JP6353770B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of giving a predetermined gaming value according to a combination of symbols derived by a display means.

  Conventionally, in a slot machine (rotating-type game machine) which is a type of gaming machine, a combination of symbols that allows a stop display on an active line is determined in response to an operation of a start lever. Start rotation and start a variable game. Then, in the slot machine, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the operation of each stop button is stopped, and medals are paid out or bonus games are generated according to the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the active line. For example, a predetermined game value is given.

  Among such slot machines, there is a slot machine that can change a set value that determines a determination probability of a combination of symbols that is allowed to be stopped and displayed on an active line (for example, Patent Document 1). In the slot machine of Patent Document 1, the set setting value is suggested to the player by changing the appearance frequency of a predetermined effect according to the setting value.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-320712

  In general, which set value is set is directly related to the profit of the player who plays the game on the gaming machine, and therefore the player is highly interested. Against this background, in recent years, it has been expected to improve the interest of the player by further devising the setting value suggestion mode.

  This invention is made in view of the said prior art, The objective is to provide the game machine which can improve a player's interest by prediction of a setting value.

A gaming machine that solves the above-described problem causes the display means to start changing the symbol when the start operation is accepted, and stops the symbol at the display means when the stop operation is accepted. In a gaming machine capable of giving a predetermined game value according to a combination of symbols derived in the display means, a determination means for determining a combination of symbols derivable in the display means triggered by acceptance of the start operation; A setting means for setting any one of a plurality of setting values including a first setting value and a second setting value as a setting value that determines the degree of advantage for the player; and an advantage for the player A state control unit capable of controlling an advantageous gaming state to occur over a specific period; and a period control unit capable of controlling to determine or increase the specific period. When the predetermined condition is not satisfied, the means can perform the first control to determine or increase the specific period with the first period as a lower limit, while when the predetermined condition is satisfied, The second control for determining or increasing the specific period is possible, and in the second control, the ratio is different between when the first set value is set and when the second set value is set. The specific period can be determined or increased by setting the control amount for determining or increasing the specific period as a second period smaller than the first period, and the determination result by the determination means is a predetermined determination result. In such a case, there is a case where an effect that prompts the user to perform stop operations in a specific order is executed, the determination result by the determination means is the predetermined determination result, and the order of stop operations is the specific operation In order Sometimes, when the predetermined condition is satisfied and the second control is performed, when the determination result by the determination means is the predetermined determination result and the order of stop operations is not the specific order, the predetermined The gist is that the condition is not satisfied and the first control is performed .

  According to the present invention, the player's interest can be improved by predicting the set value.

The schematic diagram which shows the front of a slot machine. The schematic diagram which shows the prize matched with the combination of a symbol and each symbol combination. The schematic diagram which shows the transition aspect of a game state, and the transition aspect of effect mode. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of a slot machine. The schematic diagram which shows winning information. The flowchart which shows a game progress process. The flowchart which shows a freeze operation process. The flowchart which shows an addition game number determination process. The schematic diagram which shows the addition game number determination table. The flowchart which shows a freeze production process. (A)-(c) is a schematic diagram which shows a specific example of the execution aspect of the change game accompanying the determination of the winning information including the special replay stop eye. (A)-(f) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the specific effect aspect of a freeze effect. The schematic diagram which shows a specific example of the execution aspect of the variable game accompanying the determination of the winning information including the special replay stop eye.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a slot machine (rotating type gaming machine) which is a kind of gaming machine will be described. In the present specification, “up”, “down”, “right”, “left”, “front”, and “rear (back)” indicate respective directions when the slot machine is viewed from the front.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 10 includes a rectangular parallelepiped main body 11 having an opening on the front surface, and a front door 12 pivotally supported on one side edge of the main body 11. Yes. In the upper part of the front face of the front door 12, an effect display device 14 that performs a display effect as a game effect is disposed. The effect display device 14 as the effect execution means is, for example, a transmissive liquid crystal display that can visually recognize a drum unit 13 described later. Further, the front door 12 is provided with a lamp LA that performs a light emission effect as a game effect and a speaker SP that performs a sound effect as a game effect.

  A center panel 15 is provided on the rear surface side of the effect display device 14, and the center panel 15 has a see-through window 16 (each see-through window 16 </ b> L, each see-through window 16 </ b> L) that can see through the drum unit 13 disposed inside the machine. 16C, 16R).

  The slot machine 10 has a drum unit 13 accommodated in a main body 11. The drum unit 13 includes a left reel 13L, a middle reel 13C, and a right reel 13R as display means, each of which is also referred to as a cylinder. Each reel 13L, 13C, 13R has a plurality of identification symbols (hereinafter simply referred to as “symbols”) arranged along the outer peripheral surface.

  The symbols arranged on each of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R include a bell symbol that imitates a bell, a replay symbol that imitates a character of REPLAY, a watermelon symbol that imitates a watermelon, and a cherry symbol that imitates cherry. The symbols arranged on the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R include a seven symbol imitating the seven characters.

  Each of the reels 13L, 13C, 13R is independently rotated and stopped in the vertical direction by a stepping motor provided corresponding to each reel. In the present embodiment, as the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R rotate, the symbols are variably displayed (scrolled) in the vertical direction from the top to the bottom in the see-through window 16, and a variation game as a game is performed. . Each reel 13L, 13C, 13R is provided with reel sensors SE1, SE2, SE3 (shown in FIG. 4) for detecting the rotation position separately. In the slot machine 10, a symbol stop line for defining a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed is set in a symbol display area that can be seen through the perspective window 16. The symbol stop line is an effective line NL that can determine that a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed is a win. In the following description, “winning” means that a combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the active line NL is derived and displayed as a combination of symbols that determine a prize to be described later.

  In addition, on the front surface of the front door 12, various information display portions 17 that notify various information related to the variable game are disposed on the lower left side of the central panel 15. The various information display unit 17 includes a throwable display lamp, a replay display lamp, a weight display lamp, a status lamp, a bet number display unit, a stored number display unit, a prize number display unit, a game information display unit, and an error. A display unit is provided.

  The throwable display lamp is turned on when the slot machine 10 is in the throwable request state. Here, the insertion request possible state is a state in which a medal as a game medium can be betted, and the inserted medal can be stored in the slot machine 10 as a credit. On the other hand, the input enabling display lamp is turned off when the slot machine 10 is in the input request disabled state. Here, the insertion request impossible state is a state in which a variable game is being executed, a state in which the maximum number of medals that can be bet in a single variable game have been bet and the credit has reached the upper limit number, Is operating. In the following description, the number of medals bet in the variable game is referred to as “bet number (bet number)”, and the maximum number of medals allowed to bet in one game is represented as “maximum bet number (maximum bet number)”. ".

  The replay display lamp is lit when a replay combination as a replay combination is won in a variable game (when a replay is activated). The weight display lamp is turned on when a start operation is detected during the wait time, and is turned off after the wait time has elapsed. The wait time is the shortest game time that is set to restrict the floating game from progressing too quickly. When a start operation is detected during this wait time, each reel is played after the wait time has elapsed. Is set to start rotating. The status lamp is turned on / off in accordance with the progress of the variable game.

  Further, the bet number display unit is composed of three light emitting units, and the lamp is turned on according to the bet number of the variable game. One lamp is lit for one bet, two lamps are lit for two bets, and all lamps are lit for three bets. The stored number display section displays the number of credits stored in the machine. The award number display portion displays the number of medals awarded to the player based on the winning when a winning occurs during the variable game. In addition, the error display unit can perform error notification by displaying an error number that can identify various error states that have occurred in the slot machine 10.

  In addition, a medal slot 18 as a medal slot is provided on the front side of the front door 12 at the lower right of the center panel 15. Behind the medal slot 18, a medal sensor SE4 (shown in FIG. 4) that detects passage of medals is disposed.

  Further, a MAXBET button 20 is disposed on the lower left side of the center panel 15 on the front surface of the front door 12. The MAXBET button 20 is a button that is operated when betting a medal amount up to the maximum bet number from the credit stored in the slot machine 10.

  Further, on the front surface of the front door 12, a checkout button 21 is disposed on the lower left side of the MAXBET button 20. The settlement button 21 is a switch operated when paying back a bet medal or a credit stored in the machine.

  A start lever 22 that is operated by the player when starting the variable game is disposed on the right side of the checkout button 21. The start lever 22 of the present embodiment functions as a start operation means capable of starting operation to start a variable game.

  Further, stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are disposed on the right side of the start lever 22. The stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are associated with the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R, respectively, and a stop operation that triggers the display and display (winning) of symbols on the associated rotating reels ( Derivation operations) are possible. The stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R of the present embodiment function as derivation operation means.

  In addition, a medal discharge port 24 is provided at the lower center of the front surface of the front door 12. In addition, a tray 25 for receiving medals discharged from the medal discharge port 24 is disposed at the lower part of the front surface of the front door 12.

  Further, as indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1, a hopper 26 for storing inserted medals is disposed below the drum unit 13 inside the slot machine 10. The hopper 26 pays out the stored medals from the medal discharge port 24 on condition that the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the active line NL becomes a predetermined symbol combination. Below the medal slot 18, a medal selector 19 that connects the medal slot 18 and the hopper 26 is disposed.

  Also, a set value set switch 27 (shown in FIG. 4) that can set the set value of the slot machine 10 in accordance with the operation of the set key inserted into the keyhole is disposed inside the slot machine 10. Yes. In the present embodiment, when the setting key inserted into the keyhole is rotated from the original position to the rotation position, the setting value set switch 27 is turned on. When the slot machine 10 is activated in this state, the setting value is changed. It can be changed. In this state, the set value is changed in accordance with the operation of the start lever 22, and the changed set value is set in response to the setting key being turned from the turning position to the original position.

  The setting values of the slot machine 10 include setting values in a plurality of stages of setting 1 to setting 6. Setting 6 is more advantageous for the player than setting 1 is. Specifically, by setting a highly advantageous setting value, the probability of determining the combination of symbols that determines the payout of medals, which will be described later, is increased. Rate) increases. As described above, the set value set switch 27 functions as a setting means for setting any set value from among a plurality of set values that define the degree of advantage for the player.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, there are a plurality of types of symbol combinations as symbol combinations (so-called roles) that give a prize (predetermined game value) to a player on the condition of winning. Is set. There are two types of symbol combinations: a combination of symbols that determines the awarding of medals as a prize (payout role, small role), and a combination of symbols that determine the award of replays as award (replay role, replaying role) . In the following description, the combination of symbols may be simply indicated as “stop eye”.

  The combination of symbols that determines the medal payout as an award (payout stop eye) includes a combination of watermelon symbols (watermelon role), a cherry symbol combination (cherry role), and a bell symbol combination (bell role). is there.

