WO2007026396A1

WO2007026396A1 - Game machine, game control method, and game system

Info

Publication number: WO2007026396A1
Application number: PCT/JP2005/015782
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kazuo Okada
Original assignee: Aruze Corporation
Priority date: 2005-08-30
Filing date: 2005-08-30
Publication date: 2007-03-08
Also published as: ZA200601940B; US20070060283A1; JPWO2007026396A1

Abstract

A game machine not causing the player who has wasted many coins to have a discomfort feeling about games and a sense of mistrust and to lose the interest in games. The game machine is characterized by comprising output means for outputting an image or sound, winning combination determining means for determining a winning combination by drawing, means for bringing about a first special game mode advantageous to the player when the determined winning combination is a special winning combination, means for bringing about a second special game mode which is advantageous to the player and in which the degree of advantage corresponding to a set value selected from predetermined stepwise candidate values and compared with the number of games played is determined when the number of games played reaches the set value, and means for telling the player by outputting an image or sound by means of the output means that the second special game mode is brought about according to the set value when the second special game mode is brought about.

Description

Specification

Game machine, game control method, and game system

Technical field

[0001] The present invention includes a gaming machine such as a slot machine for playing a game using a gaming medium (game value) such as a coin, a gaming control method for the gaming machine, and the gaming machine and a control device. Related to a game system.

Background art

Conventionally, in a facility where a gaming machine such as a slot machine is installed, it is possible to play a game by inserting various gaming media such as coins and cash into the gaming machine. Each gaming machine pays out a payout according to a winning state (game result) generated by the progress of the game.

[0003] In a casino in which a plurality of slot machines are arranged, a part of the credits consumed in each slot machine is reserved, and when the reserved amount reaches a certain amount, There is a so-called “jackpot” that pays out a large amount that is not paid out in a normal win (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such a slot machine, normally, a win is generated with a set probability, and the player advances the game in the hope that the win will occur. Then, by a lottery different from the normal winning lottery based on the probability set in the slot machine, a jackpot win occurs in any slot machine at a certain timing. Also, in order to increase the payout amount at the time of “jackpot”, generally, a plurality of casinos are connected by a network.

[0004] In addition, there is a system in which a host computer and a plurality of gaming machines are network-connected, and the host computer controls the generation of bonuses in the gaming machines (see, for example, Patent Document 2). In this system, the host computer accumulates the number of coins inserted in each gaming machine, and accumulates a part of the number of coins inserted in a plurality of gaming machines as a bonus pool. In addition, the host computer gives a bonus qualification to gaming machines whose coins have reached a predetermined number. And host computer When the value of the bonus pool reaches a predetermined threshold, a command is sent to one gaming machine selected from the gaming machines to which the bonus qualification is granted. A gaming machine that has received the command has a high gear!

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-117053

Patent Document 2: US Patent No. 5820459

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0006] However, in the slot machine described in Patent Document 1, it is a player who is playing a game using the game machine that has won the lottery! . Therefore, the player who consumed a large number of coins cannot enjoy the benefits of the “jackpot” at all, and the player who has just started playing can enjoy the benefits of the “jackpot”. It was.

[0007] Also, in the system described in Patent Document 2, an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of the bonus game is given to any gaming machine in which the number of coins inserted reaches a predetermined number. An opportunity to enjoy the benefits of a bonus game is not necessarily given to a player who has consumed a large number of coins. For this reason, even in the system described in Patent Document 2, as with the slot machine described in Patent Document 1, it is not possible to enjoy the benefits of a player-power bonus game that consumed a large number of coins. In some cases, powerful players could benefit from bonus games.

[0008] Further, in the system described in Patent Document 2, a part of the number of coins inserted in a plurality of gaming machines is accumulated as a bonus pool. Therefore, when the operating rate of gaming machines in the system is low, even if a certain player consumes a large number of coins, the value of the bonus pool does not reach the predetermined threshold value, and the benefit of the bonus game is enjoyed. There was a case that could not be done. Further, since the bonus game performed in the system described in Patent Document 2 is highly gambling, even if an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of the bonus game is given, the benefits can be sufficiently obtained. There were cases where it was not possible.

[0009] When the situation described above occurs, there is a risk of discomfort and distrust in a player-powered game that has consumed a large number of coins, or loss of interest or interest in the game. [0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and the purpose of the present invention is to cause a player who has consumed a large number of coins and other game media to feel uncomfortable or distrustful of the game. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of preventing loss of interest or interest in a game, a game control method related to the game machine, and a game machine system including the game machine and a control device.

Means for solving the problem

In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides the following.

(1) an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for generating a first special gaming state, which is a gaming state advantageous to the player when the determined combination is a special combination;

When the number of games that are cumulatively counted every time a game is played reaches a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and that is to be compared with the number of games Means for generating a second special gaming state which is a gaming state advantageous to the player and in which a degree of advantage according to the set value is determined;

Means for notifying, by outputting an image or sound to the output means, that the second special game state has occurred based on the set value when the second special game state has occurred. When

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0012] According to the invention of (1), the number of games is selected from among a plurality of candidate values (for example, "500", "1000", "2000") determined in advance, When the set value to be compared with the number of games is reached, a second special game state is generated which is a game state advantageous to the player and in which the degree of advantage according to the set value is determined. Therefore, even if a large number of game media are consumed without the occurrence of the first special gaming state over a long period of time, if the game is played until the number of games reaches the set value, the second special gaming state is Occurs and the player can benefit from it.

[0013] Further, when the second special game state is generated, the fact that the second special game state is generated based on the set value is output to the output means by outputting an image or a sound. News To know. Therefore, based on which setting value the second special gaming state has occurred, that is, what setting value has been played until the number of games reaches the second special gaming state has occurred. The player can be recognized by the above image or sound. As a result, it is possible to give an impression to the player that a return has been made for playing the game until the set number of games is reached.

[0014] Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from being uncomfortable with the game and soliciting distrust or losing interest in the game.

[0015] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(2) A gaming machine connected via a communication line to a control device that cumulatively counts the number of games in each of a plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine,

An output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for transmitting identification information of a gaming machine to the control device via the communication line each time a game is played;

The number of games cumulatively counted by the control device based on the identification information of the gaming machine is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance and compared with the number of gaming times. Means for receiving a command signal transmitted by the controller when the set value is reached,

Based on the command signal, means for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the set value, and the second special gaming state is generated. Means for notifying that the second special game state is generated based on the set value by outputting an image or sound to the output means.

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0016] According to the invention of (2), when the number of games counted in the control device reaches a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages, the control device Sending When the received command signal is received, the second special gaming state is generated. Then, based on the set value, the fact that the second special gaming state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0017] Further, the present invention provides the following.

(3) an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for cumulatively counting the number of games each time a game is played;

Means for selecting a set value to be compared with the number of games from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance;

Means for determining whether or not the number of games has reached the set value;

Means for generating a second special game state in which the game state is advantageous for the player and the degree of advantage according to the set value is determined when it is determined that the number of games has reached the set value. When,

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0018] According to the invention of (3), a set value to be compared with the number of games is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance, and each time a game is played, Cumulatively count the number of times. Further, it is determined whether or not the number of games has reached the set value, and when it is determined that the number of games has reached the set value, a second special game state is generated. Based on the set value, the fact that the second special game state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling uncomfortable or distrustful or losing interest in the game. Can be stopped.

[0019] Further, the present invention provides the following.

(4) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,

The means for generating the second special game state is characterized by generating a second special game state in which a greater degree of advantage is determined as the set value at which the number of games is reached is larger.

[0020] According to the invention of (4), the more games are played, the more profits can be gained in the second special game state. Therefore, the profit corresponding to the number of games played by the player is It can be given to the player in the state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0021] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(5) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,

It has a receiving means that can accept the input of game media up to a predetermined upper limit for one game,

The means for generating the second special game state is that when the number of games reaches the set value and the number of game media input for that game is the upper limit, the second special game state is generated. A state is generated.

[0022] According to the invention of (5), it is possible to prompt the player to insert the game media up to the upper limit value, and the facility such as a casino can increase profits.

[0023] Further, the present invention provides the following.

(6) A gaming machine comprising an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device,

The arithmetic processing unit is

A process of determining one combination selected from a plurality of predetermined combinations by executing a lottery program stored in the storage device;

When the determined combination is a special combination, a program for generating the first special gaming state, which is a gaming state advantageous for the player, is read from the storage device and executed. Processing,

When the number of games that are cumulatively counted every time a game is played reaches a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and that is to be compared with the number of games A process for reading out and executing from the storage device a program for generating a second special gaming state which is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the set value;

When the second special game state is generated, notification data for notifying that the second special game state is generated based on the set value is read from the storage device, and And a process of outputting an image or a sound to the output device based on the notification data.

[0024] According to the invention of (6), when the number of games reaches a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance and is to be compared with the number of games, A second special game state is generated. Then, based on the notification data for notifying that the second special gaming state has occurred based on the set value, an image or sound is output to the output device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from being uncomfortable with the game and causing distrust or losing interest in the game.

[0025] Further, the present invention provides the following.

(7) Provided with an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device, through a communication device and a control device that cumulatively counts the number of games in each of the plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine A connected gaming machine,

The arithmetic processing unit is

When the determined combination is a special combination, a program for generating a first special gaming state, which is a gaming state advantageous for the player, is read from the storage device and executed;

Each time a game is played, the gaming machine stored in the storage device via the communication line Processing for transmitting the identification information to the control device,

The number of games cumulatively counted by the control device based on the identification information of the gaming machine is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance and compared with the number of gaming times. Processing to receive a command signal transmitted from the control device when the set value reaches

Based on the command signal, a program for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage according to the set value is read from the storage device. Processing to be executed,

[0026] According to the invention of (7), when the number of games counted in the control device reaches a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance, the control device When the command signal sent is received, the second special gaming state is generated. Then, based on the set value, the fact that the second special game state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0027] Further, the present invention provides the following.

(8) A gaming machine comprising an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device,

The arithmetic processing unit is

When the determined combination is a special combination, a program for generating a first special gaming state, which is a gaming state advantageous for the player, is read from the storage device and executed; A process of cumulatively counting the number of games each time a game is played,

A process of selecting a set value to be compared with the number of games from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages;

A process of determining whether or not the number of games has reached a set value;

When it is determined that the number of games has reached the set value, a program for generating a second special game state in which the game state is advantageous to the player and the degree of advantage is determined according to the set value. To notify that the second special gaming state has occurred based on the set value when the second special gaming state has occurred and when the second special gaming state has occurred And a process of outputting an image or a sound to the output device based on the notification data.

[0028] According to the invention of (8), a set value to be compared with the number of games is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance, and each time a game is played, Cumulatively count the number of times. Further, it is determined whether or not the number of games has reached the set value, and when it is determined that the number of games has reached the set value, a second special game state is generated. Then, based on the set value, the fact that the second special game state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling uncomfortable or distrustful of the game or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0029] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(9) The gaming machine according to any one of (6) to (8) above,

The arithmetic processing unit is

The larger the set value that the number of games has reached, the more the program is executed to generate the second special gaming state in which the degree of advantage is determined.

[0030] According to the invention of (9), the more games are played, the larger the profit can be obtained in the second special game state. Therefore, the profit corresponding to the number of games played by the player is given to the second special game. It can be given to the player in the state. Therefore, a player who has consumed a large number of game media may be distrusted by the game or may be distrusted, or may have an interest or interest in the game. It can be prevented from losing.

[0031] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(10) The gaming machine according to any one of (6) to (8) above,

The arithmetic processing unit is

When the number of games reaches the set value, if the number of game media input for that game is the predetermined upper limit value of the number of game media input for one game, the second A program for generating a special game state is executed.

[0032] According to the invention of (10), the player can be encouraged to insert the game media up to the upper limit value, and the facility such as a casino can increase profits.

[0033] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(11) an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

A gaming state that is advantageous to the player when the balance of the game medium is equal to or less than a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance and is compared with the balance of the game medium. And a means for generating a second special gaming state in which the degree of advantage according to the set value is determined,

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0034] According to the invention of (11), the balance of game media has a plurality of candidate values determined in advance in stages.

(For example, “-500”, “One 1000”, “—2000”) The game that is advantageous to the player when the selected value falls below the set value to be compared with the balance of the above game media A second special gaming state is generated that is a state and has a degree of advantage according to the set value. Therefore, when a large number of game media are consumed and the balance of the game media falls below the set value, the second special game state occurs, and the player can obtain the profit. [0035] Further, when the second special game state is generated, the fact that the second special game state is generated based on the set value is output by outputting an image or sound to the output means. Notify.

Therefore, based on which setting value the second special gaming state has occurred, that is, the power at which the game has been played until the balance of the gaming medium falls below what value, the second special gaming state has occurred. The player can be made aware of whether or not he / she is using the above image or sound. As a result, it is possible to give an impression to the player that the return has been made for playing the game until the balance of the game medium becomes equal to or less than the set value.

