JP7369442B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

2. Description of the Related Art A gaming machine that includes a movable member (movable accessory) having a light emitting part and is capable of performing effects using the movable member is known (for example, see Patent Document 1 below).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-112121

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can make effects using movable members easier to understand.

A gaming machine according to the present invention, which has been made to solve the above problems, includes a display means having a display area, a movable member that can be located at the original position or a presentation position, and has a light emitting part, and the display area. a light-emitting effect execution means for displaying a predetermined effect image on the display, and then executing a light-emitting effect in which the light emission mode of the light emitting section of the movable member located at the original position is changed to an image-related mode corresponding to the effect image; , a movable effect execution means for executing a movable effect that displaces the movable member from the original position to the effect position, and a state where the light emitting effect is being executed and the light emitting unit is emitting light in an image-related manner. Therefore, when the movable effect is executed while the effect image is displayed, the light emission mode of the light emitting unit is set to a different mode from the image-related mode when the movable member is located at the effect position. It is characterized by

According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to make effects using movable members easier to understand.

FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a diagram showing identification symbols and pending symbols displayed in a display area. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a light emission effect (image-related mode). FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining control of a light emitting unit when a movable effect occurs during a light emission effect. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a first specific example regarding a light emission effect and a movable effect. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a second specific example regarding a light emission effect and a movable effect. (a) is a selection screen for performance modes, and (b) is a table showing types (number of rounds) of jackpot games that may occur when a special performance occurs for each performance mode. It is a figure for explaining the fourth specific example regarding special production (production mode). It is a diagram for explaining a fifth specific example regarding special performance (performance mode). FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining control of a specific video and a specific song during a specific period. FIG. 3 is a diagram (timing chart) for explaining control of a specific video and a specific song during a specific period. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining that the end (repeat) timing of a specific video and the end (repeat) timing of a specific song match. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a third specific example regarding control of a specific video and a specific song during a specific period.

1) Basic configuration of gaming machine Hereinafter, one embodiment of the gaming machine 1 according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be briefly described with reference to FIG.

The gaming machine 1 includes a gaming board 90. The game board 90 is formed of approximately square plywood, and the guide rail 903, which constitutes a path for guiding the game ball fired by operating the firing device 908 (launching handle) to the gaming area 902, has a roughly arc shape. It is set up like this.

The gaming area 902 is provided with a display device 10, a starting winning opening 904, a big winning opening 906, an out opening, and the like. The display area 11 of the display device 10 is an area that is visible through an opening formed in the game board 90. Further, in the game area 902, a plurality of game nails are provided as obstacles that change the manner in which the game balls flow down when they collide with each other. The game ball flowing down the game area 902 changes into various modes depending on the conditions when it collides with the game nail.

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

Note that explanations of components of the gaming machine 1 that are not related to the present invention, such as the frame of the gaming machine 1, the lower tray and the upper tray for storing game balls, will be omitted. For these, structures similar to those of known gaming machines can be applied.

The jackpot lottery is executed by a propriety determining means provided on a control board (not shown) triggered by the winning of a game ball into the starting winning hole 904 (a plurality of such starting winning holes may be provided). Specifically, when a game ball enters the starting prize opening 904, a numerical value (win/fail determination information) is obtained from a random number source, and if the numerical value is the same as a predetermined jackpot value, it is a jackpot. , if they are different, it will be an outlier. In this embodiment, the notification of the validity judgment results is started in the order in which the numerical values are obtained (so-called fluctuation is started), but there is validity judgment information for which the notification of the validity judgment results has not been completed yet. In this case, the newly acquired validity determination information is stored as pending information in a storage means provided on the control board (not shown). The fact that the reservation information is stored in the storage means is displayed as a reservation image (reservation symbol) 80 (see FIG. 2).

In the present embodiment, as the pending image 80, although the notification effect for notifying the result of the judgment has started (the fluctuation of the identification pattern 70 (identification pattern group 70g) indicating the result of the judgment has started), the judgment The notification of the result has not been completed (the fluctuation of the identification symbol 70 (identification symbol group 70g) has not stopped in the mode showing the result of the judgment). (image shown) and a pending image 82 before fluctuation corresponding to the notification effect that notifies the result of the determination of validity has not started (fluctuation of the identification symbol 70 (identification symbol group 70g) indicating the result of determination of validity has not started) is displayed (see Figure 2). An upper limit is determined for the maximum number of stored hold information corresponding to the pre-change hold image 82. In this embodiment, the maximum number of stored reservation information (win/fail judgment information) obtained by winning the starting prize opening 904 (so-called "special drawing 1") is four.

In this embodiment, similar to known gaming machines, the player is notified of the result of the judgment based on the combination of identification symbols 70 (see FIG. 2) displayed in the display area 11 of the display device 10. Specifically, the identification symbol group 70g (left identification symbol group 70gL, middle identification symbol group 70gC, right identification symbol group 70gR) including multiple types of identification symbols 70 starts to fluctuate, and finally each identification symbol group 70g The first identification symbol 70 is selected and stopped. When a jackpot is won, the combination of the stopped identification symbols 70 selected from each identification symbol group 70g becomes a predetermined combination (for example, a set of three identical identification symbols 70). If it is a loss, another combination (other than the combination that results in a jackpot) will be used. In each figure, only "numbers (letters)" forming the identification pattern 70 are illustrated, but a pattern in which the numerals and characters are combined can be set as the identification pattern 70.

2) Various Performances Various performances are performed as performances that constitute the notification performance (performance from the start of variation of the identification symbol 70 until it stops at the combination indicating the validity determination result) that notifies the result of the validity determination. Hereinafter, various performances that can be executed by the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be explained. Note that not all of the effects described below need to be executable. Furthermore, in the following description, the term "image" includes both still images and moving images. Furthermore, during the performance described below, small images indicating various information regarding the game, such as so-called small symbols, may be displayed in the display area 11 (displayed near the outer edge of the display area 11 so as not to be noticeable) However, the following description will ignore the existence of the image (illustration of the image will also be omitted). In other words, this is only a description of an image for presentation to be shown to a player.

