JP7133907B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine for playing games.

The game machine includes a slot machine in which a predetermined number of bets is set and a plurality of types of identification information are variably displayed on the basis of a start operation, and a game area in which a game medium such as a game ball is ejected by a shooting device. There is a pachinko game machine that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information when a game medium wins in a starting area such as a prize winning opening provided in the game area.

Among game machines of this type, there is known one that reduces the volume of game sounds when a situation in which no game is being played is detected (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-272904

It should be noted that it is conceivable that the player is not playing a game due to some effect being executed. In this case, if the volume of the game sound is lowered because the game is not being played, there is a possibility that the execution of the effect will be hindered.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of preventing unintentional obstruction of performance.

(A) A gaming machine capable of playing games,
sound output means for outputting sound;
a control means for controlling the output volume of the sound output means;
an operation means operated by a player;
a timing means for timing the elapsed time from a predetermined trigger;
an effect executing means capable of starting one of a plurality of types of effects accompanied by sound output from the predetermined trigger;
and a volume operation means for setting the output volume of the sound output means,
The control means performs volume reduction control to reduce the output volume of the sound output means when a predetermined time has elapsed since the time measurement means started time measurement without the operation means being operated,
As the predetermined triggers, a first trigger based on a start operation for starting a game, a second trigger based on a derivation operation corresponding to a variable display section from which a display result is finally derived among a plurality of variable display sections, there is
The execution time of the specific effect with the longest execution time among the plurality of types of effects is shorter than the predetermined time regardless of which of the first trigger and the second trigger is started. ,
When the volume setting value indicating the maximum volume is set by the setting operation of the volume operation means and the volume reduction control is executed by the control means, the output volume is not 0, and the setting of the volume operation means The output volume is smaller than the output volume when the volume setting value indicating the minimum volume is set by the operation and the volume reduction control is not executed by the control means.
(1) A gaming machine capable of playing games (for example, a slot machine 1, a pachinko gaming machine),
sound output means for outputting sound (for example, sound output circuit 94, speakers 53 and 54);
a control means (for example, a sub-controller 91) for controlling the output volume of the sound output means;
Operation means operated by the player (for example, operation of the MAXBET switch 6, operation of the start switch 7, operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, operation of the checkout switch 10, operation of inserting medals into the medal inserting section 4); ,
a timing means (for example, the sub-controller 91) that measures the elapsed time from a predetermined trigger (for example, the timing at which the start switch 7 is operated to start the game, or the timing at which the third stop operation is performed to end the game); ,
One of a plurality of types of effects accompanied by sound output (for example, effect A, effect B, effect C) can be started from the predetermined trigger (for example, sub control unit 91);
with
The control means reduces or silences the output sound volume of the sound output means when a predetermined time (for example, one minute) has elapsed without the operation means being operated after the time measurement means started time measurement. Perform volume reduction control,
A gaming machine, wherein an execution time (for example, 45 seconds) of a specific effect (for example, effect C) having the longest execution time among the plurality of types of effects is shorter than the predetermined time.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the performance of the game from being hindered by the reduction in the output sound volume or the muffled sound, and it is possible to prevent the execution of the performance from being unintentionally hindered.

(2) In the gaming machine described in (1) above,
The time measuring means may measure time regardless of whether or not the performance started by the predetermined trigger is executed.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the processing from becoming complicated by performing common control.

(3) In the gaming machine described in (1) or (2) above,
The predetermined trigger includes a first trigger (for example, the timing when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game) and a second trigger (for example, the timing when the third stop operation is performed and the game ends),
The production executing means can start any one of the plurality of types of production at any opportunity,
The execution time of the specific effect may be shorter than the predetermined time regardless of which trigger it is started.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the effect of the game from being hindered by the decrease in the output sound volume or the silence when the effect is executed from any trigger.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
The error sound volume at the time of error occurrence may be constant regardless of whether or not the control means is performing the sound volume reduction control.

With such a configuration, errors can be favorably recognized.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
Volume operation means (for example, volume adjuster 57) for setting the output volume of the sound output means
)
with
the volume operation means can be operated while the sound output means is outputting sound;
When the volume operation means is operated while the volume reduction control is being performed, the control means may set the volume according to the operation during the volume reduction control.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to suitably set the volume during volume control.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
Volume operation means (for example, volume adjuster 57) for setting the output volume of the sound output means
)
with
the volume operation means can be operated while the sound output means is outputting sound;
The control means may end the volume reduction control when the volume operation means is operated while the volume reduction control is being performed.

According to such a configuration, the volume can be restored according to the operation of the output volume operating means.

(7) A gaming machine (slot machine 1, pachinko gaming machine) for playing games,
Effect operation means (for example, effect switch 56 of slot machine 1, effect button of pachinko game machine) used for operation for effect,
game progress operation means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R of the slot machine 1, ball hitting operation handle of the pachinko game machine) used for operations for progressing the game;
A first promotion effect to prompt the operation of the effect operation means (for example, as shown in the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, an effect to prompt the operation of the effect switch 56, the operation of the effect button in the pachinko game machine A first promotion means (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes the first promotion effect) for executing a production that prompts the
A second promotion effect prompting the operation of the game progress operation means (for example, time t2 to t3,
As shown on the liquid crystal display 51 from t4 to t5, the second promotion means (for example, sub-control) that performs navigation of the correct procedure of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, and the effect of instructing right hitting in the pachinko game machine A process in which the unit 91 executes the second promotion effect);
sound output means (for example,
A process in which the sub-control unit 91 outputs BGM or the like to the speakers 53 and 54),
When the effect operation means is operated during execution of the first promotion effect, a privilege (for example,
(For example, as shown on the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, the display of "PUSH!" When the effect switch 56 is operated when the voice output of "WIN!"
The sound output means reduces the volume of the predetermined sound (for example, BGM) when the first promotion effect is being executed during the output of the predetermined sound (for example, as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. (2) the volume of the BGM is reduced when the first promotion effect is being executed) On the other hand, when the second promotion effect is being executed while the predetermined sound is being output, the volume of the predetermined sound is maintained. (For example, the BGM volume may be maintained when the second promotion effect is being executed as shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9).

According to such a configuration, during the output of the predetermined sound, the volume of the predetermined sound is reduced when the first promotion effect is executed in which the operation of the effect operation means is urged when the privilege is notified. . Therefore, the player can concentrate on the operation of the performance operating means. In addition, attention to the operation of the effect switch 56 can be increased.

(8) A gaming machine capable of playing games (for example, a slot machine 1, a pachinko gaming machine),
sound output means for outputting sound (for example, speakers 53 and 54);
setting means (for example, volume adjuster 57, volume setting screen) for setting a volume setting value indicating the output volume output by the sound output means;
a control means (for example, a sub-controller 91) for controlling the output volume output by the sound output means according to the volume setting value set by the setting means;
Detecting means (for example, sub-control unit 91) for detecting whether or not a player is playing a game
When,
with
When the detection means detects that the player is not playing a game, the control means executes volume reduction control to reduce the output volume according to the volume setting value, and the setting means sets the maximum volume. is set, and the output volume during volume reduction control (for example, volume reduction control maximum volume in FIG. 8) is set by the setting means to indicate the minimum volume (for example, V1) is set and the output volume is smaller than the output volume when volume reduction control is not executed (for example, volume normal control minimum volume in FIG. 8).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control. In addition, it is possible to distinguish between a situation in which no game is being played and a situation in which the sound volume is reduced.

1 is a front view of a slot machine of an embodiment to which the present invention is applied; FIG. It is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the slot machine. It is a figure which shows the pattern arrangement|sequence of a reel. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a slot machine; FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a volume adjuster and a volume setting screen. It is a timing chart showing the timing of executing the volume reduction control in the case of executing the effect when the start switch is operated. FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing timings for executing volume reduction control when an effect is executed when the third stop button is operated; FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the output volume during normal volume control and during volume reduction control for each volume setting value; It is the timing chart which showed the relationship between the output control of BGM, and execution of promotion effect|action.

