JPH1028761A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can sustain the expectation of a player about wins throughout multiple rounds of symbol matching games. SOLUTION: The specification of a symbol out of those which may be displayed in a symbol matching game is received from a player through an entry means 30. A display change means 40, when a ball enters a specified winning slot, after symbols displayed in a variable display means 20 are scrolled, stops with a randomly selected symbol displayed. When a specified combination of symbols which shows a win appears, a special value generating means 50 generates a special value by opening and closing an attacker 51. If symbols displayed in a suspended state are partially different from winning symbols and the same as those specified previously by the player, a change limiting means 42 limits symbols to be scrolled in ensuring symbol matching games to those different from the winning symbol displayed.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention displays a symbol matching game based on winning of a ball hit on a game board into a specific winning opening, and a special value advantageous to a player when a specific symbol is aligned. A gaming machine that generates

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a conventional gaming machine, a so-called pattern matching game is displayed on a liquid crystal display when a ball is won in a specific winning opening, and a special value advantageous to a player is given when a specific pattern is completed. There is a fever machine.

[0003] Usually, when a ball wins in a specific winning opening, the fever machine scrolls all of the plurality of symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display in a circular manner, and then stops the scroll operation of the symbols in order. Let it. Then, when the scrolling operation of all the symbols is stopped and a specific symbol is completed, a special value advantageous to the player is given.

When a ball hit during the execution of the symbol matching game wins a specific winning opening, the right to execute the symbol matching game based on the winning is reserved up to a predetermined number of times.

[0005]

However, in such a conventional gaming machine, even if a combination of symbols only partially different from the combination of symbols showing a hit appears on the liquid crystal display, the next symbol adjustment is performed. In the game, all symbols are scrolled and changed. As described above, since the symbol matching game is spontaneously performed each time the ball wins the specific winning opening, there is a problem that the symbol matching game is not continuous and it is difficult to maintain the thrill and excitement of the player. .

[0006] In particular, when only one symbol is in a reach state different from the winning symbol, the player's expectation of hitting reaches the climax, but the symbol matching game is performed independently each time, so the final In the event of a sudden loss, the player's sense of expectation and excitement is awakened at a stretch. For this reason, there has been a problem that lack of sustainability of thrill and excitement makes it difficult to sufficiently inspire the gambling of players.

The present invention has been made in view of such problems of the conventional technology, and is a gaming machine capable of maintaining a player's expectation of hitting a plurality of symbol matching games. It is intended to provide.

[0008]

The gist of the present invention to achieve the above object lies in the following inventions. [1] A symbol matching game is displayed based on the winning of a ball hit on the game board surface (11) into a specific winning opening (12), and a special value advantageous to a player is generated when the specific symbols are aligned. A variable display means (20) provided with a plurality of display areas (21) capable of displaying an arbitrary symbol in the gaming machine (10) to be operated, and one of the symbols displayed in the symbol matching game is designated. Input means (30) for receiving an instruction to perform from the player;
When the ball is won in 2), the symbols displayed in the plurality of display areas (21) provided in the variable display means (20) are continuously changed over a predetermined period, and then randomly selected. Display changing means (4) for stopping the display with the symbols displayed
0) and a special value advantageous to the player when a specific symbol combination indicating a hit in the plurality of display areas (21) is displayed when the symbol change is stopped by the display changing means (40). Special value generating means to generate (50)
And when the change of the symbol is stopped by the display changing means (40), a symbol only partially different from the combination of the specific symbol is displayed in the plurality of display areas (21), and the symbol of the part is displayed. Is the same as the symbol specified by the player, the display changing means (4) is based on the winning of the ball up to a predetermined number of times from the next time to the specific winning opening (12).
A game machine (1) comprising: a change portion restricting means (42) for restricting the change of the symbol performed by the symbol (0) to only a part of the display area (21) where the different symbol is displayed.
0).

