JP7208960B2 - Gaming machine, gaming method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to gaming machines, gaming methods and programs.

Patent Literature 1 discloses a gaming machine that provides slot games. This gaming machine spins and stops the reels and awards a prize when the symbol combination displayed as the game result has a winning combination. The displayed symbols include symbols with credit values attached. When the symbols to which the credit value is given form a winning combination, the gaming machine gives an amount corresponding to the credit value as a privilege. When wild symbols are stop-displayed on the first and second reels, the gaming machine expands the display areas of the third, fourth and fifth reels to be stopped subsequently.

Australian Patent Application Publication No. 2018236797

In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when wild symbols are stopped and displayed on the first and second reels, there is a high possibility of winning a prize, and there is also an expectation of winning a large prize with symbols given credit values. get higher However, if a predetermined number of paylines (for example, 30 lines, 40 lines, 50 lines, etc.) are set in such a gaming machine, and individual symbols that are stopped and displayed can simultaneously form a winning combination on a plurality of paylines. During game play, the player may not be able to immediately determine whether the stopped symbols can form a winning combination, have already formed a winning combination, or cannot form a winning combination. In this way, if the player's understanding of the progress of the game (the process from the start of the game to the display of all the game results) cannot keep up, interest in the reels stopping and the next symbol being displayed diminishes, resulting in As a result, the time to play the game may be shortened. Therefore, there is room for improvement from the viewpoint of providing players with more attractive games.

The present disclosure provides a gaming machine, gaming method, and program that provide a game using symbols in a manner that allows players to easily understand the progress of the game.

A gaming machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a gaming machine including a display section having a symbol display area, a control section, and a storage section, wherein the control section executes a program stored in the storage section to A symbol display function that displays a plurality of symbols in the symbol display area, changes the displayed symbols, and stops them in a predetermined order to display a symbol combination as a game result in the symbol display area, and a symbol display function. A chance display function for displaying the number of winning combinations that can be won by the stopped symbols in a symbol display area when some of a plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed, and symbol display. A game is provided by realizing a privilege giving function of giving a privilege when the symbol combination displayed as a game result in the area has a winning combination.

In this gaming machine, when some symbols out of a plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed, the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols is displayed in the symbol display area. . Therefore, the gaming machine allows the player to grasp the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols during the progress of the game. As a result, the gaming machine allows the player to understand the maximum number of winning combinations that can be included in the game result to be finally displayed while the game is in progress before displaying all the game results. You can direct your attention to the reels that you play. Therefore, this gaming machine can provide a game using symbols in a manner that allows the player to easily understand the progress of the game.

In one embodiment, the symbol display area includes a plurality of cells in which symbols can be displayed, and the winning combination is set for the symbols stopped on a winning line provided across the plurality of cells in the symbol display area. , the symbol display function may stop symbols in a plurality of cells in order, and the chance display function may display the number of winning lines that can be won by the stopped symbols in the next cell to stop the symbols. In this case, the gaming machine can allow the player to easily understand the cells to which attention should be paid.

In one embodiment, the control unit counts the number of winning combinations won by the stopped symbols when some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed by the symbol display function. A prize display function for displaying in the symbol display area may be further realized. In this case, the gaming machine makes the player understand the minimum number of winning combinations that can be included in the game result to be finally displayed before displaying all the game results, and gives the player an interest in which reel to stop next. can be directed.

In one embodiment, the symbol display area includes a plurality of cells in which symbols can be displayed, and the winning combination is set for the symbols stopped on a winning line provided across the plurality of cells in the symbol display area. The symbol display function may stop symbols in a plurality of cells in order, and the winning display function may display on the symbols the number of winning lines won by the stopped symbols. In this case, the gaming machine can allow the player to easily understand the cells to which attention should be paid.

In one embodiment, the control unit may further implement a line display function for displaying a list of pay lines on the display unit, and the line display function may highlight the winning pay lines. In this case, the gaming machine can present the winning pay line to the player.

In one embodiment, the line display function may highlight the winning pay line when the symbol display function stops some of the symbols and changes the remaining symbols. . In this case, the gaming machine can present the winning pay line to the player before displaying all the game results.

In one embodiment, the line display function may display the winning amount of the highlighted pay line on the pay line. In this case, the gaming machine can present the winning amount for each winning line to the player.

A gaming method according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a gaming method executed in a gaming machine including a display unit having a symbol display area, wherein a plurality of symbols are displayed in the symbol display area, and the displayed symbol are changed and stopped in a predetermined order to display a combination of symbols in the symbol display area as a game result; a chance display step of displaying, in a symbol display area, the number of winning combinations that can be won by the stopped symbols when the is being varied; and a symbol combination displayed as a game result in the symbol display area has a winning combination. and a privilege granting step of granting a privilege in the case.

According to this gaming method, similar to the gaming machine described above, it is possible to provide a game using symbols in a manner that allows the player to easily understand the progress of the game.

A program according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a program for operating a gaming machine including a display unit having a symbol display area, the program causing the gaming machine to display a plurality of symbols in the symbol display area and display the symbols. A symbol display function for displaying a combination of symbols in a symbol display area as a game result by changing the symbols that are displayed and stopping them in a predetermined order; A chance display function for displaying in a symbol display area the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols while the remaining symbols are being changed, and a symbol combination displayed as a game result in the symbol display area. , and a privilege granting function of granting a privilege when a winning combination is obtained to provide a game.

According to this program, similarly to the gaming machine described above, it is possible to provide a game using symbols in a manner that allows the player to easily understand the progress of the game.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a game using symbols in a manner that allows the player to easily understand the progress of the game.

