JPH08280872A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide a game machine which can give information of generation or the end of such a situation that a specific prize winning condition (single bonus game) will easily occur, wherein the information is emitted immediately without imposing on the player such a burden as watching while his line of view is shifted. CONSTITUTION: A game machine concerned 1 has variable displaying parts 2, 3, 4 which display figures and symbols variably and a control part which passes a prize awarding judgement on the basis of random number sampling about the display mode when the variable display has ceased and controls the operations of the displaying parts 2, 3, 4 on the basis of the result from judgement passed, wherein the control part informs the player of the result from determination of either of the occurrence, continuance, and end of the condition that a specific prize awarding mode is likely to be generated according to the judgement of prize awarding by both the visual and the auditory means.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game machine for controlling a game mode by using a control device such as a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a microcomputer), and more particularly, as a variable display section for variably displaying a plurality of symbols (symbols). , A mechanical display means or a liquid crystal consisting of a reel that is mechanically driven to rotate, L
The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a slot machine equipped with electric display means such as an ED and a CRT, a pachinko machine and other ball game machines, and poker game machines.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a gaming machine having a variable display section as described above, a prize is determined by random number lottery (random number sampling), and various prizes are awarded to the player according to the result. There are modes. For example, in the case of a slot machine, when a predetermined winning pattern called a big bonus game (hereinafter referred to as "BB game") is prepared,
There is a winning mode in which a player can obtain a large amount of coins in a series of games within a predetermined number of times (for example, 30 times).

In addition to the BB game, it is also called a single bonus game (hereinafter referred to as "SB game").
There is a game mode in which another game (bonus game) can be played after the predetermined symbols are gathered. Also, a winning mode (hereinafter referred to as “S / B high-probability game state”) in which coins acquired by the player gradually increase within a long number of games by occurrence of this S / B game with high probability is also known. Has been.

In the gaming machine provided with both the "BB game" and the "SB high probability game state", the S.B
How long the high-probability game state lasts is determined by a winning determination based on a random number lottery. Therefore, the number of coins to be acquired in the SB high-probability game state is determined by the SB high-probability game state. I have no idea until the end. In some cases, the number of coins obtained from the occurrence of the S / B high probability game state to the end thereof is larger than the number of coins obtained from the occurrence of the B / B game to the end. Therefore, for the player,
S ・ B Whether or not a high probability game state occurs,
When a B-high probability game state occurs, how long it lasts is of great interest.

[0005]

However, in the conventional gaming machine which generates the "S.B high probability game state", the "S.B high probability game state" is generated as a result of the winning determination based on the random number lottery. Also (even if the flag of the microcomputer is set), the occurrence is not notified to the player. Moreover, since the S / B game also occurs during the normal game,
You do not notice the high probability game state from the beginning, you will notice that the SB game frequently occurs as the games are repeated and the coins you have earned gradually increase until you enter the SB high probability game state. It was like this. Also, S
・ End of B high probability game state (the above flag is reset)
However, the player noticed only when the game progressed and the SB game did not occur at all.

Therefore, in order to notify the player of various game states including the occurrence and termination of the S / B high probability game state, a display device using a lamp (light emitting body such as a light bulb) attached to the upper portion of the game machine is used. Developed by the present applicant (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-
296726).

However, in this display device, the player can change the display mode step by step in accordance with the presence / absence of the S / B game during a predetermined number of games, thereby increasing the S / B high probability. Since it is arranged to notify that the game state has been entered and that the S / B high probability game state has ended, it is necessary to consume a considerable number of games to notify both states. That is, immediately after entering the S / B high-probability game state, notification of the occurrence of the S / B high-probability game state,
-It is not designed to notify the player immediately when the B high probability game state ends.

Further, since this display device is provided above the gaming machine, in order for the player to confirm the occurrence and termination of the S / B high probability game state, the gaming surface in front of the player's eyes is displayed. From the display device to the display device, that is, the player has to look upwards every time the display is confirmed. Further, when this display device is installed, the player can be notified of the occurrence or end of the S / B high probability game state as described above, but since the display device is provided separately from the game machine, the game store The economic burden on the

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object thereof is to be able to immediately notify the occurrence and end of the above-mentioned "S.B high probability game state", and the notification to the player. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that does not impose a burden of looking up and does not require a separate display device for the notification.

[0010]

According to the present invention, a variable display section for variably displaying a plurality of symbols and a display mode when the variable display is stopped are subjected to a prize determination by random number sampling, and based on the determination result. In the gaming machine provided with the control unit for controlling the variable display operation of the variable display unit, the control unit determines whether the specific winning mode is likely to occur, the continuation, or the termination due to the winning determination. When at least one is decided, the player is informed of the decision result by both visual notice and auditory notice.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the state in which the specific winning mode is likely to occur is a game state in which a single bonus game occurs with a high probability.

In another embodiment, the visual alert is
It is configured to be performed by at least one of blinking of a lamp provided on the front of the gaming machine, blinking of the symbol itself displayed on the variable display portion, and blinking of a background portion excluding the symbol portion.

In still another embodiment, the audible notification is configured to be generated by a sound generated from a speaker provided in the gaming machine.

[0014]

In the gaming machine of the present invention, the control unit samples a random number for each game, and based on the random number value (specifically, the random number value is set as data in a preset winning probability table). The winning determination (whether winning or not, and in the case of winning, the type) is performed, and the variable display operation of the variable display unit is stopped and controlled according to the determination result.

In this winning determination, when the control unit determines at least one of the occurrence, continuation, and termination of the state in which a specific winning mode is likely to occur, the control unit visually notifies and notifies the determination result. It will be notified by both the automatic notification. As a result, the player can immediately recognize the occurrence or termination of a state in which a specific winning mode is likely to occur, without moving the line of sight from the game surface to the display device (for example, looking up).

