JP7475960B2 - Slot Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a slot machine that has a variable display section that can variably display multiple types of identifiable identification information, and derives a display result by stopping the variable display of the variable display section after the variable display is variably displayed, and can generate a winning result according to the display result.

Slot machines generally have a variable display section with reels that have multiple types of symbols on the outer periphery that serve as identification information; when a specified number of bets is set and a start switch is operated, the reels begin to spin; when a stop switch is operated and the reels stop spinning, a predetermined symbol combination (for example, red 7-red 7-red 7; hereafter, the symbol combination is also referred to as the display result combination or hand) appears on the winning line, resulting in a win.

The types of winning combinations include small winning combinations, special winning combinations, and replay winning combinations. Here, when a display result corresponding to a small winning combination is derived on a winning line, a number of medals determined for each type of small winning combination is paid out. When a display result corresponding to a special winning combination is derived on a winning line, the state can be shifted to a special state that is advantageous to the player, such as a regular bonus (RB) or a big bonus (BB). It is also possible to control the state to an AT (Assist Time) state, in which navigation is performed by informing the player of an operation mode that is advantageous to the player. When a display result corresponding to a replay winning combination is derived on a winning line, the next game can be played without consuming new medals to set the bet amount.

In the industry where gaming machines such as slot machines are distributed, inspection (type testing) by a third party is mandatory before shipping, and only models that are determined to meet the specified standards in the type testing are allowed to be shipped to gaming facilities. One method of testing for the type testing is a simulation test that is conducted to ensure that the maximum number of medals that can be won per game is obtained.

In the above simulation test, the winning combination selected in the internal lottery is guaranteed to win, so if the medal acquisition performance is designed so that the payout rate (the ratio of the number of medals paid out to the number of medals inserted) matches the simulation test, the payout rate in actual gameplay on the market tends to fall short of the designed payout rate. In consideration of this situation, there are slot machines that allow the player to win a single bonus (SB) in order to lower the designed payout rate (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2019-118425 A

In the above-mentioned slot machines, there is still room for improvement in the relationship between the expected value of the amount of gaming value, such as the payout rate, and the control of specific states, such as during SB.

This invention was conceived in light of this situation, and aims to provide a slot machine that can perform optimal control in relation to the expected value of the amount of gaming value and control to a specific state.

A variable display unit is provided that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information that are each identifiable,
A slot machine in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display part after the variable display of the variable display part is variably displayed, and a winning prize can be generated according to the display result,
A state control means capable of controlling the state to a plurality of states including a normal state and a specific state;
a pre-determination means for determining which display results are permitted to be derived;
a derivation operation means that is operated to derive a display result;
A derivation control means for controlling the derivation of a display result;
a notification period control means for controlling a notification period during which operation information corresponding to an operation mode of the derivation operation means can be notified based on a first advantageous decision;
a notification period extension means for extending the notification period based on a second advantageous decision when the notification period is being controlled,
The determination results of the pre-determination means include a plurality of specific determination results;
the derivation control means, when a determination result of the pre-determination means becomes any one of the plurality of types of specific determination results and the derivation operation means is operated in an operation manner corresponding to the specific determination result, performs control to derive a specific display result corresponding to the specific determination result;
the state control means, when a specific display result corresponding to a specific determination result is derived in a game in which a determination result of the pre-determination means in the normal state is a specific determination result, controls the game to the specific state;
When the game machine is not controlled during the notification period, the expected value of the amount of game value acquired by the player is equal when the game machine is controlled to the specific state and when the game machine is controlled to the normal state;
When the game is controlled during the notification period, the expected value of the amount of game value acquired by the player is smaller when the game is controlled in the specific state than when the game is controlled in the normal state;
When the notification period is controlled and the notification period is controlled to the specific state, the degree of advantage when the notification period is extended based on the second favorable decision is higher than the degree of advantage when the notification period is not controlled and the notification period is controlled to the specific state based on the first favorable decision.
The following configuration may also be included.
A variable display unit is provided that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information that are each identifiable,
In a slot machine (e.g., slot machine 1) in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after the variable display is changed, and a winning prize can be generated according to the display result,
A state control means (for example, a process for controlling the game state by the main control unit 41) capable of controlling a plurality of states including a normal state (for example, during normal) and a specific state (for example, during SB (during SB1 to SB32));
An advantageous control means (for example, a process of controlling the AT or adding the number of AT games by the main control unit 41) that performs advantageous control (for example, control of the AT, adding the number of AT games) based on advantageous decisions (for example, control decisions for the AT, deciding the number of added games) that are advantageous to the player;
A pre-determination means for determining a display result to be allowed to be derived (for example, a process of performing an internal lottery by the main control unit 41);
derivation operation means (e.g., stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) that are operated to derive a display result;
a derivation control means (for example, a reel control process executed by the main control unit 41) for controlling the derivation of a display result,
The determination result of the pre-determination means includes a plurality of specific determination results (e.g., winning SB1 to SB32),
The derivation control means performs control to derive a specific display result (e.g., SB1 to SB32 winning symbol combination) corresponding to the specific determination result when the determination result of the pre-determination means becomes any one of the multiple types of specific determination results and the derivation operation means is operated in an operation mode (e.g., operation timing) corresponding to the specific determination result (e.g., FIG. 5 );
the state control means, when the specific display result corresponding to the specific determination result is derived in a game in which the determination result of the pre-determination means is a specific determination result in the normal state, controls the state to the specific state (for example, FIG. 9 );
When the advantageous control is not performed, the expected value of the amount of gaming value (e.g., the number of medals) acquired by the player is equal when the specific state is controlled and when the normal state is controlled (for example, FIG. 8 ).
When the advantageous control is being performed, the expected value of the amount of gaming value acquired by the player is smaller when the specific state is controlled than when the normal state is controlled (for example, FIG. 8 ).
When the advantageous control is being performed (e.g., during AT), the degree of advantage regarding the advantageous decision when controlled to the specific state is higher than the degree of advantage regarding the advantageous decision when the advantageous control is not being performed (e.g., during non-AT) and controlled to the specific state (e.g., Figure 9).

FIG. 2 is a front view of the slot machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the arrangement of symbols on each reel. 13 is a diagram for explaining the transition of the game state. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a slot machine. 13 is a diagram for explaining the types of winning combinations, the symbol combinations of winning combinations, and the awarding of prizes when a prize is won. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining combinations of winning roles that are read out as roles to be selected for each game state. FIG. This is a diagram to explain reel control when the push order role is won. A diagram to explain the progression of balls dispensed in each state. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining differences in advantage depending on the state.

As an example of a gaming machine according to this embodiment, a slot machine will be described below.

[Slot Machine Configuration]
Fig. 1 is a front view of a slot machine 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the slot machine 1 has a front door 1b pivotally supported on a side end of a housing 1a whose front is open. Inside the slot machine 1, reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (hereinafter, left reel, center reel, and right reel) on which the same number of different types of symbols that can be distinguished from one another are arranged in a predetermined order are arranged in a horizontal direction, and three consecutive symbols among the symbols arranged on these reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in three rows, top, middle, and bottom, in a see-through window 3 provided in the approximate center of the front of the slot machine 1 so as to be visible from the player side.

In this embodiment, a configuration using three reels is exemplified, but a configuration using only one reel, a configuration using two reels, or a configuration using four or more reels may also be used. Also, in this embodiment, the variable display unit is configured to variably display the patterns displayed in the viewing window 3 by rotating the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, but it is not limited to reels and may be configured, for example, to variably display the patterns by moving a belt having multiple patterns arranged on its outer surface. Also, in this embodiment, the variable display unit is configured with physical reels, but the variable display unit may also be configured with an image display device such as a liquid crystal display.

As shown in FIG. 1, on the front of the slot machine 1, there are provided a medal insertion section 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout outlet 9 from which medals are paid out, a MAXBET switch 6 that is operated to set the maximum bet number among a prescribed number (3 in this embodiment) determined according to the game status within a range of credits (the number of medals stored as the game value owned by the player), a start switch 7 that is operated to start the game, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R (hereinafter referred to as the left stop switch, middle stop switch, right stop switch) that are operated to stop the rotation of reels 2L, 2C, 2R, respectively, and a performance switch 56 that is operated by the player during a performance, all of which are operable by the player.

