JP6860241B1 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine in which an effect control means can execute an operation confirmation control process when a power is turned on, and to start a game accompanied by an operation of an effect device according to a game content at an early stage. SOLUTION: In a slot machine including a game control means for controlling a game, a plurality of effect devices, and an effect control means for controlling the effect devices, a predetermined confirmation execution operation different from a power-on operation is performed. When the power is turned on in this state, the effect control means is made to execute the operation confirmation control process for confirming the operation of the effect device, and then the effect device is operated in a manner according to the game content. Start the process. Further, when the power is turned on without the confirmation execution operation being performed, the effect control means is started to start the game effect control process without executing the operation confirmation control process. [Selection diagram] FIG. 7

Description

The present invention relates to a slot machine provided with effect control means for controlling a plurality of effect devices.

The slot machine is provided with a directing device such as a lamp, a speaker, an image display, and an accessory in order to liven up the game. Then, in recent slot machines, a configuration has been proposed in which it is possible to confirm whether or not each effect device can operate normally when the power is turned on (for example, Patent Document 1). Specifically, in the slot machine described in Patent Document 1, a one-minute standby period is started after the power is turned on, and when the effect switch is operated during the standby period, the effect device is controlled. The effect control means (sub-control board) performs an operation confirmation control process for confirming the operation of the effect device. In the operation confirmation control process, the effect control means operates a part or all of the effect devices with predetermined operation confirmation control contents. A plurality of types of operation confirmation control contents are prepared, and the effect control means switches the operation confirmation control contents each time the effect switch is operated. Then, when the effect device is operated in all the operation check control contents, the operation check control process is terminated, and then the effect device is operated according to the game content to execute the game effect control process to excite the game. Has been done.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2018-68933

By the way, in the slot machine of Patent Document 1, a waiting period is provided for accepting the start operation of the operation confirmation control process before the effect control means starts the game effect control process. For this reason, it takes time from when the power is turned on until it becomes possible to start the game involving the operation of the effect device. There is no problem if the power is turned on outside the business hours of the game hall, but in the game hall, the power may be turned on again during business hours due to a malfunction of the aircraft or a power outage. In such a case, since the progress control of the game does not depend on the effect control of the effect control means, the game can be restarted immediately after the power is turned on again. Because it doesn't work, the game becomes dull. As described above, the slot machine of Patent Document 1 has a problem that when the power is turned on again during business hours, the player is made to wait for a long time until the effect device is operated normally.

The present invention has been made in view of the current situation, and in a slot machine in which the effect control means can execute the operation confirmation control process when the power is turned on, the game accompanied by the operation of the effect device according to the game content can be played at an early stage. The purpose is to provide a startable configuration.

The present invention is a slot machine including a game control means for controlling a game, a plurality of effect devices, and an effect control means for controlling the effect device, and the effect control means is in an embodiment according to the game content. It is possible to execute the game effect control process for operating the effect device and the operation confirmation control process for confirming the operation of the effect device, and the power is supplied in a state where a predetermined confirmation execution operation different from the power-on operation is performed. Is turned on, the operation confirmation control process is executed, and after the operation confirmation control process is completed, the game effect control process is started, and when the power is turned on without the confirmation execution operation being performed. , The game effect control process is started without executing the operation check control process. Further, in the operation check control process, any of a plurality of types of operation check control contents can be used for the effect device. A part or all of the operation is operated so that the plurality of types of operation confirmation control contents can be switched in a predetermined order based on a predetermined switching operation, and a predetermined end different from the confirmation execution operation and the switching operation. The operation confirmation control process is terminated with the operation as a trigger, and until the termination operation is performed, the plurality of types of operation confirmation control contents can be repeatedly executed in the predetermined order by the switching operation. The end operation includes at least a bet number setting operation, and a signal is input to the game control means from a sensor that detects the bet number setting operation, and the bet number setting operation is performed from the game control means to the effect control means. It is a slot machine characterized in that it is configured to send commands based on.

In such a configuration, since the presence / absence of the operation confirmation control process is selected depending on whether or not the confirmation execution operation is performed when the power is turned on, the waiting period for accepting the start operation of the operation confirmation control process after the power is turned on becomes unnecessary. Therefore, in the present invention, if the power is turned on without performing the confirmation execution operation, the effect control means can promptly start the game effect control process without going through the standby period and the operation confirmation control process. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to start a game involving the operation of the effect device according to the content of the game without delay after the power is turned on.
Further, the present invention has an advantage that the operation confirmation control process can be terminated at an arbitrary timing by the termination operation even before all the operation confirmation control contents are executed.
Further, in the present invention, since all types of operation confirmation control contents can be repeatedly confirmed by the switching operation, the operation confirmation control contents that feel the need for reconfirmation can be reconfirmed without turning on the power again. There is an advantage.
Further, in the present embodiment, when an operation related to the start of the game (inserting a medal or setting the number of bets by the bet switches 5a and 5b) is performed during the operation confirmation control process, the sub control means 21 controls the operation confirmation. Since the process is completed and the effect device is started to be controlled in a manner according to the content of the game, there is an advantage that it is possible to prevent a dull game without effect from being performed during the operation confirmation control process. Further, in the present embodiment, the operation of the insertion sensor 30 can be confirmed by confirming whether or not the operation confirmation control process is completed when the medal is inserted. Further, the operation of the bet switches 5a and 5b can be confirmed by confirming whether or not the operation confirmation control process is terminated at the time of the bet number setting operation by the bet switches 5a and 5b.

Further, in the present invention, when a predetermined abnormal state occurs during the execution of the operation confirmation control process, the effect control means ends the operation confirmation control process, and at least the game control means When a process for notifying the predetermined abnormal state is executed and a specific abnormal state occurs during the execution of the operation confirmation control process, the effect control means continues the operation confirmation control process and at least the game. It is proposed that the control means is configured to execute a process of notifying the specific abnormal state.
Here, the continuation of the operation confirmation control process when a specific abnormal state occurs means that the state in which the operation of at least some of the effect devices can be confirmed continues, and before the specific abnormal state occurs. The operation check control content is not limited to the configuration that continues even after the occurrence of a specific abnormal state.
Generally, when an abnormal state occurs during a game, the game is interrupted until the abnormal state is resolved, but the operation check of the effect device ends depending on the type of abnormal state that occurred. It may be better to continue without letting it. Therefore, if the operation confirmation control process is terminated or continued according to the type of abnormal state that has occurred as in such a configuration, the operation confirmation of the effect device can be performed more appropriately.

In the above configuration, the specific abnormal state is an open state of the front door, the effect device operated by the operation confirmation control process includes an accessory, and the effect control means is the operation confirmation control process. It is proposed that when the specific abnormal state occurs during execution, the accessory that is operating according to the operation confirmation control content may be operated in a specific mode.
In such a configuration, the opening of the front door can be confirmed by the operation of a specific mode of the accessory.

Further, in the present invention, when the power is turned off when the game state is controlled to be advantageous to the player and the confirmation execution operation is performed when the power is turned on after the power is turned off, the confirmation execution operation is performed after the power is turned on. When the game is started in the game state, the power is turned off when the game is controlled to a game state which is not advantageous to the player, and the confirmation execution operation is performed when the power is turned on after the power is turned off, the above-mentioned The effect control means starts the game effect control process in a predetermined initial effect state after the operation confirmation control process is completed, regardless of whether the first effect or the second effect is executed when the power is turned off. The configuration to be used is proposed.
In such a configuration, since the advantageous gaming state is not terminated by turning off the power, it is disadvantageous to the player even if the power is turned off and on again in order to execute the operation confirmation control process during the operation of the game hall. Does not occur. Further, in such a configuration, even if the operation confirmation control process is executed at the time of opening the game hall, the game effects immediately after the opening of the store can be arranged on the same model, so that it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable. There is an advantage.

