JP6758032B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to, for example, slot machines. Specifically, a variable display unit capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each is provided, and after the variable display unit is variablely displayed, the variable display of the variable display unit is stopped to derive a display result. The present invention relates to a slot machine capable of generating a prize according to the display result.

Slot machines are generally equipped with a variable display device having a plurality of (usually three) reels on which a plurality of types of identification information are drawn as identification information on the outer peripheral portion, and first, a bet number is set by a player's BET operation. Is set, and the rotation of the reels is started by operating the start lever with the specified number of bets set, and the rotation is stopped by operating the stop button provided corresponding to each reel. Then, when the rotation of all reels is stopped, a predetermined combination of winning identification information (for example, 7-7-7, hereinafter, the combination of identification information is also referred to as a role) is prepared on the winning line to win a prize. Occurs. That is, the game progresses by the operation of the player.

These winning roles include special roles that accompany the transition to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player, small roles that accompany the addition of game value such as medals, and replay that allows the game to be played without using the game value. There are re-game roles that accompany the granting of games. In general, these winning combinations can be won on the condition that they have won the internal lottery that is performed at the same time as the start operation.

In this type of slot machine, the volume of the sound that was output in order to encourage the player to operate the stop button when a predetermined time has elapsed without operating the stop button since the start lever was operated. (See, for example, Patent Document 1), there is one that executes volume reduction control for reducing the volume.

Japanese Patent No. 5502264

However, in the slot machine described in Patent Document 1, the case where the power interruption occurs while the volume reduction control is being executed has not been considered. Therefore, if a power failure occurs while the volume reduction control is being executed and the power is restored from the power reduction while the volume reduction control is being executed, the slot machine may have failed. There is a risk that the player may be confused by making the player feel.

The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a slot machine capable of preventing the player from being confused even if a power failure occurs while the volume reduction control is being executed. Is to provide.

Equipped with a variable display unit that can variablely display multiple types of identification information that can be identified by each
In a slot machine in which a display result can be derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
Derivation operation means operated to derive the display result,
A sound output means that outputs sound according to the progress of the game,
Volume reduction control for reducing the volume of the sound output from the sound output means can be executed when a predetermined time elapses without operating the derivation operation means from the start of the variable display of the variable display unit. With volume control means,
In both the sound output means when the volume reduction control is executed before the power interruption and when the volume reduction control is not executed before the power interruption, the power interruption occurs and the power interruption occurs. When returning from, the specific sound is output in a state where the volume reduction control is not executed.
Further, the configuration may be as follows.
(1) A variable display unit capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, is provided.
In a slot machine in which a display result can be derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
Derivation operation means (for example, stop switches 8L to 8R) operated by the player to derive the display result, and
Sound output means (for example, speakers 53 and 54) that output sound according to the progress of the game, and
When a predetermined time has elapsed without operating the derivation operating means (for example, when 3 minutes have elapsed without operating the stop switch since the lever was turned on) from the time when the variable display of the variable display unit started. ), And the volume control means (for example, the sub control unit 91) that executes the volume reduction control (for example, the sound output stop control shown in FIG. 21C) for reducing the volume of the sound output from the sound output means. Prepare,
The volume control means controls the volume reduction control to a state in which the volume reduction control is not executed when the volume reduction control is restored from the power interruption even when the volume reduction control is executed before the power interruption (for example, FIG. As shown in 21 (c) and (e), a power failure occurs while the sound output stop control is being executed, and after recovering from the power failure, the sound output stop control is not executed. Control to state).

According to such a configuration, when the sound is restored from the power failure, the performance state is controlled so that the volume reduction control is not executed. Therefore, the game caused by returning from the power failure while the volume reduction control is being executed. You can prevent people from being confused.

(2) In the slot machine of (1)
Further equipped with a storage means (backup area) for backing up and storing predetermined information before a power failure,
When the slot machine recovers from the power failure, the slot machine executes predetermined control based on the predetermined information stored in the storage means (when the slot machine recovers from the power failure, flags and information stored in the backup area, etc. Control to the same state as before the power failure),
The predetermined information does not include information related to the volume reduction control (sound output stop control flag).

According to such a configuration, since the predetermined information stored in the storage means does not include the information related to the volume reduction control, the storage capacity of the storage means can be reduced and the volume reduction control is performed when the power is restored from the power failure. Can be appropriately controlled to the production state in which is not executed.

(3) In the slot machine of (1)
Further equipped with a storage means (backup area) for backing up and storing predetermined information before a power failure,
When the slot machine recovers from the power failure, the slot machine executes predetermined control based on the predetermined information stored in the storage means (when the slot machine recovers from the power failure, flags and information stored in the backup area, etc. Control to the same state as before the power failure),
Although the predetermined information includes information related to the volume reduction control (sound output stop control flag), the volume control means may perform the volume reduction control even when the volume reduction control is executed before the power failure. When it recovers from the power failure, it is controlled so that the volume reduction control is not executed (the sound output stop control flag stored in the backup area is not used, and the sound output stop control flag is not executed. To recover from).

According to such a configuration, since the predetermined information stored in the storage means includes the information related to the volume reduction control, it is possible to reduce the process of selecting the information to be stored in the storage means and recover from the power failure. When this is done, it can be controlled so that the volume reduction control is not executed.

(4) In any of the slot machines (1) to (3)
A state control means (main control unit 41) capable of controlling any of a plurality of types of game states (RT state) is further provided.
Even when the volume reduction control is executed before the power failure, the volume control means responds to the gaming state controlled when the power is restored from the power failure. The sound is output to the sound output means, while the volume reduction control is not executed (as shown in FIG. 21 (e), the reel stop notification is not executed, and the power is cut off. Control to the common display state where the corresponding music corresponding to the previously controlled RT state is output).

According to such a configuration, when the power is restored from the power failure, the gaming state after the power failure is restored can be estimated or grasped from the output sound.

(5) In any of the slot machines (1) to (4)
The slot machine maintains the variable display of the variable display unit when a power failure occurs while the variable display of the variable display unit is being executed and recovers from the power failure (FIG. 21 (a). )-(E), when a power failure occurs while the three reels are rotating, when the power failure is restored, the three reels return in a rotating state. ),
The volume control means
When recovering from the power failure, the volume reduction control is not executed (as shown in FIG. 21 (e), the sound output stop control is not executed).
When the predetermined time elapses without operating the derivation operation means from the time when the power is restored from the power failure, the volume reduction control is executed (as shown in [Processing at the time of power failure recovery] of the modified example, the power supply is performed. Sound output stop control is executed when 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch from the timing of disconnection).

According to such a configuration, when the power is restored from the power failure, the volume reduction control is not executed, so that the player can be prevented from being confused. On the other hand, when a power failure occurs while the variable display of the variable display unit is being executed, the variable display of the variable display unit is maintained when the power is restored, and the derivation operation means is not operated. When the predetermined time elapses, the volume reduction control is executed, so that it is possible to prevent the variable display unit from being left unattended for a long time.

(6) In any of the slot machines (1) to (5)
The volume control means does not execute the volume reduction control in the unit game (1 game) recovered from the power failure (as shown in FIG. 21 (f), the sound output stop control is executed in the game recovered from the power failure. do not do).

According to such a configuration, the player who has anxiety that the unit game recovered from the power failure may not be able to play properly by not executing the volume reduction control in the unit game recovered from the power failure. Can be avoided to confuse.

(7) In any of the slot machines (1) to (6)
Further provided with a promotion effect executing means (for example, a sub-control unit 91) that executes a promotion effect (for example, the button effect shown in FIG. 21A) that prompts a specific operation (for example, an operation on the MAXBET switch 6).
When the specific operation is performed during the execution of the promotion effect, the promotion effect execution means terminates the promotion effect and executes the specific effect (for example, the chance effect shown in FIG. 20A) (for example, the promotion effect execution means). Switch from button production to chance production),
The volume control means does not execute the volume reduction control when the promotion effect is being executed (for example, as shown in S105 of FIG. 23, the sound output stop control is executed when the button effect is being executed. do not do).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the promotion effect from being hindered by the volume reduction control, and thus it is possible to prevent the player from being dissatisfied.

(8) In any of the slot machines (1) to (6)
Further provided with a promotion effect executing means (for example, a sub-control unit 91) that executes a promotion effect (for example, the button effect shown in FIG. 21A) that prompts a specific operation (for example, an operation on the MAXBET switch 6).
When the specific operation is performed during the execution of the promotion effect, the promotion effect execution means terminates the promotion effect and executes the specific effect (for example, the chance effect shown in FIG. 21A) (for example, the promotion effect execution means). Switch from button production to chance production),
The volume control means can execute the volume reduction control even when the promotion effect is being executed (for example, as shown in FIG. 21D, the button effect and the sound output stop control). Both are feasible),
When the promotion effect and the volume reduction control are executed (for example, YES in S109 and YES in S110 in FIG. 18) and the specific operation is performed (for example, YES in S108 in FIG. 18), the volume control is performed. The means terminates the volume reduction control, and the promotion effect executing means terminates the promotion effect and executes the specific effect (for example, as shown in FIGS. 19A, 19C, and S114 of FIG. 18). As a result, the button effect is switched to the chance effect, and the sound output stop control is terminated).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the specific effect from being hindered by the volume reduction control, and thus it is possible to prevent the player from being dissatisfied.

Further, the "specific operation" in (7) or (8) is preferably an "operation other than the operation to the derivation operation means".

It is a front view of the slot machine of the embodiment to which this invention is applied. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement of a reel. It is a perspective view which shows the internal structure of a slot machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a slot machine. It is a figure for demonstrating the type of a small combination, the symbol combination of a small combination, and the technical matter related to a small combination. It is a figure for demonstrating the type of the re-game combination, the symbol combination of the re-game combination, and the technical matter related to the re-game combination. It is a figure for demonstrating the symbol combination of the transition roll, and the technical matter related to the transition roll. It is a figure for demonstrating the transition of a game state. It is a figure which shows the outline of the game state. It is a figure for demonstrating the combination of the lottery target combination read out as the lottery target combination for each game state. It is a figure for demonstrating the combination of the lottery target combination read out as the lottery target combination for each game state. It is a figure for demonstrating the combination of the combination which a prize is allowed by the lottery target combination. It is a figure for demonstrating the reel control at the time of winning a plurality of re-game combination. It is a figure for demonstrating the reel control at the time of winning a plurality of bells. It is a figure for demonstrating the AT lottery table. It is a figure for demonstrating the production-related processing during non-AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the transition of the main production during non-AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the production-related processing in AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the transition of the main production during AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the process at the time of recovery from power failure at the time of non-AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the process at the time of recovery from power failure at the time of AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification of the effect-related processing during non-AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification of the effect-related processing in AT.

[Slot machine configuration]
A mode for carrying out the slot machine according to the present invention will be described below based on examples. In the following embodiments, an example will be described when the present invention is applied to a slot machine. FIG. 1 is a front view showing the overall structure of the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment. The slot machine 1 includes a housing 1a having an open front surface and a front door 1b rotatably pivotally supported at a side end of the housing 1a. A liquid crystal display 51 is provided at the upper center of the front door 1b. The liquid crystal display 51 has a display area 51a, and the transmission area 51b corresponding to the perspective window 3 can be transmitted. As a result, a predetermined effect can be executed in the display area 51a, and the reels 2L and 2C arranged side by side inside the housing 1a through the see-through window 3 by transmitting the transmission area 51b out of the display area 51a. , 2R (hereinafter, also referred to as left reel, middle reel, right reel) becomes visible. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a symbol arrangement of each reel. A plurality of types of symbols, each of which can be identified, are arranged in a predetermined order on the reels 2L to 2R. The number of reels is not limited to three, and may be one or two or more. Further, although the variable display unit shows an example of being configured by a physical reel, it may be configured by an image display device such as a liquid crystal display.

A medal insertion section 4 into which medals can be inserted is provided at the lower right of the liquid crystal display 51, and a medal payout outlet 9, speakers 53, and 54 for paying medals are provided at the lower part of the front door 1b.

Further, as an example of the operation means, the front door 1b is set with a predetermined number of bets determined according to the game state within the range of credits stored as the game value (number of medals) owned by the player. MAXBET switch 6 operated when the game is played, settlement switch 10 operated when the credit and the set bet number are settled and returned, start switch 7 operated when the game is started, reels 2L to 2R Stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, which are operated when each rotation is stopped, an effect switch 56 for use in the effect, and the like are provided.

The front door 1b is provided with a game display unit 13 for notifying information about the game as an example of the notification means. The game display unit 13 has a credit display 11 that displays the number of medals stored as credits, a game auxiliary display 12 that displays the number of medals to be paid out and an error code when an error occurs, and a set bet. 1BETLED14 for notifying the number, 2BETLED15, 3BETLED16, insertion request LED17 for notifying that medals can be inserted, start effective LED18 for notifying that the game can be started by operating the start switch 7, and start switch. After the operation of 7, the LED19 in the weight that notifies that the weight (the state of waiting for the start of rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R because a certain period of time has not passed since the previous game start) is in progress, after the replay prize is won. The replay LED 20 for notifying that the replay game is in progress is provided.

When playing a game on the slot machine 1, first, a predetermined number of bets (for example, 3) is set by inserting medals into the medal insertion unit 4 or operating the MAXBET switch 6. As a result, the winning line LN becomes valid, the operation to the start switch 7 becomes valid, and the game can be started. If a medal is inserted with the number of bets already set, that amount will be added to the credit.

The winning line is a line for determining whether the combination of symbols displayed on the perspective windows 3 of the reels 2L to 2R is a combination of winning symbols. In the present embodiment, an example in which only one winning line LN is provided will be described, but a plurality of winning lines may be provided. In addition, invalid lines LM1 to LM4 are provided so that it is easy to recognize that the combination of symbols constituting the prize is aligned with the prize line LN. The invalid lines LM1 to LM4 are not lines for which a winning judgment is made, and when a combination of specific winning symbols (so-called breaks) is aligned with the winning line LN, the invalid lines LM1 to LM4 have a predetermined symbol. By aligning the combinations (for example, bell-bell-bell), it is easy to recognize that the combination of the symbols constituting the specific winning is aligned on the winning line LN.

