JP5213239B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine that rotates a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are displayed, performs reel stop control according to a result of a winning lottery, and determines whether or not a winning can be achieved by a combination of symbols at the time of stoppage. The present invention relates to a slot machine capable of performing a predetermined performance.

  A slot machine that determines a game result by a combination of symbols at the time of stoppage when a player inserts a game medium, rotates a plurality of reels on which symbols are displayed based on the player's operation, and stops the game. It is widely used as one of these. In this slot machine, a lottery is usually performed by the control means, and when the symbol corresponding to the winning combination in the lottery stops and a prize is won, a game is performed to perform a winning process according to the winning combination. Yes.

Furthermore, a slot machine is also used in which an effect using an image, sound, lamp display, ancillary devices, and the like is performed in addition to a game in which the reel is rotated to stop, thereby increasing the player's interest in the game. Among slot machines capable of performing such effects, there has been proposed one that performs effects using sub-reels. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1.)
JP 2002-355365 A

  In the slot machine proposed in Patent Document 1, it is possible to perform an effect of notifying the player of the result of the role lottery using the sub reel. However, this sub-reel is the same as a normal reel that rotates only in one direction, and the area that indicates the display object is limited, and the effects that can be expressed by this sub-reel are limited. In order to realize more diverse displays and effects, it is conceivable to increase the number of sub-reels. However, in this case, more space is required, which causes a problem of arrangement in the slot machine. Become.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a slot machine that can solve the above-described problems and can realize various displays and effects while using a space-saving auxiliary device / member.

  In order to achieve the above object, as a slot machine according to the present invention, a game in which a game medium is inserted and a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are displayed is rotated and stopped is performed once. A lottery means for performing a role lottery for determining at least one combination or disparity from among a plurality of combinations by lottery processing, and a plurality of reels displaying a plurality of symbols , And a reel control means for controlling the stop of the rotated reel according to the result of the winning lottery, and a flag is set when any winning is won in the winning lottery, and the flag is set In such a state, when it is determined that the combination of symbols corresponding to the corresponding winning combination has stopped and the winning combination has been won, the winning process control means for performing the winning process corresponding to the winning combination and the player visually confirms a part of the surface. Possible A substantially spherical, rotatable spherical display body arranged in a row, and rotating the spherical display body so that a predetermined display object displayed on the surface of the spherical display body is visible to the player. Thus, it is conceivable to include production control means for performing a predetermined production.

Here, the “game medium” is a medium that is inserted into the slot machine in order to play a game, such as coins, medals, and chips. Moreover, as long as this object can be achieved, the product is not limited to an article, and for example, an electromagnetically acting material such as a magnetic card can be applied.
In addition, “inserting a game medium” includes actually inserting a game medium from a game medium slot provided in the slot machine, etc., and storing it in a storage medium of the slot machine. This includes using a predetermined number of game media credited in advance.

  Here, the “combination” generally includes a “winning role” for performing a “winning game” that makes the game proceed in an advantageous manner for the player, and a “replaying game” in which the game can be re-executed without inserting a game medium. "Re-game combination" for "and a" general combination "for paying out a predetermined number of game media when winning.

“Winning” refers to performing “winning game” in which a game progresses in an advantageous manner for a player when a winning combination is won by lottery and a symbol corresponding to the winning role stops and wins a prize. It is a possible role. The winning combination includes, for example, a big bonus combination (hereinafter referred to as “BB combination”).
The BB role (sometimes referred to as “1 type BB role”) is a role that is transferred to a BB game (sometimes referred to as “1 type BB game”), which is one of the winning games. A game in which the winning combination is won with a high probability can be continuously performed until a predetermined number of game media payouts (also referred to as “finished number”) is reached. It is also possible to set a plurality of BB games. For example, a plurality of BB games having different winning probabilities and setting of the number of ending games can be provided.

“Re-game” is a “re-game” that can be re-executed without throwing in game media when a symbol corresponding to the re-game player stops and wins a prize. It is also a role that can be carried out. Further, when the re-gamer wins and wins, the re-game can be performed with the same specified number as the re-gamer won, or can be re-played with a different specified number. An arbitrary number can be used as the specified number. It is also possible to set a plurality of types of re-game players.
The “general combination” is a combination in which a predetermined number of game media are paid out when a general combination is won by lottery and a symbol corresponding to the general combination is won. Further, when two or more winning combinations are won at the same time (for example, when one of the BB winning combination and the general winning combination is simultaneously won), it can be regarded as one winning combination.

  In the “lottery” for determining one combination, for example, it is desirable to generate a random number and determine at least one winning combination based on the value. Regarding the generation of random numbers, it is conceivable to use a random number generator or to generate them on software using a computer or the like.

The “reel on which the symbol is displayed” includes a reel that is physically rotated and stopped by a motor or the like, and a reel on the image that is displayed on the display device and is rotated and stopped on the image. It is. The “reel control means” starts rotation of the reel when receiving a signal transmitted based on the start operation of the player, and rotates when receiving a stop signal transmitted based on the stop operation of the player. The stop control of the reel being performed is performed.
In this case, it is possible to set the rotation of all the reels to be started by one start operation, and based on the operation corresponding to each reel, the rotation is set to start only the reel that has been started. It is also possible. Similarly, it is possible to set the rotation of all reels to be stopped by one stop operation, or to set only the reels that have been stopped based on the operation corresponding to each reel. Is possible.

“Corresponding symbol combinations stop” means, for example, that symbols determined corresponding to roles for each reel stop on a predetermined effective line, and predetermined symbols are aligned. . In this case, a case where a symbol to be stopped is defined for all reels is included, and a case where a symbol to be stopped for some reels is also included. The symbols to be stopped can be set to the same symbol for all reels, or different symbols can be set for each reel.
Conversely, “the corresponding symbol combination does not stop” means that the requirement for corresponding to the above “corresponding symbol combination stops” is not satisfied. Therefore, for example, even when the symbols to be stopped on some of the required reels do not stop, “does not stop”. Of course, even when the symbols to be stopped on all the required reels do not stop, it does not stop.

  “Set a flag” means to set a gaming state in which a predetermined winning process can be performed if a combination of corresponding symbols stops and a winning is made when a predetermined winning combination is won in the winning lottery. Meaning and control, the flag is stored in the storage device (RAM) of the control means.

According to this embodiment, the rotation direction of the “spherical display body” is not limited, and includes a case of rotating in an arbitrary direction. In addition, “displayed objects displayed on the surface of a spherical display” may be characters, figures, colors, etc. displayed on the surface of a spherical display, as well as shapes that appear due to a backlight, etc. In addition, any other items that can be visually recognized by the player are applicable.
“Make the display object displayed on the surface of the spherical display body visible to the player” means that, for example, when the spherical display body is arranged inside the housing, it is provided on the housing. It is possible that the display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body becomes visible through the opened opening, and when the spherical display body is arranged outside the housing, the spherical display body The display object shown on the surface may be made visible by directing it to the side facing the player. The display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body is only displayed when the backlight is turned on. It is also conceivable that it becomes visible.

  According to this embodiment, the rotatable spherical display body has a larger number of display surfaces than a normal reel, and the rotation direction thereof is more flexible than a normal reel, so that space-saving is achieved. It is possible to provide a slot machine that can realize various displays and effects while using an accessory device or member. As a result, it can be expected that the player's performance and, moreover, interest in the game will be enhanced.

  As a slot machine according to the present invention, it is further conceivable that the spherical display body can rotate around at least two rotation axes having different directions.

  According to this embodiment, since the spherical display body can be rotated around at least two rotation axes having different directions, it is possible to produce an effect using a larger number of display surfaces as compared with a conventional reel. By rotating in a plurality of directions with different orientations, more various effects can be realized.

