JP6793530B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention is provided with a variable display unit capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, and after variable display of the variable display unit, the variable display of the variable display unit is stopped to derive a display result. , The present invention relates to a slot machine capable of generating a prize according to the display result.

Slot machines are generally equipped with a variable display device having a plurality of (usually three) reels on which a plurality of types of symbols are drawn as identification information on the outer periphery, and each reel has a start switch by a player. The rotation is started by operating the reel, and the player operates the stop button provided corresponding to each reel to stop the rotation within a predetermined maximum delay time from the operation timing. .. Then, a prize is generated according to the display result derived when the rotation of all the reels is stopped.

There are various types of winning roles, such as small roles, special roles, and replay roles. Here, in the small winning combination, the player can obtain the profit that a fixed number of medals are paid out for each type of small winning combination. By winning a special role, the player can obtain the benefit of shifting from the next game to a game state that is advantageous to the player, such as a regular bonus or a big bonus. Winning a replay role can benefit from the ability to play the next game without consuming new medals to set the number of bets.

As such a slot machine, there is known a slot machine that externally outputs information (signal) indicating that the advantageous state has started when a prize is generated that triggers the transition to the advantageous state (for example, a patent). Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-212924

However, in Patent Document 1, since the slot machine does not externally output a signal indicating that the slot machine has decided to control the advantageous state, the device for counting the number of transitions to the advantageous state or the advantageous state has been shifted. An external device that operates by receiving a signal from the slot machine, such as a device that raises the fact by producing a lamp or the like, does not react at all in accordance with the timing of notification on the slot machine side. Therefore, the player may be distrustful of the truth about the decision to control in an advantageous state because the slot machine notifies but the external device does not respond.

The present invention has been made by paying attention to such a problem, and the external device reacts at the timing of notifying that the slot machine has decided to control in an advantageous state, thereby enhancing the interest of the game. The purpose is to provide a slot machine that can be used.

In order to solve the above problems, the slot machine of the present invention
A variable display unit capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, is provided, and after the variable display unit is variablely displayed, the variable display of the variable display unit is stopped to derive a display result.
In a slot machine (for example, slot machine 1) in which a prize can be generated according to the display result.
With the first control means
A second control means that performs control according to control information received from the first control means is provided.
The first control means
A determination means for determining whether or not to control an advantageous state (for example, ART) that is advantageous to the player (for example, a portion for performing an ART lottery in the process of Sd2 in FIG. 6), and
Advantageous state control means for controlling to the advantageous state when the result of the game becomes a specific result (for example, the result of winning a special replay as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8) after it is determined to control to the advantageous state. (For example, the main control unit 41, the part shown in FIG. 7) and
A control information generation means that generates control information and stores it in the control information storage area,
A control information transmitting means for transmitting control information stored in the control information storage area to the second control means is included.
The second control means, informing means for informing that the result of the Gate arm later determined to be controlled by the advantageous condition is determined to be controlled to the advantageous state until the specified result (e.g., FIG. 18 includes a portion) for processing Sp5 of
The control information generating means is a state control information generating means that generates a plurality of types of state control information capable of specifying the control state of the first control means at each of a plurality of timings including the first timing and the second timing in the game. Including
The plurality of types of state control information generated by the state control information generation means at one timing are control states that can change between one game and another game, and the first timing and the second timing in one game. Includes first state control information that can specify the control state that does not change with, and second state control information that can specify the control state that can change between the first timing and the second timing in one game.
The state control information generation means generates a plurality of types of common state control information by common control at any of the plurality of timings.
The first control means, the notification is particularly corresponding to the advantageous state can identify that it has been determined to be controlled to an advantageous state information takes place (for example, ART control signal) information output means for outputting to the outside (For example, a portion for processing Sf5 and Sf9 in FIG. 10, a portion shown in FIGS. 19 and 20) is further included.
The information output means is characterized in that the advantageous state information is output from the time when the next game of the game in which the notification is performed is started .
According to this configuration, the external device reacts to the timing of notifying that the slot machine has decided to control in an advantageous state, and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

The information output means is characterized in that advantageous state control information is output due to the start of the next game of the game in which the notification is performed (for example, the processing of Sf4 and Sf5, Sf8 and Sf9 in FIG. 10). (Parts shown in FIGS. 19 and 20).
According to this configuration, it is possible to have a relationship between the start operation of the game by the player and the timing of notification, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

It is provided with a notification timing determining means for determining which of a plurality of timings the notification is to be performed from the time when the control is determined to be advantageous to the time when the result of the game becomes a specific result.
The notification means is characterized in that notification is performed at a timing determined by the notification timing determination unit (for example, a portion shown in FIG. 20).
According to this configuration, it is possible to pay attention to which of the plurality of timings the notification is made, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

A specific state control means (for example, main control unit 41) that controls a specific state (for example, BB) when a specific prize (for example, BB) occurs is provided.
The determining means determines whether or not to control in an advantageous state during the specific state (for example, a portion during the BB in which the ART lottery is performed in the process of Sd2 of FIG. 6).
The notifying means notifies that it is determined to control to an advantageous state when the specific state ends (for example, a part that performs the processing of Sp5 in FIG. 18, a part shown in FIG. 20).
The information output means is characterized in that advantageous state control information is output from the game after the specific state is completed (for example, a part that performs the processing of Sf5 in FIG. 10, a part shown in FIG. 19).
According to this configuration, it is possible to notify by an external device in accordance with the notification on the slot machine side, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the game.

When the result of the game becomes a special result (for example, the result of winning the ART lottery during BB) during the advantageous state, the advantageous state is set to a special advantageous state (for example, an additional special zone) separate from the advantageous state. A special advantageous state control means (for example, main control unit 41) for controlling inside is provided.
The information output means provides special advantageous state control information (for example, an additional specialized zone control signal) that can be specified to control the special advantageous state when the result of the game becomes the special result during the advantageous state. It is characterized in that it is output to the outside (for example, a portion where the processing of Sf12 in FIG. 10 is performed, a portion shown in FIG. 21).
According to this configuration, it is possible to enable notification by an external device at the start of control of the special advantageous state.

The information output means outputs game start information that can identify that the game has started to the outside when the game starts, and outputs advantageous state control information to the outside when the game starts. Is characterized in that advantageous state control information is output to the outside after a delay of a certain period of time (for example, a portion for processing Sf4 and Sf5, Sf8 and Sf9 in FIG. 10, a portion shown in FIGS. 19 and 20).
According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the game start information and the advantageous state control information from conflicting with each other.

A variable display unit (for example, reels 2L, 2C, 2R) capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, is provided.
In a slot machine (for example, slot machine 1) in which a display result is derived after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
A game control means (for example, main control unit 41) that controls a game,
An effect control means (for example, sub-control unit 91) that performs an effect based on control information (for example, a command) transmitted from the game control means, and
Derivation operation means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) operated by the player to derive the display result, and
An operation mode notification means (for example, navigation notification, navigation effect) capable of identifiablely notifying the operation mode (for example, stop order) of the derived operation means, and
With
The game control means
Predetermining means (eg, internal lottery) to determine the display results that are allowed to be derived before the display results are derived,
When the determination result of the advance determination means (for example, internal lottery) becomes the notification target result (for example, the notification target combination) to be notified (for example, navigation notification), an advantageous operation mode (for example) that is advantageous for the player. For example, a notification state control means for controlling a notification state (for example, a state in which navigation notification is executed) in which a player is notified of an advantageous stop order).
Specific control information (for example, a first internal winning command, a second internal winning command) regarding a determination result of the prior determination means (for example, an internal lottery) is sent to the effect control means (for example, a sub control unit 91). Specific control information transmission means (for example, internal winning command setting process) to be transmitted
Including
Regardless of whether or not the specific control information transmitting means is controlled to the notification state (for example, a state in which navigation notification is executed), the determination result of the advance determination means (for example, an internal lottery) is the notification. The specific control information (for example, when the target result (for example, the notification target combination) is obtained, the fact that the notification target result is obtained can be specified, but the advantageous operation mode (for example, the stop order advantageous for the player) cannot be specified. For example, the second internal winning command) may be transmitted to the effect control means.
According to such a configuration, in those provided with the game control means and the effect control means, it is possible to avoid the problem caused by the effect control means being cheated.

A variable display unit (for example, reels 2L, 2C, 2R) capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, is provided.
In a slot machine (for example, slot machine 1) in which a display result is derived after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
A game control means (for example, main control unit 41) that controls a game,
An effect control means (for example, sub-control unit 91) that performs an effect based on control information (for example, a command) transmitted from the game control means, and
Derivation operation means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) operated by the player to derive the display result, and
An operation mode notification means (for example, navigation notification, navigation effect) capable of identifiablely notifying the operation mode (for example, stop order) of the derived operation means, and
With
The game control means
Predetermining means (eg, internal lottery) to determine the display results that are allowed to be derived before the display results are derived,
Numerical value setting means for setting different numerical values (for example, winning numbers) for each determination result of the prior determination means (for example, internal lottery).
Predetermined control (for example, setting of internal winning flag, navigation notification, command creation, stop control of reels 2L, 2C, 2R, etc.) according to a numerical value (for example, winning number) set by the numerical value setting means. Means and
When the determination result of the advance determination means (for example, internal lottery) becomes the notification target result (for example, the notification target combination) to be notified (for example, navigation notification), an advantageous operation mode (for example) that is advantageous for the player. For example, a notification state control means for controlling a notification state (for example, a state in which navigation notification is executed) in which a player is notified of an advantageous stop order).
Specific control information transmitting means for transmitting specific control information (for example, a first internal winning command, a second internal winning command) regarding a determination result of the prior determination means (for example, an internal lottery) to the effect control means. When,
Including
The numerical value (for example, the winning number) set by the numerical value setting means when the notification target result (for example, the notification target combination) is obtained is composed of a predetermined numerical range (for example, 2 to 19, 23 to 34). Consecutive numbers are assigned and
In the specific control information transmitting means, at least in a state other than the notification state (for example, a state in which navigation notification is executed), a numerical value (for example, a winning number) set by the numerical value setting means is within the predetermined numerical range. (For example, 2 to 19, 23 to 34), it can be specified that the notification target result (for example, the notification target combination) has been obtained, but the advantageous operation mode (for example, the stop order advantageous for the player). The specific control information (for example, the second internal winning command) that cannot be specified may be transmitted to the effect control means (for example, the sub control unit 91).
According to such a configuration, in those provided with the game control means and the effect control means, it is possible to avoid the problem caused by the effect control means being cheated.

In a game machine (slot machine 1) that plays a game
The first control means (main control unit 41) and
A second control means (sub-control unit 91) that controls according to the control information received from the first control means, and
With
The first control means (main control unit 41) is used for each of a plurality of timings including the first timing (at the start of the game) and the second timing (at the end of the game) in one unit of the game (game). State control for transmitting a plurality of types of state control information (control state commands) capable of specifying the control state of the first control means (main control unit 41) to the second control means (sub control unit 91). Including means of transmitting information
The plurality of types of state control information (control state commands) transmitted by the state control information transmitting means at one timing do not change between the first timing (at the start of the game) and the second timing (at the end of the game). A first state control information (control state command 2) capable of specifying a control state (for example, a stop order advantageous to the player), a first timing (at the start of the game), and a second timing (of the game). Includes a second state control information (control state command 1) that can identify a control state (for example, a game state) that can change at the end).
The state control information transmitting means may transmit a plurality of types of state control information (control state commands) by common control (control state command batch setting process) at any of the plurality of timings. ..
According to such a configuration, the first state control information capable of specifying the control state that does not change between the first timing and the second timing in the one unit game, and the first timing and the first timing in the one unit game. A plurality of types of state control information including a second state control information capable of specifying a control state that can change at the second timing, and a plurality of timings including the first timing and the second timing in one unit of game. In the configuration of transmitting each time, since these multiple types of state control information are transmitted by common control at any timing, the second control means side grasps the control state of the first control means in detail. , The program capacity when the first control means transmits the state control information can be reduced.