When the start switch 7 is operated while the game can be started, the reels 2L to 2R are rotated to display the symbol in a variable manner, and when the stop switches 8L to 8R are operated, the rotation of the corresponding reel is stopped. , Three symbols are derived and displayed as display results in the upper, middle, and lower rows of the perspective window 3. When the combination of winning symbols stops on the winning line LN and a winning occurs, a predetermined number of medals are given to the player according to the winning, and credits are added or the credit reaches the upper limit (50). If this is the case, medals will be paid out from the medal payment exit 9.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an internal structure of the slot machine 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a functional configuration example of the slot machine 1. In the example of FIG. 4, a game control board 40 that controls the progress of the game and outputs various commands according to the progress of the game, an effect control board 90 that controls a predetermined effect according to the command, and a drive power source for electrical components. A power supply board 101 for generating the above, an external output board 1000 for outputting a signal according to the progress of the game, and the like are provided.

The game control board 40 advances the game based on detection signals from switches such as various operation means and detection means (exemplified on the left side of the game control board 40 in FIG. 4), and the notification means (game control in FIG. 4). Display devices such as (exemplified on the left side of the substrate 40) are driven and controlled. Further, the game control board 40 drives and controls the reel motors 32L to 32R based on the signals from the reel sensors 33L to 33R.

The game control board 40 is equipped with a circuit configuration (exemplified in the game control board 40 of FIG. 4) such as a main control unit 41. The main control unit 41 performs processing related to the progress of the game, and directly or indirectly controls the configuration mounted or connected to the game control board 40. The main control unit 41 is a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O port, and the like.

The effect control board 90 is connected to an effect switch 56, and drives and controls an effect device such as a liquid crystal display 51 (exemplified on the left side of the effect control board 90 in FIG. 4). The effect control board 90 is equipped with a circuit configuration (exemplified in the effect control board 90 of FIG. 4) such as a sub control unit 91. The sub-control unit 91 receives a command transmitted from the game control board 40, performs a process of performing an effect, and directly or indirectly controls a configuration mounted on or connected to the effect control board 90. The sub-control unit 91 is a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O port, and the like. The circuit configuration of the sub-control unit 91 includes, for example, a clock device 97 (hereinafter, also referred to as an RTC) for measuring at least one of a day and a time. The sub-control unit 91 can execute the effect control according to, for example, the value of at least one of the day and the time measured by the RTC 97, the detection signal from the effect switch 56, and the like. A hopper motor 34b, various operating means, detection means (exemplified on the right side of the power supply board 101 in FIG. 4), and the like are connected to the power supply board 101.

5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the types of winning combinations, the symbol combinations of winning combinations, and technical matters related to the winning combinations. The name column shows the name of the winning combination, and the symbol combination column shows the combination of symbols for which the winning combination is a winning combination. Further, in the combination column of symbols aligned with the invalid line, a combination of symbols that stops at the invalid line when the combination of the winning symbols stops at the winning line and is easily recognized by the player is shown. There is. In the payout number column, the value given at the time of winning (medal payout, replay game grant) is shown. BB1 and BB2 are winning roles with a transition to an advantageous state of bonus. In the payout number column of BB1 and BB2, the end conditions of the bonus transferred by winning are shown. Each bonus ends when more than a predetermined number of medals are paid out. For example, the bonus controlled by winning / winning BB1 ends in a game in which the number of medals paid out during the bonus is 351 or more.

Further, the game state column of FIG. 6 shows the game state to be transferred at the time of winning. Further, "/" indicates "or". For example, for the fall replay of FIG. 6, the combination of symbols is "bell-replay-bell", which is controlled by RT1 at the time of winning, and the value given is the replay grant. In addition, when the combination of the fall replay symbols stops on the winning line, "replay / plum-replay-replay / plum" stops on the invalid line. Further, when the combination of the special replay symbols is stopped on the winning line, "black BAR / white BAR-black BAR / white BAR-black BAR / white BAR" is stopped on the invalid line. "Black BAR / White BAR-Black BAR / White BAR-Black BAR / White BAR" can be stopped on the invalid line only when the special replay is won, and eventually when the special replay is not won. It is a combination of symbols that are not stopped on the line of.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a symbol combination of transition rolls. As for the transition roll, the left bells 1 to 4, the middle bells 1 to 4, and the right bells 1 to 4 shown in FIG. 14 are won, and the reels other than the reels that are the winning conditions for the right-down bell or the middle bell are set as the first stop, and If the winning upper bell is missed, it will be aligned with the winning line LN. When the transition roll stops on the winning line LN during RT0, 2, and 3, the transition to RT1 is performed.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the transition of the gaming state controlled by the main control unit 41, and FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an outline of the gaming state and RT. In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, RT0 to RT4 in which the replay is won with a predetermined winning probability (see the numerical value in the replay winning combination column in the upper figure of FIG. 9) and RT0 to RT4 in which the winning probability of the small winning combination is RT0 to RT4. It is controlled to one of the corresponding game states from the time when the start condition is satisfied to the time when the end condition is satisfied (indicated along the arrow in FIG. 8) among a plurality of types of game states including a bonus that is improved more than the time. Refer to the winning combination or the outcome, see the start condition / end condition column in the upper figure of FIG. 9).

When either BB1 or BB2 is won, it is controlled by RT4. The winning flag set when either BB1 or BB2 is won is carried over until the winning BB wins. In addition, RT4 is also continuously controlled from BB winning to BB winning. In RT4, the replay is won with a higher probability than in RT1 and RT3 and lower than in RT0 and RT2 (see the numerical value in the replay combination column in the upper figure of FIG. 9). The replay probability in RT4 is set to the probability that the payout rate does not exceed 1 even if the winning small winning combination can be won without being missed. In other words, the replay probability in RT4 is that the total number of medals to be paid out when winning a small winning combination during RT4 without failing is the number of medals or medals used to set the bet number during RT4. It is set to a probability that the total number of medals will not be exceeded and the number of medals will not increase. When a BB prize is generated during RT4, it is controlled by a bonus, and when the number of medals or more described in FIG. 5 is paid out, the bonus ends and the RT3 is controlled. The type of replay drawn internally is determined for each type of RT (the circle in the lower figure of FIG. 9 indicates the replay drawn).

10 and 11 are diagrams showing a combination of lottery target combinations read out as lottery target combinations (hereinafter, also referred to as winning combinations) for each game state. The name is shown in the lottery target combination column, and the game status column indicates that the lottery target combination is a lottery target for each type of RT, and the winning probability is determined by the numerical value below the circle mark. The number of judgment values involved is shown. For example, the bell is a lottery target winning combination of 360/65536 in any of RT0 to RT3 states. During RT4, the bonus lottery is not done, but the winning combination that can be won at the same time as the bonus (hereinafter also referred to as the simultaneous winning combination) has the same probability as during other RTs. For weak watermelons, an internal lottery will be held based on the number of judgment values shown in parentheses.

As shown in FIG. 11, the special replay is set to be a lottery target only when controlled by RT2. Further, in the bonus, for example, the middle bell is set as a lottery target combination, and it is set to win with an extremely high probability (64000/65536). In addition, the middle bell is a role that can generate a prize regardless of the operation timing. Therefore, during the bonus, the middle bell prize can be generated with an extremely high probability regardless of the operation timing and the operation procedure, and the number of medals can be efficiently increased. Therefore, the bonus is in an advantageous state for the player.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a combination of winning combinations included in the winning combination included in the lottery target combination. For example, the weak cherry is the lower cherry. Weak watermelons include downward-sloping watermelons, upper watermelons, and middle watermelons. Therefore, when the weak watermelon is won in the internal lottery, the right-down watermelon, the upper watermelon, and the middle watermelon are won.

Among the lottery target combinations, bonuses 1 to 12 are combinations in which BB1 or BB2 and a predetermined winning combination such as a weak cherry or a bell can be read out at the same time and won. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, different determination values are set for the bonuses 1 to 12. For this reason, bonuses 6 and 12, which are advantages for the player, include the ratio of BB1 or BB2 actually winning at the same time (hereinafter, also referred to as reliability) when the simultaneous winning combination is won. The number of judgment values is determined so that the middle cherry is the highest, followed by the strong cherry, the strong watermelon, the weak cherry, and the weak watermelon, and the bell (hereinafter, also referred to as the middle bell) is the lowest.

13 and 14 are diagrams for explaining reel control when a plurality of winning combinations are simultaneously won. For each winning lottery target combination, when the stop operation is performed in the push order shown in the push order column, reel control is performed to stop the symbol combination of the winning combination shown in the symbol combination to be stopped to the right at the winning line LN. For example, when the replay GR1 is won, the promotion replay 1 is derived when the push order is left, middle and right, and the normal replay is derived when the push order is other than left, middle and right. Also, for example, when the left bell is won, if the push order is the left first stop, the right-down bell is derived, and if the push order is other than the left first stop, the upper bell or the transition roll. Is derived.

Further, when the simultaneous winning combination is won, reel control different from that when the simultaneous winning combination is not won may be performed. For example, when a weak watermelon is won, a reel control is performed in which the lower right watermelon or the upper watermelon is given priority over the middle watermelon and pulled into the winning line, whereas when a strong watermelon is won, the lower right watermelon is performed. Reel control is performed to prioritize the middle watermelon over either the watermelon or the upper watermelon and pull it onto the winning line. In addition, when a weak cherry or a strong cherry is won, reel control is performed to pull the lower cherry onto the winning line, and when the middle cherry is won, reel control is performed to pull the middle cherry onto the winning line. .. This makes it possible to estimate whether the reels 2L to 2R are cherry or watermelon, weak or strong, or middle-tier cherry from the combination of symbols when the reels 2L to 2R are stopped, and if the expectations for bonus winning or AT winning are different. Can be made.

In a narrow sense, the "game" in the slot machine 1 means from the operation of the start switch 7 to the stop of the reels 2L to 2R, but when playing a game, the bet number setting before the operation of the start switch 7 is performed. Since the payout of medals and the transition of the gaming state are also performed after the reels 2L to 2R are stopped, these incidental processes are also included in the "game" in a broad sense.

[Game processing]
The main control unit 41 performs a game control process to control one game. In the game control process, first, the bet number setting and the BET process for credit settlement and bet number settlement are performed.

When the start switch 7 is operated after setting the number of bets, a random number value is extracted from a predetermined random number circuit, and it is determined (internal lottery) whether or not to allow the generation of a prize based on the extracted random number value. The internal lottery process (see FIGS. 10 to 12 and the like) is performed. The random number circuit updates the numerical value in the predetermined numerical range (0 to 65535) according to the predetermined update rule. The main control unit 41 extracts a numerical value updated by the random number circuit as a random number value when the start switch 7 is operated. When the lottery target combination is won in the internal lottery, the winning flag of the winning combination included in the lottery target combination is set in a predetermined area of the RAM. For example, when BB1 is won, the BB1 winning flag is set, and when the strong cherry is won, the winning flag of the lower cherry and the winning flag of the single combination are set. The winning flags of BB1 and BB2 are carried over until the winning BB is won, while the winning flags corresponding to the winning combinations other than BB1 and BB2 are when the winning game ends regardless of whether or not a winning is generated. Will be erased.

When the internal lottery process is completed, the reel rotation process is performed. In the reel rotation process, the stop switches 8L to 8R are enabled after starting the rotation of the reels 2L to 2R on the condition that a predetermined time (for example, 4.1 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the reel rotation of the previous game. Then, the rotation of the reel is stopped according to the stop operation (see FIGS. 13 and 14). In the reel rotation process, when a predetermined freeze condition is satisfied, a freeze effect is executed to delay the progress of the game for a predetermined period (delay the activation of each stop operation of the stop switches 8L to 8R). After executing the freeze effect processing of, the stop switches 8L to 8R are enabled to shift to the normal game.

When the reels 2L to 2R are stopped and the reel rotation process is completed, a winning determination process (see FIGS. 5 to 7 and the like) is performed to determine whether or not a winning or the like has occurred based on the symbol combination on the winning line. .. In addition, the state shown in FIG. 8 is controlled according to the combination of symbols on the winning line.

When the winning determination process is completed, the payout process is performed. In the payout process, medals are paid out or credits are added according to the occurrence of winning, various processes not related to winning (for example, processing related to counting the number of medals paid out in the bonus and controlling the end of the bonus, and winning without carry-over). Flags (winning flags for small wins, replays, etc.) are erased). Further, when it is determined that either BB1 or BB2 has been won, the winning flag of the winning BB is deleted. In the game end process, a process of setting the game state (see FIGS. 8 and 9) is executed in preparation for the next game. As a result, the game control process for one game is completed, and the game control process for the next game is started.

[Processing related to AT]
The main control unit 41 can control AT (assist time) in addition to advantageous states such as bonus and RT2. The main control unit 41 executes an AT lottery as to whether or not to control the AT. Further, the main control unit 41 controls the AT when it is determined to be controlled by the AT in the AT lottery, and can specify the operation procedure (pushing order) for stopping the symbol combination advantageous to the player on the winning line LN. Execute the process for executing the navigation effect.

The main control unit 41 determines whether or not to control the AT when a specific AT lottery target combination (in this embodiment, a weak watermelon, a strong watermelon, a weak cherry, a strong cherry, and a middle cherry) is won. Perform lottery processing. The AT lottery process may be executed after the internal lottery is performed in the internal lottery process, for example, as long as it is executed at a predetermined timing in the progress of one game.

