JP7104964B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine that uses game media to play games.

As this type of game machine, for example, there is a slot machine.
The slot machine includes a game medium detection device such as a medal selector capable of detecting medals as game media (see Patent Document 1). A machine game can be performed.

JP 2009-125554 A

However, such a conventional game machine has room for improvement.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the gaming machine of the present invention is provided in a flow path for allowing inserted game media to flow down to a storage section, and a sorter capable of sorting whether or not the inserted game media are legitimate game media. storage means capable of storing the number of game media that can be used in a game according to the number of game media that have passed through the sorting means; and game media corresponding to the number of game media stored in the storage means. In a gaming machine comprising an operation means operated when paying out to a player and a control means capable of controlling the selection means and the operation means, the selection means is capable of supporting game media passing through the inside. and a displaceable supporting member, the supporting member being displaceable between a first state in which the game media can pass and a second state in which the game media cannot pass, and the control The means controls to pay out to the player game media corresponding to the number of game media stored in the storage means when the operation means is operated during a preset operation valid period, and Regardless of whether or not the number of game media is stored, when the operation means is operated during the operation valid period, the support member inside the selection means is displaced from the first state to the second state. and the game machine is capable of displacing the support member inside the selection means from the first state to the second state by a physical actuation by a player's operation. In addition , an operation unit for operating a discharge mechanism for discharging the game media in the sorting means is not provided.

1 is a schematic front view showing the appearance of a game machine; FIG. It is a schematic perspective view showing the internal configuration of the gaming machine. It is a schematic front view explaining operation|movement of a door member. It is a block diagram which shows the control structure of a game machine. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of a medal selector, (a) is the whole perspective view seen from the housing|casing side, (b) is the rear view seen from the front door side. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the medal selector main body with the cover member removed as viewed from the housing side, where (a) is a perspective view seen from the left side and (b) is a perspective view seen from the right side; FIG. 4 is a front view of the medal selector main body as viewed from the housing side, showing how the blocker is displaced, (a) is a diagram when the blocker is displaced to an ON state that allows medals to pass through, and (b) is a blocker that displaces the medal. It is a figure when it displaces to the OFF state which prohibits passage. It is a flow chart for explaining one embodiment of displacement operation of a blocker, (a) is a case of the present invention, and (b) is a case of a prior art. It is a time chart for demonstrating the displacement operation of the blocker shown in FIG. 8, (a) is a case with a credit, (b) is a case without a credit. FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining another embodiment of blocker displacement operation; FIG. 11 is a time chart for explaining the displacement operation of the blocker shown in FIG. 10, (a) with credit, and (b) without credit. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an operation image corresponding to each operation means; FIG. FIG. 11 is a chart showing an internal lottery table for ART lottery; FIG. It is a chart which shows the internal lottery table which determines the kind of continuous production. It is a chart which shows the internal lottery table which determines the kind of continuous production|presentation. It is a chart which shows the internal lottery table which determines the kind of continuous production|presentation. It is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the effect pattern of the cut-in effect. It is a chart which shows an internal lottery table which determines the kind of continuation production|presentation by operation display. It is a chart which shows an internal lottery table which determines the kind of continuation production|presentation by operation display. It is a chart which shows an internal lottery table which determines the kind of continuation production|presentation by operation display. It is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the operation means to emit light when the effect button is selected. It is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the operation means to emit light when the production handle is selected. It is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the operation means to emit light when the large effect button is selected. FIG. 11 is a chart showing an internal lottery table (when not winning) for determining the number of movements of the door member; FIG. FIG. 11 is a chart showing an internal lottery table (when winning) for determining the number of movements of the door member; FIG. It is a flow chart which shows addition production decision processing. FIG. 10 is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the number of additional games; FIG. FIG. 11 is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the timing of disappearance of an operation image; FIG. It is a chart showing an internal lottery table that determines the effect pattern when the operation means is not operated. It is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the effect pattern when the operation means is operated. It is a figure for demonstrating the production|presentation content of the continuous production|presentation A. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the production|presentation content of the continuous production|presentation B. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the production|presentation content of the continuous production|presentation C. FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the contents of an effect when the operation means is operated in the additional effect; FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing the disappearance timing of the operation image when the operation means is operated in the additional effect; FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the contents of an effect when the operation means is not operated in the additional effect; FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the contents of an effect when the operation means is not operated in the additional effect; FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing the disappearance timing of the operation image when the operation means is not operated in the additional effect; FIG. It is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the type of operation display in the additional effect in the modification. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an internal lottery table (when not winning) for determining the number of movements of the door member in the modified example; FIG. FIG. 11 is a chart showing an internal lottery table (when winning) for determining the number of movements of the door member in the modified example; FIG. FIG. 11 is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the timing (time) of disappearance of an operation image in an additional effect in a modified example; FIG. FIG. 11 is a chart showing an internal lottery table for determining the display start timing of an operation image in an additional effect in a modified example; FIG.

A preferred embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to each drawing.

[Slot machine body]
First, the overall configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.
The slot machine 1 is an embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention, and is provided with a housing 1b having an opening on the front surface and a front door 1a for opening and closing the opening like a normal slot machine. there is

A display window 6 is formed in the central portion of the front door 1a so that the rear side can be visually recognized.
Below the display window 6, a stepped portion projecting forward is formed, and on the upper surface of this stepped portion is a medal insertion slot 2 for inserting medals, and a button which is pressed by the player at the start of the game. A bet button 2a for setting the number of bets and an effect button 12 which does not affect the progress of the game but can change the effect image or the like on the display 8 by the player's pressing operation are provided. .
A medal selector 100 is provided on the rear surface of the front door 1a inside the housing of the medal slot 2, which serves as a flow path for allowing the medals (game media) inserted from the medal slot 2 to flow down to the hopper 7a (storage section). there is This medal selector 100 functions as the sorting means of the present invention, capable of sorting whether or not the medals (game media) inserted from the medal slot 2 are legitimate.
A start lever 3 operated by the player when starting the game and a stop button 5 operated by the player when stopping the reels 41 are provided below the stepped portion.

In the vicinity (left side) of the start lever 3, there is provided a checkout button 2b that is operated when performing checkout processing for paying out all the credited (stored) medals. By pressing the settlement button 2b, medals corresponding to the number of credits stored in the storage means are paid out from the medal payout device 7 and the hopper 7a. The settlement button 2b functions as an operating means of the present invention, which is operated when paying out to the player medals (game media) corresponding to the number of medals (game media) stored in the storage means.
Further, when the settlement button 2b is pressed, the blocker 130 of the medal selector 100, which will be described later, is controlled to move from the ON state to the OFF state. All medals positioned within the path are dropped and ejected outside the path (see FIGS. 5 to 11).

On the upper part of the front door 1a, there is provided a display device 8 which is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and performs display effects and information display according to the game. Above the indicator 8, a lamp 11 is provided for effecting and reporting by light emission.
In addition, a speaker 9 for effecting and notifying by sound is provided at the lower part of the front door 1a, and a navigation lamp 16 is provided below the display window 6 for navigating the operation order of the stop button 5 to the player. ing.
The indicator 8, speaker 9, lamp 11, etc. are controlled by the blocker 130 (sorting means) of the medal selector 100 to be in the "OFF state" (second state) by the main control section 10 (control means), as will be described later. It can be made to function as the notification means of the present invention, which performs a predetermined notification when necessary.

In addition, above the display window 6, there is provided a production handle 13 that can be rotated. A performance button 14 is arranged.

Further, in the vicinity of the display 8, a door member 15, which is an example of moving means in the present invention and is operated by the operation of an electric drive source (not shown) such as a motor, is provided.
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the door member 15 includes four door members 15La and 15Lb provided on the left side of the display 8 when viewed from the front and door members 15Ra and 15Rb provided on the right side of the display 8 when viewed from the front. It is composed of door members, and is composed of plate-shaped members that do not have translucency, and the four door members are formed with approximately the same size.
The door members 15 are supported by rails (not shown) provided on the front door 1a so as to be movable in the left-right direction, and can be moved individually or together (Fig. 3(b)). )reference).

In a normal state, the door member 15La and the door member 15Lb are arranged at the open position (first position) shown in FIG. It is movable to a closed position overlapping the display area of the container 8 .
Further, the door member 15Ra and the door member 15Rb are arranged at the open position (first position) shown in FIG. to a closed position overlapping the display area of the display 8. As shown in FIG.

A plurality of closed positions are provided for the door member 15. For example, the closed position (first position) shown in FIG. 3rd position) (see FIG. 3(c)), the amount of movement is smaller than that of the closed position (third position), and the closed position (second position) (see FIG. 3(d)), etc. are provided, and the closed position differs according to the progress of the game.
Further, the door member 15 can be driven to close in stages, for example, it can move from an open position (first position) to a closed position (second position) and further to a closed position (third position). be.
In addition, the closed position is not limited to these, and can be provided arbitrarily.
Further, the door member 15 may be an image display such as a liquid crystal display or a translucent member. In this case, it is preferable that the display 8 is not difficult to see.

The door member 15 having such a structure can move between the open position and the closed position in conjunction with the display of the effect image executed by the display device 8 according to the progress of the game.
Further, the door member 15 varies in the number of moves (number of moves), the position to move (movement position), the speed of movement (movement speed), etc., according to the progress of the game.
For example, when announcing the winning result of an ART lottery, when announcing the winning result of an extra lottery for the number of games in which ART is to be continued, when announcing the number of additional games, etc., the number of movements of the door member 15 increases, The amount of movement of the door member 15 is increased, and the moving speed of the door member 15 is increased.
As a result, it is possible to make the player easily recognize the degree of expectation, and to increase interest.

A main control unit 10 for overall control of the game and a sub-control unit 20 for controlling game effects and the like under the control of the main control unit 10 are provided in the upper part of the housing 1b.
Further, a drum unit 4, which is an example of variable display means and drives a reel 41 to rotate, is provided in the central portion of the housing 1b. The drum unit 4 is constructed by horizontally arranging reels 41a, 41b, and 41c. These reels 41a to 41c are rotatable by driving a stepping motor (not shown). In addition, a plurality of patterns are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels 41a to 41c according to a predetermined arrangement. can be seen through the display window 6.
Further, a medal dispensing device 7 for dispensing medals and a hopper 7a for storing medals are provided at the bottom of the housing 1b, and the medals dispensed from the medal dispensing device 7 are provided at the bottom of the front door 1a. It is paid out to the player through the medal payout port 7b.

[Slot machine game]
The slot machine 1 as described above is configured so that the main control section 10 can execute the following slot machine games.
At the start of the game, the number of bets is set using medals (including credit medals).
The number of bets can be set by inserting medals directly from the medal slot 2 or by pressing the bet button 2a.

In the method of setting the number of bets by inserting medals from the medal insertion slot 2, the inserted medals are detected by a medal selector 100 provided on the rear surface of the front door 1a, and a bet corresponding to the number of inserted medals is made. The number is set (however, the bet number "3" corresponding to three medals is the upper limit).
The upper limit of the number of bets may be "1", "2", or "4" or more.

The bet button 2a is an example of operation means capable of accepting a player's operation for setting the number of bets. When this button is pressed, a predetermined number of credit medals (for example, 3 medals) is subtracted, and the subtracted amount is set as the number of bets.
The bet button is not limited to the bet button 2a, and a plurality of bet buttons with different bet numbers can be provided. Also, credit medals are added by inserting medals from the medal slot 2 or by winning prizes, and for example, up to 50 medals can be credited (stored).

In this way, the number of bets set by direct insertion from the medal slot 2 or the operation of pressing the bet button 2a and the number of credited medals are stored in a storage means such as a RAM provided in the main control section 10. Here, in this specification, "the number of credited medals" means, for example, (1) the number of bets = maximum 3, (2) the number of credits = maximum 50, (3) the maximum total of 53 , and in any of the above cases (1) to (3), it will be the "credited number of medals".
Then, when the number of bets reaches a predetermined number (for example, 3), a game can be started in which the player has the right to execute one game.
In this game-startable state, the operation of the start lever 3 is enabled. When the start lever 3 is tilted in this valid state, the game is started, reels 41a to 41c on which a plurality of symbols are displayed start to oscillate, and a plurality of winning combinations such as a replay combination and a small combination are obtained. Before the reels 41 stop, an internal lottery process is executed to determine in advance the lottery result of the current game from among them (winning combination determining means).

Each of the reels 41a to 41c has a plurality (usually 21) of symbols serving as identification information on the peripheral surface of each reel 41a to 41c. "7", "BAR" and the like are indicated, respectively, and after gradually increasing the rotation speed from the stopped state, it reaches steady rotation at a constant speed.
When such steady rotation is reached, the stop buttons 5a to 5c provided corresponding to the respective reels 41a to 41c can be pressed.

The stop buttons 5a to 5c are an example of stop operation means for performing the stop operation of the reel 41. For example, when the stop buttons 5a to 5c can be pressed, light emitting means such as LEDs built in the stop buttons 5a to 5c light up. Therefore, when each stop button 5 is pressed in such a state, the reels 41a to 41c are controlled to stop so that the reels 41a to 41c are stopped with a combination of symbols allowed by the operation timing and the lottery result of the internal lottery process. be done.

In the stopped state, the reels 41a to 41c are stopped so that the three vertically continuous patterns displayed on the respective reels 41a to 41c face the outside of the machine through the display window 6 (also referred to as a stop display). Based on this, it is determined whether or not there is a prize.
Winning is judged based on a combination of symbols stopped on a predetermined winning line. It is determined based on the combination of symbols, and winning is established when the stopped combination of symbols corresponds to winning.
Note that the number of winning lines is not limited to 5 lines, and may be an arbitrary number such as 1 line.

The combination of symbols to be determined includes, as a combination of symbols corresponding to the "small win", "left reel 41a, middle reel 41b, right reel 41c" in that order, "bell, bell, bell" (bell role); There are "cherry, ANY, ANY" (the role of cherry, but ANY is an arbitrary pattern), "watermelon, watermelon, watermelon" (the role of watermelon), and the like.
The cherry combination includes a "weak cherry" in which the "cherry" symbol stops at the upper or lower stage of the left reel 41a, and a "strong cherry" in which the "cherry" symbol stops at the middle stage of the left reel 41a.
In addition, for the role of watermelon, among the winning lines, the “weak watermelon” pattern stops on the diagonal line, and the “watermelon” pattern stops on the upper, middle, and lower parallel lines of the winning line. There is a "strong watermelon" to do.
In the following description, the roles of cherry and watermelon are also collectively referred to as "rare roles".

The bell role includes a "common bell" in which the combination of symbols is complete regardless of the order of operation (referred to as order of pressing) of the stop buttons 5a to 5c, and a "bell in order of pressing" in which the combination of symbols is aligned according to the order of pressing.
As for the push order bells, push order bells 1 to 6 corresponding to each of six push orders are provided, and the stop buttons 5a to 5c are operated in the operation order corresponding to each of the push order bells 1 to 6, respectively. By doing so, the symbol is stopped and displayed.

