JP7268900B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines.

2. Description of the Related Art A slot machine having a plurality of reels having a plurality of patterns arranged on an outer peripheral surface thereof is conventionally known as a gaming machine. In the slot machine, as the reels start rotating with the start of a game, an internal lottery using a lottery table is performed. Further, when the reels are stopped and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the internal lottery is displayed on a plurality of reels, processing according to the displayed symbol combination may be performed, for example, by paying out medals (game value). A medal payout process to be issued, a re-game process that enables the game to be played again without newly consuming medals, and the like are performed.

Further, it is known that the slot machine changes the display contents of a liquid crystal display (display means) according to the player's operation. In this type of game machine, when the player advances the game at a high speed (when the start lever, stop button, etc. are operated quickly), the display on the liquid crystal display may become defective or unnatural. There was a possibility (for example, see patent document 1).

JP 2012-249711 A

By the way, if the display on the liquid crystal display gives a sense of incompatibility, the player may feel as if something is wrong, and the game may be hindered.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a game machine capable of displaying images without causing a sense of incongruity.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention includes:
a plurality of reels;
display means for displaying an image;
Effect control means for executing control related to display of images on the display means,
The production control means is
a first control for causing the display means to display a specific image after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since an operation was performed on the last reel to be stopped among the plurality of reels in a predetermined game;
a second control for displaying the specific image on the display means in response to an operation related to the start of the game in the game subsequent to the predetermined game;
The second control is not executed in the next game when the specific image is displayed based on the first control in the predetermined game.

According to such a configuration, when the specific image is displayed based on the first control in the predetermined game, the specific image triggered by the operation related to the start of the game is displayed in the next game of the predetermined game. is not displayed, it is possible to prevent the specific image from being displayed again when the specific image has already been displayed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the display from flickering on the display means from appearing as if there is a problem with the display. That is, according to the present invention, it is possible to perform image display without a sense of discomfort.

Also, in order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention
a plurality of reels;
display means for displaying an image configured by superimposing a plurality of layers;
Effect control means for executing control related to display of images on the display means;
an information storage means for storing information capable of determining whether or not the drawing of the specific image based on the first control has been executed;
The production control means is
the first control for drawing the specific image on a predetermined layer after a predetermined period of time has passed since the last reel to be stopped among the plurality of reels is operated in a predetermined game;
a second control for drawing the specific image on a predetermined layer triggered by an operation related to the start of the game in the game subsequent to the predetermined game;
It is characterized in that it is possible to control whether or not to execute the second control based on the information.

According to such a configuration, when the specific image is drawn based on the first control in the predetermined game, in the next game of the predetermined game, the specified image is triggered by the operation related to the start of the game. Since the image can be prevented from being drawn, it is possible to prevent the specific image from being drawn again when the specific image has already been drawn. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the display from flickering on the display means from appearing as if there is a problem with the display. That is, according to the present invention, it is possible to perform image display without a sense of discomfort.

According to the present invention, it is possible to perform image display without a sense of discomfort.

1 is a perspective view showing an example of a game machine (slot machine) according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a functional block diagram of the same. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine) according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. Similarly, it is the figure which looked at the game board from the front side. It is a functional block diagram of the same. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display of the gaming machine of the present invention, showing a state where a mode selection image is displayed; In the same figure, (a) is a view showing the display of the mode selection image, (b) and (c) are views showing the display of the enlarged action image, and (d) is a view showing the display of the enlarged image in mode B. be. In the same figure, (a) is a diagram showing a display of a mode selection image, (b) and (c) are diagrams showing a display in which an effect is applied to an enlarged action image, and (d) is a diagram showing an enlarged image of mode B. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display; In the same figure, (a) is a diagram showing a display of a mode selection image, and (b) is a diagram showing a display in which an effect is applied to an enlarged action image. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the gaming machine. Similarly, it is a state transition diagram of a game state. Similarly, it is a state transition diagram of a game section and an effect state. It is a figure for demonstrating the layer structure in the display by a display means equally. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a normal stage image, a precursor stage image, a front side image, and a composite image thereof; Similarly, it is a diagram for explaining the display of the liquid crystal display when shifting from the normal effect state to the portent effect state. It is a figure which shows the timing which a background image changes equally. Similarly, it is a flow chart showing the control by the effect control means in the game in which the effect relating to the transition from the normal effect state to the precursor effect state is executed. Similarly, it is a flow chart showing control by the effect control means in the next game of the game in which the control shown in FIG. 18 is executed.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
(slot machine)
First, a slot machine, which is one of gaming machines, will be described. In the following explanation, "front and back" basically means that when the player is in front of the gaming machine, the player is "front" and the gaming machine is "back." The top side of the machine means "top" and the bottom side means "bottom", and "left and right" means "left" for the left hand side of the player playing the slot machine and "right" for the right hand side.

As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 100 includes a box-shaped housing 111 whose front side, which is a surface facing a player, is open, and a front door 112 that opens and closes the front side opening of the housing 111. ing. Inside the housing 111, a reel unit 130 in which a rotatable first reel 131, a second reel 132 and a third reel 133 are unitized, a hopper device for paying out medals, and the like are housed. The front door 112 is divided into an upper door 112a and a lower door 112b.

The upper door 112a is rotatably connected to the housing 111 via, for example, a hinge, and opens and closes the upper portion of the opening of the housing 111. As shown in FIG. Further, the lower door 112b is rotatably connected to the housing 111 via, for example, a hinge, and opens and closes the lower portion of the opening of the housing 111. As shown in FIG.

The upper door 112a is provided with a liquid crystal display 113, a display device such as a speaker 114, and a display window (see-through window) 115. As shown in FIG. The liquid crystal display 113 is provided substantially vertically. The liquid crystal display 113 displays images (moving images and still images) for various effects. The speaker 114 outputs various effects sounds (music, sound effects, voices, etc.). Further, the front door 112 is provided with a plurality of lighting devices 116 for performing notification, effects, and the like. In addition to the liquid crystal display 113, the speaker 114, the illumination device 116, and the like, a movable accessory or the like that can be operated by an actuator or the like may be provided as a device for presentation (drawing device).

A replacement unit is detachably provided in the housing 111 . This exchange unit includes a frame, which is a metal frame assembled in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, a reel unit 130 supported by the frame, and a board unit fixed to the frame. The reel unit 130 includes three stepping motors provided on the frame and three reels 131, 132, 133 fixed to the output shafts of the respective stepping motors. A substrate unit is a substrate having electronic components such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and I/O, housed in a substrate case. This board unit functions as a game control device for controlling the game of the slot machine 100 .

The display window 115 provided in the lower portion of the upper door 112a is provided so as to be inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so as to face rearward toward the upper side. Behind the display window 115, three reels (first reel 131, second reel 132 and third reel 133) are arranged in a row. Although illustration is omitted, on the outer peripheral surface of each reel, a plurality of types of symbols are arranged in a row along the circumferential direction. consecutive patterns are displayed.

The display window 115 is provided with upper, middle and lower display positions for visually recognizing the symbols on the reels 131, 132 and 133. A combination of the display positions of the reels 131, 132 and 133 determines the effective line. is set. In addition, in the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment, a total of 5 active lines, ie, 3 horizontal lines and 2 diagonal lines, are set. Also, the number of medals required for one game (specified number) is set to 3, and when the specified number of medals is inserted, the activated line is activated. When the three reels 131 to 133 are stopped, it is determined whether or not a winning combination has been won by a combination of symbols stopped on the active line.

In the slot machine 100, the reels 131, 132, and 133 start rotating at the start of the game, and a winning combination lottery is executed to determine winning or losing (not winning) any of the winning combinations. Next, when the reels 131, 132, 133 are stopped and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is displayed on the active line, this winning combination wins and corresponds to the winning combination. A process (winning process) is executed.

An operation unit 150 for operating the slot machine 100 is provided above the lower door 112b. At the bottom of the lower door 112b, a medal payout port 125 for paying out medals from the inside (hopper device) of the slot machine 100 and medals for storing the medals discharged (paid out) from the medal payout port 125 are provided. A saucer 126 and the like are provided. In this embodiment, a liquid crystal display is provided between the operation section 150 and the medal receiving tray 126 . Hereinafter, the liquid crystal display 113 may include this liquid crystal display between the operation section 150 and the medal receiving tray 126 .

The operation unit 150 includes a medal slot 121 for inserting medals, a MAX bet button (bet button) 122 for betting credited (stored) medals, and a start lever 123 operated when starting a game. , three stop buttons 124, etc. for stopping the reels 131, 132, 133 rotating. A medal sensor for detecting passage of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 121 is provided at the back of the medal insertion slot 121 . Further, a reject button may be provided to eliminate jamming of medals occurring in the medal passage below the medal slot 121 . In addition, in addition to the MAX bet button 122 operated when betting the maximum number of medals (three), even if a 1 bet button (bet button) operated when betting one medal is provided. good.

Further, the operation unit 150 may be provided with an effect setting operation unit (cross button) for selecting a game effect, etc., a display unit (first main display, second main display), and the like. . Note that the effect setting operation unit includes a cross key for selecting effects, etc., an enter button, a cancel button, and the like.

Also, the operation unit 150 is provided with a production button 128 . The production button 128 is formed so that it can be pressed by the player, and when it is pressed, for example, the mode of the production image displayed on the liquid crystal display 113 changes, or the movable accessory moves, thereby performing the production. Aspects change. The effect button 128 is used to notify the player of something pleasing to the player, such as winning a bonus or deciding to move to a state advantageous to the player, or to indicate a game for the player. At a predetermined timing such as a place, the pressing operation becomes valid. By providing the performance button 128, the player's awareness of participation in the game is heightened, and the amusement of the game is improved. Note that the production button 128 may be arranged at a position where the player can press it.

The operation unit 150 is also provided with a checkout button 152 for executing checkout processing for paying out medals. In the settlement process based on the operation of the settlement button 152, medals set for at least one of bet and credit are paid out. The objects of settlement based on the operation of the settlement button 152 in the present embodiment include not only the medals set for credit but also the medals set for bet. Here, there are, for example, two patterns as settlement patterns by operating the settlement button 152 when medals are set for both bets and credits. The first is a checkout pattern in which both the medals set to the bet and the medals set to the credit are paid out collectively by one operation of the checkout button 152 . Second, only the medals set in the bet are paid out by the first operation of the settlement button 152, and set to credit by the second operation of the settlement button 152 after the medals set in the bet are settled. This is a settlement pattern in which the medals that have been paid out are paid out.

In the slot machine 100, operation of the start lever 123 is validated when medals are inserted into the medal slot 121 or when the MAX bet button 122 is operated (depressed) to bet (insert) a specified number of medals. be. That is, it becomes a state in which it is possible to start a game. Then, when the activated start lever 123 is operated, the game is started. When the game is started, the reels 131, 132, 133 start rotating, and when the rotation speed of each reel 131, 132, 133 reaches a constant speed (predetermined speed) and becomes steady rotation, the stop button 124 is pressed. Operation is enabled. When the activated stop button 124 is operated, the reels 131, 132, 133 corresponding to the operated stop button 124 are stopped. When all the rotating reels stop, depending on the result of the game, a process of paying out medals, a process of making it possible to start the game again without consuming new medals, etc. are performed, and one game is completed. finish.

Inside the slot machine 100, there are a main control device (main control board) 200 that determines a command related to a game and transmits the command; is provided with a sub-controller (sub-control board) 300 for executing
The main controller 200 receives signals from input means such as a bet button 122 including a MAX bet button, a start lever 123, a stop button 124, a passage detection sensor for detecting the passage of medals inserted from the medal slot 121, and a checkout button 152. Upon receiving the input signal, various calculations are performed for executing the game, and output means such as the reel units (reels 131, 132, 133) and the hopper device are controlled based on the calculation results.

The sub control device 300 receives a signal (command) sent from the main control device 200, performs various calculations for executing effects, and based on the calculation results, effects such as the liquid crystal display 113 and the speaker 114. Control the device.

The main control device 200 and the sub control device 300 are electrically connected, and various information (command signals) such as information indicating the game state can be transmitted from the main control device 200 to the sub control device 300. However, information cannot be sent from the sub-controller 300 to the main controller 200 . The functions of each substrate such as the main controller 200 and the sub-controller 300 are stored in advance in hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, information storage media such as ROMs and RAMs, and ROMs. It is realized by software consisting of a stored predetermined program.

As shown in FIG. 2, the main controller 200 includes game control means 201, main memory means 202, and the like. The game control means 201 controls the progress of the game. When a medal is inserted and the start lever 123 is operated, the game control means 201 determines whether or not the winning combination is a winning combination lottery, rotates the reels 131, 132, and 133, and performs a stop operation on the stop button 124. Then, the rotating reels are stopped according to the result of the winning combination lottery, it is determined whether or not the combination has been won based on the symbol combination displayed on the activated line, and processing is performed according to the determination result. By doing so, a main loop process for progressing the game is performed. The main storage means 202 stores a winning combination lottery table, winning flag setting information, the number of medal credits, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 2, the sub-control device (control means) 300 includes effect control means 301 and sub-storage means (storage means) 302 and the like. Effect control means 301 mainly controls each effect during a game or during standby. The effect control means 301 controls the display effect via the liquid crystal display 113 , the sound effect via the speaker 114 , and the light emission effect via the lighting device 116 . For example, the effect control means 301 changes the display contents of the liquid crystal display 113 according to the game state, etc., outputs sound from the speaker 114, turns on/off the lighting device 116, and makes the game lively. A production is executed to assist the game. Specifically, according to the insertion of medals, the operation of the bet button 122, the checkout button 152, the start lever 123, and the stop button 124, changes in the game state, etc., the contents displayed on the liquid crystal display 113 are changed, and the speaker is operated. 114 to output sound. The sub-storage means 302 stores performance data (image data, sound data, etc.) associated with the received command.

(Pachinko machine)
Next, a pachinko game machine, which is one of the game machines, will be described.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment. The pachinko gaming machine 1 performs a game using game balls (game media) rented from a gaming hall. A game board 6 which is provided to form a game area 4 in which game balls move, a glass unit 8 which makes the game board 6 visible to a player but cannot be touched, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. It has

A portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light. A plurality of front frame lamps 12 for outputting are provided. Speakers 14 are provided on the left and right of the upper part of the front frame 10 and on the left and right of the lower part of the front frame 10 for outputting production sounds for exciting the game.

An upper plate 16 for storing game balls is provided at the lower center of the front frame 10, and the game balls are paid out from the pachinko game machine 1 to the player on the left side of the inner side surface of the upper plate 16. A payout port 18 is provided for the purpose. A grip unit 20 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when the player performs an operation to rotate the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the pachinko game machine 1, the grip unit 20 is provided inside the pachinko game machine 1. A shooting device (not shown) is activated to shoot game balls into the game area 4 . The shooting device of this embodiment can shoot 99 game balls per minute (1.65 game balls per second).

A supply port 22 for supplying game balls from the upper plate 16 to the shooting device is provided on the right side of the inner side surface of the upper plate 16 . A lower tray 24 is provided below the upper tray 16 for storing surplus game balls when the upper tray 16 cannot store all the game balls.

A performance operation device 26 is provided on the near side of the edge of the upper tray 16, and when the player operates the performance operation device 26, the performance performed in the pachinko game machine 1 changes. Specifically, the effect operating device 26 incorporates a push button switch and a rotary switch (jog dial), and can detect an operation of pressing the effect operating device 26 and an operation of rotating the effect operating device 26. It's becoming

FIG. 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the game board 6 is provided with a circular outer rail 28, and an area surrounded by the outer rail 28 serves as a game area 4 in which game balls move. In addition, at the left end of the game area 4, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28. The outer rail 28 and the inner rail 30 are provided below the game board 6 (not shown). A game ball shot from a shooting device is guided to a game area 4. - 特許庁

In the central part of the game board 6, a liquid crystal display 32 for displaying a performance image or the like for livening up the game, and a performance unit 36 having a display frame 34 formed so as to surround the liquid crystal display 32 are provided.

In this embodiment, the game ball cannot pass through the front side of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball shot from the shooting device can pass through either the left side game area 4 or the right side game area 4 of the liquid crystal display 32. It is designed to fall. In the game area 4, a large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed so as to intersect the surface of the game board 6, so that the moving direction of the game balls moving in the game area 4 changes at random. .

In the left part of the display frame 34, an opening 40 is formed through which game balls falling in the game area 4 on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass. The liquid crystal display 32 passes through the passage 42 and falls onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32 . The upper surface of the stage 44 is a smoothly curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 to allow game balls to fall downward from the stage 44, and drop onto the stage 44 from the passage 42. After the game ball hits the stage 44 and reciprocates left and right, it falls downward from the vicinity of the central portion of the stage 44. - 特許庁

A first starting prize opening 46 is provided below the central portion of the stage 44 . A passage gate 48 is provided in the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32 . In addition, a second start winning opening 50 is provided below the passage gate 48 . This second start winning port 50 has a reduced state (state without assisting entry/non-assisted state) in which game balls are difficult to enter into the second start winning prize port 50 and an enlarged state (entry is assisted) in which game balls easily enter A normal accessory 52 is provided that includes an auxiliary member that can operate between (state and auxiliary state).

