JP7502008B2 - 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, 7-7-7; 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.

One such slot machine is one that updates points and awards a special prize when the updated points reach a specific value (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2016-209355 A

In the slot machine mentioned above, there is still room for improvement in terms of awarding bonuses when a numerical value such as points reaches a specific value.

This invention was conceived in light of this situation, and its purpose is to provide a slot machine that can increase the excitement of playing when the numerical value reaches a specified value and a bonus is awarded.

A variable display unit is provided that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified,
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 of controlling the state by the main control unit 41) that controls the state to one of a plurality of states including a normal state (for example, a favorable zone normal (normal time));
updating means (for example, a process of updating points by the main control unit 41) for updating a numerical value (for example, points) until the numerical value reaches a specific value (for example, 300 points) in the normal state;
and a bonus awarding means (for example, a process of awarding a CZ by the main control unit 41) capable of awarding a bonus (for example, a CZ) when the numerical value updated by the updating means reaches the specific value,
the updating means is capable of updating the numerical value when a first condition is satisfied and when a second condition is satisfied,
when the numerical value is updated by the update means based on the establishment of the second condition and reaches the specific value, the probability of the special benefit being granted is higher than when the numerical value is updated by the update means based on the establishment of the first condition and reaches the specific value;
Regardless of whether the first condition or the second condition is satisfied, the value of 1 stored in the counter 1 becomes the object of updating .

FIG. 2 is a front view of the slot machine according to the first 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 a push order role is won. A diagram to explain the modes and added points in the normal advantageous zone. A figure to explain an example of a presentation when additional points are acquired in low probability mode and high probability mode. This is a diagram to explain an example of the presentation when 300 points are reached in low probability mode and high probability mode. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a first display and a second display. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a presentation when additional points are acquired. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a breakthrough display. 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining modified examples of the first display and the breakthrough display. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining modified examples of effects when additional points are acquired. A figure to explain modified modes and added points in the normal advantageous zone.

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.

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 rotate 80 times per minute and the symbols for 80 (rotations) x 21 (number of symbol frames per reel, for example, 21 frames) = 1680 frames are changed, 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 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 first-class special roles such as RB (regular bonus) and BB (big bonus), and second-class special roles such as CB (challenge bonus). In this embodiment, CB is provided as a special role. 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.

Of 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 achieved and is invalid in the game in which the combination of roles permitted by the flag is achieved. In other words, once a winning flag for a special role is won, even if the combination of roles permitted by the flag is not achieved, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game.

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.

When a predetermined lottery condition is met in the normal zone (hereinafter also referred to as "normal normal zone"), the main control unit 41 conducts a favorable zone transition lottery to determine whether or not to control to the favorable zone, and by winning the favorable zone transition lottery (hereinafter also referred to as "winning the favorable zone"), control of the favorable zone begins. The favorable zone is a zone in which navigation information corresponding to the operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R can be notified. In contrast, the normal zone is a zone in which navigation information corresponding to the operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R cannot be notified.

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 selected 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 assist display 12, as navigation information.

During the advantageous zone, when the push order role is won, the main control unit 41 executes navigation notification by controlling the AT, 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 by sending a command that can identify the operation mode that is advantageous to the player to the sub-control unit 91, a navigation performance is executed in which the operation mode is notified 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 won in the internal lottery will win. In addition, when controlling the advantageous zone, the advantageous zone LED 19 can be turned on to notify that the advantageous zone is being controlled.

[Game state transition]
3 is a diagram for explaining the transition of the game state. As shown in FIG. 3, the game state controlled by the liquid crystal display 51 includes a non-inner state and an inner state.

When inside, the game can proceed and the medal payout rate is guaranteed based on a predefined design value. Note that in this embodiment of the slot machine 1, the player is allowed to play most games inside.

On the other hand, during the non-internal state, the player does not play, or if they do, the time spent playing is extremely short. During the non-internal state, if a CB is won and the winning CB is missed, the game state transitions to the internal state from the next game. In other words, during the internal state, the winning CB is carried over. Once the game state is controlled to the internal state, it is almost impossible to win the carried-over CB, and even if it does happen, the probability of this happening is extremely low.

In the example shown in Figure 3, CB is not shown as a game state, but if CB is won while not inside or inside, the game state will transition from not inside or inside to CB. In this case, CB will generally end after one game, and the game state will transition back to not inside.

The state inside includes normal zones and advantageous zones. As mentioned above, advantageous zones are zones in which navigation information corresponding to the operation mode of stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R can be notified. In contrast, normal zones are zones in which navigation information corresponding to the operation mode of stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R cannot be notified. In normal zones, when the advantageous zone transition lottery is won (advantageous zone win), the state is controlled to the advantageous zone.

States in favorable zones include normal (hereinafter also referred to as "normal favorable zone"), CZ (hereinafter also referred to as "CZ favorable zone"), and AT (hereinafter also referred to as "AT favorable zone"). The normal favorable zone is a state in which navigation can be executed. The CZ favorable zone is a state in which the probability of executing navigation is higher than the normal favorable zone. The AT favorable zone is a state in which the probability of executing navigation is higher than the CZ favorable zone. In this embodiment, the probability of executing navigation in the normal favorable zone is 0%, but navigation may be executed with a predetermined probability.

In addition, the net increase per game that a player can obtain in the advantageous zone AT is greater than the net increase per game that a player can obtain in the advantageous zone CZ. In addition, the net increase per game that a player can obtain in the advantageous zone CZ is greater than the net increase per game that a player can obtain during the normal advantageous zone or the normal normal zone. The net increase 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 bet amount per game.

The net increase in the number of medals in a specified state (normal normal zone, normal advantageous zone, CZ advantageous zone, or AT advantageous zone) is the total number of medals paid out in the specified state (normal normal zone, normal advantageous zone, CZ advantageous zone, or AT advantageous zone) minus the total number of medals used to set the bet number in that specified state (normal normal zone, normal advantageous zone, CZ advantageous zone, or AT advantageous zone).

In both the normal normal zone and the advantageous normal zone, the number of medals decreases. In the advantageous AT zone and the advantageous CZ zone, the number of medals increases. The advantageous AT zone and the advantageous CZ zone are more advantageous to the player than the normal normal zone and the advantageous CZ zone. Specifically, in this embodiment, the net increase per game is designed to be -1 coin in the normal normal zone and the advantageous CZ zone, the net increase per game is designed to be 1 coin in the advantageous CZ zone, and the net increase per game is designed to be 8 coins in the advantageous AT zone.

In other words, the payout rate in the normal normal zone and the advantageous normal zone is less than 1, and the payout rate in the advantageous zone CZ and the advantageous zone AT is greater than 1. Also, the payout rate is equal in the normal normal zone and the advantageous normal zone. 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 bet amount during a period controlled to a certain state.

The advantageous zone CZ is a state in which the probability of being controlled to the advantageous zone AT is higher than in the normal advantageous zone, and is located on the intermediate path from the normal advantageous zone to being controlled to the advantageous zone AT. In other words, the advantageous zone CZ is a more favorable ball output state than the normal advantageous zone. A win in which the state is controlled from the normal advantageous zone to the advantageous zone CZ is also called a "CZ win."

Control of the advantageous zone CZ is managed, for example, by the number of games, and the advantageous zone CZ ends when the number of games played during the advantageous zone CZ reaches a pre-set upper limit number of games.

The favorable zone AT is a state that can be controlled from either the normal favorable zone or the favorable zone CZ. A win in which the state is controlled from the normal favorable zone or the favorable zone CZ to the favorable zone AT is also called an "AT win."

Control of the advantageous zone AT is managed, for example, by the number of games, and the advantageous zone AT ends on the condition that the number of games played during the advantageous zone AT reaches a predetermined upper limit. Note that the advantageous zone 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 predetermined upper limit, the number of times the main role wins when the push order role is won reaching a predetermined upper limit, and the number of coins paid out or the net increase in the number of coins reaching a predetermined upper limit.

When the player wins the lottery to move to the advantageous zone in the normal zone (wins the advantageous zone), the player is controlled to move to the normal advantageous zone. In this embodiment, the player is designed to stay in the normal zone for approximately one game (for example, the winning probability in the lottery to move to the advantageous zone is designed to be 90% or more). By doing this, in most cases, the player will win the advantageous zone in the first game when control to the normal zone is initiated, and the player will be controlled back to the advantageous zone (normal advantageous zone) from the next game.

