JP7010636B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that plays a game.

As a gaming machine, a gaming medium such as a gaming ball is launched into the gaming area by a launching device, and when the gaming medium wins a prize in a starting winning area such as a winning opening provided in the gaming area, a variable display of a plurality of types of identification information is displayed. There is a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined number of bets is set, and a slot machine in which a plurality of types of identification information (for example, a symbol) are variably displayed when a start operation is performed. In a gaming machine configured to be able to execute variable display of identification information in this way, when the display result of variable display of identification information becomes a predetermined display result in the variable display unit, a predetermined game value (for example, a jackpot) Some are configured to give the player a transition to a state, etc.).

As such a gaming machine, there is known a gaming machine that raises the scale of the payout sound of the gaming value in proportion to the payout amount of the gaming value (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-166988

By the way, since the gaming machine of Patent Document 1 outputs payout sounds having different pitches according to the payout amount of the gaming value, as compared with the gaming machine that outputs the payout sound composed of only a single note, There was an advantage that it was easy for the player to grasp the amount of payout of the game value. However, since the gaming machine of Patent Document 1 keeps increasing the scale of the payout sound when paying out the value for gaming, a large amount of games must be set unless a large amount of pitch data is set. There was a problem that it was not possible to deal with the payout of utility value.

The present invention has been made by paying attention to such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of reducing the types of pitches in the payout sound of gaming value as compared with the conventional case. do.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention
In a gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, a slot machine 1)
Withdrawal means (for example, hopper ) for paying out the value for games,
A payout process control means that performs a payout process that causes the payout means to pay out the value for games.
An output means (for example, speakers 53, 54) that outputs a payout sound based on the execution of the payout process , and
An effect execution means capable of executing a non-game state effect based on the elapse of a predetermined time after the end of the game,
It is provided with a route switching means capable of switching between a first route for taking in the flow path of the gaming value input from the outside into the gaming machine and a second route for discharging the gaming value to the outside of the gaming machine .
The output means outputs the payout sounds having different pitches in a predetermined order.
The number of pitches of the payout sound output by the output means is set to be less than the maximum amount that the payout means can pay out at one opportunity.
When the output means outputs the next payout sound after the last payout sound of the order is output, the output means outputs the first payout sound of the order (for example, the portions shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, FIGS. 4 to 4). (Parts shown in FIG. 6, parts shown in FIGS. 7 and 8) ,
The route switching means switches the flow-down route to the second route when the settlement process including the payout process is started based on the settlement operation, and when the settlement process is completed, the flow-down route is switched to the second route. Switch the route to the first route,
When the predetermined time elapses when the settlement process is started and the settlement process is being executed after the game is completed and before the predetermined time elapses, the effect executing means ends the settlement process. After the route switching means switches the flow path to the first route, the non-gaming state effect is executed .
According to this configuration, when the next payout sound is output after the last payout sound in the predetermined order is output, the first payout sound in the predetermined order is output, so that the payout sound of the game value is output. It is possible to reduce the types of pitches in the above.

The predetermined amount is N (for example, 1), and the number of times the output sound is output by the output means is N (for example, the portion shown in FIGS. 2 and 3).
According to this configuration, since the payout amount of the game value and the number of payout sounds are the same, the player can recognize the payout amount by listening to the payout sound.

The predetermined amount is a plurality of quantities (for example, 3 sheets).
The output means outputs the payout sound when the first payout of the predetermined amount of the game value is paid out (for example, the portion shown in FIG. 5).
According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the effect sound from becoming difficult to hear due to the output of the payout sound.

The output means continuously outputs the payout sound until the payout of the predetermined amount of game value is completed (for example, the portion shown in FIG. 6).
According to this configuration, since the payout sound is continuously output until the payout of a predetermined amount of the game value is completed, it is possible to prevent the payout sound from being interrupted when a plurality of game values are paid out. , It is possible to make it easy to recognize that the game value is being paid out.

