JP7158726B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines.

There is known a game machine capable of executing a reversal effect indicating that the result of the success/failure determination is actually a win after showing the result of the success/failure determination as if it is a loss (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). .

JP 2018-86491 A

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of enhancing the interest of the game by using the reversal effect.

The gaming machine according to the present invention, which has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, executes a ready-to-win effect in which the result of the win/fail judgment is shown according to the mode of the ending, and when the result of the win/fail judgment is a win, the result is a success. The ready-to-win performance executing means and the outcome of the ready-to-win performance become the failure ending instead of the successful ending, so that the result of the winning/losing determination is shown to be a win after showing as if the winning/losing determination result is a win. A reversal performance executing means for executing a reversal performance is provided, and the probability of occurrence of the reversal performance is suggested by the presence or absence of the occurrence of the specific performance after the ready-to-win performance becomes the failure ending.

According to the present invention, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game by using the reversal effect.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a list view of a decorative design. It is a figure for demonstrating pre-rendering. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a first specific example regarding pre-rendering; FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a third specific example regarding pre-rendering; FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a fourth specific example regarding pre-rendering; It is a figure for demonstrating suggestion of reversal production|presentation. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a third specific example regarding suggestion of a reversal effect; It is a figure for demonstrating the swing of a decorative design in a loss confirmation period (pseudo-loss confirmation period). FIG. 10 is a diagram (a continuation of FIG. 9) for explaining the swinging of the decorative symbols during the loss confirmation period (pseudo-loss confirmation period); It is a figure for demonstrating the rocking|fluctuation frequency of a decorative design. After the ready-to-win effect ends in failure, it is a diagram showing events that may occur in chronological order based on the number of swings of decorative symbols. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a third specific example regarding swinging of the decorative symbols during the loss confirmation period (pseudo loss confirmation period); It is a figure for demonstrating the operation production|presentation using a special design. FIG. 14 is a diagram (continuation of FIG. 14) for explaining an operation effect using a special symbol; It is a figure for demonstrating the 3rd specific example regarding the operation production|presentation using a special design. It is a figure for demonstrating the 4th specific example and the 5th specific example regarding the operation production|presentation using a special design. FIG. 17 is a diagram (continuation of FIG. 17) for explaining a fourth specific example and a fifth specific example regarding operation effects using special symbols; FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a multiple effective line mode; FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the display mode of an effective design and an ineffective design. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a third specific example regarding display of valid symbols/non-valid symbols;

1) Basic Configuration of Gaming Machine Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming machine 1 according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be briefly described with reference to FIG. The game machine 1 is equipped with a game board 90 . The game board 90 is made of a substantially square plywood board, and a guide rail 903 forming a passage for guiding a game ball fired by operating a shooting device 908 (shooting handle) to the game area 902 has a substantially arc shape. is provided as follows.

The game area 902 is provided with a start winning opening 904, a big winning opening 906, an out opening, and the like. The display device 91 is provided behind the game board 90 , and a display area 911 of the display device 91 is a visible area through an opening 901 formed in the game board 90 . In some of the drawings, the display area 911 is shown in a roughly square shape, but the shape and the like can be changed as appropriate (the shape and size of the opening 901 and the shape and size of the display device 91 itself can be changed). By doing so, the shape of the display area 911 can be changed).

In addition, in the game area 902, a plurality of game nails are provided as obstacles that change the flowing state of the game balls when the falling game balls collide with each other. The game ball flowing down the game area 902 changes in various modes according to the conditions when it collides with the game nail.

In such a game machine 1 , game balls are shot toward the game area 902 by operating the shooting device 908 . When a game ball flowing down the game area 902 wins a winning opening such as a starting winning opening 904 or a big winning opening 906, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out by a payout device.

Descriptions of components of the gaming machine 1 that are not related to the present invention, such as the frame of the gaming machine 1 and the lower and upper trays for storing game balls, will be omitted. For these, those having the same structure as known gaming machines can be applied.

The winning lottery (winning or losing determination) is executed by winning or losing determination means provided on a control board (not shown) triggered by the winning of a game ball into the starting winning opening 904 shown in FIG. may be provided). In this embodiment, the winning "mouth" (where the winning game ball is taken in) is the winning "area" (where the winning game ball flows down the game area 902 as it is. The winning area is the gate). can be exemplified).

A numerical value is acquired from a random number source with the winning of a game ball into a start winning opening 904, and if the numerical value is the same as a predetermined big winning numerical value, it is a big winning, and if it is different, it is a losing. In other words, with the winning of the game ball into the start winning opening 904 as a trigger, it is determined directly whether or not the jackpot has been won.

When a jackpot is won, a jackpot game is executed. A jackpot game is one in which the jackpot 906 is frequently opened so that the player can win a large number of game balls (so-called payout balls). omitted.

In addition, in the present embodiment, notification of the result of the success/failure determination is started in the order in which the numerical values for performing the above-mentioned success/failure determination are acquired. When the success/failure judgment result based on the numerical value is notified, it is stored in the storage means provided on the control board (not shown) until the notification of the success/failure judgment result based on the certain numerical value is started. The maximum number of stored values (maximum pending number) of numerical values (hereinafter also referred to as pending (information)) for which the notification of the result of right/fail judgment has not yet started can be set as appropriate. The maximum number of pieces of pending information that can be stored in the storage means in this embodiment is four. It should be noted that the numerical value acquired for the success/failure determination is also used as a numerical value for determining the specific content of the effect for notifying the success/failure determination result. In the display area 911, a display (holding display; not shown) indicating the existence of the holding information may be made. In addition, it may be configured such that the success/failure determination is immediately performed upon winning the starting prize opening 904, and the success/failure determination result itself is stored in the storage means (in such a case, the success/failure determination result itself is reserved information). It turns out that).

Whether the result of the judgment is a big win or a loss is notified by a combination of decorative patterns (identification patterns) 10 (a list of the decorative patterns 10 is shown in FIG. 2) displayed in the display area 911 of the display device 91. . Decorative pattern 10 includes first element portion 11 and second element portion 12 . The first element part 11 is a part including an image representing one of the numbers "1" to "7", and the second element part 12 represents one of "character A" to "character G". This is the part that contains the image that was created. That is, as the decorative pattern 10, a pattern including "1" and "character A", a pattern including "2" and "character B", a pattern including "3" and "character C", . . Seven types of patterns are set, including "'7' and 'character G'". In the following description, when various decorative patterns 10 are represented, the first element portion 11 is indicated, such as "decorative pattern 10 of '1'" and "decorative pattern 10 of '7'". and

When notifying the success/failure determination result, after a plurality of types of decorative patterns 10 (a group of 10 decorative patterns) are variably displayed, the variability is stopped, and finally the three decorative patterns 10 are displayed in a stopped state. . The combination of these three decorative patterns 10 indicates to the player whether or not the player has won the jackpot. It should be noted that the state in which notification of the result of right/failure determination is completed means a state in which "variation has completely stopped", and a pseudo stop (temporary stop) state described later is not a state in which notification of the result of right/failure determination has been completed. In this embodiment, when a jackpot is won, "three sets of the same decorative patterns 10" are displayed. If it is not "three sets of the same decorative pattern 10", it is lost. In the following description, the decorative pattern 10 (group) displayed on the left side of the display area 911 will be referred to as the "left decorative pattern 10 (group)", and the decorative pattern 10 (group) displayed on the right side will be referred to as the "right decorative pattern 10 (group)." Decorative patterns 10 (group)", and decorative patterns 10 (group) displayed between left decorative patterns 10 (group) and right decorative patterns 10 (group) are referred to as "middle decorative patterns 10 (group)". It is sometimes called

2) Effect, display mode, etc. using the decorative pattern 10 Hereinafter, the effect, display mode, etc. using the decorative pattern 10 that can be executed by the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. It should be noted that the configuration does not necessarily have to be capable of executing all of the matters described below. A configuration in which only a part of items can be executed may be adopted. Also, unless otherwise specified, images in the following description include not only still images but also moving images (moving images).

2-1) Preliminary Effect The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment can execute a pseudo-continuous effect. Since the pseudo-continuous effect itself is known, detailed description is omitted, but after the fluctuating decorative pattern 10 temporarily stops in a pseudo manner, a unit effect (specific effect) is repeated once or more than once to start fluctuating again. . The unit effect (pseudo-continuous effect) is set so as to increase the probability (jackpot reliability) that the result of the determination of whether or not the target is a big win due to its occurrence. In other words, it can be said that the occurrence of the unit performance is a pleasing event for the player.

