JP6661566B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine for playing a game.

  As a gaming machine, a predetermined bet amount is set, and based on the start operation being performed, a game machine such as a slot machine in which a plurality of types of identification information are variably displayed or a game ball is played by a launch device in a game area. There is a pachinko gaming machine which variably displays a plurality of types of identification information when a game medium wins in a starting area such as a winning opening provided in the gaming area.

  In this type of gaming machine, there is a gaming machine that performs volume reduction control to lower the volume of a game sound when a situation in which a game is not played is detected (for example, see Patent Document 1). There is also a gaming machine capable of setting the volume (for example, see Patent Document 2).

JP-A-2002-272904 JP 2013-039258 A

  Even if the player changes the volume during the volume reduction control, it is difficult to understand how much the volume has changed, while the switch provided on the back of the gaming machine indicates the volume.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of appropriately adjusting a sound volume by an operation unit for setting an output sound volume.

(1) A gaming machine (for example, slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine) capable of playing a game,
Sound output means for outputting sound (for example, speakers 53 and 54);
The sound output means is provided by a first operation unit (for example, a cross key 58, an operation unit including a button for increasing and decreasing an output volume) and a second operation unit (for example, a volume controller 57). Setting means (for example, a sub-control unit 91 or the like) capable of setting the output volume output by
Control means for performing volume reduction control for reducing the output volume output by the sound output means when a state in which no game is played by a player has elapsed during a period in which a predetermined music is being output. , Sub-control unit 91, etc.);
With
The setting content set by the first operation unit cannot be specified by the mode of the first operation unit,
The setting content set by the second operation unit can be specified by the mode of the second operation unit (for example, can be specified by the rotation position of the knob of the volume controller 57).
The control means ends the volume reduction control when an output volume different from the output volume set during the volume reduction control is set by the first operation unit (for example, Sq14 in FIG. 7), and When an output volume different from the output volume set during the lowering control is set by the second operation unit , the volume lowering control is continued (for example, even if an affirmative determination is made in Sq16 of FIG. 7, the setting is made in Sq15). A gaming machine characterized in that the value is only reflected and the lowering control is continued.

  According to such a configuration, sound can be output at an appropriate volume by the operation unit used for setting the volume.

  In the present embodiment, the cross key 58 is used as an example of the first operation unit, but any button, lever, or the like that can be operated by the player may be used. The cross key, the button, the lever, etc. return to the home position after the operation. When the output volume is set by operating such an operation unit, the setting returns to the home position after the setting, so that the setting content cannot be specified in the mode of the operation unit. Also, when operating with the four-way controller, buttons, levers, etc., it is difficult to tell whether the setting has been made or not.For example, when the volume is increased or decreased by long pressing, the extent to which the setting value has changed due to the operation can be determined. Confusing. Therefore, the setting content set by the operation unit that returns to the home position after operating the cross key, the button, the lever, or the like is displayed on the liquid crystal display device or the like.

  Note that the first operation unit may include a plurality of operation units. That is, the player may be able to set the output volume using a plurality of operation units. Specifically, a cross key may be used as an operation unit for setting one step at a time, and a button may be used as an operation unit for setting the maximum volume or the minimum volume in one operation.

  In addition, as the second operation unit, there is one in which the mode is changed by rotating or moving. As the rotating member, in addition to the triangular knob shown in the embodiment, a cylindrical knob or the like may be used. Examples of the moving object include a slider knob and a dip switch knob. Unlike the first operation unit, these operation units do not return to the home position after the operation, and the changed mode continues, so that the setting content can be specified.

  In the present embodiment, the setting contents that can be set by the first operation unit and the setting contents that can be set by the second operation unit are the same, but the setting contents may be different. For example, the number of steps that can be set may be different, for example, the output volume can be set in four steps in the first operation section, and the output volume can be set in five steps in the second operation section. Not only the setting contents indicating the stage of the output volume but also other settings relating to the output volume may be made. Other examples of setting the output sound volume include (a) setting a settable range and (b) setting different output sound volumes.

  The setting shown in the above (a) is the setting of the range (upper limit or lower limit) of the steps that can be set by the player. Usually, the player can set any one of V1 to V4, for example, but it is set to be in the range of V2 to V4 or in the range of V1 to V3. In this case, the setting content of the operation unit operated by the player is the level of the output volume, and the setting content of the operation unit operated by the clerk is in the range of the stage that can be set by the player.

  The setting shown in (b) above is a setting in which the player can set any of V1 to V4, but changes the output volume. Specifically, the output volume is prepared in five levels of levels 1 to 5, and when the player sets to V1, the level is set to 1; when the player sets to V2, the level is set to 2; Is set to level 3 when V3 is set to V3, and is set to level 5 instead of level 4 when the player sets V4. Thus, even if the player sets the same stage, the output volume is set to be different. In this case, the setting content of the operation unit operated by the player is a stage of the output volume, and the setting content of the operation unit operated by the clerk is the output volume corresponding to the stage set by the player.

  Note that, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display 51 or the one shown in FIG. 9 is used as an example of expressing the setting content by the cross key 58. However, it is sufficient that the setting value can be expressed. In addition, when the game state is normal, the game state is displayed on two devices such as a liquid crystal display and 7 segments, and when the game state is frequently performed with liquid crystal such as ART, the game state is displayed only on 7 segments. May be performed in accordance with the control.

(2) The gaming machine according to (1) above,
When the output volume is set by the first operation unit, an operation sound is output (for example, Sq3 in FIG. 6, Sq12 in FIG. 7), and when the output volume is set by the second operation unit. The operation sound is not output (for example, even if an affirmative determination is made in Sq6 or Sq16 in FIG. 7, the process of outputting the operation sound is not performed).

  According to such a configuration, sound can be output at an appropriate volume by the operation unit used for setting the volume.

  In the present embodiment, the set value is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 and the operation sound is also output. However, speakers 53 and 54 may be used as other means of the above (1). That is, the configuration may be such that the set value is indicated only by the sound. As a method of indicating the set value only by the sound, the set value may be indicated by a voice such as "Ichi" as described in the embodiment, or the set value may be suggested by, for example, associating a musical scale. In this case, for example, V1 is set to C, V2 to D, V3 to M, and V4 to F4. Such a configuration is suitable for a pachinko game machine that performs variable display of decorative symbols by rotating a drum, a slot machine that does not use a liquid crystal display, and the like.

(3) The gaming machine according to (1) or (2),
The predetermined condition is a condition that a state in which a player has not played a game has passed a predetermined period,
If the output volume is set by the first operation unit before the predetermined period elapses (for example, an affirmative determination in Sq2 in FIG. 6), the predetermined period is extended (for example, Sq4 in FIG. 6). If the output volume is set by the second operation unit before the predetermined time period elapses, the predetermined time period is not extended (for example, a positive determination is made in Sq6 in FIG. 6). Also, the measurement timer is not set).

  According to such a configuration, the sound volume lowering control can be appropriately performed by the operation unit used for setting the sound volume.

  Another example of the predetermined condition is a condition that "the settlement switch is operated". This is because the settlement switch is usually operated at the end of the game, so that a period in which no game is played at the time of operation is started.

  In this embodiment, the length of the predetermined period is the same regardless of which predetermined operation is performed, but the length of the predetermined period may be changed depending on the operation target. For example, the predetermined period corresponding to the operation detected by the main control unit 41 may be set longer than the predetermined period corresponding to the operation detected by the sub-control unit 91 without passing through the main control unit 41. This means that the operation detected by the main control unit 41 is an operation directly related to the game, and thus indicates that the game is actually being played, while the sub control unit 91 detects the operation without the intervention of the main control unit 41. This is because the operation to be performed is a performance-related operation, and there is a possibility that the game is not actually played or the game is not started. Similarly, when extending the predetermined period, the length of the extended period may be changed depending on the operation target.

(4) The gaming machine according to (3) above,
When the measurement of the predetermined period is started (for example, when a predetermined operation is detected), the measurement of the predetermined period is started regardless of whether sound is output by the sound output unit (for example, FIG. Sq4 and Sq8 of FIG. 6, Sq13 and Sq18 of FIG. 7).

  According to such a configuration, it is not necessary to divide the conditions into the measurement start determination for the predetermined period, and the volume reduction control can be appropriately performed.

(5) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4),
The second operation unit is covered with a cover member (for example, the cover member 59).

  According to such a configuration, an erroneous operation on the second operation unit can be prevented.

(6) a gaming machine (slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine) for performing a game,
Production operation means (for example, production switch 56 of slot machine 1, production button of pachinko gaming machine) used for operation for production,
Game progress operation means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R of the slot machine 1 and a hitting operation handle of a pachinko game machine) used for an operation for advancing the game;
First promotion effect for prompting operation of the effect operation means (for example, an effect for prompting operation of the effect switch 56 as shown on the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 13, operation of an effect button for a pachinko game machine) First prompting means (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes the first prompting effect) for executing the first prompting effect);
A second promotion effect for prompting the operation of the game progress operation means (for example, an effect of navigating the correct answer procedure of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R as shown on the liquid crystal display 51 at times t2 to t3, t4 to t5 in FIG. A second promotion means (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes a second promotion effect) for executing a right-hand instruction in a pachinko gaming machine);
Sound output means for outputting a sound (for example, BGM, the first promotion sound and the second promotion sound shown in FIG. 11) (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 causes the speakers 53 and 54 to output BGM or the like);
With
When the effect operation means is operated during the execution of the first promotion effect, a notification about a privilege (for example, the addition of the number of additional games) is performed (for example, the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 13). As shown in the figure, when the display “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 gives the number of additional games. "WIN!" Is displayed on the screen.
The sound output means reduces the volume of the predetermined sound when the first promotion effect is being performed during the output of the predetermined sound (for example, BGM) (for example, as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 13). In addition, when the first promotion effect is being performed, the volume of the BGM is reduced. On the other hand, when the second promotion effect is being performed 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. 13, when the second promotion effect is executed, the volume of the BGM is maintained).