Equipped with error handling means to handle errors
The payout means interrupts the payout of the game value when error processing is performed while the game value is being paid out (for example, the portion shown in FIG. 9).
The output means resumes the output of the payout sound according to the pitch next to the pitch of the sound that was output before the interruption of the payout of the game value when returning from the error processing (for example, the portion shown in FIG. 9). ..
According to this configuration, even if the payout of the game value is interrupted, when the payout is resumed, the payout sound is determined by the pitch next to the pitch of the sound output before the interruption of the payout of the game value. Since the output is restarted, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable.

An effect execution means capable of executing a non-game state effect (for example, a demo effect) after a predetermined time elapses in a state in which no game is performed.
The path of the gaming value input from the outside can be switched to either the first path (for example, the hopper tank side) for taking in the gaming machine or the second path (for example, the medal payout exit 9 side) for discharging the path to the outside of the gaming machine. Equipped with various path switching means (for example, flow path switching solenoid)
During the execution of the settlement process (for example, settlement process, settlement notification), the route switching means returns by paying out the gaming value corresponding to the gaming value owned by the player to the outside of the gaming machine by the operation of the player. The first path is switched to the second path, and when the settlement process is completed, the second path is switched to the first path (for example, the portion shown in FIG. 10).
The effect executing means starts the settlement process before the predetermined time elapses after the game is not performed, and when the predetermined time elapses during the settlement process, the settlement process ends. After switching from the second route to the first route, the non-gaming state effect is executed (for example, the portion shown in FIG. 10).
According to this configuration, the non-gaming state effect is executed after the second path is switched to the first path by the route switching means. Therefore, when the non-game state effect is executed, the game is in a game-enabled state. It can be made easier for people to recognize.

It is a front view of the slot machine to which this invention is applied. It is explanatory drawing which shows the pitch in the payout sound of a medal. It is explanatory drawing of the output timing of the payout sound of a medal. It is explanatory drawing which shows the modification 1 of the sound pitch in the payout sound of a medal. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of the payout sound of a medal in the modification 1. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of the payout sound of a medal in the modification 1. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the modification 2 of the pitch of a medal payout sound. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of the payout sound of a medal in the modification 2. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of the payout sound when an error occurs during the payout of a medal. It is a timing chart for explaining the switching timing of the settlement notification and the demo effect performed by the sub-control unit 91.

When the first embodiment of the slot machine to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings, the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment includes a housing 1a having an open front surface and the same as shown in FIG. It is composed of a front door 1b rotatably and pivotally supported at a side end of the housing 1a.

As shown in FIG. 2, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (hereinafter, left reel, middle reel, and right reel) in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer periphery are inside the housing 1a in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment. ) Are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, and as shown in FIG. 1, three consecutive symbols among the symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R can be seen from the see-through window 3 provided on the front door 1b. It is arranged like this.

On the outer periphery of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, a plurality of types of symbols that can be distinguished from each other (for example, "7", "BAR", "watermelon", "cherry", "bell", "replay", etc.) are arranged in a predetermined order. So, 21 pieces are drawn for each. The patterns drawn on the outer peripheral portions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in the upper, middle, and lower three stages in the see-through window 3 provided in the substantially center of the front door 1b.

A display area 51a of the liquid crystal display 51 is arranged at a position on the front side (player side) of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R of the front door 1b. The liquid crystal display 51 has a liquid crystal panel having transparency in a state where no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal element, and is via the transmission region 51b and the perspective window 3 corresponding to the perspective window 3 of the display region 51a. The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R can be visually recognized from the player side.

As shown in FIG. 1, the front door 1b has a medal insertion unit 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout exit 9 from which medals are paid out, and credits (the number of medals stored as a player-owned game value). MAXBET switch 6 operated when setting the maximum number of bets among the specified number of bets determined according to the gaming state within the range, setting of medals and bets stored as credits. Settlement switch 10 operated when paying for the medals used for (returning the medals used for setting credits and bets), start switch 7 operated when starting the game, reels 2L, 2C The stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, which are operated when the rotation of the 2Rs is stopped, and the effect switch 56 used for the effect are provided so as to be operable by the player.