[2] A symbol matching game is displayed based on the winning of the ball hit on the game board surface (11) into the specific winning opening (12), and a special game advantageous to the player when a specific symbol is completed. A gaming machine (10) for generating a value, a variable display means (20) having a plurality of display areas (21) capable of displaying an arbitrary symbol, and the specific winning opening (12);
When the ball is won, the symbol displayed in the plurality of display areas (21) provided in the variable display means (20) is changed cyclically over a predetermined period, and then the symbol selected at random is changed. Display change means (40) for stopping the display in the displayed state
And generating a special value advantageous to the player when a specific symbol combination indicating a hit in the plurality of display areas (21) is displayed when the symbol change is stopped by the display changing means (40). Special value generating means (50);
When the change of the symbol is stopped by the display changing means (40), a symbol only partially different from the combination of the specific symbol is displayed in the plurality of display areas (21), and the display of the partial symbol is displayed. When the order is within a predetermined range before and after the display order of the winning symbol, the specific winning opening (1)
2) The change point that limits the change of the symbol performed by the display change means (40) to only a part of the display area (21) where the different symbol is displayed based on the winning of the ball up to a predetermined number of times from the next time. A gaming machine (10), comprising: a restriction means (42).

[3] The change location limiting means (42)
When the combination of the specific symbols is displayed when the change of the symbol is stopped, the display changing means (40) of the display changing means (40) is based on the winning of the ball up to the predetermined number of times from the next time to the specific winning opening (12). [1] or [2], wherein the change of the symbol to be performed is limited to a part of the plurality of display means.
A gaming machine (10) as described.

[4] The symbol displayed on the variable display means (20) is a numeral, and the combination of the specific symbols indicating the hit is a combination of symbols having the same numeral. The location limiting means (42) limits the change of the symbol by the number of times indicated by the number having the same value among the numbers displayed in the stopped state [1],
The gaming machine (10) according to [2] or [3].

[5] The game board surface (11) during a period in which a symbol change is being performed in a state where the symbol change portion is not restricted.
Counting means for counting the number of balls hit upwards, and a limit number for setting the number of times the change location limiting means (42) limits the symbol change location in accordance with the number of balls counted by the counting means. A gaming machine (10) according to [1], [2] or [3], further comprising setting means.

The present invention operates as follows. Through the input means (30), designation of any one of the symbols displayed in the symbol matching game is received from the player. The display change means (40) randomly changes each symbol displayed on the variable display means (20) over a predetermined period when a ball is won in the specific winning opening (12), and then randomly. Stop with the selected symbol displayed.

When the symbol displayed in the stopped state is a combination of specific symbols indicating a hit, the special value generating means (5)
0) generates a special value that is advantageous to the player. on the other hand,
If only a part of the symbols displayed in the stopped state is different from the symbol combination indicating the hit, and if the symbol matches the symbol specified by the player first, the change portion restricting means (4
2) displays a symbol that is not in a specific symbol combination that indicates a symbol change to be made by the display changing means (40) based on winning of the ball up to a predetermined number of times from the next time to the specific winning opening (12). Limited to only a part of the display area (21).

[0015] For example, a symbol matching game displayed as a slot machine is displayed, and when the scrolling operation is stopped, "777" indicating a hit and "7" having a different number by one digit are used.
It is assumed that "72" is displayed and "2" is a number specified in advance by the player. In this case, in the next and subsequent symbol matching games, the number scrolling position is limited to only the position where "2" is displayed, and the two digits where "7" is displayed are not scrolled.

As a result, continuity is created in the symbol matching game. In addition, since the player is caused to specify the symbol, the player can independently participate in the game. further,
Since it is possible to determine whether the designated design is to be maintained or changed next time at the discretion of the player, the game has a bargaining property and can be more entertaining.

When the ball wins the specific winning opening (12), the display changing means (40) changes the variable display means (20).
After the upper symbol is cyclically changed over a predetermined period, the display is stopped with the randomly selected symbol displayed. Then, when only a part of the symbols displayed in the stopped state is different from the combination of the specific symbols indicating the hit, and the cyclic display order of the different symbols is within a predetermined range before and after the display order of the symbol to be the hit. , Limits the change of symbols.

For example, a slot machine 3
It is assumed that each digit in the digits is cyclically scrolled in the order of 0 to 9, and the order in which the digits are cyclically displayed is within ± 1 of “7”, that is, the value of the number is “6”. Alternatively, when "8", the changed part is limited.
In the case of stopping in the state of “776” against the hit of “777”, the scroll order is within the range of ± 1 of “7”. Restrict to just. When "775" or the like is displayed, the change of the symbol based on the next winning is performed for all three digits.

A symbol in a predetermined range before and after the symbol in which the order is displayed cyclically is displayed when the scroll stop position is slightly shifted from the symbol in the hit.
When the player stops at this symbol, the expectation and excitement of the player's hit are in a state of being increased. Since the symbol matching game from the next time onward is continued from such a state, the excitement of the player can be maintained, and the entertainment can be enhanced.

