JP7295453B2 - Gaming machines and gaming systems - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines.

Patent Document 1 discloses a gaming machine that shifts from a non-advantageous section to an advantageous section by winning a lottery.

JP 2021-122451 A

In the gaming machine, when the number of increased medals in the advantageous section exceeds 2400, the game is shifted to the non-advantageous section, but the increased number of medals in the advantageous section is neither reported nor suggested. For this reason, it is difficult to determine how many medals can be obtained in the gaming machine, which may lead to a decrease in the player's desire to play.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to realize a gaming machine capable of avoiding a decrease in motivation to play due to an advantageous section.

A gaming machine according to one aspect of the present invention includes:
When the game section is an advantageous section and a termination condition is satisfied, the advantageous section is shifted to a normal section,
a control device for measuring a difference between the number of game media paid out and the number of game media inserted in the advantageous section, with reference to the transition to the advantageous section;
The gaming machine, wherein the termination condition includes reaching a predetermined value of zero or more of the difference number,
The control device is
During the advantageous interval, the first information, which is information regarding the remaining difference number until the difference number reaches the predetermined value, can be notified or suggested in a manner that the player can comprehend.

A game system according to one aspect of the present invention includes:
When the game section is an advantageous section and a termination condition is satisfied, the advantageous section is shifted to a normal section,
a control device for measuring a difference between the number of game media paid out and the number of game media inserted in the advantageous section, with reference to the transition to the advantageous section;
The gaming machine, wherein the termination condition includes reaching a predetermined value of zero or more of the difference number,
The control device is
The game is configured to be able to notify or suggest first information, which is information regarding the remaining difference number until the difference number reaches the predetermined value, in a manner that the player can comprehend during the advantageous interval. machine and
and a notification device capable of notifying or suggesting the first information.

According to the gaming machine and gaming system of the aspect, it is possible to realize a gaming machine capable of avoiding a decrease in motivation to play due to an advantageous section.

1 is a front view of a slot machine, which is a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the slot machine of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the arrangement of rotating reels of the slot machine of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the pay lines of the slot machine of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a first game state of the slot machine of FIG. 1; A diagram for explaining a second game state of the slot machine of FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a third game state of the slot machine of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining game sections of the slot machine of FIG. 1; 2 is a diagram for explaining the contents of an internal lottery table of the slot machine of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a first difference number; FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a second difference number; FIG. 2 is a flowchart for explaining calling processing of the first information of the slot machine of FIG. 1; FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining notification mode switching processing of the slot machine of FIG. 1;

A slot machine 1, which is an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, includes a rectangular parallelepiped housing 10, as shown in FIG. The housing 10 has an opening (not shown) on the front surface (that is, the surface on the front side in the penetrating direction of the plane of FIG. 1) and a plate-like front door 20 capable of opening and closing the opening.

The front door 20 has a translucent display window 21 provided substantially in the center thereof, and is attached to the housing 10 so as to be lockable. The display window 21 is arranged so that a plurality of patterns arranged on the surface of each rotation reel 41, 42, 43 to be described later can be visually recognized in a state where the opening of the housing 10 is closed by the front door 20. FIG.

The housing 10 also includes a liquid crystal display device 22 , which is an example of a display device, an illumination device 23 and a speaker 24 . Each of the liquid crystal display device 22 , the illumination device 23 and the speaker 24 is arranged above the display window 21 of the front door 20 . Various effects during the game are performed using the liquid crystal display device 22 , the illumination device 23 and the speaker 24 . For example, the liquid crystal display device 22 displays various effect images (effect moving images), predetermined information, and the like during a game. The illumination device 23 turns on or off in a predetermined pattern when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and the speaker 24 outputs a predetermined sound when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

The housing 10 also has a payout port 25 through which medals are paid out, a lower tray 26 for storing medals paid out from the payout port 25, and an operation unit 30. Dispensing port 25 , lower tray 26 and operation unit 30 are each arranged below display window 21 of front door 20 .

The operation unit 30 includes a medal slot 31 for inserting medals as an example of game media, a bet switch 32 for betting medals, and rotating reels 41, 41 and 41 which are operably provided on the front door 20 and operated. It has a start switch 33 for rotating reels 42 and 43, and stop switches 34, 35 and 36 which are operably provided on the front door 20 and which are operated to stop the rotating reels 41, 42 and 43, respectively. Each switch of the operation unit 30 outputs an operation signal based on the player's operation. A medal sensor (not shown) is provided in the medal insertion slot 31 to detect insertion of medals into the medal insertion slot 31 by the player and output a detection signal.

The operation unit 30 is also provided with a settlement switch (not shown), a stored medal display unit (not shown), which is an example of a display unit, and the like. This stored medal display section is configured to be able to display, in addition to the number of stored medals, that the later-described game section is an advantageous section.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the slot machine 1 includes a control device 100 that controls the entire slot machine 1, a rotating reel unit 40, a rotating reel position detection sensor 44, and a hopper unit 50 that pays out medals. . The control device 100, the rotating reel unit 40, the rotating reel position detection sensor 44, and the hopper unit 50 are a power supply (not shown) that turns on/off the main power of the slot machine 1, and change the setting values of the slot machine 1. It is arranged inside the housing 10 together with a setting unit 45 and the like operated by the administrator when performing the operation.

The rotating reel unit 40 is arranged substantially in the center inside the housing 10, and drives a plurality of rotating reels (three rotating reels 41, 42, 43 in this embodiment) and the rotating reels 41, 42, 43. It is composed of stepping motors 61 , 62 and 63 . Each of the rotating reels 41, 42, 43 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and as shown in FIG. Symbols and reference points (not shown) are provided. The reference point is arranged, for example, at the center of the zero-numbered pattern (bell A) on the reels 41, 42, and 43. As shown in FIG.

Here, an outline of the game played on the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, when a game is played on the slot machine 1, first, medals are inserted from the medal slot 31, or accumulated medals (that is, credits) are used by operating the bet switch 32. to bet medals. When a predetermined number of medals (for example, 1 to 3) are betted, the activated line 70 is activated, and the start switch 33 can be operated, that is, the game can be started. become. At this time, the medals inserted in excess of the prescribed number set according to the game state or the like are accumulated as credits.

As shown in FIG. 4, the pay line 70 is a virtual line for determining the winning of a winning combination. connected one by one. In the slot machine 1, the activated line 70 is composed of, for example, a downward sloping line, and is activated by betting a predetermined number of medals (for example, three). As an example, the symbols displayed on the display window 21 of the slot machine 1 are three symbols for each rotating reel.

When the start switch 33 is operated in a state in which a game can be started, a lottery (hereinafter referred to as an internal lottery) is conducted by an electronic computer within the slot machine 1, and the reels 41, 42 and 43 are rotated. be started. In this state, when one of the stop switches 34, 35, 36 is operated, the rotating reels 41, 42, 43 corresponding to the operated stop switch 34, 35, 36 are stopped and the display window 21 is hit. Results are displayed according to the role played. When all the rotating reels 41, 42, 43 are stopped, a predetermined number of medals are paid out according to the winning combination, and one game ends. In this embodiment, when all the rotating reels 41, 42, 43 are stopped and a combination of symbols set for each winning combination by internal lottery is arranged on the pay line 70, the pay line 70 is displayed. It is determined that the combination corresponding to the combination of symbols arranged above has won. It should be noted that the case where the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination does not stop on the activated line 70 (so-called loss) is also included in winning.

Thus, a series of actions to obtain a game result by operating the bet switch 32, the start switch 33 and the stop switches 34, 35, 36 is called a game. The game unit is a game, and one game is called a unit game.

Also, during the game, one game section is set out of a plurality of game sections, and one game state is set out of a plurality of game states. Then, an internal lottery is performed based on the set game section and game state. The game state includes a first game state, a second game state and a third game state, as shown in FIGS.

The first game state is a game state for determining the type of flag such as replay (see FIG. 9) and the winning probability of the combination to be won by the internal lottery (hereinafter simply referred to as winning combination). As shown in FIG. 5, it consists of RT0 and RT1.