It is a front view of the slot machine of the embodiment to which this invention is applied. It is a perspective view which shows the internal structure of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement of a reel. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a slot machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the main control part. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the game processing executed by the main control part. It is a figure for demonstrating the transition of a game state. It is a figure which shows the outline of the game state. It is a block diagram related to the output of an external output signal. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the ART control signal output processing executed by the main control unit. It is a figure for demonstrating the control state command which a main control part sends to a sub control part. It is a flow chart which shows the control content of the transmission command setting process at the start of a game executed by a main control part. It is a flow chart which shows the control content of the control state command batch setting process executed by the main control part. It is a flow chart which shows the control content of the command setting process executed by the main control unit 41. It is a flow chart which shows the control content of the transmission command setting process at the end of a game executed by the main control unit 41. It is a figure which shows the winning number and transmission number of a general combination and a re-game combination in the second internal winning command transmitted by a main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the internal winning command setting process performed by the main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the timer interrupt process (sub) executed by a sub-control unit. This is the timing to output the ART control signal when the ART lottery is won during BB. This is the timing to output the ART control signal when the ART lottery is won during the normal game state. This is the timing to output the ART control signal when controlling to the additional special zone.

[Slot machine configuration]
As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 1 is composed of a housing 1a having an open front surface and a front door 1b rotatably and pivotally supported at a side end of the housing 1a. As shown in FIG. 2, inside the housing 1a, reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (hereinafter, left reel, middle reel, and right reel) in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer circumference are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, three consecutive symbols among the symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (21 each of which are drawn in a predetermined order and are distinguishable from each other). Three of the types of symbols) are arranged so that they can be seen from the see-through window 3 provided on the front door 1b.

For the front door 1b, a medal insertion section 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout exit 9 from which medals are paid out, and credits (the number of medals stored as game value owned by the player) are used within the range. The maximum number of medals out of the specified number of medals determined according to the game state (3 is specified as the specified number of RT0 to RT4 and 2 is specified as the specified number of RB in this embodiment) is set. MAXBET switch 6 operated at the time, medals stored as credits and medals used for setting the number of bets are settled (the medals used for setting the credits and the number of bets are returned). The settlement switch 10, the start switch 7 operated when starting the game, and the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R operated when stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are provided so as to be operable by the player. Has been done.

Further, on the front door 1b, a credit display 11 that displays the number of medals stored as credits, the number of medals paid out due to the occurrence of a prize, an error code indicating the contents when an error occurs, and a navigation notification described later. A game auxiliary display 12 that displays information that can identify the stop order of the reels, 1 BETLED14 that notifies by lighting that the number of bets is set to 1, and that the number of bets is set to 2. 2BETLED15 to notify by lighting, 3BETLED16 to notify by lighting that the number of bets is set to 3, insertion request LED17 to notify by lighting that a medal can be inserted, and start operation of the game by operating the start switch 7. Start effective LED18 that notifies by lighting that it is valid, weighting that notifies by lighting that it is in a wait (a state of waiting for the start of rotation of the reel because a certain period has not passed since the previous game started) The LED 19 and the game display unit 13 provided with the replay LED 20 for notifying by lighting that the replay game is being performed, which will be described later, are provided.

Inside the front door 1b, as shown in FIG. 2, a reset switch 23 for detecting an error and a reset operation for canceling a stopped state by a predetermined key operation, changing a set value or checking the set value. The set value display 24, which displays the set value at that time, is controlled to a stopped state (a state in which the progress of the game is restricted until a reset operation is performed) at a predetermined trigger (for example, at the end of BB described later). Stop switch 36a for selecting the enable / disable of the stop function to be performed, automatic settlement processing at a predetermined trigger (for example, at the end of BB) (medals stored as credits are settled regardless of the player's operation ( The automatic settlement switch 36b for selecting the enable / disable of the automatic settlement function controlled by the process of returning), and the flow path of the medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 are provided in the hopper tank inside the housing 1a. A flow path switching solenoid 30 for selectively switching to either the 34a (see FIG. 2) side or the medal payout outlet 9 side, and a medal insertion unit 4 are inserted to detect medals that have flowed down to the hopper tank 34a side. A medal selector 29 having a medal sensor 31 and a door open detection switch 25 (see FIG. 4) for detecting an open state of the front door 1b are provided.

Inside the housing 1a, as shown in FIG. 2, the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R (see FIG. 4), and the reel reference positions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, respectively, are located. Reel unit 2 composed of detectable reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R (see FIG. 4), external output board 1000 for outputting an external output signal (see FIG. 4), and medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 are stored. The hopper tank 34a, the hopper motor 34b for paying out the medals stored in the hopper tank 34a from the medal payout outlet 9 (see FIG. 4), and the payout sensor 34c for detecting the medal paid out by driving the hopper motor 34b (see FIG. 4). A hopper unit 34 and a power supply box 100 (see FIG. 4) are provided.

An overflow tank 35 for storing medals overflowing from the hopper tank 34a is provided on the side of the hopper unit 34. Inside the overflow tank 35, a full tank sensor 35a (see FIG. 4) is provided to detect that the number of stored medals exceeds a predetermined amount, that is, the overflow tank 35 is in a full tank state.

As shown in FIG. 2, the front surface of the power supply box 100 functions as a setting key switch 37 for switching to a setting change state or a setting confirmation state, and a reset switch for canceling an error state or a stop state in normal times. However, in the setting change state, the reset / setting switch 38 that functions as a setting switch for changing the setting value of the winning probability (ball output rate) of the internal lottery, and the power switch 39 that is operated when the power is turned on / off. Is provided.

Since the power supply box 100 is provided inside the housing 1a and the front door 1b can be opened by a predetermined key operation possessed by a clerk or the like, the power supply box 100 is provided on the front surface of the power supply box 100. The setting key switch 37, the reset / setting switch 38, and the power switch 39 can be operated only by a person such as a clerk who has the key, and cannot be operated by the player. The same applies to the reset switch 23 detected by a predetermined key operation. In particular, since the setting key switch 37 requires further key operation after opening the front door 1b by key operation, only the clerk who has the key to operate the setting key switch 37 among the clerk of the amusement park. It is possible to operate.

When playing a game on the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, first, medals are inserted from the medal insertion unit 4, or the number of bets is set using credits. To use the credit, operate the MAXBET switch 6. When the specified number of bets determined according to the game state is set, the winning line LN (see FIG. 1) becomes valid, and the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, that is, the game can be started. Become. In the present embodiment, 3 cards are set as the specified number of bets in RT0 to RT4 described later, and 2 cards are set as the specified number of bets in RB described later, and the specified number is set according to these gaming states. When the number of bets is set, the winning line LN becomes valid. If more than the maximum number of medals are inserted out of the specified number corresponding to the gaming state, that amount will be added to the credit.

The winning line is a line set to determine whether the combination of symbols displayed on the perspective windows 3 of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is a combination of winning symbols. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, only the winning line LN set across the symbols arranged horizontally in the middle stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, and the middle stage of the reel 2R, that is, the middle stage is used as the winning line. It is set. Further, in the present embodiment, as a winning combination, a prize is won when a predetermined combination of symbols defined as a combination is aligned in the winning line LN, and any of the invalid lines LM1 to LM4 is obtained by aligning the predetermined symbol combination. A combination of symbols that is an index that is easier to recognize than a predetermined combination of symbols is included, so that the combination of symbols aligned with any of the invalid lines LM1 to LM4 can make it appear as if a prize has been won.

When the start switch 7 is operated while the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated, and the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are continuously changed. When any of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the perspective window 3. When one game ends when all reels 2L, 2C and 2R are stopped, and the combination of symbols predetermined on the winning line LN stops as the display result of each reel 2L, 2C and 2R. A prize is generated, and a number of medals determined according to the prize are given to the player and added to the credit. Further, when the maximum number of credits (50 in the present embodiment) is reached, medals are directly paid out from the medal payout outlet 9 (see FIG. 1).

In the present embodiment, the operation of the start switch 7 after setting the number of bets starts the game, and when all reels are stopped when no prize is generated, and when a prize is generated, a medal is paid out or a replay prize is won. One game is defined as the end of the game when the time bet number is set. However, the definition of one game can be changed as appropriate, for example, setting the number of bets as the start of the game and stopping all reels as the end of the game regardless of whether or not a prize is won.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the slot machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 1 is provided with a game control board 40, an effect control board 90, and a power supply board 101. The game control board 40 controls the game state, and the effect control board 90 controls the game state. The effect is controlled according to the above, and the drive power supply for the electric components constituting the slot machine 1 is generated by the power supply board 101 and supplied to each part.

An AC100V power supply is supplied to the power supply board 101 from the outside, and a DC voltage required for driving the electric components constituting the slot machine 1 is generated from the AC100V power supply, so that the game control board 40 and the game control board 40 are generated. It is supplied to the effect control board 90 connected via the above. The power supply line that supplies power to the effect control board is directly connected from the power supply board 101 to the effect control board 90 without going through the game control board 40, and the power supply board 101 directly supplies power to the effect control board 90. May be supplied.

Further, the above-mentioned hopper motor 34b, payout sensor 34c, full tank sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, reset / setting switch 38, and power switch 39 are connected to the power supply board 101.

On the game control board 40, the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, the stop switch 8L, 8C, 8R, the settlement switch 10, the reset switch 23, the stop switch 36a, the automatic settlement switch 36b, the input medal sensor 31, and the door open. The detection switch 25, the reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R are connected, and the payout sensor 34c, the full tank sensor 35a, the setting key switch 37, and the reset / setting switch 38 described above are connected via the power supply board 101. The detection signals of these connected switches are input.

The game control board 40 includes a main control unit 41, a control clock generation circuit 42, a random clock generation circuit 43, a switch detection circuit 44, a motor drive circuit 45, a solenoid drive circuit 46, an LED drive circuit 47, and a power failure detection circuit. 48, a reset circuit 49 is mounted to perform processing related to the progress of the game, and directly or indirectly control each part of the control circuit mounted on the game control board 40.

FIG. 5 shows a configuration example of the main control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40. The main controller 41 shown in FIG. 5 is a one-chip microcomputer, which includes an external bus interface 501, a clock circuit 502, a collation block 503, a unique information storage circuit 504, an arithmetic circuit 505, and a reset / interrupt. Controller 506, CPU (Central Processing Unit) 41a, ROM (Read Only Memory) 41b, RAM (Random Access Memory) 41c, free run counter circuit 507, random number circuits 508a, 508b, timer circuit 509, and so on. It is configured to include an interrupt controller 510, a parallel input port 511, a serial communication circuit 512, a parallel output port 513, and an address decoding circuit 514.