In the following, the operation of the start switch 7 (for example, pressing the start switch 7 by hand) will be referred to as the "start operation" or "commencement operation", the operation of the stop switch to stop the rotation of the first reel (for example, pressing the stop switch by hand) will be referred to as the "first stop operation", the operation of the stop switch to stop the rotation of the second reel (for example, pressing the stop switch by hand) will be referred to as the "second stop operation", and the operation of the stop switch to stop the rotation of the third reel (for example, pressing the stop switch by hand) will be referred to as the "third stop operation".

The first stop operation, second stop operation, and third stop operation are also collectively referred to as "stop operations." Furthermore, releasing the press of the first stop switch (first stop operation) (e.g., releasing the hand from the stop switch) is also referred to as "first stop release," releasing the press of the second stop switch (second stop operation) (i.e., releasing the hand from the stop switch) is also referred to as "second stop release," and releasing the press of the third stop switch (third stop operation) (i.e., releasing the hand from the stop switch) is also referred to as "third stop release." Also, stopping the reel by the first stop operation is also referred to as "first stop," stopping the reel by the second stop operation is also referred to as "second stop," and stopping the reel by the third stop operation is also referred to as "third stop."

On the front of the slot machine 1, side lamps 27 consisting of multiple LEDs are provided next to the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R. In addition, reel backlights 28L, 28C, and 28C (hereinafter simply referred to as "reel backlights 28") are provided near the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, corresponding to the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, respectively, and irradiate the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R with light from the back or side of the reels. Furthermore, speakers 53 and 54 that output sound are provided above the liquid crystal display 51.

On the front of the slot machine 1, as shown in FIG. 1, there is a game display unit 13 provided with a credit indicator 11 that displays the number of medals stored as credits, a game support indicator 12 that displays the number of medals paid out when a win occurs and an error code indicating the content of an error, a 1BET LED 14 that lights up to indicate that the bet number is set to 1, a 2BET LED 15 that lights up to indicate that the bet number is set to 2, a 3BET LED 16 that lights up to indicate that the bet number is set to 3, an insertion request LED 17 that lights up to indicate that it is possible to insert medals, a start valid LED 18 that lights up to indicate that the start operation of the game by operating the start switch 7 is valid, an advantageous zone LED 19 that lights up to indicate that the game is controlled to an advantageous zone, which will be described later, and a replay in progress LED 20 that lights up to indicate that a replay game is in progress.

Inside the slot machine 1, there is a main control unit 41 that controls the progress of the game and outputs various commands according to the progress of the game. The main control unit 41 includes a main CPU 41a that performs various controls related to the progress of the game, and a RAM 41c that stores various data related to the progress of the game. The main control unit 41 detects the operation of the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, and the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, etc., and the insertion of medals into the medal insertion unit 4, and performs control related to the progress of the game, such as spinning/stopping the reels 2L, 2C, 2R and turning on/off each LED in the game display unit 13, according to the detected operation.

Inside the slot machine 1, a sub-controller 91 is provided that controls the effects in response to commands from the main controller 41. The sub-controller 91 includes a sub-CPU 91a that performs various controls related to the effects, and a RAM 91c that stores various data related to the effects. Based on commands from the main controller 41, the sub-controller 91 controls the display of images on the liquid crystal display 51, the sound output from the speakers 53 and 54, and the turning on/off of the side lamps 27 and the reel backlights 28. The effect data used for the image display on the liquid crystal display 51 and the sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 is stored in the RAM 91c. Furthermore, the sub-controller 91 detects the operation of the effect switch 56, and controls the display of images on the liquid crystal display 51 and the sound output from the speakers 53 and 54 in response to the detected operation.

When playing a game on the slot machine 1, the player inserts medals into the medal insertion section 4 or operates the MAXBET switch 6 to set a specified number of bets. This activates the winning line LN, and the operation of the start switch 7 is activated, making it possible to start the game. The winning line LN is a line for determining whether the combination of symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R displayed in the see-through window 3 matches the winning combination of symbols. In this embodiment, only the winning line LN set across the symbols arranged horizontally in the middle row of the reel 2L, the middle row of the reel 2C, and the middle row of the reel 2R is defined as the winning line, but multiple winning lines may be provided. In addition, an invalid line may be provided to make it easier to recognize that the combination of symbols that constitute a winning prize is aligned on the winning line LN.

When the start switch 7 is operated in a state in which the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R spin. At this time, an internal lottery is performed by the main control unit 41. The internal lottery is a process for determining a symbol combination (display result combination) that is allowed to be derived. When a symbol combination is allowed to be derived by the internal lottery, it is also said that the role corresponding to that symbol combination has been won.

Specifically, in the internal lottery process, the main control unit 41 judges whether each lottery target role has won in a predetermined order. For example, in the internal lottery process, the main control unit 41 obtains a random number from integers within a predetermined range (0 to 65535). Each lottery target role is assigned a judgment value number according to the game state from integers within a predetermined range (0 to 65535). The main control unit 41 adds the judgment value number of each lottery target role to the obtained random number in a predetermined order, and when the addition result overflows (exceeds 65535), the lottery target role that was the subject of addition at that time is determined to be the winning role. When a lottery target role wins through the internal lottery, it is permitted to derive a pattern combination corresponding to that lottery target role.

When the stop switch 8L, 8C, or 8R is operated, the reel corresponding to the operated stop switch stops spinning. This causes the symbol combination to be derived and displayed in the see-through window 3. When a symbol combination that matches the symbol combination of a winning combination stops on the winning line LN, a win corresponding to that winning combination occurs.

In the reel stop control, the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R corresponding to the operation is stopped within the maximum stop delay time (190 ms (milliseconds) in this embodiment) from when each stop switch is operated. Since the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated 80 times per minute and the symbols are changed for 80 (rotations) x 20 (number of symbol frames per reel, for example, 20 frames) = 1600 frames, a maximum of four frames of symbols can be drawn in before the predetermined maximum stop delay time (190 ms) has elapsed. In other words, in the stop control, it is possible to select one symbol from the symbols displayed when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated and the symbols four frames ahead, a total of five frames (draw-in range), and to lead it to the reels 2L, 2R, and 2R.

The roles that can result in a win include special roles (bonuses), small roles, and replay roles. A special role (bonus) is a role that, when won, controls the game state to a bonus state in which the probability of winning a small role is higher than in a non-bonus state. Special roles (bonuses) include RB (regular bonus), BB (big bonus), SB (single bonus), and CB (challenge bonus). In this embodiment, BB and SB are provided as special roles. A small role is a role that, when won, awards medals. A replay role (replay) is a role that, when won, allows the player to start the next game without consuming medals owned by the player.

For each role determined according to the game state to win, it is necessary to win the internal lottery and set the winning flag for that role. The internal lottery is determined by the main control unit 41 using random numbers before the display results of all reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are derived (specifically, when the start switch 7 is detected) to determine whether or not to allow each of the above-mentioned roles to win.

Among the winning flags for each role, the winning flags for the small role and the replay role are only valid in the game in which the flag is set and are invalid in the next game, but the winning flag for the special role is valid until the combination of roles permitted by the flag is completed, and is invalid in the game in which the combination of roles permitted by the flag is completed. In other words, once the winning flag for the special role is won, even if the combination of roles permitted by the flag cannot be completed, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game. However, in SB, the winning flag is not carried over.

In addition, in the internal lottery, it is possible to win a small prize or a replay prize (hereinafter also referred to as a "push order prize") that is more advantageous when the stop operation is performed in a predetermined operation mode (for example, operation sequence, operation timing) than when the stop operation is performed in another operation mode. Push order prizes include, for example, prizes that result in a stop mode that is more advantageous when the stop operation is performed in a predetermined operation mode than when the stop operation is performed in another operation mode, and prizes that result in a higher rate of advantageous stop modes when the stop operation is performed in a predetermined operation mode than when the stop operation is performed in another operation mode. In addition, advantageous stop modes include not only stop modes that involve the awarding of medals, but also stop modes that involve a transition to an advantageous game state, and stop modes that avoid a transition to an unfavorable game state.

