JP7209940B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The invention described in this specification (hereinafter referred to as "the present invention") relates to gaming machines such as slot machines and pachinko machines.

A slot machine, which is a representative game machine, generally controls the progress of a game using reels (for example, control of reel driving, control of winning combination (also referred to as “lottery winning combination”) control, and game media such as game medals. (also referred to as "main control means"), which controls the input / payout of the game, controls the transition of the game state between multiple game states with different probability of determining the combination, etc.), and the game according to the game situation Sub control board ("sub control means ”), and information transmission (transmission) between both boards can be performed only in one direction from the main control board to the sub control board.

Further, in a slot machine, generally, an effective line is set by inserting a specified number of game media, and a player performs a reel rotation start operation such as tilting a start lever to perform a winning combination determination process (a winning combination). Lottery processing”) is performed, any game combination (simply called “combination”) or a loss is determined, and then a plurality of reels start rotating. When a plurality of reels start rotating and reach a predetermined rotation speed, a reel rotation stop operation such as pressing a stop switch is enabled, and the player performs a reel rotation stop operation for each reel, whereby each reel can be stopped. are designed to stop rotating sequentially.

Usually, the rotation stoppage of a plurality of reels is controlled based on the timing of the reel rotation stoppage operation by the player and the determined combination. That is, each reel is controlled so as to be able to stop at any timing within a predetermined time (usually, the time during which a maximum of 5 symbols can be moved) from the timing when the reel rotation stop operation is performed, thereby determining the winning combination. The combination (also called "acceptable combination") decided (also called "election" or "won") by the process is established as much as possible (combination of symbols constituting the acceptable combination (also called "corresponding symbol") is stop-displayed on the effective line), and a combination that has not been determined by the combination determination process is not established (corresponding symbols constituting a combination other than the combination allowed to be established are not stop-displayed on the effective line).

In addition, as a game role, generally, a replay role (game medium is not paid out (cannot be acquired) even if it is established, but the next game can be played without the player inserting a new game medium). In addition to normal roles called roles (also referred to as "replay roles") and small roles (a role that allows a predetermined number of game media to be acquired when established (also referred to as "winning roles"))), bonus roles (A special game state at the time of establishment (for example, probability of winning a given small role (can be simply "decision probability", other, "role lottery probability" (simply "lottery probability" is also possible), "role selection probability" ( It can be called simply "election probability"), "role winning probability" (simply "winning probability") is higher than usual)). There is a special role that will be played. Usually, only a small number of symbols are arranged on each reel for the symbol combination that constitutes such a special combination.

For this reason, even when a special combination is determined, the player should perform a reel rotation stop operation for each reel (such It is difficult to establish a special role unless the operation is also called "eye pushing". However, even though the special role has been determined, if it cannot be established, the information indicating that the special role has been determined is carried over to the next game ("Special (Also referred to as "carrying over the winning of a role", "carrying over the winning of a special role", etc.), even for players who are not good at spotting, the opportunity to establish the determined special role is guaranteed.

Further, in a conventional slot machine, a plurality of RT states (game states) having different probability of determining a replay combination are provided, and a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, a combination of predetermined symbols is stopped and displayed). ) is generally known to shift to another RT state. Such a transition between RT states is controlled by the main control board because it accompanies variations in the probability of determining a winning combination (replaying combination). Also, the period during which the RT state in which the winning combination determination probability of the replaying combination is set to the highest value is sometimes referred to as replay time.

On the other hand, it is also possible to set a game period called AT (assist time), in which information that allows the player to play the game advantageously, is set, and a predetermined notification effect (assist effect) is performed during this game period. ing. Such an AT may be set during a period (replay time) during which the RT state in which the replay combination probability is set to the highest value is set, and during such a replay time, the AT is It is generally called ART (Assist Replay Time). In fact, ART (assist Also called replay time. Assist effects performed during AT include, for example, when a small winning combination that enables the acquisition of game media is determined, this fact is notified, or the determined small winning combination is established (corresponding symbols are displayed on the effective line). stop display on the top), the operation mode of the stop switch (the operation order indicating in what order the plurality of stop switches should be operated (also referred to as "press order"), the stop switch, There is known a device that notifies an operation position (also referred to as a “push position”) indicating the rotation position of the reel when the operation should be performed.

Until now, slot machines (also referred to as "sub-AT machines") in which the above-described AT-related control processing (also referred to as "AT-related control processing") were performed exclusively by the sub-control means were common. On the other hand, there were problems such as being able to forcibly set AT by performing fraudulent acts (goto acts), so recently, AT related with main control means that is harder to commit fraud than sub control means. A slot machine (also called a “main AT machine”) that performs part of the control process is also known. For example, the main control means exclusively performs the processing related to the setting of the AT and the processing of determining the pressing order to be notified during the AT, and the sub-control means is mainly determined by the main control means during the AT set by the main control means. There is known a main AT machine that performs a process of executing notification of the pressing order (assist effect). In such a main AT machine, the main control means manages various information relating to the AT, and the main control means appropriately transmits this information to the sub-control means.

A game performed in a state where AT (ART) is set (also referred to as an "AT game (ART game)") provides advantageous game results compared to a normal game performed in a non-AT (non-ART) state. Therefore, the player plays the game expecting the AT to be set. Therefore, until now, there have been many ways to improve the interest of games, such as how to set the AT, how to continue (reset) the AT, and how to increase the number of games that can be played during the AT (also referred to as the "number of AT games"). Various proposals have been made.

Specifically, a game that performs an additional lottery process to increase the number of AT games, or an additional lottery process to increase the number of AT stocks (a numerical value indicating the number of times AT can be set) (also referred to as "AT additional game") ) is provided, and an addition lottery process is performed according to the AT addition game. For example, in Patent Document 1 below, an AT add-on game is provided in which a lottery process for adding the number of AT games is performed, and in the final game of the AT add-on game, the game where the add-on lottery process is performed in a state where the player is most preferentially treated machine is disclosed.

Further, Patent Document 2 listed below discloses a game machine that performs an AT stock number lottery process in which an AT number is selected by lottery and the selected AT number is stored when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

The manner in which lottery result announcements related to AT settings and the like are also changed according to the situation. For example, in Patent Document 3 below, in a game that executes a notification effect for notifying the result of an AT lottery, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a notification effect is performed with a freeze state in the game, and another Disclosed is a gaming machine that performs an announcement effect without a freeze state in the game when the condition of (1) is established.

After the end of one AT, a decision to discontinue the AT is made once, and that effect is notified, but when a predetermined condition is satisfied after that, the continuation of the AT is re-determined. Also called "game machine") is also known. For example, the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 4 below obtains predetermined points (ART points) during ART, and whether or not to continue ART using ART points in a battle state that transitions after the end of ART. A lottery is carried out, and in the case of non-winning, it shifts to a predetermined game state (fourth falling standby state). In the fourth falling standby state of the transition destination, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not to pull back the ART, and if the lottery is won, the ART is set again.

There is also known a gaming machine that takes into consideration the game performance when a game state unfavorable to the player continues, such as when the AT is not set for a long period of time. For example, in Patent Document 5 below, the number of games executed in a predetermined state (for example, the number of games executed without being set to an advantageous game state) is counted, and the number of times executed is a predetermined value (also referred to as "ceiling value"). ), a game machine (also referred to as a “ceiling setting type game machine”) is disclosed that performs a predetermined effect suggesting that effect and gives a predetermined privilege when the number of executions reaches the ceiling value.

Game machines equipped with movable objects for presentation are also known. This movable object is configured to perform a predetermined action when, for example, a situation advantageous to the player occurs. In addition, it is common practice to produce images, sounds, and lights associated with the movement of the movable object during the movement of the movable object. For example, in Patent Document 6 below, a plurality of movable objects used for production are provided, and when an operation abnormality occurs in any movable object, the operation control of all movable objects is stopped, while the operation of the movable objects is stopped. A game machine is disclosed in which effects such as related images are executed in the same manner as when the movable object operates normally.

In general, in a slot machine, the game store side determines the result of winning a role ("role lottery result" (simply "lottery result" is also possible), "role selection result" (simply "selection result" is also possible), "role winning result" (may be simply referred to as "winning result")) can be changed within a range of a plurality of steps. The difference in probability of determining a winning combination (also referred to as a "set difference") affects the payout rate of a slot machine. Interest is high as an indicator for acquiring more gaming media.

JP 2014-50554 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-260186 Japanese Patent No. 6025811 Japanese Patent No. 5925834 JP-A-2004-24323 JP 2017-47117 A

The addition of the AT stock number is of great interest to the player. Therefore, by increasing the opportunity for the AT stock number to be added (the expected value of the AT stock number to be added), the player's expectation for the AT stock number to be added is increased, thereby improving the interest of the game. It is conceivable to plan However, since the addition of the AT stock number leads to a significant increase in the advantage, there is a circumstance that it is not possible to casually increase the chances of the AT stock number being added.

A game machine of the ceiling setting type notifies the player that the number of executions of the normal game is approaching the ceiling value, and raises the player's expectation for reaching the ceiling value and giving a privilege. However, since the conventional games have a simple structure in which a predetermined privilege is given when the ceiling value is reached, there is a situation that the game is poor.

In the AT retraction type game machine, even if a decision to discontinue the AT is once made after the end of one AT and a notification to that effect is made, the decision to continue the AT may be made again after that. One can draw attention to whether the AT can be pulled back once the is discontinued. However, since it is a simple structure in which the degree of advantage afterward is the same when the AT continuation decision is made after the end of the AT and when the AT can be pulled back, the game performance when the AT can be pulled back. there is a shortage of

In order to prevent the player from becoming addicted to the game, a warning image is displayed as a countermeasure against the addiction in the standby screen indicating that the game is on standby. However, since the standby screen is a screen that is viewed by a player who is about to start a game, even if a warning image is displayed on the standby screen, there is a situation in which a sufficient effect as a countermeasure against addiction cannot be obtained.

In order to improve the interest of the game, it is desired to provide a plurality of AT-additional games and to execute an effect corresponding to each AT-additional game. However, in conventional gaming machines, each AT add-on game is set to perform a separate add-on lottery process. There is a possibility that the amount of data in the reference table will increase and the memory capacity of the game machine will be squeezed.

When an advantageous privilege such as an increase in the number of AT stocks, which is of great interest to the player, is granted, it is better to notify the player immediately to that effect, either explicitly or implicitly, so that the interest in the game will be enhanced. There is a view that it is preferable to improve. On the other hand, in a gaming machine, a continuous effect that continues over a plurality of games is executed according to the progress of the game, and by attracting the player's interest in the outcome of the continuous effect, the interest in the game is improved. There is Therefore, when an advantageous privilege is granted during the continuous performance, it becomes a problem whether or not to notify that the advantageous privilege has been granted (also referred to as "advantageous privilege grant announcement"). If the giving of advantageous benefits is announced during the continuous performance, it becomes difficult for the player to concentrate on the continuous performance, and there is a risk that the effect of improving the interest by the continuous performance will be reduced. If the notification is not made, there is a circumstance that the effect of improving interest by the notification of the provision of the advantageous privilege cannot be obtained.

In a conventional game machine provided with a movable object for effect, when an abnormality occurs in the movable object, the movable object does not move, but the effect such as images and sounds related to the motion of the movable object is executed as planned. . As a result, there is a possibility that a lackluster performance, in which the intent of the performance is unknown, will be executed, and the interest in the game will be remarkably reduced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a game machine capable of effectively calling attention as a countermeasure against addiction to games.

The gaming machine according to the present invention has the following features. In addition, in the description of the characteristic configuration below, examples of configurations corresponding to the embodiments described later are shown in parentheses.

Predetermined notification information for notifying an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch;
Alert information about addiction to games,
a first image suggesting the end of a predetermined gaming state;
a second image for notifying that the predetermined game state continues;
can be displayed and
It is possible to execute a demonstration production,
When displaying the second image after displaying the first image;
a case where the second image is not displayed after the first image is displayed;
has
Regardless of whether or not the second image is displayed, when the first image is displayed, the alert information is displayed for the period T1,
When the demonstration effect is being executed, the attention calling information is configured to be displayed for a period T2,
When the alert information and the second image are displayed, it is possible to identify that the predetermined game state continues even if the alert information is displayed,
When predetermined notification information and the alert information are displayed, even if the alert information is displayed, it is configured to be able to identify an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch,
It is characterized in that it is configured to satisfy T1≦T2.
Further, the gaming machine according to the present invention is
Predetermined notification information for notifying an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch;
Alert information about addiction to games,
a first image suggesting the end of a predetermined gaming state;
a second image for notifying that the predetermined game state continues;
can be displayed and
It is possible to execute a demonstration production,
When displaying the second image after displaying the first image;
a case where the second image is not displayed after the first image is displayed;
has
Regardless of whether or not the second image is displayed, when the first image is displayed, the alert information is displayed for the period T1,
When the demonstration effect is being executed, the attention calling information is configured to be displayed for a period T2,
When the alert information and the second image are displayed, it is possible to identify that the predetermined game state continues even if the alert information is displayed,
When predetermined notification information and the alert information are displayed, even if the alert information is displayed, it is configured to be able to identify an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch,
It is characterized in that it is configured to satisfy T1>T2.

According to the gaming machine with the above configuration, it is possible to effectively call attention as a countermeasure against addiction to games .

1 is a front view of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the said slot machine roughly. It is a figure which shows the pattern arrangement|positioning of the reel of the said slot machine. It is a diagram showing a symbol combination-1 in the slot machine. It is a diagram showing a symbol combination-2 in the slot machine. It is a diagram showing a symbol combination-3 in the slot machine. It is a diagram showing a symbol combination-4 in the slot machine. In the slot machine, (A) shows a symbol combination-5, and (B) shows a symbol combination-6. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a combination determination result -1 (losing/replay) in the slot machine; In the above slot machine, (A) shows the combination determination result -2 (push order bell), and (B) shows the combination determination result -3 (other winnings). It is a diagram showing a lottery set number -1 (replay) for determining a winning combination in the slot machine. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a lottery set number −2 (winning) for determining a winning combination in the slot machine; 3 is a block diagram conceptually showing the functions of the slot machine; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the relationship between RT states in the slot machine; It is a figure which shows the relationship of each game mode in the said slot machine. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a correspondence relationship between a navigation number, a corresponding pressing order, and display contents in the slot machine; In the above slot machine, (A) is the display mode of the navigation number 2 by the payout number display lamp, (B) is the display mode of the navigation number 2 by the image display device, and (C) is the display mode of the navigation number 4 by the payout number display lamp. 8(D) is a diagram showing a display mode of the navigation number 4 by the image display device, and (E) is a diagram showing a changing mode of the push order display by the image display device. FIG. In the above slot machine, (A) is a probability state setting flag set lottery table (number of games counter value = 100), (B) is a probability state setting flag set lottery table (number of games counter value = 300), (C ) shows a probability state setting flag set lottery table (number of games counter value=600), and (D) shows a probability state setting flag set lottery number table (number of games counter value=950). It is a figure which shows the probability state setting lottery number table in the said slot machine. It is a figure which shows the lottery number table to add in bonus AT in the said slot machine. In the above slot machine, (A) is the second lottery number table for AT acquisition (in the case of AT acquisition level 0), (B) is the second lottery number table for AT acquisition (in the case of AT acquisition level 1), (C ) is the 2nd lottery number table for AT acquisition (for AT acquisition level 2), (D) is the 2nd lottery number table for AT acquisition (for AT acquisition level 3), (E) is the 2nd lottery number table for AT acquisition 2 is a diagram showing a second lottery number table (in case of AT acquisition level 4), and (F) shows a second lottery number table for AT acquisition (in case of AT acquisition level 5). (A) in the above slot machine is a diagram showing a game mode 4AT additional lottery number table (lottery group number = 0), and (B) is a diagram showing a game mode 4AT additional lottery number table (lottery group number = 4). In the above slot machine, (A) is a diagram showing a game mode 5 transition lottery number table (lottery group number=0), and (B) is a diagram showing a game mode 5 transition lottery number table (lottery group number=6). (A) in the above slot machine is a diagram showing a game mode 5AT additional lottery number table (lottery group number=0), and (B) is a diagram showing a game mode 5AT additional lottery number table (lottery group number=4). In the above slot machine, (A) is an AT stock number counter addition lottery number table (addition special flag = 0, lottery group number 3), (B) is an AT stock number counter addition lottery number table (addition special flag = 1, lottery group number 3). FIG. 11 shows examples of effect patterns in the slot machine, in which (A) shows the case of determination of AT continuation at entry, (B) shows the case of AT withdrawal, and (C) shows the case of AT non-continuation. (A) is a final image, (B) is a cheering image, (C) is a recovery image, and (D) is a winning image in the slot machine. In the above slot machine, (A) is an attention-calling image, (B) is an attention-calling image for the end image, (C) is an attention-calling image for the cheering image-1, and (D) is an attention-calling image for the cheering image-2. It is a diagram. 4 is a flow chart showing the flow of game progress control processing in the slot machine. In the above slot machine, (A) is a flow chart showing a game mode 4 lever time process, and (B) is a flow chart showing a flow of an add-on process. In the slot machine, (A) is a flow chart showing the flow of the game mode 4 total stop processing, and (B) is a flow chart showing the flow of the game mode 6 entering processing. In the above slot machine, (A) is a flow chart showing the flow of game mode 7 entering processing, and (B) is a flow chart showing the flow of AT continuation lottery processing. In the above slot machine, (A) is a flow chart showing the flow of game mode 5 lever time processing, and (B) is a flow chart showing the flow of game mode 5 full stop processing. In the above slot machine, (A) is a flow chart showing the flow of game mode 6 lever processing, and (B) is a flow chart showing the flow of game mode 6 full stop processing. In the above slot machine, (A) is a flow chart showing the flow of game mode 7 lever time processing, and (B) is a flow chart showing the flow of game mode 7 full stop processing. 4 is a flow chart showing the flow of timer interrupt processing in the slot machine; In the modified mode, (A) shows an example of production control in a game without accessory action, and (B) shows an example of production control in a normal game α. (A) in the change mode is an example of production control in the abnormal occurrence game α-1, (B) is a diagram showing an example of production control in the abnormality occurrence game α-2. (A) in the change mode is an example of production control in normal game β, (B) is a diagram showing an example of production control in abnormal occurrence game β-1. (A) in the change mode is an example of effect control in the abnormal occurrence game β-2, (B) is a diagram showing an example of effect control in the game γ after the failure of the recovery of the role product. FIG. 11 is an overview diagram of a slot machine according to another embodiment; It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the alerting image in other embodiment. In another embodiment, (a) is a diagram showing an attention-calling image when displayed on a small image display device, and (b) is a diagram showing an attention-calling image when displayed on a large image display device. In another embodiment, (a) is a diagram showing image display timing when game medals are awarded, and (b) is a diagram showing image display timing when game medals are not awarded. In another embodiment, (a) is a diagram showing a display image when a cherry combination is won in a normal game, and (b) is a diagram showing a display image when a push order bell combination is won in an AT preparation game. In another embodiment, (a) is a timing chart in which a plurality of stop switches cannot be operated simultaneously, and (b) is a timing chart in which a plurality of stop switches can be operated simultaneously. It is a timing chart showing each operation timing within the minimum game time in another embodiment. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the display timing of the attention calling image in other embodiment. It is a timing chart showing another example of the display timing of the alert image in another embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the image displayed in order of (a), (b), and (c) in other embodiment. It is a figure which shows another example of the image displayed in order of (a), (b), and (c) in other embodiment. It is a figure which shows another example of the display position of the alerting image in other embodiment. It is a figure which shows the other example of the image displayed in order of (a), (b), and (c) in other embodiment. FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of timing of displaying a warning image when an error occurs in another embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing another example of the timing of displaying a warning image when an error occurs in another embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of the timing of displaying a warning image when power supply is stopped in another embodiment. FIG. It is a timing chart showing an example of the attention calling image display timing at the time of operation of the production switch in another embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the above drawings.
It should be noted that the "hand determination process" in the following description refers to one of a plurality of preset hand determination result numbers (consisting of one or more game hands or loss (except when no loss is set)). , means a selection act such as a lottery (also referred to as "determining a winning combination") executed using an electronic device or the like in order to randomly select one or more winning combination determination result numbers. Here, the winning combination determination result number means one or a plurality of gaming combinations that are allowed to be established in the game in which the winning combination determination result number is determined (selected) (also called "acceptable winning combination" or "winning combination"). (referred to as the name) or a loss.

In addition, "formation" when described as "game role is established" and "game role is established" means the game role corresponding to the determined role determination result number (game role with payout of game medals ( A combination of symbols (corresponding symbols) that constitutes a small combination) or a game combination that does not pay out (regardless of whether it is a replay combination or a special combination) is a predetermined stop mode (for example, a mode of lining up on an effective line to be described later). It is used as a concept to indicate that it is displayed in . However, regarding the timing of establishment, for example, when the reel stop operation is performed at the timing at which the symbol corresponding to the game role can be stopped and displayed on the active line, or when the symbol corresponding to the game role is stopped on the active line The timing can be set as appropriate, such as when the symbol is displayed, when the slot machine identifies that the symbol corresponding to the game combination has been stopped and displayed on the active line, or when the identified result is stored in the storage area. .

Further, in the following description, the game medal insertion operation (maintenance operation) by the player into the medal insertion slot 21 described later, and the regulation necessary for playing the game among the credited (stored) game medals A pressing operation of the 1-BET switch 22 or the MAX-BET switch 23 for providing a number of game medals for a game is collectively referred to as a bet operation. In addition, this betting operation, the player's pressing operation of the settlement switch 24 described later, the tilting operation of the start lever (also referred to as "start switch") 25, and the pressing operation of the stop switches 26a, 26b, and 26c are collectively called the game. called an operation. In general, the term "insertion" in a slot machine is used in the sense of "inserting game medals into the slot machine" or in the sense of "providing game medals for use in a game." There is In the following explanation, basically, the term "insertion" is used in the former sense, and the word "bet" is used in the latter sense.

In addition, the “number of payouts” of game medals means the number of game medals scheduled to be paid out (to be earned by the player) in one game. In addition, the act of paying out game medals includes the act of actually paying out game medals from the slot machine to the outside (also referred to as "actual payout"), and the act of electromagnetically distributing game medals as game medals stored in the slot machine. There is also an act of increasing the stored numerical value (also referred to as “stored addition payout”). In this specification, the "number of payouts" of game medals is used synonymously with the "number of acquisitions" of game medals.

Further, the “total difference number” of game medals means the difference between the total number of game medals paid out and the total number of game medals bet in a predetermined period (which can be arbitrarily set).

"Freeze" means that the execution of a predetermined control process relating to the progress of a game is delayed for a certain period of time. The freeze is set when the operation of the start lever 25 is accepted (also referred to as "freeze at the start of reel rotation"), and a freeze is set after all reels stop rotating ("freeze at reel rotation stop"). can be provided as appropriate. During the freeze period, game operations by the player are not effectively accepted.

In the following description, "push navigator" refers to a process (action) of notifying the pushing order and pushing position in order to assist establishment of the game role selected by the winning combination determination. Of push navigators, the one that assists the formation of a replay combination is called "RP navigator" (RP is an abbreviation for replay), and the one that assists the formation of a winning combination (small combination) is called "winning navigator". Also, if you want to distinguish between push navigation performed on the main control means side and push navigation performed on the sub control means side, the former is called "main side push navigation" ("main side RP navigation", "main side winning navigation"). ), and the latter is also called "sub-side push navigation" ("sub-side RP navigation", "sub-side winning navigation"), or "push navigation production" ("RP navigation production", "winning navigation production"). Also called

In the following description and drawings, numerical values may be expressed in binary numbers or hexadecimal numbers in addition to decimal numbers. Therefore, in order to distinguish between them, "B" is added to the end of the numerical value when it is expressed in binary, and "H" is added to the end of the numerical value when it is expressed in hexadecimal. Also, when notating in decimal numbers, do not add anything to the end of the numerical value.

FIG. 1 shows a slot machine 1 as an embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention, and the basic construction of this slot machine 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12. FIG.
<Slot machine appearance>
As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 1 has a front door 2 attached to the front surface of the main body so that it can be opened and closed. A middle panel assembly 20, a bottom panel assembly 30 and a pan assembly 40 are attached.

A display screen 11a of an image display device (also referred to as a "liquid crystal display device") 11 (see FIG. 2) arranged on the back side of the upper panel assembly 10 is arranged in the central part of the upper panel assembly 10 so as to face forward. A first effect lamp 12, second effect lamps 13a and 13b, and third effect lamps 14a and 14b are arranged in the peripheral portion thereof. A pair of upper speakers 15a and 15b are arranged on the lower left and right sides of the display screen 11a.

In the central part of the middle panel assembly 20, there is provided a display window W through which the surfaces of the three reels 3a, 3b, 3c arranged side by side in the main housing face. , a medal insertion slot 21 for inserting game medals (game media), a 1-BET switch 22 for betting one game medal within the credited range, and a game with a maximum allowable bet number (for example, 3). MAX-BET switch 23 for betting medals at once, settlement switch 24 for paying out bet game medals and/or credited game medals, all reels 3a, 3b, 3c (reel A start lever 25 that is operated when starting rotation of the spinning drum), and three stop switches 26a, 26b, and 26c (left side in the figure) for individually stopping the rotation of the reels 3a, 3b, and 3c. stop switch 26a corresponds to the reel 3a, the central stop switch 26b corresponds to the reel 3b, and the right stop switch 26c corresponds to the reel 3c). A reject switch 27 and the like are provided for returning.

The inside of the medal slot 21 includes a receiving passage (connected to a hopper 50 described later) through which the inserted game medals pass when the inserted game medals are validly received, and a receiving passage (connected to a hopper 50 described later) through which the inserted game medals are not accepted. It branches into a return passage through which game medals pass (which leads to a game medal payout port 41, which will be described later), and a blocker 48 (see FIG. 2) is provided at the branched portion. The blocker 48 guides the game medals inserted into the medal insertion slot 21 to the reception path during the period in which the inserted game medals are effectively received, and is inserted into the medal insertion slot 21 during other periods. The receiving path and the return path are selectively opened and the other can be closed so as to guide the game medals to the return path. In the following description, the ON state of the blocker 48 indicates a state in which the game medals inserted into the medal slot 21 are guided to the receiving path (game medal receivable state), and the OFF state of the blocker 48 indicates a medal insertion state. It shows a state in which game medals inserted into the opening 21 are guided to the return path (game medal unacceptable state).

Inside the medal slot 21, three inserted medal sensors 28a, 28b, and 28c (see FIG. 2) for detecting game medals are provided. The inserted medal sensor 28a detects that game medals have been inserted into the medal slot 21, and is positioned upstream of the position where the blocker 48 is installed on the path along which the inserted game medals flow. is installed in The inserted medal sensor 28b detects that the game medals inserted into the medal insertion slot 21 are led to the reception path and effectively received, and is positioned downstream of the position where the blocker 48 is installed (a hopper to be described later). 50). The inserted medal sensor 28c detects that game medals inserted into the medal slot 21 have passed through the branching portion between the receiving passage and the returning passage. (position slightly closer to the inserted medal sensor 28b).