In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 transmits various commands to the sub control unit 91 via the parallel output port 513. The command transmitted from the main control unit 41 to the sub control unit 91 is sent in only one direction, and the command is not sent from the sub control unit 91 to the main control unit 41. Further, in the present embodiment, the command is transmitted to the sub control unit 91 via the parallel output port 513, that is, the command is transmitted as a parallel signal, but the command is transmitted via the serial communication circuit 512. A configuration in which a command is transmitted to the sub control unit 91, that is, a configuration in which the command is transmitted as a serial signal may be used.

A liquid crystal display 51, an effect LED 52, speakers 53, 54, a reel LED 55, and other effect devices are connected to the effect control board 90, and these effect devices are sub-control units 91 mounted on the effect control board 90. It is driven based on the control by. In this embodiment, the sub-control unit 91 mounted on the effect control board 90 controls the output of the effect devices such as the liquid crystal display 51, the effect LED 52, the speakers 53, 54, and the reel LED 55. However, an output control unit that directly controls the output of the effect device is mounted on the effect control board 90 or another board separately from the sub control unit 91, and the sub control unit 91 is based on a command from the main control unit 41. The output pattern of the effect device may be determined, and the output control unit may control the output of the effect device based on the output pattern determined by the sub control unit 91. In such a configuration, the sub control unit 91 and the output control may be used. The output control of the production device is performed by both units.

[About setting values]
In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the medal payout rate changes according to the set value. More specifically, the medal payout rate is changed by using the winning probability according to the set value in the internal lottery described later. The set value is composed of 6 stages from 1 to 6, with 6 having the highest payout rate, and the smaller the value in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 the lower the payout rate. That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the advantage is highest for the player, and the smaller the value in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 is, the lower the advantage is. The set value may be set in 3 steps such as 1, 3, 6, 1, 4, H (High), or 7 steps 1 to 7, and is not limited to 6 steps.

In order to change the set value, it is first necessary to turn on the power of the slot machine 1 after turning on the setting key switch 37 with the front door 1b open. When the power is turned on with the setting key switch 37 in the ON state, the setting value read from the RAM (not shown) of the main control unit 41 is displayed as a display value on the setting value display 24, and the setting is made by operating the reset / setting switch 38. It shifts to the setting change state (setting change mode) in which the value can be changed. When the reset / setting switch 38 is operated in the setting change state, the display value displayed on the setting value display 24 is updated one by one (when further operation is performed from setting 6, the setting returns to setting 1). .. Then, when the start switch 7 is operated, the display value is fixed as the set value. Then, when the setting key switch 37 is turned off, the fixed display value (set value) is stored in the RAM, and the game shifts to a state in which the game can proceed. It should be noted that the set value may not be changed unless the front door 1b is opened to prevent an illegal setting change when the front door 1b is not opened. That is, the opening of the front door 1b, the operation of turning on the setting key switch 37, and the operation of the power switch 39 may be set as the start conditions of the setting change state. In this case, the set value change state may be maintained regardless of the opening and closing of the front door 1b until the setting key switch 37 is turned off. That is, even when the opening of the front door 1b is set as the start condition of the setting change state, the opening and closing of the front door 1b does not have to be the end condition of the setting change state.

Further, in order to confirm the set value, after the game is finished, the front door 1b may be opened and the setting key switch 37 may be turned on in a state where the bet number is not set. When the setting key switch 37 is turned on in such a situation, the setting value display 24 displays the setting value read from the RAM, so that the setting value can be confirmed in the setting confirmation state (setting confirmation mode). Transition. In the setting confirmation state, the progress of the game is impossible, and by turning off the setting key switch 37, the setting confirmation state ends and the game returns to the state in which the progress is possible. As with the set value change state, the set value confirmation state also prevents the set value from being changed unless the front door 1b is open to prevent unauthorized setting confirmation when the front door 1b is not open. You may. That is, the opening of the front door 1b and the operation of turning on the setting key switch 37 may be the start conditions of the setting confirmation state. Further, even when the opening of the front door 1b is set as the start condition of the set value confirmation state, the opening and closing of the front door 1b does not have to be the end condition of the set value confirmation state.

[Game processing]
Next, the game processing executed by the main control unit 41 for each game will be described with reference to FIG. The main control unit 41 performs game processing and controls one game.

As shown in FIG. 6, in the game control process, first, the bet number setting and the BET process for credit settlement / bet number settlement are performed (Sd1). Further, in the BET process, as a process of starting the game, an output command for instructing the output of the medal IN signal for the number of medals used for the set bet number is set in the RAM 41c. The medal IN signal is such that a signal of about 25 ms is output at intervals of about 25 ms for the number of medals specified by the output command of the medal IN signal. An external device (also referred to as an external device) that has received the medal IN signal can specify the number of medals consumed based on the medal IN signal. Further, since the medal IN signal is a signal to be output with the start of the game, it is possible to determine that the output of the medal IN signal is the start of the game.

After setting the number of bets, when the start switch 7 is operated, an internal lottery process for determining whether or not to allow the occurrence of winning by a random number lottery (internal lottery) is performed (Sd2).

The internal lottery determines whether or not to allow a prize for each winning combination before the display results of all reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are derived and displayed (actually, when the start switch 7 is detected). Is. In the internal lottery, first, a random number value (an integer of 0 to 65535) for the internal lottery is acquired when the start switch 7 is detected. Specifically, the value of the random number value storage work assigned to the RAM 41c is set to the lottery work also assigned to the RAM 41c. Then, in order to specify the numerical data stored in the lottery work and the game state for each role determined according to the presence or absence of carry-over of the game state (RT0 to RT4, bonus) and the special role (BB, RB). It is performed according to the value of the game state flag of the above, the value of the RT flag for specifying the RT described later, the number of bets, and the number of determination values of each combination determined according to the set value. In addition, the carry-over of the special role means that if the special role is not won in the game in which the special role is won in the internal lottery, the winning state of the special role is carried over to the next game or later, and the special role is carried over until the special role is won. It is to maintain the winning state.

In the internal lottery, the number of judgment values determined corresponding to the winning combination, the current game state flag value, the RT flag value, and the set value to be the target of the internal lottery is stored in the random number value for the internal lottery (the lottery work). When the result of the addition overflows, it is determined that the winning combination has been won. Therefore, the winning combination is won with a probability (number of determination values / 65536) according to the magnitude of the number of determination values.

When the internal lottery process is completed, the reel rotation process is performed. In the reel rotation process, the stop switches 8L to 8R are effective after starting the rotation of the reels 2L to 2R on the condition that a specified period (for example, 4.1 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the reel rotation of the previous game. And stop the rotation of the reel according to the stop operation (Sd3).

When the reels 2L to 2R are stopped and the reel rotation process is completed, a winning determination process for determining whether or not a winning or the like has occurred is performed based on the symbol combination on the winning line (Sd4).

When the winning determination process is completed, the payout process is performed. In the payout process, medals are paid out or credits are added according to the occurrence of winning, and the gaming state is changed according to the combination of symbols on the winning line (Sd5).

When the payout process is completed, the game end process is performed (Sd6). In the game end process, a process of setting the game state is executed in preparation for the next game. As a result, the game control process for one game is completed, and the game control process for the next game is started.

The main control unit 41 performs the ART lottery described later during the execution of the internal lottery process, and when the ART lottery is won, controls the AT to perform navigation notification and navigation effect control.

[About the game status]
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the control by the main control unit 41 controls any of RT0 to RT4 and a bonus (RB, RB in BB). In the present embodiment, RT0, RT1, RT3, and RT4 have a medal payout rate of less than 100% per game, and RT2, RB, and BB have a medal payout rate of 100% or more per game. Among RT0 to RT4, RB, and BB (RB), RB and BB have the highest medal payout rate per game, and are the most advantageous gaming states. In addition, among RT0 to RT4, RT0, RT2, and RT4 have a high probability of winning the replaying role, and the medal payout rate per game is higher than that of RT1 and RT3. In particular, RT0 goes to RT2. It can be said that it is more advantageous for the player than RT1 and 3 in that the transition is possible. Further, among RT0, RT2, and RT4, RT2 can be said to be more advantageous to the player than RT0 and RT4 in that the medal payout rate per game is higher than that of RT0 and RT4.

[About AT and ART]
Further, in the slot machine of the present embodiment, when the gaming state is RT0 to 2, the main control unit 41 can execute a navigation notification that notifies the player in an advantageous stop order according to the internal lottery result. It is possible to control the assist time (hereinafter referred to as AT), which is the notification period.

When the main control unit 41 is controlled by the AT, the main control unit 41 executes the navigation notification by winning the navigation target combination according to the game state, and also transmits a push order command to the sub control unit 91. By doing so, the navigation effect is executed. The navigation target combinations according to the game state are replay GR1 to 6 when it is RT1, replay GR11 to 16 when it is RT0, and replay GR21 to 26 when it is RT2. Further, in both RTs 0 to 2, the push order bell is a common navigation target role. Further, in the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 executes navigation notification by satisfying certain conditions even in a normal state (RT1 and non-AT state) in which neither AT nor ART is controlled. , It is possible to execute a navigation effect.

In the navigation notification of the present embodiment, the stopping order advantageous to the player is identifiable by changing the lighting mode of the game auxiliary display 12. The mode of the navigation notification is not limited to such a mode, and may be any mode as long as the player can distinguish it according to the winning situation. Further, the navigation notification is not limited to the game auxiliary display 12, that is, a display used for notifications other than the navigation notification, and may be executed by using a dedicated display. In the navigation effect of the present embodiment, the stop order advantageous to the player notified by the navigation notification is notified by the display of the navigation image from the liquid crystal display 51 and the output of the navigation voice from the speakers 53 and 54.

For example, when notifying the stop order of left middle right, a stop switch 8L such as "123" (indicating that the left reel is the first stop, the middle reel is the second stop, and the right reel is the third stop). A stop order image showing the stop order of 8C and 8R is displayed. Further, as the navigation voice, for example, a voice indicating the stop order of the stop switch such as "left middle right!" (Indicating that the left reel is the first stop, the middle reel is the second stop, and the right reel is the third stop). Is output.

Further, when notifying the stop order in which the left reel is the first stop, the stop order of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R such as "1--" (indicating that the left reel is the first stop) is indicated. Display stop order images. Further, as the navigation voice, for example, a voice indicating the stop order of the stop switch such as "left!" (Indicating that the left reel is the first stop) (indicating that the left reel is the first stop) is output. To do. In particular, when the replay GR21-26 is won in RT2 and the stop order in which the red 7 replay or the blue 7 replay wins is notified, in addition to the above stop order image, red 7 and blue 7 are added to each reel. An image prompting the stop operation at the target timing is also displayed, and the stop operation at that timing is prompted.

In the navigation notification and the navigation effect, when any of the replays GR1 to 6 is won in RT1, the stop order in which the promotion replay wins is identifiable. Further, when any of the replays GR11 to 16 is won in RT0, the stop order in which the special replay wins is identifiablely notified. In addition, when any of the replays GR21 to 23 is won in RT2, the stop order in which the middle replay or the red 7 replay wins is identifiable. Further, when any of the replays GR24 to 26 is won in RT2, the stop order in which the middle replay or the blue 7 replay wins is identifiable.

