JP2008132079A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of maintaining the interest of a game by preventing the game from becoming monotonous.
A gaming machine includes a random number generator 36 for generating a random number at a predetermined period, a start switch 6S for outputting a game start command signal in response to an operation by a player, and a game start command from the start switch 6S. A sampling circuit 37 that extracts a random number generated by the random number generator 36 on condition that the signal is detected and a symbol displayed by the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R on condition that the game start command signal is detected. And a symbol changing means for changing, and a winning combination determining means for determining at least one winning combination from a plurality of predetermined winning combinations based on the random number extracted by the sampling circuit 37. The gaming machine includes game number counting means for counting the number of times a unit game has been performed, and random number generation period changing means for changing the period of the random number generator according to the counted number of unit games.
[Selection] Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  For example, a slot machine equipped with a stop button, a so-called pachislot machine, has a variable display device configured by arranging a plurality of mechanical rotating reels that display a plurality of symbols in the front display window, or a symbol on the reel on the screen. It has an electrical fluctuation display device for displaying. In response to the player's start operation, the control means drives the variable display device to rotate each reel so that the symbols are displayed in a variable manner. After a certain time, automatically or by the player's stop operation, Stop rotation sequentially. At this time, when the symbols of the reels appearing in the display window become a specific combination (winning symbol), a profit is given to the player by paying out game media such as coins and medals.

  Currently, the mainstream model has a plurality of types of winning modes. In particular, when a predetermined winning combination is established, a single coin is not paid out, and the gaming state is better in condition than the normal state for a predetermined period. As such a combination, a combination that can play a game that gives a relatively large profit to the player a predetermined number of times (referred to as “Big Bonus”, hereinafter abbreviated as “BB”) and a relatively small profit to the player There is a role that can play a predetermined number of games (referred to as “regular bonus”, hereinafter abbreviated as “RB”).

  In addition, in current mainstream models, a predetermined combination of symbols is arranged along an activated formation line (hereinafter referred to as an “effective line”), and in order to establish a winning in which coins, medals, etc. are paid out, A combination of symbols indicating that the winning combination of the winning combination (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) and winning the winning combination (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) is effective The player is required to perform a stop operation at an appropriate timing at which the player can stop at the line. In other words, no matter how much internal winning is made, if the timing of the stop operation of the player is bad, a winning cannot be established. That is, gaming machines that require skill in the timing of the stop operation (the high importance of technical intervention called “to push”) are currently mainstream.

Here, the above-mentioned internal lottery is performed in response to a player's start operation. Specifically, a random number is extracted when the player operates the start lever, and a combination corresponding to the value of the random number is determined as an internal winning combination (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The random number is extracted by extracting the random number at a timing when the start lever is operated from a random number generated (updated) within a certain numerical range within a certain numerical range.
JP 2001-170252 A

  However, as described above, if a random number within a certain range is generated every certain period by the random number generating means, the generation timing of the random number may be predicted by the player. Further, for example, when a game is played for a long time, random numbers may be extracted at the same timing in accordance with the operation of the start lever by the player. For this reason, if a random number in a certain range is generated for every certain period, there is a possibility that the change in the wave of the payout rate becomes monotonous. For this reason, for the player, the game is monotonous, and the interest may be reduced.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can maintain the interest of the game by preventing the game from becoming monotonous.

  The present invention provides the following.

  (1) Symbol display means (for example, reels 3L, 3C, 3R, which will be described later) for displaying a plurality of symbols (for example, symbols 121 to 127 which will be described later), and a predetermined cycle (for example, a generation cycle which will be described later, 224 μsec, 2240 μsec, And 22400 μsec) random number generating means (for example, a random number generator 36 described later) and a game start command signal (for example, a game start command described later) for instructing the start of a unit game in response to an operation by the player. A random number generated by the random number generation means on condition that a game start signal output means (for example, a start switch 6S described later) for outputting a signal and a game start command signal from the game start signal output means are detected. Random number extracting means (for example, a sampling circuit 37 to be described later) for extracting the game start command signal from the game start signal output means. On condition that the symbol displayed by the symbol display means is changed (for example, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R described later, motor drive circuit 39, and main control circuit 71), and the random number Based on the random number extracted by the extracting means, a winning combination determining means (for example, a diagram described later) for determining at least one winning combination from a plurality of predetermined winning combinations (for example, BB, RB, and replay described later). 15 a random lottery processing means, a main control circuit 71, and the like, and a stop command signal (for example, a stop command to be described later) for instructing stop of symbol variation performed by the symbol variation unit in response to an operation by the player Stop signal output means (for example, a reel stop signal circuit 46 described later) and a stop command signal from the stop signal output means are detected. In particular, on the basis of the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means, stop control means (for example, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, which will be described later, motors which perform stop control of the variation of symbols performed by the symbol changing means, A game circuit (for example, a gaming machine 1 described later) including a drive circuit 39 and a main control circuit 71), and a game number counting means (for example, a diagram described later) for counting the number of times the unit game has been performed. 13 is a random number generation period changing means (for example, main control circuit 71) and a random number generation period changing means for changing the predetermined period according to the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means. And a means for performing the process of step S91 in FIG. 18 to be described later, a main control circuit 71, and the like.

  According to the gaming machine described in (1), since the game number counting means and the random number generation period changing means are provided, the random number generating means generates a random number according to the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means. The period can be changed. For this reason, it is more difficult for the player to predict the generation timing of random numbers compared to the case where random numbers are always generated at regular intervals, preventing the game from becoming monotonous for the player. You can maintain interest.

  In addition, since the game number counting means and the random number generation period changing means are provided as described above, even when the player performs an operation at the same timing before and after changing the period for generating random numbers. The random numbers extracted by the random number extraction means are different. For this reason, when a game is played for a long time, even if the probability of winning each winning combination is the same, it is possible to generate a wave of the payout rate and maintain the interest of the game.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), a cycle selection table that defines a different cycle according to the number of unit games counted by the number-of-games counting means (for example, a random number generation cycle selection table in FIG. 9 described later) ), And the random number generation period changing means changes the predetermined period based on the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means and the period selection table. Machine.