The main control unit 41 can execute navigation to notify the player of the operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R that is advantageous to the player when the push order role is won by the internal lottery. Specifically, the main control unit 41 can control the assist time (AT), which is a notification period during which navigation notification can be executed to notify the player of the operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R that is advantageous to the player according to the internal lottery result by the lighting mode of the game assistance display 12 as navigation information. By winning the AT in the AT lottery, the player is controlled to the AT. Hereinafter, the state not controlled by the AT is also referred to as non-AT.

During the AT, when the push order role is won, the main control unit 41 executes a navigation notification, notifying the player of the operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R that is advantageous to the player (for example, the operation sequence, operation timing, etc.) using the game assistance display 12, and also sends a command that can identify the operation mode that is advantageous to the player to the sub-control unit 91, thereby executing a navigation performance that notifies the player of the operation mode as navigation information using the LCD display 51, etc.

The push order roles include the push order bell (six-choice bell), which is awarded when the player's operation mode matches the operation mode corresponding to the winning push order role (hereinafter also referred to as the "correct procedure"), and the push order replay, which is awarded when the player's operation mode matches the operation mode corresponding to the winning push order role. Hereinafter, the navigation that can be performed in a game in which the push order bell is won is also referred to as bell navigation.

By following the bell navigation and operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the correct sequence, the player can win a combination that pays out more medals among the combinations included in the push order bell. Alternatively, by following the bell navigation and operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the correct sequence, the player can win a combination that is unlikely to result in a win among the combinations included in the push order bell. Note that among the combinations included in the push order bell, a combination that can win a prize when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the correct sequence is called the "main combination," and a combination that can win a prize when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in an incorrect sequence that differs from the correct sequence is called the "secondary combination."

By operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the operation mode notified by the navigation notification and navigation performance, it is possible to ensure that the main role included in the push order role that was won in the internal lottery will be won.

The net increase in number of medals per game that a player can obtain in an AT is greater than the net increase in number of medals per game that a player can obtain in a non-AT. The net increase in number of medals per game (hereinafter also referred to as "1G net increase") is the number of medals paid out per game minus the number of medals used to set the number of bets per game.

The control of the AT is managed, for example, by the number of games, and the AT ends when the number of games played during the AT reaches a preset upper limit. Note that the AT is not limited to being managed by the number of games, and may be managed based on other conditions, such as the number of times the navigation is executed reaching a preset upper limit, the number of times the main role wins when the push order role is won reaching a preset upper limit, and the number of coins paid out or the net increase in coins reaching a preset upper limit.

In this embodiment, if it is determined in the AT lottery that the AT will be awarded, the number of games to be controlled by the AT (AT game number) is also determined. Then, if the AT is won, the next game will be controlled by the AT.

In addition, an additional lottery is held in the AT, and if the additional lottery is won (an additional win), the additional number of games (AT game number) is awarded in addition to the number of AT games.

[Game state transition]
3 is a diagram for explaining the transition of game states. The slot machine 1 in this embodiment is controlled to one of the game states RT0 (also called "normal"), RT1 (also called "SB"), RT2 (also called "inside BB"), and RT3 (also called "BB"). In RT3 (BB), the probability of winning a small prize is higher than in RT0 to RT2.

When the settings are changed, the game will first be controlled to RT0. If SB is won in RT0, the game will be controlled to RT1 (during SB) if SB is won in that game. The winning flag that is set when SB is won will not be carried over to the next game. RT1 ends when one game is played. In other words, RT1 can only last one game. When RT1 ends, the game will be controlled to RT0.

In this embodiment, even if the game state (RT0 to RT3) transitions, the replay probability remains constant. During BB (RT3), the probability of winning a bell is higher than in other game states, and the number of medals increases. Also, during SB, the probability of winning a bell (6-choice bells 1 to 6) is designed to be higher than during normal play. However, as described below, when not in AT, the expected value of the number of medals the player will win when controlled during SB and when controlled during normal play is the same or close to the same value, and when in AT, the expected value of the number of medals the player will win when controlled during SB is smaller than when controlled during normal play. Note that the replay probability may be made different depending on the game state, and the probability of winning other minor roles other than bells may be made different.

When BB is won in RT0 or RT1, control is transferred to RT2 (inside BB). The win flag that is set when BB is won is carried over until the winning BB wins. RT2 is continuously controlled from when BB is won until the BB win occurs.

If a BB win occurs during RT2, control is transferred to RT3 (during BB). In RT3, if a specified number of medals (e.g. 351 medals) or more are paid out, the BB ends and control is transferred to RT0.

Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a slot machine. As shown in Fig. 4, the slot machine 1 includes a game control board 40 that controls the progress of the game and outputs various commands according to the progress of the game, a performance control board 90 that controls predetermined performances according to the commands, a power supply board 101 that generates driving power for electric components, and an external output board 1000 that outputs signals according to the progress of the game to the outside.

The game control board 40 advances the game based on detection signals from switches such as various operating means and detection means (illustrated on the left side of the game control board 40 in FIG. 4), and drives and controls display devices such as notification means (illustrated on the left side of the game control board 40 in FIG. 4). The game control board 40 also drives and controls the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R based on signals from reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R.

The game control board 40 is equipped with a circuit configuration (illustrated in the game control board 40 in FIG. 4) such as a main control unit 41. The main control unit 41 performs processing related to the progress of the game, and directly or indirectly controls the configuration mounted on or connected to the game control board 40. The main control unit 41 is a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, I/O ports, etc. (not shown).

The performance control board 90 is connected to the performance switch 56. The performance control board 90 also drives and controls performance devices such as the LCD 51 (illustrated on the left side of the performance control board 90 in FIG. 4). The performance control board 90 is equipped with a circuit configuration such as a sub-control unit 91 (illustrated within the performance control board 90 in FIG. 4). The sub-control unit 91 receives commands sent from the game control board 40, performs processing to perform performances, and directly or indirectly controls the configuration mounted on or connected to the performance control board 90. The sub-control unit 91 is a one-chip microcomputer, and is equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, I/O ports, etc., which are not shown.

The circuit configuration of the sub-controller 91 includes, for example, a clock device 97 (hereinafter also referred to as an RTC) for clocking at least one of the date and the time. The sub-controller 91 can execute performance control in response to, for example, at least one of the date and the time clocked by the RTC 97, a detection signal from the performance switch 56, etc. The power supply board 101 is connected to the hopper motor 34b, various operating means and detection means (examples are shown on the right side of the power supply board 101 in Figure 4), etc.

[Winning Role]
5 is a diagram for explaining the type of winning combination, the winning combination, and the awarding of the winning combination. In the name column of FIG. 5, the name of the winning combination is shown, and in the combination column of the patterns, the combination of the patterns that will win the winning combination is shown. In addition, in the combination column of the patterns that can stop on an invalid line, the combination of the patterns that can stop on an invalid line when the winning combination of the patterns stops on the winning line and that is easy for the player to recognize is shown. In the award column, the value (the number of medals paid out, the award of replay, etc.) that will be awarded when winning is shown.

As shown in FIG. 5, the special roles include SB and BB. The minor roles include middle row bell, top row bells 1 to 8, watermelon, and cherry. The replay role includes regular lip.

There are 32 types of SB (SB1 to SB32). For example, the winning symbol combination for SB1 is "red 7 - watermelon - watermelon." For any SB, the winning symbol will not be derived unless the corresponding stop switch is operated at a specified timing on each reel. There is one type of BB, and the winning symbol combination is "red 7 - red 7 - red 7."

The middle bell is a combination that corresponds to the main role described above. The top bells 1 to 8 are combinations that correspond to the sub roles described above, and pay out fewer coins than the middle bell. Specifically, nine coins are paid out when the middle bell wins, and one coin is paid out when the top bells 1 to 8 win. When the watermelon wins, the watermelon symbols line up on reels 2L, 2C, and 2R.