2-1) Movable effect (relationship with light emitting effect)
The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment includes a movable member 15 (so-called movable accessory). The movable member 15 is capable of reciprocating between the original position (the position shown by the solid line in FIG. 1) and the production position (the position shown by the dotted line in FIG. 1). 15 is omitted). In this embodiment, the movable member 15 is displaced in the planar direction (direction along the surface of the display area 11). The original position is a position along the upper edge of the display area 11, and the presentation position is a position overlapping the approximate center of the display area 11 (the movable member 15 is located in front of the display area 11) (as shown in FIG. reference). It can also be said that as the movable member 15 and the display area 11 overlap with each other becomes larger as the movable member 15 moves from the original position toward the presentation position. Any type of drive mechanism may be used to operate the movable member 15, so a description thereof will be omitted.

The movable member 15 has a light emitting section 151. The light emitting section 151 may be provided at a position where the player can visually recognize the light emitted from the light emitting section 151. In this embodiment, a light emitting section 151 is provided on the front side of the movable member 15 (see FIG. 1, etc.). The light emitting section 151 is capable of changing the light emission mode. In this embodiment, the emitted light color (the difference in the emitted light color corresponds to the difference in the light emission mode) can be changed.

The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment can perform a light emission effect and a movable effect as effects using the movable member 15.

The light emitting effect is an effect that is executed together with an effect in which a predetermined effect image 20 is displayed in the display area 11 (hereinafter referred to as an image effect). The effect image 20 may have any specific form. In this embodiment, the effect image 20 (effect image) is displayed (in each figure, "color" is represented by text). The aspect (color) of the effect image 20 indicates that the probability that the result of the judgment of the object is a jackpot (hereinafter also referred to as (jackpot) reliability) has increased. The jackpot reliability is set to increase in the order of blue, green, and red (see Figure 3). There is also a possibility that the effect image 20 changes in a direction that increases reliability (so-called step-up). In this embodiment, there is a possibility that a change in the effect image 20 occurs when a pseudo-continuous effect (so-called "pseudo-continuous effect"; the effect itself is well known and will not be described further) occurs.

While such an image effect in which the effect image 20 is displayed is being executed, the light emission mode of the light emitting section 151 of the movable member 15 corresponds to the effect image 20. This is a luminous effect. When the image effect is being executed, the movable member 15 is basically located at the original position (except when the movable effect, which will be described later, is being executed). The light emitting section 151 of the movable member 15 located at the original position is set in a light emitting mode (image related mode) corresponding to the effect image 20. In this embodiment, the "color" of the effect image 20 and the "color" of the light emitted by the light emitting unit 151 are made to match (this means matching the rough "color" system, and it is necessary to make them completely match). isn't it). When the blue effect image 20 is displayed, the light emitting unit 151 emits blue light (the "blue" light emission mode is the first image related mode) (see FIG. 3(a)). When the green effect image 20 is displayed, the light emitting unit 151 emits green light (the "green" light emission mode is defined as the second image related mode) (see FIG. 3(b)). When the red effect image 20 is displayed, the light emitting unit 151 emits red light (the "red" light emission mode is defined as the third image-related mode) (see FIG. 3(c)). A state in which the movable member 15 appears as if it were part of the effect image 20 because the emitted light color matches the effect image 20 when it is located at the original position (along the side edge of the display area 11). becomes. Note that when the light-emitting effect is not being performed, the light-emitting section 151 may be in a non-light-emitting state or may be in a light-emitting state. When the light emission state is set, the light emission may be in a mode different from any of the first image-related mode to the third image-related mode.

The movable performance is a performance in which the movable member 15 moves from the original position to the performance position. Since the movable member 15, which has been located near the upper side of the display area 11, is placed in a state where it overlaps approximately the center of the display area 11, it can be said that this is an effect in which the movable member 15 becomes "conspicuous". The movable performance is set as a so-called "chance up" performance. In other words, the occurrence of a movable performance in a certain notification performance is set as an event that increases the probability that the validity determination result corresponding to the notification performance will be a jackpot (increases the reliability of the jackpot).

Such a movable effect may occur while the light emitting effect is being executed. When a movable effect occurs while a light emission effect is being executed, the light emitting unit 151 is controlled as follows. Since the light emitting effect is being executed, the light emitting unit 151 is in a light emitting mode (image related mode) corresponding to the effect image 20 (see FIG. 4(a)). During this, a movable effect is executed, that is, when the movable member 15 is displaced from its original position and positioned at the effect position, the light emission mode of the light emitting section 151 is changed from an image-related mode to a different image-related mode ( This is a different aspect (different from any of the first to third image-related aspects) (see FIG. 4(b)). Note that the timing at which the image-related mode is changed to another mode can be adjusted as appropriate. This may be before or after the position is located at the performance position. During at least a part of the period when the movable member 15 is located at the presentation position (however, the period is at least several seconds long), the light emitting section 151 emits light in a different manner. Note that even if the movable member 15 is in the presentation position and the light emitting section 151 is emitting light in a different manner, the presentation image 20 is still displayed in the display area 11.

In this embodiment, a mode in which the light emitting unit 151 emits light in "white" is set as another mode (see FIG. 4(b)). In other words, the image-related aspects (first image-related aspect to third image-related aspect) are modes in which light is emitted in one of "blue," "green," and "red," and a light emission mode that is different from any of these is a different mode. It is set. In this embodiment, even if any of the first image-related aspects to the third image-related aspects are used, the light is emitted in a different manner different from any of the first image-related aspects to the third image-related aspects in the movable effect. This means that the situation is as follows. In other words, the light emitting mode of the light emitting unit 151 at the performance position in the movable performance is always a different mode and does not become another mode, so it is not a factor that suggests the jackpot reliability. Note that the other aspect may be any aspect that is different from the first image-related aspect to the third image-related aspect, and a state in which the light emitting section 151 does not emit light may be another aspect (the light emitting section 151 does not emit light). The embodiments also include embodiments in which the light emitting section 151 does not emit light).

