JP2005046550A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a gaming machine capable of ensuring the visibility of identification information while ensuring a sufficient number of effective lines that can be set three-dimensionally.
An image data storage means for storing identification information image data related to an identification information image and a plurality of display areas for the identification information image are provided. Three-dimensional image processing means for arranging a plurality of variable display surfaces in the virtual three-dimensional space in the depth direction and arranging identification information image data in each display area to generate a three-dimensional image including the identification information image; The identification information image data is arranged in each of the display areas of the variable display surface, and a two-dimensional image processing means for generating a two-dimensional image including the identification information image and a display for displaying the three-dimensional image or the two-dimensional image on the display unit A gaming machine comprising: means; and image display switching means capable of switching and displaying a three-dimensional image and a two-dimensional image on a display unit.
[Selection] Figure 5

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a pachislot gaming machine, or a slot machine.

In gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines, a plurality of identification information images (for example, images showing characters and figures, etc.) having a display unit on which variable display or stop display is performed, for example, LCD (Liquid Crystal Display ), CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) and the like.
The display unit of such a gaming machine includes a plurality of display areas in which a variation display or a stop display of the identification information image is performed. A plurality of effective lines formed by combinations of these display areas are determined in advance, and when the combination of identification information images displayed in the display areas on the effective lines becomes a predetermined combination, A predetermined game value is given to the player.

Generally, the display unit of such a gaming machine has a total of nine display areas of 3 vertical × 3 horizontal, and 3 of these display areas are arranged in the vertical, horizontal, or diagonal directions. A combination of two display areas is set as an active line. That is, in a gaming machine equipped with such a display unit, a maximum of eight effective lines of three vertical effective lines, three horizontal effective lines, and two diagonal effective lines are set. Will be able to.

In addition, as a conventional gaming machine, for example, a gaming machine in which a plurality of identification information images are three-dimensionally arranged on the display unit, that is, in the display unit, three variable display surfaces having a display area are three-dimensionally deep. The front and rear variable display surfaces are arranged in the direction, and the display surface of the middle surface has six display areas. The variable display surface of the middle surface has only one display area at the center of gravity, and the identification information image varies in each display area. There are gaming machines that are displayed or stopped (for example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2).
According to the gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, since an effective line can be set three-dimensionally across the front surface, the middle surface, and the rear surface, it is possible to produce an effective line with a depth.
JP 2001-204922 A JP 2001-269459 A

However, in the gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, since the identification information image is variably displayed at the same time in the front, middle, and rear display areas, the identification information image is difficult to visually recognize, and it is difficult for the player to see it. There was a problem of getting tired.
In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, in order to ensure the visibility of the identification information image, the viewpoint in the virtual three-dimensional space is moved, and the identification information information is displayed while changing the angle. If the identification information image to be superimposed is variably displayed at the same time and the display angle of the identification information image is changed, the player may feel tired in the eyes during the variability display.

In addition, since the gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 have six front and rear display areas and one middle display area, the number of settable effective lines is about ten. Regarding the number of effective lines, it is not much different from a conventional gaming machine in which a display area is set two-dimensionally. That is, the gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 can produce a three-dimensional effective line with a depth, but have not yet provided new gaming properties.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and its purpose is a game that can ensure the visibility of identification information while ensuring a sufficient number of effective lines that can be set three-dimensionally. Is to provide a machine.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides the following.
(1) Provided with a display unit on which a plurality of identification information images are variably displayed or stopped.
Image data storage means for storing identification information image data relating to the identification information image;
A plurality of variable display surfaces having a plurality of display areas for the identification information image are arranged in the depth direction in the virtual three-dimensional space, and the identification information image data is arranged in each of the display areas, and the identification information 3D image processing means for generating a 3D image including the image;
Two-dimensional image processing means for arranging the identification information image data in each of the display areas of the variable display surface and generating a two-dimensional image including the identification information image;
Display means for displaying the three-dimensional image or the two-dimensional image on the display unit;
A gaming machine comprising an image display switching means capable of switching and displaying the three-dimensional image and the two-dimensional image on the display unit.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(2) The gaming machine according to (1) above,
The variable display surface includes three vertical display areas and three horizontal display areas, and the three variable display surfaces are arranged in the depth direction in the virtual three-dimensional space.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(3) The gaming machine according to (1) or (2) above,
The image data storage means stores the identification information image data of a plurality of colors related to the same type of the identification information image,
The three-dimensional image processing means generates the three-dimensional image so that the same type of the identification information image has a different color for each of the variable display surfaces.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(4) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
The three-dimensional image processing means blinks the identification information image existing in the display area on the effective line related to the reach when a reach occurs across the plurality of variable display surfaces by a combination of the identification information images that are stopped and displayed. A three-dimensional image is generated so as to be displayed in such a manner.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(5) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
The three-dimensional image processing means generates a three-dimensional image such that the identification information image that is stopped and displayed is transparent.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(6) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
The three-dimensional image processing means generates a three-dimensional image so that the identification information image superimposed on the identification information image displayed in a variable manner is transparent.

According to the invention of (1), when a three-dimensional image is displayed on the display unit, a plurality of variable display surfaces having a plurality of display areas are arranged side by side in the depth direction in the virtual three-dimensional space, and each display area Since the variation display or stop display of the identification information image is performed, the effective line can be set two-dimensionally by combining the display regions in each variation display surface, and the combination of display regions over a plurality of variation display surfaces Thus, an effective line can be set three-dimensionally. Therefore, a large number of settable effective lines can be secured.

In addition, since the two-dimensional image and the three-dimensional image can be switched and displayed on the display unit, it is possible to provide a game having a new gameability by combining them.
For example, at the time of normal fluctuation, the identification information image is variably displayed and then stopped and displayed by using a two-dimensional image. At the time of development effect such as development reach, the stop display result of the identification information image by the two-dimensional image is taken in. However, it is possible to switch from the two-dimensional image to the three-dimensional image by adding a new variable display surface, and to perform the variable display or stop display of the identification information image with the three-dimensional image.
In this case, since the three-dimensional image is not always displayed, but the development effect is rarely performed and the three-dimensional image is displayed with an effect of increasing expectation. It is possible to provide an effect that can improve the sense of expectation by increasing the number of effective lines while reducing the burden of the above.

According to the invention of (2), it is possible to set a maximum of 49 effective lines by a total of 27 display areas of 3 vertical x 3 horizontal x 3 depth. As a result, it is possible to provide a thrilling game with new game characteristics such that, for example, reach occurs within the same variation display surface and reach occurs across a plurality of variation display surfaces.

According to the invention of (3), even when identification information images of the same type are displayed in an overlapping manner, the colors are displayed in different colors, so that the identification information image can be more easily viewed. be able to.

According to the invention of (4), when reach occurs across a plurality of variable display planes, the identification information image existing in the display area on the effective line related to reach is displayed in a blinking manner, and therefore set in the depth direction. It is possible to easily determine the reach on the activated line.

According to the invention of (5), since the identification information image that is stopped and displayed is transparently displayed, it is possible to display the identification information image in the variable display that the player is interested in and pays attention in an easy-to-view manner. It is possible to prevent the player from feeling tired.

