JP7810911B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, gaming machines have been known that are equipped with a feature whereby, if a predetermined role (e.g., a single bonus) is won while a bonus (e.g., a role continuous operation device for a second-class special role) is in operation, the role continuous operation device for a second-class special role ends and the game returns to its normal state (a so-called "breakdown of the role continuous operation device for a second-class special role") (see Non-Patent Document 1).

On the other hand, in conventional gaming machines, if the continuous operation device for the second-class special feature ends without a predetermined winning combination, the continuous operation device for the second-class special feature does not jam and transitions to a more advantageous state than normal.

DMM Pachi Town, "Hihouden: The Road to Legend," Internet, updated November 18, 2020, retrieved April 11, 2024, <URL: https://p-town.dmm.com/machines/2344>

However, conventional gaming machines only provide gameplay in which a predetermined role is won while the continuous device for operating the special feature associated with the second-class special feature is in operation, and the question is whether the continuous device for operating the special feature associated with the second-class special feature will jam. Therefore, it is difficult to say that such gaming machines provide interesting gameplay.

The object of this invention is to provide an entertaining gaming machine that uses bonuses.

The present invention provides
An internal lottery unit that executes an internal lottery based on an operation by an operator and determines whether or not at least one of a plurality of roles is to be won;
An RT state control unit capable of switching between RT states including a first RT state and a second RT state;
Equipped with
The role includes a bonus,
The RT state control unit, when a predetermined combination is not won or awarded a predetermined number of times by the internal lottery during the operation of the bonus, transitions the RT state to the second RT state in which the bonus is more likely to be won than in the first RT state,
The bonuses include at least a first bonus and a second bonus that can be won in the first RT state,
The first bonus and the second bonus have different winning probabilities for the predetermined combination during the operation of the bonus.
It is an amusement machine.

This invention makes it possible to provide an entertaining gaming machine that uses bonuses.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the slot machine. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a slot machine. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of symbols on a rotating reel. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the state transition of the first game state. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the state transition of the RT state. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a main control board, a game value control board, and a sub-control board in the first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of MB execution processing.

[First embodiment]
A slot machine 1 according to an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 7. Note that the embodiment described below is merely one example of the present invention, and the embodiment of the present invention can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In the following description, "connection" includes cases where connection targets are directly connected to each other, and cases where connection targets are indirectly connected to each other via another board or device, etc.

As shown in Figure 1, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is a reel-type gaming machine in which the quantity of gaming value is managed by electronic data (hereinafter referred to as "gaming value data"), rather than using physically existing medals.

Unlike conventional slot machines, this slot machine 1 does not require the insertion of actual medals, nor does it pay out actual medals. Furthermore, in slot machine 1, electronically converted pseudo gaming media is used as gaming value data to progress the game. Slot machines 1 of this type are also called medalless machines, Smart Slot (registered trademark), or enclosed reel gaming machines.

Below, we will first explain the card unit 7 connected to this slot machine 1.

<Configuration of Card Unit 7>
As shown in FIG. 2, the card unit 7 is connected to the slot machine 1 outside the slot machine 1 so as to be able to communicate with the slot machine 1 .

The card unit 7 can also store a card 70 therein that stores gaming value data as electronic data in place of actual medals.

Note that the card unit 7 is similar to a conventional card unit connected to a medal-less machine, so a detailed description will be omitted.

<Configuration of Slot Machine 1>
As described above, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is a medal-less machine that allows play to proceed without using medals, which are real objects. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, play is performed using gaming value data, which is electronic data, instead of medals, which are real objects. Note that, hereinafter, the term "gaming value" may also be used in place of "gaming value data," as a term corresponding to the conventional "medals."

As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 1 includes a cabinet 10. A front door 100 is provided on the front of the cabinet 10. This front door 100 is locked while a game is in progress.

A transparent reel window 200 is provided in the center of the front door 100. Through this reel window 200, the operator can see the multiple symbols displayed on the surface of each of the multiple rotating reels 20 (described below).

A keyhole (not shown) is provided near the right end of the front door 100 when viewed from the front of the slot machine 1 (looking towards the back of the page in Figure 1). A key is inserted into the keyhole to lock or unlock the front door 100 and the cabinet 10. Because the front door 100 and the cabinet 10 remain locked during play, players cannot access the inside of the cabinet 10.

Furthermore, because the slot machine 1 is a medal-less machine, there is no selector or hopper device inside the cabinet 10, and store staff do not need to replenish actual medals during play. Therefore, during play, store staff will not, in principle, lock or unlock the front door 100 or cabinet 10, except when an error occurs in the slot machine 1.

