JP7212342B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as slot machines.

In order to put this type of game machine on the market, it must conform to the specifications stipulated by the regulations, and if the ball output rate is too high, it will fail the test. However, if the expected number of game media (medals) to be acquired is small, there is a problem that the game is not attractive to the player. For this reason, it has been desired to increase the maximum number of game media to be acquired while keeping the payout rate within the range stipulated by the regulations.

In order to satisfy such a demand, there is known a gaming machine that realizes a so-called "decreasing bonus" by setting the expected value to be obtained lower than the game media inserted in the bonus game (see Patent Document 1, for example). By realizing such a decreasing bonus, it is possible to suppress the apparent ball output rate, so it is possible to increase the actual number of winning balls by that amount.

JP 2017-099830 A

However, the conventional methods described above have limitations, and a more effective method has been sought.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of increasing the maximum number of game media to be acquired while maintaining the ball payout rate stipulated by the rules.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and is characterized by the following.

That is, a rotating reel for variably displaying or statically displaying a plurality of symbols, a start switch for variably displaying the symbols on the rotating reel, and a start switch provided corresponding to the rotating reel to display the symbols on the corresponding rotating reel. a stop switch for stopping display, a winning lottery means for drawing whether one of a plurality of winning hands wins or loses, a winning lottery table storing winning areas corresponding to the plurality of winning hands, reel control means for controlling the stop display of symbols on the rotating reels based on the result of the lottery by the winning lottery means and the operation of the stop switch; winning determination means for determining whether one of the plurality of winning combinations has been won or not based on the stop position; and game state control means for managing the game state; As winning roles, there are provided a small role in which a game medium is paid out upon winning, a replay role in which replaying is possible upon winning, a BB role which starts the BB game upon winning, and an RB role which starts the RB game upon winning. , as the game state, a normal game state, a BB normal middle state to which the BB role is won in the normal game state and when the BB game is started, and a RB win in the BB normal middle state. and an RB during BB state to which the RB role is won during the BB game and the RB game is started, wherein the BB general middle state; The winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0 in the BB-in-RB internal state and the BB-in-RB state.
In addition, the RB game may be set so that the expected value of winning game media per one betted game media is less than one.
Further, in the normal gaming state, the winning probability of the BB combination may be set higher than the winning probability of the replay combination.
Further, the reel control means may perform a pull-in control so that the BB combination always wins in a game in which the BB combination is won.
Further, during the RB game, it may be configured such that a specific game for activating an instruction function for displaying an operation mode advantageous to the player cannot be started.

The present invention is as described above, and the winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0 in the general state of BB, the internal state of RB in BB, and the state of RB in BB. According to such a configuration, winning of a replay combination (a state in which a game can be played without inserting game media) does not occur, so the number of inserted game media can be increased. If it is possible to increase the number of inserted game media, it is possible to relatively lower the payout rate (the number of obtained balls divided by the number of inserted balls). In other words, even if the winning number is increased, the payout rate can be prevented from increasing, so the maximum winning number can be increased more than before.

In addition, the RB game may be set so that the expected value of winning game media per one betted game media is less than one. With this configuration, it is more advantageous not to win the RB game in the BB game, so while staying in the BB general medium state or the BB internal state of the RB, the state that does not win the replay combination (that is, the maximum winning number is set high) It is possible to realize a new game property in which a game is played in a state where the player is in a closed state.

Also, in the normal game state, the winning probability of the BB combination may be set higher than the winning probability of the replay combination. With this configuration, the player can easily shift to the BB game in the normal game state, and can stay in the BB game most of the time. As a result, the period in which the winning probability of the replay role is set to 0 (the period in which the maximum winning number can be set to be large without changing the payout rate) becomes longer, so the gaming machine in which the winning probability of the BB role is set low. Compared to , the maximum winning number can be increased even with the same payout rate.

Further, the reel control means may execute the pull-in control so that the BB win always wins in the game in which the BB win is won. With this configuration, it becomes easier to shift to the BB game, so most of the game can be played during the stay in the BB game. As a result, the period in which the winning probability of the replay role is set to 0 (the period in which the maximum number of winning balls can be set to be large without changing the payout rate) is lengthened. By comparison, the maximum winning number can be increased even if the ball output rate is the same.

Further, during the RB game, it may be configured such that a specific game (AT or ART) for activating an instruction function for displaying an operation mode advantageous to the player cannot be started. With this configuration, it is more advantageous not to win the RB game, so while staying in the BB general state or the RB internal state during BB, the state in which the replay combination is not won (that is, the state in which the maximum number of wins is set high) ), a new game property can be realized.

1 is an external view of a slot machine; FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a slot machine; FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an activated line of the slot machine; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing transitions of game states of the slot machine; It is a figure which shows the winning probability of the combination lottery table in each game state. It is a figure explaining a game flow. It is a figure explaining the image of the pay-out rate of the conventional gaming machine. It is a figure explaining the image of the pay-out rate of the gaming machine of this invention. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing pay lines of a slot machine according to a modification; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pattern arrangement on each reel of a slot machine according to a modification; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing symbol combinations for a winning combination according to a modified example, (a) showing a BB combination, and (b) showing a RB combination.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described using a slot machine 10 as an example of a gaming machine.
(Slot machine 10)
As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 10 has a rectangular box-shaped housing 11 and a front door 31 attached to the front side of the housing 11 so as to be freely opened and closed. The front door 31 is formed with a display window 12 facing the player side.