A form for carrying out the slot machine according to the present invention will be described below based on the embodiment.

Inside the housing 1a of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. ) are horizontally arranged side by side, and as shown in FIG. 1, three consecutive patterns among the patterns arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R can be seen through the see-through window 3 provided on the front door 1b. are arranged as

As shown in FIG. 3, "red 7" and "blue 7" are provided on the outer circumferences of the reels 2L, 2C and 2R, respectively.
”, “White 7”, “BAR”, “Watermelon”, “Cherry a”, “Cherry b”, “Bell”,
21 pieces each of a plurality of types of patterns such as "replay a", "replay b", and "plum" which are mutually identifiable are drawn in a predetermined order. The patterns drawn on the outer peripheries of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in upper, middle, and lower three stages in the see-through window 3 provided approximately in the center of the front door 1b.

Each of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R is provided with reel motors 32L, 32C,
By being rotated by 32R (see FIG. 4), the symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in the see-through window 3 while continuously changing, while the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R stop rotating. As a result, three consecutive patterns are derived and displayed in the transparent window 3 as a display result.

Inside the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, there are reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R that detect the reference positions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, respectively, and reel LEDs 55 that illuminate the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R from the back. , is provided. The reel LEDs 55 are composed of 12 LEDs corresponding to three consecutive symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and each symbol can be illuminated independently.

A display area 51a of a liquid crystal display 51 (see FIG. 1) is arranged on the front side (player side) of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R of the front door 1b. The liquid crystal display 51 has a liquid crystal panel that is transparent when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal element.
Each reel 2 is transmitted from the player side through the transmission region 51b corresponding to the transmission window 3 of 1a and through the transmission window 3.
L, 2C, and 2R are visible.

As shown in FIG. 1, the front door 1b has a medal inserting section 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout opening 9 through which medals are paid out, and credits within the limits determined according to the gaming state. A MAXBET switch 6 operated when setting the maximum bet number among the number of bets, a settlement switch 10 operated when settling the medals stored as credits and the medals used to set the bet number, Start switch 7 operated when starting the game
, a stop switch 8L operated when stopping the rotation of each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R,
8C, 8R, and production switches 56 used for production are provided so as to be operable by the player.

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

Also, as shown in FIG. 1, on the front door 1b, a credit display 11 for displaying the number of medals stored as credits, the number of medals paid out due to the occurrence of a prize, and the content of an error is displayed. A game auxiliary display 12 that displays an error code, information that can identify the stopping order of the reels by navigation notification, which will be described later, etc., a 1 BET LED 14 that lights up to notify that the number of bets is set to 1, and the number of bets is set to 2. 2BETL that notifies by lighting that the
ED 15, 3 BET LED 16 lighting to indicate that the number of bets has been set to 3, insertion request LED 17 lighting to indicate that medals can be inserted, and operation of the start switch 7 to indicate that the game start operation is valid. Start valid LED that notifies by lighting
18. A game display unit 13 is provided with a waiting LED 19 for notifying that a wait is in progress by lighting, and a replaying LED 20 for notifying that a replay game is in progress by lighting.

Inside the MAXBET switch 6, there is provided a BET switch valid LED 21 (see FIG. 4) for notifying by lighting that the setting operation of the number of bets by operating the MAXBET switch 6 is valid. Inside the 8R, there is a lighting to notify that the stop operation of the reel by the corresponding stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is effective.
Center and right stop effective LEDs 22L, 22C, and 22R (see FIG. 4) are provided respectively,
Inside the performance switch 56, there is provided a performance LED 56a (see FIG. 4) for notifying by lighting that the operation of the performance switch 56 is valid.

Inside the front door 1b, a reset switch 23 (see FIG. 4) for detecting a reset operation for canceling an error state and a stop state described later by a predetermined key operation, and a reset switch 23 (see FIG. 4) for changing set values and setting value indicator 24 for displaying the current setting value during confirmation of the setting value;
A stop switch 3 for selecting enable/disable of a stop function that controls the stop state at a predetermined trigger
6a, an automatic checkout switch 36b for selecting enable/disable of an automatic checkout function that controls automatic checkout processing at a predetermined opportunity, and a flow path for medals inserted from the medal inserting section 4 are provided inside the housing 1a. A channel switching solenoid 30 for selectively switching to either the hopper tank 34a (see FIG. 2) side or the medal payout port 9 side, the medals inserted from the medal insertion part 4 and flowing down to the hopper tank 34a side a medal selector 29 having an insertion slot sensor 26 for detecting insertion of a foreign object on the upstream side of the inserted medal sensor 31; a door open detection switch 25 for detecting the open state of the front door 1b (see FIG. 4); ), and a volume adjuster 57 for setting the volume.

Inside the housing 1a, as shown in FIG. 2, reel reference positions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R (see FIG. 4), and the respective reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are set. Reel unit 2 consisting of detectable reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R (see FIG. 4), external output board 1000 (see FIG. 4) for outputting an external output signal, and medals inserted from medal insertion section 4 are stored. hopper tank 34a, hopper tank 34a
A hopper motor 34b (see FIG. 4) for paying out the medals stored in the unit from the medal payout port 9, and a payout sensor 34 for detecting the paid out medals driven by the hopper motor 34b.
c (see FIG. 4) and a power box 100 are provided.

At the side of the hopper unit 34, an overflow tank 35 is provided in which medals overflowing from the hopper tank 34a are stored. Inside the overflow tank 35,
A full tank sensor 35a (see FIG. 4) that detects when the stored tokens are full.
is provided.

On the front of the power box 100, as shown in FIG. 2, a setting key switch 37 for switching to a setting change state or a setting confirmation state, and normally functioning as a reset switch for canceling an error state or stop state. However, in the setting change state, the reset/
A setting switch 38 and a power switch 39 operated when turning on/off the power are provided.

When a game is played in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, first, medals are inserted from the medal inserting section 4 or credits are used to set the bet amount. To use the credit, the MAXBET switch 6 should be operated. When the prescribed number of bets determined according to the gaming state is set, the winning line LN (see FIG. 1) becomes effective, and the operation of the start switch 7 becomes effective, that is, the game can be started. Become. When the maximum number of medals among the specified number corresponding to the game state is exceeded, the amount is added to the credits.

A winning line is a line set for determining whether a combination of symbols displayed in the see-through windows 3 of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is a combination of winning symbols. In this embodiment, FIG.
As shown in , only the pay line LN set across the middle of the reel 2L, the middle of the reel 2C, and the middle of the reel 2R, that is, the symbols horizontally aligned in the middle is determined as the pay line. Although only one pay line is applied in this embodiment, a plurality of pay lines may be applied.

Further, in this embodiment, invalid lines LM1 to LM4 are set in addition to the winning line LN in order to make it easier to recognize that the combination of symbols constituting the winning line LN has been completed.

When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can be started, each reel 2L, 2C, 2
R rotates, and the symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R continuously change. When one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the see-through window 3. Note that the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R for stopping the first stop reel is called a first stop operation. Also, the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R for stopping the second stop reel is called a second stop operation. Stop switches 8L, 8C for stopping the third stop reel,
The 8R operation is called the third stop operation.

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

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

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the slot machine 1. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 1 is provided with a game control board 40, an effect control board 90, and a power board 101. The game control board 40 controls the game state, and the effect control board 90 controls the game state. The power board 101 generates drive power for the electrical components that make up the slot machine 1 and supplies it to each part.

The power supply board 101 is supplied with AC 100V power from the outside, and this AC1
A 00 V power source generates a DC voltage required to drive the electrical components that make up the slot machine 1 and supplies it to the game control board 40 and the performance control board 90 . The power supply board 101 also includes the hopper motor 34b, the dispensing sensor 34c, and the full-tank sensor 35 described above.
a, a setting key switch 37, a reset/setting switch 38, and a power switch 39 are connected.