When store staff need to change settings, check settings, perform maintenance, etc., the front door 100 and the housing 10 are unlocked, and the front door 100 can be rotated relative to the housing 10. This allows store staff to access the inside of the housing 10.

Above the reel window 200, there is an LCD screen 3, a speaker 101, and an illumination unit 102 for various effects during play.

The LCD screen 3 displays various animations (effect screens) while the player is playing.

The speaker 101 outputs predetermined background music (BGM), sound effects (SE), and audio. In this embodiment, the operator can adjust (set) the volume of the BGM, SE, operation sounds, etc. using a volume adjustment function that can be set, for example, on a menu screen.

The illumination unit 102 is composed of LEDs and the like, and lights up or goes out in a predetermined pattern, for example, when a highly anticipated performance screen is displayed or when a winning combination is achieved.

Below the reel window 200 are the operation unit 4, lower panel 103, front bottom 104, etc. The lower panel 103 displays the title of the slot machine 1, etc. The front bottom 104 is designed to allow the operator to place personal belongings, etc.

The operation unit 4 includes multiple stop switches 40 (40a, 40b, 40c), a bet switch 41, a lever 42, a digital counter 43, a count button 44, a cancel button 45, and a performance button 46.

Sensors are provided near each switch on the operation unit 4 to detect player operations and output operation signals to the control unit 6.

Each stop switch 40 (40a, 40b, 40c) is provided corresponding to each reel 20 (20a, 20b, 20c). Stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c accept operations to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel 20a, 20b, 20c while it is rotating. In other words, when stop switch 40a is operated, the rotation of reel 20a stops, when stop switch 40b is operated, the rotation of reel 20b stops, and when stop switch 40c is operated, the rotation of reel 40c stops.

A lamp is provided inside each of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c. The lamp can illuminate in a color (e.g., red) to indicate that the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are in an invalid state, for example, from the time the lever 42 is operated until each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c reaches a constant speed rotation state.

Information about which stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c were pressed (information about which stop switch 40 was pressed, in what order, and at what timing) is used by the spinning reel control unit 611, game result determination unit 612, game status control unit 615, RT status control unit 616, and media management unit 620, which will be described later.

The bet switch 41 is used when the operator bets game value. The credited game value and the amount of game value bet are managed by the slot machine 1 (media management unit 620). Hereinafter, when we refer to "credited game value," we mean the game value (game value data) managed by the media management unit 620.

Lever 42 functions as a start switch that accepts operations to rotate reels 20a, 20b, and 20c.

The digital counter 43 digitally displays the number of gaming credits, the amount of gaming value paid out (amount won), and other information. By checking the digital counter 43, the operator can confirm the amount of gaming value they have while playing. This also allows the player to play without having to hold actual medals.

In this embodiment, the "payout amount of game value" does not refer to the action of actual medals being paid out to the outside of the slot machine 1, but rather refers to "an increase in game value based on the winning combination achieved by the internal lottery, in accordance with that winning combination." In other words, the "payout amount of game value" refers to "an increase in the numerical value of a pseudo-game medium converted into electronic data." Furthermore, for example, a "predetermined number of game values" is a concept equivalent to the conventional "predetermined number of medals."

The counting button 44 can accept operation by the operator to transfer the gaming value data from the media management unit 620 to the card unit 7 (to execute the first process, the "transfer process"). When the counting button 44 accepts operation by the operator, a transfer signal is generated by the counting button 44.

The counting button 44 may also be equipped with a lamp inside or around it that emits light in a different color before and after it is operated.

The cancel button 45 can accept an operation by the operator to change a gaming value that has been bet (betting state) to a non-betting state (non-betting state). When the cancel button 45 accepts an operation by the operator, a cancel signal is generated by the cancel button 45. After that, the media management unit 620, which receives the cancel signal, manages the gaming value data that has been bet as a non-betting state.

For example, if the cancel button 45 is operated when the game value being bet is 1 or more, the media management unit 620 updates the game value being bet to "0" and adds the game value data bet until it reaches "0" to the credited game value data. As a result, the number of credits displayed by the digital counter 43 increases by the amount of the game value data bet. In other words, the cancel button 45 is a button that causes the media management unit 620 to execute a bet cancellation process that transitions the betting state to a non-betting state and returns the betting game value to the number of credits.

The bet cancellation process based on the operation of the cancel button 45 is valid when a bet has been placed but the lever 42 has not yet been operated. On the other hand, the bet cancellation process is disabled from the time the lever 42 is operated until the game based on the operation of the lever 42 ends.

