JP6820680B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of playing a game.

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

Some game machines of this type are provided with buttons that allow operations related to the game, and can be controlled in a confirmation mode in which it is possible to confirm whether or not the buttons are functioning normally. Further, this button includes a call button for calling a clerk, and the operation for ending the confirmation mode is an operation for the call button (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 8-318024

However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the call button as a specific operation means is operated in the confirmation mode, the confirmation mode is terminated and whether or not the call button is functioning normally is determined. There was a risk that it could not be confirmed.

The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to make it possible to confirm whether or not a specific operating means for terminating the confirmation mode is functioning normally in the confirmation mode, and to confirm. It is to provide a gaming machine capable of terminating the mode.

It is a game machine that can play games
Operation means that can be operated related to the game,
A mode control means for controlling the operation means to a confirmation mode capable of confirming that the operation means is functioning normally is provided.
The operating means includes a specific operating means, a predetermined operating means, and a special operating means.
When the specific operating means and the special operating means are operated during the confirmation mode, it is possible to specify whether or not the specific operating means and the special operating means are functioning normally, and the above-mentioned Without terminating the confirmation mode control
When the specific operating means and the predetermined operating means are operated during the confirmation mode, the confirmation is made after notifying identifiable whether or not the specific operating means and the predetermined operating means are functioning normally. End control of the mode.
Further, the game machine may have the following configuration.
(1) A gaming machine (for example, a slot machine 1) capable of playing a game.
Operating means (for example, start switch 7 and production switch 56) capable of operating the game, and
A mode control means (for example, a sub control unit 91) for controlling the operation means for confirming that the operation means is functioning normally (for example, the operation confirmation mode shown in FIGS. 16 and 17) is provided.
The operating means includes a specific operating means (for example, an effect switch 56).
When the operating means is operated during the confirmation mode, the mode control means identifiablely notifies whether or not the operating means is functioning normally, and the operation operated during the confirmation mode. When the means is the specific operation means, the control of the confirmation mode is further terminated (for example, as shown in FIG. 19A-1), the operation of the effect switch 56 is continued during the operation confirmation mode. At times, when the effect switch 56 is functioning normally, the normal notification process is executed, and when the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 reaches 2 seconds, the operation confirmation mode is terminated. Let).

According to such a configuration, when the specific operation means is operated in the confirmation mode, the confirmation mode can be terminated while having the store clerk or the like confirm that the specific operation means is functioning normally.

Further, the "operating means capable of operating the game" may be an operating means operated by the player, and may include an operating means that the player cannot operate while the store clerk or the like can operate. ..

(2) In the game machine of (1) above
When the operation of the specific operation means is continued for a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds as shown in FIG. 19A-1), the mode control means performs the specific operation in the predetermined period. The control of the confirmation mode is terminated regardless of the presence or absence of the operation of the operation means other than the means (for example, in the operation confirmation mode, when the operation of the effect switch 56 continues for 2 seconds, the other switches are operated regardless of the presence or absence of the operation. The operation check mode ends).

According to such a configuration, the confirmation mode can be terminated only by the operation of the specific operation means, so that the burden on the clerk or the like can be reduced, for example.

(3) In the game machine of (2) above
The mode control means is
A predetermined mode different from the confirmation mode (for example, another mode shown in FIG. 19B, and the other mode is also controlled to a history confirmation mode and a volume / light amount adjustment mode as shown in FIG. 15). It is possible and
When the operation of the specific operating means is continued for a period of less than the predetermined period during the predetermined mode, the predetermined mode is terminated (for example, as shown in FIG. 19B, another mode). Ends when the operation of the effect switch 56 reaches 0.5 seconds).

According to such a configuration, when the operation of the specific operating means is continued for a period of less than a predetermined period, the predetermined mode is terminated, so that the burden of ending the predetermined mode by a clerk or the like can be reduced.

(4) In the game machine of (1) above
The operating means includes a predetermined operating means different from the specific operating means (for example, the left key 200A shown in FIG. 21).
The mode control means ends the confirmation mode when the specific operation means and the predetermined operation means are operated together (for example, as shown in FIG. 21A), the left key 200A and the effect are used. The confirmation mode ends when both operations of the switch 56 reach 0.5 seconds).

According to such a configuration, the confirmation mode is not terminated even if only the specific operating means is operated. Therefore, the store clerk or the like recognizes whether or not the operation of the specific operating means is detected without ending the confirmation mode. Can be made to.

(5) In the game machine of (4) above
The mode control means is
It is also possible to control a predetermined mode different from the confirmation mode (for example, the history confirmation mode and the volume / light amount adjustment mode shown in FIG. 15).
When the specific operating means is operated, the control of the predetermined mode is terminated regardless of whether or not the operating means other than the specific operating means is operated (for example, in other modes, the effect switch 56 is operated. Occasionally, the operation check mode ends regardless of whether other switches are operated).

According to such a configuration, since the predetermined mode can be terminated only by the operation of the specific operation means, the burden on the clerk or the like can be reduced, for example.

(6) In the game machine of (4) or (5) above
Whether or not the predetermined operation means and the specific operation means are functioning normally when the predetermined operation means and the specific operation means are operated together in the confirmation mode. (For example, as shown in FIG. 21 (a), when the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are operated, both the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 function normally. In this case, a normal notification process indicating that the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are normal is executed).

According to such a configuration, when the operation of both the specific operation means and the predetermined operation means is detected, it is possible to make the store clerk or the like recognize that both operations have been detected.

(7) In some of the game machines (4) to (6) above
The operating means includes a special operating means (for example, the upper key 200B shown in FIG. 21B) which is different from both the specific operating means and the predetermined operating means.
The mode control means does not end the confirmation mode when the specific operation means, the predetermined operation means, and the special operation means are operated together during the confirmation mode (for example, FIG. 21 (B). ), The operation check mode does not end even if the left key 200A, the up key 200B, and the effect switch 56 are all operated).

According to such a configuration, when a specific operation means, a predetermined operation means, and a special operation means are operated by a clerk or the like during the confirmation mode, the clerk may not intend to end the confirmation mode. Since it is expensive, it is possible to prevent the confirmation mode from ending against the intention of the clerk.