The mode of the navigation effect is not limited to such a mode, and may be any mode as long as the player can distinguish it according to the winning situation. Further, the navigation effect is not limited to the one using the liquid crystal display 51, the speakers 53, 54, and may be executed by using the effect effect LED 52, the reel LED 55, or the like.

As described above, in the navigation notification and the navigation effect, the stop order that is advantageous for the player is notified in an identifiable manner. Therefore, the player can intentionally win the promotion replay at RT1 and the middle bell by performing the stop operation in the stop order according to the navigation effect, and win the special replay at RT0. That, you can win the middle bell, avoid the fall replay prize, you can avoid the stop of the transition roll, you can win the middle bell in RT2, avoid the fall replay prize, the transition exit You can avoid eye stops.

In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 performs a lottery (hereinafter, referred to as an ART lottery) for determining whether or not to control to ART (a state controlled by AT at RT2) when the lottery condition is satisfied. Then, the main control unit 41 controls the ART (assist replay time) by winning the ART lottery. In the present embodiment, the ART lottery is performed in RT0 to RT4 (hereinafter, these are collectively referred to as a normal gaming state) and in BB. Further, the lottery condition of the ART lottery is that a predetermined lottery combination is drawn by an internal lottery. Then, the ART lottery is performed with a probability according to the type of the lottery winning combination. Further, in the present embodiment, when a lottery combination called "rare combination", which has a relatively lower lottery probability than other lottery combinations, is drawn, the probability is higher than when the result of the internal lottery is another result. Win the ART lottery. In this embodiment, strong cherries and weak cherries are set as rare roles.

Then, the main control unit 41 determines that the ART is controlled by winning the ART lottery, and controls the ART.

When controlling to ART, first control to AT. The state from the start of AT control to the transition to RT2 is also called the preparation state.

When the ART lottery is performed, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not to execute the precursor effect for suggesting the winning of the ART lottery, and when it is determined to execute the precursor effect, the number of games is increased. Decide on one of several different types of precursory effects. Then, at the start of the next game of the game that won the ART lottery, a command indicating the type of precursor effect is transmitted to the sub control unit 91. The sub-control unit 91 receives the command and executes the precursor effect. The main control unit 41 also counts the number of games in which the precursory effect is executed. Then, when the precursor effect is completed, a command for executing a continuous effect for notifying the result of the ART lottery at the start of the next game (a command for starting the execution of the continuous effect and a command capable of specifying the result of the ART lottery). ) Is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91. Upon receiving the command, the sub-control unit 91 starts executing the continuous effect, and notifies whether or not the ART lottery has been won as the effect result of the continuous effect. Then, when the ART lottery is won, the control of the AT is started from the next game, and the state is shifted to the ready state. As described above, in the present embodiment, by deciding one of a plurality of types of precursory effects having different numbers of games, it is determined when to notify whether or not the ART lottery has been won by the continuous effect. ..

When the main control unit 41 decides not to execute the precursor effect, it transmits only a command for executing the continuous effect to the sub control unit 91, executes only the continuous effect, and then shifts to the ready state.

Further, the main control unit 41 transmits a command indicating the result when the ART lottery is executed even during the BB to the sub control unit 91. In addition, a command for executing continuous production is transmitted to the sub control unit 91 based on the number of remaining games in BB. In response to these commands, the sub-control unit 91 starts executing the continuous effect so that the effect ends in the final game of the BB, and notifies the effect result in the final game of the BB. If the ART lottery is won during the BB, the main control unit 41 shifts to the ready state in the first game after the end of the BB.

The main control unit 41 executes the navigation notification when the target combination is won in the ready state. At this time, in RT1, the navigation notification is applied when the replays GR1 to 6 are won, and the stop order for winning the promotion replay is notified by the navigation notification when the replays GR1 to 6 are won. Therefore, the operation is stopped according to the notified stop order. By performing the operation, it is possible to win the promotion replay and shift from RT1 to RT0. In addition, after the transition to the ready state, the stop order for winning the middle bell is notified when the push order bell is won regardless of the game state of RT0 to 2, so the stop operation should be performed according to the notified stop order. As a result, it is possible to surely obtain eight medals.

After the promotion replay wins in RT1 and shifts to RT0, the navigation notification will be applied when the replay GR11-16 is won, and the stop order for winning the special replay when the replay GR11-16 is won will be notified by the navigation notification. By performing the stop operation according to the notified stop order, it is possible to win a special replay and shift from RT0 to RT2, and it is possible to avoid winning a fall replay and avoid shifting to RT1. In addition, as described above, when the push order bell is won, the stop order for winning the middle bell is notified, so it is possible to surely obtain eight medals by performing the stop operation according to the notified stop order. At the same time, it is possible to avoid the stoppage of the transition result and avoid the transition to RT1.

When a special replay wins at RT0 and shifts to RT2, when the first replay GR21-23 is won or the first replay GR24-26 is won, the navigation that notifies the stop order to win the red 7 replay. Notification or blue 7 replay to win a prize Navi notification to notify the stop order is executed, and by performing the stop operation according to the notified stop order, red 7 replay or blue 7 replay is won and the player falls. It is possible to avoid winning a replay and avoid shifting to RT1. In addition, as described above, when the push order bell is won, the stop order for winning the middle bell is notified, so it is possible to surely obtain eight medals by performing the stop operation according to the notified stop order. At the same time, it is possible to avoid the stoppage of the transition result and avoid the transition to RT1.

The main control unit 41 ends the preparation state when the special replay wins a prize, and starts controlling the ART. Along with this, the main control unit 41 performs an ART game number lottery to determine the number of ART games, sets the number of games won in the ART game number lottery as the remaining number of ART games allocated to the RAM 91c, and sets the ART game number. Start counting the number of remaining games. When the ART lottery was won during the BB, the AT control was started when the shift roll stopped at the RT3 that shifts after the end of the BB and the shift to RT1, and the shift to RT2 was performed accordingly. Sometimes the control of ART is started. As described above, in the present embodiment, after the main control unit 41 wins the ART lottery and decides to control to ART, it is assumed that the result of the game becomes a specific result when the special replay wins at RT0. Control to ART.

After the start of ART, the stop order for winning the middle bell will be notified when the push order bell is won, so it is possible to reliably win eight medals by performing the stop operation according to the notified stop order. At the same time, it is possible to avoid the stoppage of the transition result and avoid the transition to RT1. In addition, since the stop order for winning the middle replay is notified when the replay GR21 to 26 is won, the stop operation is performed according to the notified stop order to avoid the prize for the fall replay and shift to RT1. Can be avoided.

Further, during ART, the main control unit 41 performs an ART game number lottery when the ART lottery is won, and the number of games determined by the ART game number lottery is used as the remaining number of ART games allocated to the RAM 91c. to add.

In addition, after the start of ART, the number of remaining games is deducted by 1 each time one game is exhausted, and if the BB is won before the number of remaining games becomes 0, ART is interrupted by the end of RT2. Along with this, the counting of the number of ART games is also interrupted. After that, it controls to the corresponding BB after winning the winning BB, and when the transition roll stops at RT3 that shifts after the end of the BB and shifts to RT1, AT control is resumed, and the preparation state is adjusted accordingly. After that, when it shifts to RT2 again, it is controlled to the additional special zone. A certain number of games are continuously controlled in the additional special zone. In the additional special zone, the number of games according to the result of the internal lottery is added to the number of remaining games of ART. Then, when the additional special zone ends, ART is restarted, and counting of the number of remaining games in ART is also restarted.

Further, when the number of remaining games becomes 0 after the start of ART, the control of AT is terminated. Along with this, the navigation notification will not be executed, so it will be impossible to avoid the stop of the transition roll when the push order bell is won, and it will be impossible to avoid the fall replay winning when the replay GR21-26 is won, and the transition roll. A series of AT and ART controls will be completed by shifting to RT1 by stopping or winning a fall replay.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the replay GR21 to 26 during ART is won, the main control unit 41 notifies the stop order in which the middle replay wins, except for the first time, by the navigation notification, and the notified stop. If the stop operation is performed ignoring the order, the red 7 replay or the blue 7 replay may win and RT2 may be maintained, but the fall replay may win and shift to RT1. Therefore, when the replay GR21-26 is won, it is possible to prompt the stop operation in the stop order to win the middle replay notified by the navigation notification, and it is possible to prevent the red 7 replay or the blue 7 replay from winning without meaning. You can do it.

[About external output signal]
The slot machine 1 of this embodiment outputs an external output signal indicating a gaming state, an error occurrence state, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 9, these external output signals are output from the game control board 40 under the control of the main control unit 41, and the information providing terminal board of the game store (hall) where the external output board 1000 and the slot machine 1 are installed. It is output to an external device such as a data display terminal installed corresponding to the hall computer or the slot machine 1 via the 1010.

From the game control board 40 to the external output board 1000, a medal IN signal indicating the number of medals used for setting the bet number, a medal OUT signal indicating the number of medals given to the player due to the occurrence of a prize, and a game state. Can specify either the RB signal indicating that the game is in the RB described later, the BB signal indicating that the gaming state is in the BB described later, the decision to control the ART, or the end of the ART. An ART control signal, an additional special zone control signal that can be identified as being controlled in the additional special zone, a door open signal indicating that the front door 1b is open, and a setting change mode described later. The setting change signal shown, the insertion error signal indicating an abnormality of the medal selector, and the payout error signal indicating an abnormality of the hopper unit 34 are output.

In this embodiment, in order to share the game with other slot machines, a game state is shown between the game control board 40 and the external output board 1000 in addition to the signal line for outputting the above signal. A spare signal line is connected, and a signal line for error output that may be expanded in the future is connected.

The external output board 1000 is provided with a relay circuit 1001, a parallel / serial conversion circuit 1002, terminals for each output signal, and a connector 1003 to be electrically connected to the circuit of the information providing terminal board 1010. ing.

Of the signals output from the game control board 40, the medal IN signal, the medal OUT signal, the RB signal, the BB signal, and the ART control signal are directly transmitted to the information providing terminal board 1010 as pulse signals via the relay circuit 1001. It is output.

On the other hand, the door open signal, the setting change signal, the input error signal, and the payout error signal are converted into information by the parallel serial conversion circuit 1002 by converting these signals into security signals which are serial signals that can be individually identified. It is output to the provided terminal plate 1010.

The medal IN signal, medal OUT signal, RB signal, BB signal, and ART control signal output from the external output board 1000 are output to an external device via the information providing terminal plate 1010. On the other hand, the security signal output from the external output board 1000 is reconverted into a door opening signal, a setting change signal, an input error signal, and a payout error signal by the information providing terminal plate 1010 and output to an external device. It becomes.

The external output signal includes a door opening signal, a setting change signal, a closing error signal, and a payout error signal, but these door opening signals, a setting change signal, a closing error signal, and a payout error signal are not frequently output signals. Therefore, it is less necessary to individually provide terminals for external output for these signals.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the external output signal output from the game control board 40 as described above is output to the external device via the external output board 1000, and among these external output signals, the door open signal and the setting The change signal, input error signal, and payout error signal are converted into a security signal, which is a serial signal that can be individually identified, by the parallel serial conversion circuit 1002 mounted on the external output board 1000, and output to the outside. It is possible to output these door opening signals, setting change signals, closing error signals, and payout error signals from one terminal, and it is not necessary to provide more terminals than necessary.