If the inserted medal sensor 28a and the inserted medal sensor 28b both detect game medals, it means that the game medals have been inserted into the medal insertion slot 21 and that the inserted game medals have been effectively received. On the other hand, if the inserted medal sensor 28a detects game medals but the inserted medal sensor 28b does not detect any game medals, the game medals are inserted into the medal slot 21, but the inserted game medals are not accepted. It means that it was returned without In addition, when the three inserted medal sensors 28a, 28b, and 28c detect the passage of the game medals in an order different from the predetermined order (the order of 28a, 28c, and 28b), some of the inserted medal sensors detect the passage of the game medals. If is not detected, it means that an abnormal passage such as reverse flow of game medals has occurred.

The display window W is configured so that when all the three reels 3a to 3c are stopped, three symbols per reel, for a total of nine symbols, are displayed so that the player can see them. A winning line 29 that slopes downward to the right and diagonally connects the symbol display areas of the upper row of the reel 3a, the middle row of the reel 3b, and the lower row of the reel 3c is a winning line that is activated by betting a specified number of game medals. It is configured such that whether or not a game combination is established is determined by the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line. An activated winning line is also called an “activated line”.

In addition, the slot machine 1 is provided with various display lamps such as LED lamps. In this embodiment, the display lamps include a MAX-BET switch display lamp 46a, a BET number display lamp 46b, an insertable display lamp 46c, a game start display lamp 46d, a replay display lamp 46e, a status display lamp 46f, and a number display lamp. 46g, a stored number display lamp 46h, and a payout number display lamp 46j. These display lamps are configured to be controlled by a main control board 60 (main control means 100), which will be described later.

The MAX-BET switch display lamp 46a is lit under conditions in which game medals can be bet, and is arranged inside the MAX-BET switch 23. When lit, the MAX-BET switch 23 is partially or wholly turned on. It is designed to illuminate Other indicator lamps are located on the side or below the indicator window W in the middle panel assembly 20 .

The BET number display lamp 46b (hereinafter also referred to as “BET lamp 46b”) displays the number of game medals that have been bet, and is a 1-BET display lamp that lights up when the number of game medals that have been bet is one. 46bC, a 2-BET display lamp 46bB that is lit when there are two bets, and a MAX-BET display lamp 46bA which is lit when there are three bets. The insertable display lamp 46c is lit under conditions in which game medals can be inserted, and the game start display lamp 46d is lit under conditions in which the start lever 25 can be operated to start a game. It is what is done. The replay display lamp 46e is lit when a replay combination described later is established in an arbitrary game and game medals are automatically bet by an automatic bet process described later.

The status display lamp 46f is lit when settling accumulated (credited) game medals, and the number of times display lamp 46g indicates the initial value of the number of AT games 30") is displayed, and after that, the display value of the number of AT games is decremented by one every game, and when the number of AT games to be added is determined, the number of addition is added and displayed. A stored number display lamp 46h (hereinafter, also referred to as a "CRE lamp 46h") displays the number of stored game medals in seven segments, and a payout number display lamp 46j indicates a payout when a small winning combination, which will be described later, is established. The number of game medals to be collected is displayed in 7 segments. The stored number display lamp 46h and the payout number display lamp 46j each consist of two 8-segment displays (seven segment lamps and a segment lamp representing a decimal point) to display upper digit numbers and lower digit numbers. It is

The number-of-payouts display lamp 46j is also configured to display characters (alphabet letters) or numbers indicating the type of error when some kind of abnormality (error) occurs in the slot machine 1. FIG. Errors set in this embodiment include HP error, HE error, H0 error, CE error, CP error, CH error, C0 error, C1 error, FE error, E1 error, E5 error, E6 error, E7 error, etc. There is The HP error is an error when it is determined that game medals have accumulated at the medal payout port of the hopper 50, which will be described later, and the HE error is an error when it is determined that the game medals in the hopper 50 are empty (hopper empty error). , and the H0 error is an error when it is determined that the game medals have abnormally passed through the payout sensor. The CE error is an error when the inserted medal sensor determines that the game medals have accumulated (game medal retention error), and the CP error is an error when it is determined that the inserted game medals have passed illegally. The C0 error is an error when it is determined that there is an abnormal input to the inserted medal sensor, and the C1 error is an error when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the passage of the inserted medal sensor. The FE error is an error when it is determined that the auxiliary storage 85 described later is full (auxiliary storage full error), and the E1 error is an error when the contents of the storage device (RAM) are not normal when the power is turned on (RAM error), and E5 error is an error (rotational stop error) when the combination of symbols when all the reels are stopped is abnormal (corresponding symbols constituting a combination other than a combination allowed to be established are displayed in a stopped state). E6 error is an error (set value error) when the value of the set value (set value) for determining the winning combination probability is out of range, and E7 error is an update of the built-in random number used in each lottery etc. This is an error (built-in random number error) when an abnormal state is detected. Errors E1, E5, E6, and E7 (collectively referred to as "E system errors") are canceled by changing the settings described later, and other errors are canceled by operating the reset switch 82 described later. It's like

Further, the payout number display lamp 46j also has a function of displaying a navigation number, which will be described later, indicating the operation order (push order) of the stop switches 26a to 26c. The number-of-payouts display lamp 46j when displaying the navigation number is also referred to as a "main side push order indicator". The number-of-payouts display lamp 46j also has a function of displaying a setting value, which will be described later, when confirming and changing the setting, which will be described later. The number-of-payouts display lamp 46j for displaying the set value is also referred to as a "set value indicator".

A transparent lower panel cover 31 is attached to the central portion of the lower panel assembly 30, and decorative lamps 32a and 32b are arranged at both left and right ends thereof. A translucent lower panel base provided with a predetermined pattern and a lower panel illumination lamp (both not shown) are attached to the back side of the lower panel cover 31, and the lower panel illumination lamp is turned on. The pattern on the lower panel base is illuminated from the rear side by turning on.

The tray assembly 40 is provided with a game medal payout port 41 for paying out game medals, and a game medal storage tray 42 for storing game medals facing the game medal payout port 41. An ashtray 43 is provided on the left side of the game medal storage tray 42 . Further, on the left and right sides of the game medal payout port 41, a pair of lower speakers 44a and 44b (see FIG. 2) arranged on the back side of the tray assembly 40 face the front face of the pair of lower speakers 44a and 44b (see FIG. 2). , 45b are formed.

Further, a hopper 50 (see FIG. 2) for paying out game medals obtained when a predetermined winning mode is established as a result of the game is provided in the main body housing. A medal detector 51 (see FIG. 2) is provided for detecting game medals. Also, the hopper 50 has a function of physically storing game medals that have been inserted and effectively received. Further, in the vicinity of the hopper 50, an auxiliary storage 85 (see FIG. 2) for storing game medals overflowing from the hopper 50 is provided, and the auxiliary storage 85 is in a full state (from the auxiliary storage 85). A full detector 86 (see FIG. 2) is provided to detect whether or not the game medals are likely to overflow.

<Reel>
Each reel 3a, 3b, 3c is configured to rotate by being driven by a stepping motor 35a, 35b, 35c (see FIG. 2). Each of the reels 3a, 3b, and 3c is made of a light-transmitting member, and on the outer peripheral surface thereof, a light-transmitting reel tape on which a plurality of types of patterns (see FIG. 3) are displayed. pasted. Further, back lamps 38a, 38b, 38c (see FIG. 2) are arranged on the inner surface side of each of the reels 3a, 3b, 3c. The area of each of the reels 3a, 3b, and 3c facing inside W is illuminated entirely from the inner surface side, and a predetermined symbol combination (for example, on the effective line 29, Only a partial area of each of the reels 3a, 3b, 3c is illuminated so as to make the corresponding symbols of the game combination arranged at positions different from the effective line 29 stand out.

<Basic operations for playing games>
In order to play a game on the slot machine 1, first, a player places a bet by actually inserting game medals into the medal slot 21, or operates either the 1-BET switch 22 or the MAX-BET switch 23 to make a credit range. The winning line 29 is activated by betting a prescribed number of game medals within the line. In this embodiment, the prescribed number of game medals required to activate the winning line 29 is set to three in any of the RT states of non-RT, RT1, and RT2, which will be described later. However, the specified number is not limited to this, and can be changed as appropriate, such as by setting the specified number to a different value according to the RT state or the like. Also, a plurality of winning lines may be provided, and the number of activated winning lines may be changed according to the number of game medals bet.

Next, when the player operates the start lever 25, the number of bets is determined (the betted game medals are used for the game), and the combination determination process described later is performed. After that, the minimum game time ( The minimum time that must be secured from the start of rotation of all reels in one game to the start of rotation of all reels in the next game (for example, 4.1
seconds)), the reels 3a to 3c start rotating, and the plurality of types of symbols displayed on the outer peripheral surface of the reels 3a to 3c move up and down in the display window W (usually , from top to bottom). Then, when the rotation of the reels 3a to 3c reaches a predetermined speed and becomes constant speed rotation, each of the stop switches 26a to 26c is activated (operation of the stop switch can be effectively accepted), and the player operates the stop switch 26a. is operated to stop the rotation of the reel 3a, the stop switch 26b is operated to stop the rotation of the reel 3b, and the stop switch 26c is operated to stop the rotation of the reel 3c.

Here, when the symbol combination stopped and displayed on the activated line 29 is of a predetermined winning mode (symbols corresponding to a game combination capable of obtaining game medals), the number of symbols corresponding to each winning mode. game medals are paid out by the hopper 50 or added as credits.

<Connection between the control board and each device>
In this embodiment, as main control boards for controlling the slot machine 1, as shown in FIG. The main control board 70A and the sub-sub control board 70B are collectively referred to as the sub-control board 70). Main control related to the progress of the game (including drive control of the reels 3a to 3c, combination determination processing, etc.) is performed by a control circuit arranged on the main control board 60, and illumination by lamps such as the back lamps 38a to 38c. Control and the like are configured to be performed by a control circuit arranged on the sub-main control board 70A. Further, the effect image display control by the image display device 11 and the sound generation control from the speakers such as the upper speakers 15a and 15b are mainly performed by the control circuit arranged on the sub-sub control board 70B. there is Furthermore, information can be transmitted between the main control board 60 and the sub-control board 70 only in one direction from the main control board 60 to the sub-main control board 70A. Information can be transmitted bidirectionally with the control board 70B.

The main control board 60 includes a main CPU 61 that performs various arithmetic processes related to games, a ROM 62 that is a read-only storage device that stores control programs and the like, and a RAM 63 that is a storage device in which information can be written and read (" RAM" is also referred to as "RWM"), and each drive circuit and the like operate according to the control program stored in the ROM 62, thereby controlling the progress of the game in the slot machine 1. It's like The ROM 62 and RAM 63 are non-volatile storage devices, and are configured to retain stored information even when power is not supplied.

The main CPU 61 includes a clock pulse generator 64 for generating a clock pulse (clock signal), a frequency divider 65 for frequency-dividing the clock pulse generated by the clock pulse generator 64, a clock pulse (or frequency-divided A random number generator 66 for generating random numbers used for determining a winning combination, etc., and a random number capturing circuit 67 for capturing the random numbers generated by the random number generator 66 are connected. The clock pulse generator 64 is composed of two oscillators (not shown), and asynchronous clock signals are output from the respective oscillators. Hereinafter, a clock signal with a predetermined frequency output from one oscillator will be referred to as an internal clock, and a clock signal with a predetermined frequency (a different frequency from the internal clock, but may be the same) output from the other oscillator. is called an external clock. For example, the internal clock is used as an operation clock of the main CPU 61 and as an update clock for random numbers used in a predetermined lottery other than determination of a winning combination, and the external clock is used as an update clock for random numbers used in determining a winning combination. The main CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, frequency divider 65, random number generator 66, random number acquisition circuit 67, interface circuit 68, etc. may be mounted on one IC chip to form a one-chip microcomputer. The main CPU 61 also transmits signals to the motor drive circuit 36a, the display lamp control circuit 47, the hopper drive circuit 52, and the sub-control board 70 via the interface circuit 68, and the reel position detection circuits 37a and 37b. , 37 c , payout detection signal circuit 53 and storage state signal circuit 87 .

The motor drive circuit 36a is a circuit for performing rotation/stop control of the stepping motors 35a, 35b, and 35c that rotate and drive the reels 3a, 3b, and 3c, respectively. This is a circuit for controlling the lamps for use. The reel position detection circuits 37a, 37b, and 37c are circuits that transmit detection signals from reel sensors (not shown) installed on the reels 3a, 3b, and 3c to the main control board 60 (the detection circuit 37a corresponds to the reel 3a, the detection circuit 37b corresponds to the reel 3b, and the detection circuit 37c corresponds to the reel 3c). The hopper driving circuit 52 is a circuit for driving the hopper 50 to pay out game medals when a small winning combination is established. It is a circuit that transmits a payout detection signal to the main control board 60 when detected by the medal detection unit 51 . The storage state signal circuit 87 is a circuit that transmits a storage state signal indicating whether or not the auxiliary storage 85 is full to the main control board 60 according to the detection result of the fullness detector 86 .

Further, power is supplied to the slot machine 1 from the power supply device 80 via the main control board 60 . A power switch 81, a reset switch 82, and a setting key type switch 83 are connected to the power supply device 80, and signals from these switches are transmitted to the main CPU 61 via the interface circuit 68. ing. Furthermore, the main CPU 61 is configured to receive a signal from the setting change switch 84 via the interface circuit 68 .

The power switch 81 is a switch that accepts power-on and power-off operations from the power supply 80 to the slot machine 1, and the reset switch 82 is a switch that receives a predetermined error in the slot machine 1 (an error other than the E-type error described above). This switch is operated by a game clerk or the like when the cause of the error is removed and the error is resolved. By operating the reset switch 82, the error occurrence information stored in the main control board 60 and the sub-control board 70 is cleared, and along with this, the main control board 60 and the sub-control board 70 perform the processing for error resolution. executed. The setting key type switch 83 is a switch that is operated when confirming and changing the setting of the setting value that determines the degree (rank) of the winning combination probability. It is a switch for changing in steps (six steps in this embodiment).

When the front door 2 is open (also referred to as "door open state") and power is being supplied to the slot machine 1 (the power switch 81 is ON), the setting key switch 83 is turned ON. Setting can be confirmed by being operated. When the door is open and power is not supplied to the slot machine 1 (the power switch 81 is OFF), the setting key type switch 83 is turned ON, and the power switch 81 is kept in that state. is turned on (power is turned on to the slot machine 1), the setting can be changed. Furthermore, each time the setting change switch 84 is operated in that state, the setting value can be updated by one step. The setting key type switch 83 can be switched between an ON state and an OFF state by inserting a predetermined key member (setting key) into a predetermined lock member provided on the main body side and turning it. there is In addition, setting confirmation and setting change cannot be performed while a game is in progress (a state in which game medals are betted (including a state in which game medals are automatically betted) or a state in which reels are spinning). It can be executed only in the game standby state. It should be noted that, when confirming the setting and when changing the setting, the set value is displayed on the payout number display lamp 46j using six integer values "1 to 6".

Power from the power supply device 80 is supplied to the sub-main control board 70A via the main control board 60, and further supplied to the sub-sub-control board 70B via the sub-main control board 70A (the power supply device 80 may directly supply power to the sub-main control board 70A and the sub-sub-control board 70B). A supply voltage monitoring circuit for monitoring the voltage supply state is provided on the circuit that supplies power from the power supply device 80 to the main control board 60 and on the circuit that supplies power to the sub-main control board 70A via the main control board 60. (not shown) are provided respectively. Each supply voltage monitoring circuit judges that the power supply has been cut off when the supply voltage drops to a predetermined voltage value, and outputs a power cutoff detection signal to the main CPU 61 and a sub-main CPU 71 which will be described later. In addition, each supply voltage monitoring circuit detects when the supply voltage returns to a predetermined voltage value (a value different from the voltage value for determining power failure (for example, a higher value), but the same value may be used). It determines that the power is turned on immediately, and outputs a power-on detection signal to the main CPU 61 and the sub-main CPU 71 . Note that the voltage value for detecting the power cutoff of the main control board 60 is set to a value higher than the voltage value for detecting the power cutoff of the sub-main control board 70A, and is set to a value higher than the voltage value for detecting the power cut-off of the sub-main control board 70A. The main control board 60 is configured to perform processing (power-off processing) programmed to be executed when the power is turned off (the same may be applied to power-on).

The main CPU 61 also includes a reel stop signal circuit 91, a start lever 25, inserted medal sensors 28a, 28b, 28c, a 1-BET switch 22, which are connected to the switch board 90 or mounted on the switch board 90. , the MAX-BET switch 23 and the settlement switch 24 are inputted via the interface circuit 68 .

A blocker 48 is connected to the main CPU 61 via an interface circuit 68, and is configured to be ON/OFF controlled. In the following description, the signal for ON/OFF control of the blocker 48 is also called "blocker signal". Further, although not shown, the slot machine 1 is provided with a door sensor for detecting the open/close state of the front door 2, and a signal from the door sensor is input to the main CPU 61 via the interface circuit 68. It has become so. The main CPU 61 determines whether the front door 2 is in a closed state (also referred to as a "door closed state") or an open state (door open state) based on a signal from the door sensor.

Also, although not shown, the main CPU 61, when entering a predetermined game state (for example, AT state or bonus state), connects data counters, hall computers, and the like to external connection terminal boards and the like. A predetermined signal (also referred to as an "outer end signal") is output, and by this outer end signal, the number of times a predetermined game state has been set can be managed or presented to the player.

On the other hand, the sub-main control board 70A includes a sub-main CPU 71 that mainly performs various arithmetic processes related to performance management, a ROM 72 that is a read-only storage device that stores control programs and the like, and information that can be written and read. A RAM 73, which is a storage device, is provided, and each drive circuit and the like operate according to a control program stored in the ROM 72, thereby controlling image effects and sound effects in the slot machine 1, and controlling lamp effects. etc. are to be carried out. The ROM 72 and RAM 73 are non-volatile storage devices, and are configured to retain stored information even when power is not supplied. A clock pulse generator and frequency divider (not shown) are connected to the sub-main CPU 71, and predetermined processing is executed according to the clock signal generated by the clock pulse generator and frequency divider. It has become.

The sub-main CPU 71 is configured to receive various signals from the main control board 60 via the interface circuit 74 and transmit signals to the lamp control circuit 18 . The lamp control circuit 18 is a circuit for controlling lighting of lamps such as the back lamps 38a to 38c.

The sub-main CPU 71 is also configured to transmit various signals to the sub-sub control board 70B and receive various signals from the sub-sub control board 70B via the interface circuit 74 . Hereinafter, a signal (control signal) transmitted from the main control board 60 to the sub-main control board 70A is also referred to as a "control command", and a signal (announcement signal or effect signal) transmitted from the sub-main control board 70A to the sub-sub control board 70B. ) is also referred to as a “drawing command”. A signal (state signal) transmitted from the sub-sub control board 70B to the sub-main control board 70A is also called a "state command".

The sub-sub control board 70B includes a sub-sub CPU 75 that mainly performs various arithmetic processing related to control of image effects and sound effects, a ROM 76 that is a read-only storage device that stores control programs, etc., and information can be written and read. A RAM 77 is provided as a storage device, and each drive circuit and the like operate according to a control program stored in the ROM 76, thereby controlling image effects and sound effects. The ROM 76 and RAM 77 are nonvolatile storage devices, and are configured to retain stored information even when power is not supplied.

The sub-sub CPU 75 receives a notification signal or effect signal from the sub-main control board 70A via the interface circuit 78, transmits signals to the display device control circuit 16 and the speaker control circuit 17, and also transmits signals to the sub-main control board 70A. is configured to send a status signal to the The display device control circuit 16 is a circuit for controlling the image display device 11 to display a predetermined effect image, and the speaker control circuit 17 controls the type and volume of sounds generated from speakers such as the upper speakers 15a and 15b. This is the control circuit. The image display device 11 is also configured to function as a push indicator (also referred to as a "sub-side push order indicator") that displays the operation order (push order) of the stop switches 26a to 26c.

<Pattern placement on the reel>
In this embodiment, the symbols displayed by the respective reels 3a to 3c are arranged as shown in FIG. 3b and 3c respectively). That is, the respective reels 3a to 3c have "Red Seven", "Yellow Seven", "Character", "Bar", "Bell A", "Bell B", "Bell C", "Watermelon", and "Cherry". and 10 kinds of patterns of "replay" are arranged in a predetermined number each. Hereinafter, the reels 3a, 3b, and 3c are also referred to as left reel, middle reel, and right reel, respectively.

<Types of game roles>
In this embodiment, the symbol combinations stopped and displayed on the respective reels 3a to 3c are set as shown in FIGS. ing. In the present embodiment, a total of 41 pieces of 9 replay hands 1 to 9 and 32 small hands 1 to 32 are set as the game hands. The symbol combinations (corresponding symbols) for establishing each game combination, the number of game medals to be paid out when the game combination is established, etc. are as shown in FIGS. 4 to 8. FIG. Although not provided in the present embodiment, a special role (bonus role) that serves as an opportunity to execute a special game (bonus game) that is performed in a state in which the winning probability of a predetermined minor role in the role determination is set higher than usual ) may be provided as a game role.

The symbol combination-1 in FIG. 4 shows the symbols corresponding to the replay combinations 1-9. In the replay hands 1 to 9, no game medals are paid out when established, but the next game is played without reducing the number of game medals owned by the player (without inserting new game medals). It is a playing role (re-playing role) that is permitted. Among them, the establishment of replay combination 2 is a condition for transition from RT1 state or RT2 state to non-RT state described later, and replay combinations 3 to 7 are established from RT1 state to RT2 state. It is considered a condition for transitioning to For this reason, the replay combination 2 is also referred to as "non-RT transition RP", and the replay combinations 3 to 7 are also referred to as "RT2 transition RP".

As shown in FIG. 3 (reel symbols), the symbol "replay" on each reel of the left reel, middle reel and right reel, which constitutes the replay combination 1, is arranged every five symbols or less on each reel. there is As a result, when the replay combination 1 is won, the corresponding symbol "replay, replay, replay" is determined by the execution timing of each reel rotation stop operation (each operation of the stop switches 26a, 26b, 26c). Regardless of the timing (push position), it is possible to stop-display (also referred to as “pull-in”) on the effective line 29 . Like this replay combination 1, regardless of the operation timing of each stop switch, a combination that can draw the corresponding symbol (if there are multiple pairs, one of them) onto the activated line 29 is called "100". It is also referred to as a % retractable game combination. It should be noted that, like the replay combination 1, the replay combinations 2 to 4 are also 100% drawable combinations.

When the replay combination 1 is established, the symbol "replay" is aligned on the downward-sloping effective line 29, so the re-game combination 1 is also called "sloping right RP". Similarly, when the replay combination 2 is established, the symbols "replay" are aligned horizontally and horizontally in the upper symbol display areas of the left reel, the middle reel, and the right reel. ” is also called. When the replay combination 5 is established, the symbol "red seven" is arranged in the display window W depending on the pressing position, and when the replay combination 6 or replay 7 is established, the symbol "character" is displayed depending on the pressing position. When the symbol "yellow seven" is aligned within the display window W and the replay combination 8 is established, the symbol "yellow seven" is aligned within the display window W depending on the pressing position. For this reason, the replay combination 1 is also referred to as "red 7RP", the replay combinations 6 and 7 as "character RP", and the replay combinations 8 and 9 as "yellow 7RP".

Symbol combination-2 in FIG. 5, symbol combination-3 in FIG. 6, symbol combination-4 in FIG. 7 and symbol combination-5 in FIG. Small combinations 1 to 32 are game combinations (winning combinations) configured to pay out a predetermined number of game medals when established. When the small win 1 is formed, the corresponding symbols "Bell A, Bell A, Bell A/B/C"("/" means "or") are displayed in the upper symbol display areas of the display window W. The small combination 2 is a winning combination in which the corresponding symbols "Bell A, Bell A, Bell A/B/C" are displayed on the activated line 29 in the display window W when established. For this reason, the small wins 1 and 2 are also referred to as "bell wins". Further, the small wins 1 and 2 are obtained when the operation order (pressing order) of the stop switches 26a, 26b, and 26c by the player is the correct pressing order described later in the pressing order bell (YK numbers 18 to 29) described later. It has become a role to be established in Small wins 1 and 2 are game wins that can be drawn in 100%, and the number of game medals to be paid out when the wins are established is set to eight.

Small wins 3 to 23 may be established depending on the pressing position when the pressing order of the pressing order bells (YK numbers 18 to 29) by the player is a predetermined pressing order different from the correct pressing order. This is a winning combination, and the number of game medals to be paid out at the time of establishment is set to 1, which is less than the number of payouts (8) at the time of establishment of 1, 2 small winnings. For this reason, small wins 3 to 23 are also referred to as "bell-removing one win". The small combination 24 is a game combination that can be established depending on the pressing position. The small winning combination 32 is a 100% drawable winning combination, and is configured so that the symbol "watermelon" is arranged horizontally in each middle symbol display area in the display window W depending on the pressing position on the left reel. . For this reason, the small winning combination 24 is also referred to as the "downward-sloping watermelon winning combination", and the small winning combination 32 is also referred to as the "middle watermelon winning combination".

The small winning combinations 25 to 27 and 31 are winning combinations in which the symbol "cherry" can be stopped and displayed in the display window W on the left reel when established. For this reason, the small wins 25 to 27 and 31 are also collectively referred to as "cherry wins". When the small win 28 is established, the symbol combination "Bell A, Bell A, Bell A/B/C" is displayed in the symbol display areas of the lower left reel, the middle reel, and the right reel in the display window W. It is configured to be displayed stopped. When the small winning combination 29 is formed, the symbol combination "Bell A, Bell A, Bell A/B/C" is displayed in the symbol display areas of the lower part of the left reel, the middle part of the middle reel, and the lower part of the right reel in the display window W. It is configured to be displayed stopped. When the small winning combination 30 is established, the symbol combination "Bell A, Bell A, Bell A/B/C" is displayed in the symbol display areas of the upper left reel, the middle reel, and the upper right reel in the display window W. It is configured to be displayed stopped. For these reasons, the small winning combination 28 is also referred to as the "bell breaking combination", the small winning combination 29 is also referred to as the "mountain bell winning combination", and the small winning combination 30 is also referred to as the "small V-bell winning combination". Incidentally, the small wins 25 to 31 are game wins that can be drawn in 100%.

The symbol combination-6 in FIG. 8B shows a symbol combination of specific symbols. In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, three specific symbols from pattern 01 to pattern 03 are set. These are not the corresponding symbols of the game role, but when the pressing order bell (any of YK numbers 18 to 29) is selected, depending on the pressing order and pressing position of the stop switch, the bell role (small role 1, 2) Alternatively, when the bell-removed one-piece combination (small combination 3 to 23) cannot be established, a stop display is made on the effective line 29 as the missed combination. Further, the specific symbols of patterns 01 to 03 must be stopped and displayed on the activated line 29 as a condition for transition from non-RT to RT1, which will be described later. Therefore, the specific symbols of patterns 01 to 03 are also referred to as "RT1 transition symbols". Since these specific symbols do not correspond to the symbols corresponding to the game combination, but correspond to the symbols that are lost, no game medals are paid out even when they are stopped and displayed.