The effect button 46 is a button used by the player when playing a game to set the volume, check game data, and perform various other game-related menu settings. The effect button 46 may also be operated by the operator during play depending on the effect. When the effect button 46 is operated during play, a change occurs in the effect.

The effect button 46 also has a lamp that can emit light in various colors and patterns. The lamp is lit when the effect button 46 is in an operable state, and is turned off when the effect button 46 is in an operable state. When the operation of the effect button 46 triggers the output of a winning notification effect for a favorable game state, such as a special role, the lamp can also flash rapidly in a color different from its normal illumination, such as red or rainbow colors.

Also, as shown in Figure 2, a reset button 51 and a setting change button 52 are provided inside the housing 10.

The reset button 51 is operated to clear various errors and initialize the RAM that constitutes the control unit 6. For example, if the power to the slot machine 1 is switched from off to on while the reset button 51 is being operated (an example of a predetermined condition), the quantity of game value managed by the media management unit 620 is cleared to "0," and the first game state of the slot machine 1 is set to a "special role non-carryover state."

The setting change button 52 is operated by a store staff member when one of the multiple setting values is set for the slot machine 1. For example, when the slot machine 1 is set in setting change mode and the power to the slot machine 1 is switched from off to on, the setting change button 52 becomes operable, and operating the setting change button 52 in this state allows the setting value to be set.

When a game is in progress or while waiting to play, the cabinet 10 and front door 100 are locked, so the reset button 51 and setting change button 52 cannot be touched by anyone other than those authorized to unlock them (for example, store staff who have a key).

The set value is a value that represents the payout rate, which indicates the ratio of the total number of game values paid out to the total number of game values inserted into the slot machine 1. The set set value affects the internal lottery. The probability of winning at least some of the possible winning roles differs depending on the set value. The set value is set by store staff before the store opens.

As shown in FIG. 2, the slot machine 1 also includes a spinning reel unit 2 and a control unit 6. The spinning reel unit 2 and control unit 6 are located inside the cabinet 10, along with a power supply device (not shown) that turns the main power supply of the slot machine 1 on and off.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the spinning reel unit 2 includes three spinning reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, and three stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c. The spinning reel unit 2 is positioned inside the casing 10 in a manner corresponding to the position of the reel window 200.

For example, patterns (symbols) such as those shown in Figure 3 are arranged on the surfaces of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. When the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c stop spinning, the game progresses by the game result determination unit 612, which will be described later, determining whether the combination of patterns displayed on the pay line L, which will be described later, is a predetermined combination of patterns.

Stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c are provided corresponding to reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, and drive the corresponding reels 20a, 20b, and 20c.

Stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c stop the rotation of the reel 20 (e.g., 20a) corresponding to the operated stop switch 40 (e.g., 40a) within 190 ms after the stop switch 40a, 40b, or 40c is operated while the reels 20a, 20b, or 20c are rotating. Stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c complete one rotation in 504 steps. As a result, the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c rotate at a speed of 80 rotations per minute. In other words, the number of steps that can be advanced within 190 ms is 127.

In addition, when a special role (an example of a bonus role; in this embodiment, a role continuous operation device for a second-class special role; hereinafter referred to as "MB") described below is being executed (an example of a bonus in operation), the stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c may stop the rotation of at least one of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c (for example, rotating reel 20a) corresponding to the operated stop switch 40a (for example, stop switch 40a) within 75 ms after the corresponding stop switch 40a is operated.

The rotation and stopping of these reels 20a, 20b, and 20c and stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c are controlled by the reel control unit 611, which will be described later.

<The flow of the game by the operator>
The operator operates the bet switch 41 to use the credited gaming value to bet gaming value on the slot machine 1. When a predetermined number (e.g., 3) of gaming value is bet on the slot machine 1, the pay line L is activated. After that, the lever 42 can be operated, i.e., the game can be started.

This embodiment describes an example in which pressing the bet switch 41 once automatically bets a predetermined number of game values (e.g., 3) that can be used to play one game.

Figure 1 shows an example in which the activated line L consists of a single line sloping downward to the right. The activated line L is a virtual line used to determine winning combinations. In this embodiment, one line L is activated when a MAX BET of 3 is placed. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, one game can be executed by betting a game value of 3 and operating the lever 42.

In the following, "winning" refers not only to the alignment of symbols on the valid line L that result in the payout of game value, such as bells and watermelons, but also to the alignment of symbols on the valid line L that correspond to specific roles, such as replays, chance symbols, and MBs, that do not result in the payout of game value.