  According to such a configuration, during the output of the predetermined sound, the volume of the predetermined sound is reduced when the first promotion effect in which the operation of the effect operation means is prompted when the notification regarding the privilege is performed is performed. . For this reason, the player can concentrate on the operation of the effect operation means.

  (7) A gaming machine (eg, slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine, etc.) capable of playing a game, wherein sound output means (eg, speakers 53, 54, etc.) for outputting sound, and the sound output means A setting unit (for example, a volume adjuster 57, a volume setting screen, etc.) for setting a volume setting value indicating an output volume output by the unit, and the sound output unit according to the volume setting value set by the setting unit. Control means (for example, a sub-control unit 91 or the like) for controlling the output sound volume to be output, and detection means (for example, the sub-control unit 91 or the like) for detecting whether or not a player is playing a game; When the detecting means detects that the player is not playing a game, the control means executes a sound volume reduction control for reducing the output sound volume according to the sound volume setting value (for example, Sq9 in FIG. 6). so When a fixed determination is made, the volume lowering control is executed, etc.), a volume setting value indicating the maximum volume (for example, V4, etc.) is set by the setting means, and the output volume during the volume lowering control (for example, the lowering control of FIG. As the maximum volume, a volume setting value (for example, V1 or the like) indicating the minimum volume is set by the setting unit, and the output volume when the volume reduction control is not executed (for example, the normal control minimum volume in FIG. 10). Etc.) may be a gaming machine characterized by being smaller.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control.

It is a front view of the slot machine of the embodiment to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the slot machine. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement | sequence of a reel. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the slot machine. It is a figure which shows an example of a volume controller and a volume setting screen. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of a volume control process. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of a volume control process. It is a figure showing a difference of control contents in operation to a cross key and a volume adjuster. It is a figure showing various modes showing a set value. It is a figure which shows the output sound volume at the time of the normal control at the time of each sound volume setting value, and the time of the reduction control. It is a figure for explaining the 1st promotion effect table. It is a figure for explaining an example of the 1st promotion effect. It is a timing chart which shows the relation between output control of BGM, and execution of a promotion effect. It is a figure for explaining the execution probability of a promotion effect.

  An embodiment for implementing a slot machine according to the present invention will be described below based on an embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2, inside the housing 1a of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (hereinafter, left reel, middle reel, right reel) on which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer periphery. ) Are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, and as shown in FIG. 1, three continuous symbols among the symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, and 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", and "cherry" are provided on the outer peripheral portions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, respectively. A plurality of mutually identifiable patterns such as "b", "bell", "replay a", "replay b", and "plum" are drawn in a predetermined order, each of which is 21 pieces. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheral portions of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are displayed in upper, middle, lower, and upper tiers, respectively, in the see-through window 3 provided substantially at the center of the front door 1b.

  Each of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R is rotated by a correspondingly provided reel motor 32L, 32C, 32R (see FIG. 4), so that the design of each of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R is continuous with the see-through window 3. While the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are stopped rotating, three consecutive symbols are derived and displayed on the see-through window 3 as a display result.

  Inside the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, a reel sensor 33L, 33C, 33R for detecting a reference position and a reel LED 55 for irradiating the reels 2L, 2C, 2R from the back are provided for the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, respectively. , Are provided. The reel LED 55 includes twelve LEDs corresponding to three consecutive symbols on 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 arranged at a position on the front side (player side) of each of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R of the front door 1b. The liquid crystal display 51 has a liquid crystal panel having transparency when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal element. The liquid crystal display 51 is provided with a transparent region 51 b corresponding to the transparent window 3 of the display region 51 a and a transparent window 3. Each reel 2L, 2C, 2R can be visually recognized from the player side.

  In the front door 1b, as shown in FIG. 1, a medal insertion portion 4 capable of inserting medals, a medal payout exit 9 for paying out medals, and a rule determined according to a game state within the range using credits. A MAXBET switch 6 that is operated when setting the maximum bet number among the number of bets, a settlement switch 10 that is operated when setting out a medal stored as a credit and a medal used for setting the bet number, The start switch 7, which is operated when starting the game, the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, which are operated when stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, respectively, and the production switch 56 used for production, are provided by the player. Each is operably provided.

  In the present embodiment, of the three reels 2L, 2C, and 2R that have started rotating, 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 referred to as a second stop reel, the stop is referred to as a second stop, the reel that stops third is referred to as a third stop reel, and the stop is referred to as a third stop. Alternatively, it is referred to as a final stop.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the front door 1b displays a credit indicator 11 displaying the number of medals stored as credits, and shows the number of medals paid out due to the occurrence of a prize and the contents of the error when an error occurs. The game auxiliary display 12 displays an error code, information which can identify the reel stop order based on the navigation notification described later, etc., the 1 BET LED 14 for notifying that the bet number is set to 1, and the bet number is set to 2. 2 BET LED 15 for notifying that the game is on, 3 BET LED 16 for notifying that the bet amount has been set to 3 by light, insertion request LED 17 for notifying that a medal can be inserted, and a start switch 7 to operate the game. A start valid LED 18 for notifying that the start operation is valid by lighting, and a light indicating that the vehicle is being waited for. 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 by lighting that the setting operation of the bet amount by operating the MAXBET switch 6 is valid, and the stop switches 8L, 8C, Inside the 8R, left, middle, and right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C, and 22R (see FIG. 4) are provided to notify by light that the reel stop operation by the corresponding stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is valid. An effect LED 56a (see FIG. 4) is provided inside the effect switch 56 to notify by lighting that the operation of the effect switch 56 is effective. Further, speakers 53 and 54 are provided on the front door 1b as shown in FIG.

  Inside the front door 1b, a reset switch 23 (see FIG. 4) for detecting a reset operation for canceling an error state to be described later and a hit state to be described later by a predetermined key operation is performed. A set value display 24 on which the set value at that time is displayed while the set value is being confirmed; a set switch 36a for selecting valid / invalid of a set function for controlling the set state to be set at a predetermined timing; At the same time, an automatic payment switch 36b for selecting the validity / invalidity of an automatic payment function for controlling the automatic payment processing, and a flow path of the medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 to a hopper tank provided inside the housing 1a. A flow path switching solenoid 30 for selectively switching to one of the side 34a (see FIG. 2) and the medal payout port 9 and the medal insertion section 4, and the flow switching solenoid 30 is supplied to the hopper tank 34a. The inserted medal sensor 31 for detecting the inserted medal, the medal selector 29 having the insertion port sensor 26 for detecting the insertion of a foreign substance on the upstream side of the inserted medal sensor 31, and the door open detection switch 25 for detecting the open state of the front door 1b (see FIG. 4) is provided.

  Inside the front door 1b, a volume controller 57 provided with a knob operated to set the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 is provided. The knob is an operation unit, and the set value is indicated by the rotational position of the knob. The volume controller 57 is covered with a cover member 59. The cover member 59 is provided to be freely opened and closed. The clerk of the game store opens the cover member 59 and performs an operation for setting the output volume. Since the clerk cannot operate unless the cover member 59 is opened, erroneous operation of the volume controller 57 can be prevented.

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

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

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

  When playing a game in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, first, medals are inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 or the number of bets is set using credits. To use the credit, the MAXBET switch 6 may be operated. When a predetermined number of bets set according to the game state is set, the pay line LN (see FIG. 1) becomes valid, and the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, that is, the game can be started. Become. If medals are inserted in more than the maximum number among the prescribed numbers corresponding to the gaming state, the medals are added to the credit.

  The winning line is a line that is set to determine whether the combination of the symbols displayed in the perspective windows 3 of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is a combination of the winning symbols. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, only the winning line LN set across the middle row of the reel 2L, the middle section of the reel 2C, and the middle section of the reel 2R, that is, the middle row, is a winning line. Stipulated. In this embodiment, only one winning line is applied, but a plurality of winning lines may be applied.

  Further, in this embodiment, in order to make it easy to recognize that the combination of the symbols constituting the prize is arranged in the prize line LN, the invalid lines LM1 to LM4 are set separately from the prize line LN.

  When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, 2R rotate, and the symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, 2R change continuously. When any 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 see-through 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. The operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R for stopping the third stop reel is referred to as a third stop operation.

  When one of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is stopped, one game is completed, and a predetermined symbol combination (hereinafter, also referred to as a combination) is displayed on each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R on the winning line LN. As a result, when the game stops, a prize is generated, and a predetermined number of medals are awarded to the player according to the prize and added to the credit. When the number of credits reaches the upper limit (50 in this embodiment), medals are paid directly from the medal payout port 9 (see FIG. 1). Further, when a combination of symbols accompanied by a transition of the gaming state is stopped on the pay line LN as a result of displaying the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, the game state is shifted to a gaming state corresponding to the combination of the symbols. .

  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 ends when all the reels stop. One unit of control (game control) for executing the game is started when all controls accompanying the end of the previous game are completed, and when all controls accompanying 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. Is produced, and a drive power supply for the electric components constituting the slot machine 1 is generated by the power supply board 101 and supplied to each unit.