If the AT is won in the normal advantageous zone, it will be controlled to the advantageous zone AT (AT). If the CZ is won in the normal advantageous zone, it will be controlled to the advantageous zone CZ (CZ). If the AT is won in the advantageous zone CZ, it will be controlled to the advantageous zone AT. If the advantageous zone AT ends, it will be controlled to the advantageous zone CZ. If the advantageous zone CZ ends without winning the AT, it will be controlled to the normal advantageous zone.

When the limiter condition is met during the ball output state in the favorable zone, or when any end condition is met, the state is controlled normally from the ball output state during the favorable zone. Specifically, when the total number of games played (favorable zone G number), which is updated based on the progress of the game, reaches a predetermined upper limit G number (for example, 1500G), the favorable zone ends and the ball output state is controlled normally.

The number of advantageous zone Gs is counted by an advantageous zone G number counter stored in RAM 41c. Alternatively, in the ball output state during an advantageous zone, when the total net increase in the number of coins during the advantageous zone, which is updated based on the progress of the game, reaches a predetermined upper limit (for example, 2,400 coins), the advantageous zone ends and the ball output state is controlled normally. The net increase in the number of coins during an advantageous zone is counted by a net increase counter stored in RAM 41c.

When the ball output state during the advantageous zone is controlled back to normal, the total number of games played and the net increase in balls counted during the advantageous zone, as well as the points that can be earned during play, are also initialized.

Also, for example, the arbitrary termination condition includes the fulfillment of a predetermined termination condition without winning the CZ, or the fulfillment of a predetermined termination condition in the favorable zone CZ without winning the AT. It is also possible that the termination condition of the AT is fulfilled in the favorable zone AT.

In addition, when the advantageous zone AT is selected in the specialized zone, it may be controlled to an advantageous zone specialized zone (also called an "add-on specialized zone") in which the proportion of AT game numbers awarded is higher. The advantageous zone specialized zone is a more advantageous state than the normal advantageous zone, the advantageous zone CZ, and the advantageous zone AT.

Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a slot machine. As shown in Figure 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 power for driving electrical 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, CB is provided as a special role. Small roles include a middle bell, a right-up bell, a right-down bell (also called a "left-up bell"), top bells 1 to 8, watermelon, and cherry. A regular lip is provided as a replay role.

The middle bell, right-upward bell, and right-downward bell are roles that correspond to the main roles mentioned above. Top bells 1 to 8 are roles that correspond to the sub roles mentioned above, and pay out fewer coins than the middle bell, right-upward bell, and right-downward bell. Specifically, if the middle bell, right-upward bell, or right-downward bell wins, 11 coins will be paid out, and if the top bells 1 to 8 win, 2 coins will be paid out. If a watermelon wins, the watermelon pattern will 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, CB is provided as a special role that can be selected. Six-choice bells (six-choice bells 1 to 6), watermelon, and cherry are provided as minor roles that can be selected. Regular lip is provided as a role that can be selected for replay roles. 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 six-choice bell.

When not inside the game, all roles are winnable, but when inside the game, only CB cannot be won because the CB win has already been carried over.

[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-choice bells 1 to 6. In a game in which a six-choice bell is won during the AT (during the advantageous section 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 the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the correct procedure according to the bell navigation.

In a game where either 6-choice bell 1 or 2 wins, if the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the correct sequence, the main bell downwards to the right will win and 11 coins will be paid out, but if the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the incorrect sequence, the secondary bell on the top will win and 2 coins will be paid out, or no prize will be awarded.

In a game where either 6-choice bell 3 or 4 wins, if stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the correct sequence, the main middle bell will win and 11 coins will be paid out, but if stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the incorrect sequence, the secondary upper bell will win and 2 coins will be paid out, or no prize will be awarded.

In a game where either 6-choice bell 5 or 6 wins, if stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the correct sequence, the main right-up bell wins and 11 coins are paid out, but if stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the incorrect sequence, the secondary upper bell wins and 2 coins are paid out, or no prize is awarded.

[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.

When the setting is changed based on the setting change operation, the main control unit 41 performs an initialization process to initialize the memory area in the RAM 41c. At that time, the information related to the game stored in the RAM 41c is initialized. Therefore, for example, when the setting is changed during an advantageous period, the information related to the advantageous period is initialized and the game is controlled to the normal period.

[Battle effects]
In this embodiment, the sub-control unit 91 can execute a battle presentation. The battle presentation is a presentation that suggests whether or not a special benefit will be awarded depending on the presentation result (victory or defeat) of the battle presentation. In the battle presentation, a presentation image showing a battle between an ally character and an enemy character over a number of games is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. Then, a series of battles are conducted, and finally, the liquid crystal display 51 displays whether the ally character wins or loses against the enemy character.

When the friendly character ultimately wins or loses to the enemy character in the battle performance, the performance result of the battle performance (victory or defeat) is announced. When the friendly character wins against the enemy character, the word "WIN" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 as the performance result. This notifies the player that a decision has been made to award a bonus.

On the other hand, if the friendly character is defeated by the enemy character, the character image of "WIN" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 as a presentation result. In this case, the player is not notified that a bonus will be awarded.

[Modes and bonus points during normal advantageous zones]

As explained above, the main control unit 41 can control the advantageous zone to the normal advantageous zone. In the normal advantageous zone, if the CZ is won, it is controlled to CZ, and if the AT is won, it is controlled to AT. Furthermore, if the AT is won in the CZ, it is controlled to AT.

The main control unit 41 performs point update processing in the normal advantageous zone. The point update processing is a process for updating points using added points. Whether or not added points are awarded is determined by a point acquisition lottery.

When it is decided that additional points should be awarded, the points to be awarded are determined by lottery in the point update process. For example, the amount of additional points may be determined by lottery to be one of 6 points (also called "pt"), 10 pt, 20 pt, 30 pt, 60 pt, and 100 pt.

When the advantageous zone becomes normal, the points are set to 0 pt. Then, if the point acquisition lottery determines that additional points will be awarded, the additional points are added to the currently set points in the point update process. For example, if the current points are 60 pt, and the point acquisition lottery determines that 30 pt will be awarded as additional points, the points will be updated to 90 pt (60 pt + 30 pt) in the point update process.

The main control unit 41 updates the points in the normal advantageous zone until they reach a specific value. In this embodiment, the specific value is 300 pt. Then, the main control unit 41 performs specific control when the updated points reach 300 pt. For example, the specific control is a lottery that determines whether or not to grant a bonus. For example, the bonus is CZ.

In this embodiment, when the updated points reach 300 pts, it is possible to determine whether or not to award a CZ as a bonus. Specifically, when the updated points reach 300 pts, a CZ lottery is held. If the CZ lottery is won, it is determined that a CZ will be awarded.

In this embodiment, the main control unit 41 updates the points based on the satisfaction of multiple types of conditions, including a first condition and a second condition. The rate at which the second condition is satisfied is lower than the rate at which the first condition is satisfied.

For example, the first condition may be met by winning a normal lip. The second condition may be met by winning a rare role. The rate at which a rare role is won is lower than the rate at which a normal lip is won.

Specifically, in the normal advantageous zone, if a normal reply or rare role (cherry or watermelon) is won in the internal lottery held for each game, a lottery for points will be held.

In addition, in the normal advantageous zone, the game is controlled to one of several modes, including a low probability mode and a high probability mode. The high probability mode is a mode in which points are more likely to be updated than the low probability mode. The mode to be controlled to in the normal advantageous zone may be determined, for example, by a mode lottery when the game is controlled to the normal advantageous zone.

At that time, the number of games to be controlled in the determined mode is also determined. Then, when the determined number of games has been played and the determined mode ends, the mode is further determined by mode lottery, and the number of games to be controlled in the determined mode (for example, any one of 30 games, 60 games, and 100 games) is determined. In addition, the mode lottery may be performed so that the proportion of games controlled in the high probability mode is lower than the proportion of games controlled in the low probability mode.

In this embodiment, when points are updated and reach 300 points in high probability mode, the percentage of bonuses awarded is higher than when points are updated and reach 300 points in low probability mode. Hereinafter, a game in which 300 points are reached is also referred to as a "reaching game."

In other words, when the game is controlled in high probability mode, not only are points more likely to be updated, but bonuses are also more likely to be awarded than when the game is controlled in low probability mode. This makes the player aware that the high probability mode is an advantageous mode.

The above configuration allows the player to pay attention to which mode the points will be updated to reach 300 points. This increases the player's interest in the game when the points reach 300 points and a bonus is awarded.

If the bonus that is awarded at a higher rate when 300 points is reached is a CZ, the rate at which a CZ is awarded will be higher when the game in which the bonus is reached is controlled in high probability mode than when it is controlled in low probability mode.