[Role to be selected]
6 is a diagram for explaining combinations of winning roles read out as lottery target roles for each game state. The role number column in FIG. 6 shows the role numbers determined for each lottery target role, the lottery target role column shows the names, the winning role combination column shows the winning role combinations included in each lottery target role, and the game state column shows with a circle that the lottery target role is a lottery target role for each game state.

As shown in FIG. 6, the special roles that can be drawn include SB1 to SB32 and Bonus 1 to Bonus 3. BB can be won at the same time as Cherry and Watermelon. The minor roles that can be drawn include 6-choice Bells 1 to 6, Watermelon, and Cherry. The replay role that can be drawn includes Regular Lip. Note that Watermelon and Cherry are also called "rare roles" because their probability of winning in the internal lottery is lower than that of the 6-choice Bell.

In RT0, all roles are possible. In RT1, roles other than SB1 to SB32 are possible. In RT2 and RT3, roles other than SB1 to SB32 and Bonus 1 to 3 are possible.

[Reel control of push order role]
7 is a diagram for explaining reel control when a push order role is won. As shown in FIG. 7, the push order role is provided with six-option bells 1 to 6. In a game in which a six-option bell is won during an AT, a bell navigation is executed and the correct procedure is notified to the player. The player can win a winning role that is advantageous to the player by operating stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the correct procedure according to the bell navigation.

For example, in a game in which one of the six-choice bells 1 to 6 is won, if the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the correct sequence, the main middle bell will win and nine coins will be paid out, whereas if the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the incorrect sequence, the secondary upper bell will win and one coin will be paid out or no prize will be awarded. Note that when six-choice bell 1 is won, the middle bell will also be referred to as six-choice bell 1. The same applies to six-choice bells 2 to 6.

[Setting value]
In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the medal payout rate changes according to a set value. More specifically, the medal payout rate is changed by determining the winning probability used in the internal lottery according to the set value. The set values are in six stages from 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest payout rate, and the payout rate decreasing in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1. In other words, when 6 is set as the set value, the player has the highest advantage, and the advantage decreases stepwise in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1.

To change the setting value, the power switch of the power supply box provided inside the slot machine 1 must be operated to turn the power of the slot machine 1 OFF if it is ON, and then the setting key switch must be operated to turn the setting key switch ON before turning the power of the slot machine 1 ON. When the setting key switch is turned ON and the power of the slot machine 1 is turned ON, the machine transitions to a setting change state in which game progress is not possible, provided that the door is open. When the machine transitions to the setting change state, the current setting value read from RAM 41c is displayed as the display value on the setting value display.

In the setting change state, when the reset/setting switch is operated, the display value shown on the setting value display is updated by one (when it is operated again from setting 6, it returns to setting 1). When the start switch 7 is then operated, the displayed value is confirmed as the setting value. When the setting key switch is turned OFF, the confirmed display value (setting value) is stored in RAM 41c and the game moves to a state in which play can proceed. Note that the setting change state is entered by turning the power switch OFF once, setting the setting key switch ON, and then turning the power switch ON, and these operations are collectively referred to as setting change operations.

[Type Test]
The slot machine 1 can output external output signals indicating the game status, the occurrence of errors, etc. These external output signals are output from the game control board 40 under the control of the main control unit 41, and are output to external devices such as a hall computer or a data display terminal installed corresponding to the slot machine 1 via the external output board 1000 and an information provision terminal board of the game parlor (hall) where the slot machine 1 is installed.

Apart from this, the slot machine 1 is also configured to be able to output externally signals used for type testing. In the industry in which gaming machines such as slot machines are distributed, inspection (type testing) by a third party is mandatory before shipping, and only models that are determined to meet the specified standards in the type testing are allowed to be shipped to gaming facilities.

Type testing is carried out with the aim of restricting gaming machines that are likely to stimulate excessive gambling. For example, if the payout rate exceeds an upper limit (e.g., 220%) after a specified number of games (e.g., 400 games) have been played, the gaming machine is deemed to be likely to stimulate excessive gambling and will not pass the type testing. In this way, type testing is used to eliminate slot machines that are likely to stimulate excessive gambling. Here, the payout rate is the ratio of the total number of medals paid out to the total number of medals used to set the number of bets during the period in which the specified number of games are played.

The slot machine 1 is equipped with an input/output board for inputting and outputting signals used for testing. The input/output board is electrically connected to the game control board 40 and the performance control board 90. The test signals output from the slot machine 1 to the test device include a signal capable of identifying the start operation, a signal capable of identifying the stop operation, and a signal capable of identifying the number of coins to be paid out.

The input/output board mounted on the slot machine 1 is provided with a connector for electrically connecting to the game control board 40, a connector for electrically connecting to the performance control board 90, and a connector for electrically connecting to a test device. Type testing is performed by inputting and outputting various signals while the input/output board and the test device are connected by connectors. When the slot machine 1 outputs a test signal, the test signal is input to the test device via the input/output board. This makes it possible for the test device to determine the number of games played on the slot machine 1, the number of bets set, the number of medals paid out, and so on.

As described above, information is repeatedly input and output between the slot machine 1 and the testing device via the input/output board, allowing the game to be played automatically and repeatedly. As a result, a type test of the slot machine 1 can be performed automatically.

The above-mentioned type test is carried out as a simulation test. The simulation test is a test carried out so that the maximum number of medals that can be obtained per game is obtained. For example, when a bonus (SB or BB) is won, a prize is always won in the game, and when a push order role such as a push order bell (six-choice bell) is won, the correct procedure is performed and the maximum number of medals is paid out.

[Changes in ball output in each state]
As described above, the main control unit 41 can control a plurality of states including normal, SB, and BB. In this embodiment, there are 32 types of SB (single bonus), which include SB1 to SB32.

The main control unit 41 performs advantageous control based on advantageous decisions that are advantageous to the player. For example, advantageous decisions that are advantageous to the player are decisions to control the AT or to decide the number of games to be added. Advantageous control is control of the AT or adding to the number of AT games.

When not under control of the AT, it is possible to determine that the AT will be under control as an advantageous decision. When under control of the AT, it is possible to determine that the AT will be extended as an advantageous decision (the number of additional games can be determined).

When control of the AT is determined as advantageous, control of the AT is performed as advantageous control. In the AT, navigation information corresponding to the order in which the stop switches are pressed can be notified.

When the number of added games is determined as the advantageous decision, the number of AT games is added as the advantageous control. However, this is not limited to this, and the granting of some kind of bonus may be determined as the advantageous decision, and the control to grant the bonus may be performed as the advantageous control.

When one of the multiple types of SBs (SB1-32) is selected and the stop switch is operated in the operation mode (operation timing) corresponding to the selected SB, the winning symbol combination (SB1-32 winning symbol combination) corresponding to the selected SB is derived. SBs can only be selected during normal play (RT0).

For example, suppose SB1 wins during normal play. The winning symbol combination for SB1 is "red 7 - watermelon - watermelon." "When the stop switches are operated at the operation timing corresponding to the winning SB1" means when the left stop switch is operated at a timing when the red 7 symbol can be drawn on the left reel, the middle stop switch is operated at a timing when the watermelon symbol can be drawn on the middle reel, and the right stop switch is operated at a timing when the watermelon symbol can be drawn on the right reel.

When the stop switch is operated at the operation timing corresponding to SB1 (when the stop switch is operated at a timing that allows the SB1 winning symbol combination "red 7-watermelon-watermelon" to be drawn), the SB1 winning symbol combination "red 7-watermelon-watermelon" corresponding to SB1 is derived. This results in an SB1 winning, and the next game is controlled by SB1.

Similarly, if SB2 is won during normal play, when the stop switch is operated at the operation timing corresponding to SB2 in that game (when the stop switch is operated at a timing that allows the SB2 winning symbol combination "Red 7 - Watermelon - Cherry" to be drawn), the SB2 winning symbol combination "Red 7 - Watermelon - Cherry" corresponding to SB2 is derived. This results in an SB2 win, and control is given to SB2 in the next game. The same applies to SB3 to SB32.