In the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a large winning opening 54 is provided below the second starting winning opening 50. - 特許庁A special accessory 56 having a movable member that closes the big winning opening 54 is provided in the big winning opening 54 . The special accessory 56 is configured to be operable between a closed state in which game balls cannot enter the big winning opening 54 and an open state in which game balls can enter the big winning opening 54 (see FIG. 4). closed). The special accessory 56 is controlled to be open under a predetermined condition in a special game state which is started when a jackpot is won.

Below the big prize opening 54, a big prize passage 58 is provided downward. A normal entrance 62 is provided at the lower end of the big winning passage 58 . Further, a specific path 65 is provided below the big winning path 58 so as to branch downward from the middle of the big winning path 58 . This specific path 65 is provided with a specific accessory 66 having a movable member that closes the specific path 65 . The specific accessory 66 is operable between a closed state in which game balls cannot enter the specific path 65 and an open state in which game balls can enter the specific path 65 (FIG. 4 shows a closed state ). The specific accessory 66 is controlled to be in an open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state. A specific entrance 68 is provided at the lower end of the specific passage 65 . In addition, at the bottom of the game area 4, an out port 69 is provided for collecting game balls that have fallen in the game area 4 without entering any of the winning openings into the inside of the game machine.

The game ball shooting device is constructed so that the game ball shooting force can be changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 shown in FIG. Game balls are shot so as to fall in the game area 4 on the left side of the display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game balls fall in the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A game ball is launched.

The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the game situation, and the game ball falls through the left game area 4, or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42 and the stage 44, and enters the first starting winning opening. 46, the game ball is shot (left-handed), the game ball falls through the game area 4 on the right side, and the game ball passes through the passage gate 48, or into the second start winning opening 50. A game ball is shot so as to enter the game ball or to enter the big winning hole 54 (right-handed hitting).

At the lower right portion of the game board 6 and outside the game area 4, there is provided a state display section 70 that indicates various states of the game machine by lighting and extinguishing lamps and the like.
The pachinko game machine 1 is controlled by a control board including a main control device (main control board) 200 and a sub control device (sub control board) 300 shown in FIG. The functions of each substrate such as the main controller 200 and the sub-controller 300 are implemented by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of information storage medium), or RAM. It is realized by software consisting of a given program pre-stored in a ROM or the like. Between the main control device 200 and the sub control device 300, only one-way communication from the main control device 200 to the sub control device 300 is possible, and information is transmitted from the sub control device 300 to the main control device 200. Communication is connected in such a way that it is not possible to do so.

As shown in FIG. 5, the main controller 200 includes game control means 201, main memory means 202, and the like. The main controller 200 receives input signals from input means (first starting winning gate sensor, passing gate sensor, second starting winning gate sensor, big winning gate sensor, normal entrance sensor, specific passage sensor, payout sensor, etc.). In response, various calculations for executing the game are performed, and based on the calculation results, output means (status display drive device, normal accessory drive device, special accessory drive device, specific accessory drive device, payout device, etc. ).

The sub control device (control means) 300 includes effect control means 301 and sub storage means (storage means) 302 and the like. The sub control device 300 receives a command transmitted from the main control device 200 and an input signal from an effect operation sensor that detects an operation to the effect operation device 26, and executes an effect according to the progress of the game. Various calculations are performed, and based on the calculation results, operation control of production devices (production display device, sound device, production drive device, etc.) is performed.

The production control means 301 turns on or blinks the front frame lamp 12 (illumination device), displays the production image on the liquid crystal display 32, outputs the production sound from the speaker 14, and controls the production (movable accessory). By controlling the performance device such as by operating the performance device, the performance device is made to perform performance for livening up the game or assisting the game.

(Production control)
Next, control of effects (display effects) by the sub-controller 300 of the above-described slot machine 100 and pachinko game machine 1 will be described. The effect control means 301 is based on the command (signal) transmitted from the main control device 200, the signal output based on the operation of the effect button 128 (FIG. 1) or the effect operation device 26 (FIG. 3), etc. The performance data stored in the storage means (sub-ROM) 302 is read into the RAM, arithmetic processing is performed, and execution of the performance is controlled.

The effect control means 301 performs control to display an image during standby and an image according to the progress of the game on the display means for displaying the image, that is, the liquid crystal display 113 (FIG. 1) or the liquid crystal display 32 (FIG. 4). Note that the liquid crystal substrate of the liquid crystal display 113 or the liquid crystal display 32 may include part or all of the effect control means 301 .

The sub-storage means 302 stores background image data, character image data, text image data (for example, the text "BONUS finalized"), graphic image data (for example, a heart shape), notification image data for the player (for example, the operation of the effect button 128). image data such as operation instructions) are stored. These image data include moving image data (animation data) (movie data) in addition to still image data. The effect control means 301 reads predetermined image data from the sub-storage means 302 based on a command (for example, a command indicating bonus winning) transmitted from the main control device 200, and displays a predetermined image on the display means.

Here, an example of display control by the effect control means 301 will be described. For example, the effect control means 301 reads out a plurality of image data from the sub-storage means 302 and alternately (in order) displays the images on the display means, thereby realizing image swing. In addition, the effect control means 301 reads the same image data with different degrees of transparency from the sub-storage means 302 and displays them in order from the image with the lowest transparency to the one with the highest transparency, thereby realizing fade-out. In addition, when the background image, the character image, and the notification image for the player are displayed simultaneously, the effect control means 301 may, for example, display the character image in front of the background image if there is an area where they overlap. It is controlled so that the notification image for the player can be seen in front of the character image.

One of the effects (display effects) executed by the effect control means 301 is a mode selection effect. In the mode selection effect, a mode selection image is displayed on the liquid crystal display. The mode selection image is an image displayed when the player selects a desired mode from among a plurality of modes with different effects, for example, during a game in a specific game state.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a mode selection image. Images corresponding to modes A to D (mode A images to mode D images) are displayed in respective areas obtained by equally dividing one screen of a rectangular liquid crystal display into four. In some mode selection effects, when a specific mode is selected, a display of an image corresponding to the specific mode is enlarged (enlargement effect).

When the mode selection image shown in FIG. 6 is displayed, the player operates, for example, the effect button 128 (FIG. 1) or the effect operation device 26 (FIG. 3) to select one of modes A to D. You can choose one mode. Assume that the player selects mode B here. When mode B is selected, the enlargement effect is started, the display of the mode B image (1/4 size of one screen) is enlarged, and the display of the mode B image is reduced to a predetermined size (full screen size in this embodiment). , that is, the size that occupies the entire screen of the liquid crystal display), the expansion stops.

For this enlargement effect, when using a series of moving images in which the display of a 1/4 size image of one screen gradually increases until the image of the full screen size is displayed, each mode (mode A to mode D) Each corresponding moving image must be prepared (stored in the sub-storage means 302), which increases the amount of usage of the sub-storage means 302 (ROM). In other words, the storage capacity of the sub-storage means 302 is pressed (a burden is placed on the storage capacity). The total storage capacity of the ROM itself for storing images and moving images is limited. Storage areas are divided for still images and moving images, and each storage area has a limited storage capacity. Therefore, since the amount of moving images that can be stored in the ROM is limited, the free space of the ROM becomes insufficient. This causes a problem that the capacity that can be used for other effects is reduced. Also, if a ROM with a larger capacity is used, the cost increases.

In this embodiment, the enlargement effect is realized while avoiding the above problem. The sub-storage means 302 stores first image data (first image) (small size) and second image data larger in size than the first image data for image display (specific display) to be enlarged. (second image) and (large size) are stored respectively. In this embodiment, the first image data and the second image data are still image data (one image for one frame). The second image data is image data obtained by enlarging the first image data (the data is originally larger than the first image data).

In this embodiment, the first image data is 960 pixels×540 pixels (screen resolution), the second image data is 1920 pixels×1080 pixels (screen resolution), and the first image data is the second image data. The size is 1/4 of the image data. In this embodiment, the size of the first image data is 1/4 of the size of the second image data (full screen size) because it is used for the display of FIG. Depending on the display configuration of the effect screen and the size of the second image data, the size is not limited to 1/4 of the second image data. That is, if the first image data is smaller than the second image data, it can be set to an appropriate size such as 1/2 or 1/3 of the second image data. The size may be within 3. Although the first image data and the second image data are rectangular in this embodiment, they are not limited to being rectangular and may be circular or the like. image data, image data of a character image, or the like. Further, the first image data and the second image data are not limited to have the same outer shape. That is, the second image data may have a different appearance as long as the same display (the same content is displayed) as the first image data.

The effect control means 301 reads the first image data (small size) of modes A to D from the sub-storage means 302 based on a command instructing execution of the mode selection effect, and displays the mode selection image on the liquid crystal display. (See FIG. 7(a)). Specifically, in the present embodiment, the first image of mode A is displayed on the upper left, the first image of mode B is displayed on the upper right, the first image of mode C is displayed on the lower left, and the first image of mode D is displayed on the lower left. The first image is displayed at the bottom right. The effect control means 301 displays the first image before the enlargement action on the liquid crystal display in its original size (original data).

Now suppose that mode B is selected. Effect control means 301 gradually (stepwise) expands the first image data in mode B (specific display) (that is, generates an enlarged action image) based on a command instructing execution of mode B expansion effect. ), and images obtained by enlarging the first image data are sequentially displayed on the liquid crystal display (see FIGS. 7B and 7C). An enlarged action image is an image obtained by enlarging the first image data by image processing. An example of this enlarged action image is an image that is intermediate in size between the first image and the second image. In this embodiment, two enlarged action images are generated and displayed, but at least one enlarged action image may be generated and displayed. Note that in FIGS. 7B and 7C, the mode selection image is displayed on the layer behind the layer on which the enlarged action image is displayed. A landscape image or the like may be displayed on the layer of .

Next, the effect control means 301 reads out the second image data (large size) of mode B from the sub-storage means 302 after displaying the enlarged action image (the last enlarged action image if there are more than one), and displays the second image data. is displayed on the liquid crystal display (see FIG. 7(d)). In other words, the effect control means 301 replaces the display of the enlarged action image with the display of the second image data. The effect control means 301 displays the second image after the enlargement action on the liquid crystal display in its original size (original data).
Although FIG. 7 shows the case where the mode B is selected and the enlargement effect is executed, the same enlargement effect is executed when another mode is selected.

In this embodiment, in FIG. 7(d), the second image is the full screen size (the size that occupies the entire screen of the liquid crystal display). may be smaller. (That is, the mode selection image, landscape image, etc. displayed on the layer behind the layer on which the second image is displayed may be visible.)
Here, let the enlarged action image of FIG. 7B be an enlarged action image α, and let the enlarged action image of FIG. 7C be an enlarged action image β. Assuming that the layer on which the enlarged action image α is displayed is layer n, the enlarged action image β is displayed on layer n+1 which is in front of layer n. When shifting from FIG. 7B to FIG. 7C, the enlarged action image α on layer n may be hidden and then the enlarged action image β may be displayed on layer n+1, and the enlarged action image α on layer n may be displayed. is displayed, the enlarged action image β may be displayed on the layer n+1. In addition, although description is omitted for duplication, it is the same when shifting from FIG.7(c) to FIG.7(d).

According to the present embodiment, in the effect of enlarging a specific display, after displaying the first image (small size), the effect control means 301 displays an image obtained by enlarging the first image data as the enlargement action image. However, after the enlarged action image is displayed, the second image (large size: originally prepared image) is displayed, so it is possible to prevent the capacity of the sub-storage means 302 from being compressed. . In other words, the amount of usage of the sub-storage means 302 can be reduced. Specifically, since it is sufficient to prepare the first image data and the second image data, which are still image data, an enlargement effect (reduced state is displayed, then an enlargement action is displayed, and then the enlarged state is displayed). display) is realized by a series of animations, it is not necessary to prepare (store) a movie (animation) of the enlargement action portion, so the amount of usage of the sub-storage means (ROM) 302 can be reduced. Thereby, the free space of the sub-storage means 302 can be increased. That is, it is possible to increase the capacity of the ROM that can be used for other effects. In addition, since it can be realized without using a larger-capacity ROM, it is possible to avoid an increase in cost.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment will be described. Although the first image data and the second image data are still image data in the first embodiment, the first image data and the second image data are moving image data in the present embodiment. The first image data (moving image data) and the second image data (moving image data) are effect moving images with different numbers of pixels stored in the sub-storage means 302. In the present embodiment, the first image data is 960 pixels×540 pixels. , and the second image data is 1920 pixels×1080 pixels. A moving image is a picture (image) of the same content that is looped for a predetermined number of seconds (for example, 1 second) and reproduced. Note that the content of the moving image may not be the same content, and the content may change. Animations in which the content changes include animations in which a character is running.

The effect control means 301 reads the first image data of modes A to D from the sub-storage means 302 based on a command for instructing the execution of the mode selection effect, and displays the respective first images (moving images) on the liquid crystal display in its original size. display on the display. Now suppose that mode B is selected. Effect control means 301 gradually (stepwise) enlarges one frame in the first image (moving image) of Mode B (that is, enlarges an enlarged action image) based on a command for instructing execution of an enlarged effect of Mode B. generated), and the enlarged action images are sequentially displayed on the liquid crystal display. A moving image is composed of a plurality of images, and an enlarged action image, that is, an image obtained by enlarging the first image, is an enlarged image of one frame in the moving image (first image).

Effect control means 301 reads the second image data of mode B from sub-storage means 302 after displaying the enlarged action image (the last enlarged action image if there are more than one), and reproduces the second image (moving image) in full size. displayed on the liquid crystal display. At this time, switching between the enlarged action image (one frame of the first image (moving image) is enlarged by image processing) and the second image is performed so that the moving image continues from the same scene.

In this embodiment, both the first image data and the second image data are moving image data. good. In this way, when one of the first image data and the second image data is moving image data and the other is still image data, or when both the first image data and the second image data are moving image data, Even if there is, compared to the case of realizing the enlargement effect (displaying the reduced state, then displaying the enlarged action, and then displaying the enlarged state) with a series of videos, the movie of the enlarged action part ( Since there is no need to prepare (store) a moving image, the amount of use of the sub-storage means (ROM) 302 can be reduced. Thereby, the free space of the sub-storage means 302 can be increased. That is, it is possible to increase the capacity of the ROM that can be used for other effects. In addition, since it can be realized without using a larger-capacity ROM, it is possible to avoid an increase in cost.

(Third Embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the first and second embodiments, first, the first image is displayed, then an enlarged image (enlarged action image) of the first image is displayed, and then the second image is displayed. Met. In the present embodiment, the first image is first displayed, then an image obtained by reducing the second image (enlarged action image) is displayed, and then the second image is displayed to realize the enlargement effect.

The effect control means 301 reads the first image data of modes A to D from the sub-storage means 302 based on a command for instructing the execution of the mode selection effect, and displays the respective first images (moving images) on the liquid crystal display in its original size. display on the display. Now suppose that mode B is selected. The effect control means 301 reads out the second image data of Mode B (large size) from the sub-storage means 302 based on a command instructing execution of the enlargement effect of Mode B, and reduces the second image data of Mode B. , the second image data of mode B are enlarged (stepwise) in order from the most reduced one, and these are sequentially displayed as enlarged action images. Note that the size of the most reduced second image data in mode B is larger than the size of the first image data. An example of this enlarged action image is an intermediate size image between the first image and the second image. Note that at least one enlarged action image may be generated and displayed. Next, the effect control means 301 reads out the second image data of the mode B from the sub-storage means 302 after displaying the enlarged action image (the last enlarged action image if there are more than one), and reproduces the second image in full size. displayed on the liquid crystal display.

According to the present embodiment, the effect control means 301 displays the first image in the effect of enlarging the specific display, and then displays the image obtained by reducing the second image data as the enlargement action image. Since the second image is displayed after the image is displayed, it is possible to prevent the capacity of the sub-storage means 302 from being squeezed (loaded on the capacity). In other words, the amount of usage of the sub-storage means 302 can be reduced. Specifically, since it is sufficient to prepare the first image data and the second image data, an enlargement effect (displaying the reduced state, then displaying the enlargement action, and then displaying the enlarged state) is performed. Compared to the case where a series of moving images is used, it is not necessary to prepare (store) a movie (moving image) of the enlargement action part, so the amount of usage of the sub-storage means (ROM) 302 can be reduced. Thereby, the free space of the sub-storage means 302 can be increased. That is, it is possible to increase the capacity of the ROM that can be used for other effects. In addition, since it can be realized without using a larger-capacity ROM, it is possible to avoid an increase in cost. This effect can be obtained even when the first image data and the second image data are still images, and when at least one of the first image data and the second image data is a moving image. When the second image data is a moving image, the enlarged action image, that is, the image obtained by reducing the second image is a reduced image of one frame in the moving image (second image).