  As a slot machine according to the present invention, it is further conceivable to inform a player of information related to the result of the lottery by the display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body.

  According to this embodiment, it is possible to notify the player of information related to the result of the role lottery using the spherical display body, so that it can be expected that the player's performance and interest in the game are increased.

  As the slot machine according to the present invention, it is further conceivable that the spherical display body functions as an operation switch.

Here, as a mode in which the spherical display body functions as an operation switch, for example, a push button switch that pushes the spherical display body, a slide switch that rotates the spherical display body, or the like can be considered.
According to the present embodiment, since the spherical display body functions as an operation switch, it is possible to perform an effect and a secondary game using the spherical display body, and it can be expected to increase the player's performance and interest in the game.

  Further, as the slot machine according to the present invention, the display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body in a state where at least a part of the spherical display body has translucency and is visible to the player is rear side It is possible to illuminate from.

  According to this embodiment, the display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body can be lifted up by illuminating from the back side, so that a clearer display or a fantastic display can be performed, and the player is high. An effect that shows interest can be realized. In addition, a variety of effects can be realized by changing the color of the illumination or blinking the illumination.

  According to the above-described invention, the rotatable spherical display body has a larger number of display surfaces than a normal reel, and its rotation direction is more flexible than a normal reel, so that space-saving is achieved. It is possible to provide a slot machine capable of realizing a variety of displays and effects while using accessory devices / members, and this can be expected to increase the player's effects and, consequently, the interest in the game.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
(Configuration of slot machine 10)
<Description of overall structure>
An appearance of the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment is shown in FIG.
In FIG. 1, a front panel 20 is provided on the front surface of the housing of the slot machine 10. In the front panel 20, three vertically long rectangular display windows 22L, 22C and 22R are formed.

  Five winning lines are defined in front of these three display windows 22L, 22C and 22R. These five winning lines include three horizontal (center L1, upper and lower L2A, L2B) winning lines and two diagonal winning lines (diagonally downward L3A, obliquely upward L3B). At the left end of these pay lines L1, L2A, L2B, L3A, and L3B, bet number (number of bets) display sections 24a to 24e are "3", "2", "1", "2" in order from the top. , “3”. The bet number display sections 24a to 24e are a winning line (hereinafter referred to as an effective line) that is activated according to the number of inserted game media (in this embodiment, medals are used), and the number of bets on the game media. Is displayed.

A substantially horizontal operation panel 30 is provided below the display windows 22L, 22C, and 22R. On the left side of the operation panel 30, a 1-bet switch 32, a 2-bet switch 34, and a maximum bet switch 36 are provided. In addition, on the right side of the operation panel 30, a game medium insertion port 38 through which a game medium can be inserted is provided.
When a game medium is inserted from the game medium insertion port 38, the number of game media is counted by a game medium counter (not shown), and when a predetermined number or more of game media are input, The credit amount is stored in the RAM 110 described later.

The 1-bet switch 32 is a switch for setting a game bet on only one of the credits. The 2-bet switch 34 is a switch for targeting only two of the credits for game betting. The maximum bet switch 36 is a switch for setting three medals out of the number of credits as a game bet.
In the following, the number of game media to be bet is referred to as “the number of bets” and set as a bet object by the player by operating the 1-bet switch 32, the 2-bet switch 34 or the maximum bet switch 36 described above. The number of medals won is referred to as “set bet number”, and the bet number required to play a game is referred to as “specified number”.

  When the player operates the 1-bet switch 32, one of the five winning lines, for example, the winning line L1 is activated. When the 2-bet switch 34 is operated, three of the five pay lines, for example, the pay lines L1, L2A, and L2B are activated. Further, when the maximum bet switch 36 is operated, all of the five pay lines, that is, L1, L2A, L2B, L3A and L3B are activated. The activated winning line is clearly indicated by lighting an effective line display lamp (not shown) provided on the back of each of the bet number display sections 24a to 24e. As the number of bets that determine the effective line, for example, it is conceivable to set one, two, and three bets.

  A display device 70 including a liquid crystal display panel is provided above the casing of the slot machine 10. The display device 70 is not limited to the above-described liquid crystal display panel, and any other display device can be used as long as the player can visually recognize the image information and the character information during the game.

  In addition, an opening 90 is provided in the front panel 20 on the side of the display device 70, and the spherical display body 600 is arranged in a rotatable state in a position where the opening 90 is provided inside the housing. The spherical display device 85 is installed. The player can visually recognize the display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body 600 through the opening 90, and can realize various effects using the spherical display device 85. Further, by pressing the spherical display 600, it can function as a push button switch, and a secondary game accompanied by a player's operation can be realized. A more detailed description will be given later.

  Inside the casing of the slot machine 10, three reels 40L, 40C, and 40R are rotatably provided. The reels 40L, 40C, and 40R have a ring shape, and a reel tape on which a pattern is printed is attached to the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R. For example, 21 symbols are arranged at regular intervals on each of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R. The arrangement of these symbols is different for each of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R. Each of these reels 40L, 40C, and 40R is provided so as to be visible through the display windows 22L, 22C, and 22R described above. When the reel is stopped, three consecutive symbols of one reel can be visually recognized in one display window. For this reason, a total of nine symbols can be visually recognized from all the three display windows 22L, 22C, and 22R.

As will be described later, each of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R is rotationally driven by a motor (not shown), and the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R in the display windows 22L, 22C, and 22R. Moves from top to bottom.
A start switch 50 is tiltably provided on the left side of the front surface of the operation panel 30. Three stop switches 52L, 52C, and 52R are provided at the center of the front surface of the operation panel 30. The stop switch 52L corresponds to the left reel 40L, the stop switch 52C corresponds to the middle reel 40C, and the stop switch 52R corresponds to the right reel 40R.
When the player tilts the start switch 50 described above, the three 40L, 40C, and 40R described above start rotating all at once. When the three reels 40L, 40C, and 40R rotate, the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R are moved and displayed from the top to the bottom in each of the display windows 22L, 22C, and 22R. The

When the rotational speeds of the three reels 40L, 40C, and 40R described above reach a constant speed, the operation of the stop switches 52L, 52C, and 52R by the player is effective.
When the player pushes the stop switch 52L, the left reel 40L stops. When the player pushes the stop switch 52C, the middle reel 40C stops. When the player pushes the stop switch 52R, the right reel 40R stops.
When the reels 40L, 40C, or 40R are stopped, the three reels 40L, so that the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels are positioned on the winning lines L1, L2A, L2B, L3A, and L3B described above. Each of 40C or 40R is controlled to stop.

On the lower right side of the casing of the slot machine 10, sound is emitted from a speaker (not shown, corresponding to a speaker 64 shown in FIG. 3 described later) housed in the casing. A sound transmission hole 60 is provided for exiting to the outside. A game medium payout port 62 is provided at a central portion below the casing of the slot machine 10. When the reels 40L, 40C, or 40R are stopped and the symbols that are stopped and displayed on the active line become a predetermined combination, that is, a symbol that constitutes a winning combination. A predetermined number of game media are paid out from the game media payout port 62.
As described above, the game in the slot machine 10 is a game in which a game result is determined by a combination of symbols determined by the stopped positions of the stopped reels 40L, 40C, or 40R. This game is performed every time the player tilts the start switch 50, and the process from the start of rotation of the reels 40L, 40C, or 40R to the stop of rotation can be repeated as one game. is there.