  A power supply of AC 100 V is supplied to the power supply board 101 from the outside, and a DC voltage required for driving the electric components constituting the slot machine 1 is generated from the power supply of AC 100 V, and the game control board 40 and the production control board 90. It is supplied to. The hopper motor 34b, the payout sensor 34c, the full tank sensor 35a, the setting key switch 37, the reset / setting switch 38, and the power switch 39 are connected to the power supply board 101.

  On the game control board 40, the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, the settlement switch 10, the reset switch 23, the stop switch 36a, the automatic settlement switch 36b, the inserted medal sensor 31, and the door opening are provided. The detection switch 25, the reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R are connected, and the payout sensor 34c, the full tank sensor 35a, the setting key switch 37, and the reset / setting switch 38 are connected via the power supply board 101. The detection signals of these connected switches are input. In addition, the game control board 40 includes the above-described credit indicator 11, game assist indicators 12, 1 to 3 BET LEDs 14 to 16, insertion request LED 17, start valid LED 18, waiting LED 19, replay LED 20, BET switch valid LED 21, , Middle and right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C, 22R, a set value display 24, a flow path switching solenoid 30, and reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R, and the above-described hopper motor 34b via a power supply board 101; A power switch 39 is connected, and these electric components are driven under the control of a main control unit 41 mounted on a game control board 40.

  The game control board 40 performs a process relating to the progress of the game and also directly or indirectly controls each part of a control circuit mounted on the game control board 40, and an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency. A control clock generation circuit for generating a control clock CCLK; a random number clock generation circuit 43 for generating a random number clock RCLK which is an oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency different from the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK; A switch detection circuit 44 that takes in a detection signal input from switches connected directly to or via a power supply board 101 and transmits the signal to a 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 signals) to the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R. A solenoid drive circuit 46 for transmitting a solenoid drive signal output from the main control unit 41 to the flow path switching solenoid 30; and various displays connected to the game control board 40 using an LED drive signal output from the main control unit 41. When the voltage of the power supply supplied to the slot machine 1 is detected by monitoring the voltage of the power supply supplied to the slot machine 1, a voltage drop signal indicating the fact is output to the main control unit 41. And a reset circuit 49 that supplies 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.

  The effect switch 56 is connected to the effect control board 90, and a detection signal of the effect switch 56 is input. In addition, effect devices such as a liquid crystal display 51, an effect LED 52, a volume controller 57, speakers 53 and 54, a reel LED 55, a cross key 58, and the like are connected, and these effect devices are mounted on an effect control board 90. It is driven based on control by a sub-control unit 91 described later.

  The volume controller 57 is used by the store clerk of the game store to set the volume as described above, and can be set to any one of four levels. The sub-control unit 91 controls the sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 by controlling the audio output circuit 94 in accordance with the stage set by the volume controller 57 and the stage set by the player. The cross key 58 is operated by the player in up, down, left, and right directions. In the present embodiment, the cross key 58 is operated to set the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54. When the cross key 58 is operated, a signal corresponding to the operation is output to the sub control unit 91.

  The effect control board 90 is composed of a microcomputer having a sub CPU 91a, a ROM 91b, a RAM 91c, and an I / O port 91d, and controls an effect, and a liquid crystal display 51 connected to the effect control board 90. A display control circuit 92 for performing display control of the display, an effect effect LED 52, an LED drive circuit 93 for controlling the drive of the reel LED 55, an audio output circuit 94 for controlling the audio output from the speakers 53 and 54, A reset circuit 95 that supplies a reset signal to the sub CPU 91a when an initialization command from the sub CPU 91a is not input for a predetermined 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; The power supply voltage supplied to the power supply machine 1 is monitored, and when a voltage drop is detected, a power cutoff detection circuit 98 that outputs a voltage drop signal indicating this to the sub CPU 91a, and other circuits and the like are mounted. ing.

  The sub CPU 91a receives commands transmitted from the game control board 40, performs various controls for performing the effect, and directly or indirectly controls each unit of the control circuit mounted on the effect control board 90. .

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

In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the payout rate of medals changes according to the set value.
The medal payout rate is changed by using a winning probability according to a set value in a lottery that affects the degree of advantage to a player such as an internal lottery. The set value is made up of six levels from 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest payout rate and the payout rate decreasing as the value decreases in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the advantage is the highest for the player, and as the value decreases in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1, the advantage gradually decreases.

  In the present embodiment, when all the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R stop, the activated pay line (in the present 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 which is simply called a winning line). The combination may be a combination of the same symbols or a combination including different symbols.

  The types of winning combinations are determined according to the state of the game, but can be broadly divided into small winning combinations with medal payout and re-starting so that the next game can be started without setting the number of bets. There are a gaming role and a special role accompanied by a transition to a gaming state advantageous to the player. Hereinafter, the small role and the replaying role are also collectively referred to as a general role. In order for a winning of each combination determined according to the gaming state to occur, it is necessary to win the internal lottery and set the winning flag of the combination in the RAM 41c. In addition, among the winning flags of these roles, the winning flags of the small role and the replaying role are valid only in the game in which the flag is set, and are invalid in the next game. The combination is enabled until the combination of the permitted combinations is completed by the flag, and is invalid in the game in which the combination of the permitted combinations is completed. That is, once the winning flag of the special role is won, even if the combination of the roles permitted by the flag cannot be aligned, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game. Becomes

  Hereinafter, the internal lottery of the present embodiment will be described. In the internal lottery, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not to permit winning of each of the above-mentioned roles 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, when the start switch 7 is detected, a random number for the internal lottery (an integer from 0 to 65535) is obtained. 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 in the lottery work assigned to the RAM 41c. Then, for each combination determined according to the gaming state, according to the numerical data stored in the lottery work and the number of judgment values of each combination determined according to the current gaming state, the number of bets and the set value. It is determined whether or not a prize is allowed.

  In the internal lottery, the number of determination values determined according to the role to be subjected to the internal lottery, the current game state and the set value are sequentially changed to the random number value for the internal lottery (numerical data stored in the lottery work). If the result of the addition overflows, it is determined that the winning combination has been won. For this reason, the winning combination is determined based on the probability (the number of judgment values / 65536) according to the magnitude of the number of judgment values.

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

  If the winning of any of the winning combinations is determined, the winning flag corresponding to the winning determined for the winning number is set in the internal winning flag storing work assigned to the RAM 41c based on the winning number. The internal winning flag storage work is composed of a 2-byte storage area, of which the upper byte is assigned as a special role storing work in which the special role winning flag is set, and the lower byte is a general role winning work. Assigned as a general role storage work for which the flag is set. Specifically, when the special role is won, the special role winning flag indicating that the special role has been won is set in the special role storing work, and when the general role is won, the general role is won. The winning flag of the general combination indicating the effect is set in the general combination storage work. If no winning combination is achieved, the special combination storing work and the general combination storing work are cleared.

  Next, a command transmitted from the main control unit 41 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. Note that a command 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 capable of specifying whether or not an AT is being performed, whether or not an ART is being performed, 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 the ART. Is transmitted after the game state command.

  The internal winning command is a command capable of specifying an internal lottery result, and is transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game and after the ART state command. The internal winning command includes a first internal winning command that can specify whether or not the special role has been won, and a second internal winning command that can specify whether or not the general role has been won, After transmitting the first internal winning command, a second internal winning command is transmitted.

The pressing order command is a command capable of specifying the stop order, which is when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game, after the internal winning command is transmitted, and when the reels are stopped. Each time the control is performed, it is transmitted after the stop command is transmitted.
In the game in which the navigation notification described later is executed, a pressing order command that can specify a stop order that is advantageous to the player is transmitted from the start of the game, and in a game in which the navigation notification is not executed, the advantageous stop order is set. A push order command in which a stop order advantageous to the player cannot be specified until the determination is made, and a push order command capable of specifying a stop order advantageous to the player from when the advantageous stop order is determined is transmitted.

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

  The ART lottery result command is a command capable of specifying whether or not an ART lottery or an additional lottery has been won, the number of the selected ART games or the number of games to be added. Sent after transmission of the internal winning command in the game in which the additional 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. It is transmitted each time the accompanying stop control is performed.

  The stop command is a command capable of specifying whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, and the area number of the stop position of the corresponding reel, and the stop control accompanying the stop operation of each reel. Is transmitted after the corresponding slide frame number command is transmitted.

  Both the stop operation command and the stop command can specify whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, and the stop control associated with the stop operation of each reel is performed. Since these commands are transmitted every time, by receiving these commands, it is possible to specify that any of the reels has been stopped and to determine 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 a stop switch to stop the third stop reel and releases the stop switch.

  The prize determination command is a command capable of specifying the presence or absence of a prize, a combination of symbols aligned on a prize line LN, a type of a prize, and the number of medals to be paid out at the time of a prize, so that the player stops the third stop reel. This is when the stop switch is pressed down and the stop switch is released, and is transmitted after the transmission of the game end command.

  Since 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 releases the stop switch, by receiving these commands, It is possible to specify that all the operations necessary to advance one game are completed.

  In the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 executes a navigation period for notifying 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 and a navigation period. It can be controlled at a certain assist time (hereinafter, referred to as AT).