Further, in the present invention, the game control means executes a settlement process for returning the accumulated game value by performing a predetermined settlement operation, and the operation confirmation control of the effect control means. A configuration is proposed in which the processing and the settlement processing of the game control means can be executed in parallel.
In such a configuration, even if a failure of the production device is found in the operation confirmation control process and the slot machine must be stopped, the player's game value accumulated in the machine can be returned. Become.

Further, in the present invention, the effect device that operates in the operation confirmation control process includes a first type effect device that does not include a motor and a second type effect device that is driven by the motor, and the effect. When the switching operation is performed in the operation confirmation control process, the control means switches to the next operation confirmation control content without delay according to the operation confirmation control content at that time. A configuration is proposed in which the control and the control for continuing the operation confirmation control content at that time point until a predetermined break are selectively executed.
Here, when the operation confirmation control content at the time when the switching operation is performed is the content of stopping the second type of effect device after operating it in the predetermined mode, the end time of the operation of the predetermined mode is "separated". , The operation of the predetermined mode may be continued to the end.
In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the effect device such as an accessory from breaking down during the operation confirmation control process. The control patterns of the effect devices such as image displays, lamps, and speakers can be easily switched, but the effect devices such as accessories driven by the motor change the control patterns during irregular operation. This is because there is a risk of failure if changed.

Further, in the present invention, the game control means can execute a game control process related to game execution control and a setting change process that enables a player's degree of advantage in the game to be set, and the power is turned on. When the power is turned on while a predetermined setting change operation different from the operation and the confirmation execution operation is performed, the setting change process is executed, and the game control process is started after the setting change process is completed. When the power is turned on without the setting change operation being performed, the game control process is started without executing the setting change process, and the setting change operation and the confirmation execution operation are performed. When the power is turned on in this state, the game control means is configured to start the setting change process, and the effect control means is configured to start the operation confirmation control process. A configuration is proposed in which the operation confirmation control process is started with the same control content regardless of whether or not the game control means is executing the setting change process.
In such a configuration, the same operation confirmation control process is started regardless of whether or not the setting change process is executed, so that it does not take time to confirm the operation of the effect device. Therefore, according to such a configuration, it is possible to efficiently perform the work before the opening of the amusement park.

It is a front view of the slot machine 1 of an Example. It is a perspective view which shows the outline of the slot machine 1 in the state which the front door 3 is opened. It is a block diagram which shows the control circuit of a slot machine 1. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the game control processing which the main control means 20 executes. It is a figure which shows the activation pattern of the slot machine 1. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the main control processing which the main control means 20 executes. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the sub-control process executed by the sub-control means 21. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the game effect control processing which a sub-control means 21 executes. It is a chart which shows the content of the operation confirmation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the operation confirmation control processing which sub-control means 21 executes. It is a timing chart which shows the execution example of the operation confirmation control process.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following examples. In the following examples, the game control means according to the present invention corresponds to the main control means 20, and the effect control means according to the present invention corresponds to the sub control means 21. Further, the effect device according to the present invention corresponds to the effect switch lamp 9a, the image display 13, the accessory 14, the effect lamps 16a to 16f, and the speakers 17a to 17d. Further, the operation confirmation control content according to the present invention corresponds to an operation confirmation pattern. Further, the power-on operation according to the present invention corresponds to switching the power switch 28 from OFF to ON, and the confirmation execution operation according to the present invention corresponds to pressing the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26. Further, the switching operation according to the present invention corresponds to pressing the effect switch 9, and the ending operation according to the present invention corresponds to inserting a medal into the insertion slot 11 or setting the number of bets by the bet switches 5a and 5b. To do. Further, the predetermined abnormal state according to the present invention corresponds to an error such as a medal jam in the medal selector 15, a medal jam in the hopper unit 19, a medal out, or an auxiliary tank full, and the specific abnormal state according to the present invention is Corresponds to the open state of the door (open state of the front door 3). In addition, the operation of the specific aspect of the accessory according to the present invention corresponds to the initial operation of the accessory 14. Further, the game value according to the present invention corresponds to a medal, and the settlement operation according to the present invention corresponds to the operation of the settlement switch 8. Further, the first-class effect device according to the present invention corresponds to the image display 13, the effect lamps 16a to 16f, the effect switch lamps 9a, and the speakers 17a to 17d, and the second-class effect device according to the present invention. Corresponds to the accessory 14. Further, the setting change operation according to the present invention corresponds to an operation of turning on the setting key switch 29.

FIG. 1 is a front view of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment. The slot machine 1 includes a housing 2 having an open front surface and an openable and closable front door 3 that covers the entire front surface of the housing 2. A transparent display window 4 is formed at the center of the front surface of the front door 3 so that the reels 12 arranged inside the housing 2 can be visually recognized. On the front side of the front door 3, various switches such as bet switches 5a and 5b, start switch 6, stop switch 7, settlement switch 8, effect switch 9, and cross key 10 are arranged below the display window 4. In addition, a slot 11 for inserting a medal is also provided. An image display 13 made of a liquid crystal display device is arranged above the display window 4 of the front door 3, and an accessory 14 is arranged above the image display 13. Further, a plurality of effect lamps 16a to 16f are arranged on both sides of the front door 3, and a cylinder lock 35 for locking the front door 3 is arranged on the right side of the front door 3.

As shown in FIG. 2, inside the housing 2, a main control means 20 for controlling the game and a sub control means 21 for controlling the effect device are installed above the reel 12 in a state of being housed in a case. Further, a power supply box 18, a hopper unit 19, and a door open / close sensor 36 are arranged below the reel 12. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, speakers 17a to 17d are arranged at the four corners on the back side of the front door 3. Further, an image control means 22 for controlling the image display 13 is arranged on the back side of the image display 13 in a state of being housed in a case, and further, a sub-connection board 23 is arranged on the back side of the image control means 22. Is arranged. Further, on the back side of the sub-connection board 23, the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 are arranged close to each other. Further, on the back side of the front door 3, a setting change switch 24, a medal selector 15, and an error release sensor 37 are arranged below the display window 4.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the slot machine 1. Each configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

The main control means 20 is composed of a substrate on which a CPU, RAM, ROM, and the like are arranged. The main control means 20 mainly executes control regarding the progress of the game. Fixed data such as a program mainly related to game control is stored in the ROM of the main control means 20. As shown in FIG. 3, the input ports of the main control means 20 include a power supply box 18, a setting change switch 24, an on sensor 30, a door open / close sensor 36, an error release sensor 37, bet switches 5a and 5b, and a start switch 6. The stop switch 7 and the checkout switch 8 are connected. Further, the reel 12, the hopper unit 19, and the sub control means 21 are connected to the output port of the main control means 20.