FIG. 15 is an example of an AT lottery table used in the AT lottery process. In the example of the AT lottery table of FIG. 15, for example, when a weak watermelon is won, the probability that the number of navigation stocks to be given is determined to be 0, the probability that the number of navigation stocks to be given is determined to 1, and the number of navigation stocks to be given The probability that the number of navigation stocks to be given is determined to be 2 and the probability that the number of navigation stocks to be given is determined to be 3 are set to 85%, 15%, 0%, and 0%, respectively.

In the following, the fact that the navigation stock is not granted (the number of navigation stocks to be granted is determined to be 0) is referred to as "AT non-winning", and the granting of 1 or more navigation stocks is referred to as "AT winning". Further, the state controlled by AT is referred to as "AT in progress", and the state not controlled by AT is referred to as "non-AT in progress". When AT is in progress, an AT flag that can identify AT is stored in the RAM and RAM 91c of the main control unit 41. When not AT, the AT flag is not stored in any of the RAM and the RAM 91c of the main control unit 41. Further, during AT, "AT in-game music", which is a music for making the player recognize that AT is in progress, is output from the speakers 53 and 54. By outputting the music during AT during AT, it is possible to raise the mood of the player during AT.

The number of navigation stocks determined to be assigned is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 41. In the present embodiment, one navigation stock is used to control an AT of 50 games. In addition, the main control unit 41 draws a lottery for the timing to start AT. The main control unit 41 determines, for example, to start AT (timing to start AT) 0 to 32 games after the AT winning game by drawing a random number.

The reliability determined to be controlled by AT in the AT lottery and the expected value of the number of navigation stocks determined when controlling AT (the average number of games to be acquired), which are advantages for the player, are specific lottery targets. It is defined to be different depending on the type of role. In the example of FIG. 15, the reliability and the expected value are in the order of strong cherry, middle cherry, strong watermelon, weak cherry, and weak watermelon.

[Game flow]
Here, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 again, the flow of the game will be collectively described. First, the flow of the game in RT0 to RT3 other than RT4 and the bonus will be described. In RTs 0 to 3, the flow of the game is as described below, depending on whether or not AT is in progress. First, the flow of the game during non-AT will be described.

It is controlled by RT3 after the setting change state is completed. Since it becomes non-AT by being controlled to the setting change state, it is not controlled by AT in RT3, and the navigation effect is not executed. In this way, since the navigation effect is not executed in RT3, if any of the bells such as left bells 1 to 4 is won in RT3, a transition result is obtained depending on the timing of the second stop and the third stop. Is derived (see FIG. 14). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of inconvenience such that the transition result is not derived and the transition to RT1 is not performed forever.

In RT1, it shifts to RT0 by winning the promotion replay. In order to win the promotion replay, as shown in FIG. 13, it is necessary to win the replay GR1 to 6 and stop the operation according to the operation procedure for winning the promotion replay.

Further, even when the control is performed by RT0, it is set so that it is difficult to maintain the control to the RT0. That is, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, in RT0, there is a possibility that the replays GR11 to 13 are won, and at this time, the fall replay wins a prize with a probability of 2/3 and falls to RT1.

Further, when any of the bells such as the left bells 1 to 4 is won at RT0, the first stop is performed except for the predetermined reel (the reel for winning the right-down bell or the middle bell shown in FIG. 14). Occasionally, depending on the timing of the second stop and the third stop, a shift result is derived and the player falls to RT1. Further, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, in RT0, there is a possibility that the replay GR21 to 23 will be won, and at this time, a predetermined reel (reel for winning the special replay shown in FIG. 13) is used. When the first stop is made, a special replay may win and be controlled by RT2. However, even if it is controlled by RT2, when any of the bells such as the left bells 1 to 4 is won, other than the predetermined reel (the reel for winning the right-down bell or the middle bell shown in FIG. 14) is used. When the first stop is made, a shift result is derived depending on the timing of the second stop and the third stop, and the player falls to RT1. As a result, most of the game during non-AT will be digested at RT1.

Next, the flow of the game during AT will be described. In RT1, when any of the replays GR1 to GR6 is won, a navigation effect for specifying the operation procedure for winning the promotion replay can be executed. Therefore, by performing the stop operation according to the navigation effect, it is possible to shift to RT0 by winning the promotion replay. In RT0, when any of the replays GR11 to 13 is won, a navigation effect for specifying the operation procedure for winning the normal replay can be executed. Therefore, RT0 can be maintained by the normal replay winning by performing the stop operation according to the navigation effect. Further, in RT0, in order to specify the operation procedure for winning the right-down bell or the middle bell when any of the left bells 1 to 4, the middle bells 1 to 4, and the right bells 1 to 4 is won. Navi production is executed. Therefore, by performing the stop operation according to the navigation effect, it is possible to avoid the derivation of the transition result and maintain RT0. Further, in RT0, when any of the replay GR21 to 23 is won, a navigation effect for specifying the operation procedure for winning the special replay can be executed. Therefore, by performing the stop operation according to the navigation effect, it is possible to shift to RT2 by winning a special replay.

In RT2, when any of the left bells 1 to 4, the middle bells 1 to 4, and the right bells 1 to 4 is won, the navigation for specifying the operation procedure for winning the right-down bell or the middle bell. The production is executed. Therefore, by performing the stop operation according to the navigation effect, it is possible to avoid the derivation of the transition result and maintain RT2.

As described above, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the AT is in progress, the navigation effect is executed so as to be controlled by the RT2 and the RT2 is maintained. Most of the games will be digested at RT2. The AT ends when the number of AT games reaches 0. The number of AT games can be controlled by RT2 + AT (in the present embodiment, the state in which the AT is controlled by the AT in RT2, which is advantageous for the player, is particularly referred to as an assist replay time (hereinafter referred to as ART)). The count starts from the next game of the game that has become, that is, the next game of the game in which one of the replays GR21 to 23 is won at RT0 and the special replay can be won. As a result, AT ends when the number of AT games is consumed by ART. Then, the ART ends when the AT ends.

After the ART is finished, the navigation effect is not executed, but the control to RT2 is maintained until the transition result is derived. However, during RT2 after the end of ART, since it is non-AT, as described above, the reels other than the predetermined reels (the reels for winning the right-down bell or the middle bell shown in FIG. 14) are first stopped. Reel. As a result, during RT2 after the end of ART, the transition is made to RT1 by stopping the shift result at an extremely early stage after the end of ART.

Next, the flow of the game after winning BB1 or BB2 will be described. Regardless of which RT is controlled, when BB1 or BB2 is won, it is controlled to RT4 as shown in FIG. In addition, in the next game after the end of the BB winning game, the winning suggestion effect is executed to notify that the BB has been won, and the player can grasp that the BB1 or the BB2 has been won. When a BB prize is generated, the bonus is transferred to the corresponding bonus, and when the predetermined number of finished sheets is paid out, the process ends and the system is transferred to RT3.

[About the effect and control executed by the sub control unit 91]
Next, the effect and control executed by the sub-control unit 91 will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21. The sub control unit 91 can execute a button effect, a chance effect, a reel stop notification, a sound output stop control, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 20A, the button effect is an effect of displaying an image of a switch (button) imitating the effect switch 56 and characters such as "PUSH!" On the liquid crystal display 51. The button effect is an effect executed when a predetermined button effect execution condition is satisfied. Here, the button effect execution condition may be a condition in which the AT lottery target combination is won and is satisfied with a predetermined probability. The predetermined probability may be 100% or another probability (for example, 50%). It should be noted that the predetermined button effect execution condition is not limited to the winning of the AT lottery target combination, but may be a condition that is satisfied by winning another specific combination, or is established by winning another specific combination. It may be a condition, or it may be a condition that is satisfied by digesting a predetermined number of games.

By executing the button effect, the player is encouraged to operate the effect switch 56, and the player is expected to win the AT due to the winning of the AT lottery target role. Can be done. Further, when the sub control unit 91 starts the button effect, the sub control unit 91 stores in the RAM 91c a button effect flag that can identify that the button effect is being executed. When the sub control unit 91 ends the button effect, the sub control unit 91 erases the button effect flag.

Further, regardless of whether the button is not AT or AT, the button effect music is continuously output from the speakers 53 and 54 during the button effect execution. When the button production is executed, the output music is stopped and the button production music is output (the output music is switched to the button production music). In this way, by outputting the button effect music during the button effect execution, it is possible to raise the mood of the player during the button effect execution. In the example of FIG. 21A, it is shown that the button production music is output. Further, in the example of FIG. 20A, it is omitted that the button production music is output, but in reality, the button production music is output.

As shown in FIG. 20A, the chance effect is an effect of displaying characters such as "CHANGE" on the liquid crystal display 51. The chance effect is an effect that is executed at the same time as the button effect is terminated by operating the effect switch 56 when the button effect is being executed. That is, if the effect switch 56 is operated during the button effect execution, the button effect is switched to the chance effect.

By executing the chance effect, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the AT lottery target role has won the AT. The chance effect is executed for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), and when the chance effect is completed, the assigned number of navigation stocks (including 0) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. For example, when the AT is won and the number of 2 navigation stocks is given, characters such as "Congratulations! 2 navigation stocks have been acquired!" Are displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. In addition, when the AT is not won, characters such as "Sorry!" Are displayed on the liquid crystal display 51.

When the sub-control unit 91 starts the chance effect, the sub-control unit 91 stores in the RAM 91c a chance effect flag that can identify that the chance effect is being executed. When the sub-control unit 91 ends the chance effect, the sub-control unit 91 erases the chance effect flag.

Further, regardless of whether the music is not AT or AT, the chance production music is output during the execution of the chance production. When the chance production is executed, the output button production music is stopped, so that the chance production music is output (the output button production music is switched to the chance production music). In this way, by outputting the chance production music during the execution of the chance production, it is possible to raise the mood of the player during the execution of the chance production. In the example of FIG. 21 (a), it is shown that the chance production music is output. Further, in the example of FIG. 20A, it is omitted that the chance production music is output, but in reality, the chance production music is output.

Both the reel stop notification and the sound output stop control are executed when a predetermined time elapses without operating the stop switch from the time when the lever is turned on. Here, the lever-on operation means "operation to the start switch in a state where the bet number is set". That is, the reel stop notification and the sound output stop control are executed when the time during which the three reels are rotating reaches a predetermined period. In the present embodiment, the predetermined time is set to "3 minutes", but other time, for example, 4 minutes may be used. In the present embodiment, the reel stop notification is executed in the non-AT, and the sound output stop control is executed in the AT. Further, both the reel stop notification and the sound output stop control are terminated by operating the stop switch.

As shown in FIG. 20 (c), the reel stop notification is to display a character such as "Please stop the reel" on the liquid crystal display 51. By displaying such characters on the liquid crystal display 51, it is possible to encourage the player to stop the reel (operate the stop switch), and the reel is left in a rotating state for a long time. This can be prevented as much as possible. Further, when the sub-control unit 91 starts the reel stop notification, the sub control unit 91 stores in the RAM 91c a reel stop notification flag that can identify that the reel stop notification is being executed. When the sub-control unit 91 ends the reel stop notification, the sub-control unit 91 erases the reel stop notification flag.

The sound output stop control is a control for stopping the output of sounds (musical pieces, sound effects, etc.) output from the speakers 53 and 54 (making the volume zero). Sound output stop control is executed during AT. When a predetermined time elapses without operating the stop switch from the lever-on operation during AT, the sound output stop control is executed to stop the output music during AT. In this way, by executing the sound output stop control, it is possible to indirectly encourage the player to stop the reel (operate the stop switch), and leave the reel in a rotating state for a long time. It can be prevented as much as possible. Further, when the sub-control unit 91 starts the sound output stop control, the sub control unit 91 stores in the RAM 91c a sound output stop control flag that can identify that the sound output stop control is being executed. When the sub-control unit 91 ends the sound output stop control, the sub-control unit 91 erases the sound output stop control flag.

Further, the reel stop notification and the sound output stop control can be executed even during the button effect execution. FIG. 20D is a diagram showing that both the reel stop notification and the button effect are being executed. As shown in FIG. 20 (d), the button image and the characters "Please stop the reel" are superimposed and displayed. FIG. 21 (d) is a diagram showing that the sound output stop control is being executed during the execution of the button effect. That is, the output of the button-directed music is stopped.

Further, the characters "Please stop the reel" displayed by executing the reel stop notification have the same coordinates in the display area of the liquid crystal display 51 regardless of whether or not the button effect is executed. Is displayed in. Therefore, the present embodiment is compared with the slot machine in which the characters "Please stop the reel" are displayed at different coordinates when the button effect is executed and when the button effect is not executed. The slot machine can reduce the burden of processing for displaying the characters.

As a modification, when the button effect is not executed, the characters "Please stop the reel" are displayed in the center of the display area of the liquid crystal display 51, while the button effect is executed. , The characters "Please stop the reel" may be displayed at a position that does not overlap with the image displayed by the button effect (the image of the button and the character image of PUSH). As a result, the player can clearly grasp the characters "Please stop the reels" regardless of whether or not the button effect is executed. In addition, the image displayed by the button effect can be prevented from being disturbed by the characters.

[About production-related processing during non-AT]
Next, the effect-related processing during non-AT will be described with reference to FIG. The effect-related process is a process executed by the sub-control unit 91 during non-AT. Further, the effect-related processing is a timer interrupt processing executed at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 0.56 ms).

First, in S2, it is determined whether or not the reel stop notification is executed. For this determination, it may be determined whether or not the reel stop notification flag is stored in the RAM 91c. Specifically, when the reel stop notification flag is stored in the RAM 91c, it is determined that the reel stop notification is being executed. On the other hand, when the reel stop notification flag is not stored in the RAM 91c, it is determined that the reel stop notification is not executed.

In S2, if it is determined that the reel stop notification is being executed (YES in S2), the process proceeds to S8, and if it is determined that the reel stop notification is not being executed (NO in S2), S4. Proceed to.