  Examples of the types of combinations described above include types such as winning combinations, general combinations, and re-playing combinations. The winning combination is a combination in which when a winning combination is won by lottery and when a winning combination is awarded according to the winning combination, a winning game that allows the player to advance the game advantageously can be performed. In addition, the general combination is a combination in which a predetermined number of game media are paid out when a general combination is won by lottery and a symbol corresponding to the general combination is won. In addition, when the re-gamer is selected as a re-gamer in a lottery and the symbols corresponding to the re-gamer are all won, a re-game (also referred to as replay) is performed without newly inserting a game medium. It is a role that can be performed.

  The winning combination includes, for example, a big bonus combination (hereinafter referred to as a BB combination). The BB role is a role that shifts to a BB game that is one of the winning games. This BB game is a game in which a predetermined role wins with a high probability until a predetermined number of payouts of game media is reached. It can be done continuously. It is also possible to set a plurality of BB games. For example, a plurality of BB games having different winning probabilities and setting of the number of ending games can be provided.

<Description of control means>
Control means for controlling the slot machine 10 includes a main control circuit 100 and a sub-control circuit 200. Here, a block diagram of the main control circuit 100 is shown in FIG. 2, and a block diagram of the sub-control circuit 200 electrically connected thereto is shown in FIG.
The start switch 50 described above is connected to the interface circuit 102 of the main control circuit 100, and the interface circuit 102 is connected to the input / output bus 104. The reel rotation start signal issued from the start switch 50 is converted into a desired signal by the interface circuit 102 and then supplied to the input / output bus 104. The input / output bus 104 is configured to input / output data signals or address signals to / from a central processing circuit (hereinafter referred to as CPU) 106. The reel rotation start signal described above constitutes one of “operation signals”.

In addition, stop switches 52L, 52C and 52R, a 1-bet switch 32, a 2-bet switch 34 and a maximum bet switch 36 are also connected to the interface circuit 102 described above. Signals generated from these buttons and switches are also supplied to the interface circuit 102, converted into desired signals, and then supplied to the input / output bus 104. The signal emitted from the stop switch 52L, 52C or 52R described above also constitutes the operation signal.
A ROM (read only memory) 108 and a RAM (random access memory) 110 are also connected to the input / output bus 104 described above. The ROM 108 stores a control program for controlling the entire flow of the slot machine and initial data for executing the control program. The RAM 110 can temporarily store flags and variable values used in the control program described above.

A random number generator 112 for generating random numbers is also connected to the input / output bus 104. The random number generator 112 generates a random number included in a certain range of numerical values, for example, 0 to 65535 (2 to the 16th power). Note that a random number may be generated by the arithmetic processing of the CPU 106.
A motor drive circuit 114 is connected to the input / output bus 104. The motor driving circuit 114 is connected to stepping motors 80L, 80C, and 80R that rotationally drive each of the three reels 40L, 40C, and 40R. Each of the stepping motors 80L, 80C, and 80R is provided inside the three reels 40L, 40C, and 40R, and the rotation shafts of the stepping motors 80L, 80C, and 80R are the rotation centers of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R. It is attached to stepping motors 80L, 80C and 80R.

A drive control command issued from the CPU 106 is converted into a drive signal by the motor drive circuit 114, and the drive signal is supplied to the stepping motors 80L, 80C, and 80R. The drive control command includes a rotation speed command, and performs rotation control and stop control of the stepping motors 80L, 80C, and 80R, and also performs rotation speed control.
As described above, the CPU 106 controls the stepping motors 80L, 80C, and 80R, thereby performing the rotation control and stop control of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R, and the rotation speed.

  Each of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R is provided with a rotation angle position sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotation angle position of each reel. The rotation angle position sensor is a reel rotation angle position detection circuit 116. It is connected to the. When a signal indicating the rotation angle position of each of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R is generated from the rotation angle position sensor, the signal is supplied to the reel rotation angle position detection circuit 116, converted into a predetermined signal, and then input / output bus 104. To be supplied. The CPU 106 calculates a symbol number from the supplied rotation angle position, and identifies a symbol displayed in each of the display windows 22L, 22C, and 22R.

Further, a connection line 118 is also connected to the interface circuit 102. The main control circuit 100 is electrically connected to a sub control circuit 200 described later by the connection line 118. A block diagram showing the sub control circuit 200 is shown in FIG.
The connection line 118 described above is connected to the interface circuit 202 of the sub-control circuit 200, and the interface circuit 202 is connected to the input / output bus 204. A signal transmitted from the main control circuit 100 to the sub control circuit 200 is converted into a desired signal by the interface circuit 202 and then supplied to the input / output bus 204. The input / output bus 204 is configured to input / output data signals or address signals to / from a central processing circuit (hereinafter referred to as CPU) 206.
The input / output bus 204 is also connected with a push button switch 85 (when the spherical display device 85 functions as a push button switch).

A ROM (Read Only Memory) 208 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 210 are also connected to the input / output bus 204 described above. The ROM 208 executes a control program for controlling the lamp drive circuit 218, the display drive circuit 220, and the speaker drive circuit 222, which will be described later, a control program for controlling the motor drive circuit 224 for the spherical display device 85, and a control program. The initial data for storing is stored. The ROM 208 also stores various image data to be displayed on the display device 70 and audio data to be emitted from the speaker 64.
A lamp drive circuit 218 for driving each display lamp 124 is also connected to the input / output bus 204. The CPU 206 issues a drive command to the lamp drive circuit 218 in accordance with the control information supplied from the main control circuit 100, and lights up the display lamp 124 in response to the drive command.

In addition, a display drive circuit 220 that drives the display device 70 is also connected to the input / output bus 204. The CPU 206 reads image data, character data, and the like stored in the ROM 208 in accordance with control information supplied from the main control circuit 100 and supplies the data to the display drive circuit 220. By doing so, various image data and character data are displayed on the display device 70 as images.
Also connected to the input / output bus 204 is a speaker drive circuit 222 for driving the speaker 64. The CPU 206 reads out audio data stored in the ROM 208 in accordance with control information supplied from the main control circuit 100 and supplies the data to the speaker drive circuit 222. By doing so, a predetermined sound is emitted from the speaker 64.

Further, a motor drive circuit 224 for driving motors 620b, 622b, and 624b that rotate the spherical display body 600 of the spherical display device 85 is also connected to the input / output bus 204. The CPU 206 reads control data stored in the ROM 208 in accordance with control information supplied from the main control circuit 100 and supplies the data to the motor drive circuit 224. By doing so, it is possible to rotate the spherical display body 600 by driving predetermined motors 620b to 624b.
The input / output bus 204 is also connected to a drive circuit (not shown) for turning on the backlight 640 provided in the spherical display device 85.

(Explanation of functional block diagram)
Next, a functional block diagram of control of the slot machine 10 is shown in FIG.
As a control circuit, the main control circuit 100 and the sub-control circuit 200 are electrically connected. The main control circuit 100 is electrically connected to the operating means 300, and is provided in each of the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R. The motors 80L, 80C and 80R are electrically connected. The display device 70, the display lamp 124, the speaker 64, and the motors 620b, 622b, and 624b for the spherical display device 85 are electrically connected to the sub control circuit 200. The sub control circuit 200 is also electrically connected to a push button switch 85 when the spherical display device 85 functions as a push button switch.
The stop operation means 310 is composed of the three stop switches 52L, 52C, and 52R, and the operation means 300 is composed of the stop operation means 310, the start switch 50, and the bet switches 32, 34, and 36. The operation means 300 is not limited to a switch, and any means can be applied as long as it generates an operation signal based on an operation using the player's limbs.