In addition, as a combination of symbols corresponding to the replay role ("replay, replay, replay"), there is a "normal replay" in which the combination of symbols is aligned regardless of the pressing order, and a "push order replay" in which the combination of symbols is aligned according to the pressing order. There is.
"Push order replay" is provided with push order replays 1 to 6 corresponding to each of six push orders, and stop buttons 5a to 5c in the operation order corresponding to each of the push order replays 1 to 6 when winning. By operating , the symbol is stopped and displayed.
Further, the replay combination includes a "promotion replay" corresponding to a combination of symbols relating to a transition from non-RT to RT, and a "down replay" corresponding to a combination of symbols relating to transition from RT to non-RT. These winning roles are also associated with the pushing order. The combination of the corresponding symbols is stopped, and with regard to the "falling replay", the combination of symbols corresponding to the "falling replay" related to the transition from RT to non-RT is made by pressing 5 out of 6 pressing orders. Stop.
Further, the stop display of the combination of symbols corresponding to the replay combination allows the player to play the next game without inserting medals, that is, without spending medals.

As a result of judging the combination of the symbols stopped on the winning line, when the combination of the symbols is the combination of the symbols corresponding to the above, the game value corresponding to the combination of the symbols is given.
For example, by stopping the combination of symbols corresponding to the small winning combination such as the bell combination, the cherry combination, and the watermelon combination, winning of the small combination is determined, and the medal payout device 7 is driven and controlled, whereby the hopper 7a in which the medals are stored. A predetermined number of medals are paid out through the medal payout port 7b.
Specifically, 8 medals are paid out by stopping the combination of symbols corresponding to the bell combination, and 5 medals are paid out by stopping display of the combination of symbols corresponding to the watermelon combination.

In the cherry combination, two medals are paid out by stopping the combination of symbols corresponding to "weak cherry", and one medal is paid out by stopping the combination of symbols corresponding to "strong cherry".
In addition, the winning probability of each winning role has the relationship of "Replay">"BellRole">"WeakWatermelon">"WeakCherry">"StrongWatermelon">"StrongCherry" in each game state. ' is the most likely to be won, and 'strong cherry' is the least likely to be won.

[Main control unit/sub control unit]
Next, the configuration of the control system of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. The same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding components as those described in FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG.
The main control unit 10 includes a CPU (not shown) that performs various arithmetic processing, a ROM (not shown) that stores control programs and control data, a storage area that temporarily stores various data, and a work area for the CPU. A storage means such as a RAM (not shown) provided with, etc. is provided. The main control unit 10 can store the number of medals (game media) that can be used in a game according to the number of medals (game media) that have passed through the medal selector 100 (sorting means). Function.

In addition, the bet button 2a, the checkout button 2b, the medal selector 100, the start lever 3, and the stop button 5 are connected to the main control unit 10, so that signals from sensors built into each device can be input. .
In addition, the main control unit 10 performs game start processing and processing for sampling random numbers from a random number generator (not shown) based on a signal from the start lever 3 . Then, the main control unit 10 performs an internal lottery process for a winning combination based on the sampled random numbers.

Further, the main control section 10 is connected to the drum unit 4, the medal payout device 7, the medal selector 100, and the sub-control section 20, and is configured to be capable of outputting a signal to each device.
Based on a signal from the start lever 3, the main control unit 10 performs a game start process for rotating the reels 41a to 41c and a process for stopping the reels 41a to 41c.
Further, the main control unit 10 drives the medal payout device 7 to pay out medals based on the fulfillment of the medal payout conditions at the end of the game.
In addition, the main control unit 10 controls the movement of the blocker 130 of the medal selector 100, and turns the blocker 130 to the "ON state" (first state) and the "OFF state" (second state).
The main control unit 10 functions as control means of the present invention, capable of executing control related to the medal selector 100 (sorting means) and the checkout button 2b (operation means).

In addition, the sub-control unit 20 includes notifying means such as the display device 8, the speaker 9, the lamp 11, and the navigation lamp 16; A moving means is connected, and a signal can be output to each device.
The sub-control unit 20 is an example of the effect executing means in the present invention, and based on the control information of only one direction from the main control unit 10, in order to perform image processing of various effects on the display device 8, various effects and notifications. output processing of the speaker 9, lighting processing of the lamp 11 composed of an LED or the like, and the like. In addition, the navigation lamp 16 is composed of, for example, an LED, and the sub control unit 20 navigates the order of operation of the stop button 5 during game states such as ART based on control information from the main control unit 10. Lighting processing of the navigation lamp 16 for (notification) is performed.
In addition, when the blocker 130 of the medal selector 100 is controlled to be in the "OFF state" by the main control unit 10, the sub control unit 20 controls notification means such as the display device 8, the speaker 9, the lamp 11, etc. A predetermined notification can be made.

In addition, the sub-control unit 20 is configured to be able to input signals from the sensors of the operation means of the production button 12, the production handle 13, and the large production button 14, and based on the signals from each operation means, the display device 8 is performed to change the image effect.
Further, the sub-controller 20 is configured to be capable of outputting a signal to an electric drive source (not shown) such as a motor that operates (moves) the door member 15, based on the control information from the main controller 10. , the electric drive source is operated to move the door member 15 between the open position and the closed position.

Furthermore, prior to notification of the results of lottery processing (ART lottery, additional lottery), etc., which can be advantageous to the player, the sub-control unit 20 displays an operation An operation image including display of means is displayed on the display device 8 .

[Medal Selector]
Next, details of the medal selector 100 described above will be described with reference to FIGS.
As shown in FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b), the medal selector 100 is composed of a main body 100a and a cover member 100b attached to the rear side (front door side) of the main body 100a, and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape when viewed as a whole. have.
A medal inlet 119a communicating with the medal slot 2 is provided in the upper part of the medal selector 100, and the medals inserted from the medal slot 2 are taken into the medal selector 100 through the medal inlet 119a.

A medal outlet 119b is provided on the right side of the medal selector 100, through which the medals taken into the medal selector 100 exit. The medal outlet 119b communicates with the medal inlet 119a in the medal selector 100, and the medals flowing in from the medal inlet 119a pass through the medal selector 100 and flow out from the medal outlet 119b. Also, the medals flowing out from the medal outlet 119b are led to the hopper 7a while being guided by a predetermined guiding path.
In addition, the cover member 100b covers the back side of the main body 100a, and forms a passage with the main body 100a from the medal inlet 119a to the medal outlet 119b through which medals can pass.

Here, the passing route of medals in the medal selector 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.
The medals flowing in from the medal inlet 119a pass through the channel 111, the channel 112, the blocker 130, and the channel 113 in this order to reach the medal outlet 119b.
The flow path 111 is formed as a route along which medals flow down in a substantially vertical direction, and the flow paths 112, 113 and blocker 130 are formed as routes through which medals flow down along a slope.
The blocker 130 functions as a bridge spanning between the flow paths 112 and 113 and supports medals passing therethrough from below.

The blocker 130 is controlled by a solenoid 100c provided on the rear surface of the main body 100a (see FIG. 5(b)). It is constructed so that it can be displaced into a configuration in which it cannot be retracted into the flow path, respectively. The solenoid 100 c is driven and controlled by the main control section 10 .
6 and 7(a) show the configuration of the blocker 130 when it protrudes from the channel so as to be able to support the lower peripheral surface of the medal, and FIG. It shows the configuration of the blocker 130 when backing up into the road.
Due to this type of displacement, in the state shown in FIGS. 6 and 7(a), the blocker 130 functions as a bridge between the flow path 112 and the flow path 113, thereby inflowing from the medal inlet 119a. The collected medals can reach the medal exit 119b.

On the other hand, in the state shown in FIG. 7(b), the medal is no longer supported by the blocker 130, that is, the inclined surface (rolling surface) disappears, so that the medal falls in the Y direction and the medal selector 100 released to the outside. The ejected medals are ejected out of the machine from the medal ejection port 7b.
In addition, when the blocker 130 is no longer supported and the inclined surface (rolling surface) disappears, medals stop or remain at any position in the flow path of the medal selector 100, causing so-called medal clogging. also drops in the Y direction and is released from the inside of the channel of the medal selector 100 to the outside.

In this way, the blocker 130 is controlled to be displaceable between a state (first state) in which medals can pass and a state (second state) in which it is difficult for medals to pass. It functions as a means for selecting inventions.
In the following description, the state of the blocker 130 that protrudes from the channel so as to be able to support the lower peripheral surface of the medal is the "ON state" (first state) that allows passage of the medal, and the state that the lower peripheral surface of the medal cannot be supported. The state of the blocker 130 that has retreated into the road is called an "OFF state" (second state) that prohibits passage of medals.

The medal selector 100 also includes detection means for detecting medals flowing in from the medal entrance 119a on the medal passage route as described above, and sorting means for selecting authenticity of medals based on the difference in size. function as
As detection means, footboard switches 114 and 115, an optical sensor 116, and a lever switch 117 are provided on the upstream side and the downstream side, respectively.

The footboard switches 114 and 115 and the lever switch 117 are contact-type detection means for detecting the passage of medals when the medals come into direct contact with them. It is a non-contact type detecting means for detecting passage of medals by a change to a light shielding state.
These detection means, for example, in the order of the footboard switch 114, the footboard switch 115, the optical sensor 116, and the lever switch 117, when the passage of medals is detected, the main control unit 10 determines that one medal has been inserted, If the passage of medals is detected without following this order, it is not determined that medals have been inserted, but is determined to be abnormal.

A blocker 130, a guide plate 120, and a recess 120a are provided as sorting means.
The guide plate 120 is configured to be able to support the upper peripheral side surface of the medal supported by the blocker 130 in the "ON state". However, medals that can be supported are medals with a diameter larger than the diameter d1 shown in FIG.
Further, a recess 120a formed as a recess is provided in the lower portion of the guide plate 120. As shown in FIG. Further, the surface of the cover member 100b facing the recess 120a is provided with an urging member (footboard) for urging the medal toward the recess 120a (not shown).

With such a configuration, medals that are not supported by the guide plate 120 will tilt toward the main body 100a side, that is, toward the recessed portion 120a. Then, it is released to the outside from the token selector 100 until it reaches detection means such as the footboard switch 115 located downstream of the blocker 130 .
In this way, the sorting means ejects medals with a diameter smaller than the diameter d1 from the medal selector 100, and allows only medals with a diameter larger than the diameter d1 to pass through the passage route. However, there is an upper limit to medals with a diameter larger than the diameter d1, and medals with a diameter larger than the opening width of the medal slot 2 cannot be inserted into the medal slot 2 in the first place. Therefore, the illegal tokens having a larger diameter than the regular tokens are excluded from being inserted into the slot 2 itself.
The medal selector 100 of the present application is designed to prevent the occurrence of medal clogging as much as possible. When using the medal selector or the like, the control of moving the blocker 130 to the "ON state" (first state) and "OFF state" (second state) is enabled according to the operation of the settlement button 2b.

[Blocker movement control]
Next, movement control of the blocker 130 in the medal selector 100 configured as above will be described.
First, the blocker 130 is moved to the "ON state" position until the slot machine game is started under the control of the main control unit 10, and is moved to the "OFF state" position when the slot machine game is started. be.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 keeps the blocker 130 in the ON state until the start lever 3 is tilted after inserting medals and setting the number of bets according to the progress of the slot machine game. ” control. Therefore, in this state, the medal inserted from the medal slot 2 is supported and guided by the blocker 130 in the "ON state" so that it can pass through the passage of the medal selector 100. FIG.

On the other hand, after the start lever 3 is tilted after medal insertion and bet number setting, the main control unit 10 controls the blocker 130 to be in the "OFF state". Therefore, in this state, even if a medal is inserted from the medal slot 2, the blocker 130 is in the "OFF state", so the medal cannot pass through the flow path of the medal selector 100, and is dropped/discharged from the medal selector 100. will be
In addition, when all the reels 41 that have started to fluctuate due to the operation of the start lever 3 are controlled to stop, the main control unit 10 again controls the blocker 130 to the "ON state" so that the inserted medals can pass through the medal selector 100. to control the state.

Further, when the blocker 130 is in the "ON state" as described above, the main control unit 10 executes settlement processing for paying out all the credited (stored) medals when the settlement button 2b is operated. , to move the blocker 130 to the "OFF state".
That is, the period during which the blocker 130 is controlled to the "ON state" is set in advance as an "operation valid period" during which the operation of the settlement button 2b is valid, and the settlement button 2b is operated during this operation valid period. As a result, the main control unit 10 controls to pay out the medals corresponding to the number of credit medals stored in the storage means to the player via the medal payout device 7 and the hopper 7a, and the number of credit medals stored in the storage means. irrespective of whether or not the blocker 130 serving as the sorting means is changed from "ON" (first state) to "OFF" (second state).

Under the control of the main control unit 10, medals equivalent to the number of credits stored in the storage means are paid out from the medal payout device 7 and the hopper 7a by pressing the checkout button 2b during the operation valid period. become.
Further, when the settlement button 2b is pressed during the effective period of operation, the blocker 130 of the medal selector 100 is controlled to move from the ON state to the OFF state. All medals in the flow path are dropped and discharged outside the flow path. As a result, even if a so-called medal clogging occurs in which the medals are stopped or retained at any position in the channel of the medal selector 100, the medal clogging can be cleared by pressing the checkout button 2b. You will be able to

Therefore, when a medal jam occurs for some reason before the start of a game, even if there are no credit medals, the player can handle it by himself/herself by operating the checkout button 2b. For example, it is possible to save the trouble of calling a store clerk at a game arcade to clear the jammed medals.
That is, in the conventional game machine, a physical mechanism such as a medal jam clearing button is provided in order to clear the medal jam occurring in the medal selector. However, the provision of such a physical resolution mechanism is not preferable in a game machine with limited space inside the housing, and there is a possibility that such a physical mechanism may be illegally operated and abused. have a nature. On the other hand, if there is no means for clearing the jammed medals, it is necessary to call a store clerk or the like every time a jammed medal occurs, which is an annoyance for the player.
According to this embodiment, it is possible for the player to clear the jammed medals simply by pressing the checkout button 2b without providing a conventional physical mechanism. disappears.
In addition, as will be described later, there is no need to provide a physical medal clogging mechanism as proposed in Patent Document 1, and there is no need to provide a new operation mechanism for existing game machines and medal selectors. , it is possible to realize a gaming machine and medal payout means that are excellent in versatility and expandability.