In S4, it is determined whether or not 3 minutes have passed without the stop switch being operated since the lever was turned on. Here, an example of the determination method of S4 will be described. The main control unit 41 starts the rotation of the three reels by performing a lever-on operation by the player. At the same time, the main control unit 41 transmits a reel rotation start command capable of identifying that the rotation of the three reels has started to the sub control unit 91. The sub-control unit 91 starts the timing of the RTC 97 from the time when the reel stop start command is received. When any one of the stop switches 8L to 8R is operated from the time when the reel rotation starts (when the RTC timing is started), the main control unit 41 corresponds to the operated stop switch. While stopping the reel, the sub control unit 91 resets the timing of the RTC 97 (returns to the initial value).

Next, a method for determining whether or not any one of the stop switches 8L to 8R has been operated by the sub control unit 91 will be described. When any one of the stop switches 8L to 8R is operated by the player, the main control unit 41 transmits a stop switch command capable of identifying the operated stop switch to the sub control unit 91. When the sub control unit 91 receives the stop switch command, the sub control unit 91 identifies that the stop switch specified by the stop switch command has been operated.

In S4, when it is determined that the timekeeping result of RTC97 has reached 3 minutes, it is determined that 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch since the lever was turned on (YES in S4), and the process proceeds to S6. On the other hand, in S4, when it is determined that 3 minutes have not passed since the lever was turned on (NO in S4), the process proceeds to S8.

In S6, the reel stop notification (see (c) of FIG. 20) is executed. Further, in S6, the reel stop notification is executed regardless of whether or not the button effect (see FIG. 20A) is executed. That is, when the button effect is not executed, only the reel stop notification is executed. On the other hand, when the button effect is executed, the reel stop notification is also executed while continuing the execution of the button effect (the state shown in FIG. 20D). When the processing of S6 is completed, the production-related processing is completed.

In S8, it is determined whether or not the operation on the effect switch 56 is detected. Here, an example of the method for determining S8 will be described. When the effect switch 56 is operated, the switch circuit 96 (see FIG. 4) transmits a detection signal that can identify that the effect switch 56 has been operated to the sub-control unit 91. In this way, the sub-control unit 91 detects the operation on the effect switch 56 by receiving the detection signal from the switch circuit 96. In S8, if it is determined that the operation on the effect switch 56 is detected (YES in S8), the process proceeds to S9, and if it is determined that the operation on the effect switch 56 is not detected (S8). NO), proceed to S16.

In S9, it is determined whether or not the button effect is being executed. Regarding this determination, it may be determined whether or not the button effect flag is stored in the RAM 91c. Specifically, when the button effect flag is stored in the RAM 91c, it is determined that the button effect is being executed. On the other hand, when the button effect flag is not stored in the RAM 91c, it is determined that the button effect is not executed.

If it is determined in S9 that the button effect has not been executed (NO in S9), the effect-related process ends. If it is determined in S9 that the button effect is being executed (YES in S9), the process proceeds to S10.

In S10, it is determined whether or not the reel stop notification is executed. If it is determined in S10 that the reel stop notification has not been executed (NO in S10), the process proceeds to S12. If it is determined in S10 that the reel stop notification is being executed (YES in S10), the process proceeds to S14.

In S12, the button effect determined to be executed in S9 is terminated, and the chance effect is executed. That is, in S12, the button effect is switched to the chance effect. When the processing of S12 is completed, the production-related processing is completed.

In S14, the button effect determined to be executed in S9 is terminated, and the chance effect is executed. At the same time, the reel stop notification determined to be executed in S10 is terminated.

In S16, it is determined whether or not any of the stop switches 8L to 8R has been operated. In S16, when it is determined that any of the stop switches 8L to 8R has been operated (YES in S16), the process proceeds to S18, and when it is determined that any of the stop switches 8L to 8R has not been operated (in S16). NO), the production-related processing is completed.

In S18, it is determined whether or not the reel stop notification is executed. In S18, if it is determined that the reel stop notification is being executed (YES in S18), the process proceeds to S20, and if it is determined that the reel stop notification is not being executed (NO in S18), the effect is produced. End the related processing.

In S20, the reel stop notification determined to be executed in S18 is terminated.

[Transition of production during non-AT]
Next, with reference to FIG. 17, the transition of the main effects during non-AT will be described. As shown in FIG. 17 (a), when the button effect is being executed and 3 minutes have passed without the stop switch being operated (YES in S4 of FIG. 16), as shown in FIG. 17 (a), The execution of the button effect is continued, and the reel stop notification is executed (S6). When both the button effect and the reel stop notification are executed (YES in S9 and YES in S10) and the effect switch is operated (YES in S8), the button is as shown in FIG. 17 (c). The effect is switched from the effect to the chance effect, and the reel stop notification is terminated (S14 in FIG. 16). As a result, it is possible to prevent the chance effect from being hindered by the reel stop notification.

[About production-related processing during AT]
Next, the effect-related processing during AT will be described with reference to FIG. Comparing FIG. 18 and FIG. 16, FIG. 18 shows that the “reel stop notification” in FIG. 16 is replaced by the “sound output stop control”, and the step number in FIG. 18 is 100 in the step number in FIG. Both drawings are different in that they are the values obtained by adding, and are the same in other parts.

The effect-related process is a process executed by the sub-control unit 91 during AT. Further, the effect-related processing is a timer interrupt processing executed at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 0.56 ms).

First, in S102, it is determined whether or not the sound output stop control is executed. Regarding this determination, it may be determined whether or not the sound output stop control flag is stored in the RAM 91c. Specifically, when the sound output stop control flag is stored in the RAM 91c, it is determined that the sound output stop control is being executed. On the other hand, when the sound output stop control flag is not stored in the RAM 91c, it is determined that the sound output stop control is not executed.

In S102, if it is determined that the sound output stop control is being executed (YES in S102), the process proceeds to S108, and if it is determined that the sound output stop control is not being executed (NO in S102). , S104.

In S104, it is determined whether or not 3 minutes have elapsed without operating the stop switch since the lever was turned on. In S104, if it is determined that 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch since the lever was turned on (YES in S104), the process proceeds to S106. On the other hand, if it is determined that 3 minutes have not passed since the lever-on operation was performed (NO in S104), the process proceeds to S108.

In S106, the sound output stop control (see (c) of FIG. 20) is executed. Further, in S106, the sound output stop control is executed regardless of whether or not the button effect (see FIG. 20A) is executed. That is, when the button effect is not executed, only the sound output stop control is executed. On the other hand, when the button effect is executed, the sound output stop control is also executed while continuing the execution of the button effect (the state shown in FIG. 21 (d)). When the process of S106 is completed, the effect-related process is completed.

In S108, it is determined whether or not the operation on the effect switch 56 is detected. In S108, if it is determined that the operation on the effect switch 56 is detected (YES in S108), the process proceeds to S109, and if it is determined that the operation on the effect switch 56 is not detected (S108). NO), proceed to S116.

In S109, it is determined whether or not the button effect is being executed. If it is determined in S109 that the button effect has not been executed (NO in S109), the effect-related process ends. If it is determined in S109 that the button effect is being executed (YES in S109), the process proceeds to S110.

In S110, it is determined whether or not the sound output stop control is executed. If it is determined in S110 that the sound output stop control is not executed (NO in S110), the process proceeds to S112. If it is determined in S110 that the sound output stop control is being executed (YES in S110), the process proceeds to S114.

In S112, the button effect determined to be executed in S109 is terminated, and the chance effect is executed. That is, in S112, the button effect is switched to the chance effect. When the processing of S112 is completed, the production-related processing is completed.

In S114, the button effect determined to be executed in S109 is terminated, and the chance effect is executed. At the same time, the sound output stop control determined to be executed in S110 is terminated.

In S116, it is determined whether or not any of the stop switches 8L to 8R has been operated. In S116, when it is determined that any of the stop switches 8L to 8R has been operated (YES in S116), the process proceeds to S118, and when it is determined that any of the stop switches 8L to 8R has not been operated (in S116). NO), the production-related processing is completed.

In S118, it is determined whether or not the sound output stop control is executed. In S118, if it is determined that the sound output stop control is being executed (YES in S118), the process proceeds to S120, and if it is determined that the sound output stop control is not being executed (NO in S118). , End the production related processing.

In S120, the sound output stop control determined to be executed in S118 is terminated.

[Transition of production during AT]
Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the transition of the main effects during AT will be described. As shown in FIG. 19 (a), when the button effect is being executed and 3 minutes have passed without the stop switch being operated (YES in S104 of FIG. 18), as shown in FIG. 19 (a), While continuing the execution of the button effect, the sound output stop control for stopping the output of the button effect music is executed (S106). When both the button effect and the sound output stop control are being executed (YES in S109 and YES in S110) and the effect switch is operated (YES in S108), as shown in FIG. 19 (c). The button effect is switched to the chance effect, and the sound output stop control is terminated (outputs the chance effect song, S14 in FIG. 16). As a result, it is possible to prevent the chance production (output of the chance production music) from being hindered by the sound output stop control.

[About backup processing]
Next, the backup process will be described. In the present embodiment, both the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91 execute the backup process at predetermined time (for example, 0.56 ms). In the backup process, all the information stored in the RAM of the main control unit 41 is saved in the backup area for the main control unit 41, and all the information stored in the RAM 41c is backed up for the sub control unit 91. This is a process of saving to an area.

The information stored in the RAM of the main control unit 41 is, for example, a winning flag that can identify the winning combination when the internal lottery is executed, and can specify whether or not the reel is rotating for each of the three reels. Reel flag, AT flag that can identify that it is controlled by AT, RT flag that can identify the controlled RT state, and so on.

Further, the information stored in the RAM 91c includes, for example, a chance effect flag that can identify that the chance effect is being executed, a button effect flag that can identify that the button effect is being executed, and a reel stop notification. It is possible to identify the reel stop notification flag that can identify that the sound output is stopped, the sound output stop control flag that can specify that the sound output stop control is being executed, the AT flag, the RT flag, and other effects that are being executed. Includes production flags, etc.

The RT state is controlled by the main control unit 41, but each time the RT state is changed, the main control unit 41 issues an RT command capable of identifying the changed RT state as a sub control unit. Send to 91. Therefore, the sub control unit 91 can specify the RT state controlled by the main control unit 41.

Further, the AT is controlled by the main control unit 41, and when the main control unit 41 controls the AT, the main control unit 41 issues an AT command that can be identified to be controlled by the AT to the sub control unit 91. And send. Further, when the control to the AT is completed and the control to the non-AT is completed, the main control unit 41 transmits a non-AT command that can be identified to be controlled by the non-AT to the sub control unit 91. Therefore, the sub-control unit 91 can specify whether it is AT or non-AT.

Further, the backup area for the main control unit 41 may be a part of the RAM area of the main control unit 41, or may be a separate area from the RAM of the main control unit 41. Further, the backup area for the sub control unit 91 may be a part of the area of the RAM 91c, or may be an area different from the area of the RAM 91c.

By executing the backup process in this way, even if a sudden power failure (for example, a power failure) occurs, the information stored in the RAM of the main control unit 41 and the information stored in the RAM 41c can be stored. Can be protected.

Further, the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment has a backup power supply. Even when a power failure occurs, the backup power is supplied to the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91, so that the information stored in the backup area can be retained for a predetermined period.

As described above, when the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91 recover from the power failure, the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91 execute the reel stop notification and control the sound output based on the information and the flag saved in the backup area, as described later. Other than that, it is possible to control the state as before the power failure occurred. The recovery from the power failure is executed, for example, by turning on the power again.

[Processing when recovering from power failure during non-AT]
Next, with reference to FIG. 20, a power failure recovery process executed by the sub-control unit 91 when a power failure (for example, a power failure) occurs during non-AT and the power is restored from the power failure will be described. In FIGS. 20A to 20D, button effect, chance effect, reel stop notification, reel stop notification and button effect (hereinafter, may be referred to as "reel stop notification + button effect") are executed, respectively. It is a figure which shows that.

Regardless of whether any of these effects or notifications is executed, as shown in FIG. 20 (e), the sub-control unit 91 has a common state for the display of the liquid crystal display 51 as a process for recovering from a power failure. Hereinafter, it is controlled to "common display state"). Here, the common display state is a state in which none of the button effect, the chance effect, and the reel stop notification is executed. In the present embodiment, the common display state is a state in which no effect is executed and only a background image described later is displayed. Here, the background image is displayed on the first layer (not shown). The effect image is displayed on the second layer on the front side of the first layer. The effect image is an image displayed by the effect executed by the sub control unit 91, for example, a ally character or an enemy character displayed in the battle effect. In this way, the background image is an image independent of the effect image.

As a modification, the background image may be an image included in the effect image. Further, as a modification, the common display state may be a state in which a predetermined image (for example, a predetermined character) is displayed in addition to the background image.

Further, although not particularly shown, if a power failure occurs when neither of these effects or notifications is executed, the common display state may be controlled even when the power failure is restored.

The background image includes a corresponding image and a landscape image. First, the corresponding image will be described. The corresponding image is an image in which there is a one-to-one correspondence with the RT state (see FIG. 8 and the like) that was controlled before the power failure (see the * 1 mark in FIG. 20 (e)). In this embodiment, the corresponding images corresponding to RT0, RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4, and bonus are "cloud", "sun", "crescent moon", "sunset", "snow", and "thunder". ..

Here, based on the RT flag stored in the backup area, after the power failure is restored, the RT state is controlled to be the same as the RT state before the power failure (immediately before the power failure occurs). That is, the RT state before the power failure and the RT state after the power failure are restored are the same. Therefore, when the player recovers from the power failure, the player visually recognizes the corresponding image included in the background image to change the RT state (= RT state controlled before the power failure) after the power failure is restored. I can grasp it. Further, as will be described in FIG. 20 (g), the corresponding image is deleted after 3 games from the game in which the power failure is restored.