(Fourth embodiment)
In the first and second embodiments, when an enlarged action image is an image obtained by enlarging the first image data (having a pixel number of 1/4 the size of the second image data), depending on the image, When the image is enlarged, the roughness becomes conspicuous, and so-called jaggies are visible, which may deteriorate the aesthetic appearance or reduce the visibility of the enlarged action image. Also, the resolution of the image behind the enlarged action image (the image displayed in the layer behind the enlarged action image) matches the display range of that image on the display screen, but the resolution of the enlarged action image and its If the display range of the enlarged action image on the display screen does not match, the visibility of the enlarged action image may deteriorate. Such a decrease in visibility of the enlarged action image may lead to a decrease in interest in the game.
In this embodiment, an effect is applied to the enlarged action image while the enlarged action is being executed (while the enlarged action image is being displayed).

Effect data used for the effect is stored (stored) in the sub-storage means 302 . Effect data is movie data (moving image effects) or the like, and is data that is generally used for effects other than enlargement effects. Note that the effect data may be prepared exclusively for an enlargement effect (or a reduction effect, which will be described later). Using this effect data, it is possible to perform screen display in which an effect is applied to the production image. Effect data includes moving effects (for example, flames swaying). It should be noted that an effect (such as a frame) that does not move may be used. Effect data with movement includes flickering flashes, smoke-like data, and the like. By displaying the magnified action image with a moving effect, it is possible to prevent the roughness of the magnified action image from becoming conspicuous. Note that the effect data may be still image data. If the effect data is still image data, the amount of ROM used can be reduced compared to movie data (moving images).

An example of the effect (effect example 1) will be described. FIG. 8 shows an effect having a size that covers the entire surface of the enlarged action image (an effect that does not have transparency) is displayed on a layer on the front side (front side) of the layer on which the enlarged action image is displayed. In FIG. 8, a smoke effect is used as the enlarged action image. When mode B is selected while the mode selection image shown in FIG. An enlarged action image is generated by enlarging the image data, and predetermined effect data (in this example, smoke effect data) is read out from the sub-storage means 302 . Then, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, the effect control means 301 applies an effect (smoke effect) to the enlarged action image and displays it.

Next, the effect control means 301 displays the enlarged action image to which the effect is applied, and then reads out the second image data (large size) of Mode B from the sub-storage means 302 and displays the second image (Fig. 8(d)). The effect control means 301 displays the second image on the layer on the front side of the layer on which the effect is displayed. When displaying the second image, the image displayed on the layer behind it may remain displayed or may be hidden. Note that the effect may be applied to all of the first image, the enlarged action image, and the second image, or if applied to at least the enlarged action image, it is applied to some of them. can be anything.

After displaying the first image, the effect control means 301 applies an effect to the enlarged action image for display, and then displays the second image. Therefore, even if the image obtained by enlarging (enlarging) the first image data as the enlarged action image has roughness, the roughness is not conspicuous by applying the effect. That is, it is possible to make the roughness of the enlarged action image inconspicuous during the display of the action for enlarging the image. For this reason, the roughness of the magnified action image is not visually recognized by the player, and it is possible to realize a video expression that does not give a sense of incongruity when performing an effect such that a specific image is magnified and displayed. can. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game.

(Effect example 2)
Although the example 1 of the effect shown in FIG. 8 does not have transparency, the effect may have transparency. That is, it may be an effect (blurring) of a translucent image. At this time, the transparency of the effect is set so that the roughness of the enlarged action image is not noticeable. The point is that the effect is not limited to completely blocking the enlarged action image, as long as the roughness of the enlarged action image is less noticeable when viewed by the player (roughness is reduced). good.

(Effect example 3)
The effect (design of the effect) is not limited to covering the entire enlarged action image, but may partially cover the enlarged action image as long as it makes the roughness of the enlarged action image inconspicuous. Depending on the image, there are some images where the roughness is noticeable only in the peripheral part when enlarged. You can apply it to the outline) part). As an effect, a thick frame or pattern (flame, grass shape, etc.) covering the peripheral portion of the enlarged action image can be used. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the rough part of the enlarged action image from being covered (blocked) by the effect and making the roughness of the enlarged action image stand out. An effect that partially covers the enlarged action image uses less ROM than an effect that covers the entire enlarged action image. In this example, the effect that partially covers the magnified action image may have transparency to the extent that the roughness of the magnified action image is not noticeable.

(Effect example 4)
If the boundary between the enlarged action image and the image displayed behind it is conspicuous, the effect may be such that the peripheral edge of the enlarged action image is surrounded. That is, as an effect, a thick frame adjacent to the outer portion of the outer peripheral edge of the enlarged action image may be used.

In this embodiment, the layer on which the effect is displayed is different from the layer on which the enlarged action image is displayed, and the former layer is closer to the viewer than the latter layer. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the layer on which the effect is displayed may be a layer behind (behind) the layer on which the enlarged action image is displayed. By displaying the effect on the back side of the enlarged action image, it is possible to make the roughness of the enlarged action image inconspicuous due to effects such as directing attention (line of sight) to the effect.

Also, the effect may be displayed on both the layer in front of the enlarged action image and the layer behind the enlarged action image. At this time, the same effect (display) may be applied to the front layer and the rear layer, but different effects (display) should be applied to the front and rear layers so that at least some of the areas where the effects are applied do not overlap. In this case, the roughness of the enlarged action image may be made less conspicuous.

Also, in the present embodiment, the layer in which the effect is displayed and the layer in which the enlarged action image is displayed are separate, but they may be displayed in the same layer. That is, applying an effect to the enlarged action image may include adding or multiplying the effect data to the enlarged action image. Multiplying the enlarged action image and the effect data means combining the color of the layer on which the enlarged action image is displayed and the color of the layer on which the effect is displayed. Adding the enlarged action image and the effect data means adding the color of the layer on which the enlarged action image is displayed and the color of the layer on which the effect is displayed. When the enlarged action image and the effect data are multiplied, added, etc., one image data is generated and the image data is displayed on one layer.

As for the effect, if the roughness of the enlarged action image and the roughness of the effect are not conspicuous, the resolution of the effect and the display range of the effect on the display screen may not match. Specifically, in the case of dedicated effect data for making the roughness of the enlarged action image inconspicuous, the resolution may be lower than the display range. Also, when the effect data is shared with effect data used in other places, data with a lower resolution (or higher resolution) than the display range may be used. By doing so, it is not necessary to prepare effect data corresponding to each predetermined display range, and the amount of usage of the secondary storage means (ROM) 302 can be further reduced.

From the point of view of making the roughness of the enlarged action image inconspicuous, it is desirable to use a resolution that matches the display range for the effect portion. However, even if the resolution of the effect portion is configured to match the display range, the resolution and the display range of the enlarged action image (enlarged image of the first image or reduced image of the second image) are all As compared with the case of preparing a moving image or a still image in which .

The process of applying an effect to the enlarged action image as in this embodiment can also be applied to the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, when an image obtained by reducing the second image data (having the number of pixels of the full screen size) is used as an enlarged action image, depending on the image, information is lost due to the reduction in the number of pixels (information is crushed), and the visibility of the enlarged action image is reduced (the appearance is not good).

Even if the image obtained by reducing the second image data as the enlarged action image has distortion, the distortion is not conspicuous by applying an effect. That is, it is possible to make the blurring of the image inconspicuous during the display of the action of enlarging the image. Therefore, the player does not visually recognize the deformation of the enlarged action image, and it is possible to realize a video expression that does not give a sense of incongruity when performing an effect such that a specific image is enlarged and displayed. . As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game. It should be noted that although the effect is assumed to be enlarged at the same magnification according to the operation of enlarging the reduced images of the first image and the second image, if the roughness is not conspicuous, the size of the effect should not change. It may be. In addition, if the effect is a frame such as a square frame that is composed of vertical straight lines and horizontal straight lines on the screen, even if the effect is enlarged (reduced), the roughness is not conspicuous.

In addition, in the case of specifications that do not apply effects to enlarged action images, it is necessary to check during development whether the image is enlarged or reduced to see if the roughness or collapse is conspicuous. , when configured to apply an effect, such checking can be omitted. As a result, development efficiency can be improved.

A supplementary explanation will be given for example 3 of the above effect (the effect of partially covering the enlarged action image). Here, thick frame effect data will be described with reference to FIG. The thick frame effect data is movie data in which the thick frame is gradually enlarged.
FIG. 9(a) shows a state in which the mode selection image is displayed. FIG. 9(b) shows a state in which mode A is selected in the state shown in FIG. 9(a) and an enlarged image of the first image in mode A with a thick border effect is displayed. The thick-frame effect data used for this thick-frame effect need not be prepared for all modes A to D. FIG. In other words, it is not necessary to store the thick frame effect data corresponding to modes A to D in the sub-storage means 302 . That is, if mode B is selected, the X coordinate of the thick frame effect data of mode A shown in FIG. Also, if mode C is selected, the Y coordinate of the thick frame effect data of mode A shown in FIG. 9B may be inverted to display. Also, if mode D is selected, the X coordinate and the Y coordinate of the thick frame effect data of mode A shown in FIG. 9B may be inverted and displayed. In this way, one effect data can be used for a plurality of modes, thereby further reducing the amount of ROM used and increasing the free space.

(Fifth embodiment)
In the fourth embodiment, the effect control means 301 displays the first image, then displays the enlarged action image with an effect, and then displays the second image. When applying an effect to the enlarged action image and displaying it, the enlarged action image and the effect are not limited to being displayed at the same time. In the present embodiment, when displaying an enlarged action image with an effect, the enlarged action image and the effect are displayed at different timings.

First, the effect control means 301 displays the first image. Next, the effect control means 301 displays the enlarged action image on the layer in front of the layer on which the first image is displayed for time t1. This time t1 is set to such a length that the player cannot visually recognize the roughness (collapse) of the enlarged action image. Next, the effect control means 301 displays an effect (for example, a flame effect) having a size covering the enlarged action image on a layer in front of the layer on which the enlarged action image is displayed. Next, the effect control means 301 displays the second image on the layer in front of the layer on which the effect is displayed.

As another example, the effect control means 301 first displays the first image. Next, effect control means 301 hides the first image and displays the enlarged action image for time t1. Next, the effect control means 301 hides the enlarged action image, and the transparency having the size of the display range Y (larger than the display range X) including the display range X in which the enlarged action image was displayed. Show low effects (like smoke, for example). Next, the effect control means 301 hides the effect and displays the second image.

In this way, the enlarged action image is shown to the player for a period of time during which the roughness of the image cannot be visually recognized, and the effect is applied to the enlarged action image after that, so that the player can enlarge the selected image. Makes it easier to understand. This improves the interest in the game. By shortening the display time of the enlarged action image, the coarseness of the enlarged action image can be made less conspicuous.

(Sixth embodiment)
In the first to third embodiments, in the enlargement effect, after displaying the first image, an enlargement action image (an enlarged image of the first image or a reduced image of the second image) is displayed and enlarged. After displaying the action image, the second image is shown. Both the first image and the second image do not necessarily have to be stored in the sub-storage means 302 in order to realize this enlargement effect. In this embodiment, the enlargement effect is realized while either the first image or the second image is stored in the sub-storage means 302 .

When only the second image is stored in the sub-storage means 302, the effect control means 301 maximizes the second image to a predetermined display size based on the command instructing execution of the enlargement effect of the second image. A reduced image and images whose size is gradually increased from the most reduced image are generated as enlarged action images, and displayed in order from the smallest size. At least one enlarged action image may be generated and displayed. Then, after displaying the last enlarged action image, the second image is displayed in full size.

When only the first image is stored in the sub-storage means 302, the effect control means 301 displays the first image in its original size based on the command instructing execution of the enlargement effect of the first image, and then , images obtained by enlarging the first image in a stepwise manner are generated as enlarged action images and displayed in order. At least one enlarged action image may be generated and displayed.

By realizing the enlargement effect using either the first image or the second image stored in the sub-storage means 302 in this way, the amount of usage of the sub-storage means (ROM) 302 can be further reduced, You can increase the free space. This makes it possible to increase the capacity of the ROM that can be used for other effects.

(Seventh embodiment)
In each of the first to sixth embodiments, the case of effecting enlargement of image display has been shown. In the present embodiment, an effect of reducing image display is performed.
The effect control means 301 displays the corresponding second image in full size based on the command instructing execution of the reduction effect of the specific image. Next, the effect control means 301 generates images (referred to as reduced action images) in which the second image is gradually (stepwise) reduced, and displays them in order. It should be noted that the reduced action image is not limited to being generated in plurality, and it is sufficient if at least one reduced action image is generated. Next, the effect control means 301 displays the corresponding first image in full size after displaying the last reduced action image.

Alternatively, the following may be done. The effect control means 301 displays the corresponding second image in full size based on the command instructing execution of the reduction effect of the specific image. Next, the effect control means 301 enlarges the corresponding first image to a predetermined display size (smaller than the display size of the second image), and enlarges the image stepwise from the most enlarged image. are generated as reduction action images, and displayed in descending order of size. It should be noted that the reduced action image is not limited to being generated in plurality, and it is sufficient if at least one reduced action image is generated. Next, the effect control means 301 displays the first image in full size after displaying the last reduced action image.

With this configuration, it is sufficient to prepare the first image and the second image even in the case of the reduction effect, and a movie (moving image) of the reduction action part is prepared compared to the case where the reduction effect is realized by a series of moving images. The usage of the sub-storage means (ROM) 302 can be reduced to the extent that it is not necessary. Thereby, the free space of the sub-storage means 302 can be increased. This makes it possible to increase the capacity of the ROM that can be used for other effects. In addition, since it can be realized without using a larger-capacity ROM, it is possible to avoid an increase in cost.

In this embodiment, it is assumed that both the first image and the second image are prepared (that is, stored in the sub-storage means 302). , the first image or the second image is stored in the sub-storage means 302, the reduction effect may be realized.

When only the second image is stored in the sub-storage means 302, the effect control means 301 displays the second image in full size based on the command instructing execution of the reduction effect of the second image, and then , the images obtained by reducing the size of the second image step by step are generated as reduced action images and displayed in order. Note that at least one reduced action image may be generated and displayed.

When only the first image is stored in the sub-storage means 302, the effect control means 301 minimizes the first image to a predetermined display size based on the command instructing execution of the reduction effect of the first image. An enlarged image and images whose size is gradually reduced from the most enlarged image are generated as reduction action images, and displayed in descending order of size. Note that at least one reduced action image may be generated and displayed. After displaying the last reduced action image, the effect control means 301 displays the first image in its original size.

By realizing the reduction effect using either the first image or the second image stored in the sub-storage means 302 in this way, the amount of usage of the sub-storage means (ROM) 302 can be further reduced, You can increase the free space. This makes it possible to increase the capacity of the ROM that can be used for other effects.

Further, the effect processing described in the fourth and fifth embodiments can be applied to the reduced action image according to this embodiment. In that case, it is possible to make the roughness and crushing of the image inconspicuous during the display of the action of reducing the image. Also, the effect may be applied to all of the first image, the reduced action image, and the second image, or if applied to at least the enlarged action image, applied to some of them. can be anything. Note that the effect is not limited to the one that scales down at the same reduction ratio according to the enlarged image of the first image or the reduction operation of the second image. It may be.

(Eighth embodiment)
In the first to third embodiments, the enlargement effects when a specific mode is selected on the mode selection screen have been described. Here, another example of enlargement effect will be described.
When the effect control means 301 according to the present embodiment receives a command for instructing execution of an enlarged effect for a specific image, the corresponding first image, the image obtained by enlarging the first image (enlarged action image), the corresponding While the two images are displayed in order, control is performed so that the enlarged image display starts with a fade-in. For example, when an image suddenly starts to be displayed in a cut-in effect or the like, the effect control means 301 gradually enlarges the first image and controls the first image to gradually appear (become clear). . Finally, a clear second image is displayed. When the enlarged action image is a reduced image of the second image, it is gradually enlarged and made clearer.

Next, an example of reduction rendering will be described. When the effect control means 301 receives a command for instructing execution of a reduction effect for a specific image, it sequentially displays the corresponding second image, the reduced image of the second image (reduced action image), and the corresponding first image. At that time, control is performed so that the reduced image display is faded out. The effect control means 301 gradually reduces the second image and controls the second image to gradually fade (disappear). Finally, the thinnest first image is displayed. If the reduced action image is an enlarged version of the first image, it is gradually reduced and made thinner.

By configuring in this way, the clarity (brightness) of the image changes along with the size of the image, so that the change in display is emphasized, which can attract the player.