In the present embodiment, when a unit performance is generated, a pattern combination selected from among a plurality of types of decorative patterns 10 and displayed, that is, a combination composed of pseudo-stopped left, middle, and right decorative patterns 10. is the "specific combination". In the specific combination in this embodiment, the decorative pattern 10 inside is the target pattern 10t. That is, the position of the target pattern 10t included in the specific combination (the display position in relation to the other decorative patterns 10 that make up the specific combination) is fixed (in this embodiment, it is "middle") (Fig. 3(b)).

The target pattern 10t is one of a plurality of types of decorative patterns 10, but the type of the decorative pattern 10 corresponding to the target pattern 10t is not constant. In other words, the type of the decorative pattern 10 that becomes the target pattern 10t can change each time. In this embodiment, all of the decorative patterns 10 of "1" to "7" are set to be the target patterns 10t.

The preliminary effect is to show the player which decorative pattern 10 is set as the target pattern 10t. Specifically, the target pattern 10t set in a certain notification effect (effect from the start of the variation of the decorative pattern 10 to the stop with the combination indicating the result of the judgment result, that is, the effect for one variation) A pre-rendering is executed in order to show the player whether it is. In addition, in this embodiment, the (every fluctuation) preliminary effect does not occur in all the notification effects. Occurs during notification effects where unit effects (pseudo-continuous effects) may occur.

The preliminary effect in this embodiment is a effect of displaying a character in the display area 911 . Specifically, one of the characters A to G is displayed in the display area 911 (see FIG. 3(a)). As described above, the decorative pattern 10 in this embodiment includes any one of the characters A to G as the second element portion 12 . By displaying the character corresponding to the decorative pattern 10 set as the target pattern 10t, the player is informed that the decorative pattern 10 including the character is set as the target pattern 10t. For example, in the notification effect in which the target symbol 10t is the decorative symbol 10 of "3", an image of the character C (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a preliminary image 18) is displayed (see FIG. 3(a)). By doing so, the player who has seen the preliminary effect can feel that the character C is showing something. If the game is played continuously to a certain extent (if the player comes into contact with the pre-performance and the unit performance several times), the decoration pattern 10 including the character shown in the pre-performance is set as the pattern indicating the occurrence of the unit performance. It is possible to grasp It should be noted that the image of the character (preliminary image 18) displayed as the preliminary effect does not have to match the image of the character forming the decorative pattern 10 completely. It is sufficient if the player can grasp that the character displayed in the preliminary effect indicates the character included in any of the decorative symbols 10 .

The pre-rendering must occur before the specific combination is shown. The preliminary effect in this embodiment is started substantially simultaneously with the start of the notification effect. In other words, from the player's point of view, the flow is such that the decorative pattern 10 that becomes the target pattern 10t is shown immediately after the decorative pattern 10 that informs the result of the judgment of success or failure starts to fluctuate. Since the specific combination cannot be shown at the stage before the preliminary effect occurs, by showing the decorative pattern 10 that is the target pattern 10t at the beginning of the notification effect, the timing at which the specific combination can be shown (unit effect occurs It can be said that it is preferable to make it difficult for the player to predict the possible timing (because the specific combination is not shown before the pre-performance, the later the timing of the pre-performance is, the more specific it is). It becomes easier to predict the timing at which a combination can be shown, and the fun of the game decreases). However, this does not negate the fact that the preliminary effect is generated after a while from the start of the notification effect. It is sufficient that the preliminary effect is generated before the time when the specific combination can be shown.

After the pre-rendering, if a specific combination in which the target pattern 10t (decorative pattern 10 of "3") shown in the pre-rendering is the inner decorative pattern 10 is shown (see FIG. 3(b)), the decorative pattern A unit effect (pseudo-continuous effect) in which 10 changes again occurs (see FIG. 3(c)). Although not shown, if the target symbol 10t (decorative symbol 10 of "3") as the middle decorative symbol 10 does not stop in a simulated manner, no unit effect occurs.

When the decorative design 10 set as the target design 10t is fixed, the number of combination patterns of the decorative design 10 indicating that the unit performance (pseudo-continuous performance) is generated is reduced. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the type of the decorative pattern 10 set as the target pattern 10t can be changed each time, the combination of the decorative patterns 10 indicating that the unit effect (pseudo-continuous effect) occurs is varied. It is possible to make it rich in

Specific examples of improvements, modifications, developments, etc., of the matters related to the preliminary performance will be described below. In addition, it is good also as a structure which applied multiple items demonstrated by the specific example demonstrated below.

First Specific Example In the above embodiment, it was explained that the preliminary image 18 (character image) displayed as the preliminary effect is displayed on the same display device 91 (display area 911) as the decorative pattern 10. may be displayed on another display device. That is, a main display device 91a on which the decorative pattern 10 is displayed and a sub display device 91b separate from the main display device 91a are provided, and the preliminary effect is executed on the sub display device 91b.

Various devices can be considered as the secondary display device 91b. As an example, a display device (for example, a liquid crystal display device) capable of displaying a full-color image like the main display device 91a is provided as the sub display device 91b, and the preliminary image 18 is displayed on the sub display device 91b. (See FIG. 4(a)).

As a different example, it is conceivable to use a transmissive display device as the sub-display device 91b. Specifically, a transmissive display device 91b (a display device 91b capable of making a portion where no image is displayed transparent) is provided on the front side of the main display device 91a, and the transmissive display device 91b (See FIG. 4B. The transmissive display device 91b and the preliminary image 18 displayed thereon are indicated by dotted lines.).

In this way, by executing the pre-production on the display device 91b different from the main display device 91a, it is possible to execute the pre-production regardless of the image displayed on the main display device 91a. Therefore, it is easy to control the production. Also, for example, if the pre-image 18 (character image) is in a situation where it becomes an image that interferes with other effects, it is necessary not to execute the pre-effect (the occurrence frequency of the pre-effect is ), but it is possible to reduce the occurrence of this situation.

○Second Specific Example It has been explained that the pre-rendering in the above embodiment indicates the type of the decorative pattern 10 set as the target pattern 10t by the image of the character, but the pre-rendering mode is limited to this. is not. For example, it may be configured such that the "number" of the decorative pattern 10 set as the target pattern 10t is indicated.

The preliminary performance may be in a form in which the player can sense which decorative pattern 10 is set as the target pattern 10t, but the decorative pattern 10 itself set as the target pattern 10t is displayed. It is better not to use This is because there is a possibility that the image displayed as the preliminary effect may be mistaken for the decorative pattern 10 if the preliminary effect in which the decorative pattern 10 itself set as the target pattern 10t is displayed is used. Therefore, although the image displayed as the preliminary performance is not the target decorative pattern 10 itself, it is preferable that the image shows a connection to the extent that the player can feel that the target decorative pattern 10 is shown.

(Third Specific Example) After the preliminary performance, the decorative pattern 10 set as the target pattern 10t is made distinguishable from the other decorative patterns 10. - 特許庁For example, after the preliminary effect (see FIG. 5(a)), the brightness of the decorative pattern 10 set as the fluctuating target pattern 10t is increased (while the brightness of the other decorative patterns 10 is maintained) (see FIG. 5(b )), the target pattern 10t and other decorative patterns 10 can be easily distinguished. In this way, during the variation after the pre-rendering (before the specific combination is displayed), by setting the difference in the mode that the target pattern 10t and the other decorative patterns 10 can be distinguished, It is possible to make it easier to understand which decorative pattern 10 is set as the target pattern 10t.

In addition, if it is set as a specific combination that the decorative pattern 10 in the middle becomes the target pattern 10t as in the above embodiment, at least the target pattern 10t that is fluctuating as the group of decorative patterns 10 in the middle and the other , and it is not necessary to set the same difference between left and right decorative patterns 10 groups.

○Fourth Specific Example In the above embodiment, it was explained that in one notification effect (during one variation), only one of the plurality of decorative patterns 10 is set as the target pattern 10t. 2 or more of the plurality of kinds of decorative patterns 10 may be set as the target pattern 10t (see FIG. 6(b)).

In the case of the configuration as in this example, it is preferable that the greater the number of set target symbols 10t, the higher the probability that a specific combination will be constructed thereafter, that is, the probability that a unit effect will occur (see FIG. 6). . A large number of target patterns 10t gives a player the impression that a specific combination is likely to be established, and accordingly, the probability of constructing a specific combination is increased.

