JP6668565B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine installed in a game arcade.

  Conventionally, there has been a gaming machine having a plurality of types of gaming states and outputting an external signal according to the gaming state (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2002-172192

  However, conventional gaming machines have room for improvement.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a gaming machine of the present invention controls a plurality of gaming states including a first gaming state, a second gaming state advantageous to a player, and a third gaming state advantageous to a player. Possible game state control means, and output means capable of outputting game information relating to the game, wherein the game state control means is configured to execute the second game state transition condition in the first game state based on a second game state transition condition being satisfied. , It is possible to make a transition to the second gaming state, and in the first gaming state, it is possible to make a transition to the third gaming state based on the satisfaction of a third gaming state transition condition, In the third gaming state, it is possible to shift to the second gaming state based on the satisfaction of the second gaming state shifting condition, and based on the termination of the second gaming state, Move to third game state It is possible to, the output section, based on the second game state shift condition is satisfied, is capable of outputting a second game information indicating that the game state is the second game state, It is possible to output third game information indicating that the gaming state is the third gaming state based on the satisfaction of the third gaming state transition condition, and in the third gaming state, the second gaming state It is possible to end the output of the third game information based on the satisfaction of the transition condition, and to output the second game information after the end of the output of the third game information. It was configured.

It is a figure explaining the whole composition of the game system of an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the slot machine of the embodiment with a front door opened. It is a block diagram of the game system of an embodiment. FIG. 3 shows an example of the flow of the game in the slot machine of the embodiment. FIG. 17 shows an example display on the display section of the slot machine of the embodiment. It is a figure explaining signal processing of the game system of an embodiment. It is a figure explaining signal processing of the game system of an embodiment. It is a figure explaining signal processing of the game system of an embodiment. It is a figure explaining signal processing of the game system of an embodiment. It is a figure explaining signal processing of the game system of an embodiment.

(Embodiment)
A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
[Configuration of gaming system 1]
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the game system 1 is installed in a game hall.
The gaming system 1 includes a slot machine 10 (game machine), a data display 30, a stand computer 41, an island computer 42, and a hall computer 50.

The slot machine 10, the data display 30, and the stand computer 41 form one set, and the gaming system 1 includes a plurality of sets.
The slot machine 10 and the data display 30 are connected by a communication cable and can communicate with each other (see an arrow 2a in FIG. 3). This cable includes a cable connected to an external output terminal board 25 (described later) of the slot machine 10.
The data display 30 and the table computer 41, the table computer 41 and the island computer 42, and the island computer 42 and the hall computer 50 are connected by a communication cable and can communicate with each other (see FIG. 3). Arrows 2b to 2d).

  Each device of the slot machine 10, the data display 30, the computer 41, the island computer 42, and the hall computer 50 includes a storage unit and a control unit, and is a device capable of performing various arithmetic processes and various controls. Included in the concept. Each storage unit includes a storage device such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory device that stores programs, information, and the like necessary for the operation of each device. Each control unit includes a CPU and the like. Each control unit realizes various functions of the embodiment by appropriately reading and executing various programs stored in each storage unit.

(Slot machine 10)
A plurality of slot machines 10 are provided in a game arcade.
The slot machine 10 includes a housing 11b having an opening on the front surface, and a front door 11a that opens and closes the opening.
The front door 11a is configured so that continuous symbols displayed on the reels 22a to 22c can be identified from outside the machine through the display window 11c.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the front door 11a includes a medal insertion slot 12, a medal selector 13, a start lever 14, a bet button 15, a stop button 16 (16a to 16c), an advantageous state lamp 17, and a navigation lamp 18 ( 18a to 18c), a display unit 19, a lamp 20, and a speaker 21.
The medal insertion slot 12 is a part where the player inserts medals (game media).
The medal selector 13 includes a sensor for detecting a medal inserted into the medal insertion slot 12, and the like.
The start lever 14, the bet button 15, and the stop button 16 are devices that can be operated by a player.

The advantageous state lamp 17 is controlled so as to light or blink during an advantageous section (described later). In addition, the slot machine 10 controls, for example, to light or blink a 7-segment “dot” portion forming a payout number display unit that displays the payout number of medals, instead of the advantageous state lamp 17. May be.
The navigation lamp 18 navigates the operation order of the stop buttons 16a to 16c for the player. The navigation lamp 18 performs this navigation by being controlled so as to be sequentially turned on in accordance with the operation of the stop buttons 16a to 16c.
The display unit 19 is a liquid crystal display device or the like. The display unit 19 performs various effects using images, displays various information in games, and the like.
The lamp 20 and the speaker 21 perform light emission, sound effects, and the like.

The housing 11b includes a reel 22 (22a to 22c), a drum unit 23, a medal payout device 24, an external output terminal board 25 (output means), a main control board 26, and a sub control board 27.
The drum unit 23 is a device that rotationally drives the reels 22a to 22c.
The medal payout device 24 is a device that pays out medals to a medal payout exit 24a.

The external output terminal plate 25 is a device that outputs a signal to the data display 30 (external device). The external output terminal plate 25 is provided on the back of the housing 11b or the like (not shown in FIG. 2). The external output terminal board 25 includes an electric board, a connector mounted on the electric board, and a connector for connecting a cable.
The external output terminal plate 25 includes, as output terminals, an ART signal output section 25a, a B (bonus) signal output section 25b, an ED (ending) signal output section 25c, a closing signal output section 25d, and a payout signal output section 25e. The output units 25a to 25e respectively output an ART signal (third game information), a B signal (second game information), an ED signal (specific information, fourth game information), and an input signal output from the main control board 26. (Input information) and a payout signal (payout information) are output to the data display 30 (see arrow 2a).
The details of the output processing of each signal will be described later.
The external output terminal plate 25 includes, in addition to these output units, an output terminal for outputting a signal indicating an abnormality (security signal), a signal indicating that the front door 11a is open (door open signal), and the like. Prepare.

  An output signal from the external output terminal board 25 is input to the hall computer 50 via the table computer 41 and the island computer 42 (see arrows 2a to 2d). This output signal may be converted into a digital signal by the platform computer 41, the island computer 42, or the like before being input to the hall computer 50.

The main control board 26 and the sub control board 27 are connected by a communication cable, and can communicate in one direction from the main control board 26 to the sub control board 27.
A communication cable is connected between the main control board 26, the medal selector 13, the start lever 14, the bet button 15, the stop button 16, the advantageous state lamp 17, the drum unit 23, the medal payout device 24, and the external output terminal board 25. And can communicate.
The main control board 26 includes a storage unit 26a and a control unit 26b (game state control means, game number counting means).
The storage unit 26a stores a game program relating to the game and various information. In addition, the storage unit 26a includes a program for performing processing related to signal output from the external output terminal board 25, and the like.
The control unit 26b operates according to a program stored in the storage unit 26a. Thus, the control unit 26b performs processing related to the progress of the slot machine game, processing related to the signal output from the external output terminal board 25, and the like.
In addition, the control unit 26b progresses a game with an internal lottery process and the like in accordance with an operation of an operation unit such as the start lever 14, and also controls driving of devices such as the drum unit 23 and the medal payout device 24, Realize slot machine games.
Detailed processing of the control unit 26b will be described later.

The sub-control board 27 and the navigation lamp 18, the display unit 19, the lamp 20, and the speaker 21 are connected by a communication cable and can communicate with each other. The sub-control board 27 controls these devices according to an instruction from the main control board 26.
The sub control board 27 includes a storage unit 27a and a control unit 27b.
The control unit 27b performs processing and control such as an effect synchronized with a slot machine game in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 26b of the main control board 26. The control unit 27b outputs, for example, an image effect indicating a transition to the game state, a fanfare sound, a lamp effect, and the like from the notification unit such as the display unit 19, the lamp 20, and the speaker 21.