<Role determination result number>
The hand determination process (hand determination) in the present embodiment is performed once in one game, and one or more hand determination result numbers (also referred to as "YK numbers") are selected as hand determination results. It has become. 9 and 10 show the types of YK numbers selected by the combination determination process and the corresponding winning combinations. The "winning name" shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is given for convenience in order to make each YK number easy to distinguish. In this embodiment, 39 YK numbers from "0" to "38" are set as shown.

The YK number 0 is associated with a case where the combination determination result is a loss (no game combination is won), and the other YK numbers 1 to 39 are associated with each game combination as a winning combination. . For example, YK number 2 (replay A2) is associated with replayed hands 2 and 9 as overlapping winning hands, and YK number 23 (winning B2) is associated with small winning hands 1, 13, 14, 20 and 23. YK number 36 (winning prize G2) is associated with small winning combinations 29 and 30 as duplicate winning combinations. The contents of some YK numbers will be specifically described below.

The YK numbers 1 to 17 shown in the combination determination result-1 in FIG. 9 correspond to the combination determination results in which the winning combination is the replay combination. In the remarks column of FIG. 9, in what case the winning combination corresponding to each YK number is established, the symbols displayed when the winning combination is established, and the transition of the RT state when the winning combination is established. I wrote. YK number 1 (re-game A1) and YK number 2 (re-game A2) are associated with combination determination results including non-RT transition RP (re-game combination 2) as a winning combination, and one of them is selected. In this case, the reel stop control is performed so that the replay combination 2 is always established irrespective of the pressing order and the pressing position.

YK numbers 3 to 8 (replay B1 to B6) overlap a plurality of replay hands including replay hand 3 or replay hand 4 which is RT2 transition RP and replay hand 2 which is non-RT transition RP When one of them is selected, the following reel stop control is performed. That is, when each stop switch is operated according to a predetermined pressing order (also referred to as "correct pressing order") (also referred to as "when pressing order is correct"), the re-playing role 3 or the re-playing role that is the RT2 transition RP 4 is always established, and when each stop switch is operated without following the correct pressing order (also referred to as "when the pressing order is incorrect"), the re-play combination 2, which is a non-RT transition RP that has been won twice, It is sure to be established. These YK numbers 3 to 8 are set to be selectable only in RT1, which will be described later. ) is set as the result of determination of the hand to be controlled. "Left", "middle", and "right" described in the remarks column in the table of FIG. 9 refer to the stop switches 26a, 26b, and 26c. It means order (push order). For example, "left and right center" represents the order of pressing the stop switches 26a, 26c, and 26b, and "middle first" represents the order of pressing the stop switch 26b first (second and subsequent pressing order is no questions asked).

YK number 9 (re-game C) and YK number 10 (re-game D) are associated with a plurality of re-game hands among the re-game hands 4 to 7, which are RT2 shift RP, as overlapping winning hands. These YK numbers 9 and 10 are set so that they can be selected only in RT1, which will be described later (the winning probability is extremely low). It is controlled so as to be established, and is shifted to RT2. When the YK number 9 is selected, the pattern "red seven" is aligned in the display window W depending on the pressing position, and when the YK number 10 is selected, the pattern "character" is aligned depending on the pressing position. In addition, the YK numbers 9 and 10 are also referred to as chance hands because their selection is a trigger for the shift from game modes 0 and 1 to game mode 3, which will be described later.

YK numbers 13 to 15 (replay F1 to F3) are associated with a plurality of replay hands including a replay hand 1 and a replay hand 2, which is a non-RT transition RP, as overlapping winning hands. When any one of the YK numbers 13 to 15 is selected, the replay combination 1 is always established when the player's pressing order is the correct pressing order, and the replay combination 2 is always established when the pressing order is incorrect. controlled as These YK numbers 13 to 15 are set to be selectable only in RT2, which will be described later, and depending on the pressing order, whether to maintain the RT state (remain at RT2) or fall (transition from RT2 to non-RT) ) is set as the result of determination of the hand to be controlled.

YK numbers 16 and 17 (replay G1 and G2) are set to be selectable only during RT2, which will be described later. When the YK number 16 is selected, it is controlled so that the symbols "yellow seven" are aligned within the display window W depending on the pressing position. In this embodiment, YK numbers 1 to 9 and YK numbers 13 to 15 are also collectively referred to as "push order RP".

In the combination determination result -2 in FIG. 10(A), YK numbers 18 to 29 in which the small combination 1 or small combination 2, which is a bell combination, and a plurality of bell-removed one-piece combinations are associated as overlapping winning combinations. showing. In this embodiment, the YK numbers 18 to 29 are also collectively referred to as "push order bells". Three push orders (corresponding push orders 1 to 3) are set for each of the push order bells, and the following reel stop control is performed for each. That is, when YK numbers 18 to 21 (winning prizes A1 to A4) are selected, when the player's pressing order is "left first" (corresponding to the correct pressing order), the small winning combination 1, which is the bell combination, is always given. The probability is about 1/4 (
It is controlled so that the bell-removed one-piece combination is established with the probability that the pressing position is determined at random without eye pressing (the same applies hereinafter).

When YK numbers 22 to 21 (winning prizes B1 to B4) are selected, when the player's pressing order is "middle first" (corresponding to the correct pressing order), the small winning combination 1, which is the bell combination, is always established. , "Left first" (the possible hands are different between "Left middle right" and "Left middle right") and "Right first" have a probability of about 1/4 to miss the bell. Control is performed so that a single hand is established. YK number 26
~ 29 (winning prizes C1 to C4) are selected, when the player's pressing order is "right first" (corresponding to the correct pressing order), the small winning combination 2, which is the bell combination, is always established, and "left First" (the possible roles differ between "left middle right" and "right middle right") and "right first" with a probability of about 1/4 to remove the bell is controlled so that It should be noted that if neither the bell combination nor the one-piece combination of removing the bell can be established at the time of selecting the pushing order bell, any of the specific symbols of the patterns 01 to 03 will be displayed on the effective line 29 as the missed combination. Stop is displayed.

The combination determination result -3 in FIG. 10B shows YK numbers 30 to 38 related to other prizes that do not correspond to the pressing order bell. YK number 30 (winning prize D) is a combination determination result (also referred to as a "common bell") in which minor combinations 1 and 2, which are bell combinations, are associated as duplicate winning combinations. When this is selected, reel stop control is performed to establish a small winning combination 1 or a small winning combination 2 regardless of the pressing order or pressing position. YK number 31 (winning prize E1) is a combination determination result (also referred to as "weak watermelon") in which a small combination 24, which is a downward-sloping watermelon combination, is associated as a single winning combination. When this is selected, a small combination 24 is established depending on the pressing position, and reel stop control is performed to align the symbol "watermelon" on the effective line 29. - 特許庁The YK number 32 (winning prize E2) is a combination determination result (also referred to as "strong watermelon") in which the small combination 24 and the small combination 32, which is the middle watermelon combination, are associated as duplicate winning combinations. When this is selected, a small combination 32 is formed depending on the pressed position, and reel stop control is performed to align the symbol "watermelon" in the middle row of the display window W.

YK number 33 (winning prize F1) is a combination determination result (also referred to as "weak cherry") in which small winning combinations 25 to 27, which are cherry combinations, are associated as duplicate winning combinations. When this is selected, reel stop control is performed to stop and display the symbol "Cherry" on the left reel in the display window W depending on the pressed position. The YK number 34 (winning prize F2) is a combination determination result (also referred to as "middle stage cherry") in which small winning combinations 25 and 27, which are cherry combinations, are associated as duplicate winning combinations. When this is selected, reel stop control is performed to stop and display the symbol "cherry" in the middle left row of the display window W depending on the pressed position.

YK number 35 (winning prize G1) is a combination determination result (also referred to as "breaking bell winning prize") in which the small winning combination 1 as a bell combination and the small winning combination 28 as a folding bell combination are associated as duplicate winning combinations. When this is selected, regardless of the pressing order or pressing position, a small combination 28 is always formed, and reel stop control is performed to stop and display the symbol "bell" in the lower left, middle middle and right middle rows of the display window W. is done. YK number 36 (winning prize G2) is a combination determination result (also referred to as "Bell Koyama/small V winning") in which the small winning combination 29, which is the Koyama Bell role, and the small winning combination 30, which is the small V Bell role, are associated as duplicate winning roles. ). If this is selected, depending on the pressing position, a small winning combination 29 is established and the symbol "Bell" is stopped and displayed in the lower left, middle middle and lower right rows of the display window W, or a small winning combination 30 is established. Then, reel stop control is performed to stop and display the symbol "bell" in the upper left, middle middle, and upper right stages of the display window W.

<Possibility of winning and setting difference>
In the winning combination determination process, the probability of each YK number being selected (the winning combination probability) can be set as appropriate. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. ing. Random numbers (random number range 0 to 65535) used for determining a winning combination are shown in the tables of the lottery placing number -1 (replay) in winning combination determination shown in FIG. , the value of the lottery number assigned to each YK number is described for each RT state and set value.

As shown in FIG. 11, the YK numbers (YK numbers 1 to 17) in which the replayed combination is included in the winning combination are set with different combination determination probabilities depending on the RT state (non-RT, RT1, RT2). For example, YK numbers 1 and 2 (replays A1 and A2) set the combination probability to 0 (lottery number = 0) during RT2 (prevent winning), while non-RT and RT1 is set to be electable. However, the winning probability is set higher during non-RT than during RT1. It should be noted that even if the replaying combination is a YK number included in the winning combination, it is possible to set the same combination determination probability in each RT state.

As shown in FIG. 12, for the YK numbers (YK numbers 18 to 38) in which the winning combination (small combination) is included in the winning combination, each lottery is performed so that the winning combination probability does not change even if the RT state changes. The number is set to be common to all RTs. If the YK numbers are different, different winning combination probabilities can be set for those YK numbers, but the same winning combination probabilities may be set for different YK numbers. For example, in this embodiment, the odds of determining a winning combination for each of the YK numbers 18 to 29, which are the pressing order bells, are set to be the same (lottery number=1610). Although no special role is provided in this embodiment, a special role may be provided. In that case, during a special game (bonus game) started when a special combination is established, a combination determination probability different from that during a non-bonus game may be set.

It is possible to configure the YK number combination probability to be changed in accordance with the above-described set value set by a game clerk or the like. In this embodiment, there are 6 stages of setting values from setting 1 to 6. The YK number changes the winning combination probability according to the setting value, and the winning combination probability does not change even if the set value changes. A YK number is provided. Hereinafter, setting such that the combination probability is changed according to the set value is referred to as "providing a set difference". How to distribute YK numbers with setting difference (also called “YK numbers with setting difference”) and YK numbers without setting difference (also called “YK numbers without setting difference”) is arbitrary. It is possible to set As an example, the YK number that triggers the lottery that affects the payout rate of the slot machine 1 (the ratio of the number of payouts to the number of game medals provided for the game) is set to a YK number with no set difference. For the YK numbers that are not triggers, it is possible to provide a setting difference or not.

Next, with additional reference to FIGS. 13 to 17, an outline of the characteristic configuration of the slot machine according to the present embodiment will be described.
<Functional block>
As shown in FIG. 13, from a functional point of view, the slot machine according to the present embodiment mainly includes a betting operation for betting game medals (for example, an operation for inserting game medals into the medal slot 21). , pressing operation of 1-BET switch 22 or MAX-BET switch 23), reel rotation start operation for rotating each stopped reel 3a to 3c (for example, tilting operation of start lever 25), multiple types of symbols Reel rotation stopping operation (for example, pressing stop switches 26a, 26b, 26c) for stopping the rotation of the three reels 3a, 3b, 3c that variably display , bet or accumulated (credited) game medals Operation signal output means 95 for outputting a signal (also referred to as a "game operation signal") corresponding to each game operation performed by the player, such as a settlement operation (for example, pressing the settlement switch 24) for paying out , main control means 100 (corresponding to the main control board 60) that performs main control related to the progress of the game, and sub-control means 200 (corresponding to the sub-control board 70) that performs predetermined effect control according to the game situation ) and

The main control means 100 can be roughly divided into a game state management means 110 that mainly manages the game state, a game progress management means 130 that mainly manages the progress of the game, and a main communication control that controls communication in the main control means 100. Means 150 are provided. Among them, the game state management means 110 includes a set value control means 111, an RT state control means 112, a replay operation control means 113, a bonus game control means 114, a freeze control means 115, a game mode control means 116, and a random number generation/ A capturing means 117 is provided.

The game progress management means 130 includes received medal management means 131, winning combination determination means 132, performance group number determination means 133, reel control means 134, stop display symbol determination means 135, payout medal management means 136, blocker control means 137, It has display lamp control means 138 , push order management means 139 , and lottery group number determination means 140 . The above-described means in the main control means 100 include hardware such as the main CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, and electronic circuits arranged on the main control board 60 shown in FIG. It is a functional representation of what is configured by software.

(Each Means Constituting Gaming State Management Means 110)
The set value control means 111 is configured to control a numerical value (also referred to as a “management set value”) for internally managing the set value of the winning combination probability (six levels of setting 1 to setting 6). ing. In this embodiment, consecutive integer values from 1 to 6 (the integer values from 1 to 6 correspond to settings 1 to 6, respectively) are used as management setting values. The management set value data is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 63, and is referred to when confirming the set value in the winning combination determination process. It is referred to when the set value is displayed on the value display (payout number display lamp 46j). Also, the setting value for management is changed according to the setting change operation by the game clerk. Specifically, each time the setting key type switch 83 is turned on and the setting change switch 84 is operated in that state, the setting is updated by one.

The RT state control means 112 is configured to control the setting of three RT states, non-RT, RT1 and RT2, as shown in FIG. Non-RT is a standard RT state in the present embodiment, and the probability that a replaying role is selected in determining a role (total selection probability of YK numbers 1 and 2 that can be selected in non-RT) is standard. It is set to a value (approximately "1/7.3").
Also, when the RAM (RAM 63) is initialized, it is set to this non-RT. During this non-RT period, when the condition P1 is satisfied, the process is shifted to RT1. The condition P1 is that when any of the above-mentioned pushing order bells (YK numbers 18 to 29) is selected by the winning combination, the winning combination is not established, and the above-mentioned RT1 transition symbol (pattern 01 to 03 specific symbol) Either) is stopped and displayed on the effective line 29 .

RT1 is an RT state in which the probability of winning a replay combination (YK numbers 1 to 17) (total selection probability of YK numbers 1 to 10 that can be selected in RT1) is set equal to non-RT. During this RT1, when the condition P2 is satisfied, the process is shifted to RT2. The condition P2 is that the symbols corresponding to the RT2 shift RP (any of the replay combinations 3 to 7) are stop-displayed on the activated line 29 .

RT2 has a higher probability of winning a replay role than non-RT or RT1 (total selection probability of YK numbers 11 to 17 that can be selected in RT2). /1.
5”) is the RT state. During this RT2, when the condition P1 is satisfied, the process is shifted to RT1, and when the condition P3 is satisfied, the process is shifted to the non-RT. The condition P3 is that the symbol corresponding to the non-RT transition RP (replay combination 2) is stop-displayed on the activated line 29 .

When a replay combination is established, the replay operation control means 113 sets a state in which the player is allowed to play the next game without betting the game medals owned by the player (also referred to as a "replay operation state"). ) is configured to be set. When the replay operating state is set, information indicating the replay operating state (also referred to as “replay operating state information”) is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 63 . Storing the replay operating state information is also referred to as setting or turning on the replay operating state flag, and clearing (erasing) the stored replay operating state information is called clearing the replay operating state flag. It is also referred to as "turning off" or "turning off".

Freeze control means 115 delays the execution of control processing related to the progress of the game (for example, processing for accepting a bet operation, reel rotation start operation, reel rotation stop operation, etc.) for a predetermined time when a predetermined condition is satisfied. is configured to set

The game mode control means 116 is configured to control the setting of nine game modes from game mode 0 to game mode 8, as shown in FIG. The game mode means a game state (also referred to as "main game state") mainly related to the setting state of AT, which is controlled by the main control means side separately from the RT state. Here, an outline of each game mode will be described, and the contents of the game mode to be described in more detail will be described later.

Game mode 0 is a normal (non-advantageous) game state in which the average length of stay during the game is the longest. In game mode 0, a lottery (also referred to as "first lottery for AT acquisition") for determining whether or not to grant a predetermined privilege (also referred to as "first privilege for AT acquisition") according to the combination determination result, etc. is done. The first privilege for AT acquisition is that, in game mode 4, prize-winning navigation that informs the correct pushing order for the pushing order bell is executed a predetermined number of times (e.g., 8 times), and after that execution, a predetermined number of times (e.g., maximum (up to 8 times), the privilege of being able to obtain the right to participate in the second lottery for obtaining an AT, which will be described later. In addition, in game mode 0, counting (counting up) by a counter (also referred to as a "game number counter") for managing the period (number of games played) of staying in game mode 0 continuously is performed every game. Then, according to the value of the game number counter, some predetermined processes (collectively referred to as "game number counter value corresponding processes") are performed, which will be described later.

Furthermore, in game mode 0, when a predetermined combination determination result (for example, YK numbers 9 and 10, which are chance combinations) is selected, a bonus AT lottery is performed. Specifically, 40 games are given as the number of games (also referred to as "number of BAT games") that can be executed as bonus AT games in game mode 3 (BAT game that manages the number of BAT games "40" is set in the number counter), and 30 games are given as the number of games that can be executed as AT games in game mode 4 (also referred to as "the number of AT games") (the number of AT games that manages the number of AT games "30" is set in the counter). In addition, when the bonus AT lottery is won, the next game is shifted to the game mode 3.

Game mode 1 is an AT precursor game state that is shifted from game mode 0 when the first lottery for AT acquisition in game mode 0 is won and the first privilege for AT acquisition is granted. In the game mode 1, a predetermined number of games (also referred to as "the number of precursor games in the game mode 1") is set, and when the games of the number of precursor games in the game mode 1 are completed, the game mode is shifted to the game mode 2. It has become.

The game mode 2 is an AT preparation game state which is transferred from the game mode 1 when the games for the number of precursor games in the game mode 1 are completed in the game mode 1 . In this game mode 2, when a predetermined combination determination result (for example, a combination determination result that enables RT2 transition RP to be established) is selected, a bonus AT lottery is performed, and if the lottery is won, a BAT privilege is provided. . Specifically, when a predetermined combination determination result (for example, a combination determination result in which RT2 transition RP can be established) is selected, if the BAT game number counter is set to 1 or more, the next game is played. When the game mode is shifted to the game mode 3 and the BAT game number counter is set to 0, the game mode is shifted to the game mode 4 from the next game.

Game mode 3 is a bonus AT game state that is shifted from any one of game modes 0, 1, and 2 when a bonus AT lottery is won. In the game mode 3, the process of adding the AT game number and the process of converting the added AT game number into the AT stock number (these processes are collectively referred to as "AT addition conversion process") are performed. will be described later. In game mode 3, the BAT game number counter value is decremented every game, and when the value of the BAT game number counter becomes "0" (games corresponding to the number of BAT games are completed), the next game is played. to the game mode 4. In game modes 0 and 1, neither RP navigation nor prize-winning navigation is performed, and in game modes 2 and 3, prize-winning navigation and RP navigation are performed (the prize-winning navigation may not be performed). In addition, the game performed in game mode 3 is also called "bonus AT game."

Game mode 4 is an AT normal game state shifted from game mode 2 or game mode 3 . When the game mode is shifted from the game mode 2 to the game mode 4, the value of the prize navigation counter for counting the number of execution times of the prize navigation executed eight times as the first privilege for obtaining AT becomes "8". set. The value of this winning navigation counter is decremented by "1" each time winning navigation is executed in game mode 4, and when the counter value reaches "0", a predetermined lottery ) is performed. If the player wins the second lottery for AT acquisition, a predetermined privilege (also referred to as “second privilege for AT acquisition”) is granted. The second privilege for acquiring AT is a privilege in which the number of AT games for 30 games is given. A game) is continuously performed over 30 games (sometimes referred to as a privilege including performing the AT continuation determination process described later). The set AT game number counter is decremented by "1" every game while staying in the game mode 4 after that.

On the other hand, in the case of non-winning in the second lottery for AT acquisition, the value of the AT game number counter is not set (the initial value remains "0"), the AT game of 30 games is not performed, and the game mode is entered. 0. Also, when the game mode is shifted from the game mode 3 to the game mode 4, the winning navigation counter value is not set (the initial value remains "0"), and the value of the AT game number counter is "30" at the time of transition. , AT game of 30 games is started from the first game in game mode 4. The AT game number counter set in this case is also decremented by "1" every game.

Winning probabilities in the second lottery for AT acquisition are set differently according to AT acquisition levels provided to define them. This AT acquisition level has six stages from "0" to "5", and when the AT acquisition level is 5, it is set so as to always win the second lottery for AT acquisition. In addition, if the AT acquisition level is set to "5" before shifting to the game mode 4 (as described later, when the high probability state is set in the game mode 0, the first AT acquisition level If a privilege is granted, etc.), it is left as it is, otherwise it is set to "0" when shifting to game mode 4 (AT acquisition level value (0 to 5 ) may be determined). In addition, in game mode 4, a lottery (also referred to as "AT acquisition level upgrade lottery") determines whether or not to upgrade the AT acquisition level during the period from when the winning navigation counter value is set to "0". is performed every game (in the case of AT acquisition level 5, no further upgrade is performed). The AT acquisition level may be cleared in AT acquisition processing described later or when shifting from game mode 4 to game mode 0 .

Also, in game mode 4, several processes (these are collectively referred to as “AT addition specialization shift processing”), which will be described later. Furthermore, in the game mode 4, in the game in which the value of the set AT game number counter reaches "0", preparation processing for shifting to the game mode 7 (also referred to as "game mode 7 entry processing") is performed. . In this game mode 7 entry process, AT continuation determination process for determining whether or not to continue the AT game (process for executing AT continuation lottery etc. described later) is performed, but the game mode including this point The contents of the 7 rush processing will be described later.

Game mode 5 is a game state of temporarily staying in AT that is temporarily shifted from game mode 4, and game mode 6 is an AT stock number addition special that is transferred from game mode 4 and the AT stock number is added. It is a game state of transformation. Game mode 6 may be set for 32 consecutive games or may be set for only one game (the number of set games may be changed as appropriate). Continuous stay game mode 6", and game mode 6 in the latter case is also called "single stay game mode 6". In addition, the game performed in the game mode 4, the game mode 5 and the single-stay game mode 6 is collectively referred to as "first AT game", and the game performed in the continuous stay game mode 6 is referred to as "second AT". Also called "game". The continuous stay game mode 6 in which the second AT game is performed is the most advantageous game state for the player. Winning navigation and RP navigation are performed during the execution of the first AT game and the second AT game, but the value of the AT game number counter is not subtracted while staying in game modes 5 and 6 (it may be done ). The contents of the processing performed in game modes 5 and 6 will be described later.

Game mode 7 is a game state of AT continuation determination that is transferred from game mode 4 when the value of the AT game number counter reaches “0” in game mode 4 . In this game mode 7, a game is played a predetermined number of times (which may be determined by a lottery), and an AT continuation lottery similar to that performed in the game mode 7 entering process is performed every game. The contents of the processing performed in the game mode 7 including this point will be described later. In addition, the game performed in game mode 7 is also called "AT continuation determination game."

A game mode 8 is a game state of the service AT to which the game mode 7 is transferred. In this game mode 8, only a period of a predetermined number of games (for example, 10 games, but the number of games may be determined by lottery or the like) is set, and during the set period, an AT game is played according to the combination determination result. Processing to add the number is performed every game. Therefore, the game state is more advantageous than the game mode 4 for the player. In the game mode 8, when a predetermined number of games are completed, the game mode is shifted to a game mode 4. - 特許庁

The nine game modes described above may be divided into a game mode belonging to the normal section and a game mode belonging to the advantageous section. The normal section is a period during which push-navigation (winning navigation and RP-navigation) is not performed, and information that can determine the pushing order (information such as YK number and navigation number) is not transmitted from the main control means side to the sub-control means side. But also. In addition, the normal section is also a period during which a lottery (for example, the first lottery for obtaining an AT) can be performed to determine whether or not to move to the advantageous section. The game mode 0 corresponds to the game mode that belongs to the normal section.

The advantageous section is a period during which push-navigation can be performed, and is also a period during which information for determining the pushing order can be transmitted from the main control means to the sub-control means. In addition, for the advantageous section, a lottery to change the performance of the advantageous section (for example, AT acquisition level upgrade lottery, bonus AT lottery), and a process to add the number of games in the advantageous section (for example, AT addition conversion process). It is also a period in which you can Game modes 1 to 8 correspond to game modes belonging to the advantageous section. Furthermore, in the advantageous interval, an interval indicator (the DP segment lamps other than the 7 segment lamps of the number-of-payout display lamps 46j) for informing the player that it is in the advantageous interval may be lit. Winning navigation may be performed at least once while staying in the advantageous section (in this case, if winning navigation has not been performed even once, it is not possible to shift to the normal section).

Also, an upper limit (for example, 1500 games) may be set for continuous stay in the advantageous section. Furthermore, when the upper limit is reached and the advantageous interval ends, all information related to the advantageous interval (for example, the value of the AT game number counter, the value of the AT stock number counter, etc.) may be cleared. good. When the upper limit is reached and the advantageous section ends, winning navigation need not be performed even once during the stay in the advantageous section. In addition, if the lottery for determining whether to move to the advantageous section or the lottery for changing the performance of the advantageous section is based on the result of the winning combination, it should be limited to the winning combination that does not have a set difference. Alternatively, in particular, the lottery for changing the performance of the advantageous section may be performed based on conditions other than the combination determination result. At that time, it may be performed without referring to the setting value.

Returning to FIG. 13, the random number generating/fetching means 117 is composed of the above-described CPU 61, clock pulse generator 64, frequency divider 65, random number generator 66, and random number fetching circuit 67, and generates random numbers used for various lotteries. generate and capture. In this embodiment, four (4ch; ch is an abbreviation for “channel”) 16-bit random numbers RL0 to RL3 capable of generating a random number sequence in a numerical range up to “0 to 65535” and up to “0 to 65535”. It has four (4 ch) 8-bit random numbers RS0 to RS3 capable of generating a random number sequence in a numerical range up to 255", each of which can independently generate a random number sequence. The random numbers generated by these random numbers RL0 to RL3 and RS0 to RS3 are updated based on the clock signal generated by the clock pulse generator 64, so they are also called hardware random numbers (hard random numbers). Although not shown, in this embodiment, a random number generation means other than the random number generation/acquisition means 118 is provided. This random number generation means is composed of the above-described CPU 61 and RAM 63, and has random numbers capable of generating a sequence of random numbers within a predetermined numerical range as random numbers used for determining a winning combination. Since this random number is updated based on a program, it is sometimes called a software random number (soft random number).