Even when a specific symbol combination indicating a hit is displayed, the change of the symbol after the next time may be restricted. Thereby, the excitement of the player reaching the climax due to the winning can be maintained.

The symbols displayed on the variable display means (20) are designed to represent numbers, and the winning is indicated when the same numbers are aligned. Then, when only some of the figures are stopped at a value different from the numbers of the other symbols, the number of times of limiting the changed portion is set to the number of times indicated by each of the numbers, which is the same as the next time.

For example, a pattern matching game in which numbers are aligned like a slot machine is displayed, and when a number that differs by one digit from the number indicating a hit comes out, the number of times corresponding to the number of each aligned digit is displayed next time. , And restrict the changed parts. Since the number of times of limitation changes in this way, the content of the game can be changed.

The counting means (44) counts the number of balls hit onto the game board surface (11) during the period in which the symbol change is being performed in a state where the symbol change portion is not limited. Then, the number of times of limiting the symbol change position is changed according to the number of balls counted by the counting means (44). Whether or not the change is restricted when the symbol is stopped is randomly selected, so that the player can adjust the number of balls to be hit during the symbol change period and bargain. Thereby, the fun of the game content can be increased.

[0024]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Each drawing shows an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, a gaming machine 10 according to the present invention
Is a pachinko machine that launches a ball by rotating the handle 14 and competes for winning the ball in various winning ports. Note that the gaming machine 10 according to the present invention can be applied to various game machines that use a ball as a game medium, such as an arrangement ball machine.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a gaming board surface 11 as a place where a hit ball flows down. The game board surface 11 is provided with a winning opening, various kinds of accessories, obstacle nails, an out opening, and the like. At a substantially central portion of the game board surface 11, a variable display means 20 as a central accessory for displaying a symbol matching game is provided. Here, as the variable display means 20,
A color liquid crystal display is used. In addition, as the variable display means 20, a monochrome liquid crystal display or a CRT
A display or the like can be used.

The variable display means 20 has a display area 21 capable of displaying an arbitrary one-digit number for three digits. In these display areas 21, a symbol matching game which looks like a slot machine is displayed.

Below the variable display means 20, a special winning opening 12 generally called a start chucker is provided. The symbol matching game is executed on the variable display means 20 when the ball hit on the game board surface 11 wins the specific winning opening 12.

Further below the specific winning opening 12, there is provided a special value generating means 50 for generating a special value advantageous to the player when a hit is made in the symbol matching game. The special value generating means 50 is a variable winning opening that is normally closed, but repeats the opening and closing operation of the winning opening a plurality of times when a winning occurs in the symbol matching game. By opening the winning opening of the variable winning opening 50 and forming a state in which the winning probability of the ball is high, a special value is given to the player.

Above the variable display means 20, a limit number display means 48 indicating the number of times the change of the symbol is limited is arranged. The limited number display means 48 includes a plurality of display lamps, and indicates the limited number by the number of lit lamps. On the left side of the game board surface 11, input means 30 including a plurality of push button switches for a player to designate one of a plurality of symbols is provided.

At the lower part of the game board surface 11, a front plate 15 for holding a ball to be used for the game is provided, and further below the front plate 15
A lower plate 16 is provided for receiving a ball overflowing from the bottom plate.
On the right side of the lower plate 16 is provided a handle 14 for operating the firing of a ball. A control circuit for controlling various operations of the gaming machine 10 is mounted on the inside of the machine such as on the back surface of the game board 11.

FIG. 1 shows an outline of a circuit configuration of a gaming machine 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The specific winning opening 12 includes a winning detection switch 13 for detecting a winning ball. The prize detecting switch 13 may be a mechanical switch, an optical sensor that detects a prize when light is blocked by a ball, or a magnetic sensor that detects a change in a magnetic field due to the passage of a ball. it can.

The winning signal 61 output from the winning detecting switch 13 when a ball winning is detected is output to the variable display means 20.
Are input to the display changing means 40 for controlling the scrolling operation of the symbols displayed in. The display change unit 40 is a display control circuit that changes a symbol displayed in the display area 21 of the variable display unit 20. The display changing means 40 scrolls the symbol on the variable display means 20 for a predetermined time each time the winning signal 61 is input, and then displays a random number selected by a random number generator (not shown). Has the function of stopping the scroll operation of each digit.

The display changing means 40 outputs a stop state signal 62 representing a three-digit number displayed on the display area 21 when the symbol change is stopped, and the signal 42 is input to the special value generating means 50. Have been.