○Fifth Specific Example In the above embodiment, it was explained that a unit effect (pseudo-continuous effect) is generated by constructing a specific combination. , can be changed as appropriate as long as it is advantageous to the player. For example, application to a so-called look-ahead effect can be considered. The look-ahead effect is a notification effect (prior (Notification production) is used to suggest. When a specific combination is constructed in the previous notification effect, if the probability that the result of the determination of the target is a big hit is increased, the target pattern 10t included in the specific combination in the previous notification effect is pre-selected. As shown in the performance. In other words, the object pattern 10t for constructing a so-called "chance eye" is made to be changed each time, and which decorative pattern 10 the object pattern 10t is is indicated by a preliminary performance.

As another example, it is assumed that when a specific combination is constructed, an effect (chance-up effect) that makes one expect to win a big win is generated. In such a configuration, it is conceivable to indicate in a preliminary effect which decorative pattern 10 is the target pattern 10t for constructing a special combination.

2-2) Suggestion of reversal performance The decorative pattern 10 is configured to suggest the possibility of occurrence of a reversal performance. The reversal effect (also called resurrection effect, etc.) itself is known, so a detailed explanation is omitted, but once the result of the success/failure judgment is shown as a loss, the result of the success/failure judgment is actually a hit. It is a production of a form that shows something. In other words, it is an effect intended to improve the interest of the game by making the player disappointed once and then changing it into joy.

In this embodiment, there is a possibility that a reversal effect will occur after the ready-to-win effect (when it is notified that the result of the win/loss determination is lost without going through the ready-to-win effect, the reversal effect will not occur). The ready-to-win production is a production that occurs when a so-called "reach" (in this embodiment, two of the three decorative patterns 10 that inform the result of the judgment result are of the same type) is established. , and the outcome indicates the result of the judgment of success or failure. A success ending and a failure ending are set as the ending of the reach production (multiple types of each ending may be set). is controlled to be Any specific aspect of the ready-to-win effect may be used. As an example of the ready-to-win effect, an ally character (a character on the player side) and an enemy character fight, and the victory of the ally character is regarded as a successful outcome, and the defeat of the ally character (the enemy character wins) is regarded as an unsuccessful outcome. A set effect can be mentioned (see FIG. 7(a)).

In this embodiment, after the ready-to-win effect ends in failure (see FIG. 7(b)), an effect is executed that suggests the possibility of a reverse effect occurring. In short, the case where the specific image 20 is displayed in the display area 911 after the failure ending (see FIG. 7C-1) is better than the case where the specific image 20 is not displayed (see FIG. 7C). (c-2)), it is set so that the probability of occurrence of the reversal effect is higher. Therefore, it can be said that the display of the specific image 20 is a favorable event for the player.

The specific image 20 in this embodiment is an image in which the combination of the decorative patterns 10 is a specific mode. Since the image is shown when the ready-to-win effect ends in failure, the specific mode is a combination of decorative patterns 10 showing as if the win/loss determination result is a loss. The decorative pattern 10 is not completely stopped and is in a pseudo-stopped state until the ready-to-win performance ends in failure and the failure is confirmed (state in which the possibility of occurrence of the reverse performance remains). When the combination shown in the pseudo-stopped state is in the specific mode (see FIG. 7(c-1)), the reverse effect is more effective than when it is not in the specific mode (see FIG. 7(c-2)). It means that the probability of occurrence is high.

A specific mode is a combination including 10 s of specific designs. The specific pattern 10s is one of the plurality of types of decorative patterns 10. As shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the decorative pattern 10 of "7" is set as the specific pattern 10s (the other decorative patterns 10 are not the specific pattern 10s). Since the specific mode is a mode that may be displayed when the ready-to-win effect ends in failure, it is referred to as a "missing reach" mode. Specifically, in the present embodiment, it is set as "reach" that the left decorative pattern 10 and the right decorative pattern 10 are the same type of pattern. The mode in which the decorative pattern 10 is "7" is the specific mode. For example, when the reach by the decorative pattern 10 of "4" is established, the combination of "4 (left), 7 (middle), 4 (right)" is the specific mode (see FIG. 7 (c-1) ), and other combinations (for example, a combination of “4 (left), 5 (middle), 4 (right)”) are not specific modes (see FIG. 7(c-2)).

In other words, the specific mode in the present embodiment is that the specific pattern 10s, which is one type of the decorative pattern 10, is in relation to the other decorative patterns 10 (“left” and “right” decorative patterns 10) that constitute the specific mode. It can be said that it is a mode in which it is displayed at a specific position ("middle" between the "left" and "right" decorative patterns 10). Therefore, basically, whether or not the specific mode has been constructed can be determined by paying attention to the decorative design 10 displayed at the specific position, that is, the "medium" decorative design 10, and whether or not the specific mode has been constructed can be determined. Easy to understand.

The fact that the decorative pattern 10 of "7" is set as the specific pattern 10s means that the specific mode is not shown when the ready-to-win effect by the decorative pattern 10 of "7" ends in failure. is. This is because the decorative pattern 10 of "7" cannot be set to "7" as the reach-off of the decorative pattern 10 (there will be a three-piece set indicating a big win). However, this does not mean that the reversal effect does not occur when the ready-to-win effect by the decorative pattern 10 of "7" ends in failure. This means that there is no suggestion of the occurrence of a reverse effect due to the presence or absence of the specific mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the ready-to-win state is established by the decorative pattern 10 of "7", the probability of winning a big hit is higher than when the ready-to-win state is established by the other decorative patterns 10.例文帳に追加In this way, in order to ensure that the reach by the decorative pattern 10 of "7" is "chance up", the probability that the reach by the decorative pattern 10 of "7" will occur is the same as the reach by the other decorative patterns 10. Lower than probability. Therefore, the probability that the ready-to-win performance by the decorative pattern 10 of "7" will end in failure is lower than the probability that the ready-to-win performance by the other decorative patterns 10 will end in failure. Therefore, setting the decorative pattern 10 of "7" as the specific pattern 10s is more convenient than setting the other decorative patterns 10 as the specific pattern 10s. This is because if the other decorative pattern 10 is set to the specific pattern 10s, the frequency of occurrence of a situation in which the combination of the decorative patterns 10 after the failure ending cannot be the specific mode will increase.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the effect mode (whether or not the specific image 20 is displayed) after the ready-to-win effect ends in failure suggests the probability that the reverse effect will occur. It is possible to realize a game property that draws attention to the presentation mode after a failed ending. Especially in this embodiment, the combination of the decorative symbols 10 after the failure ending (whether or not it becomes a specific mode) suggests the probability that the reversal effect will occur. It becomes a novel playability that pays attention.

Specific examples of improvements, modifications, developments, etc., of the matters related to the suggestion of the reversal effect will be described below. In addition, it is good also as a structure which applied multiple items demonstrated by the specific example demonstrated below.

○ First Specific Example In the above embodiment, it was explained that the probability of occurrence of a reversal effect is higher when the specific image 20 is displayed than when it is not displayed. It may be configured such that when the image 20 is displayed, the occurrence of the reverse effect is determined.

Second Specific Example Although the specific image 20 in the above-described embodiment is an image in which the combination of the decorative patterns 10 is a specific mode, it may not be an image using the decorative patterns 10 . For example, when an image containing a predetermined character (the image is the specific image 20) is displayed after the ready-to-win effect ends in failure, the reverse effect is compared to when the image is not displayed. It is assumed that there is a high probability that However, if the specific image 20 is an image in which the combination of the decorative symbols 10 is in a specific mode as in the above embodiment, it is displayed after the ready-to-win effect ends in failure. Since the probability of occurrence of a reversal effect is suggested by the "combination of patterns that are out of reach", which is apt to occur, the game becomes more profound.

○Third Specific Example Although it has been explained that the specific mode in the above embodiment is a combination including the specific pattern 10s that is one of a plurality of types of decorative patterns 10, the combination is not based on the existence of the specific pattern 10s. may For example, the decorative pattern 10 that constitutes the reach ("left" and "right" decorative patterns 10 in the above embodiment) and other decorative patterns 10 ("middle" decorative pattern 10 in the above embodiment; In the description, the relationship between the decorative patterns 10) is a specified mode if it is a predetermined relationship, and it is a non-specified mode if it is a relationship other than that. For example, if "the number of the other decorative pattern 10 - the number of the decorative pattern 10 constituting the reach = 1", it is a specific mode (see Fig. 8 (a)), and "the number of the other decorative pattern 10 - the reach If the number of the decorative pattern 10 to be displayed is -1, it can be considered as a non-specific mode (see FIG. 8(b)). That is, when the decorative pattern 10 constituting the reach is "5", if the other decorative pattern 10 is "6", it will be a specific mode, and if the other decorative pattern 10 is "4", it will be a non-specific mode. relationship.