Further, when the number of credits of medals is stored in the storage means and the settlement button 2b is operated during the operation valid period, the main control section 10 keeps the blocker 130 from the ON state only for a predetermined period. Control can be executed to displace to the OFF state.
Then, the main control unit 10 executes control to shift the blocker 130 from the ON state to the OFF state based on the operation of the settlement button 2b, and then executes control to shift the blocker 130 from the OFF state to the ON state. can be done.
In this way, the blocker 130 can be turned off by operating the checkout button 2b only for a predetermined period of time (for example, several seconds), after which it can be forcibly returned to the on state. As a result, it is possible to prevent the blocker 130 from being turned off indefinitely via the checkout button 2b, and to prevent the medal selector 100 from having the blocker 130 turned off. That is, since the player cannot create the blocker OFF time completely freely, it is possible to provide a game machine and token payout means excellent in safety and reliability without excessive deterioration of security.

Further, the main control unit 10 can execute control to shift the blocker 130 from the ON state to the OFF state when the operation of the settlement button 2b continues for a predetermined time.
In this way, the blocker 130 can be turned off only when the settlement button 2b is pressed continuously for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second or more), so that the settlement button 2b can be turned off. It is possible to prevent the blocker 130 from being turned off in the event of a mere pressing operation. Thereby, it is possible to distinguish between the operation of the settlement button 2b when merely performing settlement processing of credit medals and the case of positively pressing and holding the settlement button 2b in order to clear the medal clogging, thus making the blocker 130 easy. blocker 130 through the checkout button 2b only when it is truly necessary.

Further, when the operation of the settlement button 2b continues for a predetermined period of time as described above, the main control unit 10 executes control to shift the blocker 130 from the ON state to the OFF state, and the operation of the settlement button 2b is executed. When a specific time (e.g., two seconds or more) longer than a predetermined time (e.g., less than two seconds) continues and the number of credit medals is stored in the storage means, medals corresponding to the number of credit medals are played. It is possible to make the person execute the control to pay out.
In this way, when the settlement button 2b is operated continuously for a predetermined period of time, the blocker 130 can be controlled to the OFF state to clear the medal clogging. Time) If the settlement button 2b is continuously operated, the credit medal settlement processing can be executed. As a result, the OFF control of the blocker 130 is executed only for the minimum necessary time, and even when the credit medals are to be settled, the settlement button 2b is positively pressed for a long time, thereby preventing unintentional settlement processing. Therefore, it is possible to execute the settlement process through the settlement button 2b only when it is truly necessary.

When the settlement button 2b is operated as described above and the blocker 130 is controlled to be in the OFF state, the above-mentioned A predetermined notification can be made by notification means such as the indicator 8, the speaker 9, the lamp 11, or the like.
As a result, it is possible to reliably notify the player that the blocker 130 has been turned OFF by operating the settlement button 2b. will be able to take measures such as calling the store clerk at the game hall.
Notification by such notification means includes, for example, lighting/blinking of the lamp 11, voice output from the speaker 9, character display from the display device 8, and the like, such as "Payment button has been operated", "Blocker is OFF", and so on. It is possible to output information such as "The medal has been cleared" and "The medal jam is being cleared".

It should be noted that the ON/OFF control of the blocker 130 by the main control unit 10 is not limited to the form described above. can be employed in any combination with the control described above.
For example, the time when the blocker 130 is turned off by operating the checkout button 2b may be random. In this way, every time the checkout button 2b is operated, the duration of the OFF control of the blocker 130 will be different, and it is possible to prevent the player from specifying the time during which the blocker 130 is OFF controlled. , the safety against fraud and the like can be further improved.

Further, after the OFF control of the blocker 130 by the operation of the settlement button 2b, it is possible to prevent the control from being performed again until a predetermined time interval has passed.
Further, the number of times the settlement button 2b is operated per unit time is monitored, and when the number exceeds a reference, predetermined processing such as error notification may be performed.
In this way, it is possible to prevent unnecessary blocker OFF control and operations intended to be fraudulent due to continuous operation of the checkout button 2b, thereby further improving security performance.

In addition to the settlement button 2b (first settlement button) provided near the start lever 3 described above, another settlement button ( A second checkout button) may be provided, and control conditions may differ between the first checkout button and the second checkout button. For example, the above blocker OFF control can be performed only when the second payment button is operated.
In this way, it is possible to realize various controls and specifications utilizing the configuration and mechanisms of existing gaming machines, and to provide gaming machines and token payout means with high versatility and expandability. become.

[Control pattern]
Next, specific examples of the control pattern of the blocker 130 by the main control unit 10 as described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11. FIG.

<First control pattern>
First, the first pattern of blocker control of this embodiment will be described.
8 and 9 show the first control pattern of the displacement operation of the blocker.
[with credit]
As shown in FIGS. 8(a) and 9(a), in the first control pattern, when the settlement button 2b for performing credit medal settlement processing is turned on by the player's operation (step 801: Yes), if there are medal credits (step 802: Yes), the blocker 130 is controlled to be OFF (step 803, FIG. 9(a)).
When the blocker 130 is turned off, a payout notification is given by a predetermined notification means (step 804), and the hopper 7a is driven to execute medal payout processing by the medal payout device 7 (step 805, FIG. 9 ( a)).
The medal payout process (step 805) is repeated until the medal credit amount reaches "0" (step 806). The blocker 130 is controlled to be ON (step 807, FIG. 9(a)). This completes the credit settlement process.

[no credit]
Next, as shown in FIGS. 8(a) and 9(b), in the first control pattern, even when there is no credit for medals (step 802: No), by turning on the settlement button 2b ( Step 801: Yes), the blocker 130 is controlled to the OFF state (step 808, FIG. 9(b)).
Also, in this case, since there is no credit, the medal payout process is not executed and the hopper 7a is not driven (FIG. 9(b)).
Then, when the blocker 130 is controlled to be in the OFF state, a timer is set (step 809), and the time during which the blocker 130 is controlled to be in the OFF state is counted and the timer is updated (step 810). It is monitored whether a predetermined period of time (for example, 1 second) has passed (step 811).
After that, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the blocker 130 was controlled to be turned off, the time is up (step 811: Yes), the blocker 130 is returned to the on state (step 807, FIG. 9(b)), and the process is terminated. finish.

As described above, in the first control pattern, the blocker 130 is controlled to be OFF only for a predetermined period even if there is no credit when the settlement button 2b is operated. At this time, if there is credit, the blocker 130 is turned off until the payout is completed, and if there is no credit, the blocker 130 is turned off until a set timer (for example, 1 second) times out. Further, although illustration is omitted in FIG. 8(a), at this time, a notification indicating that the blocker is OFF may be performed.
Therefore, even if a medal clogging occurs in the passage of the medal selector 100, the player can clear the medal clogging by pressing the checkout button 2b regardless of the presence or absence of credits.

On the other hand, in the conventional game machine, even if the checkout button is operated, the blocker of the medal selector remains controlled to the ON state when there is no medal credit, and cannot be turned OFF. Can not.
FIG. 8(b) shows steps of credit settlement processing in a conventional gaming machine.
As shown in the figure, even in the conventional gaming machine, when there is medal credit, the same processing as the first control pattern of the present embodiment is executed (steps 801 to 807).
However, when there is no medal credit, the conventional gaming machine does not execute any processing operation even if the settlement button is pressed (step 801: No), and the state remains as it is. Therefore, unlike the present embodiment, when there are no medal credits, the blocker cannot be turned off to clear the medal jam.

<Second control pattern>
Next, a second pattern of blocker control according to this embodiment will be described.
10 and 11 show the second control pattern of the displacement operation of the blocker.
As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, in the second control pattern, the operation mode is controlled by the length of time (long-press time) during which the settlement button 2b is pressed.
First, when the settlement button 2b for performing credit medal settlement processing is turned on by the player's operation (step 1001: Yes), the timer (ON continuation timer) is updated (step 1002), and the settlement button 2b is activated. The duration of ON is counted. As a result, the long press operation of the settlement button 2b is detected and determined.
When the time the settlement button 2b is ON is less than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) (step 1003: No), the ON continuation timer is cleared (step 1004), and the process ends. do. In this case, the blocker 130 is maintained in the ON state even when the settlement button 2b is operated.

On the other hand, if the time that the settlement button 2b is ON is equal to or longer than the preset predetermined time (1 second) (step 1003: Yes), the blocker 130 is controlled to be OFF (step 1005, FIG. 11(a) ), (b), and furthermore, it is monitored whether or not the ON state of the settlement button 2b continues for a specific time (for example, 2 seconds) longer than a predetermined time (step 1006).
First, if the ON duration of the settlement button 2b is longer than or equal to a predetermined time and less than or equal to a specific time (for example, 1 second or more and less than 2 seconds) (step 1006: No), the blocker 130 is turned off when the settlement button 2b is turned off. The ON state is returned (step 1007), and the process ends.
On the other hand, if the ON state of the settlement button 2b continues for a specific time (for example, two seconds or longer) (step 1006: Yes), it is determined whether or not there is credit (step 1007).

When the ON state of the settlement button 2b continues for a specific time and there is no credit (step 1008: No), the time is up after the specific time has elapsed, and the blocker 130 is returned to the ON state (steps 1011, FIG. 11(b)), the ON continuation timer is cleared (step 1004), and the process ends. In this case, even if the settlement button 2b is kept pressed, the blocker 130 is returned to the ON state when the specific time (2 seconds) has passed (see FIG. 11(b)).
Also, in this case, since there is no credit, the medal payout process is not executed and the hopper 7a is not driven (FIG. 11(b)).

On the other hand, when the ON state of the settlement button 2b continues for a specific time and there are credits (step 1008: Yes), medal payout processing is executed (step 1009, FIG. 11(a)).
The medal payout process (step 1009) is repeated until the medal credit amount reaches "0" (step 1010), and when the credit amount reaches "0", the medal payout process ends.
When the medal payout process ends, the hopper 7a stops driving, the blocker 130 is returned to the ON state (step 1011, FIG. 11(a)), the ON continuation timer is cleared (step 1004), and the credit settlement process is completed. finish.

[Operation display]
Next, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, operation means that can be operated by the player and display of operation images including the display of the operation means (hereinafter also referred to as "operation display") will be described.
The production button 12 is an example of the operation means (first operation means) in the present invention, and is configured to be pressable.
The effect button 12 incorporates a light-emitting means such as an LED, and is configured to emit light based on an output signal from the sub-controller 20 to notify that the operation is valid. For example, at the timing of prompting the operation of the production button 12 prior to notification of the winning result of a lottery process (ART lottery, additional lottery) that can be advantageous to the player, the production button 12 is made to emit light, and the operation is effective. state.
The effect button 12 is configured to be operated by the player with a finger, and an area (hereinafter referred to as an operation area) (first operation area) capable of receiving an operation by the player consists of the effect button 12, which is an operation means, and the effect Among the handle 13 and the large effect button 14, it is the narrowest.
Further, the operation amount (displacement amount) related to the pressing operation is the smallest among the operation amounts of the effect button 12 , the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14 .

The production handle 13 is an example of the operating means (first operating means or second operating means) in the present invention, and is configured to be rotatable.
The effect handle 13 incorporates light-emitting means such as an LED, and is configured to emit light based on an output signal from the sub-controller 20 to notify that the operation is effective.
In addition, the effect handle 13 is in a state in which it can be rotated in a normal state, and is displaced by being rotated clockwise, and in a game state in which the rotation operation is valid, the displacement is detected by a sensor. , the detection signal is transmitted to the sub-control unit 20 to detect the operation of the player.
For example, at the timing of prompting the operation of the production handle 13 prior to notification of the winning result of a lottery process (ART lottery, additional lottery) that can be advantageous to the player, the production handle 13 is illuminated and the operation is effective. state.
In addition, the effect handle 13 is configured to be operated by the player by holding it with one hand, and its operation area (first operation area or second operation area) includes the effect button 12, the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14. Among them, it is the second widest after the large effect button 14 .
Further, the operation amount (displacement amount) related to the rotation operation is the second largest after the large effect button 14 among the operation amounts of the effect button 12, the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14.
Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the effect handle 13 is arranged at a position farther from the start lever 3 than the effect button 12 is.
By having such differences in operation method, shape and arrangement, it is possible to impress the player that the performance handle 13 is a special device, and to make the player feel a special (premium) feeling when operating it. can be done.
In addition, the effect handle 13 has a 7-segment display portion 13a composed of a 3-digit 7-segment display, and information according to the progress of the game (for example, the number of additional games to be described later, the order in which the reels 41 are pushed, etc.) ) can be displayed.

The large effect button 14 is an example of operating means (second operating means) in the present invention, and is configured to enable a push operation from the front side of the slot machine.
The large effect button 14 incorporates a light emitting means such as an LED, and is configured to emit light based on an output signal from the sub control unit 20 to notify that the operation is effective.
For example, at the timing of prompting the operation of the large effect button 14 prior to the notification of the winning result of lottery processing (ART lottery, additional lottery) etc. that can be advantageous to the player, the large effect button 14 is illuminated and the operation is performed. enable.

The large effect button 14 is in a state in which a push operation is possible in a normal state, and is displaced by operating the large effect button 14 by pushing it from the front side of the slot machine, and in a game state in which the push operation is effective, The displacement is detected by the sensor, and the detection signal is transmitted to the sub-controller 20, thereby detecting the player's operation.
In addition, the large effect button 14 can accept not only one-handed push operation but also two-handed push operation, and its operation area (second operation area) is one of the effect button 12, the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14. widest.
Further, the operation amount (displacement amount) related to the pressing operation is the largest among the operation amounts of the effect button 12, the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14.
Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the large effect button 14 is arranged at the farthest position from the start lever 3 among the effect button 12, the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14.例文帳に追加
By having such differences in operation method, shape and arrangement, it is possible to impress the player that the large effect button 14 is a special device and give a special (premium) feeling when operated. be able to.

Although the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14 are normally operable, they may be operable only at a specific timing.
The large effect button 14 has a solenoid (not shown) connected to the sub-control unit 20. When the solenoid is "off", it becomes inoperable to push. It becomes operable.
For example, at the timing when an operation image prompting the operation of the large effect button 14 shown in FIG. At the timing when the display is hidden, the solenoid may be turned "off" and pressed to make it inoperable.
After the operation image is displayed, when the large effect button 14 is not operated for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), the large effect button 14 is changed from the push-operable state to the push-inoperable state. You may make it return.
Also, during a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) after the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, the state may be changed to a push-operable state so that the operation of the detecting means in the large effect button 14 can be confirmed. .

Here, to summarize the operation area and operation amount of the effect button 12, the effect handle 13, and the large effect button 14, which are operating means, the large effect button 14 has the widest operation area, and the large effect button 14>the effect handle 13 > production button 12 , the large production button 14 has the largest operation amount (displacement amount), and the large production button 14 > production handle 13 > production button 12 . Further, the larger the operation amount (displacement amount), the longer the time required for the displacement from the initial position (restoration position) to the operation completion position (operation detection position).

The effect button 12, the effect handle 13, and the large effect button 14, which are the operation means as described above, are displayed in the operation image prompting the player to operate the operation means.
Next, display of an operation image (operation display) for prompting operation of each operation means will be described.
FIG. 12 is an example of an operation image displayed on the display device 8 prior to notification of the winning result of a lottery advantageous to the player, and prompting the operation of each operation means.

