transmissive window 3 of the display area 51a and the transmissive window 3 are interposed. Thus, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R can be visually recognized from the player side.

  As shown in FIG. 1, on the front door 1b, a medal insertion unit 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout exit 9 from which medals are paid out, and credits are used. A MAXBET switch 6 that is operated when setting the maximum bet number among the number of bets, and a settlement switch 10 that is operated when the medals stored as credits and the medals used to set the bet number are settled; The start switch 7 that is operated when starting the game, stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R that are operated when stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and the effect switch 56 that is used for effects are provided by the player. Each is provided so as to be operable.

  In this embodiment, among the three reels 2L, 2C, and 2R that have started to rotate, the reel that stops first is referred to as a first stop reel, and the stop is referred to as a first stop. Similarly, the reel that stops second is called the second stop reel, the stop is called second stop, the reel that stops third is called the third stop reel, and the stop is the third stop. Alternatively, it is called final stop.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the front door 1b shows a credit indicator 11 for displaying the number of medals stored as credits, the number of medals paid out due to the occurrence of a winning, and the contents when an error occurs. A game auxiliary display 12 for displaying an error code, information for identifying the stop order of reels by navigation notification described later, a 1BETLED 14 for informing that the betting number is set to 1, and 2 betting numbers are set. 2BETLED 15 to notify that the bet is set, 3BETLED 16 to notify that the bet number is set to 3, the insertion request LED 17 to notify that the medal can be inserted by lighting, and the game by operating the start switch 7 A start valid LED 18 that lights up to indicate that the start operation is valid. Weight in LED19 for notifying, gaming display section 13 in the replay LED20 is provided for informing by lighting the effect that while replaying the game is provided by.

  Inside the MAXBET switch 6, there is provided a BET switch valid LED 21 (see FIG. 4) for notifying that the setting operation of the bet amount by the operation of the MAXBET switch 6 is valid, and stop switches 8L, 8C, The left, middle, and right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C, and 22R (see FIG. 4) are provided inside the 8R to notify that the reel stop operation by the corresponding stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is valid by lighting. An effect LED 56a (see FIG. 4) for notifying that the operation of the effect switch 56 is effective is provided inside the effect switch 56.

  On the inner side of the front door 1b, a reset switch 23 (see FIG. 4) for detecting an error state described later by a predetermined key operation and a reset operation for releasing a stop state described later, A set value display 24 that displays the set value at that time during confirmation of the set value, a stop switch 36a for selecting whether to enable / disable the stop function that controls the stop state at a predetermined trigger, a predetermined switch An automatic settlement switch 36b for selecting whether the automatic settlement function to be controlled by the automatic settlement process is activated or not, and a hopper tank provided in the casing 1a with a flow path of medals inserted from the medal insertion section 4 34a (see FIG. 2) side or medal payout exit 9 side is selectively supplied from the flow path switching solenoid 30 and the medal insertion unit 4 and flows to the hopper tank 34a side. Inserted medal sensor 31 for detecting a received medal, medal selector 29 having an insertion port sensor 26 for detecting insertion of a foreign object on the upstream side of the inserted medal sensor 31, and a door open detection switch 25 for detecting the open state of the front door 1b (FIG. 4), and a volume controller 57 for setting the volume.

  In the housing 1a, as shown in FIG. 2, the reel reference positions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R (see FIG. 4), and the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are respectively shown. A reel unit 2 comprising detectable reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R (see FIG. 4), an external output board 1000 (see FIG. 4) for outputting an external output signal, and a medal inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 are stored. Hopper tank 34a, a hopper motor 34b for paying out medals stored in the hopper tank 34a from the medal payout opening 9 (see FIG. 4), and a payout sensor 34c for detecting the medals paid out by driving the hopper motor 34b ( A hopper unit 34 and a power supply box 100 are provided.

  On the side of the hopper unit 34, an overflow tank 35 is provided for storing medals overflowing from the hopper tank 34a. Inside the overflow tank 35, a full tank sensor 35a (see FIG. 4) is provided for detecting that the stored medal has become full.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a function key switch 37 for switching to a setting change state or a setting confirmation state is provided on the front surface of the power supply box 100, and functions as a reset switch for canceling an error state or a stop state in normal times. In the setting change state, a reset / setting switch 38 that functions as a setting switch for changing a setting value of a winning probability (outtake rate) of internal lottery described later, and a power source that is operated when turning on / off the power source A switch 39 is provided.

  When a game is played in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, first, medals are inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 or a bet number is set using credits. To use the credit, the MAXBET switch 6 may be operated. When a predetermined number of bets determined according to the gaming state are set, the winning line LN (see FIG. 1) becomes valid, and the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, that is, the state where the game can be started. Become. In addition, when a medal is inserted exceeding the maximum number out of the prescribed number corresponding to the gaming state, the amount is added to the credit.

  The winning line is a line that is set to determine whether a combination of symbols displayed on the perspective windows 3 of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is a winning symbol combination. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, only the winning line LN set across the symbols arranged in the horizontal direction in the middle stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, the middle stage of the reel 2R, that is, the middle stage, is used as the winning line. It has been established. In this embodiment, only one winning line is applied, but a plurality of winning lines may be applied.

  Further, in the present embodiment, invalid lines LM1 to LM1 are set apart from the winning line LN in order to make it easy to recognize that the winning line LN has a combination of symbols constituting the winning line.

  When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R rotate, and the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R continuously vary. When any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3. The operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R for stopping the first stop reel is referred to as a first stop operation. The operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R for stopping the second stop reel is referred to as a second stop operation. An operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R for stopping the third stop reel is referred to as a third stop operation.

  Then, when all the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are stopped, one game is completed, and a predetermined symbol combination (hereinafter also referred to as a winning combination) is displayed on the reels 2L, 2C, 2R on the winning line LN. If the game stops as a result, a winning occurs, and a predetermined number of medals are given to the player and added to the credit. Further, when the credit reaches the upper limit number (50 in this embodiment), medals are paid out directly from the medal payout opening 9 (see FIG. 1). In addition, when the combination of symbols accompanying the transition of the gaming state on the winning line LN is stopped as a display result of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R, the gaming state according to the combination of symbols is shifted. .

  In this embodiment, the game starts when the operation of the start switch 7 is detected in a state where the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, and the game ends when all the reels are stopped. Further, one unit of control (game control) for executing a game starts when all the controls associated with the end of the previous game are completed, and when all the controls associated with the end of the game are completed. finish.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the slot machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 1 is provided with a game control board 40, an effect control board 90, and a power supply board 101. The game state is controlled by the game control board 40, and the game state is controlled by the effect control board 90. The production according to the control is controlled, and the power supply board 101 generates the drive power for the electrical components constituting the slot machine 1 and supplies them to each part.