  According to the gaming machine described in (2), the period selection table that defines different periods according to the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means is provided. For this reason, according to the change in the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means, the cycle in which the random number generating means generates the random number is changed to a cycle defined by the cycle selection table. Therefore, by selecting various cycles, it becomes possible to generate a number of waves of the payout rate, preventing the game from becoming monotonous for the player, and maintaining the interest of the game.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the game number counting means and the random number generation period changing means are provided. Can be changed. For this reason, it is more difficult for the player to predict the generation timing of random numbers compared to the case where random numbers are always generated at regular intervals, preventing the game from becoming monotonous for the player. You can maintain interest.
In addition, since the game number counting means and the random number generation period changing means are provided as described above, even when the player performs an operation at the same timing before and after changing the period for generating random numbers. The random numbers extracted by the random number extraction means are different. For this reason, when a game is played for a long time, even if the probability of winning each winning combination is the same, it is possible to generate a wave of the payout rate and maintain the interest of the game.

  Hereinafter, the gaming machine of the embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine 1 is a so-called “pachislot machine”. This gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine that uses a gaming medium such as a card that stores information on gaming value given to or given to a player in addition to coins, medals, gaming balls, tokens, and the like. However, in the following description, medals are used.

  A panel display portion 2a as a substantially vertical surface is formed on the front surface of the cabinet 2 forming the entire gaming machine 1, and vertically long display windows 4L, 4C, 4R are provided at the center thereof. The display windows 4L, 4C and 4R are provided with a top line 8b, a center line 8c and a bottom line 8d in the horizontal direction as display lines, and a cross-up line 8a and a cross-down line 8e in an oblique direction.

  These display lines are operated by operating a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum BET switch 13 (hereinafter referred to as “BET operation”), or by inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 22. One, three and five are activated respectively. Which display line is activated is displayed by turning on BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c, which will be described later.

  Here, the display lines 8a to 8e are related to the success or failure of the combination. Specifically, the symbols constituting the symbol combination corresponding to the predetermined combination are stopped and displayed side by side at a predetermined position corresponding to one of the active lines (the activated display lines), thereby the predetermined combination. Will be established.

  Inside the cabinet 2, three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R as symbol display means in which a plurality of types of symbols necessary for a game are drawn in a row are rotatably provided on each outer peripheral surface. . Specifically, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are provided in a horizontal row inside the cabinet 2 so that a part of the outer peripheral surface is displayed through the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R of the cabinet 2. (See FIG. 2 described later). Each reel rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rpm).

  On the left side of the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, a 1-BET lamp 9a, a 2-BET lamp 9b, a maximum BET lamp 9c, and an information display unit 18 are provided. The 1-BET lamp 9a, the 2-BET lamp 9b, and the maximum BET lamp 9c are turned on according to the number of medals betted to play one game (hereinafter referred to as “BET number”).

  The 1-BET lamp 9a is turned on when the number of BETs is “1” and one display line is activated (when one effective line is set). The 2-BET lamp 9b is lit when the BET number is “2” and three display lines are activated (when three valid lines are set). The maximum BET lamp 9c is lit when the number of BETs is “3” and all (5) display lines are activated (when all (5) valid lines are set). The information display unit 18 is made up of 7-segment LEDs, and displays the number of medals stored (credited), the number of paid-out medals, and the like.

  A substantially horizontal base 10 is formed below the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. A liquid crystal display device 5 is provided at a substantially center of the pedestal portion 10 with its display screen 5a inclined with respect to a horizontal plane. On the display screen 5a of the liquid crystal display device 5, various effects and demonstration screens are displayed.

  In the pedestal 10, a medal slot 22 is provided on the right side of the liquid crystal display device 5 in FIG. 1 as a game medium insertion means that allows a player to insert medals. The player can bet medals on the game one by one by inserting medals from the medal insertion slot 22. By betting medals one by one in this way, predetermined display lines are sequentially activated. In addition, when the number of medals exceeding the maximum number (for example, 3) of medals that can bet on one game is inserted, the excess is credited.

  A 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum BET switch 13 are provided on the left side of the liquid crystal display device 5 in FIG. Here, the 1-BET switch 11 is betted on the game by one pressing operation, and the 2-BET switch 12 is credited by one pressing operation. Two of the existing medals are bet on the game, and the maximum BET switch 13 bets the maximum number (for example, three) of medals that can be bet on one game. By operating these BET switches 11, 12, and 13, a predetermined display line is validated as described above.

  A C / P switch 14 is provided on the left side of the front portion of the pedestal 10 to switch the credit / payout of medals acquired by the player in the game by a push button operation. By switching the C / P switch 14, medals are paid out from the medal payout opening 15 at the lower front, and the paid out medals are stored in the medal receiving portion 16.

  On the right side of the C / P switch 14, a start lever 6 is provided as a start operation means that can be operated by the player to start the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. ing. A start switch 6S (see FIG. 4 to be described later) is provided inside the cabinet 2, so that it is possible to detect the operation of the start lever 6 by the player.

  At the center of the front surface of the pedestal 10, there are three stop buttons 7L, as stop operation means that can be operated by the player to stop the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, respectively, at a position below the liquid crystal display device 5. 7C and 7R are provided. Speakers 21 </ b> L and 21 </ b> R are provided on the left and right above the medal receiving portion 16.

  Here, in the embodiment, one game (unit game) basically starts when the start lever 6 is operated (start operation) and rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R starts, and the stop button 7L , 7C, 7R are operated (stop operation), and the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is all stopped, thereby ending.

  In the embodiment, the reel stop operation (stop button operation) performed when all the reels are rotating is “first stop operation”, and the stop operation performed after “first stop operation” is “second stop operation”. The stop operation performed after “stop operation” and “second stop operation” is referred to as “third stop operation”.

  With reference to FIG. 2, the internal structure of the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an internal configuration of the cabinet 2. Specifically, it is a perspective view showing a configuration of the rear surface of the front door 20 and the inside of the cabinet 2 in a state where the front door 20 for opening and closing the cabinet 2 is opened.

  The front door 20 is locked to the cabinet 2 and can be opened by using a key for unlocking managed on the game hall side.

  A main control circuit 71 and a sub control circuit 72 for electrically controlling the gaming machine 1 are provided above the interior of the cabinet 2. The configurations of the main control circuit 71 and the sub control circuit 72 will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

  Within the cabinet 2, below the main control circuit 71 and the sub control circuit 72, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R each having a symbol row drawn on their outer peripheral surfaces are provided in a horizontal row. Stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R (see FIG. 4 described later) are attached to these reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, respectively, so that they can rotate.