The landscape image includes a mountain landscape image, a river landscape image, a house landscape image, a castle landscape image, and the like. The landscape image is an image that changes according to the progress of the game. For example, a landscape image is an image that changes according to the transition of the RT state. However, unlike the corresponding image, the landscape image does not have a one-to-one correspondence with the RT state. Specifically, at RT3, RT1, or RT0, a mountain landscape image is displayed, at RT0 or RT2, a river landscape image is displayed, and at RT2 or RT4, a house landscape image is displayed. .. At the time of the bonus, the landscape image of the castle is displayed. Further, the landscape image is an image that is always displayed on the liquid crystal display 51, unlike the corresponding image. Therefore, the player cannot reliably identify the RT state from the landscape image when the corresponding image is not displayed, but can predict it.

In the example of FIG. 20 (e), the landscape image of the mountain is displayed before the power failure (in FIGS. 20 (a) to (d), the description of the landscape image of the mountain is omitted), and Since it was controlled by RT1, the background image including the "mountain landscape image 514" and the "sun corresponding image 512" is displayed after the power failure is restored.

Next, FIG. 20 (f) will be described. By the way, as shown in FIGS. 20 (a) to 20 (d), when a power failure occurs during the rotation of all three reels, even when the power failure is restored, as shown in FIG. 20 (e). In addition, the three reels return in a rotating state. As explained in the [About backup processing] column, the information to be saved in the backup area includes a reel flag that can specify whether or not the reel is rotating for each of the three reels. At the time of power recovery, the main control unit 41 is based on performing reel control based on the reel flag stored in the backup area.

It should be noted that a power failure occurs in a state where one of the three reels is rotating, and when the power is restored from the power failure, the reel is restored in a state where the reel is rotating. Further, a power failure occurs in a state where two of the three reels are rotating, and when the power failure is restored, the two reels are restored in a rotating state. Further, a power failure occurs when all three reels are stopped, and when the power is restored from the power failure, all the reels are returned in a stopped state.

As shown by the * 2 mark in FIG. 20 (f), the game recovers from the power failure while all three reels are rotating, and the timing of the power recovery recovery (for example, the operation of the stop switch is effective). Even if 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch, the reel stop notification is not executed and the common display state (in the example of FIG. 20 (f), the landscape image of the mountain and the sun) The state in which the corresponding image is displayed) is maintained.

Next, FIG. 20 (g) will be described. The corresponding image is displayed together with the landscape image for a predetermined period from the game in which the power is restored. After the lapse of a predetermined period, as shown in FIG. 20 (g), the corresponding image is not displayed, while the display of the landscape image (in the example of FIG. 20, the landscape image of the mountain) is maintained. In the example of FIG. 20, the predetermined period is between three games including the game that has recovered from the power failure. Specifically, three games including the game that has returned to power failure are digested, and the display of the corresponding image ends when the lever-on operation of the fourth game is performed. As a modification, the predetermined period may be a period of another number of games (for example, 5 games). Further, the predetermined period may not be based on the number of games but may be based on time (for example, 5 minutes).

[Processing when recovering from power failure during AT]
Next, with reference to FIG. 21, a power failure recovery process executed by the sub-control unit 91 when a power failure (for example, a power failure) occurs during AT and recovers from the power failure will be described. 21 (a) to (d) show button effect, chance effect, sound output stop control, sound output stop control, and button effect (hereinafter, may be referred to as "sound output stop control + button effect"). Is a diagram showing that is being executed.

Regardless of whether any of these effects or notifications is executed, as shown in FIG. 21 (e), the sub-control unit 91 changes the state of the liquid crystal display 51 to a common display state as a process for recovering from a power failure. Control. Further, in the common display state during AT, the corresponding image is displayed, and the corresponding music corresponding to the RT state (see FIG. 8 and the like) controlled before the power failure is output on a one-to-one basis (FIG. 21). See * 1 mark in (e)).

In the present embodiment, the corresponding music corresponding to each of RT0, RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4, and bonus is RT0 music, RT1 music, RT2 music, RT3 music, RT4 music, and bonus music. When the player recovers from the power failure, at least one of listening to the output corresponding music and visually recognizing the corresponding image included in the background image, the RT state controlled before the power failure, That is, it is possible to grasp the RT state that is controlled after the power failure is restored. Further, as will be described in FIG. 21 (g), the output of the corresponding music and the display of the corresponding image are stopped three games after the game after the power failure is restored.

In the common display state of FIG. 21 (e), the landscape image of the house is displayed before the power failure (in FIGS. 21 (a) to (d), the description of the landscape image of the house is omitted. Since it was controlled by RT2, a background image including "house landscape image 518" and "crescent moon corresponding image 516" is displayed after the power failure is restored.

Next, FIG. 21 (f) will be described. As shown by the * 2 mark in FIG. 21 (f), the game recovers from the power failure while all three reels are rotating, and the timing of the power recovery recovery (for example, the operation of the stop switch is effective). Even if 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch, the sound output stop control is not executed. At the same time, the output of the RT2 music is maintained, and the common display state (in the example of FIG. 21 (f), the state in which the landscape image of the house and the corresponding image of the sun are displayed) is also maintained.

Next, FIG. 21 (g) will be described. The output of the corresponding music and the display of the corresponding image are maintained together with the landscape image for a predetermined period (3 games in the example of FIG. 21) from the game in which the power failure is restored. After the lapse of a predetermined period, as shown in FIG. 21 (g), the output of the corresponding music and the display of the corresponding image are finished, while the display of the landscape image (in the example of FIG. 21, the landscape image of the house) is maintained. ..

[Main effects obtained by this embodiment]
Next, the main effects obtained by the present embodiment will be described.

(1) According to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20 (d), both the reel stop notification and the button effect can be executed during non-AT. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 17A, the reel stop notification can be executed even when 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch since the lever-on operation was performed during the execution of the button effect. .. As a result, an operation different from the operation of advancing the game (operation to the effect switch 56) can be urged, and the reel can be stopped.

Further, as shown in FIG. 17 (a), when both the reel stop notification and the button effect are executed (YES in both S9 and S10), when the effect switch is operated (YES in S8). , As shown in FIG. 17 (c), the button effect is switched to the chance effect, and the reel stop notification is terminated (S14).

As a result, it is possible to prevent the chance effect from being hindered by the reel stop notification, and thus it is possible to prevent the player from being dissatisfied due to the hindrance of the chance effect.

(2) Further, as shown in FIGS. 20A and 20C, the power failure occurs even when either the chance effect or the reel stop notification is executed before the power failure. When the power is restored from the power failure, the control is controlled to a common display state (see FIG. 20 (e)) in which neither the chance effect nor the reel stop notification is executed. Therefore, for example, a slot machine that controls different display states depending on whether it returns when the chance effect is executed before the power failure and when it returns when the reel stop notification is executed before the power failure. Compared with, the processing load at the time of recovery from power failure can be reduced.

(3) Further, as shown in FIGS. 20 (c) and 20 (d), even when either the reel stop notification or the reel stop notification + button effect is executed before the power failure, the electric power is transmitted. When a power failure occurs and the power is recovered from the power failure, the control is performed in a common display state (see FIG. 20 (e)) in which neither the chance effect nor the reel stop notification is executed. Therefore, for example, when the reel stop notification is executed before the power failure and the display state is restored, and when the reel stop notification + button effect is executed before the power failure, the display state is different. Compared to the slot machine to be controlled, the processing load at the time of recovery from power failure can be reduced.

(4) Further, as shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, the power failure occurs regardless of whether the button effect or the chance effect is executed before the power failure. When it recovers from the power failure, it is controlled to the common display state (see FIG. 20 (e)) in which neither the chance effect nor the button effect is executed. Therefore, for example, a slot machine that controls different display states depending on whether it returns when the button effect is executed before the power failure and when it returns when the chance effect is executed before the power failure. In comparison, the processing load at the time of recovery from power failure can be reduced.

(5) Further, as shown in FIGS. 20A and 20C, both the button effect and the reel stop notification are commonly executed by using the liquid crystal display 51. Therefore, the number of parts of the means (hardware) for executing the button effect and the reel stop notification can be reduced.

(6) Further, as shown in FIGS. 20A and 20C, both the chance effect and the reel stop notification are commonly executed by using the liquid crystal display 51. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced by sharing the means (hardware) for executing the chance effect and the reel stop notification. Further, even if the means (hardware) for executing the chance effect and the reel stop notification are standardized, the chance effect can be prevented from being hindered by the reel stop notification.

(7) Further, as shown in FIG. 21 (d), both the sound output stop control and the button effect can be executed during AT. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 19A, the sound output stop control can be executed even when 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch since the lever was turned on during the execution of the button effect. is there. As a result, an operation different from the operation of advancing the game (operation to the effect switch 56) can be urged, and the reel can be stopped.

Further, as shown in FIG. 19A, when both the sound output stop control and the button effect are executed (YES in both S109 and S110), when the effect switch is operated (YES in S108). ), As shown in FIG. 19 (c), the button effect is switched to the chance effect, and the sound output stop control is terminated (S114).

As a result, it is possible to prevent the chance production (output of the chance production music output during the chance production) from being hindered by the sound output stop control, so that the player is dissatisfied with the hindrance of the chance production. It can be prevented from being squeezed.

(8) Further, as shown in FIGS. 21 (a) and 21 (c), the button effect is executed by outputting the button effect music using the speakers 53 and 54. Therefore, the number of parts of the means (hardware) for executing the button effect and the sound output stop control can be reduced.

(9) Further, as shown in FIGS. 21 (a) and 21 (c), the chance effect is executed by outputting the chance effect music using the speakers 53 and 54. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced by sharing the means (hardware) for executing the chance effect and the sound output stop control. Further, even if the means (hardware) for executing the chance effect and the sound output stop control are standardized, the chance effect (output of the chance effect music) can be prevented from being hindered by the sound output stop control.

(10) Further, as shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, even when either the button effect or the chance effect was executed before the power failure, the power was restored from the power failure. Occasionally, it is controlled to a common display state (see FIG. 21 (e)) in which neither the chance effect nor the button effect is executed. Therefore, for example, a slot machine that controls different display states depending on whether it returns when the button effect is executed before the power failure and when it returns when the chance effect is executed before the power failure. In comparison, the processing load at the time of recovery from power failure can be reduced.

(11) Further, as shown in FIG. 21 (c), even when the sound output stop control was executed before the power failure, the sound output stop control is executed when the power is restored from the power failure. Control to no state (see FIG. 21 (e)). If a power failure occurs while the sound output stop control is being executed, and if the sound output stop control is controlled to be executed when the power is restored from the power failure, the sound output stop control is executed. There is a risk of causing confusion for the player due to the recovery from the power failure in the state. The confusion is, for example, "I have recovered from the power failure, but the music during AT has not been output, so it may have failed." In addition, if the game is unavoidably stopped due to the occurrence of a power failure and the sound output stop control for prompting the reel to stop is executed when the power is restored, the player may feel uncomfortable. There is also.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the power is restored from the power failure, the sound output stop control is controlled so as not to be executed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from having such confusion and discomfort.

(12) Further, as shown in FIG. 20 (c), even when the reel stop notification is executed before the power failure, the reel stop notification is not executed when the power is restored from the power failure. To control. If a power failure occurs while the reel stop notification is being executed, and if the reel stop notification is controlled to be executed when the power is restored from the power failure, the reel stop notification is executed. There is a risk of causing confusion for the player due to the return. The confusion is, for example, "I have recovered from the power failure, but the characters such as" Please stop the reel "are displayed, so it may have failed." In addition, if the game is unavoidably stopped due to the power failure and the reel stop notification prompting the reel to stop is executed when the power is restored, the player may feel uncomfortable. is there.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the power is restored from the power failure, the reel stop notification is controlled so as not to be executed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from having such confusion and discomfort.

(13) Further, the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91 execute backup processing by timer interrupt processing in preparation for a sudden power failure or the like. By the backup process, all the information stored in the RAM of the main control unit 41 and all the information stored in the RAM 91c are saved in a predetermined backup area. Here, all the information stored in the RAM 91c includes a reel stop notification flag and the like that can identify that the reel stop notification is being executed. As described above, in the backup process, the information stored in the RAM and the RAM 91c of the main control unit 41 is stored in the backup area without being selected. Therefore, in the slot machine of the present embodiment, the process of selecting the information stored in the RAM and the RAM 91c of the main control unit 41 can be reduced, so that the information stored in the RAM and the RAM 91c of the main control unit 41 is selected. Compared to a slot machine that stores in the backup area, the processing load of backup processing can be reduced.

Further, in the present embodiment, the reel stop notification flag is stored in the backup area, but when the power failure is restored, the reel stop notification is controlled so as not to be executed (see (c) and (e) of FIGS. 20). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from having the above-mentioned confusion and discomfort. The reel stop notification flag stored in the backup area is not used.

(14) The information stored in the backup area also includes an RT flag that can identify the controlled RT state. Further, when recovering from the power failure, the RT state specified from the RT flag is controlled. Therefore, even when a power failure occurs and the power is recovered from the power failure, the game in the RT state before the power failure can be provided.

As shown in FIGS. 20 (e) and 20 (f), at the time of recovery from power failure, a background image including a corresponding image corresponding to the RT state controlled before recovery from power failure is displayed. Here, this corresponding image is displayed only for a predetermined period (three games in this embodiment) from the time when a power failure such as a power failure occurs, and is normally not displayed. Further, when a sudden power failure (power failure or the like) occurs during the game, the display of the liquid crystal display 51 becomes black or the rotating reel stops. Therefore, even if the game can be continued due to the recovery of the power failure, the player may feel distrust.

Therefore, when the power failure is restored, by displaying a corresponding image that is not normally displayed, the player can grasp the RT state that could not be grasped before the power failure occurred, that is, the RT state after the power failure is restored. It is possible to give the player a privilege of being able to grasp the image. It can be said that this privilege is an apology for the occurrence of the power failure.