(Ninth embodiment)
Next, a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, a case where the present invention is applied to a slot machine, which is one type of gaming machine, will be described as an example. good too.
As shown in FIG. 10, a slot machine (gaming machine) 10 of the present invention includes a box-shaped housing 11 whose front side, which is a surface facing a player, is open, and the front side opening of the housing 11 is opened and closed. It is provided with a front door 12 that opens. The housing 11 accommodates a reel unit in which a rotatable first reel 20a, a second reel 20b and a third reel 20c are unitized, a hopper device for paying out medals (game value), and the like. The front door 12 is divided into an upper door 12a and a lower door 12b.

The upper door 12a is provided with a liquid crystal display (display means) 13, a device for presentation such as a speaker (sound output means) 14, and a display window 16. As shown in FIG. The liquid crystal display 13 displays images (moving images and still images) for various effects. In addition, the speaker 14 outputs sounds for various effects (music, sound effects, voice, etc.). In addition to the liquid crystal display 13 and the speaker 14, the device for presentation may be provided with an illumination device such as a lamp (LED), or a movable accessory operable by an actuator or the like.

Behind the display window 16, a reel unit is arranged so that a part thereof can be visually recognized from outside the display window 16.例文帳に追加A plurality of types of symbols are arranged in a line on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels 20a to 20c. pattern) is displayed. The display window 16 is provided with upper, middle, and lower display positions for visually recognizing the symbols on the reels 20a to 20c. It is Also, when the required number (prescribed number) of medals is inserted for one game, the activated line is activated.

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of medals required for one game (specified number) is set for each game state, which will be described later. One or more are set. Specifically, the prescribed number is set to 2 or 3 according to the game state, and it is possible to execute the game by inserting (betting) 2 or 3 medals. . In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in both cases of playing a game with two medals inserted and playing a game with three medals inserted, the middle stage of the first reel 20a and the , the middle stage of the second reel 20b and the lower stage of the third reel 20c constitute a pay line. Note that different effective lines may be set according to the number of inserted medals.

The outer peripheral surface of each of the reels 20a to 20c is divided into 20 areas (frames) at regular intervals, and one of a plurality of types of symbols is arranged in each frame. Symbol numbers 0 to 19 are associated with each frame (symbols arranged in each frame) of each of the reels 20a to 20c.

In the slot machine 10, the reels 20a to 20c start rotating at the start of the game, and an internal lottery is executed to determine whether one of the winning combinations wins or loses (no win). Next, when the reels 20a to 20c are stopped and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the internal lottery is displayed on the activated line, this winning combination wins, and the processing corresponding to the winning combination (winning process) is executed.

Below the display window 16, a game information display section 17 and an advantageous section display 18 are provided. The game information display unit 17 includes an LED, a lamp, a 7-segment display, and the like, and displays various game information such as the number of medal credits, the number of medals paid out or won in one game, and error information. In addition, the advantageous section indicator 18 has an LED, and by lighting and extinguishing of this LED, it is notified whether or not the player is staying in the advantageous section.

The lower door 12b has a medal insertion slot 22 for inserting medals, a bet button 23 for betting credited medals, a start lever (game start operation means) 24 operated when starting a game, and a rotating There are provided stop buttons (stop operation means) 26a, 26b, 26c for stopping the existing reels, a payout port 27 for paying out medals by a hopper device, and a medal tray 28 for receiving the medals paid out from the payout port 27. . A medal sensor 29 (see FIG. 11) for detecting passage of medals inserted from the medal slot 22 is provided at the back of the medal slot 22 .

In the slot machine 10, the operation of the start lever 24 is validated by inserting medals into the medal slot 22 or by operating the bet button 23 to bet a specified number of medals. Also, when the activated start lever 24 is operated, the game is started. When a game is started, the reels 20a-20c start rotating, and when the rotation speed of each reel 20a-20c reaches a constant speed and becomes steady rotation, operation of the stop buttons 26a-26c is enabled. Further, when the activated stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the reels 20a to 20c corresponding to the operated stop buttons 26a to 26c are stopped.

As shown in FIG. 11, inside the slot machine 10, a main control board (main control device) 31 and a sub-control board (sub-control device) 32 are provided. The main control board 31 receives input signals from input means such as the bet button 23, the start lever 24, the stop buttons 26a to 26c, and the medal sensor 29, and performs various calculations for executing the game. Based on this, it controls output means such as a reel unit and a hopper device. Further, the sub-control board 32 receives a signal sent from the main control board 31, performs various calculations for executing effects, and controls the liquid crystal display 13, speaker 14, etc. for effects based on the calculation results. Control the device.

The main control board 31 and the sub-control board 32 are electrically connected, and various information (signals) such as information indicating the game state can be transmitted from the main control board 31 to the sub-control board 32. However, information cannot be transmitted from the sub-control board 32 to the main control board 31 .
The functions of each board such as the main control board 31 and the sub-control board 32 are preliminarily stored in hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, information storage media such as ROMs and RAMs, and ROMs. It is realized by software consisting of a stored predetermined program.

The main control board 31 includes an input receiving means 40, a random number generating means 41, an internal lottery means 42 that performs an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination is appropriate, a reel control means 43 that controls the rotation of the reels, and all the reels. Winning judgment means 44 for judging whether or not a winning combination has won when is stopped, payout control means 45, replay control means 46, setting change means 47, initialization means 48, and game state control means 49, instruction function control means 51, effect main control means 52, and storage means 60. Moreover, the storage means 60 includes a ROM and a RAM.
In addition, the sub-control board 32 includes a performance sub-control means 90 and a sub-side storage means 92 . Also, the sub-side storage means 92 has a ROM and a RAM.

The production main control means 52 and the production sub-control means 90 constitute the production control means 100 . The effect main control means 52 issues an instruction to the effect sub-control means 90 based on the game state, the effect state, and the like. In addition, the effect sub-control means 90 controls the effect stored in the sub-side storage means 92 based on the information on the game state and the effect state transmitted from the effect main control means 52, or the information on whether or not to perform the instruction effect. The data is used to control devices for presentation. The control performed by the effect main control means 52 described in this embodiment may be performed by the effect sub-control means 90 , and the control performed by the effect sub-control means 90 may be performed by the effect main control means 52 . Further, the control performed by the effect control means 100 described in this embodiment may be performed by the instruction function control means 51 , and the control performed by the instruction function control means 51 may be performed by the effect control means 100 .

The input reception means 40 receives insertion of medals for each game, and performs processing for activating the game start operation for the start lever 24 based on the fact that a specified number of medals have been inserted. Specifically, when medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 22, the medal sensor 29 detects the medals, and the insertion acceptance means 40 inserts the inserted medals up to a specified number into the inserted state ( bet state). Further, when the bet button 23 is pressed while medals are credited, the insertion reception means 40 sets the credited medals to the insertion state within a specified number. In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the first pressing operation on the start lever 24 that is activated based on the insertion of a specified number of medals is accepted as a game start operation, and the reels 20a to 20c are triggered by this operation. When rotation is started, a lottery such as an internal lottery is conducted.

In addition, the input receiving means 40 controls so that the medals owned by the player are not newly set to the input state in the next game after the game in which the replay was won. Specifically, when a replay wins in the previous game, even if medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 22 in a state in which insertion of medals is accepted, the inserted medals are not set to the inserted state. The inserted medals are credited up to the maximum number of credits (for example, 50). Further, the operation of the bet button 23 is not accepted in the state of accepting the insertion of medals, so that even if the bet button 23 is pressed, the credited medals are not set to the inserted state.

The random number generator 41 generates a random number for lottery. A random value can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to cycle through a predetermined count range). In the present embodiment, "random numbers" include not only values that are generated randomly in a mathematical sense, but also values that are generated regularly but are substantially contains values that can act as random numbers.

The internal lottery means 42 performs an internal lottery using the internal lottery table based on the operation of the activated start lever 24 (that is, game start).
In the internal lottery table, each of a plurality of random numbers (for example, 65536 random numbers from 0 to 65535) is associated with various winning combinations including small winnings, replays and bonuses, and losing (not winning). , and a plurality of them are stored in the internal lottery table storage area 61 provided in the ROM of the storage means 60 . In the gaming machine of this embodiment, as will be described later, a plurality of types of game states can be set as the game state, and six set values from setting 1 to setting 6 can be set as setting values. A lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table according to the game state, the number of inserted medals, and a set value, and performs an internal lottery.

Incidentally, a small combination is a combination in which a predetermined number of medals corresponding to the winning small combination can be paid out by winning. A replay is a winning combination that allows the player to play the game again without consuming new medals. When the replay wins, the operation of the start lever 24 is validated without using the player's medals, and the game can be started by operating the start lever 24.例文帳に追加

In the internal lottery, a random number for lottery is obtained from a random number generation means 41, the random number is collated with an internal lottery table to determine whether or not a winning combination has been won, and winning is associated with the random number. A role is won. Specifically, the internal lottery table is provided with a plurality of winning areas, and each random number obtained from the random number generating means 41 is associated with one of the winning areas. The winning area includes a winning area containing one or more winning combinations (associated with a winning combination) and a winning area containing no winning combination (associated with a losing combination). . In addition, the combination of winning combinations included in each winning area is different. All the winning combinations belonging to the winning area associated with the random number obtained from the random number generating means 41 are won as a result of the internal lottery. In the following, in the internal lottery, winning a combination belonging to the winning area is also referred to as "winning the winning area". In addition, the case where neither winning role is won is also referred to as "winning area 'not winning'wins".
Each winning area has a different winning combination.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the small wins are a 15-coin win in which 15 medals are paid out when winning a prize, a 3-coin win in which 3 medals are paid out when winning a prize, and a 1 coin win-win in which 1 medal is paid out when winning a prize. A plurality of types of small wins are prepared, including single wins and . In addition, the 15-card combination includes a 15-card combination as a correct small combination to be described later, and the 1-card combination includes a 1-card combination as an incorrect small combination to be described later.

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a plurality of types of winning areas are prepared as the winning areas for the small wins. It is a winning area in which the small wins are duplicated and won. Specifically, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a winning area "12 selections" is provided in which a plurality of types of small winnings including correct small winnings (15-card winnings) and incorrect small winnings (1-card winnings) are won in duplicate. Bell 1” to “12-choice Bell 12”, the winning area “Common Bell” where multiple types of 15-card roles are won, and the winning area “Watermelon” where multiple types of 3-card roles are won There are multiple types of winning areas, including . In the following description, the winning areas "12-choice bell 1" to "12-choice bell 12" are collectively referred to as the batting order bell (choice combination).

Also, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, a plurality of types of replays are prepared.

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a plurality of types of winning areas are prepared as replay winning areas, and each winning area has one type of replay alone or multiple types of replays among all replays. It is a winning area that is duplicated and won. Specifically, for example, winning areas such as "normal replay", "weak cherry", and "strong cherry" are prepared as the winning areas for replay. In addition, the winning probability is set lower for the winning area "Low Cherry" than the winning area "Normal Replay", and the winning probability is set lower for the winning area "High Cherry" than the winning area "Low Cherry". It is

Also, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, a first big bonus (RBB1) to a fourth big bonus (RBB4) are prepared as bonuses. Also, as winning areas associated with bonuses, winning areas “RBB1” to “RBB4” are prepared in which each of RBB1 to RBB4 is individually won.
In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the bonuses (RBB1 to RBB4) are assumed to be the bonuses (RBB1 to RBB4) that are continuously actuating devices related to so-called first-class special bonuses, but other bonuses may be used. Also, other bonuses may be installed together. Also, the loaded bonuses may be set so that they are individually won, or they may be set so that they are won in combination with replays and minor wins.

In addition, "not winning" is prepared as a winning area associated with losing.

In each winning area, it is set whether or not winning is possible depending on the game state and the number of inserted medals. In other words, the internal lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table according to the game state and the number of inserted medals to perform an internal lottery, thereby changing the winning combination. .

For example, the winning areas "RBB1" and "RBB2" are designed so that winning is possible when the game state is the normal state and the number of inserted medals is two. So I'm not going to be elected. In addition, the winning areas "RBB3" and "RBB4" are designed so that winning is possible when the game state is the medium state and the number of inserted medals is three. So I'm not going to be elected.

The internal lottery means 42 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning combination as a result of the internal lottery from the non-winning state (OFF state) to the winning state (ON state). Also, when a plurality of winning combinations are won in duplicate, the winning flags corresponding to the respective winning combinations in duplicate are set from the non-winning state to the winning state. Also, the winning flag setting information is stored in a winning flag storage area 62 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 .

Winning flags include a winning flag (carry-over possible flag) that allows the winning state to be carried over to subsequent games until a prize is won, and a non-winning state in which the winning state is not carried over to subsequent games regardless of winning. There is a winning flag (non-carryover flag) that is reset to . Big bonuses (RBB1 to RBB4) are associated with the carryover possible flags. Further, the combination to which the carryover impossible flag is associated includes a small combination and a replay. For example, when a big bonus is won in the internal lottery, the internal lottery means 42 carries over the winning state of the big bonus winning flag until the big bonus is won. At this time, the internal lottery means 42 performs an internal lottery to determine the success or failure of a small combination and replay even in a game in which the big bonus winning flag is carried over. That is, in a game in which the winning state of the winning flag of the big bonus is carried over, if a small winning combination or replay is won, the winning flag of the big bonus that has already been won and the small winning combination or replay won in the internal lottery are combined. Winning flags corresponding to two or more kinds of winning combinations are set in a winning state.

In addition, the slot machine 10 has six setting values from setting 1 to setting 6, and the odds of winning a combination differ depending on the difference in setting values. Specifically, when the setting changes, the internal lottery table group consisting of a plurality of internal lottery tables selected according to the game state is changed to the internal lottery table group associated with each setting. Depending on the setting, the internal lottery table group changes with different odds of winning small wins, replays, and bonuses.

The setting change means 47 performs control to change the setting values stored in the setting value storage area 63 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 . Specifically, a setting change key is inserted into a setting change key cylinder provided inside the slot machine 10, and the slot is opened in a state in which the setting change key (setting change key cylinder) is rotated 90 degrees clockwise from the initial position. When the power of the machine 10 is turned on, the setting change means 47 activates the slot machine 10 in the setting change mode. The setting value can be selected from 6 levels from setting 1 to setting 6, and an internal lottery is conducted so that the expected value of the ball output rate increases in order from setting 1 to setting 6. The winning probability of is fluctuating. In the setting change mode, the setting change means 47 performs setting 1→setting 2→ . When the set value is changed and the start lever 24 is pressed, the set value is determined and the determined set value is stored in the set value storage area 63 . Also, by returning the setting change key inserted in the setting change key cylinder to the initial position, it is possible to shift from the setting change mode to the game mode.
In the present embodiment, the level of the set values is expressed in the order of setting 1<setting 2<setting 3<setting 4<setting 5<setting 6. FIG.

Also, when the power is turned on while the setting change key cylinder is in the initial position, the slot machine 10 is started in the game mode. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a game can be played in the game mode, but the setting values cannot be changed, and in the setting change mode, the setting values can be changed, but the game cannot be played. It is not possible.

The initialization means 48 performs an initialization process for initializing at least part of the information stored in the RAM of the storage means 60 when the setting value is changed. Specifically, when the setting value is changed, the initialization means 48 performs a process of returning the game state, the game section, and the effect state, which will be described later, to the initial state. That is, when the set value is changed, the game state becomes the normal medium state, the game section becomes the non-advantageous section, and the presentation state becomes the non-advantageous section presentation state. will be in the same state as In the initialization process, the initialization means 48 also initializes information related to effects stored in the RAM of the storage means 60, and the like. The sub-control board 32 also has initialization means (not shown). When the main control board 31 sends a signal notifying that the set value has been changed, the initialization means of the sub-control board 32 The information about the performance stored in the RAM of the sub-side storage means 92 is initialized.
In addition, even if the setting value is changed, the game state, the game section, or the effect state may not return to the initial state.

The reel control means 43 starts the rotation of the reels 20a to 20c in response to the operation of the start lever 24 activated under the control of the main control board 31 (that is, game start), and activates the reels 20a to 20c. When the stopped stop button 26a to 26c is operated, stop control of the reel corresponding to the operated stop button is performed.

That is, each time one of the stop buttons 26a to 26c is operated, the reel control means 43 determines the stop position of the reel corresponding to the operated button among the first reel 20a to the third reel 20c. , to stop the reel at the determined stop position. In the slot machine 10, when the stop button 26a is operated, the rotation of the first reel 20a is stopped, and when the stop button 26b is operated, the rotation of the second reel 20b is stopped and the stop button 26c is operated. Then, the rotation of the third reel 20c is stopped. Therefore, the stop order of the first reel 20a to the third reel 20c changes depending on the operation order (hitting order) of the stop buttons 26a to 26c.

In the following description, regarding the order of stop operations (order of operation of the stop buttons 26a to 26c), the order of a group of stop operations in which all of the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated will be referred to as "hitting order". Among the stop operations that constitute the batting order, the first stop operation is the "first stop operation", the second stop operation is the "second stop operation", and the third stop operation is the "third stop operation". ”.