Specifically, when the reaching game is controlled in high probability mode, the CZ lottery should be conducted so that the CZ winning rate is higher than when the game is controlled in low probability mode.

The bonus that is awarded more frequently when 300 points is reached may be an AT that can be won in a CZ. In this case, when the game in which the bonus is reached is controlled in high probability mode, the probability of winning the AT in the CZ that is subsequently controlled is higher than when the game is controlled in low probability mode.

Specifically, when the reaching game is controlled in high probability mode, the AT lottery should be conducted so that the AT winning rate is higher in the subsequently controlled CZ than when it is controlled in low probability mode.

The bonus that is awarded at a higher rate when 300 points is reached may be a CZ, an AT that can be won in a CZ, or both.

As described above, the high probability mode is a mode in which points are more likely to be updated than the low probability mode. "Points are more likely to be updated" may mean that points are updated at a higher rate.

In this case, the high probability mode will have a higher rate of points being updated than the low probability mode. For example, in high probability mode, the points to be acquired can be drawn so that the rate at which additional points are awarded when a normal replay or rare role is won is higher than in low probability mode.

In addition, "points are more likely to be updated" may mean that the expected value of the updated points is higher. In this case, the expected value of the updated points is higher in high probability mode than in low probability mode. For example, in high probability mode, when a normal replay or rare role is won and it is decided that additional points will be awarded, the lottery for winning points can be held so that the expected value of the additional points is higher than in low probability mode.

Specifically, in the high probability mode, the additional points may be determined by lottery from among 30 pts, 60 pts, and 100 pts, and in the low probability mode, the additional points may be determined by lottery from among 6 pts, 10 pts, and 20 pts.

Also, in high probability mode, 30pt, 60pt, and 100pt may be more likely to be determined than 6pt, 10pt, and 20pt, and in low probability mode, 6pt, 10pt, and 20pt may be more likely to be determined than 30pt, 60pt, and 100pt.

"Points are likely to be updated" may mean that the rate at which points are updated is high, or that the expected value of the updated points is high, or that the rate at which points are updated is high and the expected value of the updated points is high.

In addition, points may be updated based on the second condition being met, and a bonus different from the bonus that can be granted when the updated points reach 300 points may be granted based on the second condition being met.

For example, if a rare role is won, the awarding of additional points is determined by a point acquisition lottery, allowing points to be updated, and if a rare role is won, an AT lottery may also be held. In other words, when a normal lip is won, only a point acquisition lottery is held, but when a rare role is won, both a point acquisition lottery and an AT lottery are held.

For this reason, not only will the player be controlled from the normal zone to the CZ when the points reach 300pt through the point acquisition lottery, but if a rare role is won, the player may be controlled directly from the normal advantageous zone to the AT without going through the CZ (also known as a "direct AT hit").

The following is a detailed explanation using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram explaining the modes and points added in the normal advantageous zone.

Now, suppose that you have won the favorable zone, and that the favorable zone is normally controlled, and that you are also controlled in low probability mode. Then, after the low probability mode ends, you are controlled in high probability mode, and after the high probability mode ends, you are controlled back to low probability mode. Also, suppose that the updated points in low probability mode have reached 300 pts.

In the normal advantageous zone, a lottery is held to determine who can win points when they win a normal replay or a rare role. In this example, the high probability mode has a higher rate of points being updated than the low probability mode, and the lottery is held so that the expected value of the updated points is higher.

For example, in the first controlled low probability mode, only 6 points are determined as the added points, but in the next controlled high probability mode, 100 points, 30 points, 60 points, and 100 points are determined as the added points.

Then, suppose that in the next controlled low probability mode, 10 points are determined as the added points. At this time, the points reach 300 points (6 points + 100 points + 30 points + 60 points + 100 points + 10 points = 306 points).

In the game in which 300 points is reached (reaching game), a CZ lottery is held. At this time, it is assumed that the CZ lottery has not determined whether or not a CZ will be awarded. Then, a continuous performance (battle performance) is executed from the game following the reaching game. Since it has not been determined whether or not a CZ will be awarded, a notification is issued that the battle has been lost as a result of the battle performance. This notifies the player that it has not been determined whether or not a CZ will be awarded.

In this embodiment, the first cycle is the period from when the advantageous zone is normally controlled (points are 0 pt) until the points reach 300 pt and the battle performance ends. Then, if the battle performance ends without deciding to award a CZ, the second cycle begins.

When the second cycle begins, the points are reset to 0. Then, once again, the game cycles between low probability mode and high probability mode, and when the points reach 300 points, a battle performance will be executed again. If the awarding of a CZ is not decided at that time, the battle will be lost and the third cycle will begin.

In this embodiment, the normal section can be controlled for a maximum of 800 games. When the normal section is controlled to normal and reaches 800 games (ceiling game), a CZ is won in that game. Then, control is given to the CZ from the next game. Therefore, if the awarding of a CZ is not determined at the reaching point, the above cycle will be repeated until the ceiling game is reached.

In this example, in the first cycle, the battle presentation starts after the game reaches the goal in low probability mode, and then the second cycle starts from low probability mode. Furthermore, in the first cycle, the battle presentation starts after the game reaches the goal in high probability mode, and then the third cycle starts from high probability mode.

In this way, in this embodiment, if a cycle ends in low probability mode, a mode selection is performed so that the proportion of the next cycle that is controlled to low probability mode is higher than the high probability mode. Also, if a cycle ends in high probability mode, a mode selection is performed so that the proportion of the next cycle that is controlled to high probability mode is higher than the low probability mode.

In this way, if a game ends in high probability mode, the player can expect that the high probability mode will continue in the next cycle.

The control to the mode may be such that the control to the mode is ended, a continuous performance is started, and a mode lottery is held in the game in which the continuous performance ends and the next cycle starts, and the game is controlled to the determined mode.

In this example, let's say that in the high probability mode of the third cycle, the points reach 300 pts. Then, let's say that in the CZ lottery held at this time, it is decided that a CZ will be awarded. With the decision to award a CZ decided, it is announced that the battle has been won as a result of the battle presentation. This notifies the player that it has been decided that a CZ will be awarded. Then, when the continuous presentation ends, control to the normal advantageous zone ends and control to the CZ begins from the next game.

In this embodiment, the system is configured so that the rate at which a CZ is awarded in the CZ lottery held in the reaching game is higher when the reaching game is in high probability mode, such as in the third cycle, than when the reaching game is in low probability mode, such as in the first cycle.

In addition, if it is decided that a CZ will be awarded, an AT lottery is also held for that game. In the AT lottery, the lottery is held so that the rate at which an AT is awarded is higher when the game is reached in high probability mode than when the game is reached in low probability mode. In the AT lottery, the number of games in which the AT is won in the CZ (number of winning games) is also determined by lottery.

In this example, it is assumed that a decision is made in the AT lottery to award the AT. Therefore, the AT is won in a game in which the number of winning games has elapsed since control of the CZ. Then, control of the CZ ends, and control of the AT begins from the next game.

[An example of the performance when additional points are acquired in low probability mode and high probability mode]
9A to 9C are diagrams for explaining examples of effects when additional points are acquired in the low probability mode and the high probability mode. Fig. 9(a1) to (a4) show examples of effects when additional points are acquired in the low probability mode, and Fig. 9(b1) to (b4) show examples of effects when additional points are acquired in the high probability mode.

First, we will explain an example of the presentation when additional points are acquired in low probability mode. Assume that the advantageous zone is currently controlled normally and that the mode is controlled in low probability mode. Also assume that the current points are 20 pt. As shown in FIG. 9 (a1), when the mode is controlled in low probability mode, a daytime background image of the sea and ships is displayed as the background display on the LCD display 51.

The updated points are also displayed in the upper right corner of the screen. Specifically, a text image "20pt" is displayed, which indicates that the current points are 20pt. This type of point display is referred to as the "third display," and details of the third display will be described later using FIG. 12(f) and other figures.

In this state, the start operation is performed, and the regular reply is selected through the internal lottery. If the regular reply is selected, a lottery to win points is held. In this case, the lottery to win points determines that 10 points will be awarded.

After a normal replay win occurs due to the stop operation, as shown in FIG. 9(a2), a text image "+10" is displayed, which indicates that the added points are 10 points. This display of added points is called the "first display," and details of the first display will be described later using FIG. 12, etc.

When the first display ends, a text image "+10" is displayed in the upper center of the screen, indicating that the added points are 10 points. This display of the added points is referred to as the "second display", and details of the second display will be described later using FIG. 12(g) and other figures.