In this way, when an SB is won during normal play and a winning symbol combination corresponding to the winning SB in that game is derived, control is performed during the SB.

Figure 8 is a diagram to explain the progression of balls dispensed in each state. Figure 8(a) is an example of the progression of balls dispensed during normal operation, Figure 8(b) is an example of the progression of balls dispensed during AT, and Figure 8(c) is an example of the progression of balls dispensed during a simulation test.

First, we will explain an example of the progress of balls dispensed during normal play. The table in Figure 8(a) shows the number of medals inserted in each game (also called "IN"), the winning combination in that game, and the number of medals paid out (also called "OUT") when 14 games are played.

Furthermore, on the right side of the table, the total number of medals inserted (IN) in the 14 games, the total number of medals paid out (OUT) in the 14 games, and the payout rate in the 14 games are shown.

The payout rate is the ratio of the total number of medals paid out to the total number of medals used to set the bet amount, and is calculated as follows: "Payout rate" = "Total number of medals paid out in 14 games (OUT)" / "Total number of medals inserted in 14 games (IN)". The same applies to the tables in Figures 8(b) and (c) below.

As shown in FIG. 8(a), in the first regular game (also called "G"), three medals are inserted to set the bet amount (IN=3). In that game, a regular replay (also called a "replay") is won. In that game, a replay is won, and a replay is granted. The number of medals paid out for winning a replay is 0 (OUT=0).

Since a replay has been granted, there is no need to insert a medal in the next game (2nd game) (IN=0). Let us assume that an SB is won in that game (for example, SB1 is won). However, in this embodiment, there are 32 types of SB, and the timing of operating the stop switch to generate a winning result is different for each SB.

For this reason, even if a player operates the stop switch at a timing that would result in a winning SB, in most cases no winning will occur. Also, because the stop switch must be operated at a timing that would allow a winning symbol combination to be drawn, the probability of a winning occurrence is low even if the stop switch is pressed at any timing.

Let's say that in the second game in which SB is won, SB does not win. In this case, the number of medals paid out is 0 (OUT = 0). Since SB is not won, there is no control during SB, and normal play continues into the third game.

Let's say that the 6-choice bell (also simply called "bell") is selected on the third game. During normal play, the push order is not navigated, so if the player presses the buttons in any order or operates the stop switches in the order left, center, right, the probability of the correct push order is 1/6.

If the button press sequence is correct, the middle bell will be drawn and 9 medals will be paid out. If the button press sequence is incorrect, a losing number will be derived. In this case, the expected number of medals paid out for winning the bell is 9 x (1/6) + 0 x (5/5) = 1.5 medals. In other words, OUT = 1.5.

Let's say you get a bell on the 4th game. As with the 3rd game, the push order is not navigated, so IN=3.
, OUT = 1.5. Assume that SB is won in the 5th game. As in the 2nd game, it is almost impossible to win SB when SB is won, so assume that SB is not won in the 5th game either. In this case, IN = 3, OUT = 0. Therefore, normal play continues in the 6th game.

Similarly, on the 6th G, Bell wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 1.5. On the 7th G, Bell wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 1.5. On the 8th G, Replay wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 0. On the 9th G, SB wins, and IN = 0, OUT = 0. On the 10th G, Bell wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 1.5. On the 11th G, Bell wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 1.5. On the 12th G, SB wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 0. On the 13th G, Bell wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 1.5. On the 14th G, Replay wins, and IN = 3, OUT = 0.

The total number of INs over the 14 games is 33, and the total number of OUTs is 10.5, so the payout rate is 31.8% (=10.5/33).

Next, an example of the progression of balls dispensed during the AT will be described. It is assumed that the winning combination in 14 games is the same as in normal times. As shown in FIG. 8(b), the push order is navigated during the AT. Therefore, when a bell is won on the 3rd, 4th, 6th, 7th, 11th, or 13th game, the correct procedure is announced, so that the middle bell, which is a 9-coin combination, can be won with certainty.

Because of this, while during normal play the expected value of OUT when a bell is won is 1.5, during AT the expected value of OUT when a bell is won is 9. During AT, other than when a bell is won, it is the same as during normal play.

During the AT, the total number of INs over 14 games is 33, and the total number of OUTs is 63, so the payout rate is 190.9% (=63/33).

Next, an example of the progression of balls dispensed during a simulation test will be described. During a simulation test, operations are performed such that all winning combinations are guaranteed to win, or operations that result in the correct sequence are performed. For example, if SB wins, a signal is input to the slot machine such that the stop button is operated so that SB is guaranteed to win. Also, if a bell is won, a signal is input to the slot machine such that the stop button is operated in the correct sequence.

As shown in FIG. 8(c), the winning combinations in the 14 games are, in principle, the same as those in the normal and AT examples. However, in the simulation test, if an SB is won, an SB win is always achieved, so the next game is controlled to be in SB. Then, in the game controlled to be in SB, a game during SB (also called "SB game") is played, and the game following the game in which the SB game was played is again controlled to be in normal.

In this example, control is exercised during SB on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games after the SB wins on the 2nd, 5th, 9th, and 12th games. Therefore, during normal play or AT, bells would normally be won on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games, but instead, play during SB will take place.

In this embodiment, during normal play, all six-choice bells 1 to 6 have a predetermined probability of winning (X%). Therefore, the probability that any of the six-choice bells 1 to 6 will win is 6 x X%. On the other hand, during SB, all six-choice bells 1 to 6 will win simultaneously, and the probability that six-choice bells 1 to 6 will win simultaneously is Y%. Here, X% < Y%, but X% and Y% are almost equal values.

For this reason, while the probability of winning a 6-choice bell during normal play (the probability that any of the 6-choice bells 1 to 6 will be won) is 6 x X%, the probability of winning a 6-choice bell during a SB (the probability that all 6-choice bells 1 to 6 that are won simultaneously) is Y% (almost the same as X%), so during a SB, only about 1/6 of the time you will win a 6-choice bell.

In SB play on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games, for example, there is a 1/6 probability of hitting a bell (six-choice bell), and all other wins (5/6) are misses. If a bell is hit, 9 coins will be paid out because the correct procedure is always followed in the simulation test. Therefore, in SB play, IN = 3, and the expected value of OUT is (1/6) x 9 + (5/6) x 0 = 1.5.

After the SB play ends on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games, the game returns to normal play on the 4th, 7th, 12th, and 14th games. Also, during normal play, bells are won on the 4th, 7th, and 11th games, but in the simulation test, the correct sequence is always followed, so 9 coins are paid out.

In the simulation test, the total number of INs over 14 games was 33, and the total number of OUTs was 33, so the payout rate was 100% (=33/33).

Comparing the simulation test with the AT, 9 coins are always paid out when a bell is won during normal play. However, in the simulation test, if an SB is won, it always enters the SB, so the payout is less during the SB on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games (OUT = 1.5).

On the other hand, during the AT, the winning bells on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games are used to win, so the payout can be greater than in the simulation test (OUT = 9). Thus, in this embodiment, the number of balls paid out is reduced by winning the SB in the simulation test, but during the AT, the SB rarely wins, so the payout rate can be improved by winning the bells.

Comparing the simulation test with normal play, when a bell is won during normal play, OUT = 1.5, whereas in the simulation test, when a bell is won, OUT = 9. In the simulation test, when an SB is won, an SB is always awarded, and SB play is performed on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games, but in normal play, a bell is won.

In normal play, the correct procedure is not announced, so even if a bell is won, the probability of nine coins being paid out is 1/6. On the other hand, in the simulation test, nine coins are always paid out if a bell is won, but the probability of a bell being won is 1/6. For this reason, in this example, when comparing normal play on the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 13th games with the simulation test, the OUT is 1.5 in all cases.

In this embodiment, when not in AT (non-AT), the expected number of medals the player will win is the same when controlled during SB and when controlled during normal play. Also, it does not have to be the same, as long as it is close.