RT0 is set when the second game state transitions from the special combination execution state to the special combination non-carry-over state, or when the game state is initialized (reset) (for example, when the RAM is cleared) (that is, the first The game state shifts from RT1 to RT0). Also, the first game state immediately after the slot machine 1 is installed in a game hall or the like is also set to RT0. In other words, the first gaming state is all set to RT0, except when the type BB is being executed.

RT1 is set when the second game state shifts from the special combination non-carry-over state to the special combination execution state (that is, the first game state shifts from RT0 to RT1). In RT1, as shown in FIG. 9, there is no possibility of winning a replay hand and a kind of BB.

The second game state includes a special role non-carried-over state in which the winning of the first-class BB won by the internal lottery is not carried over, a special role-carried-over state in which the winning of the first-class BB won by the internal lottery is carried over, and a winning one. and a special role execution state for executing BB.

The special role non-carrying state is when the number of medals paid out from the transition to the special role execution state exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 180 or 2), or when predetermined conditions such as initialization of the game state are met. Set if satisfied.

The special role carry-over state is set when a type BB is won by an internal lottery and the winning type BB does not win a prize in the game. The type BB is a type continuous operation device (so-called big bonus) relating to a type of special type, and is an example of a type of special type. If the type BB is carried over, the lottery for the type BB is not performed. The type BB carried over is configured not to disappear even if the setting value is changed, but it may be configured to disappear.

The special role implementation state is set when a special role is won and won by internal lottery, and a kind of BB implementation state (indicated by BB general in FIG. 6) and RB carryover state (in FIG. 6, JAC inside ) and RB implementation state (shown in JAC in FIG. 6). General BB is set when a special combination wins. General BB is an example of a non-internal state of the prize, and is set when the RB (JAC in FIG. 9), which is an example of a special prize, is not won by an internal lottery. The inside of JAC is an example of the internal state of the accessory, and is set when RB (that is, JAC in FIG. 9) is won by the internal lottery when the second game state is BB general, and RB has not won. be. During JAC is an example of a state in which the prize is executed, and is set when the winning RB wins. During JAC, after completing 12 games from the time of transition to JAC, or by winning 8 times in some role during JAC, transition to BB general.

The third game state is a state for determining effects to be performed during a game, and as an example, as shown in FIG. 7, it is composed of a normal game state and an AT.

The normal game state is a state in which no instruction function occurs, and is set, for example, after changing the set value, after clearing the RAM, after the end of the AT, and until the AT lottery is won. The slot machine 1 has, as general gaming states, a normal state and a high-probability state (so-called chance zone (CZ)) in which the probability of winning the AT lottery is higher than in the normal state. For example, AT lottery is performed according to a winning combination won by internal lottery when the first game state is RT0 and the game section is an advantageous section. The transition from the normal state to the high probability state is performed, for example, when the internal lottery is performed when the first game state is RT0 and the game section is the advantageous section, and as a result, the AT lottery is not won. It is done by winning a high-probability state transition lottery. Further, the transition from the normal state to the high-probability state is performed when the number of games in the case where the first game state is RT0 and the game section is the advantageous section reaches within a predetermined range.

AT is an example of an advantageous state in which the instruction function occurs, until the number of games that have elapsed since the third game state shifted to AT reaches the number of games that can be played in AT (that is, the number of AT games) set. In the AT, the pushing order of the pushing order with the payout of medals is notified, and the expected value of obtaining medals is higher than that in the normal game state (for example, normal state).

The AT and high-probability state are examples of advantageous states that are more advantageous to the player than the normal state, and the AT lottery and the high-probability state transition lottery are examples of the advantageous state lottery. Also, an extended lottery for AT or a high-probability state may be included in the advantageous state lottery.

The game section is a state for determining whether or not the processing related to the instruction function is to be performed, and as an example, as shown in FIG. 8, it is composed of an advantageous section and a normal section. Processing related to the instruction function includes direct processing related to the instruction right such as adding and continuing the instruction function, indirect processing such as the lottery state and its state transition (reduction of the number of games played, etc.), and ending the advantageous section It means the process to let

The advantageous section is a section in which processing related to the instruction function and lottery can be executed, and the advantageous section ends after the game section wins the section transition lottery based on the results of the internal lottery performed in the normal section. It is set until the condition is met. The advantageous interval includes an advantageous interval in which the third game state progresses in the normal game state, and an advantageous interval in which the third game state progresses in the advantageous game state (for example, AT). The advantageous game state may be any state (for example, ART) that suggests an advantageous operation mode when there is an advantage or disadvantage depending on the operation mode, and is not limited to AT.

The normal section is a section in which processing related to the instruction function and drawing cannot be executed, and is set when an advantageous section is not set as a game section. In other words, in the normal section, navigating the information related to the operation of the stop switches 34, 35, 36 (for example, the operation mode of the stop switches 34, 35, 36 set to the operation mode role) is also an advantageous gaming state (slot In the machine 1, it is not possible to perform a transfer lottery to AT) or to transfer to an advantageous game state. In the normal section, the third game state progresses in the general game state.

The instruction function is a function of teaching the player an operation procedure (for example, the order of pushing the winning combination) or an operation method that affects the ball output. The function of instructing the pushing order of the pushing order that can be won by operating according to the procedure, or the positions of the rotating reels 41, 42, 43 when the stop switches 34, 35, 36 are operated are predetermined. It means the function to indicate the operation position of the combination that can win a prize when it is the operation position. That is, AT is set as the third game state only when the game section is the advantageous section.

Next, the control device 100 will be described. The control device 100 is composed of a main control section 110 and a sub-control section 120, as shown in FIG.

Each of the main control unit 110 and the sub-control unit 120 includes a CPU that performs calculations and the like, and a storage device (for example, ROM and RAM) that stores programs or data necessary for the progress of a game. The main control unit 110 includes an internal lottery unit 111, a rotating reel control unit 112, a game result determination unit 113, a section control unit 114, a game state control unit 115, a measurement unit 116, and a set value control unit 117. and controls the progress of the game. The sub control unit 120 has an effect control unit 121 and performs control for performing various effects and the like.

Each unit of the main control unit 110 and the sub-control unit 120 described below is a function realized by the CPU executing a predetermined program.

The internal lottery section 111 has a plurality of internal lottery tables, and conducts an internal lottery upon reception of the operation of the start switch 33 . Specifically, the internal lottery section 111 determines the first game state (in other words, RT state) when the operation of the start switch 33 is accepted, and selects an internal lottery table based on the determined RT state. Then, the internal lottery section 111 conducts an internal lottery based on the selected internal lottery table and the random number obtained when the operation of the start switch 33 is accepted.

For example, the winning combination is determined based on the internal lottery table shown in FIG. This internal lottery table is provided for each RT state, and has information on winning areas that may be won by the internal lottery. At least one winning combination associated with a combination of symbols is set in the winning area.

In FIG. 9, for each of the RT state and the second game state, the winning areas with the possibility of winning are indicated by "O", and the winning areas with no possibility of winning are indicated by "X". That is, each internal lottery table is provided with a plurality of areas (numerical area) in which wins corresponding to random numbers obtained when the start switch 33 is operated are stored. are associated with the winning areas indicated by "O" in FIG.

The reel control unit 112 controls the stepping motors 61, 62, 63 of the reel unit 40 in accordance with reception of the operation of the start switch 33 or the stop switches 34, 35, 36, and Starts or stops the rotation of 43 (ie, controls the rotation of reels 41, 42, 43).

For example, when the start switch 33 is operated while all the reels 41, 42 and 43 are stopped, the reel control section 112 rotates all the reels 41, 42 and 43. When any one of the reels 41, 42, 43 is rotating and the stop switches 34, 35, 36 corresponding to the rotating reels 41, 42, 43 are operated, the reel control unit 112 , the reels 41, 42, 43 corresponding to the operated stop switches 34, 35, 36 are stopped.

When stopping the reels 41, 42, 43, the reel control unit 112 determines the combination won by the internal lottery and the timing at which each stop switch 34, 35, 36 is operated (that is, each stop switch 34, 35 , 36 are received, the position of the corresponding reels 41, 42, and 43), pull-in control or kick-off control is performed. The pull-in control is a control to stop the rotation of each of the rotary reels 41, 42, 43 so as to pull the symbol corresponding to the winning combination onto the pay line 70. FIG. Kicking control is control to stop the rotation of the rotary reels 41 , 42 , 43 so that the symbols corresponding to the winning combination are not aligned on the pay line 70 .