The game control board 40 includes the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, the settlement switch 10, the reset switch 23, the stop switch 36a, the automatic settlement switch 36b, the inserted medal sensor 31, and the door opening. detection switch 25
, reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R are connected, and the payout sensor 34c, full tank sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, and reset/setting switch 38 are connected via the power supply board 101. Detected signals from other switches are input. In addition, the game control board 40 includes the above-described credit indicator 11,
Game auxiliary display 12, 1-3 BET LEDs 14-16, input request LED 17, start valid LED 18, wait LED 19, replay LED 20, BET switch valid LE
D21, left, middle, right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C, 22R, set value display 24, flow path switching solenoid 30, reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R, volume adjuster 57, cross key 5
8 are connected, and the hopper motor 34b and the power switch 39 are connected via the power supply board 101. These electrical components are controlled by the main control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40. It is designed to be driven by The volume adjuster 57 is
This is for the game shop side to set the volume, and it can be set to one of five levels. The sub-controller 91 controls the volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 by controlling the audio output circuit 94 according to the level set by the volume adjuster 57 and the level set by the player. The cross key 58 is operated by the player in up, down, left, and right directions. In this embodiment, the player performs a volume setting operation. When the cross key 58 is operated, a signal corresponding to the operation is output to the sub-controller 91 .

The game control board 40 includes a main control unit 41 that performs processing related to the progress of the game and directly or indirectly controls each part of the control circuit mounted on the game control board 40, and an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency. A control clock generation circuit 42 for generating a control clock CCLK, a random number clock generation circuit 43 for generating a random number clock RCLK as an oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency different from the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK, and a game control board A switch detection circuit 44 that receives detection signals input from switches connected directly to 40 or via a power supply board 101 and transmits them to the main control unit 41, and a motor drive signal (stepping signal) output from the main control unit 41. motor phase signals) to the reel motors 32L, 32C and 32R.
A motor drive circuit 45 that transmits to, a solenoid drive circuit 46 that transmits a solenoid drive signal output from the main control unit 41 to the flow path switching solenoid 30, and an LED drive signal output from the main control unit 41 to the game control board An LED drive circuit 47 that transmits signals to various displays and LEDs connected to the slot machine 1 monitors the voltage of the power source supplied to the slot machine 1, and when a voltage drop is detected, it outputs a voltage drop signal to that effect. A power interruption detection circuit 48 that outputs to the main control unit 41, and a reset circuit 49 that provides a system reset signal to the main control unit 41 in a state where the power supply is unstable such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off are installed. It is

A production switch 56 is connected to the production control board 90, and the production switch 5
6 detection signals are input. In addition, liquid crystal display 51, effect LED 5
2. Effect devices such as speakers 53 and 54 and reel LEDs 55 are connected, and these effect devices are driven based on control by a sub-control section 91 mounted on the effect control board 90 and described later. there is

The production control board 90 is a sub-control unit 91 that is configured by a microcomputer having a sub CPU 91a, a ROM 91b, a RAM 91c, and an I/O port 91d and that controls production.
, a display control circuit 92 that controls the display of the liquid crystal display 51 connected to the effect control board 90, a effect LED 52, an LED drive circuit 93 that controls the drive of the reel LED 55, and sounds from the speakers 53 and 54 A voice output circuit 94 that performs output control, a reset circuit 95 that gives a reset signal to the sub CPU 91a when the power is turned on or an initialization command from the sub CPU 91a is not input for a certain period of time, and switches connected to the effect control board 90. A switch circuit 96 that detects a detection signal input from a clock device 97 that outputs time information including date information and time information. In addition, a power interruption detection circuit 98 that outputs a voltage drop signal indicating the fact to the sub CPU 91a and other circuits are mounted.

The sub CPU 91a receives commands transmitted from the game control board 40, performs various controls for effecting, and directly or indirectly controls each part of the control circuit mounted on the effect control board 90. .

Like the main control unit 41, the sub-control unit 91 has an interrupt function, generates an interrupt when receiving a command from the main control unit 41, and acquires the command transmitted from the main control unit 41. , execute command reception interrupt processing to be stored in the buffer. Also, the sub control unit 9
1 is set every time the number of system clock inputs reaches a certain number, that is, at certain time intervals (approximately 2 m
s) Generates an interrupt every time and executes timer interrupt processing (sub). Further, unlike the main control unit 41, the sub control unit 91 interrupts the timer interrupt processing (sub) even during execution of the timer interrupt processing (sub) when an interrupt occurs based on the reception of a command. , and even if an interrupt that triggers the timer interrupt process (sub) occurs at the same time, the command receive interrupt process is executed with the highest priority. Further, the sub-control unit 91 is also supplied with backup power in the event of a power failure, and while the backup power is being supplied, the RAM
The data stored in 91c are held.

The slot machine 1 of this embodiment changes the payout rate of medals according to the set value.
By using a winning probability corresponding to a set value in a lottery such as an internal lottery that affects the degree of advantage for a player, the payout rate of medals is changed. The set value consists of 6 stages from 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest payout rate, and 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 decreasing the value in order, lowering the payout rate. That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the degree of advantage for the player is the highest, and as the value decreases in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1, the degree of advantage decreases stepwise.

In this embodiment, when all the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are stopped, the activated pay lines (in this embodiment, all pay lines are always activated, so the activated pay lines will be described below). A winning line is simply called a winning line). The combination may be a combination of the same symbols, or may be a combination including different symbols.

The types of wins are determined according to the gaming state, but they can be broadly divided into small wins that involve the payout of medals and repeat wins that allow the next game to be started without the need to set the bet amount. There are a game combination and a special combination involving transition to a game state advantageous to the player. In the following, the small combination and the replay combination are collectively referred to as a general combination. In order to generate a prize for each combination determined according to the game state, it is necessary that the internal lottery is won and the win flag for the combination is set in the RAM 41c. Of the winning flags for each of these roles, the winning flags for minor and replaying roles are valid only in the game in which the flag is set, and are invalid in the next game, but the winning flag for special roles is , is valid until a combination of winning combinations allowed by the flag is completed, and becomes invalid in a game in which the combination of winning winning combinations is complete. That is, once the winning flag of the special role is won, even if the combination of winning roles allowed by the flag cannot be arranged, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game. becomes.

The internal lottery of this embodiment will be described below. In the internal lottery, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not to allow the winning of each combination before the display results of all the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are derived (specifically, the start switch 7 is detected). In the internal lottery, first, when the start switch 7 is detected, a random number (integer from 0 to 65535) for internal lottery is obtained. Specifically, the value generated by the random number circuit 508b and stored in the random number register of the random number circuit 508b is set in the lottery work assigned to the RAM 41c. Then, for each combination determined according to the game state, according to the numerical data stored in the lottery work and the judgment value number of each combination determined according to the current game state, the number of bets, and the set value. A determination is made as to whether or not winning is allowed.

In the internal lottery, the internal lottery target hand, the current game state, and the number of judgment values determined corresponding to the set value are sequentially assigned to the internal lottery random number (numerical data stored in the lottery work). When the sum is added and the result of the addition overflows, it is determined that the winning combination is won. Therefore, the combination is won with a probability (number of judgment values/65536) corresponding to the number of judgment values.

Then, a winning number indicating the result of the internal lottery is set in the RAM 41c. The winning number is used for setting an internal winning flag, informing navigation, creating commands, and controlling the stoppage of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R.

In addition, when any winning combination is determined, a winning flag corresponding to the winning combination determined based on the winning number is set in the internal winning flag storage work assigned to the RAM 41c. The internal winning flag storage work is composed of a 2-byte storage area, of which the upper byte is assigned as a special role storing work in which the winning flag of the special role is set, and the lower byte is the winning of the general role. It is assigned as a general role storage work that flags are set. Specifically, when a special role is won, a special role winning flag indicating that the special role has been won is set in the special role storage work, and when a general role is won, the general role has been won. A win flag for the general combination indicating that is set in the general combination storage work. If none of the winning combinations and winning combinations are won, the special combination stored work and the general combination stored work are cleared.