  For a combination of watermelon symbols (watermelon stop eye), a predetermined number (four in the present embodiment) of paying out medals is determined as an award. The watermelon stop eye is, for example, a combination of symbols of [watermelon / watermelon / watermelon].

  In addition, for a combination of cherry symbols (cherry stop eye), a predetermined number (two in this embodiment) of medals is determined as a prize. The cherry stop eye is, for example, a combination of symbols of [cherry / ANY / ANY].

  In addition, for a combination of bell symbols (bell stop eye), a predetermined number (9 in the present embodiment) of paying out medals is determined as a prize. The bell stop eye is, for example, a combination of symbols of [Bell Bell Bell].

  The combination of symbols for which replays are granted as awards (replay stoppage) includes the combination of normal replay symbols (normal replay role), the combination of promoted replay symbols (promotional replay role), and the combination of special replay symbols. (Special replay role). In the slot machine 10, when a combination of symbols of normal replay (normal replay stop), a combination of symbols of promotion replay (stop of promotion replay), or a combination of symbols of special replay (special replay stop) is selected, Even if it is a case, replay is given. The replay (replay) is to perform the next variable game by automatically setting the number of bets inside the machine without the player betting medals. In replaying, the player can play a variable game without consuming medals, but the medals are not paid out.

  The normal replay stop eye is, for example, a combination of symbols of [Replay / Replay / Replay]. The promotion replay stop eye is, for example, a combination of symbols of [watermelon / replay / watermelon]. The special replay stop eye is a combination of symbols such as [Seven Seven Seven], [Bell Bell Seven], and [Bell Replay Watermelon].

  In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the combination of symbols (stop eye) excluding the payout stop and replay stop eyes is a watermelon spilled symbol that is not given a prize even if stopped on the active line NL. Combinations (watermelon spilling), cherry spilling symbol combinations (cherry spilling), and bell spilling symbol combinations (bell spilling). In FIG. 2, the combination of watermelon spilled symbols (watermelon spilling), cherry spilled symbol combination (cherry spilling), and bell spilled symbol combination (bell spilling) are combined. It shows. Further, in the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the symbol combinations (stop eyes) excluding the payout stop eye, each spill stop eye, and the replay stop eye include an outlier symbol combination (outage stop eye).

  In addition, the slot machine 10 has an RT function (re-gamer probability changing function) for controlling the game by changing the determination probability (winning probability) of the replay stop in the internal lottery triggered by the start operation to a high probability. It is installed. In the gaming state in which the RT function is activated (hereinafter referred to as the RT state), the probability of determining the replay stop eye is improved compared to the gaming state in which the RT function is not activated (hereinafter referred to as the non-RT state). Therefore, the consumption of medals is suppressed. Therefore, the RT state can be a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the non-RT state.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the slot machine 10, when a prize is placed in the promotion replay stop in the non-RT state, the slot machine 10 shifts to the RT state. In the slot machine 10, when a prize is received in the bell spilling stop state in the RT state, the state is shifted to the non-RT state.

  Further, the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment is configured to be able to execute any one of a plurality of types of effect modes (effect states) according to the gaming state in the slot machine 10.

  The plurality of types of effect modes include a first effect mode M1, a second effect mode M2, and a third effect mode M3. In each of the effect modes M1 to M3, for example, a background image or a character image that is different for each effect mode is displayed on the effect display device 14 as mode notification information for notifying the player of the effect mode during the stay. Therefore, in the slot machine 10, the player can recognize the effect mode of the slot machine 10 based on the display content of the effect display device 14.

  The first effect mode M1 is an effect mode for mainly staying in the non-RT state. The first effect mode M1 is an effect mode in which the push order navigation effect for navigating the player in the recommended push order (operation mode) of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R is not performed in the variable game. In the push order navigation effect of the present embodiment, an image or the like imitating the stop button is used as push order notification information for notifying the stop button recommended to perform the stop operation first among the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R. It is executed in a manner of displaying on the effect display device 14.

  The second effect mode M2 is an effect mode for mainly staying in the RT state. The second effect mode M2 is an effect mode in which a push order navigation effect is performed in a variable game (so-called assist time).

  The third effect mode M3 as the advantageous game state is an effect mode for staying in the RT state. Similarly to the second effect mode M2, the third effect mode M3 is also an effect mode in which a push order navigation effect is performed in a variable game (so-called assist time).

  In the slot machine 10, when the player is staying in the first effect mode M1 and wins the mode transition lottery for determining whether or not to shift to the second effect mode M2, the slot machine 10 shifts to the second effect mode M2. Details of this mode transition lottery will be described later.

  The slot machine 10 stays in the second effect mode M2 and stays in the second effect mode M2 without determining the winning information including the special replay stop eye in the internal lottery. When the number of fluctuation games (the number of games in the second effect mode) ends, the first effect mode M1 is entered. In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the number of games in the second presentation mode may be increased when a predetermined additional condition is met.

  On the other hand, the slot machine 10 can stay in the second effect mode M2 when it is staying in the second effect mode M2 and the winning information including the special replay stop eye is determined in the internal lottery. When the change game of the number of second effect mode staying games ends, the third effect mode M3 is entered.

  When the slot machine 10 is staying in the third effect mode M3 and the fluctuation game of the number of stay games (number of third effect mode staying games) that can stay in the third effect mode M3 ends, The mode is shifted to the 1 effect mode M1. In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the number of games in the third presentation mode may be increased when a predetermined additional condition is met.

  In the following description, determining the initial number of stay games or increasing the number of stay games to the determined number of stay games is indicated as “adding the number of stay games” and the number of games to be added. May be indicated as “number of extra games”.

  In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, during the stay in the second effect mode M2, the winning information including the special replay stop eye is determined in the internal lottery, and the stop is stopped in the pressing order necessary for winning the special replay stop. When the buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped, a special effect can be executed. As a special effect in the present embodiment, it can be executed in an effect period that is a part of the period from the start to the end of one variable game, and at least one of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R. It is configured to include a reel effect (rotation effect) that causes one reel to perform a production operation. Here, the “operation on production” in this specification includes rotating or rotating the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R, and stopping the rotating or rotating reels 13L, 13C, and 13R. Shall be. Further, the “production operation” includes not rotating, rotating, or stopping the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R even if the start lever 22 and the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated. In the following description, the effect period may be referred to as a “freeze period”, the special effect may be referred to as a “freeze effect”, and a state in which the freeze effect is being executed may be referred to as a “freeze state”. In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the freeze period is defined as a period from when the special replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL until the end of the variable game in one variable game. .

  The freeze effect of the present embodiment is an effect in which a unit effect accompanied by operations on the effects of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R is performed a predetermined number of times during the freeze period. In the present embodiment, the unit effect constituting the freeze effect is triggered by the elapse of a predetermined time from the operation of the start lever 22 after the rotation of the reels 13L, 13C, 13R is started by the operation of the start lever 22. This is a pseudo-variable game (hereinafter referred to as a pseudo-variable game) that is performed once until a predetermined symbol combination is stopped and displayed on the active line NL. That is, in the freeze effect of the present embodiment, during the freeze period, the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R are repeatedly rotated and stopped on the effect, so that a variable game can be performed several times during a single variable game. The player can be made to recognize it as if he had been.

  In each pseudo-variable game, a specific symbol combination is stopped and displayed on the active line NL (hereinafter referred to as a special stop eye). The specific symbol combination is, for example, a symbol combination of [Seven, Seven, Seven].

  In the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment, when a pseudo-variable game in which a special stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL is performed, the number of third stage mode stay games stored internally can be added. . In the freezing effect, although the special stop eye is stopped and displayed in the pseudo-variable game, the addition of the number of staying games is performed without the special stop eye stop display as a condition. It can be grasped as a different privilege. The control for increasing the number of stay games will be described in detail later.

  In addition, the freeze effect according to the present embodiment includes a display effect associated with the reel effect. More specifically, the display effect constituting the freeze effect includes a start effect for notifying the player of the start of the freeze effect, an operation guidance effect for guiding the player to operate the start lever 22, and provision of a privilege. It includes a bonus notification effect informing the player and an end effect informing the player of the end of the freeze effect. The privilege notification effect notifies the addition of the number of stay games in the third effect mode M3 as a privilege.

  For example, the start effect is performed in such a manner that an image simulating a character string (such as “start freeze effect”) that informs the player of the start of the freeze effect is displayed on the effect display device 14. Further, for example, the operation guidance effect is performed in a manner in which an image imitating a character string (such as “start lever hit!”) That guides the player to operate the start lever 22 is displayed on the effect display device 14. Further, for example, in the privilege notification effect, an image imitating a character string (for example, “+30 game addition”) for notifying that the number of stay games in the third effect mode M3 is added as a privilege is displayed on the effect display device 14. It is performed by the mode to do. In addition, for example, the end effect is performed in such a manner that an image imitating a character string (such as “freeze effect end”) that notifies the player of the end of the freeze effect is displayed on the effect display device 14. The control for executing the freeze effect will be described in detail later.

Next, the electrical configuration of the slot machine 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 4, a main control board 40 that performs various processes related to the progress of the game and outputs a control signal (control command) according to the processing result is disposed inside the slot machine 10. ing. In addition, a sub-control board 41 that performs various processes related to the execution of game effects based on various control signals input from the main control board 40 is disposed inside the slot machine 10. The sub control board 41 controls the execution of the display effect by the effect display device 14, the light emission effect by the lamp LA, and the sound effect by the speaker SP.

First, the main control board 40 will be described in detail.
The main control board 40 includes a main control CPU 40a that executes control operations in a predetermined procedure, a main control ROM 40b that stores a control program for the main control CPU 40a, and a main control RAM 40c that can write and read necessary data. And. Reel sensors SE1 to SE3 and medal sensor SE4 are connected to the main control CPU 40a. Various information display units 17 are connected to the main control CPU 40a. Connected to the main control CPU 40a are a MAXBET button 20, a settlement button 21, a start lever 22, stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R, and a hopper 26. A set value set switch 27 is connected to the main control CPU 40a.

  When the medal sensor SE4 detects a medal, the main control CPU 40a receives a medal detection signal indicating that the medal has been detected. When the MAXBET button 20, the settlement button 21, the start lever 22, the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R, and the set value set switch 27 are operated, the main control CPU 40a displays various types of information indicating that each button has been operated. An operation signal is input. The main control CPU 40a receives a symbol signal from the reel sensors SE1 to SE3 for specifying a symbol passing through the symbol stop line or a symbol stopped on the symbol stop line.

  The main control CPU 40a is connected to a stepping motor that drives the left reel 13L, a stepping motor that drives the middle reel 13C, and a stepping motor that drives the right reel 13R (not shown). The main control CPU 40a drives each stepping motor by switching the excitation state by outputting a drive signal (pulse) every predetermined period, and rotates and stops each reel 13L, 13C, 13R separately. .