The game result determination unit 113 determines the game result based on the result of the internal lottery and the result of the stop control of the rotating reels 41 , 42 and 43 . The result of the game includes, for example, determination of whether or not the winning combination is won based on the symbols arranged on the pay line 70 .

The game result determination unit 113 controls the hopper unit 50 and pays out medals based on the determined game result or reception of the operation of the settlement switch. The medals paid out based on the result of the game (that is, the medals obtained by winning a role or winning a prize) are first accumulated as credits. As a result of accumulating medals, when the upper limit of credits (for example, 50) is exceeded, the medals exceeding the upper limit are paid out from the hopper unit 50 . Also, when there are one or more stored medals (that is, when the credit is one or more) and the payment switch is operated, the stored medals are paid out from the hopper unit 50 .

For example, when the third gaming state shifts to AT, the game result determination unit 113 outputs a signal indicating that the third gaming state has shifted to AT to the hall computer to notify the administrator.

The zone control unit 114 sets a game zone from among a plurality of game zones (regular zone and advantageous zone in the slot machine 1).

For example, the zone control unit 114 sets the game zone to the advantageous zone when the game zone is the normal zone and the zone transition condition is satisfied (for example, when the zone transition lottery is won). Whether the section transition lottery is successful or not is determined, for example, by whether or not the player wins the lottery performed when the section transition lottery (that is, the lottery target combination) is won by the internal lottery. In the section transition lottery, the winning probability may be varied depending on the setting value of the slot machine 1, or may not be provided. When providing a difference in the winning probability of the section transition lottery, for example, it may be realized by providing a set difference in the winning probability in the internal lottery of the lottery target role, or it is performed when the lottery target role is won by the internal lottery. It may be realized by providing a set difference in the winning probability of the lottery.

When the game interval is the advantageous interval, the interval control unit 114 determines whether the game interval remains the advantageous interval or is set as the normal interval. For example, the section control unit 114 determines whether or not the third game state has shifted from AT to the normal state of the general game state, and when it is determined that the state has shifted to the normal state, the game section is changed from the advantageous section to the normal state. Set to interval.

The slot machine 1 has end conditions for a plurality of advantageous sections. When one of a plurality of end conditions is satisfied, the zone control unit 114 shifts the game zone from the advantageous zone to the normal zone to end the advantageous zone. The plurality of end conditions include when the difference between the number of medals paid out and the number of medals inserted (refer to FIG. 10, hereinafter referred to as the first difference) exceeds zero with respect to the transition to the advantageous section. At least one first terminating condition that is satisfiable and at least one second terminating condition different from the first terminating condition are included. In other words, the first termination condition is configured to be satisfiable during the period when the first difference exceeds zero (shown as the first termination condition satisfiable period in FIG. 10). In this embodiment, the second termination condition is configured to be satisfied regardless of the first difference. The second condition includes that a predetermined game condition is satisfied and a predetermined first difference condition is satisfied.

An example of the first end condition is shown below.
- When the first difference number reaches a predetermined value equal to or greater than zero (for example, 2400 or the upper limit) after the game section is set as the advantageous section. The upper limit is any value greater than or equal to zero.

An example of the second end condition is shown below. That is, the second termination condition can include any one, any plurality, or all of the following conditions. For example, the second end condition may or may not include "when an arbitrary set value is set".
When the number of games (in other words, the number of games played in the advantageous section) after the game section was set as the advantageous section reaches a predetermined value (for example, 3000 games).
・When an arbitrary setting value is set.
- When an arbitrary setting value is set and the first difference number is larger than a predetermined value. That is, the section control unit 114 is configured to be able to control the end of the advantageous section based on the first difference when the set value is set. Any value can be set as the predetermined value. For example, the predetermined value may be zero, minus 1000, or plus 1000.
・When the condition regarding the carryover of the winning of the special role (in this embodiment, a kind of BB) is satisfied. For example, when the game section is an advantageous section and the second game state is other than the "special role carryover state", and the game state reset operation described later is performed, the condition regarding the carryover of winnings of the type BB is satisfied. be done.
· When the advantageous gaming state (AT in this embodiment) ends.
・When it shifts to a predetermined RT.
・When the winning probability of the predetermined flag changes.
・If you win a type BB, or if you win a type BB, or if the type BB ends.
・When the CZ entering when the first difference number or the second difference number is plus the predetermined number of cards cannot be broken through.

For example, when transitioning from a first advantageous section to a normal section and then transitioning from the normal section to a second advantageous section, the second advantageous section has one of a plurality of termination conditions similar to the first advantageous section. It is configured to shift to the normal section when one is satisfied. In other words, the section control unit 114 converts the second advantageous section into a normal section according to the same rule as for the first advantageous section, that is, depending on whether either the first end condition or the second end condition is satisfied. Move and finish. Also, the second advantageous section is configured to be able to pay out a different number of medals than the first advantageous section. For example, the predetermined value of the first end condition is 2400, the minimum medal difference in the first advantageous section is minus 1000, and the minimum medal difference in the second advantageous section is minus. Suppose there were 100 sheets. When each advantageous section ends according to the first end condition, 1000+2400=3400 medals may be paid out in the first advantageous section, and 100+2400=2500 medals may be paid out in the second advantageous section. there is a possibility.

When the game section shifts to the advantageous section, the section control unit 114 activates the instruction function during the advantageous section and activates the character (for example, RB or CT) and the character continuous actuating device (for example, a kind of BB). Only when the average ball payout rate exceeds 100% when the game is advanced so as to win the maximum number of payouts of small wins except the above, it is indicated that it is an advantageous section via a display part provided in the operation part 30. - 特許庁display.

The game state control unit 115 has an advantageous game state lottery unit 1151, and controls transitions among the first game state, the second game state and the third game state.

For example, the gaming state control unit 115 sets one RT state in which internal lottery is performed from among a plurality of RT states (RT0 and RT1 in this embodiment). Specifically, as described above, the gaming state control unit 115 sets the first gaming state to RT0 when the second gaming state shifts to the special combination non-carried over state, and the second gaming state changes to the special combination execution state. , the first game state is set to RT1. In addition, the gaming state control unit 115 shifts the second gaming state to each of the BB general, JAC internal, and JAC gaming states when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

The advantageous game state lottery unit 1151 determines whether to shift the game state to an advantageous game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state when a preset lottery condition (hereinafter simply referred to as a lottery condition) is satisfied. Advantageous game state lottery of whether or not is performed.

The advantageous game state lottery includes AT lottery and AT extended lottery. For example, in the AT lottery, when the first game state is RT0, the third game state is the normal game state, and the game section is an advantageous section, a predetermined combination (eg, cherry, watermelon, etc.) is drawn by internal lottery. It is done when you hit the so-called rare role). Also, for example, in the AT extended lottery, when the first gaming state is RT0 and the third gaming state is AT, a predetermined hand (for example, a so-called rare hand such as cherry, watermelon, etc.) is won by an internal lottery. It is done when you win.

The gaming state control unit 115 is configured to change the ball payout performance depending on whether the first difference is positive or negative. Ball output performance refers to overall processing related to the level of the ball output rate, and includes medal increase performance during AT and addition performance of the number of AT games. For example, when the first difference is negative, the gaming state control unit 115 makes the medal increase performance higher than when the first difference is positive. In other words, when the first difference is positive, the number of medals increased per game decreases compared to when the first difference is negative. The number of games is increased, and the AT becomes longer.

For example, based on the game result determined by the game result determination unit 113, the measurement unit 116 measures the number of games (that is, the number of games completed in the advantageous interval) that have elapsed since the game interval was set as the advantageous interval, 1 Difference (= Difference between the number of medals paid out and the number of medals inserted based on the transition to the advantageous section) and/or the maximum difference between the number of medals paid out and the number of medals inserted in the advantageous section The difference between the value and the minimum value (see FIG. 11, hereinafter referred to as the second difference number) is measured. The first difference number and the second difference number are more specifically cumulative values. Also, for example, the measurement unit 116 measures the time that has elapsed from a set starting point after all the reels 41, 42, and 43 have been rotating normally.