  When controlled by the AT, the main control unit 41 executes the navigation notification by winning the navigation target combination corresponding to the game state, and executes the navigation notification based on the winning number of the selected navigation notification combination. By notifying the stop order that is advantageous to the player and transmitting a push order command capable of specifying 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 and the like are displayed. To perform a navigation effect using. Further, in the present embodiment, even in a normal state where the AT is not controlled, the main control unit 41 can execute the navigation notification and the navigation effect by satisfying a certain condition.

  The game state in the present embodiment includes RT0 to RT4, RB, and BB (RB). Among RT0 to RT4, RB, BB (RB), RB and BB have the highest payout rate of medals per game, and are the most advantageous gaming state. In addition, RT0, RT4, RT0, RT4 among RT0, RT4 are higher than RT1, 3 in that the winning probability of the replay is higher and the medal payout rate per game is higher than RT1, 3. This is an advantageous state for the player. In addition, RT0, RT2 among RT0, RT2, RT4 can be said to be more advantageous for the player than RT4 in that the payout rate of medals per game is higher than RT4. In addition, RT2 can be said to be more advantageous to the player than RT0 in that it is highly likely that the number of ART games described later will be added.

  Further, in the slot machine of the present embodiment, when the gaming state is RT0 to RT2, the main control unit 41 can execute a navigation notification for notifying a stop order that is advantageous to the player according to the internal lottery result. Control can be performed during an assist time (hereinafter, referred to as AT) serving as a notification period.

  When controlled by the AT, the main control unit 41 executes the navigation notification by winning the notification target combination corresponding to the game state, and also issues a first internal winning command to the sub control unit 91. By transmitting the second internal winning command and the pressing order command, the sub-control unit 91 executes the navigation effect.

  In the navigation effect according to the present embodiment, a stop order advantageous to the player notified by the navigation notification is notified by displaying the navigation image from the liquid crystal display 51 and outputting the navigation sound from the speakers 53 and 54. For example, when notifying the stop order of the left middle right, the 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. Also, as the navigation sound, for example, a sound indicating the stop order of the stop switch such as “left center right!” (The left reel indicates the first stop, the middle reel indicates the second stop, and the right reel indicates the third stop). Is output. When the stop order in which the left reel is set to the first stop is notified, the stop order of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R such as "1--" (indicating that the left reel is set to the first stop) is indicated. Display the stop order image. Also, as the navigation sound, for example, a sound indicating the stop order of the stop switch such as “left!” (Indicating that the left reel is in the first stop) (indicating that the left reel is in the first stop) is output. I do. It should be noted that the mode of the navigation effect is not limited to such a mode, and may be any mode as long as the player can distinguish it according to the winning situation. The navigation effect is not limited to the one using the liquid crystal display 51 and the speakers 53 and 54, but may be the one using the 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 (a state controlled by the 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, control is first performed to AT. The state from the start of the AT control to the transition to RT0 is also referred to as a preparation state. In the preparation state, the main control unit 41 executes the navigation notification when the target combination is won.

  After the start of the ART, the remaining game number is decremented by one each time one game is consumed, and when the remaining game number becomes zero, the control of the AT is ended. Accordingly, the navigation notification is not executed.

  In addition, after the start of the ART, if the lottery condition is satisfied before the number of remaining games becomes zero, an additional lottery is performed to determine whether to add the number of games of the ART. When the additional 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 game number of the ART.

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

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

  If the special role is won during the ART and the ART is interrupted, then the bonus is controlled to the corresponding bonus after the winning of the special role that has been won, and after the completion of the bonus, the transition is stopped at RT3, and RT1 is stopped. At this point, the control of the AT is restarted, and the AT is restarted by going back to the RT0 through the preparation state, and the counting of the remaining games of the ART is restarted.

  Further, RT2 has a configuration that is more advantageous to the player than RT0 in that the number of ART games is more likely to be added, that is, is advantageous to the player in that it is more likely that an advantage that is more advantageous to the player is given. For example, a configuration that is advantageous to the player in that the winning probability of a specific role is high, the winning probability of a specific role is high, and the payout rate of medals is high may be used.

  Here, the privilege that is advantageous to the player is a right that can be shifted to an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player (to win a lottery that determines whether or not to generate an advantageous state, and to shift to an advantageous state). Winning, etc.), the right to be notified of an operation mode advantageous to the player, the right to be controlled to a gaming state having a high expected value to which a gaming value is given, and the current gaming state to be advantageous to the player. Such as the right to be notified of whether or not the game state is a good game state, the period of controlling the game state to the advantageous state (the number of fixed games, the average value of the number of games that fluctuates depending on the ending condition, etc.) It may not be directly advantageous to the player, but may be an advantage indirectly advantageous to the player, for example, a condition for obtaining a privilege on the Internet.

  Next, control of the output sound volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 under the control of the sub control unit 91 will be described. In the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, sound is output from speakers 53 and 54 at four levels of output volume of volume setting values (hereinafter, also simply referred to as “setting values”) V1 to V4 (V1, V2, V3, V4). Can be output. If the sound volume setting values are different, the output sound volume is also different. The output sound volume of V1 is the lowest, the output sound volume becomes higher in the order of V2 and V3, and the output sound volume of V4 is the highest. The output volume of V1 may be 0, that is, silence.

  Next, a description will be given of the sound volume adjustment between the clerk of the game store and the player. FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating the volume controller 57. By turning the triangular knob of the volume controller 57, the store clerk can set one of the volume settings of the plurality of levels of the volume settings V1, V2, V3, and V4 in a stepwise manner. is there. The volume setting value of the volume controller 57 illustrated in FIG. 5A is V2. As described above, in the volume controller 57, the setting content can be specified by the rotational position of the knob. That is, the setting content can be specified by the mode of the volume controller 57.

  FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a sound volume setting screen used for adjusting the sound volume of the player. The volume setting screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. On the volume setting screen, the player can use the cross key 58 to set any one of a plurality of levels of the volume settings V1, V2, V3, and V4. In the present embodiment, when the player operates the cross key 58 to the left, the sound volume setting value becomes small, and when the player operates the cross key 58 to the right, the sound volume setting value becomes large. When the player operates, a volume corresponding to the volume set value set by the operation is output. The vertically long bars indicating V1 to V4 displayed on the volume setting screen are also changed according to the volume setting value. The volume setting value on the volume setting screen illustrated in FIG. 5B is V3. When the player presses the effect switch 56, the volume setting screen can be ended. As described above, the setting contents set by the cross key 58 cannot be specified by the mode of the cross key 58. Therefore, the setting contents are indicated by the liquid crystal display 51 different from the cross key 58.

  At the time of activation, the sub control unit 91 controls the output sound volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 according to the sound volume setting value of the sound volume controller 57. That is, the volume setting value of the volume controller 57 becomes a default at the time of startup. When the player sets a volume setting value on the volume setting screen, 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 a volume set value is set in the volume adjuster 57, the sub-control unit 91 controls the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 according to the set volume set value. As described above, the sub-control unit 91 controls the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 according to the last set value on the volume controller 57 or the volume setting screen.

  The sub-control unit 91 according to the present embodiment performs normal volume control (hereinafter, referred to as “normal control”) and volume lowering control (hereinafter, referred to as “lowering control”) as control of the output volume. First, the background of performing the reduction control will be described. Music such as BGM output from a general slot machine or a pachinko gaming machine is roughly divided into two types: music A output for each game and music B output for a plurality of games.

  The music A in the slot machine is generally started by operating a start switch for starting a game, and ends with a third stop. The music A in the pachinko gaming machine generally starts at the start of the special figure fluctuation time and ends at the end of the special figure fluctuation time. Therefore, in the case of the music A, the music is ended regardless of the operation of the player in the pachinko gaming machine, but the music is not ended in the slot machine unless the player operates. That is, whether or not the music ends depends on the operation of the player.

  The music B is roughly divided into a music B1 output when the player continues to perform an operation and a music B2 output corresponding to the stage of the effect. The music B1 in the slot machine is output when a series of effects or game states such as CZ, continuous effects, AT, bonuses, etc., continue over a plurality of games. The music B1 in the pachinko gaming machine is output in a mission effect that is performed over a plurality of changes during a probable change, during a time reduction, during a big hit, and the like.

  Of the music B1 described above, the music B1 in the slot machine and the probable change in the pachinko gaming machine, during the working hours, and a part of the mission effect (a mission effect not a time limit) are ended unless the player operates it. I will not do it. That is, whether or not the music ends depends on the operation of the player. The music B2 is output irrespective of the presence or absence of the player's operation.

  As described above, some music of the gaming machine is continuously output even when the player does not play the game, for example, when the player leaves the gaming machine. If the game is not played, but output at the same volume as when playing a game, a player playing a game at a neighboring gaming machine, such as next to the gaming machine, feels very annoying, and wastes power. is there. The reduction control is performed from such a background.

  Next, the above-described normal control and reduction control will be described in detail. The normal control is a volume control in a state where the player is playing a game. During the normal control, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the sub-control unit 91 performs a lowering control for lowering the output sound volume output from the speakers 53 and 54. The predetermined condition in the present embodiment is a condition that a state in which a player has not played a game has passed a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds to 10 minutes). When this condition is satisfied, the sub-control unit 91 performs a decrease control for decreasing the output sound volume output from the speakers 53 and 54. The output volume during the lowering control is lower than the normal control. In the lowering control, the output volume is reduced according to the set value.