  The power supply board 101 is supplied with AC100V power from the outside, and from this AC100V power supply, a DC voltage necessary for driving electrical components constituting the slot machine 1 is generated, and the game control board 40 and the effect control board 90 are generated. To be supplied. Further, the above-described hopper motor 34b, payout sensor 34c, full sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, reset / setting switch 38, and power switch 39 are connected to the power supply board 101.

  On the game control board 40, the above-described MAXBET switch 6, start switch 7, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, settlement switch 10, reset switch 23, stop switch 36a, automatic settlement switch 36b, insertion medal sensor 31, door open The detection switch 25 and reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R are connected, and the above-described payout sensor 34c, full sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, and reset / setting switch 38 are connected via the power supply board 101. Detection signals from these connected switches are input. Further, the game control board 40 includes the credit indicator 11, the game auxiliary indicator 12, 1-3 BET LEDs 14-16, the insertion request LED 17, the start valid LED 18, the waiting LED 19, the replaying LED 20, the BET switch valid LED 21, the left , Middle and right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C, 22R, set value display 24, flow path switching solenoid 30, reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R, volume controller 57, cross key 58 and power supply board 101 are connected. The above-described hopper motor 34b and the power switch 39 are connected to each other, and these electric components are driven based on the control of the main control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40. The volume adjuster 57 is for the game store side to set the volume, and can be set in any of five levels. The sub control unit 91 controls the sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 by controlling the sound output circuit 94 according to the stage set by the volume adjuster 57 and the stage set by the player. The cross key 58 is operated by the player vertically and horizontally. In this embodiment, the player performs a volume setting operation. When the cross key 58 is operated, a signal corresponding to the operation is output to the sub-control unit 91.

  The game control board 40 performs processing related to the progress of the game, and at the same time, controls the respective parts of the control circuit mounted on the game control board 40 directly or indirectly, and becomes an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency. A control clock generation circuit 42 for generating a control clock CCLK, a random number clock generation circuit 43 for generating a random number clock RCLK that is an oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency different from the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK, and a game control board 40, a switch detection circuit 44 that takes in detection signals input from switches connected directly or via the power supply board 101 and transmits them to the main control unit 41, and a motor drive signal (stepping) output from the main control unit 41. Motor drive circuit 45 for transmitting the motor phase signal) to the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R. The solenoid drive circuit 46 that transmits the solenoid drive signal output from the main control unit 41 to the flow path switching solenoid 30; and the various displays connected to the game control board 40 with the LED drive signal output from the main control unit 41 When a voltage drop is detected by monitoring the voltage of the LED drive circuit 47 that transmits to the LED and the power supply supplied to the slot machine 1, a voltage drop signal indicating that is output to the main control unit 41 And a reset circuit 49 that provides a system reset signal to the main control unit 41 when the power supply is unstable such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off.

  An effect switch 56 is connected to the effect control board 90, and a detection signal of the effect switch 56 is input. In addition, presentation devices such as a liquid crystal display 51, presentation effect LEDs 52, speakers 53 and 54, and reel LEDs 55 are connected, and these presentation devices are controlled by a later-described sub-control unit 91 mounted on the presentation control board 90. It is driven based on this.

  The effect control board 90 is composed of a microcomputer having a sub CPU 91a, ROM 91b, RAM 91c, and I / O port 91d, and a sub control unit 91 for controlling the effect, and a liquid crystal display 51 connected to the effect control board 90. A display control circuit 92 for performing display control, an effect effect LED 52, an LED drive circuit 93 for controlling drive of the reel LED 55, a sound output circuit 94 for controlling sound output from the speakers 53, 54, A reset circuit 95 that provides a reset signal to the sub CPU 91a when an initialization command from the sub CPU 91a is not input for a certain period of time; a switch circuit 96 that detects a detection signal input from switches connected to the effect control board 90; A clock device 97 for outputting time information including date information and time information; A power interruption detection circuit 98 that monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the machine 1 and outputs a voltage drop signal indicating that to the sub CPU 91a when a voltage drop is detected, and other circuits are mounted. ing.

  Sub CPU91a receives the command transmitted from game control board 40, performs various control for performing an effect, and controls each part of the control circuit mounted in effect control board 90 directly or indirectly. .

  Similar to the main control unit 41, the sub control unit 91 has an interrupt function, generates an interrupt when receiving a command from the main control unit 41, and acquires a command transmitted from the main control unit 41. Execute command reception interrupt processing to be stored in the buffer. Further, the sub control unit 91 executes the timer interrupt process (sub) by generating an interrupt every time the input number of system clocks reaches a certain number, that is, at a certain time interval (about 2 ms). Also, unlike the main control unit 41, the sub control unit 91 interrupts the process even when the timer interrupt process (sub) is being executed when an interrupt is generated based on the reception of the command. The command reception interrupt process is executed at the same time, and the command reception interrupt process is executed with the highest priority even if interrupts that trigger the timer interrupt process (sub) occur at the same time. The sub-control unit 91 is also supplied with backup power at the time of a power failure, and the data stored in the RAM 91c is held while the backup power is supplied.

In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the medal payout rate changes according to the set value.
The medal payout rate is changed by using a winning probability corresponding to a set value in a lottery that affects the player's advantage such as an internal lottery. The set value is composed of 6 levels of 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest payout rate and the payout rate being lower as the value is decreased in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the advantage is highest for the player, and as the value decreases in order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, the advantage decreases stepwise.

  In this embodiment, when all the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are stopped, the activated pay line is activated (in the case of this embodiment, all the pay lines are always activated. A winning combination is obtained when a combination of symbols called a combination is arranged on the winning line. The combination may be a combination of the same symbols or a combination including different symbols.

  The type of winning combination is determined according to the game state, but it can be roughly divided into a small role with payout of medals and a replay that can start the next game without the need to set the number of bets. There are a game combination and a special combination with a transition to a game state advantageous to the player. Below, a small role and a re-playing role are collectively called a general role. In order to win each winning combination determined according to the gaming state, it is necessary to win the internal lottery and set the winning flag of the winning combination in the RAM 41c. Among the winning flags for each of these combinations, the winning flag for the small role and the replaying role is valid only in the game in which the flag is set, and is invalid in the next game, but the special flag winning flag is It is valid until a combination of combinations permitted by the flag is completed, and is invalid in a game having a combination of combinations permitted. In other words, once the special combination winning flag is won, even if the combination of the combination permitted by the flag cannot be made, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game. It becomes.

  Hereinafter, the internal lottery of the present embodiment will be described. In the internal lottery, whether or not the main control unit 41 allows the winning of each combination described above before the display results of all the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are derived (specifically, the start switch 7 At the time of detection). In the internal lottery, first, a random value for internal lottery (an integer from 0 to 65535) is acquired when the start switch 7 is detected. Specifically, the value generated by the random number circuit 508b and stored in the random number value register of the random number circuit 508b is set as the lottery work assigned to the RAM 41c. And, for each combination determined according to the gaming state, according to the numerical data stored in the lottery work and the number of determination values of each combination determined according to the current gaming state, the number of bets and the set value A determination is made as to whether or not winning is permitted.