At this time, the text image "20pt" is displayed, which indicates that the current points are 20pt. After that, the text image "30pt" is displayed, indicating that the points have been updated to 30pt (=20pt+10pt) due to the added points (10pt). The above-mentioned effects will be described in detail using FIG. 12.

Next, an example of the presentation when additional points are acquired in high probability mode will be described. Assume that the advantageous zone is currently controlled to normal and that the mode is controlled to high probability. Also assume that the current points are 30 pt. As shown in FIG. 9 (b1), when the mode is controlled to high probability mode, a background image of the night sea and a ship is displayed as the background display on the liquid crystal display 51.

In addition, in the upper right corner of the screen, a text image "20pt" is displayed, which indicates that the current points are 30pt. In this state, let us assume that a rare role is won. In the point acquisition lottery that is executed as a result of winning the rare role, it is decided that 30pt will be awarded as additional points.

After a rare combination occurs as a result of the stopping operation, as shown in FIG. 9(b2), a text image "+30" is displayed, which indicates that the added points are 30 points. When this display ends, a text image "+30" is displayed in the top center of the screen, which indicates that the added points are 30 points.

At this time, the text image "30pt" is displayed, which indicates that the current points are 30pt. After that, the text image "60pt" is displayed, indicating that the points have been updated to 60pt (=30pt+30pt) due to the added points (30pt).

[An example of the effect when reaching 300 points in low probability mode and high probability mode]
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a presentation when 300 points are reached in the low probability mode and the high probability mode.

Figures 10 (a1)-(a6), (c), and (d) show examples of the effects when 300pt is reached in high probability mode and a CZ or AT is awarded, while Figures 10 (b1)-(b6) show examples of the effects when 300pt is reached but a CZ or AT is not awarded.

First, we will explain an example of the presentation when 300 points are reached in high probability mode. Assume that the advantageous zone is currently controlled to normal and that the mode is controlled to high probability. Also, assume that the current points are 270 points. As shown in FIG. 10 (a1), when the mode is controlled to high probability mode, a background image of the night sea and a ship is displayed as the background display on the LCD display 51.

In addition, the upper right corner of the screen displays a text image "270pt" that identifies that the current points are 270pt. In this state, assume that a rare combination is won. In the point acquisition lottery that is executed as a result of winning the rare combination, it is determined that 30pt will be awarded as additional points.

As a result, the points reach 300 pt (= 270 pt + 30 pt). When the points reach 300 pt, a CZ lottery is held. At this time, the CZ lottery determines whether or not a CZ will be awarded. In the CZ lottery, when the points are updated and reach 300 pt in high probability mode, the lottery is held so that the rate of CZ award is higher than when the points are updated and reach 300 pt in low probability mode.

When the third stop operation is performed, as shown in FIG. 10(a2), a presentation is executed in which the text image "+30" is displayed, indicating that the added points are 30 points (details of this presentation will be described later with reference to FIG. 12).

Although not shown, next, a text image "270pt" that can identify that the current points are 270pt and a text image "30pt" that can identify that the added points are 30pt are displayed at the top of the screen, and then a text image "300pt" is displayed, indicating that the points have been updated to 300pt (=270pt+30pt) due to the added points (30pt).

Then, as shown in FIG. 10(a3), an effect is executed to notify the player that the points have reached 300 points. The liquid crystal display 51 displays an image including the text image "300 points reached" and an image of a girl.

When the start operation to start the next game is performed, the battle presentation begins, as shown in FIG. 10(a4). An image of an ally character (character on the left side of the screen) and an enemy character (character on the right side of the screen) facing off in the Colosseum is displayed on the LCD display 51. Although not shown, as the battle presentation progresses, an image of the ally character and enemy character battling is displayed on the LCD display 51.

After that, depending on the result of the battle presentation (win or loss), it is announced whether or not it will be controlled by CZ. Since it has been decided that CZ will be awarded, as shown in FIG. 10(b5), the ally character will win against the enemy character, and the word "WIN" will be displayed on the LCD display 51. This announces that it will be controlled by CZ.

When the start operation to start the next game is performed, control is given to CZ. At this time, as shown in FIG. 10(a6), a background image of CZ is displayed. A title display is also given to indicate that control has been given to CZ. An image containing the text image "CZ" is displayed on the screen as the title display.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the high probability mode is selected, the AT lottery is conducted so that the AT winning rate is higher in the CZ that is subsequently selected than when the low probability mode is selected.

When the AT is won in the CZ, a battle performance is executed. The content of the battle performance is the same as that explained using Figures 10 (a4) and (a5). When the battle performance ends, control is given to the AT by the start operation of the next game. At this time, as shown in Figure 10 (d), a background image of the AT is displayed. In addition, a title is displayed to indicate that control has been given to the AT. An image containing the text image "AT" is displayed on the screen as the title display.

As mentioned above, in this embodiment, if a rare role is won in the normal advantageous zone, in addition to the point acquisition lottery, an AT lottery will also be held. If the AT lottery determines that an AT will be awarded (the AT is hit directly) before 300 points are reached, a battle performance will start from the game following that game.

When the battle performance ends, control is transferred to the AT by starting the next game. At this time, as shown in FIG. 10(c), the background image of the AT is displayed, and a title is displayed indicating that control has been transferred to the AT.

Next, we will explain an example of the presentation when 300 points are reached in low probability mode. Assume that the advantageous zone is currently controlled normally and that the mode is controlled in low probability mode. Also assume that the current points are 290 points. As shown in FIG. 10 (b1), when the mode is controlled in low probability mode, a daytime background image of the sea and ships is displayed as the background display on the LCD display 51.

In addition, the upper right corner of the screen displays a text image "290pt" that identifies the current points as 290pt. In this state, assume that a regular reply is won. In the points lottery that is held as a result of the regular reply being won, it is decided that 10pt will be awarded as additional points.

As a result, the points reach 300pt (=290pt + 10pt). When the points reach 300pt, a CZ lottery is held. At this point, the CZ lottery determines whether or not a CZ will be awarded.

When the third stop operation is performed, as shown in FIG. 10(b2), an effect is executed in which the character image "+10" is displayed, which indicates that the added points are 10 points. After that, as in the explanation of FIG. 10(a3), as shown in FIG. 10(b3), an effect is executed to notify that the points have reached 300 points.

When the start operation to start the next game is performed, the battle presentation starts as shown in FIG. 10 (b4). After that, depending on the result of the battle presentation (win or loss), it is announced whether or not the CZ will be controlled.

Because the granting of a CZ has not been determined, the friendly character is defeated by the enemy character, as shown in FIG. 10 (b5), and the word "LOSE" is displayed on the LCD display 51. This notifies the user that they will not be controlled by a CZ.

When the start operation to start the next game is performed, the game is again controlled to low probability mode or high probability mode. In this example, it is assumed that the game is controlled to low probability mode. As shown in FIG. 10(a6), a daytime background image of the ocean and ships is displayed as the background display on the liquid crystal display 51. An image including the text image "Ocean Stage" is displayed on the screen as the title display.

[Background display and effects display]
The sub-control unit 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to perform a display for performing a presentation display superimposed on the background display. In this embodiment, the display for performing a presentation display superimposed on the background display includes a first display, a second display, a third display, a fourth display, and a suggestion display.

As described above, the main control unit 41 updates the points using the added points. In addition, the main control unit 41 performs specific control (CZ lottery) when the updated points reach a predetermined value (300 pt).

The first display is for displaying the added points when the points are updated using the added points. The second display is for displaying the added points in a smaller size than the added points displayed in the first display after the added points have been displayed. The third display is for displaying the updated points. Details of the first to third displays will be described later using FIG. 12.

The fourth display is for displaying the special amount when the updated points reach that special amount. Specifically, it is for displaying a breakthrough when the points reach 100pt or 200pt. Details of the fourth display will be described later with reference to FIG. 13.

The suggestion display is a display that suggests what value the added points will be before the added points are displayed by the first display. The suggestion display will be described later with reference to FIG. 12.

Characters with holes are used to display added points, updated points, special amounts, and suggestions. Characters with holes include the numbers 0, 4, 6, 8, and 9. However, they are not limited to these, and any characters with holes may be used.

For example, it may be Chinese numerals or Roman numerals. Also, any characters that can be used for display may be used. For example, if the character image "30pt" is to be displayed when 30pt is acquired, the character may be the letter "p" with a hole.

In this embodiment, when the added points are displayed in the first display, the background display is visible through the holes in the characters that have holes. On the other hand, when the added points are displayed in the second display, the background display is not visible through the holes in the characters that have holes.