The power supply box 18 is for supplying electric power to each device of the slot machine 1, and includes a power supply switch 28 and a setting key switch 29. The power switch 28 is a general rocker switch. When the power switch 28 is switched from ON to OFF, the power of the slot machine 1 is turned off, and when the power switch 28 is switched from OFF to ON, the power is turned on to the slot machine 1. To. That is, switching the power switch 28 from OFF to ON corresponds to the power-on operation according to the present invention. In addition to the power-on operation, with the power switch 28 turned on, the power is turned on to the game island equipment that is the power supply source of the slot machine 1, or the plug of the slot machine 1 is connected to the power supply. However, the power can be turned on to the slot machine 1. The setting key switch 29 is a type of switch that switches ON / OFF by inserting a dedicated key into the keyhole and turning it. As will be described later, the power is supplied to the slot machine 1 with the setting key switch 29 turned ON. When it is turned on, the valid setting value can be changed. Further, when the setting key switch 29 is switched from OFF to ON after the power is turned on, the setting management state for setting the speaker volume, the date and time, and the like is set in the amusement park, and the hall management screen is displayed on the image display 13. The setting management state ends by switching the setting key switch 29 from ON to OFF.

The insertion sensor 30 detects the insertion of medals into the slot machine 1. That is, the insertion sensor 30 is arranged in the medal passage in the medal selector 15 provided on the back side of the front door 3, detects medals passing through the medal passage one by one, and inserts a signal each time the medals are detected. Is output.

The bet switches 5a and 5b are for setting the credited medals as the number of bets. The bet switches 5a and 5b include a single bet switch 5a and a max bet switch 5b. The single bet switch 5a sets the number of credited medals to the number of bets one by one. The max bet switch 5b sets the maximum number of bets per game.

The three reels 12 have a cylindrical shape, and a total of 20 symbols of 10 types are arranged on the outer peripheral surface thereof. Each reel 12 is provided with a stepping motor, and by rotating by each stepping motor, the pattern on the outer peripheral surface is variablely displayed on the display window 4, and by stopping at an arbitrary angle by the stepping motor, the display window 4 It is configured so that the design on the outer peripheral surface can be selectively stopped and displayed. As shown in FIG. 1, the display window 4 is configured to have a size capable of displaying the symbols of each reel 12 in three upper and lower stages, and the portion where the lower design of each reel 12 is displayed is set as an effective line. ..

The start switch 6 is used for an operation of starting the rotation of the reel 12. In this embodiment, a lever type switch is used, and by tilting the lever, the three reels 12 start rotating, and the design of the reels 12 is variablely displayed on the display window 4.

The stop switch 7 is used for an operation of stopping the rotation of the reel 12. A total of three stop switches 7 are arranged so as to be individually associated with the three reels 12. Specifically, pressing the left stop switch 7 stops the left reel 12, pressing the center stop switch 7 stops the center reel 12, and pressing the right stop switch 7 stops the right reel 12. Configured to stop. That is, the three reels 12 are stopped one by one according to the operation order of the stop switches 7, and when all the stop switches 7 are pressed, all the reels 12 are stopped and the combination of symbols is displayed on the effective line. Stop is displayed.

The checkout switch 8 is for returning the player's medals accumulated in the aircraft to the player. The player's medals accumulated on the plane are credited medals and medals for which the number of bets has been set but have not yet been used for the game. When the settlement switch 8 is operated, the main control means 20 operates the hopper unit 19 to pay out medals and executes a settlement process of subtracting the number of paid out medals from the number of medals of the player stored electrically. To do.

The setting change switch 24 is a push button type switch provided on the back side of the front door 3, and is used together with the setting key switch 29 of the power supply box 18 to change the effective setting value.

More specifically, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with a set value that defines a game setting. This set value is provided with 6 stages of "1" to "6" according to the degree of advantage of the player, and one of the set values is set as the valid set value, and the valid set value is defined. The game is configured to be played based on the game settings. To change the valid setting value, first, the slot machine 1 is turned on with the setting key switch 29 turned on. As a result, the main control means 20 is in the setting change state. In the set value change state, the valid setting value is updated each time the setting change switch 24 is pressed, and the valid setting value is confirmed by operating the start switch 6. The setting change state of the main control means 20 ends by switching the setting key switch 29 to OFF.

The hopper unit 19 is for paying out medals, and includes a tank for storing medals and a sending mechanism for sending out the medals of the tank toward the payout port. The delivery mechanism includes a motor as a drive source and a payout sensor for detecting the delivered medal. If the payout sensor does not detect a medal even though the motor of the delivery mechanism is driven for a certain period of time or longer, the main control means 20 controls the hopper empty error.

The door open / close sensor 36 is for detecting the open / closed state of the front door 3, and when it detects the opening of the front door 3, it outputs a detection signal. The main control means 20 controls the door to the open state, triggered by the reception of the detection signal from the door open / close sensor 36.

The error release sensor 37 detects a release operation such as a door open state or a hopper empty error. Specifically, in this embodiment, the act of inserting the key into the cylinder lock 35 of the front door 3 and turning it counterclockwise is the release operation of the door open state, the hopper empty error, etc., and the error release sensor 37 is , Detects the movement of the cylinder lock 35 when the key is turned counterclockwise, and outputs a detection signal. Then, the main control means 20 is configured to release the door open state, the hopper empty error, and the like, triggered by the reception of the detection signal from the error release sensor 37.

The sub-control means 21 is composed of a substrate on which a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. are arranged, and mainly executes production control. The ROM of the sub-control means 21 stores fixed data related to a wide variety of effect patterns. The main control means 20 is connected to the input port of the sub control means 21, and a control signal (command) including information regarding the progress of the game is input from the main control means 20 to the sub control means 21 in one direction. Further, a sub-connection board 23, which is a relay board, is connected to the input / output port of the sub-control means 21. Switches such as an effect switch 9, a cross key 10, a volume setting switch 25, and a sub clear switch 26 are connected to the sub connection board 23, and the output of these switches is sent to the sub control means 21 via the sub connection board 23. Entered. Further, effect devices such as effect lamps 16a to 16f, speakers 17a to 17d, effect switch lamps 9a, and accessory 14 are connected to the sub connection board 23, and the sub control means 21 connects the sub connection board 23. Through this, it is possible to control the operation of these effect devices. An image control means 22 for controlling the image display 13 is also connected to the sub-connection board 23, and the sub-control means 21 outputs a display control command to the image control means 22 via the sub-connection board 23. By doing so, the required image is displayed on the image display 13. The sub-control means 21 mainly realizes an effect of enlivening the game by executing a game effect control process for operating the effect device in a mode according to the game content. Specifically, the sub control means 21 determines the operation pattern of each effect device based on the control signal from the main control means 20, and controls each effect device in order to execute the determined effect pattern. , A display control command is transmitted to the image control means 22. Further, as will be described later, the sub-control means 21 executes an operation confirmation control process for confirming the operation of the effect device under specific conditions.

The effect switch lamp 9a is arranged inside the effect switch 9 to cause the effect switch 9 to emit light. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, three effect lamps 16a to 16f are arranged on the left and right sides of the front door 3 so as to form a pair on the left and right sides. Further, the effect switch lamps 9a and the effect lamps 16a to 16f can be selectively turned on and blinked in various colors, and the sub control means 21 lights the effect switch lamps 9a and the effect lamps 16a to 16f. The mode can be controlled individually.

As shown in FIG. 2, the speakers 17a to 17d are arranged one by one at the four corners of the front door 3, and the sub control means 21 can individually control the output voices of the speakers 17a to 17d. There is.