In addition, an operation section 31A for operating the slot machine 10 and a medal insertion slot 14 are provided at approximately the center of the front door 31 in the height direction. A bed switch 16, a settlement switch 17, a start switch 30, a stop switch 50, and the like are provided in the operation section 31A.

Further, below the operation unit 31A, a medal payout port 18 for paying out medals and a lower tray 31C capable of storing the medals paid out from the medal payout port 18 are provided with a lower panel 31B interposed therebetween. there is

The display window 12 of the front door 31 is formed with a pattern display window 13 through which the pattern of the rotating reel 40 behind it can be seen. The rotating reel 40 is arranged on the back side of the pattern display window 13 and rotatably attached to the slot machine 10 for variably or stationary display of a plurality of patterns displayed on the outer peripheral surface. In this embodiment, three rotating reels 40, a left reel 41, a middle reel 42, and a right reel 43, are provided, and each of the rotating reels 40 can rotate independently.

From the pattern display window 13 described above, three patterns of upper, middle and lower tiers are displayed for each of the three rotating reels 40, and a total of nine patterns are displayed through the pattern display window 13. It is now displayed. A valid line is set by a combination of the display positions of these nine symbols. The effective line is a line that defines the arrangement of effective symbol combinations for winning among the lines formed by connecting the symbols at the display positions for each of the three rotating reels 40 one by one. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, a line L connecting the middle symbols of the left reel 41, the middle symbols of the middle reel 42, and the middle symbols of the right reel 43 is set as the effective line. It is When a symbol combination associated with a winning combination is displayed along the activated line, the winning combination is won.

In addition, in the present embodiment, one to three medals can be bet (bet) for one game. The above-described line L is configured to be the effective line regardless of whether a bet is made or three medals are betted.
The slot machine 10 incorporates a controller 20 (see FIG. 2) for controlling the overall operation of the slot machine 10 (not shown).

(input stage)
As shown in FIG. 2, the input stage of the control device 20 is connected with a closing switch 15, a bed switch 16, a settlement switch 17, a start switch 30, a left stop switch 51, a middle stop switch 52, and a right stop switch 53. ing.
It should be noted that what is connected to the input stage is not limited to each of the above-described input devices.

(On switch 15)
As shown in FIG. 1, the insertion switch 15 is a switch built in below the medal insertion slot 14 and is for detecting inserted game medals. When the insertion switch 15 detects game medals, up to 50 game medals can be stored (credited) inside the gaming machine. The game medals credited in this manner are displayed as numerical values on the credit display section 32, and can be used in the next game and thereafter.

(Bed switch 16)
The bed switch 16, as shown in FIG. 1, is a switch located on the upper surface of the operating section 31A. By pressing the bet switch 16, credits can be replaced with medals. By replacing credits with medals, the game can be started.

(Adjustment switch 17)
The settlement switch 17, as shown in FIG. 1, is a switch located at the left end of the upper surface of the operation unit 31A, and is used to withdraw credited medals.

(Start switch 30)
The start switch 30, as shown in FIG. 1, is a lever located on the front left side of the operation section 31A. When the start switch 30 is operated in a state in which the game can be started, the driving of the reel unit 60, which will be described later, is started, and the symbols on the rotating reels 40 are variably displayed.

(stop switch 50)
The stop switch 50 is for stopping the drive of the reel unit 60, which will be described later. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the stop switch 50 includes three switches (left stop switch 51, middle stop switch 51) corresponding to each rotating reel 40 (left reel 41, middle reel 42, right reel 43). 52 and a right stop switch 53), which are arranged one by one below each rotating reel 40. As shown in FIG. By operating the stop switch 50 corresponding to the rotating reel 40, the corresponding rotating reel 40 stops rotating, and the symbol of the rotating reel 40 is stopped and displayed.

(output stage)
As shown in FIG. 2, the output stage of the control device 20 is connected to the reel unit 60, the hopper unit 65, and the production section 66 (the image display section 67, the lamp 68, and the speaker 69).
Note that the output stage is not limited to the parts described above.

(Reel unit 60)
The reel unit 60 includes three stepping motors (not shown) fixed or supported by a frame, and three rotating reels 40 (left reel 41, middle reel 42, It is composed of a right reel 43). Each rotary reel 40 includes a short cylindrical rotary drum and a tape-shaped reel tape applied around the rotary drum. Twenty patterns are displayed at equal intervals on each outer peripheral surface of the reel tape.

(Hopper unit 65)
The hopper unit 65 is arranged inside the housing 11, as shown in FIG. 1, and is for paying out medals based on the result of the game or the like.

(Direction section 66)
Under the control of the control device 20, the effect section 66 performs various effects such as notification of prize winning and the like. Specifically, the effect section 66 is composed of an image display section 67 , a lamp 68 and a speaker 69 .

The image display unit 67 is arranged behind the window provided above the rotating reel 40, and uses an LED, a dot matrix, a liquid crystal screen, or the like to display an announcement of winning and other effects. The image display unit 67 is not limited to the one described above. For example, the rotating reels 40 dedicated to effects may be provided and the effects may be displayed using reel patterns, characters, or the like.
The lamp 68 is for notifying a winning or the like by lighting or blinking of a light emitter.
The speaker 69 is for notifying the winning of a prize or the like by generating a winning sound.