Also, it is conceivable that the order in which the decorative patterns 10 are arranged in order from the left (for example, "2", "3", and "4") is a specific mode, and the rest is a non-specific mode. However, since the reversal effect is generated only after the "reach loss", it is preferable that the combination of the decorative patterns 10 indicating the reach loss is natural. That is, if the reach is that the left decorative pattern 10 and the right decorative pattern 10 are of the same type, in the category of combinations in which the left decorative pattern 10 and the right decorative pattern 10 are of the same type, the specific mode (and non-specific mode) should be set.

2-3) Swinging of the decorative pattern 10 during the loss confirmation period (pseudo-loss confirmation period) As described above, when the ready-to-win effect ends in failure, there is a possibility that a reverse effect will occur. From the player's point of view, the reversal effect occurs during the period until it is determined that the result of the win/fail judgment is a loss, that is, until the decorative symbols 10 completely stop in a combination indicating a loss. Therefore, the player wishes for the reverse performance to occur until the decorative symbols 10 come to a complete stop in a combination indicating a failure. In the present embodiment, on the premise of such playability, the decorative pattern 10 after the ready-to-win effect ends in failure is as follows.

First, an example of the flow of the notification effect at the time of occurrence of the ready-to-win effect when the result of the win/loss determination is lost (when the reversal effect does not occur) will be described. From the start of the notification effect to the establishment of ready-to-win, the decorative pattern 10 is variably displayed in front of the background image 30 (the background image 30 is not shown in some drawings) in the display area 911. It is in a state (a state in which the decorative pattern 10 is displayed in front of the background image 30 in this way may also be referred to as a basic state) (see FIG. 9A). After that, the left decorative pattern 10 and the right decorative pattern 10 are of the same type, and a pseudo stop is established to establish a ready-to-win state (see FIG. 9(b)). After that, a ready-to-win effect is generated (see FIG. 9(c)). The mode from establishment of ready-to-win state to generation of ready-to-win effect may be of any kind, so the explanation is omitted. Then, after the ready-to-win effect ends in failure (see FIG. 9(d)), the combination of the decorative symbols 10 indicating "out of reach" (pseudo stop state) is displayed, and the decorative symbols 10 of the combination are displayed. It returns to the basic state in which the background image 30 is displayed behind (see FIG. 10(a)).

At the time of returning to the basic state, the decorative pattern 10 has not completely stopped. Specifically, the decorative pattern 10 is in a slightly swayed (swinged) state. In this embodiment, the decorative pattern 10 is in a state of being swayed up and down. Assuming that the period from the point of returning to the basic state to the complete stop of the decorative pattern 10 (the period from (a) to (b-1) in FIG. 10) is defined as the "loss confirmation period", the decorative pattern 10 is confirmed to be lost. It means that it is in a state of fluctuation in the period. It should be noted that the return to the basic state after the "out of reach" is to prepare for the next notification effect (next change). In other words, if the "missing" is confirmed without the reversal effect occurring (if there is a next hold), the next fluctuation is started in the standard state as it is (after FIG. 10 (b-1), next change is initiated).

In the present embodiment, the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 during the time period for which the winning is determined (when the reversal effect is not generated) is not constant. In other words, the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 during the loss determination period when a certain kind of ready-to-win performance ends in failure can change each time. Here, the number of times of swing means the number of times that one reciprocation of the decorative pattern 10 swinging up and down is taken as one time (see FIG. 11). In addition, the "number of times" referred to here indicates the number after the decimal point (it is not necessarily a natural number). For example, it is assumed that the number of oscillations is 2.5 times when the decorative pattern 10 is displaced by "two and a half reciprocations". Also, for example, the number of swings of 2.5 exceeds the number of swings of 2 (the number of swings of 2 is less than the number of swings of 2.5).

As described above, the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 is not constant during the period of determination of loss, so the number of swings that can be selected (the number of swings of the "selection candidate") is set to two or more. For example, it is assumed that at least the number of swings N1=3 (times) and the number of swings N2=4 (times) are set as selection candidates.

When the reversal effect occurs (that is, when it becomes a big hit), the period during which the decorative pattern 10 swings from the time when it returns to the standard state to the time when the reversal effect starts (Fig. 10 (a) to (b-2 ) is defined as the “pseudo failure confirmation period”. In the present embodiment, the number of times of rocking M=3.5 (times) is set as the number of times of rocking that may be selected as the number of times of rocking during the pseudo-disconnection confirmation period. In other words, a relationship of N1<M<N2 is established between N1 and N2 described above. It should be noted that other number of oscillations that can be selected as the number of oscillations during the pseudo-displacement determination period may be set.

Due to such a configuration, the following game features are realized from the player's point of view. When the ready-to-win production ends in failure, there is still a possibility that a reversal production will occur and a big win will occur. Since there is a case where the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 is set to N1=3 (times) as the loss confirmation period, when the decorative pattern 10 swings three times (at the point of time indicated by P1 in FIG. 12), it is lost. may be determined. A player who is in contact with the loss determination period in which the number of swings N1=3 (times) is selected may think that the number of swings of the decorative symbol 10 is three times until the loss is confirmed. In this case, when the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 exceeds 3 times when the ready-to-win performance ends in failure (when the decorative pattern 10 completely stops at 3 times and the deviation is not confirmed). I expect that a reversal production will occur. Actually, when the number of swings reaches 3.5 (point P2 in FIG. 12), the reversal effect may occur. At the time of reaching the 4th time (the time indicated by P3 in FIG. 12), the decorative pattern 10 may stop completely and the misalignment may be confirmed.

Assuming that the number of swings in the time period for determining the loss is fixed to three times, the present embodiment will have a simple configuration in which the occurrence of the reversal effect is confirmed when the number of swings exceeds three times. Then, even when the number of swings exceeds 3 (because there may be a case where the number of swings N2=4 (times) during the loss determination period), the occurrence of the reversal effect is not confirmed. Interesting playability can be realized.

Specific examples of improvement, modification, development, etc. of the swinging of the decorative pattern 10 during the above-mentioned loss determination period (pseudo-loss determination period) will be described below. In addition, it is good also as a structure which applied multiple items demonstrated by the specific example demonstrated below.

○ First specific example The probability that the number of oscillations during the detachment confirmation period is less than the number of oscillations during the pseudo detachment confirmation period is selected, and the probability that the oscillation number that is greater than the oscillation number during the pseudo detachment confirmation period is selected. Set higher than In accordance with the above embodiment, the probability that the number of times of rocking N1=3 (times) (less than the number of times of rocking M=3.5 (times) in the pseudo-disconnection determination period) is selected is the number of times of rocking N2. = 4 (times) (more than the number of oscillations M = 3.5 (times) in the pseudo-disconnection determination period) is set with a high probability of being selected.

By doing so, the player will be in contact more often during the loss confirmation period when the number of times of swinging is 3 (times). In other words, although the number of swings until the deviation is confirmed is basically three times, if the number exceeds three times, the occurrence of the reversal effect is not confirmed, but it is possible to realize a game property that is expected to occur. It is possible.

○Second specific example Assume that a plurality of types of ready-to-win effects are executable. Here, the same kind of ready-to-win effect does not require that the mode of effect is completely the same. It is permissible for the mode of presentation to differ depending on the presence or absence of a so-called chance-up. In other words, as a result of the fact that most of the aspects of the production are common, the ones that the player feels are the same kind of production are equivalent to the same kind of ready-to-win production even if some of the aspects are different. shall be For example, it is assumed that at least two kinds of the first ready-to-win effect and the second ready-to-win effect are executable. Then, the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 during the loss determination period when the first ready-to-win performance results in failure, and the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 during the loss determination period when the second ready-to-win performance results in failure. are made different, the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 during the loss determination period of each of the first ready-to-win effect and the second ready-to-win effect is assumed to be the same. In other words, the number of times of swinging of the decorative symbol 10 during the loss determination period may be different if the type of ready-to-win effect is different, but is constant for the same type of ready-to-win effect.