  The “state in which no game is played by the player” is a state in which a predetermined operation by the player is not detected. The predetermined operation is an operation for inserting a medal, and an operation for the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, the effect switch 56, and the cross key 58. When the state where these predetermined operations are not detected continues for a predetermined period, the sub-control unit 91 starts the lowering control. Therefore, the trigger for starting the measurement for the predetermined period is when a predetermined operation is detected. In addition, if the sub-control unit 91 detects a predetermined operation during the lowering control, the sub-controller 91 ends the lowering control. Note that the sub control unit 91 controls the output sound volume at the time of setting the output sound volume by the setting means and at the time of shifting to the reduction control, using a digital volume.

  Among the predetermined operations, the medal insertion operation and the operations on the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, and the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are detected by the main control unit 41, and a command indicating that the operation has been performed is displayed as a sub-command. It is transmitted to the control unit 91. Thereby, the sub-control unit 91 can determine that the player has played the game. The operation of the effect switch 56 and the cross key 58 is detected by the sub-control unit 91.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts showing the control contents of the volume control process performed by the sub control unit 91. The volume control process is executed each time an event is received. Here, the event includes detection of an operation on the cross key 58, detection of a predetermined operation, detection of an operation on the volume controller 57, and timeout of a measurement timer for measuring the predetermined period. The operation on the cross key 58 is included in the predetermined operation as described above. However, in FIGS. 6 and 7, the operation on the cross key 58 is detected by operating the cross key 58 right and left (that is, for setting the output volume). The operation of the cross key 58 is detected as a predetermined operation.

  The sub control unit 91 determines whether or not the normal control is being performed (Sq1). When the normal control is being performed (Sq1: YES), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether the event is the detection of an operation on the cross key 58 (Sq2). If the event is an operation on the cross key 58 (Sq2: YES), the sub-control unit 91 outputs an operation sound (Sq3). The sub-control unit 91 sets the measurement timer (Sq4), reflects the volume set value set by operating the cross key 58 to the output volume (Sq5), and ends this processing.

  By setting the measurement timer in Sq4, the predetermined period is measured again therefrom. That is, when the cross key 58 is operated, the sub-control unit 91 extends the predetermined period. If the predetermined period is not extended even if the cross key 58 is operated, a timeout may occur as soon as the volume is set and the lowering control may be started. Therefore, when the cross key 58 is operated, appropriate volume control can be performed by extending the predetermined period.

  The operation sound may be a sound corresponding to the set volume set value, or may be the same sound (for example, a sound such as “beep”) regardless of the set volume set value. Examples of the sound corresponding to the set volume setting value include a sound proportional to the volume setting value, and a sound such as “one” when set to V1. As described above, by outputting the operation sound, the player can more reliably recognize that the operation has been performed, as compared with the case where the operation sound is not output.

  In Sq2, if the event is not the detection of an operation on the cross key 58 (Sq2: NO), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether the event is the detection of an operation on the volume controller 57 (Sq6). If the event is the detection of an operation on the volume adjuster 57 (Sq6: YES), the sub-control unit 91 reflects the volume set value set by the volume adjuster 57 on the output volume (Sq5), and performs this processing. To end. Since it is easier to recognize that the operation on the volume controller 57 has been performed than the operation on the cross key 58, the sub-control unit 91 does not output the operation sound even if the volume controller 57 is operated.

  Further, the sub-control unit 91 does not set the measurement timer even when the volume controller 57 is operated. That is, when the volume controller 57 is operated, the sub control unit 91 does not extend the predetermined period. The person who can operate the volume controller 57 is a clerk, and does not play a game, so that it is not necessary to extend the predetermined period. Therefore, when the volume controller 57 is operated, appropriate volume control can be performed by not extending the predetermined period. Further, the power consumption of the slot machine 1 can be suppressed.

  In Sq6, if the event is not a detection of an operation on the volume controller 57 (Sq6: NO), the sub control unit 91 determines whether the event is a detection of a predetermined operation (Sq7). If the event is the detection of a predetermined operation (Sq7: YES), the sub-control unit 91 sets a measurement timer (Sq8) and ends this processing. As described above, when the predetermined operation is detected, the sub-control unit 91 extends the predetermined period. This is because if a predetermined operation is detected, there is a high possibility that a game will be played in the future. As described above, when the predetermined operation is detected, appropriate volume control can be performed by extending the predetermined period.

  In Sq7, when the event is not the detection of the predetermined operation (Sq7: NO), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether the event has timed out (Sq9). If the event has not timed out (Sq9: NO), the process ends because it is an event that is not subject to this process. If the event has timed out (Sq9: YES), the sub-control unit 91 starts lowering control (Sq10) and ends this processing.

  Next, control contents during the reduction control will be described with reference to FIG. In Sq1 of FIG. 6, when the normal control is not being performed (during the reduction control) (Sq1: NO), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not the event is the detection of the operation on the cross key 58 (Sq11). If the event is an operation on the cross key 58 (Sq11: YES), the sub-control unit 91 outputs the above-described operation sound (Sq12). The sub-control unit 91 sets the measurement timer (Sq13) and ends the lowering control (Sq14). Thereby, the normal control is started. Next, the sub-control unit 91 reflects the sound volume set value set by the operation on the cross key 58 in the output sound volume (Sq15), and ends this processing.

  In Sq11, when the event is not the detection of the operation on the cross key 58 (Sq11: NO), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether the event is the detection of the operation on the volume controller 57 (Sq16). If the event is the detection of an operation on the volume adjuster 57 (Sq16: YES), the sub-control unit 91 reflects the volume set value set by the volume adjuster 57 on the output volume (Sq15), and performs this processing. To end. For the same reason as during the normal control, the sub control unit 91 does not output the operation sound even when the volume controller 57 is operated.

  In Sq16, when the event is not the detection of the operation on the volume controller 57 (Sq16: NO), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether the event is the detection of the predetermined operation (Sq17). When the event is not the detection of the predetermined operation (Sq17: NO), the process ends because the event is not the target of the process. If the event is the detection of a predetermined operation (Sq17: YES), the sub-control unit 91 sets a measurement timer (Sq18) and ends the lowering control (Sq19). Thereby, the normal control is started.

  As shown in Sq14, if the output volume is set by the cross key 58 during the lowering control, the sub controller 91 ends the lowering control. Thus, by ending the lowering control and starting the normal control, the player can check the actual output volume during the game. Further, in the present embodiment, the lowering control is ended and the normal control is started even if a predetermined operation is detected, not limited to the cross key 58. When the player performs a predetermined operation, the game is likely to be started. Therefore, by starting the normal control, the player can check the actual output volume during the game.

  If the output volume is set by the volume controller 57 during the lowering control, the lowering control is continued. This is because the person who can operate the volume controller 57 is a clerk and does not play a game, so that it is not necessary to start the normal control. Further, by continuing the reduction control, the power consumption of the slot machine 1 can be suppressed. Note that there are two types of control in the reduction control, in which the output volume is set to 0 (silence). One is a control in which the sound is reproduced but the output volume is set to zero. The other control is to stop the reproduction of the sound so that the output volume is set to zero. In the former case, when the normal control is resumed, the currently reproduced sound is output to make the output volume greater than 0, so that the music may be resumed in the middle of the music. On the other hand, in the latter case, when the normal control is resumed, the sound is reproduced from the beginning, so that the music is reproduced from the beginning.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, appropriate volume adjustment can be performed by the operation unit for setting the output volume.

  Further, as shown in Sq4 and Sq8 in FIG. 6 and Sq13 and Sq18 in FIG. 7, regardless of whether or not sound is output from the speakers 53 and 54, when a predetermined operation that is a trigger to start measurement for a predetermined period is detected. The measurement timer is set, and measurement for a predetermined time is started. For example, a general slot machine performs control to output BGM over a plurality of games, or performs control to output BGM and sound effects for each game without outputting BGM over a plurality of games. There is. If the trigger for starting the predetermined time is different depending on these various controls, it is necessary to classify the conditions when determining whether to perform the reduction control. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the measurement timer is set when a predetermined operation is detected, regardless of whether or not sound is being output from the speakers 53 and 54, so that there is no need to classify conditions.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a difference in control between the operation on the cross key 58 and the operation on the volume controller 57. The horizontal axis indicates time, and the vertical axis indicates control contents. In FIG. 8, the predetermined period is t seconds.

  First, control when the operation on the cross key 58 is performed will be described. When a predetermined operation is performed at time T1 during normal control (Sq7: YES), a measurement timer is set (Sq8), and measurement for a predetermined period is started, but at time T2 before t seconds have elapsed. When the volume setting operation is performed with the cross key 58 (Sq2: YES), the measurement timer is set again (Sq4). Thereafter, since the predetermined operation is not performed until t seconds have elapsed, a timeout occurs (Sq9: YES), and the lowering control is started (Sq10). At time T3 during the lowering control, if a volume setting operation is performed with the cross key 58 (Sq11: YES), the lowering control ends (Sq14), and normal control starts.

  Next, control when the volume adjuster 57 is operated will be described. If a predetermined operation is performed at time T1 during normal control (Sq7: YES), a measurement timer is set (Sq8), and measurement for a predetermined period is started. Thereafter, at time T2 before t seconds elapse, when the volume setting operation is performed by the volume controller 57 (Sq6: YES), the set value is only reflected (Sq5), and the measurement timer is not set. Thereafter, since the predetermined operation is not performed until t seconds have elapsed, a timeout occurs (Sq9: YES), and the lowering control is started (Sq10). At time T3 during the lowering control, when the volume controller 57 performs a volume setting operation (Sq16: YES), the lowering control is continued only by reflecting the set value (Sq15).