1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine; FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a gaming machine; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a display area of a gaming machine; FIG. FIG. 13 illustrates a virtual reel set and symbols; 4 is a diagram showing an example of paylines set in the display area of FIG. 3; FIG. 3A and 3B are a directory configuration diagram and a block diagram showing programs and data stored in the memory of FIG. 2; FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system associated with a gaming machine; FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the game application program of FIG. 7; FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the system application program of FIG. 7; FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the gaming machine; 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the gaming machine; It is a schematic diagram explaining a special game. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the gaming machine; 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the gaming machine; It is a schematic diagram explaining a special game. It is a schematic diagram explaining a special game. It is a schematic diagram explaining a special game.

A gaming machine according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding parts in each figure, and overlapping explanations are omitted.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment. The gaming machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 can accept a predetermined game value from a player, generate a game result, and provide a payout to the player according to the game result and pay table. The games provided by the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment are video slot games, and the gaming machine 10 provides, for example, normal games, free games, and special games. Regular games, free games, and special games are provided when predetermined conditions are met. In the normal game, the free game, and the special game, the symbols displayed in the display area form a combination of symbols, which is the game result, and winning is determined based on the combination. In the special game, special conditions (hereinafter referred to as "feature function") related to the rules of the game are provided, and the game is provided with the feature function being exhibited.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the gaming machine 10 has a display 16 (an example of a display section) and a cabinet 12 . Cabinet 12 also houses a controller 22 (see FIG. 2) that controls the components of gaming machine 10 .

The display 16 is a flat panel display device such as a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL display device. The display 16 provides a game screen to the player by being controlled via the control unit 22 . Illumination 36 may be provided around display 16 to provide decorative lighting.

Cabinet 12 is arranged below display 16 . A control panel 18 is provided on the front surface of the cabinet 12 so as to protrude forward. The control panel 18 is provided with a player tracking unit 20 , a speaker 26 , a bill/ticket identification unit 28 , a printer unit 30 and an operation section 32 .

Player tracking unit 20 includes a card reader that recognizes player identification cards, a display that presents data to the player, and a keypad that accepts input by the player. The player tracking unit 20 cooperates with the controller 22 or an external system to read information recorded on the player identification card inserted into the card reader by the player, and communicate that information and/or with the external system. Display the acquired information on the display. Additionally, input from the player is accepted by the keypad, the display is changed accordingly, and communication with external systems is performed as necessary.

Speakers 26 are provided on the left and right sides of control panel 18 . The speaker 26 provides sound to the player by being controlled via the control unit 22 .

The banknote/ticket identification unit 28 can be housed in the cabinet 12 with an insertion opening exposed through which the banknote/ticket is inserted. Inside the insertion slot, an identification unit is provided for identifying banknotes/tickets with various sensors. A banknote/ticket storage unit is provided on the output port side of the identification unit. The banknote/ticket identification unit 28 accepts banknotes/tickets (including vouchers and coupons) that are game values, identifies them as game values, and notifies the controller 22 of them.

The printer unit 30 can be accommodated in the cabinet 12 with the ticket output port for outputting tickets exposed. A printing unit for printing predetermined information on printing paper is provided inside the ticket output port, and a storage unit for storing the printing paper is provided on the paper inlet side of the printing unit. The printer unit 30 prints information on paper under the control of the control unit 22, and outputs a ticket from the gaming machine 10 according to the credit payout process. The output ticket can be inserted into the banknote/ticket identification unit 28 of another gaming machine, so that the paid out credits can be used for game play, or the kiosk terminal in the casino or the casino Can be redeemed with a case.

The operation unit 32 accepts player's operations. The operation unit 32 includes a group of buttons for receiving various instructions from the player of the gaming machine 10 . For example, the controls 32 may include groups of spin buttons and setting buttons. The spin button accepts an instruction to start an instance of the game (start spinning the reels). The setting button group includes a line setting button group, a bet button group, a cashout button, and the like. The bet button group accepts an instruction operation regarding the bet credit amount (bet amount) from the player. The cashout button accepts an instruction operation for instructing the withdrawal of credits accumulated in the gaming machine 10 .

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the gaming machine. The gaming machine 10 includes a control section 22 . The control unit 22 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 38 including a processor that configures the control unit 22, an interface unit 40, a memory 42, a storage 44, and the like. The controller 22 can be housed inside the cabinet 12 as a control board. The control unit 22 is configured to be able to communicate with each unit via an interface unit 40, and executes a program recorded in a memory 42 (an example of a storage unit) or a storage 44 (an example of a storage unit) of the CPU 38 to control each unit. It controls movement and presents the game to the player.

The interface unit 40 includes a chipset that provides communication functions for the CPU 38 such as a memory bus, various expansion buses, a serial interface, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, and an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface connected to the CPU 38 .

The memory 42 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) which is a volatile storage medium, ROM (Read Only Memory) which is a non-volatile storage medium, and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) which is a rewritable non-volatile storage medium. ) can be configured. The storage 44 provides a function as an external storage device to the control unit 22, and can use a reading device such as a memory card and a magneto-optical disk, which are removable storage media, and can also use a hard disk. be.

Connected to the interface unit 40 are a banknote/ticket identification unit 28 , a printer unit 30 , a player tracking unit 20 , a graphics controller (GPU: Graphics Processing Unit) 50 , an input controller 52 , a sound controller 53 , and an illumination controller 54 . Graphics controller 50, input controller 52, sound controller 53, and illumination controller 54 may be housed inside cabinet 12 as control boards.

The control unit 22 is connected to the display 16 via the graphics controller 50 . The control section 22 is connected to the operation section 32 via the input controller 52 . The controller 22 is connected to the illumination 36 via an illumination controller 54 .

The control unit 22 executes programs stored in the memory 42 and the storage 44 to control each unit and provide the game to the player. Here, for example, the operating system and subsystem programs and data that provide the basic functions of the control unit 22 are stored in the EEPROM of the memory 42, and the application programs and data that provide the game are stored in the storage 44. may be With such a configuration, the game can be easily changed or updated by replacing the storage 44 . Furthermore, the control unit 22 may have a multiprocessor configuration including a plurality of CPUs.