Even with such a configuration, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be expected. This is because it is presumed that the player does not think that the number of swings is set differently depending on the type of ready-to-win effect. For example, when the first ready-to-win effect results in failure, the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 during the loss confirmation period is N1=3, and when the second ready-to-win effect results in a failure, the decorative symbols in the loss confirmation period. 10 swinging number N2=4 times, and if the number of swinging times M=3.5 (times) of the decorative pattern 10 during the pseudo-losing determination period, it is in contact with the losing determination period of the first ready-to-win effect. The player may think that the number of swinging of the decorative pattern 10 is 3, and the number of swinging of the decorative pattern 10 is 3 when the second ready-to-win performance ends in failure or when the reverse performance occurs. It is conceivable to expect that a reversal effect will occur when it exceeds.

Further, with the configuration as in this example, it is possible to set a different number of times of swinging according to the type of ready-to-win effect. It becomes easy to make the length to be constant for each type of ready-to-win effect. That is, it becomes easy to control the effect according to the total time required for the notification effect (so-called variable time).

Third Specific Example As in the above-described embodiment, when there is a possibility that the number of swings N1 and the number of swings N2 are set as the number of swings of the decorative pattern 10 during the period of confirmation of the failure, the number of times of swing N1 and the number of times N2 of the swing are set. As the number of swings, the number of swings M1 (corresponding to the number of swings M in the above embodiment) and the number of swings M2 may be set. It should be noted that the magnitude relationship between N1, N2, M1, and M2 is N1<M1<N2<M2.

For example, N1=3 (times), N2=4 (times), M1=3.5 (times), and M2=4.5 (times) (see FIG. 13). In this way, first, there is a possibility that the deviation will be confirmed when the decorative pattern 10 is swung three times (at the point of time P1 in FIG. 13) after the failure of the ready-to-win effect. After that, if the number of swings exceeds 3, it can be expected that the reversal effect will occur at the number of swings of 3.5 (point P2 in FIG. 13). Then, even when the reversing effect does not occur at the number of swings of 3.5, if the shift is not fixed at the number of swings of 4 (at the point of time indicated by P3 in FIG. 13), the number of swings of 4.5. It can be expected that the reversal effect will occur at the fifth time (at the point of time indicated by P4 in FIG. 13).

In this way, the number of candidates (N1, N2, . By arranging the number of candidates (M1, M2, etc.) that can be set alternately (arranging N1, M1, N2, M2, . . . in ascending order), reach effect It is possible to realize an amusing game property in which a ``situation in which there is a possibility of a failure being determined'' and a ``situation in which a reversal performance may occur'' alternately occur after the failure of .

Fourth Concrete Example Although it has been described that the direction of swinging (swinging) of the decorative pattern 10 in the above embodiment is "up and down", the direction is not limited to up and down. It may be configured to sway "right and left". Swinging (swaying) means that the decorative pattern 10 repeats the same motion once or more times, and the configuration may be the same as that of the above-described embodiment, with one motion corresponding to one swinging motion.

2-4) Operation Effect Using Special Symbols The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment can execute an operation effect. The operation effect is a effect that prompts the player to operate the operation means 80 . The operating means 80 in this embodiment is a push button (see FIG. 1). However, the operating means 80 may be of any type as long as it can be operated by the player. In the operation presentation, the operation image 40 is displayed in the display area 911 so that the player can grasp the situation in which the operation means 80 should be operated. The operation image 40 is an image representing the operation means 80 (push buttons in this embodiment). Any specific aspect of the operation image 40 may be used as long as the player can understand that the operation means 80 is pointed. An image simulating the operation means 80 may be used, or an image represented by characters such as "button" may be used.

In this embodiment, it is possible to execute an operation effect using a special symbol. The effect will be described in detail below. The special design is a design different from the decorative design 10 that notifies the success/failure determination result. In other words, the special symbol does not notify the success/failure determination result. Any specific mode of the special symbol may be used, except for the points specifically described below. The special symbol in the present embodiment is a symbol having a substantially "round" shape as a whole.

The special symbol includes a portion suggesting the operating means 80 (hereinafter referred to as an operation suggesting portion 51). The special symbol in the present embodiment is as if the operation image 40 or something similar to the operation image 40 is wrapped inside the main part of the special symbol (the part exhibiting the above-mentioned approximately "round" shape). (see FIG. 14(b), etc.). The “operation image 40 or a form similar to the operation image 40 ” is the operation suggesting portion 51 . Therefore, the player who sees the special symbol has the impression that the special symbol is related to the operation means 80 in some way.

In this embodiment, the special symbols are used for pseudo-continuous effects. Specifically, after the decorative pattern 10 is pseudo-stopped on the left and the decorative pattern 10 on the right (of a different type from the decorative pattern 10 pseudo-stopped on the left) is pseudo-stopped (see FIG. 14(a)), There is a "flaring" that the special symbol may stop in a pseudo manner (see FIG. 14(b)). Specifically, the special pattern is variably displayed together with the group of 10 decorative patterns in the middle, and there is a feeling that the pattern selected from the group of patterns in the middle will become the special pattern. After that, when the selected pattern becomes a special pattern (when the special pattern stays at the position where the "medium" pattern is displayed) (see FIG. 14(c)), the unit effect (pseudo continuous effect) (Fig. 15(a)) occurs. In other words, in the present embodiment, the occurrence of the pseudo-continuous effect is indicated by the pseudo-stopped pattern becoming a special symbol between the pseudo-stopped decorative pattern 10 on the left and the pseudo-stopped decorative pattern 10 on the right. used as It should be noted that if the special symbols do not stop pseudo-stop after the above-mentioned "fighting", the unit performance (pseudo-continuous performance), which is an event advantageous to the player, does not occur, and the operation performance at the time of re-variation described later does not occur. does not occur. Although not shown, in the present embodiment, it is determined that the result of the hit/fail determination is a miss.

When the special symbol stays at the position where the "medium" symbol is displayed and re-fluctuation occurs, the special symbol changes to the operation image 40 and the operation effect is executed (see FIG. 15(a)). In this embodiment, along with the operation image 40 in which the special symbol changes, an image of the meter (meter image 41) indicating the operation effective time during which the operation of the operation means 80 is reflected in the effect, and the requested operation of the operation means 80 are displayed. An instruction image 42 showing an operation mode (a variety of operation modes can be exemplified, such as a single operation that is operated only once, a continuous operation that is operated continuously (repeat), and a maintenance operation that maintains the operated state (long press)). is displayed. A player who sees this can understand that the operating means 80 should be operated. The specific mode of the operation production may be any one, but the result of the production suggests the probability that the success/failure determination result will result in a big win (jackpot reliability) (see FIG. 15(b)). ).

As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to execute a novel flow of production in which the special symbol indicates the occurrence of the unit production (pseudo-continuous production) and then shifts to the operation production. From the point of view of the player, after the happy event of the occurrence of the unit performance (pseudo-continuous performance) occurs, the operation performance suggests the reliability of the big win, so the special symbol may not stay at the predetermined position. It will bring heavy profits.

In addition, a special pattern is displayed between the left decorative pattern 10 and the right decorative pattern 10 (the special pattern is displayed at the position where the "middle" decorative pattern 10 would normally be displayed), and the special pattern is displayed. changes to the operation image 40 . That is, the special symbol and the operation image 40 formed by changing the special symbol are displayed in the center of the display area 911 . Since the operation rendering must clearly show to the player that the operation of the operation means 80 is being prompted, it is preferable that the operation image 40 is displayed in the center of the display area 911 . I can say. In this embodiment, as a result of the special symbol staying on the center side of the display area 911, the special symbol changes to the operation image 40 and the operation effect is started. It is possible to start the operation production in a natural flow without any delay.

Moreover, the special symbol includes an operation suggesting portion 51 that is a portion that suggests the operation image 40 . Therefore, the player can perceive (predict the progress of the game) that the operation presentation will be executed from the stage when the special symbol is displayed (the stage before the re-variation). As a result, if the player anticipates the occurrence of the operation performance, it is possible to prevent the player from failing to operate the operation means 80 even if the operation effective time in the operation performance is short.

Specific examples of improving, transforming, developing, etc. the matters related to the operation presentation using the special symbols will be described below. In addition, it is good also as a structure which applied multiple items demonstrated by the specific example demonstrated below.

○First specific example In the above embodiment, it was explained that the occurrence of a pseudo-continuous effect (unit effect) is indicated by the special symbols, but the occurrence of which is indicated by the special symbols is not limited to the pseudo-continuous effect. . Any event that is advantageous to the player (event that increases the reliability of the big win, etc.) may be used. By doing so, after the occurrence of an event advantageous to the player is indicated by the special symbol, the effect flow is such that the reliability of the big win is suggested by the operation effect.