In this embodiment, of the three reels 2L, 2C, and 2R that have started to rotate, the reel that stops first is referred to as a first stop reel, and the stop thereof is referred to as a first stop. Similarly, the reel that stops second is referred to as the second stop reel, the stop is referred to as the second stop, the reel that stops third is referred to as the third stop reel, and the stop is referred to as the third stop. Alternatively, it is called a final stop.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the front door 1b shows a credit display 11 that displays the number of medals stored as credits, the number of medals paid out due to the occurrence of a prize, and the contents when an error occurs. Game auxiliary display 12 that displays an error code, etc., 1BETLED14 that notifies by lighting that the bet number is set to 1, 2BETLED15 that notifies that the bet number is set by 2 by lighting, and 3 bets are set. 3BETLED16 that notifies by lighting that the game is being inserted, insertion request LED17 that notifies by lighting that the state in which a medal can be inserted, and a start valid LED18 that notifies by lighting that the game start operation by operating the start switch 7 is effective. , Waiting LED19 to notify by lighting that the wait (a state of waiting for the start of rotation of the reel because a certain period has not passed since the previous game start) is in progress, Notifying by lighting that the replay game is in progress A game display unit 13 provided with an LED 20 during replay is provided.

When playing a game on the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, first, a medal is inserted from the medal insertion unit 4, or a bet number is set using credits. To use the credit, operate the MAXBET switch 6. When a predetermined number of bets determined according to the gaming state is set, the winning line LN becomes valid, and the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, that is, the game can be started. If more than the maximum number of medals are inserted out of the specified number corresponding to the gaming state, the amount will be added to the credit.

The winning line is a line set to determine whether the combination of symbols displayed on the perspective windows 3 of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is a combination of winning symbols. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, only the winning line LN set across the symbols arranged horizontally in the middle stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, and the middle stage of the reel 2R, that is, the middle stage, wins a prize. It is defined as a line. In this embodiment, only one winning line is applied, but a plurality of winning lines may be applied.

Further, in this embodiment, in order to make it easier to recognize that the winning line LN has a set of symbols constituting the winning, the invalid lines LM1 to 4 (LM1 is the left middle right reel) separately from the winning line LN. LM2 is a line extending over each middle stage of the left middle right reel, LM3 is a line extending over each lower stage of the left middle right reel, and LM4 is a line extending over each lower stage of the left middle right reel and middle stage of the middle reel. , The line over the upper part of the right reel.) Is set. The invalid lines LM1 to LM1 to 4 are not determined to win by the combination of the symbols aligned with the invalid lines LM1 to 4, but are invalid lines when the winning line LN has a combination of symbols constituting a specific winning. By configuring the combination of symbols that will be awarded when the winning line LN is aligned with any of LM1 to 4 (for example, bell-bell-bell), the symbols constituting the winning line LN are the symbols that constitute a specific winning. It makes it easy to recognize that the combinations are complete.

When the start switch 7 is operated while the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R rotate, and the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R change continuously. When any of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3.

When all reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are stopped, one game ends, and a predetermined combination of symbols (hereinafter, also referred to as a combination) on the winning line LN is displayed for each reel 2L, 2C, and 2R. If the game is stopped as a result, a prize will be awarded, and a number of medals determined according to the prize will be given to the player and added to the credit. Further, when the credit reaches the upper limit (50 in this embodiment), the medal is directly paid out from the medal payout exit 9 (see FIG. 1). Further, when the combination of symbols accompanied by the transition of the gaming state stops on the winning line LN as a display result of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R, the combination of symbols is shifted to the gaming state according to the combination of symbols. ..

In this embodiment, the game starts when the operation of the start switch 7 is detected while the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, and the game ends when all the reels are stopped. In addition, one unit of control (game control) for executing the game starts when all the controls associated with the end of the previous game are completed, and when all the controls associated with the end of the game are completed. finish.