The reason why the light emitting mode of the light emitting unit 151 during the movable performance is controlled as described above is as follows. The effect in which the movable member 15 is displaced during the notification effect is well known. In such a performance, in addition to the displacement of the movable member 15, the color of the movable member 15 (the light emitting mode of the light emitting unit 151 in this embodiment) may also be used as an element that suggests reliability. . For example, it may be set that the reliability is higher when the color when the movable member 15 is displaced is "red" than when it is "white". Because of this fact, it is thought that in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment as well, the light emitting mode (color) of the light emitting section 151 of the movable member 15 located at the production position may indicate the reliability. There is a risk that the player may misunderstand. For example, if a movable effect is executed during a light emitting effect in which the light emitting unit 151 emits light in a third image-related manner (emitting light in “red”), the light emitting unit 151 remains in “red” at the effect position. There is a risk that the player may misunderstand that the "red" light emission indicates reliability (the light emitting mode (color) of the light emitting part 151 of the movable member 15 located at the production position in the movable production). However, there is a problem in that it is difficult for the player to understand whether the light emitting mode of the light emitting section 151 in the light emitting effect (the light emitting mode corresponding to the effect image 20) is simply maintained or whether the mode indicates reliability. Therefore, in this embodiment, the above-mentioned misunderstanding can be avoided by setting the light emission mode of the light emitting unit 151 in a different mode (a mode different from the image-related mode) when the movable member 15 is located at the production position. reduce the risk of By doing this, the mode of the light emitting unit 151 as a light emitting effect and the mode of the light emitting unit 151 as a movable effect can be clearly distinguished (light emission as a light emitting effect and light emitting as a movable effect may be confused) etc.), the performance using the movable member 15 becomes easier to understand.

In particular, in this embodiment, regardless of which one of the first image-related aspect to third image-related aspect (any of "blue," "green," and "red"), the image-related aspect is used in the movable performance. has a different mode (“white” light emission) (there is only one type of different mode), so there is a risk that the light emission mode of the light emitting part 151 in the movable effect may be mistaken as indicating reliability. low.

After the movable performance, the movable member 15 returns to its original position. When the movable member 15 returns to its original position, the light emission mode of the light emitting unit 151 returns to the image-related mode (returns to the same image-related mode as the image-related mode before the movable effect) (see FIG. 4(c)). That is, as a result of the end of the movable effect, the light emitting unit 151 returns to the image-related mode, which is the light emission mode for the light emission effect. For example, when a movable effect is executed during a light emission effect in which the image-related mode is "green" (the second image-related mode), the movable member 15 at the production position is in a different mode, "white". After being set to the light emitting mode, the movable member 15 returns to the original position and returns to the "green" light emitting mode (second image related mode), which is the image related mode. Note that the phrase "triggered by the return of the movable member 15 to its original position" as used herein means that the timing of the return of the movable member 15 to its original position and the timing of the return of the light emitting unit 151 to the image-related mode must completely coincide. However, it is assumed that some timing deviation is allowed. As a result of the end of the movable effect, a timing shift to the extent that the player feels that the light emitting section 151 has returned to the light emission mode for the light emission effect is allowed.

Hereinafter, specific examples in which the matters related to the above-mentioned light emitting effects and movable effects are improved, materialized, modified, etc. will be explained. Note that, as far as possible, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of techniques described using the following specific examples are applied in combination.

○First specific example In the above embodiment, the control of the light emitting unit 151 in the case where a movable effect occurs while a light emission effect is being executed (hereinafter referred to as a "light emission effect incidental case") has been described. It is assumed that the configuration is such that a movable effect can occur (see Figures 5 (b-1) and (b-2)) when the ``light-emitting effect is not executed'' (see Figure 5 (a)). The control of the light emitting unit 151 in the accompanying case is different from the control of the light emitting unit 151 in the light emitting effect accompanying case.

In the case where the light emitting effect is not attached, the light emitting mode of the light emitting unit 151 in the movable effect indicates the probability that the result of the judgment will be a jackpot. That is, the light emitting mode of the light emitting section 151 in a state where the movable member 15 is located at the effect position (the light emitting mode of the light emitting section 151 in the movable effect in the case with no light emitting effect) is the same as the light emitting mode of the light emitting section 151 in the movable effect in the case with the light emitting effect. In order to distinguish it from the light emitting mode, the jackpot reliability is suggested by (sometimes referred to as "reliability suggesting mode"). For example, as reliability suggestion modes, there is a first reliability suggestion mode in which the light emitting section 151 emits "white" light (see FIG. 5(b-1)), and a second reliability suggestion mode in which the light emitting section 151 emits "red" light (see FIG. 5(b-1)). 5(b-2)) is set, and the light emitting unit 151 emits light in either the first reliability suggestion mode or the second reliability suggestion mode in the case where no light emission effect is attached. Then, the setting is such that there is a higher probability that the result of the judgment will be a jackpot (higher jackpot reliability) in the case of the second reliability suggestion mode than in the case of the first reliability suggestion mode. By doing so, in the movable performance in the case where the light emission performance is not attached, the light emission mode of the light emitting part 151 of the movable member 15 located at the performance position becomes a performance form that should also be noted.

As explained in the above embodiment, in the movable effect of the light emitting effect accompanying case, the light emitting part 151 of the movable member 15 located at the effect position takes on a different mode ("white" light emission) (see FIG. 4(b)). ). In other words, the reliability is not suggested by the light emitting mode of the light emitting unit 151 of the movable member 15 located at the presentation position, and the problem of making the presentation difficult to understand is avoided. In particular, any of the reliability suggestion aspects matches any of the image-related aspects (for example, if the configurations of the above embodiment and this example are adopted, the second reliability suggestion aspect (Fig. 5 (b-2 ) and the third image-related mode (see FIG. 3(c)) are "red" light emission, and the light emission modes match. Note that matching here does not necessarily mean that they match completely; If the structure includes modes that are so similar that a player may mistake them for being the same light emission mode, then the "red" light emission of the light emitting unit 151 in the movable effect of the case accompanying the light emission effect will not be the same as the light emission effect. It is difficult to tell whether it is a light emission (light emission according to the effect image 20) or a light emission indicating reliability.