In the present embodiment, when the data display terminal, which is an external device, receives an ART control signal that can identify that it is determined to be controlled by ART, the data display terminal, which is an external device, is determined to be controlled by ART. Notify by lighting lamps and LEDs, displaying characters and characters on the screen, etc. Then, when the ART control signal that can identify that the ART control ends is received, the notification ends.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the data display terminal which is an external device receives the additional special zone control signal that can be specified to be controlled in the additional special zone, the data display terminal which is an external device is in the additional special zone. The control is notified by lighting lamps, LEDs, etc., and displaying characters and characters on the screen. Then, when the additional special zone control signal that can specify that the control of the additional special zone ends is received, the notification ends. Since the additional special zone is controlled by the BB during ART and is controlled when the ART is interrupted, it is determined that the external device will continue to be controlled by the ART even if the additional special zone ends. Notify that.

The main control unit 41 sets an output command of an external output signal in the start processing (main) and the game processing, and then sets in the timer interrupt process (main) that is executed by interrupting the start processing and the game processing. The output of the external output signal is controlled according to the output command or the like.

FIG. 10 shows an ART control signal output that is executed once every four times of the above-mentioned timer interrupt processing (main) that the main control unit 41 interrupts and executes the game processing periodically (about 0.56 ms). It is a flowchart which shows the control content of a control process.

In the ART control signal output processing, first, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not it is in the normal gaming state (Sf1). In the present embodiment, the normal gaming state indicates RT0 to RT4 and does not include the gaming state in the bonus (BB, RB).

In the case of a normal game state (Y in Sf1), it is determined whether or not one game after the end of BB has started (Sf2). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the start switch 7 is operated after the bet number is set in the first game after the end of BB.

When one game after the end of BB is started (Y in Sf2), it is determined whether or not the ART lottery is won during BB (Sf3). When the ART lottery is won during the BB, the ART winning flag indicating that fact is set in the RAM 41c. The main control unit 41 determines whether or not the ART lottery has been won by determining whether or not the ART winning flag is set in the RAM 41c. If the ART lottery is not won during BB, the process ends (N in Sf3).

When the ART lottery is won during BB (Y in Sf3), it is determined whether or not 2 seconds have passed from the start of the game (Sf4). When 2 seconds have not passed from the start of the game (N in Sf4), the process ends. When 2 seconds have passed from the start of the game (Y at Sf4), the ART control signal is output to the outside (Sf5).

Further, when it is determined in Sf2 that one game after the end of BB has not started (N in Sf2), it is determined whether or not the ART lottery has been won during the normal game state (Sf6). When the ART lottery is won during the normal game state, the ART winning flag indicating that fact is set in the RAM 41c. The main control unit 41 determines whether or not the ART lottery has been won by determining whether or not the ART winning flag is set in the RAM 41c. If the ART lottery has not been won (N at Sf6), the process ends.

When the ART lottery is won (Y in Sf6), it is determined whether or not the first game after the end of the continuous production has started (Sf7). The continuous effect is executed by the sub control unit 91, but the main control unit 41 manages the number of games for starting the continuous effect and the number of games for executing the continuous effect. That is, the sub-control unit 91 specifies a game that receives a command from the main control unit 91 and starts continuous production, and the number of games thereof, and executes continuous production. When the first game after the end of the continuous production is not started (N in Sf7), the process ends.

When the first game after the end of the continuous production is started (Y in Sf7), it is determined whether or not 2 seconds have passed from the start of the game (Sf8). When 2 seconds have not passed from the start of the game (N at Sf8), the process ends. When 2 seconds have passed from the start of the game (Y at Sf8), the ART control signal is output to the outside (Sf9).

Further, when it is determined in Sf1 that the game is not in the normal gaming state (N in Sf1), it is determined whether or not the first game of the additional special zone has been started (Sf10). When the first game of the additional special zone has not been started (N at Sf10), the process ends. When the first game of the additional special zone is started (Y at Sf10), the process ends when 2 seconds have not passed from the start of the game (N at Sf11). When 2 seconds have passed from the start of the game (Y at Sf11), the additional special zone control signal is output to the outside (Sf12).

[Processing for sending commands]
Next, the process for the main control unit 41 of this embodiment to transmit a command will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 15.

At the start of the game, the main control unit 41 of the present embodiment updates and updates various control states (for example, whether or not a game state or a navigation notification is executed) with the start of the game. Controls related to the game (for example, internal lottery, navigation notification, lottery regarding advantageous states advantageous to the player, etc.) are performed based on the controlled state, and at the end of the game, the result of the game (for example, each reel) is performed. Various control states are maintained or updated according to the combination of symbols stopped at (the result of the lottery regarding the advantageous state). Further, at the start and end of the game, a control state command capable of specifying various control states at that time is transmitted to the sub control unit 91. The control state includes a plurality of types of states that are uniquely set according to the playability and design concept of each model of the slot machine 1, and the number of control state commands is the type of the control state. It is set according to the number.

As shown in FIG. 11, the control state command that can specify the control state is a control state that can specify the control state whose contents can change between the start of one unit of the game and the end of the game. It includes a command 1 and a control state command 2 that is unique to the game and can specify a control state whose contents do not change between the start of the game and the end of the game.

The control state command 1 includes a plurality of game state-related commands capable of specifying a control state related to the game state in the main control unit 41, and AT control during AT, that is, as an advantageous state advantageous to the player. A plurality of AT-related commands A capable of specifying a control state related to being present, and a plurality of AT-related commands B capable of specifying a control state related to non-AT, that is, AT not being controlled. The control state command 2 includes a plurality of in-game unique information commands capable of specifying a control state unique to the game.

Further, the game state-related command is, for example, a command capable of specifying the game state in the main control unit 41, and when the game state is changed as a predetermined number of games are played, in the game. A command that can specify the number of remaining games until the controlled game state ends, and when the game state is transferred by paying out a predetermined number of medals, it is controlled by the game. A command or the like that can specify the number of medals remaining until the end of the current game state is included.

Further, the AT-related command A includes, for example, a command capable of specifying the number of rights controlled by the AT as an advantageous state advantageous to the player, and the remaining games in which the control of the AT controlled in the game is continued. Commands that can specify the number etc. are included.

The AT-related command B includes, for example, a command capable of specifying the cumulative number of normal games played in a normal state in which the AT is not controlled after the control of the previous AT is terminated, and a command in which the normal state is performed. When the number of games reaches a predetermined number and is controlled to an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player, a command that can specify the remaining number of games until the number of games is controlled to the advantageous state, the right to be controlled by AT is granted. The number of games remaining until the control of the AT is started is included.

The in-game unique information command group is controlled by, for example, a command that can specify the winning status of the AT lottery that determines whether or not to grant the right to be controlled by the AT as an advantageous state advantageous to the player, the AT. A command that can specify the additional status of the number of games, a command that can specify the stop order that is advantageous for the player, which is determined according to the result of the internal lottery at the start of the game, and a command that can be determined according to the result of the internal lottery at the start of the game. A command that can specify the type of effect (for example, a freeze state in which the progress of the game is delayed for a predetermined period, a reel effect performed using a reel in the freeze state, an effect suggesting an internal lottery result, etc.) is included.

One command transmitted by the main control unit 41 of this embodiment to the sub control unit 91 is composed of 2 bytes (a set of two 1-byte communication data), and the first byte (MODE) is a command. The classification is represented, and the second byte (EXT) represents the content of the command. Each command included in the control state command is also composed of 2 bytes like the other commands. In particular, as shown in FIG. 12, the MODE of each series of commands included in the control state command is transmitted. It is set to consecutive numerical values (B0 to CF in this embodiment) corresponding to each order.

As shown in FIG. 12, in the game start transmission command setting process, first, the control state update process for updating the corresponding control state among the plurality of control states is executed as the game is started (Sa1). .. In the control state update process, among the control states, for example, the game state, the number of games remaining until the predetermined game state ends, the number of medals remaining until the predetermined game state ends, and the cumulative number of normal games. Etc., the control state determined by the result of the previous game is maintained without being updated. Further, for example, regarding the control state that can be changed by satisfying a predetermined condition with the start of the game, such as the number of rights controlled by the AT and the number of remaining games controlled by the AT, the predetermined condition is satisfied. Update according to the situation. Further, for example, the control state newly determined with the start of the game, such as the winning status of the AT lottery, the stop order advantageous to the player, and the type of effect, is newly set.

After executing the control state update process in the step of Sa1, the control state command batch setting process for collectively setting the above-mentioned command group included in the control state command that can specify each control state in the command queue is executed ( Sa2).

As shown in FIG. 13, in the control state command batch setting process, the value of MODE set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is set to the initial value (in this embodiment, the MODE of the game state related command included in the control state command). Set to a certain B0) (Sb1). Further, the value of the data address set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is set to the initial value (the value of the address of the area in which the data of the game state related command is stored) (Sb2). Further, the value of the number of processes set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is set to the number of commands included in the control state command group (Sb3).

After that, the timer interrupt is set to prohibit (Sb4), and the MODE of the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is set in the command queue in the state where the timer interrupt is prohibited (Sb5). Then, the data stored in the area of the RAM 41c of the address corresponding to the value of the data address is acquired, set as the EXT in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sb6), and the EXT is set in the command queue (Sb7).

After that, the timer interrupt wait process is executed (Sb8). In the timer interrupt process, the timer interrupt is set to allow, the process waits until the timer interrupt process (main) is performed, and the process returns to the caller process after the timer interrupt process (main) is completed. In the timer interrupt process (main), as will be described later, when it is not detected that the power supply to the slot machine 1 is stopped, the normal command transmission process is performed every time the timer interrupt process (main) is executed. Is executed to transmit the data (MODE and EXT constituting the command) set in the command queue to the sub-control unit 91 byte by byte. Therefore, when the timer interrupt wait process is executed in the step Sb8, the normal command transmission process is executed, and the MODE and EXT set in the command queue in the steps Sb5 and Sb7 are set first. The MODE is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 as the first byte of the command.

After the timer interrupt waiting process in the step of Sb8 is completed, the timer interrupt waiting process is executed again (Sb9). As a result, the EXT set after the MODE and EXT set in the command queue in the steps of Sb5 and Sb7 by the normal command transmission process executed in the timer interrupt process (main) is set as the second byte of the command. It will be transmitted to the sub-control unit 91, and by executing the timer interrupt wait processing twice by the steps of Sb8 and Sb9, one set of MODE and EXT constituting one command will be transmitted to the sub-control unit. It will be transmitted to 91.

After that, 1 is added to the value of MODE in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sb10), and 1 is added to the value of the data address in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sb11). Then, the value of the processing number of the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is subtracted by 1 (Sb12), and it is determined whether or not the value of the remaining processing number after the subtraction is 0 (Sb13), and all the control state command groups are all. For a command, it is determined whether MODE and EXT are set in the command queue.

When it is determined in the step of Sb13 that the value of the remaining number of processes is not 0, that is, the MODE and EXT are not set in the command queue for all the commands in the control state command group, and the commands are not yet set in the command queue. If remains, the process returns to the step of Sb4, the process of the steps of Sb5 to Sb7 is performed in the state where the timer interrupt is set to be prohibited again, and then the process of the steps of Sb10 and Sb11 is executed. The process of sequentially setting MODE and EXT of commands that have not yet been set in the command queue in the command queue is repeated.