  The main control CPU 40a can input the first position signal output from the reel sensor SE1 in accordance with the rotational position of the left reel 13L. The main control CPU 40a can input a second position signal output from the reel sensor SE2 in accordance with the rotational position of the middle reel 13C. The main control CPU 40a can input a third position signal output from the reel sensor SE3 according to the rotational position of the right reel 13R.

  Further, the main control CPU 40a executes a random number generation process for updating random number values used for various lotteries every predetermined control period. In the random number generated by the random number generation process, winning information used to determine winning information (for example, a winning number) that can specify a combination (combination) of symbols that can be stopped and displayed on the active line NL in a variable game. There is a random number for decision.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 5, the winning information set in the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment will be described. In the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, a plurality of types of winning information including winning information t11, t21, t31 to t33, t41 to t44 are set. Each winning information is associated with one or more combinations of symbols that can be stopped and displayed on the active line NL in the variable game. In other words, the winning information is associated with one combination (so-called condition device) or with a combination of combinations of a plurality of combinations (so-called condition device combination). Therefore, in the slot machine 10, when winning information that can specify one symbol combination is determined, it means that a single combination is won. On the other hand, when winning information that can identify a combination of a plurality of symbols is determined, it means that a plurality of winning combinations are won.

  The winning information t11 is associated with a cherry stop eye and a cherry spilling stop eye. The winning information t21 is associated with watermelon stop eyes and watermelon spill stop eyes. The winning information t31 is associated with a bell stop eye of any pressing order that is determined to stop and display the bell stop eye on the effective line NL regardless of the pressing order of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R.

  The winning information t32 includes a bell on the active line NL on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the pressing order in which the left stop button 23L is first operated (hereinafter referred to as the first pressing order). The first squeezed bell spill stop eye that is determined to stop and display the spill stop eye is associated. The winning information t32 includes a bell on the active line NL on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the pressing order in which the middle stop button 23C is first operated (hereinafter referred to as the second pressing order). A bell stop eye in the second push order that determines to stop and display the stop eye is associated. The winning information t32 includes a bell on the active line NL on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the pressing order in which the right stop button 23R is first operated (hereinafter referred to as the third pressing order). A third squeezed bell spill stop eye that is determined to stop and display the spill stop eye is associated.

  In addition, the winning information t33 is associated with the first squeezed bell spill stop eyes. In the winning information t33, on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the second push order, the bell in the second push order that stipulates that the bell spilling stop eye is stopped on the active line NL. Spill stop eyes are associated. In the winning information t33, on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third push order, the bell stop in the third push order is determined to stop and display the bell stop eye on the effective line NL. Eyes are associated.

  In addition, the winning information t41 is associated with a normal replay stop eye of any push order that is determined to stop and display the normal replay stop eye on the active line NL regardless of the pressing order of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R. Yes. In the winning information t42, on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the first push order, the normal of the first push order that determines that the normal replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL. Replay stop eyes are associated. In the winning information t42, on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the second push order, the normal replay stop normal that determines that the normal replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL is displayed. Replay stop eyes are associated. In the winning information t42, a special of the third push order that stipulates that the special replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL on condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third push order. Replay stop eyes are associated.

  Also, the winning information t43 is associated with the first replay stop order in the first push order. In the winning information t43, on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the second push order, the promotion in the second push order is determined to stop and display the promotion replay stop eye on the active line NL. Replay stop eyes are associated. In the winning information t43, on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third push order, the normal replay stop eye is displayed on the active line NL. Replay stop eyes are associated.

  Also, the winning information t44 is associated with the first replay stop order in the first push order. The winning information t44 is associated with the second replay stop normal replay order. In the winning information t44, on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third push order, the promotion in the third push order is determined to stop and display the promotion replay stop eye on the active line NL. Replay stop eyes are associated.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the main control ROM 40b stores a main control program. The main control ROM 40b stores various tables used for processing relating to the progress of the game. Such a table includes, for example, a winning information determination table for determining winning information from a plurality of winning information, and a combination (combination) of symbols determined to be stop-displayable on the active line NL. Thus, there is a stop table for determining a symbol to be stopped and displayed on the active line NL when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated. In addition, the main control RAM 40c stores various information such as the above-described credits that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the slot machine 10.

Here, the winning information determination table will be described.
The winning information determination table includes a winning information determination table Tm0 used in the non-RT state and a winning information determination table Tm1 used in the RT state.

  In each of the winning information determination tables Tm0 and Tm1, for the winning information to be determined (lottery), the random number for determining the winning information is a predetermined number of random numbers (random value). Number based on the range). That is, according to the winning information determination tables Tm0 and Tm1, the determination probability of each winning information (the winning probability for each combination) is defined.

  In the present embodiment, the winning information determination table Tm0 includes a plurality of winning information determination tables corresponding to the setting values, and the winning information is determined with different probabilities according to the setting values. In particular, in the winning information determination table Tm0, when a setting value with a high advantage (for example, setting 6) is set, it is higher than when a setting value with a low advantage (for example, setting 1) is set. It is defined that the winning information including at least a stop eye for giving a prize to the player is determined by the probability. In this way, the set value defines the determination probability of the combination of symbols to be awarded as an advantage, and as a result, the game value payout rate is defined as the advantage.

  In each winning information determination table Tm0, winning information determination random numbers are distributed so that the winning information t11, t21, t31 to t33, t41, t43, and t44 can be determined. In the winning information determination table Tm1, the values of the winning information determining random numbers are distributed so that the winning information t11, t21, t31 to t33, t41, t42 can be determined.

  In addition, in the winning information determination table Tm1, the winning information determining table Tm1 is used for determining the winning information so that the sum of the respective determination probabilities of the winning information t41 to t44 associated with the replay stop eye is increased as compared with the winning information determining table Tm0. Random values are distributed. Thereby, in the RT state, the determination probability of the replay stop eye is changed with a high probability as compared with the non-RT state, and it can be said that the gaming state is advantageous for the player. In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the deviation is determined when the value of the winning information determination random number does not match any of the values assigned to the winning information in the winning information determination table.

  In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the winning probability of the bell stop eye is the sum of the determination probabilities of the winning information t31 to t33 associated with the bell stop eye. The winning probability of the cherry stop is the determination probability of the winning information t11 associated with the cherry stop. The determination probability of the watermelon stop eye becomes the determination probability of the winning information t21 associated with the watermelon stop eye.

Next, the sub control board 41 will be described in detail.
The sub-control board 41 includes a sub-control CPU 41a that executes control operations in a predetermined procedure, a sub-control ROM 41b that stores a control program for the sub-control CPU 41a, and a sub-control RAM 41c that can write and read necessary data. Is provided. The effect display device 14, the lamp LA, and the speaker SP are connected to the sub control CPU 41a.

  The sub-control CPU 41a executes random number update processing (random number generation processing) for updating various random number values used in various lotteries at predetermined intervals. The sub control ROM 41b stores an effect control program. In addition, the sub-control ROM 41b includes a display effect pattern that can specify the display effect mode of the effect display device 14, an audio effect pattern that can specify the sound effect mode of the speaker SP, and the light emission effect mode of the lamp LA. An illuminating effect pattern that can be specified is stored. The sub-control RAM 41c stores various types of information that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the slot machine 10. For example, in the sub-control RAM 41c, state information (such as a flag) relating to the internal state is stored (set) by the sub-control CPU 41a.

  Then, the sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14, the lamp LA, and the speaker SP so that the game effect is executed based on various commands input from the main control board 40 (main control CPU 40a). For the game effect, for example, an effect that informs the player of the pressing order of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R for deriving and displaying a combination of symbols corresponding to a predetermined role, and an operation based on the start lever 22 are derived and displayed. There is an effect that suggests a combination (role) of the symbols determined as possible. Further, the sub-control CPU 41a can also make a game effect corresponding to the internal state of the slot machine 10.

Hereinafter, processing executed by the main control CPU 40a based on the main control program will be described. First, the game progress process related to the progress of the game will be described.
As shown in FIG. 6, the main control CPU 40a starts accepting bets for medals (step S11). Next, the main control CPU 40a checks the internal control state of the slot machine 10 (step S12).

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not it is a re-game operation (step S13). When it is not during the re-game operation (step S13: NO), the main control CPU 40a is based on the input of the medal detection signal from the medal sensor SE4 and the input of the operation signal from the MAXBET button 20. Medal management for setting the number of bets is performed (step S14). That is, in step S14, when the medal detection signal is input from the medal sensor SE4, the main control CPU 40a adds 1 to the bet number in the current variable game stored in the main control RAM 40c. In step S14, when the main control CPU 40a receives an operation signal from the MAXBET button 20, the main control CPU 40a adds the bet number in the current variable game stored in the main control RAM 40c so as to be the maximum bet number. The credit is subtracted by the added amount.

  The main control CPU 40a determines whether or not the bet number in the current variation game matches the maximum bet number when the re-game operation is being performed (step S13: YES) and when the process of step S14 is completed. (Step S15). When the re-playing operation is being performed (step S13: YES), the main control CPU 40a resets the bet number in the previous variation game as the bet number in the current variation game in the main control RAM 40c.

  When the bet number in the current variation game does not match the maximum bet number (step S15: NO), the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S12. That is, in step S15, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not it is in a state where a variable game can be started. As described above, in the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the startable condition for enabling the start of the variable game is established by placing the bet of the maximum number of bets, and the state shifts to the startable state of the variable game.

  On the other hand, when the number of bets in the current variable game matches the maximum number of bets (step S15: YES), the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a start operation by the start lever 22 has been accepted (step S16). In step S <b> 16, the main control CPU 40 a makes an affirmative determination when an operation signal is input from the start lever 22, and a negative determination when an operation signal is not input from the start lever 22. Therefore, the main control CPU 40a of the present embodiment functions as a start operation accepting unit that accepts a start operation. When the start operation is not accepted (step S16: NO), the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S12.

  On the other hand, when the start operation is accepted (step S16: YES), the main control CPU 40a executes a winning information lottery process for determining winning information (step S17). More specifically, in step S17, the main control CPU 40a acquires the value of the winning information determination random number from the main control RAM 40c. Further, the main control CPU 40a refers to the game state information (such as a flag) stored in the main control RAM 40c to specify the game state, and the winning information determination table associated with the specified game state. Select. The main control CPU 40a determines one winning information from a plurality of types of winning information with reference to the selected winning information determining table based on the value of the acquired winning information determining random number. Then, the main control CPU 40a stores information (such as a flag) that can identify the determined winning information in the main control RAM 40c. In the present embodiment, the main control CPU 40a reads the set value set in the main control RAM 40c, and determines the winning information based on the set value. As described above, the main control CPU 40a functions as a determination unit that determines a combination of symbols that can be derived in each of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R when the start operation is accepted.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not the shortest game time (wait time) has elapsed (step S18). When the shortest game time has not elapsed (step S18: NO), the main control CPU 40a waits until the shortest game time has elapsed. When the shortest game time has elapsed (step S18: YES), the main control CPU 40a newly sets the shortest game time (for example, 4 seconds) in the main control RAM 40c (step S19). The main control CPU 40a updates the shortest game time by, for example, subtracting the time corresponding to the control cycle every predetermined control cycle, and measures the elapsed time from the start of the previous variable game so as to be specified. .