Each block connected to the control unit 22 will be described below. The banknote/ticket identification unit 28 accepts banknotes/tickets at the insertion slot and notifies the control unit 22 of identification information corresponding to the banknote type or credit payout processing. The control unit 22 increases the amount of credits that can be used in the game according to the notified content. The printer unit 30 prints information corresponding to the credit payout process from the gaming machine 10 on a ticket and outputs it under the control of the control unit 22 that receives the operation of the cashout button included in the operation unit 32 .

The player tracking unit 20 cooperates with the control unit 22 to transmit and receive player information and the like to and from the casino management system. The graphics controller 50 controls the display 16 under the control of the controller 22 to display display images containing various graphics data. The sound controller 53 drives the speaker 26 under the control of the control unit 22 and provides various sounds such as announcements, sound effects, and BGM. The illumination controller 54 performs lighting control of the illumination 36 under the control of the control section 22 .

The interface unit 40 includes various communication interfaces for communicating with the outside of the gaming machine 10 . Interface unit 40 may communicate with external networks by means of Ethernet 55, 58, 60 and serial interface 62, as examples. FIG. 2 shows an example of communication with another gaming machine 10, a known server-side gaming network (server-based gaming), a G2S network (between games and systems), and a slot information system (slot data system). is shown. The control unit 22 can share game-related information with the other gaming machine 10 by communicating with the control unit 22 of the other gaming machine 10 via the Ethernet 55 without going through the I/O board.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the display area of the gaming machine of FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the display 16 has a symbol display area 64 that displays a slot game and a line list display area 65 that displays a screen related to a special game by the control unit 22 executing a predetermined program. A game screen is displayed (an example of the symbol display function and line display function). The symbol display area 64 is displayed in the lower area of the game screen as an example. The line list display area 65 is arranged side by side with the symbol display area 64 and displayed in the upper area of the game screen as an example.

The symbol display area 64 includes a grid 68 on which symbols can be displayed. By using such a display area, the gaming machine 10 operates as a slot machine that determines winning according to the combination of symbols displayed on the grid 68 of the symbol display area 64 and pays dividends (an example of the privilege giving function). ).

Display 16 displays a plurality of symbols in grid 68 . Grid 68 includes a plurality of rows and columns. The grid 68 is composed of a plurality of cells 70 which are symbol stop positions. FIG. 3 shows a game screen including a plurality of cells arranged in a 3×5 grid. The number of rows and columns of the grid is not particularly limited, and may be other configurations such as 3-4-4-4-3, or may be configured to increase or decrease according to game development and/or bet amount. . One symbol is stopped and displayed in each of the plurality of cells 70 of the symbol display area 64 .

Symbols placed in each of the plurality of cells 70 are determined using virtual reel strips for displaying the virtual reels 66 . FIG. 4A is a diagram showing a virtual reel set. The virtual reel set includes a plurality of virtual reel strips, and the virtual reel strip includes a symbol arrangement indicating the order of symbols displayed in the display area. As shown in FIG. 4A, each cell 70 of the grid 68 includes virtual reel strips 72, 74, 76, 78, and 80 forming a virtual reel set 82, based on the symbol arrangement of the virtual reels 66. symbol is displayed. In other words, the cells 70 of the grid 68 are associated with virtual reel strips 72-80 for each column, and the symbols arranged on predetermined portions of the respective virtual reel strips 72-80 are displayed. Further, by moving (scrolling or spinning) each symbol column by column based on the symbol arrangement of the virtual reel strips 72-80, the symbols displayed in the cells 70 of the grid 68 are varied and moved (scrolled or spinned) column by column. symbols are stopped by stopping the spin). Here, the virtual reel strips 72 to 80 are data, and the control unit 22 controls the program contained in the memory 42 or the storage 44 and the symbol arrangement adjusted for each cell row (that is, the symbol arrangement order on each reel strip). ) to display the data. A virtual reel set 82 is a general term for such virtual reel strips 72-80.

The virtual reel strips 72-80 shown in FIG. 4A are composed of symbols 84 at respective symbol positions 86 arranged in an order defined for each reel. The number of symbols forming the virtual reel strips 72-80 is not limited to this, and can be any desired number. Also, the number of symbols forming the virtual reel strips 72 to 80 may be the same or different.

FIG. 4B is a detail of the symbol 84 shown in FIG. 4A. Each virtual reel strip 72-80 contains symbols selected from a symbol set 88 of various symbols 84 shown in FIG. 4B. The symbol set 88 includes card symbols imitating playing cards (“9”, “10”, “J”, “Q”, “K” and “A”) as standard symbols, and picture symbols indicating patterns (“PicA”). , “PicB”, “PicC”, “PicD” and “PicE”). The symbol set 88 includes a wild symbol (“Wild”) substituted for another symbol when a winning combination is determined, a scatter symbol (“Scat”) used as a trigger symbol for triggering a free game, and a special symbol. Includes symbol 85 (“SP”). A credit amount is given to the special symbol 85 when the condition for starting the special game, that is, the condition for activating the feature function is satisfied. For example, the condition for activating the feature function is satisfied when the wild symbol or the special symbol 85 is displayed on the first and second reels of the symbol display area 64 by the virtual reel strip 72 and the virtual reel strip 74, respectively. be In other words, the special symbols 85 to which the credit amount is awarded are only the special symbols 85 included in the virtual reel strips 76-80. A plurality of virtual reel sets may be prepared according to the content of the game. For example, the virtual reel set used in the normal game may be separated from the virtual reel set used in the free game or special game. The virtual reel set for the free game may include more pattern symbols, wild symbols or scatter symbols than the virtual reel set for the base game. By doing so, it is possible to increase the winning probability or the trigger probability during the free game, and to provide the player with a high-value free game. Also, the virtual reel set for the special game may include more special symbols 85 than the virtual reel set for the base game. By doing so, the probability of winning a bonus prize in the special game can be increased. Here, "special game/free game trigger" means "opportunity to win special game/free game", and "trigger symbol" means "symbol that causes opportunity to win special game/free game". means

The control unit 22 starts the game and randomly determines the stop positions of the virtual reel strips 72-80. The virtual reel strips 72-80 displayed on the display 16 move (scroll or spin) from their current position and stop based on the stop position to represent the outcome of the game. Therefore, on the display 16 or grid 68, the symbols included in the virtual reel strips 72 to 80 are continuously moved (scrolled or spun) in the vertical direction of the symbol display area 64 of the virtual reel strips 72 to 80. One symbol is displayed so as to stop in one cell 70 according to the order of the symbols defined on the virtual reel strips 72-80.