(8) In any of the above (1) to (7) gaming machines
In the confirmation mode, a predetermined display is performed when the operating means is functioning normally (for example, as shown in FIG. 16A, when the start switch 7 is operated, the start switch 7 is normal. If it is functioning, a character such as "Start switch is OK" is displayed).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to make the store clerk or the like recognize that the operating means is functioning normally by the predetermined display.

(9) In some of the game machines (1) to (8) above
In the confirmation mode, a predetermined sound is output when the operating means is functioning normally (for example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 16A), when the start switch 7 is operated, the start switch If 7 is functioning normally, a sound such as "start switch OK" is output).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to make the store clerk or the like recognize that the operating means is functioning normally by outputting a predetermined sound.

(10) In some of the game machines (1) to (9) above
In the confirmation mode, when the operating means is functioning normally, a predetermined light emission is performed (for example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 16A, when the start switch 7 is operated, the start switch 7 is operated. Is functioning normally, the effect LED 52 is blinked).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to make the store clerk or the like recognize that the operating means is functioning normally by the predetermined light emission.

(11) In any of the game machines (1) to (10) above
The operating means includes a predetermined operating means (for example, a start switch 7) different from the specific operating means.
During the confirmation mode, during the period during which the specific operating means is identifiable whether or not it is functioning normally, it is identifiable that the predetermined operating means is functioning normally. The normal notification process is executed when the operation of the effect switch 56 is continued for 2 seconds or longer, as shown in FIGS. 19 (A-1) and 19 (A-2). The period during which the normal notification process is executed is the same as the period during which the different switch is operated when the operation of the switch different from the effect switch 56 is continued for 2 seconds or more. ).

According to such a configuration, when the specific operating means is operated, the period until the confirmation mode is terminated can be shortened.

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 replay 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 an administrator menu screen and the like. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation confirmation mode. It is a figure for demonstrating the time when the operation confirmation mode ends. It is a figure for demonstrating the process in operation check mode. It is a figure for demonstrating the timing chart such as an operation confirmation mode. It is a front view of the slot machine of a modification. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation confirmation of the modification. It is a figure for demonstrating the switch flag for production.

[First Embodiment]
An embodiment for implementing the slot machine according to the first embodiment will be described below based on the 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 via 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 unit 4 into which medals can be inserted is provided in the lower right of the liquid crystal display 51, and a medal payout outlet 9, speakers 53, and 54 for paying out medals are provided in the lower part of the front door 1b.

Further, the front door 1b has a predetermined number of operating means that can be operated by the player, which is determined according to the gaming state within the range of credits stored as the gaming value (number of medals) owned by the player. MAXBET switch 6 operated when setting the number of bets, settlement switch 10 operated when the credit and the set number of bets are settled and returned, start switch 7 operated when starting the game, reel Stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, which are operated when the rotations of 2L to 2R are stopped, and an effect switch 56 for use in the effect 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) are 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 the lines for which the winning is determined, but when the winning line LN has a combination of specific winning symbols (so-called breaks), 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 stages 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.

Further, in the switch detection circuit 44, when the main side switches (MAXBET switch 6, settlement switch 10, start switch 7, and stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) connected to the game control board 40 are functioning normally. Detects the operation of the normally functioning switch. When at least one of these switches is operated, a detection signal is transmitted from the operated switch. When the switch detection circuit 44 receives the detection signal, the main control unit 41 recognizes that the switch that transmitted the detection signal has been operated. When the main control unit 41 recognizes that the switch has been operated, the main control unit 41 transmits an operation command that can identify that the switch has been operated to the sub control unit 91. The sub-control unit 91 recognizes that the switch specified from the transmitted operation command has been operated. As described above, the sub-control unit 91 is a switch connected to the game control board 40, and when the switch is operated, if the operated switch is functioning normally, the sub-control unit 91 is said to be the switch. It is possible to indirectly recognize that the switch has been operated.

Further, the switch circuit 96 detects the operation of the sub-side switch (only the effect switch 56 in this embodiment) connected to the effect control board 90. When the effect switch 56 is operated, a detection signal is transmitted from the operated switch. When the switch detection circuit 44 receives the detection signal, the main control unit 41 recognizes that the switch that transmitted the detection signal (that is, the effect switch 56) has been operated. In the following, the main switch and the sub switch are collectively referred to as "all switches".

5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the types of winning combinations, the symbol combinations of winning combinations, and the 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. In addition, in the combination of symbols aligned with the invalid line, the combination of symbols that stops at the invalid line when the combination of the winning symbols stops at the winning line and is easy for the player to recognize 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 condition of the bonus transferred by winning is 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 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, among a plurality of types of game states including a bonus that is improved more than the time (shown along the arrow in FIG. 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 number of bets 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 occurs 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 bonus is controlled to RT3. 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 is conducted 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 combination 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, bonus 1 to bonus 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, the bonus 1 to the bonus 12 have different numbers of determination values. For this reason, it is an advantage for the player, and the ratio of BB1 or BB2 actually winning at the same time when winning the simultaneous winning combination (hereinafter, also referred to as reliability) becomes bonus 6 or bonus 12. The number of judgment values is determined so that the middle cherry contained 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 right-down watermelon or an upper watermelon is prioritized over a middle watermelon, and reel control is performed to pull the watermelon onto the winning line. 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.

Further, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the medal payout rate changes according to the set value. Specifically, the medal payout rate changes by determining the winning probability used in the internal lottery described later according to the set value. It is also said that there is a setting difference that the winning probability changes according to the set value, and that there is no setting difference that the winning probability does not change according to the set value. The set value is composed of 6 stages from 1 to 6, with 6 having the highest payout rate, and the smaller the value in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 the lower the payout rate. 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. However, among a plurality of types of lottery target roles, to a section in which the degree of advantage for the player is high (a high probability state of AT lottery called CZ, a state where the net increase number of sheets increases like AT described later, etc.) There is no difference in the setting of the lottery target combinations that are the targets of the advantageous section operation lottery that determines whether or not to shift. On the other hand, among the plurality of types of lottery target combinations, the lottery target combinations that are not the target of the advantageous section operation lottery may have different settings. In order to change the set value, the administrator may operate an operation unit (not shown) provided inside the slot machine 1 to shift the set value to a changeable setting change state. Further, in order to confirm the set value, the administrator may perform a predetermined operation to shift the set value to a confirmable setting confirmation state.