(Each Means Constituting Game Progress Management Means 130)
The received medal management means 131 controls the actually received game medals (which are guided to the receiving passage and detected by the inserted medal sensor 28b) among the game medals inserted from the medal slot 21 (also referred to as "inserted game medals"). It is configured to control whether the game medals (also referred to as “received game medals”) are directly bet game medals or credited game medals. In this embodiment, if the number of bets does not reach the maximum permissible number of bets (the number of bets required to execute a game (specified number "3")), the accepted game medals are directly betted. When the number of bets has reached the maximum permissible bet number and the number of credits has not reached the maximum permissible credit number (for example, "50"), the accepted game medals are the game medals to be credited. ing.

In addition, in the game set to the replay operation state, the received medal management means 131 performs automatic betting processing (the number of game medals equal to the number of bets in the previous game is automatically processed without reducing the number of game medals held by the player). processing for setting a bet state) is performed, but if the number of credits does not reach the maximum allowable number of credits, the accepted game medals are the game medals to be credited. When the number of bets reaches the maximum permissible bet number and the number of credits reaches the maximum permissible credit number, the inserted game medals are returned without being accepted.

Triggered by the operation of the start lever 25 (the operation of the start lever 25 being effectively accepted), the combination determination means 132 sets a plurality of combination determination results (YK numbers) based on a predetermined combination determination probability. It is configured to perform a winning combination determination process (a winning combination determination) for selecting at least one YK number from among the YK numbers. This winning combination determination process is performed using random numbers generated by the 16-bit random number RL0 described above. Specifically, when the start lever 25 is operated, the random number generated by the 16-bit random number RL0 is captured. Then, when performing the winning combination determination process, the received random number is read, a predetermined soft random number is added to the read random number, and the combination determination result number is selected using the added random number. there is The combination determination result number may be selected using the read random number without adding the predetermined soft random number.

The winning combination determination process is performed with reference to a predetermined winning combination determination table (not shown). The combination determination table is configured such that lottery set number data corresponding to each winning item is stored in a predetermined storage area (plurality of addresses) in the ROM 62 for each set value. When one or a plurality of YK numbers are selected in the winning combination determination process, the gaming combination corresponding to the selected YK numbers becomes an acceptable winning combination in the game. The information of the selected YK number is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 63, but the information of the YK number stored in one game is used regardless of whether or not a minor win or a replay win is established. Cleared (reset to "0") after termination.

The effect group number determination means 133 is configured to perform a process of generating the information of the effect group number from the information of the YK number selected by the winning combination determination process. This effect group number (for example, the effect group numbers from "0" to "10" are used) is associated with each YK number selected by the combination determination process, and in particular, the game can be played according to the difference in the pressing order. One performance group number is associated with a group of YK numbers that have an above advantage or disadvantage (effect on ball output) or that have a difference in the number of game medals paid out (number of wins). It has become.

On the other hand, the YK number of the replayed combination that does not affect the advantage or disadvantage of the game due to the difference in the pressing order (there is no effect on the ball output), and the number of game medals paid out (number of acquisitions) varies depending on the difference in the pressing order. For YK numbers of small wins (winning wins) that do not generate , and YK numbers of small wins (winning wins) where the number of game medals that can be obtained is small (for example, less than the prescribed number of bets), etc., multiple YK numbers However, it is not necessary to associate one effect group number. For example, an effect group number having the same value as the value of the YK number may be associated.

Information on the YK number may not be sent to the sub-control means, but information on the performance group number may be sent instead. The effect group number is advantageous or disadvantageous to the player depending on the pressing order. As for the YK numbers, one effect group number is associated with a plurality of YK numbers. Even if it is possible to identify the outline of the fact that the result of determining a winning combination with a different winning combination can be identified, it is not possible to identify which YK number corresponding to the order of pressing the correct answer was won. Therefore, even if the information transmission path from the main control means to the sub-control means is illegally accessed and the information of the performance group number is illegally obtained, it is possible to obtain useful information (information on the order of pressing the correct answer, etc.) from there. Since it becomes impossible, such a fraudulent act can be deterred. In addition, the sub-control means may change the background color and content of the image effect in accordance with the type of the winning combination in the combination determination process. For this reason, by associating a common effect group number with a plurality of YK numbers belonging to the same category, the sub-control means that receives the information of the effect group number can select the category according to the information. It is also possible to perform an image effect according to.

The performance group number may be determined and the information may be transmitted to the sub-control means regardless of whether notification of the pressing order is necessary (this can simplify the control program). On the other hand, the performance group number is determined only in situations where it is not necessary to notify the pressing order, and in the circumstances where it is necessary to notify the pressing order, the YK number information is transmitted to the sub-control means as it is without determining the performance group number. You may make it Also, the effect group number is determined regardless of whether it is necessary to notify the pressing order or not, but in a situation where it is necessary to notify the pressing order, the value of the YK number is determined as it is as the value of the effect group number. good too.

Triggered by the operation of the start lever 25 (the operation of the start lever 25 is effectively accepted), the reel control means 134 confirms that the minimum playing time has passed, and then the reels 3a to 3c are activated. are started to rotate, and after all the reels that have started to rotate are in a constant-speed rotation state, the stop switches 26a, 26b, and 26c are sequentially operated (each operation of the stop switches 26a to 26c is effectively accepted. ), the rotation of the corresponding reels 3a to 3c is sequentially stopped.

The rotation stop control of each of the reels 3a to 3c is based on each stop table (not shown) that is set (set) according to the winning combination determination result selected in the winning combination determination process. order, operation timing, etc.). Each of the reels 3a to 3c is stopped within a predetermined allowable stop time (for example, 190 milliseconds) from the timing when the stop switches 26a, 26b, and 26c are operated (in this embodiment, within the maximum number of sliding frames of 5 frames).

That is, when a predetermined game combination is selected as an establishment-permissible combination as a result of the combination determination process, the symbols corresponding to the selected combination are stopped on the activated line 29 as long as possible within the allowable stop time. As shown, the reels 3a to 3c are controlled to stop so that the symbol corresponding to any game combination is not stopped and displayed on the activated line 29 in the case of a loss. In addition, if a special role is provided, if a replay role or a small role is won during the winning carryover of the special role, the replay role and the small role will be given priority (priority is given to the replay role (Although it may be higher, it can be changed) Reel rotation stop control may be performed with priority given to a replay combination to be established or priority given to a small combination.

The stop display symbol determination means 135 determines which symbols are the symbols stopped and displayed by the reels 3a to 3c, and determines whether a game combination is established from the combination of the symbols stopped and displayed on the activated line 29. configured to determine whether

A payout medal management means 136 adds the number of game medals corresponding to the small winning combination established when the minor winning combination is established, to the credit amount if the credit amount does not reach the maximum allowable credit amount. Thus, when the number of credits has reached the maximum allowable number of credits, the hopper 50 is driven through the hopper drive circuit 52 to actually pay out the coins. Also, the payout medal management means 136 transfers the number of game medals that have been bet or the number of game medals that have been credited to the hopper 50 when the settlement operation (pressing operation of the settlement switch 24) is effectively accepted. It is designed to be driven and refunded.

The blocker control means 137 outputs a blocker signal for controlling the above-described blocker 48 so as to switch the blocker 48 between an ON state (a state in which game medals can be accepted) and an OFF state (a state in which game medals cannot be accepted). is configured to When the blocker 48 is turned off, the game medals inserted into the medal slot 21 are led to the return path and returned. However, the insertion of game medals is detected by the inserted medal sensor 28a.

The display lamp control means 138 controls the various display lamps (MAX-BET display lamp 46a, BET lamp 46b, insertable display lamp 46c, game start display lamp 46d, replay display lamp 46e, status display lamp 46f, number of times The display lamp 46g, the CRE lamp 46h, and the payout number display lamp 46j) are controlled through the display lamp control circuit 47 for lighting and extinguishing. When the number-of-payouts display lamp 46j is to function as a main-side push-order annunciator, the number-of-payments display lamp 46j is controlled by the push-order management means 139. FIG.

The pressing order management means 139 selects a navigation number (for example, any one of "0" to "6") corresponding to the pressing order to be notified according to the winning combination determination result (YK number) selected by the winning combination determination process. It is designed to In this embodiment, each navigation number is set as shown in the navigation number-corresponding push order-display content correspondence table of FIG. The navigation number 0 is selected when the push order is not notified, and the corresponding push order is set to "unknown". Navigation numbers 1 to 6 are selected when it is desired to notify the user of the first to third push orders, and the corresponding push orders are set as shown in FIG. For example, the corresponding pressing order for the navigation number 2 is "right-left center", and the corresponding pressing order for the navigation number 5 is "right-left center". If the pressing order to be notified (correct pressing order) is one of three options, that is, "left first", "middle first", or "right first", it is selected as one of the six options. Display the navigation number corresponding to the order. Specifically, if the correct order is "left first", either "left middle right" or "left middle right" is selected by lottery or the like, and the navigation number corresponding to the selected order is selected. (For example, if "left and right middle" is selected, display based on navigation number 2) is performed. If the correct pressing order is "middle first", either "middle left, right" or "middle right, left" will be selected by lottery or the like. The pressing order of either "middle" or "right middle left" is selected by lottery or the like.

Further, the pressing order management means 139 is configured to perform push-navigation (main-side push-navigation) by causing the payout number display lamp 46j to function as a main-side push-order annunciator and notifying the selected navigation number. there is Specifically, this push-navigation notifies the navigation number using two 7-segment lamps (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as "7-segment") provided in the number-of-payouts display lamp 46j. FIG. 17 shows an example of the notification mode. FIG. 17(A) shows a mode in which navigation number 2 is displayed, and "=" is displayed in the left 7-segment and "2" is displayed in the right 7-segment. FIG. 17(C) shows a mode in which navigation number 4 is displayed, in which "=" is displayed in the left 7 segments and "4" is displayed in the right 7 segments. The "=" displayed in the left 7 segment is for distinguishing from the display of the number of payouts on the number-of-payouts display lamp 46j. When the navigation number 0 is selected, the payout number display lamp 46j is not displayed (see FIG. 16 for the correspondence between each navigation number and the display contents of the payout number display lamp 46j). Of course, "=" may be displayed on the left 7 seg and "0" may be displayed on the right 7 seg, or "0" may be displayed on both the left 7 seg and the right 7 seg. , "0" may be displayed only in the right 7 segments.

Returning to FIG. 13, the lottery group number determination means 140 is configured to determine a lottery group number used for selecting winning values in various lotteries according to the YK number selected by the winning combination determination process. . In this embodiment, 10 lottery group numbers from lottery group number 0 to lottery group number 9 are provided as the lottery group numbers, and the YK numbers determined in determining the winning combination are divided into 10 groups (included in any group). YK numbers may be provided that are not available), and each group is associated with one of the lottery group numbers. In this embodiment, YK numbers 31 and 35 are lottery group number 0, YK numbers 18 to 30 are lottery group number 3, YK number 34 is lottery group number 4, and YK number 33 is lottery group number 6. The method of association can be determined arbitrarily. Lottery group numbers 0 and 9) are roughly divided into lottery group numbers with no setting difference, and correspond to groups composed only of YK numbers with no setting difference, and lottery group numbers with setting difference correspond to groups with setting difference. It may be associated with a group including the YK number. In addition, the correspondence is changed based on the game mode state and the RT state, and usually many types of lottery group numbers are set, and the probability of lottery for acquiring AT is finely set according to the result of lottery lottery, and AT In the middle, fewer types of lottery group numbers may be set to roughly set the winning probability of an additional lottery or the like.

(Each Means Constituting Main Communication Control Means 150) The control command transmission means 151 is configured to transmit control commands including various types of information about games at predetermined timings. For example, as a control command to be sent before the start lever is operated, a control command (also referred to as a "game mode command") containing information indicating which game mode is set, which RT state is set There is a control command (also called "RT command") containing information indicating whether or not the player is playing, and a control command (also called "operating state command") containing information indicating the operating state of replay. In addition, as the control command to be sent when the start lever is operated, for example, a control command including navigation number information (also referred to as a "navigation number command"), a control command including effect group number information (" Also referred to as "effect group number command"). In addition, a control command including information on set values, a control command including information on the values of various counters such as AT game number counters, a control command including information for instructing the contents of effects to be executed by the sub control means, etc. may be transmitted before is operated, triggered by the operation of the start lever, or triggered by other triggers.

In addition, the control command transmitting means 151 is triggered by the fact that the minimum playing time has passed, and the control command (" (also referred to as a full reel rotation start command). Furthermore, when the first stop operation (operation of the stop switch for stopping the first reel) is accepted, a control command containing information indicating that the first stop operation has been accepted ("first stop acceptance command"), and when the first reel stop (reel stop corresponding to the first stop operation) is triggered, a control command including information on the first reel stop (also called "first stop command") is transmitted. ). Similarly, when the second stop operation (operation of the stop switch for stopping the second reel) is accepted, a control command containing information indicating that the second stop operation has been accepted ("second stop (Also referred to as "receiving command") is transmitted, and when the second reel stop (stop of the reel corresponding to the second stop operation) is triggered, a control command including information on the second reel stop ("second stop command" ). Similarly, when the third stop operation (operation of the stop switch for stopping the third reel) is accepted, a control command containing information indicating that the third stop operation has been accepted ("third stop acceptance command"), and with the third reel stop (reel stop corresponding to the third stop operation) as a trigger, a control command containing information on the third reel stop (also referred to as a "third stop command") ). Furthermore, before determining the stop symbol, a control command including information on stopping all reels (also referred to as "all stop command"), after determining the stop symbol, a control command including information on the number of payouts of game medals ("number of payouts") command). Communication between the main control means 100 and the sub-control means 200 (sub-main control means 200A) is possible only in one direction from the former to the latter.

The outer end signal transmission means 152 is configured to transmit an outer end signal to a data counter, a hall computer, or the like when a predetermined game state is reached. For example, a BB signal may be transmitted as the outer end signal. This BB signal is turned ON when the normal section shifts to the advantageous section, and turned OFF when the advantageous section shifts to the normal section.

On the other hand, the sub-control means 200 includes sub-main control means (also referred to as "first sub-control means") 200A that mainly manages (instructs) lamp effects, image effects and audio effects, is provided with sub-sub control means (also referred to as "second sub control means") 200B that controls (executes)

200 A of sub-main control means are provided with the performance management means 210 and the sub-main communication control means 230, if divided roughly. Effect management means 210 includes game effect management means 211, notification effect management means 212, and lamp effect control means 213. Sub-main communication control means 230 includes control command reception means 231, effect command transmission means 232, and status command A receiving means 233 is provided. The above-described means in the sub-main control means 200A are implemented by sub-main CPU 71, ROM 72, RAM 73, hardware such as electronic circuits, etc. arranged on the sub-main control board 70A shown in FIG. It functionally represents what is configured by software such as.

(Each Means Constituting Production Management Means 210)
The game effect management means 211 mainly controls the execution timing of the image and sound effects (hereinafter referred to as "game effects") executed by the sub-sub control means 200B, mainly for the purpose of improving the interest and playability of the game. It is configured to be managed based on control commands from the control means 100 . Game effects include, for example, a continuous effect, a single effect, an assist effect, and the like.

A continuous effect is a continuous effect over a plurality of game periods. For example, an effect image or the like that symbolizes staying in a predetermined game mode (for example, game mode 6) may be displayed. It should be noted that when performing a continuous effect or a single effect described below, effects are performed using the effect lamps 12, 13a, 13b, 14a, 14b and decorative lamps 32a, 32b, or speakers 15a, 15b, 44a, 44b are used. It is also possible to perform a combination of performances.

A one-shot effect is an effect that is executed sporadically, for example, when a specific situation occurs in the process of progressing a game. For example, when each reel is rotated, an effect may be given in which an image indicating the degree of expectation of winning of the game combination is displayed by the image display device 11 . In addition, when the number of AT games is added in the main control means 100, the value of the number of AT games added (for example, characters such as "+30") is displayed on the display screen 11a of the image display device 11. Production is also an example of one-shot production.

The assist effect is a effect for assisting the player, and in this embodiment, the push navigation effect is mainly performed according to the navigation number information transmitted by the navigation number command from the main control means 100 . This push-navigation effect (sub-side push-navigation) utilizes the image display device 11 as a sub-side push-order indicator to show the player the push order (correct push order) corresponding to the navigation number on the display screen 11a. It is a one-shot production displayed in In this embodiment, an RP navi effect (sub-side RP navi) corresponding to the above-described RP navi and a winning navigating effect (sub-side winning navi) corresponding to the winning navi are executed.

As a specific aspect of the push-navigation effect, for example, when a navigation number command including information of navigation number 2 (corresponding pressing order "right, left, middle") is received, as shown in FIG. Numbers indicating the pressing order are displayed in the order of "1, 3, 2" from the left side, and when a navigation number command including information of navigation number 3 (corresponding pressing order "middle left and right") is received, FIG. As shown in (D), for example, numbers indicating the corresponding pressing order are arranged in the order of "2, 1, 3" from the left and reported.

Further, when the first to third push orders are displayed, as shown in FIG. 17(E), when the player operates the first stop switch according to the displayed first push order, the first stop switch The display of the pressing order is erased, and when the player operates the second stop switch according to the displayed second pressing order, the display of the second pressing order is erased, and the player performs the third stop according to the displayed third pressing order. The display of the third push order may be turned off when the switch is operated. Further, when the player operates the stop switch in an order different from the displayed order of pressing, the pressing order navigation effect may be terminated immediately. Furthermore, when displaying the pressing order, the voices "Naka", "Hidari", and "Migi" are output from the speakers 15a, 15b, etc. in association with the next operation to be performed. may Further, the effect lamp 13a may correspond to "left", the effect lamp 12 to "middle", and the effect lamp 13b to "right", and may be caused to emit light or blink in association with the operation to be performed next.

The notification effect management means 212 is mainly for the purpose of notifying the player of information about the game, and mainly controls the execution timing of the image and sound effects (hereinafter referred to as "notification effect") executed by the sub-sub control means 200B. It is configured to be managed based on control commands from the control means 100 . Examples of notification effects include an error notification effect that notifies the occurrence of an error with text information such as "Error Occurred", and an image that is being prepared when the power is restored, such as "Preparing Image". The production etc. which notify with character information are mentioned. In addition, in order to prevent the player from being excessively immersed in the game (addiction), an effect of displaying an image containing character information (also referred to as a "caution image") to call the player's attention is also notified. An example of performance.

The lamp effect control means 213 is configured to control various lighting effects using the effect lamps 12, 13a, 13b, 14a, 14b, decorative lamps 32a, 32b, and back lamps 38a to 38d.

(Each Means Constituting Sub-Main Communication Control Means 230)
The control command receiving means 231 is configured to receive control commands from the main control means 100 and store them in a predetermined storage area such as the RAM 73 (for example, a command buffer for received control commands).

The effect command transmission means 232 is configured to transmit effect commands including various information regarding effects (for example, effect commands including image information, etc.) to the sub-sub control means 200B based on the control command from the main control means 100. ing.

The state command receiving means 233 receives a state command from the sub-sub control means 200B (for example, a state command including information indicating that an effect command reception error has occurred), and stores a predetermined storage area such as the RAM 73 (for example, the received command buffer for status commands).

In contrast to the sub-main control means 200A configured as described above, the sub-sub-control means 200B is provided with an effect execution control means 250 and a sub-sub-communication control means 270 when roughly classified. Effect execution control means 250 includes game effect execution control means 251 and notification effect execution control means 252 , and sub-sub communication control means 270 includes effect command reception means 271 and state command transmission means 272 . The sub-sub CPU 75, ROM 76, RAM 77, hardware such as electronic circuits, and software such as control programs stored in the ROM 76 are arranged on the sub-sub control board 70B shown in FIG. It functionally expresses what is configured by hardware.

(Each means constituting production execution control means 250)
The game effect execution control means 251 is configured to control the image display device 11, the speakers 15a and 15b, etc. based on the effect commands from the sub-main control means 200A, and execute the game effects described above.

The notification effect execution control means 252 is configured to control the image display device 11, the speakers 15a and 15b, etc. based on the effect command from the sub-main control means 200A, and execute the above-described notification effect.

(Each Means Constituting Sub-Sub Communication Control Means 270)
The effect command receiving means 271 is configured to receive effect commands from the sub-main control means 200A and store them in a predetermined storage area such as the RAM 77 (for example, a command buffer for received effect commands).

The state command transmission means 272 is configured to transmit the above-mentioned state command to the sub-main control means 200A.

Transmission of the control command from the control command transmission means 151, transmission of the effect command from the effect command transmission means 232, and transmission of the state command from the state command transmission means 272 are all performed by a serial communication method (parallel communication method). communication method may be used). Each of the transmitting means 151, 232, and 272 has the same configuration, and includes a command buffer (also referred to as "CB") as a storage area for temporarily storing commands to be transmitted, writing and reading of commands to be transmitted. and a command transmission unit for transmitting commands by serial communication.

The CB has a plurality of storage areas distinguished by respective addresses, and is configured to be able to store 1-byte command data in each storage area. The command processing unit generates command data to be transmitted, writes it to the address area indicated by the write pointer of the CB, reads the previously written command data from the address area indicated by the read pointer of the CB, and transfers it to the command. It is configured to write to the TDR (transmission data register) of the transmitter. The command transmission unit is configured to move the command data written in the TDR to a TSR (transmission shift register), convert it to serial there, and transmit it.

When the parallel communication method is used, previously written command data is read from the address area indicated by the read pointer of the CB, and the command data is sent to a predetermined output port (output port for sending to the sub-control means). configured to send by writing to One command in this embodiment is normally composed of 2 bytes (a checksum is composed of 1 byte). The communication method is asynchronous (asynchronous), and has a 1-bit stop bit and a 1-bit parity bit (even parity) (the communication method and command structure can be changed as appropriate).

<<Processing for dealing with the number of games counter value>>
Next, a specific example of the number-of-games counter value correspondence processing performed in game mode 0 will be described with additional reference to FIGS. 18 and 19. FIG. In the game mode 0, the following first and second processes are performed as the game number counter value corresponding process. The first process is a lottery (" (also referred to as "probability state setting flag set lottery"). Probability state setting flag set If you win the lottery, the probability state setting flag is set, and after the probability state setting flag is set, every game (however, a role that can be advantageous to the player is won, and an effect that suggests that may be excluded), the probability state setting lottery is performed. The probability state setting lottery is to set the state related to the rate of occurrence of privilege granting to a normal probability state (a state in which benefits are relatively difficult to be granted) or a high probability state (a state in which benefits are relatively easy to be granted) ) is determined by lottery (multiple levels of high-probability states may be set).

An example of the correspondence relationship between the selection values 0 and 1 (0 is non-winning, 1 is winning) selected in the probability state setting flag set lottery and the lottery set number (the total range of random numbers used in the lottery is "256") , probability state setting flag set lottery number table (game number counter value=100, 300, 600, 950) in FIGS. As shown in the figure, in each probability state setting flag set lottery number table, there is no set difference in the selection probability of each selection value (the lottery number corresponding to each selection value is set in common for settings 1 to 6). ing). Also, when the value of the number-of-games counter is 950, the winning probability is set to be extremely high. The probability state setting lottery set number table in FIG. 19 shows the corresponding relationship between each selection value 0 to 4 selected in the probability state setting lottery and the lottery set number (the entire range of random numbers used for the lottery is "256"). An example is shown. As shown in the figure, even in this probability state setting lottery table, there is no set difference in the selection probability of each selection value. When one selection value is selected in the probability state setting lottery, the period of the number of games corresponding to the selected selection value is set to the high probability state.

It should be noted that the probability state setting flag set lottery may be performed even when the number of games counter has a value different from each elapsed value described above. In that case, the probability state setting flag set lottery may be performed unconditionally every game, or the probability state setting flag set lottery may be performed only when a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as when a predetermined combination decision result is selected. You can do it. Also, the winning probability in the probability state setting flag set lottery in this case may be set lower than the winning probability in the probability state setting flag set lottery performed when the value of the game number counter is the above-mentioned elapsed value. .

The second process is a process of deciding to give the first benefit for AT acquisition when the value of the number-of-games counter reaches a predetermined ceiling value (for example, 1000). That is, if the game mode 0 is continuously stayed, the first benefit for AT acquisition is always given when the value of the number-of-games counter reaches the ceiling value. As mentioned above, in the game mode 0, the first lottery for AT acquisition is performed according to the combination determination result, etc., and even if this lottery is won, the first privilege for AT acquisition is given. be. Note that when the first privilege for AT acquisition is given when the high probability state is set, the AT acquisition level is set to "5" accordingly. As will be described later, in the second lottery for AT acquisition performed during game mode 4, when the AT acquisition level is set to "5", the grant of the second privilege for AT acquisition is always determined. If the first privilege for AT acquisition is granted when the probability state is set, it is also determined that the second privilege for AT acquisition is granted.

In addition, in the probability state setting flag set lottery performed when the value of the game number counter is 950, the probability of winning is set to be extremely high, so the probability state setting flag is set at this point to the high probability state. likely to Furthermore, since the probability state setting lottery is performed every game after that, until the value of the game number counter reaches the ceiling value, the probability state setting lottery will be won (one of the selection values 1 to 4 will be selected) ), the high probability state is set, and there is a high possibility that the value of the number-of-games counter reaches the ceiling value within the period in which the high probability state is set. Therefore, when the value of the number-of-games counter reaches the ceiling value, the state is set to a high probability state, and the possibility that the first privilege for obtaining AT will be awarded inevitably increases. Therefore, when the value of the number-of-games counter reaches the ceiling value, the first benefit for AT acquisition is granted and the AT acquisition level is set to "5", thereby determining the second benefit for AT acquisition. This phenomenon (also referred to as “privilege double acquisition event”) will occur with a high probability.

Since the awarding of benefits is of great interest to the player, the player may be notified when the award is granted. For example, an image effect may be executed to notify that a privilege has been granted, or a voice or a lamp may be used to notify that the privilege has been granted. Also, when the high probability state is set, the player may be informed of it. For example, the background of the image rendering may be changed to a daytime background when the normal probability state is set, and may be changed to a nighttime background when the high probability state is set.

Whether or not to notify that the high probability state has been set may be determined according to the time when the high probability state is set. For example, when the high probability state is set 100 games before the value of the game number counter reaches the ceiling value, it is always notified (night background is displayed), and after that (the value of the game number counter exceeds "900") When the high-probability state is set to the high-probability state, the notification may never be given (the daytime background is maintained).

As mentioned above, when the value of the game number counter reaches the ceiling value, the possibility of a double bonus event occurring increases, but it is set to a high probability state when the value of the game number counter reaches the ceiling value. This is because there is a high probability that the first factor and the second factor that the first privilege for AT acquisition will be given overlap. When the value of the number-of-games counter reaches the ceiling value (also referred to as "when reaching the ceiling"), if the player knows whether or not the high probability state is set, when the ceiling is reached, the AT acquisition number The player can immediately find out whether one privilege has been given alone or whether a double privilege acquisition event has occurred. Therefore, if the high-probability state is set but the state is not notified, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to understand which state has occurred. It is possible to improve the interest of the game.