According to the embodiment of the present invention, the state in which a specific winning mode is likely to occur is the "S.B high probability game state" which is of great interest to the player as described above. Immediately after entering the “S.B high probability game state”, its occurrence is notified, and its end is also immediately notified. Therefore, the interestingness of the game for generating the S / B high probability game state is further increased.

Further, the visual notification is at least one of blinking of a lamp provided on the front of the gaming machine, blinking of the symbol itself displayed on the variable display portion, and blinking of a background portion excluding the portion of the symbol. Display using existing lamps and variable indicators. Further, if the auditory notification is performed by the sound generated from the speaker provided in the game machine, it is not necessary to additionally provide a dedicated notification means.

By the above notification, the player can play the game with the expectation of winning the prize, and the interest of the game is further improved.

[0019]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing the appearance of a slot machine of an embodiment. At the center of the main body of the slot machine 1, three reels 2, 3 and 4 are rotatably provided on each outer peripheral surface of which a symbol array composed of a plurality of types of symbols (hereinafter referred to as symbols) is drawn. The variable display portion is formed. Three symbols on each reel 2, 3 and 4 can be observed respectively through the display windows 5, 6 and 7 on the front surface of the main body 1. On the lower right side of the display windows 5, 6 and 7, the player inserts substitute coins called coins, medals or tokens which are game media (hereinafter, the game media are described as coins). Is provided.

Below the display windows 5, 6 and 7, a BET switch 9 for betting 1 to 3 coins in one game by push button operation and credit / payout of coins won by the player (PLAY CREDIT / PAY OUT) switch by push button operation Credit / payment changeover switch 10
And a start lever (switch) 11 for starting the rotation of the reels 2, 3, 4 by lever operation, and each reel for stopping the rotation of each reel 2, 3, 4 in response to the operation of the player. Correspondingly arranged stop buttons 12, 1
3 and 14 are provided.

At the lower front of the slot machine 1, a sound transmission hole 15 for outputting a sound generated from a speaker 43 (FIG. 5) housed therein as sound generating means and the credit / payment button 10 are provided. Coin payout exit 1 by switching
A coin tray 17 for accumulating coins paid out from 6 is provided, while a payout table showing how many coins are paid out for winning is displayed on the upper front part 18.

The display windows 5 to 7 are provided with three horizontal winning lines (center and upper and lower) and two diagonal winning lines, which are indicated by alternate long and short dash lines. When the player inserts one coin from the coin slot 8 prior to the start of the game, only the central pay line is activated, and when two coins are inserted, the upper and lower pay lines are added, and three coins are added. When thrown, all winning lines are activated. The activation of such a pay line is displayed to the player by activating the activation line display lamps 19 arranged at both ends of each pay line.

In this slot machine 1, coins inserted from the coin insertion slot 8 are detected by the coin sensor 8S (FIG. 5) installed inside the insertion slot 8. When coins are bet by the coin insertion or the operation of the BET switch 9, the line display lamp 19 lights up as described above to indicate that the pay line is activated.

In this embodiment, the player inserts the coin slot 8
After inserting coins from, the three reels 2, 3 and 4 rotate all at once by operating the start lever 11 installed at the left end on the front side. Then, when these rotations reach a certain speed, the operation of the stop buttons 12, 13, 14 provided corresponding to each reel is validated, so that the player presses these buttons. Then, the rotation of the corresponding reel can be stopped. At this time, if the combination of symbols stopped on the winning line activated as described above corresponds to a predetermined winning combination, the number of coins corresponding to the type of winning is 17
Will be paid out.

In this slot machine 1, three display lamps 20L, 2 are arranged on the upper end of the front upper part 18 in order from the left.
While 0C and 20R are arranged, a credit number display section 21 for displaying the number of coins currently credited and a number of coins to be paid out to the player at the time of winning are arranged at intervals vertically at the right end of the center of the front. The prize payout number display section 22 for displaying is arranged, and these display sections are composed of 7-segment LEDs of the number corresponding to the number of digits of the displayed numerical value. A specific winning state display lamp (WIN lamp) 23 is arranged between these two display portions 21 and 22.

The display lamps 20L, 20C, 20R are displayed in the "S.B high probability game" with a high probability that the S.B game occurs at a high probability by the winning determination (steps 40 and 41 in FIG. 18) based on the random number lottery as described later. When it becomes "state",
As a demonstration (steps 17 and 15 in FIG. 17, which will be described later) for informing the occurrence (the same applies to the continuation) of the “S.B high probability game state”, it blinks in a predetermined pattern as shown in FIG. This blinking operation is repeated until the "S.B high probability game state" is completed with the blinking patterns of steps 1 to 8 sequentially for a moving time of 180 ms. For details, see FIG.
In (A), (B), and (C), the display lamps 20L, 20C, and 20R are respectively shown. In steps 1 to 3, the display lamps 20L, 20C, and 20R are sequentially turned on, and then the step 4 is performed. All lights off at step 2, and display lamp 2 at step 5
After 0L, 20C and 20R are all turned on, they are turned off at step 6,
After all of the display lamps 20L, 20C and 20R are turned on again at step 7, they are turned off at step 8.

The WIN lamp 23 also repeats the blinking operation as a demonstration to notify the occurrence and continuation of the "SB high probability game state". When the “S / B high probability game state” disappears (at the end), the three display lamps 20L, 20C, 20R and the WIN lamp 23
Turn off all.