According to the invention of (6), since the identification information image to be superimposed on the identification information image in the variable display that the player is interested in is transparently displayed, the identification information image in the variable display is easy to visually recognize, It is possible to prevent the player from feeling tired.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view schematically showing a pachinko gaming apparatus according to the present invention.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12, a game board 14 incorporated in the main body frame 12, a window frame 16 of the main body frame 12 provided in front of the game board 14, and a main body below the window frame 16. An upper plate 20 and a lower plate 22 provided on the front surface of the frame 12 and a firing handle 26 provided on the right side of the lower plate 22 are arranged.

A plurality of obstacle nails (not shown) are driven in the front surface of the game board 14. The game board 14 is molded from a resin material, and a metal rod-like body is implanted in the resin material game board 14 so as to protrude in the forward direction of the game board 14 without being configured to drive nails. It is good. In addition, in this specification, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is a concept including a pachinko machine.

Further, the launch handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12, and the player can advance the pachinko game by operating the launch handle 26. On the back side of the firing handle 26, a firing motor 28 is provided. When the launch handle 26 is rotated clockwise by the player, power is supplied to the launch motor 28 and the game balls stored in the upper plate 20 are sequentially launched onto the game board 14.

The launched game ball is guided to a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14 and moves to the upper part of the game board 14. After that, the game ball is changed in its traveling direction by collision with the above-described obstacle nails. It falls toward the bottom of the board 14.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged front view schematically showing the game board 14. In addition, the same code | symbol was attached | subjected to the component corresponding to the component shown in FIG. 1 mentioned above. FIG. 2 shows the above-described obstacle nail omitted.

A display device 32 is provided in the approximate center of the front surface of the game board 14. The display device 32 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display panel, and displays a variation pattern including identification information.
A display device 52 is provided in the center of the upper portion of the display device 32. The display device 52 is composed of, for example, a 7-segment display, and a normal symbol as display information is variably displayed so as to repeat fluctuation and stop. On the left and right sides of the display device 32, ball passage detectors 55a and 55b are provided. When the ball passage detector 55a or 55b detects that a game ball has passed in the vicinity of the ball passage detector 55a or 55b, on the display device 52 described above, the normal symbol variation display is started, and after a predetermined time has passed, Stops the fluctuation display. This normal symbol is information including numbers, symbols, and the like, for example, numbers from “0” to “9” and symbols such as “☆”. When the normal symbol is displayed as a predetermined symbol, for example, “7” and stopped, a solenoid 57 for driving movable pieces 58a and 58b provided on both the left and right sides of a starting port 44 to be described later. A current is supplied to (not shown), and the movable pieces 58a and 58b are driven so that the game balls can easily enter the start opening 44, so that the start opening 44 is opened. When a predetermined time elapses after the start port 44 is opened, the movable piece is driven to close the start port 44 so that it is difficult for a game ball to enter.

Four holding lamps 34a to 34d are provided on the left and right sides of the display device 52 described above. Further, a general winning opening 50 is provided at the top of the display device 52. Also, a large winning opening 38 for a game ball is provided at the bottom of the game board 14. A shutter 40 is provided in the vicinity of the special winning opening 38 so as to be freely opened and closed. The shutter 40 is driven by a solenoid 48 (not shown) so as to be intermittently opened when a big hit state occurs.

General winning ports 54a and 54b are provided on both the left and right sides of the display device 32 described above. Further, general winning holes 54c and 54d are provided on both the left and right sides of the lower portion of the display device 32. In addition, special winning ports 56 a and 56 b are provided on the left and right ends of the game board 14, and special winning ports 56 c and 56 d are provided on the left and right sides of the big winning port 38.

In addition, a start port 44 is provided as an opportunity to start a later-described variable display game and shift a plurality of identification information images displayed on the display device 32 to a variable display state. A ball detection sensor 42 is provided in the above-described special winning opening 38, the general winning openings 50 and 54a to 54d, and the special winning openings 56a to 56d, and when the game ball enters, that is, the game ball passes. When the ball detection sensor 42 detects this, a payout device 59 (not shown) pays out a predetermined number of game balls to the lower plate 22 according to the type of the winning opening. . A ball detection sensor 43 is provided at the start port 44. When the ball detection sensor 43 detects that a game ball has entered the start port 44, a variable display game described later is started.

Furthermore, on both the left and right sides of the display device 32, rolling guide members 60a and 60b for guiding the path of the game ball in a predetermined direction are also provided. In addition, decorative lamps 36a and 36b are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side outside the game board 14.

In the above-described example, the display device 32 is provided at the approximate center of the front surface of the gaming board 14 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 that is a pachinko gaming machine, but can be seen by the player. If it is such a position, the display device 32 may be provided at any position of the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention.
The firing handle 26 described above is connected to the interface circuit group 62 of the control circuit 60, and the interface circuit group 62 is connected to the CPU 66. An angle signal indicating the rotation angle of the firing handle 26 is converted into a predetermined signal by the interface circuit group 62 and then supplied to the CPU 66. Further, the above-described interface circuit group 62 is also connected to ball detection sensors 42 and 43, and the game balls are used for the big winning port 38, the starting port 44, the general winning ports 50 and 54a to 54d, and the special winning port 56a. When passing through -56d, the ball detection sensor 42 supplies a detection signal to the interface circuit group 62. The ball detection sensor 43 supplies a detection signal to the interface circuit group 62 when a game ball passing through the start port 44 is detected. Further, a ball passage detector 55 is also connected to the interface circuit group 62. When the ball passage detector 55 detects that a game ball has passed in the vicinity thereof, it supplies a detection signal to the interface circuit group 62. .

The CPU 66 is a one-chip CPU incorporating a ROM 68 and a RAM 70. A CPU in which ROM 68 and RAM 70 are externally connected by bus may be used.
The ROM 68 stores a program for controlling the pachinko gaming apparatus 10, and various parameter values for controlling the pachinko gaming apparatus 10 are stored in the table area.
The RAM 70 temporarily stores input / output data, data related to arithmetic processing, various counters such as random number counters related to games, and the like.

The CPU 66 is connected to a reset circuit 74 for setting the CPU 66 in an initial state and a power supply circuit 76 for supplying power.
Further, an interface circuit group 72 is connected to the CPU 66 of the control circuit 60, and a sub control circuit 80 is connected to the interface circuit group 72. The control circuit 60 transmits various commands to the sub-control circuit 80 to cause the sub-control circuit 80 to perform a process of generating a three-dimensional image or a two-dimensional image. Switch display on the display. The control circuit 60 functions as an image display switching unit capable of switching and displaying a three-dimensional image and a two-dimensional image on the display unit.

The sub control circuit 80 includes a CPU 81, an image processing LSI (VDP) 82, a display command signal receiving circuit 83, a program ROM 84, a RAM 85, a power supply circuit 86, a character ROM 87, and a video RAM 88. The sub control circuit 80 functions as a three-dimensional image processing unit that generates a three-dimensional image including the identification information image, and also functions as a two-dimensional image processing unit that generates a two-dimensional image including the identification information image.