Then, when it is determined in the step of Sb13 that the number of remaining processes is 0, that is, when MODE and EXT are set in the command queue for all the commands included in the control state command group, the control state command batch setting process is performed. Is terminated, and the process returns to the caller's game start command transmission process.

In the game start command transmission process, after the control state command batch setting process in the Sa2 step is completed, the internal winning command setting process (first internal winning command) is executed (Sa3), and based on the internal lottery result. The MODE and EXT of the first internal winning command that can specify the winning status of the special combination are set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c. After that, a command transmission process for setting MODE and EXT in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c in the command queue is executed (Sa4).

In the command setting process, as shown in FIG. 14, timer interrupt is set to prohibit (Sc1), MODE of a predetermined area of RAM 41c is set in the command queue, and then EXT of a predetermined area of RAM 41c is set in the command queue. (Sc2). Then, the prohibition of timer interrupt set in the step of Sc1 is released (Sc3), the command setting process is terminated, and the process returns to the transmission command setting process at the start of the game. In the command setting process, unlike the control state command batch setting process, the timer interrupt wait process is not executed after setting MODE and EXT that make up one command in the command queue, but the timer interrupt is prohibited in the Sc3 step. When is released, the timer interrupt process (main) is performed at a predetermined timing at which the interrupt is subsequently performed. Therefore, the MODE and EXT set in the command queue in the Sc2 step of the command setting process are Sc3. When the normal command transmission process is executed in the timer interrupt process (main) at a predetermined timing after the step, the command is transmitted to the sub control unit 91.

After the command setting process in the step of Sa4 is completed, in the transmission command setting process at the start of the game, the internal winning command setting process (second internal winning command) is executed (Sa5), and the general role is based on the internal lottery result. The MODE and EXT of the second internal winning command that can specify the winning status of the above are set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c. After that, the command transmission process is executed (Sa6), and MODE and EXT of a predetermined area of the RAM 41c are set in the command queue. The MODE and EXT of the second internal winning command set in the command queue in the command setting process of the step of Sa6 are interrupted by the timer at a predetermined timing in which the interrupt is subsequently performed, as in the case of the command setting process in Sa4. When the normal command transmission process is executed in the process (main), the command is transmitted to the sub control unit 91.

After executing the command setting process corresponding to the internal winning command setting process (second internal winning command) in the step of Sa6, the command setting process is terminated, and the transmission command setting process at the start of the game is terminated. After that, the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is controlled as the start operation is performed, and the control is performed according to the progress of the game.

As described above, the main control unit 41 of the present embodiment executes the control state command batch setting process when the start switch 7 is operated as the first timing, that is, at the start of the game, and becomes the control state command. A plurality of included commands are transmitted to the sub-control unit 91.

Next, a process for the main control unit 41 of the present embodiment to transmit a predetermined command at the end of the game will be described with reference to FIG.

The main control unit 41 stops the third stop operation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R whose rotation control is started with the start operation of the game (when the stop switch of the third stop operation is released). That is, at the end of the game, the game end transmission command setting process for setting the above-mentioned control state command and the command related to the game result in the command queue to be transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 is executed.

As shown in FIG. 15, in the game end transmission command setting process, first, the door command MODE and EXT are set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c based on the output state of the door open detection switch 25 (Sd1), and then the command is transmitted. The process is executed (Sd2), and MODE and EXT of a predetermined area of the RAM 41c are set in the command queue.

After that, the control state update process is executed (Sd3), and the corresponding control state is updated based on the end of the game and the result of the game. In the control state update process, among the control states, a combination of symbols stopped on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, that is, a control state that can change according to the result of the game, for example, a game state or a predetermined game state is completed. The number of remaining games, the number of rights controlled by the AT, etc. are updated or maintained according to the result of the game, and the control state that changes as the game is played in the predetermined state, for example, the predetermined state. The number of remaining medals until the end of the game state, the cumulative number of normal games, the number of remaining games controlled by AT, etc. are to be subtracted by 1 according to the game played in the corresponding state. A control state that is maintained without being updated or subtracted and does not change regardless of the outcome of the game or the game being played in a given state, such as the winning status of the AT lottery, the stop order favorable to the player, The type of production is controlled so as to be maintained without change.

After the control state update process is performed in the step of Sd3, the above-mentioned control state command batch setting process is performed (Sd4), and the control state command 1 and the control state that can specify the control state updated or maintained in the step of Sd3 are performed. Command 2 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91.

After that, the winning number set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is acquired based on the combination of the symbols aligned on the winning line LN, and the MODE and EXT of the winning number command are set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c based on the winning number. (Sd5), the command transmission process is executed (Sd6), and MODE and EXT of a predetermined area of the RAM 41c are set in the command queue. After that, in the same manner as setting the winning number command in the command queue in the steps of Sd5 and Sd6, predetermined commands to be transmitted with the end of the game (for example, payout number command, game end command, payout start command, payout end). For commands, error commands, etc.), after setting MODE and EXT in a predetermined area of RAM 41c, a command transmission process is executed to set MODE and EXT in the command queue. Then, after setting MODE and EXT in the command queue for all the commands to be transmitted with the end of the game, the transmission command setting process at the end of the game is terminated. After that, control is performed according to the progress of the game, such as paying out medals and setting replays according to the result of the game.

As described above, the main control unit 41 of the present embodiment performs the control state command batch setting process as the second timing when the third stop operation for the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is completed, that is, at the end of the game. It is executed to send a plurality of commands included in the control state command to the sub control unit 91.

[Control content of internal winning command transmission processing]
Next, the control content of the internal winning command transmission process performed by the main control unit 41 will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 17.

In this embodiment, a winning number is assigned in advance for each type of lottery target combination, and a lottery target combination that may be carried over, that is, a special combination winning number table in which a winning number for each type of special combination is set. A lottery target combination that is not carried over, that is, a general combination winning number table in which a winning number for each type of general combination is set is stored in a predetermined area of ROM 41b.

In the special role winning number table, when none of the special roles are won, that is, the winning number of the outlier is "0", the winning number of BB is "1", and the winning number of RB is "2". Is assigned.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10, in the general winning combination winning number table, when none of the general winning combination is won, that is, the winning number of the outlier is "0", and the winning number of the normal replay is "1". , The winning number of replay GR1 is "2", the winning number of replay GR2 is "3", the winning number of replay GR3 is "4", and the winning number of replay GR4 is "5". The winning number of GR5 is "6", the winning number of replay GR6 is "7", the winning number of replay GR11 is "8", and the winning number of replay GR12 is "9". The winning number is "10", the winning number of the replay GR14 is "11", the winning number of the replay GR15 is "12", and the winning number of the replay GR16 is "13", the winning number of the replay GR21. Is "14", the winning number of the replay GR22 is "15", the winning number of the replay GR23 is "16", the winning number of the replay GR24 is "17", and the winning number of the replay GR25 is "17". "18" is assigned, and "19" is assigned as the winning number of the replay GR26. The winning number of the strong cherry is "20", the winning number of the strong cherry is "21", and the winning number of the watermelon is "22". The winning number of the left bell 1 is "23", the winning number of the left bell 2 is "24", the winning number of the left bell 3 is "25", and the winning number of the left bell 4 is "". "26", the winning number of the middle bell 1 is "27", the winning number of the middle bell 2 is "28", the winning number of the middle bell 3 is "29", and the winning number of the middle bell 4 is "29". , "30", the winning number of the right bell 1 is "31", the winning number of the right bell 2 is "32", the winning number of the right bell 3 is "33", the winning number of the right bell 4 The number is assigned "34", and the winning number of the common bell is assigned "35".

As described above, in the special winning combination winning number table and the general winning combination winning number table, the lottery target combination of the internal lottery and the winning number are set correspondingly.

In this embodiment, the main control unit 41 executes the internal lottery process when the start operation is performed, and when any of the special combination and the general combination is won in the internal lottery, , The winning number corresponding to the lottery target combination for which the winning is determined is set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c, and if none of the winning combinations are won, the winning number corresponding to the loss is set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c. The winning number indicating the winning of the general role is cleared after each game, while the winning number indicating the winning of the special role is maintained until the winning special role is won, and the winning special role wins. It will be cleared.

After setting the winning number, the main control unit 41 executes the internal winning command setting process, and the first internal winning command and the second internal winning are based on the internal winning number set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c. The command is set in the command queue, and the first internal winning command and the second internal winning command are transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 by the subsequent timer interrupt processing (main).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, in the internal winning command setting process, first, in the internal lottery process, the winning number of the special combination set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is acquired (Sf1), and the acquired winning number is obtained. , The transmission winning number to be transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sf2), and the first internal winning command is stored in the command queue based on the transmission winning number. The command transmitted by the main control unit 41 is composed of two bytes, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command content). When storing the first internal winning command in the command queue, 41 stores a MODE indicating that it is the first internal winning command in the first byte, and wins a special role in the EXT of the second byte. Store the number.

In the step of Sf3, after storing the first internal winning command, the winning number of the general winning combination set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c is acquired in the internal lottery process (Sf4), and the acquired winning number is less than 2. Winning obtained by sequentially determining whether or not there is (Sf5), whether or not it is less than 20 (Sf6), whether or not it is less than 23 (Sf7), and whether or not it is less than 35 (Sf8). It is determined which of the plurality of predetermined ranges the number is in.

Then, when it is determined in the step of Sf5 that the winning number is less than 2, that is, when the winning number is 0 or 1, the acquired winning number is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 for transmission winning. The number is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sf9). Further, when it is determined that the winning number is not less than 2 in the step of Sf5 and less than 20 in the step of Sf6, that is, when the winning number is any of 2 to 19, it is used as the winning number for transmission. 2 is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sf10). Further, when it is determined that the winning number is not less than 20 in the step of Sf6 and it is determined that the winning number is less than 23 in the step of Sf7, that is, when the winning number is any of 20 to 22, the winning number is assigned. The transmission winning number is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sf9). Further, when it is determined that the winning number is not less than 23 in the step of Sf7 and less than 35 in the step of Sf8, that is, when the winning number is any of 23 to 34, it is used as the winning number for transmission. 23 is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c (Sf10). If it is determined in the step of Sf8 that the winning number is not less than 35, that is, if the winning number is 35, the winning number is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c as the transmitting winning number (Sf9).

Then, after the transmission winning number of the general combination is set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c in the steps of Sf9, Sf10, and Sf11, the second internal winning command is stored in the command queue based on the transmission winning number. When the main control unit 41 stores the second internal winning command in the command queue, the main control unit 41 stores a MODE indicating that the second internal winning command is the second internal winning command in the first byte, and serves as a general role in the EXT of the second byte. Stores the winning number for transmission.

After the second internal winning command is stored in the command queue in the step of Sf10, the internal winning command setting process is terminated and the process returns to the main process (main).

As described above, in the internal winning command setting process of this embodiment, the winning number of the special combination set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c in the internal lottery process is set as the transmitting winning number, and the first winning number including the transmitting winning number is set. Set the internal winning command of to the command queue.

Further, in the internal winning command setting process of this embodiment, the winning number of the general winning combination set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c in the internal lottery process is within the first predetermined range (0 to 1, 20 to 22, 35). In this case, the winning number is set as the transmission winning number, and the second internal winning command including the transmission winning number is set in the command queue. As a result, in the second internal winning command, which is transmitted when the winning number within the first predetermined range (0 to 1, 20 to 22, 35) is set in the internal winning, the command is used. The winning number by the internal lottery can be specified based on the included sending winning number.