[0036] Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0037] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(12) A gaming machine connected via a communication line to a control device that cumulatively counts the balance of gaming media in each of a plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine,

An output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for transmitting the balance of game media in the game of the time, together with the identification information of the gaming machine, to the control device via the communication line each time a game is played;

Based on the identification information of the gaming machine and the balance of the game medium at that time, the balance of the game medium that is cumulatively counted by the control device is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance. Means for receiving a command signal transmitted when the control device force is transmitted when a set value to be compared with the balance of the gaming medium is reached;

Based on the command signal, means for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the set value, and the second special gaming state is generated. Means for notifying that the second special game state is generated based on the set value by outputting an image or sound to the output means. A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0038] According to the invention of (12), when the balance of the game media counted in the control device becomes equal to or less than a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance in stages. When the command signal transmitted from the control device is received, the second special gaming state is generated. Then, based on the set value, the fact that the second special gaming state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0039] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(13) an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for cumulatively counting the balance of game media each time a game is played;

Means for selecting a set value to be compared with the balance of the game medium from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages;

Means for determining whether or not the balance of the game medium is below a set value;

Means for generating a second special gaming state that is advantageous for a player and has a degree of advantage according to the set value when it is determined that the balance of the game medium has become equal to or less than the set value;

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0040] According to the invention of (13), a set value to be compared with a balance of game media is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance, and each time a game is performed, The balance of game media is counted cumulatively. In addition, it is determined whether or not the balance of the game medium is below the set value, and when it is determined that the balance of the game medium is below the set value, the second special game state is set. generate. Then, based on the set value, the fact that the second special gaming state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling uncomfortable if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0041] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(14) The gaming machine according to any one of (11) to (13) above,

The means for generating the second special game state generates the second special game state in which the degree of advantage is determined as the set value at which the balance of the game medium has reached is smaller. .

[0042] According to the invention of (14), the lower the balance of the game media, the greater the profit that can be obtained in the second special gaming state. Can be granted to a player in a special gaming state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling uncomfortable if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0043] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(15) The gaming machine according to any one of (11) to (13) above,

The means for generating the second special gaming state is that when the balance of the game media falls below the set value, the number of game media inserted for that game is the upper limit value. 2. It is characterized by generating a special game state.

[0044] According to the invention of (15), the player can be encouraged to insert the game media up to the upper limit value, and the facility such as a casino can increase profits.

[0045] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(16) A gaming machine comprising an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device,

The arithmetic processing unit is

By executing the lottery program stored in the storage device, a predetermined number of A process of determining one role selected from several types of roles,

The game media balance, which is counted cumulatively every time a game is played, is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages, and is a set value to be compared with the game media balance. When the following condition is reached, a program for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage according to the set value is read from the storage device. Processing to be executed,

[0046] According to the invention of (16), the balance of the game medium is equal to or less than a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and that is to be compared with the number of games. When this happens, the second special game state is generated. Then, an image or sound is output to the output device based on notification data for notifying that the second special gaming state has occurred based on the set value. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant or distrustful of the game or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0047] Sarako, the present invention provides the following.

(17) An arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device are provided, and through a communication line and a control device that cumulatively counts the balance of game media in each of a plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine. Connected gaming machines,

The arithmetic processing unit is

The first special, which is a game state advantageous to the player when the determined role is a special role A process for reading out and executing a program for generating a gaming state from the storage device;

A process of transmitting the number of game media inserted and paid out in the game stored in the storage device together with the identification information of the gaming machine to the control device through the communication line each time a game is performed;

A plurality of candidate values in which the balance of the game media that is cumulatively counted by the control device based on the identification information of the gaming machine and the number of game media inserted and paid out in the game is determined in stages Processing for receiving a command signal transmitted from the control device when the value is equal to or less than a set value to be compared with the balance of the game medium selected from

[0048] According to the invention of (17), when the balance of the game media counted in the control device becomes equal to or less than a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages. When the command signal transmitted from the control device is received, the second special gaming state is generated. Then, based on the set value, the fact that the second special gaming state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0049] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(18) A gaming machine comprising an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device,

The arithmetic processing unit is A process of determining one combination selected from a plurality of predetermined combinations by executing a lottery program stored in the storage device;

A process of cumulatively counting the balance of game media each time a game is played,

A process of selecting a set value to be compared with the balance of game media from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages;

A process for determining whether or not the balance of the game medium is below a set value;

A program for generating a second special game state in which a game state is determined to be advantageous for the player when the balance of the game medium is less than or equal to the set value and the degree of advantage is determined according to the set value. To notify that the second special gaming state has occurred based on the set value when the second special gaming state has occurred and when the second special gaming state has occurred And a process of outputting an image or a sound to the output device based on the notification data.

[0050] According to the invention of (18), a set value to be compared with a game medium is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance, and each time a game is played, The media balance is counted cumulatively. Further, it is determined whether or not the power of the game medium is less than or equal to the set value, and when it is determined that the balance of the game medium is less than or equal to the set value, the second special game state is generated. Based on the set value, the fact that the second special gaming state has occurred is notified by outputting an image or sound to the output device. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0051] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(19) The gaming machine according to any one of (16) to (18) above,

The arithmetic processing unit is

The smaller the set value that the game media balance has reached, the greater the degree of advantage determined. 2. It is characterized by executing a program for generating a special gaming state.

[0052] According to the invention of (19), the lower the balance of gaming media, the greater the profit that can be obtained in the second special gaming state, so the profit that compensates for the loss of the player is the second. Can be granted to a player in a special gaming state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling uncomfortable if the game is unpleasant or losing interest in the game.

[0053] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(20) The gaming machine according to any one of (16) to (18) above,

The arithmetic processing unit is

When the balance of the game media is less than or equal to the set value, the number of game media input for that game is the upper limit value of the number of game media input for a single game. 2Featured in executing a program for generating a special gaming state.

[0054] According to the invention (20), it is possible to prompt the player to insert the game medium up to the upper limit value, and the facility such as a casino can increase profits.

[0055] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(21) means for giving the player a profit that varies in stages depending on the number of games played by the player;

Means for notifying the player of different profits in stages according to the number of games, using different images or sounds according to the number of games;

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0056] According to the invention of (21), profits that differ in stages are given according to the number of games. In addition, the player is informed that a profit that is different in stages according to the number of games is given by a different image or sound according to the number of games. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0057] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(22) Providing the player with different profits in stages according to the player's game media balance Means to

Means for notifying the player of different profits in stages according to the balance of the game medium by means of different images or sounds according to the balance of the game medium;

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[0058] According to the invention of (22), different profits are given in stages depending on the balance of game media.

In addition, the player is notified that different profits are given step by step depending on the balance of the game media, using different images or sounds depending on the balance of the game media. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0059] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(23) a step of giving the player a profit that varies in stages depending on the number of games played by the player;

A step of notifying the player of different profits in stages according to the number of games, using different images or sounds according to the number of games;

A game control method comprising:

[0060] According to the invention of (23), profits that differ in stages are given according to the number of games. In addition, the player is informed that a profit that is different in stages according to the number of games is given by a different image or sound according to the number of games. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0061] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(24) a step of giving the player a different profit in stages according to the player's game media balance;

Giving the player a profit that is different in stages according to the balance of the game medium, and notifying the player with a different image or sound according to the balance of the game medium. Method.

[0062] According to the invention of (24), different profits are given step by step depending on the balance of game media.

In addition, the above-mentioned game may be given different profits in stages depending on the balance of game media. The player is notified with different images or sounds according to the balance of the medium. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0063] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(25) A gaming system comprising a gaming machine and a control device,

The controller is

Means for transmitting a signal to the gaming machine according to the number of games played by the player in the gaming machine;

The gaming machine is

Based on the signal received from the control device, means for giving the player a different profit in stages according to the number of games;

A means for notifying the player of different profits in stages according to the number of games, using different images or sounds according to the number of games.

A gaming system characterized by that.

[0064] According to the invention of (25), different benefits are provided step by step depending on the number of games. In addition, the player is informed that a profit that is different in stages according to the number of games is given by a different image or sound according to the number of games. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from feeling unpleasant if the game is unpleasant or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0065] Sarako, The present invention provides the following.

(26) A gaming system comprising a gaming machine and a control device,

The controller is

Means for transmitting a signal to the gaming machine according to the balance of game media of the player in the gaming machine;

The gaming machine is

Means for giving the player a different profit depending on the balance of the game medium based on the signal received from the control device;

Giving different profits in stages according to the balance of the game media, And a means for notifying the player of different images or sounds according to the balance of the game.

[0066] According to the invention of (26), different profits are given in stages depending on the balance of game media.

The invention's effect

[0067] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of coins from causing unpleasantness in a game if the player feels uncomfortable or losing interest in the game. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0068] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a gaming system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The gaming system 100 includes a plurality of gaming machines 10 and a control device 200 connected to these gaming machines 10 via a predetermined communication line 101. Such a gaming system 100 may be built in one gaming facility capable of performing various games such as a casino or a casino.

It may be constructed among a plurality of gaming facilities. Further, when the game system 100 is constructed in one game facility, the game system 100 may be constructed for each floor or section of the game facility. The communication line 101 is not particularly limited, and may be a wired line or a wireless line.

[0069] In the present embodiment, the gaming machine 10 is a slot machine. However, in the present invention, the gaming machine is not limited to a slot machine, but may be a so-called single game machine such as a video slot machine or a video card game machine, for example, a horse racing game or a bingo game. It may be a so-called mass game machine (multi-terminal gamer machine) that plays a game such as a lottery that requires a predetermined time until the result is displayed.

[0070] In the gaming machine 10, coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these are used as game media. However, in the present invention, the game media are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include medals, tokens, electronic money, and tickets. The ticket is not particularly limited. For example, it will be described later. Such as a ticket with a bar code.

The control device 200 controls a plurality of gaming machines 10. In particular, in the present embodiment, the control device 200 controls the transition to the return mode in each gaming machine 10. The return mode corresponds to the second special game state in the present invention, and a large number of coins are paid out in the return mode. Note that the control device 200 may control the reduction rate by controlling the transition to the reduction mode. In this case, the control device 200 may control the return rate of the gaming machines 10 individually, or may control the return rate of the plurality of gaming machines 10 as a whole.

The control device 200 may have a function as a so-called hall server installed in a gaming facility having a plurality of gaming machines 10 or a server that collectively manages a plurality of gaming facilities. Each gaming machine 10 is given a unique identification number, and the control device 200 determines the origin of data sent from each gaming machine 10 based on the identification number. Also, when transmitting data from the control device 200 to the gaming machine 10, the transmission destination can be specified using the identification number.

The identification number of the gaming machine corresponds to the identification information of the gaming machine in the present invention. In the present invention, the identification information of the gaming machine is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include letters, symbols, numbers, and combinations thereof.

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

The gaming machine 10 includes a cabinet 11, a top box 12 installed on the upper side of the cabinet 11, and a main door 13 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 11. Inside the cabinet 11, three reels 14 (14L, 14C, 14R) are rotatably provided. On the outer peripheral surface of each reel 14, a symbol row consisting of 22 symbols (hereinafter also referred to as symbols) is drawn.

A lower image display panel 16 is provided in front of each reel 14 in the main door 13. The lower image display panel 16 includes a transparent liquid crystal panel, and various information about the game, effect images, and the like are displayed during the game. The lower image display panel 16 is an image output device and functions as an output means capable of outputting an image.

The lower image display panel 16 has a credit amount display section 31 and a payout display section 32. Is set. In the credit amount display section 31, the number of credited coins is displayed as an image. In the payout display section 32, the number of coins paid out when the combination of symbols stopped on the winning line L is a predetermined combination is displayed as an image.

[0076] The lower image display panel 16 is formed with three display windows 15 (15L, 15C, 15R) whose rear surface can be visually recognized, and the outer peripheral surface of each reel 14 through each display window 15. Three symbols are displayed on the screen. The lower image display panel 16 has one winning line L that horizontally crosses the three display windows 15. The winning line L defines the symbol combination. When the combination of symbols stopped on the pay line L is a predetermined combination, coins corresponding to the combination and the number of coins inserted (BET number) are paid out.

[0077] In the present invention, for example, a plurality of pay lines L that cross the three display windows 15 horizontally or obliquely are formed, and the number of pay lines L corresponding to the number of coins inserted is determined. If the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L is a predetermined combination, the number of coins corresponding to the combination may be paid out.

Further, although not shown, a touch panel 69 is provided on the front surface of the lower image display panel 16 so that the player can input various instructions by operating the touch panel 69.

[0079] Below the lower image display panel 16, a control panel 20 comprising a plurality of buttons 23 to 27 for inputting instructions relating to game progress by the player, and a coin receiving slot 21 for receiving coins into the cabinet 11 And a bill validator 22 is provided.