The measurement of the first difference number and the second difference number is performed, for example, under the following conditions.
・The first difference and the second difference are measured during the advantageous section.
・When the game section shifts from the advantageous section to the normal section, the first difference number and the second difference number measured during the advantageous section before the shift are reset to zero.
・When the game section shifts from the normal section to the advantageous section, the first difference number and the second difference number are counted from zero.

The setting value control unit 117 selects one setting value from among a plurality of setting values (six in this embodiment) that differ in the degree of advantage (for example, machine discount) to the game by the administrator operating the setting unit 45. set. The difference in the degree of advantage is realized, for example, by providing a difference in the probability of winning an internal lottery for a predetermined combination. In addition, the set value control unit 117 sets the rate of transition to the advantageous section, the AT lottery, the AT additional lottery, and the like, and sets the degree of advantage related to ball output, according to the set set value.

An example of how to set the setting value is shown below. This method is performed in the order of (1) to (7).
(1) Open the front door 20 .
(2) Turn off the main power of the slot machine 1; When the main power source of the slot machine 1 is turned off, all rotating reels 41, 42, and 43 are stopped, but winning determination is not performed by stopping the reels 41, 42, and 43.
(3) Insert a setting change key in a predetermined position of the setting section 45 to change the setting change mode from off to on.
(4) Turn on the main power of the slot machine 1;
(5) The current set value is displayed, for example, on the medal display section of the operation section 30 . By operating a predetermined button, the set value displayed on the medal display section is adjusted to a desired set value.
(6) Operate the start switch 33; By operating the start switch 33, the set value of the slot machine 1 is changed to the set value displayed on the medal display section.
(7) Change the setting change mode from ON to OFF and extract the setting change key.

The effect control unit 121 determines the effect for each game based on the game state in which the internal lottery is performed and the result of the internal lottery, and determines the effect through the liquid crystal display device 22, the illumination device 23, and the speaker 24. to output the determined effect.

The effect control unit 121 notifies the first information, which is information about the number of remaining differences until the first difference number reaches a predetermined value (for example, 2400 sheets), in a manner that the player can comprehend during the advantageous interval. Configured to be possible or suggestible. The first information includes, for example, a specific numerical value or suggestive information indicating the "remaining difference number" and a specific numerical value or suggestive information indicating the "first difference number". In this embodiment, the effect control unit 121, when the game section is the advantageous section and the game state is the general game state, or when the game section is the advantageous section and the game state is the advantageous game state, the first Information can be reported or suggested. That is, the effect control unit 121 can notify or suggest the first information regardless of the game state if the game section is the advantageous section.

The first information includes the liquid crystal display device 22 (main liquid crystal), the illumination device 23 and the speaker 24, as well as the sub liquid crystal (not shown), a character (not shown), and a blower that blows air toward the player. (not shown) and a vibrating device (not shown) that vibrates any part of the housing 10, or the like. In addition to the liquid crystal display device 22 (main liquid crystal), illumination device 23 and speaker 24, the sub-liquid crystal, accessories, air blower, vibration device, etc. are examples of the notification device.

An example of the notification mode or suggestion mode of the first information is shown below.
- Notification of the first information by numbers or graphs displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 . The first information may be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 together with the game data such as the history of small wins and the number of times of entering the CZ, or may be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 alone.
- The first information is suggested by the character displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 or the conversation content of the character.
- Suggest the first information by using the effect displayed on the sub-liquid crystal or the illumination device 23 . For example, when the number of remaining differences is 4000 or more, a yellow effect is displayed on the sub liquid crystal, or the illumination device 23 is caused to emit yellow light, and when the number of remaining differences is 6000 or more, a green color is displayed on the sub liquid crystal. An effect is displayed or the illumination device 23 is illuminated in green, and if the remaining difference number is 8000 or more, a red effect is displayed on the sub liquid crystal or the illumination device 23 is illuminated in red. .
- The first information is notified or suggested by the sound output from the speaker 24 .

An example of suggesting the first information during a game by the character or the conversation content of the character displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 will be described below.
(A) When character A is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22, it is suggested that the number of remaining differences is "large", and when character B is displayed, it is suggested that the number of remaining differences is "small". It is suggested.
・(B) If the content of the character's conversation can be read as being in a lively and energetic state, such as "You have plenty of time!" is in a sluggish state such as "I'm tired", it suggests that the residual difference number is "small".

(A) and (B) are output as one pattern of effects during a game, for example, when the following conditions are satisfied.
・If you win a lottery that is held regardless of the winning hand during the game.
・If you win the lottery that is held according to the winning role during the game.
- When a predetermined winning combination (eg, Bell) is won a predetermined number of times (eg, 10 times) during the game.
- When a predetermined combination (for example, watermelon) is aligned on the effective line 70 during the game.
・When the points accumulated according to the winning combination during the game, the output effect, etc. reach a predetermined value.

(A) and (B) may be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 not only during a game, but also by pressing a predetermined switch (for example, the operation switch 37) or touching the sub liquid crystal.

If the game state is an advantageous game state (AT in this embodiment), the effect control unit 121 is the first information and the second information about the number of medals that can be obtained in AT or the number of medals that have been obtained. Information can be notified by a notification device (for example, the liquid crystal display device 22). The second information includes specific numerical values indicating the number of medals that can be obtained or the number of medals that have been obtained in the AT, or suggestive information using icons, pictures, or the like. When the liquid crystal display device 22 has a plurality of screens, the effect control section 121 can be configured to display the first information on a screen different from the screen on which the second information of the liquid crystal display device 22 is displayed. . A "screen" is, for example, a moving image or a still image displayed on the liquid crystal screen of the main liquid crystal or the sub liquid crystal. The "plurality of screens" may all be displayed simultaneously in one hierarchy, or may be divided into multiple hierarchies and displayed. For example, the effect control unit 121 calls the first information when a predetermined calling operation is performed on the slot machine 1 via the operation device 37 provided in the operation unit 30, and displays the information on the liquid crystal display device. 22. At this time, the second information is displayed on a screen in a layer different from that of the first information without being called. As a result, it becomes easy to understand what information is being displayed, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of confusion regarding the displayed information.

The effect control unit 121 is configured to be able to automatically switch the notification mode to the first mode or the second mode when the switching condition is satisfied. The notification mode is a mode regarding notification or non-report of the first information. The first mode is a notification mode in which the first information can be notified, and the second mode is a notification mode in which the first information cannot be notified.

For example, the effect control unit 121 sets the notification mode to the second mode during a specific period, and automatically sets the notification mode to the first mode after the specific period has elapsed. In this case, the switching condition includes elapse of a specific period. The specific period is, for example, a period of time after a game state reset operation or after a power failure recovery and until a specific condition is satisfied. The operation of resetting the game state includes an operation of clearing the RAM and an operation of setting an arbitrary setting value out of a plurality of setting values. When the game state is reset by the reset action of the game state, the game section is reset in addition to the game state. The effect control unit 121 sets the notification mode to the second mode in a specific period regardless of whether or not there is a set value setting operation. When the gaming state is reset while the notification mode is in the first mode, the effect control unit 121 switches the notification mode from the first mode to the second mode. When the reset operation of the game state is performed while the notification mode is the second mode, the effect control unit 121 resets the notification mode to the second mode. At this time, the specific period is reset. This makes it difficult to determine whether or not the set value has been changed.

Specific conditions include, for example, conditions that require a certain amount of play. An example of specific conditions is shown below.
・Winning AT or CZ at least once from the opening of the game center or the start of the game of the player.
- A predetermined number of games (for example, 500 games) or more have been played since the amusement center opened or the player started playing.
Winning a predetermined number of times (for example, 70 times) in a predetermined small winning combination (for example, replay) from the start of operation of the game center or the start of the game by the player.
- Generating a predetermined number of times (for example, once) from the start of operation of the game arcade or the start of a game by a player (for example, a kind of BB winning effect).