The special value generating means 50 is a variable winning opening for generating a special value advantageous for the player.
The special value generating means 50 has an attacker 51 as a large winning opening which is closed in a normal state but opened and closed when the winning symbols are aligned. Further, the special value generating means 50 includes a solenoid 52 as a driving means of the attacker 51, and a winning ball counter 53 for counting the number of balls winning here while the attacker 51 is open.

The special value generating means 50 outputs the stop state signal 6
When 2 indicates that the winning symbols are aligned, after opening for a certain period (for example, 29 seconds), short time (about 2 seconds)
The opening / closing operation of the closing attacker 51 is set to be repeated a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 16 times).
A predetermined number (eg, 10
), The attacker 51 is closed even before the predetermined time has elapsed. This prevents an excessive increase in the number of balls paid out by winning.

The change portion restricting means 42 is a circuit portion for restricting a portion of the three display areas 21 where the symbol is changed by the display changing means 40. Here, a scroll operation of two digits out of three digits is prohibited, and a change is made so that only one digit is changed. Further, the change portion restriction means 42 has a function of managing how many times the restriction of the change of the symbol is continuously performed.

The change position restricting means 42 outputs a change position display signal 63 indicating a position in the three display areas 21 where the change of the symbol is to be restricted.
The design is changed based on the. The input means 30 is a selection switch for allowing the player to select an arbitrary one-digit number. The input means 30 includes a push button switch representing each of the numbers 0 to 9. One of the switches is selectively pressed by the player, and
Two numbers are selected.

The counting means 44 is a counter for counting the number of balls hit on the game board 11 by operating the handle 14 by the player. The counting means 44 outputs a change period signal 64 indicating whether or not the symbol change period is in progress and whether or not the symbol change portion is in a restricted state.
Is entered from

The counting means 44 is a counter circuit for counting the number of balls hit on the game board 11 during the period in which the symbols are changed without any restriction. The number-of-launches signal 65 indicating the count value is input from the counting means 44 to the limit number setting means 46. The limited number setting means 46 is a circuit portion for increasing the limited number of times of change in accordance with an increase in the number of hit balls. The number-of-times signal 66 output from the number-of-times-of-limits setting unit 46 is input to the change-point limiting unit 42 and the number-of-times-of-limit display unit 48 including a plurality of display lamps.

Display change means 40, change place restriction means 4
2. The counting means 44, the limit number setting means 46, and the like include a CPU (central processing unit) that plays a central function of various controls in the gaming machine 10, and a ROM (read only memory).
And a circuit having a RAM (random access memory) as a main part.

Various fixed data such as programs executed by the CPU and symbols to be displayed are stored in the ROM. The RAM is a work memory for storing data temporarily required for executing a program.

Next, an operation flow in the gaming machine 10 will be described. FIG. 3 shows an example of a flow in which the display content of the variable display means 20 changes. The three-digit numbers that are regarded as slot machines are displayed in the display areas 21a and 21a.
b, 21c. After the scroll operation of all the digits, the operation is stopped in the state 70 indicating “776”. "777" is a hit and "776"
Is a numerical value that satisfies the condition for restricting the change of the symbol.

When the next ball wins in the special winning opening 12, the symbol change (scroll operation) is performed only in the display area 21c where "6" was previously displayed (71). In the figure,
The scrolled state is represented by “「 ”. If the scrolling operation of the display area 21c is stopped and the state 72 in which the numbers are aligned, such as "777", is displayed, a hit is made.
When a state 73 where numbers are not aligned, such as “774”, is displayed, the state is lost.

In either case of hitting or losing, in the symbol matching game executed for a predetermined number of winnings in the specific winning opening 12 thereafter, the limitation of the symbol changing portion is continuously added. In the symbol matching game after the restriction operation for the predetermined number of times is completed, all the symbols are scrolled again (74).

Here, two types are prepared as conditions for restricting the changed part of the symbol. The first type is
In this case, two of the three symbols are winning symbols, and the remaining one symbol matches the symbol specified in advance by the player. The second type is a case in which two of the three symbols are winning symbols, and the remaining one symbol is a symbol whose display order when scrolled is before or after the winning symbol.

For example, in the case of a symbol matching game in which the symbols of fruits, such as bananas and pineapples, are arranged, in the first type, an arbitrary one of appearing fruits is designated in advance by a player. When the player specifies an orange symbol, when the same fruit is displayed in the display area 21a and the display area 21b and an orange symbol is displayed in the remaining display area 21c, the next and subsequent symbol matching games are performed. To restrict the change of the symbol.