Next, the pitch of the payout sound when paying out medals at the time of winning and at the time of payment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

In the slot machine 1, the payout sound of the medal is output from the speakers 53 and 54 so as to make a cycle of the payout sounds having different pitches in a predetermined order. In the slot machine 1, the maximum number of payouts when a prize is won is set to 15. Further, since the number of medals that can be credited is 50 and the number of medals that can be inserted is 3, the maximum number of medals that can be settled is 53. The number of pitches (in other words, the type) of the payout sound is set to be less than the maximum number of payouts at the time of winning and less than the maximum number of payouts at the time of settlement. Specifically, the pitch of the payout sound is set to three types. The three types of pitches are "do", "re", and "mi" at the time of winning, and "fa", "so", and "la" at the time of payment. Then, in the examples of FIGS. 2 and 3, each time one medal is paid out, the payout sound having a different pitch is output once in a predetermined order.

In this embodiment, as a method of paying out medals at the time of winning, a method of paying out medals by storing up to 50 medals as credits and a method of paying out medals when the number of credits exceeds 50 are actually paid out. There are methods, but regardless of which method is used, the payout sound with the same pitch is output.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, when a prize is awarded, a payout sound having a height of “do”, which is the first payout sound in a predetermined order when paying out the first medal, is output. do. In addition, when paying out the second medal, a payout sound with a height of "re" is output. Further, when paying out the third medal, a payout sound having a height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in a predetermined order, is output. When the payout sound with the height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output, the first payout sound in the predetermined order, "do", is used when paying out the fourth medal. Return to "" and output the payout sound. In addition, when paying out the fifth medal, a payout sound with a height of "re" is output. Further, when paying out the sixth medal, a payout sound having a height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in a predetermined order, is output. When the payout sound with the height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output, the first payout sound in the predetermined order, "do", is used when paying out the seventh medal. Return to "" and output the payout sound. Further, when paying out medals, the payout sound is output so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order thereafter.

Further, at the time of payment of medals, a payout sound having a height of "fa", which is the first payout sound in a predetermined order when paying out the first medal, is output. Also, when paying out the second medal, the payout sound at the height of "So" is output. Further, when paying out the third medal, a payout sound having a height of "la", which is the last payout sound in a predetermined order, is output. When the payout sound of the height of "la", which is the last payout sound of the predetermined order, is output, the first payout sound of the predetermined order, "fa", is used when paying out the fourth medal. Return to "" and output the payout sound. Also, when paying out the fifth medal, the payout sound at the height of "So" is output. Further, when paying out the sixth medal, a payout sound having a height of "la", which is the last payout sound in a predetermined order, is output. When the payout sound of the height of "la", which is the last payout sound of the predetermined order, is output, the first payout sound of the predetermined order, "fa", is used when paying out the seventh medal. Return to "" and output the payout sound. Further, when paying out medals, the payout sound is output so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order thereafter.

In the present embodiment, when the payout of medals is completed while the payout sounds of medals are being output according to a predetermined order, the output of the payout sounds is finished before the final payout sound of the order is output. It can also be configured to do so. In the case of FIGS. 2 and 3, when 5 medals are paid out due to the occurrence of a prize, the 1st "do" → the 2nd "re" → the 3rd "mi" → the 4th " It is possible to end the output of the payout sound by outputting "do" → the fifth sheet "re".

Next, the setting of the pitch of the payout sound of the medal and the modification 1 of the output timing will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. In the examples of FIGS. 4 to 6, the payout sound is output once for every three medals paid out in a predetermined order.

As shown in FIG. 4, in the modification 1, when a prize is awarded, when the number of medals to be paid out is the first to the third, the height of the “do” which is the first payout sound in the predetermined order is set. Output the payout sound. When the number of medals to be paid out is the 4th to the 6th, a payout sound with a height of "re" is output. When the number of medals to be paid out is the 7th to 9th, the payout sound having the height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output. When the payout sound with the height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output, when the number of medals to be paid out is the 10th to the 12th, it is the first payout sound in the predetermined order. Outputs a payout sound with a height of "do". After that, the payout sound is output so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order.