In accordance with the player's operation received by the operation unit 32, the control unit 22 causes the plurality of symbols displayed on the display 16 to change, stop in a predetermined order, and stop within the symbol display area 64 by the method described above. A payout may be paid according to the symbols.

A payline is set in the symbol display area 64 . A payline is set so as to extend from the cell in the leftmost column to the rightmost column. A payline is activated by being selected by a player and becomes a winning line. A winning line is a line for determining winning by combining a plurality of cells 70 . The number of winning lines can be selected by operating a group of line setting buttons included in the group of setting buttons of the operation unit 32 for the player. Regarding the result of the game, which is a combination of symbols, the control unit 22 determines that a prize has been won when a predetermined number of identical symbols are aligned on the pay line, and pays a dividend to the player according to the type and number of symbols.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of paylines set in the symbol display area 64 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, in the gaming machine 10, a predetermined number of paylines (lines of 50 patterns) are set in advance in cells of 3 rows and 5 columns in the symbol display area 64. FIG. The system for determining winning may determine winning when a predetermined number of identical symbols are aligned from the leftmost column cell on the winning line, or may determine winning when a predetermined number of identical symbols are aligned from the rightmost column cell on the winning line. Winning may be determined when the same symbols are aligned, or winning may be determined when a predetermined number of the same symbols are aligned in a continuous row on a predetermined pay line, regardless of whether they are aligned from the left end or right end. It doesn't matter if it does. Additionally, more than a predetermined number of scatter symbols form a winning combination or trigger condition regardless of the winning line.

Returning to FIG. 3, the control unit 22 causes the line list display area 65 to display the list of payruns shown in FIG. 5 when the feature function is activated. The control unit 22 may display only the winning lines among the paylines shown in FIG. 5, or highlight only the winning lines while displaying the paylines shown in FIG. Details of the display of the line list display area 65 will be described later.

When the control unit 22 stops some of the plurality of symbols in the symbol display area 64 and changes the remaining symbols, it symbolizes the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols. It is displayed in the area 64 (an example of the chance display function). For example, the control unit 22 spins the first to fifth reels, stops the first and second reels, and spins the first reel while the third to fifth reels are spinning. and the number of pay lines that can be won by the symbols on the second reel. The control unit 22 determines the number of winning lines for each cell corresponding to the reel on which symbols are to be stopped next. For example, the control unit 22 determines the number of winning lines that can be won for each of the cells in the first to third rows of the third reel, based on the stopped symbols and the winning combination. The control unit 22 displays the determined number of winning lines in the corresponding cells. As a result, the display of the spinning reel and the number of lines are superimposed on the cell. In this way, the control unit 22 can make the player understand the probability (degree) of the winning chance for each cell where the symbols stop next.

When some of the plurality of symbols are stopped in the symbol display area 64 and the remaining symbols are varied, the control unit 22 displays the number of winning combinations won by the stopped symbols on the symbols. (an example of the winning display function). For example, the control unit 22 spins the first to fifth reels, stops the first, second and third reels, and when the fourth and fifth reels are spinning, The number of winning lines won by the symbols on the first reel, the second reel and the third reel is determined. The number of winning pay lines is determined for each cell corresponding to the stopped symbols. For example, the control unit 22 determines the number of winning paylines for each of the cells in the first to third rows of the third reel. The control unit 22 displays the determined number of winning lines in the corresponding cells. Thereby, the control section 22 can make the player understand the number of winning lines for each cell where the symbols have stopped.

The control unit 22 gives a credit value to the special symbols 85 included in the third to fifth reels (reels corresponding to the virtual reel strips 76 to 80) when the feature function is activated. The control unit 22 may randomly determine the credit value to be given to the special symbol 85, or may predetermine the credit value that can be given for each reel. For example, the special symbol 85 on the third reel is given a value randomly selected from 50, 75 and 100 credits, and the special symbol 85 on the fourth reel is given a value randomly selected from 100, 200, 300 and 1000 credits. and the special symbol 85 on the fifth reel may be awarded a value randomly selected from 300, 1000, 2500 and 5000 credits.

6 and 7 are directory configuration diagrams and block diagrams showing programs and data stored in the memory of FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the game application program of FIG. 7; FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the system application program of FIG. 7; FIG. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-9, memory 42 stores a game application program 92 including computer-executable instructions, which are executed by CPU 38 to effect game processing. , the game screen is displayed on the display 16 of the gaming machine 10 . In one embodiment, the game application program 92 also includes program code 94 and program object data comprising computer-executable instructions for implementing the game using the algorithms illustrated in FIGS. Including 96.

In the exemplary embodiment, memory 42 stores a game application program 92 and a system application program 98 including computer-executable instructions, which are executed by CPU 38 to effect game processing; A game screen is displayed on the display 16 of the gaming machine 10 . A game application program 92 provides game-specific front-end functions by executing on the CPU, and a system application program 98 provides general-purpose back-end functions. In the illustrated embodiment, game application program 92 and system application program 98 are implemented on the same operating system. However, these programs may be implemented on mutually different operating systems or on mutually different processors.