In addition, the winning probability of the internal lottery is changed according to the setting of the set value, the winning probability of the advantageous section operation lottery is changed according to the setting of the set value, and the winning of the internal lottery is won according to the setting of the set value. Either the probability may be changed and the winning probability of the advantageous section operation lottery may be changed.

[Game processing]
The main control unit 41 performs game control processing 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 a 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 effective 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.

[About the administrator menu screen]
Next, the administrator menu screen will be described. The administrator menu screen is a screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 based on an operation that cannot be executed by the player and can be executed only by the administrator of the game store. For example, the front door 1b was opened, the key was inserted into the setting key switch 37 installed inside the slot machine 1, and the key was operated so as to face a predetermined direction (for example, sideways). In this state, when the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, the administrator menu screen is displayed. In this way, since it is necessary to open the front door 1b, the administrator menu screen cannot be displayed by the operation of the player, and a person who can open the front door 1b (for example, the manager of the game store). ) Is a screen that can be displayed. The manager of the game store means, for example, the person in charge of the game store and the clerk of the game machine store. In the following, the manager of the game store is simply referred to as a "clerk".

Next, the administrator menu screen and the like will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15A is an example of the administrator menu screen. On the administrator menu screen, a history confirmation mode, an operation confirmation mode, a volume / light amount adjustment mode, and the like are displayed as modes (options) that can be selected by the clerk.

The history confirmation mode is a mode in which a clerk can confirm various histories (game history, error history, etc.). When the history confirmation mode is determined, the game history confirmation mode, the error history confirmation mode, and the like are displayed as options (not shown). Further, for example, when the error history confirmation mode is selected, the error history for a predetermined period (for example, for 3 months) is displayed. The volume / light amount adjustment mode is a mode in which the volume of the speakers 53 and 54 and the light amount of each LED (for example, the effect LED 52) can be adjusted. The operation check mode is a mode in which it is possible to confirm that the operating means (all switches) are functioning normally. Details will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 15B, the displayed cursor can be moved by the selection operation of the clerk. The selection operation is the operation of the left stop switch 8L and the operation of the right stop switch 8R. For example, the operation of the left stop switch 8L causes the cursor to be operated downward by one option, and the operation of the right stop switch 8R causes the cursor to be operated upward by one option.

As shown in FIG. 15C, the selected mode (mode in which the cursor is placed) is determined by the determination operation of the clerk. The determination operation is, for example, the operation of the middle stop switch 8C.

When the operation confirmation mode is determined by the determination operation of the clerk, the operation confirmation mode is controlled and the operation confirmation mode screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. FIG. 15D is a diagram showing an example of the operation confirmation mode screen. In the operation confirmation mode, information that can identify that the operation confirmation mode is controlled is displayed in the upper part of the display area of the liquid crystal display 51. In the present embodiment, the information that can be identified to be controlled in the operation confirmation mode is the character "operation confirmation mode". Further, an operating means for terminating the operation confirmation mode is displayed in the lower left portion of the display area of the liquid crystal display 51. Specifically, the characters "End with the production switch" are displayed. As described above, in the present embodiment, the operating means for ending the operation confirmation mode is the effect switch 56.

FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the operation confirmation mode. The upper part of FIG. 16A shows an operation confirmation mode screen (same as FIG. 15D). At the bottom of FIG. 16 (a), all the switches are displayed together. In addition, in the example of FIG. 16A and the drawings in which all the switches are described (FIGS. 16B and 17 and the like), all the switches are described without considering the positional relationship of all the switches. Has been done. In the example of FIG. 16A and the drawings in which all the switches are described, the switches that are not operated (pressed) are shown in white, and the switches that are operated are shown in black.

FIG. 16A is a diagram showing a time when no switch is operated while the operation confirmation mode is controlled. FIG. 16A is a diagram showing when the start switch 7 is being operated.

Further, when the operation check mode is controlled and the operated switch is functioning normally, the sub control unit 91 notifies that the operated switch is functioning normally. The normal notification process is executed. The normal notification process includes a process of performing a predetermined display. The predetermined display of the present embodiment is to display information that can identify that the product is functioning normally. In the example of FIG. 16A, the information is the characters "Start switch is OK". Further, the normal notification process includes a process of outputting a predetermined sound from the speakers 53 and 54. The predetermined sound is, for example, a voice such as "start switch OK". Further, the normal notification process includes a process of performing a predetermined light emission. The predetermined light emission means, for example, light emission of the effect LED 52 in a predetermined mode (for example, a blinking mode).

Next, a situation in which the operated main switch is not functioning normally will be described. In the present embodiment, the situation in which the main side switch is not functioning normally (hereinafter referred to as the main side specific situation) includes the following situations. The main side specific situation includes "a first situation in which a detection signal is not transmitted from the main side switch even if the main side switch is operated because the main side switch itself is out of order". In addition, the main side specific situation is "When the main side switch is operated, a detection signal is transmitted, but the wiring connecting the main side switch and the game control board 40 is broken (for example, disconnection). The second situation in which the game control board 40 does not receive the detection signal is included. Further, the main side specific situation is as follows: "The switch detection circuit 44 has failed because the switch detection circuit 44 has failed even though the detection signal is transmitted from the main side switch to the game control board 40. A third situation in which the detection signal is not received is included. Further, in the main side specific situation, "the switch detection circuit 44 received the detection signal, and the main control unit 41 transmitted an operation command indicating that the switch was operated to the effect control board 90. However, the effect control board 90 includes a fourth situation in which the operation command is not received because the wiring for transmitting the command is broken (for example, the wire is broken). In addition, the main side specific situation is "The effect control board 90 has received the operation command, but means for executing the normal notification process (for example, the display control circuit 92, the speakers 53, 54, and the effect effect LED 52. The fifth situation in which normal notification processing cannot be executed due to a failure of at least one of the means) is included.