○Second specific example As the mode of the special design, it is configured to have a plurality of modes. Then, depending on the mode of the special symbol, it is assumed that the special symbol stays at a predetermined position (the "middle" position in the above embodiment) and the probability that a pseudo-continuous effect (unit effect) will occur is suggested. With the configuration as in the present example, the mode of the special symbol suggests not only the probability of the pseudo-continuous effect occurring, but also the probability of the operation effect occurring.

○Third Specific Example As the mode of the operation suggesting portion 51 included in the special symbol, a configuration is adopted in which a plurality of modes are set. For example, it is assumed that a first mode 511 (see FIG. 16(a-1)) and a second mode 512 (see FIG. 16(b-1)) are set as the operation suggesting portion 51 (hereinafter referred to as the first mode 511 The special symbol including the operation suggesting portion 51 of the second mode 512 is referred to as the first special symbol 501, and the special symbol including the operation suggesting portion 51 of the second mode 512 is referred to as the second special symbol 502). Then, when the occurrence of the unit effect is indicated by the first special symbol 501, an operation effect in which the first operation image 401 is displayed (hereinafter referred to as the first operation effect) is generated (Fig. 16 (a-2) )) On the other hand, when the occurrence of the unit effect is indicated by the second special symbol 502, an operation effect (hereinafter referred to as a second operation effect) in which the second operation image 402 is displayed occurs (see FIG. 16 ( See b-2)). The difference between the first operation image 401 and the second operation image 402 may be any. For example, the first operation image 401 and the second operation image 402 are common in that both are images representing the operation tool 80 itself, but the second operation image 402 is larger than the first operation image 401. can be considered. Further, the operation suggestion portion 51 of the first aspect 511 indicates the first operation image 401 , and the operation suggestion portion 51 of the second aspect 512 indicates the second operation image 402 . On the premise of this, it is assumed that the second operation effect is more preferable to the player than the first operation effect. For example, it is set that the reliability of the big win is higher when the second operation effect is generated than when the first operation effect is generated (see FIGS. 16(a-2) and (b-2)).

By doing so, it is possible to realize a game property that can be said to be a more favorable situation for the player when the second special symbol 502 is displayed than when the first special symbol 501 is displayed. In other words, if the second special symbol 502 stays at a predetermined position, the second operation effect (which has a high degree of reliability for the big hit compared to the first operation effect) is generated, so the second special symbol 502 is used for the unit effect. Indicating the occurrence of the game realizes a game with a higher value for the player than indicating the occurrence of the unit effect by the first special symbol 501. - 特許庁Therefore, when the special symbol is displayed, the player also pays attention to the aspect of the operation suggesting portion 51 included in the special symbol.

○Fourth Concrete Example When a special symbol stays at a predetermined position and a unit effect occurs, whether or not a further unit effect will occur is also indicated by whether the special symbol stays at a predetermined position. In short, when the special symbol indicates that the number of pseudo-runs is 2 (so-called "pseudo 2") (see FIG. 17(a)), the number of pseudo-runs is 3 (so-called "pseudo-2"). Pseudo 3") is indicated by special symbols (see FIGS. 17(d) and 18(a)). That is, when the occurrence of the unit effect is indicated by the special symbol, whether or not the unit effect further occurs (whether or not the pseudo-continuation continues) is indicated by whether the special symbol stays at a predetermined position or not. shall not be indicated by

With such a configuration, it is possible to provide an easy-to-understand effect in which an operation effect is generated each time a unit effect is generated (each time the number of pseudo-runs increases). In other words, it is possible to provide an easy-to-understand effect in which the number of occurrences of the operation effect in the series of notification effects and the number of times of the pseudo-continuation are linked.

○ Fifth specific example (example developed from the fourth specific example)
With the configuration as in the fourth specific example, every time the special symbol stays at a predetermined position (each time a unit effect occurs), an operation effect is generated. That is, (during one notification effect), there are cases where the operation effect (see FIG. 17(c) and FIG. 18(c)) occurs a plurality of times triggered by the special symbol. In this way, when a plurality of operation effects triggered by a special symbol occur, the result of a certain operation effect (previous operation effect) (see FIG. 17C) It is assumed that the result of the performance (see FIG. 18(c)) indicates more advantageous contents for the player. For example, it is assumed that a plurality of results with different degrees of reliability for big wins are set stepwise as the result of the operation presentation. As an example, the first result (white), the second result (blue), the third result (green), and the fourth result (red) are set, and the jackpot reliability increases in this order (fourth is the highest).

Based on this assumption, it is assumed that the result of the later operation effect is the result of "more" than the result of the previous operation effect. For example, when the second result (blue) (see FIG. 17(c)) occurs in the previous operation effect, the second result (blue) and the third result (green) are generated as the subsequent operation effect. , the fourth result (red) occurs (the first result (white) does not occur) (see FIG. 18(c)). By doing so, it is possible to realize the playability expected from the gradual step-up of the operation effect that occurs each time the unit effect is generated.

It should be noted that the result of the later operation effect may be set to "exceed" the result of the previous operation effect (that is, "step up" always occurs). For example, if the second result (blue) occurs in the previous operation effect, either the third result (green) or the fourth result (red) will occur as the subsequent operation effect. (Not only the first result (white), but also the same result as the previous operation effect (second result (blue)) should not occur).

2-5) Display of Valid Symbols 10a and Non-Valid Symbols 10b The game machine 1 according to the present embodiment is set with a "multiple valid lines mode" as a mode (style) of presentation. In this mode, a plurality of lines are set as "effective lines" of the decorative pattern 10. FIG. Since the concept of the effective line itself is well known, a detailed description will be omitted, but the combination of the decorative patterns 10 arranged along the line is effective for informing the result of the winning/failing determination. In other words, when the win/loss determination result is a big hit, three decorative patterns 10 of the same kind are arranged along one of the plurality of lines. In addition, in this embodiment, when shifting to the "multiple effective line mode", the decorative pattern 10 dedicated to the mode is displayed. However, this is only an example, and the concept of the decorative pattern 10 dedicated to the mode may not exist. Further, in the following description, the decorative design 10 positioned on the effective line may be referred to as "effective design 10a", and the decorative design 10 not positioned on the effective line may be referred to as "ineffective design 10b".

Various methods of setting the effective line are conceivable. In the present embodiment, a line set in the center of the display area 911 in the vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as center line Lc), a line set above (hereinafter referred to as upper line Lu), and a line set below There are three lines (hereinafter referred to as lower lines Ll). However, the "central line Lc" and the "upper line Lu and lower line Ll" are not valid lines at the same time. When the center line Lc is a valid line, the upper line Lu and the lower line Ll are not valid lines. If the upper line Lu and the lower line Ll are valid lines, the center line Lc will not be an valid line. The reason is as follows.

The fluctuating decorative pattern 10 moves frame by frame. On the other hand, the decorative patterns 10 (adjacent decorative patterns 10) in the group of decorative patterns 10 arranged in the fluctuating direction are separated by two frames. A so-called blank design may exist between a certain decorative design 10 and the adjacent decorative design 10 (decorative design 10, blank design, decorative design 10, blank design, etc., one frame at a time). may be arranged side by side). It is assumed that the central line Lc and the upper line Lu, and the central line Lc and the lower line Ll are separated by one frame. When one decorative pattern 10 in any group of decorative patterns 10 becomes an effective pattern 10a positioned on the central line Lc, the decorative patterns 10 adjacent above and below the effective pattern 10a are separated by two frames, so the The vertically adjacent decorative designs 10 are not effective designs 10a located on the upper line Lu or the lower line Ll. That is, the vertically adjacent decorative symbols 10 are ineffective symbols 10b. This means that a reach can be established only on the central line Lc (a one-line reach can be established) (see FIG. 19(a)).

On the other hand, when two decorative patterns 10 in any group of decorative patterns 10 are effective patterns 10a located on the upper line Lu and the lower line Ll, the two decorative patterns 10 are separated by two frames. Therefore, there is no valid symbol 10a positioned on the central line Lc. A reach can be established on the upper line Lu and the lower line Ll (a two-line reach can be established) (see FIG. 19B). Note that effective lines (diagonal effective lines) extending from the upper left to the lower right and from the lower left to the upper right may be set. That is, the number of active lines can be increased or decreased as appropriate.