(Data display 30)
The data display 30 is a device for displaying (notifying) game information of the slot machine 10 to a player or the like. The data display 30 may be provided with a call button so that the data display 30 also functions as a call lamp.
The data display 30 includes a communication unit 31, a display unit 35, a storage unit 36a, and a control unit 36b.
The communication section 31 is an interface for the data display 30 to communicate with the slot machine 10 and the island computer 42. The communication unit 31 includes a connection terminal for connecting to a cable connected to the external output terminal plate 25 of the slot machine 10. These connection terminals are input terminals for information from the external output terminal plate 25.

The display unit 35 is a display device including a liquid crystal display device, a 7-segment display, and the like. The display unit 35 displays the number of ART (Assist Replay Time) transitions, the number of B (bonus) transitions, and the number of ED (ending) transitions from the opening of the store to the current time, as game information, and the number-of-ARTs display unit 35a and the B-number display unit, respectively. 35b and an ED count display section 35c.
The display unit 35 may be configured to be able to display the number of games between ART states and the like. In addition, a button that can be operated by a player may be provided so that game information on a past business day can be displayed according to the button operation.
The storage unit 36a includes a program for analyzing and counting output signals from the external output terminal board 25 of the slot machine 10.
The control unit 36b operates in accordance with the program of the storage unit 36a, and performs processes such as analysis and tallying of output signals from the external output terminal board 25, processes related to output to the display unit 35, and the like.
Detailed processing of the control unit 36b will be described later.

(Table computer 41, island computer 42)
Although detailed description is omitted, the island computer 42 and the platform computer 41 each include a communication unit, a storage unit, and a control unit. Accordingly, the platform computer 41 can perform counting of the number of balls jumped out of the slot machine 10 in which the platform computer 41 is installed. Further, the island computer 42 can perform counting of the number of balls to be played out of each slot machine 10 of the gaming island where the island computer 42 is installed.

(Hall computer 50)
The hall computer 50 controls the slot machine 10 in the hall.
The hall computer 50 includes a communication unit 51, an operation unit 52, a display unit 55, a storage unit 56a, and a control unit 56b.
The communication unit 51 is an interface for the hall computer 50 to communicate with the island computer 42.
The operation unit 52 includes a keyboard, a mouse, and the like, and is an input device that can be operated by a store manager or the like.
The display unit 55 is a display device including a liquid crystal display device and the like.
The display unit 55 displays information on the number of times of ART transfer, the number of times of B transfer, and the number of times of ED transfer of each slot machine 10 in accordance with the operation of the operation unit 52, similarly to the data display 30. In addition, the display unit 55 can also display the number of medals inserted (the number of inserted medals), the number of payouts (the number of paid out medals) in each slot machine 10, and the like.
The storage unit 56a includes a program for analyzing and counting output signals from the external output terminal board 25 of the slot machine 10.
The control unit 56b operates by a program of the storage unit 56a, and performs analysis of output signals from the external output terminal board 25, aggregation processing, processing related to output to the display unit 55, and the like.
Detailed processing of the control unit 56b will be described later.

[Basic operation of slot machine 10]
The control unit 26b of the main control board 26 and the control unit 27b of the sub control board 27 perform the basic operation of the game as follows.
First, the basic gaming states RT, AT, and ART will be described.
RT is an abbreviation of replay time, and generally refers to a game state in which the winning rate of the replay combination that enables the next game without inserting a medal is high.
In the embodiment, there are three types of RT states, RT1, RT2, and RT3, for which the replay probabilities are respectively defined, and RT2 and RT3 correspond to the replay time.
The state of RT1 is a low replay probability in which the winning probability of the “replay combination” in the internal lottery process is low, and the gaming state in which the medal of the player is hard to increase even if the game is continued (replay low probability gaming state). On the other hand, the state of RT2 and RT3 is a high replay probability in which the winning probability of the “replay combination” is higher than that of RT1, and is a gaming state (replay high probability gaming state) in which the number of medals obtained by the player tends to increase.

AT is an abbreviation of an assist time, and when a small role or a replay role is won, for example, a symbol serving as a guide for the pressing is notified, or the operation order of the stop buttons 16a to 16c is navigated, This is a gaming state in which a winning combination such as a small role or a replay role is assisted.
ART is an abbreviation of assist replay time, and when RT and AT are combined, a winning state of a replay role is set to be high, and a winning state of a small role or a replay role is assisted. .

At the start of each game, the multiplier is set using medals (including credit medals).
There are a method of setting the number of multiplications by inserting medals directly from the medal insertion slot 12 and a method of setting by pressing the bet button 15.

In the method of setting the number of medals by inserting medals through the medal insertion slot 12, the number of medals corresponding to the number of inserted medals (however, three The corresponding multiplier "3" is set as the upper limit).
Note that the upper limit of the multiplier may be “1”, “2”, or “4” or more.

The bet button 15 is an example of an operation unit capable of accepting a player's operation related to the setting of the number of bends. When the bet button 15 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, The number of medals (three) is subtracted, and the subtracted number is set as a multiplier.
The bet button 15 is not limited to the bet button 15, and a plurality of bet buttons 15 having different numbers of settings can be provided. Further, the credit medals are added by inserting medals from the medal insertion slot 12 or winning a prize. For example, up to 50 medals can be credited (stored).

As described above, the number set by the direct insertion from the medal insertion slot 12 or the pressing operation of the bet button 15 is stored in the storage unit 26a of the main control board 26.
Then, when the multiplier reaches a predetermined number (for example, three), a game in which the right to execute a single game is held can be started.

In a state where the game can be started, the operation of the start lever 14 is in a valid state. In this effective state, when the start lever 14 is tilted, the game is started, the reels 22a to 22c showing a plurality of symbols start to change, and a plurality of reels such as a replay role, a small role, and a bonus role are started. An internal lottery process is executed in which the lottery result of the current game is determined before the reel 22 stops from among the winning combinations (including outliers).
In the internal lottery process, the winning combination of the current game is determined by lottery from a plurality of winning combinations based on a predetermined winning probability.
In the present embodiment, the internal lottery process is completed before the reels 22a to 22c reach the normal rotation, but may be completed before the reels 22a to 22c start to rotate.

Each of the reels 22a to 22c is an example of a variable display means, and a plurality of (usually 21) symbols serving as identification information are provided on the peripheral surface of each of the reels 22a to 22c, for example, "Replay", "Bell", “Watermelon”, “Cherry”, “7”, “BAR”, and the like are respectively shown. After gradually increasing the rotation speed from the stop state, the rotation reaches a steady rotation at a constant speed.
When such a steady rotation is reached, the stop buttons 16a to 16c provided corresponding to the respective reels 22a to 22c enter a state where the stop buttons 16a to 16c can be pressed (validation of the stop button operation).

  The stop buttons 16a to 16c are an example of an operation unit for performing a stop operation of the reel 22, and for example, the stop buttons 16a to 16c are in a state in which a press operation can be performed by turning on a light emitting unit such as an LED built in the stop buttons 16a to 16c. When the stop button 16 is pressed in such a state, the reels 22a to 22c are controlled so as to stop at a combination of symbols permitted by the operation timing and the lottery result of the internal lottery process. You.

In the stop state, three vertically continuous symbols displayed on the reels 22a to 22c are stopped (sometimes referred to as stop display) so as to face the outside of the machine from the display window 11c. The presence or absence of a winning is determined based on the winning.
The prize is determined based on a combination of symbols stopped on a predetermined prize line. For example, the prize is stopped on any one of a total of five prize lines of three lines, upper, middle and lower, and two diagonal lines. It is determined based on the combination of symbols.
The number of winning lines is not limited to five, but may be an arbitrary number such as one.