The display command signal receiving circuit 83 receives a command (display command signal) supplied from the interface circuit group 72 and supplies it to the CPU 81.
The program ROM 84 stores a program for image processing executed by the CPU 81, and further stores VDP data to be mapped and written to the data register of the image processing LSI (VDP) 82. The RAM 85 temporarily stores input / output data for the CPU 81 and data for arithmetic processing. The power supply circuit 86 supplies power to the sub control circuit 80.

The image processing LSI (VDP) 82 develops image data (two-dimensional image or three-dimensional image) to be displayed on the display device 32 in the video RAM 88 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 81, and displays the display device in accordance with an output instruction from the CPU 81. Image data (two-dimensional image or three-dimensional image) is output to the display unit 32 and displayed. The VDP 82 functions as a display unit that displays a three-dimensional image or a two-dimensional image on the display unit of the display device 32.

The character ROM 87 stores identification information image data related to the identification information image. The identification information image data includes texture data and object data as data for generating a three-dimensional image, and also includes data for generating a two-dimensional image. The character ROM 87 functions as image data storage means for storing identification information image data relating to the identification information image.

The interface circuit group 72 is connected to the display device 52, the speaker 46, the firing motor 28, the solenoids 48 and 57, the holding lamp 34, the decoration lamp 36, and the payout device 59. The interface circuit group 72 is connected to the CPU 66. A drive signal and drive power are supplied to control each of the above-described devices in accordance with the result of the arithmetic processing.

In the following, it is assumed that the pachinko gaming machine 10 is activated, and the variables used in the CPU 66 or CPU 81 described above are initialized to predetermined values and are in steady operation.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for detecting a game ball executed in the control circuit 60 described above. This subroutine is called and executed at a predetermined timing from a control program for controlling the pachinko game of the pachinko gaming apparatus 10 that is executed in advance.

First, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the winning opening (step S11). For example, in the example shown in FIG. 2 described above, the winning ports are general winning ports 50, 54a to 54d and special winning ports 56a to 56d. In step S11, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the winning opening, the payout device 59 is driven to execute a process of paying out a predetermined number of game balls (step S12).

Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the start port (step S13). This starting port is, for example, the starting port 44 in the example shown in FIG. In step S13, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the start port, the payout device 59 is driven to execute a process of paying out a predetermined number of game balls (step S17). Sampling is performed to execute a variable display game described later (step S14). The sampled random number is used to determine whether or not the variable display game is successful.

Further, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the ball passage detector (step S15). This ball passage detector is, for example, the ball passage detectors 55a and 55b in the example shown in FIG. In step S15, when it is determined that the game ball has passed through the ball passage detector, as described above, the display device 52 executes a process of variably displaying normal symbols (step S16). As described above, when the variably displayed normal symbol is stopped and becomes a predetermined symbol, the movable pieces 58a and 58b are driven to open the start port 44 so that the start port 44 is opened. This makes it easier for game balls to enter.

Next, the variable display game that is called and executed in step S14 of the subroutine shown in FIG. 4 will be described.
5 (a) to 5 (f) are explanatory diagrams for explaining a variable display game according to the present invention.
As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the variable display surface 110 includes nine display areas 111 to 119. These display areas 111 to 119 are arranged in 3 × 3. Similarly, the variable display surface 120 arranged in the depth direction includes nine display regions 121 to 129, and the variable display surface 130 arranged in the depth direction further includes nine display regions 131 to 139. It has. In each of these 27 display areas 111 to 119, 121 to 129, and 131 to 139, an identification information image (not shown) is variably displayed or stopped.

When a three-dimensional image is displayed on the display unit of the display device 32, a state in which the identification information image that is variably displayed or stopped in each of the 27 display areas is viewed from the viewpoint (a thick arrow in the figure). (Viewed from the direction) is displayed. Therefore, the identification information images displayed in the display areas 111 to 119 of the variable display surface 110 are displayed on the front side, and the identification information images displayed on the display areas 131 to 139 of the variable display surface 130 are displayed on the innermost side. Will be. Further, when a two-dimensional image is displayed on the display unit of the display device 32, the identification information image that is displayed in a variable manner or stopped in each of the display areas of any one of the variable display surfaces 110, 120, and 130. Is displayed.
Hereinafter, the variable display surface 110 is also referred to as a front surface, the variable display surface 120 is referred to as a middle surface, and the variable display surface 130 is also referred to as a rear surface. Further, the variable display surface or the display area may be planar, and the identification information image may be displayed on the display area, and the identification information image is displayed inside the display area. It is good as well.

An effective line is determined in advance by a combination of these display areas. If the combination of identification information images stopped and displayed in the display area on the active line is a combination of predetermined identification information images (for example, “7”, etc.), a special prize is generated and a game is played in a special gaming state. Is possible.

In the pachinko gaming apparatus 10, when a two-dimensional image is displayed, a combination of display areas in the vertical direction, horizontal direction, or diagonal direction on the same variable display surface is set as an effective line.
For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 111, 115, and 119 that are effective lines in the diagonal direction of the front surface 110, a special prize is generated. Also, as shown in FIG. 5C, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 131, 135, and 139 that are effective lines in the oblique direction of the rear surface 130, a special prize is generated.

When a three-dimensional image is displayed, in addition to the above-described effective line, a combination of display areas in the depth direction or oblique direction over a plurality of variable display surfaces is set as the effective line. For example, as shown in FIG. 5D, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 111, 121, and 131 that are effective lines in the depth direction across a plurality of variable display surfaces, a special prize is generated. To do. In addition, as shown in FIG. 5E, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 113, 126, and 139 that are effective lines in the oblique direction across a plurality of variable display surfaces, a special prize is generated. To do. Further, as shown in FIG. 5F, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 113, 125, and 137 that are effective lines in the oblique direction across a plurality of variable display surfaces, a special prize is generated. To do.

In the pachinko gaming apparatus 10, there are 24 effective lines (for example, see FIGS. 5 (a) to 5 (c)) in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, or the diagonal direction on the same variable display surface, eight on each variable display surface. Can be set. In addition, 25 effective lines (for example, see FIGS. 5D to 5F) in the depth direction or the oblique direction over a plurality of variable display surfaces can be set. Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 10, 49 effective lines can be set at the maximum.

As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 10, a plurality of variable display surfaces having a plurality of display areas are arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space in the depth direction, and the identification information image is displayed in a variable or stopped display in each display area. Therefore, effective lines can be set in a two-dimensional plane by combining display areas in each variable display surface, and effective lines can be set in three dimensions by combining display areas over a plurality of variable display surfaces. Therefore, it is possible to secure a large number of settable effective lines.