Next, commands that the main control section 41 transmits to the sub-control section 91 will be described. In this embodiment, the main controller 41 transmits various commands to the sub controller 91 . Some of the various commands will be described below. Commands other than the following commands may be used.

The game state command is a command that can specify the game state of the game, and is transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game.

The ART state command is a command that can specify whether AT is in progress, whether ART is in progress, the number of games remaining until reaching the specified number of games, the number of remaining games in the sign period, and the number of remaining ART games. is sent after the game state command.

The internal lottery command is a command that can specify the internal lottery result.
is operated to start the game, and is sent after the ART state command. The internal winning command includes a first internal winning command that can specify whether or not a special role has been won, and a second internal winning command that can specify whether or not a general role has been won, After the first internal win command is sent, a second internal win command is sent.

The pressing order command is a command that can specify the order of stopping, and when the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started, after the internal winning command is transmitted, and after the stop operation of each reel It is sent after the stop command is sent each time control is performed.
In a game in which a navigation notification, which will be described later, is executed, a push order command capable of specifying a stop order that is advantageous to the player is transmitted from the start of the game. A push order command incapable of specifying the stop order advantageous to the player is transmitted until it is determined, and a push order command capable of specifying the stop order advantageous to the player is transmitted after the advantageous stop order is determined.

The gaming state command, the ART state command, and the internal winning command are transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated and the game starts.
It is possible to specify that the start switch 7 has been operated and the game has started.

The ART lottery result command is a command that can specify whether the ART lottery or the additional lottery has been won, the number of games of the won ART or the number of games to be added, and when the game starts, the ART lottery or It is transmitted after the transmission of the internal winning command in a game in which an additional lottery is performed.

The stop operation command is a command that can specify whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, and the area number of the stop operation position of the corresponding reel,
It is transmitted each time stop control is performed in accordance with the stop operation of each reel.

The stop command is a command that can specify whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, and the area number of the stop position of the corresponding reel, and the stop control accompanying the stop operation of each reel is sent after the corresponding sliding frame number command is sent.

Both the stop operation command and the stop command can specify whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, and the stop control accompanying the stop operation of each reel is performed. Therefore, by receiving these commands, it is possible to specify that any reel has been stopped and the reel to be stopped.

The game end command is a command that can specify that the game has ended.
Sent when the stop switch is pressed and released to stop the stop reel.

The win judgment command is a command that can specify whether or not there is a win, the combination of symbols on the win line LN, the type of win, and the number of medals to be paid out at the time of winning. This is when the stop switch is pressed and the stop switch is released, and is transmitted after the game end command is transmitted.

Both the game end command and the winning determination command are transmitted when the player presses the stop switch to stop the third stop reel and releases the stop switch. , it can be specified that all the operations necessary to progress one game have been completed.

In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 can execute a navigation notification in which a stop order that is advantageous to the player according to the result of the internal lottery is notified by the lighting mode of the auxiliary game display 12. Assist time (hereinafter referred to as AT) can be controlled.

When the main control unit 41 is controlled to AT, by winning the navigation target role according to the game state, the main control unit 41 executes the navigation notification, and the player is informed based on the winning number of the winning navigation notification role. In addition to notifying the player of the stop order that is advantageous to the player, by transmitting a push order command that can specify the stop order that is advantageous to the player based on the winning number to the sub control unit 91, the liquid crystal display 51 etc. Execute the navigation effect using . Further, in this embodiment, the main control unit 41 can execute navigation notification and execute navigation effect by satisfying a certain condition even in a normal state in which AT is not controlled.

The game states in this embodiment include RT0-4, RB, and BB (RB). RT0~
4. Of RB and BB (RB), RB and BB have the highest medal payout rate per game and are the most advantageous gaming state. In addition, among RT0 to RT4, RT0, 2, and 4 have a high probability of winning a replay role, and the payout rate of medals per game is higher than RT1 and 3. It can be said that this state is advantageous for the player. Also, RT0
, 2 and 4, RT0 and 2 are advantageous to the player over RT4 in that the payout rate of medals per game is higher than RT4. In addition, RT2 can be said to be a more advantageous state for the player than RT0 in that there is a high possibility that the number of games of ART, which will be described later, will be added.

In addition, in the slot machine of this embodiment, when the gaming state is RT0 to RT2, the main control unit 41 can execute navigation notification for notifying the player of the stopping order that is advantageous to the player according to the internal lottery result. It is possible to control the assist time (hereinafter referred to as AT) which is the notification period.

When the main control unit 41 is controlled to AT, the main control unit 41 executes navigation notification by winning a notification target combination according to the gaming state, and issues a first internal winning command to the sub-control unit 91. , the second internal winning command, and the push order command, the sub-control unit 9
1 to execute the navigation performance.

In the navigation effect of this embodiment, the order of stopping which is advantageous to the player notified by the navigation notification is notified by the display of the navigation image from the liquid crystal display 51 and the output of the navigation voice from the speakers 53 and 54 . For example, when notifying the stop order of left, center and right, the stop switch 8L such as "123" (indicating that the left reel is the first stop, the middle reel is the second stop, and the right reel is the third stop), A stop order image showing the stop order of 8C and 8R is displayed. Also, as a navigation voice, for example, a voice indicating the stop order of the stop switch, such as "Left, middle, right!" to output again,
When notifying the stop order in which the left reel is the first stop, the stop order indicating the stop order of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R such as "1--" (indicating that the left reel is the first stop) Display an image. In addition, as the navigation voice, for example, a voice indicating the stop order of the stop switch, such as "Left!" (Indicating that the left reel is the first stop) do. It should be noted that the aspect of the navigation effect is not limited to such an aspect, and may be any aspect as long as the player can distinguish between them according to the winning situation. Further, the navigation effects are not limited to those using the liquid crystal display 51 and the speakers 53 and 54.
, the reel LED 55 or the like may be used.

In this embodiment, the main control unit 41 controls ART (A in RT0) when the lottery condition is met.
An ART lottery is held to determine whether or not to control to the state controlled by T). Then, the main control unit 41 wins the ART lottery and controls to ART when the sign period ends.

When controlling to ART, first control to AT. The state from the start of AT control to the transition to RT0 is also called a preparation state. In the preparation state, the main control unit 41 executes navigation notification when the target combination is won.

Also, after the start of ART, the number of remaining games is subtracted by 1 each time one game is played,
When the number of remaining games becomes 0, AT control is ended. Along with this, navigation information is no longer executed.

Also, after the start of ART, if the lottery condition is satisfied before the number of remaining games becomes 0, ART
An addition lottery is performed to determine whether or not to add the number of games of . When the addition lottery is won, an ART game number lottery for determining the number of ART games is performed, and the number of games won in the ART game number lottery is added to the remaining number of ART games.

Also, after the start of ART, if the lottery condition is satisfied before the number of remaining games becomes 0, AR
An addition state lottery is carried out for determining whether or not to shift to an addition state in which the probability that the number of games of ART is added is higher than during T.

Also, after the start of ART, if a special role is won before the number of remaining games becomes 0, RT2
ART is interrupted by the end of , and the counting of the number of ART games is also interrupted accordingly. When a special role is won during the ART, navigation notification is not given until the special role wins, even if the pressing order bell wins.

If a special role is won during the ART and the ART is interrupted, after that, control is performed to the corresponding bonus after winning the special role that has been won, and after the bonus is completed, the transition rolls are stopped at RT3 that shifts to RT1. At the time of transition to , the control of AT is resumed, along with this, ART is resumed by moving again to RT0 through the preparation state, and counting of the number of remaining games of ART is also resumed.