In this embodiment, one game (one play) refers to a series of actions in which a player operates the bet switch 41, lever 42, stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, etc. to obtain a predetermined game result, including the internal lottery, the winning determination process, and the process of increasing or decreasing the game value data.

Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated (lever on) while the game is ready to start, an internal lottery is held to determine the winning flag, and the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c begin to spin. In this state, when one of the stop switches 40a, 40b, or 40c is operated, the reel 20 (20b) corresponding to the operated stop switch 40 (for example, 40b) stops.

All reels 20a, 20b, and 20c stop, and a payout process for a predetermined amount of gaming value is executed according to the symbol combination (winning combination) that aligns (wins) on the pay line L. This completes one game.

In addition, at least some of the information regarding the progress of the game until these predetermined game results are obtained (for example, the operation of the bet switch 41, the operation of the lever 42, the operation of the stop switch 40, the execution of an internal lottery, the winning of a predetermined role, the rotation of the reels, etc.) is managed by the main control unit 61.

<About game status>
During a game, one of a plurality of game states is set as shown in Figures 4 and 5. Based on the set game state, an internal lottery and a predetermined lottery are performed.

The gaming states include the first gaming state (see Figure 4) and the RT state (see Figure 5).

As shown in Figure 4, the first gaming state includes a special role non-carryover state, a bonus internal state (special role carryover state), and a special role implementation state. The special role non-carryover state, the bonus internal state, and the special role implementation state are mutually exclusive.

The "special role non-carryover state" refers to a state in which MB has not been won by the internal lottery and the MB winnings have not been carried over. The "special role non-carryover state" is set, for example, when the setting value described below is changed (an example of a predetermined condition), when RAM is initialized (an example of a predetermined condition), or when more game value than a predetermined number is paid out during the special role implementation state.

The bonus internal state refers to a state in which MB has been won through an internal lottery, but the MB winnings have been carried over. In other words, the bonus internal state refers to a state in which MB has been won through an internal lottery, but the symbols corresponding to the MB have not yet aligned on the valid line L, and the MB has not yet won.

Here, if the MB in this embodiment wins, the MB will win regardless of the timing and order in which the player operates the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c. In other words, the MB in this embodiment is an automatic JAC-in type role that wins regardless of the manner in which the player operates the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c. Therefore, in the one game in which the MB wins, the internal bonus state will be the state until the player operates the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c to win the winning MB.

The special role implementation state refers to a state in which an MB won by internal lottery has been won, and no more than a predetermined amount of gaming value has been paid out. In other words, in this embodiment, the special role implementation state refers to a state in which an MB is being executed.

In this embodiment, three MBs are provided: MB1, MB2, and MB3. As shown in Figure 5, the RT states (details will be described later) in which each MB may win are predetermined.

Specifically, MB1 and MB2 win in RT0 but not in RT1-RT4, and MB3 wins in RT4 but not in RT0-RT3. Below, when we simply refer to "MB," it means all of MB1, MB2, and MB3.

In addition, when MB is being executed, a role including RB (an example of a predetermined role), which is a type 1 special role, becomes a winning candidate. In this embodiment, if RB is won when MB is being executed, RB will be awarded in that game regardless of how the player operates the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c. In other words, RB in this embodiment is an automatic JAC-in type role.

Furthermore, the probability that MB1 will win in RT0 is different from the probability that MB2 will win in RT0. Specifically, MB1 has a probability of winning in RT0 of, for example, 3/800, and MB2 has a probability of winning in RT0 of, for example, 1/800. Note that, as shown in Figure 5, the combined winning probability of MB1 and MB2 in RT0 in this case is 1/200 (= 3/800 + 1/800).

On the other hand, as shown in Figure 5, MB3 has a probability of winning in RT4 of, for example, 1/20.

<Explanation of RT state and game flow>
In this embodiment, a plurality of RT states are prepared, each with a predetermined probability of winning a replay. Specifically, five RT states are prepared: RT0, RT1, RT2, RT3, and RT4. The RT state defines (distinguishes) each of the plurality of game states.

Of these, RT0 (an example of the first RT state) is
(1) When RAM is initialized,
(2) When the setting value is changed (when it is changed to a different setting value or when it is replaced with the same setting value), or
(3) When the RT state is RT1, RT2, or RT3, that is, when the MB is being executed, if the RB (first-class special role) is won and the MB is blown out,
The RT state is entered when any of the above conditions is met.

In RT0, MB1 and MB2 have a chance of winning, but MB3 has no chance of winning.

RT1 is the RT state that is entered when MB1 wins and becomes a prize winner in RT0.