  In the internal lottery, the number of judgment values determined in accordance with the internal lottery target, the current gaming state, and the set value are sequentially assigned to the random number for internal lottery (numerical data stored in the lottery work). When the result of addition overflows, it is determined that the winning combination is won. For this reason, a winning combination will be won with a probability (number of determination values / 65536) according to the number of determination values.

  Then, a winning number indicating the result of the internal lottery is set in the RAM 41c. The winning number is used for setting of an internal winning flag, navigation notification, command creation, reel 2L, 2C, 2R stop control, and the like.

  When a winning combination is determined, a winning flag corresponding to the winning combination determined based on the winning number is set in the internal winning flag storing work assigned to the RAM 41c. The internal winning flag storage work consists of a storage area of 2 bytes, of which the upper byte is assigned as the special role storing work for which the special role winning flag is set, and the lower byte is the winning of the general role It is assigned as a general role storage work for which a flag is set. Specifically, when a special role is elected, the special role winning flag indicating that the special role is elected is set in the special role storing work, and when the general role is elected, the general role is elected. The winning combination flag indicating the general role is set in the general role storing work. If no winning combination is selected, the special combination storing work and the general combination storing work are cleared.

  Next, commands that the main control unit 41 transmits to the sub control unit 91 will be described. In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 transmits various commands to the sub control unit 91. Hereinafter, some of the various commands will be described. Commands other than the following commands may be used.

  The game state command is a command that can specify the game state of the game, and is transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game.

  The ART state command is a command that can specify whether the game is in AT, whether it is in ART, the number of remaining games until the specified number of games is reached, the number of remaining games in the precursor period, and the number of remaining games in ART. Is sent after the gaming state command.

  The internal winning command is a command that can specify the internal lottery result, and is transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated and the game starts, and is transmitted after the ART state command. The internal winning command includes a first internal winning command that can specify whether or not the special combination is won, and a second internal winning command that can specify whether or not the general combination is won, After the first internal winning command is transmitted, the second internal winning command is transmitted.

The push order command is a command that can specify the stop order, and is when the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started, after the internal winning command is transmitted, and with the stop operation of each reel Each time control is performed, it is transmitted after a stop command is transmitted.
In a game in which navigation notification described later is executed, a push order command that can specify a stop order advantageous to the player is transmitted from the start of the game, and in a game in which navigation notification is not executed, an advantageous stop order is provided. A push order command that cannot specify a stop order that is advantageous to the player is transmitted until it is determined, and a push order command that can specify a stop order that is advantageous to the player is transmitted after the advantageous stop order is determined.

  Since the game state command, the ART state command, and the internal winning command are transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated and the game starts, the game is started by operating the start switch 7 by receiving these commands. Can be specified.

  The ART lottery result command is a command that can specify whether or not the ART lottery or the extra lottery is won, and the number of games of the winning ART or the number of games to be added. When the game is started, the ART lottery or Sent after the internal winning command is transmitted in the game where the extra lottery is performed.

  The stop operation command is a command that can specify whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, and the area number of the stop operation position of the corresponding reel. Sent every time the accompanying stop control is performed.

  The stop command is a command that can specify whether the reel to be stopped is a left reel, a middle reel, or a right reel, and the area number of the stop position of the corresponding reel. Stop control associated with the stop operation of each reel Is transmitted after the corresponding sliding frame number command is transmitted.

  With the stop operation command and the stop command, it is possible to specify whether the reel to be stopped is a left reel, a middle reel, or a right reel, and stop control is performed in accordance with the stop operation of each reel. Since it is transmitted every time, by receiving these commands, it is possible to specify that one of the reels has been stopped and the reel to be stopped.

  The game end command is a command that can specify that the game has ended, and is transmitted when the player presses the stop switch to stop the third stop reel and releases the stop switch.

  The winning determination command is a command that can specify the presence / absence of winning, the combination of symbols arranged on the winning line LN, the type of winning, and the number of medals to be paid out at the time of winning, so that the player stops the third stop reel. This is when the stop switch is pressed and released, and is transmitted after the game end command is transmitted.

  Both the game end command and the winning determination command are transmitted when the player presses the stop switch to stop the third stop reel and then releases the stop switch. By receiving these commands, It is possible to specify that all operations necessary to advance one game have been completed.

  In the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 can provide a notification period in which navigation notification can be executed to notify the stop order that is advantageous to the player according to the internal lottery result by the lighting mode of the game auxiliary display 12 Can be controlled at an assist time (hereinafter referred to as AT).

  When the main control unit 41 controls the AT, the main control unit 41 performs navigation notification by winning the navigation target combination corresponding to the gaming state, and based on the winning number of the winning navigation notification combination, the player In addition to notifying the stop order that is advantageous to the player and transmitting a push order command that can specify the stop order that is advantageous to the player based on the winning number to the sub-control unit 91, the liquid crystal display 51, etc. The navigation effect using is executed. Further, in the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 can execute navigation notification and execute a navigation effect by satisfying certain conditions even in a normal state where the control is not performed by the AT.

  The gaming state in this embodiment includes RT0 to 4, RB, and BB (RB). Among RT0 to 4, RB, and BB (RB), RB and BB have the highest medal payout rate per game and are the most advantageous gaming state. RT0, RT2 and RT4 of RT0-4 have a higher probability of winning a re-gamer, and the payout rate of medals per game is higher than RT1 and 3, compared to RT1 and RT3. It can be said that this is an advantageous state for the player. RT0, 2 of RT0, 2, 4 can be said to be more advantageous to the player than RT4 in that the payout rate of medals per game is higher than RT4. RT2 can be said to be more advantageous to the player than RT0 in that there is a high possibility that the number of ART games described later will be added.

  Further, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when the gaming state is RT0 to 2, the main control unit 41 can execute a navigation notification for notifying the stop order that is advantageous to the player according to the internal lottery result. It is possible to control the assist time (hereinafter referred to as AT) that is a notification period.

  When the main control unit 41 is controlled by the AT, the main control unit 41 performs navigation notification by winning the notification target combination corresponding to the gaming state, and the first internal winning command to the sub control unit 91 By transmitting the second internal winning command and the pressing order command, the navigation control by the sub-control unit 91 is executed.

The navigation effect of the present embodiment notifies the stop order advantageous for the player notified by the navigation notification by displaying the navigation image from the liquid crystal display 51 and the output of the navigation sound from the speakers 53 and 54. For example, when informing the stop order of the left middle right stop switch 8L such as “123” (indicating that the left reel is the first stop, the middle reel is the second stop, and the right reel is the third stop), A stop order image indicating the stop order of 8C and 8R is displayed. In addition, as the navigation voice, for example, “left middle right!” (Indicating that the left reel is the first stop, the middle reel is the second stop, and the right reel is the third stop) Is output. When the stop order in which the left reel is first stopped is notified, the stop order of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R such as “1--” (indicating that the left reel is the first stop) is indicated. Display stop order images. In addition, as the navigation voice, for example, to output a sound indicating the stop order of the "Left!" Stop switch that went with the (left reel is that the show is the first stop). The mode of the navigation effect is not limited to such a mode, and any mode may be used as long as the player can distinguish according to the winning situation. Further, the navigation effect is not limited to using the liquid crystal display 51 and the speakers 53 and 54, but may be executed using the effect effect LED 52, the reel LED 55, and the like.