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the output volume is set by operating the cross key 58 during the lowering control, the sub controller 91 ends the volume lowering control, and the volume controller during the lowering control. When the output volume is set by operating the button 57, the volume reduction control is continued. Thereby, sound can be output at an appropriate volume by the operation unit used for setting the volume. In the present embodiment, the volume reduction control is terminated even if a predetermined operation is performed, not limited to the cross key 58.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing various modes showing the set values set by operating the cross key 58. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an aspect in which the set value is indicated by a bar-shaped meter. The setting value in the mode illustrated in FIG. 9A is V3. The meter may be displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 or may be provided as an effect device different from the liquid crystal display 51. In this case, for example, it may also be used as an effect device used as another effect such as a meter effect.

  FIG. 9B is a diagram showing a mode in which the set value is indicated by 7 segments. The setting value in the mode illustrated in FIG. 9B is V1. 7-segment may be displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 as an image. Also, 7-seg may be used for other effects. FIG. 9C is a diagram illustrating a mode in which a set value is indicated by a meter (hereinafter, referred to as a “scoring meter”) in which a rectangular area surrounding a numeral is turned on. The setting value in the mode illustrated in FIG. 9C is V3. The scoring meter may be displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 as an image. The scoring meter may be used for other effects. FIG. 9D is a diagram showing a mode in which the set value is indicated by a mechanical hand meter. The set value in the mode illustrated in FIG. 9D is V4. This needle meter is also used as a staging device used as another staging such as a meter staging.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the output sound volume at the time of the normal control and the time of the decrease control at each sound volume setting value. As shown in FIG. 10, an output sound volume during normal control and an output sound volume during lowering control are provided for each sound volume setting value. In the normal control, as described above, the output volume of V1 is the lowest, the output volume increases in the order of V2 and V3, and the output volume of V4 is the highest. In addition, in the present embodiment, the output volume of V1 is also the lowest at the time of the decrease control, the output volume increases in the order of V2 and V3, and the output volume of V4 is the highest. As described above, in the lowering control, the output volume is reduced according to the volume setting value, so that when the volume setting value is large, the output volume can be increased considerably even during the lowering control, and the volume setting value is reduced. If it is small, the output volume can be reduced even during the reduction control, so that the intention of the setter can be reflected even during the reduction control.

  Regarding the sound indicating the occurrence of the error, as shown in FIG. 10, the output volume is constant regardless of whether or not the volume reduction control is being performed and regardless of the volume setting value. be able to.

  In the present embodiment, a volume setting value V4 indicating the maximum volume is set, and a volume setting value V1 indicating the minimum volume is set as the output volume during the volume lowering control ("lower control maximum volume" in FIG. 10). In addition, the output volume is lower than the output volume when the volume reduction control is not executed (“normal control minimum volume” in FIG. 10). This makes it possible to determine whether the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control.

  The reason why determination is possible will be described. First, "the volume setting value indicating the maximum volume is set, and the output volume during volume reduction control is smaller than the output volume when the volume setting value indicating the minimum volume is set and volume reduction control is not performed. This means that the output volume during normal control and the output volume during reduction control are clearly separated based on a certain output volume. Therefore, when the output sound volume is lower than the reference, it can be determined that the reduction control is being performed, and when the output sound volume exceeds the reference, it can be determined that the normal control is being performed. As an example of this criterion, an arbitrary output volume value in a section from the maximum volume at the time of decrease control to the minimum volume at the time of normal control in FIG. If the output volume at the time of the decrease control is higher than the output volume at the time of the normal control, it is not possible to determine whether or not the reduction control is being performed because the above-described reference does not exist.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control. However, an effect other than this effect can also be obtained. For example, if the output volume at the time of the decrease control is higher than the output volume at the time of the normal control, the output volume of the gaming machine that is not being played will be greater than the output volume of the gaming machine that is being played. When the gaming machine next to the gaming machine being played by the player is an empty platform, an unnatural phenomenon occurs in which the sound of the neighboring gaming machine is louder than the sound of the gaming machine being played by the player. I do. This is very annoying for the player. According to the present embodiment, the output volume at the time of the decrease control is always lower than the output volume at the time of the normal control, so that the above-described unnatural phenomenon does not occur and the player is comfortable without bothering. The special effect that a game environment can be provided is obtained.

  Some known gaming machines reduce the volume of a game sound when a situation in which no game is played is detected. In addition, there has been one that can set the volume of a game sound. In such a conventionally known gaming machine, the volume of the game sound is reduced in both cases where a situation where no game is played is detected and when the volume of the game sound is set to be reduced. Become. Therefore, when the currently output volume is low, it is difficult to understand whether the volume is reduced by detecting a situation in which no game is played or the volume is reduced by setting the volume of the game sound.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the volume setting value indicating the maximum volume is V4, and the volume setting value indicating the minimum volume is V1. Also, the output volume during the lowering control when the volume setting value V4 is set (the lowering control maximum volume in FIG. 10) is the output volume during the normal control when the volume setting value V1 is set (FIG. 10). Normal control of the minimum volume). That is, the maximum volume (indicating the maximum volume) during the lowering control is lower than the minimum volume during the normal control (the output volume during the normal control when the volume setting value V1 indicating the minimum volume is set, the normal control minimum volume). (The volume during the lowering control and the lowering maximum volume) when the volume setting value V4 is set are smaller. With this, even if the currently output volume is low, it is possible to determine whether the volume is reduced by detecting a situation where no game is played or the volume is reduced by setting the volume of the game sound. It is.

  The control content of the output sound volume described above can be applied to a pachinko game machine. Since the pachinko gaming machine is provided with a speaker and the volume can be set by the player, a device corresponding to the first operation unit is provided, and the volume controller 57 is also provided in the same manner as the slot machine 1. Since it is provided in the pachinko gaming machine, a device corresponding to the second operation unit is also provided. An effect control board capable of controlling the output volume is also provided. The difference from the slot machine is a means for detecting whether or not a player is playing a game. In a pachinko machine, for example, a hitting operation handle is used to detect whether or not a player is playing a game. Since the hit ball operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball in accordance with the operation amount of the player, whether the game is played by the player depends on whether the operation amount of the hit ball operation handle is 0 or not. Can be detected.

  In such a configuration, the effect control board terminates the volume reduction control when the output volume is set by operating the first operation unit during the volume reduction control, and the second operation unit during the volume reduction control. When the output volume is set by the operation of, the control of the output volume according to the present embodiment can be applied to the pachinko game machine by continuing the volume reduction control. Further, also in the pachinko gaming machine, the first operation unit may be constituted by a plurality of operation means (for example, a cross key and a button).

  Further, the effect control board, when the volume setting value indicating the maximum volume is set, and the output volume during volume reduction control, the volume setting value indicating the minimum volume is set, and when the volume reduction control is not executed By controlling the output volume to be smaller than the output volume, the control content of the output volume according to the present embodiment can be applied to a pachinko machine.

[Promotion Direction]
The effects performed 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 operation of the effect switch 56 used for operation for the effect. The sub-control unit 91 executes the first promotion effect in a game after the game in which the additional lottery is executed. The first promotion effect is executed when a cherry or watermelon which is an execution trigger is won. 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, notification regarding ART (for example, “WIN!” Notifying that the additional lottery 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 (for example, songs A to E to be output in a specific effect) matched to the background image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. In addition, the predetermined sound is executed when the effect is executed. Music that is selected according to the effect, and voices produced by characters appearing on the screen.

  There are a plurality of types of first promotion effects in the first promotion effect, and the promotion sound, the color of the promotion display, and the expected degree of winning in the additional lottery differ depending on the type of the first promotion effect. The information of the first promotion effect is stored in the first promotion effect table. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the first promotion effect table. The first promotion effect table is stored in the RAM 41c.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the first prompting effect includes a first prompting effect A, a first prompting effect B, a first prompting effect C, and a first prompting effect D. These first promotion effects are selected by lottery. In each first promotion effect, different promotion sounds are output, the promotion display is performed in different colors, and the degree of expectation of the additional lottery is also different.

  In the first promotion effect A, the image “PUSH!” Is displayed on the screen as “blue” as the color of the promotion display, and the character displayed on the screen makes an utterance “press this button”. Sound is output as if When the first promotion effect A is selected, an additional lottery is won with a probability of 20%.

  In the first promotion effect B, the image “PUSH!” Is displayed on the screen in “green” as the color of the promotion display, and the character displayed on the screen utters “Press this button !!”. The sound is output as it is. When the first promotion effect B is selected, the additional lottery is won with a probability of 40%.

  In the first promotion effect C, the image “PUSH!” Is displayed on the screen in “red” as the color of the promotion display, and the character displayed on the screen is an utterance of “press and hold this button !!”. Sound is output as if When the first promotion effect C is selected, an additional lottery is won with a probability of 60%.

  In the first promotion effect D, an image “PUSH!” Is displayed on the screen as “rainbow” as the color of the promotion display, and the character displayed on the screen is an utterance of “hitting this button !!”. Sound is output as if When the first promotion effect D is selected, an additional lottery is won with a probability of 80%.

  As described above, the first promotion sounds A to D corresponding to the first promotion effects A to D are output, and the first promotion effects A to D having different expectation degrees of the additional lottery are executed according to the first promotion sounds. The player can be made to pay attention to which first promotion sound is being output.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11, the first promotion effects A to D having different winning expectation of the additional lottery are executed according to the colors of the promotion display from blue to rainbow colors, so which first promotion effect is executed. It is easy for the player to understand what is being done.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of the first promotion effect. In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, when an effect using operation means such as a button effect is executed, an effect promotion image 65b is displayed as an effect promotion display screen for prompting operation of the effect switch 56.