"The main side switch is functioning normally" means that "the main side specific situation has not occurred when the main side switch is operated (in any of the first to fifth situations). If it does not occur) ". When the operated main switch is functioning normally, the sub control unit 91 executes the normal notification process. By executing the normal notification process, it is possible to make the store clerk recognize that the operated main switch is functioning normally.

In addition, "the main side switch is not functioning normally" means that "when the main side switch is operated, a main side specific situation has occurred (at least one of the first to fifth situations). When) occurs. If the operated main switch is not functioning normally, the sub-control unit 91 does not execute the normal notification process. In this way, even though the main switch is operated, the normal notification process is not executed, so that the store clerk can recognize that the operated main switch is not functioning normally.

Next, a situation in which the operated sub-side switch (effect switch 56) is not functioning normally will be described. In the present embodiment, the situation in which the effect switch 56 is not functioning normally (hereinafter, referred to as a sub-side specific situation) includes the following situations. The sub-side specific situation includes "a first situation in which a detection signal is not transmitted from the effect switch 56 even if the effect switch 56 is operated because the effect switch 56 itself is out of order". Further, in the sub-side specific situation, "When the effect switch 56 is operated, a detection signal is transmitted, but the wiring connecting the effect switch 56 and the effect control board 90 is broken (for example,). The second situation in which the effect control board 90 does not receive the detection signal due to (disconnection) is included. Further, the sub-side specific situation is as follows: "The switch circuit 96 has failed because the switch circuit 96 has failed even though the detection signal has been transmitted from the effect switch 56 to the effect control board 90. The third situation in which the detection signal is not received is included. Further, the sub-side specific situation is as follows: "The switch circuit 96 has received the detection signal, but among the means for executing the normal notification process (for example, the display control circuit 92, the speakers 53, 54, and the effect LED 52". The fourth situation in which the normal notification process cannot be executed due to a failure of at least one means) is included.

"The sub-side switch is functioning normally" means that "when the sub-side switch is operated, the sub-side specific situation has not occurred (in any of the first to fourth situations). If it does not occur) ". When the operated sub-side switch is functioning normally, the sub-control unit 91 executes the normal notification process. By executing the normal notification process, it is possible to make the store clerk recognize that the operated sub-side switch is functioning normally.

In addition, "the sub-side switch is not functioning normally" means that "a sub-side specific situation has occurred when the sub-side switch is operated (at least one of the first to fourth situations). When) occurs. If the operated sub-side switch is not functioning normally, the sub-control unit 91 does not execute the normal notification process. In this way, even though the sub-side switch is operated, the normal notification process is not executed, so that the store clerk can be made to recognize that the operated sub-side switch is not functioning normally.

In the present embodiment, when the switch is functioning normally, a normal notification process for notifying that the operated switch functions normally is executed during the period in which the switch is operated. When the operation of the switch is completed (when the clerk's finger is released from the switch), the normal notification process is also completed. Explaining with reference to FIG. 16, when the start switch 7 is functioning normally, the start switch 7 functions normally during the period during which the start switch 7 is operated, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 16 (a). A normal notification process, which is a process for notifying that, is executed. When the operation of the start switch 7 is completed, the normal notification process that has been executed ends.

Further, when the start switch 7 is not functioning normally and the start switch 7 is operated, the normal notification process is not executed (for example, the characters "start switch is OK" are not displayed).

[About the end of operation check mode]
Next, the end of the operation check mode will be described. The operation check mode ends when a predetermined switch is operated. In the present embodiment, the predetermined switch is the effect switch 56. Further, in the present embodiment, the operation confirmation mode ends when the effect switch 56 is continuously operated for a predetermined time (2 seconds in the present embodiment).

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining when the operation confirmation mode ends. FIG. 17A is a diagram showing a time when no switch is operated while the operation confirmation mode is controlled. FIG. 17A is a diagram showing when the effect switch 56 is operated. When the effect switch 56 is functioning normally, a normal notification process indicating that the effect switch 56 is functioning normally is executed.

When the operation of the effect switch 56 continues for 2 seconds, the operation check mode ends and the screen returns to the administrator menu screen as shown in FIG. 17 (c). Hereinafter, the operation of the effect switch 56 in the operation confirmation mode is also referred to as an end operation. That is, the operation check mode ends when the end operation continues for 2 seconds. Further, in the present embodiment, as long as the effect switch 56 is operated, the operation check mode ends when the operation of the effect switch 56 continues for 2 seconds regardless of whether or not the other switches are operated. .. In other words, when the effect switch 56 is operated, the operation confirmation mode ends even if other switches are also operated. As a modification, when the effect switch 56 is being operated and other switches are also being operated, the operation confirmation mode is not terminated even if the operation of the effect switch 56 is continued for 2 seconds. You may do so.

[Processing during operation check mode]
Next, a flowchart of the operation confirmation mode processing executed by the sub control unit 91 during the operation confirmation mode will be described. The process during the operation check mode is a timer interrupt process that is executed every predetermined period (for example, 0.5 ms) when the operation check mode is controlled.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing processing in the operation confirmation mode. The sub control unit 91 determines whether or not any switch is being operated (S102). If no operation has been performed (N in S102), the sub-control unit 91 ends the process in the operation check mode. On the other hand, in the case of some operation (Y in S102), when the operated switch is functioning normally, the sub-control unit 91 in S104 indicates that the switch is functioning normally. The normal notification process shown is executed (see FIGS. 16 (a) and 17 (a)), and the process proceeds to the process of S106. Further, if the operated switch is not functioning normally, the normal notification process of S104 is not executed.

In S106, the sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not the switch determined to be operated in S102 is an effect switch (that is, whether or not the end operation is executed). If the switch is not an effect switch (N in S106), the sub-control unit 91 ends the process during the operation check mode. On the other hand, when the switch is the effect switch 56 (Y in S106), the sub control unit 91 shifts to the process of S108.