Inside the display windows 5, 6 and 7, as shown in FIG. 2, corresponding to each of the three reels 2, 3 and 4, three reels are respectively provided on the back side of the symbol appearing in each display window. A substrate 42 in which lamps 41 are vertically arranged is installed. Of the nine lamps 41 in total, the lamps in the upper row are W1, W2, W3 in order from the left, the lamps in the central row are W4, W5, W6 in order from the left, and the lamps in the lower row are in order from the left. W7, W8 and W9. These lamps W1
Demonstrations shown in FIGS. 7 to 15, which will be described later, are executed by turning on and off W9.

On each of the reels 2, 3 and 4, 21 kinds of symbols as shown in FIG. 3 are arranged to form a symbol array. A code number of "1 to 21" is attached to each symbol, and R as described below is used as a data table.
It is stored in the OM 32 (FIG. 5). Each reel 2, 3,
4 is rotationally driven so that the symbol array moves in the direction of the arrow in the figure.

In FIG. 3, the diagonal lines attached to the three "7" s of code number 1 represent the "red" color, and the mesh line attached to the "7" on the left side of the code number 6 is "blue". Represents a color. In addition, "7 with ribbon" on the left side of the code number 3 is colored "yellow". Therefore, in the case of the symbol string in FIG. 3, “7” is “white”, “red”,
There are four types: "blue" and "yellow" (with ribbon). Next Figure 4
The same applies to.

FIG. 4 is a symbol combination table predetermined in the slot machine 1 of the embodiment. In this table, the four combinations belonging to the category of [A] are “B · B
A symbol combination of "game" occurrence, and if any of these combinations is lined up on the above-mentioned winning line, the player is given 1
Five payout coins are awarded, and then the BB game is played. The probability that the BB game occurs corresponding to any of these symbol combinations is the same for all symbol combinations, and the occurrence thereof is determined by a prize determination (step 56 in FIG. 20) described later.

The operation in this "BB game" is as follows (details will be described later with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20).

When a predetermined symbol combination (any one of the four combinations of the section [A] in FIG. 4. For example, “red 7-red 7-red 7” in the uppermost row) occurs, 15 coins are paid out. . The probability of occurrence of the "BB game" is the same for all combinations, and is determined by the prize determination (step 4 in FIG. 16, specifically step 56 in FIG. 20) described later. When the "BB game" is generated, a winning sound and a demonstration corresponding to the symbol combination are performed as described later.

A normal game of betting three cards is executed several times. Here, "miss" and "winning" occur. The winning symbol combinations are those of the categories [C] and [E] in FIG. 4, and a predetermined number of coins are paid out. The probabilities of “missing” and “winning” are predetermined by the data of the “winning determination table during BB game” set in step 47 of FIG. 14, and the respective occurrence probabilities are “missing”. Is about 1/10 and the "winning prize" is about 9/10.

When a predetermined symbol combination (category [C] of the replay game (described later) in FIG. 4. For example, “any one of three colors 7-yellow 7-yellow 7” in the bottom row) occurs (the The probability of occurrence is about 1/4, which is predetermined by the data of the above "winning determination table during BB game".) Five coins are paid out.

A bonus game is executed. At this time, when a predetermined symbol combination (for example, “JAC-JAC-JAC” in the section [D] in FIG. 4) is completed in one bet (the probability of occurrence thereof is about 9/10. Step 32 in FIG. 18).
And 34), 15 coins are paid out. afterwards,
The number of games has reached 12 or "JAC-JAC-J"
When the number of "AC" winnings reaches eight (step 80 in FIG. 21)
Alternatively, if the determination in step 88 is “YES”), one set of the bonus game ends.

Usually, after repeating the above steps 1 to 3 again, the “BB game” ends. However, the total number of games does not exceed a predetermined number (for example, 30 times) (see FIG. 2).
1 step 70). The number of coins acquired during the “BB game” is, for example, about 250 coins.

Next, in the table of FIG. 4, the four combinations belonging to the category of [B] are symbol combinations of "SB game" occurrence, and when any of these combinations is lined up on the winning line, The player is provided with four payout coins, and then one bonus game (SB game) can be played.

The operation in the case of this "SB game" is as follows (details will be described later with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 22).

Predetermined symbol combination (any of the four symbol combinations in section [B] of FIG. 4.
When "yellow 7-any color 7-yellow 7") occurs, four coins are paid out. The probability of occurrence thereof is about 1/20 at normal time (at low probability) and about 1/2 at high probability, and the winning determination table for "SB high probability game state" (step 51 in FIG. 19). Set), the winning determination table for "S / B normal probability game" (step 53 in FIG. 19)
Will be set in)). The lottery in which the occurrence probability is switched between the normal time and the high probability is performed in step 41 of FIG.

The bonus game is executed only once.
At this time, when a predetermined symbol (for example, “JAC-JAC-JAC” in the section [D] of FIG. 4) is prepared for one bet (the probability of occurrence thereof is about 9/10. Step 32 of FIG. 18).
And 34), 15 coins are paid out.

Further, in the table of FIG. 4, 4 belonging to the category of [C]
One combination is a symbol combination that becomes a replay (re) game. If any of these symbol combinations (for example, "7-yellow 7-yellow 7 of any of the three colors in the bottom row") occurs (in the case of "YES" in step 18 of FIG. 17), the payout of coins is made. The next game is possible without it (it remains at zero) (however, during the "BB game", 5 coins are paid out as described above to shift to the bonus game), and the reel is It will rotate automatically and you can play the game again.

Next, in this embodiment, the above-mentioned "S.
When the "B high probability game state" occurs and disappears (steps 16 to 17 and steps 13 to 14 of FIG. 17), the demonstrations shown in Table 1 and FIGS. 7. The sound shown in FIG. 8 is generated. In addition, the "S / B high probability game state" is ongoing (Fig. 1
In step 15) of No. 7, a constant jingle sound is generated.