Further, in the present invention, as described above, the variable display surface has a display area of 3 vertical × 3 horizontal, and the 3 variable display surfaces are arranged in the depth direction in the virtual three-dimensional space. It is desirable. Since it is possible to set up to 49 effective lines with a total of 27 display areas of 3 vertical x 3 horizontal x 3 depth, for example, reach occurs within the same variation display plane, This is because it is possible to provide a thrilling game with a new gameability such that reach occurs across a plurality of variable display surfaces.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for performing the variable display game process called and executed in step S14 of the subroutine shown in FIG.
When the variable display game is started, first, an internal lottery process based on a calculation process of the CPU 66 is executed (step S20). This internal lottery process is a process for predetermining a combination of identification information images when all the identification information images that have been variably displayed are stopped and displayed, and is determined based on the random number sampling result in step S14. In the variable display game, as will be described later, the variation display and the stop display of the identification information image are performed so that the combination of the identification information images determined by the internal lottery process is stopped and displayed. In addition, whether or not to perform development effects such as so-called development reach is also determined by this internal lottery process.

Next, the CPU 66 transmits a rear surface identification information image two-dimensional display command to the sub-control circuit 80 (step S21). Based on this command, the sub-control circuit 80 performs processing for generating an image to be displayed on the display unit of the display device 32, and displays the generated image on the display unit.
As a result, a two-dimensional image including the identification information image of the rear surface 130 is displayed on the display unit of the display device 32. The identification information images of the front surface 110 and the middle surface 120 are not displayed. The processing in the sub control circuit 80 will be described in detail later.

Next, the CPU 66 transmits a rear surface identification information image variation start command to the sub control circuit 80 (step S22). Then, the sub-control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the identification information image on the rear surface 130 on the display section of the display device 32 in such a manner that it is variably displayed.

Next, the CPU 66 waits until a predetermined period elapses, and continues the variable display of the identification information image on the rear surface 130 (step S23), and then, based on the result of the internal lottery process in step S20, the rear identification information image. A stop command is transmitted (step S24).
The sub-control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the identification information image on the rear surface 130 in a manner that the display 130 is variably displayed on the display unit of the display device 32 for a predetermined period, and then stops display based on the result of the internal lottery process. It is displayed in the mode.

By performing the processes of steps S22 to S24, the identification information image on the rear surface 130 is displayed in a variable manner and stopped. The processes in steps S23 and S24 are not necessarily performed on all the identification information images on the rear surface 130 at the same time. For example, after the identification information images in the display areas 131 to 133 are stopped and displayed, the display areas 134 to 136 are stopped and the identification information images in the display areas 137 to 139 are finally stopped.

Next, the CPU 66 determines whether or not to perform development effects such as development reach based on the result of the internal lottery process in step S20 (step S25).
When it is determined that the development effect is not performed, the CPU 66 determines that the combination of the identification information images that are stopped and displayed on any one of the effective lines on the rear surface 130 is a predetermined combination (for example, “7”-“7”-“7 Or the like, that is, whether or not a special prize has been generated based on the result of the variable display game (step S26). For example, as shown in FIG. 5C, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 131, 135, and 139 that are effective lines in the diagonal direction of the rear surface 130, a special prize is generated.

When it is determined that a special prize has been generated as a result of the variable display game, the CPU 66 transmits an identification information image transparent / non-transparent display switching command to the sub-control circuit 80 (step S27). Here, a command is transmitted to make the identification information image (hereinafter also referred to as a special prize symbol) that is a predetermined combination that is a big hit on the active line non-transparent display and other identification information image transparent display. Then, the sub control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the special award symbol on the display unit of the display device 32 in a non-transparent manner and displays other identification information images in a transparent manner. For example, when the identification information image is stopped and displayed as shown in FIG. 5C, the identification information images in the display areas 131, 135, and 139 are displayed non-transparently, and the other identification information images are transparently displayed. .

Next, the CPU 66 performs special game execution processing (step S28).
The special game is a game that provides a predetermined profit and / or advantageous state to the player. For example, after the grand prize opening 38 is in an open state, 10 game balls are placed in the big prize opening 38. A game that can be played for a maximum of 10 rounds is performed, with one round being a game until entering or a predetermined period of time elapses. In step S28, the CPU 66 executes various processes for performing the special game as described above. Further, the sub control circuit 80 performs processing for displaying various images for producing a special game on the display unit of the display device 32. When the process in step S28 is completed, or when it is determined in step S26 that no special prize has been generated based on the result of the variable display game, this subroutine is terminated.

If it is determined in step S25 that the development effect is to be performed, the CPU 66 transmits a front identification information image two-dimensional display command to the sub-control circuit 80 (step S31). Based on this command, the sub-control circuit 80 performs processing for generating an image to be displayed on the display unit of the display device 32, and displays the generated image on the display unit. As a result, a two-dimensional image including the identification information image of the front surface 110 is displayed on the display unit of the display device 32. At this time, the identification information images of the inner surface 120 and the rear surface 130 are not displayed.

Next, the CPU 66 transmits a front identification information image variation start command to the sub control circuit 80 (step S32). Then, the sub-control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the identification information image on the front surface 110 on the display unit of the display device 32 in such a manner that it is variably displayed.

Next, the CPU 66 waits until a predetermined time elapses, and continues to display the variation of the identification information image on the front surface 110 (step S33), and then, based on the result of the internal lottery process in step S20, the front surface identification information. An image stop command is transmitted (step S34).
The sub-control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the identification information image on the front surface 110 in a manner that the display 110 is variably displayed on the display unit 32 for a predetermined period, and then stops display based on the result of the internal lottery process. It is displayed in the mode.

By performing the processes of steps S32 to S34, the variation display and the stop display of the identification information image on the front surface 110 are performed. Note that the processes in steps S33 and S34 are not necessarily performed on all the identification information images on the front surface 110 at the same time as in steps S23 and S24 described above.

Next, based on the result of the internal lottery process in step S20, the CPU 66 determines whether or not to perform an expansion effect such as an expansion reach (step S35).
For example, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display area 111 of the front surface 110 after the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display area 111 of the front surface 110, the identification information image on the front surface 110 is stopped. When the display result is combined with the stop display result of the identification information image on the rear surface 130, the depth is reached (see FIG. 4A). In such a case, the CPU 66 determines that the development reach is to be performed, and performs the variable display and stop display of the identification information image on the inner surface 120 as will be described later.

When it is determined that the development effect is not performed, the CPU 66 receives a special prize based on whether or not the combination of the identification information images that are stopped and displayed is a predetermined combination on the active line of the front surface 110, that is, the result of the variable display game. Whether or not has occurred is determined (step S36). For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 111, 115, and 119 that are effective lines in the diagonal direction of the front surface 110, a special prize is generated.

When it is determined that a special prize has been generated as a result of the variable display game, the CPU 66 transmits an identification information image transparent / non-transparent display switching command to the sub-control circuit 80 (step S37). In this case, a command is transmitted to make the special award symbol non-transparent and other identification information images transparent. Then, the sub control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the special award symbol on the display unit of the display device 32 in a non-transparent manner and displays other identification information images in a transparent manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the identification information image is stopped and displayed, the identification information images in the display areas 111, 115, and 119 are displayed non-transparently, and other identification information images are displayed transparently. .

Next, the CPU 66 performs special game execution processing (step S38). This special game execution process is substantially the same as the process in step S28, and since it has already been described, description thereof is omitted here. When the process in step S38 is completed, or when it is determined in step S36 that no special prize has been generated based on the result of the variable display game, this subroutine is terminated.