In S108, the sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not the duration of the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 has reached 2 seconds. Here, the clock device 97 starts counting the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 at the timing when the operation of the effect switch 56 is started. According to the timekeeping, when the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 reaches 2 seconds, YES is determined in S108. Further, if the operation of the effect switch 56 is completed before the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 reaches 2 seconds, the timed duration is reset.

If the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 has not reached 2 seconds (N in S108), the sub-control unit 91 ends the process in the operation check mode. On the other hand, when the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 reaches 2 seconds (Y in S108), the sub-control unit 91 ends the operation check mode and returns to the administrator menu screen (S110).

[Timing chart for each mode]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a timing chart for each mode. FIG. 19 (A-1) is a diagram showing the relationship between the operation of the effect switch and the operation confirmation mode. FIG. 19 (A-2) is a diagram showing the relationship between the operation of a switch (for example, the start switch 7) different from the effect switch and the operation confirmation mode. FIG. 19B is a diagram showing the relationship between the operation of the effect switch and the other modes.

In (A) in each of FIGS. 19 (A-1), 19 (A-2), and 19 (B), ON indicates a state in which the switch is operated, and OFF indicates a state in which the switch is operated. Indicates a state that has not been done. Further, in (a) in FIGS. 19 (A-1), 19 (A-2), and 19 (B), ON is controlled to the mode, and OFF is controlled to the mode. Indicates that there is no such thing.

As shown in FIG. 19 (A-1), when the operation confirmation mode is controlled (the ON state of (a)), when the effect switch 56 is operated (end operation) ((()). (A) ON state), when the effect switch 56 is functioning normally, the normal notification process is executed. When the operation of the effect switch 56 is continuously performed for 2 seconds (YES in S108), the operation confirmation mode is terminated and the screen returns to the administrator menu screen (S110).

Next, using FIG. 19 (A-2), when the operation check mode is controlled (the ON state of (a)), a switch (for example, a start switch 7) different from the effect switch 56 is used. Explain when it is operated. As shown in FIG. 19 (A-2), when the operation check mode is controlled (in the ON state of (a)), when an operation is performed on a switch different from the effect switch 56 ((()). A) ON state), if the switch is functioning normally, the normal notification process is executed. Further, the operation confirmation mode does not end even if the operation of the switch is continued for 2 seconds. Further, when the operation of the switch is completed, the normal notification process is also completed.

Next, the case where the mode is controlled different from the operation confirmation mode will be described with reference to FIG. 19B. As shown in FIG. 15, the modes different from the operation confirmation mode are the history confirmation mode, the volume / light amount adjustment mode, and the like, and are referred to as other modes below. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19B, the other mode ends when the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 reaches 0.5 seconds, and returns to the administrator menu screen. ..

[Main effects obtained by the embodiment]
Next, the main effects obtained by the above-described embodiment will be described.

(1) In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 19A, when an operation (end operation) on the effect switch 56 is executed during the operation check mode, the effect switch When the 56 is functioning normally, a normal notification process indicating that the effect switch 56 is functioning normally is executed. After executing the normal notification process, the operation check mode is terminated and the screen returns to the administrator menu screen. Therefore, when the effect switch 56 is operated during the operation check mode, the operation check mode can be terminated while making the store clerk recognize that the effect switch 56 is functioning normally.

(2) Further, when the operation of the effect switch 56 is continued for a predetermined period (2 seconds), the sub control unit 91 determines whether or not a switch other than the effect switch 56 is operated during the predetermined period. Regardless, the operation check mode is terminated. Therefore, since the operation check mode can be ended only by operating the effect switch 56, the slot machine requires the operation of other switches in addition to the operation of the effect switch 56 in order to end the operation check mode. In comparison, the burden on the clerk who terminates the operation check mode can be reduced.

(3) Further, the sub control unit 91 can also control a mode different from the operation confirmation mode (for example, as shown in FIG. 15, a history confirmation mode and a volume / light amount adjustment mode). This different mode ends when the duration of operation of the effect switch 56 reaches 0.5 seconds. As described above, the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 is shorter for terminating the different modes than for terminating the operation confirmation mode. Therefore, as compared with the slot machine 1 in which the duration of the operation of the effect switch 56 for terminating the different modes is a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds), the burden on the clerk to terminate the different modes can be reduced. As a modification, the mode different from the operation confirmation mode may be terminated when the effect switch 56 is operated.

(4) Further, as shown in FIG. 16A and the like, the normal notification process includes a process of executing a predetermined display (for example, display of characters such as “start switch is OK”). Therefore, it is possible to make the clerk recognize that the operated switch is functioning normally by visually recognizing the clerk.

(5) Further, as shown in FIG. 16A and the like, the normal notification process includes a process of outputting a predetermined sound (for example, a voice such as “start switch OK”). Therefore, it is possible to make the clerk recognize that the operated switch is functioning normally by the clerk's hearing.

(6) Further, as shown in FIG. 16A and the like, the normal notification process includes a process of executing a predetermined light emission (for example, light emission in a blinking mode of the effect effect LED 52). Therefore, it is possible to make the clerk recognize that the operated switch is functioning normally by visually recognizing the clerk.

As a modification, the normal notification process may include at least one of a predetermined display, a predetermined sound output, and a predetermined light emission.

(7) Further, as shown in FIGS. 19 (A-1) and 19 (A-2), when the operation of the effect switch 56 is continued, the normal notification process for the effect switch 56 is performed. The execution period is from the period during which the normal notification process for the switch different from the effect switch 56 is executed when the operation of the switch different from the effect switch 56 (for example, the start switch 7) is continued. Is also short. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the period from the time when the effect switch 56 is operated to the time when the operation confirmation mode is terminated.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. Hereinafter, modifications of the above-described embodiment applicable to the present invention will be described.