At the time of payment of medals, when the number of medals to be paid out is the first to the third, a payout sound having a height of "fa", which is the first payout sound in a predetermined order, is output. When the number of medals to be paid out is the 4th to the 6th, the payout sound at the height of "So" is output. When the number of medals to be paid out is the 7th to 9th, the payout sound having the height of "la", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output. When the payout sound with the height of "la", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output, when the number of medals to be paid out is the 10th to the 12th, it is the first payout sound in the predetermined order. Outputs the payout sound at the height of "fa". After that, the payout sound is output so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order.

Then, in the first modification, it is possible to output the payout sound at the timing shown in FIG. 5 or FIG.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, when a prize is awarded, a payout sound having a height of “do”, which is the first payout sound in a predetermined order, is output only when the first medal is paid out. In addition, the payout sound with the height of "re" is output only when the fourth medal is paid out. Further, only when the seventh medal is paid out, the payout sound having the height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output. When the payout sound with the pitch of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output, when the medal is further paid out, the payout is made so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order thereafter. Output sound.

Further, at the time of payment of medals, only when the first medal is paid out, the payout sound having the height of "fa", which is the first payout sound in the predetermined order, is output. In addition, the payout sound at the height of "So" is output only when the fourth medal is paid out. Further, only when the seventh medal is paid out, the payout sound having the height of "la", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output. When the payout sounds from "Fa" to "La" are output according to a predetermined order, when further medals are paid out, the payout sounds are output so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order thereafter. ..

In the example shown in FIG. 6, when a prize is awarded, the output of the payout sound having the height of "do", which is the first payout sound in the predetermined order, is started when the first medal is paid out. The output of the payout sound having a height of "do" is continued until the third medal is paid out, and the output of the payout sound is terminated. Also, when paying out the 4th medal, the output of the payout sound with the height of "re" is started, and the output of the payout sound with the height of "re" is continued until the 6th medal is paid out. And the output of the payout sound is finished. Further, when paying out the seventh medal, the output of the payout sound having the height of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is started. When the payout sound with the pitch of "mi", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output, when further paying out medals, the payouts are made so that the pitches change in the same order thereafter. A sound is output, but as shown in FIG. 6, when the number of medals to be paid out is eight, the output of the payout sound at the height of "mi" is output when the eighth medal is paid out. finish.

In addition, at the time of payment of medals, when the first medal is paid out, the output of the payout sound of the height of "fa", which is the first payout sound in the predetermined order, is started, and the third piece is paid out. The output of the payout sound at the height of "Fa" is continued until the medal is paid out, and the output of the payout sound is terminated. Also, when paying out the 4th medal, the output of the payout sound of the height of "So" is started, and the output of the payout sound of the height of "So" is continued until the 6th medal is paid out. And the output of the payout sound is finished. Further, when paying out the seventh medal, the output of the payout sound having the height of "la", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is started. When the payout sound with the pitch of "la", which is the last payout sound in the predetermined order, is output, when further medals are paid out, the payouts are made so that the pitches change in the same order thereafter. A sound is output, but as shown in FIG. 6, when the number of medals to be paid out is eight, when the eighth medal is paid out, the output of the payout sound at the height of "la" is output. finish.

In the example of FIG. 6, the output of the payout sound is finished when the third medal is paid out, and the payout sound is output when the fourth medal is paid out. The output of the payout sound is temporarily stopped each time the medal is paid out, and the output of the payout sound is started again when the next medal is paid out. However, the payout sound is output while the medals are paid out. It is also possible to continue the process without ending, and to make the pitch different according to the number of medals paid out. For example, when paying out the first medal, the output of the payout sound of the height of "do" is started, and until the payout of the fourth medal is started, the payout sound of the height of "do" is output. To continue. Then, when the payout of the fourth medal is started, the payout sound of the height of "do" is changed to the payout sound of the height of "re" and output.