In addition, when the first privilege for AT acquisition is granted when the high probability state is set and this is notified (night background is displayed) (the second privilege for AT acquisition If the grant is also confirmed and it is easy for the player to understand), a special background (for example, a rainbow background (“Rainbow It may be notified that the second privilege for obtaining AT is given by displaying an image effect by (also referred to as "background")). On the other hand, if the first privilege for AT acquisition is granted when the high probability state is set but this is not notified (the daytime background is displayed) (the second privilege for AT acquisition is granted is also confirmed, but if it is difficult for the player to understand), at the start of the first game when shifting to game mode 4, out of the eight winning navigations as the first privilege for acquiring AT At the time when about half of the winning navigation is completed and the second lottery for AT acquisition described later is performed, an image effect with a rainbow background is displayed and the second lottery for AT acquisition is displayed. 2 You may announce that the privilege is provided. Also, in the latter case, the rate of notification at the start of the first game may be set lower than the rate of notification at the start of the first game in the former case. In this way, even if the granting of the second privilege for acquiring AT is internally determined, by providing a case where it is not notified at the start of the first game when the game mode is shifted to the game mode 4, the game mode It becomes difficult for the player to determine whether the second privilege for AT acquisition has already been decided when the mode is shifted to 4, or whether the second privilege for AT acquisition is decided after the mode is shifted to the game mode 4.例文帳に追加.

Also, if the power is cut off while the high probability state is set and the power is restored without changing the setting while the power is still set to the high probability state, the first benefit for AT acquisition will be granted once after that. Until then, it may be configured so as not to notify that the high probability state is set. This makes it difficult to determine that the setting has not been changed. On the other hand, when the setting is changed and the power is restored, if the high-probability state is set, the fact may be notified at a predetermined rate (for example, 50%). By doing so, it is possible to make the player feel the expectation that the setting may have been changed when the high-probability state is notified. In this embodiment, as an advantage when the high probability state is set, if the first lottery for AT acquisition is won during the high probability state, the second benefit for AT acquisition is also given. The setting at the start of the AT may be advantageous. Specifically, when the AT game of game number management is performed, usually 50 games of AT games are performed, whereas if the AT right is acquired during the high probability state, 100 games of AT games is performed, and normally 10 prize-winning navigation is performed as the first privilege for AT acquisition, whereas if the first privilege for AT acquisition is acquired during a high probability state, 20 prize-winning navigation is performed. Also, during the high-probability state, the winning probability in the first AT acquisition lottery may be set high.

<<AT addition conversion processing>>
Next, a specific example of AT addition conversion processing performed in game mode 3 will be described with additional reference to FIG. In the game mode 3, a lottery (also referred to as "bonus AT extra lottery") for determining the number of AT games to be added is performed according to the combination determination result. In the bonus AT extra lottery set number table in FIG. 256”). This bonus AT extra lottery placement number table shows each selection value, the number of extra games assigned to them, and the lottery placement in the case where the extra lottery during bonus AT is performed once every five games on average. It schematically shows the correspondence with numbers. For example, when the winning prize E2 is won, the number of additional games of 10 is likely to be selected, and when the winning prize of G3 is won, the number of additional games of 30 is likely to be selected. The number 10 is easy to be elected. In this bonus AT extra lottery setting table, there is no setting difference in the selection probability of each selection value (specifically, it is limited to the winning combination decision results that do not have a setting difference. It may be performed based on other conditions, in which case it may be performed without referring to the set value)). When one selection value is selected in the bonus AT extra lottery, the number of additional games associated with the selected selection value is added to the number of AT games (the value of the AT game number counter). In addition, a setting difference may be provided in the selection probability of each selection value.

In addition, in game mode 3, the number of AT games of 30 games given to give one AT stock as a minimum guarantee, and the number of additional games acquired in the bonus AT extra lottery performed during game mode 3 (the value of the AT game number counter in the final game) is converted into the AT stock number in the final game (the 40th game). Specifically, the AT game number counter value in the final game is divided by a predetermined number (for example, "30" corresponding to the number of games for one AT game, but can be changed as appropriate), and the quotient value (integer value after the decimal point (remainder) is discarded) is stored as the AT stock number (the quotient value is set in the AT stock number counter that manages the AT stock number). For example, when the AT game number counter value in the final game is "158", the AT stock number counter is set to "5" because 158÷30=5 with a remainder of 8.

In the example of the lottery numbers shown in the bonus AT extra lottery number table of FIG. ). In game mode 3, the bonus lottery during bonus AT is performed once every 5 games on average, so the expected value of the number of AT games that can be obtained in 40 games in game mode 3 is 120. (=15×40÷5), and the expected value of the AT game number counter value in the final game is "150" (=30+120), so the expected value of the AT stock number after conversion processing is "5" (=150 ÷30).

On the other hand, it is also possible to conduct a lottery (also referred to as "bonus A T stock lottery") to determine the amount of AT stock to be added in game mode 3 without performing bonus AT extra lottery and conversion processing in the final game. be. For example, a bonus AT stock lottery may be performed in which the AT stock number is incremented by "1" if the lottery is won (the AT stock number is not added if the lottery is not won). In this case, if the expected value of the number of AT stocks that can be acquired during 40 games in game mode 3 is set to "4" as in the above example, the total number of wins in the bonus AT stock lottery in game mode 3 The expected value of the value is "4", that is, in the game mode 3, the stock lottery during the bonus AT is won 4 times on average.

Therefore, in order to improve the interest of the game, even if an effect is performed to notify that the stock lottery is won during the bonus AT, the number of times such effect can be executed during the game mode 3 is an average. Then, it will be limited to about four times. On the other hand, a conversion process is performed in the bonus AT extra lottery and the final game, and every time the extra game number is determined by the bonus AT extra lottery, an effect (also referred to as "AT game number extra effect") ), it is possible to perform more AT game addition effects (in the above example, once in 5 games on average, so about 8 times in total). Therefore, it is possible to appropriately raise the player's expectation for the addition of the AT stock number, thereby enhancing the interest of the game.

Further, in the example shown in the bonus AT extra lottery setting number table of FIG. 20, the minimum value of the number of extra games determined in one bonus AT extra lottery is set to "10", and the maximum value is set to "100". It is By setting the minimum value of the number of games to be added to "10", the AT stock number is added to "1" if the bonus AT extra lottery (AT game number addition effect) is performed at least three times in the game mode 3. It is determined that In game mode 3, on average, an extra lottery is performed during the bonus AT eight times, so the possibility of this lottery being performed three times is quite high. Therefore, it is possible to guarantee with a high probability the minimum acquisition number of the AT stock number (1 in this case) in the game mode 3. In addition, by setting the maximum value of the number of additional games determined in one bonus AT extra lottery to "100", the maximum value of the AT stock number that can be obtained during game mode 3 is quite large. Become. For example, if the extra lottery during the bonus AT is performed a total of eight times in the game mode 3 and the number of extra games "100" is determined each time, the total number of the extra games for the eight times is "800". When the number of games to be added by adding "30" to this is converted to the number of AT stock, it becomes "27" (830/30=27 remainder 20). Although the probability of such a situation occurring is low, there is a possibility that it will occur, so it is possible to increase the player's expectation for a large addition of the AT stock number. Even if the AT game number addition effect is performed only once, if the additional game number "100" is determined, the AT stock number is "4", so the player's expectation for a large amount of addition of the AT stock number It is possible to enhance the feeling.

The AT additional game number effect is a sound effect, and the determined additional game number may not be discernible. Also, the AT game number effect may be executed not in all games in which the bonus AT extra lottery is performed, but in games in which the AT game number counter value exceeds a multiple of 30. You may predetermine the frequency|count and timing which perform an addition lottery in bonus AT. By fixing the number of times, the minimum number of additional games is guaranteed, and by fixing the timing, the timing to attract the player's attention becomes clear. The AT stock number may be drawn by lottery during the bonus AT, and the AT stock number may be converted into the AT game number at the end of the bonus AT.

《Second lottery for AT acquisition》
Next, a specific example of the second lottery for AT acquisition performed in game mode 4 will be described with additional reference to FIG. In the second lottery for AT acquisition, when the game mode is shifted from the game mode 2 to the game mode 4, the value of the winning navigation counter whose counter value is set to "8" is changed to "1" each time the winning navigation is executed. It is executed when it is decremented by increments and reaches "0". An example of the correspondence relationship between the selection values 0 and 1 (0 is non-winning, 1 is winning) selected in the second lottery for AT acquisition and the lottery set number (the total range of random numbers used in the lottery is "256") are shown in the six AT acquisition second lottery number tables (for AT acquisition level 0 to AT acquisition level 5) in FIGS. As shown in the figure, in each AT acquisition second lottery number table, there is no set difference in the selection probability of each selection value. In addition, the winning probability is set to increase as the AT acquisition level increases by 1 from "0" to "5". there is

The second lottery for AT acquisition is performed only once during the game mode 4, when the value of the winning navigation counter reaches "0". As a modification, the second lottery for AT acquisition may be set to be executed at least once and at most eight times (the number of times can be set arbitrarily) during game mode 4. Specifically, the second lottery for obtaining an AT, which is performed when the value of the winning navigation counter reaches "0", is regarded as the first lottery, and if a lottery is won there, the second lottery for obtaining an AT after the second lottery is used. No lottery will be held. On the other hand, when the first AT acquisition second lottery is not won, the AT acquisition second lottery is carried out every game during the following 7 games unless the previous game is won. Therefore, if no prize is won by the end of the 6 games, the second lottery for AT acquisition will be conducted a total of 8 times. In this modified example, it may be notified whether or not the second privilege for obtaining AT has been granted during the seven games. Also, the second lottery for obtaining an AT may be performed according to the winning combination determination result.

During the period from when the value of the winning navigation counter is set to "8" until it reaches "0", an effect corresponding to the AT acquisition level may be performed based on the result of an AT acquisition level upgrade lottery or the like. For example, an image effect in which the background color is changed according to the AT acquisition level. At acquisition level 3, an image effect with a green background may be executed, at AT acquisition level 4, an image effect with a red background, and at AT acquisition level 5, an image effect with a rainbow background may be executed.

《AT addition specialized transition processing》
Next, a specific example of the AT addition specialization shift processing performed in the game mode 4 will be described with additional reference to FIGS. 22 and 23. FIG. In the game mode 4, AT addition lottery processing, game mode 5 transition lottery processing, and AT precursor game number setting processing are performed as the AT addition specialization transition processing performed during execution of the AT game. AT addition lottery process, every game while the AT game is executed in the game mode 4 (however, except for the game when a predetermined combination determination result (eg, YK number 16) is selected), a predetermined Privilege, specifically, a lottery (also referred to as "AT addition lottery") for determining whether to grant a privilege to shift to game mode 6 (also referred to as "game mode 6 transition privilege"). be.

An example of the correspondence relationship between the selection values 0 and 1 (0 is non-winning, 1 is winning) selected in this AT addition lottery and the lottery set number (the total range of random numbers used in the lottery is "256"), 22(A) and (B) are shown in the two game mode 4AT addition lottery number tables. The game mode 4AT additional lottery setting table of FIG. 4A corresponds to when the lottery group number is "0", and the game mode 4AT additional lottery setting table of FIG. It corresponds when the number is "4". As shown in the figure, in each game mode 4AT additional lottery setting table, there is no set difference in the selection probability of each selection value. In addition, the probability of winning is set lower than in the later-described game mode 5AT additional lottery number table. When winning in this AT addition lottery, the value (initial value = 0) of a predetermined counter (also referred to as "game mode 6 shift counter") is incremented by "1". In addition, the number of predictive games during AT setting processing is performed, and the value (initial value=0) of another counter (also referred to as "counter of predictive games during AT") is set to a predetermined value (eg, "5"). (The value may be determined by lottery, etc.).

After the AT-time precursor game number counter is set, the value of the AT-time precursor game number counter is subtracted by "1" every game from the game, and when the value reaches "0", a game mode 6 transition counter is set. Game mode 6 entry processing is performed as preparation processing for shifting to game mode 6 based on the value of . In this game mode 6 entry processing, the game mode is set to the game mode 6, and "1" is added to the AT stock number counter. Also, the value (initial value=0) of a counter for managing the number of staying games in game mode 6 (also referred to as "game mode 6 staying game number counter") is set to "1", and only the next one game is set. It is shifted to game mode 6 (single-stay game mode 6) for a limited time.

In addition, when the number of omen games during AT is set, the secondary control means from the next game produces an effect (also referred to as an "omen suggestion effect") or a continuous Performances and the like are executed. Then, when the value of the AT precursor game number counter reaches "0", an effect (for example, a mode in which the characters "WIN" are displayed on the image display screen to announce that the AT extra lottery has been won in the game) is performed. ) is performed, and furthermore, at a predetermined timing (for example, when accepting a bet operation or when accepting a start lever operation) of the start of the next game (game in game mode 6), AT An effect for notifying that the value of the stock number counter has been incremented by "1" (for example, an effect in which the letter "V" is displayed on the image display screen, which is also called "V effect") is performed. In addition, when the game in which the value of the counter for the number of precursor games during AT reaches "0" is a game in which the continuous effect is being executed, the WIN effect is not performed in the game, and the WIN effect is performed in the game after the continuous effect is completed. may be performed. By doing so, it is possible to make the player's consciousness concentrate on the continuous performance, and it is possible to make the player feel that the WIN performance has been performed as a result (result) of the continuous performance.

The game mode 5 transition lottery process is performed in each game while the AT game is executed in the game mode 4 (except for the game when a predetermined combination determination result (eg, YK number 16) is selected). A lottery (also referred to as "game mode 5 transition lottery") for determining whether or not to grant a predetermined privilege, specifically, a privilege to shift to game mode 5 (also referred to as "game mode 5 transition privilege"). This is the process to be executed. This game mode 5 transition lottery is executed, for example, in the game when the AT addition lottery in the game mode 4 is not won.

An example of the correspondence relationship between the selection values 0 and 1 (0 is non-winning, 1 is winning) selected in the game mode 5 transition lottery and the lottery set number (the total range of random numbers used in the lottery is "256"). , two game mode 5 shift lottery number tables in FIGS. The game mode 5 shift lottery number table in FIG. 4A corresponds to when the lottery group number is "0", and the game mode 5 shift lottery number table in FIG. It corresponds when the number is "6". As shown in the figure, in each game mode 5 shift lottery number table, there is no set difference in the selection probability of each selection value. If the game mode 5 transition lottery is won, the number of AT precursor games setting process is performed, and the value of the AT precursor game number counter is set to a predetermined value (for example, "3") (the value is set by lottery or the like). may decide).

When the AT-time precursor game number counter is set, the value of the AT-time precursor game number counter is decremented by "1" every game thereafter, and when the value reaches "0", the game mode is set to the game mode 5. Then, the game mode is shifted to game mode 5 from the next game. Further, when the number of precursor games counter during AT is set, the auxiliary control means executes the precursor suggesting effect from the next game. In addition, in the game mode 5 transition lottery, multiple selection values (for example, 1 to 4) corresponding to winning are provided, and the winning probability in the additional lottery performed in game mode 5 is set according to the selection value. You may Even while the AT precursor game number counter is set and counted, AT addition lottery processing and game mode 5 shift lottery processing are performed, and the result is stocked when winning. The number of predictive games during AT setting process is performed when the AT additional lottery is won, when the game mode 5 transition lottery is won, or when there is stock of these, the value of the predictive game number counter during AT is "0". It is done only when At this time, if there is a previously set number of precursor games, the number of precursor games set later is set when game mode 4 is returned to after game modes 5 and 6 are finished.

During the AT game execution period in the game mode 4, when a predetermined combination determination result (for example, YK number 16) is selected, a process different from the above is performed. That is, a predetermined flag (also referred to as a "addition special flag") for managing whether or not to transition to game mode 6 (game mode 6 for continuous stay) is set to "1", and the game mode 6 transition counter The value is set to '1'. In addition, the value of the counter for the number of premonitory games during AT is also set to "1".

When the AT-during-prediction game number counter is set to "1", the value of the AT-during-prediction game number counter is decremented by "1" in the game, and the value reaches "0". , game mode 6 entry processing is performed. In the game mode 6 entering process at this time, the game mode is set to the game mode 6, and "1" is added to the AT stock number counter. In addition, "32" is set to the value of the game mode 6 staying game number counter, and the next game is shifted to the game mode 6 (continuous stay game mode 6). In addition, in a game in which a predetermined combination determination result is selected, an effect (which may be the same mode as the WIN effect or may be a different mode) that suggests the occurrence of an advantageous state is a secondary effect. It may be executed by control means.

<<Process in game mode 5>>
Next, a specific example of processing performed in game mode 5 will be described with additional reference to FIG. During the game mode 5, the AT addition lottery process similar to that during the game mode 4 is performed. This AT add-on lottery process is a process of executing an AT add-on lottery every game in the game mode 5 (for example, at the start lever operation reception time). An example of the correspondence relationship between the selection values 0 and 1 (0 is non-winning, 1 is winning) selected in this AT addition lottery and the lottery set number (the total range of random numbers used in the lottery is "256") is shown in FIG. 24 (A) and (B) are shown in the two game mode 5AT addition lottery number tables.

The game mode 5AT additional lottery number table shown in FIG. 4A corresponds to when the lottery group number is "0", and the game mode 5AT additional lottery number table shown in FIG. It corresponds when the number is "4". As shown in the figure, in each game mode 5AT additional lottery setting table, there is no set difference in the selection probability of each selection value. Also, the winning probability is set higher than in the game mode 4AT additional lottery number table. If the AT addition lottery is won, the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is incremented by "1" in the game, and the game mode 6 entering process is performed. In this game mode 6 entry processing, the game mode is set to the game mode 6, and "1" is added to the AT stock number counter. Also, the value of the game mode 6 stay game number counter is set to "1", and the game mode 6 (single stay game mode 6) is entered only for the next one game.

During the game mode 5, continuous performance is executed by the sub control means. In addition, when winning the AT extra lottery in the game mode 5, a WIN effect is performed in the game, and a V effect is performed when the start lever operation of the next game is accepted. It should be noted that, if none of the AT addition lottery, which has a chance to be performed multiple times during the game mode 5, is won, the game mode is set to the game mode 4 in the final game in the game mode 5, and the game is started from the next game. Mode 4 is entered.

<<Process in game mode 6>>
Next, a specific example of processing performed in game mode 6 will be described with additional reference to FIG. The flow of processing performed on the main control means side during game mode 6 is common to the case where the special addition flag is set to "1" and the case where the special addition flag is not set to "1". However, the specifics of the processing are slightly different. Specifically, AT stock addition processing is performed in either case. This AT stock addition process is a lottery ("AT stock number counter addition lottery ”) is executed. This AT stock number counter addition lottery is performed sporadically for only one game when the special addition flag is not set to "1", and when the special addition flag is set to "1" Every game is played for 32 games. That is, in both cases, since the AT stock number counter addition lottery is performed, the contents of the processing are common, so a common processing program can be used. Therefore, compared to the case where different lottery processes are performed using separate processing programs, it is possible to reduce the amount of data that must be stored, so there is little risk of pressuring the storage capacity of the ROM or the like. . However, the winning probability in the AT stock number counter addition lottery differs depending on whether the special addition flag is set to "1" (the winning probability is higher when the special addition flag is set to "1"). high).

FIG. 25A shows an AT stock number counter addition lottery setting table (additional specialization flag = 0, lottery group number 3), which is an AT stock when the AT stock number addition specialization flag is not set to "1". Selected values 0 to 3 selected in the number counter addition lottery (corresponding to the added AT stock number 0 to 3, respectively) and the lottery set number (the total range of random numbers used in the lottery is "256") An example of a correspondence relationship is shown. The AT stock number counter addition lottery setting number table (addition specialization flag = 1, lottery group number 3) in Fig. 25(B) shows the AT stock when the AT stock number addition specialization flag is set to "1". An example of the correspondence relationship between the selected values 0 to 3 selected in the number counter addition lottery and the lottery number is shown. Both of the AT stock number counter addition lottery number tables correspond to when the lottery group number is "3".

As shown in the figure, in each AT stock number counter addition lottery set number table, there is no set difference in the selection probability of each selection value. In addition, the winning probability (probability of selecting one of the selection values 1 to 3) will be higher when the special addition flag is set to "1" than when it is not set. is set. When the AT stock number counter addition lottery is performed, the AT stock number to be added for the numerical value associated with the selected value (for example, "2" when the selected value is 2) is added to the value of the AT stock number counter. be. In game mode 6, the value of the game mode 6 staying game number counter is decremented by "1" each game, and when the value reaches "0", the game mode is set to game mode 4 in the game, The next game is shifted to the game mode 4.

During the game mode 6, the processing (effect) performed on the sub-control means side has many differences depending on whether or not the special addition flag is set to "1", but there are also similarities. As a similarity, when winning the AT stock number counter addition lottery and the value of the AT stock number counter is added, a notification effect (for example, V effect) is performed in the game to notify that fact. . In addition, the similarity is that the notification effect in that case is performed for the number of times of the added numerical value in the game. However, when the game in the game mode 6 where the special addition flag is not set to "1" and the game in the game mode 6 that stays for one game is a game in which the continuous effect is being executed, the AT stock number in the game Even if the value of the AT stock number counter is added as a result of the counter addition lottery, the notification performance may not be performed in the game, and the notification performance may be performed in the game after the continuous performance is finished. By doing this, when the probability of winning in the AT stock number counter addition lottery is low and the special addition flag is not set to "1", the player's consciousness can be concentrated on the continuous performance. . In addition, as described above, the notice (V effect) of the AT stock given when winning the AT extra lottery in the game modes 4 and 5 is performed in the game mode 6. Therefore, if you win the AT stock number counter addition lottery in game mode 6, the AT stock given by the winning will be notified of the AT stock given by the AT extra lottery in game modes 4 and 5. will be done later.

On the other hand, the difference is that there is an effect that is performed only when the special addition flag is set to "1". For example, if the special addition flag is set to "1", the second AT game is being played while staying in game mode 6 (in the special zone where the AT stock number is advantageously added) An effect (also referred to as “specialized zone effect”) is performed to notify that the user is staying. Also, in the game mode 6, a continuous effect may be performed over a plurality of games. A notification performance different from the case where the value of the AT stock number counter is added (for example, notification is performed by image + lamp + voice while continuous performance is not executed, but only voice is announced during continuous performance execution). Furthermore, at a predetermined timing (for example, when accepting a bet operation or when accepting a start lever operation) of the first game after shifting to the game mode 6, the second AT game is started (moving to a special zone) A notification effect (also referred to as a “specialized zone start effect”) is performed. By notifying that the value of the AT stock number counter has been added even during execution of the continuous performance, the player can always (without being interrupted by the continuous performance) react to the addition of the AT stock number. It is possible to attract attention. In addition, as a result, the player can feel that the AT stock number is frequently increased, thereby improving the game playability.

In addition, as described above, when the special addition flag is not set to "1", when the bet operation of the game in the game mode 6 is accepted or the start lever operation is accepted, AT in the game mode 6 entry process A V effect is performed to notify that the value of the stock number counter has been incremented by "1". Even when the special add-on flag is set to "1", the value of the AT stock number counter is added to "1" in the game mode 6 entry process, so the game mode 6 is entered. A similar V effect may be performed at the time of accepting the bet operation of the first game or the time of accepting the start lever operation. However, if the additional specialization flag is set to "1", the special zone start effect is executed at the same timing, so the V effect at this timing (the AT stock number counter in the game mode 6 entry process) The V effect for notifying that the value has been incremented by "1" may not be performed. As a result, the player's attention can be focused on the special zone start effect.

《Game Mode 7 rush processing》
Next, the game mode 7 entry processing performed when the value of the AT game number counter reaches "0" during the game mode 4 will be described. In this game mode 7 entry process, whether the AT continuation flag for managing whether the AT game is continued is set to "1" (indicating that the AT game is continued) or "0" (the AT game is continued) It is determined whether the Whether or not the AT continuation flag is set is determined based on several conditions, but in many cases, it is determined based on the result of a predetermined lottery (also called "AT continuation lottery"). In this AT continuation lottery, one winning value is selected from a plurality of selection values (for example, 0 to 4), and the winning value is the value (initial value = 0). The AT continuation lottery is performed based on the value of the AT level counter, and the AT continuation flag is set to "1" when one of the numbers 1 to 4 is selected as the winning value. The value of the AT level counter can be set, for example, within a numerical range of 0 to 4 (initial value = 0). 4 is set to increase the probability that one of the winning values will be selected. As for the value of the AT level counter, any value is set when the AT game of 30 games is started, and a new value is set according to various conditions thereafter.

<<Process in Game Mode 7>> Next, a specific example of the process performed in game mode 7 will be described with additional reference to FIG. 26 and FIG. In the AT continuation determination game in the game mode 7, the AT continuation lottery is performed by the main control means (the selection value etc. are the same as the AT continuation lottery during the game mode 7 entering process, but may be changed). The AT continuation lottery in this game mode 7 is performed based on the result of determining the role (it may be limited to the result of determining the role with no set difference). ), the selected value is added to the value of the AT continuation determination counter. Also, if the AT continuation flag is "0" at that time (the AT continuation lottery during game mode 7 entry processing has not been won, and the AT continuation lottery up to the previous game in game mode 7 has not been elected) ), the AT continuation flag is set to "1" and the value of the AT level counter is incremented by "1". By adding the value of the AT level counter, the probability of winning in the AT continuation lottery performed during the next game mode 7 entering process is increased, and as a result, the player is given a privilege that the AT game is likely to be continued. has been granted. It should be noted that, at the time of shifting to game mode 7, it is not determined that the AT game is continued, and it is determined that the AT game is continued by the AT continuation lottery in game mode 7. ” is also called.

In the final game in the game mode 7, the next game mode is determined based on the value of the AT continuation flag and the value of the AT continuation determination counter. Specifically, when the AT continuation flag is "0", the AT game is not continued, and the game mode is shifted to 0 from the next game. On the other hand, when the AT continuation flag is "1", it is determined whether to shift to the game mode 4 or to the game mode 8 according to the value of the AT continuation determination counter. That is, when the value of the AT continuation determination counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (for example, "3"), the next game is shifted to the game mode 8, and when the value is less than the predetermined value, the next game is shifted to the game mode 4. In addition, when a specific role determination result (for example, middle stage cherry) is selected in game mode 7, an advantageous result can be obtained by the AT continuation lottery in the game (for example, winning value 3 or winning value 4 is always It may be set so that it is determined that the AT game is continued, and that the game mode is shifted to the game mode 8 after the game mode 7). Hereinafter, the selection of a specific winning combination in game mode 7 is also referred to as "specific winning combination".