(15) Further, as shown in FIG. 20 (f), in a game in which the three reels are rotated and the game recovers from the power failure, even if three minutes have passed without the stop switch being operated from the timing of the recovery. The reel stop notification is not executed. In this way, the reason why the reel stop notification is not executed will be described. In a game that has recovered from a power failure, the player may have anxiety such as "whether the game progresses properly". This feeling of anxiety is, for example, "In a game that has recovered from a power failure, even if three reels are stopped and some role is won, control according to the winning may not be executed." .. The "control according to the winning" is, for example, a control that executes a medal payout process according to the small winning combination when the small winning combination is won, and does not consume the medal when the replay is winning. It is a control that gives a playable replay, and is a control that shifts to a bonus state when a bonus is won.

When the player has such anxiety, even if the three reels are rotating, hesitates to operate the stop switch, and as a result, stops from the timing when the power is restored. 3 minutes may pass without the switch being operated. Even in such a case, if the reel stop notification is executed, the player may be confused.

Therefore, in the game in which all three reels are rotating and the game recovers from the power failure, the sub control unit 91 does not execute the reel stop notification even if three minutes have passed without operating the stop switch. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from being confused.

(16) Further, as shown in FIG. 21 (c), even when the sound output stop control was executed before the power failure, the sound output stop control is executed when the power is restored from the power failure. Control to no state. If a power failure occurs while the sound output stop control is being executed, and if the sound output stop control is controlled to be executed when the power is restored from the power failure, the sound output stop control is executed. There is a risk of causing confusion for the player due to the recovery from the power failure in the state. The confusion is, for example, "I have recovered from the power failure, but the music during AT has not been output, so it may have failed." In addition, if the game is unavoidably stopped due to the occurrence of a power failure and the sound output stop control for prompting the reel to stop is executed when the power is restored, the player may feel uncomfortable. There is also.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the power is restored from the power failure, the sound output stop control is controlled so as not to be executed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from having such confusion and discomfort.

(17) Further, the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91 execute backup processing by timer interrupt processing in preparation for a sudden power failure or the like. By the backup process, all the information stored in the RAM of the main control unit 41 and all the information stored in the RAM 91c are saved in a predetermined backup area. Here, all the information stored in the RAM 91c includes a sound output stop flag and the like that can identify that the sound output stop is being executed. As described above, in the backup process, the information stored in the RAM and the RAM 91c of the main control unit 41 is stored in the backup area without being selected. Therefore, in the slot machine of the present embodiment, the process of selecting the information stored in the RAM and the RAM 91c of the main control unit 41 can be reduced, so that the information stored in the RAM and the RAM 91c of the main control unit 41 is selected. Compared to a slot machine that stores in the backup area, the processing load of backup processing can be reduced.

Further, in the present embodiment, the sound output stop flag is stored in the backup area, but when the power is restored, the sound output stop is controlled so as not to be executed (see (c) and (e) of FIG. 21). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from having the above-mentioned confusion and discomfort. The sound output stop flag stored in the backup area is not used.

(18) The information stored in the backup area also includes an RT flag that can identify the controlled RT state. Further, when recovering from the power failure, the RT state specified from the RT flag is controlled. Therefore, even when a power failure occurs and the power is recovered from the power failure, the game in the RT state before the power failure can be provided.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 21 (e) and 21 (f), when the power is restored, the corresponding music corresponding to the RT state controlled before the power is restored is output. Here, this corresponding music is output only for a predetermined period from the time when a power failure such as a power failure occurs, and is normally not output information. When a sudden power failure (power failure, etc.) occurs during the game, the display on the liquid crystal display 51 turns black or the rotating reel stops. Even if the game can be continued due to the recovery of the power failure, the player may feel distrust.

Therefore, when the power failure is restored, by outputting the corresponding music, the player can grasp the RT state that could not be grasped before the power failure, that is, the RT state after the power failure is restored. Can be given to the player. It can be said that this privilege is an apology for the occurrence of the power failure.

(19) Further, as shown in FIG. 21 (f), in a game in which the three reels are rotated and the game recovers from the power failure, even if three minutes have passed without the stop switch being operated from the timing of the recovery. Does not execute sound output stop control. The reason why the sound output stop control is not executed will be described in this way. In a game that has recovered from a power failure, the player may have anxiety such as "whether the game progresses properly". This feeling of anxiety is, for example, "In a game that has recovered from a power failure, even if three reels are stopped and some role is won, control according to the winning may not be executed." .. The "control according to the winning" is, for example, a control that executes a medal payout process according to the small winning combination when the small winning combination is won, and does not consume the medal when the replay is winning. It is a control that gives a playable replay, and is a control that shifts to a bonus state when a bonus is won.

When the player has such anxiety, even if the three reels are rotating, hesitates to operate the stop switch, and as a result, stops from the timing when the power is restored. 3 minutes may pass without the switch being operated. Even in such a case, if the sound output stop control is executed, the player may be confused.

Therefore, in the game in which all three reels are rotating and the game recovers from the power failure, the sub control unit 91 does not execute the sound output stop control even if the stop switch is not operated for 3 minutes. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from being confused.

[About modification]
Although examples of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to these examples. The present invention is not limited to the above examples, and various modifications and applications are possible. Hereinafter, modifications and the like applicable to the present invention will be described. Further, at least two of the technical items described in the above-described present embodiment and the technical items described in the following modification may be combined and implemented, and the technical items described in the above-mentioned present embodiment may be implemented. May be carried out by substituting with the technical matters described in the following modified example, and the technical items described in the following modified example may be further combined and carried out with respect to the replaced one. .. Hereinafter, a modified example of the slot machine will be mainly described, but it can also be applied to a pachinko gaming machine.

[About the effect and control executed by the sub control unit 91]
(1) FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the effect-related processing during non-AT of this modification. In FIG. 22, S5 is added between S4 and S6 in FIG. 16, and S10 and S14 in FIG. 16 are deleted, as compared with the flowchart of FIG.

S5 is executed when YES is determined in the process of S4. In S5, it is determined whether or not the button effect is being executed. If it is determined in S5 that the button effect has not been executed (NO in S5), the process proceeds to S6. In S6, the reel stop notification is executed. Further, in S5, when it is determined that the button effect is being executed (YES in S5), the effect-related process is terminated.

In the present embodiment, it has been described that the reel stop notification can be executed together with the button effect (see FIG. 20 (d)). However, as in the present modification shown in FIG. 22, in the state where the button effect is executed (YES in S5), the reel stop notification may not be executed (the configuration cannot be executed). According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the button effect from being hindered by the reel stop notification.

(2) FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the effect-related processing during AT of this modification. In FIG. 23, S105 is added between S104 and S106 in FIG. 16, and S110 and S114 in FIG. 16 are deleted, as compared with the flowchart of FIG.

S105 is executed when YES is determined in the process of S104. In S105, it is determined whether or not the button effect is being executed. If it is determined in S105 that the button effect is not executed (NO in S105), the process proceeds to S106. In S106, the sound output stop control is executed. Further, in S105, when it is determined that the button effect is being executed (YES in S105), the effect-related process is terminated.

In the present embodiment, it has been described that the sound output stop control can be executed together with the button effect (see FIG. 21 (d)). However, as in the present modification shown in FIG. 23, in the state where the button effect is executed (YES in S105), the sound output stop control may not be executed (the configuration cannot be executed). According to such a configuration, the sound output stop control can prevent the button effect (output of the button effect music) from being hindered.

(3) In the present embodiment, it has been described that both the button effect and the reel stop notification are commonly executed by using the liquid crystal display 51. However, at least a part of the means used for executing the button effect and the means used for executing the reel stop notification may be common. For example, the liquid crystal display 51 and the effect LED 52 may be used to execute the button effect, and the liquid crystal display 51 and the speakers 53 and 54 may be used to execute the reel stop notification. With such a configuration, at least the liquid crystal display 51 is common to the means used for executing the button effect and the means used for executing the reel stop notification. Therefore, the number of parts of the means (hardware) for executing the button effect and the reel stop notification can be reduced as much as possible.

(4) In the present embodiment, it has been described that both the chance effect and the reel stop notification are commonly executed by using the liquid crystal display 51. However, at least a part of the means used for executing the chance effect and the means used for executing the reel stop notification may be common. For example, the liquid crystal display 51 and the effect LED 52 may be used in the execution of the chance effect, and the liquid crystal display 51 and the speakers 53 and 54 may be used in the execution of the reel stop notification. With such a configuration, at least the liquid crystal display 51 is common to the means used for executing the chance effect and the means used for executing the reel stop notification. Therefore, the number of parts of the means (hardware) for executing the chance effect and the reel stop notification can be reduced as much as possible.

(5) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the button effect is executed by using the liquid crystal display 51 and the speakers 53 and 54. However, the button effect may be executed using only the speakers 53 and 54, and may be executed without using other means (such as the liquid crystal display 51 and the effect LED 52). In such a case, the processing load of executing the button effect can be reduced. Further, even if the button effect is executed using only the speakers 53 and 54, it is possible to prevent the button effect (output of the button effect music) from being hindered by the reel stop notification or the sound output stop control.

Further, if the speakers 53 and 54 are used, the button effect may be executed by using an effect means different from that of the liquid crystal display 51, for example, the effect LED 52.

(6) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the chance effect is executed by using the liquid crystal display 51 and the speakers 53 and 54. However, the chance effect may be executed using only the speakers 53 and 54, and may be executed without using other means (such as the liquid crystal display 51 and the effect LED 52). In such a case, the processing burden of executing the chance effect can be reduced. Further, even if the chance effect is executed using only the speakers 53 and 54, it is possible to prevent the chance effect (output of the chance effect music) from being hindered by the reel stop notification or the sound output stop control.

Further, if the speakers 53 and 54 are used, the chance effect may be performed by using an effect means different from that of the liquid crystal display 51, for example, the effect LED 52.

(7) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the sub-control unit 91 can execute button effect, chance effect, reel stop notification, sound output stop control, and the like. The sub-control unit 91 can execute other effects (hereinafter, referred to as "specific effects"). The specific effect may be completed in one game, or may be an effect executed over a plurality of games. The execution condition of the specific effect may be, for example, a condition that is satisfied when the specific combination is won, a condition that is satisfied when the specific combination wins a prize, or a condition that is satisfied by digesting a predetermined number of games. ..

As an example of a specific effect completed in one game, for example, an effect of displaying a character according to an internal lottery result may be used. This specific effect may be an effect of displaying a yellow character reminiscent of the bell at the timing when the bell is elected. Further, as an example of a specific effect executed over a plurality of games, a battle effect may be used. In the battle production, if the ally character and the enemy character execute a battle and the ally character wins, benefits such as navigation stock are given, and if the enemy character wins, the privilege is not given. Is.

Further, regardless of whether the power is not AT or AT, even when the specific effect is being executed before the power failure, when the power failure occurs and the power failure is restored, the power failure occurs. It is preferable to control to a common display state (see FIG. 20 (e)) in which the previously executed specific effect is not executed. Therefore, for example, a slot machine that controls different display states when it returns when the reel stop notification is executed before the power failure and when it returns when the specific effect is executed before the power failure. Compared with, the processing load at the time of recovery from power failure can be reduced.

(8) In the present embodiment, reel stop notification and sound output stop control have been described as reel stop promotion control for promoting reel stop. However, the reel stop promotion control may be as follows.

As the first reel stop promotion control, the volume of the music output during AT (for example, the music during AT) is not set to zero as in the sound output stop control, but the volume of the music during AT is lowered compared to the normal time. The volume reduction control may be executed. Here, the normal time is a time when the volume reduction control is not executed. In this way, even if the volume reduction control is executed as the reel stop promotion control, it is possible to encourage the player to stop the reel.

Further, as the second reel stop promotion control, the speakers 53 and 54 may be used to execute the promotion voice output control for outputting a voice such as "Please stop the reel". Even if the promotion voice output control is executed as the reel stop promotion control, it is possible to encourage the player to stop the reel.

Further, at least one of the first reel stop promotion control and the second reel stop promotion control (hereinafter, referred to as "predetermined reel stop promotion control") may be executed together with the button effect. When both the predetermined reel stop promotion control and the button effect are executed, when the effect switch 56 is operated, the executed predetermined reel stop promotion control may be terminated. As a result, the chance production (output of the chance production music) can be prevented from being hindered by the predetermined reel stop promotion control.

Further, in the state where the button effect is being executed, the configuration may be such that the predetermined reel stop promotion control is not executed (the configuration cannot be executed). According to such a configuration, the button effect (output of the button effect music) can be prevented from being hindered by the predetermined reel stop promotion control.

(9) Further, the following control can be executed as the reel stop promotion control. As the third reel stop promotion control, the light emission reduction control for reducing the light emission amount of at least one of the effect LED 52 and the reel LED 55 (hereinafter, referred to as “predetermined LED”) is executed. You may do so. Even if the light emission reduction control is executed as the reel stop promotion control, it is possible to encourage the player to stop the reel.

Further, as the fourth reel stop promotion control, the light emission stop control for stopping the light emission of the LED (the effect LED 52 and at least one of the reel LED 55) may be executed. Even if the light emission stop control is executed as the reel stop promotion control, it is possible to encourage the player to stop the reel. Hereinafter, at least one of the third reel stop promotion control and the fourth reel stop promotion control is referred to as "specific reel stop promotion control".

Further, the slot machine may execute the chance effect by causing a predetermined LED to emit light in a specific mode, and may execute both the button effect and the specific reel stop notification control. If a specific reel stop promotion control is executed while the chance effect is being executed, the chance effect (light emission of a predetermined LED during the chance effect) is hindered. Therefore, in this modification, when both the button effect and the specific reel stop notification control are executed, when the effect switch 56 is operated, the button effect is switched to the chance effect and the specific reel is stopped. Terminate the notification control. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the chance effect (light emission during the chance effect) from being hindered by the specific reel stop promotion control.