[0080] The control panel 20 is provided with a spin button 23, a change button 24, a cashout button 25, a 1-BET button 26, and a maximum BET button 27. The spin button 23 is for inputting an instruction to start the rotation of the reel 14. The change button 24 is used when requesting a change of money from a game facility staff. The cashout button 25 is used to input an instruction to pay out the credited coins to the coin tray 18. [0081] The 1-BET button 26 is used to input an instruction to bet one coin among the credited coins on the game. The maximum BET button 27 is used to input an instruction to bet a maximum number of coins (50 in this embodiment) that can be bet on one game among credited coins.

In the present invention, the insertion of a game medium means that the game medium is bet on a game. For example, when a coin inserted into the coin receiving slot 21 is directly bet on a game, inserting the coin into the coin receiving slot 21 corresponds to inserting a game medium. However, as in this embodiment, when a coin is inserted into the coin receiving slot 21, it is credited, and when the 1-BET button 26 or the maximum BET button 27 is operated, the credited coin is transferred to the game. When a wager is placed, betting a credited coin on a game is equivalent to inserting a game medium.

The banknote discriminator 22 recognizes the suitability of banknotes and accepts regular banknotes in the cabinet 11. Note that the bill validator 22 may be configured to be able to read a bar code-added ticket 39 to be described later. A belly glass 34 on which a character of the gaming machine 10 is drawn is provided on the lower front surface of the main door 13, that is, below the control panel 20.

An upper image display panel 33 is provided on the front surface of the top box 12. The upper image display panel 33 includes a liquid crystal panel, and displays, for example, an image representing introduction of game contents and explanation of game rules. In the present embodiment, the lower image display panel 16 is an image output device and functions as an output unit. In the present invention, the upper image display panel 33 is an image output device. And may function as output means.

Further, the top box 12 is provided with a speaker 29. The speaker 29 is a sound output device and functions as an output means capable of outputting sound. On the lower side of the upper image display panel 33, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, a data display 37, and a keypad 38 are provided. The ticket printer 35 prints on a ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and an identification number of the gaming machine 10 is encoded, and outputs it as a ticket 39 with a bar code. Players can use bar code tickets 39 to other gaming machines. It can be read and played on the gaming machine, or the bar-coded ticket 39 can be exchanged for a bill or the like at a predetermined place of the gaming facility (for example, a cashier in the casino).

[0086] The card reader 36 reads data from a smart card and writes data to the smart card. The smart card is a card possessed by the player, and stores, for example, data for identifying the player and data regarding the history of games played by the player. The smart card may store data corresponding to coins, bills or credits. A magnetic stripe card may be adopted instead of the smart card. The data display 37 also serves as a fluorescent display, for example, to display data read by the card reader 36 and data input by the player via the keypad 38. The keypad 38 is used to input instructions and data related to ticket issuance.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a column of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each reel.

On the outer peripheral surfaces of the left reel 14L, middle reel 14C and right reel 14R, 22 symbols are drawn respectively. The columns of symbols drawn on each reel 14 are different from each other. Each symbol column is composed of the symbols “JACKPOT 7,” “BLUE 7,” “BELL,” “CHERRY,” “STRA WBERRYJ,“ PLUM, ”“ ORANGE, ”and“ APPLE ”. Yes.

[0088] rjACKPOT 7 ”,“ BLUE 7 ”,“: BELL ”,“ CHERRY ”, Γ STRAWBERRY],“ Ρ LUM ”,“ ORANGE ” The specified number of credits is added as credits owned by the player (see Figure 14). In addition, regarding “CHERRY” and “ORANGE”, even if one or two stops are displayed on the winning line, a predetermined number of credits will be owned by the player according to the number. Added as credit (see Figure 14).

“APPLE” is a bonus game trigger (a symbol for shifting to a bonus game). If three “APPLE” are stopped on the winning line L, you can move to the bonus game. The bonus game is equivalent to the first special game state. In this embodiment, the bonus game is a free game (a game that can be played a predetermined number of times without betting coins). In the present invention, the first special game state is not particularly limited as long as it is a game state advantageous to the player. The gaming state advantageous to the player is not particularly limited as long as it is more advantageous than the normal gaming state (a gaming state other than the first special gaming state or the second special gaming state). Examples include a state where more game media can be acquired than the game state, a state where game media can be acquired with a higher probability than the normal game state, and a state where the number of game media consumed is less than the normal game state. . Specifically, examples of the first special gaming state include a free game, a second game, and a mystery bonus.

[0091] The row of symbols drawn on each reel 14 shows that when the spin button 23 is pressed after the 1 BET button 26 or the maximum BET button 27 is pressed and the game is started, the reel 14 rotates. Thus, the display window 15 is scrolled from the upper direction to the lower direction, and is stopped and displayed on the display window 15 as the reel 14 stops rotating after a predetermined time has elapsed. Furthermore, when various combinations (see FIG. 14) are determined in advance based on the combination of each symbol, when the combination of symbols corresponding to the combination stops on the winning line L, a coin corresponding to the combination is paid out. The number is added to the credits owned by the player. When a bonus game trigger is established, a bonus game is generated.

Furthermore, when a return mode flag, which will be described later, is set to “ON”, the symbol is stopped and displayed as described above, and then the mode is changed to the return mode. When a bonus game is generated, the mode is shifted to the return mode after the bonus game is ended. The reduction mode is equivalent to the second special game state. In the present embodiment, when the return mode is entered, a predetermined number of coins are paid out. In the present embodiment, the number of coins paid out in the return mode is set according to a setting value described later.

In the present invention, the second special gaming state is not particularly limited as long as it is advantageous for the player. Examples of such a gaming state include a state in which more game media can be acquired in the normal game state, a state in which a game medium can be acquired with a higher probability than in the normal game state, and a game medium in comparison with the normal game state. The state where the number of consumption of electricity is reduced can be cited. Specifically, examples of the second special game state include a free game, a second game, and a mystery bonus. [0094] In the present invention, the second special gaming state may be the same type of gaming state as the first special gaming state, but as in the present embodiment, a different type of gaming from the first special gaming state. It may be in a state. If the second special gaming state is a different type of gaming state from the first special gaming state, the game can be made diverse and the expectation for the second special gaming state can be increased. The gaming state in the second special gaming state may be a dedicated gaming state that occurs only when the second special gaming state occurs. In this case, the expectation for the second special gaming state can be further enhanced.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine shown in FIG.

The gaming board 50 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a ROM 55 and a boot ROM 52 connected to each other via an internal bus, a card slot 53 corresponding to the memory card 53, and an IC socket corresponding to the GAL (Generic Array Logic) 54. With 54S.

[0096] The memory card 53 is composed of a nonvolatile memory such as CompactFlash (registered trademark), and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a lottery program. The lottery program is a program for determining the symbols (code numbers corresponding to the symbols) of the reels 14 that are stopped on the winning line L. The lottery program includes symbol weighting data corresponding to a plurality of types of payout rates (for example, 80%, 84%, and 88%). The symbol weighting data is data indicating the correspondence between the code number of each symbol (see Fig. 3) and one or more random values belonging to the specified numerical range (0 to 256) for each of the three reels 14. It is. The payout rate is determined based on the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54, and a lottery is performed based on the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate.

The card slot 53S is configured so that the memory card 53 can be inserted and removed, and is connected to the mother board 40 by an IDE bus. Therefore, the memory card 53 is removed from the card slot 53S, another game program and a game system program are written to the memory card 53, and the memory card 53 is inserted into the card slot 53S. The type and contents can be changed. In addition, a memory card 53 that stores one game program and a game system program is stored in another game program. It is also possible to change the type and contents of the game played in the gaming machine 10 by exchanging it with the memory card 53 storing the program and the game system program.

The game program includes a program related to game progress, a program for generating a first special gaming state, and a program for generating a second special gaming state. Further, the game program includes image data and sound data output during the game, and image data and sound data as notification data.

[0098] GAL54 is a kind of PLD having an OR fixed array structure. The GAL 54 includes a plurality of input ports and output ports. When predetermined data is input to the input port, the GAL 54 outputs data corresponding to the data from the output port. The data output from this output port is the aforementioned payout rate setting data.

The IC socket 54S is configured so that the GAL 54 can be attached and detached, and is connected to the mother board 40 via a PCI bus. Therefore, by removing the GAL54 from the IC socket 54S, rewriting the program stored in the GAL54, and attaching the GAL54 to the IC socket 54S, the payout rate setting data output from the GAL54 can be changed. it can. It is also possible to change the payout rate setting data by exchanging GAL54 for another GAL54.

[0099] The CPU 51, the ROM 55, and the boot ROM 52 connected to each other by an internal bus are connected to the mother board 40 by a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits signals between the mother board 40 and the gaming board 50 and supplies power from the mother board 40 to the gaming board 50. The ROM 55 stores country identification information and an authentication program. The boot ROM 52 stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for the CPU 51 to start the preliminary authentication program.

[0100] The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The authentication program follows the procedure (authentication procedure) for confirming and verifying that the game program and game system program subject to the authentication capture process have been tampered with, that is, authenticating the game program and game system program. Is described. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the above-described authentication program. The pre-authentication program It is described in accordance with the proof that the authentication program to be used has not been tampered with, that is, the authentication program authentication procedure.

[0101] The mother board 40 is configured using a commercially available general-purpose mother board (printed wiring board on which basic components of a personal computer are mounted). The main CPU 41, ROM (Read Only Memory) 42, RAM ( Random Access Memory) 43 and a communication interface 44. The main CPU 41 is an arithmetic processing device according to the present invention.

The ROM 42 is composed of a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) executed by the main CPU 41 and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 41, initialization processing of predetermined peripheral devices is performed, and acquisition processing of the game program and game system program stored in the memory card 53 via the gaming board 50 is started. Is done. In the present invention, the ROM 42 may be a rewritable or impossible content.

The RAM 43 stores data and programs used when the main CPU 41 operates. Further, the RAM 43 can store an authentication program, a game program, and a game system program that are read out via the gaming board 50. The RAM 43 is a storage device in the present invention.

[0104] Further, the RAM 43 is provided with a storage area for a reduction mode flag. The return mode flag is a flag referred to when selecting whether or not to shift to the return mode as the second special game state. The storage area of the reduction mode flag has, for example, a storage area power of a predetermined number of bits, and the reduction mode flag is “ON” or “OFF” depending on the storage contents in the storage area. If the reduction mode flag is set to "ON", then it always shifts to the reduction mode. Further, the RAM 43 stores data such as the number of credits, the number of coins inserted and paid out in one game.

The communication interface 44 is for communicating with the control device 200 via the communication line 101. Each time a game is played, the main CPU 41 transmits the number of coins inserted and paid out together with the gaming machine identification number of the gaming machine 10 to the control device 200. In the control device 200, the number of games and the cumulative investment are associated with each gaming machine identification number. The number of receipts and the cumulative number of payouts are stored. In the control device 200, a setting value to be compared with the number of games is determined in association with each gaming machine identification number, and the number of times of gaming in a certain gaming machine 10 is set in the gaming machine 10. When the value is reached, a reduction command signal is transmitted from the control device 200. When the main CPU 41 receives the return command signal via the communication interface 44, the main CPU 41 sets the return mode flag to “ON”.

[0106] The mother board 40 is connected to a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 60 and a door PCB 80, which will be described later, by USB, respectively. Further, a power supply unit 45 is connected to the mother board 40. When power is supplied from the power supply unit 45 to the mother board 40, the main CPU 41 of the mother board 40 is activated, and power is supplied to the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus to activate the CPU 51.

[0107] The main body PCB 60 and the door PCB 80 are connected to a device or device that generates an input signal input to the main CPU 41 and a device or device whose operation is controlled by a control signal output from the main CPU 41. ing. Based on the input signal input to the main CPU 41, the main CPU 41 executes the game program and game system program stored in the RAM 43 to perform predetermined arithmetic processing and store the result in the RAM 43. Memorize or send a control signal to each device or device as a control process for each device or device

[0108] The main body PCB 60 includes a lamp 30, a sub CPU 61, a hopper 66, a coin detection unit 67, a graphic board 68, a speaker 29 as an output device, a touch panel 69, a bill discriminator 22, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, a key Switch 38S and data display 37 are connected. The lamp 30 lights up with a predetermined pattern based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

[0109] The sub CPU 61 controls the rotation and stop of the reels 14 (14L, 14C, 14R). The sub CPU 61 is connected to a motor drive circuit 62 including an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) 63 and a driver 64. The FPGA 63 is a programmable electronic circuit such as an LSI and functions as a control circuit for the stepping motor 70. Dryino 64 functions as an amplification circuit for pulses input to the stepping motor 70. The motor drive circuit 62 includes a stepping motor that rotates each reel 14. 70 (70L, 70C, 70R) is connected. The stepping motor 70 is a 1-2 phase excitation type stepping motor.