Next, the setting of the pitch of the payout sound of the medal and the modification 2 of the output timing will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. In the examples of FIGS. 7 and 8, the payout sound is output twice for each medal paid out in a predetermined order.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, when a prize is awarded, the first payout sound of the predetermined order when paying out the first medal is “do” and the end of the predetermined order. The payout sound of the height of "re", which is the payout sound of, is output. Also, when paying out the second medal, the payout sound with the heights of "do" and "re" is output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the third medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "do" and "re" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the fourth medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "do" and "re" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the fifth medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "do" and "re" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the sixth medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "do" and "re" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the seventh medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "do" and "re" are output in the same manner. That is, each time one medal is paid out, the payout sounds having the heights of "do" and "re" are continuously output according to a predetermined order. Further, when paying out medals, the payout sound is output so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order thereafter.

At the time of payment of medals, "Fa", which is the first payout sound in a predetermined order when paying out the first medal, and "So", which is the last payout sound in a predetermined order. Outputs the payout sound of the height of. Also, when paying out the second medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "fa" and "so" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the third medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "fa" and "so" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the fourth medal, the payout sounds at the heights of "fa" and "so" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the fifth medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "fa" and "so" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the sixth medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "fa" and "so" are output in the same manner. Also, when paying out the seventh medal, the payout sounds with the heights of "fa" and "so" are output in the same manner. That is, each time one medal is paid out, the payout sounds having the heights of "fa" and "so" are continuously output according to a predetermined order. Further, when paying out medals, the payout sound is output so that the pitch of the sound changes in the same order thereafter.

Next, a modification 3 showing an output example of the payout sound when an error occurs during the payout of medals will be described.

As shown in FIG. 9, when a prize is generated and the first medal is paid out, the payout sound at the height of "do" is output, and when the second medal is paid out, "re" is output. It is assumed that the payout sound of the height of is output. Here, as an error, for example, when an empty error occurs in which the medals in the hopper tank disappear, the medals to be paid out cannot be detected in the hopper unit. At this time, the main control unit that performs processing related to the progress of the game transmits an error command indicating that an error has occurred to the sub control unit that controls the effect. When the sub-control unit receives the error command, the output of the medal payout sound is interrupted, the error image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51, and the error sound is output from the speakers 53 and 54, so that an error occurs. Notify you of what you have done. In addition, the main control unit interrupts the control performed before the error (in the present embodiment, the control of paying out medals), and executes a process of disabling the progress of the game. Further, the main control unit displays an error code (display indicating the type of error) from the game auxiliary display 12.

Then, when medals are replenished to the hopper tank of the hopper unit and the reset button is operated or the predetermined reset key is operated, the main control unit resumes the control performed before the error and cannot proceed with the game. The error status is canceled by ending the process of resetting. In addition, the main control unit sends an error release command to the sub control unit. When the sub-control unit receives the error release command, the display of the error image on the liquid crystal display 51 is terminated, and the notification that an error has occurred is terminated.

Then, when the control of medal payout is resumed after recovering from the error, the "mi" following the "re" that was output before the interruption of the game progress due to the error when the third medal was paid out. Outputs the height payout sound. After that, the payout sound is output so that the pitch of the sound changes as in FIG.

Next, in the slot machine 1 that outputs the payout sound as described above, the flow path of the medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 is completely switched from the medal payout outlet 9 side to the hopper tank side, and then the demonstration effect is performed. A modified example 4 in which the transition is made will be described.

In the fourth modification, if the start condition of the settlement process is satisfied after the end of one game and before the predetermined time elapses in the state where the game is not played and the bet number is not set, after the end of one game, The settlement process is started while continuing the timekeeping of the elapsed time in the state where the game is not performed. Then, when it is specified that a predetermined time has elapsed during the settlement process, control is performed so that the demo effect is started after the settlement process is completed. Specifically, it is controlled as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, the main control unit that performs processing related to the progress of the game starts the settlement processing when it is detected that the settlement switch 10 has been operated by a player or the like in a state where the game is not performed. Then, a solenoid drive signal is output so as to switch the flow path of the medal inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 to the medal payout outlet 9, and a settlement command (start) is transmitted to the sub control unit. The sub control unit receives a command transmitted from the main control unit and performs various controls for performing the effect.