RT2 is the RT state that you enter when MB2 wins and becomes a prize winner in RT0.

RT3 is the RT state that is entered when MB3 wins and becomes a prize in RT4.

RT4 (an example of a second RT state) is an RT state to which a player transitions when the MB ends (when the MB is completed) during the execution of the corresponding MB in either RT1, RT2, or RT3, with more game value paid out than the specified amount without the RB being won.

In RT4, MB3 has a chance of winning, but MB1 and MB2 have no chance of winning.

As mentioned above, MB1 is executed in RT1, and the probability of winning RB while MB1 is executing is 1/10. Also, MB2 is executed in RT2, and the probability of winning RB while MB2 is executing is 1/20. Also, MB3 is executed in RT3, and the probability of winning RB while MB3 is executing is 1/100.

Here, when the corresponding MB (MB1, MB2, or MB3) is being executed in either RT1, RT2, or RT3, if the game value paid out exceeds the specified amount and an RB is won before the MB is completed, the MB will be punctured and the RT state will transition to RT0. On the other hand, if an RB is not won before the MB is completed, the MB will not be punctured, and the end of the MB will trigger a transition to RT4 in the RT state.

Furthermore, MB3's winning probability in RT4 (1/20) is higher than MB1's winning probability in RT0 (3/800), which is also higher than MB2's winning probability in RT0 (1/800).

Furthermore, as mentioned above, the probability of winning an RB in RT3 (1/100) is lower than the probability of winning an RB in RT1 (1/10), and also lower than the probability of winning an RB in RT2 (1/20).

In other words, the probability of a MB puncture is lower in RT3 than in RT1 and RT2. Therefore, the chances of completing the MB are higher in RT3 than in RT1 and RT2, making it easier to move on to RT4, which is more advantageous than RT0.

<Configuration of control unit 6>
As mentioned above, the control unit 6 is composed of a main control unit 61 implemented on the main control board P1, a game value control unit 62 implemented on the game value control board P2, and a sub-control unit 63 implemented on the sub-control board P3.

The main control board P1, game value control board P2, and sub-control board P3 each include a microcomputer, voltage supply unit, power interruption/recovery detection unit, WDT (watchdog timer), and memory unit (ROM, RAM).

The connection relationships and communication processes of the main control unit 61, game value control unit 62, and sub-control unit 63 are explained below using Figure 6. In this embodiment, the main control unit 61, game value control unit 62, and sub-control unit 63 are each implemented on a different board.

The main control board P1, on which the main control unit 61 is mounted, and the game value control board P2, on which the game value control unit 62 is mounted, are electrically connected by a harness, allowing two-way serial communication to be performed.

The information and commands sent from the main control board P1 to the game value control board P2 include outlier information, whether settings are being changed, commands related to various errors, a signal requesting a bet of game value when the bet button 41 is operated, a signal requesting the payout of game value corresponding to a winning combination, a signal requesting bet cancellation processing when the cancel button 45 is operated, and a request for the transfer of game value when the counting button 44 is operated.

The information and commands sent from the gaming value control board P2 to the main control board P1 include information that the complete function (described below) has been activated, information that the number of credits has reached the upper limit (a value used to prompt the operator to transfer credits when there are too many), information regarding the presence or absence of a communication abnormality between the card unit 7 and the slot machine 1, various responses to requests from the main control unit 61, etc.

The main control board P1 and the sub-control board P3 on which the sub-control unit 63 is mounted are electrically connected by a harness, but only one-way serial communication takes place from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3. Information and commands sent from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3 include game value data (e.g., game value bet/payout information, total game value won during AT), information about the start/end of game play, information about the start/end of device operation, information about various errors, etc.

The game value control board P2 and sub-control board P3 are electrically connected by a harness, but serial communication is carried out in one direction from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3.

The information and commands sent from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3 include the range (MY) described below, information indicating the activation of the complete function, commands related to advance notification before the complete function is activated, information related to the transfer of game value (for example, transfer has started, transfer in progress, transfer completed, etc.), information indicating the number of credits or the number of credits acquired, information indicating that the number of credits has reached the upper limit, and error information if a credit backup error has occurred.

As the game progresses, when functions of the operation unit 4, such as the lever 42 and stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c, are activated, one-way serial communication is carried out from the main control board P1 to the operation unit 4, etc.

<Description of main control unit 61>
The main control unit 61 is composed of a microcomputer implemented on the main control board P1, and functions as an internal lottery unit 610, a rotating reel control unit 611, a game result determination unit 612, a setting value control unit 613, a game status control unit 615, an RT status control unit 616, and an error determination unit 617.