As shown in FIG. 1, the accessory 14 is arranged on the upper part of the front door 3. The accessory 14 is a shutter device that opens and closes the display screen of the image display 13, and is arranged in a rectangular shape that can be converted into a shielding position that shields the display screen and a retracting position that retracts above the display screen. It includes a shielding member 14a and an accessory drive motor 14b that converts the shielding member 14a into a shielding position and a retracted position. The sub-control means 21 controls the accessory drive motor 14b to displace the shielding member 14a, thereby opening and closing the display screen of the image display 13 at an arbitrary timing.

The effect switch 9 is a push button type switch mainly used for game production. The effect switch 9 is also used for switching the operation confirmation pattern described later.

The cross key 10 is a switch composed of up / down / left / right and center push buttons, and is used when various settings are made in the above-mentioned setting management state.

The volume setting switch 25 is a push button type switch mainly used for adjusting the volume of the speakers 17a to 17d. The volume includes an administrator-set volume set by the staff of the game hall and a player-set volume that can be adjusted by the player operating the cross key 10 while the game is playable. The volume setting switch. The volume that can be adjusted by the operation of 25 is an administrator-set volume. Specifically, when the volume setting switch 25 is pressed, the sub control means 21 is in the volume setting state, and the volume setting screen is displayed on the image display 13. In the volume setting state, the set volume can be increased or decreased by operating the cross key 10 up and down, and the set volume is confirmed by operating the center of the cross key 10. After the set volume is confirmed, when the front door 3 is closed and the door open state is released, the sub control means 21 ends the volume setting state and displays the screen for effect on the image display 13.

The sub clear switch 26 is a push button type switch mainly used for initializing the sub control means 21. Specifically, when the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on while the sub-clear switch 26 is pressed, the RAM of the sub-control means 21 is initialized, and the settings such as the date and the volume stored in the RAM are reset. The initialization of the sub-control means 21 is executed when an abnormality is found in the operation of the effect device controlled by the sub-control means 21.

Further, as will be described later, in this embodiment, by turning on the power while pressing both the volume setting switch 25 and the sub clear switch 26, the sub control means 21 can execute the operation confirmation control process described later. It is composed. Therefore, the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 are arranged close to each other so that both switches 25 and 26 can be pressed with one hand when the power is turned on.

The image control means 22 includes a CPU, RAM, ROM, and the like, and controls the display of the image display 13. The ROM of the image control means 22 stores a large amount of data for generating an effect image to be displayed on the image display 13. When the image control means 22 receives the display control command from the sub control means 21, the CPU performs arithmetic processing, writes the effect image data into the RAM, outputs the data to the image display 13, and selects the sub control means 21. The effect image according to the effect pattern is displayed on the display screen of the image display 13.

In such a slot machine 1, after rotating the reel 12 to display the symbol in a variable manner, the game of stopping the reel 12 and displaying the symbol stopped on the effective line is repeatedly executed. Specifically, one game consists of (1) setting the number of bets required to start the game, (2) starting switch operation, (3) reel rotation, (4) stop switch operation, and (5) reel operation. It is performed in the order of stop, (6) winning process based on the symbol combination stopped on the valid line.

FIG. 4 shows the control contents of the game control process constituting the game contents in the control contents of the main control means 20. Details of each step S1 to S9 executed in the game control process are as follows.
S1: The bet number setting operation is enabled after the end of the previous game or after the power is turned on. Then, it is detected whether or not the number of bets required for one game has been set by inserting medals or operating the bet switches 5a and 5b, and waits until the required number of bets is set. When the required bet number setting is detected, the start switch 6 is enabled.
S2: Wait until the start switch 6 is operated.
S3: When the start switch 6 is operated, the rotation of each reel 12 is started. In addition, the winning combination lottery is executed with the operation of the start switch 6. In the combination lottery, lottery values are extracted from the random number generator, and based on the extracted lottery values, it is determined whether or not various combinations have been won. Then, the result of the winning combination lottery is stored in the RAM, and a command for notifying the result of the winning combination lottery is transmitted to the sub control means 21.
S4: Wait until the stop switch 7 is operated.
S5: When the stop switch 7 is operated, the rotation angle for stopping the corresponding reel 12 is determined, and by stopping the corresponding reel 12 at the rotation angle, the symbol of the reel 12 is stopped and displayed on the effective line. To do.
S6: The processes of steps S4 and S5 are repeated until the rotation of all the reels 12 is stopped.
S7: It is determined whether or not the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the valid line matches the combination of symbols corresponding to the combination. Then, if it matches the symbol combination related to any of the winning combinations, it is determined that the winning combination has been won. Then, a command for notifying the determination result is transmitted to the sub-control means 21.
S8: A process related to the payout of medals is performed according to the determination result of the winning determination process. Specifically, if it is determined that a small winning combination has been won, the number of payouts according to the winning small winning combination is added to the credits, and if the number of credits exceeds a predetermined number (50), the excess amount is added. Pay out the medal. In addition, if it is determined that the player has won the re-game combination, the next game can be executed without inserting a medal.
S9: The game state is shifted according to the result of the winning determination process or the like. For example, when a bonus combination is won in a normal game state that is disadvantageous to the player, the player shifts to a bonus game state that is advantageous to the player. In addition, if the game that wins the bonus combination does not win the bonus combination, the game shifts to the carry-over game state until the bonus combination is won. When the end condition of the bonus game state is satisfied, the bonus game state is ended and the normal game state is entered.

The configuration according to the main part of the present invention will be described below.
In this embodiment, as described above, the power is turned on to the slot machine 1 by switching the power switch 28 of the power box 18 from OFF to ON. When the power is turned on to the slot machine 1, the main control means 20, the sub control means 21, and the image control means 22 each execute an activation process of reading a program or necessary information into the RAM. Here, at the time of normal power-on, when each of the control means 20 to 22 finishes the activation process, the game accompanied by the operation of the effect device can be executed. On the other hand, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, when the power is turned on while the specific switch is operated, the slot machine 1 can be started in a mode different from the normal state. Specifically, in the normal state, the main control means 20 starts the game control process (see FIG. 4) related to the game execution control immediately after the start process, and the sub control means 21 starts the game. Immediately after that, the game effect control process for operating the effect device in a manner corresponding to the game content is started. On the other hand, when the power is turned on while the setting key switch 29 is ON, the main control means 20 executes a setting change process for changing the valid setting value before the start of the game control process. Further, the sub-control means 21 executes the setting management process for controlling the slot machine 1 to the setting management state before the start of the game effect control process. Further, normally, the sub control means 21 starts the game effect control process for operating the effect device in a manner according to the game content immediately after the start process, but the power is turned on while the sub clear switch 26 is pressed. When it is turned on, the sub-clear process for initializing the sub-control means 21 is executed before the start of the game effect control process. Further, when the power is turned on while the volume setting switch 25 and the sub clear switch 26 are pressed, the sub control means 21 confirms the operation of the effect device before starting the game effect control process. Execute control processing. As shown in FIG. 5, the activation mode of the main control means 20 does not depend on the ON / OFF of the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 when the power is turned on. On the other hand, the sub control means 21 executes the sub clear process and the operation confirmation control process based on the ON / OFF of the volume setting switch 25 and the sub clear switch 26 regardless of the ON / OFF of the setting key switch 29 when the power is turned on. .. That is, when the power is turned on while the setting key switch 29 is ON and only the sub clear switch 26 is pressed, the main control means 20 executes the setting change process and the sub control means 21 after the power is turned on. Executes the sub-clear process. Further, when the power is turned on while the setting key switch 29 is ON and both the volume setting switch 25 and the sub clear switch 26 are pressed, the main control means 20 executes the setting change process after the power is turned on. At the same time, the sub control means 21 executes the operation confirmation control process. The control content of the setting change process started by the main control means 20 is constant regardless of whether or not the sub control means 21 is performing the sub clear process or the operation confirmation control process. Similarly, the control contents of the sub-clear process and the operation confirmation control process started by the sub-control means 21 are also constant regardless of whether or not the main control means 20 is executing the setting change process. As an exception to the accessory 14, a special operation different from the control content of the operation confirmation control process may be performed at a specific timing such as the end of the setting change process. Further, in the operation check control process, all the effect devices may be controlled with a certain content regardless of whether or not the setting change process is being executed, but some of the effect devices may be controlled during the execution of the setting change process. The effect device may be controlled to behave differently from when the setting change process is not executed. For example, the image displayed on the image display 13 in the operation confirmation control process may be an image that can confirm the normal operation of the image display 13, so that a normal image (black and white, which will be described later) is being executed during the setting change process. Instead of the gradation image), an image corresponding to the setting change process may be displayed. Here, when the sub-clear process is executed while the setting key switch 29 is ON, the sub-control means 21 executes the sub-clear process after the start process is completed, and executes the setting management process after the sub-clear process is completed. When the operation check control process is executed while the setting key switch 29 is ON, the sub control means 21 executes the operation check control process after the start process is completed, and sets after the operation check control process is completed. The game effect control process is started without executing the management process.