After that, it waits until the flow path of the medal inserted from the medal insertion section 4 is switched to the medal payment exit 9 side, and after the flow path of the medal is switched to the medal payment exit 9 side, credit (the number of bets). The hopper motor of the hopper unit is driven for a payout period according to the number of medals stored in (including the medals used for the setting), and the number of medals corresponding to the credits is paid out from the medal payout outlet 9. In addition, when the drive of the hopper motor is started, a payout command (start) for notifying the start of payout of medals is transmitted to the sub-control unit, and when the drive of the hopper motor is finished, the end of payout of medals is notified. The payout command (end) to be issued is sent to the sub-control unit.

On the other hand, the sub-control unit starts the settlement notification by receiving the settlement command (start) while executing the effect in the normal time when the game is being performed, and the effect state. Is shifted to the settlement notification, and the notification screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. After that, by receiving the payout command (start), the control to output the payout sound indicating that the medal is being paid out from the medal payout outlet 9 is started from the speakers 53 and 54, and the payout command (end) is issued. The payout sound is continuously output until it is received. In addition, even during the settlement notification, after the end of one game, the time counting of the elapsed time in the state where the game is not performed is continued, and the predetermined time elapses in the state where the game is not performed based on the timing counter during the settlement notification. When it is specified that the demo effect has been performed, the demo effect delay control is performed to delay the start timing of the demo effect until the timing at which the settlement notification ends.

The main control unit is a solenoid so as to switch the flow path of the medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 to the hopper tank side when the drive of the hopper motor is terminated, that is, when the return of the last medal of the credit is completed. A drive signal is output, a payout command (end) and a settlement command (end) are transmitted to the sub-control unit, and the settlement process is terminated.

On the other hand, the sub control unit ends the output of the payout sound by receiving the payout command (end). Further, by receiving the settlement command (end), the control waits for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) until the flow path of the medal inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 is completely switched to the hopper tank side. (Hereinafter referred to as flow path switching waiting control) is performed. Then, after the flow path switching waiting control is completed, the settlement notification is terminated and the demo production is started. As a result, the settlement process starts before the predetermined time elapses after the game is not performed, and when the predetermined time elapses during the settlement process, the settlement process ends and the medal flow path is opened. After switching from the medal payout exit 9 side to the hopper tank side, the demonstration effect will be executed.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, the number of pitches in the payout sound is set to be less than the maximum number of payouts at the time of settlement (less than 53). Then, also in the example of FIG. 10, when the next payout sound is output after the last payout sound in the predetermined order is output, the first payout sound in the predetermined order is output. Specifically, the payout sound is output as shown in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, and 8. Thereby, the present invention can be applied to the example of FIG.

[Effect of this embodiment]
In the present embodiment, the number of pitches in the payout sound is set to be less than the maximum number of medals that can be paid out at one time, and after the last payout sound in the predetermined order is output. When the next payout sound is output, the first payout sound in a predetermined order is output (in this example, the parts shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the parts shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, 7 and 8 are output. The part shown in).
Therefore, when the next payout sound is output after the last payout sound in the predetermined order is output, the first payout sound in the predetermined order is output. The number of types can be reduced compared to the conventional method.

In the present embodiment, the predetermined amount is N (1 in this example), and the number of times the output sound is output by the output means is N (in this example, the portion shown in FIGS. 2 and 3).
Therefore, since the number of medals paid out and the number of payout sounds are the same, the player can recognize the number of payouts by listening to the payout sounds.

In the present embodiment, the payout sound is output when the first medal to be paid out out of a predetermined amount (three in this example) is paid out (in this example, the portion shown in FIG. 5). ..
Therefore, it is possible to prevent the effect sound from becoming difficult to hear due to the output of the payout sound.

In the present embodiment, the payout sound is continuously output until the payout of a predetermined amount (three in this example) of medals is completed (in this example, the portion shown in FIG. 6).
Therefore, since the payout sound is continuously output until the payout of a predetermined amount of medals is completed, it is possible to prevent the payout sound from being interrupted when paying out a plurality of medals, and the medals are paid out. It is possible to make it easier to recognize that you are there.