In addition, RT2 is more advantageous to the player than RT0 in that the number of games of ART is likely to be added, that is, it is advantageous to the player in that there is a high possibility that advantageous benefits for the player will be given. However, for example, a configuration that is advantageous to the player in terms of a high probability of winning a specific combination, a high probability of winning a specific combination, and a high payout rate of medals may be used.

Here, the privilege that is advantageous to the player means the right that allows the player to shift to an advantageous state (e.g., winning a lottery to determine whether or not an advantageous state will occur, transitioning to an advantageous state, etc.). The right to be notified of an operation mode that is advantageous to the player, the right to be controlled to a game state with a high expected value for giving a game value, and the current game state that is advantageous to the player The right to be notified whether or not it is in a good gaming state, the period during which it is controlled in an advantageous state (
A fixed number of games, an average value of the number of games that fluctuates depending on the end conditions, etc.) may be directly advantageous to the player, or not directly advantageous to the player, but for example,
It may be a privilege that is indirectly advantageous to the player, such as being a condition for obtaining a privilege on the Internet.

Next, the control of the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 under the control of the sub-controller 91 will be described. The slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment can output sounds from the speakers 53 and 54 at four levels of output volumes of volume setting values V1 to V4 (V1, V2, V3, V4). If the volume setting value is different, the output volume is also different. V1 has the lowest output volume, V2 and V3 have the highest output volume, and V4 has the highest output volume. Note that the output volume of V1 is set to 0,
That is, it may be silent.

Next, a description will be given of the volume adjustment between the game parlor and the player. FIG. 5(a) is a diagram showing an example of a volume adjuster 57 used for adjusting the volume of amusement arcades. The amusement arcade sets one of the plurality of volume setting values V1 to V4 (V1, V2, V3, V4) by rotating the triangular knob of the volume adjuster 57. It is possible. The volume setting value of the volume adjuster 57 illustrated in FIG. 5(a) is V2.

FIG. 5(b) is a diagram showing an example of a volume setting screen used for volume adjustment by the player.
A volume setting screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 . The player can set one of a plurality of volume setting values V1 to V4 (V1, V2, V3, V4) using the cross key 58 on the volume setting screen. In this embodiment, when the player presses the cross key 58 to the left, the volume setting value is reduced, and when the player presses the cross key 58 to the right, the volume setting value is increased. When the player presses the cross key 58 upward, the displayed volume setting value can be set. The volume setting value on the volume setting screen illustrated in FIG. 5B is V3. It should be noted that the player can exit the volume setting screen by pressing the effect switch 56 .

At startup, the sub-control unit 91 controls the speaker 53 according to the volume setting value of the volume adjuster 57 .
, 54 to control the output volume. That is, the volume setting value of the volume adjuster 57 becomes the default at startup. When the player sets the volume setting value on the volume setting screen, the sub-controller 91 controls the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 according to the set volume setting value. Furthermore, when the volume setting value is set in the volume adjuster 57, the sub-controller 91 controls the speakers 53, 5 according to the set volume setting value.
4 controls the output volume. In this way, the sub-controller 91 controls the volume adjuster 5
7 or the output volume output from the speakers 53 and 54 is controlled according to the set value lastly set on the volume setting screen.

As described above, the sub-controller 91 according to the present embodiment executes volume normal control and volume reduction control as control of the output volume. Volume normal control is volume control in a state where a player is playing a game. The volume reduction control means that the sub-control unit 91 controls the audio output circuit 94 and the speaker 5
This is control for lowering the volume of the game sound output from 3, 54, and is volume control for making the output volume lower than the normal volume control.

The predetermined trigger is, for example, the timing when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game, or the timing when the third stop operation is performed to end the game. Also, the sub control unit 91
may be control to mute the sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 by controlling the audio output circuit 94 (to reduce the volume to 0).

Further, the sub-control section 91 ends the volume reduction control when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the volume reduction control. In the present embodiment, the predetermined condition is a condition of "detection of playing a game by a player".

In this embodiment, the detection of whether or not the player is playing a game is performed based on the player's operation. When the player's operation is detected, it is determined that the player is playing the game, and when the state in which the player's operation is not detected passes a predetermined period, it is determined that the player is not playing the game. judge.

In this embodiment, player operations for detecting whether or not the player is playing a game include operation of the MAXBET switch 6, operation of the start switch 7, operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, and operation of the settlement switch. 10 operations and an operation of inserting medals into the medal inserting unit 4. Therefore, even if the cross key 58 and the effect switch 56, which are not included in these operations, are operated, it is determined that the player is not playing the game.
Even if the volume adjuster 57 is operated, it is determined that the player is not playing because this operation is not performed by the player.

The above five operations are detected by the main control section 41 and a command indicating the operation is transmitted to the sub-control section 91 . Thereby, the sub-control unit 91 can determine that the player has played a game.

By performing the volume reduction control by the sub-controller 91, it is possible to reduce the annoyance of the output sound when the game is not played for a predetermined period of time from a predetermined trigger. It should be noted that when some kind of effect is being executed in the slot machine 1 during the game, it is conceivable that the player is watching the effect without playing the game. In this case, if the volume reduction control is performed because the player does not play the game, the execution of the effect is hindered.

Therefore, in order to prevent the volume reduction control from interfering with the execution of the production, the sub control unit 91
shortens the execution time of a specific performance, which has the longest execution time among performances that can be executed from a predetermined trigger, to be shorter than a predetermined time. Note that the execution time of the specific effect may be shorter than the predetermined time based on the predetermined time, or the predetermined time may be longer than the execution time of the specific effect based on the execution time of the specific effect.

As a result, even if the sub-control unit 91 executes any of the effects that can be executed from the predetermined timing, the execution of the effects ends before the volume reduction control is executed. can be prevented from being hindered.

The sub-controller 91 in this embodiment can execute any one of the effects A, B, and C from a predetermined trigger. Effect A, effect B, and effect C are effects accompanied by sound output. It should be noted that the sub-controller 91 can also not execute the effect from a predetermined trigger. The execution time of the effect A is 15 seconds, the execution time of the effect B is 30 seconds, and the execution time of the effect C is 45 seconds. Therefore, the specific effect in this case is the effect C. Moreover, the predetermined time is one minute. Thus, the execution time of the specific effect in this embodiment is shorter than the predetermined time.

FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing the timing of executing the volume reduction control when the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started as a predetermined trigger. In the illustrated example, at time t11, the start switch 7 of the slot machine 1 is operated to start the game. Further, the sub-control unit 91 starts clocking at time t11, which is a predetermined trigger, and counts the elapsed time from time t11. Then, the sub-control unit 91 waits 1, which is a predetermined time, without the player performing a game or various operations after starting time measurement at time t11.
Volume reduction control is performed at time t12 when minutes have passed. Further, the sub-controller 91
When the performance A is executed, the performance A is executed for 15 seconds from time t11, which is a predetermined trigger.
Further, when executing the effect B, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect B for 30 seconds from time t11, which is a predetermined trigger. Further, when executing the effect C, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect C for 45 seconds from time t11, which is a predetermined trigger.

FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing the timing of executing the volume reduction control when the timing at which the third stop operation is performed and the game ends is set as a predetermined trigger. In the illustrated example, at time t21, the start switch 7 of the slot machine 1 is operated to start the game. At time t22, the slot machine 1 completes the game by performing the third stop operation. Further, the sub-control unit 91 controls the time t22, which is a predetermined trigger.
, and the elapsed time from time t22 is measured. Then, the sub-control unit 91 performs volume reduction control at time t23 when one minute, which is a predetermined time, has passed without the player performing a game or various operations since the start of clocking at time t22. Further, when executing the effect A, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect A for 15 seconds from time t22, which is a predetermined trigger. Further, when executing the effect B, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect B for 30 seconds from time t22, which is a predetermined trigger. Further, when executing the effect C, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect C for 45 seconds from time t22, which is a predetermined trigger.