Further, hereinafter, the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, and 26c for stopping the rotating reels in the order of the first reel 20a, the second reel 20b, and the third reel 20c is defined as "hitting order 1", and the first reel 20a and the third reel are operated. The operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, and 26c to stop the rotating reels in the order of 20c and the second reel 20b is set to "batting order 2", and the rotating reels are stopped in the order of the second reel 20b, the first reel 20a, and the third reel 20c. The operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, and 26c is defined as "batting order 3", and the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, and 26c for stopping the rotating reels in the order of the second reel 20b, the third reel 20c, and the first reel 20a is designated as "hitting order 4". ”, and the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c for stopping the rotating reels in the order of the third reel 20c, the first reel 20a, and the second reel 20b is set to “hitting order 5”, and the third reel 20c, the second reel 20b, The operations of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, and 26c for stopping the rotating reels in the order of the first reel 20a are referred to as "batting order 6".

In stop control when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the reel control means 43 stops the reels 20a to 20c so that the winning combination whose winning flag is set to the winning state wins. Specifically, when the winning flag for one winning combination is set to the winning state, the reels 20a to 20c are controlled to stop so that this winning combination wins. Further, in a state in which the winning flags of a plurality of winning combinations are set in a winning state, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped so that a predetermined winning combination wins according to the priority determined for each combination. Let In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the priority order is determined in the order of "replay>small win>bonus". Then, the reel control means 43 controls the reels 20a so that the symbols forming the winning pattern of the winning combination with the higher priority are displayed on the activated line in preference to the symbols forming the winning pattern of the winning combination with the lower priority. ~20c is stopped.

In addition, when multiple types of small wins are won in the internal lottery, the priority of the candidates for the stop position is determined according to the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the active line, or in advance for the small wins. There is also a case where the priority is obtained according to the number of medals to be paid out based on the determined payout. When determining the priority of candidates for the stop position according to the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the active line, the stop position that has the greater number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the active line has higher priority. A priority is obtained for each stop position candidate so that the priority is higher. When determining the priority of candidates for the stop position according to the number of payouts of medals, the stop position in which the number of payouts of medals increases based on the payout of the small win corresponding to the symbol displayed at the display position on the activated line. The priority of each stop position candidate is obtained so that the position (stop position that can win a small winning combination with a large payout) has a higher priority. However, when determining the priority of candidates for the stop position according to the number of medals paid out, if multiple small wins with the same payout are won, each stop position can win a prize. are treated as having the same priority.

A correct batting order and an incorrect batting order are set for each batting order bell. Specifically, each winning area of the batting order bell is designed so that if a winning is made in the middle state inside the RBB, a correct small winning combination (15-card winning combination) can be won by operating in the correct batting order. If the operation is performed in the correct order, an incorrect small combination (1-card combination) can be won. In other words, when one of the batting order bells is won in the middle state of the RBB, if the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed in the correct batting order, the correct small combination (15-piece combination) can be won. The priority is obtained so that the priority of the candidate is the highest, and when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed in the order of hitting the incorrect answer, the candidate of the stop position that can win the incorrect answer small combination (1-card combination). priority is determined so that the priority of

Specifically, the winning areas “12-choice bell 1” to “12-choice bell 6” are operated in the order of correct hitting, and specific symbols (first specific symbols) on the reels 20a to 20c that are stopped first. (for example, one of the pattern numbers 0 to 9) is positioned at a predetermined display position (for example, on the active line), the first stop operation is performed In this case, a correct small winning combination (15-card winning combination) is awarded. In other words, it is possible to win a correct small winning combination (15-card winning combination) by operating in the order of correct hitting and performing the first stop operation aiming at the first specific symbol. In addition, the winning areas "12-choice bell 1" to "12-choice bell 6" are the first specific reels 20a to 20c that are stopped first when operated in the incorrect hitting order and in the correct hitting order. A first stop operation is performed when a pattern (for example, any one of pattern numbers 10 to 19) within a predetermined range not including any pattern is positioned at a predetermined display position (for example, on the activated line). If the player wins, either an incorrect small winning combination (1-card winning combination) is awarded or no winning combination is awarded.

In addition, the winning areas "12-choice bell 7" to "12-choice bell 12" are operated in the order of correct hitting, and are different from the first specific symbols on the reels 20a to 20c that are stopped first. 2 specific symbols) within a predetermined range (for example, any one of the symbol numbers 10 to 19) is positioned at a predetermined display position (for example, on the effective line), the first stop operation When a is made, a correct small winning combination (15-card winning combination) is awarded. In other words, it is possible to win a correct small winning combination (15-card winning combination) by operating in the order of correct hitting and performing the first stop operation aiming at the second specific symbol. In addition, the winning areas "12-choice bell 7" to "12-choice bell 12" are the second specified reels 20a to 20c that are operated in the correct hitting order and stopped first when operated in the incorrect hitting order. A first stop operation is performed when a pattern (for example, any one of pattern numbers 0 to 9) within a predetermined range not including any pattern is positioned at a predetermined display position (for example, on the effective line). If the player wins, either an incorrect small winning combination (1-card winning combination) is awarded or no winning combination is awarded.

In addition, one correct batting order for each batting order bell is set, and the other five batting orders are defined as incorrect batting orders. In addition, the winning areas "12-choice bell 1" to "12-choice bell 6" are set in the correct striking order, and the winning areas "12-choice bell 7" to "12-choice bell 12" are different from each other. The batting order is set to the correct batting order.

In addition, instead of the winning area "12-choice bell 1" to "12-choice bell 12", or together with the winning area "12-choice bell 1" to "12-choice bell 12", correct small role (15-piece role) and incorrect answer As a winning area for the batting order bell in which multiple types of small wins including small wins (single wins) are won, the winning area "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" is prepared, and the winning area " 6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6", when winning in the middle state of RBB, if operated in the correct order, the correct small combination (15-piece combination) is always given regardless of the timing of the stop operation. If a prize is won and operations are performed in the order of hitting incorrect answers, an incorrect small combination (1-card combination) may be awarded, or no combination may be awarded.

In addition, each winning area of the batting order bell is stopped in a mode (correct batting order and predetermined timing) in which a 15-card combination is won in the RBB internal medium state when winning in the normal medium state is performed. Also, the 1-card role wins (the 15-card role does not win).

The winning judgment means 44 is activated when the reels 20a to 20c stop rotating, and judges whether or not a winning combination has been won based on how the reels 20a to 20c are stopped. Specifically, the symbol combination displayed (stopped display) on the active line by stopping the reels 20a to 20c is collated with the prize determination table stored in the ROM of the storage means 60. FIG. The winning determination table stores the winning form of each winning combination (symbol combination that wins when stopped), and through the collation described above, the presence or absence of a winning combination and the type of winning combination that has won can be determined. do. When a winning combination is won, the main control board 31 executes a winning process corresponding to the winning combination. Specifically, as the winning process, payout processing is performed when a small win is won, replay processing (replay processing) is performed when a replay wins (operates), and a bonus wins (operates). In that case, a process for shifting the game state (game state transition control process) is performed.

Here, the payout process is a process of paying out the number of medals determined based on the payout determined for each combination when a small winning combination is won, and is performed by the payout control means 45 . The payout control means 45 determines the payout number of medals based on the payout determined for each win when a small winning combination is won, and causes the determined payout number of medals to be paid out to the hopper device. When credits are permitted, the number of credits (the number of credited medals) stored in the credit storage area provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 is used instead of actually paying out medals by the hopper device. ), credit addition processing is performed to add the number of payouts, and medals are virtually paid out.

Further, the replay process is a process of setting the same game start standby state as the previous game without requiring insertion of medals owned by the player for the next game when the replay wins. does. If the replay wins, the same number of medals as the number set in the input state in the previous game (the game in which the replay won) will be replaced with the medals in the player's hand (including credited medals). An automatic insertion process for automatically inserting medals without using them is performed, and the next game start operation for the start lever 24 is awaited in a state in which an effective line corresponding to the number of medals inserted by the automatic insertion process is set. Also, when the automatic insertion process is performed, additional medals cannot be inserted.

The gaming state control means 49, as shown in FIG. 12, has a normal state, an RBB internal state A (bonus established state A), an RBB operating state A (bonus state A), and an RBB internal medium state B (bonus established state). B) and a game state transition control process for transitioning the game state between the RBB in-operation state B (bonus state B). As for the game state transition condition, one condition may be defined, or a plurality of conditions may be defined. When a plurality of conditions are defined, the game state may be shifted based on the establishment of one condition among the plurality of predetermined conditions, or a plurality of the predetermined conditions or The game state may be shifted based on the establishment of all.

The general medium state is a game state corresponding to the initial state among a plurality of types of game states, and the prescribed number of insertions is set to two or three. Further, it is possible to shift from the general medium state to the RBB internal medium state A and the RBB internal medium state B. Specifically, in the general state, when RBB1 or RBB2 is won, the state shifts to RBB internal state A, and when RBB3 or RBB4 is won, the state shifts to RBB internal state B. Further, in the general medium state, an internal lottery table in which RBB1 and RBB2 are set as lottery targets or an internal lottery table in which RBB3 and RBB4 are set as lottery targets is referred to according to the number of inserted medals. A lottery will be held.

Specifically, when a game is played with two medals inserted in the normal middle state, refer to the internal lottery table in which RBB1 and RBB2 are set as lottery targets and RBB3 and RBB4 are excluded from the lottery targets. Then an internal lottery will be held. In addition, when the game is played with three medals inserted in the general medium state, the internal lottery table is referred to, in which RBB3 and RBB4 are set as lottery targets and RBB1 and RBB2 are excluded from the lottery targets. A lottery will be held.

The RBB internal middle state A is a game state that is shifted to when RBB1 or RBB2 is won in the internal lottery, and the prescribed number of inserts is set to 2 or 3. Further, in the RBB internal medium state A, an internal lottery is performed with reference to an internal lottery table selected according to the number of inserted medals from among a plurality of internal lottery tables in which RBB1 to RBB4 are excluded from lottery targets. .

Further, in the RBB internal middle state A, the lottery flag corresponding to RBB1 or RBB2 is maintained in the winning state until RBB1 or RBB2 is won, and when the symbol combination indicating the winning form of RBB1 or RBB2 is displayed on the activated line. , the game state control means 49 shifts the game state from the state A during RBB inside to the state A during RBB operation. Further, in this embodiment, RBB1 and RBB2 are effective bonuses only when the number of inserted medals is two. It is possible to win RBB1 or RBB2, but if the game is played with three inserted coins in RBB internal state A, RBB1 and RBB2 cannot be won.

The RBB internal medium state B is a game state that is shifted to when RBB3 or RBB4 is won in the internal lottery, and the prescribed number of inserted coins is set to 2 or 3. In addition, in the RBB internal medium state B, an internal lottery is performed with reference to an internal lottery table selected according to the number of inserted medals from among a plurality of internal lottery tables in which RBB1 to RBB4 are excluded from lottery targets. .

Further, in the RBB internal medium state B, the lottery flag corresponding to RBB3 or RBB4 is maintained in the winning state until RBB3 or RBB4 is won, and when the symbol combination indicating the winning form of RBB3 or RBB4 is displayed on the activated line. , the game state control means 49 shifts the game state from the RBB internal state B to the RBB active state B. Further, in this embodiment, RBB3 and RBB4 are effective bonuses only when the number of inserted medals is three. It is possible to win RBB3 or RBB4, but if the game is played with two inserted coins in RBB internal medium state B, RBB3 and RBB4 cannot win.

The RBB in-operation state A is a game state that shifts when the symbol combination indicating the winning form of RBB1 or RBB2 is displayed on the activated line as a trigger. In addition, in the RBB operating state A, it is determined whether or not the end condition is satisfied based on the total number of medals paid out in the RBB operating state A, and if the number of medals exceeding a predetermined number is paid out The game state control means 49 terminates the RBB operating state A, and shifts the game state to the normal state.
In this embodiment, the termination condition of the RBB operating state A is determined by the total number of medals paid out, but the termination condition is determined by the number of games played in the RBB operating state A, the number of winnings of small wins, and the like. may have been

The RBB in-operation state B is a game state that shifts when the symbol combination indicating the winning form of RBB3 or RBB4 is displayed on the active line as a trigger. In addition, in the RBB operating state B, it is determined whether or not the termination condition is satisfied based on the total number of medals paid out in the RBB operating state B, and if the number of medals exceeding a predetermined number is paid out, The game state control means 49 terminates the RBB operating state B and shifts the game state to the normal state.
In this embodiment, the termination condition of the RBB operating state B is determined by the total number of medals paid out, but the termination condition is determined by the number of games played in the RBB operating state B, the number of winnings of small wins, and the like. may have been

The instruction function control means 51 includes a game section control means 80 , an effect state control means 81 , and a privilege imparting means 82 . The instruction function control means 51 performs processing related to the operation of the instruction function that assists the winning of the specific combination in the advantageous section. Specifically, when a predetermined winning combination is won, the instruction function control means 51 determines whether or not to perform an instruction effect for assisting the winning of this winning combination. More specifically, when the batting order bell is won, the instruction function control means 51 determines whether or not to perform an instruction effect (batting order navigation effect) for announcing the correct batting order and assisting the winning of the 15-card hand. . Based on this determination, the effect control means 100 causes the liquid crystal display 13 to execute the batting order navigation effect.

As shown in FIG. 13, the game zone control means 80 performs a game zone shift control process for shifting the game zone between a non-advantageous zone and an advantageous zone according to the progress of the game. The non-advantageous section is a game section corresponding to the initial state among the plurality of types of game sections. In the non-advantageous section, the privilege providing means 82 performs an advantageous section transition lottery, and when the advantageous section transition lottery is won, the game section control means 80 shifts the game section to the advantageous section. Also, the advantageous section is a game section in which an upper limit (here, 1500 times) is set for the number of times the game can be played. Further, when the game section is set as the non-advantageous section, the instruction performance cannot be performed, and only when the game section is set as the advantageous section, the instruction performance can be performed. The game zone control means 80 ends the advantageous zone when the number of times the game is played in the advantageous zone reaches 1500, which is the upper limit, and shifts the game zone to the non-advantageous zone.

In the non-advantageous section, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (advantageous section transition lottery) for determining whether or not to allow a transition to the advantageous section at a predetermined opportunity. Specifically, according to the result of the internal lottery (based on the winning of a predetermined role (winning area)), the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (advantageous area shift lottery) to determine whether or not to move to an advantageous area. I do. Then, when winning the advantageous zone shift lottery, the game zone control means 80 shifts the game zone from the non-advantageous zone to the advantageous zone.
Note that the advantageous section transition lottery may be executed, for example, when a rare combination is won. Winning a rare combination in the present embodiment means, for example, winning a winning area such as "weak cherry", "strong cherry", or "watermelon". In other words, winning a rare combination means winning a combination (winning area) with a relatively low probability of winning in the internal lottery. It should be noted that, in the following description, the processing related to the instruction function to be performed according to the result of the internal lottery may be performed when the rare combination is won, as in the description here.

In addition, the game interval control means 80 stores the advantageous interval game number counter 65 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60, triggered by the game start operation on the start lever 24, every time a game is played in the advantageous interval. Increment processing is performed to add "1" to the value as a value corresponding to one game. The game section control means 80 does not add to the advantageous section game number counter 65 in the non-advantageous section. Further, at the time when the non-advantageous section is shifted to the advantageous section, the stored value of the advantageous section game number counter 65 is "0". Then, when the value stored in the advantageous interval game number counter 65 reaches the threshold value (upper limit value) “1500”, the game interval control means 80 deems that the condition for ending the advantageous interval is satisfied, and removes the game interval from the advantageous interval. Move to an advantageous section. That is, the upper limit of the number of games played in the advantageous section is set to 1500, so that the number of games exceeding 1500 is not played continuously in the advantageous section.

In addition, the game interval control means 80 updates the stored value of the difference number counter 64 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 with the difference number of medals in the advantageous interval, and sets a value corresponding to the number of payout medals (for example, 15). ``15'' when there is a payout of medals, and ``0'' when there is no payout without winning any combination). A value (for example, "3" when three cards are inserted) is subtracted to obtain the calculation result of the difference number in the game, and this calculation result is added to the stored value of the difference number counter 64. Perform update processing. Incidentally, the game section control means 80 does not perform addition to the difference number counter 64 in the non-advantageous section. Further, at the point of time when the non-advantageous section shifts to the advantageous section, the stored value of the difference number counter 64 is "0". Then, when the stored value of the difference number counter 64 exceeds a threshold value (for example, "2400"), the game interval control means 80 determines that the condition for ending the advantageous interval is satisfied, and shifts the game interval from the advantageous interval to the non-advantageous interval. Move to section. The stored value of the difference number counter 64 is controlled so as not to fall below the initial value "0". If no combination is won and no medals are paid out, the calculation result of the difference number in the game becomes "-3", and the calculation result of the difference number is added to the stored value of the difference number counter 64 to the initial value. Although it falls below "0", the stored value of the difference number counter after updating is set so that counting is stopped with the initial value "0" as the lower limit. In other words, an upper limit is set for the number of medals that can be obtained in the advantageous section, and the maximum number of medals in the advantageous section is set to "0", and the number of medals increased from the reference exceeds 2400. The advantageous section ends when In addition, if there is a winning replay in a game, it will be treated as if there was a payout of medals equivalent to the prescribed number of inputs in the game in which the replay was won, and the difference number will be calculated, and the replay winning will be free of charge. For the next game to be provided, even if actual medals are not inserted, it may be treated as if medals corresponding to the specified number of inserted medals for the game have been inserted, and the difference may be obtained.