On the other hand, as explained in this example, the movable effect in the case without light emitting effect occurs when the light emitting effect is not being executed, so the above problem is unlikely to occur. In other words, even if reliability is suggested by the light emission mode of the light emitting part 151 of the movable member 15 located at the presentation position, the problem that the presentation becomes difficult to understand (confuse with the light emission presentation) is unlikely to occur.
In addition, in the movable performance, the second reliability suggestion mode (red light emission) is limited to cases where the light emission effect is not attached, so the second reliability suggestion mode is the light emission as a light emission effect (the third There is almost no possibility that it will be mistaken for light emission as an image-related aspect.

○Second specific example A plurality of types of light emitting modes of the light emitting section 151 during the movable performance may be set. In other words, a plurality of different modes may be set. However, each of the plurality of alternative aspects is different from any of the image-related aspects. For example, it is assumed that a first alternative aspect (see FIG. 6(b-1)) and a second alternative aspect (see FIG. 6(b-2)) are set as alternative aspects. The first alternative embodiment is an embodiment in which light is emitted in "white", and the second alternative embodiment is an embodiment in which light is emitted in "yellow". In this way, the first alternative aspect and the second alternative aspect become aspects different from any of the first image-related aspect to the third image-related aspect ("blue", "green", and "red"). By doing so, the player can understand that the light emission mode (color) of the light emitting section 151 of the movable member 15 located at the production position in the movable production maintains the light emission mode (color) of the light emission section 151 in the light emission production. The risk of being caught is reduced.

In the case of this example, the probability that the result of the judgment will be a jackpot (jackpot reliability) may be suggested by the light emission mode of the light emitting unit 151 in the movable performance, that is, the type of different modes. For example, the second alternative mode (yellow) (see FIG. 6(b-2)) is set to have higher jackpot reliability than the first alternative mode (white) (see FIG. 6(b-1)). By doing this, it is possible to suggest reliability by means of a movable effect while preventing confusion between light emission as a light emission effect and light emission as a movable effect.

2-2) Special production (production mode)
The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is capable of executing a special performance (premier performance) in which it is determined that the result of the judgment corresponding to the notification performance is a jackpot, as a performance constituting the notification performance. In other words, a special performance can only occur during a notification performance (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a winning variation) in which the winning result is a jackpot (however, this does not necessarily mean that it will occur if there is a winning variation). ). The special performance is executed before the combination of identification symbols 70 is shown as a combination indicating a jackpot (before the symbols are finalized). The special performance itself may take any form. For example, a predetermined image may be displayed in the display area 11, or a predetermined sound may be output from the speaker 60 (sound output means). In this embodiment, multiple types of special effects can be executed.

A normal mode and a special mode are set as presentation modes that determine the configuration of the notification presentation. The probability that a special effect will occur in the notification effect is higher when the special mode is set than when the normal mode is set. In other words, the probability that a special effect will occur during a winning variation in a situation where the special mode is set is higher than the probability that a special effect will occur during a winning variation in a situation where the special mode is set. It should be noted that special effects do not always occur due to winning fluctuations when the special mode is set. Also, special effects may not occur due to winning fluctuations in a situation where the normal mode is set.

The performance mode can be set arbitrarily by the player. In this embodiment, a desired mode is set by operating the operating means 50 such as a push button or a cross key (the cross key is not shown) during a standby state (when the notification effect is not being executed). You can set either the normal mode or the special mode (see Figure 7(a) (“Premier Up Mode” is the special mode)), and when the notification effect is being executed. You can also change the production mode (while it is changing). If a change in performance mode is accepted during the notification performance, the change will be reflected from the next notification performance (next change). In addition, in this embodiment, it is possible to set the performance mode in a low probability game state (low probability and no time saving (low base state)) in which the probability of winning a winning lottery is low to be a favorite mode. Since there is only a possibility that the special performance will be executed due to the winning variation, it can be said that the frequency of the special performance is not so high even if the special mode is set. However, this does not negate the possibility of having a configuration in which the production mode during a high probability game state (so-called probability change) can be set to a desired mode.

When a special effect occurs when the normal mode is set, and when a special effect occurs when the special mode is set, the profit that the player receives when the result of the judgment becomes a jackpot is different. Expectations are different. Specifically, it is as follows.

If the result of the judgment is a jackpot, a jackpot game is executed. A jackpot game includes one or more unit games (generally referred to as a "round"). In the unit game, the big prize opening 906 (winning area) is opened until a predetermined condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, the grand prize opening 906 is opened until N game balls (the value of N is generally awarded as a "count") enter the grand prize opening 906 or a predetermined period of time has elapsed. Ru. As long as the game balls are continuously fired aiming at the big winning hole 906, it is set so that N game balls will enter the big winning hole 906 before a predetermined time elapses. In other words, if you play the game as instructed (if you do not stop ejecting the game balls for a relatively long time, etc.), the unit game will end when N game balls enter the big winning hole 906. Therefore, the game balls (output balls) of "number of prize balls (number of game balls paid out when one game ball enters the big winning hole 906) x N x number of unit games" will be obtained (so-called (The number of balls may increase due to the occurrence of excessive winnings, etc.) In this way, as the number of unit games increases, the expected value of the number of game balls (balls played) that the player can obtain in the jackpot game increases. In this embodiment, the jackpot games include a 5-round jackpot (a jackpot game in which 5 unit games are executed), a 7-round jackpot (a jackpot game in which 7 unit games are executed), and a 10-round jackpot (a jackpot game in which 7 unit games are executed). Three types of jackpot games (jackpot games in which unit games are executed) are set.

In this embodiment, if a special effect occurs in the notification effect while the normal mode is set, the jackpot game executed thereafter will be a 10-round jackpot (5-round jackpot, 7-round jackpot). (See Figure 7(b)). In other words, it is confirmed that the jackpot game with the maximum number of unit games will be executed. Note that a special performance does not necessarily occur when winning the 10-round jackpot.