  In this embodiment, the main control unit 41 performs an ART lottery to determine whether or not to control to ART (state controlled by AT at RT0) when the lottery condition is satisfied. Then, the main control unit 41 wins the ART lottery and controls the ART when the precursor period ends.

  When controlling to ART, first control to AT. The state from the start of the AT control to the transition to RT0 is also referred to as a preparation state. The main control unit 41 performs navigation notification when the target combination is won in the preparation state.

  Further, after the start of ART, every time one game is consumed, the number of remaining games is decremented by 1, and when the remaining number of games becomes 0, the AT control is terminated. As a result, navigation notification is not executed.

  Further, after the start of ART, when the lottery condition is satisfied before the remaining number of games becomes zero, an extra lottery is performed to determine whether or not to add the number of ART games. When the winning lottery is won, an ART game number lottery for determining the number of ART games is performed, and the number of games won in the ART game number lottery is added to the remaining number of ART games.

  Further, after the start of ART, when the lottery condition is satisfied before the remaining number of games becomes 0, it is determined whether or not to shift to an added state in which the probability that the number of ART games is added is higher than during ART. Addition state lottery.

  Further, after the start of ART, if a special combination is won before the remaining number of games becomes 0, the ART is interrupted by the end of RT2, and the counting of the number of ART games is also interrupted accordingly. When a special combination is won during ART, navigation notification is not performed even if the push order bell is won until the special combination wins.

  If the special role is won during ART and the ART is interrupted, the bonus is controlled after the winning special role is won, and the transition is stopped at RT3 after the bonus ends, and RT1 At this time, the AT control is resumed, and the ART is resumed by moving again to RT0 through the preparation state, and the counting of the remaining number of games of the ART is also resumed.

  In addition, RT2 is advantageous to the player in that it is more likely to be given benefits advantageous to the player than RT0 in that the number of ART games is likely to be increased. However, for example, a configuration that is advantageous to the player in terms of a high probability of winning a specific combination, a high probability of winning a specific combination, and a high medal payout rate may be used.

  Here, the benefit advantageous to the player means a right that allows the player to shift to an advantageous state advantageous to the player (winning a lottery for determining whether or not to generate the advantageous state, shifting to the advantageous state. (E.g., winning is permitted), the right to be notified of an operation mode advantageous to the player, the right to be controlled to a gaming state with a high expected value to which a gaming value is given, and the current gaming state are advantageous to the player Such as the right to be notified of whether or not the player is in a gaming state, the period during which the player is controlled to be in an advantageous state (the number of fixed games, the average value of the number of games that vary depending on the end condition, etc.) Alternatively, it may be a benefit that is indirectly advantageous to the player, such as a condition for obtaining a privilege on the Internet, although it is not directly advantageous to the player.

  Next, control of the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 under the control of the sub control unit 91 will be described. The slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment can output sound from the speakers 53 and 54 at output levels of four levels of volume setting values V1 to V4 (V1, V2, V3, and V4). If the volume setting value is different, the output volume is also different, the output volume of V1 is the lowest, the output volume is increased in the order of V2, V3, and the output volume of V4 is the highest. Note that the output volume of V1 may be 0, that is, silence.

  Next, the volume adjustment of the game store and the player will be described. FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of a volume adjuster 57 used for volume adjustment in a game store. The amusement shop sets one of the volume setting values of the volume setting values V1 to V4 (V1, V2, V3, V4) by rotating the triangular knob of the volume controller 57. Is possible. The volume setting value in the volume adjuster 57 illustrated in FIG. 5A is V2.

FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a volume setting screen used for adjusting the player's volume.
The volume setting screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. The player can set any one of the volume setting values among the plurality of volume setting values V1 to V4 (V1, V2, V3, V4) with the cross key 58 on the volume setting screen. In this embodiment, when the player presses the cross key 58 to the left, the volume setting value becomes small, and when the cross key 58 is pressed to the right, the volume setting value becomes large. When the player presses the cross key 58 upward, the displayed volume setting value can be set. The volume setting value on the volume setting screen illustrated in FIG. 5B is V3. Note that the player can end the volume setting screen by pressing the effect switch 56.

  The sub-control unit 91 controls the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 according to the volume setting value of the volume adjuster 57 at the time of activation. That is, the volume setting value of the volume adjuster 57 is the default at the time of activation. When the volume setting value is set on the volume setting screen by the player, the sub-control unit 91 controls the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 according to the set volume setting value. Further, when the volume setting value is set in the volume adjuster 57, the sub control unit 91 controls the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 in accordance with the set volume setting value. As described above, the sub control unit 91 controls the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 according to the setting value last set on the volume adjuster 57 or the volume setting screen.

  As described above, the sub-control unit 91 according to the present embodiment executes normal volume control and volume reduction control as control for the output volume. The normal volume control is a volume control in a state where a game is being played by the player. The volume reduction control is a control in which the sub-control unit 91 controls the audio output circuit 94 to reduce the volume of the game sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 when the player has not played a game for a predetermined time from a predetermined opportunity. The volume control is such that the output volume is lower than the normal volume control.

  The predetermined opportunity is, for example, the timing at which the game is started by operating the start switch 7 or the timing at which the game is ended by performing the third stop operation. The volume reduction control performed by the sub-control unit 91 may be control that controls the audio output circuit 94 to mute the sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 (decrease the volume to 0).

  Further, the sub control unit 91 ends the sound volume reduction control when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the sound volume reduction control. In the present embodiment, the predetermined condition is a condition of “detecting that a player has played a game”.

  In the present embodiment, detection of whether or not a game is being played by the player is performed based on the player's operation. When a player's operation is detected, it is determined that a game is being played by the player. When a state where no player's operation has been detected has passed for a predetermined period of time, the player has not played a game. judge.

  In the present embodiment, the player's operation for detecting whether or not the player is playing a game includes the operation of the MAXBET switch 6, the operation of the start switch 7, the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C and 8R, and the checkout switch. 10 operations and 5 operations for inserting medals into the medal insertion unit 4. Therefore, even if the cross key 58 and the effect switch 56 that are not included in these operations are operated, it is determined that no game is played by the player. Even if the volume adjuster 57 is operated, since this operation is not an operation by the player, it is determined that no game is played by the player.

  The above five operations are detected by the main control unit 41, and commands indicating that they have been operated are transmitted to the sub-control unit 91. Thereby, the sub-control unit 91 can determine that a game has been played by the player.