  As shown in FIG. 12, when the first promotion effect A is executed as the first promotion effect, the character “PUSH!” Is displayed in blue in the center of the display area 51a of the liquid crystal display 51 as a button effect. At this time, an explanation character image 64a is displayed on the lower left as the effect promotion image 65b. In addition, a part of a housing image 63 which is a real image of the housing of the slot machine 1 is enlarged and displayed on the right side of the explanation character image 64a. The image that is enlarged and displayed as the effect promotion image 65b is an image of a part of the housing including the effect switch 56 and its vicinity. The voice corresponding to the first promotion effect A, "press this button," is output from the speakers 53 and 54 as a line spoken by the explanation character image 64a.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the effect promotion image 65b is executed using an image representing a part of the slot machine 1, so that the promotion display can be suitably displayed. Here, the button effect can also be executed by the MAXBET switch 6 other than the effect switch 56. However, at the time of executing the button effect, the user is prompted to operate the effect switch 56. For this reason, the image enlarged and displayed as the effect promotion image 65b is an image of a part of the housing including the effect switch and the vicinity thereof. In this way, as shown in FIG. 12, the effect promotion image 65b capable of specifying which switch is to be operated is displayed, so that the player can easily understand which operation means should be operated. Can tell.

  As shown in FIG. 12, an image representing the entire slot machine 1 is not used for the stop promotion image 65a and the performance promotion image 65b. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the image of the housing image 63 of the slot machine 1 from becoming too large and making the promotion display difficult to see.

  The effect promotion image 65b may be displayed on the entire display area 51a of the liquid crystal display 51, or may be displayed on a part of the display area 51a of the liquid crystal display 51. Further, as the operation means, at least a part of a panel provided on the lower side of the housing 1a of the slot machine 1 may be operated by pressing. In such a case, when the button effect is executed, an image indicating that all or a part of the lower panel can be operated may be displayed as the effect promotion image 65b. In addition, the operating means is not limited to the lower panel, and the player can operate the operating means (for example, an accessory) provided at any position (for example, the upper part or the left and right of the housing 1a) of the slot machine 1 of the slot machine 1. It may be operable. Then, in such a case, an image including the accessory and the housing 1a may be displayed as the effect promotion image 65b. Further, when a sensor such as a touch sensor is set on the housing as the operation means, an image indicating the position of the touch sensor may be displayed.

  The second promotion effect is an effect for prompting the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R used for the operation for advancing the game. The sub-control unit 91 executes the second promotion effect when the winning combination (the pushing bell and the pushing lip) is won during the AT. The second promotion effect is executed at the time of winning of the pushing role which is an execution trigger. 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 (such as BGM, for example, the music pieces A to E output in the specific effect) that is generally flowing during the game. Note that the volume of the second promotion sound is higher than the volume of the predetermined sound.

[Relationship between BGM and promotion effect]
FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing the relationship between output control of BGM (for example, songs A to E to be output in a specific effect) and execution of a 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 not being executed (off state), the display on the liquid crystal display 51, and the number of the game in the continuous effect being executed is shown. Hereinafter, description will be given with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the game state is controlled to RT2 and the state is controlled by AT (ART state). It is assumed that at time t1 during the AT, the cherry is won, and a continuous effect indicating the winning of the additional lottery executed as an opportunity is started. At this time, it is assumed that the first promotion effect B is selected by lottery based on the first promotion effect table of FIG.

  Time t1 to t2 is the first game of the continuous effect. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, a state in which a battle effect as a continuous effect has been started is shown. On the screen, a character A as an ally and a character B as an enemy are displayed. At this time, the BGM (predetermined sound, for example, music A to be output in a specific effect) played during the AT is playing 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 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 t2 to t3 is the second game of the continuous production. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, it is shown that the enemy character B is attacking the ally character A in the battle effect. At this time, BGM (predetermined sound, for example, music A or B to be output in a specific effect) flowing during the AT is flowing at a high volume. At this time, the first promotion effect has not been executed.

  A second promotion effect is executed. Specifically, at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, a circled number indicating the correct procedure of the pressing order bell (the pressing order of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) is displayed. Further, a reel to be stopped at present is output as a sound as the second promotion sound. Since the correct answer procedure is right and left, the second promotion sound is output in the order of "Hidari", "Migi", and "Naka". During the execution of the second promotion effect (t2 to t3), the output of the BGM is maintained. Also, the volume of the second promotion performance is adjusted so as to be higher than the volume of the BGM. In addition, although the 2nd promotion effect performs a promotion effect by image display and a sound output, the promotion effect by only an image display or the promotion effect by only a sound output may be used.

  Time t3 indicates that the third game of the continuous effect has been started by the start operation of the player. Time t3 to t4 is the third game of the continuous effect. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, it is shown that the character A who is the ally attacks the character B which is the enemy in the battle effect. At this time, the BGM (predetermined sound, for example, any of the music pieces A to C output in the specific effect) played during the AT is playing 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 the continuous effect. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, it is shown that the character A who is the ally attacks the character B which is the enemy in the battle effect. At this time, the BGM (predetermined sound, for example, any one of the music pieces A to E output in the specific effect) that is played when the AT is being performed is flowing at a high volume. At this time, the first promotion effect has not been executed.

  A second promotion effect is executed. Specifically, at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, circled numbers indicating the correct order of the pressing order bell are displayed. Further, a reel to be stopped at present is output as a sound as the second promotion sound. Since the correct answer procedure is middle left and right, the second promotion sound is output in the order of "Naka", "Hidari", and "Migi". During the execution of the second promotion effect (t4 to t5), the output of the BGM is maintained. Also, the volume of the second promotion performance is adjusted so as to be higher than the volume of the BGM.

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

  As the first promotion effect, the first promotion effect B is selected by lottery. Therefore, a green image “PUSH!” Corresponding to the first promotion effect B is displayed on the screen. At the same time, the sound of the promotion sound “press this button!” Corresponding to the first promotion effect B is output from the speakers 53 and 54, and the operation of the effect switch 56 is prompted. When the first promotion effect B is executed, the expected win rate of the additional lottery is 40%.

  When the player operates the staging switch 56, "WIN!" Indicating victory is displayed, and the character A who is an ally defeats the character B which is an enemy and wins. This suggests that the additional lottery has been won.

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

  In this way, as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 13, when the first promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM is reduced, and at the times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 13. As described above, the volume of the BGM is maintained when the second promotion effect is being executed. For this reason, the player can concentrate on the operation of the effect operation means.

  Further, as shown at time t5 in FIG. 13, after the symbols are derived by operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R by the navigation in the pressing order, the first promotion effect for prompting the operation of the effect switch 56 is performed. To be executed. For this reason, the player can concentrate on the operation of the effect operation means.

  Also, as shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 13, when the second promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the second promotion sound is greater than the volume of the BGM, so the second promotion effect execution The second output sound sometimes output is not difficult to hear.

  For example, some known gaming machines output BGM during ART. Further, there has been an apparatus that prompts the operation of a production switch and generates a special notification sound by operating the production switch to suggest that a privilege is given. In such a conventionally known gaming machine, when prompting a player to operate a staging switch under a situation where a predetermined sound such as BGM is output, a BGM or the like is provided so that the player can concentrate on the operation. No consideration has been given to how to output the predetermined sound.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, when the first promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM is reduced, while the second promotion effect is executed as shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. , The BGM volume is maintained. This allows the player to concentrate on the operation of the effect switch when the first promotion effect, which is the effect prompting the operation of the effect switch, is being executed.

[Probability of execution of promotion effect]
FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the execution probability of the promotion effect. As shown in FIG. 14, the first promotion effect and the second promotion effect each have a different winning combination which is an execution trigger. In addition, the execution probability of each promotion effect is different depending on the winning probability of the winning combination which is the execution trigger. Hereinafter, the execution probability of the first promotion effect during the ART and the execution probability of the second promotion effect during the ART will be described.

  The first promotion effect is triggered by the winning of cherry or watermelon during ART. The total of the determination values of the weak watermelon, the strong watermelon, the weak cherry, the strong cherry, and the middle cherry is 635 in any game state unless the bonus is in progress. In addition, the total of the determination value numbers of all the lottery target combinations is 65536. Therefore, the winning probability of cherry or watermelon is 1.0% (= 635/65536). In the present embodiment, when the execution opportunity is won, the promotion effect is executed with a probability of 100%. Therefore, the execution probability of the first promotion effect is also 1%.

  The second promotion effect is triggered by the winning of the pushing sequence during the ART (the pushing sequence bell and the pushing sequence lip). However, in the present embodiment, in RT2 during the ART, the pushing order lip is not won, so that only the pushing order bell corresponds to the pushing order. The total of the determination values of the left bells 1-4, the middle bells 1-4, and the right bells 1-4 is 16,500 in any gaming state unless the bonus is in effect. The total number of determination values is 65536. Therefore, the winning probability of the pushing order (the pushing order bell) is 25.2% (= 16500/65536). In the present embodiment, when the execution opportunity is won, the promotion effect is executed with a probability of 100%. Therefore, the execution probability of the first promotion effect is also 25.2%.

  As described above, as shown in FIG. 14, the execution probability executed per game is the second promotion whose execution probability is 25.2%, compared to the first promotion effect whose execution probability is 1.0%. Since the promotion effect is higher, it is possible to prevent the volume of BGM (predetermined sound) from being frequently increased and decreased during the execution of the first promotion effect.