An example of switching conditions is shown below.
・When a special period has passed.
・When the set date and time is reached. As a result, for example, on Saturdays and Sundays or event days at amusement centers, the notification mode is switched to the second mode so that the first information is not notified or suggested, and on weekdays, the notification mode is switched so that the first information is notified or suggested. can be switched to the first mode.

The effect control unit 121 is configured to be capable of executing an attract effect that notifies or suggests whether or not the first difference exceeds zero without playing a game. For example, the effect control unit 121 turns the notification device on when an attract effect execution operation is performed on the slot machine 1 in a state where all the rotating reels 41, 42, and 43 are stopped and medals are not bet. Execute the attraction production via. The attract effect may be configured to be executable only when the notification mode is the first mode, or may be configured to be executable regardless of the notification mode.

Attract production execution operations include, for example, the following operations.
An operation performed using at least one of the bed switch 32, the start switch 33, the stop switches 34, 35, 36, and the operation device 37;
A leaving operation of leaving the slot machine 1 for a certain period of time without playing a game.
・Payment operation by operating the payment switch.
- Recovery operation for recovering the slot machine 1 from an error.

The effect control unit 121 is configured to be able to suggest a set value according to the advantageous section (=all of the advantageous section) or the number of differences in a predetermined period in the advantageous section. For example, when the first difference number or the second difference number in the advantageous interval is positive by 1000 or more, the effect control unit 121 draws lots at the end of the advantageous interval and outputs an effect suggesting the set value. When an effect suggesting a set value is output, the greater the first difference number or the second difference number, the more likely the suggestive effect is output. Alternatively, the smaller the first difference number or the second difference number, the higher the probability of outputting an effect suggesting the set value. The predetermined period in the advantageous interval may be part of the advantageous interval, and includes, for example, any period visible to the player (for example, the period from the start to the end of one AT). The difference in the predetermined period may be the first difference or the second difference, or may be the difference between the number of medals paid out and the number of inserted medals in an advantageous gaming state (AT in this embodiment).

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the first information calling process will be described. As an example, the processing described below is performed by the CPU of the control device 100 executing a predetermined program.

As shown in FIG. 12, the sub-control unit 120 determines whether or not the game section has shifted from the normal section to the advantageous section and the advantageous section has started (step S1). Step S1 is repeated until it is determined that the advantageous section has started.

When it is determined that the advantageous section has started, the main control unit 110 measures the first difference number (step S2), and the sub-control unit 120 determines whether or not an operation to call up the first information has been performed. (Step S3).

When it is determined that the calling operation has been performed, the sub-controller 120 determines whether or not the notification mode is the first mode (step S4). If the notification mode is determined to be the first mode, the sub-controller 120 calls the first information and notifies or suggests the first information via the notification device (step S5). The calculation of the first information is performed by either main control section 110 or sub control section 120 . When the main control unit 110 calculates the first information, the calculated first information is stored in the storage device. The sub-controller 120 acquires the first information from the storage device. When the sub-controller 12 calculates the first information, the first difference number is stored in the storage device. The sub-controller 120 acquires the first difference number from the storage device and calculates the first information. On the other hand, if the notification mode is not determined to be the first mode (that is, if the notification mode is the second mode), the sub-control unit 120 does not accept the calling operation and does not call the first information ( step S6).

Now, with reference to FIG. 13, the notification mode switching process will be described. As shown in FIG. 13, the sub-control unit 120 automatically sets the notification mode to the second mode (step S11) after reset operation of the game state or after power failure recovery, and determines whether the specific condition is satisfied. is determined (step S12). Step S11 is repeated until it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied. In other words, the notification mode is maintained as the second mode until the specific condition is satisfied. When it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied, the sub-control unit 120 automatically sets the notification mode to the first mode (step S13), and the notification mode switching process ends.

After steps S5 and S6, or when it is determined that the calling operation has not been performed in step S3, the sub-control unit 120 determines whether the game section has changed from the advantageous section to the normal section and the advantageous section has ended. (step S7). In the slot machine 1, the advantageous section does not end with the first difference less than zero unless the second end condition is satisfied. When it is determined that the advantageous section has ended, the main control unit 110 erases the measured first information, and the calling process of the first information ends. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the advantageous section has ended, the process returns to step S2, and the measuring unit 116 continues measuring the first information.

According to the slot machine 1, the following effects can be exhibited.

The slot machine 1 of the first aspect of the present invention shifts the advantageous section to the normal section when the game section is the advantageous section and the termination condition is satisfied, A control device 100 for measuring a first difference number, which is the difference number between the number of medals paid out and the number of medals inserted. Termination conditions include the first difference number reaching a predetermined value greater than or equal to zero. The control device 100 is configured to be capable of notifying or suggesting first information, which is information regarding the remaining difference number until the first difference number reaches a predetermined value, in a manner comprehensible by the player during the advantageous interval. ing. With such a configuration, it is possible to check the number of medals that can be obtained in the advantageous section in which the player is staying. As a result, it is possible to realize a gaming machine capable of avoiding a decrease in motivation to play due to advantageous sections.

The slot machine 1 of the first aspect can arbitrarily employ one or more of the following configurations. In other words, any one or more of the following multiple configurations can be arbitrarily deleted when included in the above embodiment, and can be arbitrarily added when not included in the above embodiment. can. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to realize the slot machine 1 that can more reliably avoid the decline in motivation to play due to the advantageous section.

The control device 100 has a normal section in which the game progresses in a normal game state and a section in which the process related to the instruction function and the lottery cannot be executed and the period in which the process related to the instruction function and the lottery can be executed. One game in which an internal lottery is performed from among a plurality of game sections including a game state in which the game state is a general game state or an advantageous section in which the game progresses in an advantageous game state that is more advantageous to the player than the general game state. In at least one of the case where the section can be set and the game section is the advantageous section and the game state is the normal game state, or the case where the game section is the advantageous section and the game state is the advantageous game state, the second 1 information can be reported or suggested. In the slot machine 1, since the first information is reported or suggested during the normal game state, the player can proceed with the game in the normal game state while confirming the remaining difference number. In addition, in the normal game state, basically, when the ball output rate is 100% or less, the number of medals held decreases, but the remaining difference number increases accordingly. In the slot machine 1, since the state of increase in the number of remaining differences can be known during the normal game state, it is possible to motivate the player to continue the game to increase the number of medals by winning the advantageous game. In addition, in the advantageous game state, the ball output rate basically exceeds 100% and the number of medals held increases, but the number of remaining differences decreases accordingly. In the slot machine 1, it is possible to proceed with the game in an advantageous game state while confirming how much the number of remaining differences is.

A slot machine 1 is equipped with a notification device. When the game state is the advantageous game state, the control device 100 notifies the first information and the second information, which is information regarding the number of medals that can be obtained or the number of medals that have been obtained, by the notification device. Configured to be possible or suggestible. With such a configuration, it is possible to confirm how the number of medals that can be acquired or acquired and the number of remaining margins are reciprocally linked. Also, it is possible to make a person who is not familiar with the specifications of the slot machine 1 (for example, conditions for ending an advantageous section) easily understand how to use the slot machine 1 .

The notification device is composed of a liquid crystal display device 22 having a plurality of screens. The control device 100
The first information is displayed on a screen different from the screen on which the second information is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 . If the first information and the second information are on the same screen, there is a risk of confusion as to which information is which. In the slot machine 1, since the first information and the second information are displayed on different screens of the liquid crystal display device 22, such information confusion can be suppressed.

The control device 100 causes the liquid crystal display device 22 to display the first information when a predetermined operation is performed on the slot machine 1 . With such a configuration, the first information can be viewed when desired by executing a predetermined operation. Also, while the second information is being displayed, displaying the first information may cause confusion. can suppress the occurrence of

The slot machine 1 has a first mode in which the first information can be reported and a second mode in which the first information cannot be reported, as notification modes relating to the notification or non-reporting of the first information. Since display/non-display of the first information can be changed by switching the notification mode, it is possible to avoid a state in which the first information is continuously notified.

The control device 100 automatically switches the notification mode to the first mode or the second mode when the switching condition is satisfied. It is possible to save the trouble of switching the notification mode.

Control device 100 sets the notification mode to the second mode in a specific period.