  When the sub control unit 91 performs the sound volume reduction control, when the game is not performed for a predetermined time from a predetermined opportunity, it is possible to reduce the troublesomeness of the output sound. In addition, when some effect is performed during the game in the slot machine 1, it is conceivable that the player is watching the effect without playing the game. In this case, if the volume reduction control is performed because the game is not performed by the player, execution of the effect is hindered.

  Therefore, in order to prevent the volume reduction control from impeding the execution of the effect, the execution time of the specific effect that is the effect that has the longest execution time among the effects that the sub-control unit 91 can execute from a predetermined opportunity Make it shorter than time. The execution time of the specific effect may be shorter than the predetermined time based on the predetermined time, or the predetermined time may be longer than the execution time of the specific effect based on the execution time of the specific effect.

  As a result, even if any of the effects that can be executed by the sub-control unit 91 from a predetermined trigger is executed, the execution of the effect ends before the sound volume reduction control is executed, so the effect is achieved by the volume reduction control. Can be prevented from being obstructed.

  The sub control unit 91 in the present embodiment can execute any one of the effects A, B, and C from a predetermined opportunity. Production A, production B and production C are productions accompanied by sound output. Note that the sub-control unit 91 may not execute an effect from a predetermined opportunity. In addition, the execution time of effect A is 15 seconds, the execution time of effect B is 30 seconds, and the execution time of effect C is 45 seconds. Therefore, the specific effect in this case is effect C. The predetermined time is 1 minute. Thus, the execution time of the specific effect in this embodiment is shorter than the predetermined time.

  FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing the timing for executing the volume reduction control when the timing at which the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started is a predetermined opportunity. In the illustrated example, at time t11, the slot machine 1 starts the game by operating the start switch 7. Further, the sub-control unit 91 starts timing at time t11 which is a predetermined opportunity, and counts elapsed time from time t11. Then, the sub-control unit 91 performs volume reduction control at time t12 when one minute, which is a predetermined time, has elapsed without starting the game and various operations by the player since the time measurement was started at time t11. Further, when executing the production A, the sub-control unit 91 executes the production A for 15 seconds from time t11 which is a predetermined opportunity. Further, when executing the effect B, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect B for 30 seconds from time t11 which is a predetermined trigger. Further, when executing the effect C, the sub control unit 91 executes the effect C for 45 seconds from time t11 which is a predetermined opportunity.

  FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing the timing for executing the sound volume reduction control when the timing at which the third stop operation is performed and the game ends is a predetermined opportunity. In the illustrated example, at time t21, the slot machine 1 starts the game by operating the start switch 7. At time t22, the slot machine 1 has finished the game by performing a third stop operation. In addition, the sub-control unit 91 starts timing at a time t22 that is a predetermined opportunity, and counts an elapsed time from the time t22. Then, the sub-control unit 91 performs volume reduction control at time t23 when one minute, which is a predetermined time, has elapsed without starting the game and various operations by the player since starting time measurement at time t22. Further, when executing the production A, the sub-control unit 91 executes the production A for 15 seconds from time t22 which is a predetermined opportunity. Further, when executing the effect B, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect B for 30 seconds from time t22 which is a predetermined opportunity. Further, when executing the effect C, the sub control unit 91 executes the effect C for 45 seconds from time t22 which is a predetermined opportunity.

  As described above, the sub-control unit 91 starts timing at a predetermined opportunity, and measures the elapsed time from the predetermined opportunity. Then, the sub-control unit 91 performs volume reduction control when a predetermined time of 1 minute elapses without the game or various operations performed by the player from the start of timing. In addition, the execution time of the production C, which is a specific production that can be executed from a predetermined opportunity, is 45 seconds, which is shorter than the predetermined time of 1 minute. Therefore, even when the timing when the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started is a predetermined opportunity, even when the timing when the third stop operation is performed and the game is ended is a predetermined opportunity. Since C ends before the volume reduction control is executed, the execution of the effect is not hindered by the volume reduction control. In addition, since the execution time of the effects A and B that can be executed from a predetermined opportunity is shorter than the effect C, the execution of the effects is not hindered by the volume reduction control.

  In addition, even if it is a case where none of production | presentation AC which can be performed from a predetermined opportunity is performed, the sub-control part 91 may start time-measurement at a predetermined opportunity, and may time the elapsed time from a predetermined opportunity. Good. Thus, even when any of the effects A to C that can be executed from the predetermined opportunity is executed, or even when any of the effects A to C that can be executed from the predetermined opportunity is not executed, the common timing control is performed. Therefore, the process can be prevented from becoming complicated.

  Further, as described above, even when the timing at which the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started is a predetermined trigger (first trigger), the timing at which the third stop operation is performed and the game is ended is a predetermined trigger. Even in the case of (second opportunity), any of effects A to C can be started from a predetermined opportunity. In addition, the execution time of the production C, which is a specific production, is such that even when the start switch 7 is operated and the timing at which the game is started is a predetermined opportunity (first opportunity), the third stop operation is performed and the game Even if the timing at which is completed is a predetermined trigger (second trigger), it is shorter than the predetermined time.

  Thereby, even when the timing at which the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started is a predetermined trigger (first trigger), the timing at which the third stop operation is performed and the game is ended is set to the predetermined trigger (second Even if it is a case, execution of an effect is not inhibited by volume reduction control.

  The predetermined opportunity is not limited to the timing at which the start switch 7 is operated to start the game and the timing at which the game is ended by performing the third stop operation. For example, any timing such as the timing at which the first stop operation is performed, the timing at which the second stop operation is performed, or the timing at which the effect switch 56 is operated may be used as the predetermined trigger.

  In addition, although the sub control part 91 demonstrated using three types of production AC as an effect which can be performed from a predetermined opportunity, it is not restricted to this. For example, an effect that can be executed by the sub-control unit 91 from a predetermined opportunity is an execution time of a specific effect that is the effect that has the longest execution time among the effects that the sub-control unit 91 can execute from the predetermined opportunity. Any production may be used.

  In the above-described example, the description has been given using the example in which the predetermined time is 1 minute and the execution time of the specific effect is 45 seconds. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as long as the execution time of the specific effect is shorter than the predetermined time, the predetermined time and the execution time of the specific effect may be any time.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the output volume at the time of normal volume control and volume reduction control at each volume setting value. As shown in the figure, for each volume setting value, an output volume during normal volume control and an output volume during volume reduction control are provided. During normal volume control, as described above, the output volume of V1 is the lowest, the output volume is increased in the order of V2, V3, and the output volume of V4 is the highest. In addition to this, in this embodiment, the output volume at the time of volume reduction control is the lowest output volume of V1, the output volume increases in the order of V2, V3, and the output volume of V4 is the highest. In this way, with volume reduction control, the output volume is reduced according to the volume setting value, and if the volume setting value is large, the output volume can be increased accordingly even during volume reduction control. When the value is small, the output volume can be reduced even during the volume reduction control, so that the intention of the setter can be reflected even during the volume reduction control.