[0044]

[Table 1] 7 and 8 show the reel lamp 41 (W
1 to W9). In the demonstration at the time of occurrence of the "S.B high probability game state" shown in FIG. 7, the blinking patterns of steps 1 to 14 are sequentially performed only once at a predetermined lighting time, and at the same time corresponding to each step. Produces sound. Demonstration at the time of disappearance of the “S.B high probability game state” shown in FIG.
The blinking pattern of 9 is sequentially performed only once at a predetermined lighting time, and at the same time, a sound corresponding to each stage is generated.

On the other hand, when the "SB game" occurs, first, as shown in Table 2 below, the winning symbols of FIGS. 9A to 10E are arranged in order to notify the occurrence of the winning. A demonstration is carried out by reel lamps (W1 to W9) indicating a line, and thereafter, as shown in Table 3 below, a random number value of an R-register (this is set in a CPU 31 (FIG. 5) described later) It is different from random number sampling for winning determination in FIGS.
11 (A) to FIG.
(S) by the reel lamps (W1 to W9) shown in (D)
The demonstration and sound generation for the "B game" winning are executed.

Specifically, when the respective winning symbols are lined up on the winning line, as shown in Table 2 and FIGS. 9 (A) to 10 (E) below, the reel lamps (W1 to W9) are used to win the winning symbols. A demonstration corresponding to the winning line in which the symbols are lined up is performed (step 9 in FIG. 16), and then three reel lamps in which the winning symbols are lined up (for example, W1-W2-W3)
Only turns on and off at predetermined time intervals (for example, 120 msec).

[0047]

[Table 2] Then, Table 3 below and FIG. 11 (A) to FIG. 12 (D) are shown as showing the occurrence of winning of the “SB game” itself.
The generation of fanfare sound and the demonstration by the reel lamps (W1 to W9) in the four cases shown in FIG. Then, in the next bonus game,
When a C-JAC-JAC "winning occurs, FIG.
The demonstration of (F) is executed.

[0048]

[Table 3] Further, when the "BB game" occurs (step 7 in FIG. 16), as shown in Table 4 below, a winning sound (fanfare sound) is generated in accordance with a combination of each of the four types of winning symbols. A demonstration (Step 8 in FIG. 16) by the generation and reel lamps (W1 to W9) is executed.

[0049]

[Table 4] Specifically, when the winning symbol combination of the "BB game" is "red 7-red 7-red 7", as shown in FIGS. It is carried out only once at a predetermined lighting time. In addition, in FIGS.
The combination of winning symbols in "BB Game" is "Red 7-Red 7-"
Only the blinking pattern in the case of red 7 "is shown, and the blinking patterns in the other three cases are omitted. These omitted patterns may be different from the patterns in other cases, and are arbitrarily set. It is possible.

Next, FIG. 5 shows a slot machine 1 of the embodiment.
2 shows a circuit configuration including a control unit for controlling the game processing operation in and a peripheral device (actuator) electrically connected to the control unit.

In this case, the control unit has a microcomputer (hereinafter, referred to as a microcomputer) 30 as a main component,
A circuit for random number sampling is added to this. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, and an R that is a storage unit.
A clock pulse generation circuit 34 that includes an OM 32 and a RAM 33 and that generates a reference clock pulse in the CPU 31.
And a frequency divider 35, a random number generator 36 and a random number sampling circuit 37 for generating random numbers to be sampled as described later, and an I / O port 38 for transmitting / receiving a signal to / from an actuator described later. Has been done. ROM3
Reference numeral 2 has a storage section that is divided so as to store a winning probability table, a symbol table, a winning symbol combination table, and a sequence program. The contents of tables and the like stored in these storage units will be described later.

In the circuit of FIG. 5, the main actuators whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 30 are stepping motors 2S, 3S, 4S for rotating and driving the reels 2, 3, 4 respectively, and the above-mentioned actuators. The activation line display lamp 19, the reel lamp 41, the display lamps 20L, 20C, 20R, the specific winning state display lamp (WIN lamp) 23, the credit amount display portion 21, the winning payout amount display portion 22, and the coins of the game medium are stored. There is a hopper (including a driving unit for paying out) 40 and a speaker 43, each of which includes a motor driving circuit 44, a lamp driving circuit 45, and a display driving circuit (for example, a counter for counting the number of coins). 46, a hopper drive circuit 47, and a speaker drive circuit 48.
Then, these drive circuits are connected to the CPU 31 via the I / O port 38 of the microcomputer 30.

The main input signal generating means for the microcomputer 30 to generate the input signal necessary for generating the control signal is the inserted medal sensor 8S for detecting the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 8, and Start lever 11
Of the start switch 11S and a reel rotation sensor that generates a pulse each time the reels 2, 3 and 4 rotate once (in FIG. 5, it is included in the drive mechanism of the reels 2, 3 and 4). ) And a reel position detection circuit for receiving a pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor to generate a signal for detecting the position of each reel 2, 3, 4 (similarly to the drive mechanism of each reel 2, 3, 4). Included), a reel stop signal circuit 49 for generating a reel stop signal corresponding to when the stop buttons 12, 13, and 14 are pressed, and a coin detector for counting the number of coins paid out from the hopper 40. 40S and the count signal from the coin detection unit and the display unit drive circuit 46 described above, the count value of the coin detection unit (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40) is displayed by the display unit drive circuit 4. There is a payout completion signal circuit (not shown) for generating a signal for detecting the completion of coin payout when the payout number data represented by the count signal from is reached, and these are also through the I / O port 38. CPU3
Connected to 1.

In the circuit of FIG. 5, the random number generator 36 is
A random number belonging to a certain numerical range is generated, and the sampling circuit 37 samples one random number at an appropriate timing after the start lever 11 is operated. In the winning probability table stored in the ROM 32, it is determined to which winning group the random number sampled in this way belongs.