The combinations of symbols to be determined include “bell-bell-bell” (bell role) in the order of “left reel 22a / middle reel 22b / right reel 22c” as a combination of symbols corresponding to “small role”. There are “Cherry / ANY / ANY” (role of cherry, but ANY is an arbitrary design), “watermelon / watermelon / watermelon” (role of watermelon), and the like.
Further, the “bell role” is one of six types of pressing order (for example, “5a → 5b → 5c”, “5c → 5b → 5a”, etc.) as the operation order (pressing order) for the stop buttons 16a to 16c. The "push order bell" in which the combination of symbols corresponding to "bell-bell-bell" is stopped can be provided by one type of push order. The “push order bell” is provided with “push order bells 1 to 6” corresponding to each of the six types of push orders, and notifies the corresponding push order when each “push order bell 1 to 6” is won. Is performed during ART (including during AT).
That is, during the AT, the operation order of the stop buttons 16a to 16 is notified by the "push order bell", and during the ART, in addition to this, the "replay combination" is easily arranged.

As an example of the notification of the pressing order, for example, when “Pressing Bell 1” is selected from “Pressing Bells 1 to 6” during “ART” and “AT”, the stop button 16 is set to “16a → 16b → 16c”. When the combination of symbols corresponding to “push order bell 1” (“bell-bell-bell”) stops, the display section 19 displays “left → middle → right” or the like. Then, respective sounds are output from the speaker 21 in the order of “left”, “middle”, and “right”.
At this time, the navigation lamp 18 controlled by the sub-control board 27 is turned on in the order of “18a → 18b → 18c” in response to the operation of the stop button 16.
That is, the operation on the stop button 16 is navigated through operation information notifying means such as the display unit 19, the speaker 21, and the navigation lamp 18.
As a result, when the player operates the stop button 16 in accordance with the navigation (notification), the combination of the symbols corresponding to the "push order bell 1" is stopped, and eight prescribed medals are paid out.

On the other hand, when the stop button 16 is operated without following the above navigation when the "push order bells 1 to 6" is won, a combination of symbols corresponding to the "push order bells 1 to 6" Is not stopped, and the specified eight medals are not paid out.
Such notification of the pressing order is the same when each of the “push order replays 1 to 6” is won during “ART” and “AT”.

  It should be noted that a navigation lamp controlled by the main control board 26 can be provided in addition to the navigation lamp 18 described above. This navigation lamp displays a specific symbol on a number-of-payouts display section (for example, 7-segment) that visually displays the number of payouts of medals, or configures the number-of-payouts display section with three-digit seven-segment "123". , "213", etc., to notify the pressing order in which order the left middle right reels 22a, 22b, 22c should be stopped.

Further, as a combination of symbols corresponding to the “replay combination”, there are “replay replay replay” (normal replay), “replay replay bell” (chance replay), and the like.
By stopping the combination of symbols corresponding to the "replay combination" (for example, "replay / replay / replay"), a replay winning is determined, and medals are not inserted in the next game, that is, without spending medals. The game is ready to play.

  The “replay combination” is a symbol corresponding to “replay / replay / replay” in one of six pressing orders as an operation order (pressing order) for the stop buttons 16a to 16c. A “push order replay” in which the combination stops may be provided. The “push order replay” is provided with “push order replays 1 to 6” corresponding to each of the six types of push orders, and notifies the corresponding push order when each of the “push order replays 1 to 6” is won. Can be performed in the same manner as in the above “push order bell”, and is performed during ART (including during AT).

  The “replay combination” also includes “promotion replay” corresponding to a combination of symbols related to the transition of RT. The “promotion replay” includes at least two of those for shifting from RT1 to RT2 and those for shifting from RT2 to RT3. The pressing order is also associated with these winning combinations. For example, in the case of “promotion replay”, a combination of symbols corresponding to “promotion replay” is stopped by one of six pressing orders. .

Further, the “bonus combination” includes “M bonus (middle bonus)” and the like, and a combination of bonus symbols (for example, “bell-bell-replay”) is set.
Note that it is preferable that the "bonus combination" carries over the right to be won even in the game that has been won and in the game after the game unless the combination of the corresponding symbols is stopped.
In addition, the M bonus (middle bonus) is a bonus that has a difference in the winning rate for each of the six settings in the six-step probability setting function (also referred to as a bonus with a setting difference). It has a type such as a bonus with no difference in rate (also referred to as a bonus without setting difference).

A bonus game state (hereinafter, also referred to as a “bonus state”) in which a game that wins a predetermined small role (bell role) with a high probability is continuously executed by stopping the combination of bonus symbols corresponding to “M bonus”. Move to
The bonus state is ended when, for example, the number of medals to be paid out in the bonus state reaches the set upper limit, or the number of games in the bonus state reaches the set upper limit number.
Further, the bonus state may be ended by stopping the combination of symbols corresponding to the “single bonus combination”.
Note that the “single bonus combination” is a winning combination different from the “bonus combination”, and therefore, in the embodiment, the concept of “bonus” will be described as not including the “single bonus”.

Then, as a result of determining the combination of the symbols stopped on the winning line, when the combination of the symbols is a combination of the symbols corresponding to the above, it is determined to be a winning, and a game value according to the combination of the symbols is given. You.
For example, the small combination winning is determined by stopping the combination of the symbols corresponding to the small combination such as the bell combination, the cherry combination, and the watermelon combination, and the medal payout device 24 is driven and controlled, so that the hopper 24b in which the medals are stored. , A predetermined number of medals are paid out through the medal payout exit 24a.
Specifically, eight medals are paid out by stopping the combination of symbols corresponding to the “bell role” (“bell-bell-bell”), and the combination of symbols corresponding to the “watermelon role” (“watermelon. 5 medals are paid out by the stop display of "watermelon / watermelon").
In the “cherry role”, the number of payout medals differs depending on the position of the “cherry” that stops on the left reel 22a. When the “cherry” stops at the “upper” or “lower” (upper cherry or lower Two medals are paid out when the "Cherry" stops at the "middle" (medium cherries), and one medal is paid out.
Note that the winning probability of each winning combination is, in each gaming state except for the “M bonus”, “normal replay”> “bell role”> “upper / lower cherry role”> “watermelon role”> “chance replay”> “chance replay” It is assumed that the relationship of the "middle cherry role", that is, "normal replay" is set to be the easiest to win, and the "middle cherry role" is set to be the most difficult to win.
Further, the “bell role” may be set to a winning probability such that the number of medals increases by two per game during the ART.
Note that the payout of medals may be configured so that only the amount exceeding the maximum number of credit medals is paid out. However, by operating a predetermined setting button (not shown) in advance, every time a prize is generated, a prize is won. May be paid out.

[Game flow of slot machine 10]
An example of a game flow of the slot machine 10 of the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In this case, the control unit 26b of the main control board 26 performs various processes in each gaming state, controls a game, controls transition between gaming states (hereinafter, also simply referred to as “transition”), and the like.
The control unit 26b of the main control board 26 and the control unit 27b of the sub control board 27 control the flow of the game as described below.

As shown in FIG. 4, the game of the slot machine 10 has a normal section and an advantageous section. These sections are divided according to the game state.
The “normal section” is a section where a game can be performed in the normal state.
The “advantageous section” is a section where a game can be performed in the ART type lottery state (first game state), the ART state (third game state), the continuous lottery state, the ending state (fourth game state), and each of these states ( In the bonus state (second gaming state), which is shifted based on the bonus symbol being stopped and displayed in the advantageous section), the game can be performed.
Further, the “advantage section” may include a bonus state with no setting difference that is shifted based on the bonus symbol corresponding to the bonus with no setting difference being stopped and displayed (winning) in the normal state. It is preferable not to include the bonus state with a setting difference that has been shifted based on the stop display of the bonus symbol corresponding to.
When the gaming state is in the advantageous section, the advantageous state lamp 17 blinks or lights up. The controller 26b of the slot machine 10 counts (counts) the number of games continuously executed in the advantageous section, and moves to the normal section when the upper limit number (specific number) of games in the advantageous section is reached. In the embodiment, the upper limit number of games is set to 1500 times, but is not limited to this, and another number may be set.