A selector 47 for selecting medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 22 and a cancel chute 55 for guiding the medals to the medal receiving unit 16 are provided at the lower part of the rear surface of the front door 20.
On the other hand, a power supply unit 24 that supplies electric power to devices constituting the gaming machine 1 such as the main control circuit 71 and the sub control circuit 72 described above is located in the cabinet 2 at a position facing the selector 47 and the cancel chute 55. A hopper 40 is provided as a game medium payout means for paying out medals.

The selector 47 is provided on the back surface of the front door 20 at a position substantially opposite to the medal slot 22 described above, and the medal inserted from the medal slot 22 is introduced into the selector 47. The selector 47 sorts the medals into appropriate medals and defective medals based on the shape of the medals inserted into the medal slot 22. Here, the medals selected as appropriate medals by the selector 47 are discharged to the bucket 40 b provided in the hopper 40, and the medals selected as defective medals are discharged to the cancel chute 55.
The selector 47 also includes a medal sensor 22S (see FIG. 4 to be described later) for detecting medals selected as appropriate medals, thereby counting the number of medals inserted into the medal slot 22 by the player. It is possible to do.

  The hopper 40 includes a base 40 a that forms the lower part of the hopper 40, and a bucket 40 b that is connected to the base 40 a and forms an upper part of the hopper 40, and is placed inside the cabinet 2. Yes.

  The bucket 40b is a container for storing medals discharged from the selector 47 as proper medals or medals manually supplied. A substantially circular hole (not shown) is formed at the bottom of the bucket 40b.

  The base 40a is connected to the bottom of the bucket 40b through the above-described hole. The base 40a includes a medal discharge mechanism (not shown) that discharges a predetermined number of medals from medals accumulated in the bucket 40b. This medal discharge mechanism is driven by a hopper drive circuit 41 (see FIG. 4 described later) connected to the main control circuit 71. Thereby, the hopper 40 pays out medals according to the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  FIG. 3 shows a symbol row in which 21 types of symbols represented on each reel 3L, 3C, 3R are arranged. Each symbol is assigned a code number “00” to “20”, and is stored (stored) in a ROM 32 (FIG. 4) described later as a data table. On each reel 3L, 3C, 3R, “blue 7 (design 121)”, “red 7 (design 122)”, “BAR (design 123)”, “plum (design 124)”, “watermelon (design 125) ) ”,“ Replay (symbol 126) ”, and“ Cherry (symbol 127) ”. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is rotationally driven so that the symbol row moves in the direction of the arrow in FIG.

  Here, BB, RB, replay, watermelon small part, plum small part, upper and lower cherry small part, and middle cherry small part are provided in the role of the embodiment. RB is a type 1 special agent. BB is an accessory continuous operation device related to the first type special accessory.

  4 is based on a main control circuit 71 for controlling the game processing operation in the gaming machine 1, a peripheral device (actuator) electrically connected to the main control circuit 71, and a control command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. A circuit configuration including the liquid crystal display device 5, the speakers 21L and 21R, the LEDs 101 and the sub-control circuit 72 for controlling the lamps 102 is shown.

  The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 disposed on a circuit board as a main component, and is added to a circuit for random number sampling. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, and a ROM 32 and a RAM 33 that are storage means.

  The CPU 31 extracts a clock pulse generator 34 and a frequency divider 35 for generating a reference clock pulse, a random number generator 36 as a random number generator for generating a random number, and a random number generated by the random number generator 36 ( A sampling circuit 37 is connected as a random number extraction means for sampling.

The random number generator 36 generates (updates) random numbers belonging to a predetermined numerical range (random number width) at a preset cycle. Specifically, the random number generator 36 updates (counts up) a numerical value belonging to a set random number width (for example, “16384”) in ascending order by 1 every predetermined period (for example, 224 μsec). To generate a random number.
Here, the generation cycle in which the random number generator 36 generates a random number can be changed in three different generation cycles of 224 μsec, 2240 μsec, and 22400 μsec. Further, the generation cycle of the random number generator 36 is appropriately changed based on a command from the CPU 31. The sampling circuit 37 extracts a random number generated at any time by the random number generator 36.

  The ROM 32 of the microcomputer 30 has a probability lottery table (see FIG. 8 described later) used for determination of random number sampling performed every time the start lever 6 is operated (start operation), and the reel stop according to the stop button operation. A stop table group for determining the mode is stored. In addition, the ROM 32 stores various control commands (commands) to be transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, a random number generation cycle selection table (see FIG. 9 described later) used for changing the random number cycle, and the like. The sub control circuit 72 does not input commands and information to the main control circuit 71, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the sub control circuit 72. Various information is stored in the RAM 33. For example, a flag, game state information, and the like are stored.

  In the circuit of FIG. 4, as the main actuators whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 30, a BET lamp (1-BET lamp 9a, 2-BET lamp 9b, maximum BET lamp 9c) and an information display section 18, a hopper (including a drive unit for payout) 40 that stores medals and pays out a predetermined number of medals according to a command from the hopper drive circuit 41, and a stepping motor 49L that rotates the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. 49C and 49R.

  Furthermore, a motor drive circuit 39 that drives and controls the stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R, a hopper drive circuit 41 that drives and controls the hopper 40, a lamp drive circuit 45 that drives and controls the BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c, and the information display unit 18 A display unit driving circuit 48 that controls the driving of the CPU 31 is connected to the output unit of the CPU 31. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 31 and controls the operation of each actuator.

  The main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 30 to generate a control command includes a start switch 6S, a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, a maximum BET switch 13, There are a C / P switch 14, a medal sensor 22S, a reel stop signal circuit 46, a reel position detection circuit 50, and a payout completion signal circuit 51.

  The start switch 6S, as a game start signal output means, detects the operation of the start lever 6 by the player and outputs a game start command signal for instructing the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (start of unit game). . The medal sensor 22S detects a medal inserted into the medal slot 22 and outputs a predetermined signal. The reel stop signal circuit 46 detects the operation of each stop button 7L, 7C, 7R by the player as a stop signal output means, and outputs a stop command signal for instructing to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel 3L, 3C, 3R. To do.