If it is determined in step S36 that the development effect is to be performed, the CPU 66 transmits an identification information image image three-dimensional display command to the sub-control circuit 80 (step S41). Based on this command, the sub-control circuit 80 performs a process of generating a three-dimensional image displayed on the display unit of the display device 32, and displays the generated three-dimensional image on the display unit. As a result, a three-dimensional image including identification information images of the front surface 110, the middle surface 120, and the rear surface 130 is displayed on the display unit of the display device 32.

Next, the CPU 66 transmits a middle surface identification information image variation start command to the sub-control circuit 80 (step S42). Then, the sub-control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the identification information image on the inner surface 120 in a manner that it is variably displayed on the display unit of the display device 32.

Next, the CPU 66 waits until a predetermined time elapses, and continues to display the variation of the identification information image on the middle surface (step S43), and then identifies the middle surface based on the result of the internal lottery process in step S20. An information image stop command is transmitted (step S44).
The sub-control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the identification information image on the inner surface 120 in a manner that the display information is variably displayed on the display unit 32 for a predetermined period, and then stops based on the result of the internal lottery process. It is displayed in the display mode.

By performing the processes of steps S42 to S44, the variation display and the stop display of the identification information image on the inner surface 120 are performed. Note that the processing in steps S43 and S44 is not necessarily performed on all the identification information images on the inner surface 120 at the same time as in steps S23 and S24 described above.

Next, the CPU 66 determines that the combination of the identification information images that are stopped and displayed is a predetermined combination on one of the effective lines on the intermediate surface 120 or on the effective line extending from the front surface 110, the intermediate surface 120, and the rear surface 130. It is determined whether or not a combination (for example, “7”-“7”-“7”, etc.) is obtained, that is, whether a special prize has been generated based on the result of the variable display game (step S46). For example, when the identification information image is stopped and displayed as shown in FIGS. 5D to 5F, the identification information image that is stopped and displayed on the effective lines extending from the front surface 110, the middle surface 120, and the rear surface 130. Since the combination of “7”-“7”-“7”, a special prize is generated.

When it is determined that a special prize has been generated as a result of the variable display game, the CPU 66 transmits an identification information image transparent / non-transparent display switching command to the sub-control circuit 80 (step S47). In this case, a command is transmitted to make the special award symbol non-transparent and other identification information images transparent. Then, the sub control circuit 80 that has received the command displays the special award symbol on the display unit of the display device 32 in a non-transparent manner and displays other identification information images in a transparent manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 5D, when the identification information image is stopped and displayed, the identification information images in the display areas 111, 121, and 131 are displayed non-transparently, and the other identification information images are transparently displayed. .

Next, the CPU 66 performs a special game execution process (step S48). This special game execution process is substantially the same as the process in step S28, and since it has already been described, its description is omitted here. When the process in step S48 is completed, if it is determined in step S46 that no special prize has been generated based on the result of the variable display game, this subroutine is terminated.

As described with reference to FIG. 6, a two-dimensional image or a three-dimensional image is generated in the sub control circuit 80 by a command transmitted from the control circuit 60 and displayed on the display unit. The control circuit 60 functions as an image display switching unit capable of switching and displaying a three-dimensional image or a two-dimensional image on the display unit of the display device 32.

The sub control circuit 80 performs a process of displaying an image on the display unit of the display device 32 based on a command transmitted from the control circuit 60 in the subroutine shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a subroutine performed in the sub-control circuit 80 in order to generate a three-dimensional image displayed on the display unit of the display device 32. This subroutine is a subroutine performed corresponding to the subroutine shown in FIG.
When the subroutine shown in FIG. 7 is executed, the sub control circuit 80 functions as a three-dimensional image processing means for generating a three-dimensional image including the identification information image.

First, the CPU 81 of the sub control circuit 80 determines whether or not a command transmitted from the CPU 66 of the control circuit 60 is input via the display command signal receiving circuit 83 (step S80). Examples of commands transmitted from the CPU 66 include an identification information image two-dimensional display command, an identification information image three-dimensional display command, an identification information image variation start command, an identification information image stop command, and an identification information image in the subroutine shown in FIG. Examples include a transparent / non-transparent display switching command. In the sub-control circuit 80, processing for generating an image to be displayed on the display unit of the display device 32 is performed based on the received command.

If it is determined that a command has been input, the input command is set in the RAM 85 (step S81), and various data relating to the execution of the command are set in the RAM 85 (step S82).

Next, identification information image update processing is performed (step S83).
If the input command is an identification information image two-dimensional display command, the sub-control circuit 80 generates a two-dimensional image and updates the identification information image. That is, the identification information image is selected based on the result of the internal lottery process, the screen configuration information of the identification information image is written in a predetermined area of the video RAM 88, and the identification information image corresponding to the screen configuration information is read from the character ROM 87. Read data. Then, a two-dimensional image including an identification information image is generated in a predetermined area of the video RAM 88 based on information regarding the priority order and position displayed in the screen configuration information. When the generation of the two-dimensional image that can be output to the display device 32 is completed, the output permission flag is turned ON.

On the other hand, when the input command is an identification information image three-dimensional display command, the sub-control circuit 80 generates a three-dimensional image and updates the identification information image.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a subroutine for generating a three-dimensional image. This subroutine is called and executed in step S83 of the subroutine shown in FIG.

First, the CPU 81 determines a scene and an object to be three-dimensionally displayed based on the input command (step S91). Next, the CPU 81 arranges the selected three-dimensional object in a preset virtual three-dimensional space (world space) (step S92). The processing in step S92 is processing for converting the model space set for each object into world space, and includes processing related to conversion of the rotation, position, size, and the like of the object. The object includes a variable display surface having a plurality of display areas, an identification information image, and the like. The display area or the variable display surface may be displayed so as to be visible, or may not be displayed.

Next, the CPU 81 converts the virtual three-dimensional space into the camera space with the viewpoint as the origin from the position and direction of the viewpoint in the virtual three-dimensional space according to the scene determined in step S91 (step S93).
When executing the process of step S93, it is desirable to move the viewpoint in the virtual three-dimensional space over time according to the progress of the game. For example, when a special prize or reach occurs, the player is most noticed by moving the viewpoint in the virtual three-dimensional space so that the identification information image related to the special prize or reach is displayed on the most front side. This is because the identification information image can be displayed so as to be easily visible.

For example, a reference table corresponding to each active line and the viewpoint position is stored in advance in the program ROM 84 or the like, and when a special prize or reach occurs, the viewpoint is switched based on the reference table. This can be done by determining the viewpoint position according to the effective line.

Next, the CPU 81 converts the camera space into a three-dimensional space corresponding to the field of view (viewing angle) from the viewpoint (step S94). As a result, it is possible to extract objects in the field of view, and further enlarge an object close to the viewpoint and reduce an object far from the viewpoint. Next, the CPU 81 clips the object (polygon data) in the three-dimensional space corresponding to the visual field from the viewpoint to the space corresponding to the screen coordinates of the display unit of the display device 32 (step S95).