(control device 20)
The control device 20 is for controlling the operation of the slot machine 10 . The control device 20 is mainly composed of a CPU, and is provided with ROM, RAM, I/O, and the like. Various controls are executed by the CPU reading programs stored in the ROM.

As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 20 according to the present embodiment includes a game state control means 100, a winning lottery means 110, a role lottery table 120, a reel control means 130, a prize determination means 140, a hopper control means 150, and an effect control. It functions as means 200, push order notification control means 210, setting means 220, specific game control means 230, and game section control means 240. Note that the control device 20 is not limited to the means described above, and may include other means.

(Game state control means 100)
The game state control means 100 is for managing the game state. The slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment has a plurality of game states, and the game state control means 100 stores the current game state and changes the game state when a predetermined event that triggers the shift of the game state occurs. Execute the process to switch.

As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 10 according to this embodiment has at least the following game states. This game state includes an RT state defined by the probability of winning a replay combination. Note that the game state is not limited to the following, and any game state can be provided.
(1) RT0 state (general game state)
(2) RT1 state (BB general middle state)
(3) RT2 state (RB internal state during BB)
(4) RT3 state (BB during RB state)

Among these, the RT0 state is an initial state set at the time of shipment from the factory or at the time of setting change. The RT0 state is entered when the setting is reset due to a setting change or the end of an advantageous section. Also, when the BB game, which will be described later, ends, the state is shifted to the RT0 state.

The RT1 state (BB general medium state) is a state in which the BB role is won and the BB game is being played. The RT1 state is shifted to when winning the BB role. In addition, the BB game in the present embodiment is such that when the specific symbols are aligned during the BB game, jack-in is performed and the game shifts to the RB game. When the number of medals acquired during the BB game reaches a specified number (for example, 210), the BB game ends.

The RT2 state (RB internal state during BB) is a state in which a winning flag relating to the RB combination described later is established during the BB game. The RT2 state is entered when the player wins the role of RB in the RT1 state. Also, this RT2 state ends when the RB combination is won, or when the BB game ends.

The RT3 state (BB during RB state) is a state in which an RB game, which will be described later, is being played during the BB game. The RT3 state is entered when the player wins the RB role in the RT1 or RT2 state. The RB game that starts when the RT3 state is entered is executed until a predetermined profit (predetermined number of earned medals or predetermined number of games) is given to the player. When a predetermined profit is awarded to the player, the RB ends and the RT3 state also ends.

(Lottery drawing means 110)
The winning lottery means 110 is for performing a lottery as to whether one of a plurality of winning combinations is won or lost. In other words, a lottery for a winning combination is carried out based on a predetermined lottery probability. As a result of the lottery performed by the winning lottery means 110, when a predetermined winning combination is won, a winning flag is established. It is set so that the player wins on the condition that the numbers match, and the player is paid out medals and benefits such as special games are given.

Specifically, the winning lottery means 110 includes a random number generation means for generating random numbers within a predetermined range, extracts the random numbers generated by the random number generation means at the timing of operating the start switch 30, and uses the extracted random numbers as a role. A lottery is drawn by referring to the lottery table 120 . The winning lottery means 110 according to the present embodiment generates 16-bit random numbers, so 65536 different random numbers from 0 to 65535 are generated. Winning regions are assigned to each of these 65536 random numbers in the winning combination table 120, which will be described later.

The slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment includes, as winning roles, a bonus role in which a bonus game is started upon winning, a replay role in which the game can be played again without newly inserting game medals upon winning, and a and a small winning combination for paying out game medals.
Note that the bonus combination includes a BB combination that starts the BB game upon winning and an RB combination that starts the RB game upon winning.
The BB game is a bonus game that is executed until a predetermined profit is given to the player, such as a predetermined number of medals (210) being paid out.

Also, the RB game is a bonus game that is executed until a predetermined profit is given to the player, but the profit is smaller than that of the BB game. The RB game in the present embodiment is a so-called “decreasing bonus” that is set so that the expected value for obtaining game media per bet is less than one. Therefore, even if the RB game is finished with a predetermined profit (a predetermined number of medals obtained or a predetermined number of games played), the number of medals will be higher than before the start of the RB game. set to decrease.

(Role drawing table 120)
The hand lottery table 120 defines which winning hand or loss the random number extracted by the winning lottery means 110 corresponds to. The winning combination table 120 stores winning areas corresponding to a plurality of winning combinations, and is specifically provided as a correspondence table between random numbers generated in the winning combination drawing means 110 and winning combinations. The winning lottery means 110 switches between these winning lottery tables 120 according to the game state, set values, and the like. As a result, the probability of winning varies for each game state.

(Reel control means 130)
The reel control means 130 rotates the rotating reel 40 based on a valid operation signal of the start switch 30, and performs a lottery while recognizing the current position of the symbol based on a detection signal of a reel rotation detection sensor (not shown). It is for controlling the stop of the rotating reel 40 based on the lottery result of the means 110 and the operation timing of the effective stop switch 50 .

The reel control means 130 responds to the operation signal of the start switch 30 when a predetermined game start condition is satisfied, such as when medals have been betted and a predetermined time (so-called wait time) has passed since the start of the previous game. Based on this, rotation of all the rotating reels 40 is started.