  Note that the sound (error sound) indicating the occurrence of an error is set to have a constant output volume regardless of whether or not the volume reduction control is being performed and regardless of the volume setting value, as shown in the figure. Thereby, for example, a player or a store clerk can be made to recognize an error suitably.

  In the present embodiment, the volume setting value indicating the maximum volume is V4, and the volume setting value indicating the minimum volume is V1. Further, the output volume during volume reduction control when the volume setting value V4 is set (the volume reduction control maximum volume in FIG. 8) is the output volume during normal volume control when the volume setting value V1 is set. It is smaller than (the minimum volume of normal control in FIG. 8). In other words, the maximum volume during volume reduction control (the output volume during normal volume control, the minimum volume during normal volume control when the volume setting value V1 indicating the minimum volume is set, the minimum volume during normal volume control) is set. The volume during the volume reduction control when the volume setting value V4 indicating the maximum volume is set, and the maximum volume for the reduction control) are smaller. This makes it possible to determine whether or not the current volume is a volume during volume reduction control.

  The reason why determination is possible will be described. "The maximum volume during volume reduction control is lower than the minimum volume during volume normal control" means that the output volume during normal volume control and the output volume during volume reduction control are It shows that it is clearly separated by reference. Therefore, when the output volume is lower than the reference, it can be determined that the volume reduction control is being performed, and when the output volume exceeds the reference, it can be determined that the normal volume control is being performed. As an example of this reference, an arbitrary output volume value in a section from the maximum volume at the time of volume reduction control to the minimum volume at the time of normal volume control in FIG. If the output volume at the time of volume reduction control is larger than the output volume at the time of normal volume control, the above-mentioned standard does not exist, so it cannot be determined whether or not the volume reduction control is being performed.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the current volume is a volume during volume reduction control, but effects other than this effect can also be obtained. For example, if the output volume at the time of volume reduction control is larger than the output volume at the time of normal volume control, the output volume of the game machine that is not being played is greater than the output volume of the game machine that is being played. An unnatural phenomenon that the sound of the adjacent gaming machine is louder than the sound of the gaming machine that the player is playing when the gaming machine adjacent to the gaming machine that the player is playing is empty To do. This is very annoying for the player. According to this embodiment, since the output volume at the time of volume reduction control is always smaller than the output volume at the time of normal volume control, the above-mentioned unnatural phenomenon does not occur and the player is not bothered. A special effect of providing a comfortable gaming environment can be obtained.

  Note that the volume controller 57 may be operable even when the sub-control unit 91 controls the audio output circuit 94 to output sound from the speakers 53 and 54.

  In addition, when the volume adjuster 57 is operated during the above-described volume reduction control, the sub-control unit 91 sets the volume according to the operation of the volume adjuster 57 during the volume reduction control. Also good. For example, when the volume adjuster 57 is operated during the volume reduction control and the volume setting value is changed from V4 to V2, the sub-control unit 91 continues the volume reduction control, and the volume setting value during the volume reduction control. The volume may be set to V2. Thereby, the volume during volume reduction control can be set suitably.

  Further, the sub control unit 91 may end the volume reduction control when the volume adjuster 57 is operated while performing the volume reduction control described above. For example, when the volume adjuster 57 is operated during the volume reduction control and the volume setting value is changed from V4 to V2, the sub-control unit 91 ends the volume reduction control and the volume setting value during the normal volume control. The volume may be set to V2. Thereby, the volume can be restored in accordance with the operation of the volume adjuster 57.

  Next, the relationship between BGM and promotion effects will be described. The effects executed by the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment include a promotion effect that prompts the player to operate the operation means. The promotion effect includes a first promotion effect and a second promotion effect.

  The first promotion effect is an effect that prompts an operation of the effect switch 56 used for an operation for the effect. The sub-control unit 91 executes the first promotion effect in the game after the game in which the extra lottery is executed. The first promotion effect is executed at the time of winning a cherry or watermelon as an execution opportunity. The operation of the effect switch 56 is prompted by the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 and the first promotion sound output from the speakers 53 and 54. When the effect switch 56 is operated, a notification regarding the navigation stock (for example, “WIN!” Indicating that the AT has been won is displayed on the screen) is performed. When executing the first promotion effect, the sub-control unit 91 adjusts the volume so that the volume of the predetermined sound that is generally flowing during the game is reduced. Here, the predetermined sound includes BGM that matches the background image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51, but in addition to this, music selected according to the effect executed when the effect is executed, Voices uttered by characters appearing in are included.

  The second promotion effect is an effect that prompts the user to operate the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R that are used for an operation for advancing the game. The sub-control unit 91 executes the second promotion effect when the winning combination (push order bell and push order lip) is won during AT. The 2nd promotion production is performed at the time of winning of the push order which becomes an execution opportunity. The operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is prompted by the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 and the second promotion sound output from the speakers 53, 54. When executing the second promotion effect, the sub-control unit 91 maintains the volume of a predetermined sound (BGM or the like) that is generally flowing during the game. Note that the volume of the second promotion sound is larger than the volume of the predetermined sound.

  FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the BGM output control and the execution of the promotion effect. The horizontal axis indicates time t, and whether the volume of “BGM (predetermined sound)” is high or low from the top, “first promotion effect” and “second promotion effect” are executed (on state) Or the game is not executed (is in an off state), and the display on the liquid crystal display 51 and the number of games in which the continuous effect being executed are displayed. Hereinafter, a description will be given along the timing chart of FIG.

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the game state is controlled by RT2 and is controlled by the AT (ART state). It is assumed that at time t1 during the AT, a cherry win is won, and this is used as an opportunity to start a continuous production that adds the number of navigation stocks and suggests a win. For example, it is assumed that the number of navigation stocks is given by AT lottery.

  Time t1 to t2 is the first game of continuous production. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, a state in which a battle effect as a continuous effect is started is shown. On the screen, a character A as a friend and a character B as an enemy are displayed. At this time, BGM (predetermined sound) played during the AT is flowing at a high volume. At this time, neither the first promotion effect nor the second promotion effect is executed.

  Time t2 indicates that the second game of the continuous performance has been started by the player's start operation. At this time, it is assumed that the push order bell is won. Time t2 to t3 is the second game of continuous production. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, a state in which the enemy character B is attacking the friend character A in the battle effect is shown. At this time, BGM (predetermined sound) played during the AT is flowing at a high volume. At this time, the first promotion effect is not executed.

  The second promotion effect is executed. Specifically, a circled number indicating a correct answer procedure of the push order bell (pressing order of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) is displayed at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51. Moreover, the reel which should stop now is output as a sound as a 2nd promotion sound. Since the correct answer procedure is right and left, the second promotion sound is output in the order of “hidari”, “migi”, “naka”. While the second promotion effect is being executed (t2 to t3), the output of BGM is maintained. The volume of the second promotion performance is adjusted so as to be larger than the volume of the BGM. The second promotion effect is a promotion effect by image display and sound output, but may be a promotion effect only by image display or a promotion effect only by sound output.