Here, when one decorative design 10 in any of the decorative design 10 groups becomes an effective design 10a positioned on the central line Lc, and the decorative design 10 adjacent above and below the effective design 10a is an ineffective design 10b. , in which at least a portion of the invalid symbols 10b is displayed in the display area 911 (as shown in FIG. 19A). Since it is not preferable for the player to mistake the invalid symbols 10b for the valid symbols 10a, the display mode of the decorative symbols 10 is controlled as follows in the present embodiment.

While the decorative symbols 10 are changing (meaning the state in which the decorative symbols 10 are neither stopped nor pseudo-stopped), it is decided which of the decorative symbols 10 will be the effective symbol 10a or the ineffective symbol 10b. There is no difference in the display mode depending on the pattern. In this embodiment, when the variation of the decorative pattern 10 is stopped (that is, when the decorative pattern 10 stops or pseudo-stops. Hereinafter, this may be referred to as the fluctuation stop time), the fluctuation speed becomes smaller. However, in a state where the fluctuation speed is small, any decorative pattern 10 is clearly displayed (see FIG. 20(a)).

After that, when the fluctuation stop point is reached, not only the valid symbols 10a but also the invalid symbols 10b are displayed in the display area 911, the valid symbols 10a are displayed more clearly than the invalid symbols 10b. be. In this embodiment, the non-valid symbols 10b are translucent, so that the valid symbols 10a are clearer to the player than the non-valid symbols 10b. Specifically, the non-effective pattern 10b is in a state in which the background image 30 can be seen through the non-effective pattern 10b (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a translucent state), while the effective pattern 10a is in the The background image 30 cannot be seen through the effective pattern 10a (hereinafter, also referred to as an opaque state) (see FIG. 20(b)).

In terms of the passage of time straddling the fluctuation stop time, the stage before the fluctuation stop time (still in a state where the valid symbols 10a and the ineffective symbols 10b cannot be distinguished, and the player clearly recognizes the decorative symbols 10) In the state where the fluctuation speed is as small as possible), all the decorative patterns 10 are in an opaque state (see FIG. 20(a)). Then, when the variation stops (when the effective patterns 10a and the non-effective patterns 10b can be distinguished), the decorative patterns 10, which become the effective patterns 10a, are maintained in an opaque state, but the non-effective patterns. The decorative pattern 10 that becomes 10b changes to a translucent state (see FIG. 20(b)). In other words, the opaque state of the decorative pattern 10 that becomes the effective pattern 10a is maintained before and after the fluctuation stop point, that is, the degree of clarity is maintained, but the decorative pattern 10 that becomes the ineffective pattern 10b is in the opaque state. to a translucent state, i.e. the degree of clarity decreases.

As described above, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the valid symbols 10a are displayed more clearly than the non-valid symbols 10b, so that the valid symbols 10a and the invalid symbols 10b can be easily distinguished.

Also, before and after reaching the fluctuation stop point, although the opaque state of the decorative pattern 10 that becomes the effective pattern 10a is maintained, the decorative pattern 10 that becomes the non-effective pattern 10b changes from the opaque state to the translucent state. , the change (decrease in the degree of clarity) of the non-valid symbols 10b is emphasized, making it easier to distinguish between the valid symbols 10a and the non-valid symbols 10b.

In addition, since the difference in clarity between the effective patterns 10a and the non-effective patterns 10b is expressed by whether or not the background image 30 can be seen through, the difference between the effective patterns 10a and the non-effective patterns 10b is emphasized. , it becomes easier to distinguish between the valid symbols 10a and the non-valid symbols 10b.

Hereinafter, specific examples in which the matters related to the display of the valid symbols 10a and the invalid symbols 10b are improved, modified, developed, etc. will be described. In addition, it is good also as a structure which applied multiple items demonstrated by the specific example demonstrated below.

First Concrete Example In the above-described embodiment, a configuration in which a plurality of effective lines may be set has been described, but a configuration in which only one effective line is always set is also possible. In the above embodiment, the decorative pattern 10 positioned on the one effective line is the effective pattern 10a, and the decorative pattern 10 not positioned on the effective line but at least partially displayed in the display area 911 is the non-effective pattern 10b. display control similar to .

However, in the configuration in which a plurality of activated lines are set, it is difficult to distinguish between the activated symbols 10a and the inactivated symbols 10b as compared to the configuration in which only one activated line is always set. In other words, for a configuration in which a plurality of effective lines are set, it is particularly meaningful to perform display control of the decorative pattern 10 as in the above-described embodiment.

○Second Specific Example In the above embodiment, it was explained that the "difference in the degree of clarity" between the valid symbols 10a and the invalid symbols 10b is set depending on whether or not the background image 30 can be seen through. , this is just an example. It is sufficient that the effective symbols 10a are displayed in a manner that is "easier to see" for the player than the non-effective symbols 10b. Examples of such display modes are as follows.

- It is assumed that the effective symbol 10a has a higher brightness than the non-effective symbol 10b. From the opposite point of view, the non-valid pattern 10b is darkened to be inconspicuous.
- It is assumed that the valid symbol 10a is larger in size than the non-valid symbol 10b. From the opposite point of view, the non-effective pattern 10b is made small and inconspicuous.
・When the decorative pattern 10 includes the first element portion 11 and the second element portion 12, the valid pattern 10a includes both the first element portion 11 and the second element portion 12, but the ineffective pattern 10b is either shall not include the other. For example, if each decorative pattern 10 consists of "numbers" and "characters" as in the present embodiment, the effective patterns 10a include both "numbers" and "characters", while the non-effective patterns 10b shall contain only "numbers" on one side.
- An image that emphasizes the relevant symbol is added (attached) to the valid symbol 10a, but such an image is not added to the invalid symbol 10b.

○Third specific example In a configuration where multiple effective lines are set, there is a possibility that a certain effective line (first effective line L1) will result in a big win (three sets of the same type of pattern). When there is no such possibility on the other effective line (second effective line L2), the decorative pattern 10 on the first effective line L1 is set to the effective pattern 10a, while the decoration on the second effective line L2 is used. The symbol 10 is displayed as an inactive symbol 10b (although it is on the active line).

For example, at the time when the left decorative pattern 10 group and the right decorative pattern 10 group stop changing, the reach is established on the first effective line L1 (there is a possibility of a big win), but the second effective line It is assumed that reach has not been established (offset has been established) on line L2. In this case, the decorative design 10 positioned on the first effective line L1 is displayed as the effective design 10a, and the decorative design 10 positioned on the second effective line L2 is displayed as the ineffective design 10b (see FIG. 21). That is, the former shall be displayed more clearly than the latter. In this way, the same control as in the above-described embodiment may be performed with valid symbols 10a that still have the possibility of becoming a combination indicating a big win and non-valid symbols 10b.

Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is by no means limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the present invention.

3) Specific means (gaming machines) obtained from the above embodiment are listed below.

・ Means 1-1
A gaming machine in which occurrence of a specific effect in which a combination of symbols selected and displayed from among a plurality of types of decorative symbols is a specific combination is set as an event advantageous to a player, wherein the specific combination is performed each time. It includes target patterns that can change, and prior to the generation of the specific performance, a preliminary performance is generated which suggests which of the plurality of types of decorative patterns is to be set as the target design. characterized by
According to the gaming machine, since the type of decorative pattern set as the target pattern can be changed each time, it is possible to provide a variety of patterns indicating the occurrence of an event advantageous to the player. It is possible.

・ Means 1-2
The gaming machine according to means 1-1, characterized in that the preliminary effect is started substantially simultaneously with the start of the effect for notifying the success/failure determination result.
By doing so, it becomes difficult to predict the timing at which the specific combination is shown.

・ Means 1-3
The gaming machine according to means 1-1 or 1-2, wherein the display positions of the target symbols included in the specific combination in relation to the other decorative symbols are fixed.
By doing so, it is easy to understand whether or not the specific combination has been established.

・ Means 1-4
Means 1-1, wherein the decorative pattern includes a portion representing a character, and the preliminary effect is a display of the character included in the decorative pattern set as the target pattern. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1-3.
By doing so, it is easy to understand which decorative pattern is set as the target pattern.

・ Means 1-5
Means 1-1 to Means characterized by comprising a main display device on which the decorative pattern is displayed, and a sub-display device, which is a separate display device from the main display device and on which the preliminary effect is executed. The gaming machine according to any one of 1-4.
By doing so, it is possible to indicate which decorative pattern is set as the target pattern on the sub display device regardless of the main display device. In other words, it is easy to control the performance.