  The reel position detection circuit 50 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and supplies a signal for detecting the position of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R to the CPU 31. The payout completion signal circuit 51 counts the signal output from the medal detection unit 40S provided in the hopper 40, and when the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40 reaches the designated number, the payout of medals is performed. Outputs a signal to command completion.

Next, an outline of the operation of the main control circuit 71 configured as described above will be described.
First, in the circuit of FIG. 4, the random number generator 36 generates a random number belonging to a predetermined random number width at a predetermined cycle (see an interrupt process for generating a random number in FIG. 18 described later). The sampling circuit 37 extracts the random number generated by the random number generator 36 on the condition that the game start command signal output in response to the operation of the start lever 6 is detected. That is, a random number generated as needed is extracted by the random number generator 36 at the timing when the player operates the start lever 6 (see step S4 in FIG. 11 described later). The CPU 31 determines a winning combination based on the random number extracted by the sampling circuit 37 and a probability lottery table (see FIG. 8 described later) stored in the ROM 32 (see step S6 in FIG. 11 described later). .

  Further, the CPU 31 sends a signal for rotating the reels 3L, 3C, 3R to the motor drive circuit 39 based on the game start command signal output at the timing when the player operates the start lever 6. The motor drive circuit 39 drives the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R according to the signal output from the CPU 31, and rotates the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Thereby, the variation display of the symbol drawn on the outer peripheral surface of reel 3L, 3C, 3R is performed.

  After the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started, the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is counted, and the counted value is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 33. From the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, reset pulses are obtained for each rotation, and these pulses are input to the CPU 31 via the reel position detection circuit 50. The count value of the drive pulse counted in the RAM 33 is cleared to “0” by the reset pulse thus obtained. As a result, the RAM 33 stores the count value corresponding to the rotational position within the range of one rotation for each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  A symbol table (not shown) is stored in the ROM 32 in order to associate the rotational positions of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel. In this symbol table, the code number sequentially given for each fixed rotation pitch of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R with reference to the rotation position where the reset pulse is generated as described above is provided corresponding to each code number. A symbol code indicating the displayed symbol is associated with the symbol.

  Furthermore, a symbol combination table is stored in the ROM 32. In this symbol combination table, a symbol combination corresponding to a combination, a medal payout number corresponding to the symbol combination, and a determination code thereof are associated with each other. This symbol combination table is referred to when the left reel 3L, the center reel 3C, and the right reel 3R are stopped and when the display combination is confirmed after all the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are stopped. Here, the display combination is a combination (established combination) corresponding to the symbol combinations arranged along the display line.

  Based on the lottery process (probability lottery process) based on the random number sampling, the CPU 31 operates the operation command signal sent from the reel stop signal circuit 46 at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R, and the selected stop. Based on the table, a signal for controlling the stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is output to the motor drive circuit 39 to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel.

  Here, the stop table is a table that associates the timing at which the stop command signal is output with the position at which the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped, and a plurality of stop tables are provided for each winning combination. The stop table is selected according to the winning combination determined in the probability lottery process.

  In the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R that are controlled to stop, if the combination of symbols displayed along the active line is in a stop mode indicating a winning combination, the CPU 31 supplies a payout command signal to the hopper drive circuit 41, The hopper 40 pays out medals. Here, the number of medals to be paid out by the hopper 40 depends on the combination of symbols that are stopped and the number of medals (BET number) bet on a unit game, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. Are predetermined.

  Further, when paying out medals from the hopper 40, the medal detection unit 40S detects the medals paid out from the hopper 40 and outputs a predetermined signal to the payout completion signal circuit 51. The payout completion signal circuit 51 counts signals from the medal detection unit 40S, and outputs a medal payout completion signal to the CPU 31 when the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40 reaches a designated number. As a result, the CPU 31 stops driving the hopper 40 via the hopper driving circuit 41 and ends the payout of medals.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the sub control circuit 72. The sub control circuit 72 includes an image control circuit (gSub) 72a and a sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b. The image control circuit (gSub) 72 a or the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72 b is configured on a circuit board different from the circuit board constituting the main control circuit 71.

  Communication between the main control circuit 71 and the image control circuit (gSub) 72a is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the image control circuit (gSub) 72a, and the image control circuit (gSub) 72a is connected to the main control circuit. No command or information is input to 71. Communication between the image control circuit (gSub) 72a and the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b is performed in one direction from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a to the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b. The sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b does not input commands or information to the image control circuit (gSub) 72a.

  The image control circuit (gSub) 72a includes an image control microcomputer 81, a serial port 82, a program ROM 83, a work RAM 84, a calendar IC 85, an image control IC 86, a control RAM 87, an image ROM (CROM (character ROM)) 88, and a video RAM 89. The

  The image control microcomputer 81 includes a CPU, an interrupt controller, and an input / output port (a serial port is shown). The CPU provided in the image control microcomputer 81 performs various processes according to the control program stored in the program ROM 83 based on the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The image control circuit (gSub) 72a does not include a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, but is configured to execute random number sampling on the operation program of the image control microcomputer 81. ing.

  The serial port 82 receives a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The program ROM 83 stores a control program executed by the image control microcomputer 81 and various tables described later. The program ROM 83 stores, for example, various tables used for performing effects.

  The work RAM 84 is configured as a temporary storage unit for work when the image control microcomputer 81 executes the control program described above. The work RAM 84 stores various kinds of information necessary for producing effects. The sub-control circuit 72 controls the liquid crystal display device 5 based on the information stored in the work RAM 84 and performs an effect by displaying an image.

  The calendar IC 85 stores date data. An operation unit 17 is connected to the image control microcomputer 81. In the embodiment, the date etc. are set by operating the operation unit 17 by an employee of a game hall. The image control microcomputer 81 stores the date information set based on the input signal transmitted from the operation unit 17 in the calendar IC 85. The date information stored in the calendar IC 85 is backed up.

  The work RAM 84 and calendar IC 85 described above are backup targets. That is, even when the power supplied to the image control microcomputer 81 is interrupted, the power is continuously supplied, and the stored information is prevented from being erased.

  The image control IC 86 generates an image corresponding to the effect content (for example, a demo image described later) determined by the image control microcomputer 81 and outputs the image to the liquid crystal display device 5.

  The control RAM 87 is included in the image control IC 86. The image control microcomputer 81 writes and reads information and the like with respect to the control RAM 87. In the control RAM 87, a register of the image control IC 86, a sprite attribute table, and a color palette table are developed. The image control microcomputer 81 updates the register of the image control IC 86 and the sprite attribute table at predetermined timings.