In one embodiment, the game application program 92 includes a bet/payline button listener module 100, a start button listener module 102, a credit balance manager module 104, a sampling manager 106, a random number generator (RNG) 108, a comparison Manager 110, Game Results Generator 112, Winning Evaluation Module 114, Game Presenter 116, Game Graphics Presenter 118, Game Sound Presenter 120, Winning Indicator 122, Rewards Provider 124, Application Manager 126, External It includes a plurality of software modules including communicator 128 . The game application program 92 may include a paytable 130 (paytable), reel strip data 132 and a stop position table 134 .

The bet/payline button listener module 100 is a software module for receiving a signal from the bet button 34 or the line setting button 33 of the operation unit 32. This signal is the bet amount or payline to be activated by the player operating the button. Generated by the button when selecting a number. In response to receiving the signal, bet/payline button listener module 100 communicates the generation of a signal to application manager 126 to change the configuration of game bets or activated paylines.

The start button listener module 102 is a software module for receiving a signal from the start button, and this signal is generated when the player operates this button to start the game. In response to receiving the signal, start button listener module 102 communicates the generation of the signal to application manager 126 to start the game.

Upon receiving a signal from start button listener module 102 , application manager 126 requests sampling manager 106 to obtain the required number of random numbers from random number generator 108 .

The random number generator 108 is a software module that generates random numbers based on a predetermined random number generation calculation algorithm. The random number generator 108 may be configured to generate pseudo-random numbers. Random number generator 108 returns random numbers upon request from sampling manager 106 . Random number generator 108 may be implemented in whole or in part as an integrated circuit or wired logic.

Comparison manager 110 compares the current state of the game and/or each random number with reel strip data 132 and stop position table 134 and designates a corresponding reel strip stop position based on each random number.

Reel strip data 132 includes virtual reel strips for regular games, free games and special games. The comparison manager 110 discussed above queries the application manager 126 to identify the current state of the game and select a virtual reel strip.

The stop position table 134 contains a range of random numbers associated with each stop position of the virtual reel strip. Comparison manager 110 determines the stop position for each reel based on the corresponding random number and stop position table 134 .

The game result generator 112 generates a game result based on the selected reel layout, stop positions of each reel, stop positions of internal symbols, and additional attributes. In one embodiment, game outcome generator 112 may apply changes to game outcomes when predetermined conditions are met.

The prize evaluation module 114 refers to the payout table 130 to evaluate the game result. Specifically, the winning is evaluated based on whether the symbols defined as the winning combination in the payout table 130 are stopped on the payline set as the winning line in the symbol display area 64 . Also, in the special game, winning is evaluated according to the symbols stopped in the specific winning area 69 .

Game presenter 116 utilizes game graphics presenter 118 and game sound presenter 120 to provide a game presentation process of visuals and sounds to ultimately form a given game outcome.

More specifically, the game graphics presenter 118 is a software module that implements a display control function of displaying symbols in the symbol display area 64 and displaying a list of lines in the line list display area 65 . The game graphics presenter 118 provides visual game presentation processes on the display to ultimately produce a given game outcome. The game graphics presenter 118 may display the plurality of symbols displayed on the pay line in the symbol display area 64 in order from the top of the pay line. For example, the game graphics presenter 118 sequentially stops reels 1 through 5 after spinning the virtual reels. As a result, the symbols are displayed on the winning line in order from the left (top).

Game sound presenter 120 provides the sound presentation process by using sound controller 53 and speaker 26 . The winning indicator 122 indicates the winning combinations and payment conditions of the winning symbols formed in the game result. The reward provider 124 provides reward credits to the winning meter based on the winning evaluation.

Application manager 126 manages the operation and state of each software module. In addition, application manager 126 manages the configuration, progress, and state of game application programs 92 . External communicator 128 exchanges instructions and data with system application programs 98 .

The credit balance manager module 104 performs processes for decrementing the credit balance according to the bet amount and incrementing the credit balance based on the total wins displayed in the win meter. Paytable 130 includes payout or award amounts associated with each winning combination.

In the exemplary embodiment, system application programs 98 provide functionality beyond background processing and game-specific functionality. The system application program 98 includes a system manager 142, a security manager 144, a slot management module 146, a denomination manager 148, a data logger 150, a communications manager 152, a bill acceptor manager 154, a meter management module 156, a cache It includes a number of software modules, including the OutManager 158 .

System application programs 98 may include game recall files 160 , accounting logs 162 , and meters 164 . System manager 142 is a software module for managing all functions other than background processing and game-specific functions performed by system application program 98 .

The security manager 144 is a software module for managing game validation, door security, and security sensor monitoring. Slot management module 146 is a software module for managing the accumulation of data and communicating with external slot information systems.

The denomination manager 148 is a software module for setting the denomination settings of the gaming machine 10 . Denomination settings may include 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 25 cents, $1, $5, and so on. Data logger 150 is a software module for recording the results of each game in game recall. In addition, data logger 150 stores error events, bill logs, cashout logs, ticket logs, etc. in accounting logs.

The game recall file 160 is accumulated data containing the results of each game. The game recall file 160 is stored in non-volatile memory. Accounting log 162 is accumulated data that includes error events, bill logs, cashout logs, ticket logs, and the like. Accounting log 162 is stored in non-volatile memory.

Communications manager 152 is a software module that manages communications between game application programs 92 and system application programs 98 . Communications manager 152 manages network communications between system application programs 98 and other gaming machines 10, external networks (such as slot management system networks, G2S networks, gaming servers for server-based gaming networks, or VLT system networks). also manage.

The bill acceptor manager 154 is a software module for managing bill acceptors, and receives information on bills inserted into the bill acceptor. In response to receiving information from the bill acceptor, the bill acceptor manager 154 communicates with the meter management module to increment the credit balance based on the inserted bill.

Meter management module 156 is a software module for adjusting the value of meter 164 in response to communication with game application program 92 via communications manager 152 , bill acceptor manager 154 , or cashout manager 158 . Meters 164 include a credit meter for indicating the current credit balance of the gaming machine and a winnings meter for indicating the total winnings of the current game session. The meters further include background meters, such as coin in, coin out, total drop, jackpot paid by attendant, and/or bill entry. These meters may be implemented as data on non-volatile memory or as hardware meters.