[About the end operation]
FIG. 20 is a front view showing the overall structure of the slot machine 300 of this modified example. Comparing the slot machine 300 (see FIG. 20) of this modification with the slot machine 1 (FIG. 1) of the present embodiment, the slot machine 300 includes a cross key 200 that the slot machine 1 does not have, and a game. Both slot machines differ in that the display unit 13 and the MAXBET switch 6 are arranged to the right of the slot machine 1. For example, when the volume / light amount adjustment mode is controlled, the volume and light amount can be adjusted by operating the cross key 200. Since the other parts of the slot machine 300 are the same as those of the slot machine 1, the description will not be repeated.

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining an operation confirmation mode in the slot machine 300. As shown in FIG. 21, the cross key 200 is composed of a left key 200A, an up key 200B, a right key 200C, and a down key 200D. In FIG. 21, all the switches are shown without considering the positional relationship of the left key 200A, the up key 200B, the right key 200C, and the down key 200D, but not the positional relationship of other switches. .. In the slot machine 300 in this modification, the left key 200A, the up key 200B, the right key 200C, and the down key 200D are arranged in the vicinity of each other. On the other hand, the cross key 200 and the switches other than the cross key 200 (start switch 7, effect switch 56, etc.) are arranged at separate positions.

The condition for terminating the operation check mode in the slot machine 300 is a condition that is satisfied by the operation of both the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 being continued for 0.5 seconds. The condition for ending the operation check mode is that the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are operated at the same time, and the operations of both the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are continued for 0.5 seconds. May be. Further, the condition for ending the operation check mode is that the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are not operated at the same time, one of the switches is operated first, the other switch is operated later, and the left key 200A and the left key 200A and It may be a condition that is satisfied when both operations of the effect switch 56 are continued for 0.5 seconds.

FIG. 21 (a) is a diagram showing a time when no switch is operated while the operation confirmation mode is controlled. FIG. 21A is a diagram showing when both the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are operated. When the operation of both the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 continues for 0.5 seconds, the operation check mode ends and the screen returns to the administrator menu screen.

By the way, the left key 200A, the up key 200B, the right key 200C, and the down key 200D are arranged in the vicinity of each other. Therefore, for example, a clerk tries to confirm whether or not the functions of the upper key 200B and the effect switch 56 are normal (that is, he does not intend to end the operation check mode), and the upper key In addition to the 200B and the effect switch 56, the left key 200A may be accidentally operated. In this case, if the operation check mode ends even if the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are operated, the clerk does not intend to end the operation check mode. The operation check mode will be unintentionally terminated.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are operated, and when a switch different from any of the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 is also operated, the operation is confirmed. Do not exit the mode.

FIG. 21B is a diagram for explaining when the upper key 200B is also operated in addition to the left key 200A and the effect switch 56. FIG. 21D is a diagram showing a time when no switch is operated while the operation confirmation mode is controlled. FIG. 21 (e) is a diagram showing when the left key 200A, the upper key 200B, and the effect switch 56 are operated. When all of the left key 200A, the upper key 200B, and the effect switch 56 are functioning normally, the normal notification process is executed for all of the left key 200A, the upper key 200B, and the effect switch 56. ..

Further, as shown in FIG. 21 (f), even if all the operations of the left key 200A, the upper key 200B, and the effect switch 56 continue for 0.5 seconds, the operation confirmation mode does not end.

Next, the flag of the operated switch will be described with reference to FIG. In this modification, the flag corresponding to the operated switch is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 91c. During the period during which the switch is operated, the flag corresponding to the switch continues to be stored in the predetermined area of the RAM 91c. After that, when the operation of the switch is completed, the stored flag disappears. For example, when the left key 200A is operated, the left key flag is stored in a predetermined area, and when the operation of the left key 200A continues, the left key flag is continuously stored in the predetermined area, and the operation of the left key 200A is performed. When finished, the left key flag disappears. Further, in this modification, it is assumed that the maximum number of flags stored in the predetermined area is 2.

FIG. 22A is a diagram for explaining when the operation confirmation mode ends. FIG. 22A shows a predetermined area in a state where no operation is performed. Next, when the left key 200A is operated, the left key flag is stored in a predetermined area as shown in FIG. 22 (a). After that, when the effect switch 56 is operated while the operation of the left key 200A is maintained, the effect switch flag is also stored in the predetermined area as shown in FIG. 22 (c). When both the left key flag and the effect switch flag are stored in the predetermined area for 0.5 seconds, the operation confirmation mode ends. Further, even if another switch is operated before the duration of the state in which the left key flag and the effect switch flag are stored reaches 0.5 seconds, the left key flag and the effect switch flag are stored. When the duration of the set state reaches 0.5 seconds, the operation check mode ends.

FIG. 22B is a diagram for explaining when the upper key 200B is also operated in addition to the left key 200A and the effect switch 56. FIG. 22D shows a predetermined area in a state where no operation is performed. Next, when the left key 200A is operated, the left key flag is stored in a predetermined area as shown in FIG. 22 (e). After that, when the upper key 200B is operated while the operation of the left key 200A is maintained, the upper key flag is also stored in the predetermined area as shown in FIG. 22 (f). After that, when the effect switch 56 is operated while the upper key flag and the left key flag are stored (the left key 200A and the upper key 200B are operated), the effect switch flag is set to a predetermined area. Is not stored, but is stored in a specific area outside the predetermined area. This is because the maximum number of flags stored in the predetermined area is 2, so that the effect switch flag is not stored in the predetermined area when the two flags (upper key flag and left key flag) are stored. Is. In the example of FIG. 22 (g), it is shown that the effect flag is stored in the specific area. Further, as shown in FIG. 22 (g), since the left key flag and the effect switch flag are not stored in the predetermined area, the operation check mode does not end.

Next, in the state of FIG. 22 (g), when the operation of the upper key 200B is completed, the upper key flag disappears and the effect switch flag stored in the specific area is stored in the predetermined area. That is, as shown in FIG. 22 (c), the effect switch flag and the left key flag are stored. When the state in which the effect switch flag and the left key flag are stored continues for 0.5 seconds, the operation confirmation mode ends.