  The image control IC 86 is connected to the liquid crystal display device 5, the image ROM 88, and the video RAM 89. The image ROM 88 may be connected to the image control microcomputer 81. In this case, the configuration may be effective when processing a large amount of image data such as three-dimensional image data. The image ROM 88 stores image data for generating an image, dot data, image data (hereinafter referred to as a demo image) data for notifying that the gaming machine is in a “waiting for customer” situation, and the like. The video RAM 89 is configured as a temporary storage unit when an image is generated by the image control IC 86. The image control IC 86 transmits a signal to the image control microcomputer 81 every time data in the video RAM 89 is transferred to the liquid crystal display device 5.

  In the image control circuit (gSub) 72a, the image control microcomputer 81 also controls the effects of sound and lamps. The image control microcomputer 81 determines the type of sound / lamp and the output timing based on the determined effect. The image control microcomputer 81 transmits a command to the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b via the serial port 82 at every predetermined timing. In the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b, only the sound / lamp output is performed mainly in accordance with the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a (excluding the volume adjustment control described later). .

  The sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b includes a sound / lamp control microcomputer 91, a serial port 92, a program ROM 93, a work RAM 94, a sound source IC 95, a power amplifier 96, and a sound source ROM 97. The program ROM 93 stores information such as a data table.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 includes a CPU, an interrupt controller, and an input / output port (a serial port is shown). The CPU provided in the sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 performs sound / lamp output processing according to the control program stored in the program ROM 93 based on the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 is connected to LEDs 101 and lamps 102. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 transmits an output signal to the LEDs 101 and the lamps 102 in response to a command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a at a predetermined timing. As a result, the LEDs 101 and the lamps 102 emit light in a predetermined manner according to the effect.

  The serial port 92 receives a command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a. The program ROM 93 stores a control program executed by the sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 and the like. The work RAM 94 is configured as a temporary storage means for work when the sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 executes the control program described above.

  The sound source IC 95 generates a sound source based on the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72 a and outputs the sound source to the power amplifier 96. The power amplifier 96 is an amplifier, and speakers 9L and 9R are connected to the power amplifier 96. The power amplifier 96 amplifies the sound source output from the sound source IC 95 and outputs the amplified sound source from the speakers 9L and 9R. The sound source ROM 97 stores sound source data (phrase etc.) for generating a sound source.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 is connected to a volume control unit 103. The volume control unit 103 can be operated by employees of the game hall and the like, and the volume output from the speakers 9L and 9R is adjusted. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 performs control to adjust the sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R to the input volume based on the input signal transmitted from the volume control unit 103.

  FIG. 6 shows the game condition of each game state, the transfer condition, and the game state of the transfer destination when the transfer condition is satisfied. In each gaming state, basically, the type of winning combination or its winning probability differs.

  The gaming state of the embodiment basically includes a general gaming state, a BB gaming state, an RB gaming state, a BB carryover state, and an RB carryover state. The BB carryover state and the RB carryover state are hereinafter referred to as “carryover state”. Further, the role carried over in this carryover state is hereinafter referred to as “carryover role”.

  The general game state is basically a game state in which an expected value of a so-called “play rate (game value given to a player for a unit game value bet on a game)” is smaller than “1”. . Further, it is a gaming state without a carryover role described later, and is the most disadvantageous gaming state for the player as compared with other gaming states.

  The BB gaming state is a gaming state configured by a BB general gaming state and an RB gaming state. Further, the BB gaming state is basically a gaming state constituted by a game in which the “actual accessory continuous actuating device related to the first type special accessory” is operating.

  The RB gaming state is basically a gaming state constituted by a game in which the “first type special character” is operating.

  The BB carryover state is a gaming state in which symbol combinations corresponding to BB are allowed to be arranged along the display line (BB establishment) over one or more games.

  The RB carryover state is a gaming state in which a combination of symbols corresponding to the RB is allowed along one or more games (establishment of RB).

  Here, as described later, when a specific condition is satisfied in the BB general gaming state, the RB gaming state is generated (shifted to the RB gaming state) without displaying the symbol combination corresponding to the RB. Also, when the RB wins internally during the BB gaming state (the BB general gaming state and the RB gaming state during the BB gaming state), the RB carryover state (the RB during BB carryover state) over one or more games in the BB gaming state ) And the symbol combination corresponding to RB is displayed, the gaming state is shifted from the RB carryover state (RB carryover state during BB) to the RB gaming state in the BB gaming state.

  Also, when the RB is won internally during the BB gaming state, or when the symbol combination corresponding to the RB is not displayed during the RB carryover state and a specific condition is satisfied, the current gaming state (for example, during BB The gaming state can be shifted from the (RB gaming state) to the RB gaming state during the BB gaming state. However, when the BB gaming state end condition is satisfied during the RB carryover state (RB during RB carryover state), the game state is shifted from the RB carryover state (RB during BB carryover state) to the general gaming state. Yes. On the other hand, when the RB is internally won during the general gaming state, the RB carryover state is entered and the RB is carried over.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the BB gaming state generation condition is establishment of BB. The game state transition condition is satisfied (satisfied) when the acquired number (for example, so-called “pure increase number” or “payout number”) is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (for example, 466), and the gaming state shifts to the general gaming state. To do.

  The condition for generating the RB gaming state during the general gaming state is establishment of RB. When one of the conditions that the predetermined number of times (for example, twelve times) the game is finished or the predetermined number of times (for example, eight times) is realized, the transition condition is satisfied, and the gaming state is Transition to the general gaming state.

  The condition for generating the carryover state is one of internal winning for BB, internal winning for RB, or internal winning for RB during the BB gaming state. The transition condition is established when the BB or RB is established, the BB gaming state is ended, or the RB gaming state is started in the BB gaming state, and the gaming state is BB gaming state, RB gaming state, or general Transition to the gaming state.

  The occurrence condition of the BB general gaming state is that the BB is established or that the RB gaming state is ended during the BB gaming state. When the BB gaming state ends or the RB gaming state starts during the BB gaming state, the transition condition is established, and the gaming state transitions to the general gaming state or the RB gaming state.