In the second type, the scrolling order is orange, banana, pineapple, melon... Orange. Display area 21a, display area 21b
In the case where the banana symbols are aligned, if either orange or pineapple is displayed as one remaining symbol in which the scrolling order is before and after the banana, the change of the symbol is restricted from the next time. The symbol may be a symbol representing a number from 0 to 9 in addition to various symbols such as fruits and tropical fish. These two types can be switched by setting.

FIG. 4 shows a flow of an operation performed by the gaming machine for restricting a change portion of the symbol when a symbol different from the winning symbol coincides with the symbol designated by the player. The player designates in advance one of the symbols used in the symbol matching game by the input means 30 (step S101).

The design to be specified can be changed by the variable display means 20.
Can be performed at any time during a period other than the period in which the symbol displayed in is displayed. The player may change the designated symbol each time the symbol matching game is performed. Once a design is specified, it will be treated as if it were specified as it is, unless changed.

It is to be noted that the limit number as a variable indicating the number of times the symbol change is limited is initialized to "0". When the value of the number of times of restriction is “0”, it indicates a state in which the restriction of the changed part is not added. A value other than “0” indicates the remaining number of times that the restriction of the changed portion is continuously added.

With the design specified, the specific winning opening 12
(Step S102; Y), a symbol matching game is executed by the display changing means 40 (Step S103). That is, the display change unit 40 scrolls all the symbols displayed on the variable display unit 20 for a certain period of time when the symbols are not restricted, and then stops at the symbol selected at random. When the change point of the symbol is restricted, the symbol is scrolled only in the corresponding portion.

If the stopped symbol is a combination of symbols representing winning (step S104; Y), the attacker 51 is opened and closed to give a special value to the player (step S105). When stopping at another symbol (step S104; N), it is determined whether or not a symbol that differs only in part from the combination of symbols indicating a win is displayed (step S106). When a symbol different from the symbol of only one part is displayed (step S10
6; Y), it is determined whether or not the symbols correspond to the symbols previously specified by the player (step S10).
7).

If some of the symbols different from the hit match those specified by the player (step S
107; Y), setting is made to permit the change only in the display area in which the different symbols are displayed, and to limit the change in the symbols in the other areas (step S108).

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, it is assumed that a symbol matching game displayed as a slot machine is displayed, and the winning is "777". At this time, if the number specified by the player is “6”, if “776” is displayed as shown in the state 71 of FIG. 3, only the area in which “6” is displayed is changed in the next and subsequent symbols. Location.

If the limit number is "0" (step S109; Y), it indicates that the symbol change restriction has not been applied until the previous time, so that the initial value is set as the limit number (step S110). ). For example, in the case where a symbol change game to be performed for the seven subsequent winnings in the specific winning opening 12 is to restrict the changed portion of the symbol,
"7" is set as an initial value.

If the number of times of limitation is not "0" (step S109; N), the condition for imposing the limitation on the changed portion of the symbol is satisfied in the symbol matching game up to the previous time, and the number of times of limitation set at that time is exhausted. Since the status indicates that the user is in the middle of a job, the limit number is set to "-1" (step S111).

When a symbol different from the winning combination is not displayed for only a part of the combination of the symbols indicating the winning (step S106; N), or a symbol different from the winning symbol is displayed only for a part of the combination, If the symbol does not match the symbol previously specified by the player (step S107; N), it is determined whether or not the limit number of times is “0” (step S112).

Here, the determination of the number of times of limitation is made in the state that the symbol matching game played this time is performed in a state in which the limitation of the symbol change portion is not added, or the limitation of the symbol change portion is once performed. This is to determine whether or not the condition for adding is satisfied and the set limit number is being consumed at that time.

If the restriction of the changed part is not added (step S112; Y), the processing is ended (end). However, since the process shown in FIG. 4 is repeatedly executed, the process substantially returns to step S101.

If the set number of times is in the digestion period (step S112; N), the number of times is set to "-".
1 "(step S111). After the initial limit is set (step S110) or the limit is set to "-1".
After that (step S111), it is checked whether or not the limited number is “0” (step S113).

If the number of times of restriction is not "0" (step S113; N), the state of restricting the symbol change portion is continued, and the process returns to step S102. On the other hand, if the limit number is “0” (step S113; Y), the limit processing of the set number has been completed, so that the restriction on the changed portion is released (step S114), and the processing ends (end). .