After the rotation of the reels 2 to 4 is started, the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 2S to 4S is counted, and the counted value is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 33. A reset pulse is obtained from the reels 2 to 4 for each rotation, and these pulses are input to the CPU 31 via the reel position detection circuit. The reset pulse thus obtained clears the count value of the drive pulse counted in the RAM 33 to "0". As a result, the RAM 33 stores the count value corresponding to the rotational position within the range of one rotation for each of the reels 2 to 4.

In order to associate the symbols with the rotational positions of the reels 2 to 4 as described above, the symbol table is R
It is stored in the OM32. In this symbol table, code numbers sequentially given at a constant rotation pitch of each reel and the symbols provided corresponding to each code number are shown with reference to the rotation position at which the above-mentioned reset pulse is generated. It is associated with the symbol code.

Further, a winning symbol combination table is stored in the ROM 32. In this winning symbol combination table, a combination of winning symbols, a coin payout number of winning coins, and a winning determination code representing the winning coins are associated with each other.

The above winning symbol combination table is referred to when stopping control of the first reel 2, the second reel 3 and the third reel 4 and when performing confirmation of winning after all reels are stopped. The winning line to be treated as effective by is predetermined. That is, when three medals are thrown in, all of the five winning lines are activated, but depending on the kind of winning, even if the combination of the symbols is obtained on a line other than the predetermined winning line, it is invalid. Become.

Further, the ROM 32 stores a program (sequence program) for executing a game on the slot machine 1.

According to the circuit configuration of the above-described embodiment, when the start lever 11 is operated as described above, C is generated in response to the signal from the start switch 11S which detects the operation.
The PU 31 sends a drive signal to the motor drive circuit 44, and the reels 2, 3, 3 driven by the stepping motors 2S, 3S, 4S.
On the other hand, while performing the rotational driving of No. 4, one random number is sampled from the random number generator 36 at an appropriate timing, and it is determined which winning group this random number belongs to in the winning probability table in the ROM 32. When it is determined that the player has won, the CPU 31 causes the player to select the stop buttons 12, 1
In response to the operation signal sent from the reel stop signal circuit 49 when the reels 3, 14 are operated, a signal for stopping the reels 2, 3 and 4 is sent to the motor drive circuit 44 at the symbol display position corresponding to the prize type. , The coin payout data corresponding to the prize type is supplied to the display unit drive circuit 46 to display the coin payout number on the display unit 22, and the payout command signal is supplied to the hopper drive circuit 47.
Pay out a predetermined number of coins from. At this time, the medal detection unit counts the number of coins to be paid out from the hopper 40, and when the count value reaches the number data from the display unit drive circuit 46, the payout completion signal circuit causes the CPU 3
The payout completion signal is input to 1. This allows the CPU
31 stops driving the hopper 40 via the hopper drive circuit 47, and ends the coin payout process.

The above is the outline of the game processing operation. In addition,
In the circuit configuration of FIG. 5, a random number generator 36, which is a circuit different from the microcomputer 30, is provided as means for sampling random numbers.
Although the random number sampling circuit 37 is used, the random number sampling circuit 37 may be configured to perform random number sampling in the microcomputer 30, that is, on the operation program of the CPU 31. In that case, the random number generator 36 and the random number sampling circuit 37 can be omitted, or can be left as a backup for the random number sampling operation.

Next, the operation of the gaming machine controlled by the microcomputer 30 in the above embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

In FIG. 16, the CPU 31 first determines whether or not a coin BET has been placed (step [hereinafter, ST] 1). This determination is "YES" when a coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 8 and the detection signal is input from the coin sensor 8S or when the BET switch 9 is input. In that case, it is then determined whether or not there is an input (start signal) from the start switch 11S by operating the start lever (ST2).
If this determination is "YES", the CPU 31 sends a drive signal to the motor drive circuit 44 via the I / O port 38 to rotationally drive all reels 2, 3, 4 (ST3). Then, the winning determination is made (ST4). This is shown in FIG.
8 to 20 according to the procedure shown in the flowchart.

The winning flag set in this winning determination is determined based on the random number sampling of FIG. 18 (ST4
In the case of “YES” in 1), the subsequent steps (ST4)
3 to 46) and the determination (ST56) based on the random number sampling of FIG. 20 and "YES" in the subsequent steps (ST57, 62, 63, 6).
The winning flag is set in 5).

As a result of the above winning determination, reel stop control is performed according to the type of the winning flag set (ST
5). Then, it is determined whether or not the display when the reel is stopped is a predetermined winning symbol (ST6). If "NO", the process returns to the beginning. If "YES", the winning symbol is "B / B game". Symbol combination (4 shown in section [A] of FIG. 4)
One of the two symbol combinations) is determined (S
T7).

When the B / B game flag is set by the above winning determination (ST4) and the B / B game is generated by the reel stop control (ST5), as shown in Table 4 above, that B / B game is generated. The winning sound corresponding to the B game winning symbol (symbol combination) is generated from the speaker 43, and the demonstration (hereinafter referred to as a demo) shown in FIGS. 13 to 15 is performed (ST8).

Next, a winning line notification demo is executed (ST9). As shown in Table 2 above, this is a demonstration in which the nine reel lamps 41 (W1 to 9) correspond to the line in which the winning symbols are lined up (FIGS. 9A to 10E). Or).

In the winning judgment (ST4), B / B
Even if a flag other than the game is set and a prize is generated, this winning line notification demo is performed.

Next, it is judged whether or not it is the above-mentioned replay game (one of the four symbol combinations shown in the section [C] of FIG. 4) (ST10), and if "NO", a predetermined number of coins. Is paid out (ST11), and if “YES”, the process proceeds to the next step (FIG. 17) without paying out coins. However, as described above, during the B / B game, five coins are paid out, and the process proceeds to the next step.