Further, the slot machine is configured to execute the button effect by causing a predetermined LED to emit light in a specific mode, and does not execute a specific reel stop promotion control in a state where the button effect is executed (a configuration that cannot be executed). ) May be used. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the button effect (light emission during the button effect) from being hindered by the specific reel stop promotion control.

(10) In the present embodiment, as the reel stop promotion control, the reel stop notification is executed during non-AT, and the sound output stop control is executed during AT. However, the sound output stop control may be executed during non-AT. Further, the reel stop notification may be executed during AT. In the present embodiment, the reason why the sound output stop control is not executed during the non-AT is that the music is output less frequently during the non-AT, so even if the sound output stop control is executed, the player is informed. This is because it may not be possible to effectively promote the stopping of the reel.

Generally, during non-AT, no music is always output, but a specific effect or the like may be executed, and during the execution of the specific effect, the specific effect music is output. In a configuration in which the sound output stop control can be executed during non-AT, the output of the specific effect music can be stopped by executing the sound output stop control when the specific effect is being executed. , It is possible to encourage the player to stop the reel.

Further, both the reel stop notification and the sound output stop control may be executed as the reel stop promotion control during non-AT and at least one of AT. In addition, one of the reel stop notification and the sound output stop control is executed at the first timing when a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed without operating the stop switch from the time when the lever is turned on. The other may be executed at the first timing when a specific time (for example, 2 minutes) has elapsed without operating the stop switch from the first timing. According to such a configuration, the mode of the reel stop promotion control can be changed between the first timing and the second timing from the time when the lever is turned on, and the player is more strongly encouraged to stop the reel. Can be made to.

(11) The execution trigger for executing the reel stop promotion control of the present embodiment is "3 minutes have passed from the timing when the lever was turned on without operating the stop switch (hereinafter, referred to as" first execution trigger "." However, in the case of a slot machine having a plurality of reels (three in the present embodiment) as in the present embodiment, for example, S4 in FIG. 16 and S104 in FIG. 18 and the like). Is that the execution trigger for executing the reel stop promotion control may include the following second execution trigger in addition to the first execution trigger. In the following, N (N is an integer of 2 or more) In a slot machine equipped with the above reels, the operation of first stopping the reels after the rotation of all N reels is started by the lever-on operation is called the "first stop operation", and the second reel is stopped. The operation to stop the reel is called "second stop operation", the operation to stop the reel at the N-1th position is called "N-1 stop operation", and the operation to stop the reel at the Nth position is called "Nth stop operation". ..

The second execution trigger is "the operation of stopping the other rotating reels from the timing when the operation of stopping the reels is executed while two or more reels out of the N reels are rotating. A predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) has passed without being executed. " By including such a second execution trigger in the execution trigger when the reel stop promotion control is executed, for example, from the timing when the first stop operation is executed, the second stop operation is not executed for a predetermined time. When the lapse has passed, the sub control unit 91 executes the reel stop promotion control. As a result, it is possible to prevent the reels other than the reels stopped by the first stop operation executed from being left for a long time in a rotating state.

Similarly, when a predetermined time elapses without executing the n + 1 stop operation from the timing when the nth stop operation (integer satisfying 1 ≦ n <N) is executed, the sub control unit 91 controls the reel stop promotion. To execute. As a result, it is possible to prevent the reels other than the reels stopped by the nth stop operation executed from being left for a long time in a rotating state.

(12) In the present embodiment, the sub-control unit 91 has been described as displaying the assigned number of navigation stocks (including 0) after executing the chance effect for a predetermined time (5 seconds in the present embodiment). However, the number of navigation stocks granted may be displayed during the chance production. Further, the chance effect is not limited to the one that displays the characters "CHANGE", and may be an effect that displays other information. For example, the chance effect may be an effect of displaying a predetermined character.

(13) In the present embodiment, as an operation request effect, a button effect that requests the player to operate the effect switch 56 has been described. However, the operation request effect may be an effect that requires an operation to another operation means. For example, the operation to the other means is preferably "an operation other than the operation of advancing the game (for example, the operation of setting the number of bets, the lever-on operation, the operation of stopping the reel, etc.)". For example, the "operation to other means" may be "operation to the operation means (MAXBET switch 6 in this embodiment) for setting the bet number in the state where the bet number has already been set". .. In this case, the operation request effect is, for example, an effect of displaying characters such as "press the MAXBET switch" on the liquid crystal display 51.

Further, when the slot machine 1 is provided with a contact detection unit (for example, a touch panel) capable of detecting the contact of a part of the player's body (for example, a hand), the operation request effect is, for example, the contact detection unit. It may be an effect that requires the player to come into contact with the player. The contact detection unit may also be used as the liquid crystal display 51, or may be used at another location. When the contact detection unit is also used as the liquid crystal display 51, the operation request effect is an effect of displaying characters such as "touch the liquid crystal display" on the liquid crystal display 51.

Further, instead of the operation request effect that requires the player to operate the predetermined operation means, the operation request effect that requires the player to perform the "predetermined operation" may be executed. For example, when the slot machine 1 is provided with a voice recognition means capable of recognizing a voice uttered by a player, the operation request effect may be an effect of requesting the player to perform a “voice operation”. Specifically, the operation request effect that requires the "voice operation" is an effect of displaying characters such as "loud" on the liquid crystal display 51.

Further, when the slot machine 1 is provided with a sensor that detects a part of the player's body (for example, a hand), the operation request effect indicates to the player that "a part of the player's body is attached to the sensor. It may be an effect that requires "operation to be detected". Specifically, the operation request effect that requires "the operation of causing the sensor to detect a part of the player's body" is an effect of displaying characters such as "hold your hand over the sensor" on the liquid crystal display 51.

(14) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the sound output stop control can be executed at the time of AT. However, the period during which the sound output stop control can be executed is not limited to AT, and may be another period. The other period is preferably a period in which the music is frequently output. This is because it is possible to make the player clearly recognize that the reel stop is promoted by executing the sound output stop control during the period when the music is frequently output. The period in which the music is frequently output is, for example, a period in which the music is controlled in a bonus state (see FIG. 8).

(15) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the button effect music is continuously output from the speakers 53 and 54 during the button effect execution. However, the button effect music may not be continuously output during the button effect execution. When such a configuration is adopted, for example, when the button effect is started, the output of the music (hereinafter, referred to as “pre-execution music”) that has been output before the button effect is executed. May be continued and the button effect music may be output for a short time (for example, 3 seconds) at the start timing of the button effect. In this way, the button effect music that is output for a short time can be said to be a sound effect (hereinafter, referred to as "button effect start sound effect"). The button effect start sound effect is, for example, "Jajan". Further, while the button effect start sound effect is being output, the output of the pre-execution music is continued, and even after the output of the button effect start sound effect is completed (the button effect start sound effect is output for 3 seconds). Even after), the output of the pre-execution music continues.

That is, when the execution of the button effect is started, the button effect start sound effect is output for a predetermined time, and the pre-execution music is continuously output. Further, even during the output of the button effect start sound effect, the output of the pre-execution music continues (both the button effect start sound effect and the pre-execution music are output). In this way, by continuously outputting the pre-execution music and outputting the button effect start sound effect at the start timing of the button effect, the start of the button effect can be strongly impressed on the player, and the game can be played. You can improve your interest.

Next, when the button effect is such an effect, the relationship between the button effect and the sound output stop control will be described. During the period during which the sound output stop control can be executed (during AT in this embodiment), when a predetermined time (3 minutes) elapses without operating the stop switch from the time when the lever is turned on, the button effect start sound effect is generated. When both the pre-execution music and the pre-execution music are output, the output of both the button effect start sound effect and the pre-execution music is stopped by executing the sound output stop control. Also, when a predetermined time (3 minutes) has elapsed without operating the stop switch from the time when the lever is turned on, when the output of the button effect start sound effect ends and only the pre-execution music is output, before the execution. Stop the output of music.

Even if such a sound output stop is executed, it is possible to indirectly encourage the player to stop the reel (operate the stop switch), and the reel is left in a rotating state for a long time. This can be prevented as much as possible.

Further, in the case where both the button effect and the sound output stop control as in this modification are executed, when the effect switch is operated, the button effect is switched to the chance effect and the sound output stop control is performed. To finish. As a result, it is possible to prevent the chance production (output of the chance production music output during the chance production) from being hindered by the sound output stop control, so that the player is dissatisfied with the hindrance of the chance production. It can be prevented from being squeezed.

Further, in the state where the button effect as in this modification is executed, the sound output stop control may not be executed (the configuration cannot be executed) (see FIG. 23). According to such a configuration, the sound output stop control can prevent the button effect (output of the button effect music) from being hindered.

[About backup processing]
(1) In the present embodiment, the backup process is a process of storing all the information stored in the RAM 91c in the backup area, that is, a reel stop notification flag capable of identifying that the reel stop notification is being executed. Was also explained as being stored in the backup area. However, as a backup process, the reel stop notification flag may not be stored in the backup area. According to such a configuration, when a power failure occurs while the reel stop notification is being executed, it is possible to reliably control the state in which the reel stop notification is not executed when the power is restored from the power failure. it can. Further, the load of the backup process can be reduced and the capacity of the backup area can be reduced.

(2) In the present embodiment, the backup process is a process of storing all the information stored in the RAM 91c in the backup area, that is, the sound output stop that can identify that the sound output stop control is being executed. It was explained that the control flag is also stored in the backup area. However, as a backup process, the sound output stop control flag may not be stored in the backup area. According to such a configuration, when the sound output stop control is being executed and a power failure occurs, the sound output stop control is surely controlled to the state where the sound output stop control is not executed when the power failure is recovered. be able to. Further, the load of the backup process can be reduced and the capacity of the backup area can be reduced.

(3) In the present embodiment, the backup process has been described as a timer interrupt process. However, the backup process may execute the following process instead of the timer interrupt process. For example, at the timing when a power failure occurs, the main control unit 41 stores the information stored in the RAM of the main control unit in the backup area of the main control unit. At the same time, the main control unit 41 transmits a power interruption command capable of identifying that the power failure has occurred to the sub control unit 91. The sub-control unit 91 stores the information stored in the RAM 91c when the power interruption command is received in the backup area for the sub-control unit 91.

Further, when a power failure occurs, the backup power is supplied to the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91, so that the backup process can be executed at the timing when the power failure occurs. According to such a configuration, since it is not necessary to perform the backup process by the timer interrupt process, the load of the timer interrupt process can be reduced.

[Processing when recovering from power failure]
(1) In the present embodiment, the RT state before the power failure is a state that can be predicted by the player from the landscape image before the power failure (when the corresponding image is not displayed), but cannot be reliably specified. Explained as a state. However, the RT state before the power failure may be a state that can be reliably specified by the player. For example, in the present embodiment, the landscape image that is always displayed does not have a one-to-one correspondence with the controlled RT state, but the landscape image has a one-to-one correspondence with the controlled RT state. It may be configured as such. That is, both the landscape image and the corresponding image have a one-to-one correspondence with the controlled RT state.

According to such a configuration, when the power failure is restored, both the corresponding image and the landscape image are displayed, so that the player can change the controlled RT state (state specified by the player) before the power failure. You can reconfirm. Further, when the landscape image has a configuration in which there is a one-to-one correspondence with the controlled RT state, when the power failure is restored, the corresponding image is not displayed as the background image and only the landscape image is displayed. May be good. According to such a configuration, it is possible to make the player reconfirm the RT state that was controlled before the power failure by displaying only the landscape image, and it is possible to reduce the burden of the display processing of the corresponding image.

(2) In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 20 (e) and 21 (e), the “state before the power failure to be grasped by the player by displaying the corresponding image and outputting the corresponding music” is RT. It was in a state. However, the "state before the power failure to be grasped by the player by displaying the corresponding image and outputting the corresponding music" may be another state. For example, the other state may be any of the non-AT and AT states. When it is non-AT, the navigation effect is not executed, and when it is AT, the navigation effect is not executed. Therefore, the player can identify whether it is non-AT or AT at least depending on the presence or absence of the navigation effect. Therefore, the player can reconfirm whether the control was non-AT or AT control before the power failure by "displaying the corresponding image and outputting the corresponding music".

(3) Further, the "information to be grasped by the player by displaying the corresponding image and outputting the corresponding music" may be, for example, a set value. Here, the set value is a value that specifies the winning probability in the internal lottery. The set value consists of 6 levels from 1 to 6, with 6 having the highest degree of advantage for the player (higher medal payout rate), and the smaller the value in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 the lower the degree of advantage. (The medal payout rate will be lower). That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the advantage is highest for the player, and the smaller the value in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 is, the lower the advantage is. The set value may be set in 3 steps such as 1, 3, 6, 1, 4, H (High), or 7 steps 1 to 7, and is not limited to 6 steps. Further, in the normal state, the set value is not specified by the player.

In the case of such a configuration, as a process at the time of recovery from the power failure, a corresponding image having a one-to-one correspondence with the set value set before the power failure is displayed. As a result, as a privilege of apologizing for the occurrence of the power failure, the player can be made to grasp the set value before the power failure.

Further, the corresponding image does not have to have a complete one-to-one correspondence with the set value set before the power failure. For example, when the set value set before the power failure is 1 to 3, "rain" is displayed as the corresponding image, and the set value set before the power failure is 4 to 6. May display "sun" as a corresponding image. According to such a configuration, it is possible to make the player predict the set value before the power failure from the corresponding image displayed by the power failure recovery processing.

(4) Further, as shown in FIGS. 20 (f) and 21 (f), the game recovers from the power failure with all three reels rotating, and the timing of the power recovery (for example). , The timing when the operation of the stop switch became effective), it was explained that the reel stop notification or the sound output stop control is not executed in the situation where 3 minutes have passed without the operation of the stop switch. However, in such a situation, at least one of the reel stop notification and the sound output stop control may be executed.