Cashout manager 158 is a software module for managing cashout procedures. In response to the player's actuation of the cashout button, the cashout manager 158 is activated and the gaming machine pays out the credit meter total in the form of cash or vouchers.

10 and 11 are flowcharts for explaining the operation of the gaming machine. The algorithm for the operation of the gaming machine is implemented in the game application program 92 and is embodied by the CPU 38 executing the game application program 92 . Operation of the gaming machine includes multiple steps. Each step may be performed independently or in combination with other steps.

In step S10, the control unit 22 accepts a game start operation by the player. When receiving the operation of the spin button from the player, the control unit 22 subtracts the set total bet amount from the credits, and acquires a predetermined number of random numbers required for providing the game in step S12. Random numbers are generated internally by the random number generator 108 of the control unit 22 . The control unit 22 may acquire random numbers from a random number generator provided separately from the control unit 22, or may acquire random numbers from a device such as a server provided outside the gaming machine 10.

The control unit 22 starts reel spin as step S14. FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram showing a display state in which symbols are varied. As shown in (A) of FIG. 12, the symbols are changed in the symbol display area 64 . The control unit 22 stops the first reel (reel corresponding to the virtual reel strip 72) in step S16, and stops the second reel (reel corresponding to the virtual reel strip 74) in step S18. Subsequently, in step S20, the control unit 22 determines whether or not the feature has been triggered. The control unit 22 determines that the feature has been triggered when the first reel and the second reel each display the wild symbol or the special symbol 85 in the symbol display area 64 . For example, when the first reel displays the wild symbol and the second reel displays the special symbol 85, the control unit 22 determines that the feature has been triggered.

When determining that the feature has been triggered (step S20: YES), the control unit 22 gives credit values to the special symbols 85 included in the third to fifth reels (reels corresponding to the virtual reel strips 76 to 80). do. Then, in step S22, the control unit 22 displays the number of lines that can be won at the symbol stop position of the third reel. The control unit 22 determines the number of winning lines for each cell based on the symbols stopped on the first and second reels, the winning combinations, and the set paylines. The control unit 22 displays the determined number of winning lines for each cell. As shown in FIG. 12B, "2LINES CHANCE" is displayed superimposed on the cell of the first row during the spinning of the third reel. In other words, it is shown that the number of lines that can be won is two in the cells of the first row. Similarly, "5LINES CHANCE" is superimposed on the cell in the second row, and "2LINES CHANCE" is superimposed on the cell in the third row. That is, it is shown that the number of lines that can be won in the cell of the second row is five, and the number of lines that can be won in the cell of the third row is two.

Subsequently, the control section 22 stops the third reel as step S24. At this time, the control unit 22 may terminate the display of the number of winning lines that can be won on the third reel. In step S26, the control unit 22 determines whether or not the special symbol 85 has stopped on the third reel and a prize has been won. The control unit 22 determines winning based on the symbols stopped on the first, second and third reels, the winning combinations, and the set paylines. For example, when the special symbols 85 or the wild symbols are aligned on the pay lines of the first, second and third reels, the control unit 22 determines that the special symbols 85 have stopped on the third reel and a prize has been won. judge.

When it is determined that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the third reel and a prize has been won (step S26: YES), the control section 22 stops the first, second and third reels in step S28. The number of winning lines is determined for each cell based on the symbols, winning combinations and set paylines. The control unit 22 displays the determined number of winning lines for each cell. For example, it is assumed that the special symbol 85 is stopped in the cell of the second row and the number of winning lines is five. In this case, as shown in FIG. 12C, "5LINES HIT" is superimposed on the special symbol 85 stopped in the second row cell. In other words, the cells in the second row indicate that the number of winning lines is five.

In parallel with step S28, the control unit 22 displays the number of winning lines at the symbol stop position of the fourth reel as step S30. This process is performed in the same manner as in step S22. As shown in (C) of FIG. 12 , “1LINES CHANCE” is superimposed on the cell of the first row during the spinning of the fourth reel. In other words, it is shown that the number of lines that can be won is one in the cells of the first row. Similarly, "3 LINES CHANCE" is superimposed on the cell of the second row, and "1 LINES CHANCE" is superimposed on the cell of the third row. That is, it is shown that the number of lines that can be won in the cell of the second row is three, and the number of lines that can be won in the cell of the third row is one.

Subsequently, the controller 22 stops the fourth reel in step S32. At this time, the control unit 22 may terminate the display of the number of winning lines that can be won on the fourth reel. In step S34, the control unit 22 determines whether or not the special symbol 85 has stopped on the fourth reel and a prize has been won. The control unit 22 determines winning based on the symbols stopped on the first, second, third and fourth reels, the winning combinations, and the set paylines. For example, when the special symbols 85 or the wild symbols are lined up on the winning lines of the first reel, the second reel, the third reel and the fourth reel, the control unit 22 stops the special symbols 85 on the fourth reel and wins a prize. is determined to have occurred.

If it is determined that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the fourth reel and a prize has been won (step S34: YES), the controller 22 controls the first reel, the second reel, the third reel and the fourth reel in step S36. The number of winning lines is determined for each cell based on the symbols stopped at the time, the winning combination and the set paylines. The control unit 22 displays the determined number of winning lines for each cell. For example, it is assumed that the special symbol 85 stops in the cell of the first row and the number of winning lines is one, and the special symbol 85 stops in the cell of the second row and the number of winning lines is three. In this case, as shown in FIG. 12D, "1 LINES HIT" is superimposed on the special symbol 85 stopped in the cell of the first row, and "1 LINES HIT" is superimposed on the special symbol 85 stopped in the cell of the second row. "3 LINES HIT" is superimposed. In other words, it is indicated that the number of winning lines is 1 in the cells of the first row, and that the number of winning lines is 3 in the cells of the second row.