FIG. 6 shows the control contents of the main control process 20 which is executed immediately after the power is turned on in the control contents of the main control means 20. As shown in FIG. 6, the main control means 20 first executes the activation process (S101). In the startup process, the program is loaded, backup data is read into RAM as needed, and the state when the power is turned off is restored. That is, when the game state is controlled to be advantageous to the player such as the bonus game state when the power is turned off, the game state is returned to the advantageous game state when the power is turned off. Further, in the activation process, the main control means 20 also determines the presence or absence of various errors. Such activation processing is completed in a short time (about 1 second). Then, when the main control means 20 finishes the activation process (S101), the main control means 20 confirms the state of the setting key switch 29 (S102). Then, when it is determined that the setting key switch 29 is OFF, the above-mentioned game control process (S104) is started. Then, the main control means 20 repeats the game control process (S104) until the power is turned off or the interrupt process is executed. As described above, when the power is normally turned on (setting key switch OFF), the main control means 20 starts executing the game control process immediately after the start process, so that the game can be started in a short time. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S102 that the setting key switch 29 is ON, the setting change process (S103) that enables the setting of the valid setting value is executed, and after the setting change process is completed, the game control process (S104) is executed. ) Is started. In the control process of FIG. 6, since the start-up process (S101) and the setting change process (S103) are well-known processes executed by the main control means of a known slot machine, the details of the process contents will be omitted. The contents of the game control process (S104) are as described above (see FIG. 4). Further, in this embodiment, since the start-up process (S101) is completed in a short time (less than 1 second), the state of the setting key switch 29 is confirmed after the start-up process (S101) is completed in the main control process of FIG. However, it may be configured to check the state of the setting key switch 29 before executing the activation process (S101) (S102).

FIG. 7 shows the control contents of the sub control process executed immediately after the power is turned on in the control contents of the sub control means 21. As shown in FIG. 7, the sub-control means 21 first executes the activation process (S201). In the startup process, the program is loaded, backup data is read into RAM as needed, and the state when the power is turned off is restored. Further, in the activation process, the sub control means 21 controls the accessory 14 to perform an initial operation for controlling the shielding member 14a to the initial position (evacuation position) and for detecting the position of the shielding member 14a. .. Further, in the activation process, the sub-control means 21 also determines the presence or absence of various errors. The sub-control means 21 controls the accessory 14 to execute such an initial operation even when the door is open or the setting change process is completed. When the sub-control means 21 finishes the activation process, the sub-control means 21 confirms the states of the sub-clear switch 26 and the volume setting switch 25 (S202, S203). Then, when it is determined that the sub-clear switch 26 is not ON (pressed state), the game effect control process (S206) for operating the effect device in a mode according to the game content is executed. Then, the sub-control means 21 repeats the game effect control process (S206) until the power is turned off or the interrupt process is executed. As described above, when the power is normally turned on (the sub clear switch 26 and the volume setting switch 25 are OFF), the sub control means 21 starts executing the game effect control process immediately after the start process, so that the effect is adjusted to the game content. Can be started in a short time. On the other hand, if it is determined in steps S202 and S203 that only the sub-clear switch 26 is ON (pressed state), the sub-clear process (S205) that initializes the sub-control means 21 is executed, and then the game effect control process (game effect control process) ( S206) is started. If it is determined that the sub-clear switch 26 and the volume setting switch 25 are ON (pressed state), the operation confirmation control process is executed, and then the game effect control process (S206) is executed. In this embodiment, since the start-up process (S201) is completed in a short time (less than 1 second), in the sub-control process of FIG. 7, after the start-up process (S201) is completed, the sub-clear switch 26 and the volume setting switch 25 are used. Although the status is confirmed (S202, S203), the status of the sub-clear switch 26 and the volume setting switch 25 may be confirmed before the start processing (S201) is executed.

FIG. 8 shows the control contents of the game effect control process executed by the sub control means 21. As described above, the game effect control process is repeatedly executed after the power is turned on.
In the game effect control process, first, the sub control means 21 determines whether or not a command including information regarding the progress of the game has been received from the main control means 20 (S301). Here, when it is determined that the command has been received from the main control means 20, the effect lottery is executed based on the received command, and the effect pattern to be executed next is determined (S302). Then, in order to display the effect image corresponding to the determined effect pattern on the image display 13, a display control command instructing the display of the effect image is transmitted to the image control means 22 as necessary (S303). Then, the effect switch lamps 9a, the accessory 14, the effect lamps 16a to 16f, and the speakers 17a to 17d are controlled (S304) according to the determined effect content, and the effect control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S301 that the command has not been received from the main control means 20, only the process (S304) for controlling each effect device is executed as the determined effect is continuously executed. The effect control process is terminated.

The operation confirmation control process executed by the sub-control means 21 will be described below.
The operation confirmation control process is a process for causing the staff of a manufacturing factory or a game hall to confirm whether or not the effect device operates correctly. As shown in FIG. 9, the effect devices to be confirmed in the operation confirmation control process are the image display 13, the effect lamps 16a to 16f, the effect switch lamps 9a, the speakers 17a to 17d, and the accessory 14. In the operation confirmation control process, the sub control means 21 selectively operates these effect devices in any of the five types of operation confirmation patterns. Five types of operation confirmation patterns are prepared, and the lighting mode of the lamps 9a, 16a to 16f, the movements of the output speakers 17a to 17d, and the accessory 14 are configured to change depending on the type of operation confirmation pattern. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the effect switch lamps 9a and the effect lamps 16a to 16f are turned on, blinking, or extinguished according to the type of the operation check pattern, and are turned on or off according to the type of the operation check pattern. Also changes the emission color. Further, the speakers 17a to 17d change the speakers 17a to 17d that output sound according to the type of the operation confirmation pattern. Further, the accessory 14 changes the driving mode of the shielding member 14a according to the type of the operation confirmation pattern. For example, in the operation confirmation pattern 2, the shielding member 14a slowly opens and closes the image display 13 by repeating a reciprocation between the shielding position and the retracting position at a low speed. Further, in the operation confirmation pattern 3, the image display 13 is quickly opened and closed by repeating the reciprocation between the shielding position and the retracting position at high speed. Further, in the operation confirmation pattern 5, the shielding member 14a repeats an irregular reciprocating movement for about 4 seconds while changing the moving speed and the reversing position. The image display 13 displays a black-and-white gradation image on the display screen regardless of the type of operation confirmation pattern.