Further, when one of the stop switches 50 is operated while the reel 40 is rotating, a stop signal is output based on the operation signal of the stop switch 50, and the rotation of the reel 40 corresponding to the operated stop switch 50 is stopped. stop.

When stopping the rotating reel 40, the reel control means 130 can move the symbols in the rotation direction by a maximum of four slide frames based on the symbol display position when the stop operation is performed, and stop the symbols. By such control, when the lottery result of the winning lottery means 110 is "losing", kicking control is performed so that the symbols on the three rotating reels 40 do not match any winning mode. Further, when the result of the lottery is to win a predetermined winning combination, drawing control is performed so that the symbols on the three rotating reels 40 are in a winning mode related to the winning as much as possible.

Such kicking control and pull-in control are calculated and executed based on the result of the winning lottery by the winning lottery means 110, the operation timing of the stop switch 50, the priority of the stop position, and the like. For example, when two or more types of wins are won at the same time, according to the priority associated with each win, drawing control is performed so that the symbol combination corresponding to the win of higher priority can be displayed on the activated line. .

It should be noted that when a small combination in the pressing order described later is hit, if each stop switch 50 is operated in the correct pressing order, regardless of the timing of the stop operation, the symbols related to the small combination in the pressing order is drawn onto the active line to win a small winning combination. On the other hand, when each stop switch 50 is operated in a pressing order other than the correct pressing order, the symbols related to the pressing order minor combination are not aligned on the effective line, and the pressing order small combination is not won. to control.

(Winning judgment means 140)
Winning judgment means 140 is for judging whether a prize has been won or not based on the display mode when the stop switch 50 is operated to stop the three rotating reels 40 . Specifically, when the rotation of all the rotating reels 40 is stopped, it is determined that the winning combination corresponding to the pattern arrangement is won on condition that the predetermined pattern arrangement is aligned on any of the activated pay lines. do. Then, when the winning accompanies the payout of medals, a payout winning prize signal is output to the hopper unit 65 (or the medals are added to the credit instead of being paid out). Also, if winning a prize causes the game state to shift, the game state control means 100 is notified to shift the game state. Further, when a replay combination wins, automatic betting processing is performed so that the next game can be started without newly inserting game medals.

(Hopper control means 150)
The hopper control means 150 operates the hopper unit 65 and controls payout of medals based on a payout winning signal from the winning determination means 140, an operation signal of the settlement switch 17, and the like. In addition, when the winning accompanies the payout of medals, the payout medals may be automatically stored electronically as credits, and only the payout amount exceeding the allowable number of credits may be paid out from the hopper unit 65.例文帳に追加

(Production control means 200)
The production control means 200 is for controlling the operation of the production section 66 such as the image display section 67, the lamp 68, the speaker 69, and the like. This effect control means 200 performs effects such as notification of winning and notification of pressing order based on the effect data stored in the ROM.

Note that the pressing order notification is intended to notify the operation order of the stop switches 50 capable of winning the pressing order minor winning combination when a small pressing winning combination, which will be described later, is won. This pressing order notification is performed by, for example, displaying the operation order on the image display unit 67, announcing the stop switch 50 to be operated by voice from the speaker 69, or lighting the stop switch 50 to be operated. .

(Push order notification control means 210)
The pushing order notification control means 210 is for controlling the pushing order notification in an advantageous section, which will be described later. Specifically, the pressing order notification control means 210 acquires the correct pressing order (operation order of the stop switch 50) for winning the small pressing order winning combination when a small winning combination in pressing order is won, and An effect for notifying the pressing order of the correct answer is selected. The effect selected by the pressing order notification control means 210 is notified to the effect control means 200 and executed, whereby the pressing order notification is executed.

Note that the small combination of pressing order is a small combination or a replay combination that is controlled so that winning symbols are aligned when the stop switch 50 is operated in a predetermined pressing order. If the pushing order is not reported, it is not known which minor winning combination the player has won, and the correct pushing order is unknown. On the other hand, when the correct pressing order is notified, it is possible to easily win a small winning combination by operating the stop switch 50 according to the pressing order notification.

The pressing order notification control means 210 controls so that pressing order notification is performed only during a specific game (ART or AT) with respect to some or all of the pressing order minor winnings. Therefore, during the specific game, it is easy to win a small winning combination in pushing order, and on the other hand, it is difficult to win a small winning combination in pushing order during the non-specific game.

(Setting means 220)
The setting means 220 is for setting a set value among a plurality of stages of set values with different degrees of advantage for the player. This set value can be changed by operating a switch provided inside the locked housing 11, and can be changed by the manager of the hall in which the slot machine 10 is installed before the opening of the hall or during the opening of the hall. Preset after completion. Although not shown, a different role drawing table 120 is provided for each set value, and by using the role drawing table 120 corresponding to the set value in the role drawing, the payout rate of medals changes according to the set value. It has become. In the present embodiment, the set value consists of 6 levels from 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest payout rate, and 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 decreasing in order of decreasing payout rate. From the point of view of the payout rate, when the set value is set to 6, the game advantage is the highest for the player. relatively low. In addition, in this embodiment, the set value is set to six steps, but the set value is not limited to this, and the set value may be set to five steps or less.