As shown in FIG. 5, the display unit 19 switches the display screen, the effect, and the like by shifting from each game state to another game state. That is, the display screen, the effect, and the like of the non-bonus state of the display unit 19 are different for each gaming state.
However, although illustration is omitted, the display screen and the effect of the bonus state on the display unit 19 are the same or substantially the same as the display screen and the effect of the non-bonus state before the transition to the bonus state.
Further, when shifting to the bonus state based on the result of the last game in one non-bonus game state, the display screen of the bonus state on the display unit 19, the effect, and the like shift to the state following the one non-bonus game state. It is the same as or substantially the same as the other non-bonus game state display screens and effects. In the following description, a scene of (transition from the ART state to the ART type lottery state or the continuous lottery state), a scene of (the transition from the ART type lottery state (from the second time) to the ART state), and (a transition from the ART type lottery state) (Transition to the ending state) is illustrated, but the same applies to other scenes.

The RT type and the like of each game state are set as follows.
The game state of the ART type lottery state, the ART state, the continuous lottery state, and the ending state is a game state other than the bonus game state, and basically proceeds as ART (state in which AT and RT overlap).
In the embodiment, the gaming state to be shifted to after the continuous lottery state is referred to as an ART state, so that the ART state is clearly distinguished from the ART executed in the ART type lottery state, the continuous lottery state, and the ending state.

The RT type in the normal state is basically RT1. That is, the normal state is a game state in which the player can easily stay at RT1. For this reason, in the game in the normal state, an increase in the number of acquired medals cannot be expected, which is disadvantageous for the player.
When the player enters the first ART type lottery state by winning in the ART shift lottery process (described later) in the normal state, the RT type in the first ART type lottery state is basically RT2. For this reason, in the first ART type lottery state, it is possible to expect an increase in the number of medals obtained compared to the normal state, which is advantageous for the player.
When the state is shifted to the ART type lottery state after the second time (that is, the second and subsequent times by consecutive chan), the RT type is basically RT3. The RT type in the ART state, the continuous lottery state, and the ending state is basically RT3. These states are advantageous for the player because the increase of medals can be expected as in the first ART type lottery state.

  In the bonus state, the game continues until a predetermined number of medals are paid out or the like, which is advantageous for the player.

Each game state and transition of the game state will be described in detail.
(Normal state)
In the normal state, when a predetermined winning combination is won by the internal lottery process, the ART shift lottery process is performed. Further, when the transition to the ART state is won in the ART transition lottery process, the process proceeds to the ART type lottery state (see arrow # 1).

If the bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal state, the state shifts to the bonus state (see arrows # 2a and # 2b).
In this case, depending on the type of bonus (such as a bonus with no setting difference), a game state in which it is easy to shift to the ART state (a state in which a so-called “chance zone” game is possible) may be used.

(ART type lottery status (first time))
In the ART type lottery state, an ART type lottery process is performed in preparation for shifting to the ART state. Stay in the ART type lottery state until the condition for shifting to the ART state is satisfied. That is, the ART type lottery state is a preparation state for transition to the ART state (a third game state transition preparation state).
In the ART type lottery process, the ART type is randomly selected by an internal lottery process.
As shown in FIG. 5B, the ART types are provided with, for example, “ART types 1 to 3”. The ART type includes, according to the type, the number of stocks (the number of continuing rights), the number of items that are granted simultaneously with the transition to the ART state, the probability of winning the rare role after the transition to the ART state, and the number of items that can be acquired after the transition to the ART state. Expectations are different.

The number of stocks indicates the number of sets in the ART state (for example, the number 1 to 3). A predetermined number (for example, 30 times, 50 times, etc.) of games are executed by one stock. In the ART type lottery process, a lottery of the number of stocks to be provided is also performed. For example, the number of stocks to be provided is set to increase in the order of ART types 1, 2, and 3. It is more advantageous for the player to win the ART type having a large number of stocks. In addition, in the ART type lottery state, a lottery of the number of games per set may be performed.
The item I is used for executing the continuous lottery game in the continuous lottery process in the continuous lottery state. That is, the item I indicates a right to be able to execute a continuous lottery game described later. Therefore, it is more advantageous for the player to win the ART type in which the number of items to be given is large.
The effect of the lottery of the ART type and the lottery result are displayed on the display unit 19. FIG. 5B shows a scene where the player has won the “ART type 3”.

(Transition from ART type lottery state (first time) to bonus state)
In the ART type lottery process, when a bonus symbol is stopped and displayed, the state shifts to a bonus state corresponding to the symbol (see arrows # 3a and # 3b).
In this case, an item acquisition game in which an item is acquired (addition of item I) is performed in accordance with the type of bonus (such as a bonus with no setting difference). The item acquisition game is a game for newly giving an item I to a player, and involves execution of an item acquisition lottery process. The item acquisition lottery process is executed when a predetermined winning combination is won by the internal lottery process.
The predetermined winning combination is a “common bell (a bell combination in which the symbols are aligned irrespective of the pressing order)”, and when this is won, an item acquisition lottery process is executed. In the item acquisition lottery process, a lottery process of winning the item at a predetermined probability (for example, 1/10) is performed, and when the item is won, an item I is added (added).

(Transition from ART type lottery state (first time) to ART state)
The condition for transition from the first ART type lottery state to the ART state is that in the ART type lottery state, the push order of the push order bell is notified once and that the conditions for staying at RT3 are satisfied. Is true. The latter condition for staying at RT3 may be that, when the RT type is RT2, the player is elected as the promotion replay combination to RT3. The condition for shifting from the ART type lottery state to the ART state is not limited to this, and other conditions may be set.
When the condition for shifting to the ART state is satisfied, the state shifts from the ART type lottery state to the ART state (see arrow # 4).

(ART state)
In the ART state, the game is executed under the condition of the ART type that has been won in the ART type lottery state.
In the ART state, the item acquisition game is executed even if the game does not shift to the bonus state.
In this case, the winning role includes "bell role" (including the bell in the push order, the same applies hereinafter), "upper / lower cherry role", "watermelon role", "chance replay role", and "middle cherry role". For example, when these are won, an item acquisition lottery process is executed.
The easiness of acquiring item I has a relationship of “Middle Cherry Role”> “Chance Replay”> “Watermelon Role”> “Upper / Lower Cherry Role”> “Bell Role”> “Push Order or Normal Replay” Shall be. For example, those who win "Middle Cherry" than "Watermelon" are set to get item I more easily, and those who win "Middle Cherry" than "Watermelon" get at once It is assumed that a large number of items I are set.

(Transition from ART state to bonus state)
If the bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in the ART state, the game in the ART state is temporarily stopped, and then the game shifts to the bonus state corresponding to the bonus symbol (see arrows # 5a and # 5b). That is, in the ART state, based on the stop display of the bonus symbol, a bonus transition condition (second game state transition condition) that allows transition to the bonus state is satisfied. In addition, by finishing and ending the game in the bonus state, an ART state transition condition (third game state transition condition) for transitioning to return to the ART state is satisfied.
In the bonus state after the transition from the ART state, a state in which the game for obtaining a large amount of items can be executed depends on the type of the bonus (eg, the bonus with no setting difference). The item mass acquisition game is executed when a predetermined winning combination is won by an internal lottery process.
The predetermined winning combination is a “common bell” as in the case of the item acquisition game in the above-described ART type lottery state, and when this is won, the item mass acquisition lottery process is executed.
However, the winning probability in the item mass acquisition lottery process depends on the other three item acquisition games (that is, the game in the bonus state shifted from the ART type lottery state, the game in the ART state, and the game in the bonus state shifted from the continuous lottery state). ) Is set higher than the winning probability. For this reason, the execution of the item mass acquisition game is a chance for the player to increase the number of items I, and the profit is large.

(Transition from ART state to ART type lottery state or continuous lottery state)
When the number of games for one stock is consumed in the ART state, the remaining stock is decremented by one. When the remaining stock exists after the subtraction, the gaming state shifts to the ART type lottery state (see arrow # 6). On the other hand, when there is no remaining stock after the subtraction, the gaming state shifts to the continuous lottery state (see arrow # 7).