[0110] In the present invention, the excitation method of the stepping motor is not particularly limited. For example, a two-phase excitation method, a one-phase excitation method, or the like can be adopted. In addition, a DC motor may be used instead of the stepping motor. When a DC motor is adopted, the deviation CPU, DZA conversion, and servo amplifier are connected in order to the sub CPU 61, and the DC motor is connected to the servo amplifier. The rotational position of the DC motor is detected by the rotary encoder, and the current rotational position of the DC motor is supplied as data to the rotary encoder force deviation counter.

In addition, an index detection circuit 65 and a position detection change circuit 71 are connected to the sub CPU 61. The index detection circuit 65 detects the position of the rotating reel 14 (index to be described later), and can detect the step-out of the reel 14. The control of the rotation and stop of the reel 14 will be described in detail later with reference to the drawings.

[0112] The position change detection circuit 71 detects a change in the stop position of the reel 14 after the rotation of the reel 14 stops. For example, in the position change detection circuit 71, the stop position is changed so that the player is forced to have a combination of symbols in a winning mode, even though it is not actually a combination of symbols in a winning mode. The change in the stop position of the reel 14 is detected in the event of a failure. The position change detection circuit 71 is configured to detect a change in the stop position of the reel 14 by detecting fins (not shown) attached to the inner portion of the reel 14 at a predetermined interval, for example.

[0113] The hopper 66 is installed in the cabinet 11, and pays out a predetermined number of coins from the coin payout opening 19 to the coin tray 18 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41. The coin detector 67 is provided inside the coin payout exit 19 and outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when it detects that a predetermined number of coins have been paid out from the coin payout exit 19. To do.

The graphic board 68 controls the image display on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 as an output device based on the control signal output from the main CPU 41. The credit amount display section 31 of the lower image display panel 16 is stored in the RAM 43. The number of credits being displayed is displayed. Further, the payout number display part 31 of the lower image display panel 16 displays the number of coins paid out.

The graphic board 68 includes a video display processor (VDP) that generates image data based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41, a video RAM that temporarily stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. I have. Note that the image data used when generating image data by VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card 53 and stored in the RAM 43.

[0115] The bill validator 22 recognizes the suitability of the bill and accepts the regular bill into the cabinet 11. When the bill validator 22 accepts a regular bill, it outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 based on the amount of the bill. The main CPU 41 stores the number of credits corresponding to the amount of bills transmitted by the input signal in the RAM 43.

[0116] Based on the control signal output from the main CPU 41, the ticket printer 35 prints on the ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and identification number of the gaming machine 10 stored in the RAM 43 are encoded. And output as a ticket ₃₉ with barcode.

The card reader 36 reads data from the smart card and transmits it to the main CPU 41, or writes data to the smart card based on a control signal from the main CPU 41. The key switch 38S is provided on the keypad 38, and outputs a predetermined input signal to the main CPU 41 when the keypad 38 is operated by the player. The data display 37 displays data read by the card reader 36 and data input by the player via the keypad 38 based on the control signal output from the main CPU 41.

[0117] Connected to the door PCB 80 are a control panel 20, a rein table 21S, a coin counter 21C, and a cold cathode tube 81. The control panel 20 includes a spin switch 23S corresponding to the spin button 23, a change switch 24S corresponding to the change button 24, a CASHOUT switch 25S corresponding to the CASHOU T button 25, a 1 BET switch 26S corresponding to the 1 BET button 26, and The maximum BET switch 27S corresponding to the maximum BET button 27 is provided. Each of the switches 23S to 27S outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when the corresponding button 23 to 27 is operated by the player. [0118] The coin counter 21C is provided inside the coin receiving slot 21, and identifies whether or not the coin inserted into the coin receiving slot 21 by the player is appropriate. Coins other than regular coins are discharged from the coin payout exit 19. Further, the coin counter 21C outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when it detects a legitimate coin.

[0119] The reverter 21S operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41, and a coin that is recognized as a regular coin by the coin counter 21C is installed in the gaming machine 10 (see FIG. (Not shown) or hopper 66. That is, when hopper 66 is filled with coins, the regular coins are distributed to the cash box by the reverter 21S. On the other hand, if the hopper 66 is not filled with coins, regular coins are distributed to the hopper 66. The cold cathode tube 81 functions as a knock light installed on the back side of the lower image display panel 16 and the upper image display panel 33 and lights up based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The control device 200 includes a CPU 201 as an arithmetic processing device, a ROM 202, a RAM 203 as a temporary storage device, a communication interface 204, and a hard disk drive 205. The communication interface 204 is connected to the communication interface 44 of each gaming machine 10 via the communication line 101. The ROM 202 stores a system program for controlling the operation of the control device, permanent data, and the like. The RAM 203 temporarily stores data received from each gaming machine 10 and data such as calculation results. Further, the hard disk drive 205 stores a gaming history in each gaming machine 10 in association with the gaming machine identification number of each gaming machine 10.

FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a correspondence table between gaming machine identification numbers and gaming history.

Each gaming machine identification number is associated with the number of games as a game history, the cumulative number of coins inserted, the cumulative number of coins paid out, the balance of coins, and the coin return rate.

[0122] Furthermore, a setting value to be compared with the number of games is defined for each gaming machine identification number. This set value is selected from a plurality of candidate values “600”, “1200”, and “240 0” ”determined in advance. A setting value “600” is set in the gaming machine 10 having the gaming machine identification number “001”. The gaming machine 10 with the gaming machine identification number “002” has a set value “600”. “Is set.” The setting value “1200” is set for the gaming machine 10 with the gaming machine identification number “003”. In the present invention, the value of the candidate value and the number thereof are particularly limited. In addition, it is possible to set a set value for a plurality of gaming machines 10 at once without setting a setting value for each gaming machine 10 individually. It is good.

[0123] When the CPU 201 receives from the gaming machine 10 via the communication interface 204 the number of inputs, the number of payouts, and the gaming machine identification number, the CPU 201 updates the gaming history corresponding to the gaming machine identification number. Specifically, 1 is added to the number of games, the number of inputs is added to the cumulative number of inputs, and the number of payouts is added to the cumulative number of payouts. In addition, based on the cumulative number of coins to be paid and the cumulative number of coins to be paid out, the cash balance and return rate are calculated. When the CPU 201 determines that the updated number of games has reached the set value, the CPU 201 determines the number of coins to be paid out in the return mode based on the set value.

FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a correspondence table between setting values and the number of payouts.

In the set value “600”, the number of payouts “1000” in the return mode is set. In the set value “1200”, the number of payouts “2000” in the return mode is set. In the set value “2400”, the number of payouts “4000” in the return mode is set. In this way, in the present embodiment, the larger the set value, the greater the number of payouts in the return mode. Therefore, the profit corresponding to the number of games played by the player is put into the return mode and the player is given Can be granted. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of coins from causing discomfort if he / she distrusts the game or losing interest or interest in the game. The correspondence table shown in FIG. 7 is stored in the hard disk drive 205 as data.

[0125] In the present invention, the number of payouts set in association with the set value is not necessarily constant. For example, the number of payouts set in association with the set value changes according to the game history or the like. It may be a thing.

FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing another example of the correspondence table between the set value and the number of payouts.

In the set value “600”, “(—balance) X 50% (however, when the balance ≥0, the number of payout = 1000)” is set as the number of payouts in the return mode. Therefore, when the number of games reaches 600, if the balance is "2000", the number of payouts is 1000, and if the balance is "-4000", The number of payouts is 2000. In the set value “1200”, “(− balance) X 60% (however, when the balance ≥0, the number of payout = 2000)” is set as the number of payouts in the return mode. In the set value “2400”, “(one balance) X 70% (however, when the balance ≥0, the number of payouts = 4000)” is set as the number of payouts in the return mode.

[0126] Next, processing performed in the gaming machine 10 will be described.

FIG. 9 is a chart showing the procedure of the authentication reading process of the game program and game system program by the mother board 40 and the gaming board 50 shown in FIG. It is assumed that the memory card 53 is inserted into the card slot 53S of the gaming board 50, and the GAL 54 is attached to the IC socket 54S.

First, when the power switch is turned on (power is turned on) in the power supply unit 45, the mother board 40 and the gaming board 50 are activated (steps S1-1 and S2-1). When the mother board 40 and the gaming board 50 are activated, separate processes are performed in parallel. That is, the gaming board 50 reads the preliminary authentication program stored in the CPU 51 boot ROM 52, and in accordance with the read preliminary authentication program, the authentication program is pre-loaded before being loaded into the mother board 40. Preliminary authentication is performed to confirm and prove that tampering has occurred! /, N !! (step S2-2). On the other hand, in the mother board 40, the main CPU 41 executes the BIOS stored in the ROM 42 and expands the compressed data incorporated in the BIOS into the RAM 43 (step S1-2). Then, the main CPU 41 executes the BIOS expanded in the RAM 43, and diagnoses and initializes various peripheral devices (step S1-3).

[0128] Then, since the ROM 55 of the gaming board 50 is connected to the main CPU 41 via the PCI bus, the main CPU 41 reads and reads the authentication program stored in the ROM 55. The authentication program is stored in the RAM 43 (step S1-4). At this time, the main CPU 41 takes the checksum by the A DDSUM method (standard check function) according to the standard BIOS function of the BIOS and checks whether or not the storage is performed without fail, while the authentication program is stored in the RAM43. Remember me.

Next, after confirming what is connected to the IDE bus, the main CPU 41 accesses the memory card 53 inserted into the card slot 53S via the IDE bus, and The game program and game system program are read from the Ricardo 53. In this case, the main CPU 41 reads out the data constituting the game program and the game system program 4 bytes at a time. Subsequently, according to the authentication program stored in the RAM 43, the main CPU 41 performs authentication for confirming and verifying that the read game program and game system program have been falsified (step S 1-5). ). When this authentication process is completed normally, the main CPU 41 writes and stores the game program and game system program to be authenticated (authenticated) in the RAM 43 (step S1-6). Next, the main CPU 41 accesses the GAL 54 attached to the IC socket 54S via the PCI bus, reads the payout rate setting data from the GAL 54, and writes and stores it in the RAM 43 (step S1-7). Next, the main CPU 41 reads out the country identification information stored in the ROM 55 of the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus, and performs a process of storing the read country identification information in the RAM 43 (step S100). S1-8).

[0130] After performing the above-described processing, the main CPU 41 advances the game by sequentially reading and executing the game program and the game system program.

After the process shown in FIG. 9 is performed, the main CPU 41 performs a game mode selection process.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game mode selection processing.

When the main CPU 41 receives a detection signal output from the coin counter 21C when the coin inserted into the coin receiving slot 21 is detected by the coin counter 21C while executing this subroutine, As an interrupt process, a process of adding the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is performed.

FIGS. 11A to 11B are diagrams showing images displayed on the lower image display panel when the game mode selection process is executed.

First, the main CPU 41 performs a process of displaying an image for requesting the player to select a game mode on the lower image display panel 16 (step S3). In this process, the main CPU 41 transmits a drawing command for a game mode selection image to the graphic board 68. In the graphic board, based on the above drawing command, VDP extracts the image data from RAM43 and expands it to video RAM to generate one frame of image data. Output data to the lower image display panel 16. As a result, for example, an image as shown in FIG. 11A is displayed on the lower image display panel 16.

FIG. 11 (a) is a diagram showing an example of a game mode selection image displayed on the lower image display panel. In the figure, 15 (15L, 15C, 15R) indicates a display window. On the upper part of the lower image display panel 16, an image showing “Select a mode!” Is displayed. This image is an image for requesting the player to select a game mode. In addition, images indicating “INSURANCE” and “NO INSURANCE” are displayed at the bottom of the lower image display panel 16. These images indicate the choices of the game mode. By touching a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the image display area, an instruction to select the game mode can be input.

[0134] The option "INSURANCE" corresponds to the insurance mode. In order to select the insurance mode, a predetermined number of credits (e.g., equivalent to $ 1) is required. Instead of the number of credits, a corresponding bill or coin may be inserted. When the insurance mode is selected, when the number of games reaches a set value (for example, 600) without generating a bonus game, the return mode flag is set to “ON” and the mode shifts to the return mode. In the return mode, the player can receive coins according to the set value. In other words, in the insurance mode, it is possible to play a game with insurance to cover all or part of the loss that occurs when a bonus game does not occur for a long time. . On the other hand, the option “NO INSURANCE corresponds to the non-insurance mode. If the non-insurance mode is selected, the return mode flag is set to“ ON ”even if the bonus game does not occur for a long time. It is never set to "Do not switch to reduction mode.

[0135] After the process of step S3, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the insurance mode is selected (step S4). If it is determined that the insurance mode is selected, the main CPU 41 performs a process of subtracting a predetermined number from the credit power stored in the RAM 43 (step S5). Thereafter, game execution processing in the insurance mode is performed (step S6).