In addition, in this embodiment, during the AT, the expected number of medals the player will win is smaller when controlled during SB than when controlled during normal play.

Specifically, it is as follows. The difference between the internal lottery during normal and SB is whether or not SB is won, and the difference in the probability of winning bell. Specifically, SB is won during normal, but SB is not won during SB. For example, the judgment value number assigned to SB during normal is assigned to miss during SB. When SB is won, the number of medals paid out is 0 (OUT = 0) regardless of whether SB is won or not. Therefore, when a random number that wins SB during normal is obtained, OUT = 0 whether during normal or SB, and the expected value of the number of medals won by the player is the same. Note that the judgment value number assigned to SB during normal may be assigned to cherry during SB. By doing so, the probability of winning cherry is higher during SB than during normal.

As explained above, during normal play, all six-choice bells 1 to 6 have an X% probability of winning, and during SB, all six-choice bells 1 to 6 have a Y% (almost the same as X%) probability of winning simultaneously. For example, the judgment value numbers assigned to six-choice bells 1 to 6 during normal play are 100 each, and the judgment value number assigned to six-choice bells 1 to 6 that win simultaneously during SB is 101.

In this way, while in normal play, each of the six-choice bells 1 to 6 is assigned an independent judgment value number (100), while in SB, they are assigned a common judgment value number (101). Since the number of judgment values for one six-choice bell in normal play (100) is greater than the number of judgment values for one six-choice bell in normal play (101), for example, the probability of winning six-choice bell 1 in SB is higher than the probability of winning six-choice bell 1 in normal play, which can be said to be advantageous. However, looking at the overall picture, while the total number of judgment values assigned to six-choice bells 1 to 6 in normal play is 600, the number of judgment values assigned to six-choice bells 1 to 6, which are simultaneously won, is 101, so it can be said that in SB, you are at a disadvantage.

In this embodiment, if a random number that wins 6-choice bell 1 during normal play is obtained (the judgment value is 100), 6-choice bells 1 to 6 are simultaneously won during SB (100 of the judgment value of 101 in which 6-choice bells 1 to 6 are simultaneously won is duplicated). Also, if a random number that wins 6-choice bells 2 to 5 during normal play is obtained (the judgment value is 500 = 100 x 5), during SB, chance role (1-coin role) is almost always won (499 out of 500 judgment values win chance role, 1 wins 6-choice bells 1 to 6 simultaneously). If a chance role is won, 1 coin is paid out. The chance role may be won only during SB, or the chance role may be won during normal play as well, and the probability of winning the chance role may be higher during SB than during normal play.

When a random number is obtained that will result in one of the 6-choice bells 1-6 during normal play (the number of judgment values is 600 = 100 x 6), the expected value of OUT is as follows. During non-AT and normal play, the probability of correctly pressing the 6-choice bells 1-6, which are a 9-coin role, is 1/6, and if you miss it, assuming that you will win a 1-coin role, then OUT = 2.33 (9 x 1/6 + 1 x 1 x 5/6). If you assume that you will not win a 1-coin role, then OUT = 1.5. During AT and normal play, the correct procedure is announced, so OUT = 9.

Meanwhile, during SB, six-choice bells 1 to 6 can be won simultaneously (judgment value 101) or a chance role can be won (judgment value 499). If six-choice bells 1 to 6 are won simultaneously, no matter which operating procedure is used to operate the stop switch, one of the six-choice bells will always win. This is because by winning these simultaneously, all pressing sequences of "left center right", "left left center", "center left left", "center right left", "right left center", and "right center left" are covered.

For example, if the stop switch is operated in the push order "left, middle, right", the 6-choice bell 1 will win, and if the stop switch is operated in the push order "right, middle, left", the 6-choice bell 6 will win. In other words, whether in the AT or not in the AT, 9 coins will always be paid out. Also, here, it is assumed that a prize will be won when a chance role (1 coin role) is won, whether in the AT or not in the AT. In this case, in the non-AT and SB, OUT = 9 x (101/600) + 1 x (499/600) = 2.35. If it is assumed that the chance role is not won, OUT = 1.52. Also, in the AT and SB, OUT = 2.35.

Thus, when focusing on when a bell is won, OUT = 2.35 when not in AT and SB, whereas OUT = 2.33 when not in AT and normal. Also, since there is no difference in expected value when not in bell, when not in AT, the expected value of the number of medals the player will win is the same or close to the same when controlled during SB and normal. Furthermore, if it is assumed that a 1-coin role is missed, OUT = 1.52 when not in AT and SB, whereas OUT = 1.5 when not in AT and normal.

Furthermore, when focusing on when the bell is won, OUT = 2.35 during AT and SB, whereas OUT = 9 during AT and normal play. Also, since there is no difference in expected value except when the bell is won, when in AT, the expected value of the number of medals won by the player is smaller when controlled during SB than when controlled during normal play. In the explanation of Figure 8(c), OUT = 1.5 during SB play was calculated, but if calculated based on the above assumptions, OUT = 2.35 or 1.52.

As explained above, in the simulation test, if a bell (six-choice bell) is won, there is a 100% probability that the middle bell, which has the largest payout number, will be won, and if an SB is won, there is a 100% probability that the SB will be won. On the other hand, in actual play, the operation mode of the stop switch that derives the winning symbol combination differs for each SB, so even if an SB is won, the probability of the SB winning is low.

During the AT, the expected number of medals won by the player is smaller when controlled during SB than when controlled normally, so in a simulation test in which SB is won with a 100% probability, the expected number of medals won by the player can be lowered. In other words, the expected number of designed balls to be dispensed during the AT can be lowered. On the other hand, in actual play, SB winning is unlikely to occur, so the deviation between the expected number of designed balls to be dispensed and the expected number of designed balls to be dispensed can be increased. In this way, optimal control can be performed in relation to the expected number of medals won by the player and control during SB.

[Differences in advantage depending on the situation]
Figure 9 is a diagram for explaining the difference in the degree of advantage according to the state. As explained above, if the AT is won during non-AT, it is controlled to AT, and if the SB is won or won during normal SB, it is controlled during SB. Figure 9 illustrates these relationships in an easy-to-understand manner.

For example, suppose that currently, control is being performed in normal mode during a non-AT (hereinafter, this state will be referred to as "state A"). In state A, as shown in FIG. 9, if an SB is won and an SB is won in the game, control will be performed in SB during a non-AT (hereinafter, this state will be referred to as "state B"). However, as mentioned above, since there are 32 types of SB, it is very rare for an SB to be won. When 1G is consumed during an SB, the SB ends and control is performed in normal mode again.

Here, even if it is during normal non-AT (state A) or during SB non-AT (state B), if the AT is won in the AT lottery, it will be controlled to the AT. In either case, if a rare combination (watermelon, cherry) is won, the AT lottery will be held.

If the AT is won during normal non-AT (state A), it will be controlled to the AT while still in normal mode (hereinafter, this state will also be referred to as "state C"), and when control to the AT ends, it will return to the non-AT state (state A) again. If the AT is won during SB non-AT (state B), it will be controlled to the AT while still in SB (hereinafter, this state will also be referred to as "state D"), and when control to the AT ends, it will return to the non-AT state (state B) again.

Here, whether during normal AT (state C) or during SB during AT (state D), if an additional draw is won in the additional draw lottery, the number of AT games will be added. In either case, if a rare role (watermelon, cherry) is won, an additional draw lottery will be held.

If you win SB during the AT while it is under normal control (state C) and the SB is awarded in that game, you will be controlled under SB during the AT (state D). However, as mentioned above, it is rare to win SB. When 1G is consumed during SB, SB ends and you will be controlled under normal control again (state C).

The degree of advantage in each of the above-described states A to D will be explained below. In this embodiment, the degree of advantage regarding advantageous determination when controlled during SB is designed to be higher than the degree of advantage regarding advantageous determination when controlled during normal times. The degree of advantage regarding advantageous determination is, for example, the probability of winning the AT or the probability of winning an additional prize.