If the background display is visible through the hole, the characters will be difficult to see, and there is a risk that the characters will be misidentified. On the other hand, if the hole is blocked so that the background display cannot be seen, the visibility of the performance display will decrease, which may impair the performance effect. Also, as mentioned above, the display of the added points by the first display is larger than the display of the added points by the second display.

For this reason, when displaying the added points in the first display, the emphasis is on highlighting the effect, and the background display is made visible through the holes in the letters that have holes. This ensures the effect of the first display.

On the other hand, when displaying the added points using the small second display, the emphasis is on accuracy, and the background display is made invisible through the holes in the characters that have holes. This prevents the player from misinterpreting the characters in the second display. By doing the above, the added points can be displayed optimally.

Specific examples are described below. Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining the first display and the second display. Figure 11(a) explains the first display, and Figure 11(b) explains the second display.

First, the first display will be described. As shown in FIG. 11(a), a gray background image is displayed as the background display. In addition, images that can identify the letters 0 to 9 are displayed as the presentation display. On the screen, a presentation display is displayed superimposed on the background display.

For example, an image that identifies the number 0 is displayed superimposed on the front side of the background image. Therefore, the background image cannot be seen where it overlaps with the character image "0". However, the background display can be seen through the hole of the character "0", which has a hole. Similarly, the background display can be seen through the hole of the characters "4", "6", "8", and "9", which have holes.

On the other hand, when the second display is performed, as shown in FIG. 11(b), the background display is not visible through the hole of the character "0" having a hole. In this example, the background image is not displayed through the hole of the character "0" having a hole, and a white image is displayed. Similarly, the background display is not visible through the holes of the characters "4", "6", "8", and "9" having holes.

[An example of the presentation when additional points are earned]
FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of the effects when additional points are acquired.

Assume that the advantageous zone is currently controlled normally and in high probability mode. Also assume that the current points are 200 pts. As shown in FIG. 12(a), when controlled in high probability mode, a background image of the night sea and ships is displayed as the background display on the LCD display 51.

In addition, the updated points are displayed in the upper right corner of the screen as the third display. Specifically, a character image "200pt" is displayed, which indicates that the current points are 200pt. In the third display, the background display cannot be seen through the holes in the characters.

In this example, the characters with holes are "0" and "p." Therefore, the background display is not visible through the holes of the characters "0" and "p."

In this state, the start operation is performed, and a rare role is selected through an internal lottery. If a rare role is selected, a lottery to win points is held. In this case, the lottery to win points determines that 30 points will be awarded.

Although not shown, at this time, the current background display is continued on the screen, and an effect is performed that suggests that some points have been acquired. For example, the word "Chance" may be displayed on the LCD display 51, the side lamp 27 may be made to flash, or some sound may be output from the speakers 53 and 54.

When the reels stop due to the third stop operation, a suggestion effect that displays a suggestion starts. When the suggestion effect starts, as shown in FIG. 12(b), an image containing the text image "Continuous tap!" is displayed in the center of the screen with a background image of a night sea and a ship being displayed as the background display. This encourages the player to perform a rapid tap operation that operates the effect switch 56 in succession.

When the player starts the rapid tapping operation, the background display with the background image of the night sea and ships ends, and a suggestion display is displayed to indicate what the added points will be. First, as shown in FIG. 12(c), the letter image "10" that can identify the number 10 is displayed. Then, as a suggestion background image, an image that emits light in a radial pattern and three star images are displayed to highlight the letter image "10."

The character image "10" is displayed superimposed on the front side of the suggestive background image. Therefore, the background image cannot be seen where it overlaps with the character image "10". However, the suggestive background display can be seen through the hole in the character "0", which has a hole. A character image "Repeat!" is displayed in the center of the screen to encourage repeated tapping.

As the player continues to tap repeatedly, as shown in FIG. 12(d), the letter image "10" gradually becomes larger while moving, changing into the letter image "20" that identifies the number 20. The suggestive background image changes in accordance with the movement of the letter image.

Furthermore, if the player continues to tap repeatedly, as shown in FIG. 12(e), the letter image "20" gradually becomes larger while moving, changing into the letter image "30" that identifies the number 30. The suggestive background image changes in accordance with the movement of the letter image.

And finally, the character image "30" and the suggestive background image stop moving. In this way, the character image changes from 10 to 20, from 20 to 30, and finally stops at 30, suggesting that the added points are 30 pts.

In this way, the suggestion display is a display that suggests what value the added points will be before the added points are displayed by the first display. Also, in the suggestion by the suggestion display, the background display is visible through the holes in the characters that have holes.

When the movement stops, the suggestion effect ends, and as shown in FIG. 12(f), the first effect begins in which the first display is performed. In the first display, the added points are displayed superimposed on the background display. The background display includes the first effect display. In the first display, the added points are displayed superimposed on the first effect display.

Specifically, a character image "+30" is displayed, which indicates that the added points are 30. Then, as the first effect display, an image that emits light radially is displayed to highlight the character image "+30." At this time, the first effect display is visible through the hole in the character "0" that has a hole.

As described above, when displaying the additional points in the first display, emphasis is placed on highlighting the effects, and the background display is made visible through the holes in the letters, thereby ensuring the effects of the first display. Furthermore, by displaying the additional points superimposed on the first effect display, the effects of the first display can be more clearly highlighted to the player.

The display of the added points in the first display can be ended based on the player's operation of the MAXBET switch 6 (also referred to as a "BET operation"). When the player performs a BET operation to set the bet amount, the first display (first presentation) ends, and the original background image of the night sea and ships is displayed, as shown in FIG. 12(g). At this time, the third display shows the text image "200pt", the same as in FIG. 12(a).

In the first display, in order to ensure a dramatic effect, the background display is visible through the holes in the characters. However, doing so may cause the player to misinterpret the characters. For this reason, the added points in the first display are displayed until the player places a BET, making it easier for the player to understand the displayed content. This makes it possible to prevent the player from misinterpreting the characters.

If the player does not place a bet and a certain period of time has passed, the display will transition to a standby screen (demo screen). Even in this case, the display will switch to the demo screen, and the display of the added points in the first display will end.

At this time, a second performance is executed to display the second display. As described above, in the second display, after the added points are displayed in the first display, the added points are displayed in a smaller size than the added points displayed in the first display.

At the top center of the screen, a text image "+30" is displayed, which indicates that the added points are 30. The text image "+30" in the second display (FIG. 12(g)) is displayed smaller than the text image "+30" in the first display (FIG. 12(f)).

In addition, in the first display, the added points are displayed in a manner different from the display of points in the third display. In this embodiment, in the first display, the added points are displayed in a font and size different from the display of points in the third display.

Also, as shown in FIG. 12(g), the added points are displayed in a different manner in the second display than in the third display. In this embodiment, the added points are displayed in a font and size in the second display that are different from the display of points in the third display.

The display of the additional points in the second display ends when a predetermined time (predetermined time) has elapsed since the display of the additional points began. When the predetermined time has elapsed since the second display began, the second display ends, as shown in FIG. 12(h).

At this time, the text image "230pt" is displayed in the third display to indicate that the points have been updated to 230pt (=200pt+30pt).

In this way, the display of the added points in the second display ends as time passes, making it difficult for the player to understand the displayed content. For this reason, in order to prevent the player from mistaking the characters in the second display, as mentioned above, it is necessary to prioritize accuracy and make the background display invisible through the holes in the characters that have holes.

The screen transition from FIG. 12(g) to FIG. 12(f) is performed as follows. After the second display using the text image "+30" and the third display using the text image "200pt" are performed, a display is displayed in which the added points decrease by 1 point and increase by 1 point.

First, it changes to the second display with the character image "+29" and the third display with the character image "201pt", then it changes to the second display with the character image "+28" and the third display with the character image "202pt", and then it changes to the second display with the character image "+27" and the third display with the character image "203pt".

Furthermore, when this display is repeated, it eventually changes to a second display with the character image "+0" and a third display with the character image "230pt". Then, the character image "+0" is erased, and the second display ends. In this way, the time from when the second display begins, through which the numerical value changes, to when the character image "+0" is finally erased, is the above-mentioned "predetermined time."

In this way, the first display ends with a BET operation, and the second display ends when a predetermined time has passed. However, this is not limited to this, and the first display may end when a specific period of time has passed. In this case, the specific period of time is set to be longer than the predetermined period of time.

As mentioned above, it is possible to prevent the player from misinterpreting the characters in the second display, but in the first display, in order to ensure the presentation effect, there is a possibility that the player may misinterpret the characters. For this reason, by making the specific period longer than the predetermined period, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the player will misinterpret the characters in the first display.