  Time t3 indicates that the third game of the continuous effect is started by the start operation of the player. Times t3 to t4 are the third game of continuous production. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, it is shown that the character A who is a friend is attacking the enemy character B in the battle effect. At this time, BGM (predetermined sound) played during the AT is flowing at a high volume. At this time, neither the first promotion effect nor the second promotion effect is executed.

  Time t4 indicates that the fourth game of the continuous effect has been started by the start operation of the player. At this time, it is assumed that the push order bell is won. Time t4 to t6 is the fourth game of continuous production. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, it is shown that the character A who is a friend is attacking the enemy character B in the battle effect. At this time, the BGM (predetermined sound) that is played during the AT is flowing at a high volume. At this time, the first promotion effect is not executed.

  The second promotion effect is executed. Specifically, at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, circled numbers indicating the correct answer procedure of the push order bell are displayed. Moreover, the reel which should stop now is output as a sound as a 2nd promotion sound. Since the correct answer procedure is middle right and left, the second promotion sound is output in the order of “Naka”, “Hidari”, “Migi”. While the second promotion effect is being executed (t4 to t5), the output of BGM is maintained. The volume of the second promotion performance is adjusted so as to be larger than the volume of the BGM.

  When the winning symbol of the push order bell is derived by the third stop, the second promotion effect is ended (the second promotion effect is turned off). When the second promotion effect ends, the first promotion effect is started at time t5 (the first promotion effect is turned on). At this time, the volume of the second promotion effect is high and output. On the other hand, the BGM volume is output from large to small.

  As the first promotion effect, an image “PUSH!” Corresponding to the first promotion effect is displayed on the screen. At the same time, the speakers 53 and 54 output the sound of the promotion sound “Press this button!” Corresponding to the first promotion effect, prompting the operation of the effect switch 56.

  When the player operates the effect switch 56, “WIN!” Indicating victory is displayed, and a state in which the character A who is a friend defeats the enemy character B and wins is shown. As a result, it is suggested that the player has won the extra.

  At time t6, when the character A wins over the character B, the battle effect ends and the first promotion effect ends (the first promotion effect is turned off). In addition, with the end of the first promotion effect, the volume of the BGM returns to the original volume. The first promotion effect is a promotion effect by image display and audio output, but may be a promotion effect only by image display or a promotion effect only by sound output.

  In this way, as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, when the first promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM is reduced, while at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. As described above, the BGM volume is maintained when the second promotion effect is being executed. For this reason, it is possible to concentrate the player on the operation of the effect operating means.

  Further, as shown at time t5 in FIG. 9, after the symbols are derived by operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R by the navigation in the pressing order, the first promotion effect that prompts the operation of the effect switch 56 Was made to run. For this reason, it is possible to concentrate the player on the operation of the effect operating means.

  Further, as shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9, when the second promotion effect is executed, the second promotion effect is executed because the volume of the second promotion sound is larger than the volume of the BGM. The second sound that is sometimes output does not become difficult to hear.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described with reference to drawings, this invention is not limited to this embodiment. The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible.

[About gaming machines]
In the above embodiment, the slot machine for setting bets using medals and credits has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, a game ball used in a pachinko gaming machine is used. Applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a slot machine that sets the bet number, a fully credit type slot machine that sets the bet number using only credits, or a pachinko gaming machine, It is possible to realize such an invention. When game balls are used as game media, for example, when one medal corresponds to five game balls, and 3 is set as the bet number in the above embodiment, 15 game balls are used. This is equivalent to setting the number of bets using.

  In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to one using only one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and gaming balls, but a plurality of types of gaming machines such as medals and gaming balls, for example. The game value may be used together. That is, it is possible to play a game by setting the number of bets using any one of a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls, and a plurality of types of games such as medals and game balls when a winning occurs. A gaming machine that can pay out any of the utility value is also included in the gaming machine of the present invention.

  Further, in this embodiment, a variable display device having three reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is provided, and when all the reels are stopped, one game is completed, and the display results derived to the three reels are combined. The slot machine in which a prize is generated in response to the above description has been described. However, when a display result is derived to a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified, one game is completed, and a prize is awarded according to the display result derived to the variable display device. As long as the slot machine can be generated, the slot machine is not limited to one having a variable display device having three reels, but has a single reel or a variable display device having a plurality of reels other than three. It may be. In this embodiment, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are reels that rotate in the vertical direction. However, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R may be reels that rotate in any direction, such as a horizontal direction or an oblique direction. .

  In addition, the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment causes the display results to be derived in each of the plurality of variable display areas (transparent windows 3) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (symbols) that can be identified. The game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using game values (medals, credits), and all of the variable display areas are provided. In the slot machine, one game is completed by deriving the display result, and a winning can be generated according to the combination of the display results derived to each of the plurality of variable display areas as a result of the one game. Also good.

  Further, as the present embodiment, a slot machine that pays out game media to the player's hand in response to the occurrence of a win has been described, but the game media is enclosed and the game media is handed to the player's hand in response to the occurrence of a win. An enclosing slot machine that adds game points (scores) without paying out may be adopted. The base and the drum can be distributed, and the chassis is common and only the base or the base and the drum is called a gaming machine.

  Moreover, it is also possible to apply the content of embodiment mentioned above to a pachinko game machine. For example, a hitting operation handle that is operated to drive a pachinko ball is used as an operation means that is operated by the player. Also, for example, the change start timing of the effect symbol based on the fact that the last hold is digested is a predetermined opportunity. Further, for example, a plurality of types of reach effects are set as a plurality of types of effects accompanied by sound output. Further, for example, the execution time of the specific effect having the longest execution time among the plurality of types of reach effects is set to be shorter than the predetermined time. Thereby, also in the pachinko gaming machine, the game effect can be prevented from being hindered by the decrease in the output volume or the mute, and the execution of the effect can be prevented from being unintentionally inhibited.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

Next, main effects obtained by the embodiment described above will be described.
(1) In the slot machine 1 (game machine) in this embodiment, the speakers 53 and 54 (sound output means) output sound. The sub-control unit 91 (control unit) controls the output volume of the speakers 53 and 54. Further, the player operates the operation means such as the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, the settlement switch 10, and the insertion of medals into the medal insertion unit 4. In addition, the sub-control unit 91 (timer) measures the elapsed time from a predetermined timing, which is the timing when the game is started by operating the start switch 7 or the third stop operation is performed. In addition, the sub-control unit 91 (the effect execution means can start any one of the effect A, the effect B, and the effect C (plural types of effects) accompanied by sound output from a predetermined opportunity. Performs volume reduction control to reduce or mute the output volume of the speakers 53 and 54 when one minute (predetermined time) has elapsed since the operation of the operation means has not been performed since the start of time measurement. The execution time of the effect C (specific effect) having the longest execution time among the effects B and C is 45 seconds, which is shorter than 1 minute (predetermined time).