On the other hand, in the state of FIG. 22 (g), when the operation of the left key 200A is completed, the left key flag disappears and the effect switch flag stored in the specific area is stored in the predetermined area. That is, as shown in FIG. 22 (c), the effect switch flag and the upper key flag are stored. In this state, the operation check mode does not end.

Further, although not particularly shown, the mode different from the operation confirmation mode ends when the operation of the effect switch 56 continues for 0.5 seconds regardless of the presence or absence of the operation of the switch different from the effect switch 56. .. As a modification, the mode different from the operation confirmation mode may be terminated at the timing when the effect switch 56 is operated.

Next, the effect of the slot machine 300 of this modification will be described.
(A) In the slot machine 300, when the operation of the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 is continued for 0.5 seconds during the operation check mode, the operation check mode ends (see FIGS. 21 and 22). ). In other words, for example, the operation check mode is not terminated by operating only one switch. Therefore, the store clerk can confirm whether or not the function of the switch 1 (for example, the effect switch 56) is normal for a long period of time.

(B) Further, the mode different from the operation confirmation mode ends when the operation of only the effect switch continues for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, the burden on the clerk to end the different modes can be reduced.

(C) Further, as shown in FIGS. 21 (B) and 22 (B), when other switches are also operated in addition to the operation of the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 during the operation check mode. , The operation check mode does not end. With such a configuration, the following effects are obtained.

For example, trying to confirm whether the functions of the upper key 200B and the effect switch 56 are normal (that is, not intending to end the operation check mode), the upper key 200B and the effect switch 56 are used. In addition to 56, the left key 200A may be operated by mistake. For example, in the example of FIG. 22B, when trying to operate the upper key 200B, the left key 200A arranged in the vicinity of the upper key 200B is operated first, and immediately after that, the upper key 200B is operated. Shows the case where is operated.

In such a case, if the operation check mode ends even if the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are operated, the clerk does not intend to end the operation check mode. , The operation confirmation mode is unintentionally terminated. Therefore, in this modification, as shown in FIG. 22 (B), when another switch (up key 200B) is operated in addition to the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 during the operation check mode, The operation check mode does not end. Therefore, it is possible to reduce unintentional termination of the operation confirmation mode.

Further, although the clerk intends to operate the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 in order to end the operation confirmation mode, the upper key 200B may also be operated by mistake. In this case, the state shown in FIG. 22 (g) is obtained, and the operation check mode does not end. Then, the operability becomes poor for the clerk who wants to end the operation check mode.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the operation of the upper key flag is completed in the state of FIG. 22 (g), the state of FIG. 22 (c) is obtained. After that, when the state of FIG. 22 (c) continues for 0.5 seconds, the operation confirmation mode ends. Therefore, even if the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are intended to be operated but the upper key 200B is also operated by mistake, the operation confirmation mode can be appropriately terminated.

(D) Further, even if another switch is operated before the duration of the state in which the left key flag and the effect switch flag are stored reaches 0.5 seconds, the left key flag and the effect switch When the duration of the flag stored state reaches 0.5 seconds, the operation check mode ends. Therefore, when the clerk intends to end the operation check mode and the left key and the effect switch 56 are operated, the operation of the left key 200A → the operation of the effect switch 56 → the upper key 200B is performed for a short time. Even if it is operated with, the operation check mode can be terminated as the clerk intended.

Next, the first further modification will be described. In this modification, in FIGS. 22 (c) and 22 (c), the other switches are set before the duration of the state in which the left key flag and the effect switch flag are stored reaches 0.5 seconds. Even if it is operated, the operation confirmation mode is terminated when the duration of the state in which the left key flag and the effect switch flag are stored reaches 0.5 seconds. However, in the first further modification, when the left key flag and the left key flag are operated before the duration of the state in which the effect switch flag is stored reaches 0.5 seconds, the left key flag is used. And, even if the duration of the state in which the effect switch flag is stored reaches 0.5 seconds, the operation confirmation mode may not be terminated. According to such a configuration, for example, an attempt is made to confirm whether or not the functions of the upper key 200B and the effect switch 56 are normal (that is, the operation confirmation mode is not intended to be terminated). In addition to the upper key 200B and the effect switch 56, the left key 200A may be operated by mistake. Such a case is a case where the operation of the left key 200A → the operation of the effect switch 56 → the operation of the upper key 200B is performed in a short time. If the operation check mode ends just because the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are operated, the clerk does not intend to end the operation check mode, so the operation check mode is set. It will be terminated unwillingly. Therefore, according to the configuration of the first further modification, it is possible to reduce the unintentional termination of the operation confirmation mode.

Next, a second further modification will be described. In the example of FIGS. 22 (c) and 22 (c) in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the operation check mode ends when the state in which the effect switch flag and the left key flag are stored continues for 0.5 seconds. explained. However, the operation confirmation mode may be terminated at the timing when the effect switch flag and the left key flag are stored (that is, the timing when the effect switch 56 and the left key 200A are operated). According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the burden on the clerk to end the operation check mode.

Next, a third further modification will be described. In FIG. 22, when the operation of the upper key 200B is completed in the state of FIG. 22 (K), the state of FIG. 22 (K) is reached, and when the state of FIG. 22 (K) continues for 0.5 seconds, the operation confirmation mode Explained that it would end. However, in the state of FIG. 22 (g), the operation confirmation mode may not be terminated even if the operation of the upper key is completed. According to such a configuration, for example, even if a clerk who does not intend to end the operation check mode accidentally ends the operation of the upper key in the state of FIG. 22 (g), the operation check mode ends. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the unintentional termination of the operation check mode.

[Timing to end operation check mode]
(1) In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19 and the like, the end condition of the operation confirmation mode is a condition that is satisfied when the duration of the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 reaches 2 seconds. It was explained as. However, the duration of the termination operation for satisfying the termination condition may be another number of seconds. For example, the duration may be shorter than the 2 seconds. The short time may be, for example, 0.5 seconds (see, for example, FIGS. 19B and 19A), which is the period required to terminate the other mode.