FIG. 5 shows a flow of an operation performed by the gaming machine 10 for restricting a change portion of the symbol when the display order of a part of the symbol different from the winning symbol is within a predetermined range before and after the symbol. It is. Here, 0 is displayed in each display area 21.
It is assumed that any one of numbers from 9 to 9 is displayed, and the scroll is performed cyclically in the order of 0 to 9. The three-digit number is "7
77 ”,“ 555 ”, and“ 333 ”, and if a digit that differs by one digit comes out,
Restrictions on changed parts will be added in the next and subsequent symbol matching games. The function of the variable indicating the number of times of limitation is the same as that shown in FIG.

When a ball wins in the special winning opening 12 (step S201; Y), a symbol matching game is executed (step S202), and the display on the variable display means 20 is scrolled for a predetermined time and then randomly selected. Stopped with symbols. If the symbol in the stopped state is a symbol with a uniform number such as "777" or "555" (step S203; Y), the attacker 51 opens and closes to give the player a special value (step S204). If the numbers are not aligned (step S203; N), it is determined whether only some of the numbers are different from the winning numbers, such as "776" (step S205). When a symbol different from the winning number only is displayed (step S205;
Y), it is determined whether or not the partial number is within a predetermined range before and after “7” (± 1 in this case) (step S20).
6).

If the numeral is before or after "7" (step S206; Y), the change of the symbol is permitted only at the portion where the different numeral is displayed, and the change of the symbol is restricted at other portions. (Step S207).

If the limit number is "0" (step S208; Y), an initial value is set for the limit number (step S209). If the limit number is not "0" (step S208; N), the limit is set. Since the number of times is being consumed, the limit number is set to "-1" (step S210).

When the number indicating the hit is different by two or more digits (step S205; N) or only by one digit, when the display order of the number is not within a predetermined range before and after the hit number (step S205). S206; N), it is determined whether or not the limited number is “0” (step S2).
11).

If the limit number is "0" and no restriction is placed on the changed part (step S211; Y),
The process ends (END). If the limit number is not “0” but is within the digestion period of the set limit number once (step S211; N), the limit number is set to “−1” (step S210).

After the limit count is initialized (step S2)
09) or after the limit count is set to “−1” (step S
210), it is checked whether or not the limit number is “0” (step S212). If it is not “0” (step S2)
12; N), the process returns to step S201, and the state of limiting the changed portion is continued. On the other hand, if the limit number is “0” (step S212; Y), the limit for the set number has been completed, and the limit is released (step S21).
3) End the processing (END).

In this case, a value corresponding to the winning number (two numbers in three digits) is set as the initial value of the limited number of times. That is, when a number that differs by one digit from “777” such as “776” appears, the number of times becomes “55”.
If a number such as "4" differs from "555" by one digit, the number is set to five.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 show the flow of the operation performed by the gaming machine 10 for increasing the number of times of limitation in accordance with the number of balls hit during the execution period of the symbol matching game performed in a state where the changed portion is not limited. It is a representation. In the above description, the initial value of the limit number is set fixedly or according to the value of a set number.
The number of times of limitation is gradually increased according to the number of balls hit on 1.

The more times the ball is hit during the scrolling operation, the greater the number of times the ball is hit. The number of times of restriction increases when the scrolling operation is stopped. do not know. Therefore, the player can perform bargaining by adjusting the number of balls to be hit, and can increase the playability. Here, it is assumed that a symbol matching game for aligning numbers is performed as in the case of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, when a ball wins in the specific winning opening 12 (step S301; Y), it is determined whether or not the restriction of the changed portion has already been set (step S3).
02). When the change portion is not restricted (Step S302; N), the initial value of the number of restrictions is set according to the number of balls hit on the game board 11 during the execution of the symbol matching game to be performed this time. Is set (steps S303 to S310).

Here, every time a certain number of balls are hit on the game board 11, the limit number is increased by "1", and each time the lamp of the limit number display means 48 is additionally turned on (steps S305 to S308). ). However, after the limit count reaches the upper limit, the limit count is not increased (step S306; Y).

When the limit number is set, a setting flag is set (step S310). If the restriction of the changed part has already been added (step S302;
Y) Since the limited number of times is being consumed, the symbol matching game is executed in a state in which the changed part of the symbol is restricted (step S311), and the setting of the limited number and the setting of the setting flag are not performed.