In other words, in this embodiment, the main control unit 61 performs control directly related to the progress of the game. Specifically, the controls executed by the main control unit 61 include, for example, internal lottery processing, control of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, control of various game states and/or game zones, various error monitoring and error handling, such as monitoring the communication connection between the slot machine 1 and the card unit 7, etc.

Game data includes the current number of games played, as well as data indicating the game status (the state of each game state and game section). In this embodiment, game data includes, for example, data indicating that the first game state is a special role non-carryover state, a bonus internal state, etc.

<Internal lottery unit 610>
The internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery based on the operation of the lever 42, and sets one flag of a plurality of role flags as a winning flag to be a winning flag. Specifically, the internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery in accordance with an internal lottery table (not shown) and a random number obtained when the lever 42 is operated, based on the first gaming state and the RT state when the lever 42 is operated.

Then, the internal lottery unit 610 generates an internal lottery result signal based on the result of the internal lottery. The internal lottery result signal (an example of information related to the progress of the game) can be used by the reel control unit 611, game result determination unit 612, game status control unit 615, and performance control unit 630.

The internal lottery table shows information on possible winning combinations in an internal lottery. The internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery based on the internal lottery table, depending on the RT state when the lever 42 is operated, the type of bonus, and other factors.

The winning combination information shown on the internal lottery table associates one or more symbol combinations with the winning combinations that correspond to those combinations. These winning combinations include losing combinations in which no game value is paid out, as well as operation timing combinations (e.g., cherry, watermelon) in which game value is paid out if the timing of operating the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c is correct.

<Rotary reel control unit 611>
The rotating reel control unit 611 controls the driving of the stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c based on the operation of the lever 42 or each stop switch 40a, 40b, and 40c, and performs rotation start control to start the rotation of each rotating reel 20a, 20b, and 20c, or rotation stop control to stop the rotation.

Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated while all of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c are stopped, the reel control unit 611 starts the rotation of all of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c.

Furthermore, when a stop switch 40 (e.g., 40c) corresponding to a rotating reel 20 (e.g., 20c) is operated, the rotating reel control unit 611 stops the rotation of the rotating reel 20 (e.g., 20c) corresponding to the operated stop switch 40 (e.g., 40c).

Also, as mentioned above, when the RT state is one of RT1 to RT3 and an MB (MB1, MB2, or MB3) is being executed, the reel control unit 611 stops the rotation of at least one of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c within 75 ms when the player operates the stop switch 40 corresponding to that reel 20.

On the other hand, when the RT state is RT0 or RT4, i.e., when MB is not being executed, the reel control unit 611 stops the rotation of the corresponding reel 20a, 20b, 20c within 190 ms when the player operates the stop switch 4a, 40b, 40c.

When the player controls the stopping of rotation during play, the reel control unit 611 can stop the rotation of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c based on the operation of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c so that the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination indicated by the winning flag, which is the internal lottery result, is positioned on the pay line L of the reel 20, resulting in a winning combination.

Furthermore, the reel control unit 611 starts the rotation of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c based on the operator's operation of the lever 43 if a certain time (4.1 seconds, the so-called wait time) has elapsed since the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c started spinning in the previous game. In other words, in this slot machine 1, even if the lever 42 is operated, the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c will not start spinning and the game will not progress until 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c started spinning in the previous game.

In addition, when the operator controls the stopping of rotation during play, the reel control unit 611 performs pull-in control or kick-off control depending on the winning combination achieved by the internal lottery and the position of the reels 20a, 20b, 20c corresponding to the operated stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c. Pull-in control is control that stops the rotation of the reels 20 so that the symbols corresponding to the winning combination are pulled onto the pay line L. Kick-off control is control that stops the rotation of the reels 20 so that the symbols corresponding to the non-winning combination do not line up on the pay line L.

<Explanation of the Game Result Determination Unit 612>
The game result determination unit 612 determines the game result based on the internal lottery result signal output from the internal lottery unit 610 and the symbols visible through the reel windows 200 when the rotation of each reel 20 stops. The game result is determined based on the symbols aligned on the pay line L, depending on whether or not a winning combination has been achieved.

Specifically, if the combination of symbols that have stopped on the pay line L matches a predetermined combination of symbols, it is determined that a winning combination has been achieved. This determination result (an example of information regarding the progress of the game) is sent as a game result determination signal from the game result determination unit 612 to the game value control unit 62, sub-control unit 63, etc.