As a specific control, the sub-control unit 91 starts the timing of the RTC 97 from the timing when the power failure is restored (for example, the timing when the operation of the stop switch becomes effective). After that, when it is determined that the time measurement result of RTC97 has reached 3 minutes without operating the stop switch, the reel stop notification or the sound output stop control may be executed.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the reel from being left for a long time in a rotating state in the game after the power failure is restored.

(5) In the present embodiment, it has been described that when a power failure occurs while the reel is rotating, the rotation of the reel is controlled to be maintained when the power is restored from the power failure (FIGS. 20 and 20). See FIG. 21). However, when a power failure occurs while the reel is rotating, when the power is restored from the power failure, the rotation of the reel is not maintained (that is, the reel is stopped). You may. According to such a configuration, in the backup process, the reel flag can be prevented from being stored in the backup area, so that the load on the backup process can be reduced and the capacity of the backup area can be reduced.

(6) Further, when a power failure occurs while the reel is stopped, when the power is restored from the power failure, the reel is restored in the stopped state. In a game that has recovered from a power failure, it is assumed that the stopped reel is rotated by a lever-on operation. When 3 minutes have passed without operating the stop switch from the lever-on operation, the reel stop promotion control may not be executed. As described above, the reason why the reel stop promotion control is not executed is as follows. In a game that has recovered from a power failure, the player may feel anxious about "whether the game progresses properly". In this case, even if the three reels are rotating, the stop switch is turned on. I hesitate to operate it, and as a result, 3 minutes may elapse without operating the stop switch from the timing when the power is restored. Even in such a case, if the reel stop notification is executed, the player may be confused. Therefore, in the game recovered from the power failure, the reel is rotated by the player's lever-on operation, and even if 3 minutes have passed without the stop switch being operated, the reel stop notification is not given, thereby confusing the player. It can be prevented from being stored.

(7) As shown in FIGS. 20 (e) and 21 (e), power is cut off regardless of which of button effect, chance effect, reel stop notification, and sound output stop control is being executed. It was explained that the common display state is controlled as the return processing. However, if a power failure occurs while specific information is being notified before the power failure, the power failure may be restored while the specific information is being notified. Here, it is preferable that the specific information is, for example, useful information for the player. The useful information is, for example, "information that can specify the number of assigned navigation stocks" and "information that can specify the operation procedure notified by the navigation effect". According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent "the player fails to recognize useful information due to the occurrence of power failure".

For example, it is assumed that a power failure occurs while the assigned number of navigation stocks is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. In this case, when the power is restored from the power failure, the number of the granted navigation stocks is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. As a result, even if a power failure occurs, the player can be made to recognize the number of navigation stocks given after the power failure is restored.

(8) In the present embodiment, the background image displayed in the common display state has been described as an image including the corresponding image corresponding to the RT state controlled before the power failure. However, in the common display state, a background image that does not include the corresponding image may be displayed. That is, in the common display state, the same background image may be displayed regardless of the RT state that was controlled before the power failure. According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the burden of the process of displaying the background image when the power is restored.

(9) In the present embodiment, it has been described that when the power failure is restored during non-AT, the corresponding image corresponding to the RT state before the power failure is displayed (see FIG. 20 (e)). However, when the power is restored during non-AT, at least one of "display of the corresponding image according to the RT state before the power failure" and "output of the music according to the RT state before the power failure" is executed. It may be.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the power is restored during AT, both "display of the corresponding image according to the RT state before the power failure" and "output of the music according to the RT state before the power failure" are performed. It was described as executing (see FIG. 20 (f)). However, either "display of the corresponding image according to the RT state before the power failure" or "output of the music according to the RT state before the power failure" may be executed.

(10) In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 20 (e) and 21 (e), it is described that the reel stop promotion control is not executed in the game in which the power is restored while the three reels are rotating. did. However, in a game in which one or two reels are rotating and the power is restored, even if three minutes have passed without executing the stop operation for stopping the rotating reels from the timing of the power recovery. The reel stop promotion control may not be executed.

Further, as a further modification, in the game in which the power is restored while one or two reels are rotating, the stop operation for stopping the rotating reels is not executed from the timing of the power recovery. The reel stop promotion control may be executed when a minute has elapsed.

(11) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the RT flag is stored in the backup area for the main control unit 41 and the backup area for the sub control unit 91 in the backup process. However, the RT flag may not be stored in the backup process. In this case, regardless of the RT state before the power failure, the same RT state is controlled after the power failure is restored. In this way, even if the configuration is controlled to the same RT state after the power failure is restored, the power failure is restored while the background image that can identify the RT state is displayed. According to the configuration of this modification, it is not necessary to execute the process of storing the RT flag in the backup process, so that the load of the process can be reduced.

[About benefits]
In this embodiment, as a privilege, the number of navigation stocks that directly affects the payout rate of medals and pachinko balls is illustrated. However, the privilege may be a value that improves the degree of advantage for the player, and may be, for example, a value that does not directly affect the medal payout rate. Specifically, when a high-probability state of winning an AT with a higher probability than usual is provided in the AT lottery, execution of a probability suggestion effect for suggesting whether or not the current state is a high-probability state. , Execution of premier effect along with voice on the liquid crystal display 51 (special character appearance, execution of special bonus effect during the next generated bonus, etc.), execution of set value suggestion effect to suggest the set value, By collecting a certain number, points can be given that can be exchanged for services specified at the game store where the slot machine 1 is installed, and a two-dimensional code that allows you to download privilege videos and privilege information on the specified website is displayed on the liquid crystal display. It may be displayed on the vessel 51.

Further, although the number of navigation stocks has been illustrated as an example of the privilege, the privilege related to AT is not limited to this, and for example, the number of AT games may be used as a privilege. In addition, when the number of times the navigation effect can be executed is determined and the AT controls the number of times the navigation effect can be executed until the navigation effect is executed, the number of times the navigation effect can be executed is also a privilege. Good. Further, for example, when the upper limit grant amount is determined and the AT controls until the granted game value (the number of medals paid out) reaches the determined upper limit grant amount, the upper limit grant amount may be a privilege. Further, when the AT is controlled from the time when the predetermined AT start condition is satisfied until the predetermined AT end condition is satisfied and the continuous lottery for whether or not to continue the AT is performed when the AT end condition is satisfied, the continuation is continued. The continuation probability determined to continue in the lottery may be a privilege.

[Advantageous state]
In the above-mentioned example, as an advantageous state, a big bonus (BB) or AT in which the winning probability of a small winning combination is higher than that in a predetermined state is exemplified for a slot machine, but it may be an advantageous state for a player. This is not limited to this, and an example of a slot machine will be described below.

Advantageous states include, for example, regular bonus (RB) and replay time (RT) in which the probability of winning a predetermined winning combination is high, the concentration state of small winning combination, and the pull-in range of at least one reel is narrower than usual. At the same time, it does not change the challenge time (CT), which allows the generation of all small wins in each game, the winning probability of winning wins, etc., but the operation procedure for winning the winning small wins is performed for a predetermined period. It may be a pseudo-bonus that notifies over (for example, until 50 games are exhausted). In addition, there may be a state in which the probability of being controlled by these advantageous states is high, a state in which the probability of being controlled in the freeze state is high, and the number of games such as the number of AT games is high. An advantageous state different from the above-described embodiment may be set, such as a state in which the game is added and a state in which the number of additional games in the AT is likely to be increased. In addition, it is indirectly advantageous for the player, such as a condition for obtaining a privilege on the communication network and a state in which the probability of satisfying the condition for executing a premium effect (freeze effect, premium effect, etc.) is high. It may be a special privilege or a state of improving the interest of the game. Further, the permissible determination means for determining whether or not to allow the transition to the advantageous state is not limited to the internal lottery process, and may be a means for determining regardless of the winning combination.

[About production and notification]
In the above-described example, an example in which the liquid crystal display 51 is used for producing and notifying is given. For example, the speakers 53 and 54 and the back lamp arranged on the back side (inside) of the reel (reel LED 55 of the above embodiment). ), A transmissive liquid crystal display (a liquid crystal display configured to allow the reel to be seen) arranged on the front side of the reel, lamps and LEDs attached to the front door 1b, vibration of the stop switch, and surroundings of the stop switch. The effect may be executed by a means different from the above-described embodiment, such as blowing air from the reel or changing the temperature of the stop switch.

[About AT]
In the above example of the slot machine, an example in which the main control unit 41 executes the control related to the AT has been described, but the control related to the AT executed by the main control unit 41 includes the execution of the AT lottery. The AT lottery may include a determination of winning or non-winning of the AT lottery, a determination of whether or not to stock the number of AT games, a determination of the number of AT games, a lottery for adding the number of AT games, and the like. Further, as the control related to AT, the control of the high probability state of the AT lottery can be mentioned. To control the high probability state of the AT lottery, control that the winning probability of the AT lottery becomes high, control that shortens the period until the AT is controlled according to the result of the internal lottery, the winning probability of the additional lottery, and the game. Includes controls that give preferential treatment to numbers. Further, as the control related to the AT, it is possible to control the AT when the specified number of games have been digested. The time when the specified number of games is exhausted includes the time when the number of ceiling games is reached and the time when the number of games determined by lottery is reached. Further, as the control related to AT, there is a control for setting a precursory period. The control for setting the precursor period includes, for example, a control for executing the production of 0 to 32 games in the precursor period before the start of AT. Further, as the control related to AT, there is a control for giving a penalty. Controls that grant penalties include determining the content of the penalty, determining or setting the penalty period. Further, as the control related to the AT, the main control unit 41 may control the lighting of the lamp or the LED indicating that the AT is in progress.

Further, as the control related to the AT, the main control unit 41 may control the lighting of the lamp or the LED for executing the navigation effect. Further, the sub control unit 91 may execute the navigation effect in conjunction with the main control unit 41 executing the navigation effect.

When the main control unit 41 executes control related to AT, it is preferable that the processing of the main control unit 41 is subordinate to the main control unit 41 and executed by a control unit subordinate to the main control unit 41. .. For example, the reel stop control may be executed by a control unit provided on a board other than the game control board, and the main control unit 41 transfers the operation signal of the stop switch to the control unit. In this way, by causing the lower control unit to control the main control unit 41, it is possible to prevent insufficient capacity of ROM 41b and RAM 41c and insufficient processing capacity of the main CPU 41a when performing control related to AT.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the main control unit 41 executes the control related to the AT described above, but the sub-control unit 91 may execute the control. The sub control unit 91 performs, for example, an AT lottery process or an additional lottery process based on an internal winning command from the main control unit 41, and executes a process for controlling the AT or a navigation effect according to the result. Processing or the like may be performed.

[About setting change status and setting confirmation status]
When the setting key switch 37 is turned on and the power is turned on, the setting value read from the RAM of the main control unit 41 is displayed as a display value on the setting value display 24, and the setting value by the operation of the reset / setting switch 38 is displayed. You may shift to the setting change state where the change operation is possible. Further, the setting change state may be shifted to the setting change state on the condition of "power ON" + "setting key switch ON" + "front door open detection". As a result, it is possible to prevent an unauthorized setting change when the front door is not opened. In addition, once the setting change state is entered, the setting change state is maintained regardless of the open / closed state of the front door until the end condition for ending the setting change state (the setting key switch is turned off after the setting value is confirmed) is satisfied. You may try to do it. As a result, even if the front door is closed during the setting change state, the setting change state is not terminated, so that it is possible to prevent the trouble of shifting to the setting change state again.

Further, in order to confirm the set value, the setting key switch 37 may be turned on after the game is completed and the bet number is not set. When the setting key switch 37 is turned on in such a situation, the setting value displayed by the setting value display 24 displays the setting value read from the RAM of the main control unit 41, so that the setting value can be confirmed. Transition. Further, the setting confirmation state may be shifted to the setting confirmation state on the condition of "setting key switch ON" + "front door open detection". As a result, it is possible to prevent unauthorized setting confirmation when the front door is not opened. In addition, once the setting confirmation state is entered, the setting confirmation state is maintained regardless of the open / closed state of the front door until the end condition (setting key switch OFF operation) for ending the setting confirmation state is satisfied. May be good. As a result, even if the front door is closed during the setting confirmation state, the setting confirmation state is not terminated, so that it is possible to prevent the trouble of shifting to the setting confirmation state again.

[About a modified example of a slot machine]
As the above embodiment, a slot machine that pays out the game medium to the player's hand when a prize is generated has been described, but the game medium is enclosed and the game medium is paid out to the player's hand when the prize is generated. An enclosed slot machine that adds game points (scores) may be adopted without any problem. The base and the drum can be distributed, and the housing is common, and only the base or the base and the drum are called a game machine. In addition, it is a slot machine equipped with a game area in which a game ball can be fired to play a game, and a bet number can be set according to the game ball passing through a predetermined area provided in the game area. You may.

It should be considered that the embodiments disclosed this time are exemplary in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown by the scope of claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims.

1 slot machine, 2L, 2C, 2R reel, 8L, 8C, 8R stop switch, 40 game control board, 41 main control unit, 41a main CPU, 41b ROM, 41c RAM, 42 random number circuit, 43 pulse oscillator, 51 liquid crystal display Instrument, 56 effect switch, 90 effect control board, 91 sub control unit, 91a sub CPU, 91b ROM, 91c RAM.

Claims (1)

Equipped with a variable display unit that can variablely display multiple types of identification information that can be identified by each
In a slot machine in which a display result can be derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
A derivation operation means that will be operated in order to derive a table shown results,
A sound output means that outputs sound according to the progress of the game,
Volume reduction control for reducing the volume of the sound output from the sound output means can be executed when a predetermined time elapses without operating the derivation operation means from the start of the variable display of the variable display unit. includes a volume control means, the,
The sound output means causes the power failure and the power failure occurs both when the volume reduction control is executed before the power failure and when the volume reduction control is not executed before the power failure. A slot machine that outputs a specific sound when returning from the mode without executing the volume reduction control.

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