(Specific game control means 230)
The specific game control means 230 is for controlling execution of a specific game. A specific game is a game in which an instruction function that displays an operation mode advantageous to the player is activated by activating the push order notification control means 210, and includes ART (assist replay time) and AT (assist time). It is a game called

This specific game control means 230 executes a specific game lottery when a predetermined specific game lottery trigger role is won in a game during an advantageous interval to be described later, and controls to start a specific game when the specific game lottery is won. to run.

The specific game lottery by the specific game control means 230 is performed by, for example, extracting a random number generated by the random number generating means at the operation timing of the start switch 30 and checking the extracted random number against the specific game lottery table. In the specific game lottery table, "win" or "lose" is assigned to each random number that can be extracted. be able to.

In this embodiment, the specific game lottery opportunity is "Watermelon", and as shown in FIG. 5, the RT3 state (during the RB game) does not correspond to this specific game lottery opportunity (Watermelon). Therefore, during the RB game, the specific game lottery is not executed and the specific game cannot be started. On the other hand, in the RT0 state, RT1 state, and RT2 state, it is possible to win the specific game lottery opportunity (watermelon), so that the specific game lottery can be executed and the specific game can be started.

A specific game started by winning a specific game lottery continues until the given number of specific game games is consumed. And when the given specific game number is consumed, the specific game control means 230 terminates the specific game.

(Game section control means 240)
The game section control means 240 is for controlling the game section. The slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment includes, as game sections, a normal section in which the pressing order of the stop switches 50 is not reported, and an advantageous section in which the pressing order of the stop switches 50 can be reported.

The normal section is a game section in which the winning of the winning combination cannot be assisted. Specifically, it is a game section in which the pressing order notification control means 210 cannot notify the pressing order. The above-described specific game cannot be executed in this game section.

Also, the advantageous section is a game section in which the winning of the winning combination can be assisted. Specifically, it is a game section in which the pressing order notification control means 210 can notify the pressing order. In this game section, the above-described specific game can be executed (conversely, the specific game is always an advantageous section. However, the non-specific game may be an advantageous section or a normal section) .

This game section control means 240 executes control to shift the game section to the advantageous section when a predetermined advantageous section shift opportunity is achieved in the normal section. The advantageous interval transition opportunity in this embodiment is that a predetermined advantageous interval transition combination is won, and all winning combinations are set as predetermined advantageous interval transition combinations. For this reason, it is set to move to an advantageous section when a winning combination is won (not a result of a winning combination).

This advantageous interval continues until a predetermined number of advantageous interval games (for example, 1500 games) are completed or a predetermined increased number (for example, 2400) is exceeded. When the number of games in the predetermined advantageous section is completed or the number of games to be increased exceeds the predetermined number, the game section shifts to the normal section. In addition to such processing, the advantageous section may end when the specific game ends.

(Regarding winning role)
The winning lottery means 110 according to this embodiment stores the result of the lottery as an internal flag in the RAM. Specifically, when a winning combination is obtained as a result of the lottery performed by the winning lottery means 110, a winning flag corresponding to the winning is established. Then, the winning combination associated with the established winning flag is recognized as a winning state.

Note that the win flag associated with the bonus combination is carried over to the next and subsequent games even if no prize is won in the game in which the win flag is established. In other words, the right to win the prize is maintained until the prize is won. On the other hand, the winning flags associated with the other winning combinations are reset when no prize is won in the game in which the winning flag is established, and are not carried over to the next and subsequent games.
In this embodiment, winning probabilities as shown in FIG. 5 are set in each game state.

That is, in the RT0 state, it is set to win the replay role with a probability of 1/7.3, to win the BB role with a probability of 1/2.6, and not to win the RB role.
In addition, in the RT1 state, it is set to win the RB hand with a probability of 1/1.9 and not to win the replay hand and the BB hand.
Also, in the RT2 state, it is set so that neither the replay hand nor the BB hand nor the RB hand will be won.
Also, in the RT3 state, it is set so that neither the replay hand nor the BB hand nor the RB hand is won.

Thus, in the RT1 state, the RT2 state, and the RT3 state, the winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0, and is set so as not to win the replay combination. On the other hand, the odds of winning a small combination are set higher in the RT3 state (BB during RB state) than in the RT0 state, RT1 state, and RT2 state.

Also, in the RT0 state, the winning probability of the BB hand is set to be very high. Specifically, the winning probability of the BB hand (1/2.6) is set higher than the winning probability of the replay hand (1/7.3). Therefore, in the RT0 state, the player can easily play the role of BB, and the BB game can be started.

In addition, in the RT0 state, the RT1 state, and the RT2 state, it is possible to hit the "push order bell", which is a small combination of push order, so that it is possible to execute a specific game by notification of the order of push. On the other hand, in the RT3 state, since the "push order bell" which is a small combination of push order is not hit, the push order information is not executed even if the specific game is being executed.

(Regarding replay probability)
As described above, in the present embodiment, the winning probability of the replay combination in the easily started BB game is set to zero. For this reason, the replay combination is set so as not to be played during most of the game period, thereby increasing the maximum winning number more than before.
This point will be specifically described below.