<Explanation of the setting value control unit 613>
The setting value control unit 613 sets one of a plurality of setting values (for example, 1 to 6) with different degrees of advantage in controlling the progress of the game based on the operation of the setting change button 52 by the store staff. This setting value is set for each slot machine 1. Information on the setting value set by the setting value control unit 613 (setting value signal) can be used by the internal lottery unit 610, the performance control unit 630, etc.

Depending on which setting value is used, at least one of the factors, such as the degree of advantage in game progression, the payout ratio, or the probability of winning a specific minor role such as a bell or watermelon, will differ. For example, the larger the setting value (e.g., the closer it is to 6), the greater the advantage in game progression (e.g., the higher the payout ratio).

The slot machine 1 may further include a setting key. The setting key is a switch key for switching to setting change mode, and is provided inside the cabinet 10. The setting value control unit 613 turns off the setting change mode when store staff turns off the setting key, and turns on the setting change mode when store staff turns on the setting key.

<Game Status Control Unit 615>
The gaming state control unit 615 sets the first gaming state.

Specifically, the gaming state control unit 615 sets the first gaming state to one of the following: special role non-carryover state, bonus internal state, and special role implementation state.

The gaming state control unit 615 sets the first gaming state to a special role non-carryover state, for example, immediately after the RAM of the main control unit 61 is cleared.

If MB is won by the internal lottery, the gaming state control unit 615 sets the first gaming state to the bonus internal state until MB wins in the winning game.

When MB wins in the special role non-carryover state (from this point until MB wins in the game in which MB won, the state remains a bonus internal state), and MB wins in that game, the gaming state control unit 615 transitions the first gaming state from the special role non-carryover state to the special role implementation state.

Furthermore, in the special role implementation state, if a predetermined condition is met (for example, when RAM is initialized) or if more than a predetermined number of game values are paid out, the game state control unit 615 transitions the first game state from the special role implementation state to the special role non-carryover state.

The game status control unit 615 can transmit information about the first game status to the presentation control unit 630, etc., as information about the progress of the game.

<RT State Control Unit 616>
The RT state control unit 616 can proceed with the game using one of the multiple RT states. The multiple RT states each have a predetermined probability (replay probability) that the replay flag will be established as a winning flag, and the RT state control unit 616 can transition the RT state when the RAM is initialized or when a specific combination (e.g., MB, RB) is won or awarded.

Specifically, the RT state control unit 616 progresses the game based on one of the RT states RT0 to RT4. As mentioned above, each RT state has a predetermined transition trigger, and when that transition trigger is met, the RT state control unit 616 transitions the RT state to the corresponding RT state.

In this embodiment, the specifications of the internal lottery process (for example, the internal lottery table that specifies which role flags will be established/are likely to be established) that is executed in response to the game start operation (operation of the lever 42) may differ in each RT state. Therefore, by the RT state control unit 616 controlling the RT state, the internal lottery table used for the internal lottery is changed in various ways, resulting in greater diversity in the game.

In addition, information regarding the RT state (which RT state out of RT0 to RT4 it is) can be used by the internal lottery unit 610, game state control unit 615, presentation control unit 630, etc. as information regarding the progress of the game.

<Error Determination Unit 617>
The error determination unit 617 determines whether or not various errors have occurred, such as a backup abnormality, a communication abnormality between the main control board P1 and the game value control board P2, a connection abnormality between the slot machine 1 and the card unit 7, or reaching the upper limit of the number of credits.

If the error determination unit 617 determines that at least one of these errors has occurred, a command indicating the error that has occurred is sent from the main control unit 61 to each of the game value control unit 62 and the sub-control unit 63 as information regarding the error.

This allows the gaming value control unit 62 to perform processing according to the nature of the error, such as backing up the gaming value being managed, and the sub-control unit 63 to perform processing to notify the LCD screen 3 and speaker 101 of the nature of the error that has occurred.

<Explanation of the gaming value control unit 62>
The gaming value control unit 62 is composed of a microcomputer mounted on the gaming value control board P2 and functions as a media management unit 620.

<Explanation of the Medium Management Unit 620>
The media management unit 620 manages the number of credits and the number of bets of the gaming value.

The media management unit 620 receives an input request (a request to input a predetermined amount of gaming value) or a payout request (a request to pay out a predetermined amount of gaming value) from the main control unit 61 and performs the following processing.

Specifically, when game value is bet based on the player's operation (when a deposit request is made), the media management unit 620 decreases the number of credits (an example of information related to the progress of the game) according to the amount of game value bet, and when game value is credited based on the player's operation, the media management unit 620 increases the number of credits.