<Description of Main Control Circuit 100>
The main control circuit 100 includes a combination lottery means 410, a reel control means 440, a winning process control means 450, and a regame control means 460.
The combination lottery means 410 performs a lottery of combinations (BB combination that is a winning combination, general combination, replay combination) by combination lottery processing. The role lottery means 410 includes, for example, a random number generator 112 (hard random number, etc.) for the role lottery, a random number extraction means 420 that extracts a random number generated by the random number generator 112, and a random value extracted by the random number extraction means 420 And random number determination means 430 for determining the presence / absence of a winning combination and the winning combination. The control processing by the role lottery means 410 is shown in the role lottery processing subroutine (see FIGS. 6 to 7).

  The reel control means 440 controls the motors 80L, 80C, 80R by receiving the reel rotation start signal transmitted from the start switch 50, rotates the reels 40L, 40C, 40R, and the stop switch 52L. , 52C, and 52R, control is performed on the reel operation to stop the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R in response to reception of a reel stop signal transmitted from a predetermined time. In the stop control, a symbol combination control is performed to prevent or prevent the stop symbols from being aligned according to the winning combination. The control processing by the reel control means 440 is shown in the reel fluctuation / stop subroutine (see FIG. 8).

When the winning process control means 450 determines that a winning combination or a general combination is won in the winning lottery process, and the winning symbols relating to the stopped symbols determine that all the symbols corresponding to each winning combination have won. A control is performed to carry out a winning game that is advantageous to the player and payout of a predetermined number of game media.
When the re-game control means 460 determines that the symbols corresponding to the re-gamer have been prepared by the winning symbol determination regarding the symbol that has been won by the re-game player in the lottery process, the next game medium is not inserted. Control for playing a game is performed.

<Description of Sub Control Circuit 200>
The sub control circuit 200 is provided with an image control unit 510, a sound control unit 520, a lamp control unit 530, a sphere control unit 540, and an effect control unit 550. When the image control unit 510 receives the image data received from the effect control unit 540 or the like, the image control unit 510 can control the display drive circuit 220 to display a predetermined effect image on the display device 70. The display device 70, the display drive circuit 220, and the image control means 510 may be referred to as image display means.

  Further, the lamp control means 520 can control the lamp driving circuit 218 based on a signal received from the main control circuit 100 or the like to light a predetermined lamp 124. In addition, the sound control unit 530 can control the speaker driving circuit 222 based on a signal received from the main control circuit 100 or the like and emit a predetermined sound from the speaker 64.

Further, based on the control signals received from the sphere control means 540 and the effect control means 550, the motor drive circuit 224 is controlled to drive the motors 620b, 622b, 624b, and to rotate the sphere display body 600.
Further, the effect control means 550 transmits a control signal to the above-described control means 510 to 540 based on the signal received from the main control circuit 100 or the like, and performs control processing for implementing a predetermined effect.

(Description of control processing)
Hereinafter, various controls performed by the above-described control unit will be described in detail with reference to flowcharts.
FIG. 5 shows a main routine of control processing performed by the main control circuit 100. 6 to 11 show subroutines that are control processes performed in the main routine.
FIGS. 6 and 7 show a role lottery processing subroutine for performing a role lottery performed by the role lottery means 410 and a flag-on process performed following the role lottery. FIG. 8 shows a reel fluctuation / stop subroutine in which reel control means 440 controls the rotation and stop of the reels.

FIG. 9 shows a winning determination and flag-off process subroutine which is a control process after the symbol is stopped by the reel fluctuation and stop subroutine. FIG. 10 shows a BB gaming process subroutine which is a part of the control process of the winning determination and flag-off process subroutine, and FIG. 11 shows a winning selection process which is a part of the control process of the winning determination and flag-off process subroutine. Indicates a subroutine.
12 to 13 show a control process for performing an effect by the sub control circuit 200. FIG. FIG. 12 shows an effect control subroutine executed by the effect control means 550 and the sphere control means 540, and FIG. 13 shows a chance game control subroutine which is a part of the control process of the effect control subroutine.

  In the control process described below, the slot machine 10 is activated in advance, and variables used in the main control circuit 100 and the sub control circuit 200 described above are initialized to predetermined values and are in steady operation. Shall.

<Description of main routine>
First, the control process of the main routine will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this main routine, a control process when a game is performed once, in which one step from when a player inserts a game medium until a plurality of reels displaying a plurality of symbols is rotated and stopped is performed once. Indicates.
First, it is determined whether or not the value of the parameter NRP is greater than 0 (step S10). Here, NRP is a parameter that determines whether or not to replay, and is set so that replay is performed when it is greater than 0, and replay is not performed when it is 0 or less. Further, as shown in step S510 of FIG. 11, when the re-gamer is won and won, 1 is input as the value of NRP.

  If it is determined in step 10 that the value of NRP is 0 or less (NO), it is determined that no re-game is performed, and then it is determined whether or not a game medium is inserted (step). S12). If it is determined in this determination that a game medium has been input (YES), the process proceeds to step S18, and the input number counted by a game medium counter (not shown) installed below the game medium input port 38 is obtained. The bet number is detected (step S18). However, when the number of game media exceeding the specified number (three in this embodiment) is inserted, the game media exceeding the specified number is stored in the RAM 110 as the number of credits.

  If it is determined in step S12 that no game medium is inserted (NO), the process proceeds to step S14 to determine whether there is a credited game medium (step S14). If it is determined in this determination that there is no credited game medium (NO), the process returns to step S12 again, and the determination processes in steps S12 and S14 are repeatedly executed.

  If it is determined in step S14 that there is a credited game medium (YES), it is next determined whether or not a bet operation signal has been received (step S16). This bet operation signal is transmitted when the player operates any one of the bet switches 32, 34, or 36. When it is determined that the bet operation signal has not been received (NO), the process returns to step S12 again, and the determination process from step S12 to step S16 is repeatedly executed. If it is determined in step S16 that a bet signal has been received (YES), the number of bets is detected from the received bet operation signal (step S18). In either case of inserting a game medium or using a credited game medium, the detected bet number is stored in the RAM 110 as a new bet number, and when using a credited game medium, The number of credits of the game medium is reduced by the number of detected bets (step S20), and the process proceeds to step S24.

  If it is determined in step S10 that the value of NRP is greater than 0 and the game is in the replaying state (YES), 0 is input to the value of NRP to cancel the replaying state (step S22), and step S10. Without performing the process of step S20, the same bet number as the bet number in the previous game is set, and the process proceeds to step S24. That is, when it is determined that the game is in the re-gaming state, the game can be performed without newly inserting a game medium or consuming the credited game medium. In this embodiment, the bet number in the replay is set to the same bet number as in the previous game, but it is also possible to set a bet number different from the bet number in the previous game. .

Thus, the game start state is set, and in step S24, a role lottery processing subroutine is performed (step S24). In the combination lottery processing subroutine, combination lottery processing by the combination lottery means 410 is performed, and flag-on processing for turning on the BB flag, the replay flag, and the general combination flag is performed according to the winning combination. Details of this subroutine will be described later with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
Subsequent to the combination lottery processing subroutine (step S24), based on the result of the combination lottery, the reel variation and stop subroutine (step S26) performs control processing relating to the movement of the reels that are stopped after the reels 40L, 40C, and 40R are rotated. ) Is performed. This reel fluctuation / stop subroutine is performed by the reel control means 440, and details of this subroutine will be described later with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

Next, after the reels are stopped by the reel variation / stop subroutine, a winning symbol determination is performed, and based on the determination result, a winning determination and flag off processing subroutine (step S28) for performing a flag-off process is performed. Details of this subroutine will be described later with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
Then, a payout process (step S30) for paying out a predetermined number of game media corresponding to the winning game based on the winning lottery and winning symbol determination is performed. In the payout process, it is possible to actually pay out the game media from the game media payout outlet 62, or to credit a predetermined number of game media instead of paying out.