The second display will continue to be displayed until a predetermined time has elapsed, even if a start operation is performed to start the next game. This is also true if the first display is terminated after a specific time has elapsed.

[An example of a breakthrough display]
As described above, the fourth display (also called the "breakthrough display") is for displaying the special amount when the updated value reaches the special amount. In this embodiment, the special amount is 100 pt and 200 pt.

As described above, in this embodiment, whether or not a bonus (CZ) will be awarded is determined when the updated points reach a specific value (300 pts). In other words, the breakthrough display is a display that is displayed every predetermined value (100 pts) until the updated points reach the specific value (300 pts).

For example, if the specific value is 500pt, a breakthrough display may be displayed when the updated points reach 100pt, 200pt, 300pt, and 400pt, respectively.

When displaying a special amount using the fourth display (breakthrough display), the background display is visible through the holes in the characters that have holes.

The following explanation will be given with reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a breakthrough display. FIG. 13 (a1) to (a4) show an example of a breakthrough display when the updated points reach 100 pt, and FIG. 13 (b1) to (b4) show an example of a breakthrough display when the updated points reach 200 pt.

First, we will explain an example in which a breakthrough display is made when the updated points reach 100 points. Let us assume that the current points are 70 points. Then, let us assume that a rare combination is won, and a lottery is held to acquire points, and it is decided that 30 points will be awarded as additional points.

As a result, after the suggestive effects described using Figures 12(b) to (e) are executed, the first display is performed as shown in Figure 13(a1). The first display displays the added points (30 pts). The situation shown in Figure 13(a1) is the same as the situation shown in Figure 12(f), so a detailed description is omitted.

When the first display ends due to a BET operation, as shown in FIG. 13(a2), a second display is displayed to show the character image "+30" which indicates that the added points are 30. At this time, the third display indicates that the points are 70 pt.

After a certain period of time has elapsed, the second display ends and the text image "100pt" is displayed in the third display, making it possible to specify that the points have been updated to 100pt (=70pt+30pt). As a result, since the updated points have reached 100pt, a breakthrough effect is executed to display a breakthrough.

Specifically, a text image "100pt OVER" is displayed, which indicates that the updated points have reached 100pt. Then, as a background display for the breakthrough display, an image that emits light in a radial pattern is displayed to highlight the text image "100pt OVER," along with multiple star images.

At this time, the background display is visible through the holes in the letters "0", "p", "O", and "R". The breakthrough effect (breakthrough display) may be ended, for example, by a start operation to start the next game, or may be ended after a specific time has elapsed.

Next, we will explain an example of how a breakthrough display is displayed when the updated points reach 200 points. Let us assume that the current points are 170 points. Furthermore, let us assume that a point acquisition lottery has determined that 40 points will be awarded as additional points.

As a result, after the suggestion effect is executed, the first display shows the additional points (40pt), as shown in FIG. 13(b1). When the first display ends due to a BET operation, the second display shows the additional points (40pt), as shown in FIG. 13(b2), and the third display shows that the points are 70pt.

When a predetermined period of time has elapsed, as shown in FIG. 13(b3), the second display ends and the text image "210pt" is displayed in the third display so that it is possible to identify that the points have been updated to 210pt (=170pt+40pt). As a result, since the updated points have reached 200pt, a breakthrough display is performed.

As shown in FIG. 13(b4), a character image "200pt OVER" is displayed, which indicates that the updated points have reached 200pt, and a background display in the breakthrough display is also displayed. At this time, the background display is visible through the holes in the characters "0", "p", "O", and "R" that have holes.

Thus, when displaying numerical values using the third display as shown in Figures 13(a3) and (b3), the background display cannot be seen through the holes in the characters with holes, whereas when displaying special amounts using the fourth display (breakthrough display) as shown in Figures 13(a4) and (b4), the background display can be seen through the holes in the characters with holes.

[First display and breakthrough display]
FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the first display and the breakthrough display.

In this embodiment, in the first display, the added points are displayed superimposed on the first effect display as shown in FIG. 14(a1). However, this is not limited to this, and in the first display, the added points may be displayed superimposed on the normal background display as shown in FIG. 14(a2).

The normal background display is a presentation display that is normally displayed, excluding special displays such as effect displays. For example, in the example of FIG. 14(a2), the game is controlled to a high probability state in the normal advantageous zone, and a background image of the night sea and a ship is displayed as the normal background display.

Even in this case, the normal background display is visible through the hole of the character with a hole. In this example, the character with a hole is "0."

In addition, in this embodiment, in the breakthrough display, the added points are displayed superimposed on the background display in the breakthrough display, as shown in FIG. 14(b1). However, this is not limited to this, and in the breakthrough display, the added points may be displayed superimposed on the normal background display, as shown in FIG. 14(b2).

Even with this type of footstep, the normal background display is visible through the holes in the characters that have holes. In this example, the characters that have holes are "0", "p", "O", and "R".

[About the effects when additional points are earned]
In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 12(c) to (e), the character image changes from 10 to 20, from 20 to 30, and finally stops at 30 to suggest that the added points are 30pt. In addition, in the suggestion, the background display is made visible through the hole of the character "0" having a hole.

However, this is not limiting, and the added points may be divided into multiple points so that the sum of the divided points becomes the added points, and each divided point may be used to execute a suggestive performance.

For example, if the added points are 30pt, they are divided into 6pt, 6pt, 6pt, 6pt, and 6pt (6pt+6pt+6pt+6pt+6pt=30pt), and each divided point (6pt) is used to execute the suggestion effect. A specific explanation is given below using Figure 15.

Figure 15 is a diagram for explaining modified effects when additional points are acquired. The situation in Figure 15 is the same as that in Figure 12 except for the suggestive effects, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. The situation in Figure 15 (a) is the same as that in Figure 12 (b).

Let us assume that the current points are 200 pts, and it has been decided that 30 pts will be awarded as additional points. When the suggestive performance starts, as shown in FIG. 15(a), an image containing the text image "Continuous tap!" is displayed in the center of the screen. This prompts the player to perform a rapid tap operation by operating the performance switch 56 in succession.

When the player starts a rapid-fire tapping operation, a suggestion display is displayed to indicate what the added points will be. First, as shown in FIG. 15(b), a letter image "+6" is displayed, which identifies the first divided point (6pt). Then, as a suggestive background image, an image that emits light in a radial pattern and three star images are displayed to highlight the letter image "+6".

The character image "+6" is displayed superimposed on the front side of the suggestive background image. At this time, the suggestive background display is visible through the hole of the character "6" which has a hole.

When the player continues the tapping operation, as shown in FIG. 15(c), in addition to the letter image "+6" that identifies the first divided point (6pt), the letter image "+6" that identifies the second divided point (6pt) is displayed.

For the character image, a suggestive background image is displayed in which an image that emits light radially is displayed to make the character image stand out. Even in this case, the suggestive background display is visible through the hole in the character "6" that has a hole.

Furthermore, if the player continues the tapping operation, as shown in FIG. 15(d), the letter image "+6" that can identify the third divided point (6pt) is displayed, and then as shown in FIG. 15(e), the letter image "+6" that can identify the fourth divided point (6pt) is displayed, and then as shown in FIG. 15(f), the letter image "+6" that can identify the fifth divided point (6pt) is displayed.

By displaying the divided points, 6pt, 6pt, 6pt, 6pt, and 6pt, it is suggested that the total of these points (30pt) is the added points. After all the divided points have been displayed, the total points (30pt) may be displayed to end the suggestion effect.

In this example, when displaying the divided points, the suggested background display is visible through the hole in the character "6," which all has a hole. However, since these displays are displayed in relatively small characters, it is also possible to make the suggested background display invisible through the hole in the character that has a hole.

When the suggestion effect ends, the first effect begins, which displays the first display, as shown in Figure 15(g). The flow that follows is the same as Figures 12(f) to (h), so the explanation of Figures 15(g) and (h) will be omitted.

[Regarding modes and points added during normal advantageous zones]
In this embodiment, as explained using Figure 11, in the normal advantageous zone, the mode is controlled to be in low probability mode or high probability mode, and in the reaching game, when the mode is controlled to be in high probability mode, the rate at which CZ is awarded is higher than when the mode is controlled to be in low probability mode.

However, the invention is not limited to having a low probability mode and a high probability mode, and may be as follows. For example, the rate at which CZs are awarded when points are updated based on the fulfillment of the second condition and the points reach 300 pts may be higher than the rate at which CZs are awarded when points are updated based on the fulfillment of the first condition and the points reach 300 pts.