Here, a bonus symbol may be stopped and displayed in the final game for one stock in the ART state.
In this case, when the remaining stock exists, the gaming state temporarily shifts from the ART state to the ART type lottery state, and is the same as the bonus state shifted based on the bonus symbol being stopped and displayed during the ART type lottery state. (See arrows # 6a and # 6b). On the other hand, when the remaining stock does not exist, the gaming state is temporarily changed from the ART state to the continuous lottery state, and is processed in the same manner as the bonus state which is shifted based on the stop display of the bonus symbol during the continuous lottery state. (See arrows # 7a and # 7b).
For this reason, the display screen, the effect, and the like of the display unit 19 are switched from those in the ART state to those in the ART type lottery state or the continuous lottery state. Note that this is an example, and in this case as well, processing may be performed as a bonus state that shifts from the ART state, and the display screen, the effects, and the like of the display unit 19 may be maintained in the ART state.

(Continuous lottery status)
In the continuous lottery state, a continuous lottery game in which the ART state is continued (also referred to as a consecutive chan) is executed according to the number of the obtained items I. The continuous lottery game is performed in synchronization with one game, and one continuous lottery game is executed for each game.

The continuous lottery game is performed in a format in which the owned items I are consumed one by one. In other words, one continuous lottery game is executed for one item I, and the number of games corresponding to the maximum number of acquired items can be executed.
In the embodiment, a game for defeating the enemy E displayed on the display unit 19 is executed as the continuous lottery game. In addition, when the arrow, which is the item I, hits the enemy E, the enemy E is defeated (see FIG. 5D). Then, when all eight enemies E are defeated, it is assumed that the continuation of the ART state (continuous chan) is successful.
The item I remaining after defeating the enemy E can be retained as long as the item I remains in the advantageous section.

  In the continuous lottery game, for example, when a predetermined symbol (for example, “BAR”) is included on the winning line in a state where three symbols are stopped and displayed on the winning line when a predetermined combination is won, the predetermined symbol number is determined. Defeat minute enemy E. Therefore, a plurality of enemies E can be defeated in one continuous lottery game.

(Transition from the continuous lottery state to the bonus state)
When the bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in the continuous lottery state, the process is performed in the same manner as in the bonus state shifted from the ART type lottery process, and the item acquisition game is performed according to the type of the bonus (eg, the bonus with no setting difference). (See arrows # 8a and # 8b).

(Transition from the continuous lottery state to the ART type lottery state or normal state)
If all eight enemies E are defeated in the continuous lottery state, it is determined that the game will be continued, and the gaming state shifts to the ART type lottery state (see arrow # 9).
On the other hand, in the continuous lottery state, when the item I is consumed without defeating all eight enemies E (that is, when the continuous lottery game for the number of items is executed), it is determined that the game is not to be continued. Therefore, the state shifts to the normal state (see arrow # 10). Further, by shifting to the normal state, the shift from the advantageous section to the traffic section is performed.

(Transition to ART type lottery state (second and subsequent times))
The scene that shifts to the ART type lottery state for the second time or later is “when there is remaining stock at the time of finishing the final game in the ART state (see arrows # 6, # 6a, # 6b)” or “in the continuous lottery state. Successful (see arrow # 9) ".
In these cases, the following processing is performed.
The ART type lottery process is the same as the process in the first ART type lottery state. The ART type lottery process is performed in the first game after the transition.

(Transition from ART type lottery state (2nd or later) to ART state)
Then, in response to the end of the first game after the shift to the ART type lottery process, the game shifts to the ART state again (see arrow # 11). That is, the condition for transition from the ART type lottery state (second and subsequent times) to the ART state is that one game has been completed in the ART type lottery state (second and subsequent times). Note that the transition condition is not limited to this, and can be changed as appropriate.

Here, in this one game, the bonus symbol may be stopped and displayed.
In this case, the game state is temporarily shifted from the ART type lottery state to the ART state, and then processed as a bonus state that shifts from the ART state (see arrows # 11a and # 11b). For this reason, the display screen, effects, and the like of the display unit 19 are switched from those in the ART type lottery state to those in the ART state. Note that this is only an example, and in this case as well, processing is performed as a bonus state that shifts from the ART-type lottery state, and the display screen, effects, and the like of the display unit 19 are maintained in the ART-type lottery state. Is also good.

(Transition to ending state)
As described above, in the embodiment, when the game of 1400 times (special number of times) is completed in the advantageous section, the game shifts to the ending state from the 1401th time (see arrows # 12 and # 13).
In the ending state, the game is executed from the 1401th time in the advantageous section to the 1500th time which is the upper limit number of times. There is no transition from the ending state to another gaming state (ART type lottery state, ART state, continuous lottery state).
Note that the ending game state is an advantageous state for the player as in the ART state. For this reason, the ending state may be a concept included in the ART state.

(Transition from ART type lottery state to ending state)
Here, the game executed once in the second or subsequent ART type lottery state may be exactly 1400 times in the advantageous section. That is, the last game in the ART state or the continuous lottery state is 1399 times, and the state is shifted to the ART type lottery state after the final game.
In this case, regardless of the lottery result in the ART type lottery state, the game shifts to the ending state in response to the end of the 1400th game (see arrow # 14).

Further, in a game executed once in the ART type lottery state, a bonus symbol may be stopped and displayed.
In this case, the gaming state is processed in the same manner as the bonus state in which the game is temporarily shifted from the ART type lottery state to the ending state and then shifted based on the bonus symbol being stopped and displayed during the ending state (arrow). See # 14a, # 14b). For this reason, the display screen, the effect, and the like of the display unit 19 are switched from those in the ART type lottery state to those in the ending state.
Note that this is only an example, and in this case as well, processing is performed as a bonus state that shifts from the ART-type lottery state, and the display screen, effects, and the like of the display unit 19 are maintained in the ART-type lottery state. Is also good.

(Transition from the ending state to the bonus state)
When the bonus symbols are stopped and displayed in the game in the ending state, the game shifts to the bonus state (see arrows # 15a and # 15b). However, even when shifting from the ending state to the bonus state, unlike the bonus state shifted from another game state, the item acquisition game is not executed. This is because after shifting to the ending state, there is no transition to the continuous lottery state thereafter. The display screen of the display unit 19 maintains the screen in the ending state (see FIG. 5E).
In the ending state, similarly to the ART state, a bonus transition condition (second game state transition condition) that allows transition to the bonus state is established based on the stop display of the bonus symbol. Also, by ending the game in the bonus state and terminating the game, an ending state transition condition (third game state transition condition) for returning to the ending state is satisfied.
(Transition from ending state to normal state)
Then, when the game in the advantageous section 1500 ends in the ending state, the gaming state moves to the normal state (see arrow # 16).

[Processing of output signal]
With reference to FIGS. 6 to 10, signal processing in a main scene during the progress of the game will be described.
FIGS. 6 to 10 show arrows having the same reference numerals as in FIG. 4 in each scene corresponding to FIG.
6 to 10, the bonus is indicated as “B” and the ending is indicated as “ED” as appropriate.
6, 7, 9, and 10 show the number of transitions to the ART state “ART”, the number of transitions to the bonus state “B”, and the number of transitions to the ending state “ED”.
During the progress of the game, the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 performs processing and control relating to signals output from the external output terminal board 25 in accordance with the progress of the game.

The ART signal is information indicating that the gaming state is the ART state. The control unit 26b can output an ART signal based on satisfaction of a condition for transition to the ART state (third game state transition condition).
The B signal is information indicating that the gaming state is a bonus state. Therefore, the control unit 26b can output the B signal based on the satisfaction of the condition for shifting to the bonus state (the second game state shifting condition).