  The occurrence condition of the RB gaming state in the BB gaming state is that a specific condition is established in the BB gaming state or in the BB gaming state, or the RB gaming state in the BB gaming state or in the BB gaming state. RB is established inside. When one of the conditions that the predetermined number of times (for example, 12 times) the game is completed, the predetermined number of times (for example, 8 times) is realized, or the BB gaming state is ended is satisfied. The transition condition is satisfied, and the gaming state shifts to the general gaming state, the RB gaming state in the BB gaming state, or the BB general gaming state.

  With reference to FIG. 7, a combination of a combination, a symbol, and a payout number will be described.

  7 (1) is when the BET number (the number of medals bet on the game) is 1, FIG. 7 (2) is when the BET number is 2, and FIG. 7 (3) is when the BET number is 3. The combination of symbols, symbol combinations and the number of payouts are shown.

  BB is established by arranging “red 7-red 7-red 7” or “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” along the active line (the display combination is BB). In addition, “Blue 7” and “Red 7”, which are symbol combinations of BB, are lottery with different flags.

  RB is established by arranging “BAR-BAR-BAR” along the effective line. In the BB general gaming state, RB is also established by arranging “Plum-Replay-Replay” along the active line.

  Replay is established by arranging “Replay-Replay-Replay” along the active line. When the replay is established, the same number of medals as the number of inserted medals are automatically inserted, so that the player can play the next game without consuming the medals. In other words, the replay is a role that can be played without newly inserting a medal when it is established.

  In addition, the combinations of symbols that form the “watermelon small part”, “plum small part”, “upper and lower cherry small part”, and “medium cherry small part” are as illustrated.

  The probability lottery table (BET number: 3) will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 8 (1) shows a general gaming state probability random determination table. In the general gaming state, BB (red 7), BB (blue 7), RB, replay, watermelon small part, plum small part, top and bottom cherry small part, and middle cherry small part may be won internally. .

  Here, when BB (red 7) is hit internally (when BB (red 7) is carried over), “red 7-red 7-red 7” is allowed to line up along the active line. When BB (blue 7) is hit internally (when BB (blue 7) is carried over), “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” is allowed to line up along the active line.

  (2) of FIG. 8 shows a probability lottery table for the BB general gaming state. In the BB general gaming state, there are cases where RB1, RB2, replay, watermelon small part, plum small part, top and bottom cherry small part, and medium cherry small part are internally won.

  Here, when RB1 is won internally (when RB1 is carried over), “BAR-BAR-BAR” is allowed to line up along the active line. When RB2 is won internally (when RB2 is carried over), “Plum-Replay-Replay” is allowed to line up along the active line.

  (3) of FIG. 8 shows the RB gaming state probability lottery table. In this RB gaming state, there are cases where a watermelon, a plum, a cherry top and a cherry cherry, and a medium cherry are played internally.

  Here, in the BB general gaming state and the RB gaming state, the formation rate is calculated with the watermelon small combination, cherry small combination, and RB1 as predetermined combinations.

  (4) of FIG. 8 shows the carry-over state probability lottery table. In the carryover state, there may be internal winnings for replays, watermelon small roles, plum small roles, upper and lower cherry small roles, and medium cherry small roles.

  The random number generation cycle selection table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The random number generation cycle selection table includes information on a random number generation cycle set according to the number of unit games, which is the number of times a unit game has been played. Specifically, every time the number of unit games increases by 500, a different random number generation period is associated. For example, when the number of unit games is between 0 and 500, information is stored with a random number generation cycle of 224 μsec. In addition, when the number of unit games is between 501 and 1000, information is stored with a random number generation cycle of 2240 μsec. In addition, when the number of unit games is between 1001 and 1500, information for setting the random number generation period to 22400 μsec is stored. When the number of unit games is between 1501 and 2000, information for setting the random number generation cycle to 224 μsec is stored again.

  The jump table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The jump table includes information on processing to be performed according to the type of command received when a command (information or command) transmitted by the main control circuit 71 is received. Specifically, information on 11 types of processing to be executed corresponding to the “head data” of the command transmitted by the main control circuit 71 is stored. The main control circuit 71 transmits data (information) composed of “4 bytes” to “8 bytes” to the sub control circuit 72 as one command, but the “first data” is the “first byte”. Data is shown.

  The “initialization process” is a process for initializing the work RAM 84 and the like. “Demo display process” is a process of displaying a demo image on the display screen 5a. The “game medal insertion process” is a process performed in response to a “BET operation”. The “game start process” is a process performed when the start lever 6 is operated. The “reel stop process” is a process performed when any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R is operated. The “all reel stop process” is a process that is performed when the “third stop operation” is performed.

  The “winning process” is a process performed based on the success or failure of the combination. The “bonus game state change instruction process” is a process for changing the game state information to indicate “BB game state” or “RB game state” when a bonus (BB, RB) is won. The “bonus game end state process” is a process for changing the game state information to the “general game state” at the end of the “BB game state” or the “RB game state”. The “error effect instruction process” is a process for displaying, on the display screen 5a, an image for notifying the malfunction when a malfunction such as the medals in the hopper 40 becoming empty occurs. The “sound effect instruction process” is a process for executing an effect by “sound”.

  The control operation of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to the main flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  First, the CPU 31 performs initialization at the start of the game (step S1). Specifically, the contents stored in the RAM 33 are initialized, the communication data is initialized, the random number counter is initialized, and the unit game number counter is initialized. The random number counter and the unit game number counter are composed of registers in the CPU 31. The value of the random number counter becomes “0” when initialized, and is used in an interrupt process for generating a random number described later with reference to FIG. Further, the value of the unit game number counter is “0” when initialized, and the control operation of the main control circuit 71 described later with reference to FIG. 13 and the random number described later with reference to FIG. Used in the interrupt processing to generate.

  Subsequently, a predetermined storage content (information of a predetermined storage area (for example, an area for storing an internal winning combination)) in the RAM 33 at the end of the game is deleted (step S2), and the process proceeds to step S3. Specifically, the data in the writable area of the RAM 33 used in the previous game is erased, the parameters necessary for the next game are written in the write area of the RAM 33, the start address of the sequence program of the next game is specified, etc. I do.

  In step S3, a medal insertion / start check process described later with reference to FIG. 14 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4. In step S4, a random number for lottery is extracted, and the process proceeds to step S5. The random numbers extracted in this process are used in the probability lottery process described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S5, a game state monitoring process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S6. In step S6, a probability lottery process described later with reference to FIG. 15 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S7. In step S7, stop table selection processing for selecting a stop table based on an internal winning combination is performed, and the process proceeds to step S8.