  Next, the main control CPU 40a outputs a control signal to each stepping motor to start rotation (rotation) of each reel 13L, 13C, 13R (step S20). In other words, the main control CPU 40a controls the drum unit 13 so that the symbols 13L, 13C, and 13R start to change when the start operation is accepted. At this time, the main control CPU 40a outputs to the sub-control board 41 (sub-control CPU 41a) a determination result of the winning information and a variable game start command that can specify a game state in which the variable game is performed.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not the rotational speed of each of the reels 13L, 13C, 13R has reached a constant speed (step S21). When the rotation (rotation) speed of each reel 13L, 13C, 13R has not reached a constant speed (step S21: NO), the main control CPU 40a sets the rotation speed of each reel 13L, 13C, 13R to a constant speed. Wait until it reaches.

  When the rotation (rotation) speed of each of the reels 13L, 13C, 13R has reached a constant speed (step S21: NO), the main control CPU 40a stops the button corresponding to the reels 13L, 13C, 13R being rotated. It is determined whether or not a stop operation by any of 23L, 23C, and 23R has been accepted (step S22). That is, the main control CPU 40a starts the process of step S22 after accepting the start operation, thereby shifting to the valid state in which acceptance of the stop operation by the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R is valid. In step S22, the main control CPU 40a makes an affirmative determination when an operation signal is input from any of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R corresponding to the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R being rotated. On the other hand, the main control CPU 40a makes a negative determination when no operation signal is input from any of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R corresponding to the reels 13L, 13C, 13R being rotated. Therefore, the main control CPU 40a functions as a derivation operation accepting unit that accepts a stop operation as a derivation operation for each of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R.

  When the stop operation is accepted (step S22: YES), the main control CPU 40a executes a reel stop process for stopping the rotation of the reel corresponding to the stop button to which the operation signal is input (step S23). That is, the main control CPU 40a controls the drum unit 13 so that the symbols are derived to the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R corresponding to each stop operation in response to reception of each stop operation after the transition to the valid state. . Therefore, the main control CPU 40a functions as a symbol control means. In step S23, when the operation signal of each stop button 23L, 23C, 23R is input, the main control CPU 40a outputs a command capable of specifying the stop button to which the operation signal is input to the sub control board 41 (sub control CPU 41a). To do. Specific processing contents in the reel stop processing will be described later.

  When the stop operation is not accepted (step S22: NO), and when the process of step S23 is finished, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not all of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R are stopped (step). S24). When one or more of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R are not stopped (step S24: NO), the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S22. On the other hand, when all of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R are stopped (step S24: YES), the main control CPU 40a determines which combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed on the effective line NL in each reel. Whether or not it corresponds to the stop eye, and if it corresponds, the display result determination for determining the type of the stop eye is executed (step S25). In other words, in the process of step S25, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a combination (combination) of symbols that can be identified from the winning information determined in the process of step S17 has actually won, and if a prize has been won, The combination of symbols (winning combination) determined.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a executes a freeze operation process for executing the above-described freeze effect (reel effect) (step S26). This freeze operation process will be described later.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not to pay out medals to the player (step S27). In step S27, the main control CPU 40a makes an affirmative determination when winning a payout stop, while making a negative determination when no payout stop paying. In the case of paying out medals (step S27: YES), the main control CPU 40a drives the hopper 26 to pay the number of medals determined for the winning symbol combination (combination) from the hopper 26 to the player. (Step S28). As described above, in the slot machine 10, it is possible to generate a payout of medals as a predetermined game value in accordance with the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 16, more specifically on the active line NL.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a ends one variation game when the medal is not paid out (step S27: NO) and when the process of step S28 is ended (step S29). In step S29, the main control CPU 40a gives control to shift the gaming state in accordance with the combination (combination) of the symbol determined to be a prize, or gives a prize instruction command indicating that the prize is judged to be a sub-control board 41 (for sub-control). The CPU 41a) performs output control. This winning instruction command causes the sub-control board 41 to recognize the winning of the symbol variation game (role) designated by the variation game start command.

  Subsequently, the main control CPU 40a performs a state flag setting process for setting various flags in accordance with the gaming state and the result of the variable game (step S30). In the process of step S30, the main control CPU 40a determines to shift to the RT state when winning in the promotion replay stop in the non-RT state variable game. The main control CPU 40a determines to shift to the non-RT state when winning in the bell-spilling stop in the RT state variation game. When the main control CPU 40a determines to shift the game state, the main control RAM 40c stores game state information (such as a flag) that can specify the transfer destination game state. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a ends the game progress process related to the execution of one variation game, and again proceeds to the process of step S11.

  As described above, in the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, for example, according to the player's viewpoint, the variation game is started by the start of symbol variation. The variable game is terminated by paying out medals when winning a prize when the payout is stopped, and is ended by stopping the change of symbols when not winning a prize when the payout is stopped. In the present embodiment, from the viewpoint of internal processing in the slot machine 10, in step S <b> 16 in the game progress processing, the variable game is started by accepting the start operation, and the variable game is a step related to medal payout. The process is terminated by executing the processes of S27 and S28.

  In the present embodiment, the main control CPU 40a reads the set value set in the main control RAM 40c and designates the set value in response to the start of the bet reception of medals in the above game progress process. A set value designation command is output to the sub control board 41 (sub control CPU 41a). Thereby, also in the sub control board 41, the set value set in the main control board 40 can be specified. Similarly, when the set value is changed after the power is turned on, the main control CPU 40a outputs a set value specifying command for specifying the changed set value to the sub control board 41 (sub control CPU 41a). It will be.

Next, the reel stop process executed by the main control CPU 40a in step S23 of the game progress process will be described.
The main control CPU 40a determines in advance based on the winning information determined in the process of step S17 (winning information lottery process) in the game progress process and the operation mode (push order and operation timing) of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R. A symbol that can be stopped and displayed on the effective line NL is retrieved from symbols located within the drawn-in range (four symbols in this embodiment). Then, the main control CPU 40a controls the stepping motor so that the searched symbol is stopped and displayed on the active line NL. By executing such reel stop control, the main control CPU 40a can stop and display the combination of symbols on the effective line NL as follows.

  That is, the main control CPU 40a determines the winning information t11, and the operation timing of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R is the timing at which the cherry stop eyes can be stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. When there is, the cherry stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. On the other hand, the main control CPU 40a determines that the winning information t11 has been determined, and the operation timing of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R cannot stop and display the cherry stop eyes on the effective line NL. At the timing (cherry non-stop timing), the cherry spilling stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL.

  When the main control CPU 40a determines the winning information t21, the operation timing of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R is the timing at which the watermelon stop eye can be stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. The watermelon stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. On the other hand, the main control CPU 40a determines that the winning information t21 has been determined, and the operation timing of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R cannot stop and display the watermelon stop on the effective line NL. When it is time (watermelon non-stop timing), the watermelon spill stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL.

  When the winning information t31 is determined, the main control CPU 40a stops and displays the bell stop eye on the effective line NL regardless of the pressing order of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R and the timing of the stop operation. Let

  When determining the winning information t32, the main control CPU 40a relates to the operation timing of each of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R are operated in the second pressing order. Instead, the bell stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. On the other hand, when determining the winning information t32, the main control CPU 40a sets each stop button 23L on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R are operated in the first push order or the third push order. , 23C, 23R, the bell spilling stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL.

  When determining the winning information t33, the main control CPU 40a sets the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R are operated in the first push order or the second push order. Regardless of the operation timing, the bell spill stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. On the other hand, when determining the winning information t33, the main control CPU 40a determines that each of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R is operated on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third pressing order. Regardless of the operation timing, the bell stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL.

  When the winning information t41 is determined, the main control CPU 40a stops the normal replay stop on the active line NL regardless of the pressing order of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R and the timing of the stop operation. Display.

  When determining the winning information t42, the main control CPU 40a sets the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R are operated in the first push order or the second push order. Regardless of the operation timing, the normal replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. On the other hand, when determining the winning information t42, the main control CPU 40a determines that each of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R is operated on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third pressing order. Regardless of the operation timing, the special replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL.

  When determining the winning information t43, the main control CPU 40a sets the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R are operated in the first push order or the third push order. Regardless of the operation timing, the normal replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. On the other hand, when determining the winning information t43, the main control CPU 40a determines that each of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R is operated on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R are operated in the second pressing order. Regardless of the operation timing, the promotion replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL.

  When determining the winning information t44, the main control CPU 40a sets the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R are operated in the first push order or the second push order. Regardless of the operation timing, the normal replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. On the other hand, when determining the winning information t44, the main control CPU 40a determines that each of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R is operated on the condition that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third push order. Regardless of the operation timing, the promotion replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL. As described above, the main control CPU 40a can control the drum unit 13 so as to derive a symbol that can be derived according to the timing of each stop operation after receiving the stop operation after the transition to the valid state. It is configured.

Next, the freeze operation process executed by the main control CPU 40a in step S26 of the game progress process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 7, in the freeze operation process, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a freeze operation execution condition is satisfied (step S41). In the present embodiment, the freeze operation execution condition is established on the condition that the special replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL in the current variation game. When the freeze operation execution condition is not satisfied (step S41: NO), the main control CPU 40a ends the freeze operation process.

  On the other hand, if the freeze operation execution condition is satisfied (step S41: YES), the main control CPU 40a uses a freeze effect start command as information that can specify the start of the freeze effect as the sub control board 41 (for sub control). CPU 41a) (step S42).

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not the operation (specific operation) of the start lever 22 can be accepted (step S43). In the present embodiment, an affirmative determination is made when a predetermined time has elapsed since the output of a freeze effect start command or a reel operation end command described later, while a negative determination is made when the predetermined time has not elapsed. When the operation of the start lever 22 cannot be accepted in the process of step S43 (step S43: NO), the main control CPU 40a waits until the operation of the start lever 22 can be accepted. On the other hand, when the operation of the start lever 22 can be accepted (step S43: YES), the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S44.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a freeze progress condition for allowing the freeze operation to proceed is satisfied (step S44). In the present embodiment, the freeze progress condition is established on the condition that the start lever 22 is operated within a predetermined period. In the process of step S43, if the freeze progress condition is not satisfied (step S44: NO), the main control CPU 40a waits until the freeze progress condition is satisfied.