This process will be described in detail later using Fig. 12. In the insurance mode, as shown in Fig. 11 (b), an image showing "INSURED" is displayed on the upper left of the lower image display panel 16. It is. This image is an image indicating that the game mode is the insurance mode.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S4 that the non-insurance mode is selected, the main CPU 41 performs a game execution process in the non-insurance mode (step S7). This process is substantially the same as the game execution process in the insurance mode (see FIG. 12), except that the process related to the return mode and the process related to counting the number of games are not performed. Therefore, explanation here is omitted. When the process of step S6 or S7 is executed, the process returns to step S3.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game execution processing in the insurance mode that is called and executed in step S6 of the subroutine shown in FIG. In the game execution process, first, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a coin has been bet (step S10). In this process, the main CPU 41 outputs the input signal output from the 1- BET switch 26S when the 1- BET button 26 is operated, or the maximum BET switch 27S when the maximum BET button 27 is operated. It is determined whether or not an input signal to be received has been received. If it is determined that no coin is bet, the process returns to step S10.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10 that a coin has been betted, the main CPU 41 performs a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 according to the number of coins betted (step Sl l). ). If the number of coins to be bet is larger than the number of credits stored in the RAM 43, the process returns to step S10 without performing the process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. In addition, when the number of coins bet exceeds the upper limit value (50 in this embodiment) that can be bet on one game, the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is subtracted. Without proceeding to step S12

[0139] Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on (step S12). In this process, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not it has received an input signal output from the spin switch 23S when the spin button 23 is pressed.

If it is determined that the spin button 23 is not turned ON, the process returns to step S10. If the spin button 23 is not turned on (for example, the spin button 23 is not turned on) When an instruction to end the game is input), the main CPU 41 cancels the subtraction result in step S11.

[0140] In the present embodiment, after the coin is bet (step S10), the process of subtracting the number of credits (step S12) is performed before determining whether the spin button 23 is turned on (step S12) (step S12). A case where S1 1) is performed will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, after a coin is bet (step S10), it is determined whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on (step S12), and if it is determined that the spin button 23 is turned on (step S12: YES) ), You can also perform the process of subtracting the number of credits (step S11)! /.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S12 in FIG. 12 that the spin button 23 has been turned ON, the main CPU 41 performs a lottery process (step S13). In this lottery process, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) determines a code number when each reel 14 is stopped by executing a lottery program stored in the RAM 43 (storage unit). Thereby, the combination of symbols to be stopped is determined. This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. When executing the processing of step S13, the main CPU 41 functions as a combination determining means for determining a combination by lottery. In the present embodiment, a case is described in which one combination is determined from a plurality of types of combinations by determining a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed. In the present invention, for example, first, a lottery is selected. Therefore, it is possible to determine one combination selected from multiple types of combinations, and then determine the combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed based on the above combination.

Next, the main CPU 41 performs reel rotation control processing (step S 14). In this process, after all reels 14 have started rotating, each reel is rotated so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the combination determined in step S13 is stopped and displayed on the winning line L. It is a process to stop. This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger is established, that is, whether or not “APPLE” is stopped and displayed in the display window 15 (step S 15). When it is determined that the bonus game trigger has been established, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) reads out the program for playing the bonus game from the RAM 43 (storage unit) and bonuses. The game process is executed (step SI 6). At this time, the first special gaming state has occurred. The bonus game process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. When executing the processing of step S16, the main CPU 41 functions as a means for generating the first special gaming state.

On the other hand, when determining that the bonus game trigger has not been established, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the winning combination has been achieved (step S17). If it is determined that a winning combination has been established, the main CPU 41 pays out coins according to the number of inserted coins and the winning combination (step S18).

When storing coins, the main CPU 41 performs a process of calculating the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. On the other hand, when paying out coins, the main CPU 41 sends a control signal to the hopper 66 to pay out a predetermined number of coins. At that time, the coin detecting unit 67 counts the number of coins paid out from the hopper 66, and transmits a payout completion signal to the main CPU 41 when the counted value reaches a designated number. Thus, the main CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 66 and ends the coin payout process.

[0145] When the process of step S16 or S18 is executed, or when it is determined in step S17 that no role is established (when it is determined that the player has lost), the main CPU 41 It is determined whether or not the return mode flag stored in the RAM 43 is set to “ON” (step S19). When it is determined that the reduction mode flag is set to “ON”, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) reads the program for shifting to the reduction mode from the RAM 43 (storage device), executes the reduction mode process, Transition to reduction mode (step S20). At this time, the second special gaming state has occurred. The reduction mode processing will be described in detail later using FIG. When executing the process of step S20, the main CPU 41 functions as a means for generating the second special gaming state.

[0146] When the process of step S20 is executed, or when it is determined in step S19 that the return mode flag force S is not set to "ON", the main CPU 41 executes the bonus game (step S16) or returns. It is determined whether or not a mode transition (step S20) has been performed (step S21).

If it is determined that the bonus game is not executed or the return mode is not changed, the main CPU 41 executes a counting process (step S22). The counting process is a process performed between the gaming machine 10 and the control device 200. From the gaming machine 10, the number of insertions and withdrawals in one game is transmitted to the control device 200 together with the gaming machine identification number. In the control device 200, the number of games, the cumulative number of inputs, the cumulative number of payouts, etc. are updated for each gaming machine identification number. When the number of games reaches the set value, the number of coins to be paid out in the return mode is determined according to the set value, and a return command signal indicating the set value and the number of payouts is sent from the control device 200 to the gaming machine 10. Sent. When the main CPU 41 receives the return command signal, the main CPU 41 sets the return mode flag to “ON”. The counting process will be described in detail later using FIG. After executing the process of step S22, the main CPU 41 returns the process to step S10, and subsequently executes the game in the insurance mode.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the bonus game has been executed or the return mode has been entered, this subroutine is terminated and the process returns to FIG. As a result, the player can select again whether to change the game mode to the insurance mode or the power insurance mode.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a lottery process subroutine called and executed in step S13 of the subroutine shown in FIG. This process is a process performed by the main CPU 41 executing the lottery program stored in the RAM 43. First, the main CPU 41 executes a random number generation program included in the lottery program to set 0 to 255. A random number corresponding to each of the three reels 14 is selected from the numerical value range (step S31). In the present embodiment, a case where random numbers are generated on a program (a case where so-called software random numbers are used) will be described. However, in the present invention, a random number generator is provided and random numbers are extracted from the random number generator (so-called hardware tongue L number is used).

[0150] Next, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) refers to the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54 and stored in the RAM 43 (storage unit), and selects the selected three Based on the random value, the code number (see Fig. 3) of each reel 14 is determined (step S32). The code number of each reel 14 corresponds to the code number of the symbol stopped on the winning line L. The main CPU 41 assigns the code number of each reel 14. By determining, the role is determined. For example, when the code numbers of the reels 14 are determined as “00”, “00”, and “00”, the main CPU 41 determines the role as “JACKPOT 7”. A reel rotation control process, which will be described later, is performed based on the reel code number. At this time, the main CPU 41 functions as a combination determining means.

Here, a combination in the present embodiment will be described.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between a plurality of types of combinations, the possibility of establishment of each combination, and the number of payouts in the present embodiment. The possibility of winning for each combination shown in FIG. 14 is for a case where the payout rate other than the bonus game is 88%. The possibility of establishment shown in the figure indicates the possibility that the combination will be established when the code number of each reel 14 is determined based on three random numbers with reference to the symbol weighting data. It is. In other words, a random number value is associated with each role.

[0152] The probability of establishing a bonus game trigger is 0.5%. If you win the bonus game trigger, three “APPLE” symbols will be stopped on the winning line and a bonus game will occur. In the bonus game, the free game is executed the number of times determined by lottery.

[0153] The probability of rjACKPOT 7 "being established is 0.5%. When this role is established, "JACKPOT

Three “7” symbols are displayed on the winning line L, and 30 coins are paid out per coin inserted. The number of payouts is set higher as the role is less likely to be established. However, if the combination of symbols shown in FIG. 14 is not the same as the combination of deviations, it is lost, and no coins are paid out.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the reel rotation control process that is called and executed in step S15 of the subroutine shown in FIG. This process is a process performed between the main CPU 41 and the sub CPU 61.

First, the main CPU 41 transmits a start signal for starting reel rotation to the sub CPU 61 (step S40). When the sub CPU 61 receives the start signal from the main CPU 41, the sub CPU 61 performs reel rotation processing (step S51). In this process, the sub CPU 61 supplies a pulse to the motor drive circuit 62. The pulse output from the sub CPU 61 is amplified by the dry drum 64 and applied to each stepping motor 70 (70L, 70C, 70R). Supplied. As a result, each stepping motor 70 rotates, and each reel 14 (14L, 14C, 14R) rotates accordingly. The stepping motor 70 of the 1-2 phase excitation method has a step angle of 0.9 ° and a step force of 00 per revolution. Therefore, when 400 nores are supplied to the stepping motor 70, the reel 14 makes one rotation.

[0156] At the start of rotation of the reel 14, the sub CPU 206 supplies a low frequency pulse to the motor drive circuit 62, and gradually increases the frequency of the noise. Along with this, the rotation speed of the reel 14 increases. When a predetermined time elapses, the pulse frequency is made constant. As a result, the reel 14 rotates at a constant speed.

Here, the rotation operation of the reel 14 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIGS. 16A to 16D are side views for explaining the rotation operation of the reel 14. As shown in FIG. 16 (a), a semicircular metal plate 14a is provided on the side surface of the reel 14. The metal plate 14a rotates together with the reel 14. In addition, 22 symbols (see FIG. 3) are provided on the peripheral surface of the reel 14. Of the 22 symbols drawn on the peripheral surface of the reel 14, the symbol power of 3 symbols is permitted through the display window 15 formed in front of the reel 14. In the figure, a thick arrow indicates the rotation direction of the reel 14. A proximity sensor 65a is provided on the side of the reel. The proximity sensor 65a is for detecting the metal plate 14a. The proximity sensor 65a does not move or rotate even when the reel 14 rotates.

FIG. 16 (a) shows the position (hereinafter also referred to as position A) of the metal plate 14a when the proximity sensor 65a starts detecting the metal plate 14a. When the rail 14 rotates when the metal plate 14a is at the position A, the metal plate 14a moves to the position shown in FIG. 16 (b). FIG. 16 (b) shows the position of the metal plate 14a when the metal plate 14a is detected by the proximity sensor 65a (hereinafter also referred to as position B). When the reel 14 rotates while the metal plate 14a is at the position B, the metal plate 14a moves to the position shown in FIG. 16 (c). FIG. 16 (c) shows the position of the metal plate 14a (hereinafter also referred to as position C) when the metal plate 14a is no longer detected by the proximity sensor 65a.

When the reel 14 rotates while the metal plate 14a is at the position C, the metal plate 14a moves to the position shown in FIG. 16 (d). In Fig. 16 (d), metal plate 14a is detected by proximity sensor 65a. The position (hereinafter also referred to as position D) of the metal plate 14a when not done is shown. When the reel 14 further rotates, the position of the metal plate 14a returns to the position A. As described above, as the reel 14 rotates, the position of the metal plate 14a changes in the order of position A, position B, position C, position D, position A,.

[0160] The proximity sensor 65a constitutes the index detection circuit 65 (see Fig. 3). If the proximity sensor 65a detects the metal plate 14a is "High", the proximity sensor 65a detects the metal plate 14a! /, !!, and the state is "Low", the metal plate 14a is positioned. When A → Position B → Position C, the state of the index detection circuit 65 is “High”, and when the metal plate 14a is in position C → Position D → Position A, the state of the index detection circuit 65 is “Low”. It is. The sub CPU 61 uses the rising edge from “Low” to “High” as the index (origin) 1 and the falling edge from “High” to “Low” as the index (origin) 2. recognize.

[0161] After transmitting the start signal to the sub CPU 61 in step S40, the main CPU 40 executes the effect at the time of reel rotation (step S41). This process includes displaying images on the lower image display panel 16 and sound from the speaker 29 over a period (for example, 3 seconds) determined according to the result of the lottery process (FIG. 12, step S13). This is a process that performs output.

Next, the main CPU 40 determines whether or not it is time to instruct the stop of rotation of the reel 14 (step S42).

Here, the timing for instructing the stop of the rotation of the reel 14 is the timing before the minimum necessary time for stopping the rotation of the reel 14 from the time when the effect at the time of the reel rotation ends. The minimum time required to stop the rotation of the reel 14 is determined in advance.

[0163] If it is determined in step S42 that it is not the timing to instruct to stop the rotation of the reel 14, the process returns to step S42, and the effect at the time of reel rotation is continued. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S42 that it is the timing to instruct to stop the rotation of the reel 14, the main CPU 41 transmits the code number of the reel stored in the RAM 43 to the sub CPU 61 (step S43). The sub CPU 61 receives the reel code number from the main CPU 41. When received, the code number is converted into the reel stop position (step number) from the index based on the correspondence table between the number of steps stored in the ROM (not shown) of the sub CPU61 and the code number. (Step S52).

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a correspondence table between the number of steps and code numbers. Each code number is associated with an index and the number of steps.