  In step S8, a start command is set, and the process proceeds to step S9. The start command includes information such as a gaming state and an internal winning combination, and is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. In step S9, it is determined whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the previous game started. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S11, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S10, a game start waiting time digest process (wait process) is performed, and the process proceeds to step S11. Specifically, a process of invalidating an input based on an operation for starting a player's game until a predetermined time (for example, a predetermined second (eg, 4.1 seconds)) has elapsed since the start of the previous game. I do. In step S11, a game monitoring timer is set, and the process proceeds to step S12. This game monitoring timer includes an automatic stop timer for automatically stopping the reels 3L, 3C, 3R regardless of the stop operation of the player's stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R.

  In step S12, the start of rotation of all reels is requested, and the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, a reel stop permission command is set, and the process proceeds to step S14 in FIG.

  In step S14, it is determined whether or not the stop switch is “ON”, that is, whether any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R has been operated. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S16, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S15. In step S15, it is determined whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S16, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S16, the number of sliding frames is determined, and the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the process waits for the reels 3L, 3C, 3R corresponding to the stopped stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R to rotate by the number of sliding frames determined in step S16, and then proceeds to step S18.

  In step S18, the reel rotation is requested to stop, and the process proceeds to step S19. In step S19, a reel stop command is set, and the process proceeds to step S20. In step S20, it is determined whether or not all reels have stopped. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S21 in FIG. 13, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S21 of FIG. 13, display combination search processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S22. In the display combination search process, a flag for identifying a display combination (a winning combination) is set based on the pattern stop mode of the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R. In step S22, it is determined whether or not there is an illegal hit, that is, whether or not there is a mismatch between the internal winning combination and the display combination. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S23, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S24. In step S23, an illegal error is displayed. In this case, the game is canceled.

  In step S24, a display combination command including display combination information is set, and the process proceeds to step S25. In step S25, it is determined whether or not the payout number corresponding to the display combination is “0”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S27, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S26. In step S26, medals are stored (credit) or paid out, and the process proceeds to step S27. In step S27, a payout end command is set, and the process proceeds to step S28.

  In step S28, it is determined whether or not the RB operating flag or the BB operating flag is “ON”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S30, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S29. The RB operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the RB gaming state is set, and is “ON” when in the RB gaming state, and “OFF” when not in the RB gaming state. The BB operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the player is in the BB gaming state, and is “ON” when in the BB gaming state, and “OFF” when not in the BB gaming state. Therefore, in the RB gaming state in BB, both flags are “ON”. In the general RB gaming state, the RB operating flag is “ON” and the BB operating flag is “OFF”.

  In step S29, an RB / BB operation check process described later with reference to FIG. 16 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S31. In step S30, RB and BB end check processing described later with reference to FIG. 17 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S31. In step S31, the unit game number counter is incremented by “1”, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  The medal insertion / start check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not 30 seconds have elapsed since the end of the previous game, that is, after all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R stopped (step S41). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S42, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S43. In step S42, a demonstration display command is set, and the process proceeds to step S43.

  In step S43, it is determined whether or not there is a request for automatic insertion of medals, that is, whether or not a replay (replay) win has been established in the previous game. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S44, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S45. In step S44, medals for the insertion request are automatically inserted, and the process proceeds to step S46. In step S45, it is determined whether or not there is an input from the inserted medal sensor 22S or the BET switches 11, 12, and 13. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S46, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S41.

  In step S46, it is determined whether or not there is an input from the start switch 6S based on the operation of the start lever 6. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S4 in FIG. 11, and when NO, step S46 is repeated.

  The probability lottery process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it is in the RB gaming state or the BB general gaming state (step S51). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S52, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S53. In step S52, an internal winning combination is determined based on the probability lottery table for the RB gaming state ((3) in FIG. 8) or the BB general gaming state ((2) in FIG. 8), and the process proceeds to step S56.

  In step S53, it is determined whether or not it is a carryover state. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S54, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S55. In step S54, an internal winning combination is determined based on the probability lottery table for the carryover state ((4) in FIG. 8), and the process proceeds to step S56. In step S55, an internal winning combination is determined based on the probability lottery table for the general gaming state ((1) in FIG. 8), and the process proceeds to step S56. In step S55, an internal winning combination is determined based on the probability lottery table for the general gaming state ((1) in FIG. 8), and the process proceeds to step S56.

  In step S56, it is determined whether or not the internal winning combination is RB or BB. If this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S57, and if NO, the process proceeds to step S7 in FIG. In step S57, a carryover combination is set based on the internal winning combination, and the process proceeds to step S7 in FIG.

  The RB / BB operation check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is RB (step S61). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S62, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S63. In step S62, RB operation processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  In step S63, it is determined whether or not the display combination is BB. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S64, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. In step S64, BB operation processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 17, the RB / BB end check process will be described.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the RB operating flag is “ON” (step S71). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S72, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S76. In step S72, information on the number of RB games (number of games in the RB game state) and the number of display times is updated, and the process proceeds to step S73.

  In step S73, it is determined whether or not it is the end of the RB gaming state. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S74, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. In step S74, processing at the end of RB is performed, and the process proceeds to step S75. In step S75, it is determined whether or not the BB operating flag is “ON”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S76, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  In step S76, information on the number of medals paid out in the BB gaming state is updated, and the process proceeds to step S77. In step S77, it is determined whether or not the BB gaming state has ended. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S78, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S79. In step S78, processing at the end of BB is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  In step S79, it is determined whether or not the display combination is RB. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S80, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. In step S80, processing at the time of RB operation is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  An interrupt process for generating a random number will be described with reference to FIG. The interrupt process for generating the random number is performed for each random number generation period set in step S91, which will be described later, while the control operation of the main control circuit 71 shown in FIGS. Is called.

  First, the CPU 31 sets a random number generation period based on the value of the unit game number counter and the random number generation period selection table (step S91). Specifically, for example, when the value of the unit game number counter is “0” to “500”, that is, the unit game number is 0 to 500, the random number generation cycle is set to 224 μsec. When the value of the unit game number counter is between “501” and “1000”, that is, when the unit game number is between 501 and 1000, the random number generation cycle is set to 2240 μsec. When the value of the unit game number counter is between “1001” and “1500”, that is, when the number of unit game is between 1001 and 1500, the random number generation period is set to 22400 μsec.