In the present embodiment, if error processing is performed while the medal is being paid out, the medal payout is interrupted, and when returning from the error processing, the sound output before the medal payout is interrupted. The output of the payout sound is restarted according to the pitch of the sound next to the pitch (in this example, the portion shown in FIG. 9).
Therefore, even if the payout of the game value is interrupted, when the payout is resumed, the output of the payout sound is restarted at the pitch next to the pitch of the sound output before the interruption of the payout of the game value. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable.

In the present embodiment, the flow path of the medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 is completely switched to the hopper tank side, and then the process shifts to the demonstration effect (in this example, the portion shown in FIG. 10).
Therefore, since the flow path of the medal shifts to the demo effect after being switched to the hopper tank side, it is possible for the player to easily recognize that the game is possible when shifting to the demo effect.

[Other variants]
Although the main embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible. Hereinafter, a modified example of the above embodiment applicable to the present invention will be described.

In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a slot machine in which a bet number is set by using medals and credits as a game value has been described, but a slot in which a bet number is set by using a game ball as a game value has been described. It may be applied to machines or fully credited slot machines that set bets using only credits as game value. When the game ball is used as the game value, for example, one medal can be associated with five game balls, and when the bet number is set to 3 in the above embodiment, 15 game balls are used. Corresponds to setting the number of bets using.

Further, the value is not limited to one using only one of a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls, and for example, a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls can be used together. It may be. That is, it is possible to set the number of bets and play a game by using any of a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls, and a plurality of types of games such as medals and game balls are generated depending on the occurrence of a prize. You may apply a slot machine that can pay out any value.

Further, in the above-mentioned Examples and Modifications, an example in which the present invention is applied to the slot machine 1 which is an example of a gaming machine is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to this. As an example, it is a pachinko gaming machine that plays a game by launching a game ball into the game area, and it is possible to perform a demonstration effect after a predetermined time has passed without the game being played. It is also applicable to a gaming machine or the like that can perform a specific process in a state where the above is not performed.

For example, in a pachinko gaming machine, when paying out prize balls, payout sounds having different pitches are output in a predetermined order, and the number of pitches is set to be less than the maximum number of prize balls. Then, when the next payout sound is output after the payout sound is output according to the pitch of the sound corresponding to the last order, the case where the payout sound is output at the pitch of the sound corresponding to the first order is applicable.

In the above embodiment, an example of outputting "do", "re", "mi" at the time of winning and "fa", "so", "la" at the time of payment and the payout sound of continuous pitches has been described. For example, non-continuous pitches such as "do", "mi", "so", "re", "fa", and "la" may be set as the payout sound.

In the above embodiment, different notes of "do", "re", "mi", "fa", "so", and "la" have been described as examples of the pitch of the sound to be output as the payout sound, but the description is different from the above embodiment. The sound of the note may be used, or the same note or a sound belonging to a different octave may be used.

1 Pachinko machine 51 Liquid crystal display 53,54 Speaker

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine that can play games
Withdrawal means for paying out the value for games,
A payout process control means that performs a payout process that causes the payout means to pay out the value for games.
An output means that outputs a payout sound based on the execution of the payout process ,
An effect execution means capable of executing a non-game state effect based on the elapse of a predetermined time after the end of the game,
It is provided with a route switching means capable of switching between a first route for taking in the flow path of the gaming value input from the outside into the gaming machine and a second route for discharging the gaming value to the outside of the gaming machine .
The output means outputs the payout sounds having different pitches in a predetermined order.
The number of pitches of the payout sound output by the output means is set to be less than the maximum amount that the payout means can pay out at one opportunity.
When the output means outputs the next payout sound after outputting the last payout sound of the order, the output means outputs the first payout sound of the order .
The route switching means switches the flow-down route to the second route when the settlement process including the payout process is started based on the settlement operation, and when the settlement process is completed, the flow-down route is switched to the second route. Switch the route to the first route,
When the predetermined time elapses when the settlement process is started and the settlement process is being executed after the game is completed and before the predetermined time elapses, the effect executing means ends the settlement process. After the route switching means switches the flow path to the first route, the non-gaming state effect is executed.
A gaming machine characterized by that.

Images