  As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments. The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible.

[About gaming machines]
In the above embodiment, the slot machine for setting the number of bets using medals and credits has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a game ball used in a pachinko game machine is used. By applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a slot machine that sets the number of bets using a credit, a fully credit-type slot machine that sets the number of bets using only credits, and a pachinko machine, Such an invention can be realized. When a game ball is used as a game medium, for example, when one medal corresponds to five game balls, and when the number of bets is set to 3 in the above embodiment, 15 game balls are used. Is used to set the number of bets.

  Further, 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. A game value may be used together. That is, it is possible to set a bet amount and play a game by using any of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, and to generate a plurality of types of games such as medals and game balls by winning. A gaming machine that can pay out any of the utility values is also included in the gaming machine of the present invention.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a variable display device having three reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is provided, and when all the reels stop, one game ends, and a combination of the display results derived on the three reels is obtained. The slot machine in which a prize is generated according to the description has been described. However, the display result is derived on a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each of which can be identified, thereby ending one game, and a prize is won according to the display result derived on the variable display device. The slot machine that can be generated is not limited to one having a variable display device having three reels, but one having only one reel, or a slot machine having a variable display device having a plurality of reels other than three. It may be. Further, in the present embodiment, the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are reels that rotate in the vertical direction, but the reels 2L, 2C, 2R may be reels that rotate in any direction, such as a horizontal direction or an oblique direction. .

  Further, the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment causes a plurality of types of identification information (symbols) each of which can be identified to be derived in each of a plurality of variable display areas (perspective windows 3) capable of variably displaying. The game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using game values (medals and credits), and a plurality of variable display areas can be provided. A game is completed by deriving a display result, and a prize can be generated according to a combination of display results derived in each of the plurality of variable display areas as a result of the one game. Is also good.

  Further, as the present embodiment, the slot machine for paying out the game medium to the player in accordance with the occurrence of the prize has been described. However, the game medium is enclosed, and the game medium is stored in the hand of the player in accordance with the occurrence of the prize. It is also possible to adopt an enclosed slot machine that adds the game points (scores) without paying out the game. The base and the drum can be distributed and the housing is common, and only the base or the base and the drum are referred to as a gaming machine.

  Further, the contents of the above-described embodiment can be applied to a pachinko gaming machine. For example, a hitting operation handle operated for hitting a pachinko ball is used as operating means operated by the player. Further, for example, the timing of starting the change of the effect symbol based on the fact that the last hold is consumed is set as a predetermined opportunity. In addition, for example, a plurality of types of reach effects are a plurality of types of effects accompanied by sound output. Also, 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, it is possible to prevent the effect of the game from being hindered by the decrease in the output volume or the silence, and to prevent the effect of the effect from being unintentionally hindered.

  It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all aspects 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 above-described embodiment will be described.

(1) A gaming machine (for example, slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine) capable of playing a game,
Sound output means for outputting sound (for example, speakers 53 and 54);
The sound output means is provided by a first operation unit (for example, a cross key 58, an operation unit including a button for increasing and decreasing an output volume) and a second operation unit (for example, a volume controller 57). Setting means (for example, a sub-control unit 91 or the like) capable of setting the output volume output by
A control unit (for example, a sub-control unit 91 or the like) for performing volume reduction control for reducing the output volume output by the sound output unit when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
With
The setting content set by the first operation unit cannot be specified by the mode of the first operation unit,
The setting content set by the second operation unit can be specified by the mode of the second operation unit (for example, can be specified by the rotation position of the knob of the volume controller 57).
When the output volume is set by the first operation unit during the volume lowering control, the controller terminates the volume lowering control (for example, Sq14 in FIG. 7) and performs the second operation during the volume lowering control. When the output volume is set by the unit, the volume reduction control is continued (for example, even if an affirmative determination is made in Sq16 of FIG. 7, the set value is reflected only in Sq15, and the reduction control is continued). A gaming machine characterized by the following.

  According to such a configuration, sound can be output at an appropriate volume by the operation unit used for setting the volume.

(2) The gaming machine according to (1) above,
When the output volume is set by the first operation unit, an operation sound is output (for example, Sq3 in FIG. 6, Sq12 in FIG. 7), and when the output volume is set by the second operation unit. The operation sound is not output (for example, even if an affirmative determination is made in Sq6 or Sq16 in FIG. 7, the process of outputting the operation sound is not performed).

  According to such a configuration, sound can be output at an appropriate volume by the operation unit used for setting the volume.

(3) The gaming machine according to (1) or (2),
The predetermined condition is a condition that a state in which a player has not played a game has passed a predetermined period,
If the output volume is set by the first operation unit before the predetermined period elapses (for example, an affirmative determination in Sq2 in FIG. 6), the predetermined period is extended (for example, Sq4 in FIG. 6). If the output volume is set by the second operation unit before the predetermined time period elapses, the predetermined time period is not extended (for example, a positive determination is made in Sq6 in FIG. 6). Also, the measurement timer is not set).

  According to such a configuration, the sound volume lowering control can be appropriately performed by the operation unit used for setting the sound volume.

(4) The gaming machine according to (3) above,
When the measurement of the predetermined period is started (for example, when a predetermined operation is detected), the measurement of the predetermined period is started regardless of whether sound is output by the sound output unit (for example, FIG. Sq4 and Sq8 of FIG. 6, Sq13 and Sq18 of FIG. 7).

  According to such a configuration, it is not necessary to divide the conditions into the measurement start determination for the predetermined period, and the volume reduction control can be appropriately performed.

(5) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4),
The second operation unit is covered with a cover member (for example, the cover member 59).

  According to such a configuration, an erroneous operation on the second operation unit can be prevented.

(6) a gaming machine (slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine) for performing a game,
Production operation means (for example, production switch 56 of slot machine 1, production button of pachinko gaming machine) used for operation for production,
Game progress operation means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R of the slot machine 1 and a hitting operation handle of a pachinko game machine) used for an operation for advancing the game;
First promotion effect for prompting operation of the effect operation means (for example, an effect for prompting operation of the effect switch 56 as shown on the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 13, operation of an effect button for a pachinko game machine) First prompting means (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes the first prompting effect) for executing the first prompting effect);
A second promotion effect for prompting the operation of the game progress operation means (for example, an effect of navigating the correct answer procedure of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R as shown on the liquid crystal display 51 at times t2 to t3, t4 to t5 in FIG. A second promotion means (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes a second promotion effect) for executing a right-hand instruction in a pachinko gaming machine);
Sound output means for outputting a sound (for example, BGM, the first promotion sound and the second promotion sound shown in FIG. 11) (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 causes the speakers 53 and 54 to output BGM or the like);
With
When the effect operation means is operated during the execution of the first promotion effect, a notification about a privilege (for example, the addition of the number of additional games) is performed (for example, the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 13). As shown in the figure, when the display “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 gives the number of additional games. "WIN!" Is displayed on the screen.
The sound output means reduces the volume of the predetermined sound when the first promotion effect is being performed during the output of the predetermined sound (for example, BGM) (for example, as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 13). In addition, when the first promotion effect is being performed, the volume of the BGM is reduced. On the other hand, when the second promotion effect is being performed 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. 13, when the second promotion effect is executed, the volume of the BGM is maintained).

  According to such a configuration, during the output of the predetermined sound, the volume of the predetermined sound is reduced when the first promotion effect in which the operation of the effect operation means is prompted when the notification regarding the privilege is performed is performed. . For this reason, the player can concentrate on the operation of the effect operation means.

  (7) A gaming machine (eg, slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine, etc.) capable of playing a game, wherein sound output means (eg, speakers 53, 54, etc.) for outputting sound, and the sound output means A setting unit (for example, a volume adjuster 57, a volume setting screen, etc.) for setting a volume setting value indicating an output volume output by the unit, and the sound output unit according to the volume setting value set by the setting unit. Control means (for example, a sub-control unit 91 or the like) for controlling the output sound volume to be output, and detection means (for example, the sub-control unit 91 or the like) for detecting whether or not a player is playing a game; When the detecting means detects that the player is not playing a game, the control means executes a sound volume reduction control for reducing the output sound volume according to the sound volume setting value (for example, Sq9 in FIG. 6). so When a fixed determination is made, the volume lowering control is executed, etc.), a volume setting value indicating the maximum volume (for example, V4, etc.) is set by the setting means, and the output volume during the volume lowering control (for example, the lowering control of FIG. As the maximum volume, a volume setting value (for example, V1 or the like) indicating the minimum volume is set by the setting unit, and the output volume when the volume reduction control is not executed (for example, the normal control minimum volume in FIG. 10). Etc.) may be a gaming machine characterized by being smaller.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control.

Reference Signs List 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 (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
Sound output means for outputting sound,
Setting means capable of setting an output volume output by the sound output means by a first operation part and a second operation part;
Control means for performing volume reduction control for reducing the output volume output by the sound output means when a state in which a game is not played by a player has passed for a predetermined period during a period when the predetermined music is being output;
With
The setting content set by the first operation unit cannot be specified by the mode of the first operation unit,
The setting content set by the second operation unit can be specified by an aspect of the second operation unit,
The control means terminates the volume reduction control when an output volume different from the output volume set during the volume reduction control is set by the first operation unit , and sets the output set during the volume reduction control . A game machine characterized by continuing volume reduction control when an output volume different from the volume is set by the second operation unit .

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