On the other hand, if a special effect occurs in the notification effect with the special mode set, the subsequent jackpot game will be a 5-round jackpot, a 7-round jackpot, or a 10-round jackpot (Figure 7 (b) )reference). That is, unlike the case where the normal mode is set, there is no guarantee that there will be a 10-round jackpot, and the "number of rounds" is indefinite.

Because of this setting, if a special effect occurs when the normal mode is set, the validity judgment result will be more accurate than if a special effect occurs when the special mode is set. The expected value of the profit that the player obtains by winning the jackpot, that is, the profit (balls put out) that the player obtains in the jackpot game increases. In other words, the occurrence of a special performance is common in that a jackpot is guaranteed regardless of the type of performance mode, but the expected value of the profit obtained afterwards is different, so the difference between normal mode and special mode is different. In this case, it can be said that the ``value of special performance'' is different. From the player's point of view, which should be chosen: the special mode, which increases the probability of special effects that would be nice to occur, or the normal mode, where special effects occur less frequently, but if they do occur, the profits that can be obtained will be greater. (Whether choosing to increase the probability of a special performance occurring or increasing the profit when a special performance occurs) can realize an interesting gameplay.

Hereinafter, specific examples of improving, embodying, modifying, etc. the matters related to the above-mentioned special performance (performance mode) will be explained. Note that, as far as possible, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of techniques described using the following specific examples are applied in combination.

○First specific example In the above embodiment, when a special effect occurs in the notification effect while the normal mode is set, the jackpot game to be executed after that will be a jackpot for 10 rounds (number of rounds (unit game)). Although it has been explained that it is certain that the number of rounds) will be the biggest jackpot, the number of rounds may be set to be undefined. The average value (expected value) of the number of rounds of a jackpot game when a special effect occurs in the normal mode is higher than the average value (expected value) of the number of rounds of a jackpot game when a special effect occurs in the special mode. Just make it higher. However, as in the above embodiment, it is better to ensure that the number of rounds is the maximum when a special effect occurs in normal mode. ” can be said to be an easy-to-understand gameplay experience.

○Second specific example In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the difference in the expected value of profits obtained by the player is set by the number of unit games (number of rounds) that constitute the jackpot game. It is also possible to employ other elements as elements for setting the difference. For example, it is conceivable to adopt a configuration in which whether the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is a low probability gaming state or a high probability gaming state (variable probability state) is adopted as the relevant factor. Assume that the jackpot game is set as a normal jackpot in which the game state becomes a normal game state after the end of the jackpot game, and a variable probability jackpot in which the game state becomes a high probability game state (the number of rounds is the same as the normal jackpot). If a special effect occurs during the notification effect when the normal mode is set, the subsequent jackpot will be guaranteed to be a variable jackpot, but if the special effect occurs when the special mode is set, When a special effect occurs, the subsequent jackpot is not necessarily a guaranteed jackpot, but is set to be a regular jackpot. Even in this case, the special performance that occurs in the normal mode is of higher value to the player than the special performance that occurs in the special mode.

In addition, taking into consideration both the number of unit games of the jackpot game, that is, the "number of rounds", and the factor of whether the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game will be a high probability gaming state, that is, "whether it is a probability-variable jackpot". , the difference in the expected value of the profit obtained by the player may be set. Also, other factors that affect the player's profits may be incorporated. For example, it is possible to incorporate factors such as whether or not a so-called time saving state (high base state) occurs after the end of a jackpot game, and the number of time saving times.

○Third specific example The setting opposite to the above embodiment, that is, the case where the special effect occurs when the special mode is set is better than the case where the special effect occurs when the normal mode is set. Also, the expected value of the profit that the player obtains when the result of the judgment becomes a jackpot, that is, the profit that the player obtains in the jackpot game, may be increased. By doing so, in the special mode, the probability that a special effect will occur is high, and the "value of the special effect" can be set higher than in the normal mode.

However, if such a setting is used, there is a problem in that the frequency of occurrence of special effects may decrease significantly. For example, if the type of jackpot game is the one explained in the above embodiment, if a special mode is set, a special effect can only be generated when a 10-round jackpot is won; There are fewer opportunities to generate special effects (compared to the case of the above embodiment). The probability that the special effect will occur when the normal mode is set must be lower than the probability that the special effect will occur when the special mode is set, so the special effect must be set in the normal mode. The chances that it can occur are further reduced. In other words, with settings like this example, there is an opportunity to generate special effects regardless of whether special mode or normal mode is set (especially when normal mode is set). As the number of occurrences decreases, the frequency of occurrence decreases. From the opposite viewpoint, it can be said that the settings as in the above embodiment are excellent in that a certain degree of frequency of occurrence of special effects is guaranteed.

○Fourth specific example It is also possible to have a configuration in which three or more types of presentation modes are set. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, three types are set: normal mode, first special mode, and second special mode, and the probability that a special effect will occur in the notification effect (win variation) increases in that order (the first special mode). Two special modes shall be the highest). In addition, when the special effect occurs when the normal mode is set, it is more likely that the result of the judgment will be a jackpot than when the special effect occurs when the first special mode is set. The expected value of the profit obtained by the player is larger, and the case where the special effect occurs when the first special mode is set is better than the case where the special effect occurs when the second special mode is set. Also, the expected value of the profit obtained by the player is increased when the result of the judgment becomes a jackpot. Simply put, the lower the probability that a special performance will occur in the notification performance (win variation), the larger the expected value that a player will get in a jackpot game when the special performance occurs.

By doing this, you can choose to increase the probability of a special performance occurring, or choose to increase the profit if a special performance occurs (increase one (increase)) and the other is lower (smaller) in terms of gameplay).