The specific period is a period from after the gaming state is reset or after the power is restored until the specific condition is satisfied. If the first information is displayed either when the power is turned on and off without changing the settings, or when the set values are changed (including resetting), the first information is whether or not the set values have been set. can be easily determined by On the other hand, by not displaying the first information after the reset operation (including after setting the set value) or after the power is restored until the specific conditions are met, it is easy to determine whether the set value has been changed. It becomes impossible to judge. As a result, the player can play the game with the expectation that the set value will be changed to a set value with a higher payout rate, or that the set value will remain unchanged.

The specific condition is a condition that requires playing for a certain period of time. With such a configuration, the notification or suggestion of the first information is not performed immediately after the start of the game, and the game is required to some extent. As a result, the player can be encouraged to play the game.

The slot machine 1 has a plurality of set values with different degrees of advantage to the game, and the game state reset operation includes a setting operation in which an arbitrary set value is set from among the plurality of set values. Control device 100 sets the notification mode to the second mode for a specific period regardless of whether or not the setting operation is performed. By configuring in this way, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to understand whether or not the setting value has been changed.

The slot machine 1 of the second aspect of the present invention shifts the advantageous section to the normal section when the game section is the advantageous section and any one of a plurality of termination conditions is satisfied, and when the game section is shifted to the advantageous section is provided as a reference, the control device 100 measures a first difference number, which is the number of differences between the number of medals paid out and the number of medals inserted in the advantageous section. The plurality of terminating conditions includes at least one first terminating condition that can be satisfied if the first difference exceeds zero and at least one second terminating condition that is different from the first terminating condition. With such a configuration, when the first end condition is satisfied, the advantageous section ends when the first difference number exceeds zero, thus avoiding a situation in which the difference number does not reach a positive value even if the advantageous section is completed. can do. If the advantageous section ends only when the first difference number is zero or more, there is a high possibility that the game hall will lose money. can. In addition, if the advantageous section ends only when the first difference number is zero or more, the player is not surprised, so by providing the second end condition, the enjoyment of the game can be increased. As a result, it is possible to realize a gaming machine capable of avoiding a decrease in motivation to play due to advantageous sections.

The slot machine 1 of the second aspect can arbitrarily employ one or more of the following configurations. In other words, any one or more of the following multiple configurations can be arbitrarily deleted when included in the above embodiment, and can be arbitrarily added when not included in the above embodiment. can. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to realize the slot machine 1 that can more reliably avoid the decline in motivation to play due to the advantageous section.

A second termination condition is configured to be satisfiable regardless of the first difference number.

The second termination condition includes that the set value is set. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first difference number from becoming negative more than necessary and the number of medals that can be obtained in one AT when a certain player plays a game from becoming too large. As a result, it is possible to realize the slot machine 1 capable of suppressing gambling.

The control device 100 is configured to be able to control the end of the advantageous section based on the first difference when the set value is set. By constructing in this way, only when the player avoids playing the game, such as when the first difference number of the slot machine 1 on the day before the setting value is set is positive or slightly negative, the advantageous section is changed by changing the setting. can be terminated. As a result, the player's desire to play can be maintained.

The control device 100 is configured to be able to report or suggest the first difference number with zero as a reference. With such a configuration, for example, it is possible to easily determine whether the first difference number is positive or negative.

A first difference number is reported or suggested during AT. The advantageous game state is an advantageous state, and is a state in which the first difference is easy to move. Suggesting the first differential number in such a state satisfies the desire of the player. In other words, it is possible to display elements of strong interest to the player during the AT.

The first difference number is reported in multiple stages. For example, since it is possible to know how much the first difference number is, it becomes a play criterion.

The second termination condition includes that a predetermined game condition is satisfied and a predetermined first difference condition is satisfied. For example, the second termination condition includes that the AT transitions to the normal state and the first difference number is negative or positive below 1000 sheets. Predetermined game-related conditions can include arbitrary conditions such as the end of AT, failure of CZ, completion of prescribed number of games, and the like.

The control device 100 changes the ball output performance depending on whether the first difference is positive or negative. The ball payout performance is performed, for example, by changing the frequency of navigation generated when the operation mode role is played. For example, if the first difference number is negative, 100% navigation is generated when the operation mode is played, and the ball output performance is set to 6 net extra balls, and if the first difference number is positive, navigation is generated when the operation mode is played. By reducing the frequency of , the ball output performance will be a net increase of 3. When the first difference is positive, the ball output performance is lowered, but in exchange, the number of AT games is likely to be increased or the number of additional games is increased. If the first difference is positive, the ball payout performance may be high, and if the first difference is negative, the ball payout performance may be low.

The control device 100 is configured to be capable of executing an attract effect that notifies or suggests whether or not the first difference exceeds zero without playing a game. With such a configuration, it is known whether or not the first difference number exceeds zero before playing a game, so that the player is motivated to play the slot machine 1 and the operation of the slot machine 1 is promoted.

The control device 100 is configured to suggest a set value according to the first difference number in the advantageous section or the second difference number in the advantageous section. With such a configuration, it is possible to provide further enjoyment in the advantageous section.

The control device 100 is configured to be able to suggest a set value according to the first difference number during a predetermined period of the advantageous section or according to the second difference number during the predetermined period of the advantageous section. In the advantageous section, the period during which it becomes more fun is narrowed down, so the fun becomes clear.

The second termination condition includes satisfaction of the condition regarding the carryover of winnings of the type BB. In the slot machine 1 that performs AT in the type BB carryover state, it is rational that whether or not the advantageous section ends depends on whether or not the type BB carryover state exists.

A first termination condition includes reaching an upper limit where the first difference number is greater than zero. With such a configuration, the gambling nature of the slot machine 1 can be suppressed.

After transitioning from the first advantageous section to the normal section, when transitioning from the normal section to the second advantageous section, the second advantageous section is the same as the first advantageous section. When it is filled, it shifts to the normal section, and is configured to be able to pay out a different number of medals than in the first advantageous section. Since the first advantageous interval and the second advantageous interval end according to the same rule, it is possible for the player to easily understand the conditions for ending the advantageous interval.

The slot machine 1 can also be configured as follows.

The slot machine 1 may have, as modes relating to the state of the slot machine 1, a first mode in which a player can play a game, and a second mode different from the first mode. In this case, the control device 100 is configured to be able to execute the following processes.
- When the mode is the second mode and the game section is the advantageous section, the "information on the first difference number" is output.

The control device 100 may be configured to be able to change or erase the "measured first difference number" according to an operation by an operator other than the player. In addition, when the mode is the second mode and the game section is the advantageous section, the control device 100 changes or deletes the "information on the first difference number" based on the "measured first difference number" and the It may be configured to output at least one of the "information about the first difference number" based on the "measured first difference number".

The control device 100 may be configured to be able to switch the mode from the first mode to the second mode according to the operation by the operator.

The "operator" includes, for example, game parlor staff. The second mode is, for example, a mode that is set during preparations for opening, not a mode that is set while the amusement center is open. In this case, the second mode is, so to speak, a mode handled by the game hall staff. never.

The "operator's operation" includes, for example, a game state reset operation and a special operation for changing the first differential number. This "operator's operation" can be performed while the slot machine 1 is set to the second mode.

"Altering or erasing the measured first difference number" means, in other words, making the measured value of the first difference number different from the current value, for example, resetting or erasing the first difference number to a value to "0 (zero)" or "-(NULL)", or changing from "-2000" to "-1000".

The control device 100 may be configured to be capable of outputting "information on the first difference number" before and after the measured first difference number is changed or deleted. The control device 100 may be configured to output only the "information on the first difference number" immediately before the change or erasure as the "information on the first difference number" before the change or erasure. Alternatively, it may be configured to output all the "information on the first difference number" up to immediately before erasing. By outputting the "information on the first difference number" before and after the change or deletion, the operator can easily confirm the change in the "information on the first difference number". Also, the control device 100 may be configured to output only the "information on the first difference number" after modification or deletion.