  On the other hand, when the freeze progress condition is satisfied (step S44: YES), the main control CPU 40a executes a freeze effect determination process (step S45). In step S45, the main control CPU 40a reads the set value stored in the main control RAM 40c, and performs a freeze effect continuous lottery that determines whether or not to continue the freeze effect based on the set value. In the freeze effect continuous lottery, the main control CPU 40a obtains a random number value from the main control RAM 40c, and the random number value is “winning” in which the freeze effect is continued and “non-winning” in which the freeze effect is discontinued. The freezing effect continuous lottery is performed by determining which of the values is assigned. In the present embodiment, it is defined that the probability that the freeze effect is continued increases as the set value is more advantageous. For this reason, as the set value is more advantageous, the freeze effect is continuously executed. In the present embodiment, the main control CPU 40a counts the number of times the freeze effect has been continuously executed, and performs control to execute at least one freeze effect.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines, based on the result of the freeze effect continuous lottery, whether to continue the freeze effect, that is, whether to start a new pseudo-variable game (step S46).

  When the freeze effect is not continued (step S46: NO), the main control CPU 40a outputs a freeze effect end command to the sub control board 41 (sub control CPU 41a) as information that can specify the end of the freeze effect (step S47). ). Further, the main control CPU 40a finally controls the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R so that the stop eye that triggers the execution of the freeze effect in this variable game is stopped and displayed on the active line NL. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a ends the freeze operation process.

  When the freeze effect is continued (step S46: YES), the main control CPU 40a determines a special stop eye as a stop eye (combination of symbols) to be stopped and displayed on the active line NL in the present pseudo-variable game ( Step S48). In the process of step S48, the main control CPU 40a outputs a stop eye command to the sub control board 41 (sub control CPU 41a) as information that can specify the determined stop eye. This stop command can also be grasped as information for instructing the start of one pseudo-variable game.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a performs freeze reel control for causing the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R to perform an effect operation to execute the reel effect (step S49). More specifically, in the process of step S49, the main control CPU 40a outputs a control signal to each stepping motor to start the production rotation of each reel 13L, 13C, 13R, thereby starting a pseudo-variable game. . Further, the main control CPU 40a outputs a control signal to each stepping motor when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the pseudo-variable game, thereby stopping the production rotation of each reel 13L, 13C, 13R. End the pseudo-variable game. At this time, the main control CPU 40a has the effect of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R so that the special stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL regardless of whether or not the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped. To control the operation. That is, during the freeze period, the main control CPU 40a can control the drum unit 13 so as to derive a symbol regardless of the timing of the stop operation even if the stop button 23L, 23C, 23R is stopped.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a outputs a reel operation end command to the sub-control board 41 (sub-control CPU 41a) as information that can specify that the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R have stopped rotating in production. (Step S50). This reel operation end command can be grasped as information for instructing the end of one pseudo-variable game. Further, the main control CPU 40a adds 1 to the number of executed times stored in the main control RAM 40c and updates it. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S43.

  As described above, when the winning information including the special replay stop eye is determined, the freeze effect is executed when the freeze operation execution condition is satisfied due to the special replay stop eye being stopped and displayed on the active line NL. On the other hand, even when the winning information including the special replay stop eye is determined, if the special replay stop eye is not stopped and displayed on the active line NL, the freeze operation execution condition is not satisfied and the freeze effect is not executed.

Hereinafter, various processes executed by the sub control CPU 41a based on the sub control program will be described.
Initially, the mode process performed in order to perform each production mode M1-M3 is demonstrated. The sub-control CPU 41a stores an effect flag in the sub-control RAM 41c as information that can identify the effect mode being executed. The sub-control CPU 41a grasps the type of effect mode being executed or to be executed based on the value set in the effect flag. Further, the sub control CPU 41a selects the image data of the background image associated with the specifiable effect mode from the effect flag stored in the sub control RAM 41c, and effects based on the selected image data. The display device 14 is controlled.

  First, processing related to the execution of the first effect mode M1 will be described. The sub-control CPU 41a performs the process described below when an effect flag that can specify the first effect mode M1 is stored in the sub-control RAM 41c.

  When the sub-control CPU 41a inputs a variable game start command that can specify any of the winning information t31 to t33 including the bell stop eye, the sub-control CPU 41a performs a push order navigation effect that notifies the push order necessary for winning the bell stop eye. The effect display device 14 is controlled not to display. The sub-control CPU 41a, when a variable game start command that can specify any of the winning information t43, t44 including the promotion replay stop eye is input, notifies the push order navigation necessary for winning the promotion replay stop eye. The effect display device 14 is controlled so as not to display the effect.

  Further, the sub-control CPU 41a performs a mode transition lottery using a predetermined random number in response to the input of the variable game start command, and determines whether or not to shift to the second effect mode M2. The sub-control CPU 41a obtains a predetermined random number value from the sub-control RAM 41c, and at the same time, the random number value indicates “winning” indicating transition to the second effect mode M2 and non-transition to the second effect mode M2. The mode transition lottery is performed by determining which of the “non-winning” shown is the value assigned.

  In the present embodiment, the sub control CPU 41a reads the set value stored in the sub control RAM 41c, and performs a mode transition lottery based on the set value. In particular, when a setting value with a high advantage (for example, setting 6) is set, the mode transition lottery is won with a higher probability than when a setting value with a low advantage (for example, setting 1) is set. It is stipulated to be. This set value is updated when a set value designation command is input from the main control CPU 40a.

  When the sub-control CPU 41a wins the mode transition lottery, the effect flag is set to a value that specifies the second effect mode M2 with the start of the current variation game or the predetermined variation game from the current variation game. The value is updated, and the next variation game is shifted to the second effect mode M2. When the mode control lottery is not won, the sub control CPU 41a does not update the value of the effect flag, and maintains the first effect mode M1 from the next variation game.

  Further, the sub-control CPU 41a gives a penalty unfavorable to the player when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are not operated in the first production mode M1 according to the predetermined operation mode in each variable game. This penalty can also be realized by providing a period for restricting the transition to the second rendering mode M2, for example, by not performing the mode transition lottery or by controlling to “not win” with a probability of 100%. In the present embodiment, the first push order is set as a predetermined operation mode.

  Next, processing relating to execution of the second effect mode M2 will be described. The sub-control CPU 41a performs the process described below when an effect flag that can specify the second effect mode M2 is stored in the sub-control RAM 41c.

  When the sub-control CPU 41a wins the mode transition lottery and shifts from the first effect mode M1 to the second effect mode M2, the sub-control CPU 41a is a predetermined number of times as the number of second effect mode stay games that can be controlled to the second effect mode M2 (for example, , 30 times) is stored in the sub-control RAM 41c. The number of staying games in the second effect mode is also the number of variable games that can execute a push-order navigation effect that assists in the bell-stop winning prize (avoidance of the bell-spilling stop prize). During the execution of the second effect mode M2, the sub control CPU 41a refers to the sub control RAM 41c every time a variable game start command is input, and grasps the number of games in the second effect mode. Then, if the grasped second effect mode stay game number is 1 or more, the sub control CPU 41a decrements the second effect mode stay game number by 1 if it is controlled from the non-RT state to the RT state. The effect display device 14 is controlled so as to display various push order navigation effects.

  More specifically, the sub-control CPU 41a, when a variable game start command that can specify any of the winning information t31 to t33 including the bell stop eye is input, notifies the pressing order necessary for winning the bell stop eye. The effect display device 14 is controlled to display the forward navigation effect. For example, when the winning information t31 that associates the bell stop eye of any push order is instructed, the sub control CPU 41a displays the push order navigation effect having the content for informing the first push order. To control. In this way, in the second performance mode M2, the winning of the bell stop eye and the avoidance of the bell spilling stop eye are assisted, so that by operating the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R according to the push order navigation effect. In addition, a predetermined number of medals can be paid out when the bell stops, and the gaming state can be prevented from falling from the RT state to the non-RT state. Then, the sub-control CPU 41a maintains the second effect mode M2 from the next variation game without updating the value of the effect flag when the winning of the bell stop is instructed by the winning instruction command.

  In addition, when the sub-control CPU 41a inputs a variable game start command that can identify any of the winning information t43 and t44 including the promotion replay stop eye, the sub-control CPU 41a notifies the push order necessary for winning the promotion replay stop eye. The effect display device 14 is controlled to display the forward navigation effect. For example, when the winning information t43 in which the second push order promotion replay stop eye is associated is instructed, the sub control CPU 41a displays the push order navigation effect with the content informing the second push order. The display device 14 is controlled. In this way, in the second effect mode M2, winning of the promotion replay stop is assisted, so that the stop replay stop stop 23L, 23C, 23R is operated according to the notification content by the push order navigation effect. A winning can be generated to shift the gaming state from the non-RT state to the RT state.

  Then, in the slot machine 10, the second rendition mode M2 in the non-RT state (so-called preparation mode) is shifted to the second rendition mode M2 in the RT state (so-called ART mode) by winning the promotion replay stop. Is done. The sub-control CPU 41a informs that it is the preparation period of the ART mode from the time when the second effect mode M2 is transferred in the non-RT state to the time when the second effect mode M2 is changed to the RT state. The effect display device 14 is controlled to display an image imitating a character string to be reproduced (for example, “in preparation for the second effect mode”).

  Further, the sub-control CPU 41a performs a push order navigation lottery (freeze rush lottery) using a predetermined random number in response to an input of a variable game start command capable of specifying the winning information t42 including the special replay stop point. It is determined whether or not to execute an effect that informs the operation mode of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R necessary for winning the replay stop. The sub-control CPU 41a acquires a predetermined random number value from the sub-control RAM 41c, and the random number value is either “winning” indicating execution of the push order navigation effect or “non-winning” indicating non-execution. Push order navigation lottery is performed depending on whether the value is distributed.

  The sub-control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14 to display the push order navigation effect that notifies the third push order necessary for winning the special replay stop when the push order navigation lottery is won. That is, in the slot machine 10, when the winning information t42 is determined, and when the winning order navigation lottery is won, the avoidance of the normal replay stop and the special replay stop winning are assisted. In this case, in the slot machine 10, by operating the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R according to the notification contents in the effect display device 14, a special replay stop winning is generated and a freeze effect is generated. Therefore, in the second effect mode M2, the control for displaying the effect for notifying the operation mode necessary for winning the special replay stop causes the control to delay the transition to the next valid state and the freeze state. Control.

  On the other hand, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14 not to display the push order navigation effect that notifies the third push order necessary for winning the special replay stop when the push order navigation lottery is not won. To do.

  Further, the sub-control CPU 41a does not execute an effect for notifying the operation mode of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R necessary for winning the various stop points in the second performance mode M2, and the predetermined operation mode. When the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are not operated, a penalty that is disadvantageous to the player is given. This penalty, for example, does not perform a push order navigation lottery for winning a special replay stop, or informs the operation mode necessary for winning a special replay stop by a control of “non-winning” with a probability of 100%. This can be realized by providing a period during which no production is generated.