  Thereby, production A, production B, and production C can be prevented from being hindered by a decrease in output volume or mute, and execution of the production can be prevented from being unintentionally inhibited.

  (2) In addition, the sub-control unit 91 (timer) may count time regardless of whether or not an effect started from a predetermined trigger is executed.

  Thereby, it is possible to prevent the process from becoming complicated by performing common control.

  (3) In addition, there are predetermined timings when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game (first trigger) and when the third stop operation is performed and the game ends (second trigger). The sub-control unit 91 (production execution means) can start any of production A, production B, and production C at any opportunity, and the execution time of production C (specific production) is 45 seconds. Even in the case of starting from, it may be shorter than 1 minute (predetermined time).

  Thereby, it is possible to prevent the production A, the production B, and the production C from being hindered by the decrease in the output volume or the silence when the production is executed from any opportunity.

  (4) Moreover, the error volume at the time of occurrence of an error may be constant regardless of whether or not the sub-control unit 91 (control means) performs volume reduction control.

  Thereby, an error can be recognized appropriately.

  (5) The volume adjuster 57 (volume operation means) is used to set the output volume of the speakers 54 and 54. The volume adjuster 57 can be operated while the speakers 53 and 54 are outputting sound. In addition, when the volume adjuster 57 is operated during the volume reduction control, the sub control unit 91 (control unit) may set the volume according to the operation during the volume reduction control. Good.

  Thereby, the volume during volume control can be suitably set.

  (6) The volume adjuster 57 (volume operation means) is used to set the output volume of the speakers 54 and 54. The volume adjuster 57 can be operated while the speakers 53 and 54 are outputting sound. Further, the sub-control unit 91 (control means) may end the volume reduction control when the volume adjuster 57 is operated while performing the volume reduction control.

  Thereby, the volume can be restored in accordance with the operation of the volume adjuster 57.

  (6) Also, a gaming machine (slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine) for performing a game, which is a production operation means (for example, a production switch 56 of the slot machine 1, a pachinko gaming machine) Effect buttons), game progression operation means used for operations to advance the game (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R of the slot machine 1, hitting operation handle of the pachinko game machine), and operations of the effect operation means A first promotion effect (for example, an effect that prompts an operation of the effect switch 56 and an effect that prompts an operation of an effect button in a pachinko gaming machine as shown in the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9) is executed. First promotion means (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes the first promotion effect) and a second promotion effect that prompts the operation of the game progress operation means For example, as shown in the liquid crystal display 51 at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9, an effect of navigating the correct procedure of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, an effect of instructing a right-handed pachinko gaming machine) Second promoting means (for example, a process in which the sub control unit 91 executes the second promoting effect) and sound output means (for example, sub-output) for outputting sound (for example, BGM, first promoting sound, second promoting sound) The control unit 91 is configured to output BGM or the like to the speakers 53 and 54), and when the production operation means is operated during the execution of the first promotion production, a privilege (for example, granting of navigation stock) is provided. Notification is performed (for example, as shown in the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9), “PUSH!” Prompting the operation of the effect switch 56 and “Press this button! When the production switch 56 is operated when the voice output “is displayed,“ WIN! ”Is displayed on the screen to suggest the provision of navigation stock), the sound output means outputs a predetermined sound (for example, BGM). When the first promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the predetermined sound is reduced (for example, when the first promotion effect is being executed as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9). On the other hand, when the second promotion effect is being executed during the output of the predetermined sound, the volume of the predetermined sound is maintained (for example, times t2 to t3 and t4 in FIG. 9). As shown in .about.t5, when the second promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM may be maintained.

  Thereby, while the predetermined sound is being output, when the first promotion effect in which the operation of the effect operation means is prompted when the notification regarding the privilege is performed, the volume of the predetermined sound is reduced. For this reason, it is possible to concentrate the player on the operation of the effect operating means. Further, attention to the operation of the production switch 56 can be increased.

  (6) A gaming machine (for example, a slot machine 1 or a pachinko gaming machine) capable of playing a game, and a sound output means (for example, speakers 53 and 54) for outputting a sound, and the sound output means According to the volume setting value set by the setting means (for example, the volume adjuster 57, the volume setting screen) and the volume setting value indicating the output volume output by the sound output means. Control means (for example, sub-control unit 91) for controlling the output sound volume, and detection means (for example, sub-control unit 91) for detecting whether or not a game is being played by the player, the control means When the detection means detects that no game is being played by the player, volume reduction control is performed to reduce the output volume according to the volume setting value, and the maximum volume is set by the setting means. The volume setting value (for example, V4) is set, and the output volume during the volume reduction control (for example, the volume reduction control maximum volume in FIG. 8) is set to the volume setting value (for example, V1) indicating the minimum volume by the setting means. ) Is set and the volume may be smaller than the output volume when the volume reduction control is not executed (for example, the volume normal control minimum volume in FIG. 8).

  This makes it possible to determine whether or not the current volume is a volume during volume reduction control. In addition, it is possible to distinguish between a situation where no game is played and a situation where the volume is low.

1 slot machine 2L, 2C, 2R reel 6 MAXBET switch 7 start switch 8L, 8C, 8R stop switch 12 game auxiliary display 41 main control unit 41c RAM
91 Sub-control unit 91c RAM

Claims (2)

A gaming machine capable of playing a game,
Sound output means for outputting sound;
Control means for controlling the output volume of the sound output means;
Operation means operated by a player;
A time measuring means for measuring an elapsed time from a predetermined opportunity;
Production execution means capable of starting any of a plurality of types of production accompanied by output of sound from the predetermined opportunity;
Volume operation means for setting the output volume of the sound output means;
With
The control means performs volume reduction control to reduce or mute the output volume of the sound output means when a predetermined time has passed without the operation of the operation means being performed after the time measurement means starts timing,
As the predetermined trigger, there are a first trigger and a second trigger,
The execution time of the specific effect having the longest execution time among the plurality of types of effects is shorter than the predetermined time even when it is started from any of the first trigger and the second trigger. The
The volume operation means can be operated while the sound output means is outputting sound,
The control means ends the volume reduction control when the volume operation means is operated during the volume reduction control.
A gaming machine characterized by that.   Production operation means used for production operations;
  A game progress operating means used for an operation to advance the game;
  First promotion means for executing a first promotion effect for prompting an operation of the effect operation means;
  Second promotion means for executing a second promotion effect for prompting the operation of the game progress operation means;
  With
  When the effect operation means is operated during the execution of the first promotion effect, a notification regarding a privilege is performed,
  The control means reduces the volume of the predetermined sound while the first promotion effect is being executed while the predetermined sound is being output from the sound output means, while the second promotion is being output during the output of the predetermined sound. When the production is being executed, the volume of the predetermined sound is maintained,
  The volume of the effect sound output when the second promotion effect is executed is set larger than the volume of the predetermined sound.
  The gaming machine according to claim 1.

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