  One game is completed by the control process as described above. By repeating the control process shown in this main routine, the player can play a plurality of times.

<Role lottery processing subroutine>
Next, the combination lottery processing subroutine performed in step S24 of the main routine will be described in detail with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.
First, it is determined whether a start switch ON signal has been received (step S40). The start switch ON signal is a signal transmitted by the operation means 300 when the player operates the start switch 50. Based on this signal, the reel control means 440 performs control for starting the rotation of the reel. This is performed (see step S134 in FIG. 8).
If it is determined in this determination that the start switch ON signal has not been received (NO), the determination processing in step S40 is repeated. In other words, the player waits for the game to start until the player operates the start switch 50.

If it is determined in step S40 that a start switch ON signal has been received (YES), a game start signal is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200 (step S41). The game start signal transmitted to the sub control circuit 200 in step S41 is used for the determination process (see FIG. 12) in step S800 of the effect control subroutine.
Subsequent to step S41, it is determined whether or not the value of the parameter NBB is greater than 0 (step S42). Here, NBB is a parameter that determines whether or not to play a BB game, and is set so that a BB game is played when it is larger than 0 and a BB game is not played when it is 0 or less. As shown in step S506 of FIG. 11, when the BB combination is won and won, 1 is input as the value of NBB.
If it is determined in step S42 that NBB is greater than 0 (YES), the BB operation general lottery table stored in the ROM 108 is read (step S44), and the process proceeds to step S48. Here, an example of the general lottery table during BB operation is shown in FIG.

In the lottery table for BB operation, three types of general roles of symbol numbers 1 to 3 and a deviation of symbol number 4 are set.
For the general combination 1 with the symbol number 1, the winning probability in the combination lottery is 1/80, and if the cherry symbol stops on the left reel, any symbol can be used for the remaining two reels. It is set to win.
The general combination 2 with symbol number 2 is set to win when the winning symbol in the combination lottery is 1 / 1.03 and the bell symbol stops on all reels. Therefore, during the BB game, the possibility of winning the general combination 2 in the combination lottery is very high.
The general combination 3 with symbol number 3 is set to win when the winning probability in the combination lottery is 1/100 and the watermelon symbol stops on all reels. In addition, the probability of symbol number 4 losing is about 1/151, which is a low value.

  Next, when it is determined in step S42 that the NBB value is 0 or less (NO), the BB non-operating general lottery table stored in the ROM 108 is read (step S46), and the process proceeds to step S48. . Here, an example of the general lottery table when the BB is not operated is shown in FIG.

The BB non-operating general lottery table is a lottery table used in a normal gaming state, and includes three general roles of symbol numbers 1 to 3, a re-game role of symbol number 4, a BB role of symbol number 5, and a symbol. The deviation of number 6 is set.
For the general combination 1 with the symbol number 1, the winning probability in the combination lottery is 1/80, and if the cherry symbol stops on the left reel, any symbol can be used for the remaining two reels. It is set to win. The general combination 2 with the symbol number 2 is set to win when the winning symbol in the combination lottery is 1/5 and the symbol of the bell stops on all reels. Therefore, the possibility of winning the general combination 2 in the combination lottery is lower than in the BB game. The general combination 3 with symbol number 3 is set to win when the winning probability in the combination lottery is 1/100 and the watermelon symbol stops on all reels.
The re-game combination with symbol number 4 is set to win when the winning probability in the combination lottery process is 1 / 7.3 and all three reels have the replay symbols.
The BB combination with symbol number 5 is set to win when the winning probability in the combination lottery process is 1/300 and all three reels have the red 7 symbol. In addition, the probability of the winning combination lottery of symbol number 6 is set to about 1 / 1.57.

As described above, after the lottery table corresponding to the state of the game is read out, the role lottery for acquiring the random number and performing the lottery determination is performed (step S48). Specifically, random numbers generated by the random number generator 112 are extracted by the random number extraction means 420, and the random number determination means 430 compares the extracted random numbers with the read lottery table and determines the winning.
Subsequently to FIG. 6, the process proceeds to FIG. 7, and it is determined whether or not the BB combination is won as a result of the lottery determination (step S <b> 70). In this determination, if it is determined that the BB combination is won (YES), the BB combination flag is turned on and stored in the RAM 110 (step S72), and the process proceeds to step S82.

If it is determined in step S70 that the BB combination is not won (NO), it is next determined whether or not the re-game combination is won (step S74). If it is determined in this determination that the re-gamer has been won by the role lottery (YES), the re-game flag is turned on and stored in the RAM 110 (step S76), and the process proceeds to step S82.
If it is determined in step S74 that the re-game combination is not won (NO), it is next determined whether or not the general combination is won (step S78). In this determination, if it is determined that the general combination is won by the combination lottery (YES), the general combination flag is turned on and stored in the RAM 110 (step S80), and the process proceeds to step S82.

If it is determined in step S78 that the winning combination has not been won (NO), the lottery determination result is determined to be out of order, and a predetermined control process at the time of out is performed, and the process proceeds to step S82. move on.
After performing a series of processing related to flag-on as described above, in step 82, the symbol number and control symbol data corresponding to the winning combination in the winning lottery are read from the ROM 108 and used for the reel fluctuation and stop subroutine described later. This data is stored in the RAM 110 (step S82).
Next, a result lottery result as described above, that is, a role lottery information signal including information on the winning combination or out of place is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200 (step S84), and this subroutine is terminated. The combination lottery information signal transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200 in step S84 is used in the determination process in step S808 of the effect control subroutine (see FIG. 12) and the determination process in step S834 of the chance game control subroutine (see FIG. 13). Used.

<Explanation of reel fluctuation / stop subroutine>
Next, in the main routine of FIG. 5, when the above-described combination lottery processing subroutine (step S24) is completed, a reel fluctuation and stop subroutine (step S26) is then performed. Next, the reel fluctuation / stop subroutine will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, the symbol number and control symbol data stored in step S82 of FIG. 7 are read (step S130). Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined shortest time has elapsed (step S132). If it is determined in this determination that the shortest time has not elapsed (NO), the determination process in step S132 is repeatedly executed. That is, the rotation of the reel, which is the next process, cannot be started until the shortest time has elapsed. By this control, the number of games played in a certain time is controlled to be within a predetermined number.

If it is determined in step S132 that the shortest time has elapsed (YES), the start switch ON signal has already been received (see step S40 in FIG. 6). Transmission to the drive circuit 114 starts rotation of the motors 80L, 80C, 80R, and rotates the reels 40L, 40C, 40R (step S134).
Next, it is determined whether or not the reel that has started rotating is rotating at a constant speed (step S136). In this determination, if it is determined that the rotation of the reel has not yet reached the constant speed rotation (NO), the determination processing in step S136 is repeated. That is, the reel stop control, which is the next step, cannot be performed until the rotation of the reel reaches a constant speed.

If it is determined in step S136 that the reel is rotating at a constant speed (YES), it is next determined whether a reel stop signal has been received (step S138). Here, the reel stop signal is a signal transmitted by the operation means 300 when the player pushes any one of the stop switches 52L, 52C, 52R.
If it is determined in step S138 that the reel stop signal has been received (YES), the reel symbol combination control (stop control) corresponding to the stop switch that has transmitted the reel stop signal is performed (step S140). Proceed to step S142.
Here, the symbol combination control in step S140 will be described in more detail. When the stop switch 52L for the left reel is pushed, the reel control means 440 performs step S140 for the motor 80L that rotates the left reel 40L. The stop control is performed. Similarly, when the stop switch 52C for the middle reel is pushed, the stop control in step S140 is performed for the motor 80C that rotates the middle reel 40C, and the stop switch 52R for the right reel is pushed. In this case, the stop control in step S140 is performed for the motor 80R that rotates the right reel 40R.