  The ED signal is information indicating that the gaming state is the ending state. Here, as described above, the ending state may be a concept included in the ART state. Therefore, the control unit 26b can output the ART signal and the ED signal based on the satisfaction of the transition condition to the ending state (the fourth gaming state transition condition).

The insertion signal is information indicating that a medal has been inserted. By operating the start lever 14, an output condition (insertion information output condition) capable of outputting a make-up signal is satisfied, and the control unit 26b determines when the start lever 14 is operated, that is, when a game start operation is accepted. At the time of accepting the game start operation, the output of the insertion signal is started. For this reason, the control unit 26b can output the insertion signal based on the fact that medals (including credit medals) for starting the game are actually used.
It should be noted that the time point at which the game start operation is accepted corresponds to the time point indicated by “ST.” In the figure (the left end of the frame indicating the gaming state), and corresponds to the game start time point of each game.

The payout signal is information indicating that medals have been paid out as a result of one game. The controller 26b can output the payout signal based on the output of the stop signal of the third reel. The third reel is the last and third stop operation when the stop operation of the three reels 22a to 22c is performed three times at a time. Note that the medals to be paid out are not limited to those to be paid out to the medal payout exit 24a, but include those to be paid out as data and stored as credit medals.
At the time point indicated as “OFF” in the drawing (the right end of the frame indicating the gaming state), a stop signal was output due to the end of each game and the release of the stop button 16 for stopping the third reel. Corresponds to a point in time. Hereinafter, this point is also referred to as “the end of the third reel stop operation”.

  6 to 10 show a form in which one pulse wave is output in one game as the insertion signal, but actually, a number of signals corresponding to the number of inserted medals are output. . Similarly, signals corresponding to the number of payouts in one game are output as payout signals.

The control unit 36b of the data display 30 counts the number of transitions to the ART state, the number of transitions to the bonus state, and the number of transitions to the ending state based on the output signal from the external output terminal board 25, These are displayed on the display unit 35.
When the output signal from the external output terminal board 25 is input via the island computer 42 or the like, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 determines the number of transitions to the ART state and the transition to the bonus state based on the output signal. The number of times, the number of transitions to the ending state, the number of inserted medals, and the number of paid out medals are counted. The control unit 56b displays these on the display unit 55 according to the operation of the operation unit 52.
In the embodiment, an example will be described in which the control unit 36b of the data display 30 and the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 perform the count process with the same settings. For this reason, the number of transitions is the same between the two.

Hereinafter, the signal processing in the main scene of the game will be described in order.
(Transition from normal state to ART state)
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the flow of the game after the transition from the normal state to the ART state and the output signals thereof.
(A1) In the normal state, when the transition to the ART state is won in the ART transition lottery process, the state transitions from the normal state to the ART type transition lottery state (arrow # 1).
(A2) When the ART state transition condition is satisfied, the state transitions from the ART type transition lottery state to the ART state (arrow # 4).
The control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 starts outputting the ART signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation. In response, the control unit 36b of the data display 30 and the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 (hereinafter, also referred to as “the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50”) count the number of transitions to the ART state, that is, "1" is added.

Further, as described above, the output start time of the insertion signal is the game start time. Therefore, when the ART state transition condition and the output start condition of the first game insertion signal in the ART state are satisfied, the start of the output of the insertion signal and the start of the output of the ART signal have different timings. That is, the output start timing of the ART signal is before the output timing of the first game insertion signal at the time of transition to the ART state.
Therefore, since the output of the input signal is delayed from the output of the ART signal, the output of the input signal is reliably started during the output period of the ART signal. Accordingly, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 and the like can accurately count this insertion signal as insertion of medals after transition to the ART state.

(A3) In the ART state, the bonus shifting condition is satisfied based on the stop display of the bonus symbol, and the state shifts to the bonus state (arrow # 5a).
The controller 26b of the slot machine 10 terminates the output of the ART signal and outputs the B signal at the same time as the termination of the third reel stop operation.
In response to this, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 counts the number of transitions to the bonus state.
By controlling the signal output in this way, the output of the ART signal and the output of the B signal do not overlap. Thus, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 can accurately count the number of transitions to the bonus state even if the output of the ART signal and the priority of the B signal are set.
The setting of the priority is such that, when a plurality of signals overlap, the signal with the higher priority is counted with priority, and the signal with the lower priority is not counted.
For example, in the setting of “B signal has priority over ART signal”, unlike the embodiment, if the B signal and the ART signal overlap, only the number of transitions to the bonus state is counted, and the number of ART transitions is reduced. It will not be counted.

  In the embodiment, since the output of the insertion signal is performed at the start of the first game after the shift to the bonus state, the output is reliably started during the output period of the B signal. Thereby, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 and the like can accurately count this insertion signal as insertion of medals after shifting to the bonus state.

(A4) Return from the bonus state to the ART state (arrow # 5b).
When the bonus state ends, the ART state transition condition is satisfied. The controller 26b of the slot machine 10 ends the output of the B signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation of the final game in the bonus state. When the ART state is restarted, the ART signal is output after a lapse of a predetermined period from the end of the output of the B signal, that is, after the end of the output of the B signal and after a lapse of Tms (millisecond).
In this case, the control unit 56b or the like of the hall computer 50 does not count the number of transitions to the ART state when the ART signal is output after the output of the B signal and after the elapse of Tms.
Accordingly, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 and the like can accurately count the number of transitions to the ART state even when returning to the ART state after transitioning to the bonus state during the ART state.

Further, by controlling the signal output in this way, the output of the ART signal and the output of the B signal do not overlap. Thus, the control unit 56b and the like of the hall computer 50 can accurately count the number of transitions to the ART state even when the output of the ART signal and the priority of the B signal are set.
Here, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 processes the output of the payout signal in the period from the end of the output of the B signal to the lapse of Tms as the payout in the game in the bonus state. Thereby, even if the output of the payout signal relating to the final game in the bonus state continues even after the final game in the bonus state, it can be counted as medals paid out in the final game. That is, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 can prevent the output of the payout signal from being incorrectly counted as medals paid out in the game in the ART state.
The length of Tms can be appropriately set according to the specifications of the slot machine 10 and the like, and can be set, for example, from 0 ms to 1000 ms.

(Transition from the ART type lottery state to the bonus state after the second time)
FIG. 7 is a scene in which the state is shifted in the order of the ART state, the continuous lottery state, the second and subsequent ART type lottery states, and the flow of the game when the bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in the second and subsequent ART type lottery states; FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the output signal.
(B1) The ART state is ended by exhausting all the stock in the ART state, and the state is shifted from the ART state to the continuous lottery state (arrow # 7).
The control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 ends the output of the ART signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation of the final game in the ART state.

(B2) Success in the continuous lottery state causes a transition from the continuous lottery state to the second and subsequent ART type lottery states (arrow # 9).
(B3) Based on the fact that the bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in the first game after shifting to the ART type lottery state, the state shifts to the bonus state (arrow # 11a).
The controller 26b of the slot machine 10 outputs a B signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation of the first game.
In response to this, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 counts the number of transitions to the bonus state.

Further, since the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 outputs the insertion signal at the start of the first game in the bonus state, the insertion signal is output during the output period of the B signal.
Thus, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 and the like can accurately count this insertion signal as insertion of medals in the game in the bonus state.
(B4) Transition from the bonus state to the ART state (arrow # 11b).
The control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 ends the output of the B signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation of the final game in the bonus state, and thereafter outputs the ART signal after a lapse of Tms.
In response, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 counts the number of transitions to the ART state.

In addition, the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 outputs an ART state game input signal at the time of starting the ART state game. This input signal is reliably output during the output period of the ART signal.
Thus, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 and the like can accurately count this insertion signal as insertion of medals in a game in the ART state.