Each code number corresponds to the symbol drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel 14 (see FIG. 3), and the symbols with code numbers “00” to “10” correspond to index 1. . Symbols with code numbers “11” to “21” correspond to index 2. In addition, the number of steps in the correspondence table shown in FIG. 17 is the number of steps based on index 1. For example, if the code number is “08”, steps 1 through 145 are the reel stop positions. If the code number is “12”, it is the stop position of the index force 1 to 218 step force rail.

[0165] Next, the sub CPU 61 executes a reel stop process (step S53). In this process, the sub CPU 61 detects the rise from “Low” to “High” (index 1) in the index detection circuit 65 for each reel 14, and performs stepping at the timing when index 1 is detected. In S52, the pulse corresponding to the number of steps converted from the code number is supplied to the motor drive circuit 65, and then the pulse supply is stopped.

[0166] For example, if it is determined in step S52 that the stop position force of the reel is from index 1 to 145 steps, the sub CPU 61 sends 1 45 pulses to the motor drive circuit 65 at the timing when index 1 is detected. And then the pulse supply is stopped. If it is determined in step S52 that the stop position force of the reel is 218 steps from index 1, the sub CPU 61 supplies 218 pulses to the motor drive circuit 65 at the timing when index 1 is detected. . As a result, the reel 14 force stops according to the code number determined in step S32 in FIG. 13, and the combination of symbols corresponding to the combination determined in step S32 in FIG. Is displayed. On the other hand, the main CPU 41 ends the effect at the time of reel rotation. After finishing the processes of steps S44 and S53, this process is finished.

[0167] The index corresponding to the code number transmitted in step S43 and the reel If the index detected by the index detection circuit 65 is different when the rotation of 14 is different, the reel 14 has stepped out, so the main CPU 41 displays an error message on the lower image display panel 16. The process is interrupted and the game is interrupted.

For example, when index 1 is detected by the index detection circuit 65 when the reel 14L stops rotating even though the reel 14L is stopped with code No. 12 corresponding to index 2. Interrupt the game.

[0168] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a bonus game process subroutine that is called and executed in step S16 of the subroutine shown in FIG. In the bonus game process, first, the main CPU 41 selects one of the 10 to 25 games based on the random number value obtained by executing the random number generation program included in the lottery program stored in the RAM 43. Determine (step S60). The main CPU 41 stores the determined number of bonus games in the RAM 43 as data.

Subsequently, the main CPU 41 performs a lottery process (step S61) and a reel rotation control process (step S63). The process of step S61 is substantially the same process as described with reference to FIG. Further, the process in step S63 is substantially the same as the process described with reference to FIG. Since these processes have already been described, description thereof is omitted here.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger has been established, that is, whether or not “APPLE” is stopped and displayed in the display window 15 (step S64). If it is determined that the bonus game trigger has been established, the bonus game repeat count t is newly determined by lottery (step S65), and the determined repeat count t is the number of games in the current bonus game. It is added to T (step S66). As a result, if the bonus game is won during the bonus game, the remaining number of bonus games is increased. To be specific, for example, if you first transition to 20 bonus games and you win 17 bonus games at the 12th bonus game, then 25 (20 1 12 + 17 Times) bonus game.

[0171] When the bonus game trigger is not established, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a winning combination has been established (step S67). When determining that the winning combination has been established, the main CPU 41 pays out coins according to the number of inserted coins and the winning combination (step S68). This process is performed in step S18. Since this process is the same as that described above and has already been described, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0172] When the process of step S66 or S68 is executed, or when it is determined in step S67 that no role is established (when it is determined that the player has lost), the main CPU 61 stores the RAM 43 in the RAM 43. The stored number T of bonus games is read, and the value of the read number T of games is decremented by one. Then, the subtracted game number T is stored again in the RAM 43 (step S69).

[0173] Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the bonus game number T power has reached the number determined in step S60 (step S70). Specifically, the number of games stored in the RAM 43 is determined based on whether or not the power T becomes 0. If the number of games is not T power ^, that is, the number of times the bonus game is executed is determined by step S60. If it is determined that it has reached, the process returns to step S61 and the above-described process is repeated. On the other hand, if the number of games is T power O, that is, if it is determined that the number of times determined in step S60 has been reached, a game number reset signal is transmitted to the control device 200 (step S71). Exit the subroutine. The gaming number reset signal includes gaming machine identification information of the gaming machine 10, and when the CPU 201 of the control device 200 receives the gaming number reset signal, the gaming machine identification information included in the gaming number reset signal. The number of games stored in the hard disk drive 205 in association with is reset to zero.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of reduction mode processing that is called and executed in step S20 of the subroutine shown in FIG.

First, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) extracts image data corresponding to the set value from the image data as notification data stored in the RAM 43 (storage unit), and based on the image data An image corresponding to the set value is displayed on the lower image display panel 16 (output device), and the transition to the return mode is notified by an image (step S80). The set value is transmitted as data from the control device 200 to the gaming machine 10 in step S22 of FIG. Image data for notifying the shift to the return mode is included in the game program read from the memory card 53 and stored in the RAM 43. This game program includes a plurality of types of image data associated with the set values as image data for notifying the shift to the return mode. The main CPU 41 determines an image to be displayed on the lower image display panel 16 based on the set value stored in the RAM 43. Then, the main CPU 41 transmits a drawing command based on the determination result to the graphic board 68. In the graphic board 68, based on the above drawing command, the VDP extracts image data corresponding to the set value from the RAM 43 and expands it to the video RAM to generate one frame of image data. Output to image display panel 16. As a result, on the lower image display panel 16, for example, images as shown in FIGS. 20 (a) to (c) are displayed.

FIGS. 20 (a) to 20 (c) are diagrams showing examples of images displayed on the lower image display panel when shifting to the return mode (when the second special gaming state occurs). In the figure, 15 (15L, 15C, 15R) indicates a display window. The image shown in FIG. 20 (a) shows an image displayed on the lower image display panel 16 when the setting value is 600 and the mode is changed to the reduction mode. The lower image display panel 16 displays two images showing fireworks as well as an image showing “BONUS !!”. In addition, an image indicating “TIME OF PLAY 600” is displayed at the bottom of the lower image display panel 16. This image shows that the number of games has reached the set value of 600.

[0177] The image shown in Fig. 20 (b) shows an image displayed on the lower image display panel 16 when the reduction value is entered when the set value is 1200. The lower image display panel 16 displays four images showing fireworks as well as an image showing “BONUS!”. In addition, an image showing “TIME OF PLAY 1200” is displayed at the bottom of the lower image display panel 16. This image shows that the number of games has reached the preset value of 1200.

The image shown in FIG. 20 (c) shows an image displayed on the lower image display panel 16 when the reduction value is entered when the set value is 2400. The lower image display panel 16 displays six images showing fireworks, together with an image showing “BONUS !!”. In addition, an image showing “TIME OF PLAY 2400” is displayed at the bottom of the lower image display panel 16.

[0179] As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when the mode is shifted to the return mode, the image power indicating which set value is generated based on the set value is displayed on the lower image display panel 16. Is done. When executing the processing of step S80, the main CPU 41 notifies which setting value the second special gaming state has occurred by outputting an image to the lower image display panel 16 as output means. Functions as a means.

[0180] Next, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) extracts sound data corresponding to the set value from the sound data as notification data stored in the RAM 43 (storage unit), and outputs the sound data to the sound data. Based on this, a process according to which the sound corresponding to the set value is output from the speaker 29 (output device) is performed, and the transition to the return mode is notified by voice (step S81).

The sound data for notifying the shift to the return mode is included in the game program read from the memory card 53 and stored in the RAM 43. This game program includes a plurality of types of sound data associated with set values as sound data for notifying the transition to the return mode.

[0181] The main CPU 41 determines the sound to be output from the speaker 29 based on the set value stored in the RAM 43. The main CPU 41 extracts sound data from the RAM 43 based on the determination result, converts the sound data into a sound signal, and supplies the sound signal to the speaker 29. As a result, the sound power speaker 29 indicating which set value is used to generate the return mode is output. When executing the process of step S81, the main CPU 41 functions as a means for notifying which setting value the second special gaming state has occurred by outputting sound to the speaker 29 as the output means. .

[0182] Next, the main CPU 41 pays out the number of coins determined in accordance with the set value (step S82). The number of coins to be paid out in step S82 is the number of coins to be paid out in the return mode, and is determined by the control device 200 according to the set value. The number of coins paid out in the return mode is included as data in the return command signal transmitted from the control device 200 to the gaming machine 10 in step S22 in FIG. Further, the number of coins paid out in the return mode is stored as data in the RAM 43 of the gaming machine 10 that has received the return command signal.

When storing coins, the main CPU 41 performs a process of calculating the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. On the other hand, when paying out coins, the main CPU 41 sends a control signal to the hopper 66 to pay out a predetermined number of coins. At that time, coin detection unit 67 counts the number of coins to be paid out from the hopper 66, and sends a payout completion signal to the main CPU 41 when the counted value reaches the designated number. Thus, the main CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 66 and ends the coin payout process. Thereafter, the reduction mode flag is set to “OFF” (step S83), and this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the counting process that is called and executed in step S23 of the subroutine shown in FIG.

This process is a process performed between the main CPU 41 of the gaming machine 10 and the CPU 201 of the control device 200. In addition, here, a plurality of types of candidate values “600”, “1200”, and “2400”, which are determined in advance, are selected as one set value force. Each of the plurality of gaming machines 10 is set. ! / Speak (see Figure 6).

First, the main CPU 41 transmits the number of coins inserted and paid out stored in the RAM 43 together with the gaming machine identification number to the control device 200 via the communication line 101 via the communication interface 44 (step S90). . The number of coins inserted and paid out transmitted from the gaming machine 10 to the control device 200 is that in the game at that time.

In step S90, each time a main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) power game is performed, the identification information of the gaming machine 10 stored in the RAM 43 (storage unit) is transmitted to the control unit 200 via the communication line 101. It is processing to transmit to. When executing the process of step S90, the main CPU 41 functions as means for transmitting the identification information of the gaming machine 10 to the control device 200 via the communication line 101.

On the other hand, when the CPU 201 of the control device 200 receives the number of coins inserted and paid out and the gaming machine identification number from the gaming machine 10 through the communication line 101 by the interface circuit 204, Of the number of games, the cumulative number of inputs, and the cumulative number of payouts stored in association with each gaming machine identification number on the hard disk drive 205 (see FIG. 6), the number is associated with the received gaming machine identification number. The number of games, the cumulative input number, and the cumulative payout number are updated (step S100).

[0187] Next, the CPU 201 determines whether or not the updated number of games has reached the set value (step S101). If it is determined that the updated number of games has not reached the set value, this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S101 that the updated number of games has reached the set value, the CPU 201 shows a correspondence table between the set value stored in the hard disk drive 205 and the number of payouts (FIG. 7). The number of payouts according to the set value is determined based on (see step S102)

Next, the CPU 201 transmits a return command signal indicating the set value and the number of payouts to the gaming machine 10 whose number of games has reached the set value via the communication circuit 101 via the interface circuit 204 (Step 1). S 103). Thereafter, the CPU 201 resets the number of games stored in the hard disk drive 205 in correspondence with the gaming machine identification number of the gaming machine 10 to 0 (step S104). Subsequently, the CPU 201 selects a new setting value by lottery, and stores the selected setting value in the hard disk drive 205 in association with the gaming machine identification number of the gaming machine 10 (step S105).

[0190] When the main CPU 41 of the gaming machine 10 receives the return command signal transmitted from the control device 200 in step S103, the return mode flag is set to "ON" (step S91). The process in step S91 is a set value in which the number of games cumulatively counted by the control device 200 based on the identification information of the gaming machine 10 is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance. This is a process of receiving a command signal transmitted from the control device 200 when the value reaches. In step S 91, the main CPU 41 functions as a means for receiving a command signal transmitted from the control device 200. Thereafter, the main CPU 41 stores the data indicating the set value and the number of payouts included in the return command signal in the RAM 43 (step S92). Thereafter, this process is terminated.

[0191] In the present embodiment, the case where the game mode is shifted to the return mode when the number of games reaches the set value has been described (see FIG. 21). However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, when the number of games reaches a set value, if the number of game media input for that game is the upper limit that can be accepted for one game, the second special game state It is good also as generating (it transfers to reduction | restoration mode). In this case, the player can be encouraged to insert the game media up to the upper limit, and casinos and other facilities are capable of increasing profits.

In addition, the second special gaming state may be generated when the number of inserted gaming media is the upper limit. When the number of games reaches the set value, when the number of games played up to the upper limit reaches the set value, the number of game media input for that game is If the upper limit is reached, the second special gaming state may be generated. In such a case, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of the second special gaming state only by using a small number of game media in each game and consuming a small number of game media in total.