For example, FIG. 12(a) shows a display of an operation image (first operation display) exemplified as a first operation image prompting the operation of the effect button 12. This display includes the effect as the first range. A part display 81a that is a part of the slot machine 1 including the button 12 and represents a multi-layered portion, a message "Press!", and an arrow indicating the position of the effect button 12 in the slot machine 1 are displayed.

FIG. 12(b) shows a display of an operation image (first operation display or second operation display) exemplified as a first operation image or a second operation image prompting the user to operate the effect handle 13. The display includes a part display 81b that is a part of the slot machine 1 including the effect handle 13 as the first range or the second range and represents the periphery of the display window 6, the stepped portion, and the decorative panel P, and "Rotate!" message and an arrow indicating the position of the effect handle 13 in the slot machine 1 are displayed.

FIG. 12(c) shows a display of an operation image (second operation display) exemplified as a second operation image prompting the user to operate the large effect button 14. A part display 81c representing the entire slot machine 1 including the large effect button 14, a message "Press!" , and an arrow (bottom left in FIG. 12(c)) indicating the actual position of the large effect button 14 are displayed.

The images used for the part displays 81a to 81c may be actual photographs (for example, the part display 81c is a photograph of the housing), illustrations (for example, the part display 81c is an illustration of the housing), or the like.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the operation display prompting the operation of each of the effect button 12, the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14, which are operating means, is provided prior to notification of the winning result of the lottery that is advantageous to the player. Since the operation display is displayed on the screen, it is possible to increase interest in the operation display.

In addition, the display of the operation image prompting the operation of the effect button 12, the effect handle 13, and the large effect button 14 has the following differences in its display mode.
Specifically, in the part display 81, whether the entire slot machine 1 or a part thereof is displayed, and if the part is displayed, the range is wide or narrow. The display range of the slot machine 1 displayed in the part display 81 is different.
For example, in the operation image including the large effect button 14 shown in FIG. 12(c), since the entire slot machine 1 is displayed in the part display 81c, the operation image including the effect button 12 shown in FIG. The range of the slot machine 1 displayed in the part display 81 is wider than the part display 81a and the part display 81b of the operation image including the effect handle 13 shown in FIG. 12(b).
A similar tendency can be said for FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b). The range of the slot machine 1 displayed in the part display 81 is wider than the part display 81a of the operation image including the effect button 12 shown in FIG. That is, the region display 81c shown in FIG. 12(c) is the widest and has a relationship of 81c>81b>81a.

It is preferable to correlate the width (somewhat) of the part display 81 with the winning result of the lottery that is advantageous to the player.
For example, it is preferable to set such that the wider the display range of the slot machine 1 displayed in the part display 81, the higher the expectation of winning.

[Game state]
In addition to such a configuration, the slot machine 1 has a plurality of game states controlled by the main control section 10 (game state control means).
The game state includes, for example, a normal game state and a specific game state. The normal game state is a game state disadvantageous to a player who is difficult to increase medals, and the specific game state is a game state in which medals are easily increased. The game state is advantageous to the player.

[Normal game state]
The normal game state is a game state in which the player stays when the power is turned on with operation of a predetermined initialization switch or the like, and is a game state that occupies most of the game in the slot machine 1 .
In the normal game state, a lottery is held to shift to a specific game state (ART).
Specifically, when a rare role ("weak cherry", "weak watermelon", "strong watermelon" and "strong cherry") is won in the internal lottery process, an ART lottery is held and the lottery is won. When it does, it shifts from the normal game state to ART.
The main control unit 10 functions as a privilege giving means, and gives a privilege of ART to the player based on the establishment of such a predetermined condition (winning of a rare role).
The winning probability of ART has a relationship of "strong cherry">"strongwatermelon">"weakcherry">"weakwatermelon". is set to be higher.
For example, if you win "strong cherry", you win with a probability of 30%, if you win "strong watermelon", you win with a probability of 25%, and if you win "weak cherry", you win , with a probability of 3%, and if "weak watermelon" is won, with a probability of 2% (see FIG. 13).

[Omen production]
In the normal game state, with the winning of the rare combination as a trigger, the indicator 8 executes an indication effect for increasing the expectation of the shift to ART.
The precursor effect is roughly divided into the first half precursor effect and the second half precursor effect, and the number of games of the first half precursor effect, the number of games of the second half precursor effect, ART winning information, etc. are controlled from the main control unit 10 to the sub-control unit 20. The information is transmitted and executed on the display 8 regardless of whether the ART lottery is won or not.
During the omen effect, the speaker 9 outputs a sound effect corresponding to the omen effect, and the lamp 11 lights up corresponding to the omen effect.

The first half portent effect is a effect that is executed during a plurality of game periods (for example, 5 games), such as when the main character appears for a moment and disappears immediately, and the player has a high expectation for the occurrence of the ART portent effect. be done.
Further, as for the number of games in which the first-half portent effect is performed, when ART is won, a larger number of games may be selected more easily than when the game is not won.

The second-half portent effect is an effect that is executed following the first-half portent effect, and notifies information (specific information) indicating whether or not an ART has been won. Specifically, a continuous effect is executed over a plurality of games (for example, three games), and ends after the third reel stop operation in the third game.
Here, the third reel is the reel on which the stop operation is performed for the third and last time when the stop operation of each of the three reels 41a to 41c is performed once each for a total of three times (second number). Say.
Similarly, the first reel is the reel that has been stopped when the stop operation is performed once (first number) among the three reels 41a to 41c, and the second reel is the reel that has been stopped. Of the reels 41a to 41c, when the stop operation is performed a total of two times (the first number or the second number), it refers to the reel that has been stopped the second time.
Further, "after the third reel stop operation" refers to the time after the player releases the finger or the like from the stop button 5 operated to stop the third reel.

In addition, as the second half precursor effect, multiple types of effects are provided, and in the game in which the rare role is won, continuous effect A, continuous effect B, and continuous effect C ) is determined.
For example, as shown in FIG. 14, when the ART is won, the continuous effect A is selected with a probability of 30%, the continuous effect B is selected with a probability of 40%, and the continuous effect C is selected with a probability of 30%. determined by On the other hand, when the ART is not won, the continuous performance A is selected with a probability of 50%, the continuous performance B with a probability of 40%, and the continuous performance C with a probability of 10%.

Since each continuous effect is determined with such a probability, the degree of expectation for the winning of ART when each continuous effect is selected can be calculated as follows.
The winning expectation of ART when each continuous effect is selected is calculated as the ratio of the selection rate at the time of winning to the total selection rate at the time of winning and not winning. It is calculated by (selection rate when winning + selection rate when not winning).
For example, when "successive effect A" is selected, the winning expectation of ART is 37.5% (30*100/(30+50)).
Further, when the "successive effect B" is selected, the winning expectation of ART becomes 50% (40×100/(40+40)).
Further, when the "continuous effect C" is selected, the ART win expectation is 75% (30×100/(30+10)).
That is, the ART win expectation has a relationship of continuous effect C>continuous effect B>continuous effect A.

It should be noted that the determination of the continuous effect in the latter half of the sign effect is made regardless of whether the ART is won or not, but not limited to this, for example, when the ART is won, the continuous effect is always determined. On the other hand, if the ART is not won, the continuous effect may be determined with a predetermined probability (for example, 50%).
Further, when the ART is won or when the ART is not won, the second half predictive effect may be executed without performing the first half predictive effect.
Further, the first half precursor effect and the second half precursor effect may be treated as one precursor effect without distinguishing between them, and the continuous effect may be performed during the precursor effect.

In addition, in the game in which the rare combination is won, the main control unit 10 determines all the effect contents in the continuous effect determined as the second half precursor effect before executing the effect.
In the following, the content of effects determined by the main control unit 10 will be described in the order of continuous effect A, continuous effect B, and continuous effect C. FIG.

When the continuous performance A is determined, the kind of "continuous performance" (hereinafter also referred to as "NEXT performance") to be executed in the first game and the second game of the continuous performance A continuing for three games is determined. (Announcement type determination processing).
The continuous effect is a effect for notifying that the continuous effect A will continue in the next game, and the effect that is likely to be selected differs depending on whether the ART is won or not.
For example, as shown in FIG. 15, when ART is won, "NEXT" is selected as the continuous effect with a probability of 50%, "NEXT chance" is selected with a probability of 45%, and "NEXT intense "Heat" is selected with a probability of 4%, and "NEXT confirmed" is selected with a probability of 1%.
On the other hand, if the ART is not won, "NEXT" will be selected as a continuous effect with a probability of 80%, "NEXT chance" will be selected with a probability of 19%, and "NEXT intense heat" will be selected with a probability of 1%. Selected and "Next confirmed" not selected.

Since each continuous effect is determined with such a probability, the winning expectation of ART when each continuous effect is selected can be calculated by the selection rate when winning ÷ (selection rate when winning + selection rate when not winning). For example, when "NEXT confirmed" is selected, ART's winning expectation is 100% (=1×100/(1+0)).
Also, when "NEXT intense heat" is selected, the winning expectation of ART becomes 80% (=4×100/(4+1)).
Also, when "NEXT Chance" is selected, ART's winning expectation is 70.3% (=45×100/(45+19)).
Also, when "NEXT" is selected, ART's winning expectation is 38.4% (=50×100/(50+80)).
That is, ART's winning expectation has a relationship of NEXT Confirmation > NEXT Intense Heat > NEXT Chance > NEXT.
Details of the effect content in the continuous effect A will be described later.

Further, when the continuous effect B is determined, the main control unit 10 determines the type of continuous effect to be executed in the first game and the second game out of the continuous effect B continuing for three games (notice type determination process).
As continuous effects that can be selected in the first game of continuous effect B, “NEXT”, “NEXT chance”, “NEXT intense heat”, and “NEXT confirmed” are the same as in continuous effect A described above. It is selected according to winning (see FIG. 15).

As continuous effects that can be selected in the second game of continuous effect B, in addition to "NEXT", "NEXT chance", "NEXT intense heat", "NEXT confirmed", "NEXT button" will win / not win ART. is selected according to That is, it differs from the continuous effect A in that the "NEXT button" is selected.
The "NEXT button" is a continuous effect that foretells that an operation image prompting the user to operate the operating means will be displayed in the next game, that is, the third game of the continuous effect B.

For example, as shown in FIG. 16, when ART is won, "NEXT" is selected as the continuous effect with a probability of 20%, "NEXT chance" is selected with a probability of 45%, and "NEXT intense "Heat" is selected with a probability of 4%, "NEXT confirmed" is selected with a probability of 1%, and "NEXT button" is selected with a probability of 30%.
On the other hand, if the ART is not won, "NEXT" will be selected as a continuous effect with a probability of 50%, "NEXT chance" will be selected with a probability of 28%, and "NEXT intense heat" will be selected with a probability of 2%. It is selected, the "NEXT button" is selected with a probability of 20%, and the "NEXT confirmation" is not selected.

Since each continuous effect is determined with such a probability, the winning expectation of ART when each continuous effect is selected is calculated by the selection rate when winning ÷ (selection rate when winning + selection rate when not winning). For example, when "NEXT confirmed" is selected, the winning expectation of ART becomes 100% (=1×100/(1+0)).
Also, when "NEXT intense heat" is selected, the winning expectation of ART becomes 66.6% (=4×100/(4+2)).
Also, when "NEXT Chance" is selected, ART's winning expectation is 61.6% (=45×100/(45+28)).
Also, when "NEXT" is selected, ART's winning expectation is 28.5% (=20×100/(20+50)).
Also, when the "NEXT button" is selected, the winning expectation of ART becomes 60% (=30×100/(30+20)).
That is, ART's winning expectation has a relationship of NEXT confirmation > NEXT intense heat > NEXT chance > NEXT button > NEXT.

Furthermore, when the "NEXT button" is selected in the second game of the continuous effect B, the effect pattern of "cut-in effect" suggesting the degree of expectation of winning the ART that can be executed in the next game (third game) is displayed. Determine (process for determining cut-in effect).
The cut-in effect is a effect that is executed instead of the effect that is being executed on the display device 8, is executed when the operation means is operated, and is performed for a predetermined time (for example, about 1 second). Display an image.

"Weak cut-in", "middle cut-in", and "strong cut-in" are provided as cut-in effects patterns, and effects that are likely to be selected differ depending on whether the ART wins or does not win.
The winning expectation level of ART of each effect pattern has a relationship of "weak cut-in"<"mediumcut-in"<"strongcut-in". , the size of the image is larger in the order of "strong cut-in", "medium cut-in", and "weak cut-in"), the sound effect by the speaker 9, lighting by the lamp 11, etc. are set differently.
For example, as shown in FIG. 17, when ART is won, "weak cut-in" is selected with a probability of 10%, "medium cut-in" is selected with a probability of 40%, and "strong cut-in" is selected with a probability of 40%. In" is selected and determined with a probability of 50%.
On the other hand, if ART is not elected, "weak cut-in" is selected with a probability of 50%, "medium cut-in" is selected with a probability of 40%, and "strong cut-in" is selected with a probability of 10%. selected and determined.
The details of the effect content in the continuous effect B will be described later.

Further, when the continuous effect C is determined, the main control section 10 performs the following processes (1) to (3).
(1) Determine the type of continuous effect to be executed in the first game and the second game.
(2) Determining the operating means to emit light in the first game and the second game.
(3) Determine the operation pattern (number of movements, position of movement, speed of movement, etc.) of the door member 15 to be operated in the third game.

(1) Determine the type of continuous effect to be executed in the 1st game and the 2nd game When the continuous effect C is determined, it is executed in the 1st game and the 2nd game out of the continuous effect C that continues for 3 games. Determine the type of continuous effect to be performed (notice type determination processing).
At this time, the types of continuous effects that can be selected in the first game and the second game are different from the continuous effects A and B described above.
Specifically, as a continuous effect selectable in the first game of the continuous effect C, "NEXT button", "NEXT handle", and "NEXT large button" are selected according to winning/non-winning of ART. .
These continuous effects are effects that foretell that an operation image prompting the operation of the operation means will be displayed in the next game. When the operation image prompting the operation is displayed and the "NEXT handle" is selected, the operation image prompting the operation of the effect handle 13 in the next game is displayed, and when the "NEXT large button" is selected. , an operation image prompting the user to operate the large effect button 14 in the next game is displayed.

For example, as shown in FIG. 18, when the ART is won, the "NEXT button" is selected with a probability of 50%, the "NEXT handle" is selected with a probability of 35%, and the "NEXT large button" is selected. is selected and determined with a probability of 15%.
On the other hand, if the ART is not won, the "NEXT button" will be selected with a probability of 80%, the "NEXT handle" will be selected with a probability of 15%, and the "NEXT large button" will be selected with a probability of 5%. It is determined.