The "information about the first difference number" includes the following information.
• The value of the first difference number itself.
The value itself of the remaining difference number until the first difference number reaches a predetermined value equal to or greater than zero.
• Information as to whether the first difference number is greater than or equal to a reference value (eg, zero) or less than a reference value. When the first difference number is less than the reference value, the extent is notified by the underframe LED of the housing 10 or the color output by the illumination device 23 or the sound output from the speaker 24 . For example, if the first difference number is minus the reference value of 5,000 to 10,000 sheets, the illumination device 23 outputs "rainbow" light, and if the reference value is minus 3,000 to 5,000 sheets, the illumination device 23 outputs "red" light, and if the reference value is minus 2,000 to 3,000 sheets, the illumination device 23 outputs "green" light, and if the reference value is minus 1,000 to 2,000 sheets, the illumination "Yellow" light is output from the decoration device 23, and "blue" light is output from the illumination device 23 if the reference value is -1 to -1000. As a result, for example, the game hall staff can easily know whether the first difference number is positive or negative with respect to the reference value, and if it is negative, to what extent it is negative. It is possible to reliably determine the necessity of resetting the difference number. This is because the maximum number of medals that can be paid out at the present time increases as the first difference number has a greater degree of minus with respect to the reference value.

"Information on the first difference" is output to any device constituting the slot machine 1 or an external device such as a data counter. Arbitrary devices that make up the slot machine 1 include, for example, devices visible to the operator (eg, liquid crystal display device 22, illumination device 23, sub-liquid crystal (not shown), speaker 24, and credit display). 7 segment), and devices housed inside the housing 10 (for example, a 7 segment display unit provided on a substrate constituting the main control unit 110 and a display unit provided on the front door 20). .

The slot machine 1 having such a configuration (hereinafter referred to as the slot machine 1 of the third mode) can output the first difference number that can be used as an index for determining whether or not the gaming state should be reset. , the game hall staff can easily determine whether the game state should be reset. As a result, it is possible to realize the slot machine 1 that can reduce the work load of the game hall staff.

In general, in the case of the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode, in the slot machine, the advantageous section ratio (total), the continuous role ratio (6000 games (15 sets total)), the role ratio (6000 games (15 sets total)) ), continuous role ratio (total), and role ratio (total). The “management information” is displayed, for example, on a 7-segment display device (not shown) on the main control board on which the main control section 110 is mounted. "Management information" is information used for checking the presence or absence of fraudulent games, for example, in witnessed inspections by an inspection agency or on the side of the game hall on a daily basis. Therefore, the "management information" is not reset when the game section shifts from the advantageous section to the normal section, or is not reset when the game state or game section is reset, and is continuously accumulated. Displayed on the main control board. On the other hand, the "number of differences" is not included in the "management information". The "difference number" is an index used by the game hall staff to determine whether or not the slot machine should be reset, and is information that can be changed (for example, reset) from the current time by an operation by the game hall staff. . Therefore, the "difference number" differs in usage from the "management information", and the reset behavior also differs from the "management information".

In the slot machine 1 of the third mode, when the mode is the second mode and the game section is the normal section, the control device 100 is configured so as not to be able to notify the information regarding the first difference sheet, indicating that the game section is the normal section. may be configured to be notified. Since the first difference sheet to be notified is not measured in the normal section, it is not notified in the normal section and the first difference sheet cannot be grasped. Therefore, since the game hall staff can grasp that the game section is the normal section, it can be determined that resetting the game state is not necessarily essential. In addition, if it is reported that it is a normal section, the game hall staff can directly grasp that the reset of the game state is not necessarily essential. Therefore, the work load of the game hall staff can be reduced more reliably.

The second mode of the slot machine 1 of the third aspect includes, for example, the following modes.
• A setting change mode that allows the setting of set values by the operator. The setting change mode can be said to be a mode for game parlor staff that cannot be handled by players. In the setting change mode, the game parlor staff checks the first difference number to determine whether or not the game state needs to be reset, and if the game state needs to be reset, continues to set the set value without changing the mode. By doing so, the game state can be reset. As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency and work convenience of the game hall staff.
- A setting confirmation mode that allows the operator to confirm the set values that have been set. The setting confirmation mode can be said to be a mode for game parlor staff that cannot be handled by players. In the setting confirmation mode, the game hall staff can check the first difference number and the setting value to determine whether or not resetting is necessary, and if resetting is necessary, which setting value should be replaced.
- A reset mode that enables the operator to execute a game state reset operation. The reset mode can be said to be a mode for game parlor staff that cannot be handled by players. In the resetting mode, the playground staff can check the first differential number and consider whether the game state needs to be reset. By resetting the game state, by setting the mode to the second mode and resetting the game state, the first difference number is reset along with the game section, or the first difference is reset through an operation different from the reset operation of the game state. The 1-difference number can be changed to any value.

In the slot machine 1 of the third aspect, the measured first differential number may be changed by an operation other than the operation of setting the set value. Since the operation for changing the setting and the operation for changing the first difference number are different, the first difference number can be changed without changing the set value.

In the slot machine 1 of the third aspect, the control device 100 may be configured to be able to change the measured first difference number so that the value after change is closer to zero than the value before change. For example, if the first difference number is a negative value, changing the difference number to a value of zero or to a value closer to zero than the current value is included. The number of medals that the player can acquire in the advantageous section increases as the first difference number is negative and the degree of negative is greater. On the other hand, by bringing the first difference closer to zero, it is possible to lower the expected value of the number of medals that the player can acquire in the advantageous section.

In the slot machine 1 of the third aspect, the control device 100 may be configured to be able to change the measured first difference sheet to zero. When the first difference is, for example, a negative value, resetting the difference to zero can lower the expected value of the number of medals that the player can acquire than before the zero reset.

The slot machine 1 of the third aspect includes a housing 10 having an opening, a front door 20 for opening and closing the opening, a notification device for notifying information about the first difference, and a measured first difference. An operation device 37 that accepts a change operation may be provided, and the notification unit and the operation unit 30 may be configured to be housed inside the housing 10 in such a manner that they can be exposed to the outside of the housing 10 through the opening. . Since the notification device and the operation device 30 are housed inside the housing 10 of the slot machine which is practically invisible to the player, only the game hall staff can determine whether or not the game state can be reset based on the first difference number. Operations can be performed to change the discernment and the first difference number.

The effect control unit 121 may be configured not to notify or suggest the first information in the advantageous game state. For example, if the first information can be confirmed during AT, it may lead to guessing the number of medals that can be paid out with the current AT, and the AT may not be enjoyed. Such a disadvantage can be avoided by configuring the effect control section 121 so as not to notify or suggest the first information in the advantageous game state.

The reporting mode or suggesting mode of the first information may also serve as suggesting the set value. For example, when the first information is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 for notification, the color of the first information displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 can suggest the set value. For example, if the display of the first information is displayed in red, it suggests that the set value may be an odd number, and if the display of the first information is displayed in blue, it suggests that the set value may be an even number. is suggested. Also, when the display of the first information is displayed in gold, the possibility that the set value is high is suggested. As a result, the notification mode of the first information can be used as one of the materials for estimating the setting value, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

The effect control unit 121 may be configured to be able to notify or suggest the first difference number based on zero. The first difference number may be notified or suggested in at least two or more steps, for example. The notification or suggestion of the first difference can be made in any game state (for example, AT) if the game section is an advantageous section. For example, on Saturdays and Sundays when operations are comparatively high, the first information is hidden because the number of customers is high and the first information is not displayed. The date can be enabled to display the first information. There is a possibility that it will lead to promotion of work. The stage of notifying or suggesting the first difference is displayed by, for example, stepwise changing the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 22 in 1000 sheets, or stepwise changing the sound output from the speaker 24. or by changing the color of the light output from the illumination device 23 in stages. For example, the effect control unit 121 outputs blue light from the illumination device 23 when the first difference number is minus 1000, and outputs yellow light from the illumination device 23 when the second difference number is minus 2000. light output.

The notification mode may be switchable manually via the operation device 37 of the operation unit 30, for example.

Notification or non-notification of the first information is not limited to management using the notification mode, and may be managed by other methods.

A notification device can be omitted. In this case, for example, the slot machine 1 and an external device (for example, a portable terminal or a data counter in a game arcade) constitute a gaming system, and the first information is notified or suggested to the player via the external device. can be configured as

The operating device 37 can be omitted.