  The symbol combination control (stop control) is based on the symbol number and control symbol data read in step S130, and the frame when the reel stop signal is received is the first frame, the reel is slid up to the fifth frame, and the range. The motor stop control is performed so as to stop or not stop a predetermined symbol.

If it is determined in step S138 that the reel stop signal has not been received (NO), the control proceeds to step S142 without performing control related to the stop. In step S142, it is determined whether all reels have stopped (step S142).
If it is determined by this determination that all reels are not stopped (NO), the process returns to step S138 again, and the control processing from step S138 to step S142 is repeated. If it is determined in step S142 that all reels have stopped (YES), this subroutine is terminated.
As described above, every time the reel stop signal is received, the process of performing symbol combination control (stop control) of the corresponding reels is repeated until all reels stop.

<Explanation of Winning Determination and Flag Off Processing Subroutine>
Next, in the main routine of FIG. 5, when the reel fluctuation / stop subroutine (step S26) is completed, a winning determination and flag-off process subroutine (step S28) is performed. The winning determination and flag off processing subroutine will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, it is determined whether or not the game state is a BB game (step S160). If it is determined in this determination that the BB game is being played (YES), the BB game in-process subroutine (step S162) is performed, and this subroutine is terminated. A detailed description of the BB game processing subroutine will be described later with reference to FIG.
If it is determined in step S160 that the BB game is not being played (NO), it is next determined whether or not there is a winning combination (step S164). If it is determined in this determination that there is a winning combination (YES), a winning combination processing subroutine (step S166) is performed, and this subroutine is terminated. A detailed description of the winning combination processing subroutine will be described later with reference to FIG.

If it is determined in step S164 that there is no winning combination (NO), this subroutine is terminated as it is. Hereinafter, a detailed description of the subroutine shown in steps S162 and S166 will be given.
<Description of processing subroutine during BB game>
First, FIG. 10 shows a detailed explanation of the BB game processing subroutine (see step S162) executed when it is determined that the BB game is being played in step S160 in the winning determination and flag off processing subroutine (see FIG. 9). This will be described with reference to the flowchart shown.
First, a winning symbol determination is made as to whether or not the reel symbol stopped by the reel fluctuation and stop subroutine described above has won a prize (step S300). Next, as a result of the winning symbol determination, it is determined whether or not any winning combination has been won (step S302). If it is determined in this determination that no winning is made (NO), if the general combination flag is ON, the flag is turned OFF (step S304), and the process proceeds to step S310.

If it is determined in step S302 that there is a winning (YES), the payout number is counted, the payout number data is updated, and the updated data is stored in the RAM 110 (step S306). This data is used as a BB game end condition, and when the payout number reaches a predetermined number, the BB game is ended. Then, the general combination flag is turned off (step S308), and the process proceeds to step S310.
In step S310, it is determined whether or not the BB game end condition has been achieved (step S310). If it is determined in this determination that the BB game end condition has been achieved (YES), 0 is input to the value of NBB to release the BB game state (step S312), and this subroutine is ended.
If it is determined in step S310 that the BB termination condition has not been achieved (NO), the BB gaming state is not canceled and the present subroutine is terminated.

<Explanation of the processing sub-routine for winning the role>
Next, in the determination and flag-off processing subroutine (see FIG. 9), the detailed explanation of the winning combination processing subroutine (see step S166) executed when it is determined that there is a winning combination in step S164 is a flowchart shown in FIG. To do.
First, a winning symbol determination is made as to whether or not the reel symbol stopped by the reel fluctuation and stop subroutine described above has won a prize (step S500). Next, as a result of the winning symbol determination, it is determined whether or not any winning combination has been won (step S502).

  If it is determined in this determination that a prize has been won (YES), it is next determined whether or not the BB combination has won (step S504). If it is determined in this determination that the BB combination has won (YES), 1 is input as the value of NBB to set the BB gaming state (step S506). Then, the winning BB flag is turned off (step S507), and this subroutine is finished. By inputting 1 to the value of NBB, the BB game is played from the next game. For example, in the determination of step S42 in FIG. 6, it is determined that the BB game is in progress.

  If it is determined in step S504 that the BB combination has not won (NO), it is next determined whether or not the re-game combination has won (step S508). If it is determined in this determination that the re-gamer has won (YES), 1 is input to the value of NRP (step S510). By this process, a re-game is performed in the next game (see step S22 in FIG. 5). Then, the re-game flag is turned off. If the BB flag is turned on, a flag carry-over process is performed (step S512), and this subroutine is terminated.

If it is determined in step S508 that the re-gamer has not won (NO), the general combination flag is turned off. If the BB flag is on, the flag carry-over process is performed. (Step S514), and this subroutine is terminated.
Returning to the determination in step S502, if it is determined that there is no winning (NO), it is next determined whether or not the BB flag is on (step S516). In this determination, if it is determined that the BB flag is on (YES), carry-over processing of this BB flag is performed, and if other flags (general combination, replay combination) are on, The flag is turned off (step S518), and this subroutine is terminated.

If it is determined in step S516 that the BB flag is not turned on (NO), the flag turned on (general combination, replay combination) is turned off (step S520), and this subroutine is executed. finish.
<Description of main routine (continued)>
As described above, the subroutine shown in steps S162 and S166 ends, and the winning determination and flag-off processing subroutine shown in FIG. 9 ends. Here, returning to the main routine of FIG. 5, the winning determination and flag-off processing subroutine in step S28 is terminated, payout processing is performed in step S30, and this main routine is terminated. Thereby, the control process for performing a game in which one process from the time the symbol fluctuates until it stops is completed.

<Description of production control subroutine>
Next, the effect control subroutine performed by the effect control means 550 and the sphere control means 540 of the sub control circuit 200 will be described in detail using the flowchart shown in FIG. In this effect control subroutine, in order to execute a predetermined effect by driving the motors 620b, 622b, and 624b for the spherical display device 85 and rotating the spherical display body 600 based on the control signal from the main control circuit 100. The control process is performed.

In FIG. 12, first, it is determined whether or not a game start signal (see FIG. 6, step S41) is received from the main control circuit 100 (step S800). If it is determined in this determination that the game start signal has not been received (NO), this determination process is repeated. That is, it is in a standby state until a game start signal is received.
The game start signal is a signal transmitted from the main control circuit 100 when the start switch is operated by the player, and is transmitted only once for each game. Therefore, this subroutine is in a standby state until the game is started.

  If it is determined in step S800 that a game start signal has been received (YES), then a chance game lottery table is read from the ROM 208 and a chance game lottery process is performed (step S802). To describe the lottery process in more detail, a random number generated by a random number generator (not shown) is extracted by a random number extraction means (not shown), and the random number determination means (not shown) And the chance game lottery table are compared to determine whether or not the chance game is won. In the present embodiment, the probability of winning the chance game is set to ¼ by the chance game lottery process.

Following step S802, it is determined whether or not the chance game is won in the chance game lottery process (step S804). If it is determined in this determination that the chance game is won (YES), a chance game control subroutine is performed (step S806), and this subroutine is terminated. The detailed explanation of this chance game subroutine will be described later with reference to FIG.