In addition, during the game mode 7, an effect is performed according to a predetermined pattern by the sub-control means. As examples of such effect patterns, FIG. 26 shows three image effect patterns. FIG. 26(A) shows one effect pattern when it is already determined that the AT game is continued when the game mode is shifted to 7 (also referred to as "in the case of AT continuation confirmation at the time of entry"). ing. In this example, from the 1st game in the game mode 7 to the game just before the final game (the 7th game), an effect indicating that the continuation of the AT game is aimed, for example, a friendly character and an enemy character A battle effect for displaying a battle image of a fighting mode is continuously performed. In addition, at the timing of the end of the seventh game (for example, when all reels are stopped), an effect for notifying that the AT game is not continued, for example, a defeat effect indicating that the ally character has been defeated is performed. An effect for notifying that the game has ended, for example, an end effect for displaying an end image (see FIG. 27A) showing the result of the AT game (total number of wins) is performed. Then, at the timing of the game start of the final game (assumed to be the 8th game) in the game mode 7 (for example, at the time of accepting the bet operation or the start lever operation), an effect to notify that the AT game is continued, for example, defeat After the cheering image (see FIG. 27B) in which another ally character A cheers for the defeated ally character, a resurrection image (see FIG. 27C) in which the ally character who should have been defeated is revived is displayed. After that, a resurrection effect A is performed in which a victory image (see FIG. 27(D)) is displayed to win over the enemy character.

In addition, in the case of determination of AT continuation at the time of entry, the battle effect is continuously performed from the 1st game to the 7th game (the final game in this case), and the victory effect is performed at the timing of the end of the game of the 7th game. It also has a production pattern that can be used.

In FIG. 26 (B), when it is determined that the AT game is continued at the time of shifting to the game mode 7, and it is determined that the AT game is continued during the game mode 7 (AT withdrawal case) shows one production pattern. In this example, from the 1st game to the 7th game in the game mode 7, the battle effect is continuously performed as in the case of FIG. 26(A). Also at the timing of the end of the seventh game, the defeat effect and the end effect are performed in the same way. Then, in the eighth game (final game) in the game mode 7, as an effect for notifying that the AT game is continued, a different effect from the resurrection effect A, for example, another ally character is added to the defeated ally character. After the cheering image in which B cheers (see FIG. 27B), a resurrection effect B is performed in which a resurrection image in which the ally character revives and a victory image in which the player character wins over the enemy character are sequentially displayed.

The resurrection effect B is performed only when the AT is pulled back. As described above, when the AT pullback occurs, the value of the AT level counter is incremented by "1", and there is an advantageous situation in which the winning probability in the AT continuation lottery that is performed during the next game mode 7 entering process increases. It's becoming Therefore, by performing the resurrection effect B exclusively for the case of the AT pullback, it is possible to inform the player of this fact. In addition, since it is possible to increase the player's expectation that the revival effect B will be performed after the end effect, it is possible to improve the interest of the game (ie, the cheering of the ally character B, not the ally character A). You can tell by what you sent). Note that the resurrection effect B is performed only when the AT is withdrawn due to the special role assignment, even in the case of the AT withdrawal.

FIG. 26 (C) is not determined that the AT game is continued at the time of shifting to the game mode 7, and if it is not determined that the AT game is continued even during the game mode 7 ( In the case of AT non-continuation), one production pattern is shown. In this example, the battle effect is continuously performed from the first game to the seventh game (the final game in this case) in the game mode 7. Then, at the timing of the end of the seventh game, a defeat effect and an end effect are performed. In this case, the resurrection effect is not performed.

《Display of warning image》
Next, the display of the alert image will be described with additional reference to FIG. The slot machine 1 is configured to display a warning image to prevent the player from becoming addicted to the game (a player continuing the game beyond his means). FIG. 28A shows an example of a warning image displayed by the image display device. In this example, the attention calling image is displayed large in the central portion of the display screen so that the player can easily see it (the display position is not limited to the central portion). In addition, in order to make the player recognize that the attention calling image is displayed, the attention calling image is continuously displayed for a predetermined period (for example, at least 3 seconds) after the display is started. .

The alert image can be displayed at various timings. Here, with reference to the timing chart shown in FIG. 26, an example of displaying an attention calling image at the timing when the AT game ends (during execution of the ending effect in the game mode 7) will be described. First, an example of handling in the case of AT discontinuation in FIG. 26(C) will be described. In the case of AT non-continuation, the end effect is performed when the AT game actually ends without being continued. In this case, as shown in FIG. 28B, a warning image is displayed in the center of the end image. In addition, once the attention calling image is displayed, the display is continued for 3 seconds. Even if the next game is started (bet operation or start lever operation) and the end image is switched to the normal game image, the attention calling image continues to be displayed in the center of the normal game image. make it To effectively prevent immersion in a game by displaying a warning image at the end image, which is displayed when the AT game ends, which is a major break in the flow of the game. becomes possible.

On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B, the end effect when the resurrection effect is performed is a fake effect suggesting that the situation is different from the actual situation, and actually the AT game. is continued. Therefore, since it deviates from the purpose of displaying the attention calling image when the AT game ends, in this case, it is not necessary to display the attention calling image during execution of the ending effect. However, in this case, if the attention calling image is not displayed, the player will know that the end effect at this time is a fake effect. Therefore, in this case as well as in the case of non-continuation of AT, the attention calling image may be displayed in the central portion of the end image. In either case, by displaying the attention calling image in the same way, it becomes difficult to judge whether or not the AT game is to be continued by the end effect.

Further, even when the attention calling image is displayed in the end performance when the resurrection performance is performed, the display can be continued for 3 seconds from the start of the display (thus, the processing can be shared). For example, the attention calling image may be continuously displayed even after the next game is started immediately after the attention calling image is displayed and the ending presentation is switched to the revival presentation. In this case, as shown in FIG. 28(C), it is possible to continue to display a large attention calling image in the central portion of the display image of the resurrection effect (here, the cheering image). However, in this case, the central portion (characteristic portion) of the cheering image is covered with the attention-calling image. It becomes difficult for the player to understand what is being displayed. Therefore, when the cheering image is displayed, as shown in FIG. 28(D), a warning image is displayed in the corner of the screen so that the player can clearly see that the cheering image is displayed. may As a result, the player can clearly recognize that the resurrection effect (resurrection effect B in this case) is being performed even if the attention calling image continues to be displayed. (Give the player the joy of being able to pull back the AT). It should be noted that, as shown in FIG. 28(B), the attention calling image is not displayed in the center of the end image. position) (this eliminates the need for processing to change the display position of the alert image). When the cheering image is displayed, the display of the attention calling image may be stopped (it may not be displayed for 3 seconds). Moreover, in order to secure the display for 3 seconds, a period of 3 seconds in which operation is disabled may be provided. In this case, even if there is an operation during the inoperable period, the next game is not started (betting operation or start lever operation), nor is it switched to the image during the normal game nor to the cheering image.

[Main control processing]
In the following, among the control processes performed by the main control means 100 of the slot machine 1, the game progress control process and the timer interrupt process will be described with additional reference to FIGS. 29 to 36. FIG. Note that some general CPU registers and flags may be described in the following description. They are briefly described here. The A register is a dedicated register that is used to set data used for computation and to set the result of computation. The B, C, D, E, H, and L registers are general-purpose registers that can be used for various purposes, and are also used as pair registers (BC, DE, and HL registers). The R register is a register that stores a predetermined counter value that is updated sequentially. The F register is a register that stores a predetermined condition resulting from an operation, and some of its bits are configured as carry flags, zero flags, and second zero flags. The carry flag is set (stores "1") when a carry occurs as a result of an operation, and the zero flag is set (stores "1" when the immediately preceding operation result is "0"). stored). The second zero flag is set ("1" is stored) when data is set to a predetermined register (for example, A register) and the data is "0", and the zero flag is set ( This flag is also set (stored as "1") when "1" is stored.

<Game Progress Control Processing>
The game progress control process is a basic process repeatedly executed during the game, and as shown in FIG. Decision processing is performed (step S2). In this winning combination determination process, a winning combination determination result (YK number) is selected based on the random value generated by the 16-bit random number RL0. Information on the result of determination of the selected combination is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 63 .

After performing the combination determination process, a game mode common start process is performed (step S3). This game mode common start time process is a process that is performed in common during stay in any game mode (details are omitted). After the game mode common start time processing, the game mode specific start time processing is performed (step S4). The start time processing by game mode is a general term for each start time processing performed for each set game mode. The start time processing for each game mode will be described in detail later, taking as examples game mode 4 lever time processing, game mode 5 lever time processing, game mode 6 lever time processing, and game mode 7 lever time processing.

After completing the game mode start process, the process proceeds to step S5. In this step S5, it is determined whether or not a freeze flag (a flag for managing whether or not to freeze) is ON. Here, when the freeze flag is ON, the freeze is performed for a predetermined set time (step S6), the freeze flag is cleared after the freeze is executed (step S7), and the process proceeds to step S8. On the other hand, if the freeze flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S8 without performing the processes of steps S6 and S7, and push-navigation processing (processing for executing the above-described push-navigation according to the winning combination determination result, etc.) is performed.

After the push-navigation process ends, the reel start process is performed (step S9). Specifically, it manages the rotation state from the start of rotation of each reel to the constant speed state. Next, the reel stopping process is performed (step S10). Specifically, when the operation of the stop switch is accepted, the position where it can be stopped is determined according to the timing of acceptance (push position and order of push) and the result of the winning combination, and the time from deceleration to stop of the reel is determined. Perform processing to manage the rotation state. After the spinning drum stop processing is performed, game mode-specific end processing (processing performed for each set game mode after the reels are stopped) is performed (step S11). The end processing for each game mode will be described in detail later with examples of game mode 4 all-stop processing, game mode 5 all-stop processing, game mode 6 all-stop processing, and game mode 7 all-stop processing. describe. When the end processing for each game mode is finished, the game mode common end processing (processing that is commonly performed after stopping the reels regardless of the set game mode) is performed (step S12), and the process returns to step S1.

Next, the game mode 4 lever time processing and the game mode 4 total stop processing will be described as an example of the game mode start time processing and the game mode end time processing. These are the processes performed during stay in game mode 4. In the game mode 4 lever time process, as shown in FIG. 30A, first, it is determined whether or not the value of the winning navigation counter is "0" (step S101). Here, if the value of the winning navigation counter is not "0" (this case corresponds to the period from the shift to the game mode 4 to the execution of winning navigation eight times), proceed to step S102 and AT Acquisition level upgrade processing is performed. Specifically, the aforementioned AT acquisition level upgrade lottery is performed, and if a winning value higher than the AT acquisition level value at that time is obtained, the winning value is stored as a new AT acquisition level value. .

Next, it is determined whether or not the pressing order bell has been won (step S103). Here, if the pushing order bell wins, the value of the prize navigation counter is subtracted by "1" (step S104), and it is determined whether or not the value of the prize navigation counter is "0" (step S105). . Here, when the value of the winning navigation counter is "0", the process proceeds to step S106, and AT acquisition processing is performed. Specifically, the above-described second lottery for AT acquisition is performed according to the value of the AT acquisition level, and "30" is set in the AT game number counter when the lottery is won. As described above, as a modification, when the second lottery for AT acquisition at this time is not won, the second lottery for AT acquisition is performed up to 7 times in each game thereafter until the lottery is won. In the game of time, "30" may be set in the AT game number counter. After the AT acquisition process, it returns from the game mode 4 lever time process. In step S103, if the pressing order bell is not won, the process returns without performing steps S104 to S106, and in step S105, if the winning navigation counter value is not "0", the process of step SS106 is performed. return without

On the other hand, when the value of the winning navigation counter is "0" in the first step S101, the process proceeds to step S107 to determine whether or not the value of the predictive game number counter during AT is "0". Here, if the value of the AT precursor game number counter is "0", it is determined whether or not YK number 16 (replay G1) has been selected in determining the winning combination (step S108), and if it has not been selected to step S109. In step S107, if the value of the number of precursor games counter during AT is not "0", the process proceeds directly to step S109. In this step S109, an addition process is performed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 30(B), an AT addition lottery is performed (step S116), and it is determined whether or not the player wins (step S117). Here, in the case of winning, the process proceeds to step S118, the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is incremented by "1" and then returned, and in the case of non-winning, the process returns as it is.

After the AT addition lottery, the process proceeds to step S110 in FIG. This game mode 5 transition lottery process is a process that is executed when the AT addition lottery in step S116 is not won, and specifically, the game mode 5 transition lottery is performed. After the game mode 5 transition lottery process, the process advances to step S111, and the number of precursor games setting process during AT is performed. This process of setting the number of omen games during AT is performed when the AT addition lottery is won and when the game mode 5 shift lottery is won. Specifically, a predetermined value (for example, "5" if the AT addition lottery is won, and "3" if the game mode 5 shift lottery is won) is set to the number of precursor games counter during AT. After setting the number of precursor games during AT, the process returns from the game mode 4 lever time process.

In addition, in the determination of step S108, when the YK number 16 is selected, the special addition flag is set to "1" (step S112), and the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is set to "1" ( Step S113), furthermore, the value of the counter for the number of precursor games during AT is set to "1" (step S114), and the game mode start processing is returned.

Next, in the game mode 4 all-stop process, as shown in FIG. 31A, first, it is determined whether or not the value of the winning navigation counter is "0" (step S121). Here, when the value of the prize winning navigation counter is not "0", the game mode 4 all-stop process is terminated and the process returns as it is. When the value of the winning navigation counter is "0", the value of the AT game number counter is subtracted by "1" (step S122), and the value of the precursor game number counter during AT is greater than "0" (during AT). It is determined whether or not the precursor game number counter is being set (step S123). Here, if the value of the AT precursor game number counter is greater than "0", the value of the AT precursor game number counter is subtracted by "1" (step S124), and the value of the AT precursor game number counter is increased. It is determined whether or not it has become "0" (step S125).

In this judgment, if the value of the number of precursory games counter during AT is not "0", the game mode 4 complete stop processing is terminated and the value of the number of precursory games counter during AT is "0". In this case, the process proceeds to step S126, and it is determined whether or not the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is greater than "0". Here, when the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is not larger than "0", the game mode is set to the game mode 5 (step S127), the game mode 4 total stop processing is terminated, and the process returns. On the other hand, when the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is larger than "0", the process proceeds to step S128, and game mode 6 entry processing is performed.

In this game mode 6 entering process, as shown in FIG. 31(B), first, the game mode is set to the game mode 6 (step S131). Next, "1" is added to the AT stock number counter (step S132), and it is determined whether or not the special addition flag is set to "1" (step S133). Here, when the addition specialization flag is set to "1", the process proceeds to step S134, the value of the game mode 6 staying game number counter is set to "32", and the addition specialization flag is set to "32". If it is not set to "1", the process proceeds to step S135, sets the game mode 6 stay game number counter to "1", and returns. After this game mode 6 entry processing, the game mode 4 total stop processing is terminated and the game returns.

If the value of the AT precursor game number counter is not greater than "0" in the determination of step S123 of FIG. determine whether or not Here, when the value of the AT game number counter is not "0", the game mode 4 total stop processing is terminated and the process returns. On the other hand, when the value of the AT game number counter is "0", the process proceeds to step S130, and game mode 7 entry processing is performed. After executing the game mode 7 entry process, the game mode 4 total stop process is terminated and the game returns. Also, although not shown, in the case where the value of the winning navigation counter is "0" in the determination of step S121, and in the game in which the AT acquisition process of step S106 is not won, the game mode is changed to game mode 0. Set (If the second lottery for AT acquisition is performed only once, the game mode 0 is set based on the fact that the lottery was lost, and if the second lottery for AT acquisition is performed during multiple games, multiple games The game mode 0 is set based on the fact that the lottery has not been won at the end). Further, in the present embodiment, even if the number of AT games becomes 0, if the value of the number counter of precursor games during AT is larger than "0", the game mode 7 entry processing is not performed. In other words, if the AT addition lottery is won or if the transition to the game mode 5 is confirmed, the AT game is extended until a series of processes such as the AT addition and the transition of the game mode are completed. By doing so, it is possible for the player to check all the results for the profit given by the lottery or the like.

In the game mode 7 entering process, as shown in FIG. 32(A), first, it is determined whether or not the value of the AT stock determination counter is "0" (step S141). An initial value of "23" is set to the AT stock determination counter when the AT game number counter is set to "30" during stay in the game mode 4.例文帳に追加If it is determined here that the value of the AT stock determination counter is not "0", the process advances to step S142 to determine whether or not the value of the AT stock number counter is "0". Here, when the value of the AT stock number counter is "0", the process proceeds to step S143, and AT continuation lottery processing is performed. In this AT continuation lottery process, as shown in FIG. 32B, an AT continuation lottery is performed (step S156), the winning value is added to the AT continuation determination counter (step S157), and the process returns.

Upon return from the AT continuation lottery process, the process proceeds to step S144 in FIG. 32(A) to determine whether or not the value of the AT continuation determination counter is "1" or more. Here, when the value of the AT continuation determination counter is "1" or more, the AT continuation flag is set to "1" (step S145), the process proceeds to step S1451, and when it is not "1" or more, , the process proceeds directly to step S1451. In step S1451, a lottery for determining the number of staying games in game mode 7 (also referred to as "staying game number determination lottery") is performed. In this lottery, if the AT continuation flag is set to "1", either "7 (winning effect is performed (resurrection effect is not performed))" or "8 (resurrection effect is performed)" If the AT continuation flag is not set to "1", it is determined to be "7". In step S146 after this lottery, the game mode 7 stay game number counter (counter for managing the number of games that can be stayed in game mode 7) is set to "7" or "8" (the numerical value can be changed as appropriate). After this setting, the game mode is set to the game mode 7 (step S147), the game mode 7 entry processing is terminated, and the process returns.

On the other hand, in the determination of step S141 in FIG. 32(A), if the value of the AT stock determination counter is "0" (fulfilled when AT continues a plurality of times), the process proceeds to step S148, Add "1" to the value of the AT stock number counter. Next, the AT stock determination counter is set to "23" (step S149), the AT continuation determination counter is set to "3" (step S150), and the process proceeds to step S144 (shifts to game mode 8). rights granted). In this case, the AT continuation lottery process is not performed. If the AT stock number counter is not "0" in the determination of step S142 in FIG. 32A, the process proceeds to step S151 to set the AT continuation determination counter to "1". Next, "12" is set to the game mode 7 stay game number counter (step S152), "1" is set to the AT continuation flag (step S153), and the process proceeds to step S147. Also in this case, the AT continuation lottery process is not performed. Incidentally, when the process proceeds to step S151, the production during staying in the game mode 7 is not the battle production shown in FIG. 26, but the story production showing the original animation over 12 games.

Next, the game mode 5 lever time process and the game mode 5 total stop process will be described as other examples of the game mode start time process and the game mode end time process. These are the processes performed during stay in game mode 5. In the game mode 5 lever time process, as shown in FIG. 33(A), an additional process is performed (step S160). This add-on process has the contents shown in FIG. , returns as is. With the return from this add-on process, the game mode 5 lever time process also ends and returns.

In the game mode 5 total stop processing, as shown in FIG. 33B, first, it is determined whether or not the value of the game mode 6 shift counter is greater than "0" (step S161). Here, if the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is not greater than "0", the process proceeds to step S162, where the game mode 5 stay game number counter (a counter for managing the number of games that can be stayed in the game mode 5, When shifting to game mode 5, a predetermined value, for example "3" (which may be determined by lottery or the like) is subtracted by "1". Next, it is determined whether or not the value of the game mode 5 staying game number counter is "0" (step S163). Here, when the value of the game mode 5 stay game number counter is "0", the game mode is set to the game mode 4 (step S164), the game mode 5 complete stop processing is terminated, and the process returns.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S163 that the value of the game mode 5 stay game number counter is not "0", the game mode 5 total stop processing is terminated and the process returns. In addition, in the determination of step S161, when the value of the game mode 6 transition counter is larger than "0", the process proceeds to step S165, and the above-described game mode 6 entry processing is performed. After execution of the game mode 6 entry process, the game mode 5 total stop process is terminated and the game returns.

Next, the game mode 6 lever time process and the game mode 6 total stop process will be described as another example of the game mode start time process and the game mode end time process. These are the processes performed during stay in game mode 6. In game mode 6 lever time processing, as shown in FIG. 34(A), AT stock addition processing is performed (step S170). Specifically, the above-described AT stock number counter addition lottery is performed, and the AT stock number to be added by the numerical value associated with the selected value is added to the value of the AT stock number counter. After execution of this AT stock addition processing, the game mode 6 lever time processing is terminated and returns.

In the game mode 6 total stop processing, as shown in FIG. 34B, first, "1" is subtracted from the value of the game mode 6 staying game number counter (step S171). Next, it is determined whether or not the value of the game mode 6 staying game number counter is "0" (step S172). Here, when the value of the game mode 6 stay game number counter is "0", the game mode 6 transition counter is cleared (step S173), and the addition specialization flag is cleared (step S174). Then, the game mode is set to the game mode 4 (step S175), the game mode 6 complete stop processing is terminated, and the game returns. On the other hand, if the value of the game mode 6 staying game number counter is not "0" in the determination of step S172, the processing of steps S173 to S175 is not performed, and the game mode 6 total stop processing is terminated and returns.

Next, the game mode 7 lever time process and the game mode 7 total stop process will be described as still another example of the game mode start time process and the game mode end time process. These are processes that are performed during stay in game mode 7 following the above-described game mode 7 entering process. In the game mode 7 lever time process, as shown in FIG. 35(A), AT continuation lottery process is first performed (step S181). Specifically, an AT continuation lottery is performed, and the winning value is set in the AT continuation determination counter (see FIG. 32(B)). Next, it is determined whether or not the AT continuation flag is "0" (step S182). Here, when the AT continuation flag is "0", the process advances to step S183 to determine whether or not the value of the AT continuation determination counter is "1" or more, and if it is "1" or more ( If winning the AT continuation lottery in step S181 corresponds to this case), the AT continuation flag is set to "1" (step S184).

Next, "1" is added to the value of the game mode 7 staying game number counter (step S185). This is a process for securing a game (additional one game) in which the resurrection effect is executed when the AT continuation lottery is won in the game mode 7 staying game. Thereafter, "1" is added to the value of the AT level counter (step S186), the game mode 7 lever time process is terminated, and the process returns. On the other hand, if the AT continuation flag is not "0" in the determination of step S182, and if the value of the AT continuation determination counter is not "1" or more in the determination of step S183, the subsequent processing is not performed. Terminate the game mode 7 lever time process and return.

In the game mode 7 total stop processing, as shown in FIG. 35B, first, "1" is subtracted from the value of the game mode 7 staying game number counter (step S191). Next, it is determined whether or not the value of the game mode 7 staying game number counter is "0" (step S192). Here, when the value of the game mode 7 staying game number counter is "0", it is determined whether or not the AT continuation flag is "1" (step S193). Furthermore, it is determined whether or not the value of the AT continuation determination counter is greater than or equal to "3" (step S194). Here, when the value of the counter for AT continuation determination is "3" or more, the game mode is set to game mode 8 (step S198), and the process proceeds to step S199. On the other hand, when the value of the AT continuation determination counter is not "3" or more, "30" is added to the AT game number counter (step S195), the AT continuation flag is cleared (step S196), and the game mode is entered. is set to game mode 4 (step S197), and the process proceeds to step S199.

In step S199, the value of the AT stock determination counter is subtracted by the value of the AT continuation determination counter (in the case of AT continuation, the value of the AT continuation determination counter is always greater than or equal to "1", so the AT The more it continues, the closer the AT stock determination counter approaches to "0"). Next, the AT continuation determination counter is cleared (step S200). Furthermore, the value of the AT stock number counter is subtracted by "1" (step S201), the game mode 7 total stop processing is terminated, and the process returns. It should be noted that, in the determination of step S193, if the AT continuation flag is not "1", the game mode is set to game mode 0 (step S202), the game mode 7 complete stop processing is terminated, and the process returns. Further, in the determination of step S192, if the value of the game mode 7 stay game number counter is not "0", the game mode 7 total stop processing is terminated as it is, and the process returns.

In game mode 7, the player plays the game expecting that the winning effect will be finally executed (AT will be continued). As described above, the cases where the victory effect is executed are the case of AT withdrawal (when the victory effect is performed after the resurrection effect B) and the case of AT continuation confirmation at the time of entry (when the victory effect is performed after the resurrection effect A). There is a case where a production is performed or a victory production is performed without a resurrection production). In the case of the AT pullback, since the benefit of raising the value of the AT level counter is obtained, when the victory effect is performed after the resurrection effect B, the AT is further continued after the next AT game is finished. It is possible to make the player strongly expect that. On the other hand, in the case of determination of AT continuation at the time of entry, the privilege of upgrading the value of the AT level counter cannot be obtained. However, in the case of AT continuation determination at the time of entry, at the start of game mode 7, it is determined that the value of the AT continuation determination counter is "1" or more ("0" in the case of AT withdrawal) During game mode 7, the value of the AT continuation determination counter becomes "3" or more, and the possibility that game mode 8 is set after game mode 7 ends is higher than in the case of AT withdrawal. Therefore, the player can be strongly expected to shift to the game mode 8 when the victory performance is performed after the resurrection performance A or when the victory performance is performed without the resurrection performance. Therefore, in either case, the player can have expectations for the future. In game mode 7, when a certain combination decision result (also referred to as a "fixed combination decision result") is selected, the value of the AT continuation determination counter is always added (for example, when winning a confirmed cherry) When such a winning combination is determined, the player may be notified of the fact when such a fixed combination determination result is selected. may By doing so, it becomes easier for the player to understand that the value of the AT continuation determination counter is incremented, so that the player's sense of expectation can be enhanced.

<Timer interrupt processing>
Next, timer interrupt processing will be described. In the present embodiment, processing such as reading of each game operation signal output in response to a game operation such as a bet operation performed by the player, detection (confirmation) of the signal level, transmission of each control command, reel drive control, etc. is performed by a timer interrupt process that is performed every preset constant time (for example, 2.235 milliseconds). In this timer interrupt processing, as shown in FIG. 36, first, interrupt initial processing (saving of registers, prohibition of interrupts, etc.) is performed (step MT11), and then it is determined whether or not power failure has been detected. (step MT12). Here, if power interruption is detected, power interruption processing is performed (step MT25). In the power-off processing, save of registers, save of stack pointer, save of interrupt status, and the like are performed. In addition, processing such as holding of information on the winning combination determination result and information on the game state (including information on the AT) stored in a predetermined storage area, and calculation and storage of the checksum are also performed.

On the other hand, if power-off is not detected, the interrupt counter value is updated (decremented by "1") (step MT13), and timer measurement is performed (step MT14). This timer measurement is to perform subtraction or addition processing of the timer value of an arbitrary timer set in the game progress control processing described above. Next, the input port is read (step MT15). In reading the input port, the signal level of each game operation signal input to the input port is read and stored, and the signal level is determined.