Next, the VDP 82 performs lighting processing such as shading and reflection on each clipped polygon data based on the light source set in the virtual three-dimensional space (step S96). Next, the VDP 82 performs texture mapping in which predetermined texture data is pasted on the surface of each polygon, and determines the appearance of the object (step S97).
This texture mapping includes not only simple texture data pasting but also various operations on the texture such as light mapping, environment mapping, bump mapping, and transparency mapping.

At this time, it is desirable that the three-dimensional image processing means (sub-control circuit 80) generate a three-dimensional image so that the same type of identification information image has a different color for each variable display surface, and image data storage means ( The character ROM 87) preferably stores identification information image data of a plurality of colors related to the same type of identification information image.
This is because even when identification information images of the same type are displayed in an overlapping manner, the identification information images can be more easily recognized because they are displayed in different colors.
For example, the identification information image “7” on the front surface 110 is red, the identification information image “7” on the middle surface 120 is green, and the identification information image “7” on the rear surface 130 is blue. By pasting texture data of different colors for each variable display surface on the surface of each polygon of the object, a three-dimensional image can be generated so that the same type of identification information image has a different color for each variable display surface. it can. It should be noted that the “different colors” need only be different to the extent that the player can identify them, and includes that the patterns are different from each other.

If the identification information image transparent / non-transparent display switching command is received, in step S97, the VDP 82 displays the predetermined identification information image as a transparent display by transparency mapping based on the command. Processing to make the identification information image non-transparent display is performed.
For example, when a command transmitted from the control circuit 60 is received in step S27 of the subroutine shown in FIG. 6, the VDP 82 makes the identification information image related to the special prize symbol non-transparent by transparency mapping based on the command. Display, and other identification information images are transparently displayed.

When all the identification information images on the front surface 110, the middle surface 120, and the rear surface 130 are displayed, the three-dimensional image processing means (sub-control circuit 80) is configured so that the identification information image that is stopped and displayed is transparent. It is desirable to generate an image. This is because it is possible to display the identification information image on the variable display that the player is interested in and pays attention in a manner that is easy to visually recognize, and to prevent the player from feeling tired. For example, after receiving the identification information image three-dimensional display command from the control circuit 60 and displaying all the identification information images on the front surface 110, the middle surface 120, and the rear surface 130, the identification information image on the middle surface 120 is displayed in a variable manner. In this case, the identification information images on the front surface 110 and the rear surface 130 that are stopped and displayed are made transparent, so that the identification information image in the variable display that the player is interested in can be displayed in an easy-to-view manner. .

When all the identification information images on the front surface 110, the middle surface 120, and the rear surface 130 are displayed, the three-dimensional image processing means (sub-control circuit 80) makes the identification information image superimposed on the identification information image variably displayed transparent. Thus, it is also desirable to generate a three-dimensional image. For example, according to the example shown in FIG. 5, when the identification information image on the middle surface 120 is variably displayed, the identification information image on the front surface 110 superimposed on the identification information image on the middle surface 120 is transparently displayed. As a result, it is easy to visually recognize the identification information image during the variable display, and it is possible to prevent the player from feeling tired.

As a method of transparently displaying the identification information image, for example, an intermediate color between the texture data color of the lower layer identification information image and the texture data color of the upper layer identification information image is determined for each pixel, and the determined intermediate color is determined. A method of setting the texture data color of the identification information image in the upper layer can be used. Further, for example, a method of translucently combining both identification information images using a predetermined coefficient (alpha value) (so-called alpha blend) can be used. At this time, the alpha value may be specified in advance, or may be specified when the translucent composition is performed.

Further, for example, mask data in a striped pattern, a dotted pattern, or a grid pattern is stored in advance in the character ROM 87 or the like, and a thinning process is performed on the texture data of the identification information image on the upper layer using the mask data. It is also possible to use a method in which texture data with transparent pixels corresponding to the mask data is generated and pasted on the surface of each Boligon of the object to be the upper layer identification information image. Further, the thinning process can be omitted by storing texture data in which the thinning process is performed in advance and the predetermined pixel is transparent in the character ROM 87 or the like.

In the present invention, the transparent display of the identification information image is not only to display the upper layer identification information image in a colored transparent manner, but also to display the upper layer identification information image as long as the lower layer identification information image is visible. For example, it is possible to make the lower layer visible by making it a dotted shape, a striped pattern, a lattice shape, or the like.

Further, for example, when a reach occurs in the depth direction due to the combination of the stop display result of the identification information image on the front surface 110 and the stop information display result of the identification information image on the rear surface 130, the combination of the stopped and displayed identification information images When reach occurs over a plurality of variable display surfaces, the three-dimensional image processing means (sub control circuit 80) displays the identification information image existing in the display area on the effective line related to reach in a blinking manner. It is desirable to generate a three-dimensional image. The display area on the effective line related to reach is generated by generating a three-dimensional image so as to display or hide the identification information image existing in the display area on the effective line related to reach every predetermined period. The identification information image existing in the screen can be displayed in a blinking manner. As a result, it is possible to easily determine the reach on the effective line set in the depth direction. Reach can be easily performed on the effective line set in the depth direction by displaying the identification information image existing in the display area on the effective line related to reach in a color or pattern different from that of other identification information images. It becomes possible to determine.

Next, for all polygons, the depth information is investigated for each pixel of each polygon, and the pixels whose depth information is closer to the viewpoint are displayed, and the depth information in the depth buffer is updated (step S98). As a result, rendered three-dimensional drawing data can be generated.

Next, the drawing data is written in an area corresponding to the display unit of the display device 32 set in advance on the video RAM 88, and a three-dimensional image including an identification information image is generated for one frame (step S99). Further, when the generation of the three-dimensional image that can be output to the display device 32 is completed, the output permission flag is turned ON. Thereafter, this subroutine is terminated.

After generating the two-dimensional image or the three-dimensional image as described above, the CPU 81 determines whether or not the output permission flag is ON (step S84). If it is determined that the output permission flag is OFF, the process returns to step S80. On the other hand, when the output permission flag is ON, the CPU 81 instructs the VDP 82 to display the two-dimensional image or the three-dimensional image generated in the video RAM 88 on the display unit of the display device 32. The generated two-dimensional image or three-dimensional image is displayed on the display unit of the display device 32 (step S93). The VDP 82 functions as a display unit that displays a three-dimensional image on the display unit of the display device 32.
Next, it is determined whether or not to end the display on the display unit of the display device 32 (step S94). If it is determined not to end the display, the process returns to step S80. On the other hand, if it is determined that the display is to be terminated, this subroutine is terminated.

In the subroutine shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 81 performs the processing (geometry calculation) in steps S91 to S95, and the subsequent rasterization is performed by the VDP 82. However, the VDP 82 also performs the geometry calculation. It is good.

Further, in the above-described example, the case of using the method of transparently displaying the identification information image that is stopped and displayed has been described. However, instead of or in addition to the method, the identification information image that is stopped and displayed is blurred. A method of performing processing and displaying can be used.
Since the identification information image displayed in a variable manner is in focus, and the other identification information images that are displayed in a stopped state can be displayed in such a manner that they are out of focus as the distance from the focus increases. This is because it is possible to display the identification information image in the variable display, which is noticed with interest in a manner that is easier to visually recognize, and a more realistic effect is possible. Hereinafter, a method for performing a blurring process on the identification information image that has been stopped and displayed will be described.