As mentioned above, the first condition is met by winning a normal lip, and the second condition is met by winning a rare role. The rate at which a rare role is won is also lower than the rate at which a normal lip is won. In other words, if a rare role, which has a low probability of winning, is won and you win 300 points, the CZ winning rate is configured to be higher than if you win a normal lip and win 300 points.

The following is a detailed explanation using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram for explaining modified modes and points added in the normal advantageous zone.

Unlike the example in Figure 11, in the modified example in Figure 16, there is no low probability mode or high probability mode, and in the normal advantageous zone, control is limited to normal mode. Assume that the advantageous zone has now been won and control is now limited to the normal advantageous zone.

In the illustrated example, first, assume that you win a regular reply and the points lottery determines that you will be awarded 20 points as additional points. Next, assume that you win a regular reply and the points lottery determines that you will be awarded 20 points as additional points. This makes your current points 40 points (20 points + 20 points).

Furthermore, suppose that you win a rare role and the points lottery determines that you will be awarded 100 points as additional points. As a result, your current points are 140 points (40 points + 100 points). In this way, your points are updated, and finally, you win a regular reply, and your points reach 300 points.

As in the example of Figure 11, a CZ lottery is held in the game in which 300 points is reached (the reaching game). At this time, the CZ lottery does not determine whether a CZ will be awarded. Then, a continuous performance (battle performance) is executed from the game following the reaching game. Since it is not determined whether a CZ will be awarded, the result of the battle performance is that the battle has been lost.

When the battle performance ends, the points are reset to 0. Then, control returns to normal mode. Let's say that the points reach 300 points as you repeatedly win normal replies and rare roles. At this time, let's say that the points reach 300 points due to a rare role win.

This will result in a CZ lottery, and the awarding of a CZ will be decided. As mentioned above, the rate of winning a rare role is lower than the rate of winning a regular lip, but if a rare role is won and 300 points are won, the rate at which a CZ will be awarded (CZ winning rate) will be higher than if a regular lip is won and 300 points are won.

Then, the battle presentation is executed from the next game. As the awarding of the CZ is decided, the result of the battle presentation is announced as a victory in the battle. As a result, control is shifted to the CZ from the next game. Furthermore, if the awarding of the AT is decided in the CZ, control is shifted to the AT.

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

(1-1) 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 of controlling the state by the main control unit 41) that controls the state to one of a plurality of states including a normal state (for example, a favorable zone normal (normal time));
updating means (for example, a process of updating points by the main control unit 41) for updating a numerical value (for example, points) until the numerical value reaches a specific value (for example, 300 points) in the normal state;
and a bonus awarding means (for example, a process of awarding a CZ by the main control unit 41) capable of awarding a bonus (for example, a CZ) when the numerical value updated by the updating means reaches the specific value,
The normal state includes a first normal state (e.g., a low probability mode) and a second normal state (e.g., a high probability mode) in which the numerical value is more likely to be updated by the update means than in the first normal state (e.g., FIG. 8 );
When the numerical value is updated by the update means and reaches the specific value in the second normal state, the probability of the privilege being granted is higher than when the numerical value is updated by the update means and reaches the specific value in the first normal state (for example, FIG. 10).

Specifically, the main control unit 41 can control the game to one of a number of states, including the normal advantageous zone. The main control unit 41 updates the points in the normal advantageous zone until they reach a specific value (300 pts). The main control unit 41 can award a CZ when the updated points reach 300 pts. As shown in FIG. 8, the normal advantageous zone includes a low probability mode and a high probability mode in which points are more likely to be updated than in the low probability mode. As shown in FIG. 10, when points are updated to reach 300 pts in the high probability mode, the rate at which a CZ is awarded is higher than when points are updated to reach 300 pts in the low probability mode.

In this way, the points are updated and the player is drawn to the mode in which the specific value is reached. This makes the game more interesting when the points reach a specific value and a bonus is awarded.

(1-2) The bonus granting means can determine control to a specific state (e.g., CZ) as the bonus when the numerical value updated by the update means reaches the specific value (e.g., FIG. 10).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the main control unit 41 can determine control to the CZ as a bonus when the updated points reach 300 pts. In this way, it is possible to draw the player's attention to whether or not control will be given to the CZ.

(1-3) when the value updated by the update means reaches the specific value, control to the specific state can be determined;
In the specific state, control to an advantageous state (e.g., AT) that is advantageous to the player can be determined;
The benefit is a determination of control over the advantageous state in the particular state (eg, FIG. 10).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, when the updated points reach 300 pt, it is possible to determine control over the CZ. Also, in the CZ, it is possible to determine control over the AT, which is advantageous for the player. The benefit that can be granted when the updated points reach 300 pt is the determination of control over the AT in the CZ. In this way, it is possible to draw the player's attention to whether or not control will be given to the AT.

(1-4) In the second normal state, the rate at which the numerical values are updated by the update means is higher than in the first normal state (for example, FIG. 8).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the high probability mode has a higher rate of point updates than the low probability mode. By doing this, the player can expect points to be updated in the high probability mode.

(1-5) The second normal state has a larger expected value of the numerical value updated by the update means than the first normal state (for example, FIG. 8).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the expected value of updated points is greater in the high probability mode than in the low probability mode. By doing this, the player can be made to expect that points will be updated in the high probability mode.

(1-6) The update means updates the numerical value based on the establishment of a plurality of conditions including a first condition (for example, a normal replay win) and a second condition (for example, a rare role win) in the normal state (for example, FIG. 16 ),
The numerical value is updated by the update means based on the satisfaction of the second condition, and the rate at which the bonus is granted when the numerical value reaches the specific value is higher than the rate at which the numerical value is updated by the update means based on the satisfaction of the first condition, and the bonus is granted when the numerical value reaches the specific value (for example, FIG. 16).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the main control unit 41 updates points based on the fulfillment of multiple types of conditions, including a first condition (winning a normal reel) and a second condition (winning a rare role). Also, as shown in FIG. 16, the rate at which points are updated based on the fulfillment of the second condition and a CZ is awarded when the points reach 300 pts is higher than the rate at which points are updated based on the fulfillment of the first condition and a CZ is awarded when the points reach 300 pts. This makes it possible to draw the player's attention to which condition is fulfilled when the points are updated, thereby increasing the player's interest in the game.

(1-7) The probability that the second condition is met is lower than the probability that the first condition is met (for example, FIG. 16).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the rate at which the second condition is met is lower than the rate at which the first condition is met. By doing this, it is possible to draw the player's attention to whether or not the second condition is met (a rare combination is won).

(1-8) The numerical value is updated by the update means based on the establishment of the second condition, and a benefit (e.g., AT) different from the benefit that can be granted when the numerical value updated by the update means based on the establishment of the second condition reaches the specific value can be granted (e.g., FIG. 10(c)).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10(c), points are updated based on the establishment of the second condition, and a bonus (AT) different from the bonus (CZ) that can be awarded when the updated points reach 300 pts can be awarded based on the establishment of the second condition. This makes it possible to draw the player's attention to whether or not the second condition is established (a rare combination is won).

(2-1) A gaming machine (for example, a slot machine 1 or a pachinko gaming machine) for playing a game,
A display means for displaying a visual effect by superimposing it on a background display (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display the visual effect);
An update means (for example, a process of updating points by the main control unit 41) for updating a numerical value (for example, points) using an update value (for example, added points);
A specific control means (for example, a process of performing a CZ lottery by the main control unit 41) that performs specific control (for example, a CZ lottery) when the numerical value updated by the update means reaches a predetermined value (for example, 300 pts),
The display means includes:
a first display means (for example, a process in which the sub-controller 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display the first display) for displaying (for example, a first display) the updated value when the updating means updates the numerical value using the updated value;
a second display means for displaying the updated value (e.g., a second display) smaller than the display of the updated value by the first display means (e.g., a process in which the sub-control unit 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display the second display),
The updated values are displayed using characters with holes (e.g., 0, 4, 6, 8, 9),
In the display of the updated value by the first display means, the background display is visible through a hole in a character having a hole (for example, FIG. 12( f )),
When the second display means displays the updated value, the background display is not visible through holes in characters having holes (for example, FIG. 12(g)).

Specifically, the sub-controller 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to perform a display that performs a performance display superimposed on the background display. The main controller 41 also updates the points using the added points. The main controller 41 also performs a specific control (CZ lottery) when the updated points reach 300pt. The sub-controller 91 also causes the liquid crystal display 51 to perform a first display that displays the added points when the points are updated using the added points. After the added points are displayed by the first display, the sub-controller 91 also causes the liquid crystal display 51 to perform a second display that displays the added points in a smaller size than the added points. To display the added points, characters with holes (for example, 0, 4, 6, 8, 9) are used. As shown in FIG. 12(f), in the display of the added points by the first display, the background display is visible through the holes of the characters with holes. As shown in FIG. 12(g), in the display of the added points by the second display, the background display is not visible through the holes of the characters with holes.