Here, in the above (B3), at the end of the third reel stop operation of one game, the condition for shifting to the bonus state associated with the stop display of the bonus symbol is satisfied, and in the ART type lottery state. This is a state in which the ART state transition condition is satisfied by ending one game. Therefore, the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 is in a state where it can output the B signal and the ART signal.
In this case, the control unit 26b first outputs a B signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation of the first game in the above (B3), and thereafter, in the above (B4), After the end of the final game, the output of the B signal ends, and thereafter, after the elapse of Tms, the ART signal is output.
That is, the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 controls the output of the ART signal and the output of the B signal so as not to overlap even when the two transition conditions are satisfied at the same time.
Thus, the control unit 56b and the like of the hall computer 50 can accurately count the number of transitions to the bonus state in (B3) even if the priority of the output signal is set (see (A4)). In (B4), the number of transitions to the ART state can be accurately counted.

FIG. 8 is different from FIG. 7 in that in the following game in which a bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in a state where the ART state is shifted from a state with stock to a second or later ART type lottery state, an output signal is output. FIG.
As shown by a frame C in FIGS. 7 and 8, the state has shifted from the continuous lottery state to the second or later ART type lottery state, and has shifted from the ART state with stock to the second or later ART type lottery state. The case is similar signal processing. Therefore, both can be processed as described in (B1) to (B4) above.

  Although a detailed description is omitted, the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 determines that the bonus symbol is not stopped and displayed in the first game after shifting to the ART type lottery state after the second time. The state transitions to the ART state in the next game. The signal processing in this case is the same as the processing for shifting from the first ART type lottery state to the ART state.

(Transition from the continuous lottery state to the ending state)
FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the flow of the game when the game is shifted from the continuous lottery state to the ending state, and the output signals thereof. That is, FIG. 9 illustrates a case where one game in the continuous lottery state is the 1400th advantageous section and the bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in one game.
Note that FIG. 9 shows the processing after shifting from the continuous lottery state to the ART type lottery state, and the same applies to the processing after shifting from the ART state with stock state to the ART type lottery state.

(C1) In the continuous lottery state, one game is the 1400th advantageous section, and based on the bonus symbol being stopped and displayed in this game, the game shifts to the bonus state (arrow # 14a).
The control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 outputs the insertion signal at the start of the first game in the bonus state, as in (B3) described above. Can be counted accurately as the insertion of medals in the game.

Further, the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 outputs an ED signal at the start of the first game in the bonus state. In response, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 counts the number of transitions to the ending state. In addition, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 can store, as a history, the fact that the ending state has been started from the game in the bonus state.
The ED signal is a one-shot type (the output period is short, and a pulse wave having a length as long as it can be detected by a data display or a hall computer). Is completed before the output of the B signal is completed in (C2) described later.

At this point, the game is in the state before the transition to the ending state, but the game in the bonus state is the 1401th or later game, and after the game in the bonus state has been consumed, the game definitely shifts to the ending state. Therefore, at this time, even if the number of transitions to the ending state is counted, there is no contradiction in the counted number.
Also, in the ending state, the RT3 ART is basically executed as in the ART state, so that both players have a chance to acquire medals in both periods. For this reason, in the embodiment, the transition to the ending state is also included in the number of transitions to the ART state, but is not limited thereto, and need not be counted as the ART state.

(C2) Transition from the bonus state to the ending state (arrow # 14b).
The control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 ends the output of the B signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation of the final game in the bonus state, and thereafter outputs the ART signal after a lapse of Tms.
In the ending state, by performing the signal output processing as described above, both the B signal and the ART signal are not output during the period of Tms from the end of the output of the B signal to the start of the output of the ART signal.
Unlike the embodiment, when the output of the ED signal is continued during the ending state (see the dotted line D in FIG. 9), the ED signal is continuously output during the Tms. In such a mode, if the ED signal is set to have a higher priority than the B signal, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 or the like may mistakenly output the ED signal continuously output during this Tms period. Counting.
In the embodiment, since the output of the ED signal is completed before the output of the B signal is completed, there is no possibility of such erroneous counting.

In the above (C1), at the end of the third reel stop operation of one game, the condition for shifting to the bonus state is satisfied, and when the game is completed for 1400 times, the condition for shifting to the ending state is satisfied. It has been done. Therefore, the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 is in a state where the B signal and the ART signal can be output.
This state is the same as the states described in (B3) and (B4) above, and the control unit 56b and the like of the hall computer 50 can accurately count the number of transitions to the bonus state. , The number of transitions to the ART state can be accurately counted.

(Transition from the ending state to the bonus state)
FIG. 10 shows signal processing in a case where a bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in the game in the ending state.
(D1) Based on the fact that the bonus symbol is stopped and displayed in the game in the ending state, the bonus shift condition is satisfied, and the game shifts to the bonus state (arrow # 15a).
Similarly to the above (A3), the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 terminates the output of the ART signal and outputs the B signal simultaneously with the termination of the third reel stop operation. The 50 control unit 56b and the like can count the number of transitions to the bonus state.

(D2) The state shifts from the bonus state to the ending state (arrow # 15b).
By ending the game in the bonus state, the ending state transition condition is satisfied.
Similarly to the above (A4), the control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 ends the output of the B signal at the same time when the third reel stop operation of the final game in the bonus state ends, and when the ART state is restarted, After the output is completed, an ART signal is output after a lapse of Tms.
Further, similarly to the above (A4), if the ART signal is further output after the elapse of Tms, the control unit 56b of the hall computer 50 and the like may switch to the bonus state a plurality of times during the ending state. It does not count the number of ART states returned after termination. Thus, the control unit 56b and the like of the hall computer 50 can accurately count the number of transitions to the ART state.

  The control unit 56b or the like of the hall computer 50 may determine whether to count the number of transitions to the ART state in the ending state based on the output of the ED signal. In this case, after outputting the ED signal, the control unit 56b or the like of the hall computer 50 need only count the first ART signal and not count the second and subsequent ART signals.

(D3) In the ending state, when the 1500th advantageous section game ends, the gaming state moves to the normal state (see arrow # 16).
The control unit 26b of the slot machine 10 ends the output of the ART signal at the same time as the end of the third reel stop operation of the 1500th game.

As described above, in the gaming system according to the embodiment, when the condition for shifting to the ART state and the condition for shifting to the bonus state are simultaneously satisfied, the output start timing of the ART signal is set after the output of the B signal is completed. As a result, the gaming device such as the data display 30 and the hall computer 50 accurately recognizes that the state has shifted to both the ART state and the MB state even if the count setting is such that the B signal has priority over the ART signal. be able to.
For this reason, the number of transitions for each game state counted by the gaming device can be set to an accurate number.

  On the other hand, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 does not output an external signal in consideration of the setting on the gaming device side, and therefore the gaming device cannot accurately recognize the gaming state of the gaming machine. there is a possibility. For this reason, the number of transitions for each game state counted by the gaming device may not be accurate.

As described above, the preferred embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention has been described, but the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. Needless to say.
Note that the above-described embodiment and the modified examples described later can be used in appropriate combinations, but detailed description is omitted.

(Modified form)
(1) In the embodiment, the example in which the data display 30 and the hall computer 50 perform the count processing with the same setting has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. Both may perform the counting process with different settings. In this case, even if one of the data display 30 and the hall computer 50 has a signal for which the number of outputs cannot be properly counted, if the other transmits information that accurately counts the number of outputs of the signal to one, Good. Thereby, both can obtain accurate information.
For example, if the setting of the priority order of the hall computer 50 is lower for the ED signal than for the B signal, the hall computer 50 sets the “bonus start (the first game start after shifting to the bonus state) shown in FIG. ) ", The ED signal may not be properly counted. In this case, by transmitting the information counted by the data display 30 to the hall computer 50, both of them can acquire information on the number of times of shifting to the ending state accurately.

(2) In the embodiment, when the slot machine 10 shifts from the ART state or the ending state to the bonus state and then shifts from the bonus state to the ART state or the ending state (arrow # 5b in FIG. 6, FIG. Although the example in which the ART signal is output has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. In this case, the slot machine 10 need not output the ART signal. As a result, the data display 30 and the hall computer 50 do not count the number of transitions to the ART state when transitioning to return to the ART state or the ending state.