First, the depth range information of each pixel is set based on the depth information (Z value) from the viewpoint for the three-dimensional image written in the predetermined area of the video RAM 88 in step S99 of the subroutine shown in FIG.
For example, the depth range information is set to A for a pixel representing an object (Z ≧ Z3) arranged in the latest scene. For the pixels representing the object (Z3 ≧ Z ≧ Z2) arranged in the foreground, the depth range information is set to B. In addition, for a pixel representing an object (Z2 ≧ Z ≧ Z1) arranged in the focal depth range, the depth range information is set to C. For a pixel representing an object (Z1 ≧ Z ≧ Z0) arranged in a distant view, the depth range information is set to D. Further, the depth range information is set to E for the pixel representing the object (Z ≦ Z0) arranged in the farthest view. For Z0 to Z3, predetermined values satisfying Z0 <Z1 <Z2 <Z3 are set in advance.

In order to set the depth range information described above, first, all the pixels of the three-dimensional image are filled with the depth range information “A”. Specifically, a polygon in which depth range information “A” is set for all pixels is masked with information other than the depth range information of the drawing destination pixel (for example, color information and depth information) and then rendered. .

Similarly, a pixel whose depth information is Z ≦ Z3 is filled with depth range information “B”. Subsequently, the pixel of Z ≦ Z2 is filled with the depth range information “C”. Further, the pixel of Z ≦ Z1 is filled with the depth range information “D”, and then the pixel of Z ≦ Z0 is filled with the depth range information “E”.

As a result of the processing described above, depth range information is set in the three-dimensional image written in the predetermined area of the video RAM 88. Next, this three-dimensional image is copied to another area of the video RAM 88. The area where the copy source 3D image is written is called an input buffer, and the area where the copy destination 3D image is written is called an output buffer.

Next, the blurring process is performed on the objects arranged in the distant view (Z1 ≧ Z ≧ Z0) and the farthest view (Z ≦ Z0). First, among the pixels of the three-dimensional image in the input buffer, the pixels whose depth range information is “D” or “E” are shifted one pixel to the left and right from the original position, and translucently synthesized with the three-dimensional image in the output buffer. . After that, among the pixels of the three-dimensional image in the input buffer, the pixels whose depth range information is “E” are shifted one pixel up and down from the original position, and translucently synthesized with the three-dimensional image in the output buffer.
Note that when translucent composition is performed, the translucent composition is not performed on pixels whose depth range information is other than “D” or “E”. Translucent synthesis can be performed by the above-described alpha blend or the like.

Thereafter, the blurring process is performed on the objects arranged in the near view (Z3 ≧ Z ≧ Z2) and the latest view (Z ≧ Z3). First, among the pixels of the three-dimensional image in the input buffer, the pixels whose depth range information is “A” or “B” are shifted one pixel up and down from the original position, and translucently synthesized with the three-dimensional image in the output buffer. . After that, among the pixels of the three-dimensional image in the input buffer, the pixels whose depth range information is “A” are shifted one pixel up and down from the original position, and translucently synthesized with the three-dimensional image in the output buffer. When it is determined that the output permission flag is turned on, the three-dimensional image subjected to the blurring process in this way is output and displayed on the display unit of the display device 32.

When the identification information image on the front surface 110 is variably displayed, for example, the pixels of the identification information image on the front surface 110 have a depth of focus range (Z2 ≧ Z ≧ Z1), and the pixels of the identification information image on the middle surface 120 have a distant view (Z1). ≧ Z ≧ Z0), the blurring process described above may be executed after setting the viewpoint so that the pixels of the identification information image on the rear surface 130 are in the farthest view (Z ≦ Z0).

When the identification information image on the inner surface 120 is variably displayed, for example, the pixels of the identification information image on the front surface 110 are in the foreground (Z3 ≧ Z ≧ Z2), and the pixels of the identification information image on the inner surface 120 have the depth of focus. The blurring process described above may be executed after the viewpoint is set such that the range (Z2 ≧ Z ≧ Z1) and the pixels of the identification information image on the rear surface 130 are in the distant view (Z1 ≧ Z ≧ Z0).

When the identification information image on the rear surface 130 is variably displayed, for example, the pixels of the identification information image on the front surface 110 are closest to the background (Z ≧ Z3), and the pixels of the identification information image on the inner surface 120 are in the foreground (Z3 ≧ Z). ≧ Z2) After the viewpoint is set so that the pixels of the identification information image on the rear surface 130 are within the focal depth range (Z2 ≧ Z ≧ Z1), the above-described blurring process may be executed.

As described above, by performing the blurring process on the identification information image that is stopped and displayed, only the identification information image that is variably displayed is in focus. Since the display can be performed in a mode in which the focal point is deviated as the distance is increased, the identification information image can be displayed in a mode that is easier to visually recognize, and a more realistic effect can be achieved.

As for the blurring process, for example, a reference table in which the viewpoint position, the point of interest position and the object position correspond to the blurring ratio is stored in advance in the program ROM 84 and the blurring process is performed at a different ratio in advance. When a plurality of texture data is stored in the character ROM 87 and texture data is mapped to the object of the identification information image, the polygon blur ratio of each object is determined based on the reference table, and the determined blur ratio is determined. The texture data may be called from the character ROM 87 and mapped.

Next, an image displayed on the display unit of the display device 32 when the variable display game described with reference to FIGS.
FIGS. 9A to 9D and 10A to 10D are diagrams schematically illustrating an example of an image displayed on the display unit of the display device 32 during the variable display game.
In FIG. 10, for convenience of explanation, an image generated by the parallel projection method is shown. However, in the present invention, of course, as described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The generated image may be displayed.
9 and 10 are not denoted by reference numerals, but the variable display surface and the display area shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 correspond to FIG. 4A. In the description of the display area, the description will be made using the reference numerals attached to FIG.

First, when the variable display game is started, the display unit of the display device 32 has a rear surface (variable display surface) 130 having nine display areas and red identifications arranged in the display areas 131 to 139. A two-dimensional image including the information image “7” or “●” is displayed (see FIG. 9A). Note that the front surface 110 and the middle surface 120 are not displayed.
When the predetermined period elapses, the identification information image on the rear surface 130 is stopped and displayed (see FIG. 9B). In the example shown in FIG. 9B, the red identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 132, 134, and 139, and the red identification information image “●” is stopped in the other display areas. Is displayed.