If a hit has occurred in the symbol matching game executed this time (step S313; Y), the attacker 5
1 to open and close to give a special value (step S31
4). If the symbol at the time when the scrolling operation is stopped is different by only one digit, and the numeral is within a predetermined range (± 1) before and after the winning numeral (step S315; Y and step S316; Y), the next and subsequent lines are executed. Setting for limiting the changed part in the symbol matching game to be performed (step S
317).

When the setting flag is set (step S318; Y), it indicates that the limited number of times has been set in the symbol matching game performed this time, so the setting number is not subtracted and the setting flag is reset. Yes (Step S3
19). On the other hand, when the setting flag has been reset (step S318; N), it indicates that the symbol matching game played this time is in the period of exhaustion of the limited number, so the limited number is set to "-1". With (Step S
320), one lamp of the limited number display means 48 is turned off (step S321).

Thereafter, if the limit number is not "0" (step S322; N), the process returns to step S301.
Continue restricted state. If the number of times of restriction is "0" (step S322; N), the restriction on the changed part is released (step S323), and the processing is ended (END).

When a symbol stops in the symbol matching game,
If two or more digits are not aligned (step S
315; N) or when the number differs by one digit but the value is not in a predetermined range before and after the winning number (step S
316; N) checks whether the setting flag is set (step S324).

When the setting flag is set (step S324; Y), it indicates that the symbol matching game played this time has been played in a state in which the changed portion is not restricted. In addition, since the stop state in the present symbol matching game does not satisfy the condition for limiting the changed portion (step S315; N, step S316; N), all symbols are scrolled in the next symbol matching game.

That is, the limit number is set again in the next symbol matching game. Therefore, when the setting flag is set (step S324;
Y), the flag is reset (step S325), the limit count is initialized to "0" (step S326), all the display lamps of the limit count display means 48 are turned off (step S327), and the process ends (END). ).

On the other hand, if the setting flag has not been set (step S324; N), the symbol matching game played this time has been played during the limited number of playing periods, but the stopped state has changed Is not satisfied (step S315;
N, step S316; N). Therefore, the limit count is changed to "-
"1" (step S320), and turns off one display lamp (step S321). Then, it is checked whether or not the limit number after the subtraction is “0” (step S322). If the limit number is not “0”, the state where the restriction of the changed portion is added is continued (step S322; N). Then, the restriction on the changed portion is released (step S323), and the process ends.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show that the variable display means 20 has 3 × 3
This is an example of display contents when a symbol matching game is displayed in a display area arranged in a matrix. The design of each number is independently scrolled downward in each column. If the same number is aligned on any of the vertical, horizontal or diagonal lines, it will be a hit. In the example of FIG. 8, the number “776” is displayed in the oblique direction indicated by the broken arrow 81, and the number “77” is displayed.
Only one numeral differs from “7” within the range of ± 1. Therefore, the condition for imposing the restriction is satisfied, and only the display location in the rightmost column 82 is scrolled in the next and subsequent symbol matching games.

In the case of the one shown in FIG.
Combinations having different numbers at only one position are established on the two lines 3 and 84, respectively. In such a case, one of them is given priority. That is, when giving priority to the combination of the rows indicated by the arrows 83, only the rightmost column 85 is scrolled. When giving priority to the diagonal combination indicated by the arrow 84, the symbols in the leftmost column 86 are scrolled.

When the winning line is limited to only the center line indicated by the arrow 83, if a part of the symbols is stopped in a state of being shifted by one in the circulating order, the winning symbol is either upper or lower. Is displayed on the line. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the number “778” is displayed on the line indicated by the arrow 83, and the number “7” to be hit is displayed in the upper row of the rightmost column. In this way, if the number is displayed in the center row, the winning number is displayed with a shift of one, so that the degree of excitement of the player can be increased.

In the embodiment described above, the first and second
Can be switched by setting, but when no switch of the input means 30 is pressed, the second type is set. When one of the switches is pressed and one symbol is selected, the first type is set. It may be operated.

It is not necessary for these two types to coexist, and only one of these functions may be provided.

[0087]

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, when a symbol only partially different from the winning symbol is prepared, only the different partial symbol is changed in the next and subsequent symbol matching games. Therefore, continuity is created in the symbol matching game, and a sense of expectation of the player's hit can be maintained over a plurality of symbol matching games.

Further, in the case where the player selects in advance a symbol that is effective in the event of a difference, the player can independently participate in the game, and the recreational performance can be enhanced.