In the case of such a configuration, if the function of the switch whose end operation is performed is normal at the timing when the end operation is executed, the normal notification process is executed. After that, the operation confirmation mode ends at the timing when the end operation is continued for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, since the duration can be shortened, the burden on the clerk who terminates the operation check mode can be reduced. Further, since the duration of the end operation for satisfying the end condition of the operation check mode can be shared between the operation check mode and the other modes, the burden of the process of ending the operation check mode can be reduced.

(2) Further, in the slot machine 300 described in [End operation], the end condition of the operation check mode is that the duration of the operation (end operation) between the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 is 0.5 seconds. It was explained that it is a condition that is satisfied by reaching. However, the duration of the termination operation for satisfying the termination condition may be another number of seconds. For example, the duration may be longer than the 0.5 second. The long time may be, for example, 2 seconds, which is the period required to terminate the other mode.

In the case of such a configuration, when the end operation is executed and the function of the end-operated switch is normal, the normal notification process is executed. After that, the operation confirmation mode ends at the timing when the end operation is continued for 2 seconds. Therefore, since the period during which the normal notification process is executed can be lengthened, it is possible to make the store clerk or the like clearly recognize that the left key 200A and the effect switch 56 are normal.

Further, in this modification, a case where the end operation and the decision operation on the administrator menu screen are the same switch, or the case where the end operation includes the decision operation on the administrator menu screen will be described. The fact that the end operation and the determination operation on the administrator menu screen are the same switch means that, for example, both the end operation and the determination operation are the operations of the effect switch 56. Further, the fact that the end operation includes the determination operation on the administrator menu screen means that, for example, the end operation is the effect switch 56, and the determination operation is the operation of the effect switch 56 and the left key 200A. Further, when the operation check mode ends, the case where the operation check mode is selected and the administrator menu screen is returned will be described. Hereinafter, the case where both the end operation and the determination operation are the operations of the effect switch 56 will be described. In this case, if the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 is continued, "normal notification processing of the effect switch 56-> display of the administrator menu screen at the end of the operation check mode-> operation check mode is determined. → Normal notification processing of the effect switch 56 → Display of the administrator menu screen when the operation confirmation mode ends ... ”is looped.

(3) In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19 (A-1), when the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 is executed during the operation check mode, the normal notification process is executed. Later, it was explained that the operation check mode was terminated. However, when the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 is executed during the operation check mode, the normal notification process may be executed (started) and the operation check mode may be ended. More specifically, when the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 is executed during the operation check mode, the operation check mode may be terminated at the same time as the execution (start) of the normal notification process. Good. According to such a configuration, the operation confirmation mode can be immediately terminated when the termination operation is performed. Further, in the case of such a configuration, even if the operation confirmation mode is terminated, as long as the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 is continued, the normal notification process of the effect switch 56 is continued. You may.

Further, when the operation (end operation) of the effect switch 56 is executed during the operation check mode, a configuration may be adopted in which the normal notification process is executed after the operation check mode is ended. In the case of such a configuration, for example, when the effect switch 56 is operated, the operation confirmation mode is terminated (for example, the display of the liquid crystal display 51 is returned to the administrator menu screen), and the normal notification process is performed. You may try to continue. The normal notification process here is at least one of the output of a predetermined sound and the light emission of the light emitting means.

[About the check target of the operation check mode]
The switch to be confirmed in the operation confirmation mode of the present embodiment has been described as being a switch that can be operated by the player. However, the switch to be confirmed may be, for example, a specific switch that cannot be operated by the player but can be operated by the manager of the clerk. Here, the specific switch may be, for example, a switch that can be operated only when the front door 1b is opened. For example, in the normal state, it functions as a reset switch for canceling the error state excluding the RAM abnormality error and the stop state, and in the setting change mode, the setting value of the winning probability (ball output rate) of the internal lottery is changed. It may be a reset / setting switch 38 that functions as a setting switch for.

[About other game machines]
The technical idea described in this embodiment may be applied to other gaming machines. The other gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine. In the pachinko gaming machine, various settings (volume, amount of light, type of effect, etc.) are made as an operation means, such as a ball hitting operation handle that shoots a hit ball, an effect switch that requests an operation when the effect is executed, and so on. It is equipped with a cross key that is operated when it is struck. The operation check mode is a mode in which it is possible to confirm that these operating means are functioning normally. It is assumed that the end condition of the operation confirmation mode is a condition that is satisfied when the effect switch is continued for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds). A pachinko gaming machine having such a configuration has the following effects.

As shown in FIGS. 17 and 19 (A-1), when the operation (end operation) for the effect switch is executed during the operation check mode, the effect switch is functioning normally. In that case, a normal notification process indicating that the effect switch is functioning normally is executed. After executing the normal notification process, the operation check mode is terminated and the screen returns to the administrator menu screen. Therefore, when the effect switch is operated during the operation check mode, the operation check mode can be terminated while making the store clerk recognize that the effect switch is functioning normally.

[About setting change status and setting confirmation status]
Regarding the setting change state, the setting may be changed 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, 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.

In the above-described embodiment, a plurality of reels capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of symbols, each of which can be identified, are provided, and after the reels are variablely displayed, the display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the reels, and a plurality of reels are derived. We have described a slot machine that can generate prizes according to the combination of reel display results. That is, a plurality of variable display units capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each are 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. Then, a slot machine capable of generating a prize according to a combination of display results of a plurality of variable display units has been described. However, 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. A slot machine that can generate a prize according to the display result is not limited to a slot machine having three reels, but a slot machine having only one reel or a slot machine having a plurality of reels other than three. May be good.

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)

It is a game machine that can play games
Operation means that can be operated related to the game,
And a mode control means for controlling the check mode capable verify that the operating means is functioning properly,
The operating means includes a specific operating means , a predetermined operating means, and a special operating means .
When the specific operating means and the special operating means are operated during the confirmation mode, it is possible to specify whether or not the specific operating means and the special operating means are functioning normally, and the above-mentioned Without terminating the confirmation mode control
When said specific operation means during the confirmation mode and the predetermined operation means is operated, the check whether the said specific operation means and the predetermined operating means is functioning properly after informing identifiable the control of the mode Ru is terminated, the gaming machine.

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