As described above, the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment includes the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing device), the RAM 43 (storage device), the lower image display panel 16 (output device), and the speaker 29 (output device). A game machine 10 connected via a communication line 101 to a control device 200 that cumulatively counts the number of games in each of the plurality of game machines 10 for each of the game machines 10. By executing the lottery program stored in the process, a process for determining one combination selected from a plurality of predetermined combinations (see FIG. 13) and the determined combination is a special combination “Bonus” When it is a “game trigger”, a process for reading out and executing a program for generating a bonus game (first special game state) from the RAM 43 (see FIG. 18), and whenever a game is performed, Identification of gaming machine 10 stored in RAM43 A plurality of candidates in which the process of transmitting information to the control device 200 (FIG. 21, step S90) and the number of games cumulatively counted by the control device 200 based on the identification information of the gaming machine are determined in stages. Processing to receive a command signal transmitted from the control device when the set value selected from the values is reached (Fig. 21, step S91) and transition to the reduction mode based on the command signal A process for reading out and executing a program for executing (the occurrence of the second special gaming state) from the RAM 43 (see FIG. 19), and when the second special gaming state is occurring, the second special gaming state is generated based on the set value. A process for reading out notification data from the RAM 43 to notify that a gaming state has occurred, outputting an image to the lower image display panel 16 based on the notification data, and outputting a sound from the speaker 29 (See Figure 19) It is.

[0193] The gaming machine 10 is a gaming machine 10 connected via a communication line 101 to a control device 200 that cumulatively counts the number of games in each of the plurality of gaming machines 10 for each gaming machine 10. Output means capable of outputting images or sounds (e.g., lower image display panel 16, speaker Force 29), a role determining means (for example, main CPU 41) for determining a role by lottery, and a bonus game (first special game state) is generated when the determined role is a special role `` Bonus Game Trigger '' Means for transmitting the identification information of the gaming machine 10 to the control device 200 via the communication line 101 (for example, the main CPU 41) and the identification information of the gaming machine each time a game is played. A command signal transmitted from the control device 200 when the number of games that are cumulatively counted by the control device 200 reaches a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in stages. On the basis of the command signal, a means for generating the second special gaming state (for example, the main CPU 41), and a set value when the second special gaming state is generated. Based on the second special game Things, characterized in that a means (e.g., the main CPU 41) for notifying the the child outputs an image or sound to the output means but has occurred.

[0194] According to the gaming machine 10, when the number of games counted in the control device 200 reaches a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance from the control device 200, When the transmitted command signal is received, the mode always shifts to the return mode. Therefore, even if a large number of coins are consumed without the occurrence of the first special gaming state for a long period of time, if the game is played until the number of games reaches the set value, the game will always enter the return mode. The player can get the profit.

[0195] Further, when the mode is shifted to the reduction mode, the fact that the mode is shifted to the reduction mode based on the set value indicates that the image output to the lower image display panel 16 and the sound output from the speaker 29 are performed. To notify. Therefore, it is possible to make the player recognize which set value has been played until the number of games reaches the number of games and therefore the player has shifted to the return mode. As a result, it is possible to impress the player that the reward for having played the game is reached until the set number of games is reached.

[0196] Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of coins from feeling uncomfortable or distrusting the game or losing interest or interest in the game.

[0197] The gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment is connected to the control device 200 via the communication line 101, and the control device 200 counts the number of games in the gaming machine 10 and the power force to shift to the return mode. (Whether or not it is the power to generate the second special gaming state) is determined. However, games Device 10 does not necessarily have to use a network and may be a stand-alone device.

[0198] The stand-alone gaming machine 10 according to the present invention includes a main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit), a RAM 43 (storage unit), a lower image display panel 16 (output unit), and a speaker 29 (output unit). The main CPU 41 executes a lottery program stored in the RAM 43 to determine one combination selected from a plurality of predetermined combinations. When the determined combination is a special combination “bonus game trigger”, a process for reading out and executing a program for generating a bonus game (first special gaming state) from the RAM 43, and whenever a game is performed A process of cumulatively counting the number of games, a process of selecting a set value from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance, and whether or not the number of games has reached the set value! / And the number of games When it is determined that the value has reached V and it is determined that V is reached, the process for reading out and executing the program for executing the transition to the return mode (occurrence of the second special gaming state) from the RAM 43 and the transition to the return mode are performed At this time, based on the set value! /, The system shifts to the reduction mode, reads out the notification data for notification of the fact from the RAM 43, and returns to the lower image display panel 16 based on the notification data. A gaming machine that executes the process of outputting the image of the above or the process of outputting the sound from the speaker 29 can be given.

[0199] This gaming machine 10 includes an output means (for example, the lower image display panel 16, the speaker 29) capable of outputting an image or sound, and a hand determining means (for example, the main CPU 41) for determining a hand by lottery, When the determined combination is a special combination “bonus game trigger”, a means for generating a bonus game (for example, the main CPU 41) and a means for cumulatively counting the number of games each time a game is performed (for example, the main CPU 41) ), A means for selecting a set value from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages (for example, the main CPU 41), and a means for determining whether or not the number of games has reached the set value (for example, main CPU 41) and means for making a transition to the return mode (generation of the second special gaming state) when it is determined that the number of games reaches the set value (for example, the main CPU 41), and entering the return mode Return based on the set value Means (for example, the main CPU 41) for notifying the transition to the original mode by outputting an image to the lower image display panel 16 or outputting a sound from the speaker 29 is provided. [0200] Also, the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment shifts to the return mode (the first mode) when the number of games reaches a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance. 2 is generated), the present invention is not limited to this example.

The gaming machine 10 of the present invention shifts to the return mode when the coin balance becomes equal to or less than a preset value selected from a plurality of predetermined candidate values (occurrence of the second special gaming state). Even if it is something that is done.

[0201] Such a gaming machine 10 includes a main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit), a RAM 43 (storage unit), a lower image display panel 16 (output unit), and a speaker 29 (output unit). The gaming machine 10 is connected to the control device 200 that cumulatively counts the balance of coins in each gaming machine 10 for each gaming machine 10 through the communication line 101, and the main CPU 41 is a lottery stored in the RAM 43. By executing a program, a process for determining one combination selected from a plurality of predetermined combinations, and when the determined combination is a special combination `` bonus game trigger '', a bonus game ( A process for reading out and executing a program for generating the first special gaming state) from the RAM 43, and the number of coins inserted in the game stored in the RAM 43 through the communication line 101 and The number of payouts The coins that are cumulatively counted by the control device 200 based on the processing to be transmitted to the control device 200 together with the identification information of the machine 10, the identification information of the gaming machine 10, and the number of coins inserted and paid out in the game. Based on the command signal received from the control device 200 when the balance is less than or equal to a preset value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages. , A process for reading out and executing a program for performing the transition to the return mode (occurrence of the second special gaming state) from the RAM 43 and the transition to the return mode based on the set value when the mode is shifted to the return mode. Processing for reading out the notification data for notifying that this is in progress from the RAM 43 and outputting the image to the lower image display panel 16 or the sound from the speaker 29 based on the notification data And execute.

[0202] The gaming machine 10 includes an output means (for example, the lower image display panel 16, the speaker 29) capable of outputting an image or sound, and a hand determining means for determining a hand by lottery (for example, the main CPU 41). When the determined combination is a special combination “bonus game trigger”, a bonus game (first special game state) is generated (for example, the main CPU 41), and the communication line 101 is connected each time a game is performed. Via the means (for example, the main CPU 41) for transmitting the balance of coins in the game at that time to the control device 200 together with the identification information of the gaming machine 10, and the identification information of the gaming machine 10 and the balance of coins at that time. The command signal transmitted from the control device 200 when the balance of the coins cumulatively counted by the control device 200 reaches a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance. A means for receiving (for example, the main CPU 41), a means for performing a transition to the return mode (generation of the second special gaming state) based on the command signal (for example, the main CPU 41), and a transition to the return mode! /ヽAt this time, means for notifying that the shift to the reduction mode is performed based on the set value by outputting an image to the lower image display panel or outputting a sound from the speaker 29 (for example, the main CPU 41). And.

[0203] According to such a gaming machine 10, when the balance of coins counted in the control device 200 becomes less than or equal to a set value selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages. When a command signal transmitted from the control device 200 is received, it always shifts to the return mode. Based on the set value, the fact that the mode is shifted to the return mode is notified by outputting an image to the lower image display panel 16 or outputting a sound from the speaker 29. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of coins from being unpleasant with respect to the organic or causing distrust or losing interest in the game.

[0204] The gaming machine 10 described above is connected to the control device 200 via the communication line 101, and the control device 200 counts the balance of coins in the gaming machine 10 and whether or not to shift to the return mode (first 2) A determination is made as to whether or not a special game state is generated. However, the gaming machine 10 does not necessarily have to use a network and may be a stand-alone.

Such a gaming machine 10 includes a main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing device), a RAM 43 (storage device), a lower image display panel 16 (output device), and a speaker 29 (output device). In the gaming machine 10, the main CPU 41 executes a lottery program stored in the RAM 43 to determine one combination selected from a plurality of predetermined combinations. And when the determined role is a special role "Bonus Game Trigger", a bonus game

Comparing the processing to read out and execute the program for generating the (first special gaming state) from the RAM 43, the processing to cumulatively count the balance of game media each time a game is played, and the balance of game media A process for selecting a target set value from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance, a process for determining whether or not the balance of the game medium is equal to or less than the set value, and a balance of the game medium When it is determined that is below the set value, a program for reading out and executing the program for performing the transition to the return mode (occurrence of the second special gaming state) from the RAM 43 and the transition to the return mode, Based on the set value, notification data for notifying that the transition is made to the reduction mode is read from the RAM 43, and based on the notification data, an image is output to the lower image display panel 16 or a speaker. Sound from 2 9 Performing a process of performing output can be given gaming machine 10, wherein.

[0206] The gaming machine 10 includes an output means (for example, the lower image display panel 16, the speaker 29) capable of outputting an image or sound, and a hand determining means (for example, the main CPU 41) for determining a hand by lottery, When the determined combination is a special combination “bonus game trigger”, a means for generating a bonus game (first special gaming state) (for example, the main CPU 41) and the balance of the game medium are accumulated every time the game is performed. Counting means (for example, the main CPU 41), means for selecting a set value from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance (for example, the main CPU 41), and the balance of the game medium is below the set value. Means (for example, the main CPU 41), and means for performing a transition to the return mode (occurrence of the second special gaming state) (for example, the main CPU 41) when it is determined that the balance of the game medium is equal to or less than the set value. ) And shift to reduction mode A means for notifying that the transition to the return mode is made based on the set value by outputting an image to the lower image display panel 16 or outputting a sound from the speaker 29 (for example, Main CPU41).

[0207] Further, in the present embodiment, when the return mode is set to "ON", a case has been described in which the mode is subsequently shifted to the return mode without being triggered by the establishment of some condition. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, after the reduction mode flag is set to “ON”, the mode may be shifted to the reduction mode when a predetermined condition is satisfied. in this way In this case, the predetermined condition that triggers the transition to the return mode is not particularly limited, for example, that a bonus trigger has been established, that symbols have been stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination, etc. Can do.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case has been described in which, when the return mode flag is set to “ON”, the mode is subsequently shifted to the return mode regardless of the combination of symbols displayed to be stopped. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, a combination of symbols indicating the transition to the return mode may be set in advance, and the symbols may be stopped and displayed in the combination, and then the mode may be shifted to the return mode.

[0209] In the present embodiment, symbols are stopped and displayed (Fig. 12, step S14), and processing based on the combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed (Fig. 12, steps S15 to S20) is performed. The case where counting (FIG. 12, step S22) is performed has been described. However, in the present invention, the timing at which the number of games is counted is not particularly limited. For example, it may be the timing when the coin BET is performed (FIG. 12, after step S10 or S11), or the timing when the spin button is turned on (after FIG. 12, step S12). In addition, at the predetermined timing (for example, the timing when the symbol is stopped and displayed) from when the variable display of the symbol is started until the symbol is stopped and processed based on the combination of the symbols that are stopped and displayed. The number of games may be counted. It is possible to use the above-mentioned timing for counting the balance of game media.

In this embodiment, after the reduction mode flag is set to “ON” (FIG. 12, step S22), the transition to the reduction mode (FIG. 12, step S20) is performed before the special mode flag is set to “ON”. When the role “Bonus Game Trigger” is established (FIG. 12, step S15), after the bonus game is generated (FIG. 12, step S16), the game machine 10 that shifts to the return mode is further connected. Explained. In other words, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, if a special combination is established between the time when the number of games reaches the set value and the occurrence of the second special gaming state, The first special gaming state based on the first special gaming state is generated, and the second special gaming state is further generated.

[0211] However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the number of games If a special combination is established between the time of arrival and the time when the second special game state is generated, only the first special game state may be generated. When the above form is adopted, the player can always benefit from the first special game state or the second special game state when playing until the number of games reaches the set value. The above form is also one form of the present invention.