First, FIG. 7 shows an image of a conventional ball payout rate. In this image, it is assumed that 3 medals are bet for each game. It is also assumed that there is a 1/3 probability of winning "Bell" and a 2/3 probability of winning "Replay". Note that "Bell" is an 8-card combination that pays out 8 medals for winning a prize.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, first, 3 medals are bet in the first game (3 IN), and 8 medals are paid out after winning the bell (8 OUT). Next, three medals are betted in the second game (3 IN), and a replay is won to enable replay (0 OUT). Since the third game is a replay, medals are not betted (0 IN), and a replay can be won and replayed (0 OUT). Since the fourth game is a replay, no medals are bet (IN 0), and 8 medals are paid out (OUT 8) by winning a bell. In the fifth game, three medals are betted (3 IN), and winning a replay is possible (0 OUT). Since the sixth game is a replay, no medals are betted (0 IN), and a replay is won and a replay is possible (0 OUT). Since the seventh game is a replay, no medals are bet (IN 0), and 8 medals are paid out after winning a bell (OUT 8). In the eighth game, three medals are betted (3 IN), and a replay is won to enable replay (0 OUT). Since the ninth game is a replay, medals are not betted (0 IN), and a replay is won and a replay is possible (0 OUT). Since the tenth game is a replay, no medals are bet (0 IN), and 8 medals are paid out (8 OUT) by winning a bell.

Summing up the above, the total number of bets (IN total) is 12, and the total number of winnings (OUT total) is 32. That is, the increased number of sheets is 32-12=20 sheets. The payout rate at this time is calculated by total OUT÷total IN, so 32÷12=267%.

On the other hand, FIG. 8 shows an image of the payout rate of the present invention. In this image, the winning probability of the replay combination is 0%, and instead of the replay combination shown in FIG. The 3-card combination pays out 3 medals upon winning, and can be said to be a winning combination in which the 3 medals that were bet are returned as they are. Therefore, for the player, winning a replay role or winning a three-card role has no effect on increase or decrease in medals as a bodily sensation. That is, the increased number of medals felt by the player is set to be the same between the example shown in FIG. 8 and the example shown in FIG.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, first, three medals are betted in the first game (3 IN), and 8 medals are paid out when the bell is won (8 OUT). Next, in the second game, 3 medals are bet (3 IN), 3 medals are won, and 3 medals are paid out (3 OUT). In the third game, 3 medals are betted (3 IN), 3 medals are won, and 3 medals are paid out (3 OUT). In the fourth game, 3 medals are bet (3 IN), and 8 medals are paid out (8 OUT) after winning a bell. In the fifth game, 3 medals are betted (3 IN), 3 medals are won, and 3 medals are paid out (3 OUT). In the sixth game, 3 medals are betted (3 IN), 3 medals are won, and 3 medals are paid out (3 OUT). In the seventh game, 3 medals are betted (3 IN), and 8 medals are paid out when the bell is won (8 OUT). In the eighth game, 3 medals are betted (3 IN), 3 medals are won, and 3 medals are paid out (3 OUT). In the ninth game, 3 medals are betted (3 IN), 3 medals are won, and 3 medals are paid out (3 OUT). In the tenth game, 3 medals are bet (3 IN), and 8 medals are paid out (8 OUT) after winning a bell.

When the above is added up, the total number of bets (IN total) is 30, and the total number of winnings (OUT total) is 50. That is, the increased number of sheets is 50-30=20 sheets. The payout rate at this time is calculated by total OUT÷total IN, so 50÷30=167%.

Thus, when comparing the example of FIG. 7 and the example of FIG. 8, although the number of increased medals is the same, the ball payout rate in FIG. 7 is 267%, and the ball payout rate in FIG. 167%. In this way, by lowering the probability of a replay combination, it is possible to lower the ball output rate without reducing the number of medals to be increased. Conversely, it is possible to increase the number of additional medals without increasing the ball-out rate.

In the present embodiment, the mechanism described above is applied, and by setting the winning probability of the replay combination to 0, the ball output rate is lowered, and the number of medals obtained is increased accordingly. For this reason, compared to the conventional structure in which a replay combination is applied, the maximum number of medals to be acquired is increased.

(About game flow)
Next, the flow when a player actually plays a game on the slot machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.
First, as shown in step S1 in FIG. 6, the player starts the game in the RT0 state. In this RT0 state, the player aims to win the BB role, but as described above, the player easily wins the BB role.

When the player wins the BB hand, the state is such that the player wins the BB hand internally, as shown in step S2. Here, the player aims to win the BB role. Specifically, the stop switch 50 is operated with good timing so that the winning symbols of the BB combination are aligned on the activated line.

When the player wins the BB role, the game moves to the RT1 state as shown in step S3. In this RT1 state, the player executes the game while expecting the start of the specific game. In addition, in this RT1 state, the winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0, and the maximum number of medals to be acquired is set to be high accordingly.

If the player wins the role of RB in the RT1 state, the state shifts to the RT2 state as shown in step S4. In this RT2 state, the player executes the game while expecting the start of the specific game. In addition, in this RT2 state, the winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0, and the maximum number of medals to be acquired is set to be higher accordingly.

If the player wins the RB role in the RT2 state and shifts to the RT3 state (the RB game is started), the number of medals obtained decreases and the specific game cannot be started, so the player avoids winning the RB role. Play games while playing. Specifically, the stop switch 50 is operated with good timing so that the winning symbols of the RB combination are not aligned on the activated line.
When the BB game ends, the state returns to RT0, and the game flow described above is repeated.