More specifically, the sub-control means 21 controls each effect device with the operation confirmation pattern 1 at the start of the operation confirmation control process. Then, each time the effect switch 9 is pressed during the execution of the operation confirmation control process, the sub control means 21 sets the operation confirmation pattern of each effect device to “1” → “2” → “3” → “4”. → Switch in the order of "5" → "1" → "2" → ... Basically, the sub-control means 21 continues the operation of the effect device in each operation confirmation pattern until it is switched to the next operation confirmation pattern. However, with regard to the control of the accessory 14 in the operation confirmation pattern 5, the shielding member 14a is stopped after the above-mentioned irregular driving is executed for about 4 seconds. Further, basically, when the effect switch 9 is pressed, the sub control means 21 switches the control of each effect device to the control in the next operation confirmation pattern without delay. However, when the operation confirmation pattern is switched from "5" to "1" during the shift drive of the accessory 14, the shielding member 14a is stopped after the irregular drive is executed to the end. This is because if the control is changed during a complicated movement, the accessory 14 may break down. Further, even when the operation confirmation pattern is switched from "5" to "2" by repeatedly hitting the effect switch 9, the sub control means 21 does not interrupt the irregular drive and continues the irregular drive to the end. In this case, the accessory 14 may be stopped without performing the low-speed drive of the operation confirmation pattern 2 to prevent the irregular drive and the low-speed drive from being confused. Alternatively, the operation of the low-speed drive may be confirmed by performing the low-speed drive after the end of the irregular drive. As described above, since the sub-control means 21 operates the effect device in a plurality of modes in the operation confirmation control process, the staff of the manufacturing factory or the amusement park can strictly confirm the presence or absence of the operation abnormality of the effect device. In this embodiment, when the operation check pattern is switched from "5" to "1", the irregular drive is executed to the end, but there is a break in which the accessory 14 can be safely stopped during the irregular drive. The shielding member 14a may be stopped when the shift drive reaches the division.

Basically, the sub-control means 21 continues the operation confirmation control process until a predetermined end operation is performed, ends the operation confirmation control process when the end operation is performed, and performs the game effect control process. Start. In this embodiment, the insertion of medals into the insertion slot 11 and the bet number setting operation by the bet switches 5a and 5b are set as end operations. Specifically, when a medal is inserted into the insertion port 11 and the insertion sensor 30 outputs a detection signal, a command related to medal insertion is transmitted from the main control means 20 to the sub control means 21, and the command is received. At this point, the sub-control means 21 ends the operation confirmation control process. Further, when the bet switches 5a and 5b are pressed in a valid state, a command related to the bet number setting is transmitted from the main control means 20 to the sub control means 21, and when such a command is received, the sub control means 21 Ends the operation check control process. In this way, the operation confirmation control process can be actively terminated at an arbitrary timing by the termination operation. Therefore, in this embodiment, the operation confirmation control process can be terminated before all types of operation confirmation patterns are executed, and by repeating the operation of the effect switch 9 before performing the termination operation, 5 It is also possible to repeatedly execute the types of operation confirmation patterns in the above order many times and then end the operation confirmation control process.

Since the door is basically open when the power is turned on, the sub control means 21 executes the operation confirmation control process regardless of whether the door is open or not. Specifically, it is configured to execute the operation confirmation control process even when the door is open at the start of the operation confirmation control process. Further, even if the door open state reoccurs during the operation check control process after the door open state is released, the sub control means 21 continues the operation check control process. Specifically, when a door open state occurs during the operation confirmation control process, the sub control means 21 sets the image display 13, the effect lamps 16a to 16f, the effect switch lamps 9a, and the speakers 17a to 17d to the door. Operate with the same operation check pattern as before the open state occurred. As for the accessory 14, in principle, the initial operation when the door is opened is executed with priority given to the operation confirmation pattern, and the operation confirmation pattern is restarted when the effect switch 9 is pressed after the initial operation is completed. However, if the door open state occurs while the accessory 14 is irregularly driven in the operation confirmation pattern "5", the irregular driving during the operation is continued, and the initial operation is not executed even after the irregular driving is completed. Further, when an error other than the door open state (medal jamming of the medal selector 15, medal jamming in the hopper unit 19, medal exhaustion, auxiliary tank full, etc.) occurs, the sub control means 21 ends the operation confirmation control process. To do. Specifically, the sub-control means 21 ends the operation confirmation control process being executed, executes a process of displaying the error content on the image display 13, and notifies the occurrence of the error. Further, the main control means 20 also executes a process of displaying code information indicating the content of the error that has occurred on the payout display (not shown) of the front door 3 that displays the number of payouts at the time of winning, and the error. Notify the occurrence of. Then, after the generated error is resolved, the sub-control means 21 starts the game effect control process without restarting the operation confirmation control process, and displays the effect screen on the image display 13. As described above, in this embodiment, the operation check control process is terminated when an error other than the door open state occurs. However, when the error is resolved without turning off the power, after the error is cleared, the error is resolved. The operation check control process may be restarted. When the door open state occurs, the operation confirmation control process continues, but in parallel with the operation check control process, the main control means 20 displays the code information indicating the door open state on the payout display. Is executed to notify that the door is open.

If the power of the slot machine 1 is turned off during the operation check control process, the sub-control means 21 is configured to end the running operation check control process at the time when the power is turned off. That is, if the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 are not operated at the next power-on, the sub-control means 21 starts the game effect control process without executing the operation confirmation control process after the start-up process. According to this configuration, when the amusement park is closed and you want to check only a part of the operation check patterns, you can simply turn off the power after checking, and the next time you turn on the power, you will not go through the operation check control process. The game effect control process can be started. If medals are inserted or bets are processed in order to complete the operation check control process, it will be necessary to settle the payment toward the opening of the store, but such work can be omitted.

FIG. 10 shows the control contents of the operation confirmation control process executed by the sub control means 21. In the operation confirmation control process, first, the sub control means 21 sets the operation confirmation pattern 1 as the first operation confirmation pattern (S401). Subsequently, the set operation check pattern is executed (S402). That is, the effect switch lamps 9a, the accessory 14, the effect lamps 16a to 16f, and the speakers 17a to 17d are controlled according to the set operation confirmation pattern, and the display control command is image-controlled as necessary. It is transmitted to means 22. Next, when the operation state of the effect switch 9 is determined (S403) and it is determined that the effect switch 9 is not pressed, the process proceeds to step S405, and when it is determined that the effect switch 9 is pressed, the next step is performed. The operation confirmation pattern is set (S404), and the process proceeds to step S405. That is, in step S404, the operation confirmation pattern 2 is set if the operation confirmation pattern 1 is being set, and the operation confirmation pattern 1 is set if the operation confirmation pattern 5 is being set. In step S405, it is determined whether or not the operation confirmation control process end operation has been performed. Specifically, the presence or absence of the end operation is determined by determining whether or not a command indicating medal insertion or a command related to betting number setting has been received from the main control means 20. Then, when it is determined that the end operation has been performed, the operation confirmation control process is terminated, and when it is determined that the end operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S402.

FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing an execution example of the operation confirmation control process. In such an execution example, when the power is turned on while the volume setting switch 25 and the sub clear switch 26 are pressed, the sub control means 21 starts the operation confirmation control process immediately after the start process is completed. Further, the main control means 20 starts the game control process immediately after the end of the start process, as in the case of the normal start. As shown in FIG. 11, the activation process of the main control means 20 and the activation process of the sub control means 21 end at substantially the same timing, and the game control process and the operation confirmation control process start at substantially the same timing. Then, in such an execution example, at the start of the operation confirmation control process, the sub control means 21 operates the effect device with the operation check pattern 1, and each time the effect switch 9 is pressed, the operation check pattern of the effect device is changed to ". Switching is performed in the order of "1"-> "2"-> "3"-> "4"-> "5"-> "1"-> "2". Then, in such an execution example, a medal is inserted during the execution of the second round operation confirmation pattern 2, and the sub-control means 21 ends the operation confirmation control process immediately after the medal is inserted and starts the game effect control process. .. In this way, when the operation confirmation control process is executed, the operation confirmation pattern is switched each time the effect switch 9 is pressed until the end operation is performed, and the game effect control process is started when the end operation is performed. Will be done. Further, in the execution example of FIG. 11, if the power is turned on without pressing the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 when the power is turned on, the game effect control process is started immediately after the start process is completed. Therefore, immediately after the end of the activation process, it is possible to execute an effect according to the content of the game.

As described above, in this embodiment, since the presence / absence of the operation check control process is selected depending on whether or not the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 are pressed when the power is turned on, the operation check control is performed after the power is turned on. There is no waiting period for accepting the process start operation. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the power is turned on without pressing the volume setting switch 25 or the sub clear switch 26, the sub control means 21 can promptly start the game effect control process. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to start a game involving the operation of the effect device according to the content of the game without delay after the power is turned on.

Further, in this embodiment, since it is possible to repeat five types of operation confirmation patterns by operating the effect switch 9 until the end operation is performed, the operation confirmation pattern that feels the need for reconfirmation is used as a power source. Can be reconfirmed without re-entering. Further, by performing the termination operation at an early stage, the operation confirmation control process can be terminated at an early stage without executing the operation confirmation pattern that does not require confirmation.

Further, in the present embodiment, when an operation related to the start of the game (inserting a medal or setting the number of bets by the bet switches 5a and 5b) is performed during the operation confirmation control process, the sub control means 21 controls the operation confirmation. Since the process is completed and the effect device is started to be controlled in a manner according to the content of the game, there is an advantage that it is possible to prevent a dull game without effect from being performed during the operation confirmation control process. Further, in the present embodiment, the operation of the insertion sensor 30 can be confirmed by confirming whether or not the operation confirmation control process is completed when the medal is inserted. Further, the operation of the bet switches 5a and 5b can be confirmed by confirming whether or not the operation confirmation control process is terminated at the time of the bet number setting operation by the bet switches 5a and 5b. In particular, regarding the bet switches 5a and 5b, if the number of credits is less than the number of bets required to start the game, the bet number setting operation by the max bet switch 5b becomes invalid, so that the max bet switch 5b is used in that situation. The operation check control process does not end even if the operation is performed. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to confirm whether or not the same bet number setting control as in the normal game situation can be performed in the operation confirmation control process. In addition, when the operation of the production device is confirmed by the operation confirmation control process as part of maintenance when the game hall is closed, the staff of the game hall executes the game after the end operation of the operation confirmation control process, or the settlement switch. It becomes necessary to clear the number of bets and the number of credits increased by the end operation by operating 8 toward the time of opening the store. Therefore, according to such a configuration, it is possible to motivate the staff of the game hall to confirm whether or not the game can be normally executed and whether or not the settlement switch 8 operates normally. In this embodiment, the operation confirmation control process by the sub control means 21 and the settlement process by the main control means 20 can be executed in parallel. That is, when the settlement switch 8 is operated during the operation confirmation control process, the player's medals (credits, etc.) accumulated in the machine are paid out in parallel with the operation confirmation control process. According to such a configuration, even if a failure of the effect device is found in the operation confirmation control process and the movement of the slot machine 1 must be stopped, the player's medal accumulated in the machine is returned to the player. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from suffering a disadvantage.

Further, in this embodiment, the operation check control process is not started unless the power is turned on while both the volume setting switch 25 and the sub clear switch 26 are pressed, so that the operation check control process is unintentionally executed. , It is possible to prevent the start of the game effect control process from being delayed. Further, since the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 are used to cause the sub-control means 21 to execute a process different from the operation confirmation control process by operating them individually, the operation in this embodiment is performed. There is an advantage that the cost of disposing a dedicated switch for executing the confirmation control process can be reduced. Further, in this embodiment, since the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26 are arranged close to each other on the back side of the front door 3, one hand presses both the volume setting switch 25 and the sub-clear switch 26. At the same time, the power switch 28 can be switched on with the other hand. That is, in this embodiment, the operation for starting the operation confirmation control process can be executed independently. Further, in the present embodiment, since the effect switch 9 used for switching the operation check pattern is arranged on the front side of the front door 3, the operation check pattern can be switched without taking an eye on the effect device to be checked for operation. There is an advantage.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the game state is controlled to be advantageous to the player such as the carry-over game state or the bonus game state when the power is turned off, even if the operation confirmation control process is executed when the power is turned on, the advantage is obtained. It is configured so that the game is started in the game state. Therefore, even if the operation confirmation control process is executed during the business of the game hall, the player does not suffer any disadvantage. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the power is turned off, if the game is controlled to a gaming state (normal gaming state) that is not advantageous to the player, a general effect (first effect according to the present invention) is executed when the power is turned off. Regardless of whether or not the operation confirmation control process is executed, the sub-control means 21 determines It is configured to start the game effect control process in the initial effect state. Therefore, even if the operation confirmation control process is executed at the time of opening the amusement park, it is possible to arrange the game effects immediately after the opening of the amusement park with the same model, so that there is an advantage that it is possible to prevent the player from giving a sense of discomfort. In this embodiment, the carry-over gaming state and the bonus gaming state correspond to a gaming state that is advantageous to the player according to the present invention, but depending on the model, instead of or in addition to this, AT, ART, etc. The gaming state can be included in the gaming state that is advantageous to the player. Further, in the slot machine having a plurality of types of gaming states advantageous to the player, at least one of them may correspond to the gaming state advantageous to the player according to the present invention. That is, at least one of a plurality of advantageous gaming states may be configured so that the game is started in the gaming state when the confirmation execution operation is performed when the power is turned on again after the power is turned off. Further, in the present embodiment, the general effect and the special effect such as the continuous effect correspond to the first effect and the second effect according to the present invention, respectively, but the first effect and the second effect according to the present invention. The production may correspond to a general production in which both sides are different, or may correspond to a special production in which both sides are different from each other.

The slot machine of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

For example, in the above embodiment, in the operation confirmation control process, the operations of the image display 13, the effect lamps 16a to 16f, the effect switch lamps 9a, the speakers 17a to 17d, and the accessory 14 are confirmed, but the operation is confirmed. The effect device for which the operation is confirmed by the control process can be appropriately changed according to the effect device arranged in the slot machine. Further, the confirmation target of the operation confirmation control process according to the present invention is not limited to all the effect devices arranged in the slot machine, and may be a part of the effect devices.