If it is determined in step S804 that the chance game is not won (NO), it is next determined whether or not a role lottery information signal (see FIG. 7, step S84) is received from the main control circuit 100. (Step S808). If it is determined in this determination that the combination lottery information signal has not been received (NO), this determination process is repeated. That is, it is in a standby state until the winning lottery information signal is received.
If it is determined in step S808 that the combination lottery information signal has been received (YES), it is next determined whether or not any combination has been won in the combination lottery based on the information included in the combination lottery information signal. (Step S810). If it is determined in this determination that no combination has been won (NO), this subroutine is terminated.

  If it is determined in step S810 that a certain role has been won (YES), the red display 602, yellow display 604, green display 606, and PUSH display 608 shown on the surface of the spherical display 600 are The rotating means 622 and 624 are driven so as to be positioned at the height of the body opening 90 to control the rotation of the spherical display body 600 (step S812).

<< Description of Spherical Display Device >>
Here, one embodiment of the spherical display device 85 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the inside of the housing as seen from the arrow AA in FIG. 1, and shows the spherical display device 85 as seen from the upper side of the housing. The spherical display device 85 mainly includes a spherical display body 600, rotating means 620, 622, and 624, a push button mechanism 630, and a backlight 640.
The spherical display body 600 has a substantially spherical shape, and is arranged inside the housing so as to be rotatable in an arbitrary direction. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the spherical display body 600 has a spherical seat (not shown) provided inside the casing except for the area where the rotating means 620, 622, 624 and the backlight 640 are arranged. Is held by. In addition, a part of the surface of the spherical display body 600 is visible from the outside of the display panel 20 by the opening 90 provided on the front side (display panel 20 side) of the housing.

  On the surface of the spherical display 600, a red display 602, a yellow display 604, a green display 606, a PUSH display 608 (used for a chance button game), and an arrow display 610 (used for a chance game) are shown. In addition, an opening 612 is provided on the surface of the spherical display body 600. By turning on the backlight 640, light is guided to the inside of the spherical display body 600 through the opening 612 so that the light is transmitted. The configured display objects 602 to 610 can be illuminated from the back side. Thereby, the display objects 602 to 610 can be displayed more clearly, and in some cases, the display objects can be displayed in a fantastic manner. Furthermore, a variety of effects can be realized by changing the color of the illumination or blinking the illumination.

Further, in the vicinity of the surface of the spherical display body 600, rotating means 620, 622, and 624 for rotating the spherical display body 600 are arranged. In the present embodiment, the spherical display body 600 can be rotated in three different directions orthogonal to each other by the rotating means 620, 622, and 624.
Each rotating means 620, 622, 624 is mainly composed of motors 620b, 622b, 624b and rollers 620a, 622a, 624a mounted on the drive shafts of these motors. When the spherical display body 600 is in contact with any of the rollers 620a, 622a, and 624a, the spherical display body 600 can be rotated in a predetermined direction by driving the motor in contact with the roller. . In FIG. 16, the motor 620b is driven to rotate the roller 620a clockwise (see the arrow), thereby rotating the spherical display body 600 in contact therewith counterclockwise (see the arrow). Show.

Further, each rotating means 620, 622, 624 is attached to the rod tip of the solenoid 622, and does not come into contact with the position where the rollers 630a, 622a, 624a and the spherical display body 600 come into contact with each other by the expansion and contraction of the solenoid 622. You can take a position and. By such a mechanism, when one roller contacts the spherical display body 600 and rotates the spherical display body 600, a position (solenoid) where the other rollers do not contact the spherical display body 600 in order to avoid interference by other rollers. Is controlled to be in a contracted state.
As described above, the spherical display 600 has a larger number of display surfaces than a normal reel and has a higher degree of freedom in the rotation direction than a normal reel. Production can be realized. Accordingly, it is possible to realize more various effects while saving space, and it can be expected that the player's effects and, moreover, the interest in games will be increased.

  Returning to the description of the flowchart, the rotating means 622 and 624 having the above-described configuration are driven to display the red display 602, yellow display 604, green display 606, and PUDH display 608 shown on the surface of the spherical display 600. It arrange | positions in the position of the opening part 90 height of a body (step S812). In this state, as shown in FIG. 16A, when the rotating means 620 is driven to rotate the spherical display body 600, the red display 602, the yellow display 604, the green display 606, A PUSH display 608 appears and repeats if the rotation continues. At this time, by stopping the driving of the rotating means 620 at an appropriate timing, the red display 602 is visible (see FIG. 16B) and the yellow display 604 is visible (see FIG. 16C). ), A state where the green display 606 is visible (see FIG. 16D), or a state where the PUSH display 608 is visible (see FIG. 16E).

Subsequent to step S812, it is determined whether or not a general combination is won in the combination lottery (step S814). In this determination, if it is determined in this determination that the general combination is not won (NO), this subroutine is terminated.
If it is determined in step S814 that the general combination is won (YES), it is next determined whether or not the BB combination is simultaneously won (step S816). In this determination, if it is determined that the general combination and the BB combination are won simultaneously (YES), a lottery process is performed, and in the case of winning, the rotation means 620 is driven to rotate the spherical display 600. Then, a control process for stopping the push display 608 at the position of the opening 90 is performed (step S818), and this subroutine is terminated.

<< Explanation of chance button display >>
When the PUSH display 608 is arranged at the position of the opening 90 by the control processing in step S818, a chance button display state in which the spherical display device 85 functions as a push button switch is set.
In the state of the chance button display, the spherical display body 600 can be operated as a push button switch by performing a push operation. This point will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 19 (b), the PUSH display 608 shown in the spherical display body 600 is in a state of being visible through the opening 90, and as shown in FIG. 19 (a), the spherical display is displayed. A push button mechanism 630 is arranged on the back side of the body 600 (opposite the opening 90).
The push button mechanism 630 includes a spring 630a, a push button member 630b biased toward the opening 90 by the spring 630a, a contact 630c provided on the push button member 630b, and a contact 630d provided on the housing side. Consists mainly of. Note that when the player does not operate the spherical display 600, the contact 630c provided on the push button member 630b and the contact 630d provided on the housing are separated from each other by the biasing force of the spring 630a. It is in a state.

When the player pushes the spherical display body 600, the spherical display body 600 moves to the back side, pushes the push button member 630b, and moves the push button member 630b to the back side. At this time, the spring 630a is bent, and the contact 630c provided on the push button member 630b and the contact 630d provided on the housing are brought into contact with each other, so that the switch is turned on.
When the player stops the pushing operation, the push button member 630 and the spherical display body 600 are returned to the original positions on the front side (front panel 20 side) by the biasing force of the spring 630a, and the contacts 630c and d are separated. To return to the switch-off state.
In addition, when a state other than the chance button display, for example, a red display 602, a yellow display 604, a green display 606, etc. is arranged at the position of the opening 90, the contacts 630c and d are not energized, Even if the spherical display body 600 is pushed, it does not function as a push button switch.

Various subgames and effects can be performed using such a switch function. For example, a rotating pseudo reel is displayed on the display device 70, and when the player pushes the spherical display body 600, the rotating pseudo reel is stopped, and a secondary game in which points are given by the stop symbol is performed. Can be considered. Further, according to the acquired points, it is possible to notify the information related to the winning symbol of the winning combination, or to notify the information related to the reel stop order for winning.
Note that the above secondary game is merely an example, and various other secondary games and effects can be realized by causing the spherical display body 600 to function as a push button switch.