(summary)
As described above, in the present embodiment, in the RT1 state (BB general state), RT2 state (RB internal state during BB), and RT3 state (RB during BB state), the winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0. According to such a configuration, winning of a replay combination (a state in which a game can be played without inserting game media) does not occur, so the number of inserted game media can be increased. If it is possible to increase the number of inserted game media, it is possible to relatively lower the payout rate (the number of obtained balls divided by the number of inserted balls). In other words, even if the winning number is increased, the payout rate can be prevented from increasing, so the maximum winning number can be increased more than before.

Note that the RB game according to the present embodiment is a “decreasing bonus” in which the expected acquisition value of game media per bet is less than one. For this reason, it is more advantageous for the player not to win the RB game in the BB game, so the player remains in the BB general state or the BB internal state of the RB, but does not win the replay combination (that is, the maximum winning number is set high). It is possible to realize a new game property in which a game is played in a state where the game is played.

In addition, in the RT0 state (general game state), the winning probability of the BB hand is set to be very high, specifically, the winning probability of the BB hand is set higher than the winning probability of the replay hand. Therefore, since the game is easily shifted to the BB game in the RT0 state, most of the game can be played while staying in the BB game. As a result, the period in which the winning probability of the replay role is set to 0 (the period in which the maximum winning number can be set to be large without changing the payout rate) becomes longer, so the gaming machine in which the winning probability of the BB role is set low. Compared to , the maximum winning number can be increased even with the same payout rate.

In addition, during the RB game, a specific game (AT or ART) for activating an instruction function for displaying an operation mode advantageous to the player cannot be started. For this reason, it is more advantageous not to win the RB game, so the game is played in a state where the replay role is not won (that is, a state where the maximum winning number is set high) while remaining in the BB general state or the RB internal state during BB. It is possible to realize a new game property of doing.

(About modification)
In the above embodiment, the player had to operate the stop switch 50 with good timing in order to win the BB role. However, without being limited to this, in a game in which the player wins the BB role in the RT0 state (general game state), regardless of the operation timing of the stop switch 50, the BB role may always be won.
For example, by adopting the configurations shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the BB role may always be won.

That is, in the above-described embodiment, the three rotating reels 40, ie, the left reel 41, the middle reel 42, and the right reel 43, are provided. Four rotating reels 40 are provided. The four rotating reels 40 are a left reel 41 , a middle reel 42 , a right reel 43 and a fourth reel 44 . These four rotating reels 40 are individually rotatable.

Therefore, although not shown, the stop switch 50 is also composed of four switches corresponding to the respective rotating reels 40 (left reel 41, middle reel 42, right reel 43, fourth reel 44). By operating the stop switch 50 corresponding to the rotating reel 40, the corresponding rotating reel 40 stops rotating, and the symbol of the rotating reel 40 is stopped and displayed.
Similarly, the reel unit 60 also has four stepping motors for rotating the four rotating reels 40 .

Further, as shown in FIG. 9, from the symbol display window 13, for each of the four rotating reels 40, symbols are displayed in three stages of upper, middle and lower stages, for a total of 12 symbols. A pattern is displayed through a pattern display window 13. - 特許庁A valid line is set by a combination of the display positions of these 12 symbols.

In this modification, a line L1 connecting the middle symbols of the left reel 41, the middle symbols of the middle reel 42, the middle symbols of the right reel 43, and the upper symbols of the fourth reel 44, and the left A line L2 connecting the middle symbol of the reel 41, the middle symbol of the middle reel 42, the middle symbol of the right reel 43, and the lower symbol of the fourth reel 44 is the effective line. is set as When a symbol combination associated with a winning combination is displayed along the activated line, the winning combination is won.
Further, in this modification, the symbols are displayed on the surface of each rotating reel 40 in a pattern arrangement as shown in FIG.

Specifically, the left reel 41 has "Watermelon 1", "BAR", "Watermelon", "Bell", "Replay", "Blue 7", "Cherry", "Watermelon 1", "Bell", "Replay", " The symbols are displayed in the order of BAR, BLANK, Watermelon, Bell, Replay, Red 7, Cherry, Red 7, Bell, and Replay.

In addition, on the middle reel 42, "Watermelon 1", "BLANK", "Cherry", "Replay", "Bell", "Watermelon 1", "Blue 7", "Cherry", "Replay", "Bell", and "Watermelon 1" when viewed in the direction of rotation. "Watermelon 2", "Cherry", "Replay", "Bell", "Watermelon 1", "Red 7", "BAR", "Replay", and "Bell" are displayed in this order.

In addition, on the right reel 43, "watermelon 1", "cherry", "watermelon 2", "replay", "bell", "watermelon 1", "cherry", "blue 7", "replay", "bell", and "watermelon 1" when viewed in the direction of rotation. , ``Cherry'', ``BLANK'', ``Replay'', ``Bell'', ``Red 7'', ``Cherry'', ``BAR'', ``Replay'', and ``Bell''.

Also, the fourth reel 44 has ``BAR'', ``Watermelon 1'', ``BLANK'', ``Cherry'', ``Bell'', ``Watermelon 1'', ``BLANK'', ``BAR'', ``Bell'', ``Cherry'', ``BLANK'', and ``BLANK''. The patterns are displayed in order of watermelon 2", "BLANK", "BAR", "bell", "cherry", "watermelon 1", "BLANK", "cherry", and "bell".

Then, as shown in FIG. 11(a), the combination of winning symbols for the role of BB is "Bell"-"Bell"-"Red 7"-"BAR" or "Bell"-"Bell"-"Watermelon 1". - "BAR".