Next, when the development effect is started, the display unit of the display device 32 has a front surface (fluctuating display surface) 110 having nine display areas, and blue identifications arranged in the display areas 111 to 119. A two-dimensional image including the information image “7” or “●” is displayed (see FIG. 9C). The middle surface 120 and the rear surface 130 are not displayed.
When the predetermined period has elapsed, the identification information image on the front surface 110 is stopped and displayed (see FIG. 9D). In the example shown in FIG. 9D, the blue identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 111 and 116, and the blue identification information image “●” is stopped and displayed in the other display areas. The

In this case, when the stop display result of the identification information image on the front surface 110 (see FIG. 9D) and the stop display result of the identification information image on the rear surface 130 (see FIG. 9B) are combined, the display on the front surface 110 is displayed. The identification information image “7” stopped and displayed in the area 111 and the identification information image “7” stopped and displayed in the display area 139 on the rear surface 130 reach the depth direction. Further, the identification information image “7” stopped and displayed on the display area 116 of the front surface 110 and the identification information image “7” stopped and displayed on the display area 134 of the rear surface 130 also reach in the depth direction.
In such a case, next, a three-dimensional image including identification information images of the front surface 110, the middle surface 120, and the rear surface 130 is displayed on the display unit of the display device 32 (see FIG. 10A). The identification information image on the front surface 110 is blue, the identification information image on the rear surface 130 is red, and the identification information image on the newly displayed middle surface 120 is green.

Thereafter, the variable display of the identification information image on the inner surface 120 is started (see FIG. 10B), and when a predetermined period has elapsed, the identification information image “7” or “ “●” is stopped and displayed (see FIG. 9C). In the example shown in FIG. 9C, the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed on the display area 125 of the middle surface 120, and the identification information image “●” is stopped and displayed on the other display area of the middle surface 120. As a result, since the identification information image “7” is stopped and displayed in the display areas 111-125-139 and the display areas 116-125-134 which are effective lines, a special prize is generated.

In the above-described example, the 3D image is not always displayed, but the development effect is rarely performed, and the 3D image is displayed with an effect that increases expectation. It is possible to provide an effect that can improve the sense of expectation by increasing the effective line while reducing the number of effective lines.
Further, since the same type of identification information image is displayed in different colors for each variable display surface, the identification information image can be more easily viewed.

In the example shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, either the identification information image “7” that can be a special symbol or the identification information image “●” that is out of place is displayed in the display area. As described above, in the present invention, it is desirable to display two types of identification information images, that is, one type of identification information image that can be a special award symbol and one type of identification information image that is out of place as the identification information image. . This is because even if the identification information images are displayed as a three-dimensional image and overlapped, if there are only two types of identification information images, the identification information image can be easily visually recognized.

Also, the identification information image displayed on the display unit at the same time is only one type of identification information image that can be a special prize design, and the identification information image is not displayed in the display area in which the identification information image that will be out of place is displayed. Also good. This is because it is possible to make it easier to visually recognize an identification information image that can be a special prize symbol.

Further, as described above, even when the identification information image displayed on the display unit is one or two types at the same time, three or more types of identification information image data are stored in the image data storage means (character ROM 87). It is desirable to be memorized. For example, it is possible to produce various effects such as displaying different identification information images for each variable display game.

In the example described above, at the start of the variable display game, the two-dimensional image shows the variation display and stop display of the identification information image on the rear surface 130, and then the two-dimensional image displays the variation display and stop display of the identification information image on the front surface 110. When the reach in the depth direction is achieved by combining the stop display result of the identification information image on the front surface 110 and the stop display result of the identification information image on the rear surface 130, the front 110, the middle surface 120, and the rear surface 130 are identified. The case where the three-dimensional image including the information image is displayed and the variation display and the stop display of the identification information image on the inner surface 120 are performed has been described. In the present invention, when a plurality of reaches are established in the depth direction, the identification information image of the display area related to each reach is not performed simultaneously with the variable display and stop display of all the identification information images on the inner surface 120. The change display and the stop display may be sequentially performed. Since each of the plurality of reach can surely recognize whether or not a special prize is generated, it is possible to perform an effect with a higher expectation. In this case, for each of the plurality of reach, in order to make the identification information image related to reach easier to visually recognize, the identification information image related to reach is displayed on the most front side so that It is also possible to move the viewpoint.

As described above, the case where the present invention is applied to the pachinko gaming apparatus has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described example, and can be applied to a pachislot gaming apparatus or a slot machine other than the pachinko gaming apparatus. .

In the embodiment of the present invention, the identification information image that is variably displayed or stopped on the display unit is configured as a special symbol, but is not limited to this and is applied to a normal symbol. It may be applied to a variable display game with a decorative symbol that is displayed in a variable manner or stopped in conjunction with the display of a special symbol or a normal symbol.

1 is a front view schematically showing a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present invention. 2 is an enlarged front view schematically showing a game board 14 of the pachinko gaming apparatus 10. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 10. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for detecting a game ball executed in the control circuit 60 of the pachinko gaming machine 10. (A)-(f) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the variable display game which concerns on this invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for performing variable display game processing that is called and executed in step S14 of the subroutine shown in FIG. 4; FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine performed in the sub-control circuit 80 in order to generate an image displayed on the display unit of the display device 32. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine performed in the sub control circuit 80 in order to produce | generate a three-dimensional image. (A)-(d) is a figure which shows typically an example of the image displayed on the display part of the display apparatus 32 during a variable display game. (A)-(c) is a figure which shows typically an example of the image displayed on the display part of the display apparatus 32 during a variable display game.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko gaming machine 14 Game board 32 Display device 38 Big prize opening 44 Start opening 60 Control circuit 66 CPU
68 ROM
70 RAM
80 Sub control circuit 81 CPU
82 LSI for Image Processing (VDP)
110 Front (Fluctuation display surface)
111-119 (front) display area 120 middle surface (variable display surface)
121-129 (middle surface) display area 130 rear surface (variable display surface)
131-139 (rear) display area

Claims (6)

Provided with a display unit on which a plurality of identification information images are variably displayed or stopped,
Image data storage means for storing identification information image data relating to the identification information image;
A plurality of variable display surfaces having a plurality of display areas for the identification information image are arranged in the depth direction in a virtual three-dimensional space, and the identification information image data is arranged in each of the display areas, and the identification information 3D image processing means for generating a 3D image including the image;
Two-dimensional image processing means for generating the two-dimensional image including the identification information image by arranging the identification information image data in each of the display areas of the variable display surface;
Display means for displaying the three-dimensional image or the two-dimensional image on the display unit;
An gaming machine comprising: an image display switching unit capable of switching and displaying the three-dimensional image and the two-dimensional image on the display unit. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the variable display surface includes three vertical display areas × three horizontal display areas, and the three variable display surfaces are arranged in the depth direction in the virtual three-dimensional space. . The image data storage means stores the identification information image data of a plurality of colors related to the identification information image of the same type,
The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the three-dimensional image processing means generates the three-dimensional image so that the same type of the identification information image has a different color for each of the variable display surfaces. The three-dimensional image processing means blinks the identification information image existing in the display area on the effective line related to the reach when the reach occurs across the plurality of the variable display surfaces by the combination of the identification information images stopped and displayed. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a three-dimensional image is generated so as to be displayed in such a manner. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the three-dimensional image processing means generates a three-dimensional image so that the identification information image that is stopped and displayed is transparent. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the three-dimensional image processing means generates a three-dimensional image so that an identification information image to be superimposed on the identification information image that is variably displayed is transparent.

Images