Next, reel drive control processing for controlling the driving of the reels 3a to 3c (rotational acceleration, deceleration, constant speed maintenance, stop maintenance, etc.) is performed (step MT16). In this reel drive control process, reel drive pulse output indicating the timing of switching the output phase (excitation phase) of the stepping motor according to the reel drive state (stopped, waiting for reel rotation, accelerating, constant speed, decelerating, etc.) Processing such as updating the counter value and acquiring, updating, and outputting reel driving pulse data for driving the stepping motor is performed. At the next step MT17, it is determined whether or not the reel drive control process has been executed for all reels. On the other hand, when all reels are executed, port output processing for exciting output of reels, hoppers, blockers, etc. is performed (step MT18), and control for transmitting control commands stored in the control command buffer (CB) is performed. Command transmission processing is performed (step MT19).

Next, in step MT20, the outer end signal (external signal) data stored in the predetermined storage area is read out and the outer end signal is output. Next, an LED display is performed to cause the above display lamp to perform a predetermined display (step MT21). In this LED display, for example, the number-of-payout display lamp 46j is caused to perform the following display. In other words, when no error (except E type error) occurs, the payout number "0 to 9" is displayed based on the payout number of game medals, or the numerical value "1 to 6" is displayed based on the setting value. display it. Furthermore, when the pressing order is to be notified, the navigation number display modes "=1" to "=6" are displayed. Also, when an error (except E system error) occurs, an error display is executed based on the value of the error number.

Next, the process proceeds to step MT22 to perform error management. In this error management, first, an error check is performed. In this error check, it is determined whether or not an H0 error has occurred, whether or not a CE error has occurred, whether or not a CP error has occurred, whether or not a CH error has occurred, and whether or not a C0 error has occurred. Determines whether an error has occurred, determines whether a C1 error has occurred, determines whether an E6 error has occurred, determines whether an E7 error has occurred, and further determines whether an E6 error or When the E7 error occurs, an error is displayed on the number-of-payout display lamp 46j, and processing such as stopping the execution of the game is performed. If an E-system error occurs, the error can be recovered by executing the above-described setting change process. After this error check, if an error occurs, the output request set at the time of error detection is processed to transmit error information to the sub-control means 200 . After executing this error management process, the process of updating the random numbers used for determining the hand etc. is performed (step MT23), and further the interrupt return process (restore of the register, interrupt permission, etc.) is performed (step MT24), and the interrupt return is performed. do.

<Change mode>
Next, a mode example (also referred to as a “modification mode”) in which the configuration of the above embodiment is partially modified will be described with additional reference to FIGS. 37 to 40. FIG. In this modification, sub-main control means 200A, sub-sub-control means 200B, and role product control means 200C (not shown) are provided as sub control means, and the operation is controlled by the sub control means (the role product control means 200C). It is equipped with accessories (not shown) as movable objects. This role includes, for example, a superior role and a lower role. The upper part is arranged inside a decorative frame (also referred to as a "screen upper decorative frame") arranged in the upper part of the image display device 11 having an image display screen so that it cannot be seen when not in operation. The character is placed inside a decorative frame (also referred to as a “screen bottom decorative frame”) arranged at the bottom of the image display device 11 having an image display screen so as not to be seen when not in operation. During operation, the upper character advances downward from the upper decorative frame of the screen to the center of the screen, and the lower character advances upward from the lower decorative frame of the screen to the center of the screen. The objects are configured to face each other at the center of the screen (both accessories are connected in front of the image display screen). In addition, the upper and lower roles each have a hemispherical movable object that constitutes a spherical rotating part when facing each other, and the rotating parts are configured to rotate while the two roles face each other. It is

When such a role is activated, an image related to the role (also referred to as a "feature image"), a lamp (also referred to as a "feature lamp"), and a sound (also referred to as a "feature sound") ) (these are also collectively referred to as “effects for characters”) are executed. For example, at the start of the action of the role (when the upper role and the lower role (hereinafter also referred to as "upper and lower roles") are produced), a sound suggesting that the role is to start Also called a "sound") is output, and an image suggesting that the role object will start moving, for example, an image in which the entire screen turns black (also called a "black image") is displayed. In addition, during the main action of the role object, for example, when rotating the role object (the rotating part thereof), a sound suggesting that the role object is rotating (also referred to as a “role object rotation sound”) or Light is output from a lamp corresponding to the rotation (also referred to as a "rotating role lamp"), and an effect image emphasizing the rotating role object (also referred to as a "rotating role image") is displayed. Furthermore, at the end of the action of the role object (when the upper and lower role objects are retracted), a sound suggesting that the action of the role object has ended (also referred to as the “end sound of action of the role object”) is output.

On the other hand, when the role does not work, image effects unrelated to the role (images of characters walking, images suggesting winning roles, battle images, winning images, etc.) and lamp effects (suggesting winning roles) Output of color light, etc.), voice effects (output of voice suggesting winning role, output of BGM during battle, etc.) . For example, a non-role object production performed when accepting the start lever operation (also referred to as “non-role object production during lever operation”), a non-role object production performed when accepting the first stop operation (“non-role object production when the first stop operation is received”) (Also referred to as "role material effect"), non-role object effect performed when accepting the second stop operation (also referred to as "second stop operation non-role object effect"), non-role object performed when accepting the third stop operation effect (also referred to as “non-accessory effect at the time of the third stop operation”) and the like.

Several production control examples in this modified mode will be described below. FIG. 37(A) shows an example of effect control in a game without action of the accessory (a game in which the accessory is originally scheduled not to be operated). In this case, no role product action is performed, and no role product effects (effects using role product lamps, role product sounds, and role product images) are performed. On the other hand, the production for non-role goods (production of one or more of image production, lamp production, and audio production) is performed when lever operation is received, when the first stop operation is received, when the second stop operation is received, and when the second stop operation is received. 3 Make it executable when the stop operation is accepted. In FIG. 37A, a new non-accessory effect is performed when all operations are accepted, but it is not necessary to perform a new non-accessory effect when all operations are accepted. For example, when the second stop operation is accepted, the non-accessory object effect performed when the first stop operation is accepted may be continued. The same is true for others.

FIG. 37(B) shows the case where the role object operates normally in the game with the role object action (the role object is scheduled to operate) when the third stop operation is received (the game in this case is also called "normal game α"). It shows an example of effect control in (referred to as). In this case, until the third stop operation is accepted, only the non-character object production is performed (in FIG. 37(B), when all the operations are accepted until the third stop operation is accepted, a However, it does not mean that you must perform a new non-accessory effect at the time of accepting all operations. as long as it is a performance). When the third stop operation is accepted, various character actions, for example, an action to put out the upper and lower characters, an action to rotate the character, and an action to retract the upper and lower characters are performed. For example, the output of a character object action start sound and the display of a black image in response to the action of putting out an upper and lower character object, the output of light by the lamp at the time of rotation of the character object and the output of the rotation sound of the character object in response to the action of rotating the character object, etc. An image is displayed when the character object is rotated, and a character object motion end sound is output according to the action of withdrawing the upper and lower character objects. Furthermore, the timing at which the action of the role product ends (specifically, the sub-main control means 200A sends the sub-sub control means 200B and the role product control means 200C a command for outputting the role product operation end sound and the upper and lower roles timing of transmitting a command to withdraw), a third stop operation non-accessory effect (such as a win image display effect) is also performed. Execution of these role product motions, role product effects, and non-role product effects at the time of accepting the third stop operation is managed by a predetermined data table (also referred to as “data table for role product operation”) (data Various role product actions, role product effects, execution of non-character product effects, etc. are controlled in the order described in the table). Specifically, the sub-main control means 200A performs effect control using the data table for character product operation. In the case of FIG. 37(B), the data table for role product operation includes transmission of a command for causing the sub-sub control means 200B to display a black image when the third stop operation is accepted, and the third stop operation. Sending a command for causing the role product control means 200C to execute the operation of putting out the upper and lower accessories when the acceptance is received, and outputting the role product operation start sound to the sub-sub control means 200B when the third stop operation is accepted Transmission of a command for execution, and transmission of a command for causing the sub-sub control means 200B to display the image during rotation of the character object when the operation of putting out the upper and lower accessories is completed, and when the operation of putting out the upper and lower accessories is completed. Transmission of a command for causing the role product control means 200C to execute the operation of rotating the role product, control for outputting light from the lamp at the time of rotation of the role product when the operation of putting out the upper and lower roles is completed, Sending a command for causing the sub-sub control means 200B to output a role object rotation sound when the action of putting out the object is completed, and when the third stop operation is received when the action of rotating the role object is completed. Control for executing a performance (transmitting a command for causing the sub-sub control means 200B to display a winning image), and the action of retracting the upper and lower accessories when the action of rotating the character is over. , and the transmission of the command for causing the sub-sub control means 200B to output a role product motion end sound when the action of rotating the role product is completed. Note that the order in which they are described can be changed as appropriate. By the way, at each timing such as the timing when the third stop operation is accepted, the timing when the operation of putting out the upper and lower accessories is finished, and the timing when the operation of rotating the accessory is finished, the sub-sub control means 200B and the accessory control means 200C By simply transmitting a command indicating each timing, the sub-sub control means 200B and the role product control means 200C that have received the command may each perform control in accordance with the timing. However, when performing control using a data table, there is a problem that when a certain control becomes unexecutable, the control described after that cannot be performed.

FIG. 38(A) shows a case where a role product abnormality occurs at the start of the role product operation or during the operation in a game with a role product operation when the third stop operation is received (the game in this case is called “abnormality occurrence game α- 1”) shows an example of effect control. In this case also, only the non-character object production is performed until the third stop operation is accepted (in FIG. 38(A), when all the operations are accepted until the third stop operation is accepted, a However, it does not mean that you must perform a new non-accessory effect at the time of accepting all operations. as long as it is a performance). When the third stop operation is accepted, as in the case of the normal game α, the control for executing the role product operation and the performance for the role product is executed until the accessory abnormality occurs, but the accessory abnormality occurs. At a point in time (when the character becomes inoperable (for example, the character does not move from its non-operating position, the character is not in its non-operating position, etc.)), the execution of those controls is discontinued ( After that, the described control cannot be performed), and then a reset process (also referred to as "accessory reset") for restoring the accessary is performed. Specifically, the character object control means 200C attempts the action of putting out the character object and the action of withdrawing the character object. This resetting of the role item is repeated up to a predetermined number of times (for example, 3 times) if the operation of the role item is not restored in one process (the attempted operation of putting out the role item and the action of retracting the role item are not performed). will be As a result of resetting the accessory, even if the action of the accessory is restored (the attempted action of putting out the accessory and the action of retracting the accessory is performed) or not, Subsequent control (control whose execution has been suspended) described in the data table for accessory operation is not restarted (however, if recovered, subsequent control may be restarted). The reason why the subsequent control is not resumed is that even if the performance is executed at a timing that is different from the original execution timing, the performance will be loose and there is a possibility that the interest in the game will be significantly reduced. Moreover, even if the control is restarted, if the lever or the like is operated immediately after, the control must be stopped again and the effect control of the next game must be performed.

FIG. 38(B) shows a case where a role object abnormality occurs when ending the action of a role object in a game with a role object action when the third stop operation is received (the game in this case is referred to as "abnormal occurrence game α- 2”) shows an example of effect control. In this case, the same performance control as in the case of normal game α is executed until the time when the action of the role is finished, but when the action of the role is finished, an abnormality of the role occurs (upper and lower accessories I tried to pull back, but at the point when the top and bottom accessories were not in the state when the top and bottom accessories were put out (such as the position was shifted when the action was performed to rotate the accessories), the execution of the control after that was stopped. Then, the accessory reset processing is performed. When the accessory reset is performed, even if the operation of the accessory is restored or not, the subsequent control will not be resumed (by the way, if it is restored, The upper and lower roles are retracted due to the role reset). In addition, the third stop operation non-accessory effect (for example, display of a winning image), which was scheduled to be performed in parallel with the action of retracting the upper and lower accessories, is executed (described in the data table for the action of the accessory). This is because the order in which it is done is before the action of retracting the upper and lower accessories).

FIG. 39(A) shows production control in a case where a role product operates normally in a game with a role product operation at the time of receiving the first and third stop operations (the game in this case is also referred to as "normal game β"). shows an example. In this case, the same effect control as in the case of the normal game α is executed except when the first stop operation is accepted. When the first stop operation is accepted, the role product action of putting out and withdrawing the upper and lower role products and the timing of terminating the role product action Timing of transmitting a command for issuing), the non-accessory effect at the time of the first stop operation is executed. The role product motion at the time of receiving the first stop operation and the non-accessory effect at the time of the first stop operation are configured to be managed by the data table for the role product motion time. Specifically, in the case of FIG. 39(B), the data table (for the first stop operation) for the time of the action of the accessory is used for the action of extending and retracting the upper and lower accessories when the first stop operation is accepted. It is described in the order of transmission of a command to be executed by the object control means 200C and transmission of a command to be executed by the sub-sub control means 200B at the time of the first stop operation when retracting the upper and lower objects. Also, the data table for role product motion (for the third stop operation) in the case of FIG. 39B is the same as the data table for role product motion in the case of FIG. 37B.

FIG. 39(B) shows a case in which, in a game in which there is a role product movement at the time of receiving the first and third stop operations, an abnormality in the role product occurs during the time of receiving the first stop operation and recovery occurs (this is the game in this case). (Also referred to as "abnormal occurrence game β-1") shows an example of effect control. In this case, when an accessory abnormality occurs (the accessory becomes inoperable (for example, the accessory does not move from its non-operating position, the accessory is not in its non-operating position, etc.)), After that, the execution of the control is stopped, and the accessory reset process is performed. In this example, as a result of resetting the character, the action of the character is restored (the top and bottom characters are retracted due to the reset), but the control after that is not restarted (the non-character object production at the time of the first stop operation is , it will not be executed even if the action of the role is restored). Since the action of the role object has been restored, when the third stop operation is accepted, the same production control as in the case of the normal game β control to execute).

FIG. 40(A) shows a case in which a role product abnormality occurs during the role product operation at the time of receiving the first stop operation in a game with a role product operation when the first and third stop operations are received and recovery is not performed (the game in this case This is also referred to as "abnormal occurrence game β-2") shows an example of effect control. In this case, as in the abnormal game β-1, an accessory abnormality has occurred (the accessory has become inoperable (for example, the accessory has stopped moving from its non-operating position, (e.g., not at the position of )), the execution of subsequent control is stopped, and the accessory reset process is performed. In this example, even if the role product is reset a predetermined number of times, the action of the role product may not be restored. At the time of accepting the third stop, the action of the role has not been restored (the role cannot be operated), so the action of the role and the effect for the role are not executed at the time of accepting the third stop operation ( This is because even if control is performed using the data table for character product operation, the operation will be interrupted in the middle). However, it is preferable to execute at least the non-accessory effect at the time of the third stop operation, triggered by the reception of the third stop operation. Specifically, the non-accessory effect at the time of the third stop operation is different from the normal game β (different from the data table at the time of the action of the accessory (for the third stop operation)) data table ("role It is configured to be managed by a data table for recovery failure"). In addition, when the third stop operation is accepted, control may be performed so that the accessory reset is performed again.

In FIG. 40(B), when the third stop operation is received, a role product operation is scheduled (it is planned to be controlled using a data table for role product operation), but an accessory abnormality occurred before the game and the recovery is performed. (The game in this case is also referred to as “game γ after failure of accessory recovery”). In this case, until the third stop operation is accepted, similarly to the case of the normal game α, only the non-accessory effect (in FIG. 40(B), when all the operations are accepted until the third stop operation is accepted, However, it does not mean that a new non-accessory effect must be performed at the time of accepting all operations. Any one or more effects may be performed) is performed. Then, when the third stop operation is accepted, as in the abnormal game β-2, instead of the data table for accessory operation (for the third stop operation), the data table for failure to recover the accessory is used to perform the third stop operation. Execute the production for the time non-role object.

If the performance for the role object related to the action of the role object is executed as planned despite the fact that the role object is inoperable, the effect of the performance is unclear and the intention of the performance is unclear, resulting in the failure of the game. There is a possibility that the interest will drop significantly. Therefore, in this example, when the accessory is inoperable, the related accessory effect is not executed, so that it is possible to avoid a significant decrease in the interest of the game. In addition, since the non-accessory effect unrelated to the action of the role object can be executed as much as possible, it is possible to improve the interest of the game compared to the case where the effect is not performed at all. Furthermore, since the performance for non-accessory when the accessory is inoperable is managed by the data table for failure of recovery of the accessory for that case, It is possible to accurately control the production. It should be noted that after the third stop operation non-accessory object effect (also referred to as "fail-safe effect") is executed even once by the data table for failure to recover the accessory, the power supply is stopped and the power is restored. Until then, a fail-safe effect is performed in the same situation (even if it is decided to control using the data table for character product operation, it is controlled by switching to the data table for character product recovery failure). When the power is restored, the movement of the accessory is restored when the power is restored. When it is decided to control by using the data table for character product operation). However, when the motion of the role product is not restored, even if it is determined to use the data table for role product operation, control is performed by switching to the data table for failure in recovery of the role product. In addition, there are multiple data tables for failure to restore the role product, and when it is decided to control using the data table for role product operation (for the first stop operation), the data table for the first stop operation It is possible to control by switching to the data table for failure to restore the role product (for the first stop operation) in which the performance for the product is performed, and to control using the data table for the role product operation (for the third stop operation). When it has been determined, it is controlled by switching to the data table for failure in recovery of the role product (for the time of the third stop operation) in which the production for the non-accessory product at the time of the third stop operation is performed. If the operation of the accessory does not recover even after resetting the accessory a plurality of times, a flag indicating that the accessory cannot be operated is set. Then, when trying to control using the data table for accessory operation, the accessory operation inoperable flag is checked, and when it is set, control is performed by switching to the data table for accessory restoration failure. . In this example, the role product control means 200C is provided and the role product is operated by the role product control means 200C, but the sub-main control means 200A may directly operate the role product.

<Other embodiments>
Next, another embodiment different from the embodiment described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 41 to 57. FIG. FIG. 41 is an external view showing the external appearance of a slot machine that is another embodiment. It should be noted that "images" in the following description include still images and moving images unless otherwise specified.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in game machines, as a countermeasure against addiction (a measure for reducing the number of players who play games beyond their means), attention is called during game standby. However, since most of the players watching the demo screen are not players who are currently absorbed in the game, but players who are about to start the game, it is possible to exhibit the expected effect as a countermeasure against addiction. Therefore, the number of players who play games beyond their means did not decrease.

Preoccupation is thought to occur as a result of the player's inability to make cool decisions. The timings when there is a high possibility that you will not be able to make calm judgments include the following timings.
(1) Timing at which the AT game ends During the AT game, since many game medals are given, it is highly likely that the player will become overwhelmed and will not be able to make a calm decision. In addition, it is easy to have expectations that AT games may be hidden (whether the AT lottery is won), and there is a high possibility that calm judgment will not be possible. Furthermore, at the end of the AT game, the total number of game medals awarded during the AT game, etc. are displayed on the image display device. At that time, if the number of game medals given during the AT game is smaller than the number of game medals corresponding to the amount of money spent so far, the player is likely to fall into the mindset of trying to get back (trying to win the AT lottery), and is calm. It can be said that there is a high possibility that judgment cannot be made.
(2) Timing of Completion of Bonus Game Since many game medals are awarded during the bonus game, it is highly likely that the player will be overwhelmed and will not be able to make a calm decision. In addition, if the number of winnings of the bonus combination is large, it is easy to have expectations that the setting is high (for example, the setting value is 5 or more), and there is a high possibility that a calm judgment cannot be made. Furthermore, at the end of the bonus game, the total number of game medals awarded during the bonus game is displayed on the image display device. At that time, if the number of game medals given during the bonus game is smaller than the number of game medals corresponding to the amount of money spent so far, the player is likely to fall into the mindset of trying to take back (let's win the bonus role), and is calm. It can be said that there is a high possibility that judgment cannot be made.

Therefore, in other embodiments, attention is called at the timing when a special game such as an AT game or a bonus game in which many game medals can be awarded ends.

FIG. 42 shows an example of an end screen displayed on the image display device at the end of the special game and an image for calling attention (hereinafter referred to as "calling image"). The end screen is an image showing at least the total number of game medals awarded during the special game (TOTAL XXX) and the background. The image showing the total number of game medals awarded during the special game (TOTAL XXX) may be prepared as an image separate from the image showing the background (hereinafter referred to as "background image"). Also, the warning image is an image clearly stating "Be careful not to get addicted. Pachislot is a game to be enjoyed moderately."

Next, with reference to FIG. 43, the size of the attention-calling image displayed on the image display device at the end of the special game will be described. If the attention calling image is too small, the player cannot recognize it, and the effect expected as a countermeasure against addiction cannot be exhibited. On the other hand, if it is too large, it may interfere with viewing other images. In other words, it may make the player feel uncomfortable. Therefore, in another embodiment, if the image display device that displays the alert image is less than 7 inches (in other words, if the image display device is small), the size of the alert image is set to 10.00 mm in height. , and the width is 64.12 mm. In addition, if the image display device that displays the attention calling image is 7 inches or more (in other words, if it is a large image display device), the size of the attention calling image is 30.00 mm in length and 192.37 mm in width. and

Next, with reference to FIG. 44, the timing of displaying the end screen and the attention calling image on the image display device will be described. FIG. 44 shows the final game of the special game, and when game medals are given in the final game (when a small winning combination is won), the number of credits is added or after payout, the image display device displays an end screen and calls attention. An image is displayed (FIG. 44(a)). In addition, when no game medals are awarded in the final game (such as when a replay combination wins), after the rotation of all the reels has stopped, the image display device displays an end screen and a warning image (Fig. 44(b)). ).

Next, the timing for hiding the end screen on the image display device will be described. One of the reasons for displaying the end screen is to inform the player of the total number of game medals awarded during the special game. That is, it can be said that there is no problem even if the end screen is hidden at the timing when the player recognizes the total number of game medals given during the special game. Therefore, in another embodiment, the end screen is hidden when the start switch is operated.

Further, in another embodiment, when the start switch is operated, the image display device displays an effect screen corresponding to the game situation at that time. For example, if the game after the bonus game or the AT game is a normal game and the player wins the cherry role, which is one of the minor roles, the fact that the player wins the cherry role as shown in FIG. A suggestive production screen can be displayed. In addition, if the game after the bonus game is an AT preparation game and the player wins the push-order bell role, which is one of the minor roles, the stop switches are operated in any order as shown in FIG. 45(b). A push order image (hereinafter, also referred to as a "navigation image") indicating whether to play and an effect screen during the AT preparation game can be displayed.

Next, the time for which the alert image is displayed will be described. If the time for which the attention-calling image is displayed is too short, the player cannot recognize it, and the effect expected as a countermeasure against addiction cannot be exhibited. Moreover, even if they can recognize it, they do not pay attention to it, and the effect expected as a countermeasure against addiction cannot be exhibited. On the other hand, if it is too long, it may interfere with viewing other images. In other words, it may make the player feel uncomfortable. Therefore, in another embodiment, the attention-calling image is kept displayed only for a period of time during which the effect expected as a countermeasure against addiction can be exhibited and the player does not feel uncomfortable. The appropriate time for continuing to display the alert image will be explained step by step.

First, with reference to FIG. 46, the time spent by the player when playing the game in the shortest time will be described. After the start switch is operated, it takes about 180 ms from when the reel starts to rotate until the reel rotation speed becomes constant. In addition, the maximum time from when the stop switch is operated until the rotation of the reels stops is 190 ms (Article 6 of the Ordinance Concerning Approval of Gaming Machines and Examination of Models (Technical Standards for Gaming Machine Models). ) in Appendix 5 (1) a (g)). Furthermore, it takes about 40 ms per coin to spend for adding the given game medals as the number of credits and for actually paying out the game medals. In other words, the time spent by the player when playing the game in the shortest time varies depending on the number of game medals awarded, but if the specification is such that multiple stop switches cannot be operated simultaneously (multiple reels cannot be stopped and controlled at the same time). About 750ms to about 1070ms (when 0 to 8 game medals are awarded), and about 370ms to about 690ms if multiple stop switches can be operated simultaneously (multiple reels can be stopped and controlled at the same time). (when the number of awarded game medals is 0 to 8).

Incidentally, even if the player plays the game in the shortest time, it is impossible to finish one game in less than the minimum game time (minimum time required for one game is 4100 ms or longer). This is the interpretation of Table 5 (1) R (a) shown in Article 6 of the Regulations Concerning Approval of Gaming Machines and Examination of Models (Technical Standards for Gaming Machine Types) and its technical standards. stipulated in the standards. Therefore, in another embodiment, even when the previous game is played in the shortest time as shown in FIG. Since 4100 ms has passed since the start of rotation, one game will not end in less than the minimum game time.

Generally, in the BB game, which is one of the bonus games, a small combination that does not require eye-pushing (a small combination that does not need to operate a stop switch aiming at a specific pattern) wins with a high probability (always wins specification). Also, in the AT game, although the push order bell role and the push order replay role that require operating the stop switch in a specific order are won, it teaches in which order the stop switch should be operated. Furthermore, the player is in an excited state during the bonus game or the AT game. Therefore, at least during the special game, many players are playing in the shortest time.

As described above, even if the player plays the game in the shortest time, it is impossible to finish one game in less than the minimum playing time. That is, as shown in FIG. 48, when the final game of the special game is played in the shortest time, even if the start switch is operated immediately, there is a certain amount of time before the reels start rotating. In addition, there is a certain amount of time before the rotation speed of the reel becomes constant even after the rotation of the reel is started. During these times, any operation by the player is invalid, so even if the attention-calling image continues to be displayed, the player will not feel uncomfortable. If it continues to be displayed, it may make the player feel uncomfortable. This is because, when these times are exceeded, at least the operation of the stop switch becomes valid, but the suggestion that the cherry hand has been won as shown in FIG. (Because you don't know which role to aim for), or because a warning image is displayed, you may feel uneasy that you should not operate the stop switch. . Therefore, it can be said that it is preferable that the time for which the alert image continues to be displayed does not exceed these times.

Therefore, in other embodiments, the appropriate time for continuing to display the alert image is 3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less. The reason why the duration is set to 3000 ms or longer is that the longer it is, the more effective the anti-immersion countermeasure can be.

As shown in FIG. 49, it seems that there are a few players who spend a lot of time playing the game even during the special game. In that case, if the attention-calling image is displayed continuously for 3210 ms, at least the operation of the stop switch becomes effective in the middle, which may cause discomfort to the player. However, since the player spends a lot of time playing the game even during the special game, there is a high possibility that the player will not feel discomfort compared to a player who plays the game in the shortest possible time. By the way, if the game is played in the shortest time after the attention calling image is hidden, one game can be finished before the minimum game time elapses. Therefore, although one game could normally be finished before the minimum playing time elapses, the warning image continued to be displayed. Complaints such as not being able to finish the game (loss) are not received.

Next, the position where the alert image is displayed will be described. Basically, it is preferable to display it at a position where the player can easily recognize it. One of the positions that the player can easily recognize is the position above the center of the housing. This is because the player's eye level is above the center of the housing.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 41, an image display device is provided above the center of the housing, and an alert image is displayed above the center of the image display device as shown in FIG.