If the background display is visible through the hole, there is a risk that the characters will be misinterpreted, while blocking the hole so that the background display cannot be seen may ruin the presentation effect. For this reason, when displaying the added points using the first display, emphasis is placed on highlighting the presentation, thereby ensuring the presentation effect, while when displaying the added points using the second display, which is displayed smaller, emphasis is placed on accuracy, thereby preventing the player from misinterpreting the characters. In this way, the added points can be displayed in an optimal manner.

(2-2) Characters with holes include the numbers 0, 4, 6, 8, and 9 (for example, Figure 11).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, characters with holes include the numbers 0, 4, 6, 8, and 9.

(2-3) the background display includes a specific background display (e.g., a first effect display),
The first display means displays the updated value superimposed on the specific background display (for example, FIG. 12(f)).

Specifically, the background display includes a first effect display. Also, as shown in FIG. 12(f), the first display displays the added points superimposed on the first effect display. In this way, the effects in the first display can be more appealing to the player.

(2-4) the display means further includes a third display means (for example, a process in which the sub-controller 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display the third display) for displaying the numerical value updated by the update means (for example, a third display);
The first display means displays the updated value in a manner different from the manner in which the third display means displays the numerical value (for example, FIG. 12(f) and (g)).
The second display means displays the updated value in a manner different from the manner in which the third display means displays the numerical value (for example, FIG. 12(g)).

Specifically, the sub-control unit 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display the third display, which displays the updated points. Also, as shown in Figures 12(f) and (g), the first display displays the added points in a manner different from the display of points in the third display. Also, as shown in Figure 12(g), the second display displays the added points in a manner different from the display of points in the third display. In this way, confusion between the display of points in the third display and the display of added points can be prevented.

(2-5) The display of the updated value by the first display means can be terminated based on the player's operation (e.g., a bet operation) of an operating means (e.g., the MAXBET switch 6) (e.g., Figures 12(f) and (g)).

Specifically, as shown in Fig. 12(f) and (g), the display of the added points by the first display can be terminated based on the player's operation of the MAXBET switch 6 (BET operation). In this way, the added points are displayed by the first display until the player performs a BET operation, making it easy for the player to understand the displayed content.

(2-6) The display of the updated value by the second display means ends when a predetermined time (e.g., a specified time) has elapsed since the display of the updated value started (e.g., Figures 12(g) and (h)).

Specifically, as shown in Figures 12(g) and (h), the display of the added points by the second display ends when a predetermined time (predetermined time) has elapsed since the display of the added points began. In this way, the display of the added points by the second display ends as time elapses, making it difficult for the player to understand the displayed content.

(2-7) the display means further includes a suggestion display means (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display a suggestion) that suggests what value the update value will be before the update value is displayed by the first display means,
The suggestion by the suggestion display means uses characters having holes (e.g., 0, 4, 6, 8, 9),
In the suggestion by the suggestion display means, the background display is visible through the holes of the characters having holes (for example, FIGS. 12(c) to (e)).

Specifically, before the added points are displayed by the first display, the sub-controller 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display a suggestion indicating what value the added points will be. Furthermore, characters with holes (for example, 0, 4, 6, 8, 9) are used for the suggestion by the suggestion display. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 12(c) to (e), in the suggestion by the suggestion display, the background display is visible through the holes of the characters with holes. In this way, the dramatic effect of the suggestion by the suggestion display can be ensured.

(2-8) the display means further includes a fourth display means (for example, a process in which the sub-controller 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display a fourth display) that displays the special amount (for example, a fourth display) when the value updated by the update means reaches the special amount (for example, 100 pt, 200 pt),
The special quantities are represented by letters with holes (e.g., 0, 4, 6, 8, 9),
In the display of numerical values by the third display means, the background display is not visible through holes in characters having holes (for example, Figs. 13(a3) and 13(b3)),
When the special amount is displayed by the fourth display means, the background display is visible through holes in characters having holes (for example, Figs. 13(a4) and (b4)).

Specifically, when the updated numerical value reaches a special amount (100pt, 200pt), the sub-control unit 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to perform a fourth display that displays the special amount. To display the special amount, characters with holes (for example, 0, 4, 6, 8, 9) are used. As shown in Figs. 13(a3) and (b3), when the numerical value is displayed using the third display, the background display is not visible through the holes of the characters with holes. As shown in Figs. 13(a4) and (b4), when the special amount is displayed using the fourth display, the background display is visible through the holes of the characters with holes. In this way, the dramatic effect of the fourth display can be ensured.

[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 points]
In this embodiment, the points are updated using the added points, and when the points reach 300pt, a CZ lottery is performed. However, this is not limited to this, and the number of AT games may be updated using the number of added AT games, and when the updated number of AT games reaches 0, control of the AT may be terminated. In this case, when the number of added AT games is displayed by the first display, the background display is visible through the hole of the character having the hole, and when the number of added AT games is displayed by the second display, the background display is not visible through the hole of the character having the hole.

[Regarding mode control]
In this embodiment, control over the mode is performed by ending control over the mode and starting a continuous presentation, and then a mode lottery is held in the game in which the continuous presentation ends and the next cycle begins, and control is then exercised from that game to the determined mode.

However, this is not a limitation, and a mode lottery may be performed when control of the mode ends in the starting game of the continuous performance, and control is then performed to the determined mode from that game. In this case, when the next cycle starts, the mode controlled during the continuous performance continues without a new mode lottery being performed. Alternatively, the mode controlled at the end of the previous cycle may be carried over to start the next cycle.

Also, if the continuous performance starts in high probability mode, and if there is no control by CZ after the continuous performance ends, the high probability mode may be continued in the next cycle. Alternatively, the mode may continue even if the continuous performance starts, and there may be no transition from high probability mode to low probability mode during the continuous performance.

[Application to pachinko machines]
Next, an example in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine will be described. Detailed description of the same parts as those in the above embodiment will be omitted.

In pachinko gaming machines, the game is played by operating a ball-hitting handle to shoot pachinko balls, which are the gaming medium, into a game area provided on a game board. In pachinko gaming machines, when a pachinko ball passes through a starting area provided in the game area, a random number is extracted and it is determined whether or not a jackpot will be generated. When the pachinko ball passes through the starting area, the image display device displays a varying effect pattern. When a jackpot is generated, a jackpot pattern is derived and displayed as a result of the varying display. After a jackpot is generated, the game is controlled to a jackpot game state. After the jackpot game state ends, the game may be controlled to a special probability state depending on the type of jackpot. Special probability control is executed to make the probability of the special probability state display result being a "jackpot" higher than in the normal state.

When the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine, for example, a first display may be made to display the predetermined number when the number of winning balls obtained during a jackpot reaches a predetermined number, and after the first display has displayed the predetermined number, a second display may be made to display the predetermined number in a smaller size than the display of the predetermined number.

For example, when the number of winning balls reaches 1000, the background image during jackpot play becomes visible through the hole of the character "0" in the first display showing the character image "1000 GET", and the background image during jackpot play becomes invisible through the hole of the character "0" in the second display. By doing this, the dramatic effect of the background display during jackpot play can be guaranteed in the first display, and the characters in the second display, which are displayed smaller, can be prevented from being misinterpreted by the player.

When applied to a slot machine, the suggestive performance starts with the third stop and the first display ends with a BET operation, but when applied to a pachinko game machine, the suggestive performance starts when the number of winning balls reaches 1000, and the first display ends after a predetermined time has passed. Furthermore, these displays can be of any type that is displayed during play, and those that are displayed large can be displayed so that the background image can be seen through the holes in the letters, and those that are displayed small can be displayed so that the background image cannot be seen through the holes in the letters.

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

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 speakers, 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 for controlling the state to one of a plurality of states including a normal state;
updating means for updating a numerical value in the normal state until the numerical value reaches a specific value;
and a bonus awarding means for awarding a bonus when the numerical value updated by the updating means reaches the specific value,
the updating means is capable of updating the numerical value when a first condition is satisfied and when a second condition is satisfied,
when the numerical value is updated by the update means based on the establishment of the second condition and reaches the specific value, the probability of the special benefit being granted is higher than when the numerical value is updated by the update means based on the establishment of the first condition and reaches the specific value;
The slot machine , in which the value of 1 stored in one counter is updated regardless of whether the first condition or the second condition is established.

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