In addition, the advantageous section indicator 18 is turned off during non-advantageous sections and lit during advantageous sections.
It should be noted that the advantageous section indicator 18 does not have to be lit at the same time as the transition to the advantageous section, but may be made to be lit before the first instruction effect is performed. In addition, once the light is turned on, it will not be turned off until the end of the advantageous section.

As shown in FIG. 13, the production state control means 81 has a plurality of types including a non-advantageous section production state, a normal production state (non-instruction production state), a sign production state, a CZ production state and an AT production state (instruction production state). A production state transition control process for shifting the production state between the production states is performed. Also, the AT effect state includes a normal AT effect state (normal instruction effect state), a special AT effect state (special instruction effect state), a special effect state, a judge effect state and a special effect state. One condition may be defined as the transition condition of the effect state, or a plurality of conditions may be defined. When a plurality of conditions are defined, the production state may be shifted when one condition out of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, and some or all of the plurality of predetermined conditions The production state may be shifted based on the establishment.

The non-advantageous section rendering state is a rendering state corresponding to the initial state among a plurality of types of rendering states. In the non-advantageous section, the effect state control means 81 sets the effect state to the non-advantageous section effect state. In the non-advantageous section effect state (non-advantageous section), the privilege granting means 82 performs the advantageous section transition lottery as described above. Means 81 shifts the production state to the normal production state.

The normal production state is a production state that basically shifts when the advantageous section starts, and at the start of the advantageous section, the probability of shifting to the normal production state is higher than the probability of shifting to another production state. is set.

Also, in the normal effect state, the batting order navigation effect is performed less frequently than in the AT effect state, and the batting order navigation effect is almost never performed or not performed at all.

The effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state at a predetermined opportunity in the normal effect state. In this embodiment, an upper limit (a so-called ceiling) is set for the number of times the game is played in the normal effect state. The state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state. The number of games played as the ceiling is selected from a plurality of types of tables (transition expectation level table) prepared in advance in the ROM of the storage means 60 at a predetermined opportunity (for example, at the start of the normal effect state). determined based on the transition expectation table. In other words, for one normal effect state (for example, from the start of the normal effect state to the transition to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state), one transition expectation degree table is selected from a plurality of types of transition expectation degree tables. is selected, and the degree of expectation for transition from the normal state to the instructed state of effect (CZ state of effect or state of AT effect) is determined based on the transition expectation degree table. It should be noted that, when the number of games reaches the ceiling, whether to shift the production state to the CZ production state or the AT production state may be set in advance for each transition expectation table, and may be determined by lottery when the ceiling is reached. may be determined, and so on.

In addition, in the normal effect state, the privilege providing means 82 performs a lottery (CZ lottery) for determining whether or not to shift to the CZ effect state according to the result of the internal lottery. Also, when the CZ lottery is won, the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the CZ performance state. In addition, in the normal effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (AT lottery) for determining whether or not to shift to the AT effect state according to the result of the internal lottery. Also, when the AT lottery is won, the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the AT performance state. In the present embodiment, in the transition expectation level table selected for each normal effect state, the relationship between the number of games played after the start of the normal effect state and the degree of expectation for transition to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state is The number of games with a relatively high probability of winning the CZ lottery or the AT lottery is set for each transition expectation level table. Specifically, in the transition expectation table where the ceiling is 666 times, the range where the number of games after the start of the normal effect state is 400 times to 600 times is CZ lottery and AT compared to other game number ranges. The probability of winning the lottery is set high. In addition, in the transition expectation table where the ceiling is 350 times, the range of the number of games from 200 to 299 after the start of the normal effect state is more likely to win the CZ lottery or AT lottery than other game number ranges. High probability is set. In addition, the range of 200 to 299 games in the transition expectation table with a ceiling of 350 times is compared to the range of 400 to 600 games in the transition expectation table with a ceiling of 666 times, CZ lottery and The winning probability of the AT lottery is set high.

In the normal rendering state, it is determined to shift to the CZ rendering state or the AT rendering state, and in the case of shifting to the CZ rendering state or the AT rendering state, the rendering state control means 81 controls the CZ rendering from the normal rendering state via the precursor rendering state. state or AT production state. Further, the portent effect state is terminated when the game is executed a predetermined number of times. That is, when the shift to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state is determined, the effect state shifts from the normal effect state to the precursor effect state, and the game is executed a predetermined number of times in the precursor effect state, the effect state control means 81. shifts the effect state to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state based on the determination.
It should be noted that there may be a case in which the normal effect state is shifted to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state without going through the portent effect state. Further, even if the transition to the CZ rendering state or the AT rendering state has not been determined, the transition to the precursor rendering state may occur. In other words, the portent effect state may include a so-called false portent.

The premonition performance state is a performance state in which the degree of expectation for transition to the CZ performance state or the AT performance state is higher than that in the normal performance state, and which is more advantageous to the player than in the normal performance state. In the foreshadowing effect state, the effect control means 100 causes the effect device such as the liquid crystal display 13 to execute an effect suggesting transition to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state. In other words, the effect control means 100 causes the effect device to execute an effect for notifying the player that the degree of expectation for shifting to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state is higher than that in the normal effect state. Specifically, for example, the liquid crystal display 13 is caused to display an image suggesting transition to the CZ effect state or the AT effect state.

The CZ rendering state is a rendering state in which the degree of expectation for transition to the AT rendering state is higher than that in the normal rendering state. In other words, the CZ effect state is a more advantageous effect state for the player than the normal effect state. In addition, in the CZ effect state, the batting order navigation effect is performed less frequently than in the AT effect state, and the batting order navigation effect is almost not performed or not performed at all.

In the CZ effect state, the number of games to be executed is set, and the game is terminated when the game is executed a specified number of times (16 times). Further, at the start of the CZ effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (second AT lottery) for determining whether or not to shift to the AT effect state, and if the second AT lottery is won, the predetermined number of times in the CZ effect state is performed. After execution of the game (after the end of the CZ effect state), it is determined to shift the effect state to the AT effect state. Also, even if the second AT lottery is not won, in the CZ presentation state, the privilege granting means 82 executes a lottery (rewriting lottery) for rewriting the result of the second AT lottery every game, and wins the rewriting lottery. In this case, it is decided to shift the effect state to the AT effect state after the specified number of games are executed in the CZ effect state (after the CZ effect state ends). In addition, the probability of winning the rewrite lottery differs depending on the results of the internal lottery. is set to be Incidentally, when the second AT lottery determines to shift to the AT effect state, the rewrite lottery will not cancel the determination. That is, the rewriting lottery prevents the lottery results of the second AT lottery and the previous rewriting lottery from being rewritten to those unfavorable to the player.

The probability of determining the transition to the AT effect state in the CZ effect state (the winning probability of the second AT lottery or the rewrite lottery) can be increased based on the points obtained in the normal effect state. Specifically, the privilege granting means 82 grants several points to several hundred points at a predetermined opportunity (for example, when winning a rare role) in the normal production state. When the value (1000 points) is accumulated, whether to increase the probability of determining the transition to the AT effect state in the CZ effect state (the winning probability of the second AT lottery or the rewrite lottery) (how much to increase) A lottery for determination is executed, and based on the result of the lottery, the probability of determining the transition to the AT effect state (the winning probability of the second AT lottery or the rewriting lottery) is increased.

When the shift to the AT performance state is determined before the CZ performance state ends, the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the AT performance state after the CZ performance state ends. On the other hand, when the shift to the AT effect state is not determined before the CZ effect state ends, the game zone control means 80 shifts the game zone to the non-advantageous zone after the CZ effect state ends, and the effect state control means. 81 shifts the production state to the non-advantageous section production state.

In the AT effect state, when the batting order bell is won, the instruction function control means 51 determines the execution of the batting order navigation effect for notifying the correct batting order. When execution of the batting order navigation effect is determined, the effect control means 100 causes the liquid crystal display 13 to display the correct batting order. In the AT effect state, it is possible to increase medals (game value) by playing a game according to the batting order navigation effect. In addition, in the AT effect state, the batting order navigation effect is executed more frequently than in the non-advantageous section effect state, the normal effect state, the precursor effect state and the CZ effect state, and the effect state is more advantageous to the player than these effect states. It has become.

In the normal AT effect state, the occurrence probability of the batting order navigation effect is set (selected) from among a plurality of probabilities prepared in advance. A batting order navigation effect is executed. It should be noted that the probability of occurrence of navigation is determined by the privilege granting means 82 at a predetermined opportunity such as the start of the normal AT effect state (AT effect state). The privilege granting means 82 may perform a lottery or the like for determining whether or not to increase the occurrence probability of navigation according to the result of an internal lottery or the like in the game during the normal AT effect state.

In addition, in the normal AT effect state, if the internal lottery results in a replay or the winning area "disqualified" is won, the privilege granting means 82 determines whether or not to terminate the AT effect state (whether to shift to the judge effect state). ) will be held (drop lottery). When the falling lottery is won, the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the judge performance state.

Further, in the normal AT effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (special AT lottery) for determining whether or not to shift to the special AT effect state according to the result of the internal lottery. When the special AT lottery is won, the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the special AT performance state.

The special AT effect state is a state of effect that shifts to when the AT effect state is started and when conditions for shifting to the special AT effect state are satisfied in the AT effect state. Also, the special AT effect state is a state of effect that continues until the batting order navigation effect is executed a predetermined number of times. The privilege granting means 82 executes a lottery (navigation number determination lottery) for determining the number of times (initial value) of the batting order navigation effect in the special AT effect state at a predetermined opportunity such as the start of the special AT effect state. In this embodiment, the number of batting order navigation effects in the special AT effect state is determined from 10 times, 15 times, or 20 times in the lottery for determining the number of times of navigation, and the determined number of times is the initial number at the start of the special AT effect state. It is given as a value. Further, in the present embodiment, the initial value of the batting order navigation effect is set to 20 for the special AT effect state that is started when the AT effect state is started.

In addition, in the special AT effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (navigation number increase lottery) for determining whether or not to increase the number of times of the batting order navigation effect in the special AT effect state according to the result of the internal lottery. Then, according to the result of the lottery for increasing the number of times of navigation, the number of batting order navigation performances in the special AT performance state is increased. That is, the special AT effect state continues until the batting order navigation effect is executed for the total number of times obtained by adding the number of times determined by the navigation frequency increase lottery to the initial value. Further, when the batting order navigation effect is executed for the total number of times, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state from the special AT effect state to the normal AT effect state. Note that the falling lottery is not executed in the special AT effect state. In other words, while the effect state is the special AT effect state, the AT effect state is not terminated.

In the judge effect state, the privilege providing means 82 executes a lottery (return lottery) for determining whether or not to continue the AT effect state (whether or not to return to the AT effect state). Specifically, when the winning area other than the batting order bell is won in the internal lottery, the privilege granting means 82 determines whether or not to increase the stored value of the stock counter 66 provided in the storage means 60 as a return lottery. Execute a lottery (stock lottery) to decide. If the stock lottery is won, the privilege granting means 82 increases the stored value of the stock counter 66 by "1". Here, the stock counter 66 is a counter that stores a value (the number of possible continuations: the number of possible returns) relating to the continuation of the AT effect state (return to the AT effect state), and the number of times corresponding to the stored value of the stock counter 66. Minutes, it is possible to continue the AT production state (return to the AT production state). In the judge effect state, when the stored value of the stock counter 66 is "1" or more, the instruction function control means 51 controls the predetermined reel 20a in a situation where the predetermined reels 20a to 20c can be stopped in a predetermined manner. 20c is determined to be executed, and the effect control means 100 causes the liquid crystal display 13 to execute the effect based on the determination. Then, when the effect is executed, the privilege granting means 82 decreases the stored value of the stock counter 66 by "1". Further, when the effect is executed (or when a stop operation is performed according to the effect), the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the special AT effect state. Therefore, it can be said that the stock counter 66 stores the number of times that the state can be shifted to the special AT effect state.

In addition, in the judge performance state, when the batting order bell is won in the internal lottery and the correct small combination (15-piece combination) is won, the privilege giving means 82 decides to return to the AT performance state, and the performance state. The control means 81 shifts the effect state to the special AT effect state based on the determination. Further, in the judge effect state, when the batting order bell is won, the batting order navigation effect is not executed. In the judge effect state, when the batting order bell is won, the batting order navigation effect may be executed. It is also possible to Note that the judgment effect state may be such that the batting order navigation effect is not performed at all.

In the judge performance state, when the return lottery (stock lottery) is not won and the correct small winning combination from the winning of the batting order bell is not won, the privilege granting means 82 determines whether or not to shift to the special performance state. Execute a lottery (special lottery). When the special lottery is won, the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the special performance state. On the other hand, when the special lottery is not won, the game zone control means 80 shifts the game zone to the non-advantageous zone, and the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the non-advantageous zone performance state.

In the special effect state, the number of games to be played is set, and the game ends when the game is played a specified number of times (6 times). Further, at the start of the special effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (special lottery) for determining whether or not to shift to the special effect state, and when the special lottery is won, a predetermined number of games are played in the special effect state. After the execution of (after the end of the special effect state), it is decided to shift the effect state to the special effect state. Further, even if the special lottery is not won, in the special effect state, the privilege granting means 82 executes a lottery (special rewriting lottery) for rewriting the result of the special lottery every game, and enters the special rewriting lottery. When winning, it is decided to shift the performance state to the special performance state after the predetermined number of games are executed in the special performance state (after the end of the special performance state). In addition, the degree of expectation for winning the special rewrite lottery differs depending on the results of the internal lottery. is set to be In addition, when the transition to the special effect state is determined in the special lottery, the determination will not be canceled by the special rewrite lottery. That is, the special rewrite lottery does not rewrite the lottery result of the special lottery or the previous special rewrite lottery to be disadvantageous to the player.

When the transition to the special performance state is determined before the special performance state ends, the performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the special performance state after the special performance state ends. On the other hand, when the shift to the special performance state is not determined before the special performance state ends, the game zone control means 80 shifts the game zone to the non-advantageous zone after the special performance state ends, and the performance state control means. 81 shifts the production state to the non-advantageous section production state.

The number of batting order navigation effects to be executed is set, and the special effect state is terminated when the batting order navigation effects are executed a specified number of times (30 times). Also, in the special effect state, the privilege providing means 82 executes a stock lottery according to the result of the internal lottery. Then, when the stock lottery is won, the privilege providing means 82 increases the stored value of the stock counter 66 by "1". Further, in the special effect state, when the batting order navigation effect state is executed a specified number of times, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the normal AT effect state.
In addition, when a predetermined condition is established in the normal AT effect state (for example, in a situation where the reels 20a to 20c can be stopped in a predetermined manner, the instruction function control means 51 causes the reels 20a to 20c to be stopped in a predetermined manner. The performance state control means 81 shifts the performance state to the special performance state also when the performance instructing to stop in the mode is executed (or when the stop operation is performed according to the performance).

In addition, when the CZ effect state ends without confirming the transition to the AT effect state, or when the AT effect state (judge effect state) ends without transitioning from the judge effect state to the special AT effect state or the special effect state Alternatively, when the AT effect state (special effect state) ends without shifting from the special effect state to the special effect state, the advantageous section may not end. Further, for example, whether or not to end the advantageous section in these cases may be determined based on a lottery. Specifically, for example, when the CZ effect state or the AT effect state (judge effect state or special effect state) ends, a lottery is conducted to determine whether or not to continue the advantageous section, and whether to end the advantageous section. It may be determined whether or not Further, for example, when the advantageous section is started, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not to continue the advantageous section when the next CZ effect state ends without confirming the transition to the AT effect state. It may be determined whether or not to end the interval. Also, for example, it may be determined based on the number of games played until the end of the CZ effect state or the AT effect state and the number of times the game can be played in the advantageous section. For example, if "(the upper limit of the number of games played in the advantageous section) - (the number of games played in the advantageous section)" is less than a predetermined value, the advantageous section can continue, and if it is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the advantageous section Alternatively, if the predicted value of the number of games to be executed from now on until the next CZ effect state or AT effect state is less than a predetermined value, the advantageous section can be continued, and if it is equal to or greater than the predetermined value. The advantageous section may not continue. Further, it may be determined whether or not to terminate the advantageous section based on a plurality of factors listed here.

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the continuation of the AT effect state is managed based on the drop lottery. Management may be based on the number of medals, the difference in the number of medals obtained in the AT effect state, or the number of batting order navigation effects.