When the above form is adopted in the gaming machine 10, for example, the following processing is performed instead of the processing shown in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing another example of the subroutine for the game execution process. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 22, steps that perform the same processing as the steps in the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0213] After executing the processing of step S10 to step S14, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger is established (step S15), and if it is determined that a bonus game trigger is established, A bonus game process is executed (step S16). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the reduction mode flag is set to “ON” (step S25). If the reduction mode flag is set to “ON”, the reduction mode flag is set to “OFF”. (Step S26). Then, the process of step S21 is performed, and this subroutine is terminated. The other processes are the same as those described with reference to FIG. 12, and thus the description thereof is omitted here. In the subroutine shown in FIG. 22, as in the subroutine shown in FIG. 12, after the coin is bet (step S10), it is determined whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on (step S12). If it is determined that the spin button 23 has been turned on (step S12: YES), the process of subtracting the number of credits (step SI 1) should be performed.

Here, assuming that the set value is 600, the process shown in FIG. 22 will be specifically described.

In step S22, when the number of games reaches 600 times and the return mode flag is established, a bonus game is generated in the 601st game (step S15), but a bonus game is generated (step S16). Is not transferred (steps S 25 and S 26). On the other hand, when the bonus game trigger is not established in the 601st game, a transition to the return mode is performed (steps S19 and S20). Therefore, when the processing shown in FIG. 22 is performed, whenever the number of games reaches the set value, a bonus game is generated or a shift to the return mode is performed.

[0215] Also, in the present invention, when the special combination is established between the time when the number of games reaches the set value and the time when the second special game state is generated, only the second special game state is obtained. It is also possible to select one of the first special game state and the second special game state depending on the game situation and the like.

[0216] It should be noted that, in the case where the second special game state is generated according to the balance of the game medium, the same form as described above can be adopted. In other words, if a special role is established between the time when the balance of the game medium falls below the set value and the time when the second special game state is generated, only the first special game state is generated. It may be possible to generate only the second special gaming state or the first special gaming state or the second special gaming state 1 depending on the gaming situation etc. That's it.

[0217] To repeat, as a return form to the player in the return mode as the second special game state, simply paying out a predetermined number of game media when the number of games reaches a set value. (See Fig. 19). In addition, when the number of games reaches the set value, a return mode as a second special game state in which a special feature in the same form as the first special game state such as a free game, a second game, a mystery bonus, etc. is given to the player. Can be set, and a predetermined number of game media can be paid out in any of these forms.

In the embodiment described above, both of these aspects are illustrated. Both of these aspects correspond to the second special game state in the present invention.

[0218] Also, the timing of paying out a predetermined number of game media is not limited to the timing at which the unit game is ended and the symbols are stopped and displayed, such as the mystery bonus as described above. When the number of games reaches the set value, you can pay out the game media immediately!

[0219] Furthermore, the method of paying out a predetermined number of game media is not particularly limited. For example, a bar code that can be used to actually increase the number of credits that can be paid out or coins. Tickets such as attached tickets may be issued. [0220] However, a distinction is made as to whether the player has received a payout in a normal game or bonus game (first special game state) or in a return mode (second special game state). In order to be able to do this, it is necessary to do the following: In other words, when the coins are actually paid out with the mystery bonus in the return mode (second special game state), the timing is different from the normal game or bonus game (first special game state). Need to pay out. In addition, it is necessary to pay in and out of normal games and bonus games (first special game state) with actual coins, and to pay out in return mode (second special game state) with the above-mentioned ticket There is. By doing so, it is possible to discriminate between payouts in normal games and bonus games (first special game state) and payouts in return mode (second special game state).

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but only specific examples are illustrated, and the specific configurations of the respective means and the like that are not particularly limited to the present invention can be appropriately changed in design. Further, the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention only list the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. It is not a thing.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a gaming system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a row of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each reel.

4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a correspondence table between set values and payout numbers.

FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a correspondence table between set values and payout numbers.

FIG. 9 is a chart showing the procedure of the authentication reading process of the game program and game system program by the mother board and gaming board shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game mode selection processing.

[FIG. 11] (a) to (b) are displayed on the lower image display panel when the game mode selection process is executed. It is a figure which shows an example of the image displayed.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game execution processing.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a lottery processing subroutine.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between a plurality of types of combinations, the possibility of establishment of each combination, and the number of payouts in the present embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of reel rotation control processing.

[FIG. 16] (a) to (d) are side views for explaining the reel rotation operation.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a correspondence table between the number of steps and a code number.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of bonus game processing.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of reduction mode processing.

[FIG. 20] (a) to (c) are diagrams showing examples of images displayed on the lower image display panel when shifting to the return mode (when the second special gaming state occurs).

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of counting processing.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing another example of a game execution process subroutine. Explanation of symbols

10 Pachislot machines (slot machines)

11 Cabinet

12 Top box

13 Main door

14 (14L, 14C, 14R) reel

15 (15L, 15C, 15R) Display window

16 Lower image display panel

18 coin tray

19 Coin payment exit

20 Contoroleno Nenore

21 Coin acceptance

22 bill validator

23 Spin button Change button Cash out button

1 BET button Maximum BET button Speaker

Lamp

Credit amount display area Payout number display area Upper image display panel Belly glass Ticket printer Card entry Data display Keypad

Ticket with no code Mother board Main CPU

ROM

RAM

Communication interface Power supply unit Gaming board

CPU

Boot ROM memory card

GAL

Main body PCB

Sub CPU Motor drive circuit

FPGA

The driver

Index detection circuit

Hono Pass ~~

Coin detector

Graphic board

Touch panel

(70L, 70C, 70R) Stepping motor position change detection circuit

Door pcb

Cold cathode tube

Game system

Control device

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

When the number of games that are cumulatively counted every time a game is played reaches a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and that is to be compared with the number of games. Means for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and in which a degree of advantage according to the set value is determined;

Means for notifying that the second special game state is generated based on the set value by outputting an image or a sound to the output means when the second special game state is generated. When

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[2] A gaming machine connected via a communication line to a control device that cumulatively counts the number of games in each of a plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine,

An output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for transmitting identification information of a gaming machine to the control device via the communication line each time a game is performed;

The number of games that are cumulatively counted by the control device based on the identification information of the gaming machine is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and compared with the number of games. Means for receiving a command signal transmitted by the control device force when a set value is reached,

Based on the command signal, means for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the set value, and the second special gaming state is generated. The second special game based on the set value. Means for notifying that the skill state has occurred by outputting an image or sound to the output means;

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[3] an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for cumulatively counting the number of games each time a game is played;

Means for determining whether or not the number of games reaches the set value;

Means for generating a second special game state in which the game state is advantageous for the player and the degree of advantage is determined according to the set value when it is determined that the number of games has reached the set value When,

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[4] The means for generating the second special game state is characterized by generating a second special game state in which a degree of advantage is determined as the set value at which the number of games is reached is larger. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

[5] It has a receiving means capable of accepting input of game media up to a predetermined upper limit for one game,

The means for generating the second special game state is such that when the number of games reaches the set value and the number of game media input for that game is the upper limit value, the second special game state is generated. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a state is generated.

[6] A gaming machine including an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device. And

The arithmetic processing unit includes:

When the number of games that are cumulatively counted every time a game is played reaches a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and that is to be compared with the number of games. A process for reading out and executing from the storage device a program for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous for the player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the set value;

When the second special gaming state is generated, notification data for notifying that the second special gaming state is generated based on the set value is read from the storage device, and And a process of outputting an image or sound to the output device based on the notification data.

A gaming machine comprising an arithmetic processing unit, a storage device, and an image or sound output device, and connected via a communication line to a control device that cumulatively counts the number of games in each of the plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine Because

The arithmetic processing unit includes:

A process of transmitting the identification information of the gaming machine stored in the storage device to the control device via the communication line each time a game is performed;

Games that are cumulatively counted by the control device based on the identification information of the gaming machine When the number of times reaches a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and that is to be compared with the number of games, the command signal transmitted by the controller is transmitted. Processing to receive,

A gaming machine comprising an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device,

The arithmetic processing unit includes:

A process of cumulatively counting the number of games each time a game is played,

When it is determined that the number of games has reached the set value, a program for generating a second special game state in which the game state is advantageous for the player and the degree of advantage is determined according to the set value To notify that the second special gaming state has occurred based on the set value when the second special gaming state has occurred and when the second special gaming state has occurred Processing for reading out the notification data from the storage device and outputting an image or sound to the output device based on the notification data A game machine characterized by executing

[9] The arithmetic processing unit includes:

9. The program for generating a second special gaming state in which a degree of advantage is determined as the set value at which the number of games has reached is larger is executed. 9. Game machines.

[10] The arithmetic processing unit includes:

When the number of games reaches the set value, if the number of game media input for that game is the predetermined upper limit value of the number of game media input for one game, the second 9. The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein a program for generating a special gaming state is executed.

[11] an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

A gaming state that is advantageous to the player when the balance of the game medium is equal to or less than a set value that is selected from a plurality of candidate values that are determined in advance and that is to be compared with the balance of the game medium And a means for generating a second special gaming state in which a degree of advantage according to the set value is determined,

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[12] A gaming machine connected via a communication line to a control device that cumulatively counts the balance of gaming media in each of a plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine,

An output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for generating a first special gaming state, which is a gaming state advantageous to the player when the determined combination is a special combination; Means for transmitting the balance of game media in the game of the time, together with the identification information of the gaming machine, to the control device via the communication line each time a game is performed;

Based on the identification information of the gaming machine and the balance of the game medium at that time, the balance of the game medium that is cumulatively counted by the control device is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in advance. Means for receiving a command signal transmitted when the controller power is reached when a set value to be compared with a balance of the gaming medium is reached;

Based on the command signal, means for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the set value, and the second special gaming state is generated. Means for notifying that the second special gaming state is generated based on the set value by outputting an image or a sound to the output means.

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[13] an output means capable of outputting an image or sound;

A role determining means for determining a role by lottery;

Means for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the setting value when it is determined that the balance of the gaming medium has become equal to or less than the setting value;

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[14] The means for generating the second special game state may be the device where the balance of the game media has been reached. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein a second special gaming state in which a greater degree of advantage is determined is generated as the fixed value is smaller.

[15] With a receiving means capable of accepting the input of game media up to a predetermined upper limit for one game,

The means for generating the second special game state is the first special game state, when the balance of the game media falls below the set value, and the number of game media inserted for that game is the upper limit value. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein two special gaming states are generated.

[16] A gaming machine comprising an arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device,

The arithmetic processing unit includes:

The game media balance, which is counted cumulatively every time a game is played, is selected from a plurality of candidate values determined in stages, and is a set value to be compared with the game media balance When the following condition is reached, a program for generating a second special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player and has a degree of advantage according to the set value is read from the storage device. Processing to be executed,

[17] An arithmetic processing device, a storage device, and an image or sound output device are provided, via a communication line with a control device that cumulatively counts the balance of gaming media in each of the plurality of gaming machines for each gaming machine A connected gaming machine, The arithmetic processing unit includes:

A process of transmitting the number of game media inserted and paid out in the game stored in the storage device together with the identification information of the gaming machine to the control device through the communication line every time a game is performed;

A plurality of candidate values in which the balance of gaming media that are cumulatively counted by the control device based on the identification information of the gaming machine and the number of gaming media inserted and paid out in the game are determined in stages A process of receiving a command signal transmitted from the control device when the value is equal to or less than a set value to be compared with the balance of the game medium selected from

The arithmetic processing unit includes:

A program for generating a second special game state that is a game state advantageous to a player and has a degree of advantage determined according to the set value when it is determined that the balance of the game medium has become equal to or less than the set value To notify that the second special gaming state has occurred based on the set value when the second special gaming state has occurred and when the second special gaming state has occurred And a process for outputting an image or sound to the output device based on the notification data.

[19] The arithmetic processing unit includes:

19. The program for generating a second special gaming state in which a degree of advantage is defined as the set value at which the balance of the gaming medium has reached is smaller is executed. The gaming machine according to 1.

[20] The arithmetic processing unit includes:

When the balance of the game media is equal to or less than the set value, the number of game media input for that game is a predetermined upper limit value of the number of game media input for one game. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that a program for generating two special gaming states is executed.

[21] A method of giving the player a profit that varies in stages depending on the number of games played by the player;

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[22] A method of giving the player a different profit in stages according to the player's game media balance; Means for notifying the player of different profits in stages according to the balance of the game medium by means of different images or sounds according to the balance of the game medium;

A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

[23] a step of giving the player a different profit in stages depending on the number of games played by the player;

A game control method comprising:

[24] a step of giving the player a different profit in stages depending on the player's game media balance;

[25] A gaming system comprising a gaming machine and a control device,

The controller is

The gaming machine is

A gaming system characterized by that.

[26] A gaming system comprising a gaming machine and a control device,

The controller is

The gaming machine is Means for giving the player a different profit depending on the balance of the game medium based on the signal received from the control device;

And a means for notifying the player of different profits in stages according to the balance of the game medium by means of different images or sounds according to the balance of the game medium. system.