On the other hand, when the winning number is within the second predetermined range (2 to 19), one winning number (2) included in the second predetermined range is set as the transmission winning number, and the transmission winning is set. Set the second internal winning command, including the number, in the command queue. As a result, in the second internal winning command, which is transmitted when the winning number within the second predetermined range (2 to 19) is set in the internal winning, the transmission winning number included in the command is transmitted. It is not possible to specify which of the numbers in the second predetermined range (2 to 19) the winning number is based on the above, while the winning number is within the second predetermined range (2 to 19). It is possible to identify something.

If the winning number is within the third predetermined range (23 to 34), one winning number (23) included in the third predetermined range is set as the transmission winning number, and the transmission winning number is set. Set the second internal winning command, including the number, in the command queue. As a result, in the second internal winning command, which is transmitted when the winning number within the third predetermined range (23 to 34) is set in the internal winning, the transmission winning number included in the command is transmitted. It is not possible to specify which of the numbers in the third predetermined range (23 to 34) the winning number is based on the above, while the winning number is within the third predetermined range (23 to 34). It is possible to identify something.

The first internal winning command and the second internal winning command set in the internal winning command setting process of this embodiment are subsequently executed by the timer interrupt processing (main) to the sub-control unit 91. Will be transmitted sequentially.

[Timer interrupt processing (sub)]
Next, a timer interrupt process (sub) executed by the sub control unit 91 (CPU 91c) at intervals of 1.12 ms based on the count value of the internal clock will be described.

As shown in FIG. 18, in the timer interrupt process (sub), the sub control unit 91 first saves the register in use to the stack area (Sp1). Next, a power failure determination process is performed (Sp2). In the power failure determination process, it is determined whether or not a voltage drop signal has been input from the power failure detection circuit 48, and if a voltage drop signal has been input, whether or not the voltage drop signal has been input even in the previous power failure determination process. If a voltage drop signal is input even in the previous power failure determination process, it is determined that there is a power failure, and a power failure flag indicating that is set.

After the power failure determination process in the step of Sp2, it is determined whether or not the power failure flag is set (Sp3), and if the power failure flag is set, the process proceeds to the power failure process (sub). In the power failure processing (sub), the backup flag used in the startup processing (sub) is set after the backup data is created, and the checksum is calculated by calculating the exclusive OR of the backup data.

If the power failure flag is not set, the command analysis process is executed (Sp4). In the command analysis process, it is determined whether or not the command is stored in the command buffer, and if the command is stored in the command buffer, the command is acquired from the command buffer. Then, the process corresponding to the acquired command is executed.

Next, the sub-control unit 91 executes the effect execution process (Sp5).

In the effect execution process, a precursor effect that suggests whether or not the ART lottery has been won or a continuous effect that notifies whether or not the ART lottery has been won is executed. The precursor effect and the continuous effect are executed by displaying the effect image and the broadcast image on the liquid crystal display 51 and outputting the effect sound from the speakers 53 and 54.

Based on the command indicating the result of the ART lottery transmitted from the main control unit 41, the continuous production over a plurality of games is performed during the BB, and the result of the production is notified in the final game of the BB. Notify whether or not the ART lottery has been won. In this embodiment, an effect called a battle effect is executed as a continuous effect during the BB. In the battle production, the appearance of multiple characters fighting is expressed, and one of the characters wins as a notification of the result. Then, when the player's ally character wins, it is confirmed that the ART lottery has been won.

Further, during the normal game state, a command indicating the type of precursor effect transmitted from the main control unit 41 is received, and the precursor effect of the type indicated by the command is executed over a plurality of games. In the precursor effect, the background (stage) on the liquid crystal display 51 is a background that is not normally displayed, and the effect image is also an image corresponding to the background. Then, the command for executing the continuous effect transmitted from the main control unit 41 is received, the continuous effect is executed from the next game of the game in which the precursor effect is completed, and the effect result is notified in the final game of the continuous effect. Will notify you whether or not you have won the ART lottery. Further, when the precursor effect is not executed, only the continuous effect is executed, and the effect result is notified in the final game of the continuous effect to notify whether or not the ART lottery has been won.

In this way, the main control unit 41 determines the start timing of the continuous effect (including the battle effect during BB) and the precursor effect and the number of games thereof, and the main control unit 41 manages them. Therefore, the main control unit 41 can identify the number of start games, end games, and the number of games of the precursor effect and the continuous effect.

In addition, in the effect execution process, when the ART is in the ready state, the liquid crystal display 51 displays the preparatory display to that effect, and during the ART, the effect display during ART to that effect is performed. In addition, in the additional special zone, an effect display in the additional special zone indicating that fact is performed. Further, during the normal game state, a normal effect is also performed according to the result of the internal lottery.

[Concrete example]
Next, a specific example of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 to 21. FIG. 19 shows an example when the control to ART is decided during BB. FIG. 20 shows an example when the control to ART is determined during the normal gaming state. FIG. 21 shows an example when the control to the BB is decided during the ART (that is, the control to the additional special zone is decided).

As shown in FIG. 19, the sub-control unit 91 starts the battle effect when the number of remaining games until the end of BB reaches a predetermined number of games. Then, by notifying the result of the production in the final game of the BB, it is notified whether or not the ART lottery has been won during the BB. Since the number of games for the battle effect is managed by the main control unit 41, the main control unit 41 can identify the game for which the battle effect ends. When the main control unit 41 wins the ART lottery and decides to control the ART, the next game of the game in which the result of the battle effect is notified, in other words, the first game after the end of the BB is started. Two seconds after that, the ART control signal is output to the external device (see Sf5 in FIG. 10). Specifically, the ART control signal is output to the external device when 2 seconds have passed since the start switch 7 was operated after the bet number was set.

The external device (data display terminal in this example) that has received the ART control signal notifies that it has been decided to control the ART by lighting a lamp or LED, displaying an image, or the like. In addition, the notification also serves as a notification that ART is in progress. On the other hand, in the slot machine 1, the liquid crystal display 51 displays a preparatory display indicating that in the preparatory state up to ART, and when a special replay is won in RT1 and is controlled by ART, an effect during ART indicating that is displayed. The display is performed by the liquid crystal display 51. Then, when the control of the ART is terminated, the main control unit 41 outputs an ART control signal that can specify that the control of the ART is terminated to the external device. As a result, the external device ends the notification.

In this way, when the special replay wins after it is decided to control to ART, it is controlled to ART, and it is notified that it is decided to control to ART before the special replay wins, and it corresponds to the timing of the notification. The ART control signal is output at the timing (in other words, "related timing"). Then, the data display terminal, which is an external device, notifies that it is determined to be controlled by ART and that it is in ART. Therefore, the notification can be performed by an external device according to the timing of the notification by the slot machine 1, and the interest of the player can be enhanced.

Further, since the ART control signal is output when the next game of the game in which the result of the effect is notified is started, the game start operation by the start switch 7 and the notification timing can be related to each other. Can improve the interest of.

In addition, the ART lottery is executed during the BB, and when the BB ends, it is notified that it is decided to control the ART, and the ART control signal is output in the game after the BB ends, so that the slot machine 1 can be notified. At the same time, it is possible to notify with an external device, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the game.

Further, since the output start of the ART control signal is delayed for 2 seconds from the start of the game, it is possible to prevent the conflict between the medal IN signal transmitted at the start of the game and the ART control signal.

As shown in FIG. 20, it is assumed that the player wins the ART lottery executed by winning the rare role during the normal game state and decides to control the ART. Then, when the main control unit 41 decides to execute the precursor effect, it determines one of a plurality of types of precursor effects having different numbers of games. The sub-control unit 91 executes the precursor effect over a plurality of games from the next game of the game in which the ART lottery is performed. Then, after the precursor effect is completed, the continuous effect is executed over a plurality of games. By notifying the production result in the final game of the continuous production, it is notified whether or not the ART lottery has been won. Since the number of games of the precursor effect and the continuous effect is managed by the main control unit 41, it is possible to identify the game in which the precursor effect and the continuous effect end. When the main control unit 41 wins the ART lottery and decides to control the ART, the main control unit 41 outputs an ART control signal to an external device 2 seconds after the next game of the game in which the result of the continuous production is notified is started. (See Sf9 in FIG. 10). Specifically, the ART control signal is output to the external device when 2 seconds have passed since the start switch 7 was operated after the bet number was set.

The external device (data display terminal in this example) that has received the ART control signal notifies that it has been decided to control the ART by lighting a lamp or LED, displaying an image, or the like. In addition, the notification also serves as a notification that ART is in progress. On the other hand, in the slot machine 1, the liquid crystal display 51 displays a preparatory display indicating that in the preparatory state up to ART, and when a special replay is won in RT1 and is controlled by ART, an effect during ART indicating that is displayed. The display is performed by the liquid crystal display 51. Then, when the control of the ART is terminated, the main control unit 41 outputs an ART control signal that can specify that the control of the ART is terminated to the external device. As a result, the external device ends the notification.

In this way, when the special replay wins after it is decided to control to ART, it is controlled to ART, and it is notified that it is decided to control to ART before the special replay wins, and it corresponds to the timing of the notification. The ART control signal is output at the timing (in other words, "related timing"). Then, the data display terminal, which is an external device, notifies that it is determined to be controlled by ART and that it is in ART. Therefore, the notification can be performed by an external device according to the timing of the notification by the slot machine 1, and the interest of the player can be enhanced.

Further, since the ART control signal is output when the next game of the game in which the result of the effect is notified is started, the game start operation by the start switch 7 and the notification timing can be related to each other. Can improve the interest of.

Further, by deciding one of a plurality of types of precursory effects having different numbers of games, the timing of notifying that it is decided to control the ART is set to any one of the plurality of timings. Since it is possible to pay attention to which of the timings is notified, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

Further, since the output start of the ART control signal is delayed for 2 seconds from the start of the game, it is possible to prevent the conflict between the medal IN signal transmitted at the start of the game and the ART control signal.

As shown in FIG. 21, when the main control unit 41 wins the BB during the ART, the main control unit 41 interrupts the ART and controls the BB. At this time, a signal that can identify the end of ART is output to the external device. As a result, the external device temporarily ends the notification that it has been decided to control the ART. In addition, the external device receives the signal during BB and notifies to that effect. The sub-control unit 91 starts the battle effect when the number of remaining games until the end of BB reaches a predetermined number of games. Then, by notifying the effect result in the final game of the BB, it is notified whether or not the ART lottery has been won during the BB. Since the number of games for the battle effect is managed by the main control unit 41, the main control unit 41 can identify the game for which the battle effect ends. When the ART lottery is won during the BB, the main control unit 41 determines to control the additional special zone.

If the game is controlled by the BB during the ART, the control of the ART is resumed after the BB ends. Therefore, the main control unit 41 is the next game of the game in which the result of the battle effect is notified, in other words, the BB ends. Two seconds after the start of the first game, the ART control signal is output to the external device (see Sf5 in FIG. 10). Specifically, the ART control signal is output to the external device when 2 seconds have passed since the start switch 7 was operated after the bet number was set. The external device (data display terminal in this example) that has received the ART control signal notifies that it has been decided to control the ART by lighting a lamp or LED, displaying an image, or the like.