As described above, the sub-controller 91 starts clocking at a predetermined trigger and counts the elapsed time from the predetermined trigger. Then, the sub-control unit 91 performs sound volume reduction control when one minute, which is a predetermined time, has passed without the player performing a game or various operations after starting the timing. Also, the execution time of the effect C, which is a specific effect that can be executed from a predetermined trigger, is 45 seconds, which is shorter than the predetermined time of 1 minute. Therefore, even if the predetermined trigger is the timing when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game, or when the predetermined trigger is the timing when the third stop operation is performed and the game ends, the production Since C ends before the volume reduction control is executed, the performance is not hindered by the volume reduction control. Note that the performance A and the performance B, which can be executed from a predetermined timing, are shorter in execution time than the performance C, so that the execution of the performance is not hindered by the volume reduction control.

Note that even if none of the effects A to C that can be executed from the predetermined trigger is executed, the sub-control unit 91 may start timing at the predetermined trigger and measure the elapsed time from the predetermined trigger. good. As a result, even if any one of the executable effects A to C is executed from the predetermined timing or none of the executable effects A to C is executed from the predetermined timing, the common timing control is performed. is performed, so the processing can be kept from becoming complicated.

Further, as described above, even if the timing at which the start switch 7 is operated to start the game is set as the predetermined trigger (first trigger), the timing at which the third stop operation is performed and the game ends is set as the predetermined trigger. Even in the case of (second timing), any one of the effects A to C can be started from a predetermined timing. In addition, the execution time of the effect C, which is the specific effect, is determined by the time when the third stop operation is performed and the game is started even when the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started. is shorter than the predetermined time even if the predetermined trigger (second trigger) is the timing at which the period ends.

As a result, even if the timing at which the start switch 7 is operated to start the game is set as the predetermined trigger (first trigger), the timing at which the third stop operation is performed and the game is over is set to the predetermined trigger (second trigger). Trigger), the execution of the performance is not hindered by the volume reduction control.

The predetermined timing is not limited to the timing when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game, or the timing when the third stop operation is performed to end the game. For example, any timing, such as the timing at which the first stop operation is performed, the timing at which the second stop operation is performed, or the timing at which the effect switch 56 is operated, may be the predetermined trigger.

Although three types of effects A to C have been described as effects that can be executed by the sub-controller 91 from a predetermined trigger, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the effects that can be executed by the sub-controller 91 from a predetermined trigger are those that the execution time of a specific effect, which has the longest execution time among the effects that can be executed by the sub-controller 91 from a predetermined trigger, is shorter than the predetermined time. Any kind of performance is acceptable.

Further, in the above example, the predetermined time is set to 1 minute and the execution time of the specific effect is set to 45 seconds, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as long as the execution time of the specific effect is shorter than the predetermined time, the predetermined time and the execution time of the specific effect may be any time.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the output volume during normal volume control and during volume reduction control for each volume setting value. As shown in the figure, an output volume during normal volume control and an output volume during volume reduction control are provided for each volume setting value. During normal volume control, as described above, the output volume of V1 is the lowest, the output volume increases in order of V2 and V3, and the output volume of V4 is the highest. In addition to this, in the present embodiment, the output volume during volume reduction control is the lowest for V1, the highest for V2 and V3, and the highest for V4. In this way, in the volume reduction control, by reducing the output volume according to the volume setting value, when the volume setting value is large, the output volume can be made relatively large even during the volume reduction control, and the volume setting If the value is small, the output volume can be reduced even during volume reduction control, so the intention of the setter can be reflected even during volume reduction control.

As for the sound indicating the occurrence of an error (error sound), as shown in the figure, the output volume is constant regardless of whether volume reduction control is being performed and regardless of the volume setting value. This will
For example, it is possible to make a player or a store clerk appropriately recognize an error.

In this embodiment, the volume setting value indicating the maximum volume is V4, and the volume setting value indicating the minimum volume is V1. Also, the output volume during volume reduction control when the volume setting value V4 is set (volume reduction control maximum volume in FIG. 8) is the output volume during normal volume control when the volume setting value V1 is set. (volume normal control minimum volume in FIG. 8). That is, the maximum volume during volume reduction control ( The volume during volume reduction control when the volume setting value V4 indicating the maximum volume is set is smaller. This makes it possible to determine whether or not the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control.

The reason why the judgment is possible will be explained. "The maximum volume during volume reduction control is smaller than the minimum volume during normal volume control" means that the output volume during normal volume control and the output volume during volume reduction control are equal to a certain output volume. It shows that they are clearly separated based on the standard. Therefore, when the output volume is less than the standard, it can be determined that the volume reduction control is being performed, and when the output volume is over the standard, it can be determined that the volume normal control is being performed. As an example of this criterion, in FIG.
An arbitrary output volume value in the section from the maximum volume during volume reduction control to the minimum volume during normal volume control can be used. If the output volume during volume reduction control is greater than the output volume during normal volume control, the above-described reference does not exist, so it cannot be determined whether or not volume reduction control is in progress.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control, but effects other than this effect are also obtained. For example, if the output volume during volume reduction control is greater than the output volume during volume normal control, the output volume of a gaming machine that is not being played becomes larger than the output volume of a gaming machine that is being played. When a game machine adjacent to a game machine in which a player is playing is empty, an unnatural phenomenon occurs in which the sound of the neighboring game machine is louder than that of the game machine in which the player is playing. do. This is very troublesome for the player. According to the present embodiment, since the output volume during volume reduction control is always smaller than the output volume during volume normal control, the above-described unnatural phenomenon does not occur and the player does not feel annoyed. A special effect is obtained that a comfortable game environment can be provided.

The volume adjuster 57 is controlled by the sub-controller 91 to control the audio output circuit 94 so that the speaker 53
, 54 may also be operable.

Further, when the volume adjuster 57 is operated while performing the above-described volume reduction control, the sub-control section 91 sets the volume according to the operation of the volume adjuster 57 during the volume reduction control. good too. For example, when the volume adjuster 57 is operated during the volume reduction control and the volume setting value is changed from V4 to V2, the sub-controller 91 continues the volume reduction control, and the volume setting value during the volume reduction control The volume may be set to V2. As a result, it is possible to suitably set the volume during volume reduction control.

Further, the sub-control unit 91 may end the volume reduction control when the volume adjuster 57 is operated while the above-described volume reduction control is being performed. For example, when the volume adjuster 57 is operated during volume reduction control and the volume setting value is changed from V4 to V2, the sub-controller 91 terminates the volume reduction control and changes the volume setting value during normal volume control. The volume may be set to V2. Thereby, the volume can be restored according to the operation of the volume adjuster 57 .

Next, the relationship between the BGM and promotion effects will be described. The effects executed by the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment include promotion effects for prompting the player to operate the operating means.
The promotion effects include a first promotion effect and a second promotion effect.

The first promotion effect is a effect that prompts the operation of the effect switch 56 used for the operation for effect. The sub-control unit 91 executes the first promotion effect in games subsequent to the game in which the additional lottery is executed. The first promotion effect is executed when a cherry or a watermelon is selected as an execution trigger. The operation of the effect switch 56 is prompted by the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 and the first promotion sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 . When the effect switch 56 is operated, a notification regarding the navigation stock (for example, "WIN!" is displayed on the screen to notify that the AT has been won). When executing the first promotion effect, the sub-control unit 91 adjusts the volume so that the volume of the predetermined sound that is generally played during the game is reduced. Here, the predetermined sound includes BGM that matches the background image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51, but in addition to this, music that is selected according to the effect executed when the effect is executed, and sound that is displayed on the screen. Includes voices emitted by characters appearing in .