・ Means 1-6
The sub-display device according to means 1-5, wherein the sub-display device is provided in front of the main display device and is a transmissive display device capable of making a portion where no image is displayed transparent. game machine.
As the sub-display device, the transmissive display device as described above can be exemplified.

・ Means 2-1
A ready-to-win effect execution means for executing a ready-to-win effect showing a success/failure determination result according to a mode of ending, and executing a ready-to-win effect that results in a successful outcome when the result of success/failure determination is a win, and an end of the ready-to-win effect is not the successful ending a reversal performance execution means for executing a reversal performance showing that the result of the success/failure determination is actually a win after making the result of the success/failure determination look like a loss due to a failure ending, and the ready-to-win performance. A gaming machine characterized in that, when a specific image is displayed on a display device after the failure ending, the probability of occurrence of the reversal effect is higher than when the specific image is not displayed. .
By doing so, the player will pay attention even after the ready-to-win effect ends in failure, so it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

・ Means 2-2
The gaming machine according to means 2-1, wherein when the specific image is displayed, the occurrence of the reverse effect is confirmed.
In this way, the display of the specific image may be set to be determined as winning.

・ Means 2-3
The gaming machine according to means 2-1 or 2-2, wherein the specific image is an image in which a combination of decorative symbols showing a win/loss judgment result is a specific mode.
By doing so, it is possible to realize a game property that draws attention to the combination of decorative symbols when the ready-to-win effect ends in failure.

・ Means 2-4
According to means 2-3, the specific mode is a mode in which a specific pattern, which is one of the decorative patterns, is displayed at a specific position in relation to other decorative patterns that constitute the specific mode. game machine.
As an example of the specific mode, a mode in which a specific pattern, which is a type of decorative pattern, is displayed at a predetermined position can be exemplified.

・ Means 3-1
A display device that displays a decorative pattern that notifies the success/failure judgment result according to the combination when the vehicle is completely stopped, and an effect that shows the success/failure judgment result according to the mode of the ending, and if the success/failure judgment result is a success, it is a successful ending. and a ready-to-win effect executing means for executing a ready-to-win effect, and a combination indicating that the success/failure judgment result is a failure when the end of the ready-to-win effect is not the successful ending but the failure ending. Loss confirmation period setting means for setting a loss confirmation period until it is confirmed that the decorative pattern is completely stopped after the pseudo-stop, the decorative pattern is completely stopped, and the decision result is a loss; It is a production that can occur during a pseudo-losing determination period in which the decorative pattern is shaken in order to make it look as if the winning determination period is set when the end of the ready-to-win performance becomes the failure ending, and in fact, and a reversal performance executing means for executing a reversal performance indicating that the result of winning/failure determination is a hit, and the number of swings of the decorative pattern during the period for determining the winning can be changed.
By doing so, it is not possible to know until the end (until the decorative symbols are completely stopped) whether or not the reversal effect will occur, thus enhancing the interest of the game.

・ Means 3-2
The number of times of swinging N1 and the number of times of swinging N2 are set as the number of times of swinging of the decorative pattern during the period of confirming the loss, and the number of times of swinging of the decorative pattern during the period of confirming the failure is set. The game machine according to means 3-1, characterized in that the number of times M of swinging is set as a value. However, N1, N2 and M satisfy the relationship "N1<M<N2".
By doing so, when the number of swings N1 is exceeded, the game mode is such that the reversal effect may or may not occur (only the number of swings N2 is selected). , the amusement of the game is increased when the ready-to-win effect ends in failure.

・ Means 3-3
The gaming machine according to means 3-2, characterized in that a probability that the number of swings N1 is selected as the number of swings of the decorative symbol during the loss determination period is higher than a probability that the number of swings N2 is selected. .
By doing so, it is possible to realize the game property that when the number of swings exceeds N1, the occurrence of the reversal performance can be expected, but the occurrence of the reversal performance is not certain.

・ Means 4-1
The symbols displayed in the display area of the display device are a plurality of kinds of decorative symbols for informing the player of the result of winning/failure determination, and the symbols different from the decorative symbols cause an event advantageous to the player. A symbol control means for controlling a special symbol indicating that a player can operate the operation means, and an operation image is displayed to execute an operation effect for prompting the player to operate the operation means. means, wherein after the special symbol indicates that an event advantageous to the player will occur, the special symbol changes to the operation image and the operation performance is executed. machine.
By doing so, it is possible to realize an interesting game flow in which a special symbol effect (a effect indicating that an advantageous event occurs) shifts to an operation effect.

・ Means 4-2
When the special symbol remains at a predetermined position, an event advantageous to the player occurs, and when the special symbol does not stay at the predetermined position, no event advantageous to the player occurs, and The game machine according to means 4-1, wherein the operation effect is not executed.
By doing so, it is possible to realize an easy-to-understand game property in which the occurrence of an advantageous event and the occurrence of an operation presentation are branched depending on whether or not the special symbol stays at a predetermined position.

・ Means 4-3
After the special pattern is displayed at the predetermined position between the two decorative patterns displayed on one side and the other side of the display area, the special pattern changes to the operation image to perform the operation effect. The gaming machine according to means 4-2, characterized in that is executed.
By doing so, since the operation image is displayed in the center of the display area, it is easy to understand that the operation effect has occurred (that the operation of the operation means is prompted).

・ Means 4-4
The gaming machine according to any one of means 4-1 to 4-3, wherein the special symbol includes a part suggesting the operation image.
By doing so, the player can sense (predict the progress of the game) that the operation effect will be executed from the stage when the special symbol is displayed.

・ Means 5-1
A display device having a display area, and after varying a plurality of types of decorative patterns in the display area, at the time when the variation is stopped, the combination of the effective symbols that are the decorative symbols along the effective line is used to determine the success or failure judgment result. and an informing means for informing, and when an ineffective design which is the decorative design but not the effective design is displayed in the display area, the effective design is displayed more clearly than the ineffective design. A game machine characterized by
By doing so, it becomes easy to distinguish between valid symbols and non-valid symbols.

・ Means 5-2
Means 4-1, characterized in that before and after reaching the fluctuation stop point, while the degree of clarity of the effective symbols is maintained, the degree of clarity of the non-effective symbols is controlled to decrease. game machine.
By doing so, a change that does not occur in the valid symbols occurs in the ineffective symbols before and after reaching the fluctuation stop point, so that the valid symbols and the ineffective symbols can be more easily distinguished.

・ Means 5-3
A background image is displayed in the display area as a background of the decorative design, and the background image is visible through the non-effective design, and is not visible through the effective design. The gaming machine according to means 5-1 or 5-2, characterized by:
By doing so, the background image emphasizes the difference between the ineffective symbols and the effective symbols, making it easier to distinguish between the effective symbols and the ineffective symbols (some symbols show through the background image, The situation in which the background image cannot be seen through the other patterns makes a big difference in how the patterns are perceived (visibility).

・ Means 5-4
The gaming machine according to any one of means 5-1 to 5-3, wherein a plurality of said activated lines may be set.
Since it is important for a gaming machine in which a plurality of activated lines are set to be able to easily distinguish between deactivated symbols and activated symbols, the above configuration is particularly effective.

1 gaming machine 10 decorative design 11 first element part 12 second element part 10t target design 10s specific design 10a effective design 10b ineffective design 18 prior image 20 specific image 30 background image 40 operation image 50 special design 501 first special design 502 Second special symbol 51 Operation suggestion part 80 Operation means 91 Display device 911 Display area 91a Main display device 91b Sub display device

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine that executes a notification effect from the start of variation of three groups of decorative symbols, each of which includes a plurality of types of decorative symbols, to the stop with a combination indicating the result of a win/loss decision,
One of the notification effects includes a preliminary effect in which a preliminary image that is not the decorative pattern is displayed separately from the decorative pattern , and a performance that can occur after the preliminary effect is completed. It is possible to execute a specific effect advantageous to the player,
In the specific effect, a pattern combination composed of three decorative patterns selected and displayed one by one from each of the three decorative pattern groups is one of a plurality of types of decorative patterns. It is a specific combination including a design,
The type of the decorative pattern to be the target pattern can change for each notification effect,
The preliminary image displayed in the preliminary performance suggests which of the plurality of types of decorative symbols is the target symbol in the notification performance including the preliminary performance. Amusement machine.

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