The instruction function control means 51 initializes the information stored in the RAM of the storage means 60 as the information relating to the instruction function when the advantageous section ends and the game section shifts to the non-advantageous section. conversion processing. Specifically, the instruction function control means 51 stores the value stored in the advantageous section game number counter 65, the value stored in the difference number counter 64, the value stored in the stock counter 66, and a flag (lottery result) related to the lottery related to the instruction function. initialize. That is, the information related to the instruction function is not carried over over a plurality of advantageous sections. Further, when the initialization means 48 performs the above-described initialization processing that is performed when the setting value is changed, the information related to the instruction effect shown here is also initialized.

When the performance state is the AT performance state, when the batting order bell is won, the liquid crystal display 13 and the speaker provide an instruction performance (batting order navigation performance) to notify the correct batting order and assist the winning of the 15-card hand. 14 or the like is controlled to be executed. When the batting order bell is won and the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed in accordance with the correct batting order notified by the instruction performance, 15 prizes are awarded and 15 medals can be obtained without fail. .
Incidentally, when the instruction effect is performed, information indicating the correct hitting order is also displayed on the 7-segment display of the game information display section 17 .

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the instruction function control means 51 (effect control means 100) performs a lottery related to the instruction function (AT Lottery related to the transition to the production state) and processing related to the instruction function such as the batting order navigation effect, etc. However, when the game is played with two medals inserted, the lottery related to the instruction function and batting order navigation are performed. Processing related to the instruction function such as production is not performed. Further, the instruction function control means 51 (effect control means 100) performs processing related to the instruction function such as lottery related to the instruction function and batting order navigation effect when the game state is the state A during the RBB inside. When the state is the normal state, the RBB internal state B, the RBB operating state A, or the RBB operating state B, the lottery related to the instruction function and the processing related to the instruction function such as the batting order navigation effect are not performed. ing. That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, only when the game state is the RBB internal middle state A and the game is played with three medals inserted, instructions such as the lottery related to the instruction function and the batting order navigation effect are given. A process related to the function is executed, and the process is not executed in other game states and the number of inputs. In other words, in the RBB operating state A, the game in which the number of inserted medals is two is higher than the game in which the number of inserted medals is three. expectations for acquisition) are low. Furthermore, in other words, in a game in which two medals are inserted, expectations for winning medals based on the instruction performance are lower than in a game in which three medals are inserted.

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the game is played with three medals inserted, the batting order navigation effect can be executed. The navigation effect is not executed. In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the game is played with two medals inserted, the batting order bell is not won. is not executed, but even if the configuration is such that the batting order bell can be won when the game is played with two medals inserted, when the game is played with two medals inserted, , the batting order navigation effect may not be executed.

In addition, in a game performed with two medals inserted, a process related to the instruction function may be performed. However, even in that case, it is assumed that the performance regarding the instruction performance is lower than that of the game performed with three medals inserted. For example, when the AT lottery is used as the process related to the instruction function, the performance related to the instruction effect is lowered, for example, the AT lottery is executed less frequently, or the AT lottery is executed at the same frequency. However, the odds of winning are low.

The liquid crystal display 13 executes an effect by displaying an effect image on its display surface. Also, the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 is a composite image formed by superimposing a plurality of layers in which drawing materials (material images) are arranged. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the concept of layers in which drawing materials corresponding to each effect are arranged.

The effect screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 is composed of, for example, 30 frames (hereinafter referred to as frames) per second (so-called 30 fps frame rate). Therefore, in the case of an effect pattern having a length of one minute, for example, the effect screen consists of a total of 1800 frames of 60 seconds.times.30 frames. FIG. 14 shows a layer structure that constitutes one frame, which is the minimum unit.

The entity of each frame is one composite image in which multiple drawing materials are superimposed. There are N virtual transparent layers in each frame, and one drawing material is arranged in one layer. A priority is set for each of the superimposed drawing materials. Drawing materials with lower priority are arranged in lower layers, and drawing materials with higher priority are arranged in higher layers. It should be noted that the composite image that constitutes each frame can be configured by superimposing a maximum of N drawing materials by arranging the drawing materials on all N layers. The number of drawing materials forming an image varies and is not necessarily composed of N drawing materials. Also, when the number of drawing materials that make up a synthesized image is less than N, the layers are not always used without vacancies and are used starting from the lowest. As it is used, unused layers may optionally occur in the middle portion.

When drawing one frame, the drawing materials with the lowest priority are drawn one by one on the corresponding layer. For example, if one frame consists of five drawing materials, the drawing material with the lowest priority (fifth priority) is placed on the lowest layer and drawn at a predetermined position. . A drawing material with the second lowest priority (fourth priority) is placed on a layer higher than the layer on which the drawing material with the fifth priority is drawn and drawn at a predetermined position. In this way, the drawing materials are drawn one after another according to the priority, and finally the drawing material with the highest priority (first priority) is higher than the layer on which the drawing material with the second priority is drawn. Arranged in a layer and drawn at a predetermined position. When all drawing materials have been drawn on each layer, a composite image of these layers viewed from the upper side (front side) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 as a composite image corresponding to the frame. In other words, when the composite image is viewed on the liquid crystal display 13, the drawing materials placed in the lower layer are covered with the drawing materials placed in the upper layer. Furthermore, in other words, it can be said that the higher the layer is, the higher the display priority on the liquid crystal display 13 is.

The drawing process of each composite image is executed using a frame buffer, which is one area in the VRAM of the sub-side storage means 92, and the effect control means 100 (device management means 201, which will be described later) draws in the frame buffer. conduct. Drawing a new drawing material on a higher layer means drawing the new drawing material on top of the image buffered in the frame buffer. Drawing materials constituting a certain frame are drawn in the frame buffer in descending order of priority, and when all the drawing materials have been drawn, the composite image completed on the frame buffer is displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 as the image of the frame. will be displayed in The drawing material is stored in the drawing material storage area (ROM) of the sub-side storage means 92 .

A drawing material with a low priority is overlaid with a drawing material with a higher priority, so that part or all of the drawing material may not be visible. However, it is possible to set transparency for each drawing material. In some cases, the existence of the drawing material hidden in the frame image can be visually recognized.

The effect control means 100 has a state management means (effect determination means) 200 and a device control means (effect execution means) 201 provided in the sub-control board 32 (effect sub-control means 90) (see FIG. 11). The state management means 200 performs a lottery or the like regarding the performance based on the information (command) from the main control board 31 (the performance main control means 52), and determines the performance. Then, the state management means 200 transmits an effect command (effect message) to the device management means 201 so as to execute the determined effect. The device management means 201 controls the production device such as the liquid crystal display 13 based on the production command transmitted from the state management means 200, and causes the production device to perform production. In addition, the state management means 200 may manage the production state. Note that the effect command is a command for causing the effect device to execute the effect, and is pre-stored in the command storage area (ROM) of the sub-side storage means 92 in association with the transmission trigger (transmission condition) of the command.

More specifically, the state management means 200 performs state management, decodes the command transmitted from the main control board 31, and creates an effect pattern (contents indicating a series of effects) (contents of effect) corresponding to the command. is determined, and an effect command corresponding to this effect pattern is determined (generated) and added to the operation buffer. Here, the effect command indicates the output timing to the device management means 201 and the operation pattern of each device (liquid crystal display 13, speaker 14, and other effect devices). The production command of this embodiment has a pattern for instructing what kind of production (movement) is to be performed at each operation opportunity. The state management means 200 also functions as a time management module for managing the output timing of the effect command, and transmits each effect command accumulated in the operation buffer to the device management means 201 according to the output timing. That is, the state management means 200 is adapted to transmit the effect command to the device management means 201 via the operation buffer. Device management means 201 manages a device (rendering device) and causes the directoring device to execute a rendering based on the received rendering command. Specifically, for example, the device management means 201 transfers image data for executing a predetermined effect pattern from the ROM of the sub-side storage means 92 to the frame buffer (VRAM) based on the effect command received from the operation buffer. , and the image data is sequentially output to the liquid crystal display 13 . Further, for example, the device management means 201 controls lighting/lighting out of lighting devices for effects so as to execute a predetermined effect pattern based on the effect command received from the operation buffer. Further, for example, the device management means 201 reads music data for executing a predetermined effect pattern from the ROM of the sub-side storage means 92 based on the effect command received from the operation buffer, and sequentially transfers the music data to the speakers. output to
Further, the sub-control board 32 is inputted with a detection signal indicating that a button for effect (effect operation device) has been pressed. When a detection signal is input from the production operation device, the effect is transmitted to the state management means 200, and the state management means 200 displays an image on the liquid crystal display 13 in response to the input of the detection signal. determine the performance. The processes executed by the state management means 200 and the device management means 201 are both processes in response to interrupts (interrupt processes), and are executed at interrupt timings associated with respective devices.

Here, a series of functional units such as the state management means 200, the device management means 201 and the sub-side storage means 92 are integrated in one integrated circuit as SoC (System-on-a-Chip). However, it is possible to arbitrarily set which function units are integrated in such SoC. Also, the functional units such as the state management means 200, the device management means 201, and the sub-side storage means 92 may be integrated as different integrated circuits and electrically connected.

In this embodiment, a plurality of types of images including normal stage images and precursor stage images are prepared as background images to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 . Then, the effect control means 100 causes the liquid crystal display 13 to display the normal stage image as the background image in the normal effect state, and causes the liquid crystal display 13 to display the portent stage image as the background image in the portent effect state. Further, in the present embodiment, a front side image is prepared as an image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 and arranged on the front side (upper layer) than the background image. The front-side image may be, for example, an image such as a haze or flame that gradually covers the background image, or an image such as a door or curtain that opens and closes on the front side of the background image. Note that the front side image may be the effect data described in the fourth embodiment.

In the following description, as a normal stage image, a background image depicting a house and a character (scenery in the town in the daytime) as shown in FIG. A background image depicting trees and a night sky (scenery of a forest at night) is prepared as shown in FIG. 15 ( A haze image as shown in c) is prepared, and the normal stage image and the front side image are synthesized to display a synthesized image as shown in FIG. Description will be made on the assumption that a composite image as shown in FIG. 15(e) is displayed by combining the side image. Note that the layer on which the normal stage image is arranged and the layer on which the precursor stage image is arranged may be the same or different. Further, each of the normal stage image, the precursor stage image, or the front image may be composed of a plurality of drawing materials (over a plurality of layers). That is, the foreground image is superimposed on the image in the layer lower than the layer in which the foreground image is arranged. It can be said that it is a composite image obtained by synthesizing the drawing materials of a plurality of (all) layers, or it can be said that it is a drawing material of a specific (single) layer lower than the layer in which the front side image is arranged.

Here, an effect when the normal effect state is shifted to the portent effect state will be described. FIG. 16 shows the display of the liquid crystal display 13 in the effect.

In the normal effect state, the effect control means 100 displays the normal stage image on the liquid crystal display 13 as shown in FIG. 16(a). Further, when it is determined to shift the production state from the normal production state to the portent production state, in a predetermined game in the normal production state (for example, a game in which the transition to the portent production state has been confirmed), the production control means 100 , as shown in FIG. 16(b), the front side image displayed so as to cover the normal stage image (part of the normal stage image) is displayed on the front side of the normal stage image. Further, when it is determined to shift the production state from the normal production state to the precursor production state, in a predetermined game (for example, a game in which the normal production state is shifted to the precursor production state), the production control means 100 controls the third Triggered by the stop operation, the proportion of the front image occupying the display area of the liquid crystal display 13 is increased, and after a predetermined period of time has passed since the third stop operation, as shown in FIG. 16C, the normal stage image is displayed. The liquid crystal display 13 is caused to display such that the whole is covered with the front side image. That is, when shifting from the normal effect state to the precursor effect state, the front side image covers the entire display area of the liquid crystal display 13 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the third stop operation was executed in a predetermined game. , usually designed to obscure the entire stage image.
Note that the game in which the display of the front side image is started (the game in which the state shown in FIG. 16A changes to the state shown in FIG. It may be the same game as the game in which the front side image covers the entire display area of the liquid crystal display 13 (the game in which the state shown in FIG. 16(b) changes to the state shown in FIG. 16(c)), It may be a game earlier than that. Further, the display of the front side image may be started with an operation related to the start of a game as a trigger.

When the entire normal stage image is covered with the front image (when a predetermined period of time has passed since the third stop operation), the effect control means 100 controls a layer lower than the layer in which the front image is arranged (for example, Draw (arrange) the precursor stage image on the layer where the normal stage image is arranged. That is, the effect control means 100 arranges the front side image in a layer higher than the layer in which the background image such as the normal stage image and the precursor stage image is arranged, and the background image such as the normal stage image and the precursor stage image is arranged in the foreground. A process of switching the background image from the normal stage image to the precursor stage image on the back side of the front side image in a state covered by the side image is executed. At this time, the display on the liquid crystal display 13 is as shown in FIG. 16(c).
Note that in the present embodiment, when a predetermined period of time elapses after the execution of the third stop operation, the entire normal stage image is covered with the front image, and in this state, the normal stage image changes from the precursor stage image to the back image. However, when a predetermined period of time elapses after the third stop operation is performed, at least part of the normal stage image (e.g., a characteristic portion (for example, the part)) is covered by the front side image, and in this state, switching from the normal stage image to the precursor stage image may be performed.

Also, when the background image is switched from the normal stage image to the precursor stage image, the effect control means 100 ends the display of the front side image. As a result, the precursor stage image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 as shown in FIG. 16(e). In other words, from the player's point of view, the normal stage image is gradually covered with the front image, and after the normal stage image is entirely covered with the front image, the front image disappears and the precursor stage image appears. becomes. Further, in this way, the normal stage image is gradually covered with the front side image, and after the normal stage image is entirely covered with the front side image, the front side image disappears and the precursor stage image appears. is triggered by the third stop operation in the game.

When the display of the front-side image ends, the front-side image covering the front side of the background image may be erased all at once, and the range of the front-side image covering the background image (precursor stage image) gradually increases. may be reduced to That is, the display of the front side image covering the entire background image (normal stage image or precursor stage image) is ended, and the entire background image (precursor stage image) appears as shown in FIG. 16(e). 16(d), a part of the background image (precursor stage image) may or may not be covered by the front side image.

In addition, the effect control means 100, before the background image is switched in the game in which the background image was scheduled to be switched from the normal stage image to the precursor stage image with the third stop operation as a trigger, causes the next game to start. When the lever 24 is operated, the operation of the start lever 24 is used as a trigger to terminate the display of the front side image and switch the background image from the normal stage image to the precursor stage image. The game in the portent effect state may be started from the next game, for example.
In the next game, when the display of the front side image ends, it is preferable to erase the front side image covering the front side of the background image at once. That is, when the display of the front-side image ends in the previous game, even if the range covering the background image (the precursor stage image) of the front-side image is configured to gradually shrink, When ending the display of the side image, it is preferable that the front side image disappears at once. Referring to FIG. 16, for example, when the display of the front side image is ended with the third stop operation as a trigger, the state shown in FIG. In the state of e), when the start lever 24 is operated to start the next game in the state of FIG. 16(b), the state of FIG. The state shown in FIG. 16(e) may be obtained without going through the state shown in FIG. 16(d). In other words, in the next game, the period from when the start lever 24 is operated to when the front image disappears is shorter than the period from when the precursor stage image is drawn in the previous game until the front image disappears. is preferred.

Next, the control by the effect control means 100 (the state management means 200 and the device management means 201) will be described in more detail regarding the effect when shifting from the normal effect state to the portent effect state.

The device management means 201 displays the normal stage image on the liquid crystal display 13 in the normal effect state. When the command from the main control board 31 informs of the shift to the portent effect state, the state management means 200 determines the effect pattern associated with the transition from the normal effect state to the portent effect state (Fig. 16(b) - 16(e) is determined), and the device management means 201 causes the rendering device such as the liquid crystal display 13 to perform rendering based on the determined rendering pattern.

Specifically, when the state management means 200 determines an effect pattern related to the transition from the normal effect state to the portent effect state based on the notification of the transition from the normal effect state to the portent effect state, the following (1) to The effect command of (5) is transmitted to the device management means 201. FIG.
(1) An effect command instructing to draw (arrange) an omen stage image on a predetermined layer after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the third stop operation (when the predetermined period of time has elapsed) (2) With the third stop operation as a trigger, normal Effect commands (3) and (1) instructing that the front side image gradually covering the stage image is drawn on a layer higher than the layer where the normal stage image is arranged and the layer where the precursor stage image is arranged. After a predetermined time has passed (after the precursor stage image is drawn), the front side image is erased (display of the front side image is stopped) and the precursor stage image appears. 3. Triggered by the operation of the start lever 24 for starting the next game after the game in which the stop operation is executed, the production command (5) instructing to draw (arrange) the portent stage image on a predetermined layer (1). 3 Effect command instructing to erase the front side image (stop the display of the front side image) triggered by the operation of the start lever 24 for starting the next game after the game in which the stop operation is executed.