Specifically, when controlled during SB during non-AT (state A), the probability of winning the AT is higher than when controlled during normal non-AT (state B). Also, when controlled during SB during AT (state C), the probability of winning the additional prize is higher than when controlled during normal AT (state D).

In this way, the degree of advantage (probability of winning AT, probability of winning additional prizes) in determining an advantage when controlled during SB is higher than the degree of advantage when controlled normally, so interest in the game can be maintained even when controlled during SB. In this way, it is possible to perform suitable control in relation to the expected value of the number of medals the player will win and control during SB.

In addition, in this embodiment, advantageous decisions (control decisions for AT, and decisions on the number of added games) are made based on whether a rare combination (watermelon, cherry) is won. A rare combination can be won during both normal play and SB.

Specifically, if a rare role is won during normal non-AT (state A) or during SB during non-AT (state B), an AT lottery will be held. If a rare role is won during normal AT (state C) or during SB during AT (state D), an additional lottery will be held.

When a rare role is won when controlled during SB during non-AT (state B), the probability of winning the AT in the AT lottery (probability that control to the AT will be determined) is higher than when a rare role is won when controlled during normal non-AT (state A).

When a rare role is won during the AT under control during SB (state D), the probability of winning the additional prize in the additional prize lottery (the probability of determining an additional AT game number) is higher than when a rare role is won during the AT under control during normal play (state C).

In addition, in this embodiment, advantageous decisions (control decisions for AT, decision on the number of added games) are made based on whether a chance role has been won. As described above, the probability of winning a chance role during SB (state B or D) is higher than the probability of winning a chance role during normal play (state A or C).

In addition, in this embodiment, advantageous decisions (control decisions for AT, decision on the number of added games) are made based on whether a cherry has won. As described above, the judgment value number assigned to SB during normal times may be assigned to cherries during SB, so that the probability of a cherry winning during SB (state B or D) is higher than the probability of a cherry winning during normal times (state A or C).

In addition, in this embodiment, the degree of advantage (probability of winning an additional bonus, number of additional bonus games) in determining an advantage when controlled during SB during an AT is designed to be higher than the degree of advantage (probability of winning an AT, number of AT games) in determining an advantage when controlled during SB during a non-AT.

Specifically, if an additional lottery is performed during AT when controlled during SB (state D), the lottery is performed to be more advantageous than if the AT lottery is performed during non-AT when controlled during SB (state B).

Here, the "expected value of the number of AT games awarded in one AT lottery" is the "probability of winning the AT" x the "expected value of the number of AT games awarded when the AT is won." Also, the "expected value of the number of AT games (number of added games) awarded in one additional lottery" is the "probability of winning the additional" x the "expected value of the number of AT games awarded when the additional is won."

When controlled during SB, the AT lottery and the additional lottery are performed so that the "probability of winning the additional bonus x the expected value of the number of AT games awarded when the additional bonus is won" is greater than the "probability of winning the AT x the expected value of the number of AT games awarded when the AT is won."

In addition, during the AT, an SB winning notification is made. The SB winning notification is made when a winning symbol combination corresponding to a winning SB is derived in a game in which the SB is won, and the winning symbol combination is derived.

For example, as a SB winning notification, during normal AT (state C), when the SB1 winning symbol combination is derived in a game in which SB1 is won, the occurrence of the SB winning is notified. For example, as a SB winning notification, the side lamp 27 may be blinked for a predetermined period of time when the SB winning occurs. This is not limited to SB1 winning, but is similar for SB2 to SB32 winnings as well.

In addition, in this embodiment, the probability of being determined to be controlled to BB is the same when controlled during normal operation (state A or C) as when controlled during SB (state B or D). In other words, in the internal lottery, the probability of winning BB during normal operation is equal to the probability of winning BB during SB.

[Major Effects]
Next, main effects obtained by the above-described embodiment will be described.

(1) A variable display unit is provided that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information, each of which is identifiable;
In a slot machine (e.g., slot machine 1) in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after the variable display is changed, and a winning prize can be generated according to the display result,
A state control means (for example, a process for controlling the game state by the main control unit 41) capable of controlling a plurality of states including a normal state (for example, during normal) and a specific state (for example, during SB (during SB1 to SB32));
An advantageous control means (for example, a process of controlling the AT or adding the number of AT games by the main control unit 41) that performs advantageous control (for example, control of the AT, adding the number of AT games) based on advantageous decisions (for example, control decisions for the AT, deciding the number of added games) that are advantageous to the player;
A pre-determination means for determining a display result to be allowed to be derived (for example, a process of performing an internal lottery by the main control unit 41);
derivation operation means (e.g., stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) that are operated to derive a display result;
a derivation control means (for example, a reel control process executed by the main control unit 41) for controlling the derivation of a display result,
The determination result of the pre-determination means includes a plurality of specific determination results (e.g., winning SB1 to SB32),
The derivation control means performs control to derive a specific display result (e.g., SB1 to SB32 winning symbol combination) corresponding to the specific determination result when the determination result of the pre-determination means becomes any one of the multiple types of specific determination results and the derivation operation means is operated in an operation mode (e.g., operation timing) corresponding to the specific determination result (e.g., FIG. 5 );
the state control means, when the specific display result corresponding to the specific determination result is derived in a game in which the determination result of the pre-determination means is a specific determination result in the normal state, controls the game to the specific state (for example, FIG. 9 );
When the advantageous control is not performed, the expected value of the amount of gaming value (e.g., the number of medals) acquired by the player is equal when the specific state is controlled and when the normal state is controlled (for example, FIG. 8 ).
When the advantageous control is being performed, the expected amount of gaming value acquired by the player is smaller when controlled to the specific state than when controlled to the normal state (for example, FIG. 8).

Specifically, the main control unit 41 can be controlled to a plurality of states including normal and SB (SB1 to SB32). The main control unit 41 performs advantageous control (control of AT, addition of AT game number) based on advantageous decision (control decision for AT, decision of added game number) that is advantageous to the player. The lottery target role includes a plurality of types of SB (SB1 to 32). When one of the plurality of types of SB is won and the stop switch is operated in the operation mode (operation timing) corresponding to the winning SB, the winning symbol combination (SB1 to 32 winning symbol combination) corresponding to the winning SB is derived. As shown in FIG. 9, when the winning symbol combination corresponding to the winning SB is derived in the game in which the SB is won during normal, it is controlled during SB. As shown in FIG. 8, when not during AT, the expected value of the number of medals acquired by the player is the same when controlled during SB and when controlled during normal. As shown in FIG. 8, during AT, the expected number of medals the player will win is smaller when controlled during SB than when controlled during normal play.

In the simulation test, when the bell (six-choice bell) is won, the middle bell, which has the maximum payout number, is won with a 100% probability, and when the SB is won, the SB is won with a 100% probability. On the other hand, in an actual game, the operation mode of the stop switch that derives the winning symbol combination is different for each SB, so the probability of winning the SB is low even if the SB is won. And, when in the AT, the expected value of the number of medals acquired by the player is smaller when controlled during the SB than when controlled during normal play, so that in the simulation test in which the SB is won with a 100% probability, the expected value of the number of medals acquired by the player can be lowered. That is, the expected value of the designed balls during the AT can be lowered. On the other hand, in an actual game, since the SB is unlikely to be won, the deviation between the expected value of the designed balls and the expected value of the actual designed balls can be increased. In this way, it is possible to perform suitable control in relation to the expected value of the number of medals acquired by the player and the control during the SB.

(2) The degree of advantage (e.g., probability of winning an AT, probability of winning an additional bonus) regarding the advantageous determination when controlled to the specific state is higher than the degree of advantage when controlled to the normal state (e.g., FIG. 9).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the degree of advantage (probability of winning AT, probability of winning additional prizes) in determining an advantage when controlled during SB is higher than the degree of advantage when controlled during normal play.

In this way, the degree of advantage (probability of winning AT, probability of winning additional prizes) in determining an advantage when controlled during SB is higher than the degree of advantage when controlled normally, so interest in the game can be maintained even when controlled during SB. In this way, it is possible to perform suitable control in relation to the expected value of the number of medals the player will win and control during SB.