Returning to the description of the flowchart, if it is determined in step S816 that the BB combination has not been won simultaneously (NO), that is, only the general combination has been won alone, as shown in FIG. The rotating means 620 is driven to rotate the spherical display body 600, and a control process is performed such that the red display 602, the yellow display 604, or the green display 606 stops at the position of the opening 90 according to the selected general role. (Step S820), and this subroutine is terminated.
That is, when the general combination 1 (symbol cherry) is won in the combination lottery, the red display 602 is made visible (see FIG. 16B), and when the general combination 2 (symbol bell) is selected, yellow display is performed. When the general combination 3 (design watermelon) is won, the green display 606 can be made visible (see FIG. 16D). Thereby, since the player can obtain information on the result of the lottery drawing with the highest interest, it can be expected that the player's performance and, consequently, the interest in the game is increased.

<Explanation of Chance Game Control Subroutine>
Next, the chance game control subroutine that is performed when the chance game is won in the chance game lottery process in the effect control subroutine will be described using the flowchart shown in FIG.
In the chance game control subroutine, a control process for performing a chance game performed by rotating the arrow display 610 shown on the surface of the spherical display body 600 is performed.

  In FIG. 13, first, control processing for driving the rotation means 620 and 624 to rotate the spherical display body 600 to stop the arrow display 610 at the position of the opening 90 and to arrange the arrow display 610 at a position where it can be visually recognized. Is performed (step S830). For example, in FIG. 17, the rotation means 624 is driven to rotate the spherical display body 600 in the direction of the arrow, so that the arrow display 610 on the upper side of the housing is positioned at the position of the opening 90 as shown in FIG. The place to move is shown.

Next, as shown in FIG. 18, the rotation means 622 is driven to perform a control process for rotating the arrow display 610 (step S832). As shown in FIG. 18B, the player can visually recognize the arrow display 610 that rotates clockwise through the opening 90, thereby enjoying the chance game.
Subsequent to step S832, it is determined whether or not a role lottery information signal (see FIG. 7, step S84) is received from the main control circuit 100 (step S834). If it is determined in this determination that the combination lottery information signal has not been received (NO), this determination process is repeated. That is, it is in a standby state until the winning lottery information signal is received.
If it is determined in step S834 that the combination lottery information signal has been received (YES), it is next determined whether or not the combination BB has been won based on the information included in the combination lottery information signal. (Step S836). If it is determined in this determination that the BB combination is not won (NO), this subroutine is terminated.

If it is determined in step S836 that the BB role has been won (YES), the bonus point determined in the lottery process is awarded, and the backlight 640 blinks and rotates in order to notify the point grant. A control process for blinking the current arrow display 610 is performed (step S838), and this subroutine is terminated.
In this case, according to the acquired points, information regarding the winning symbol of the winning combination can be notified, or information regarding the reel stop order for winning can be notified. Thereby, since the player can obtain information related to the winning, it can be expected that the player's production, and consequently, the interest in the game will be enhanced.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the spherical display 600 has a larger number of display surfaces than a normal reel, and the rotation direction thereof is more flexible than a normal reel ( For example, it is possible to rotate in three directions orthogonal to each other), and by using the rotatable spherical display body 600, it is possible to realize an effect using more various displays. Accordingly, it is possible to realize more various effects while saving space, and it can be expected that the player's effects and, moreover, the interest in games will be increased.

In addition, the display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body 600 informs the player of information related to the result of the role lottery (for example, informs which general role is won by displaying red, yellow, or green). Since it is possible to notify the player of information related to winning (for example, winning symbols, order of stopping reels to win), it can be expected to increase the player's performance and interest in the game.
In addition, since the spherical display 600 can function as a push button switch (for example, a chance button display), it is possible to perform various secondary games using the spherical display 600, and the player's effects and games Can be expected to raise interest in
Further, by using the backlight 640 to illuminate the display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body 600 from the back side, the display object emerges from the back side, so that a clearer display or a fantastic display can be achieved. It is possible to achieve an effect that the player is highly interested in.

(Other embodiments)
In the above-described embodiment, an effect mainly using the spherical display device 85 is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an image, a sound, a lamp display, and the like can be added to the effect using the spherical display device 85. It is also conceivable to combine productions using.
The slot machine according to the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and includes various other embodiments.

It is a front view showing the appearance of the slot machine according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a main control circuit for controlling the slot machine according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a sub control circuit for controlling the slot machine according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing functions of controlling the slot machine according to the present invention. 3 is a flowchart showing a main routine for controlling the progress of a game executed in the main control circuit 100. It is a flowchart which mainly shows a part lottery process in the part lottery process subroutine which performs a flag lottery process and a subsequent flag-on process. It is a flowchart mainly showing a flag-on process in a combination lottery process subroutine for performing a combination lottery process and a subsequent flag-on process. It is a flowchart which shows the reel fluctuation | variation and stop subroutine which perform control for rotation and a stop of a reel. It is a flowchart which shows the winning determination and flag-off process subroutine which shows the control processing after a symbol stops by a reel fluctuation and stop subroutine. It is a flowchart which shows the BB game process subroutine which is a part of control process of a winning determination and flag-off process subroutine. It is a flowchart which shows a winning combination determination processing subroutine which is a part of the control processing of the winning determination, flag off processing subroutine. 10 is a flowchart showing an effect control subroutine executed by effect control means 550 and sphere control means 540 of sub-control circuit 200. It is a flowchart which shows the chance game control subroutine which is a part of control process of an effect control subroutine. It is a figure which shows the Example of the general lottery table at the time of BB operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the Example of a general lottery table | surface at the time of BB non-operation. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the inside of the housing as viewed from an arrow AA in FIG. 1 and a schematic view showing a structure of a spherical display device 85. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the spherical display apparatus 85 at the time of driving a rotation means in order to start a chance button game (PUSH display). It is the schematic which shows the structure of the spherical display apparatus 85 in a chance button game (PUSH display). It is the schematic which shows the structure of the spherical display apparatus 85 in a chance game (arrow display).

Explanation of symbols

10 Slot machine 38 Game medium slot 32, 34, 36 Bet switch 40L, 40C, 40R Reel 50 Start switch 52L, 52C, 52R Stop switch 64 Speaker 70 Display device 80L, 80C, 80R Stepping motor 85 Spherical display device, push button Switch 90 Opening 100 Main control circuit 106 CPU
108 ROM
110 RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 112 Random number generator 114 Motor drive circuit 124 Display lamp 200 Sub control circuit 220 Display drive circuit 300 Operation means 310 Stop operation means 410 Role lottery means 420 Random number extraction means 430 Random number judgment means 440 Reel control means 450 Prize winning process control means 460 Replay Control means 510 Image control means 520 Audio control means 530 Lamp control means 540 Sphere control means 550 Production control means 600 Spherical display body 602 Red display 604 Yellow display 606 Green display 608 PUSH display 610 Arrow display 612 Opening 620 Rotating means 620a Motor 620b Motor 622 Rotating means 622a Roller 622b Motor 624 Rotating means 624a Roller 624b Motor 630 Push button mechanism 630a Spring 630b Push button member 630c, d Contact 632 Solenoids 640 backlight

Claims (1)

A feasible gaming machine Yu technique which Ru is stopped by rotating the plurality of reels multiple symbol is displayed,
A winning combination selecting means for the inside or al winning combinations of a plurality of winning performing constant mel combination lottery by the lottery process,
Reel control means for controlling the stop of the rotated reels according to the result of the winning lottery after rotating a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are displayed ;
A winning process control means for performing a winning process corresponding to the winning combination when it is determined that the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination is stopped and winning;
A substantially spherical, rotatable spherical display arranged so that the player can see part of the surface;
Effect control means for performing a predetermined effect by rotating the spherical display body so that a player can visually recognize a predetermined display object shown on the surface of the spherical display body;
Equipped with a,
A slot machine, wherein the spherical display body functions as an operation switch .

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