Then, the device management means 201 controls the production device such as the liquid crystal display 13 based on the production commands (1) to (5) to produce the production pattern determined by the production pattern (the production shown in FIG. 16). ) is executed. Specifically, the device management means 201 performs drawing in the frame buffer based on the rendering commands (1) to (5), and causes the liquid crystal display 13 to display the synthesized image.

It should be noted that each effect command does not have to indicate the items described in (1) to (5) itself, and it is sufficient if the display on the liquid crystal display 13 results in a desired display. For example, the effect command (1) is a effect command that simply instructs to draw a precursor stage image, and after a predetermined period of time has passed since the third stop operation (when the predetermined period of time has passed), the state management means 200 sends the device management means 201 and receives the effect command of (1), the device management means 201 may determine an appropriate layer and draw the portent stage image. Further, each effect command does not have to be an individual effect command, and may be transmitted and received as one effect command in which a plurality of effect commands are grouped. It may be transmitted and received. For example, the effect command (4) and the effect command (5) are transmitted and received as one effect command, and when the device management means 201 receives the effect command, the device management means 201 draws the precursor stage image and the front image. It is also possible to perform erasing.

In this embodiment, the effect command is transmitted from the state management means 200 to the device management means 201 via the operation buffer. The timing of adding each effect command to the operation buffer may be appropriately designed according to the purpose. For example, in a game scheduled to display based on the production commands (1) to (3), all the production commands (1) to (5) are stored in the operation buffer before the third stop operation is executed, and the state is managed. Means 200 (time management module) may transmit each effect command stored in the operation buffer to device management means 201 at a predetermined timing. Further, for example, in a game scheduled to display based on the production commands (1) to (3), the execution of the third stop operation triggers the production commands (1) to (3) to be stored in the operation buffer. At the same time, when the start lever 24 of the next game is operated, the performance commands (4) and (5) are stored in the operation buffer, and the device management means 201 receives the stored performance commands. You can do it.

The effect commands (4) and (5) are for coping with the case where the period from when the third stop operation is performed until when the operation relating to the start of the next game is performed is short. That is, the processing related to the production commands (1) to (3) is executed with the third stop operation as a trigger. There is a possibility that the game start operation will be performed. In this case, the background image that should have been switched to the precursor stage image (if a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the third stop operation) remains the normal stage image. , there is a possibility that the next game is started in a state where the front side image, which should have disappeared under normal circumstances, is displayed. That is, as shown in FIG. 17(a), for example, the drawing of the precursory stage image based on the effect command (1) is executed after a predetermined period of time T has passed since the third stop operation is executed. If the start lever 24 is operated before the period T elapses, there is a risk that the next game will be started while the background image is the normal stage image. However, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the effect commands (4) and (5) are transmitted, the background image remains the normal stage image or the front image is displayed. When the game is started in a state in which the player is present, as shown in FIG. Therefore, even if the period from when the third stop operation is performed to when the operation for starting the next game is performed is short, the display on the liquid crystal display 13 in the next game can be made correct. .

Here, problems that may arise when the device management means 201 causes the liquid crystal display 13 to execute effects according to the effect commands (1) to (5) will be described. The processes (1) to (3) related to the effect commands are executed with the third stop operation as a trigger. The display is such that the front side image disappears and the premonitory stage image is displayed (see FIG. 16(e)). In this state, the game start operation of the next game is executed, and if the precursory stage image is drawn based on the production command (4), the precursory stage image will be redrawn, and the display of the liquid crystal display 13 will flicker. As a result, the display may appear to be defective. In this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the problem from appearing like this. Control by the effect control means 100 for this purpose will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19. FIG. It should be noted that the control shown in FIG. 18 is performed within a predetermined one game (from the execution of the start lever 24 for starting the predetermined game to the execution of the start lever 24 for starting the next game). The control shown in FIG. 19 is the control executed in the next game of the predetermined game.

First, as shown in FIG. 18, when the transition to the portent effect state is determined, the effect control means 100 determines the execution of the effect associated with the transition from the normal effect state to the portent effect state (step S1). In other words, the effect control means 100 determines to execute the display of FIGS. 16(b) to 16(e). In other words, the effect control means 100 generates the effect commands (1) to (5), and determines to execute the effect based on the effect commands.

Next, the effect control means 100 determines whether or not a predetermined period T has passed since the third stop operation (step S2).

When it is determined that the predetermined period T has passed since the third stop operation (YES in step S2), the effect control means 100 draws the portent stage image on a predetermined layer (step S3).

Next, the effect control means 100 sets the specific flag to the ON state (step S4). The device management means 201 of the effect control means 100 executes the process of setting the specific flag to the ON state. That is, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the device management means 201 stores in the specific flag storage means 67 provided in the sub-side storage means 92 when the drawing of the portent stage image based on the production command (1) is completed. The flag (specific flag) is changed from the OFF state indicating that the drawing processing (display processing) of the precursor stage image has not been performed yet to the ON state indicating that the drawing processing (display processing) of the precursor stage image has been performed. set. Specifically, the device management unit 201 determines that the process of drawing the precursor stage image is completed when a predetermined period of time T has passed since the third stop operation in the game in which the effect command of (1) is transmitted. A specific flag is set to the ON state. It should be noted that the device management unit 201 determines whether or not the rendering process of the precursor stage image has actually been executed, whether or not the precursor stage image is actually displayed, etc., and sets the specific flag to the ON state. may be

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when execution of an effect relating to transition from the normal effect state to the precursor effect state is determined (in the game in which the control shown in FIG. 18 is executed), the third stop operation is performed. If the next game is started before the predetermined period T elapses (if the start lever 24 is operated), the processes of steps S3 and S4 are not executed. In other words, when the next game is started before the predetermined period T elapses after the third stop operation is performed, the precursor stage image is drawn based on the effect command of (1) and the specific flag is set to the ON state. and is not supposed to run. However, the processes of steps S3 and S4 may be executed even when the next game is started before the predetermined period T elapses after the third stop operation is performed.

Next, the control in the game following the game in which the control shown in FIG. 18 is executed will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

When the game start operation of the next game is executed, the effect control means 100 confirms the state of the specific flag (step S11).

When the specific flag is OFF (NO in step S11), the effect control means 100 draws the portent stage image on a predetermined layer (step S12). On the other hand, when the specific flag is ON (YES in step S11), the effect control means 100 does not draw the portent stage image based on the game start operation of the next game.

Here, the control shown in FIG. 19 will be described more specifically. When the device management means 201 receives the effect command of (4), it checks the state of the specific flag. A stage image is drawn on a predetermined layer and displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 . In other words, when the specific flag is OFF, the device management unit 201 draws (displays) the portent stage image based on the effect command of (4).

On the other hand, the device management means 201 receives the effect command of (4), and if the specific flag is ON, discards the effect command. In other words, when the specific flag is ON, the device management unit 201 does not draw (display) the portent stage image based on the effect command of (4).

That is, in the present embodiment, if the game start operation is performed on the start lever 24 before the drawing (display) of the portent stage image triggered by the third stop operation based on the effect command (1), ( Triggered by the game start operation on the start lever 24 based on the effect command of 4), the precursor stage image is drawn (displayed). On the other hand, when the game start operation is performed on the start lever 24 after the drawing (display) of the portent stage image triggered by the third stop operation based on the effect command (1), the effect command (4) is performed. Triggered by the game start operation on the start lever 24 based on , the drawing (display) of the portent stage image is prevented from being performed.

In this embodiment, when the device management means 201 receives the effect command (4), it checks the state of the specific flag, and draws (displays) the portent stage image according to the state of the specific flag. However, not limited to this configuration, it is possible to control whether or not to draw (display) the precursor stage image depending on whether the drawing (display) of the precursor stage image has already been performed. configuration. For example, the timing at which the state management means 200 transmits the effect command (4) to the device management means 201 may be set to a predetermined timing after the drawing (display) of the portent stage image based on the effect command (1). As a timing, the state management means 200 determines whether or not to transmit the effect command (4) according to the state of the specific flag at the timing (whether to instruct drawing (display) of the precursor stage image based on the game start operation). or) may be determined. Further, for example, without preparing a specific flag, a timer capable of measuring the elapsed time after the third stop operation is performed is provided, and when the start lever 24 of the next game is operated, the timer is activated. Whether or not to draw (display) the precursor stage image may be determined depending on whether the indicated elapsed time is longer than or shorter than a predetermined time.

Further, in the present embodiment, the effect control means 100 draws (displays) a precursory stage image triggered by a game start operation on the start lever 24 based on the effect command (4), and also draws (displays) a sign stage image based on the effect command (5). The front side image is erased when the start lever 24 is operated. Note that the erasing of the front side image triggered by the operation of the start lever 24 based on the effect command in (5) may be performed when the process of step S12 is performed (if NO in step S11). This may be performed even if YES in step S11.

In the present embodiment, the drawing of the precursor stage image based on the effect command (4) and the deletion of the front side image based on the effect command (5) are executed when the start lever 24 is operated to start the next game. However, it may be executed based on another operation related to the start of the game. Here, the operation related to the start of the game includes the game start operation with respect to the start lever 24, the operation with respect to the bet button 23 for betting medals, the operation of inserting medals into the medal slot 22 for betting medals, and the like. included.

The gaming machine of the present embodiment includes display means 13 for displaying images, and effect control means 100 for executing control related to display of images on the display means 13. The effect control means 100 controls a plurality of a first control for displaying a specific image (precursor stage image) on the display means 13 after a predetermined period of time has passed since the operation (third stop operation) for the reel to be stopped last among the reels 20a to 20c is executed; a second control for displaying a specific image (precursor stage image) on the display means 13 in response to an operation relating to the start of the game in the game subsequent to the predetermined game; When the specific image (precursor stage image) based on control 1 is displayed, the second control is not executed in the next game.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present embodiment includes display means 13 for displaying an image configured by superimposing a plurality of layers, effect control means 100 for executing control related to image display on the display means 13, and first and information storage means (specific flag storage means 67) for storing information (specific flag storage means 67) capable of determining whether or not the specific image (precursor stage image) has been drawn based on the control, and the effect control means 100 , In a predetermined game, a specific image (precursor stage image) is drawn on a predetermined layer after a predetermined period of time has passed since an operation (third stop operation) for the reel to be stopped last among the plurality of reels 20a to 20c is executed. and a second control for drawing a specific image (precursor stage image) on a predetermined layer triggered by an operation related to the start of the game in the next game after the predetermined game, and Whether or not to execute the second control can be controlled based on the information (specific flag).

The operation for the reel to be stopped last (third stop operation) may be an operation to press the stop button corresponding to the reel to be stopped last. ) may be used.

According to such a configuration, when the specific image is displayed (drawn) based on the first control in the predetermined game, in the next game of the predetermined game, the operation related to the start of the game is triggered. Since the specific image is not displayed (drawn), it is possible to prevent the specific image from being displayed (drawn) again in a state where the specific image has already been displayed (drawn). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the display from flickering on the display means from appearing as if there is a problem with the display. That is, according to this configuration, it is possible to perform an image display that does not give a sense of discomfort.

In addition, in each state where the processing related to the above-mentioned instruction function is not performed, the effects (various displays related to the effect, etc.) when transitioning from the normal effect state to the precursor effect state, and the effects (1) to (5) It is also possible not to perform the transmission/reception of commands, the various processes described with reference to FIG. 18 or 19, and the like. Specifically, when the game is played with two medals inserted, or when the game state is not RBB internal state A (general medium state, RBB internal state B, RBB operating state A or RBB operating In the case of state B), the effect and various processes are not executed, and are executed when the game is played with three medals inserted, or when the game state is RBB internal middle state A. good too.
According to such a configuration, by notifying (suggesting) that the transition to the precursor effect state is made in a scene where the process related to the instruction function is not performed internally, the player has a sense of useless expectation. You can prevent it from happening.

Note that in the present embodiment, the specific image is the precursor stage image, and the above-described control relating to the display of the specific image is performed in the production when the normal production state is changed to the precursor production state. , and the above-described control may be performed at the time of transition of the rendering state other than the transition from the normal rendering state to the portent rendering state. Also, the above-described control may be performed in a scene other than the transition of the rendering state. Moreover, the specific image is not limited to the background image, and may be an image such as a character image, a text image, or a predetermined icon. Also, the specific image may be a moving image (an image of a predetermined (eg, first) frame of a moving image) or a still image.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, the game control form and configuration of the slot machine are not limited to those of the above-described embodiments. Further, the control operation described above can be applied not only to the slot machine but also to other game machines such as a pachinko game machine and a medalless game machine. That is, the present invention can be applied to gaming machines, including slot machines, pachinko gaming machines, medalless gaming machines, and the like.

Also, each component of each embodiment may be replaced with a similar configuration in another embodiment. For example, the production control means 301 in the first to eighth embodiments has the same configuration as the production control means 100 in the ninth embodiment, and may be read as performing the same control. You can read it the other way around.

In addition, within the scope of the present invention, it is possible to freely combine each component of each embodiment, arbitrarily modify each component of each embodiment, or omit each component of each embodiment. is.

For example, in the first to eighth embodiments, the first image, the enlarged image of the first image (or the reduced image of the second image), and the second image are displayed in this order on the liquid crystal display. The second image, the image obtained by reducing the second image (or the image obtained by enlarging the first image), and the first image are displayed in this order. It is good also as combining the control which concerns on, and the control which concerns on the production|presentation at the time of shifting from the normal production|presentation state demonstrated in 9th Embodiment to an omen production|presentation state.

Specifically, for example, an enlargement effect or a reduction effect is executed with a third stop operation in a predetermined game as a trigger. At this time, mode A to mode D may each indicate an effect state, and mode A to mode D (effect states A to D) are automatically executed (for example, an enlarged effect or a reduced effect is executed). Triggered by a game start operation, a third stop operation, or the like in a game before the game to be played). Then, when a predetermined period of time T elapses after the third stop operation in a predetermined game, the image displayed last in the enlargement effect or the reduction effect (final image: the second image in the enlargement effect or the first image in the reduction effect) is displayed. In the case where it is displayed (drawn), if the operation related to the start of the next game is executed before the predetermined period T elapses, the display of the final image triggered by the operation related to the start of the next game ( drawing) is performed, and when an operation related to the start of the next game is executed after the lapse of the predetermined period T, the final image may not be displayed (drawn) triggered by the operation related to the start of the next game. good. Note that the control flow at this time may be the same as that described with reference to FIGS. , S12 may be read as "drawing the second image (or the first image) on a predetermined layer".

Further, in combining the configurations according to the first to eighth embodiments and the configuration according to the ninth embodiment, for example, an intermediate image (an image obtained by enlarging the first image, an image obtained by enlarging the first image, or a An image obtained by reducing the second image) may not be used. Specifically, for example, while the first image (mode selection image) is being displayed, the second image (final image) is displayed (drawn) after a predetermined period of time T has passed since the third stop operation, Between the display of the first image and the display of the second image, the enlarged image of the first image and the reduced image of the second image may not be displayed. In other words, for example, the full-size first image (mode selection image) may be displayed until the predetermined period T elapses. In such a configuration, when the operation for starting the next game is executed before the predetermined period T elapses, the display of the second image (the final image) is triggered by the operation for starting the next game. (drawing) is performed, and when an operation related to the start of the next game is executed after the lapse of the predetermined period T, a second image (final image) is displayed (drawn) triggered by the operation related to the start of the next game. may not be performed.

Further, in combining the configurations according to the first to eighth embodiments and the configuration according to the ninth embodiment, the first image is (In the case of enlargement effect), the image obtained by enlarging the first image, the image obtained by reducing the second image, or the second image (in the case of reduction effect) is covered with the front image, and the third stop operation is triggered. The final image drawn may be drawn in a layer lower than the front image. Specifically, for example, with the third stop operation in a predetermined game as a trigger, an effect is executed in which a specific mode is selected in the mode selection image, and the front side image changes to the mode until a predetermined period T elapses. The selected image (first image) may be covered, and the second image may be drawn on the back side of the front side image after a predetermined period T has elapsed.

13 liquid crystal display (display means)
20a, 20b, 20c reel 43 reel control means 67 specific flag storage means (information storage means)
100 production control means

Claims (1)

a plurality of reels;
display means for displaying an image;
a production state control means for shifting the production state between a plurality of types of production states;
Effect control means for executing control related to display of images on the display means,
The production control means is
A specific image is displayed on the display means after a predetermined period of time has passed since the last reel to be stopped among the plurality of reels is operated in a predetermined game based on the determination of the transition to the predetermined effect state. a first control for displaying
a second control for displaying the specific image on the display means in response to an operation related to the start of the game in the game subsequent to the predetermined game;
The specific image is a background image corresponding to the predetermined rendering state,
A gaming machine characterized in that, when the specific image is displayed based on the first control in the predetermined game, the second control is not executed in the next game.

Images