  In addition, the sub-control CPU 41a, when the stay in the second effect mode M2 is ended on the condition that the variable game start command capable of specifying the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is input, The mode M2 can be shifted to the third effect mode M3. Then, the sub-control CPU 41a determines the number of additional games that can be controlled in the third effect mode M3 and stores it in the sub-control RAM 41c. The specific number of additional games that can be controlled in the third performance mode M3 will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, when the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined in a plurality of variable games while staying in the second effect mode M2, the sub-control CPU 41a In the variable game, the initial number of games in the third effect mode stay game (the number of added games) is determined. Then, the sub-control CPU 41a determines the number of additional games to be added to the number of games in the third effect mode stay in the second and subsequent variable games. In other words, the sub-control CPU 41a performs control capable of determining or increasing the number of games in the third effect mode, and the concept summarizing the number of additional games determined or increased in the number of games in the third effect mode is a control amount. It corresponds to.

  On the other hand, when the number of second effect mode stay games grasped by the input of the variable game start command is zero, the sub-control CPU 41a determines whether or not the third effect mode stay games number is zero. To do.

  If the sub-control CPU 41a determines that the number of staying games in the third effect mode is zero, the sub-control CPU 41a updates the value of the effect flag to a value that specifies the first effect mode M1, and the first effect from the current variation game. Transition to mode M1. In this case, in the first effect mode M1 after the transition, even when the winning information t32 and t33 including the bell stop eye is determined, the bell stop eye winning and the avoidance of the bell spilling stop eye are not assisted. Therefore, in principle, the player wins the bell spilling stop and the gaming state is shifted from the RT state to the non-RT state.

  If the sub-control CPU 41a determines that the number of games in the third effect mode stay is not 0, the sub-control CPU 41a updates the value of the effect flag to a value that specifies the third effect mode M3, and the third effect from the current variation game. Transition to mode M3. In this case, in the third effect mode M3 after the transition, as in the second effect mode M2, when the winning information t32, t33 including the bell stop eye is determined, the bell stop eye win and the bell spill stop eye win are determined. Since avoidance is assisted, in principle, the player wins at the bell stop and the gaming state is continuously controlled to the RT state.

  Next, processing related to execution of the third effect mode M3 will be described. The sub-control CPU 41a performs the process described below when an effect flag that can specify the third effect mode M3 is stored in the sub-control RAM 41c.

  During the execution of the third effect mode M3, the sub-control CPU 41a refers to the sub-control RAM 41c every time a variable game start command is input, and grasps the number of games in the third effect mode. Then, if the grasped third effect mode stay game number is 1 or more, the sub control CPU 41a updates the third effect mode stay game number by one.

  Further, the sub-control CPU 41a, when the grasped number of games in the third effect mode is 1 or more, as in the second effect mode M2, push order navigation for notifying the push order necessary for winning the bell stop eye. The effect display device 14 is controlled to display the effect. As a result, the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R can be operated in the pressing order necessary for winning the bell stop eye.

  On the other hand, when the number of staying games in the third effect mode is 1 or more, the sub-control CPU 41a, unlike the second effect mode M2, pushes to notify the pressing order necessary for winning the special replay stop. The effect display device 14 is controlled so as not to display the forward navigation effect. Thus, the stop button 23L, 23C, 23R is not operated in the push order necessary for winning the special replay stop, and the push order navigation lottery is not performed.

  Further, the sub-control CPU 41a operates in advance in the third effect mode M3 when the effect of notifying the operation mode of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R necessary for winning the various types of stop is not executed. If the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are not operated according to the aspect, a penalty disadvantageous to the player is given. This penalty can be realized, for example, by shifting the effect mode to the first effect mode M1.

  On the other hand, when the number of games in the third effect mode stayed as triggered by the input of the variable game start command is 0, the sub control CPU 41a updates the value of the effect flag to a value that specifies the first effect mode M1. Then, the present transition game is shifted to the first effect mode M1. In this case, in the first effect mode M1 after the transition, even when the winning information t32 and t33 including the bell stop eye is determined, the bell stop eye winning and the avoidance of the bell spilling stop eye are not assisted. Therefore, in principle, the player wins the bell spilling stop and the gaming state is shifted from the RT state to the non-RT state.

  As described above, the second effect mode M2 and the third effect mode M3 are advantageous to the player as compared with the first effect mode M1 in which the push order navigation effect is not performed because various push order navigation effects are performed. It becomes a state of production. Then, the second effect mode M2 and the third effect mode M3 that have shifted to the RT state are advantageous game states that are advantageous to the player. In this way, the sub-control CPU 41a performs control that causes an advantageous gaming state that is advantageous to the player over a specific period until the number of stay games becomes zero and the second presentation mode M2 and the third presentation mode M3 end. Functions as a possible state control means.

  Thus, in this embodiment, when the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined in the second effect mode M2, it is possible to shift to the third effect mode M3 after the end of the second effect mode M2. In this case, when the winning information t42 is determined, either the first control or the second control is performed as control for determining the number of additional games in the third effect mode M3.

  The first control is a control when the stop button 23L, 23C, 23R is stopped in the first pressing order or the second pressing order and the freeze effect is not executed when the winning information t42 is determined. On the other hand, the second control is a control when the freeze effect is executed by stopping the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R in the third pressing order when the winning information t42 is determined.

  Next, an additional game number determination process executed by the sub-control CPU 41a will be described. When the command indicating that all reels 13L, 13C, and 13R are stopped is input in the variable game to which the variable game start command that can identify the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is input, the sub-control CPU 41a Add game number and execute the game number determination process.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the additional game number determination process, the sub control CPU 41a determines whether or not the first control execution condition is satisfied (step S81). The first control execution condition is that when a variable game start command capable of specifying the winning information t42 is input, the stop button 23L, 23C, It is established when 23R is not stopped.

  When the first control execution condition is not satisfied (step S81: NO), the sub control CPU 41a ends the additional game number determination process. On the other hand, when the first control execution condition is satisfied (step S81: YES), the sub control CPU 41a determines the number of additional games to be 50 and updates it by adding it to the number of third effect mode staying games (step). S82), the added game number determination process is terminated. As a result, the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined, but when the freeze effect is not executed, the number of added games is a fixed number (50 times). In this case, as shown in the added game number determination table in FIG. 9, the added game number is a fixed number regardless of the set value.

  As described above, the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined, but when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are not operated in the third pressing order (the predetermined condition is not satisfied), the freeze effect is not executed. . In this case, the sub-control CPU 41a performs control to determine 50 as the additional number of games in the third effect mode stay game. Such control corresponds to the first control.

  Next, the freeze effect process executed by the sub control CPU 41a will be described. The sub-control CPU 41a executes a freeze effect process during the freeze period, and causes the effect display device 14 to execute a display effect associated with the reel effect.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the freeze effect process, the sub-control CPU 41a determines whether or not a freeze effect start command has been input (step S101). That is, the sub-control CPU 41a determines that the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined, and the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third pressing order (the predetermined condition and the second control execution condition are satisfied). ) Or not. When the freeze effect start command is not input (step S101: NO), the sub control CPU 41a ends the freeze effect process. On the other hand, when the freeze effect start command is input (step S101: YES), the sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14 so that the start effect of the freeze effect is displayed (step S102). Next, the sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14 so that the operation guidance effect is displayed (step S103).

  Next, the sub control CPU 41a determines whether or not a freeze effect end command has been input (step S104). When the freeze effect end command has not been input (step S104: NO), the sub control CPU 41a determines whether or not a stop eye command has been input (step S105). When the stop eye command is not input (step S105: NO), the sub control CPU 41a proceeds to the process of step S104. That is, the sub-control CPU 41a stands by until any one of the freeze effect end command and the stop eye command is input.

  When the stop eye command is input (step S105: YES), the sub-control CPU 41a determines the number of games to be added in the third effect mode stay game, as will be described in detail later (step S106). Such control corresponds to the second control. Then, the sub control CPU 41a adds and updates the number of added games determined in the process of step S106 to the third effect mode stay game number stored in the sub control RAM 41c (step S107).

  Next, the sub control CPU 41a determines whether or not a reel operation end command has been input (step S108). When the reel operation end command has not been input (step S108: NO), the sub control CPU 41a waits until the reel operation end command is input.

  On the other hand, when the reel operation end command is input (step S108: YES), the sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14 so that the privilege notification effect is displayed (step S109). In this way, the effect display device 14 can execute a privilege notification effect (suggested effect) indicating the number of stay games (the number of additional games) as the number of stay games is determined or increased. Thereafter, the sub control CPU 41a proceeds to the process of step S103.

  When the freeze effect end command is input (step S104: YES), the sub-control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14 so that the freeze effect end effect is displayed (step S110). Thereafter, the sub control CPU 41a ends the freeze effect process. Thus, the sub control CPU 41a functions as a period control means capable of controlling the determination and increase of the stay game number.

  In this way, the sub-control CPU 41a executes the processes of steps S103 to S109 until the freeze effect end command is input. For this reason, a unit effect (pseudo-variable game) of a freeze effect is executed a plurality of times in a single variable game (predetermined period), so that the sub-control CPU 41a adds an additional game during a single variable game. The number can be determined multiple times.

Next, the process of step S106 will be described in detail.
The sub control CPU 41a reads the set value stored in the sub control RAM 41c in accordance with the determination of the number of additional games. Then, the sub-control CPU 41a acquires a predetermined random number value, refers to the additional game number determination table shown in FIG. 9, and determines the additional game number based on the set value and the random value.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the added game number determination table, the control content (first control or second control), the added game number (shown as “G number” in the figure), the set value, and the added game number Are associated with the selection probabilities.

  Specifically, in the second control, when setting 1 is set, the number of additional games is 50 times with a probability of 59035/65535, 100 times with a probability of 5000/65535, and 200 with a probability of 1000/65535. 300 times are determined with a probability of 500/65535, respectively. In this case, 30 times, 60 times, and 150 times are not determined as the number of additional games.

  On the other hand, when the setting 6 is set in the second control, the number of additional games is 30 times with a probability of 48835/65535, 50 times with a probability of 10,000 / 65535, and 60 with a probability of 100/65535. Each time is determined. Also, the number of additional games is determined as 100 times with a probability of 5000/65535, 150 times with a probability of 100/65535, 200 times with a probability of 1000/65535, and 300 times with a probability of 500/65535. .

  In the present embodiment, from the determination probability of the additional game number determination table and the probability that the freeze effect will continue, the higher the set value, the more advantageous the number of additional games in one variation game. It is stipulated that the degree of expectation that the total will increase is high. Further, based on the determination probability in the additional game number determination table and the probability that the freeze effect will continue, the total number of additional games in one variable game is greater when the second control is performed than when the first control is performed. It is stipulated to increase the degree of expectation.