Since each continuous effect is determined with such a probability, the degree of expectation for ART winning when each continuous effect is selected is For example, when the “NEXT button” is selected, ART's winning expectation is 38.4% (=50×100/(50+80)).
Also, when the "NEXT handle" is selected, the winning expectation of ART becomes 70% (=35×100/(35+15)).
Also, when the "NEXT large button" is selected, the winning expectation of ART becomes 75% (=15×100/(15+5)).
That is, the ART win expectation has a relationship of NEXT large button > NEXT handle > NEXT button.
As described above, in the present embodiment, the large effect button 14 has the widest operation area, and the large effect button 14>the effect handle 13>the effect button 12 is established. It means that the ART that is operated has a higher expectation of winning the ART.

As a continuous effect selectable in the second game of the continuous effect C, "NEXT handle" and "NEXT large button" are selected according to winning/non-winning of ART.
If "NEXT handle" is selected in the first game, "NEXT handle" or "NEXT large button" is selected in the second game.
For example, as shown in FIG. 19, when ART is won, "NEXT handle" is selected with a probability of 50%, and "NEXT large button" is selected with a probability of 50%.
On the other hand, if the ART is not won, the "NEXT handle" is selected with a probability of 90%, and the "NEXT large button" is selected with a probability of 10%.
As described above, even in the second game, the winning expectation of ART when each continuation effect is selected has the relationship of NEXT large button>NEXT handle.
In addition, when the "NEXT large button" is selected in the first game, the "NEXT large button" is always selected in the second game regardless of whether the ART is won or not (Fig. 20).

(2) Determining operation means to emit light in the first and second games When continuous effect C is determined, operation means to emit light in the first and second games of continuous effect C are determined.
Specifically, the operation means to emit light is determined based on the type of continuous effect determined in the above-described advance notice type determination process.
For example, when the "NEXT button" is selected as the continuous effect, as shown in FIG. , the "effect button" is selected with a probability of 99%, and the "effect handle" is selected with a probability of 1%. On the other hand, when the ART is not won, the "effect button" is always selected.
Also, when the "NEXT handle" is selected as the continuous effect, as shown in FIG. "Handle" is selected with a probability of 98%, and "Large effect button" is selected with a probability of 1%. On the other hand, when the ART is not won, the "effect handle" is always selected.
Further, when the "NEXT large button" is selected as the continuous effect, the "effect button" is selected with a probability of 2% when the ART is won as shown in FIG. "Handle" is selected with a probability of 2%, and "Large effect button" is selected with a probability of 96%. On the other hand, when the ART is not won, the "big effect button" is always selected.

In this way, the type of continuous effect determined in the advance notice type determination process basically matches the type of operating means that emits light, but may not match if the ART is won.
As a result, when the operation means included in the operation image and the light emitting operation means do not match, the ART winning is confirmed, so that the player can be made to pay attention to the operation image and the operation means, thereby increasing interest. can be done.

(3) Determining the movement pattern (number of movements, movement position, movement speed, etc.) of the door member 15 to be activated in the third game If the continuous effect C is determined, it will be activated in the third game of the continuous effect C. The number of movements of the door member 15 is determined.
Specifically, the number of movements of the door member 15 is determined according to the continuation effect selected in the second game, that is, the type of operation image displayed in the third game and winning/non-winning of ART.
For example, when the ART is not won, as shown in FIG. 24, when the "effect button" is selected as the continuous effect, the number of moves "1" is selected with a probability of 90%, and the number of moves "1" is selected with a probability of 10%. The number of moves "2" is selected with probability.
Also, if the "effect handle" is selected as the continuous effect, the number of moves "1" is selected with a probability of 10%, the number of moves "2" is selected with a probability of 80%, and the number of moves "2" is selected with a probability of 10%. The number of moves "3" is selected.
Also, when the "large effect button" is selected as the continuous effect, the number of moves "2" is selected with a probability of 70%, the number of moves "3" is selected with a probability of 29%, and the probability of 1%. The movement number "4" is selected with .

On the other hand, when the ART is won, as shown in FIG. 25, when the "effect button" is selected as the continuous effect, the number of moves "1" is selected with a probability of 80%, and the number of moves "1" is selected with a probability of 19%. The number of moves "2" is selected with a probability of , and the number of moves "4" is selected with a probability of 1%.
Also, if the "effect handle" is selected as a continuous effect, the number of moves "1" is selected with a probability of 10%, the number of moves "2" is selected with a probability of 70%, and the number of moves "2" is selected with a probability of 18%. The number of moves "3" is selected, and the number of moves "4" is selected with a probability of 2%.
Also, when the "large effect button" is selected as the continuous effect, the number of moves "2" is selected with a probability of 40%, the number of moves "3" is selected with a probability of 50%, and the number of moves "3" is selected with a probability of 10%. The movement number "4" is selected with .
In the examples shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the number of movements of the door member 15 is "1" or more, and the door member 15 always moves in the third game of the continuous effect C. However, the door member 15 may not move. For example, regardless of winning/non-winning of ART, the number of moves may be set to "0".

In this way, the probability that a large number of door members 15 are operated (moved) is higher when an operation image including operation means having a wide operation area is displayed.
Here, ``a large number'' of ``a large number of door members 15 move'' indicates, for example, the maximum number of movable door members 15, and as shown in FIG. If it is, the maximum number that can be moved is "2", and if the "production handle" is selected, the maximum number that can be moved is "3", and the "large production button" is selected. If there is, it indicates that the maximum number of possible movements is "4", and has a relationship of large effect button 14 > large effect handle 13 > effect button 12 .
Also, "large number" may be the average value of the number of movable door members 15, and as shown in FIG. 25, the average value is "1.22" ( 90 × 1 + 19 × 2 + 0 × 3 + 1 × 4) / 100), and the average value is “2.12” (10 × 1 + 70 × 2 + 18 × 3 + 2 × 4) / 100) when the “production handle” is selected , indicating that the average value is “2.70” (0×1+40×2+50×3+10×4)/100) when the “large effect button” is selected, and the large effect button 14 >Large production handle 13>Production button 12.
In this way, the wider the operating area of the operating means to be operated, the more the door members 15 are operated (moved), and the more impactful the performance can be performed. can be increased to
Also, the wider the operating area of the operating means to be operated, the higher the probability of winning the ART. Therefore, the greater the number of moving door members 15, the higher the expectation of winning the ART.

Further, when the continuous effect C is determined, the moving position of the door member 15 to be activated in the third game of the continuous effect C is determined.
As described above, the closed position, which is the movement position of the door member 15, is the third position (see FIG. 3(c)) where the entire display area of the display 8 is hidden, and the third position is closer to the first position than the third position. A second position (see FIG. 3(d)) is provided where the gap is small enough to cover the entire display area of the display unit 8, and the like. The position is determined according to the winning/non-winning of ART.
For example, if the ART is not won, the "second position" is selected with a probability of 60%, and the "third position" is selected with a probability of 40%.
On the other hand, when the ART is won, the "second position" is selected with a probability of 40%, and the "third position" is selected with a probability of 60%.
That is, the winning expectation of ART has a relationship of third position>second position.
In determining the moving position of the door member 15, one moving position may be determined for all the moving door members 15, or the moving position may be determined for each of the moving door members 15. FIG.

Further, when the continuous effect C is determined, the moving speed of the door member 15 to be activated in the third game of the continuous effect C is determined.
Specifically, the moving speed of each of the four door members 15La, 15Lb, 15Ra and 15Rb is determined.
A plurality of moving speeds are provided for the door member 15. For example, a first speed that is a predetermined speed and a second speed that is higher than the first speed are provided. The closed position of 15Rb is determined according to winning/non-winning of ART.
For example, if the ART is not won, the "first speed" is selected with a probability of 60%, and the "second speed" is selected with a probability of 40%.
On the other hand, when the ART is won, the "first speed" is selected with a probability of 40%, and the "second speed" is selected with a probability of 60%.
In other words, the winning expectation of ART has a relationship of second speed>first speed.
The moving speed of the door member 15 may be determined by determining one moving speed for all the moving door members 15 or by determining the moving speed for each of the moving door members 15 .

In this way, it is possible to make the player aware of the degree of expectation for winning the ART by the moving number, moving position, and moving speed of the door member 15, and to increase the interest of the game.
Details of the effect content in the continuous effect C will be described later.

[Specific gaming state]
Next, ART as a specific game state will be explained.
ART as a specific game state is a game state in which a game is executed advantageously for the player. is subtracted, and when this number of games is exhausted, the ART will end.

In addition, ART is an RT with a probability that the winning probability of "replay role" is higher than the normal state, and when winning "push order bell 1 to 6" or "push order replay 1 to 6" respectively This is a game state in which the AT that notifies the corresponding pressing order overlaps.
As an example of notification of the pressing order, for example, when "Pushing order bell 1" among "Pressing order bells 1 to 6" is won, if the stop button 5 is operated in the order of "5a→5b→5c", " When the combination of symbols (“bell, bell, bell”) corresponding to the push order “Bell 1” stops, the combination of symbols (“bell, bell, bell”) is controlled by the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20. Numerical information indicating the order in which the stop button 5 is to be operated is displayed on the display 8 as an image for stopping the operation. Moreover, each sound is output from the speaker 9 in the order of "left", "middle", and "right".

Also, at this time, the navigation lamps 16 controlled by the sub control unit 20 are lit in the order of "16a→16b→16c" according to the operation of the stop button 5. FIG.
In other words, the operation of the stop button 5 is navigated through notification means such as the display 8, the speaker 9, the navigation lamp 16, and the like.
On the other hand, when "push order bells 1 to 6" is won and the stop button is operated without following the navigation as described above, the combination of symbols corresponding to "push order bells 1 to 6" is stopped. is not paid out, and the stipulated eight medals are not paid out.
Such notification of the pushing order is the same when winning "Pushing order replay 1 to 6" during ART.

Further, in this embodiment, instead of or in addition to the navigation lamp 16 and the display 8, the 7-segment display portion 13a of the production handle 13 can also display the pressing order. For example, "123", "213", etc. are displayed to notify the order in which the left, middle, and right reels 41a to 41c should be stopped.
The LED for displaying the pressing order in the 7-segment display unit 13a is composed of a 2-digit 7-segment display, and the identification symbol (number) corresponding to the pressing order is displayed on the first digit, and the winning combination (Bell role, Alternatively, the identification symbol (number) of the replay combination may be displayed on the second digit.

Next, the addition processing performed during ART will be described.
During the ART, when a rare combination is won in the internal lottery process, an "additional lottery" is performed in which a predetermined number is added to the number of games in the ART in the game in which the rare combination is won.
In addition, an "additional effect (specific effect)" for increasing the player's expectation for the addition of the number of ART games is performed on the display 8, for example, by one game.
The add-on effect is executed regardless of whether the add-on lottery is won or not, and if you do not win the add-on lottery (when "0 games" is selected for the number of add-on games), that fact at the end of the add-on effect is displayed, and on the other hand, when the addition lottery is won (when a value other than "0 game" is selected as the number of addition games), the number of games to be added is displayed at the end of the addition presentation.
It should be noted that the additional performance may not always be performed, but may be performed at a predetermined probability (for example, 50%) when the additional lottery is not won.
In addition, the management of the lottery to be added during ART, the number of games to be added, etc. Display control of production is performed.

In the present embodiment, as an example of a privilege that can extend the duration of ART, the "number of games to be added" will be described. If specified, "Additional minor win count" added to the number of remaining minor win wins during ART, or if the duration is specified by the number of earned medals (number of payouts or difference), remaining wins during ART It may be "additional number of acquired medals" or the like to be added to the number of medals.

In the add-on process, the main control unit 10 executes the "add-on effect determination process" shown in FIG. 26 in the game in which the rare combination is won.
In this process, first, the main control unit 10 performs an extra lottery (hereinafter referred to as an extra game number lottery) to determine a privilege (additional game number) that can extend the duration of ART based on the won rare role (winning role). ) is executed (S1).

In the lottery for the number of additional games, for example, as shown in FIG. 27, if the "weak cherry" is won, "0 game" is selected with a probability of 60%, and "10 game" is selected with a probability of 35%. , "30 games" is selected with a probability of 3%, "50 games" is selected with a probability of 1%, and "100 games" is selected with a probability of 1%.
Also, in the case of winning the "strong cherry", "10 games" will be selected with a probability of 50%, "30 games" will be selected with a probability of 40%, and "50 games" will be selected with a probability of 5%. and "100 games" is selected with a probability of 5%.
Also, if you win the "weak watermelon", "0 games" will be selected with a probability of 90%, "30 games" will be selected with a probability of 8%, and "50 games" will be selected with a probability of 1%. and "100 games" is selected with a probability of 1%.
Also, in the case of winning the "strong watermelon", "0 game" is selected with a probability of 80%, "50 game" is selected with a probability of 10%, and "100 game" is selected with a probability of 10%. be done.
The main control unit 10, functioning as a privilege providing means, provides the player with a privilege of the number of additional games (additional winning) based on the establishment of such a predetermined condition (winning of a rare role). Then, the added number of games given is added (added) to the number of games of ART, and the continuation period of ART is extended.
In addition, based on the determined number of additional games, an effect (expectation degree effect display) for suggesting the degree of expectation of the player and an effect for notifying the number of additional games (additional result display) are executed. .
When "0 game" is selected, it indicates that the additional lottery is not won.

Next, the main control unit 10 determines the disappearance timing of the operation image displayed in the additional effect (operation image disappearance timing determination process) (S2).
In the additional effect, at the start of the game in which the rare combination is won, an operation image is displayed on the display 8 to prompt the user to operate the operation means (see FIG. 34, etc.).
This operation image is displayed for a predetermined period after being displayed at the start of the game, and disappears if the operation means included in the operation image is operated within this period.
Also, the operation image disappears even when the "stop operation of the stop button 5" or the "next game start operation" is performed without operating the operation means included in the operation image. Note that "at the time of next game start operation" indicates when the bet button 2a related to the start of the next game is operated.
That is, the operation image displayed in the additional effect disappears immediately when the operation means included in the operation image is operated while the operation image is being displayed, while the operation means included in the operation image is operated. Even if there is not, it is displayed until the "stop operation of the stop button 5" or the "next game start operation" is performed, and disappears when these operations are performed.