In parallel with step S36, the control unit 22 displays the number of winning lines at the symbol stop position of the fifth reel as step S38. This process is performed in the same manner as in step S22. As shown in (D) of FIG. 12, "1LINES CHANCE" is superimposed on the cell of the first row during the spin of the fifth reel. In other words, it is shown that the number of lines that can be won is one in the cells of the first row. Similarly, "2 LINES CHANCE" is superimposed on the cell in the second row, and "1 LINES CHANCE" is superimposed on the cell in the third row. In other words, it is shown that the number of lines that can be won in the cell of the second row is two, and the number of lines that can be won in the cell of the third row is one.

Subsequently, the control section 22 stops the fifth reel as step S40. At this time, the control unit 22 may terminate the display of the number of winning lines that can be won on the fifth reel. In step S42, the control unit 22 determines whether or not the special symbol 85 has stopped on the fifth reel and a prize has been won. The control unit 22 determines winning based on the symbols stopped on the first to fifth reels, the winning combinations, and the set paylines. For example, when the special symbol 85 or the wild symbol is aligned on the winning line of the first reel to the fifth reel, the control unit 22 determines that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the fifth reel and the winning has occurred.

When it is determined that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the fifth reel and a prize has been won (step S42: YES), the control unit 22, in step S44, controls the symbols stopped on the first to fifth reels and the winning symbol. The number of winning lines is determined for each cell based on the combination and set paylines. The control unit 22 displays the determined number of winning lines for each cell. For example, the special symbol 85 stops in the cell of the first row, the number of winning lines is 1, the special symbol 85 stops in the cell of the second row, the number of winning lines is 2, and the number of winning lines is 3. It is assumed that the special symbol 85 stops on the second cell and the number of winning lines is one. In this case, as shown in (E) of FIG. 12, "1 LINES HIT" is superimposed on the special symbol 85 stopped in the cell of the first row, and "1 LINES HIT" is superimposed on the special symbol 85 stopped in the cell of the second row. "2LINES HIT" is superimposed and displayed, and "1LINES HIT" is superimposed and displayed on the special symbol 85 stopped in the cell of the third row. That is, the number of winning lines is 1 in the cell of the first row, the number of winning lines is 2 in the cell of the second row, and the number of winning lines is 1 in the cell of the third row. is shown to be As described above, the symbol combination is displayed in the symbol display area 64 as the game result.

Subsequently, in step S46, the control unit 22 totals the credit amount given to the special symbols 85 forming the winning combination for each winning line, and pays the total amount as a benefit. For example, the control unit 22 adds the total amount to the held credit.

Subsequently, in step S48, the control unit 22 determines winning based on the winning combination of the normal symbols, and pays the winning amount as a benefit by referring to the pay table. For example, the control unit 22 adds the winning amount to the held credits. When step S18 ends, the control unit 22 ends the flowcharts of FIGS. When the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 and 11 are finished, the control section 22 executes the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 and 11 from the beginning.

If it is not determined in step S20 that the feature has been triggered (step S20: NO), step S22 is skipped. When it is determined in step S26 that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the third reel and no winning has occurred (step S26: NO), steps S28 and S30 are skipped. If it is determined in step S34 that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the fourth reel and no winning has occurred (step S34: NO), steps S36 and S38 are skipped. When it is determined in step S42 that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the fifth reel and no winning has occurred (step S42: NO), step S44 is skipped.

Next, a case of displaying a list of winning lines will be exemplified. 13 and 14 are flowcharts for explaining the operation of the gaming machine. The algorithm for the operation of the gaming machine is implemented in the game application program 92 and is embodied by the CPU 38 executing the game application program 92 . Operation of the gaming machine includes multiple steps. Each step may be performed independently or in combination with other steps. 13 and 14 are obtained by adding steps to the processing of FIGS. 10 and 11, and the steps described in the processing of FIGS. 10 and 11 are omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, when it is determined that the special symbol 85 has stopped on the third reel and the winning has occurred (step S26: YES), the control unit 22, in step S27, selects the winning from the list matrix. Highlight (highlight) a line. For example, the control unit 22 displays a list of winning lines in the line list display area 65 as shown in FIG. Here, the shapes of winning lines from line 1 to line 40 are shown. As shown in FIG. 16, the control unit 22 displays lines 1, 40, 41, 44, and 45 in an emphasized manner. This makes it possible to understand at a glance which line "5 LINES HIT" displayed in step S28 is. Similarly, in step S35, the winning line is highlighted in the list matrix when the 4th reel is stopped, and in step S43, when the 5th reel is stopped, the winning line is highlighted in the list matrix. Other steps are the same as the steps described in the processing of FIGS.

Note that the control unit 22 may visualize the processing of step S46. For example, the control unit 22 may display the total value for each winning line on the list matrix. As shown in FIG. 17, for example, line 1 may be labeled 800 credits, line 40 may be labeled 100 credits, line 41 may be labeled 800 credits, and line 42 may be labeled 800 credits. The control unit 22 may display the total value of the winning amount for each winning line in the line list display area 65 . As shown in FIG. 17, 3000 credits may be displayed. The control unit 22 may highlight the winning pay line and display the total value for each pay line when some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed. good.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, when some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed, the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols is It is displayed in the symbol display area 64 . Therefore, the gaming machine 10 allows the player to grasp the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols during the progress of the game. As a result, the gaming machine 10 allows the player to understand the maximum number of winning combinations that can be included in the finally displayed game result during the game progress before displaying all the game results, and instructs the player to proceed next. Stopping reels can be focused. Therefore, the gaming machine 10 can provide a game using symbols in a manner that allows the player to easily understand the progress of the game.