(3) The advantageous determination is made based on the result of the pre-determination means being a special determination result (for example, a rare winning combination),
In both the normal state and the specific state, the determination result of the pre-determination means becomes the special determination result (for example, FIG. 9).

Specifically, advantageous decisions (control decision for AT, number of added games) are made based on whether a rare role has been won. As shown in FIG. 9, rare roles can be won during both normal play and SB. Therefore, interest in the game can be maintained even when controlled during SB.

(4) The advantageous decision is made based on the result of the pre-determination means being a special decision result (for example, a cherry win or a chance win),
The probability that the determination result of the pre-determination means in the specific state will be the special determination result is higher than the probability that the determination result of the pre-determination means in the normal state will be the special determination result (for example, FIG. 9).

Specifically, advantageous decisions (control decision for AT, number of added games) are made based on whether or not a cherry has been won. As shown in FIG. 9, the probability of a cherry winning during SB is higher than the probability of a cherry winning during normal play. For this reason, interest in the game can be maintained even if control is exercised during SB.

(5) When the advantageous control is being performed (e.g., during AT), the degree of advantage regarding the advantageous decision when controlled to the specific state is higher than the degree of advantage regarding the advantageous decision when the advantageous control is not being performed (e.g., during non-AT) and controlled to the specific state (e.g., FIG. 9).

Specifically, as shown in Fig. 9, the degree of advantage (probability of winning the additional bonus, number of games played for the additional bonus) in the AT when controlled during SB is higher than the degree of advantage (probability of winning the AT, number of games played for the AT) in the non-AT when controlled during SB. Therefore, even when controlled during SB during the AT, the interest in the game can be maintained.

(6) As the advantageous control, it is possible to control the operation information (e.g., navigation information) corresponding to the operation mode (e.g., push order) of the derivation operation means to be notified during a notification period (e.g., AT) (e.g., a process in which the main control unit 41 controls the AT),
When the AT is not controlled during the notification period, it is possible to determine that the AT is controlled during the notification period (for example, to determine control over the AT) as the advantageous determination (for example, FIG. 9 ).
When controlled by the notification period, it is possible to decide to extend the notification period (for example, to decide the number of additional games) as the advantageous decision (for example, FIG. 9).

Specifically, as an advantageous control, it is possible to control the AT to be able to notify navigation information corresponding to the order in which the stop switches are pressed. As shown in FIG. 9, when not controlled by the AT, it is possible to determine that the AT will be controlled as an advantageous decision. When controlled by the AT, it is possible to determine that the AT will be extended as an advantageous decision (the number of additional games can be determined). For this reason, players can look forward to control and extension of the AT.

(7) When the advantageous control is being performed, in a game in which the result of the determination by the advance determination means is a specific determination result, when the specific display result corresponding to the specific determination result is derived, a notification is given that the specific display result has been derived (for example, a notification of an SB win) (for example, FIG. 9).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, when a winning symbol combination corresponding to a winning SB is derived in a game in which an SB is won during an AT, an SB winning notification is made to notify that a winning symbol combination has been derived. If an SB is won during an AT, a navigation effect is not executed. Furthermore, in SB play, the expected value of the number of medals won by the player is small, so the probability of a navigation effect being executed is low. In this way, there may be consecutive games during the AT in which no navigation effect is executed, which causes a decrease in interest in the game. For this reason, by making an SB winning notification during the AT, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game due to consecutive games during the AT in which no navigation effect is executed.

(8) The plurality of types of states further includes an advantageous state (e.g., during BB) that is advantageous to the player,
When the result of the determination by the pre-determination means is an advantageous result (for example, a BB win), it is determined that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state;
The proportion of times when it is determined to be controlled to the advantageous state is the same when it is controlled to the normal state and when it is controlled to the specific state (for example, FIG. 9).

Specifically, the game state further includes an advantageous state (during BB) that is advantageous to the player. When BB is won, it is decided that control will be during BB. As shown in FIG. 9, the rate at which control will be decided to be during BB is the same when controlled during normal play and when controlled during SB. Therefore, BB can be expected to occur equally during normal play and during SB.

[Modification]
Although the main embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and various modifications and applications are possible. Below, modifications of the above embodiment that can be applied to the present invention will be described.

[About favorable decisions]
In this embodiment, the advantage is determined based on the cherry being won, but the probability of the cherry being won during SB is set to be higher than the probability of the cherry being won during normal play. However, it is not limited to the cherry, and the probability of the watermelon being won during SB may be set to be higher than the probability of the watermelon being won during normal play.

Also, the probability of winning cherries or watermelons may be the same during SB and normal play, and the probability of winning a predetermined role during SB may be higher than the probability of winning a predetermined role during normal play. In this case, an AT lottery is held when a predetermined role is won during a non-AT, and an add-on is held when a predetermined role is won during an AT. In this case, an AT lottery or an add-on lottery may be held so that the advantage is higher during SB than during normal play.

[About SB award winners]
In this embodiment, the side lamps 27 are made to flash for a predetermined period of time when an SB win occurs as the SB win notification. However, this is not limited to this, and the reel backlights may be made to flash, or an image notifying the occurrence of an SB win may be displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. In addition, in the SB win notification, it may be possible to notify which SB among SB1 to SB32 has won in a specific manner, or a common notification may be made. In addition, the SB win notification may be made not only during the AT, but also during non-AT.

The various configurations, processes, and timing of the processes in the above-described embodiment and modified examples can be combined as appropriate.

In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment and modified example, the present invention is applied to a slot machine 1, which is an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied to any gaming machine that performs a specific game, such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a game is played by shooting a gaming ball into a game area, and even general gaming machines other than slot machines and pachinko gaming machines.

The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

1 slot machine, 1a housing, 1b front door, 2L, 2C, 2R reels, 3 see-through window, 4 medal insertion section, 6 MAXBET switch, 7 start switch, 8L, 8C, 8R stop switch, 9 medal payout outlet, 11 credit display, 12 game auxiliary display, 13 game display section, 27 side lamp, 28L, 28C, 28R reel backlight, 41 main control section, 41a main CPU, 41c RAM, 51 liquid crystal display, 53, 54 speaker, 56 performance switch, 91 sub control section, 91a
Sub CPU, 91c RAM.

Claims (1)

A variable display unit is provided that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information that are each identifiable,
A slot machine in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display part after the variable display of the variable display part is variably displayed, and a winning prize can be generated according to the display result,
A state control means capable of controlling the state to a plurality of states including a normal state and a specific state ;
a pre-determination means for determining which display results are permitted to be derived ;
a derivation operation means that is operated to derive a display result;
A derivation control means for controlling the derivation of a display result;
a notification period control means for controlling a notification period during which operation information corresponding to an operation mode of the derivation operation means can be notified based on a first advantageous decision;
a notification period extension means for extending the notification period based on a second advantageous decision when the notification period is being controlled,
The determination results of the pre-determination means include a plurality of specific determination results;
the derivation control means, when a determination result of the pre-determination means becomes any one of the plurality of types of specific determination results and the derivation operation means is operated in an operation manner corresponding to the specific determination result, performs control to derive a specific display result corresponding to the specific determination result;
the state control means, when a specific display result corresponding to a specific determination result is derived in a game in which a determination result of the pre-determination means in the normal state is a specific determination result, controls the game to the specific state;
When the game machine is not controlled during the notification period , the expected value of the amount of game value acquired by the player is equal when the game machine is controlled to the specific state and when the game machine is controlled to the normal state;
When the game is controlled during the notification period , the expected value of the amount of game value acquired by the player is smaller when the game is controlled in the specific state than when the game is controlled in the normal state;
A slot machine in which, when controlled during the notification period and controlled to the specific state, the degree of advantage when the notification period is extended based on the second advantageous decision is higher than the degree of advantage when not controlled during the notification period and controlled to the specific state and controlled during the notification period based on the first advantageous decision.

Images