○Fifth specific example A configuration may be adopted in which all performances (premier performances) that are certain to result in a jackpot if they occur are not set as special performances. Specifically, although some of the premiere performances are special performances (productions with different probabilities of occurrence depending on the production mode), other parts are performances that are not special performances (hereinafter referred to as confirmed performances). . In other words, when a confirmed performance occurs, although it is confirmed that the result of the judgment is a jackpot, the expected value of the profit obtained by the player will not be as explained in the above embodiment. More specifically, whether the normal mode or the special mode is set, the probability that the fixed effect will occur is the same (even if the special mode is set, the probability that the fixed effect will occur is the same) does not increase). Also, even if a confirmed performance occurs when the normal mode is set, it will not be a jackpot game with the maximum number of unit games (10 round jackpot according to the above embodiment). There is no limit (there is a possibility that the number of rounds will be a jackpot with fewer unit games than a 10-round jackpot) (see FIG. 9(a)). In this way, among the premium performances that guarantee a jackpot when they occur, some performances (confirmed performances) may be configured so that they do not apply to the "rules" described in the above embodiment.

In the case of this example, it is preferable to adopt a configuration that allows the player to understand which premier performance corresponds to the special performance (or which premier performance corresponds to the confirmed performance). For example, on the production mode selection screen, displays that increase the probability of occurring when a special mode is set (i.e., special effects), or display effects that increase the probability of occurrence even when a special mode is set. It is conceivable to display a performance that is not available (a performance that is excluded, that is, a confirmed performance) (see FIG. 9(b)).

Sixth Specific Example A configuration may be adopted in which the production mode is automatically set (the player cannot arbitrarily set the mode to his/her preference). Since the player does not select the production mode arbitrarily, it is preferable to display a display indicating the type of production mode currently set. For example, in a situation where a special mode is set, a message such as "Probability of Premier Performance Occurrence is Increasing" is displayed. As explained in the above embodiment, if there are two types of production modes, a display indicating the production mode is displayed when one production mode is set, and the other production mode is set. Sometimes, the display indicating the relevant production mode may not be displayed (because when there is no "display", it is possible to understand that the other production mode is set).

However, in light of the fact that the balance between the probability of occurrence of a special performance and the size of the profit obtained when a special performance occurs has a large impact on gameplay, the performance mode as in the above embodiment is It can be said that it is preferable to make it possible to select arbitrarily.

3) Control of specific video and specific music during a specific period The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment can execute a specific effect in which a specific video and a specific song are output during a specific period. Here, the specific period is a period during a jackpot game that is executed when the result of the judgment becomes a jackpot. It may be configured such that the period during all jackpot games is a specific period, or may be configured such that a period during some jackpot games is a specific period. In this embodiment, at least a part of the period during which the 10-round jackpot is being executed is the specific period.

During the specific period, a specific video is displayed in the display area 11 of the display device 10, and a specific music piece is output from the speaker 60. In this embodiment, the player can arbitrarily switch the video actually displayed among the plurality of types of specific videos even during a specific period. Any method may be used to switch the type of specific video. An example of this method is a method of switching by operating an operating means 50 such as a push button. It may be possible for the player to select the specific video of his/her preference before the start of the specific period (before the start of the jackpot game), but even if the player makes the selection, the type of the specific video may not be changed during the specific period. It shall be possible to switch.

The plural types of specific videos have the same video content. Here, the content of the videos being the same means that although the quality (picture quality), color, etc. of the videos are different, the player perceives them to represent the same content. In this embodiment, a first specific video and a second specific video are set as the plurality of types of specific videos (three or more types of specific videos may be set). The first specific video is a color video, and the second specific video is a monochrome (or black and white) video having the same content as the first specific video. In each figure, the first specific video (color video) is shown by a solid line, and the second specific video (monochrome video) is shown by a dotted line (see FIG. 10). In addition to this relationship, there are also footage from the time of the anime that was released as a movie or broadcast on TV (original footage), and footage that has been processed to improve the quality of the original footage (so-called digital footage). For example, the relationship with remastered video) can be exemplified. Since the various specific videos have the same content, the video lengths are also the same.

If a player requests switching of the type of specific video during a specific period, the type of specific video will be switched immediately (time lag unavoidable due to control processing is allowed) upon request (see Figures 10 and 11). ). In this embodiment, one of the first specific video and the second specific video is switched to the other. When switching the type of specific video is requested in this way, control is performed so that the type of specific video is switched so that the content of the video continues. As mentioned above, the content of the video is the same whether it is the first specific video or the second specific video, but the only difference is that the color of the video changes (switching from one color or monochrome to the other), and the video continues. (However, the existence of slight deviations and blank periods that are unavoidable due to control processing and to the extent that players do not feel strange is allowed ("continuity of images" is ensured)) ). For example, assume that the first specific video is displayed at the start of the specific period (see Figure 10(a)), and that a switch to the second specific video is requested 10 seconds after the start of the specific period. . In this case, the second specific video is displayed after 10 seconds have passed from the beginning (see FIG. 10(b)). If switching to the first specific video is requested again after 25 seconds have elapsed from the start of the specific period (see FIG. 10(c)), the first specific video will be switched from the time 25 seconds have elapsed from the beginning of the specific period. is displayed (see FIG. 10(d)). By doing this, even if the type of specific video is switched, the content of the video will continue to be displayed.

Various methods can be considered to realize such switching of specific videos. As an example, a method using so-called (image) layers can be considered. In accordance with this embodiment, although the first specific video and the second specific video are output from the start of the specific period, the layer of one specific video is set to be in front of the layer of the other specific video. . For example, the layer of the first specific video (first layer) is set in front of the layer of the second specific video (second layer). When the first specific video is actually displayed (when the first layer is ON), the second specific video (second layer) is covered by the first specific video and cannot be viewed. When the first specific video is not actually displayed (the first layer is OFF), the second specific video (second layer) becomes visible. That is, by switching the actual output of the first specific video (switching ON/OFF of the first layer), only one of the first specific video and the second specific video becomes visible. In addition, when controlling in this way, strictly speaking, it means that "both the first specific video and the second specific video are output" throughout the specific period, but in the explanation other than the explanation regarding "layers", this is not actually the case. It is stated that the image displayed (actually visible to the player) is "output".