Therefore, in S2 of the processing, while the operation image displayed in the additional effect is being displayed, the operation means included in the operation image (for example, the effect button 12) is not operated, and the "stop operation of the stop button 5" or The disappearance timing of the operation image when the "next game start operation" is performed is determined.
Specifically, the timing for disappearing the operation image is determined based on the number of added games determined in the "lottery for the number of added games (S1)".
For example, as shown in FIG. 28, when the number of games to be added is "0 games", there is a 90% probability that "when the first reel is stopped" is selected as the disappearance timing, and there is a 10% probability that "the second "At reel operation" is selected, and "At time of third reel stop operation" and "At next game start operation" are not selected.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "10 games", there is a probability of 70% that "when the first reel is stopped" is selected, and "when the second reel is stopped" is selected with a probability of 30%. 3rd reel stop operation” and “next game start operation” are not selected.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "30 games", "when the first reel is stopped" is selected with a probability of 30%, and "when the second reel is stopped" is selected with a probability of 65%. ``At the time of operation to stop the third reel'' is selected with a probability of 10%, and ``At the time of operation to start the next game'' is not selected.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "50 games", there is a probability of 5% that "when the first reel is stopped" is selected, and "when the second reel is stopped" is selected with a probability of 20%. ``At the time of operation to stop the third reel'' is selected with a probability of 10%, and ``At the time of operation to start the next game'' is selected with a probability of 10%.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "100 games", there is a 50% probability that "when the third reel is stopped" is selected, and "when the next game is started" is selected with a 50% probability. 1 reel stop operation" and "2nd reel stop operation" are not selected.
As described above, the greater the number of additional games determined in the additional game number lottery, the higher the probability that the operation image will disappear after the start of the game.
That is, the degree of expectation to be added has a relationship of "at the time of next game start operation">"at the time of third reel stop operation">"at the time of second reel stop operation">"at the time of first reel stop operation", The greater the number of times the reel stop operation is performed, the higher the degree of expectation of addition.

Next, the main control unit 10 determines the degree of expectation of addition when the stop button 5 or the bet button 2a is operated at the disappearance timing determined in the "operation image disappearance timing determination process (S2)" while the operation image is being displayed. is determined (non-operating time expectation level effect determination process) (S3).
As production patterns for the expectation level production, "weak production", "medium production", "strong production", and "strongest production" are provided. There is a relationship of "effect">"medium effect">"weak effect". Further, according to this relationship, an image effect on the display 8, a sound effect by the speaker 9, lighting by the lamp 11, etc. are performed so that the level of expectation can be recognized.

Specifically, the effect pattern is determined based on the number of additional games determined in the "lottery for the number of additional games (S1)".
For example, as shown in FIG. 29, when the number of games to be added is "0 games", there is a probability of 90% that the "low effect" is selected, and there is a probability of 10% that the "medium effect" is selected and the "strong effect" is selected. Performance” and “strongest performance” are not selected.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "10 games", the "weak effect" is selected with a probability of 70%, the "medium effect" is selected with a probability of 30%, and the "strong effect" and "strongest effect" are selected. is not selected.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "30 games", the "light effect" is selected with a probability of 30%, the "medium effect" is selected with a probability of 65%, and the "strong effect" is selected with a probability of 5%. is selected, and "strongest effect" is not selected.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "50 games", the "weak effect" is selected with a probability of 5%, the "when the second reel is stopped" is selected with a probability of 20%, and the probability is 75%. "At the time of third reel stop operation" is selected, and "strongest effect" is not selected.
Further, when the number of games to be added is "100 games", "strong effect" is always selected with a probability of 100%, and "weak effect", "medium effect" and "strongest effect" are not selected.
Thus, the greater the number of games to be added determined in the lottery for the number of games to be added, the higher the probability of selecting an effect pattern with a high degree of expectation for the addition.

Next, while the operation image is being displayed, the main control unit 10 produces an effect (expectation level effect) that suggests the degree of expectation to be added when the operation means (for example, the effect button 12) included in the operation image is operated. A pattern is determined (operation-time expectation effect determination process) (S4).
Specifically, an effect pattern (privilege provision information) is determined based on the disappearance timing determined in the "operation image disappearance timing determination process (S2)".
For example, as shown in FIG. 30, when the disappearance timing is "at the time of first reel stop operation", the "weak effect" is selected with a probability of 70%, and the "medium effect" is selected with a probability of 30%. , "strong effect" and "strongest effect" are not selected.
Also, when the disappearance timing is "at the time of the second reel stop operation", there is a 40% probability that the "weak effect" is selected, a 50% probability that the "medium effect" is selected, and a 10% probability that the ""strongeffect" is selected, and "strongest effect" is not selected.
Also, when the disappearance timing is "at the time of the third reel stop operation", there is a 10% probability that the "weak effect" is selected, a 30% probability that the "medium effect" is selected, and a 60% probability that the ""strongeffect" is selected, and "strongest effect" is not selected.
In addition, when the disappearance timing is "at the time of next game start operation", "strong effect" is selected with a probability of 70%, "strongest effect" is selected with a probability of 30%, and "weak effect" and "medium effect" are selected. "Direction" is not selected.
In this way, even when the operation means (for example, the effect button 12) is operated according to the display of the operation image, the more the disappearance timing progresses from the start of the game, that is, the greater the number of determined additional games, the more additional games are added. There is a high probability that a production pattern with a high degree of expectation will be selected.

In addition, in the case of "when the operation means is operated while the operation image is displayed", from the above-mentioned "when the stop button 5 is operated to stop or the next game start operation is performed without operating the operation means while the operation image is displayed" Also, highly reliable suggestions have been made in the expectation production.
For example, in the case of "a stop operation of the stop button 5 or a next game start operation is performed without operating the operation means while the operation image is being displayed", as shown in FIG. While it is not selected, there is a case where the "strongest effect" is selected as the expectation degree effect as shown in FIG. 30 when "the operation means is operated while the operation image is being displayed".
That is, in the case of "when the operation means is operated according to the display of the operation image", the "strongest effect" selected only when "50G" or "100G" is determined as the number of additional games is executed. As a degree of expectation for addition, a more reliable suggestion will be made.
In addition, the effect content of the additional effect will be described later.

So far, the configuration of the slot machine 1, the game state, and the like have been described. Next, the features of the slot machine according to the present embodiment will be described in order.
(1) Continuous production at the time of ART transition (second half precursor production)
(2) Additional production during ART

(1) Continuous production at the time of ART transition (second half precursor production)
Next, with reference to FIGS. 31 to 33, the contents of continuous effects will be described.
The continuous effect is executed on the display device 8 under the control of the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20, and is a effect for increasing the player's expectation for the transition from the normal game state to the ART. A continuous effect is executed during , and an ART winning result (specific information) is notified.
Further, in the present embodiment, the effect contents of each continuous effect are all determined when a rare combination is won, and the effect is executed after the effect contents are determined.
Hereinafter, the continuous performance A, the continuous performance B, and the continuous performance C will be described in this order.

[Continuous production A]
FIG. 31 shows the flow of the effect of the continuous effect A executed by the display device 8. FIG.
In the continuous effect A, an effect simulating a roulette game is performed. Once per game, the moving object image I moves on the roulette wheel and stops at a predetermined position. Winning result of ART lottery is reported according to "hit" or "losing").
Specifically, in the first game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, the moving object image I starts to rotate on the roulette ((A) in FIG. 31), and based on the operation to stop the third reel, to stop.
After several seconds (for example, two seconds) have passed since the third reel stop operation, a continuous effect (NEXT effect) is executed ((B) in FIG. 31).
As for the continuous effect executed here, the type of continuous effect related to the first game determined in the "notice type determination process" in the continuous effect A described above is executed, and in the example shown in FIG. It shows a case where "NEXT chance" is selected as
In this way, the player's attention can be attracted by executing the continuous effect after several seconds (for example, two seconds) have elapsed since the moving body image I stopped at the time of the third reel stop operation.

In the second game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an effect corresponding to the continuation effect (“NEXT chance”) executed in the first game is performed.
For example, as shown in (C) in FIG. 31, two moving object images I start rotating on the roulette in a state where the number of moving object images I has increased to two. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 31, the degree of expectation that the moving object image I will "win" and stop (the degree of expectation of winning of ART) is higher in the second game than in the first game.
Then, the two moving object images I are stopped based on the third reel stop operation, and after several seconds (for example, two seconds) have passed since the third reel stop operation, a continuous effect is executed (( D)).
As for the continuous effect executed here, the type of continuous effect related to the second game determined in the "notice type determination process" in the continuous effect A described above is executed, and in the example shown in FIG. It shows when it is selected.

In the third game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an effect corresponding to the continuation effect (“NEXT intense heat”) executed in the second game is performed.
For example, as shown in (E) in FIG. 31, the moving object image I starts to rotate on the roulette in a state where the number of stop positions for "hit" is increased to three. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 31, the degree of expectation that the moving object image I will "win" and stop (the degree of expectation of winning of ART) is higher in the third game than in the first game.
Then, the moving object image I is stopped based on the third reel stop operation, and after several seconds (for example, four seconds) from the third reel stop operation, the winning result of the ART lottery is notified.
Thus, in the third game, unlike the first and second games, the predetermined time from the stop operation of the third reel is set to a longer time (4 seconds), and the winning result of the ART lottery is announced. to attract the player's attention. The same applies to the continuous performance B and the continuous performance C, which will be described later.
At this time, if the ART is won, the moving body image I stops at "win", and the ART is informed of the winning ((F) in FIG. 31). On the other hand, if the ART is not won, the moving object image I stops as "losing", and the ART is notified that the prize is not won ((G) in FIG. 31).
In the example shown in FIG. 31, the case where "NEXT chance" and "NEXT intense heat" are selected as the types of continuous effects is illustrated, but "NEXT" is selected as a continuous effect other than these. For example, when the roulette game is executed with one moving object image I and one winning stop position and "NEXT decision" is selected, for example, one moving object image I and 4 A roulette game is executed with one winning stop position.

As described above, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the continuation effect (NEXT effect), which merely indicates the continuation of the effect in a normal game machine, is displayed differently according to the degree of expectation for winning the ART. , It is possible to improve the interest of the game.
It should be noted that the moving object image I may "hit" and stop in the first game or the second game, without being limited to the above effect. In this case, without executing the roulette game of the remaining games of the continuous effect, for example, an effect of congratulating the winning may be performed, or an effect of stopping the roulette game during the remaining games may be performed. you can go
Also, depending on the type of continuous effect, the number of moving object images I and the number of winning stop positions may not change (the effect screen may not change).

[Continuous production B]
FIG. 32 shows the flow of the effect of the continuous effect B executed by the display device 8. FIG.
The continuous performance B performs a battle performance in which the ally character battles with the enemy character, and notifies the winning result of the ART lottery according to the victory or defeat of the ally character.
Specifically, in the first game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, a screen displaying the friendly character and the opposing enemy character is displayed, and the battle between the friendly character and the enemy character is started (FIG. 32). (A) in the middle).
Then, based on the operation to stop the third reel, the battle is once ended, a display is displayed in which the friend character and the enemy character face each other, and after several seconds (for example, two seconds) have passed since the operation to stop the third reel, a continuous effect ( NEXT effect) is executed ((B) in FIG. 32).
As for the continuous effect executed here, the type of continuous effect related to the first game determined in the "notice type determination process" in the continuous effect B described above is executed, and in the example shown in FIG. 32, "NEXT Chance" is selected. It indicates that

In the second game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an effect corresponding to the continuation effect (“NEXT chance”) executed in the first game is performed.
For example, as shown in (C) in FIG. 32, a battle is performed in which a ally character makes a "strong attack (deathblow etc.)" against an enemy character. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 32, the degree of expectation that the teammate character will "win" the battle (the degree of expectation of winning the ART) is higher than in the first game.
Then, based on the operation to stop the third reel, the battle is temporarily ended, and a display is displayed in which the friend character and the enemy character face each other, and after several seconds (for example, two seconds) have passed since the operation to stop the third reel, a continuous effect is performed. is executed ((D) in FIG. 32).
The continuous effect executed here is the type of continuous effect related to the second game determined in the "notice type determination process" in the continuous effect B described above, and in the example shown in FIG. 32, the "NEXT button" is selected. It indicates that

In the third game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an effect corresponding to the continuation effect (“NEXT button”) executed in the second game is performed.
For example, as shown in (E) in FIG. 32, an operation image prompting the user to operate the effect button 12 is displayed. At this time, the effect button 12 emits light, and by continuing to emit light while the operation image is displayed, it is notified that the operation is effective.

When the effect button 12 is operated by the player while this operation image is being displayed, a cut-in effect display is executed ((F) in FIG. 32). In this way, when the "NEXT button" is selected for the continuation effect of the second game, the cut-in effect display may be executed in the next game (third game).
The effect pattern of the cut-in effect executed here is the effect pattern (“weak cut-in”, “medium cut-in”, “strong cut-in”) determined in the above-mentioned “cut-in effect determination processing”. be.
It should be noted that when an operation means not included in the operation image (for example, the effect handle 13 or the large effect button 14) is operated, the cut-in effect display may not be performed, or a fixed effect pattern (for example, , "weak cut-in") may be forcibly displayed to perform a cut-in effect display, and only when the operation means (effect button 12) included in the operation image is operated, the winning expectation is suggested accurately. can be
In addition, when the continuation effect of the second game is selected other than the "NEXT button", the battle between the friend character and the enemy character is performed during the period from the operation of the start lever 3 to the stop operation of the third reel. .

Next, the stop button 5 is operated, and after several seconds (for example, 4 seconds) from the operation to stop the third reel, the winning result of the ART lottery is announced.
If the ART is won, the fact that the ART has been won is reported to the ART such as an image in which the ally character wins ((G) in FIG. 32). On the other hand, if the ART is not won, the fact that the ART is not won is reported to the ART such as an image in which the teammate character is defeated ((H) in FIG. 32).

As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the continuous effect (NEXT effect), which merely indicates the continuation of the effect in an ordinary gaming machine, is displayed to prompt the user to operate the operation means in the next game. By using it as an effect indicating that it will be won, it is possible to make the player aware of the degree of expectation for winning the ART, and to improve the interest of the game.

[Continuous production C]
FIG. 33 shows the flow of the effect of the continuous effect C executed by the display device 8. As shown in FIG.
In the continuous effect C, an effect simulating a picture matching game is performed, and face part images are displayed once per game in three variable display sections (upper display section, middle display section, and lower display section). is played and the three face part images are arranged vertically, the character face image is completed (the same as the upper right face image in (A) in FIG. 33). The winning result of the ART lottery is notified according to whether the image is displayed or not.
Specifically, in the first game, three face part images in the change display portion start to change based on the operation of the start lever 3 ((A) in FIG. 33).
Further, based on the operation of the start lever 3 in the first game, the operation means corresponding to the type of continuous effect determined to be executed in the first game emits light for a predetermined time (for example, about 1 second). It is designed to
For example, in the example shown in FIG. 33, the effect handle 13 corresponding to the "NEXT handle" determined as the continuation effect of the first game flashes for a moment, and the player is informed that the effect of operating the effect button 12 will be performed. Visually notify (advance notice).
Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of anticipation that an effect using the illuminated operation means will be performed in the subsequent game, and the interest in the game can be enhanced.