When the main control unit 41 decides to control the additional special zone, the main control unit 41 controls the additional special zone after the preparation state is completed. Then, the additional special zone control signal is output to the external device 2 seconds after the first game of the additional special zone is started (see Sf12 in FIG. 10). Specifically, when 2 seconds have passed since the start switch 7 was operated after the bet number was set, the additional special zone control signal is output to the external device.

The external device (data display terminal in this example) that received the additional special zone control signal interrupts the notification that it has been decided to control to ART, and the additional special zone is set by lighting lamps and LEDs, displaying images, etc. Notifies that it has been controlled. On the other hand, in the slot machine 1, in the preparation state up to the addition special zone, the liquid crystal display 51 displays a preparation to that effect, and when the special replay wins in RT1 and is controlled to the addition special zone, that is displayed. The liquid crystal display 51 is used to display the effect in the additional special zone indicating that effect.

The main control unit 41 resumes ART control when the additional special zone ends. Further, when the additional special zone ends, the main control unit 41 outputs a signal that can identify the end of the additional special zone to the external device. The external device ends the notification that it has been controlled to the additional special zone, and restarts the notification that it has been decided to control the ART. After resuming, ART is controlled until the number of games added to the number of games remaining before being controlled by BB is added to the number of games added in the special zone and the number of games added is consumed. Then, when the control of the ART is terminated, the main control unit 41 outputs an ART control signal that can specify that the control of the ART is terminated to the external device. As a result, the external device ends the notification.

In this way, when it is decided to control the additional special zone, the additional special zone control signal is output when the special replay that triggers the control of the additional special zone wins a prize. Then, the data display terminal, which is an external device, notifies that the data is controlled by the additional special zone. Therefore, it is possible to notify with an external device according to the start timing of the control of the additional special zone, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the player. In addition, even when it is decided during BB that the control is performed in the additional special zone, the output timing of the additional special zone is added and specialized so that the output timing of the additional specialized zone control signal does not coincide with the output timing of the ART control signal. Since it is controlled by the zone, it prevents the additional specialized zone control signal and ART control signal from being output at the same time, complicating the processing of the external device or making the processing of the external device impossible. can do.

Further, since the additional special zone control signal is output when the game of the additional special zone is started, the start operation of the game by the start switch 7 and the timing of notification can be related to each other. You can improve your interest.

Further, since the output start of the additional special zone control signal is delayed for 2 seconds from the start of the game, it is possible to prevent the conflict between the medal IN signal transmitted at the start of the game and the additional special zone control signal.

In the present embodiment, the ART control signal is output when the notification when it is determined to control the ART is performed, and the ART control signal indicating that effect is output when the ART ends. It is also possible to configure the output of the ART control signal to start when the notification when it is determined to control the ART is performed, and to continue the output of the ART control signal until the end of the ART.

Further, regarding the timing of the end of the output of the ART control signal that can identify the end of the ART, it is not necessary to output the ART control signal every time the ART ends. For example, when it is decided to control to a plurality of sets of ART, it is possible to output an ART control signal that can specify that the ART ends when the control of all the sets of ART ends. In addition, it does not output an ART control signal that can identify the end of ART even when it is controlled by a bonus (including both BB and RB) during ART or when it is controlled by an additional special zone. It is also possible to output an ART control signal that can specify that the ART ends when the ART ends by exhausting all the remaining games of the ART. That is, when the ART is interrupted during the ART and controlled to an advantageous state different from the ART, or when the ART is performed over a plurality of sets and there is a remaining set of the ART, the player is in a state of normal gaming. When the advantageous state continues, the ART control signal that can identify the end of the ART is not output, and the ART ends when the advantageous state ends when the ART ends. It is possible to output an ART control signal that can identify. As a result, the external device can display the number of medals won by the player through the advantageous state including ART, or can continue to notify the advantageous state without interruption, which is a hobby of the game. Can be enhanced.

[Effect of the above embodiment]
In the present embodiment, when the special replay wins after it is decided to be controlled to ART, it is controlled to ART, and it is notified that it is decided to control to ART before the special replay wins, and the timing of the notification is supported. The ART control signal is output at the timing of the operation (in this example, the portion where the processing of Sf5 and Sf9 in FIG. 10 is performed, the portion shown in FIGS. 19 and 20).
Therefore, the notification can be performed by an external device according to the timing of the notification by the slot machine 1, and the interest of the player can be enhanced.

In the present embodiment, an ART control signal is output when the next game of the game that has notified the result of the effect is started (in this example, a portion that processes Sf4 and Sf5, Sf8 and Sf9 in FIG. 10, FIG. 19 , The part shown in FIG. 20).
Therefore, since it is possible to have a relationship between the start operation of the game by the start switch 7 and the timing of notification, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

In the present embodiment, by deciding one of a plurality of types of precursory effects having different numbers of games, the timing of notifying that it is decided to control the ART is set to any one of the plurality of timings. (In this example, the part shown in FIG. 20).
Therefore, it is possible to pay attention to which of the plurality of timings the notification is made, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

In the present embodiment, the ART lottery is executed during the BB, and when the BB ends, it is notified that it is decided to control the ART, and the ART control signal is output in the game after the BB ends (in this example, the figure). A portion of 10 where Sf5 is processed, a portion shown in FIG. 19).
Therefore, it is possible to make a notification with an external device in accordance with the notification with the slot machine 1, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the game.

In the present embodiment, when it is determined to control the additional special zone, the additional special zone control signal is output when the special replay that triggers the control of the additional special zone wins a prize. (In this example, the portion where the processing of Sf5 in FIG. 10 is performed, the portion shown in FIG. 19).
Therefore, it is possible to notify with an external device at the start of the additional special zone, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the player.

In the present embodiment, the start of output of the ART control signal is delayed for 2 seconds from the start of the game (in this example, the part where Sf4 and Sf5, Sf8 and Sf9 are processed in FIG. 10, the part shown in FIGS. 19 and 20). ..
Therefore, it is possible to prevent a conflict between the medal IN signal transmitted at the start of the game and the ART control signal.

In the present embodiment, when the determination result of the advance determination means (internal lottery) becomes the notification target combination (notification target result) regardless of whether or not the notification state (the state in which the navigation notification is executed) is controlled. In addition, the sub-control unit 91 (second internal winning command) provides specific control information (second internal winning command) that can specify that the winning combination (notification target result) has been set, but cannot specify the stop order (advantageous operation mode) that is advantageous for the player. It is transmitted to the effect control means).
Therefore, in the one provided with the main control unit 41 (game control means) and the sub control unit 91 (effect control means), it is necessary to avoid the problem caused by the sub control unit 91 (effect control means) being cheated. Can be done.

In the present embodiment, as the winning number (numerical value) set by the numerical value setting means when the notification target combination (notification target result) is reached, a continuous numerical value consisting of a predetermined numerical value range (2 to 19, 23 to 34). Is assigned, and in the specific control information transmitting means, at least in a state other than the notification state (the state in which the navigation notification is executed), the winning number (numerical value) set by the numerical value setting means has a predetermined numerical range (2). ~ 19, 23 to 34), the specific control information (second) that can specify the notification target combination (notification target result) but cannot specify the stop order (advantageous operation mode) that is advantageous for the player. The internal winning command) is transmitted to the sub control unit 91 (effect control means).
Therefore, in the one provided with the main control unit 41 (game control means) and the sub control unit 91 (effect control means), it is necessary to avoid the problem caused by the sub control unit 91 (effect control means) being cheated. Can be done.

In the present embodiment, the state control information transmitting means transmits a plurality of types of control state commands by the control state command batch setting process (common control) at any of the plurality of timings.
Therefore, since these plurality of types of state control information are transmitted by common control at any of the plurality of timings, the sub control unit 91 side grasps the control state of the main control unit 41 in detail and main. The program capacity when the control unit 41 transmits the state control information can be reduced.

[About a modified example]
Various modifications of the above embodiment will be described below.

[Advantageous state]
In the above embodiment, ART is taken as an example as an advantageous state, but an advantageous state different from ART may be applied. As an advantageous state, for example, the additional special zone, bonus, AT, CT (challenge time) where the stop control of some or all reels becomes uncontrolled or the number of drawn frames changes, and the winning probability of replay are changed. RT (replay time) can be mentioned.

In the above embodiment, an example in which the result of the game is controlled by ART as a specific result when the special replay is won is given, but a result different from the above embodiment may be applied as the specific result. As the specific result, for example, the lottery result of the internal lottery becomes the specific result, and the game is played a specific number of times.

[About the output timing of ART control signals]
In the above embodiment, the ART control signal is output when the next game of the game in which the notification that the control is determined to be performed is started is started, but the ART control signal may be output at a timing different from that of the above embodiment. For example, it may be output at the same time as the start of the next game of the game in which the notification is performed, which is output at the start timing of the notification.

[About slot machines]
In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a slot machine in which a bet number is set by using medals and credits as a game value has been described, but a slot in which a game ball is used as a game value to set a bet number. It may be applied to machines or fully credited slot machines that set bets using only credits as game value. When the game ball is used as the game value, for example, one medal can correspond to five game balls, and when the number of bets is set to 3 in the first embodiment, 15 game balls are used. Corresponds to setting the number of medals using.

Further, the value is not limited to one using only one of a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls, and for example, a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls can be used together. It may be. That is, it is possible to set the number of bets and play a game by using any of a plurality of types of game values such as medals and game balls, and a plurality of types of games such as medals and game balls are generated when a prize is generated. A slot machine that can pay out any value may be applied.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment and is included in the present invention even if there are changes or additions within the scope of the gist of the present invention. Needless to say.

1 Slot machine 2L, 2C, 2R reel 6 MAXBET switch 7 Start switch 8L, 8C, 8R Stop switch 41 Main control unit 51 Liquid crystal display 91 Sub control unit

Claims (1)

A variable display unit capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, is provided, and after the variable display unit is variablely displayed, a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit. In slot machines where prizes can be generated according to the display result
With the first control means
A second control means that performs control according to control information received from the first control means is provided.
The first control means
A deciding means for deciding whether or not to control a favorable state for the player,
An advantageous state control means for controlling the advantageous state when the result of the game becomes a specific result after it is determined to control the advantageous state .
A control information generation means that generates control information and stores it in the control information storage area,
A control information transmitting means for transmitting control information stored in the control information storage area to the second control means is included.
It said second control means includes informing means for informing that the advantageous state from after a determination is made to control the the Gate beam results were determined to control the advantageous state until the identification result,
The control information generating means is a state control information generating means that generates a plurality of types of state control information capable of specifying the control state of the first control means at each of a plurality of timings including the first timing and the second timing in the game. Including
The plurality of types of state control information generated by the state control information generation means at one timing are control states that can change between one game and another game, and the first timing and the second timing in one game. Includes first state control information that can specify the control state that does not change with, and second state control information that can specify the control state that can change between the first timing and the second timing in one game.
The state control information generation means generates a plurality of types of common state control information by common control at any of the plurality of timings.
It said first control means further includes information output means for outputting an identifiable advantageous state information that the notification is determined to control the particular the corresponding advantageous state is performed externally,
The information output means is a slot machine characterized in that the advantageous state information is output from the time when the next game of the game in which the notification is performed is started .

Images