  Subsequently, in step S92, the random number counter is incremented by “1”, and the process proceeds to step S93. In step S93, the value of the random number counter is corrected, and the interrupt process for generating a random number is terminated. Specifically, for example, when generating a random number between “0” and “16383”, if the value of the random number counter is a value excluding “0” to “16383”, the value of the random number counter is set to “0”. And

  The gaming machine 1 configured as described above has the following effects.

According to the gaming machine 1, the random number generation period of the random number generator 36 is changed in accordance with the number of unit games played by the player. For this reason, it is more difficult for the player to predict what random numbers have been extracted, compared to the case where random numbers are always generated at a constant generation cycle, and the game becomes monotonous for the player. To prevent and maintain the fun of the game.
The

  In addition, for example, when a random number is continuously generated by updating numerical values included in a certain random number width in ascending order at a certain cycle, random numbers having the same value are always generated at the same timing. In such a case, for example, if the player performs a start operation at the same timing, the same random number may be extracted.

  However, according to the gaming machine 1, since the random number generation period of the random number generator 36 is changed according to the number of unit games performed by the player, before and after the random number generation period is changed, Even if the player performs the start operation at the same timing, the random numbers extracted by the sampling circuit 37 are different. For this reason, when a game is played for a long time, even if the probability of winning each winning combination is the same, it is possible to generate a wave of the payout rate and maintain the interest of the game.

  In addition, according to the gaming machine 1, a cycle selection table that defines different generation cycles according to the number of unit games played by the player is provided. For this reason, according to the change of the number of unit games performed, the cycle in which the random number generator 36 generates a random number is changed to a cycle defined by the cycle selection table. Therefore, by selecting various cycles, it becomes possible to generate a number of waves of the payout rate, preventing the game from becoming monotonous for the player, and maintaining the interest of the game.

  As mentioned above, although the Example was described, this invention is not limited to this.

  In the above embodiment, the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 are provided as the random number generation means and the random number extraction means. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, random number generation and extraction may be executed in the microcomputer 30, that is, on the operation program of the CPU 31. In that case, the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 can be omitted, but may be provided for backup.

  In the above embodiment, the random numbers are generated by updating (counting up) the numerical values belonging to the predetermined random number width in ascending order by 1 every predetermined period. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a random number may be generated by updating a numerical value belonging to a predetermined random number width based on a recurrence formula determined in advance for each predetermined period.

  Further, in the above embodiment, in order to briefly explain the features of the present invention, the configuration relating to the gameability of the gaming machine such as the type of the combination is simplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, in the gaming machine of the above embodiment, as the types of the set roles, “BB (red 7)”, “BB (blue 7)”, “RB”, “Replay”, “Watermelon small role” "," Plum's small part "," Cherry's small part ", etc. are set. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and more types of combinations may be set.

  Moreover, in the said Example, as a bonus, the 1st type special accessory (regular bonus, RB) and the 1st type special agent continuation apparatus (big bonus, BB) which operate | moves this 1st type special bonus continuously. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a second-type special combination (challenge game, CG) and a second-type combination continuous operation device (challenge bonus, CB) for continuously operating the second-type special combination may be provided. .

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the generation | occurrence | production period of the random number was changed every time unit game was performed 500 times, it is not restricted to this. For example, the random number generation cycle may be changed every time the unit game is played 1000 times. Further, an operation unit that can be operated by a game hall employee or the like is provided as an input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 30 to generate a control command, and the random number generation cycle is changed. The number of unit games may be set. By doing in this way, it becomes possible for an employee of a game hall or the like to generate a wave of the game play ratio depending on the situation of the game play rate.

  Further, the present invention can be applied to other gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and pachilots in addition to the gaming machine 1 as in the present embodiment. Furthermore, the game can be executed by applying the present invention even in a game program in which the above-described operation of the gaming machine 1 is simulated for a home game machine. In that case, a CD-ROM, FD (flexible disk), or any other recording medium can be used as a recording medium for recording the game program.

It is a perspective view which shows an external appearance. The figure which shows the internal structure of a game machine. It is a figure which shows the example of the symbol arranged on the reel. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an electric circuit. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the sub control circuit of an Example. It is a figure which shows the generation | occurrence | production condition of each game state, a transfer condition, and a transfer destination game state. It is a figure which shows the relationship between a combination, a symbol combination, and a payout number. It is a figure which shows a probability lottery table. It is a figure which shows a random number generation cycle selection table. It is a figure which shows a jump table. It is a main flowchart of the main control circuit. It is a flowchart following FIG. It is a flowchart following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows medal insertion / start check processing. It is a flowchart which shows a probability lottery process. It is a flowchart which shows RB and BB operation check processing. It is a flowchart which shows RB and BB completion | finish check processing. It is a flowchart which shows the interruption process for generating a random number.

Explanation of symbols

1 gaming machine 2 cabinet 3L, 3C, 3R reel 6 start lever 7L, 7C, 7R stop button 30 microcomputer 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit

Claims (2)

A symbol display means for displaying a plurality of symbols;
Random number generating means for generating a random number at a predetermined cycle;
A game start signal output means for outputting a game start command signal for instructing the start of a unit game in response to an operation by the player;
Random number extraction means for extracting a random number generated by the random number generation means on the condition that a game start command signal from the game start signal output means is detected;
On the condition that the game start command signal from the game start signal output means is detected, the symbol change means for changing the symbol displayed by the symbol display means,
A winning combination determining means for determining at least one winning combination from a plurality of predetermined winning combinations based on the random number extracted by the random number extracting means;
Stop signal output means for outputting a stop command signal for instructing stop of the change of the symbol performed by the symbol changing means in response to an operation by the player;
Stop control for performing stop control of symbol variation performed by the symbol changing means based on the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means on condition that a stop command signal from the stop signal output means is detected A gaming machine comprising means,
A game number counting means for counting the number of times the unit game has been played;
A gaming machine comprising: random number generation period changing means for changing the predetermined period in accordance with the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
A period selection table that defines different periods according to the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means;
The random number generation period changing means changes the predetermined period based on the number of unit games counted by the game number counting means and the period selection table.

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