Even in the case of a configuration in which three or more types of specific videos are set, it is possible to set the layers of each type of specific video to different layers and turn off one or more layers before the layer of the specific video that is actually displayed. (In the case of displaying a specific video of the foremost layer, it is not necessary to turn off any layer.)

Note that elements to be displayed other than the specific video may be displayed in a layer before the foremost layer among the layers of the specific video. By doing this, even if the type of specific video is switched, these elements will continue to be displayed (displayed overlappingly in front of the specific video). Examples of elements to be displayed other than the specific video include the display of the number of rounds, the display of the number of game balls (balls put out) obtained in the jackpot game, and the display of the identification symbol 70 (jackpot symbol).

Since the specific period in this embodiment is a period during a jackpot game, its length is indefinite (the length of the period changes depending on the so-called jackpot (round) consumption speed). If the specific video reaches the end point in the middle of the specific period, the specific video is displayed from the beginning (repeated) (see FIG. 12). Since each type of specific video has the same length, no matter which specific video is being displayed, when a predetermined time (length of the specific video) has elapsed from the start of the specific period, the specific video will be displayed from the beginning. will be displayed. For example, if the length of a specific video is 120 seconds, no matter which specific video is being displayed, the specific video being displayed at that point will be 120 seconds after the start of the specific period. Displayed from the beginning.

The specific song is a song that is output during a specific period together with a specific video. Regardless of the type of specific video being displayed, the specific music that is output is the same. In other words, the same specific music piece is output regardless of whether the first specific video or the second specific video is displayed. In this embodiment, even if the type of specific video is switched during a specific period, the specific music continues to be output. In other words, even if the first specific video and the second specific video are switched from one to the other, the specific song will continue to be played across the video switching point (rather than being output from the beginning). (See FIGS. 10 and 11).

In this embodiment, the length of the specific song is set to be the same as the length of the specific video. As described above, since each type of specific video has the same length, the specific song has the same length as any type of specific video. Therefore, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the start of the specific period, the specific video that is being displayed at that time will be displayed from the beginning, and at the same time, the specific music piece will be output from the beginning (see FIG. 12). Note that the "length of a specific song" as used herein does not have to be the same as the length of the song as a copyrighted work. For example, only the "first" song of a certain copyrighted work may be set as the specific song.

As described above, the various specific videos have the same video content. Since a predetermined specific song is output together with the specific video, the scene of the video and the content of the specific song are always linked. In accordance with this embodiment, the specific video scene (one frame of video) at the point in time when X hours have elapsed from the start of the specific period has the same content, although there is a difference in whether it is in color or monochrome. It is. This means that the same part of the specific song is always output when the scene is displayed.

It is important to note that a player who requests a change in the type of specific video is simply requesting a change in the specific video, and does not want the specific song to be reset (output from the beginning). is assumed. If the specific song is reset in such a situation, the player may become irritated, so in this embodiment, even if the type of specific video is switched during the specific period, the specific song is controlled so that it is output continuously.

In addition, the various types of specific videos represent the same content, and even if switching of the type of specific video is requested, the type of specific video will be switched while ensuring the continuity of the content. . Even if the type of the specific video is switched, the specific song will continue to be output, so the specific video and song will always be output regardless of the type of specific video being displayed. It can be a form of performance during a specific period that is linked (video scene and song content are linked).

Hereinafter, specific examples will be described in which matters related to the control of specific videos and specific songs during a specific period are improved, materialized, modified, etc. Note that, as far as possible, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of techniques described using the following specific examples are applied in combination.

○First Specific Example Although it has been explained that the specific period in the above embodiment is during the jackpot game, other periods may be set as the specific period. However, during the jackpot game, the player only needs to keep firing the game balls toward the jackpot 906, and there are few elements that the player should pay attention to (for example, the period when the notification effect is being executed). There are many elements that players are likely to pay close attention to, such as the content of the notification presentation (suggestion of reliability) and the number of reservations), and there is a high probability that they will be interested in the video and music. Because of this situation, it can be said that it is meaningful to control as in the above embodiment during a jackpot game.

○Second Specific Example In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the various specific videos are videos showing the same content, but it is not necessary to have such a configuration. That is, in a configuration in which the type of video displayed during a specific period can be switched, the specific music may be continuously output even if the type of video is switched.

○Third Specific Example As in the above embodiment, the basic aspect is that even if the type of specific video displayed during a specific period is switched, the specific music is continuously output (see FIG. 13(a)). b-1)). In some cases, a mode different from the basic mode (hereinafter referred to as a special mode), that is, an event other than an event in which a specific song is continuously output triggered by switching the type of specific video displayed during a specific period. It is assumed that an event may occur (see FIGS. 13(a) and (b-2)). Special modes include a mode in which a song different from the specific song is output when the type of specific video is switched (see FIG. 13 (b-2)), a mode in which the output of the specific song is presented, It is possible to exemplify a manner in which a specific music piece is output from the beginning.

The occurrence of the special aspect is considered to be a forewarning of the occurrence of an event advantageous to the player. In other words, the special mode is set to be more advantageous to the player than the basic mode. Various events can be considered as advantageous events. Examples include the game state becoming a high probability state (probability fluctuating state) after the end of a jackpot game, and the jackpot winning being confirmed again after the end of a jackpot game (occurrence of so-called consecutive consecutive chances on hold). .

A configuration opposite to this example may be used. In other words, it is more advantageous for the player if a specific song is continuously output even if the type of specific video displayed during a specific period is changed than if an event occurs where the specific song is not continuously output. A configuration may also be used.

4) Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

The gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment described above is a so-called Pachinko gaming machine, but the same technical concept applies to other gaming machines such as reel-type gaming machines, except for the use of a configuration unique to Pachinko gaming machines. Applicable.