  In this way, the number of additional games is determined based on whether the control is the first control or the second control. That is, when the winning information t42 is determined and the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third push order, the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the sub control CPU 41a performs the second control. In the second control, control that can determine or increase the number of staying games in the third effect mode is performed so that the ratio varies depending on the set value. In other words, in the second control, the first set value for which the relatively low advantage is determined is different from the second set value for which the relatively high advantage is determined. Control that can determine or increase the number of staying games in the 3 effect mode is performed.

  In particular, the minimum number of additional games (minimum guaranteed number of times) is defined as 50 for setting 1 and 30 for setting 2 to setting 6. That is, the sub-control CPU 41a stays in the third effect mode by setting 50 as the lower limit when setting 1 is set as the set value and setting 30 times as the lower limit when setting 2 to 6 is set as the set value. Control that can determine or increase the number of games is performed. Thus, setting 1 does not determine 30 as the number of additional games, and when the number of additional games is determined as 30, a setting value other than setting 1 is set although it is smaller than 50. Will be.

  Also, in the second control, the higher the set value is, the higher the probability that the extra game is determined as 30 times. That is, the sub-control CPU 41a performs control capable of determining or increasing the number of third effect mode stay games with a lower limit of 30 times as the advantage of the set value increases. For this reason, when the number of added games is determined to be 30 times, it is possible to predict that a set value having a high advantage is set although it is smaller than 50 times.

  In the first control, the number of added games is fixed and determined to be 50. However, in the second control, the number of added games can be varied such as 30, 50, and 100. Further, as the number of added games, the number of added games in the first control and the minimum number of added games in the second control when setting 1 is set are the same. The advantages of each control are the same.

  In the second control, the setting game number 6 is determined as 60 in setting 6, but the setting game number 1 is not determined as 60 in setting 1 to setting 5. For this reason, when the number of added games is determined to be 60, it can be specified (determined) that setting 6 is set.

  In the second control, the number of additional games is determined as 150 in settings 4 to 6, but the number of additional games is not determined as 150 in settings 1 to 3. For this reason, when the number of added games is determined to be 150, it is possible to specify (determine) that any of settings 4 to 6 having high advantage is set.

  As described above, the determination probability determined as the number of additional games larger than 50 (for example, 60 times or 150 times) may vary depending on the set value, and the set value can be predicted by the number of times. . In the present embodiment, 50 times as the number of added games corresponds to the first period, 30 times as the number of added games corresponds to the second period, and 60 times or 150 times as the number of added games corresponds to the third period. To do.

  Next, an example of a specific execution mode of the variable game when the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined in the second effect mode M2 in the RT state will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11A, the start lever 22 is started to operate at the timing indicated by reference numeral T11, and the variable game is started. As a result, the winning information t42 is determined, but if the push order navigation lottery is not won, the third push order is not notified. In this case, when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the first pressing order instead of the third pressing order at the timing indicated by the symbol T12, the number of additional games is determined as 50 times, and the third effect mode The number of stay games is 50. And when the stay of the 2nd production mode M2 is complete | finished at the timing shown to code | symbol T13, it transfers to the 3rd production mode M3 by making 50 times into an upper limit.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 11B, the start lever 22 is operated to start at the timing indicated by reference numeral T21, and the variable game is started. As a result, the winning information t42 is determined, the push order navigation lottery is won, and the third push order is notified (shown as “navigation effect” in the drawing). In this case, when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the third pressing order at the timing indicated by the symbol T22, a freeze effect can be executed. In this freeze effect, the number of additional games can be determined as 30 at the timing indicated by reference numeral T23, and the number of staying games in the third effect mode is 30. In addition, the freeze effect is not continued at the timing indicated by T24, and the number of games in the third effect mode is 30. And when the stay of the 2nd production mode M2 is complete | finished at the timing shown to code | symbol T25, it transfers to the 3rd production mode M3 by making 30 times into an upper limit.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 11 (c), the start lever 22 is started to operate at the timing indicated by reference numeral T31, and the variable game is started. As a result, the winning information t42 is determined, the push order navigation lottery is won, and the third push order is notified. In this case, when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the third pressing order at the timing indicated by the symbol T32, a freeze effect can be executed. In this freeze effect, the number of additional games can be determined as 30 at the timing indicated by T33, and the number of games in the third effect mode is 30. In addition, at the timing indicated by reference symbol T34, the number of additional games can be determined as 150 times, and the number of games in the third effect mode stays 180 times. In addition, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T35, the number of additional games can be determined as 60, and the number of games in the third effect mode stay is 240. In addition, at the timing indicated by the symbol T36, the freeze effect is not continued, and the number of games in the third effect mode stays 240 times. And when the stay of the 2nd production mode M2 is complete | finished at the timing shown to code | symbol T37, it transfers to the 3rd production mode M3 by making 240 times into an upper limit.

  In this case, it is possible to specify if any one of the settings 2 to 6 is set when the first added game number is determined to be 30. Then, when it is determined that the number of games to be added for the second time is 150 times, it is possible to specify if any of setting 4 to setting 6 is set. Finally, when the number of added games for the third time is determined to be 60, it can be specified if setting 6 is set.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 12, an example of a specific effect mode of the variable game including the freeze effect will be described. In the following description, it is assumed that the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined while staying in the second effect mode M2.

  As shown in FIG. 12A, in response to the start operation of the start lever 22, in the drum unit 13, the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R start to rotate, and the variable game is started. In addition, the effect display device 14 displays an effect of content that informs the operation mode (in particular, the third pressing order) of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R necessary for stopping and displaying the special replay stop eye on the active line NL. Is done.

  As shown in FIG. 12B, when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the third pressing order, the drum unit 13 displays the reels so that the special replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. The rotation of 13L, 13C, 13R is stopped. The effect display device 14 displays the start effect of the freeze effect.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 12C, the operation display effect is displayed on the effect display device 14. When a start operation for production using the start lever 22 is performed, a pseudo-variable game is started in the drum unit 13.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 12D, in the drum unit 13, when a predetermined time elapses after the start operation for the production is performed, the special stop eye is stopped and displayed on the effective line NL. Also, as shown in FIG. 12 (e), the effect display device 14 provides a bonus notification effect based on the content for reporting the number of extra games in association with the addition of the number of staying games internally in the slot machine 10. Is displayed.

  Also, as shown in FIGS. 12 (c) to 12 (e), when the start operation on the production using the start lever 22 is performed, and the pseudo-variable game is started again, it is repeated, In the drum unit 13, the special stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL, and the privilege display effect is displayed on the effect display device 14. That is, one or more pseudo-variable games can be executed during one variation game.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12 (f), when the start operation on the production using the start lever 22 is performed and the pseudo-variable game is not started, the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R rotate. The state where the special replay stop eye is stopped and displayed on the active line NL is maintained without being started. Then, the effect display device 14 displays the effect of ending the freeze effect, and displays the effect of notifying the total number of added games in a plurality of pseudo-variable games.

As described above in detail, the present embodiment has the following effects.
(1) Even though the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined, the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third pressing order (a predetermined condition is satisfied), and the freeze effect is executed. The number of additional games may be determined as 30 times. In this case, when the freeze effect is not executed, the number of additional games is smaller than when the number of additional games is determined to be 50, so that it may be difficult to improve the interest of the player. However, even in such a case, the set setting value can be predicted based on the ratio at which the number of additional games is determined to be 30 times. Therefore, even when the number of added games is small, an opportunity to predict the set value can be provided, and the interest of the player can be improved.

(2) Further, the number of added games is directly related to the player's profit, and the player's interest can be further improved.
(3) The number of additional games is determined as 30 when a relatively advantageous setting value is set with a higher probability than when a relatively disadvantageous setting value is set. For this reason, even if the number of added games is determined to be 30 times less than 50 times, it is possible to enhance the expectation that a relatively advantageous setting value is set, and to improve the interest. .

  (4) Since the number of additional games can be determined multiple times in one variable game, even if the number of additional games is small, the total number of additional games can be increased by determining the number of additional games. A sense of expectation for an increase in the number of games can be enhanced, and a decrease in the interest of the player can be suppressed.

  (5) The higher the set value with the higher degree of advantage, the more the total number of additional games in one variation game tends to increase. For this reason, it is possible to suitably improve the interest of the player from both the viewpoint that the number of added games tends to increase and the viewpoint that a set value having a high advantage is set.

(6) Even when the number of added games is determined to be 60 or 150, which is greater than 50, it is possible to provide an opportunity to predict the set value and improve the interest of the player.
Next, a second embodiment embodying the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations and the same control contents as those of the already described embodiments, and the overlapping description is omitted or simplified.

  In the first embodiment, the freeze effect is executed after the stop operation of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R is performed in one variation game. In the second embodiment, a freeze effect is executed in response to the start of a variation game in one variation game.

  Specifically, the freeze operation process in step S26 in the first embodiment is executed after the process in step S19 is completed. Further, as the first control execution condition in step S81, when the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined in the previous variation game, and the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are not stopped in the third pressing order. Is established. The freeze operation execution condition in step S41 is established when the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined in the previous variation game, and the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the third pressing order. To do.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 13, the start lever 22 is operated to start at the timing indicated by reference numeral T41, and the variable game is started. As a result, the winning information t42 is determined, the push order navigation lottery is won, and the third push order is notified. In this case, the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the third pressing order at the timing indicated by the symbol T42. Then, when the start lever 22 is started, the next variation game is started and a freeze effect can be executed. In this freeze effect, the number of additional games can be determined as 30 at the timing indicated by reference numeral T43, and the number of games in the third effect mode stays 30. In addition, at the timing indicated by the symbol T44, the number of additional games can be determined as 30 times, and the number of games in the third effect mode stays 60 times. In addition, the freeze effect is not continued at the timing indicated by the symbol T45, and the number of games in the third effect mode is 60. When the start lever 22 is operated to start, the variation game becomes valid, and at the timing indicated by reference symbol T46, the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped and the variation game ends. Further, when the stay in the second effect mode M2 ends at the timing indicated by reference sign T47, the process shifts to the third effect mode M3 with the upper limit being 60 times.

As described above in detail, the present embodiment has the same effects as the first embodiment.
Next, a third embodiment embodying the present invention will be described.
In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, there is a case in which the transition to the third effect mode M3 may not be performed immediately after the variation game in which the freeze effect is executed, but in the third embodiment, the change game in which the freeze effect is executed. Immediately after that, control is performed so as to shift to the third effect mode M3.

  Specifically, in the second effect mode M2, the sub control CPU 41a performs the third effect mode transition lottery based on the winning information and the number of executions of the executed variable game. If the third effect mode transition lottery is not won, the sub-control CPU 41a sets the value of the effect flag to a value that specifies the first effect mode M1 when the number of games in the second effect mode stays zero. Update and shift from the current variation game to the first effect mode M1.