Next, while the variable display section is changing, the face parts images of the upper display section, the middle display section, and the lower display section are sequentially stopped based on the stop operation of the first to third reels. After several seconds (for example, two seconds) have passed since the third reel stop operation, a continuous effect (NEXT effect) is executed ((B) in FIG. 33).
As for the continuous effect executed here, the type of continuous effect related to the first game determined in the "notice type determination process" in the continuous effect C described above is executed, and in the example shown in FIG. 33, the "NEXT handle" is selected. It indicates that

In the second game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an effect corresponding to the continuation effect (“NEXT handle”) executed in the first game is performed.
For example, as shown in (C) in FIG. 33, an operation image prompting the user to operate the effect handle 13 is displayed.
Further, based on the operation of the start lever 3, the operating means corresponding to the type of continuous effect determined to be executed in the second game emits light for a predetermined time (for example, about 1 second).
For example, in the example shown in FIG. 33, the large effect button 14 corresponding to the "NEXT large button" determined as the continuation effect of the second game flashes for a moment.
Then, when the light emission of the large effect button 14 ends, the effect handle 13 emits light to notify that the operation is valid.
In this way, since the light-emitting operation means is switched according to the content of the effect, it is possible to draw the player's attention to the operation image and the operation means, thereby increasing interest in the game.

Next, when the player operates the effect handle 13 while the operation image is being displayed, an effect with a high degree of expectation (expectation for winning the ART) (for example, an effect in which the fluctuations of the three variable display units are reversely rotated) ) is executed ((D) in FIG. 33).
Further, when the effect handle 13 is operated, the operation image disappears (hidden) and the effect handle 13 is turned off.
Then, while the variable display portion is changing, the three face part images on the variable display portion are stopped based on the third reel stop operation, and after several seconds (for example, two seconds) have passed since the third reel stop operation, a continuous effect is performed. is executed ((E) in FIG. 33).
As for the continuous effect executed here, the type of continuous effect related to the second game determined in the "notice type determination process" in the continuous effect C described above is executed, and in the example shown in FIG. Indicates that it is selected.
Further, in the second game, when several seconds (for example, 5 seconds) have passed without the player performing the operation to stop the third reel after the display of the operation image, the continuous effect is executed. It has become.

In the third game, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an effect corresponding to the continuation effect (“NEXT large button”) executed in the second game is performed.
For example, as shown in (F) in FIG. 33, an operation image prompting the user to operate the large effect button 14 is displayed.
When the large effect button 14 is operated by the player during the display of this operation image, the movement effect by the door members 15 (15La, 15Lb, 15Ra, 15Rb) is executed ((G) in FIG. 33). ).
As described above, the door member 15 moves based on the operation pattern (the number of movements, the position of movement, the speed of movement, etc.) of the movement effect executed here, which is determined when the rare combination is won.

For example, in the example shown in FIG. 33(G), the four door members 15La, 15Lb, 15Ra, 15Rb have moved from the open position (first position) to the closed position (third position). .
That is, in the moving performance of the door member 15, the greater the number of movements of the door member 15, the more the door member 15 stops at the center position of the display 8, and the higher the speed the door member 15 moves, the more the ART win expectation. suggesting a high degree.
In this way, since the operation image prompting the operation of the operation means and the operation pattern of the door member 15 are related, the number of operations of the door member 15, etc. can be predicted from the operation image before the operation means is operated. It becomes possible to make it possible, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.
In addition, by having such a relationship, the player can pay attention to the operation means and the door member 15 displayed in the operation image prior to notification of the winning result, which can enhance interest.

While the operation image prompting the user to operate the operation means (for example, the large effect button 14) is displayed, an operation means different from the displayed operation means (for example, the effect button 12 or the effect handle 13) is operated. In such a case, the moving effect of the door member 15 may not be executed, or the moving effect of the door member 15 may be forcibly executed with a fixed operation pattern (for example, moving only one door member 15). may be performed, or the degree of winning expectation may be accurately suggested only when the operation means (the production button 12) included in the operation image is operated.

Next, the stop button 5 is operated, and after several seconds (for example, 4 seconds) have passed since the third reel stop operation, the door members 15La, 15Lb, 15Ra, and 15Rb move to the open position (first position), and the ART lottery is started. Notification of election results.
When the ART is won, the face of the character is displayed in a completed state by the three face parts images in the variable display section, and the ART is informed that the winner has been won (“You did it!”) (Fig. (H) in 33). On the other hand, if the ART is not won, the character's face is displayed incomplete with the three facial parts images, and the ART is notified that the ART is not won ("Unfortunately..." etc.) (I) in FIG. 33).
In addition, when the ART is won, the notification of the result of the ART winning is not limited to the third game, and the notification indicating the winning of the ART may be performed in the first game or the second game. In this case, for example, when a lottery with a probability of 1% is won, notification may be given by performing a cut-in effect display or the like.

As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, it is preferable to operate an operation means having a large area (operation area) for receiving operations by a player, or The probability that a large number of door members 15 will move is higher when an operation image including a wide operation means is displayed.
Thus, it is set so that the ART winning expectation is higher when an operation means with a wide operation area is operated or when an operation image including an operation means with a wide operation area is displayed. Therefore, the greater the number of moving door members 15, the higher the possibility of winning ART.
By having a correlation between the width of the operation area of the operation means and the success or failure of the lottery process (ART lottery) that can be advantageous for the player, it is possible to easily recognize the level of expectations for the player. At the same time, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the operation image and the operation means, thereby increasing interest.

(2) Added Effects Next, the contents of the added effects will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 to 38. FIG.
The add-on effect is executed on the display device 8 under the control of the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20, and is an effect for increasing the player's expectation for the addition (addition) of the number of ART games. It is executed during the game in which the player wins the rare combination, and displays an expectation effect indicating whether or not the number of games is to be added, and the number of games to be added.
Further, in the present embodiment, the effect contents of the additional effect are all determined when the rare combination is won, and the effect is executed after the effect content is determined.

Specifically, when a rare role is won in the internal lottery process during ART, an additional effect is started, and an operation image prompting the operation of the operation means (for example, the effect button 12) is displayed on the display 8 ( (A) in FIG. 34 and the like, T1 in FIG. 35 and the like).
During the display of this operation image, the operation means (for example, effect button 12), the stop operation means (for example, stop button 5), and the next game start operation (for example, operation of bet button 2a) are performed. Then, an additional effect with a different flow of effects as shown below is executed.

First, with reference to FIGS. 34 and 35, description will be given of the contents of the effect "when the effect button is operated while the operation image is being displayed".
While the operation image is being displayed ((A) in FIG. 34), if the player operates the effect button 12 according to the display, the operation image disappears (hides) immediately (not shown in FIG. 34). (B), T2 in FIG. 35), and then the expectation level effect display is executed ((C) in FIG. 34).
The expectation effect display executed here is the effect pattern ("weak effect", "medium effect", "strong effect", "strongest effect") determined in the above-mentioned "expectation level effect determination process at the time of operation". be done.

Next, based on the player's operation to stop the third reel, an additional result is displayed on the display device 8 ((D) in FIG. 34, T5 in FIG. 35).
The number of additional games determined in the above-mentioned "number of additional games lottery" is displayed for the display of the additional result executed here. ) is displayed on the display 8 and the 7-segment display section 13a. On the other hand, if the player has not won the lottery, the number of additional games is not displayed.
Then, when the bet button 2a is operated as an operation related to the start of the next game, the addition effect is finished (T6 in FIG. 35).

Next, with reference to FIGS. 36 and 38, description will be given of the contents of the effect "in the case where the reel stop operation is performed at the timing of disappearance while the operation image is being displayed".
While the operation image is being displayed ((A) in FIG. 36), if the player does not follow the display and does not operate the effect button 12, and performs the reel stop operation determined as the disappearance timing. , the display of the operation image disappears according to the operation ((B) in FIG. 36).
Specifically, when the disappearance timing is the “first reel stop operation” (T3 in FIG. 38), when the disappearance timing is the “second reel stop operation” (T4 in FIG. 38), the disappearance timing is the “second reel stop operation” (T4 in FIG. 38). 3 reel stop operation” (T5 in FIG. 38), the display of the operation image disappears.
The timing at which the display of the operation image disappears is based on the "disappearance timing" determined in the above-described "operation image disappearance timing determination processing", and after the display of the operation image disappears, the expectation level effect display is displayed. is executed ((C) in FIG. 36).

The expectation degree effect display executed here is the effect pattern (“weak effect”, “medium effect”, “strong effect”, “strongest effect”) determined in the above-mentioned “expectation degree effect determination process at non-operating time”. Is displayed.
Next, based on the player's operation to stop the third reel, an additional result is displayed on the display 8 and the 7-segment display section 13a ((D) in FIG. 36, T5 in FIG. 38), and the next game is started. When the bet button 2a is operated as an operation related to the start, the additional effect is ended (T6 in FIG. 38).
Note that in the flow of effects shown in FIG. 36, the expectation level effect display may not be executed after the operation image disappears based on the reel stop operation determined as the disappearance timing while the operation image is being displayed. .
In this way, when the stop button 5 is operated without following the display of the operation image while the operation image is displayed, the number of reel stop operations (1st reel stop operation to 3rd reel stop operation) stop operation), the display of the operation image may disappear.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 37 and 38, description will be given of the contents of the effect "when the next game start operation is performed at the timing of disappearance while the operation image is being displayed".
While the operation image is being displayed ((A) in FIG. 37), if the player performs a reel stop operation (third reel stop operation) without following the display, the operation image may be displayed on the screen, for example. While the image is displayed in a reduced size, the result is displayed on the screen ((B) in FIG. 37).
Furthermore, when the next game start operation (operation of the bet button 2a) determined as the disappearance timing in the above-described "operation image disappearance timing determination process" is performed without operating the effect button 12, that operation is performed. In response, the display of the operation image disappears ((C) in FIG. 37, T6 in FIG. 38), and then the expectation effect display is executed ((D) in FIG. 37).
As described above, when the stop button 5 (the third reel stop operation) and the next game start operation are performed without following the display of the operation image while the operation image is being displayed, this next game start operation is performed. The display of the operation image may disappear depending on the

In addition, in the flow of effects shown in FIG. 37, during the display of the operation image, after the additional result is displayed based on the player's operation to stop the third reel, when the bet button 2a is operated to start the next game, However, not limited to this, when "at the time of next game start operation" is selected as the disappearance timing in the "operation image disappearance timing determination process", The expectation effect display after the next game start operation may not be executed.
Further, the expectation effect display may be executed based on the third reel stop operation, and the additional result display may be executed based on the next game start operation.

As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, during the display of the operation image displayed in the additional effect, the "stop operation of the stop button 5" or the "stop operation of the stop button 5" or " When the "next game start operation" is performed, the display of the operation image disappears based on the determined disappearance timing (when the first reel stop operation to the third reel stop operation, when the next game start operation is performed). It has become.
Also, the greater the number of added games, the higher the probability that the disappearance timing will be after the start of the game. Therefore, as shown in (a) to (d) in FIG. However, the more the game progresses from the start of the game, the higher the expectation of the addition.
By having a correlation between the timing at which the display of the operation image disappears and the degree of expectation for the lottery process (lottery for the number of additional games) that can be advantageous to the player, the degree of expectation for the player is high or low. can be easily recognized, the player can be made to pay attention to the operation image, and interest can be enhanced.

[Modification]
Next, modified examples of the present invention will be described.
[Modified example of continuous production]
First, a modification of the continuous effect will be described.
In the continuous effect in the above-described embodiment, when the rare combination is won, all the effect contents for the three games in which the continuous effect is executed are determined in advance, and then the continuous effect is executed. When the start lever 3 is operated in each game in which an effect is executed, the effect contents of the game may be determined, thereby determining the effect contents over the three games.
In addition, although the continuous effect has been described as a predictive effect related to the transition to ART, it is not limited to this, as a predictive effect of an additional lottery during ART related to the granting of benefits advantageous to the player, a predictive effect of a bonus lottery, etc. good too. In the case of an indication performance of an additional lottery, the number of games to be added ("+100G" etc.) is reported instead of the notification indicating winning in the final game of the continuous performance.

In addition, when the rare role is won during the execution of the continuous performance (the latter half of the foreshadowing performance), the process of determining the contents of the ART lottery and the performance of the continuous performance in the same manner as during the non-execution of the continuous performance (the second half of the foreshadowing performance). and store the result of the process (winning right), and after the continuous effect being executed is completed, the continuous effect based on the stored contents may be executed, or the ART lottery The continuous performance may be executed only when winning.

Further, when notifying the winning result of the ART lottery in the final game of the continuous effect, after once displaying an image informing that the ART has not been won, at the time of the start operation of the next game, it is displayed that the ART has won. A resurrection effect may be performed in which the notification image is switched to be displayed. Further, the rate of occurrence of such a resurrection effect may be increased when an effect with a relatively high degree of expectation (continuation effect, cut-in effect) is selected. In this way, it is possible to perform a more interesting and highly anticipated presentation.

In addition, in the continuous effect A, as in the continuous effect C, as the type of continuous effect (NEXT effect), "NEXT button", "NEXT handle" and "NEXT large button" can be selected, and the corresponding operation means (effect An operation image prompting the user to operate the button 12, the effect handle 13, and the large effect button 14) may be displayed. Further, the door member 15 may be moved when the player operates the corresponding operation means. In this case, by differentiating the maximum number of possible movements of the door member 15 from the continuous effect B and the continuous effect C (for example, the continuous effect A is set to "two"), each Winning expectation degree of ART of continuous performance can be notified in a identifiable manner.

In addition, in the continuous effect B, as in the continuous effect C, the "NEXT handle" and the "NEXT large button" can be selected as the type of continuous effect (NEXT effect), and the corresponding operation means (the effect handle 13, the large effect An operation image prompting the user to operate the button 14) may be displayed. Further, the door member 15 may be moved when the corresponding operation means is operated by the player. In this case, by differentiating the maximum number of possible movements of the door member 15 from the continuous effect A and the continuous effect C (for example, the continuous effect B is set to "3"), each Winning expectation degree of ART of continuous performance can be notified in a identifiable manner.

[About continuous production C]
Further, in the continuous effect C, the movement position and movement speed, which are the operation patterns of the door member 15, may be determined based on the type of operation image displayed in the third game. For example, if an operation image including an operation tool with a wide operation area is selected, the probability that the third position will be determined as the closed position may be increased, and the probability that the second speed will be determined as the moving speed. can be increased. As described above, the wider the operation area of the operation means to be operated, the higher the speed or the larger the amount of movement of the door member 15, the more impactful the performance can be performed. The production effect can be sufficiently enhanced.
In addition, in the continuous effect C in the above-described embodiment, a case in which a plurality of moving positions and moving speeds are provided has been described. and "first speed" are provided), and only a plurality of numbers of movements are provided, so that the degree of expectation of winning of ART may be suggested only by the number of movements of the door member 15. FIG.