Next, in FIG. 17, it is determined whether or not the game up to this time was in the "S.B high probability game state" (ST12), and if "YES", "S.B high probability game disappeared". It is determined whether or not the "Demo" flag is set (ST44 in FIG. 18 and ST61 in FIG. 20 described later) (ST13). If this flag is set, the lamps 20L, 20C, 20R and 21 are turned on. When the speaker 4 is turned off, the high-probability game disappearing sound is output as shown in Table 1 above.
3 and the high-probability game disappearance demo (blink patterns 1 to 9 are displayed only once) shown in FIG. 8 (ST
14). When the extinction demo flag is not set, the lamps 20L, 20C, 20R and 21 are continuously blinked to generate a continuous sound (jingle) (ST1).
5).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step 12 that the game up to this time is not in the "S.B high probability game state",
It is determined whether or not the flag of "S.B high probability game generation demo" is set (ST46 of FIG. 18 described later) (S
T16), lamps 20L, 2 when set
0C, 20R, and 21 are blinked, as shown in Table 1, a high-probability game generation sound is generated from the speaker 43, and the S / B high-probability game generation demo shown in FIG. Display only once) (ST1
7).

Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the prize generated this time is a replay game (ST18). If "YES",
Returning to the above-described reel rotation drive (ST3), if "NO", it is next determined whether or not it is a "BB game" (ST1).
9), in the case of the BB game, the process proceeds to the flowchart of the "BB game" shown in FIG. If it is not the B / B game, it is next determined whether or not it is the "S / B game" (ST2
0), when “YES”, as shown in Table 3 above,
Based on the random number value of the R register, the "SB game" generation demo and winning sound shown in FIGS. 11 to 12 are generated (ST2
1), and proceed to the flowchart of the "SB game" shown in FIG.

Next, the winning determination operation in ST4 of FIG. 16 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The random number sampling used for this winning judgment is
This is performed using the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 of FIG.

In FIG. 18, first, it is determined whether or not the current game is a bonus game in the "SB game" or the "BB game" (ST30).

In the case of the bonus game, random number sampling is performed (ST31), and it is determined whether or not the random number value is less than or equal to a predetermined value R ₁ (ST32). Here, the range of random numbers to be sampled is, for example, 1 to 16383, and R ₁ = 14
If it is 744, the probability that random number value ≤ R ₁ is 14744/16383
≒ 9/10, the probability that random number value> R ₁ is (16383-14744) / 1
6383 ≈ 1/10.

Next, if the judgment result of the random number value is "NO", the flag of "off game" is set in the RAM 33 (ST33), and if "YES", "JAC game" (JAC-JAC). -Set the flag of the game in which JAC is lined up in the middle pay line) in the RAM 33 (ST
34) and the processing of this flow ends.

On the other hand, if the result of the determination in the first step 30 is "NO" (not the bonus game), then it is determined whether or not the current game is the "BB game" (ST3).
5) If it is during the "BB game", then proceed to the first step in FIG. When not in "BB Game",
It is determined whether or not the BB flag is already set (ST36), and if "YES", the process proceeds to the first step in FIG. If the BB flag is not set, then the game up to this time is in the "SB high probability game state" (the S.B high probability game state flag was set before the current game. ) Or not (S
T37). If the S / B high-probability game state is in effect, a table for erasing the "S / B high-probability game state" is set (ST38), and if the S / B high-probability game state is not in effect (hereinafter referred to as "S / B high-probability game state""Normal probability game"), "S
Set a table for "B high probability game state" generation (ST39).

Here, the table for extinguishing the "S.B high probability game state" is one number (for example, as a data to be compared with the random number value sampled in the next step 40).
Although it has only 105), the table for generating the “S.B high probability game state” has a predetermined number (for example, 6) of data in a predetermined range (10 to 20). This is because the payout rate of the slot machine can be arbitrarily set on the store side, for example, by operating a switch provided in the control base box or the inside of the apparatus, it is possible to switch to a plurality of stages. Therefore, “S · B” is compared with the random number sampled in step 40 below.
The data in the table for generating the "high probability game state" is determined to be one of, for example, six data when the power of the machine is turned on.

Next, in step 40, random number sampling in a predetermined range (for example, a range of 1 to 16383) is executed, and the sampled random number value is a predetermined value R ₂
(105 in case of disappearance table, 1 in 11 to 21 decided by switch operation in advance in case of generation table
One) It is determined whether or not (ST41). The probability that this judgment result is “YES” is 105/16383 ≈ 1/156 when the set table is for disappearance, and (11/16383) to (21 / 16383) ≒
(1/1489) to (1/780).

If the determination result in ST41 is "NO", the process proceeds to the first step in FIG.
In the case of S ", it is determined whether or not the set table is for extinction (ST42), and in the case of extinction, the flag of" SB normal probability game "is set (ST43), and" S
・ B high probability game state "disappearance demo flag is set (ST44). When the set table is for generation, the flag of "SB high probability game" is set (ST45), and the flag of "SB high probability game state" generation demo is set (ST46). .

Next, the operation procedure of FIG. 19 is proceeded to. First,
The winning determination table for "during B / B game" is set for reference (ST47), and it is determined whether or not the current game is during the B / B game (ST48).
The process proceeds to step (ST54) described later, and the head address of the data referred to in the winning determination table is set. On the other hand, if the current game is not the B / B game, the winning determination table for the B / B game is reset, and the winning determination table for "B / B game flag set" is set for reference ( ST49).