The control device 100 (in the slot machine 1, the section control section 114) may be configured to be able to control the end of the advantageous section according to the gaming state (for example, depending on whether AT is in progress).

Each unit constituting the control device 100 can be arbitrarily changed without being limited to the above embodiment. For example, the game state control unit 115 may also serve as the section control unit 114, the reel control unit 112 may also serve as the measurement unit 116, and part of the processing executed by the reel control unit 112 may It may be executed by the state control unit 115 . Moreover, if possible, the configuration of the main control section 110 may be provided in the sub-control section 120 , or the configuration of the sub-control section 120 may be provided in the main control section 110 .

The termination condition of the advantageous section is not limited to the first termination condition and the second termination condition. Under conditions different from these conditions, the game section may be forcibly set from the advantageous section to the normal section, or the condition for forcibly setting the advantageous section to the normal section may not be provided. For example, when the number of games played in the advantageous section reaches 3000, the game section is forcibly set from the advantageous section to the normal section. It may be configured so that the section is not forcibly set to the normal section. Also, for example, except when the advantageous interval is forcibly set to the normal interval, once the game interval is set to the advantageous interval, a so-called bonus (for example, a kind of BB) is won once, or Alternatively, the game section may not be set from the advantageous section to the normal section until the operation mode of the operation mode combination that maximizes the payout of medals is notified once.

When the setting value of the slot machine 1 is changed, the game section may be set to take over the state immediately before the setting value of the slot machine 1 is changed, or may be set to a preset initial state. (ie, initialized). When the game section is taken over by changing the setting value, for example, the “state immediately before the setting value of the slot machine 1 is changed” includes the state of the effect (for example, the stage of the effect before the setting change) and the accumulated Includes points. Since the first difference is reset by changing the setting value, it is not included in the "state immediately before the setting value of the slot machine 1 is changed".

In the above-described embodiment, the instruction function is activated during the advantageous section, and the average ball output rate is obtained when the game is advanced so that the maximum number of payouts of small winning combinations is won, excluding the accessory and the accessory continuous actuating device. is more than 100%. For example, when the game section shifts to the advantageous section, it may be configured so that the fact that it is in the advantageous section is always displayed on the display unit, or it is not necessary to configure it so that the advantageous section is not displayed. good too. If the advantageous section is not displayed, the slot machine 1 can, for example, determine or guess whether the game section is the advantageous section based on the first information, which is useful.

In the above-described embodiment, when the game section shifts to the advantageous section, the section control section 114 is configured to display that the game section is the advantageous section via the display section provided in the operation section 30. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the liquid crystal display device 22 may be configured to serve also as a display section, or the display section may be omitted so as not to display that the game section is an advantageous section. After the advantageous section is displayed on the display section, the advantageous section may continue to be displayed until the advantageous section ends, or the advantageous section may not continue to be displayed.

The control device 100 is a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) that is exclusively designed to implement a predetermined function only with hardware instead of a CPU that executes a predetermined function in cooperation with software, or , an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

The main controller 110 and the sub-controller 120 may be provided on different substrates, or may be provided on the same substrate. That is, the main control unit 110 and the sub-control unit 120 may each include a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., or may share the CPU, ROM, RAM, etc.

The order of pushing is not limited to winning by operating the stop switches 34, 35, 36 in a predetermined order of pushing. The order of pushing may be achieved, for example, by operating the stop switches 34, 35, 36 at a predetermined position, or by pressing the stop switches 34, 35, 36 in a predetermined order in addition to the predetermined position. You may make it win a prize by operating .

The internal draw table is not limited to the information shown in FIG. 9, and may contain any other information, depending on the design of the slot machine.

At least one effective line 70 may be set, and two or more may be set.

The present disclosure can also be applied to medalless machines. Medal-free machines do not use physical medals to play games, but based on information that holds the number of medals (such as credit data), when you bet, the information will be subtracted accordingly. , when a payout is received, the information is added accordingly. In other words, the "number of game media paid out" referred to in the present application includes data given to the player and added, not the number physically paid out in the case of a medalless machine. A medal-less machine eliminates the need for a hopper.

By appropriately combining any of the various embodiments or modifications described above, the respective effects can be obtained. In addition, combinations of embodiments, combinations of examples, or combinations of embodiments and examples are possible, as well as combinations of features in different embodiments or examples.

1 slot machine 10 housing 20 front door 22 liquid crystal display device 33 start switches 34, 35, 36 stop switch 37 operating devices 41, 42, 43 rotating reel 100 control device 121 effect control section

Claims (4)

When the game section is an advantageous section and a termination condition is satisfied, the advantageous section is shifted to a normal section,
a control device for measuring a difference between the number of game media paid out and the number of game media inserted in the advantageous section, with reference to the transition to the advantageous section;
The gaming machine, wherein the termination condition includes reaching a predetermined value of zero or more of the difference number,
The control device is configured to be capable of notifying or suggesting first information, which is information relating to the remaining difference number until the difference number reaches the predetermined value, in a manner comprehensible by the player during the advantageous interval. is,
As notification modes related to notification or non-notification of the first information, a first mode in which the first information can be notified and a second mode in which the first information cannot be notified,
The control device sets the notification mode to the second mode in a specific period,
The gaming machine, wherein the specific period is a period from when power is restored until a specific condition is satisfied. When the game section is an advantageous section and a termination condition is satisfied, the advantageous section is shifted to a normal section,
a control device for measuring a difference between the number of game media paid out and the number of game media inserted in the advantageous section, with reference to the transition to the advantageous section;
The gaming machine, wherein the termination condition includes reaching a predetermined value of zero or more of the difference number,
The control device is configured to be capable of notifying or suggesting first information, which is information relating to the remaining difference number until the difference number reaches the predetermined value, in a manner comprehensible by the player during the advantageous interval. is,
As notification modes related to notification or non-notification of the first information, a first mode in which the first information can be notified and a second mode in which the first information cannot be notified,
The control device sets the notification mode to the second mode in a specific period,
Having a plurality of setting values with different degrees of advantage for games,
The specific period is a period from the reset operation of the game state until the specific condition is satisfied,
The game state reset operation includes a setting operation in which an arbitrary setting value is set from among a plurality of the setting values,
The game machine, wherein the control device sets the notification mode to the second mode in the specific period regardless of whether or not the setting operation is performed. When the game section is an advantageous section and a termination condition is satisfied, the advantageous section is shifted to a normal section, and the number of game media to be paid out and the number of game media in the advantageous section are determined based on the transition to the advantageous section. wherein the termination condition includes that the difference reaches a predetermined value equal to or greater than zero, wherein the control device measures the advantageous interval a gaming machine configured to be able to notify or suggest first information, which is information about the remaining difference number until the difference number reaches the predetermined value, in a manner comprehensible by the player;
A notification device that can notify or suggest the first information,
The gaming machine has a first mode in which the first information can be reported and a second mode in which the first information cannot be reported, as notification modes related to reporting or non-reporting of the first information,
The control device sets the notification mode to the second mode in a specific period,
The gaming system, wherein the specific period is a period from when power is restored until a specific condition is satisfied. When the game section is an advantageous section and a termination condition is satisfied, the advantageous section is shifted to a normal section, and the number of game media to be paid out and the number of game media in the advantageous section are determined based on the transition to the advantageous section. wherein the termination condition includes that the difference reaches a predetermined value equal to or greater than zero, wherein the control device measures the advantageous interval a gaming machine configured to be able to notify or suggest first information, which is information about the remaining difference number until the difference number reaches the predetermined value, in a manner comprehensible by the player;
A notification device that can notify or suggest the first information,
The gaming machine has a first mode in which the first information can be reported and a second mode in which the first information cannot be reported, as notification modes related to reporting or non-reporting of the first information,
The control device sets the notification mode to the second mode in a specific period,
The gaming machine has a plurality of set values with different degrees of advantage to the game,
The specific period is a period from the reset operation of the game state until the specific condition is satisfied,
The game state reset operation includes a setting operation in which an arbitrary setting value is set from among a plurality of the setting values,
The game system, wherein the control device sets the notification mode to the second mode in the specific period regardless of the presence or absence of the setting operation.

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