  On the other hand, when the third effect mode transition lottery is won, the sub control CPU 41a does not update the value of the effect flag when the number of games in the second effect mode stays 0, and the second effect mode. Control for continuing the stay of M2 is performed (so-called third preparation mode M3 preparation mode).

  Then, the sub-control CPU 41a has the second effect mode stay game number of 0, but when the winning information t42 is determined while staying in the second effect mode M2, the same as in the above embodiment. Push order navigation lottery. When the sub-control CPU 41a wins the push order navigation lottery, the sub-control CPU 41a notifies the third push order, and performs the second control when the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the third push order. On the other hand, if the sub-control CPU 41a does not win the push order navigation lottery, the sub-control CPU 41a does not notify the third push order and stops the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R in a push order other than the third push order. The first control is performed. When the variable game ends, the sub control CPU 41a updates the value of the effect flag to a value that specifies the third effect mode M3, and shifts from the current variable game to the third effect mode M3. In the present embodiment, even if the winning information t42 is determined when the number of staying games in the second effect mode is not 0, regardless of whether or not the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are stopped in the third pressing order. Neither the first control nor the second control is performed.

As described above in detail, the present embodiment has the same effects as the first embodiment and the second embodiment.
The embodiment is not limited to the above, and may be embodied as follows, for example.

  Although it is defined that the special stop eye is included in the special replay stop, it is not limited thereto, and for example, the special stop eye may be specified not to be included in the special replay stop. Further, for example, it may be defined that the special stop eye is not included in any of the payout stop eye, each spill stop eye, the replay stop eye, and the slippage stop eye. In such a case, the special stop eye is stopped and displayed in the freeze effect, but after the freeze effect is finished, the stop eye (special replay stop eye) that triggered the freeze effect is controlled to stop. It is preferable.

  As the set value, it is only necessary that at least some of the set values have different game value payout rates, and all the set values may or may not have different game value payout rates. That is, the game value payout rate may be different between the first set value and the second set value.

  The winning information may be determined with a different probability depending on the set value in a table other than the winning information determining table Tm0 (for example, the winning information determining table Tm1). In the winning information determining table Tm0, with the same probability depending on the set value Winning information may be determined.

  ・ For the set value, the game value payout rate was determined as the advantage for the player by making the winning information decision probability, the mode transition lottery winning probability, and the freeze effect continuous lottery winning probability different. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any of these may be used, and the game value payout rates may or may not differ.

  -An upper limit may be set for the number of executions of the unit effect of the freeze effect that is continuously executed in one variation game. Also good. In addition, for example, a unit effect of a freeze effect may be executed a plurality of times across a plurality of variable games.

  -In 1st production mode M1, when determining or increasing the number of 2nd production mode stay games, you may employ | adopt 1st control and 2nd control. That is, even when the transition is made from the non-RT state to the RT state where the advantage is high, even when the transition is made from the second effect mode M2 to the third effect mode M3 in the RT state where the advantage is high, You may employ | adopt 1st control and 2nd control.

  -In 3rd production mode M3, when increasing the number of 3rd production mode stay games, you may employ | adopt 1st control and 2nd control. That is, in the effect mode during stay, when determining or increasing the number of stay games in the effect mode, the first control and the second control may be employed.

  The first control and the second control may be adopted when determining the initial number of stay games in the predetermined effect mode, and the first control is performed when increasing the number of stay games in the predetermined effect mode. And the second control may be adopted, and a combination thereof may be used as in the above embodiment. In addition, when increasing the number of staying games in a predetermined production mode, even if the added game number itself is determined or increased, the set number to be increased is determined or increased with the predefined added game number as one set. You may control to. In addition, the time elapsed in the predetermined effect mode may be used as a reference, such as the extra time, without using the number of the fluctuating games executed in the predetermined effect mode as the reference, such as the number of added games.

  -You may comprise not only two types of gaming states of a non-RT state and RT state but including three or more types of gaming states. For example, it may be configured to include three types of gaming states, a non-RT state, an RT1 state, and an RT2 state. Further, as a specific example, the transition from the RT1 state to the RT2 state may be triggered by the transition to the third performance mode M3.

-Instead of the three types of effect modes M1 to M3, two or more types of effect modes may be included.
In the second control, when any one of the settings 2 to 6 is set, the determination probability for determining 30 times as the minimum number of additional games may not vary depending on the set value.

  In the second control, when any one of setting 2 to setting 6 is set, the number of times that does not reach 50 times and is not the minimum number (for example, 40 times) can be added and determined as the number of games. May be. Further, even if the minimum number of added games is not 30 or 50, it can be changed as appropriate. For example, it may be 20 or 40.

  In the second control, the number of games exceeding 50 times may not be added and determined as the number of games with a different probability depending on the set value. In the second control, the number of games exceeding 50 may not be added and determined as the number of games.

-In 1st control, if the minimum number of additional games is prescribed | regulated, it may not be determined as a fixed number of times.
In the case where the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined, the predetermined condition is that the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R are operated in the third pressing order, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, depending on the operation timing of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R, a predetermined condition may be that the first special replay stop eye (for example, Seven-Seven-Seven) among the special replay stop eyes is stopped on the active line NL. A combination of these may also be used. That is, when the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined, the predetermined condition may be that the operation mode of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R becomes a specific operation mode. In this case, when the freeze effect is not executed, control may be performed so as not to shift to the third effect mode M3. In addition, the operation mode of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R may be different operation modes of various operating means (for example, the start lever 22, the MAXBET button 20). Winning a lottery may be a predetermined condition. Further, for example, the execution of the freeze effect may or may not be a predetermined condition.

  The freeze effect may be an effect that does not include rotation (rotation) on the effect by the reels 13L, 13C, 13R. In this case, the main control CPU 40a maintains the state in which the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R are stopped during the freeze period, and the sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 14 so that a predetermined effect is displayed. Good.

-You may change suitably the execution aspect (effect content) of the display effect which comprises a freeze effect.
The freeze effect may be an effect that does not accompany the display effect by the effect display device 14. The freeze effect includes one or more effects among a display effect by the effect display device 14, a sound effect by the speaker SP, a light emission effect by the lamp LA, and a movable object effect that operates the movable object. Also good.

-In the freeze production, the type and number of the combinations (special stop eyes) on the production to be stopped and displayed on the active line NL may be appropriately changed.
In the variable game in which the number of added games is determined, the bonus notification effect indicating the number of added games is executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the number of added games is indicated after the variable game in which the number of added games is determined. An effect may be executed. Further, for example, an effect suggesting the determined number of added games may be executed. That is, it is only necessary to suggest at least the number of additional games as the number of additional games is determined, and the effect mode can be changed as appropriate.

  When the winning information t42 including the special replay stop eye is determined, the sub control CPU 41a operates the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R necessary to stop and display the special replay stop eye on the active line NL. It is also possible to always execute the effect of informing the user. According to this example, it can be understood that the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not the freeze effect can be executed, based on whether or not the winning information t42 is determined with the start operation as a trigger.

  The operation mode (push order) of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R necessary for stopping and displaying a predetermined stop on the active line NL may be changed as appropriate. For example, among the stop buttons 23L, 23C, and 23R, stop eyes may be provided that define all of the pressing order of the stop buttons from the first to the third. In this case, the sub-control CPU 41a may execute the push-order navigation effect with the content for notifying the operation order of the stop buttons 23L, 23C, 23R associated with the determined stop.

-The type and number of winning information may be changed as appropriate. In addition, the number and type of symbol combinations (combinations) associated with the winning information may be changed.
-You may change the kind and number of the combination (combination) of the symbol which decided the prize suitably.

-The number of medals paid out (prize) associated with a combination of symbols may be changed.
-The combination of the symbol display position which comprises the effective line in the fluoroscopic window 16, and the number of effective lines may be changed suitably.

-The maximum number of bets that can be set may be changed according to the gaming state.
-You may omit the combination of symbols that determines the bonus game as a prize.
A single board that integrates the functions of the main control board 40 and the sub-control board 41 may be provided. Further, instead of the sub-control board 41, a board that specially controls the effect display device 14, a board that specially controls the speaker SP, a board that specially controls the lamp LA, and control by these boards are integrated. A substrate to be controlled may be provided.

  Although the effect display device 14 as a transmissive liquid crystal display is disposed in front of each reel 13L, 13C, 13R, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the reels 13L, 13C, 13R can be visually recognized by the player. If it is arrange | positioned, a transmissive liquid crystal display may not be employ | adopted. In addition, for example, a display device may be provided so as to surround the entire periphery of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R (so-called “doughnut vision”), and the display device may be configured not to surround the entire periphery of the reels 13L, 13C, and 13R. May be provided.

The embodiment may be embodied in a slot machine (cylinder-type game machine) that uses a game ball (pachinko ball) as a game medium.
Next, a technical idea that can be grasped from the above embodiment and another example will be added below.

  (A) In the second control, the period control means is configured so that the specific period is different between when the first set value is set and when the second set value is set. The control period is set as a third period larger than the first period, and the specific period can be determined or increased.

  (B) A game value payout rate is defined as the advantage in the set value.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 13 ... Drum unit, 13L, 13C, 13R ... Reel (display means), 22 ... Start lever, 23L, 23C, 23R ... Stop button, 27 ... Setting value set switch (setting means), 40 ... Main control board, 40a ... Main Control CPU (determining means, state control means), 41... Sub-control board, 41 a... Sub-control CPU (period control means).

Claims (1)

When the start operation is accepted, the display means starts the change of the symbol, and when the stop operation is accepted, the display means stops the symbol, and the symbol derived in the display means when the symbol is stopped is displayed. In a gaming machine that can give a predetermined gaming value according to the combination,
A determination unit that determines a combination of symbols that can be derived in the display unit upon receipt of the start operation;
A setting means for setting any one of a plurality of setting values including a first setting value and a second setting value as a setting value that defines an advantage for the player;
A state control means capable of controlling an advantageous gaming state advantageous to the player over a specific period;
A period control means capable of controlling to determine or increase the specific period,
The period control means includes
When the predetermined condition is not satisfied, the first control for determining or increasing the specific period with the first period as a lower limit is possible. On the other hand, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the specific period Second control to determine or increase
In the second control, the control amount for determining or increasing the specific period is set so that the ratio is different between when the first set value is set and when the second set value is set. The specific period is configured to be determined or increased as a second period less than the first period ,
When the determination result by the determination means is a predetermined determination result, there may be an effect that prompts to perform a stop operation in a specific order,
When the determination result by the determination means is the predetermined determination result and the order of stop operations is the specific order, the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the second control is performed,
When the determination result by the determination means is the predetermined determination result and the order of stop operations is not the specific order, the predetermined condition is not satisfied, and the first control is performed. Gaming machine .