The second promotion effect is the stop switches 8L and 8 used for the operation for advancing the game.
This is an effect that encourages the operation of C and 8R. The sub-control unit 91 executes the second promotion effect when winning a push order (push order bell and push order reply) during AT. The second promotion effect is executed when winning a winning combination that triggers the execution. The operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is prompted by the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 and the second prompting sound output from the speakers 53, 54. FIG. The sub-control unit 91 maintains the volume of a predetermined sound (such as BGM) that is generally played during the game when executing the second promotion effect. Note that the volume of the second prompting sound is higher than the volume of the predetermined sound.

FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the output control of BGM and the execution of promotion effects. The horizontal axis indicates time t, and from the top, whether the volume of "BGM (predetermined sound)" is large or small,
Whether the "first promotion effect" and the "second promotion effect" are being executed (on state) or not being executed (off state), the display of the liquid crystal display 51, and what continuous effect is being executed. Indicates whether it is a game eye. Description will be made below along the timing chart of FIG.

In this embodiment, it is assumed that the game state is controlled to the RT2 game state and the state is controlled to AT (ART state). It is assumed that at time t1 during the AT, a cherry win is made, and with this as a trigger, a continuous effect suggesting an additional win of the navi stock number is started. For example, it is assumed that a navigation stock number of 1 is awarded by an AT lottery.

Time t1 to t2 is the first game of the continuous effect. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, a state in which a battle effect, which is a continuous effect, has started is shown. On the screen, an ally character A and an enemy character B are displayed. At this time, the BGM (
(predetermined sound) is played at a high volume. At this time, neither the first promotion effect nor the second promotion effect is executed.

Time t2 indicates that the second game of the continuous effect has been started by the player's start operation. At this time, it is assumed that the pushing order bell is won. Time t2 to t3 is the second game of the continuous effect. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, in the battle production, the enemy character B
is attacking character A who is an ally. At this time, BGM (predetermined sound) played during the AT is played at a high volume. At this time, the first promotion effect is not executed.

A second promotion effect is executed. Specifically, at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, circled numbers indicating the correct procedure for pressing the bell (the order of pressing the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R) are displayed. Also, as the second prompting sound, the reel to be stopped at present is output as a voice. Since the correct answer procedure is left and right middle, the second facilitating sounds are output in the order of "Hidari", "Migi", and "Naka". While the second promotion effect is being executed (t2-t3), the output of BGM is maintained. Also, the volume of the second promotion performance is adjusted so as to be higher than the volume of the BGM. The second promotion effect is a promotion effect by image display and sound output, but it may be a promotion effect by image display only or a promotion effect by sound output only.

Time t3 indicates that the third game of the continuous effect has been started by the player's start operation. Time t3 to t4 is the third game of the continuous effect. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, a battle effect is shown in which friendly character A is attacking enemy character B. As shown in FIG. At this time, BGM (predetermined sound) played during the AT is played at a high volume. At this time, neither the first promotion effect nor the second promotion effect is executed.

Time t4 indicates that the player's start operation has started the fourth game of the continuous effect. At this time, it is assumed that the pushing order bell is won. Time t4 to t6 is the fourth game of the continuous effect. On the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, a battle effect is shown in which friendly character A is attacking enemy character B. As shown in FIG. At this time, BGM (predetermined sound) that is played during the AT is played at a high volume. At this time, the first promotion effect is not executed.

A second promotion effect is executed. Specifically, at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, circled numbers are displayed to indicate the correct procedure for pressing the bell. Also, as the second prompting sound, the reel to be stopped at present is output as a voice. The correct answer sequence is middle left and right, so "naka", "hidari"
, and “migi” to output the second prompt sound. While the second promotion effect is being executed (t4 to t5
), the BGM output is maintained. Also, the volume of the second promotion performance is adjusted so as to be higher than the volume of the BGM.

When the winning symbol of the pushing order bell is derived by the third stop, the second promotion effect is terminated (the second promotion effect is turned off). When the second promotion effect ends, at time t5, the first promotion effect is started (the first promotion effect is turned on). At this time, the volume of the second promotion effect is output at a high volume. On the other hand, the volume of BGM is changed from high to low and output.

As the first promotion effect, an image "PUSH!" corresponding to the first promotion effect is displayed on the screen. At the same time, the speakers 53 and 54 output the promotion sound "Press this button!"

When the player operates the presentation switch 56, "WIN!" indicating victory is displayed, and a state in which friendly character A defeats enemy character B and wins is shown. This suggests that you have won the additional prize.

At time t6, character A wins against character B, and the battle effect ends, and the first promotion effect also ends (the first promotion effect is turned off). Also, the first
When the promotion effect ends, the BGM volume returns to the original high volume. Note that the first promotion effect is a promotion effect by image display and sound output, but it may be a promotion effect by image display only, or a promotion effect by sound output only.

In this way, as shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, when the first promotion effect is being executed, the BGM volume is reduced, while at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. As described above, the BGM volume is maintained while the second promotion effect is being executed.
Therefore, the player can concentrate on the operation of the performance operating means.

Also, as shown at time t5 in FIG.
After the symbols are derived by operating C and 8R, the first promotion performance for prompting the operation of the performance switch 56 is executed. Therefore, the player can concentrate on the operation of the performance operating means.

Further, as shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9, when the second promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the second promotion sound is higher than the volume of the BGM, so the second promotion effect is executed. The second expediting sound that is sometimes output does not become difficult to hear.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible.

[About game machines]
In the above embodiment, a slot machine in which the number of bets is set using medals and credits has been described as an example. By applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a slot machine in which the bet amount is set using only credits, a full credit type slot machine in which the bet amount is set using only credits, and a pachinko game machine, It is possible to implement such an invention. When game balls are used as game media, for example, when one medal corresponds to five game balls and the bet number is set to 3 in the above embodiment, 15 game balls are used. is used to set the number of bets.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to one that uses only one of a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls. A game value may be used together. That is, it is possible to play a game by setting the number of bets using any of a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls, and when a prize is won, a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls can be played. The game machine of the present invention also includes a game machine that can pay out any utility value.

Further, in this embodiment, a variable display device having three reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is provided, and one game ends when all the reels stop, and a combination of display results derived from the three reels is displayed. A slot machine in which a prize is generated in accordance with the result has been described. However, one game ends when a display result is derived to a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable, and a prize is awarded according to the display result derived to the variable display device. Slot machines that can be generated are not limited to those equipped with a variable display device having three reels, slot machines equipped with only one reel, and slot machines equipped with a variable display device having a plurality of reels other than three reels. may be Further, in the present embodiment, the reels 2L, 2C, 2R
is a reel that rotates in the vertical direction, but the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R can be rotated horizontally or diagonally.
It can be a reel that rotates in any direction.

Further, the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment derives a display result in each of a plurality of variable display areas (see-through windows 3) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (symbols) each of which can be identified. Equipped with a variable display device capable of displaying 1 using game values (medals, credits)
By setting a predetermined number of bets for the game, the game can be started, and one game ends by deriving the display results in all of the plurality of variable display areas, and one game results in a plurality of display results. may be a slot machine in which a prize can be awarded according to a combination of display results derived to each of the variable display areas.

In addition, as the present embodiment, a slot machine that pays out game media to the player's hand in accordance with the occurrence of winning has been described. An enclosed slot machine may be employed in which game points (scores) are added without being paid out directly. The board and the drum can be distributed, and the housing is common, and the board alone or the board and the drum are called a game machine.

Moreover, it is also possible to apply the content of the above-described embodiment to a pachinko game machine. For example, a ball hitting operation handle operated to hit a pachinko ball is used as an operation means operated by a player. In addition, for example, the timing of start of variation of the performance symbols based on the final hold being digested is used as a predetermined trigger. Also, for example, a plurality of types of ready-to-win effects are assumed to be a plurality of types of effects accompanied by sound output. Also, for example, the execution time of the specific effect having the longest execution time among the plurality of kinds of ready-to-win effects is set to be shorter than the predetermined time. As a result, even in the pachinko game machine, the performance of the game can be prevented from being hindered by the reduction in the output sound volume or the silence, and the execution of the performance can be prevented from being unintentionally hindered.