Next, it is judged whether or not the BB flag is already set (ST50), and if "YES",
If the process proceeds to step (ST54) to be described later and "NO", a winning determination table for "S.B high probability game" is set (ST51). And this game is "S
・ "B high probability game in progress" is determined (ST52),
If “YES”, the process shifts to the next step (ST54) to set the head address of the data referred to in the winning determination table. On the other hand, if the S / B high-probability game is not in progress, the prize determination table for the S / B high-probability game is reset, and the prize determination table for the “S / B normal-probability game” is set (ST53).

For the above "B / B game", "B / B game flag set", "S / B high probability game"
23 and the winning determination table for the “S / B normal probability game” each include eight data, as schematically shown in FIG. Each data is provided with a winning combination flag and a different numerical value as data to be compared and referenced with the random number value in the following step (ST56). For example, the winning combination flags of (A) and (B) are "B.
"B game", "SB game", and (C) are replay games.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 20, in the next step (ST55), random number sampling is performed from the range of 1 to 16383, and it is determined whether the sampled random number value is R ₃ or less (ST56). At this time, R ₃ is compared with the head data “(A)” of the winning determination table.
For example, if the numerical value of (A) is 44 and the random number sampled is 37, this is smaller than R ₃ , so ST5
The determination result of 6 is “YES”, and the flag (BB game) of the data is set in the next step (ST
57). Therefore, the probability of this flag being set is 44
/ 16383≈1 / 372.

When the determination result of ST56 is "NO",
The data (B) at the next address is set to R ₃ (ST58),
Unless it is determined in the next step (ST59) that the data has ended, the process returns to ST56 and the sampled random number value and R
Compare ₃ This operation is repeated until the end of the data (8 times in the example of the table in FIG. 23), and "YES" is determined in ST59.
When it becomes "S", there is no corresponding winning combination, so S
At T57, the "out" flag is set.

Next, it is judged whether or not the "BB game" flag is set (ST60), and if "NO", the processing ends. If “YES”, it is determined whether the “S / B high probability game state” has been set before the current game starts, that is, whether the “S / B high probability game state” flag has been set before the game starts. A determination is made (ST61).
If this is also "YES", the "SB high probability game state" flag is reset, the "SB normal probability game" flag is set (ST62), and the "SB high probability game state" is set. Set the "Disappearing demo" flag (ST6
3), the process ends. On the other hand, in the case of “NO” in ST61, it is determined whether or not the “SB high probability game state” occurrence flag is set (ST64), and in the case of “YES”, that is, the winning of this game. If both the “B / B game” flag and the “S / B high probability game state” flag are set in the determination, the “SB / B high probability game state” is set.
The flag is reset, the "S.B normal probability game state" flag is set (ST65), and the process ends.

As described above, when the "BB game" flag is set by the winning determination, the "SB high probability game state" flag is set by the current winning determination, and before the current game. Even if the "S / B high probability game state" flag is set, the "S / B high probability game state" flag is reset.

Next, the operation procedure of the "BB game" shown in FIG. 21 will be described.

First, it is judged whether or not the number of games has exceeded 30 (ST70).
Return to the first step ST1 of all the operations shown in 6. If the number of games has not exceeded 30, it is determined whether a coin BET has been placed (ST71). This determination is “YES” when a coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 8 and a detection signal is input from the coin sensor 8S or when an input from the BET switch 9 is input, as in ST1 of FIG. Become. In that case, it is then determined whether or not there is an input (start signal) from the start switch 11S by operating the start lever (ST72). If this determination is “YES”, the CPU 31 determines that the I / O port 2
A drive signal is sent to the reel drive units 32, 33, and 34 via 3 to rotationally drive all reels 2, 3, and 4 (ST7).
3). Then, the winning determination is made (ST74). this is,
As described above, ST5 of FIG. 20 after the winning determination table for “B / B game” is set in ST47 of FIG.
Judgment in 6.

As a result of this winning determination, reel stop control is performed according to the type of the winning flag set (ST
75). Then, it is determined whether or not the display when the reel is stopped is a predetermined winning symbol (ST76), and if "NO", ST
Returning to 70, if "YES", a pay line notification demonstration is carried out (ST77). This is shown in FIGS. 9 (A) to 10 (E).
It is a winning line notification demo.

Next, it is determined whether or not the game is a bonus game (ST79). If "NO", the process returns to ST70,
If "YES", it is determined whether or not the bonus game has completed 12 times (ST80), and if "YES", the process proceeds to ST89 which will be described later, and whether or not the bonus game is the second set. If it is also “YES” (digest the second set), the process returns to the first step (ST1) of all the operations shown in FIG. 16, and if “NO”, ST7.
Return to 0.

On the other hand, if the bonus game has not exhausted 12 times, it is determined whether or not a coin BET has been placed as in the above (ST81), and if "NO", ST80.
Then, when “YES”, all reels are rotationally driven (S
T82). Then, the winning determination is made (ST83). This is based on the determination in ST32 of FIG.

As a result of this winning determination, reel stop control is performed according to the type of the winning flag set (ST
84). Then, it is determined whether or not the display when the reel is stopped is a predetermined winning symbol (ST85), and if "NO", ST
Returning to 80, when "YES", a winning notification demonstration is performed (ST86). This is the winning notification demonstration of FIG.

Next, pay out a predetermined number of coins (ST
87) and then, it is determined whether or not the number of winnings is the eighth time (ST88). If “NO”, the process returns to ST80,
If "YES", it is determined whether or not the bonus game is the second set (ST89), and the processing is performed as described above according to the determination result.

Next, the operation procedure of the "SB game" shown in FIG. 22 will be described.

First, similarly to the above, it is determined whether or not a coin BET has been placed (ST90). If "NO", the process waits as it is, and if "YES", whether or not there is a start signal by operating the start lever. Is determined (ST9
1). When this determination is "YES", all reels are rotationally driven (ST92). Then, the winning determination is made (ST9
3). This is based on the determination in ST32 of FIG.