Further, the operation confirmation control content according to the present invention is not limited to the operation confirmation pattern of the above embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the operation confirmation control content may include a control content for stopping all the target effect devices. Further, in the above embodiment, when the power is turned on, the accessory 14 is made to execute the initial operation for controlling the shielding member 14a to the initial position, but the same operation as the initial operation is executed in the operation confirmation pattern. May be good. Further, the irregular drive of the accessory 14 in the operation confirmation pattern 5 may be executed in the initial operation. Further, in the operation confirmation control process of the above embodiment, the image display 13 displays a black-and-white gradation image on the display screen regardless of the type of the operation confirmation pattern, but the display image of the image display 13 is displayed. It may be changed according to the type of the operation check pattern. Further, an image of a predetermined object may be displayed regardless of a pattern image such as a gradation image. Further, the image displayed on the image display 13 in the operation confirmation pattern is not limited to a still image but may be a moving image. For example, it is proposed to slide the pattern image or object image displayed on the display screen in the operation confirmation pattern. With such a configuration, it becomes easy to find missing dots of the image display 13, and it becomes easy to find scratches on the display screen and the protective panel covering the display screen.

Further, in the above embodiment, the sub control means 21 ends the operation confirmation control process when the end operation is performed, but at the time of the end operation, the shielding member 14a of the accessory 14 is controlled to a position other than the retracted position. If so, the shielding member 14a may be returned to the initial position (evacuation position), and then the operation confirmation control process may be terminated. Further, when returning the shielding member 14a to the initial position, the accessory 14 may be made to perform the initial operation. Further, regardless of the position of the shielding member 14a at the time of the end operation, the accessory 14 may always perform the initial operation at the end of the operation confirmation control process. Further, the initial operation may be started after the shielding member 14a is returned to the initial position, or the position of the shielding member 14a at the time of the end operation is determined so that the initial operation is started from an intermediate stage at the position. Alternatively, the movement at the start may be a movement according to the position of the shielding member 14a.

Further, in the above embodiment, each time the effect switch 9 is pressed during the operation confirmation control process, five types of operation confirmation patterns (operation confirmation control contents) are switched in a predetermined order, but the operation of the effect switch 9 is performed. Instead of, the operation confirmation pattern may be switched by operating the cross key 10. When switching with the cross key 10, five types of operation confirmation patterns are assigned to each of the five push buttons in the up, down, left, right, and center, and the operation confirmation pattern is switched to the type corresponding to the pressed button. Is proposed.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the slot machine 1 is normally started, the sub-control means 21 executes the game effect control process immediately after the start process. However, in the present invention, the game effect control process is performed between the start process and the game effect control process. It includes a process that executes a third process different from the operation check control process. Further, in the above embodiment, when the operation confirmation control process is executed, the sub control means 21 executes the operation confirmation control process immediately after the activation process and executes the game effect control process immediately after the operation confirmation control process. The present invention includes a process that executes a third process between the start-up process and the operation confirmation control process, and between the operation confirmation control process and the game effect control process.

Further, in the above embodiment, a slot machine using a medal as a game value is given as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and is not limited to this, for example, a model such as an enclosed type or a medalless slot machine that electrically inputs and pays out the game value. Can also be applied. In such a model, the input of pseudo game value using electronic data is included in at least the bet number setting. Further, in the above embodiment, the medal insertion and the bet number setting operation by the bet switches 5a and 5b are set as the end operation of the operation confirmation control process, but the end operation according to the present invention is only the medal insertion. Alternatively, a third operation other than the bet number setting operation may be included. Further, in the above embodiment, when the bet number setting via the bet switches 5a and 5b is invalid due to insufficient credit or the like, the operation confirmation control process is not completed even if the bet switches 5a and 5b are operated, but the operation is performed. When the bet switches 5a and 5b are operated during the confirmation control process, the operation confirmation control process may be terminated even if the bet number setting is invalid. Even with such a configuration, it is possible to confirm whether or not the bet switches 5a and 5b operate normally at the end of the operation confirmation control process.

Further, in the above embodiment, the operation confirmation control process is configured to end when the bet number setting required for the start of the game is executed. However, the present invention is configured to end the operation confirmation control process in parallel with the operation confirmation control process. Includes what is executed. When the game can be executed in parallel with the operation confirmation control process, it is possible to confirm whether or not the process related to the progress of the game can be normally performed while confirming the operation of the effect device. In addition, when a failure of the effect device is found in the operation check and the operation of the slot machine 1 must be stopped, the player can operate the stop switch 7, stop the reel 12, settle the payment, pay out, and the like. You can return the profits of.

Further, in the above embodiment, the effect control means according to the present invention is composed of the sub control means 21, but the effect control means according to the present invention may be composed of a plurality of control devices.

1 Slot machine 5a, 5b Bet switch 9 Production switch 9a Production switch Lamp (production device)
10 Cross key 13 Image display (directing device)
14 Characters (directing device) 16a to 16f Directing lamp (directing device)
17a to 17d Speakers (effect device) 18 Power supply box 20 Main control means (game control means) 21 Sub control means (effect control means)
22 Image control means 23 Sub connection board 24 Setting change switch 25 Volume setting switch 26 Sub clear switch 28 Power switch 29 Setting key switch 30 On sensor

Claims (2)

Game control means to control the game,
With multiple production devices,
A slot machine including an effect control means for controlling the effect device.
The effect control means
It is possible to execute the game effect control process for operating the effect device and the operation check control process for confirming the operation of the effect device according to the game content.
When the power is turned on while a predetermined confirmation execution operation different from the power-on operation is performed, the operation confirmation control process is executed, and after the operation confirmation control process is completed, the game effect control process is started. ,
When the power is turned on without the confirmation execution operation being performed, the game effect control process is started without executing the operation confirmation control process.
Furthermore, in the above operation confirmation control process, either in operation check control content of a plurality of kinds, to operate some or all of the effect device, based on the SWITCHING operation for operating a plurality of times a predetermined operation unit, said plurality It is configured so that the types of operation check control contents can be switched in a predetermined order.
The operation confirmation control process is terminated by a predetermined end operation different from the confirmation execution operation and the switching operation, and until the end operation is performed, the plurality of types of operation confirmation control contents are subjected to the switching operation. It is configured so that it can be executed repeatedly in the predetermined order.
The ending operation includes at least a bet number setting operation.
A signal is input to the game control means from a sensor that detects the bet number setting operation.
A command based on the bet number setting operation is transmitted from the game control means to the effect control means.
Further, when a predetermined abnormal state occurs during the execution of the operation confirmation control process, the effect control means ends the operation confirmation control process, and at least the game control means notifies the predetermined abnormal state. Execute the process and
When a specific abnormal state occurs during the execution of the operation confirmation control process, the effect control means continues the operation confirmation control process, and at least the game control means notifies the specific abnormal state. A slot machine characterized by being configured to run. The game control means
It is possible to execute a game control process related to game execution control and a setting change process that makes it possible to set the degree of advantage of the player in the game.
When the power is turned on while a predetermined setting change operation different from the power-on operation and the confirmation execution operation is performed, the setting change process is executed and the game control process is started after the setting change process is completed. And
When the power is turned on without the setting change operation being performed, the game control process is started without executing the setting change process.
When the power is turned on while the setting change operation and the confirmation execution operation are performed, the game control means starts the setting change process and the effect control means starts the operation confirmation control process. Has been
The slot according to claim 1, wherein the effect control means starts the operation confirmation control process with the same control content regardless of whether or not the game control means executes the setting change process. Machine.

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