It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed this time should be considered as examples in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the scope of the claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and range of equivalents of the scope of the claims.

Next, main effects obtained by the above-described embodiment will be described.
(1) In the slot machine 1 (gaming machine) in this embodiment, the speakers 53 and 54 (
The sound output means) outputs sound. In addition, the sub control unit 91 (control means) controls the speaker 53,
54 output volume control. Further, operating means such as the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, the settlement switch 10, and the insertion of medals into the medal insertion section 4 are operated by the player. In addition, the sub-controller 91 (clock means) counts the elapsed time from the timing when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game or when the third stop operation is performed and the game ends. Also, the sub control unit 91
(The effect executing means can start any one of effect A, effect B, and effect C (a plurality of types of effect) accompanied by sound output from a predetermined trigger. When one minute (predetermined time) elapses without any operation of the operation means, volume reduction control is performed to reduce or mute the output volume of the speakers 53 and 54. Also, production A, production B, production C Among them, the execution time of the effect C (specific effect) having the longest execution time is 45 seconds, which is shorter than 1 minute (predetermined time).

As a result, the performance A, the performance B, and the performance C can be prevented from being hindered by the reduction in the output sound volume or the silence, and the performance of the performance can be prevented from being unintentionally hindered.

(2) In addition, the sub-controller 91 (clock means) may clock regardless of whether or not an effect started at a predetermined trigger is executed.

As a result, common control is performed, and processing can be prevented from becoming complicated.

(3) Further, as the predetermined trigger, there are the timing when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game (first trigger) and the timing when the third stop operation is performed and the game ends (second trigger), The sub-control unit 91 (production execution means) is, at any opportunity, production A, production B,
Any of the effects C can be started, and the execution time of the effect C (specific effect) is 45 seconds, and it is set to be shorter than 1 minute (predetermined time) regardless of which trigger it is started. good too.

Thus, the performance A, the performance B, and the performance C can be prevented from being hindered by the decrease in the output sound volume or the silence when the performance is executed from any timing.

(4) The error sound volume at the time of error occurrence may be constant regardless of whether or not the sub-controller 91 (control means) is performing sound volume reduction control.

This makes it possible to preferably recognize an error.

(5) Further, the volume adjuster 57 (volume operating means) is operated to set the output volume of the speakers 54 , 54 . Also, the volume adjuster 57 can be operated while the speakers 53 and 54 are outputting sound. Further, if the volume adjuster 57 is operated while the volume reduction control is being performed, the sub-control section 91 (control means) may set the volume according to the operation during the volume reduction control. good.

As a result, it is possible to suitably set the volume during volume control.

(6) Further, the volume adjuster 57 (volume operating means) is operated to set the output volume of the speakers 54 , 54 . Also, the volume adjuster 57 can be operated while the speakers 53 and 54 are outputting sound. Further, the sub-control section 91 (control means) may end the volume reduction control when the volume adjuster 57 is operated while the volume reduction control is being performed.

Thereby, the volume can be restored according to the operation of the volume adjuster 57 .

(6) In addition, a game machine (slot machine 1, pachinko game machine) that performs a game, and an effect operation means (for example, the effect switch 56 of the slot machine 1, a pachinko game machine) used for operations for effects production buttons), game progress operation means (for example, the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R of the slot machine 1, the ball hitting operation handle of the pachinko game machine) used for operations for advancing the game, and the operation of the production operation means (For example, as shown in the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, an effect prompting the operation of the effect switch 56, an effect prompting the operation of the effect button in the pachinko game machine) is executed. (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes the first promotion effect) and a second promotion effect (for example, time t2 to t3, t4 in FIG. 9) to prompt the operation of the game progress operation means As shown on the liquid crystal display 51 at t5, the second promotion means (for example, the sub-control section 91) executes a presentation for navigating the correct procedure for the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, and a presentation for instructing a right-hand shot in the pachinko game machine. performs the second promotion effect), and sound output means (for example, the sub-control unit 91 outputs B
processing for outputting GM, etc.), and when the effect operation means is operated during execution of the first promotion effect, a notification regarding a privilege (for example, provision of navigation stock) is performed (for example, FIG. 9 As shown on the liquid crystal display 51 at times t5 to t6, when the display "PUSH!" prompting the operation of the effect switch 56 and the voice output "Press this button!" When you operate 56, "WIN!"
is displayed on the screen), and the sound output means reduces the volume of the predetermined sound (for example, BGM) when the first promotion effect is being executed while the predetermined sound (for example, BGM) is being output (for example,
As shown at times t5 to t6 in FIG. 9, when the first promotion effect is being executed, the volume of the BGM is reduced), while the second promotion effect is being executed while the predetermined sound is being output. Sometimes, the volume of the predetermined sound is maintained (for example, the volume of BGM is maintained when the second promotion effect is being executed as shown at times t2 to t3 and t4 to t5 in FIG. 9). good too.

Thus, during the output of the predetermined sound, the volume of the predetermined sound is reduced when the first promotion effect is executed to prompt the operation of the effect operation means when the privilege is notified. Therefore, the player can concentrate on the operation of the performance operating means. In addition, attention to the operation of the effect switch 56 can be increased.

(6) A game machine capable of playing games (for example, slot machine 1, pachinko game machine), which includes sound output means (for example, speakers 53 and 54) for outputting sound, and the sound output means Setting means (e.g., volume adjuster 57, volume setting screen) for setting a volume setting value indicating the output volume output by the sound output means according to the volume setting value set by the setting means Control means (for example, sub-control section 91) for controlling the output sound volume to be played, and detection means (for example, sub-control section 91) for detecting whether or not the player is playing a game.
and, when the detection means detects that the player is not playing the game, the control means executes volume reduction control for decreasing the output volume according to the volume setting value, A volume setting value (for example, V4) indicating the maximum volume is set by the setting means, and the output volume during volume reduction control (for example, volume reduction control maximum volume in FIG. 8) is the volume indicating the minimum volume by the setting means The game machine may be characterized in that a set value (eg, V1) is set and the output volume is smaller than the output volume (eg, normal volume control minimum volume in FIG. 8) when volume reduction control is not executed. .

This makes it possible to determine whether or not the current volume is the volume under volume reduction control. In addition, it is possible to distinguish between a situation in which no game is being played and a situation in which the sound volume is reduced.

1 slot machine 2L, 2C, 2R reel 6 MAXBET switch 7 start switch 8L, 8C, 8R stop switch 12 game auxiliary display 41 main controller 41c RAM
91 sub-controller 91c RAM

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
sound output means for outputting sound;
a control means for controlling the output volume of the sound output means;
an operation means operated by a player;
a timing means for timing the elapsed time from a predetermined trigger;
an effect executing means capable of starting one of a plurality of types of effects accompanied by sound output from the predetermined trigger;
and a volume operation means for setting the output volume of the sound output means,
The control means performs volume reduction control to reduce the output volume of the sound output means when a predetermined time has elapsed since the time measurement means started time measurement without the operation means being operated,
As the predetermined triggers, a first trigger based on a start operation for starting a game, a second trigger based on a derivation operation corresponding to a variable display section from which a display result is finally derived among a plurality of variable display sections, there is
The execution time of the specific effect with the longest execution time among the plurality of types of effects is shorter than the predetermined time regardless of which of the first trigger and the second trigger is started. ,
When a volume set value indicating the maximum volume is set by the setting operation of the volume operation means and the volume reduction control is executed by the control means, the output volume is not 0, and the setting of the volume operation means is performed. A gaming machine in which a volume setting value indicating a minimum volume is set by an operation and is smaller than an output volume when the volume reduction control is not executed by the control means.

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