As shown in FIG. 10, these BB winning symbols are arranged so as to appear across four symbols on the left reel 41, the middle reel 42 and the right reel 43. As shown in FIG. Therefore, on the left reel 41, the middle reel 42, and the right reel 43, the winning symbols of the BB role are arranged within the range of the maximum number of sliding frames of four frames, and the winning symbols of the BB role are always displayed in the middle of the display window 12. It is designed to be retracted.

Also, on the fourth reel 44, BB winning symbols (BAR) are arranged so as to appear with 5 or 6 symbols interposed therebetween. Here, on the fourth reel 44, since the winning symbols can be drawn in the upper or lower display window 12, the maximum number of sliding frames (4 frames) + the number of frames from the upper to the lower rows (2 frames) = 6 frames. If the winning symbols of the BB combination are arranged in the range of , the winning symbols can be drawn onto the effective line without fail. Therefore, even on the fourth reel 44, the BB winning symbol can always be drawn on the effective line (upper or lower).

According to the effective lines and the symbol arrangement as described above, the reel control means 130 can perform pull-in control so that the player wins the BB role regardless of the operation timing of the stop switch 50 in the game in which the player wins the BB role. . With this configuration, it is possible to shift to the BB game regardless of the skill of the player. By easily shifting to the BB game, most of the game can be played while staying in the BB game. As a result, the period in which the winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0 (the period in which the maximum winning number can be set to be large without changing the payout rate) is lengthened, so that the game machine where the BB combination must be emphasized. By comparison, the maximum winning number can be increased even if the ball output rate is the same.
It should be noted that it is also possible to easily avoid the winning of the RB combination according to the activated lines and the symbol arrangement as described above.

That is, the combination of winning symbols for the RB role according to this modification is "BLANK"-"BLANK"-"BLANK"-"Watermelon 2", as shown in FIG. 11(b). As shown in FIG. 10, only one symbol is arranged on each of the left reel 41, the middle reel 42, the right reel 43, and the fourth reel 44. As shown in FIG. If the stop switch 50 is not operated at the timing when all the four rotating reels 40 can draw in the winning patterns of the RB role, the winning of the RB role is not won. Can be easily avoided. Specifically, the probability that the winning pattern of the RB role can be drawn on the fourth reel 44 is the maximum number of sliding frames (4 frames) + the number of frames from the top to the bottom (2 frames) = 6 frames, and the fourth reel 44 is 20, the probability of winning is 6/20. That is, it is 6/20 times easier to win the RB role when the number of reels 40 is four than when the number of reels 40 is three. In the case of , it is possible to avoid the winning of the RB combination about three times more easily than in the case of three rotating reels 40 .

10 slot machine 11 housing 12 display window 13 pattern display window 14 medal slot 15 insertion switch 16 bet switch 17 checkout switch 18 medal dispensing slot 20 control device 30 start switch 31 front door 31A operation unit 31B lower panel 31C lower tray 32 credit Display unit 40 Rotating reel 41 Left reel 42 Middle reel 43 Right reel 44 Fourth reel 50 Stop switch 51 Left stop switch 52 Middle stop switch 53 Right stop switch 60 Reel unit 65 Hopper unit 66 Production unit 67 Image display unit 68 Lamp 69 Speaker 100 game state control means 110 winning lottery means 120 role lottery table 130 reel control means 140 winning judgment means 150 hopper control means 200 effect control means 210 pushing order notification control means 220 setting means 230 specific game control means 240 game section control means

Claims (4)

a rotating reel for variably displaying or statically displaying a plurality of symbols;
a start switch for variably displaying symbols on the rotating reels;
a stop switch provided corresponding to the rotating reel for stopping and displaying the symbols of the corresponding rotating reel;
a winning lottery means for performing a lottery to determine whether one of a plurality of winning roles is won or lost;
a winning combination table storing winning areas corresponding to the plurality of winning combinations;
reel control means for controlling the stop display of symbols on the rotating reels based on the result of the lottery by the winning lottery means and the operation of the stop switch;
winning determination means for determining whether or not any of the plurality of winning combinations is won or not based on the stop position of the rotating reels when the symbols are stopped and displayed;
a game state control means for managing the game state;
with
The plurality of winning combinations include a small combination in which game media are paid out upon winning, a replay combination that can be played again upon winning, a BB combination that initiates the BB game upon winning, and an RB combination that initiates the RB game upon winning. , and
As the game state, a normal game state, a BB normal middle state to which the BB role is won in the normal game state and the BB game is started, and a player who wins the RB role in the BB normal middle state. and a state during BB during RB that shifts when the RB role is won during the BB game and the RB game starts,
The winning probability of the replay combination is set to 0 in the BB general medium state, the BB RB internal state, and the BB RB medium state,
In the normal gaming state, the winning probability of the BB hand is set higher than the winning probability of the replay hand ,
In addition, the game machine does not improve the winning probability of the replay combination when the BB combination is internally won in the normal game state . 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein said RB game is set so that the expected value of winning game media per game media bet is less than one. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein said reel control means executes pull-in control so that said BB role always wins in a game in which said BB role is won. 4. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein during the RB game, a specific game for activating an instruction function for displaying an operation mode advantageous to the player cannot be started. game machine.

Images