Of course, if the image display device is provided above the center of the housing, the upper side of the center of the image display device, the upper right corner of the center, the upper left corner of the center, the lower side of the center, and the lower right corner of the center , a warning image may be displayed in the left corner below the center.

Also, it is preferable to determine the position to display the alert image in consideration of the positions where other images are displayed. For example, it is preferable to display the attention-calling image at a position that does not overlap with the total number of game medals awarded during the special game (TOTAL XXX) and the indication that the player has won the cherry combination. Moreover, it is preferable to display the attention-calling image at a position that does not overlap with the pressing order image as much as possible.

Furthermore, in other embodiments, attention is called even during game standby. FIG. 50 shows a demonstration screen displayed on the image display device during game standby.

When waiting for a game, an image showing the manufacturer is displayed first (FIG. 50(a)). Then, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, a warning image is displayed (FIG. 50(b)). Furthermore, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, an image introducing the theme of the slot machine is displayed (FIG. 50(c)). In this manner, during game standby, the image display device repeatedly displays FIGS. 50(a) to 50(c).

As described above, most of the players watching the demo screen are players who are about to start playing, rather than players who are actually into the game. As a countermeasure against addiction, it is conceivable to give an impression in advance to a player who is about to start a game that he/she should not become addicted, but if excessive attention is given, there is a risk that the desire to play will be lowered. Therefore, in another embodiment, the time during which the image for calling attention continues to be displayed during game standby is set shorter than the time for which the image for calling attention continues to be displayed at the end of the special game. In other words, it is less than 3000 ms. Specifically, it is 2000 ms or less. However, it is not limited to this.

Incidentally, the position and size of displaying the attention calling image are the same as the position and size when it is displayed at the end of the special game. This is because if the display position is changed depending on the situation, the burden on the sub-controller may increase. Also, if the size is changed, it is necessary to prepare a plurality of images.

Next, with reference to FIG. 54, the case where an error occurs in the final game of the special game will be described. In another embodiment, even if an error occurs between when the start switch is operated and when all the reels stop rotating, the progress of the game is not stopped until all the reels stop rotating. It has become. This is because if the progress of the game is stopped, the player's concentration may be lost, and mistakes may easily occur when operating the stop switch. Note that the minimum game time (4100 ms) is measured even while the progress of the game is stopped.

Then, when all the reels stop rotating (when the progress of the game stops), an error image is displayed on the image display device. This is because if an error image is displayed when an error occurs, the player may be surprised and make a mistake. After that, when the error is canceled, the progress of the game is resumed (if game medals are given, the given game medals are added as credits or actually paid out), and an end screen and a warning are displayed on the image display device. A wake-up image is displayed.

Although it takes a certain amount of time until the error is cleared, the warning image is kept displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less). Of course, the warning image continues to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch becomes effective, which may make the player feel uncomfortable. This is because there is a slight possibility that the effect expected as a countermeasure against penetration cannot be exhibited. Also, since it takes a certain amount of time to clear the error, there is a possibility that the warning image will continue to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch is enabled, which may not cause discomfort. This is because the

Next, with reference to FIG. 55, the case where an error occurs under the condition that the alert image is displayed at the end of the special game will be described. In another embodiment, when an error occurs before the start switch is operated, progress of the game is stopped when the error occurs. Note that the minimum game time (4100 ms) is measured even while the progress of the game is stopped.

Further, when the progress of the game is stopped, the image display device displays an error image superimposed on the alert image. By the way, since it is necessary to quickly notify the game clerk that an error has occurred, the error image is set to have a higher priority than the caution image. After that, when the error is canceled, the progress of the game is resumed (if game medals are given, the given game medals are added as credits or are actually paid out), and the image display device displays the error image as non-existent. display.

It takes a certain amount of time to clear the error, but it does not include the time that the error image continues to be displayed (the time spent until the error is cleared), and the predetermined time (3000 ms or more) , 3210 ms or less), the alert image is kept displayed. Note that the time during which the error image was displayed before the error image was displayed (an error occurred) is included. Of course, the warning image continues to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch becomes effective, which may make the player feel uncomfortable. This is because there is a slight possibility that the effect expected as a countermeasure against penetration cannot be exhibited. Also, since it takes a certain amount of time to clear the error, there is a possibility that the warning image will continue to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch is enabled, which may not cause discomfort. This is because the

Next, with reference to FIG. 56, the case where the power supply is stopped under the condition that the alert image is displayed at the end of the special game will be described. In another embodiment, when power supply is stopped, measurement of the minimum game time (4100 ms) is also stopped, and when power supply is restarted, measurement of the minimum game time (4100 ms) is restarted.

Further, when the power supply is stopped, the image display device is also stopped, and when the power supply is restarted, the image display device also restarts display. Note that the alert image continues to be displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less) including the time during which the image was displayed before the power supply was stopped. As a result, if the game is played in the shortest time, the attention calling image will not continue to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch becomes effective, and the player will not feel uncomfortable.

Next, with reference to FIG. 57, the case where the production switch is operated under the condition that the attention calling image is displayed at the end of the special game will be described. In another embodiment, when game medals are given, the game medals to be given are added as the number of credits or are actually paid out until the game medals are inserted (bet switch is operated, inserted from the insertion port) When the production switch is operated during this period, the menu screen is displayed on the image display device. When the menu screen is displayed on the image display device, items such as password input, two-dimensional code display, and payout table can be selected. Specifically, each item can be selected by operating the cross key switch and the production switch.

Even if the production switch is operated, the attention calling image is kept displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less). This is because if the warning image is not displayed when the menu screen is displayed, there is a possibility that the effect expected as a countermeasure against addiction cannot be exhibited.

However, the position where the attention calling image is displayed is such that the selected item can be recognized. In other words, as long as the selected item can be identified, the items may be displayed in an overlapping manner. Further, the position where the attention calling image is displayed is set so as not to overlap with the two-dimensional code displayed when the two-dimensional code display is selected as much as possible. This is to prevent a player who wants to finish the game from being unable to finish the game immediately due to the continued display of the attention calling image.

In another embodiment, at the end of the special game, a warning image is displayed on the image display device together with the end screen. At the time of termination, the image display device may not display the alert image.

This is because if the number of game medals awarded during the special game is extremely small, the player will not be overwhelmed, and the number of game medals awarded during the special game will be greater than the number of game medals corresponding to the amount of money used so far. This is because even if the number of game medals collected is small, it is difficult for the player to fall into the desire to retrieve them (because it is almost impossible to retrieve them).

Examples of the case where the number of game medals given during the special game is extremely small include the case where the number is less than 300 during the AT game, and the case where the number is 50 or less during the bonus game. In addition, at the end of the special game or part of the demo screen, a warning screen is displayed on the image display device, but at regular intervals (for example, every hour) and for a certain number of games (for example, every 600 games) It may be displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more, 3210 ms or less), or after a certain time (for example, 1 hour) and a certain number of games (600 games) have elapsed since the last warning screen was displayed. You may make it display. At that time, the attention calling screen may be displayed smaller in the upper right corner than the center of the image display device, or may be displayed at the same position and size when the special game is finished. Also, when displaying, it may be displayed at the same time as other effects (continuous effects, advance notice effects, effects showing expectations, etc.). good too. By performing the display periodically, it is possible to call attention to players who are not playing the special game.

In another embodiment, when the special game ends, the end screen and the attention calling image are displayed on the image display device, but when the end screen is not displayed, the attention calling image may not be displayed. . For example, when the AT game is played 20 times in a row, the moving image is displayed on the image display device during the 20th AT game. Even if the bonus hand is won during the 20th AT game, even during the bonus game, and at the end of the bonus game, the image display device wants to continue displaying the moving image. End screen is not displayed. In such a case, the attention-calling image may not be displayed because it interferes with viewing the displayed moving image. However, at the end of the 20th AT game, it is preferable to display the end screen and the alert image on the image display device.

In other embodiments, the size of the alert image is the size shown in FIG. 43, but any size may be used as long as the size is sufficient to exhibit the expected effect as a countermeasure against addiction. It may be an image.

Also, the size of the attention calling image displayed at the end of the special game may be changed depending on the situation. For example, the size when displayed together with the end screen may be different from the size when displayed together with the effect screen.

In another embodiment, when game medals are given, the image display device displays the end screen and the caution image after the number of credits is added or paid out. It may be displayed on the display device, or may be displayed on the image display device when the last stop switch is released. In addition, when game medals are not awarded, the image display device displays the end screen and the caution image after the rotation of all the reels has stopped. You may make it display.

In other embodiments, the end screen and the attention calling image are displayed on the image display device at the same timing, but the attention calling image may be displayed after the end screen is displayed. Furthermore, the alert image may be displayed after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the end screen was displayed.

In another embodiment, the end screen is hidden when the start switch is operated regardless of whether or not game medals are awarded in the final game, but game medals are awarded in the final game. In this case, the end screen may be hidden when the game medals are inserted (the bet switch is operated and the game medals are inserted through the slot).

Alternatively, the end screen may be hidden when a predetermined time has passed since the end screen was displayed. This is because the image display device displays not only the end screen but also the attention-calling image, so there is a possibility that the player who feels uneasy does not operate the start switch.

In other embodiments, the image display device is provided above the center of the housing, but the image display device may be provided in the center of the housing. In that case, if the attention-calling image is displayed above the center of the image display device, in the upper right corner above the center, in the upper left corner above the center, and in the center, the image will be displayed at a position close to the eye level of the player. It should be noted that if only one image display device is provided, the player's line of sight will gather there. good too.

In addition, the image display device may be provided below the center of the housing due to the influence of the design of the housing. If only one image display device is provided, the line of sight of the player will gather there. A warning image may be displayed on the right side corner and the left corner below the center.

Also, the position of the attention calling image displayed at the end of the special game may be changed depending on the situation. For example, the position when displaying together with the end screen may be different from the position when displaying together with the effect screen.

In other embodiments, FIGS. 50(a) to 50(c) are repeatedly displayed during game standby, but the display order may be changed. For example, FIGS. 51(a) to 51(c) may be repeatedly displayed. The reason why the player sees the demo screen before starting the game is to confirm what the theme of the slot machine on which the game is to be started is. If there is a risk that the player's willingness to play will be significantly reduced by displaying an image for calling attention before displaying an image that introduces the theme of the slot machine as in other embodiments, the display is not performed. It is preferable to change the order of doing. Note that the order of replacement is not limited to this.

In other embodiments, the time for which the attention-calling image is continued to be displayed during game standby is set to less than 3000 ms. You may make it continue displaying above.

In other embodiments, the position and size of the attention calling image displayed during game standby are the same as the position and size when displayed at the end of the special game. may be changed by For example, as shown in FIG. 52, when the attention-calling image is always displayed during game standby, it may be displayed in a smaller size in the upper right corner than the center of the image display device. This is a device for avoiding even a little excessive attention since the time for which the attention image continues to be displayed becomes longer. Note that the display position and size are not limited to these.

In another embodiment, even if an error occurs between when the start switch is operated and when all the reels stop rotating, the progress of the game is not stopped until all the reels stop rotating. However, the progress of the game may not be stopped until the given game medals are added as credits or are actually paid out (except when no game medals are given).

In another embodiment, if an error occurs during the period from when the start switch is operated to when all the reels stop rotating, an error image is displayed on the image display device when the progress of the game stops. However, an error image may be displayed when an error occurs. As a result, the game clerk can rush to the game, and the error can be canceled immediately after the progress of the game is stopped.

In another embodiment, if an error occurs after the start switch is operated until the rotation of all reels stops, the minimum playing time (4100 ms) is measured even while the progress of the game is stopped. However, the measurement of the minimum playing time may be stopped. As a result, if the game is played in the shortest time, the attention calling image will not continue to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch becomes effective, and the player will not feel uncomfortable.

In another embodiment, if an error occurs between when the start switch is operated and when all the reels stop rotating, a predetermined time (3000 ms 3210 ms or less), the attention-calling image is kept displayed, but the time during which the attention-calling image is kept displayed may be shortened by the time spent until the error is cleared or the time corresponding to that time. For example, when it takes 60000 ms or more to clear the error, the alert image may be displayed continuously for 1000 ms.

In another embodiment, when an error occurs while the attention image is being displayed at the end of the special game, the error image is displayed superimposed on the attention image, but the attention image is not displayed. and an error image may be displayed. Then, when the error is cleared, the error image may be hidden and the attention-calling image may be displayed. This is suitable when it is desired to give the same priority to the error image and the caution image.

In another embodiment, when an error occurs while the alert image is displayed at the end of the special game, the time the error image continues to be displayed (the time spent until the error is canceled) is The warning image is kept displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less) without including it, but the time during which the error image is displayed (time spent until the error is canceled) The alert image may continue to be displayed for a predetermined period of time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less). Regardless of whether or not an error image is displayed (whether or not an error has occurred), the warning image should be displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less). without increasing the burden.

In another embodiment, if an error occurs while the alert image is displayed at the end of the special game, the error image is displayed (the error occurs) before the error image is displayed. However, you may choose not to include the time that the error image was displayed before it was displayed (an error occurred). This is suitable when there is a high possibility that the player's attention will be diverted from the attention-calling image due to the error image being displayed.

In another embodiment, when an error occurs while a warning image is displayed at the end of a special game, the minimum game time (4100 ms) is measured even while the game is stopped. However, the measurement of the minimum playing time may be stopped. As a result, if the game is played in the shortest time, the attention calling image will not continue to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch becomes effective, and the player will not feel uncomfortable.

In other embodiments, when an error occurs while a warning image is displayed at the end of a special game, the priority of the error image is set higher than that of the warning image, but the priority of the warning image is higher than that of the warning image. may be set higher than the error image. However, it is not preferable that the type of error that has occurred cannot be identified by the image that calls attention, so it is preferable that the position where the image that calls attention does not overlap with the position where the type of error that has occurred is specified. . It should be noted that they may overlap as long as the type of error that has occurred can be specified.

Also, in this case, the warning image continues to be displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less) including the time during which the error image continues to be displayed (the time spent until the error is cleared). You may do so.

In another embodiment, when the power supply is stopped while the alert image is displayed at the end of the special game, the time during which the power supply was stopped is included. may not include the time that was displayed before the power supply was stopped. This is suitable when there is a high possibility that the player's consciousness will deviate from the attention-calling image due to the stoppage of power supply.

In other embodiments, an image display device that starts up (resumes display) immediately after power supply is resumed is used. The attention calling image may continue to be displayed for a predetermined time (3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less) including the time during which it was displayed before the warning image was displayed. Depending on the time it takes to start up, the warning image will continue to be displayed even after the operation of the stop switch becomes effective, which may cause discomfort to the player. This is because if the continuous time is shortened, there is a slight possibility that the effect expected as a countermeasure against immersion cannot be exhibited. However, if there is a possibility that the player will feel a great deal of discomfort, the time during which the attention-calling image continues to be displayed may be shortened by the time until activation or the time corresponding to that time. It should be noted that the time that was continuously displayed before the power supply was stopped may not be included.

In another embodiment, when game medals are given, the game medals to be given are added as the number of credits or are actually paid out until the game medals are inserted (bet switch is operated, inserted from the insertion port) When the production switch is operated during this period, the menu screen is displayed on the image display device. A menu screen may be displayed on the image display device when the effect switch is operated.

In other embodiments, the position where the attention calling image is displayed is set so that the selected item can be seen when the menu screen is displayed. may By doing so, it is possible to prevent the player's consciousness from deviating from the attention-calling image.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 48 and 49, even if the attention calling image continues to be displayed, the operation of the start switch or the like is valid (the game progresses), but the attention calling image is displayed. It may be frozen while it is displayed. In other words, the operation of the start switch or the like may be disabled (progress of the game may be stopped). Although it gives the player a sense of discomfort, the effect expected as a countermeasure against addiction can be maximized. Specifically, since the progress of the game is stopped for a long period of time, it is possible to reduce the desire to play the game to some extent. In this case, it is appropriate that the time during which the attention calling image continues to be displayed is a time during which the player's desire to play can be reduced to some extent. However, if it is excessively long (for example, the time is longer than the minimum playing time), there is a possibility that the player will never play again. Therefore, it is preferably 3000 ms or more and less than 4100 ms.

In the case of freezing, as shown in FIG. 53, after the end screen is displayed on the image display device, the end screen may be hidden and only the caution image may be displayed. By displaying only the attention calling image, the player's attention can be surely directed to the attention calling image, so that the effect expected as a countermeasure against addiction can be exhibited more effectively. After a predetermined time (predetermined time of 3000 ms or more and less than 4100 ms) has elapsed since the alert image was displayed, the alert image may be hidden and the end screen may be displayed again. All right, you may continue displaying only an alerting image.

50(b), 50(a), and 50(c) are displayed in the order shown in FIG. 50(b), FIG. 50(a), and FIG. 50(c). (b) may continue to be displayed. This eliminates the need to prepare an image for displaying FIG. 53(b).

In other embodiments, the image display device is used to call the user's attention. For example, the attention-calling image may be displayed on the panel portion of the housing at a position where the player can easily recognize it.

The alert image is not limited to the illustrated one. For example, it may be an image clearly stating "Pachinko/Pachislot is a game to be enjoyed moderately. Be careful not to get addicted." or "Be careful not to be addicted. Pachinko/Pachislot is a game to be enjoyed moderately."

Note that the color and font of the characters are free as long as they are not difficult for the player to recognize. For example, if the color of the background image used to display the attention calling image is similar, it may be difficult for the player to recognize it. In particular, it is preferable to use a color that is diametrically opposite on the color wheel (hereinafter also referred to as “opposite color”) or a color that is close to the opposite color because the color stands out.

In another embodiment, an appropriate time for continuing to display the attention calling image is calculated by taking as an example the maximum number of game medals to be awarded during the special game of eight. Even when the maximum number of game medals is 8 or more and 15 or less, the appropriate time for continuing to display the attention calling image is preferably 3000 ms or more and 3210 ms or less. Certainly, when 15 game medals are awarded, it takes about 280 ms longer than when 8 game medals are awarded. If the time is shortened, the alert image can be hidden before the operation of the stop switch becomes effective. However, even if the attention-calling image is hidden about 280 ms after the operation of the stop switch becomes effective, the possibility that the player will notice it is extremely low. If so, the longer it is, the more effective it will be as an anti-addiction countermeasure.

In the above-described embodiment, when the first lottery for AT acquisition in game mode 0 is won and the first privilege for AT acquisition is awarded, game mode 0 is changed to game mode 1. Even if it is not elected, it may be possible to transfer (so-called fake sign). At that time, in the above-described embodiment, when the games for the number of precursor games are completed in the game mode 1, the game mode is shifted to the game mode 2. is consumed, the game mode 0 is entered. Also, the false sign may be managed by the sub-control means instead of being managed by the main control means. Specifically, when the game is not won, the game mode is left as the game mode 0, the number of precursor games is set on the side of the sub-control means, and a stimulating effect such as a continuous effect is performed during that period.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, as a condition for shifting from game mode 2 to game mode 4, establishment of RT2 shift RP is exemplified. You may make it transfer to the game mode 4 from the game mode 2 on condition that it was done. Also, during AT, it may be shifted to RT2, and push navigation may be performed so that RT2 is maintained.

Further, when the settlement process is performed after displaying the attention calling screen, the attention calling screen may be ended even if the settlement process is completed within 3 seconds from the start of the attention calling screen display. In that case, the display of the demo screen is started after the settlement process is completed. This is because it is not necessary to display the addiction prevention since the player finishes the game by the settlement process and the attention calling screen is displayed even on the demonstration screen. In addition, by ending the attention calling screen, it becomes clearer that the previous player is not playing, so that the next player can quickly start playing without being confused whether the previous player is playing. be able to do it.

It should be noted that the above-described embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments can be appropriately combined, and furthermore, the above-described modifications can be appropriately combined with each embodiment or a combination thereof. The present invention can also be applied to gaming machines other than slot machines (for example, pachinko machines, casino machines, arranged balls, enclosed gaming machines that do not use game medals or game balls, etc.).

An example of an enclosed type game machine is a game machine that enables a game to be played using electronic game media instead of physical game media such as game medals and game balls. In such a game machine, the number of electronic game media can be displayed on a multi-digit (two or more digits) 7-segment display. The electronic game media may be directly inserted into the gaming machine by the player, or indirectly inserted from a device provided outside the gaming machine according to the instructions of the player. good too. In the enclosed game machine, when a small winning combination is established, electronic game media are given to the player (the number of electronic game media displayed on the multi-digit 7-segment display increases).

Also, in enclosed type gaming machines, an AT lottery and a bonus lottery (a lottery lottery for determining one or more of a combination of a plurality of combinations including a bonus combination) are performed. Then, when the AT lottery is won or the bonus lottery is won, an effect (also referred to as a fanning effect) is performed to encourage the fact. By the way, even when the AT lottery is not won or when the bonus lottery is not won, the production for agitation is performed. An example of a stimulating production is a series of productions that are performed over multiple games, and at the end, a production that announces whether or not you have won the AT lottery or whether you have won the bonus lottery (continuous production) ), and an effect (sometimes referred to as an omen effect) that displays a background image that is easy to stay when winning the AT lottery or winning the bonus lottery on the image display device. mentioned.

As a countermeasure against addiction, a game prohibiting means may be provided to prevent the player from playing (throwing in) the amount exceeding a predetermined amount (for example, 50,000 yen) per day. Specifically, it is possible to insert money until it reaches a predetermined amount, and it is impossible to insert money exceeding the predetermined amount. In the case of , it may be equipped with an enclosed game machine, or in the case of an enclosed game machine that can be inserted indirectly, a device provided outside the game machine corresponding to the enclosed game machine may be provided. may

In addition, the remaining number of electronic game media can be managed by a device provided outside the game machine. The game media may be deposited (accumulated) in a device provided outside the gaming machine), and the remaining number of accumulated electronic game media may be inserted. In this case, the game prohibiting means prevents the player from playing (inserting) the amount exceeding a predetermined amount (for example, 50,000 yen) in one day, apart from the insertion from the stored balls. Alternatively, the total number of electronic game media to be inserted from the storage and the amount of money to be inserted exceeds the number of electronic game media converted from the predetermined amount It is also possible to make it impossible to insert

Winning an AT lottery or winning a bonus lottery in an enclosed game machine, even if either the enclosed game machine or a device installed outside the game machine is equipped with a game prohibiting means. If the amount used by the player exceeds a predetermined amount after the announcement is made and until the AT game or bonus game related to the announcement is completed, it is not necessary to disable the game. good. This is because it would be too harsh for the players if they could not play the game despite being notified. Also, the amount of money to be newly used is known to be high (approximately 1000 to 2000 yen). By the way, when the AT game or bonus game is over, it may be possible to disable the game (original, because it was not possible to play the game), and it is displayed on the multi-digit 7-segment display. You may be able to play while you still have electronic game media (electronic game media given during AT games or bonus games, not using new money) for the sake of).

In addition, in the case where either the enclosed type game machine or the device provided outside the game machine is equipped with a game prohibiting means, and when the AT lottery is won or the bonus lottery is won, one game is played. The number of electronic game media required for the game (for example, 3), the remaining number of electronic game media displayed on the multi-digit 7-segment display (for example, 12 remaining), and the number of electronic game media currently used by the player Situation such as the difference between the amount paid and the predetermined amount (for example, it has already reached 50,000 yen) Any two pieces of information may be used for determination, or one or more pieces of new information such as information on the remaining number of electronic game media managed by a device provided outside the gaming machine (so-called accumulated balls) may be added to the three pieces of information. In addition, it is desirable to determine the timing (after how many games to notify) that the winning of the AT lottery or bonus lottery is announced. This is to prevent the player from being unable to play the game before being notified of the winning. If the enclosed game machine is equipped with a game prohibition means, necessary information (such as the difference between the amount currently used by the player and a predetermined amount, etc.) Information, information on the remaining number of usable electronic game media managed by a device provided outside the game machine is received and determined.

In addition, if either the enclosed game machine or the device provided outside the game machine is equipped with a game prohibition means, and the situation where the game will soon become impossible (the electronic device required to play one game The number of game media is 3, the remaining number of electronic game media displayed on the multi-digit 7-segment display is 3, and the amount actually used by the player has reached a predetermined amount), As the effect for the next game, it is desirable not to perform the stimulating effect regardless of whether or not the AT lottery or the bonus lottery is won. This is because, if the player becomes unable to play the game as soon as the fanning effect is performed, the interest in the game will decrease, and there is a possibility that the player will lose interest in the game.

In addition, before the game becomes unplayable soon, a warning message may be displayed to the effect that if the player continues to play the game, it may not be possible to obtain the profit even if it becomes possible. The timing of the display may be as long as there is enough money left to lend the game medium that can digest the necessary number of games from the moment of the AT lottery or bonus lottery to the time the profits are received based on the results of the lottery. may be the timing when the specified amount reaches a specific amount lower than a predetermined amount (for example, 45,000 yen). With this advice, it is possible to prevent the user from being unable to enjoy the profit (AT game, bonus game) even though the profit (AT game, bonus game) can be obtained due to the use of the predetermined amount of money.

1 slot machine 3a, 3b, 3c reel 25 start lever 26a, 26b, 26c stop switch 60 main control board 70 sub-control board 70A sub-main control board 70B sub-sub-control board 100 main control means 200 sub-control means 200A sub-main control means 200B sub-sub control means

Claims (2)

Predetermined notification information for notifying an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch;
Alert information about addiction to games,
a first image suggesting the end of a predetermined gaming state;
a second image for notifying that the predetermined game state continues;
can be displayed and
It is possible to execute a demonstration production,
When displaying the second image after displaying the first image;
a case where the second image is not displayed after the first image is displayed;
has
Regardless of whether or not the second image is displayed, when the first image is displayed, the alert information is displayed for the period T1,
When the demonstration effect is being executed, the attention calling information is configured to be displayed for a period T2,
When the alert information and the second image are displayed, it is possible to identify that the predetermined game state continues even if the alert information is displayed,
When predetermined notification information and the alert information are displayed, even if the alert information is displayed, it is configured to be able to identify an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch,
A gaming machine characterized in that it is configured to satisfy T1≦T2. Predetermined notification information for notifying an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch;
Alert information about addiction to games,
a first image suggesting the end of a predetermined gaming state;
a second image for notifying that the predetermined game state continues;
can be displayed and
It is possible to execute a demonstration production,
When displaying the second image after displaying the first image;
a case where the second image is not displayed after the first image is displayed;
has
Regardless of whether or not the second image is displayed, when the first image is displayed, the alert information is displayed for the period T1,
When the demonstration effect is being executed, the attention calling information is configured to be displayed for a period T2,
When the alert information and the second image are displayed, it is possible to identify that the predetermined game state continues even if the alert information is displayed,
When predetermined notification information and the alert information are displayed, even if the alert information is displayed, it is configured to be able to identify an advantageous operation mode of the stop switch,
A gaming machine characterized in that it is configured to satisfy T1>T2.

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