(3) In the embodiment, when shifting from the ART state or the ending state to the bonus state, and then shifting from the bonus state to the ART state or the ending state (arrows # 5b in FIG. 6, # 15b in FIG. 10, etc.) Although the data display 30 and the hall computer 50 do not count the number of transitions to the ART state, the present invention is not limited to this. In this case, the data display 30 and the hall computer 50 may count the number of transitions to the ART state.

(4) In the embodiment, when shifting from the ART state or the ED state to the bonus state, the output of the ART signal and the start of the output of the B signal are simultaneously performed (arrow # 5a in FIG. 6, arrow # 15a in FIG. 10). Etc.), but is not limited to this. In these cases, the output of the B signal may be started after a predetermined period (for example, Tms) has elapsed after the end of the output of the ART signal, as in the case of shifting from the bonus state to the ART state or the ED state. As a result, the payout medals of the final game in the ART state or the ED state can be accurately counted, and the number of transitions in the ART state or the ED state can be accurately counted.

(5) In the embodiment, an example has been described in which the ART type lottery state, the ART state, the continuous lottery state, and the ending state are states with a high replay probability and are AT states. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a game state other than the ART state and the ending state may be a state with a low replay probability or a non-AT state.
(6) In the embodiment, the example in which the ART signal is output during the ART state and the ending state has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The ART signal may be output, for example, during at least one of the ART type lottery state and the ART continuous lottery state. Further, the ART signal may not be output in the ART state and the ending state, but may be output in the ART type lottery state and the ending state.
The ART signal may be of a one-shot type.

(7) In the embodiment, the example in which the end timing of each game is the end of the third reel stop operation, which is the timing when the stop button for stopping the third reel is released, is not limited to this. . The end timing of each game may be when the third reel is stopped.
In the embodiment, the example in which the transition of the RT state or the bonus state is performed at the end of the third reel stop operation after the stop display of the symbol combination corresponding to the transition of the RT state or the bonus state has been described. Not done. The transition to the RT state or the bonus state may be performed when the combination of these symbols is stopped and displayed (when the third reel is stopped).

(8) In the embodiment, the ED signal is of the one-shot type, but may be continuously output until the end of the ending state.
Further, in the embodiment, the example has been described in which the output period of the ED signal and the output period of the B signal are controlled to overlap, but control may be performed so that the two do not overlap.
In this case, for example, the output of the B signal shown in FIG. 9 may be started after the output of the ED signal ends. Further, for example, the output of the ED signal may be started after the output of the B signal shown in FIG. 9 is completed, and the output of the ART signal may be started after the output of the ED signal is completed.
In addition, as shown by an arrow # 14 in FIG. 4, even in the case of transition from the ART type lottery state to the ending state without going through the bonus state, the ED signal is output, and the ART signal is output after the end of the ED signal output. You may.

(9) In the embodiment, the operation as various means such as the game state control means is performed by the control unit 26b of the main control board 26. However, the control unit 27b of the sub control board 27 performs a part or all of the control. The unit 27b can operate as various means.
Conversely, the control unit 26b of the main control board 26 may perform part or all of the operation performed by the control unit 27b of the sub-control board 27, and the control unit 26b may operate as various means.

(10) In the embodiment, the example in which the gaming machine is a slot machine has been described, but the gaming machine is not limited to this. The gaming machine may be another gaming machine such as a pachinko (for example, a ball slot).
The gaming machine may be a so-called enclosed gaming machine that can execute a game using a pseudo game medium in a data format without using an actual game medium such as a medal or a game ball.

(11) In the embodiment, a reel driven and controlled by a motor is used as the variable display means. By displaying the information, the display device can be used as a variable display unit of the identification information.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game system 10 Slot machine 14 Start lever 16, 16a-16c Stop button 22, 22a-22c Reel 25 External output terminal board 25a ART signal output part 25b B signal output part 25c ED signal output part 25d Input signal output part 25e Payment signal Output unit 26 Main control board 26a, 27a, 36a, 56a Storage unit 26b, 27b, 36b, 56b Control unit 30 Data display 19, 35, 55 Display unit 35a ART number display unit 35b B number display unit 35c ED number display unit 50 hole computer

Claims (4)

Game state control means controllable to a plurality of game states including a first game state, a second game state advantageous to the player, and a third game state advantageous to the player;
Output means capable of outputting game information relating to the game,
With
The game state control means ,
In the first gaming state, it is possible to make a transition to the second gaming state based on a second gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
In the first gaming state, it is possible to shift to the third gaming state based on a third gaming state shifting condition being satisfied,
In the third gaming state, it is possible to shift to the second gaming state based on the satisfaction of the second gaming state shifting condition, and based on the termination of the second gaming state, It is possible to shift to the third game state,
The output means,
It is possible to output second game information indicating that the gaming state is the second gaming state, based on the second gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
It is possible to output third game information indicating that the gaming state is the third gaming state, based on the third gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
In the third game state, the output of the third game information can be terminated based on the satisfaction of the second game state transition condition, and the output of the third game information is terminated after the end of the output of the third game information. A game machine capable of outputting second game information . A gaming state that can be controlled to a plurality of gaming states including a first gaming state, a second gaming state advantageous to the player, a third gaming state advantageous to the player, and a fourth gaming state advantageous to the player. Control means;
Output means capable of outputting game information relating to the game,
With
The game state control means,
In the first gaming state, it is possible to make a transition to the second gaming state based on a second gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
In the first gaming state, it is possible to shift to the third gaming state based on a third gaming state shifting condition being satisfied,
In the third gaming state, it is possible to make a transition to the fourth gaming state based on the satisfaction of a fourth gaming state transition condition,
In the third gaming state, it is possible to shift to the second gaming state based on the satisfaction of the second gaming state shifting condition and the fourth gaming state shifting condition, and the second gaming state is It is possible to shift to the fourth game state based on the end of the game,
The output means,
It is possible to output second game information indicating that the gaming state is the second gaming state, based on the second gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
It is possible to output third game information indicating that the gaming state is the third gaming state or the fourth gaming state based on the satisfaction of the third gaming state transition condition,
Outputting the third game information after the end of the output of the second game information based on the satisfaction of the second game state transition condition and the fourth game state transition condition in the third game state; Yu Technical machine you characterized in that it is possible. A gaming state that can be controlled to a plurality of gaming states including a first gaming state, a second gaming state advantageous to the player, a third gaming state advantageous to the player, and a fourth gaming state advantageous to the player. Control means;
Counting means capable of counting the number of games in a predetermined game state including the second game state and the third game state;
Output means capable of outputting game information relating to the game,
With
The game state control means,
In the first gaming state, it is possible to make a transition to the second gaming state based on a second gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
In the first gaming state, it is possible to shift to the third gaming state based on a third gaming state shifting condition being satisfied,
In the third gaming state, it is possible to make a transition to the fourth gaming state based on the satisfaction of a fourth gaming state transition condition,
The output means,
It is possible to output second game information indicating that the gaming state is the second gaming state, based on the second gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
It is possible to output third game information indicating that the gaming state is the third gaming state, based on the third gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
It is possible to output fourth game information indicating that the gaming state is the fourth gaming state, based on the fourth gaming state transition condition being satisfied,
The fourth game state transition condition includes:
The number of games counted by the counting means, Yu Technical machine it is a satisfied possible conditions when a special number. The game state control means,
In the first gaming state, it is possible to shift to the second gaming state based on the satisfaction of the second gaming state shifting condition and the third gaming state shifting condition, and the second gaming state is It is possible to shift to the third game state based on the end of the game,
The output means,
In the first game state, the second game information is output based on the satisfaction of the second game state transition condition and the third game state transition condition, and after the end of the output of the second game information. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the third gaming information can be output .

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