Further, in the continuous effect C, the number of movements of the door member 15 may be fixed for each operating means.
For example, as shown in FIG. 41, when ART is won, the number of operations "1" is always determined in the case of the effect button, and the number of operations "3" is always determined in the case of the effect handle. , in the case of the large effect button, "4" is always determined. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. In the case of the performance handle, the actuation number "2" or "3" may always be determined.
In this manner, the number of movements of the door member 15 may be forcibly determined so that the number of movements of the door member 15 does not overlap between operation means.

Further, in the continuous effect C, the degree of expectation may be varied according to the moving door member 15 (15La, 15Lb, 15Ra, 15Rb). For example, the winning expectation of ART may be set based on the relationship 15La<15Lb<15Ra<15Rb.
In addition, the operation image may be displayed from the first game, the operation image may not be displayed in the second game, or the cut-in effect display may be performed in the second game like continuous effect B. good.
In addition, in the third game, similarly to the first and second games, while the operation image is being displayed, the corresponding operation means (in the example of FIG. 33, the large effect button 14) is made to emit light so that the operation is valid. You can let us know something.

[Modified example of additional effect]
Next, a modified example of the additional effect will be described.
In the above-described embodiment, the effect button 12 is used as an example of operation means, but the effect handle 13 and the large effect button 14 may be used instead.
In this case, any one of these operation means may be selectable, and an operation image including the selected operation means may be displayed when the additional effect is started.
Also, the selection of the operating means may be determined based on the disappearance timing. For example, as shown in FIG. 39, when the disappearance timing is "when the first reel is stopped", the "effect button" is selected with a probability of 70%, and the "effect handle" is selected with a probability of 30%. be.
Also, when the disappearance timing is "when the second reel is stopped", the "production button" is selected with a probability of 40%, the "production handle" is selected with a probability of 50%, and the "production handle" is selected with a probability of 10%. "Large production button" is selected.
Also, when the disappearance timing is "when the third reel is stopped", the "production button" is selected with a probability of 20%, the "production handle" is selected with a probability of 30%, and the "production handle" is selected with a probability of 50%. "Large effect button" is selected.
Further, when the disappearance timing is "at the time of the next game start operation", the "effect handle" is selected with a probability of 30%, and the "large effect button" is selected with a probability of 70%.
In this way, the later the disappearance timing is after the start of the game, the higher the probability that an operation means with a wider operation area will be selected. It can be suggested that the selection of an operation means having a wide operation area has a high degree of expectation for addition.
It should be noted that the selection of operation means is not limited to this, and may be determined based on the "additional number of games".

Also, in the additional performance, the door member 15 may be operated (moved) in the same manner as in the continuous performance. For example, the door member 15 may be actuated prior to notification of the expectation effect display and the addition result display. can increase interest.

Further, in the additional effect in the above-described embodiment, if the operation means included in the operation image is not operated while the operation image is being displayed, the display of the operation image disappears based on the operation of the stop button 5. Although an example has been described, the display of the operation image can be erased based on "the elapsed time after the addition effect is started (after the operation image is displayed)". That is, the disappearance timing of the operation image can be set to "the elapsed time from the display of the operation image".
For example, as shown in FIG. 42, the elapsed time (5 seconds, 10 seconds, 20 seconds) at which the operation image disappears may be determined based on the number of additional games. The greater the number, the higher the probability that the disappearance timing with the longer elapsed time is selected. That is, the additional expectation degree has a relationship of “20 seconds (second period)”>“10 seconds (first period or second period)”>“5 seconds (first period)”. The longer the image disappears from the start of the game, the higher the expectation of the addition.

Further, in the additional effect in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the display of the operation image is started at the timing when the additional effect is started based on the operation of the start lever 3, but the display of the operation image is not limited to this. By making the timing at which is started different from the timing at which the additional effect is started, the degree of expectation for addition may be suggested.
For example, as shown in FIG. 43, based on the relationship of "at the time of game start operation"<"at the time of first reel stop operation"<"at the time of second reel stop operation"<"at the time of third reel stop operation", the operation image The more the timing at which the display of starts from the start of the game, the higher the expectation of the addition may be.

Also, in the above-described embodiment, one additional effect is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this, and two or more additional effects may be provided. In this case, the operation image disappearing timing may be set differently for each additional effect.
For example, the add-on effect A sets the disappearance timing to "1st reel stop operation", the add-on effect B sets the disappearance timing to "2nd reel stop operation", and the add-on effect C sets the disappearance timing to "3rd reel stop operation". By doing so, it is possible to suggest the degree of expectation for each additional effect to be selected, and to increase interest.

Further, in the addition result display, an effect indicating that the addition has not been won may be displayed, and at the start of the next game, a resurrection effect may be performed to notify that the addition has been won. In addition, the occurrence rate of such a resurrection effect may be increased when "strong effect" or "strongest effect" with a relatively high degree of expectation is selected in the expectation level effect display. In this way, it is possible to perform a more interesting and highly anticipated presentation.

As described above, the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment exhibits the following effects.
According to the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, since the door member 15 with different numbers of movements is operated by operating the operating means, it is possible to perform an impactful presentation, and the presentation effect by operating the operating means can be obtained. can be raised sufficiently.
Further, according to the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the winning expectation of ART is higher when an operation means with a wide operation area is operated, or when an operation image including an operation means with a wide operation area is displayed. Also, when an operation means with a wide operation area is operated, or when an operation image including an operation means with a wide operation area is displayed, a large number of door members 15 There is a relationship that the probability of moving is high. There is a correlation between the size of the operation area of such operation means and the degree of expectation of winning in the lottery process (ART lottery) that can be advantageous to the player. In addition, it is possible to make the player easily recognize the degree of expectation, and to make the player pay attention to the operation image and the operation means, thereby increasing interest.
On the other hand, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2014-23730 discloses a game machine that changes the presentation mode on the display unit by operating the operation means. However, since the display mode on the display unit simply changes, it is not possible to sufficiently enhance the presentation effect by operating different operating means, and there is a risk of causing a decrease in interest.

Further, according to the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the timing at which the display of the operation image disappears is determined according to the number of additional games. It has a relationship in which the degree of expectation of addition is high. That is, the higher the number of reel stop operations (“first reel stop operation”<“second reel stop operation”<“third reel stop operation”), the higher the winning expectation.
By having a correlation between the timing at which the display of the operation image disappears and the degree of expectation for the lottery process (lottery for the number of additional games) that can be advantageous to the player, the degree of expectation for the player is high or low. can be easily recognized, the player can be made to pay attention to the operation image, and interest can be enhanced.
On the other hand, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-77190 discloses that when an operation means is operated while an operation image prompting an operation to the operation means is displayed on the display means, the number of additional games is displayed on the display means. However, in this game machine, since the display of the operation image is only a function of prompting the user to operate the operation means, the display of the operation image can sufficiently enhance the interest of the game. was not

As described above, according to the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to give the player interest, interest, excitement, and anticipation not found in games played in conventional gaming machines. It is possible to realize new game properties.
Further, according to the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to solve all or part of such problems that conventional gaming machines should solve.

Further, according to the slot machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by providing the medal selector 100 capable of controlling the movement of the characteristic blockers 130 described above, the following problems can be solved. Demonstrate.
Conventionally, when a medal selector is jammed, a physical mechanism such as a medal jam clearing button is operated to physically operate a part of the medal selector to clear the medal jam. It is known to provide slot machines.
For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, a medal clogging clearing member provided in the flow path, which operates when a medal clogging occurs in the flow path of the medal selector, and a mechanism for operating the medal clogging clearing member. It has been proposed to have a physical mechanism consisting of a medal clearing button.

However, in recent years, it has become more and more common to provide effect mechanisms on the operation panel where various operation means are concentrated and its surroundings. It's becoming In addition, since the operator can physically operate a part of the medal selector as much as he/she likes at any timing, there is a possibility that it may be abused for fraud.
Therefore, it is conceivable not to install a mechanism for physically eliminating jammed medals as described above, but in that case the following problems occur.

In the first place, the cause of medals getting stuck in the medal selector is that a blocker that can switch between an ON state that accepts the passage of medals and an OFF state that does not accept the passage of medals, pinches the medals that are passing while in the ON state. can be considered.
If a mechanism for physically eliminating jammed medals is not installed, it is necessary to send a command to turn off the blocker when medals are jammed. However, in a conventional slot machine, in order to turn off the blocker, it was necessary to start the game or pay for medals in a credited state.
However, if there are no credits, neither the start of the next game nor the calculation of medals can be performed. Therefore, the player must quit the game while leaving the medals in the medal selector, or call the store clerk and ask for maintenance each time, which is an emergency. There was a problem that it was annoying.

In this way, in conventional gaming machines, it is desirable to eliminate the physical mechanism such as the return button. If you don't do it, the medals won't be returned to you, and if you don't have any medals, there's no way to return them. However, there was a problem that nothing would work if there were no stored medals.
According to the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to solve all or part of such problems that conventional gaming machines should solve.

That is, according to the present embodiment, the blocker 130 provided in the medal selector 100 is turned ON for a predetermined period of time, at a predetermined timing, etc., by the player operating the checkout button 2b regardless of the presence or absence of credit medals. to the OFF state.
As a result, even if a conventional physical mechanism such as a medal return button is not provided, the blocker 130 can be turned off to eliminate the jammed medals. .

The invention according to the embodiments described above is not limited to the embodiments described above, and the following cases can be applied as modified examples or application examples.

For example, the operation means can be configured as follows.
In the above embodiment, three operation means 12 to 14 are provided as operation means for executing effects, but two or less or four or more may be provided.
Also, although the three operating means 12 to 14 are made different in shape and size, a plurality of operating means of the same shape and size may be provided.
Further, as the operation means, a type of pressing the decoration panel P like the large effect button 14 may be employed.
Also, a touch sensor (a touch sensor) may be adopted as the operating means.
Further, the operation means is not limited to pressing, and may be pulled out (lever, etc.).
Also, based on the arrangement position of the operation means, the degree of expectation of winning in the lottery process that can be advantageous to the player (winning the ART lottery, winning the additional lottery) may be set. For example, it may be set such that the higher or lower the operation means is located in the slot machine 1, the higher the expectation of winning.
Further, the bet button 2a can be operated as a substitute for the performance button 12, and the operation of the bet button 2a may also display the winning result of the ART lottery, the expectation performance of the additional performance, and the like. By doing so, it is a highly satisfying function for skilled players who are accustomed to the game and for players who want to progress the game quickly.
Also, although the winning expectations are set to be different among all operating means, some or all of them may have the same winning expectations.

In addition to the above, the following configuration can also be provided.
Although an example in which four (15La, 15Lb, 15Ra, 15Rb) are provided as the door member 15 is shown, one or five or more may be provided. Further, although an example in which all four have the same shape has been shown, they may have different shapes, and the door members 15 having different shapes are associated with the operation means so that the door member 15 moves according to the operation means. may
Further, as an operation image prompting the operation of one operation means, it is possible to display only a part of the slot machine 1 or to display the entire slot machine 1, and display the entire slot machine 1. The degree of expectation may be higher or lower than when displaying a part of it. Alternatively, both part of the slot machine 1 and the entire slot machine 1 may be displayed. For example, the large effect button 14 may be enabled to display only a portion of the slot machine 1 or to display the entire slot machine 1, or both.
Further, as the operation image, an operation image prompting the user to operate two or more operation means may be displayed. In this case, the greater the number of operation means prompted, the higher or lower the expectation can be.
Also, the degree of expectation may differ depending on the position where the operation image is displayed on the display device 8 .
Also, as a privilege given to the player, not only ART and the number of additional games, but also any state such as AT or bonus, as long as the game state is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state.
Also, although the ART is a type of ART that adds the number of games, it may be an ART that adds the number of sets.
Also, the winning probabilities in each table (FIGS. 13 to 25, FIGS. 27 to 30, and FIGS. 39 to 43) of this embodiment are not limited to the values described above, and can be arbitrarily changed.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the main control unit 10 performs the operation as various means such as the game state control means, but the sub-control unit 20 performs part or all of it, and the sub-control unit 20 operates as various means. You can also
Also, on the contrary, although the sub-control section 20 operates as various means such as effect execution means, the main control section 10 may perform some or all of them, and the main control section 10 may operate as various means. can.

Also, although the present invention is applied to slot machines, it can also be applied to other game machines such as pachinko (for example, ball slots).
In addition, the present invention can also be applied to a so-called enclosed game machine that can execute a game using pseudo game media in a data format without using actual game media such as medals and game balls.

Further, in this embodiment, reels driven and controlled by a motor are used, but instead of or in addition to this, an image of reels or the like with varying patterns may be displayed on a display device such as a liquid crystal display device. can.

1 slot machine 2a bet button (operating means)
2b Settlement button 3 Start lever 5 Stop button (operation stopping means)
8 indicator (display means, notification means)
10 main control unit (control means, game state control means, privilege provision means)
12 production button (operation means)
13 production handle (operation means)
14 large production button (operation means)
15 door member (moving means)
20 sub-control unit (effect executing means)
100 Medal Selector 130 Blocker

Claims (5)

a sorting means provided in a downflow passage for causing the inserted game media to flow down to the reservoir, and capable of sorting whether or not the inserted game media are legitimate game media;
storage means capable of storing the number of game media that can be used in a game according to the number of game media that have passed through the sorting means;
an operation means operated when paying out game media corresponding to the number of game media stored in the storage means to a player;
a control means capable of executing control on the selecting means and the operating means;
In a gaming machine comprising
The selection means includes a supporting member configured to be capable of supporting and displacing the game media passing through the inside, and the supporting member is placed in a first state in which the game media can pass and a state in which the game media can pass. can be displaced to a second state in which it is difficult to
The control means is
control for paying out game media corresponding to the number of game media stored in the storage means to the player when the operation means is operated during a preset operation valid period;
Regardless of whether or not the number of game media is stored in the storage means, when the operation means is operated during the operation valid period, the support member inside the selection means is moved from the first state to the and a control to displace to the second state,
In the gaming machine, the game media in the sorting means are removed by physical actuation by a player's operation without displacing the supporting member inside the sorting means from the first state to the second state. A gaming machine characterized by not providing an operation part for operating a discharge mechanism for discharging . The control means executes control for displacing the support member inside the sorting means from the first state to the second state based on the operation of the operation means, and then the support member inside the sorting means. 2. The game machine according to claim 1 , wherein control for displacing the member from the second state to the first state can be executed. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 , further comprising: notification means for performing a predetermined notification when the support member inside the selection means is controlled to the second state by the control means. game machine. The control means is capable of executing control for displacing the support member inside the sorting means from the first state to the second state when the operation of the operation means continues for a predetermined time. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein The control means is
control for displacing the support member inside the sorting means from the first state to the second state when the operation of the operation means continues for a predetermined time;
When the operation to the operation means continues for a specific time longer than a predetermined time and when the number of game media is stored in the storage means, game media corresponding to the number of game media are given to the player. 5. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the game machine is capable of executing a payout control and a payout control.

Images