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

・Means 1-1
a display means having a display area; a movable member capable of being located at an original position or a presentation position; and having a light emitting section; A light emitting effect executing means for executing a light emitting effect that sets a light emission mode of the light emitting part of the movable member to an image related mode corresponding to the effect image; and a movable effect for displacing the movable member from the original position to the effect position. a movable effect executing means for performing the above, when the movable effect is executed from a state where the light emitting effect is being executed and the light emitting unit is emitting light in an image related manner, the movable member is configured to perform the effect. A gaming machine characterized in that, in a state where the gaming machine is in a certain position, the light emitting mode of the light emitting section is different from the image related mode.
According to the above game machine, since the mode of the light emitting section as a light emitting effect and the mode of the light emitting section as a movable effect are clearly distinguished, the effect using the movable member becomes easy to understand.

・Means 1-2
The gaming machine according to means 1-1, wherein after the movable performance, the light emitting mode of the light emitting section returns to the image-related mode when the movable member returns to the original position.
By doing so, it becomes easier to understand that the light emitting mode (another mode) of the light emitting section when the movable member is located at the effect position is not the light emitting mode as a light emitting effect.

・Means 1-3
The movable effect that is executed while the light emitting effect is not being executed has a probability that the result of the judgment will be a win depending on the effect mode that is the light emitting mode of the light emitting part when the movable member is located at the effect position. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or means 1-2, characterized in that:
・Means 1-4
The gaming machine according to means 1-3, wherein any of the image-related aspects and any of the presentation aspects are the same light emitting aspect.
Regarding movable effects that are performed without a light emitting effect being performed, there is a low possibility that they will be confused with a light emitting effect, so even if the reliability is suggested by the light emitting mode (effect mode) of the light emitting part at the direction of the effect. good.

・Means 2-1
A gaming machine capable of executing a special performance in which it is confirmed that the result of the determination is a win, as a performance constituting the notification performance that notifies the result of the determination, and the performance mode includes a normal mode and the normal mode. A special mode is set in which the probability of the special performance occurring in the notification performance is higher than that of the notification performance, and a case where the special performance occurs in the special mode and a case where the special performance occurs in the normal mode are set. A gaming machine characterized in that the expected value of profit obtained by a player differs depending on whether the result of the judgment is a win or not.
According to the gaming machine described above, an interesting gaming experience is realized in which the expected value of the profit that can be enjoyed when the special performance occurs varies depending on the probability that the special performance will occur.

・Means 2-2
When the special effect occurs in the normal mode, the expected value of the profit that the player obtains due to a winning result is greater when the special effect occurs in the normal mode than when the special effect occurs in the special mode. The gaming machine according to means 2-1, characterized in that:
By doing this, the special mode becomes a mode in which the probability that a special effect will occur is high, but its value (size of profit) is low, and the normal mode becomes a mode in which the probability that a special effect occurs is low, but the value (size of profit) is low. The value (size of profit) becomes high. In other words, an interesting game experience is realized in which a change in performance mode causes one element to become higher (larger) and the other element to be lowered (smaller).

・Means 2-3
The winning game executed when the result of the judgment is a win includes one or more unit games in which a predetermined winning area is opened until a predetermined condition is met, and the special performance occurs in the normal mode. In the gaming machine according to means 2-2, the winning game in which the number of unit games is the largest is executed.
By doing this, when the normal mode is set, an easy-to-understand gaming experience is achieved in which "occurrence of a special performance" leads to "occurrence of a jackpot game with the maximum unit number of games."

・Means 2-4
A confirmed effect that is different from the above-mentioned special effect may occur as an effect that confirms that the result of the judgment is a win when the above-mentioned confirmed effect occurs in the normal mode. , the gaming machine according to means 2-3, wherein the winning game in which the number of unit games is the largest is not necessarily executed.
In this way, all the performances for which it is determined that the result of the judgment is a win do not have to be set as performances that will cause "the occurrence of a jackpot game with the maximum number of unit games" (some performances may be excluded). ).

・Means 2-5
The gaming machine according to any one of means 2-1 to 2-4, wherein the performance mode can be arbitrarily selected by a player.
It is preferable that the player be able to arbitrarily select either of increasing the frequency of occurrence of the special performance and increasing the profit when the special performance occurs.

・Means 3-1
a display means, a sound output means, and a performance execution means for executing a specific performance in which a specific music is output from the sound output means while a specific video is output to the display means during a specific period, The performance is one in which any one of the plurality of types of specific videos is output, and even during the specific period, the player can arbitrarily switch the type of the specific video, and the specific A gaming machine characterized in that the specific music continues to be output even if the type of the specific video is switched by the player during the period.
The gaming machine described above continuously outputs a specific song even when the type of specific video is switched, thereby reducing the possibility that players will become irritated by listening to the same part of a specific song over and over again. Is possible.

・Means 3-2
Each of the plurality of types of specific videos is a video showing the same content, and if the player requests to switch the type of the specific video during the specific period, the video content is changed so that the content of the video continues. The gaming machine according to means 3-1, characterized in that the type of specific video can be switched.
By doing this, even if the type of specific video is switched, the state in which the content of the video and the specific song are linked is ensured.

・Means 3-3
The gaming machine according to means 3-1 or 3-2, wherein the specific period is a period during a winning game that is executed when the judgment result is a win.
An example of the specific period (a period during which a specific video or a specific song is output) is during a winning game.

1 Game machine 10 Display device 11 Display area 15 Movable member 151 Light emitting section 20 Performance image 70 Identification pattern

Claims (1)

a display means having a display area;
a movable member that can be located in the original position or the production position and has a light emitting part;
A light emitting effect that displays a predetermined effect image in the display area and then executes a light emitting effect in which the light emitting mode of the light emitting section of the movable member located at the original position is set to an image-related mode corresponding to the effect image. execution means and
movable performance execution means for executing a movable performance that displaces the movable member from the original position to the performance position;
Equipped with
When the movable effect is executed while the effect image is being displayed in a state where the light emitting effect is being executed and the light emitting unit is emitting light in an image-related manner, the movable member is located at the effect position. A gaming machine characterized in that in the state, the light emitting mode of the light emitting section is different from the image related mode.

Images