In addition, in the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the number of winning lines that can be won by the stopped symbols is displayed in the cell where the symbols are to be stopped next, so that the player can easily understand the cell to which attention should be paid. be able to.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, when some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed, the number of winning combinations won by the stopped symbols is Displayed in the symbol display area. For this reason, the gaming machine 10 allows the player to understand the minimum number of winning combinations that can be included in the finally displayed game result before displaying all the game results, and instructs the player to select the next reel to stop. can draw your attention.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the number of winning lines won by the stopped symbols is displayed on the symbols, so that the player can easily understand the cells to be focused on.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, a list of winning lines is displayed on the display 16, and the winning winning lines are highlighted, so that the winning winning lines can be presented to the player.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, when some symbols out of a plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed, the winning pay line is highlighted to display the winning line. The winning line can be presented to the player before the game result is fully displayed.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the winning amount for each winning line is displayed on the highlighted winning line, so the winning amount for each winning line can be presented to the player.

A gaming machine may be a client computing device, where games are delivered from a network server computer system via a communications network to one or more client computing devices. The client computing device's processor may be programmed to function as the controller 22 of the gaming machine 10 .

When a gaming machine is used as a client computing device, 1) it may be a rich client system in which most of the processing associated with game execution is performed on the client side and the results are sent to the server, or 2) only the minimum processing is performed. It can also be a thin client system in which the client side performs the main processing and the server side performs the main processing. It is also possible to In this case, the software configuration shown in the embodiment is distributed to the client and the server and implemented.

In the above-described embodiment, the virtual reel strips 72-80 are associated with each column of cells of the grid 68, but it is also possible to associate an independent reel with each cell.

The functions of the control unit 22 of the gaming machine 10 described above can also be realized by executing a program by a computer. That is, it is possible to create a program that causes one or more computers to function in the same manner as the control unit 22 described above. The program can be provided by being recorded in a computer-readable recording medium such as a ROM or a semiconductor memory, for example. Such programs may be divided into multiple modules.

Also, various modifications are possible for the operation in each embodiment. may be sequentially displayed on the display. Further, for example, the control unit 22 may collectively acquire the required number of random numbers at the start of the game, and store each random number in a storage area of the memory 42 or the storage 44 that is not erased even in the event of a power failure. In this way, even if a power failure or the like occurs during the game, the control unit 22 stores the random number obtained at the start of the game before the power failure occurs in the memory 42 or storage when restarting the game after the power is restored. 44, the progress of the game can be reproduced. For example, if a power failure occurs just before a game result with a high payout is formed, a problem may arise if the game does not progress in the same way after the power is restored. However, by acquiring all the random numbers at once at the start of the game as described above and saving these random numbers in the memory 42 or storage 44, the same game progress as before the power failure occurred can be reproduced after the power is restored. can avoid such problems.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an aspect has been described in which bills or tickets are shown as game values, these are accepted by the bill/ticket identification device, and tickets are output by the printer unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. Absent. The gaming value is a concept that includes tangible objects such as coins, bills, coins, medals, and tickets, or electronic data equivalent to these. For example, the coin acceptor may accept coins and the coin hopper may pay the coins. The player may be identified, credits accumulated in an account on the server may be used, and the credits may be paid out to the account. Credits may be paid out by using and writing to a storage medium. Furthermore, it is also possible to electronically transfer credit between smart phones and wearable devices.

10 -- gaming machine, 22 -- control section, 42 -- memory (an example of a storage section), 44 -- storage (an example of a storage section), 64 -- symbol display area, 65 -- line list display area.

Claims (9)

A gaming machine comprising a display section having a symbol display area, a control section, and a storage section, wherein the control section executes a program stored in the storage section to
a symbol display function of displaying a plurality of symbols in the symbol display area, varying the displayed symbols, and stopping them in a predetermined order to display a symbol combination as a game result in the symbol display area;
A chance to display the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols in the symbol display area when some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed by the symbol display function. a display function;
and a privilege granting function of granting a privilege when the symbol combination displayed as the game result in the symbol display area has the winning combination, thereby providing a game. The symbol display area includes a plurality of cells capable of displaying symbols,
The winning combination is set for symbols stopped on a winning line provided across a plurality of cells in the symbol display area,
the symbol display function sequentially stops symbols on the plurality of cells;
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein said chance display function displays the number of winning lines that can be won with stopped symbols in a cell where symbols are to be stopped next. The control unit displays the number of winning combinations won by the stopped symbols when some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed by the symbol display function. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, further realizing a winning display function to display on. The symbol display area includes a plurality of cells capable of displaying symbols,
The winning combination is set for symbols stopped on a winning line provided across a plurality of cells in the symbol display area,
the symbol display function sequentially stops symbols on the plurality of cells;
4. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the winning display function displays on the symbols the number of winning lines won by the stopped symbols. The control unit further realizes a line display function for displaying a list of winning lines on the display unit,
5. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the line display function highlights the winning pay line. 6. The line display function according to claim 5, wherein when the symbol display function stops some of the plurality of symbols and fluctuates the remaining symbols, the winning pay line is highlighted. gaming machine. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein said line display function displays the winning amount of said pay line on said pay line highlighted. A gaming method executed in a gaming machine having a display section having a symbol display area,
a symbol display step of displaying a plurality of symbols in the symbol display area, varying the displayed symbols, and stopping them in a predetermined order to display a symbol combination as a game result in the symbol display area;
When some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed in the symbol display step, a chance to display the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols in the symbol display area. a display step;
a privilege granting step of granting a privilege when the symbol combination displayed as the game result in the symbol display area has the winning combination. A program for operating a gaming machine having a display section having a symbol display area, the program causing the gaming machine to:
a symbol display function of displaying a plurality of symbols in the symbol display area, changing the displayed symbols, and stopping them in a predetermined order to display a symbol combination as a game result in the symbol display area;
A chance to display the number of winning combinations that can be won with the stopped symbols in the symbol display area when some of the plurality of symbols are stopped and the remaining symbols are changed by the symbol display function. a display function;
and a privilege granting function of granting a privilege when the symbol combination displayed as the game result in the symbol display area has the winning combination, thereby providing a game.

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