Further, when a part of the symbols different from the winning symbol is a symbol whose display order is within a predetermined range before and after the winning symbol, a restriction on a changed portion is added. Expectation, thrill and excitement can be effectively continued to the next and subsequent symbol matching game.

In the case where the limit number is set in accordance with the number displayed in the stopped state, the limit number fluctuates.
The game content can be changed. Also, by setting the limit number according to the number of balls hit on the game board, the number of balls hit during the pattern change period can be adjusted and bargained, so higher entertainment Can be provided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a symbol displayed on the variable display means of the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of an operation performed by the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of an operation performed by the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a first half of a flow of an operation performed by a gaming machine of a type in which the number of times of limitation is increased according to the number of hit balls.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a latter half of an operation flow performed by a gaming machine of a type in which the number of times of limitation is increased in accordance with the number of hit balls.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a symbol displayed on a variable display device having display areas arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the symbols displayed on the variable display means having display areas arranged in a matrix.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Game machine 11 ... Game board surface 12 ... Specific winning opening 13 ... Winning detection switch 14 ... Handle 15 ... Front plate 16 ... Lower plate 20 ... Variable display means 21 ... Display area 30 ... Input means 40 ... Display change means 42 ... Change Point limiting means 44 ... Counting means 46 ... Limit count setting means 48 ... Limit count display means 50 ... Special value generating means 51 ... Attacker 52 ... Solenoid 53 ... Winning ball counter 61 ... Winning signal 62 ... Stop state signal 63 ... Change point Display signal 64 ... Change period signal 65 ... Number of hits 66 ... Number of times signal

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. A gaming machine which displays a symbol matching game based on a winning of a ball hit on a gaming board into a specific winning opening and generates a special value advantageous to a player when a specific symbol is aligned. Variable display means having a plurality of display areas capable of displaying any symbol, input means for receiving from the player an instruction to specify any of the symbols displayed in the symbol matching game, When a ball was won in the specific winning opening, the symbols displayed in the plurality of display areas provided in the variable display means were changed continuously over a predetermined period, and then the randomly selected symbols were displayed. Display changing means for stopping in a state, and a special symbol advantageous to the player when a combination of specific symbols indicating a hit to the plurality of display areas is displayed when the change of symbols is stopped by the display changing means. Special value generating means for generating a value, and when the change of the symbol is stopped by the display changing device, a symbol which is only partially different from the combination of the specific symbol is displayed in the plurality of display areas, and the symbol is partially displayed When the symbol of the symbol coincides with the symbol specified by the player, the change of the symbol performed by the display change means based on the winning of the ball up to a predetermined number of times from the next time to the specific winning opening is displayed as the different symbol. And a change location limiting means for limiting only a part of the display area. 2. A gaming machine for displaying a symbol matching game based on a winning of a ball hit on a game board into a specific winning opening, and generating a special value advantageous to a player when a specific symbol is aligned. A variable display means having a plurality of display areas capable of displaying an arbitrary symbol; and a symbol displayed on the plurality of display areas provided in the variable display means when a ball wins in the specific winning opening. Display changing means for stopping the display while displaying the symbol selected at random after cyclically changing over a predetermined period, and hitting the plurality of display areas when the change of the symbol is stopped by the display changing means. Special value generating means for generating a special value advantageous to the player when a combination of specific symbols indicating is displayed, and the plurality of display areas when the change of the symbol is stopped by the display changing means When a symbol that is only partially different from the combination of the specific symbols is displayed, and the display order of the partial symbols is within a predetermined range before and after the display order of the winning symbol, the symbol goes to the specific winning opening. And a change portion limiting means for limiting the change of the symbol performed by the display changing device to only a part of the display area where the different symbol is displayed based on winning of the ball up to a predetermined number of times from the next time. A gaming machine characterized by: 3. The change portion restricting means, when the combination of the specific symbols is displayed when the change of the symbol is stopped, is based on the winning of the ball up to a predetermined number of times from the next time to the specific winning opening. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the change of the symbol performed by the display change unit is limited to a part of the plurality of display units. 4. The symbol displayed on the variable display means represents a number, the combination of the specific symbols indicating the hit is a combination of symbols having the same numeral, 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the change of the symbol is limited by the number of times indicated by the number having the same value among the numbers displayed in the stopped state. 5. A counting means for counting the number of balls hit onto the game board during a period in which a symbol change is being performed in a state where a symbol change portion is not limited, and said change portion limiting means includes: 4. A number-of-times setting means for setting the number of times to limit a change portion in accordance with the number of balls counted by said counting means.
The gaming machine described.