As a result of this winning determination, reel stop control is performed according to the type of the winning flag set (ST
94). Then, it is determined whether or not the display when the reel is stopped is a predetermined winning symbol (ST95), and if "NO", the process returns to the first step (ST1) of all the operations shown in FIG. 16 and "YES". In case of “”, a winning notification demonstration is performed (ST9
6). This is the winning notification demonstration of FIG.

Next, pay out a predetermined number of coins (S
T97), and returns to the first step (ST1) of all operations.

As described above, according to the embodiment, “S · B
Occurrence, continuation, and end of the "high probability game state" can be notified to the player at the time when each state occurs, and further, a demonstration is performed by sound and display lamps 20L, 20C, 20R, WIN lamp 21 and reel lamp 41. Therefore, the player can be notified visually and audibly, and the player does not need to face up, which is highly convenient.

Although the embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this.

For example, in the above embodiment, when the "BB game" flag and the "SB high probability game state" flag are simultaneously set by the winning determination, the "SB high probability game state" is set. If the game up to that point was in the “S.B high probability game state”, the “S
・ Reset the flag of "B high probability game state",
・ "B high probability game state" was ended, but "B
-Even if the "B game" flag is set, the "SB high probability game state" flag is not reset, and the "SB high probability game state" occurs after the "BB game" ends (continued) You may do it.

In the case of a gaming machine that uses electric display means such as liquid crystal, LED, CRT, etc., instead of the reel of mechanical display means as the variable display section, it is displayed by the liquid crystal or CRT screen or a large number of arranged LEDs. The blinking symbol itself or the background portion other than the symbol may be blinked.

Further, the number of symbols and the number of symbol rows forming one symbol row are not limited to those shown in the figure, but may be arbitrarily determined.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a slot machine according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an external view of a reel mechanism in which a lamp is installed inside each reel.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of symbol arrays arranged on three reels.

FIG. 4 is a view showing a symbol combination table in the slot machine of the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a circuit configuration of an embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a blinking pattern of a display lamp for informing the occurrence and continuation of the “SB high probability game state”.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a blinking pattern and a generated sound of the reel lamp when the “S / B high probability game state” occurs.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a blinking pattern of a reel lamp and a generated sound when “S / B high probability game state” disappears.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a blinking pattern of reel lamps corresponding to a winning line when a winning occurs.

FIG. 10 is a view showing a blinking pattern of reel lamps corresponding to a winning different from FIG.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a blinking pattern and a generated sound of a reel lamp according to a random number value when the “SB game” is generated.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a blinking pattern and a generated sound of a reel lamp according to a random number value different from that of FIG.

FIG. 13 is a view showing a blinking pattern of reel lamps and a generated sound when a “BB game” occurs.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a blinking pattern and a generated sound following FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a view showing a blinking pattern and a generated sound following FIG.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the game control operation in the slot machine of the embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart following FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a winning determination operation according to the embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart following FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart following FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a “BB game” operation.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart of an “SB game” operation.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of a winning determination table.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 ... Slot machine, 2, 3, 4 ... Reel, 5, 6, 7
... Display window, 8 ... Coin slot, 9 ... BET switch, 1
0 ... Credit / settlement changeover switch, 11 ... Start lever, 12, 13, 14 ... Stop button, 16 ... Coin payout outlet, 17 ... Saucepan, 18 ... Upper front part, 19 ... Activation line display lamp, 20L, 20C, 20R ... Display lamp, 21 ... Credit number display section, 22 ... Prize payout number display section, 23 ... Specific winning state display lamp, 30 ... Microcomputer, 31 ... CPU, 32 ... ROM, 33 ... R
AM, 34 ... Clock pulse generation circuit, 35 ... Frequency divider,
36 ... Random number generator, 37 ... Random number sampling circuit, 36
… Speaker.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ───

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] April 19, 1995

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0044

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[0044]

[Table 1] 7 and 8 show the reel lamp 41 (W
1 to W9). In the demonstration at the time of occurrence of the "S.B high probability game state" shown in FIG. 7, the blinking patterns of steps 1 to 14 are sequentially performed only once at a predetermined lighting time, and at the same time corresponding to each step. Produces sound. Demonstration at the time of disappearance of the “S.B high probability game state” shown in FIG.
The blinking pattern of 9 is sequentially performed only once at a predetermined lighting time, and at the same time, a sound corresponding to each stage is generated.

[Procedure Amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0047

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[0047]

[Table 2] Then, Table 3 below and FIG. 11 (A) to FIG. 12 (D) are shown as showing the occurrence of winning of the “SB game” itself.
The generation of fanfare sound and the demonstration by the reel lamps (W1 to W9) in the four cases shown in FIG. Then, in the next bonus game,
When a C-JAC-JAC "winning occurs, FIG.
The demonstration of (F) is executed.

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. A variable display section for variably displaying a plurality of symbols,
In a gaming machine provided with a control unit for performing a winning determination by random number sampling for a display mode when the variable display of the variable display unit is stopped, and controlling a variable display operation of the variable display unit based on the determination result, When the control unit determines at least one of occurrence, continuation, and termination of a state in which a specific winning mode is likely to occur, the control unit visually and audibly informs the determination result. A gaming machine characterized by being configured to notify the player in both cases. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the state in which the specific winning mode is likely to occur is a game state in which a single bonus game occurs with a high probability. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the visual notification is blinking of a lamp provided on the front of the gaming machine, blinking of the symbol itself displayed on the variable display portion, and a portion of the symbol. A gaming machine characterized by being performed by at least one of blinking of a background portion excluding. 4. A gaming machine according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the auditory notification is generated by a sound generated from a speaker provided in the gaming machine.