In addition, when a winning flag is established by the internal lottery and a winning combination corresponding to the winning flag is achieved based on the player's operation (when a payout request is made), the media management unit 620 increases the number of credits according to the amount of gaming value paid out based on the type of winning combination.

<Description of the sub-control unit 63>
The sub-control unit 63 is implemented on the sub-control board P3 and functions as a performance control unit 630 by operating using a microcomputer or the like.

<Performance control unit 630>
By executing a performance lottery, the performance control unit 630 determines at least one of the following as the performance pattern: a video/still image to be output on the LCD screen 3, a sound pattern to be output from the speaker 101, a light-emitting pattern of the illumination unit 102 such as an LED, or a light-emitting pattern of the performance button 46.

Specifically, the effect control unit 630 selects an effect lottery table based on game progress information (e.g., game status, stay mode) sent from the main control unit 61, and executes the effect lottery using the selected effect lottery table.

In addition, when MB is being executed, the effect control unit 630 executes MB effects using an effect lottery table dedicated to MB.

<MB execution process>
Next, the flow of the MB execution process will be explained in detail using Figure 7. Note that, although the cases where the RAM is initialized and where the setting values are changed are omitted below, the RAM initialization process may be executed at any timing between each process.

First, when the RAM is initialized, the setting value is changed, or the MB becomes full, the RT state control unit 616 sets the RT state to RT0 (step S1).

Next, when the RT state is RT0, the flow branches based on whether MB1 or MB2 was won (step S2).

If neither MB1 nor MB2 is won when the RT state is RT0 (S2: NO), the process repeats step S2.

On the other hand, if MB1 or MB2 is won when the RT state is RT0 (S2: YES), the game state control unit 615 executes a bonus based on the winning MB1 or MB2 (step S3).

Then, during the execution of MB1 or MB2, the flow branches based on whether or not the RB is won (step S4).

If RB is won during the execution of MB1 or MB2 (S4: YES), the game status control unit 616 executes puncture processing for MB1 or MB2 (step S11). Processing then returns to step S1.

On the other hand, if no RB is won during the execution of MB1 or MB2 (S4: NO), the flow branches (step S5) based on whether or not more than a predetermined amount of gaming value was paid out during the execution of MB1 or MB2 (whether or not MB1 or MB2 was completed).

If MB1 or MB2 has not been completed (S5: NO), processing proceeds to step S3.

On the other hand, if MB1 or MB2 has been completed (S5: YES), the RT state control unit 616 transitions the RT state to RT4 upon completion of the MB (step S6).

Next, when the RT state is RT4, the flow branches based on whether MB3 has been won (step S7).

If MB3 is not won when the RT state is RT4 (S7: NO), the process repeats step S7.

On the other hand, if MB3 is won when the RT state is RT4 (S7: YES), the game state control unit 615 executes a bonus based on the winning MB3 (step S8).

Then, during the execution of MB3, the flow branches based on whether or not RB has been won (step S9).

If RB is won during the execution of MB3 (S9: YES), the game status control unit 616 executes puncture processing for MB3 (step S11). Processing then returns to step S1.

On the other hand, if no RB is won during the execution of MB3 (S9: NO), the flow branches (step S10) based on whether or not more than a predetermined amount of gaming value was paid out during the execution of MB3 (whether or not MB3 was completed).

If MB3 has not been completed (S10: NO), processing proceeds to step S8.

On the other hand, if MB3 has been completed (S10: YES), the process proceeds to step S6 (step S1).
The above is the flow of the MB execution process.

To summarize the above, the slot machine 1 of the present invention has the following features:
An internal lottery unit 610 that can execute an internal lottery based on an operation by an operator and determine whether or not at least one of a plurality of roles will be won;
An RT state control unit 616 capable of switching between RT states including RT0 (an example of a first RT state) and RT4 (an example of a second RT state);
Equipped with
The role includes a bonus MB,
If RB (an example of a predetermined role) has not been won even once (an example of a predetermined number of times) by the internal lottery until the end of MB, the RT state control unit 616 will transition the RT state to RT4, which makes it easier to win MB than RT0.
At least MB1 and MB2 that can be won in RT0 are prepared for MB.
The probability of winning RB during MB execution is different between MB1 and MB2.

<Effects of the invention>
Conventionally, gaming machines have been known that are equipped with a feature whereby, if a predetermined role is won while a bonus (for example, a role continuous operation device for a second-class special role) is in operation, the role continuous operation device for a second-class special role ends and returns to its normal state (a so-called breakdown of the role continuous operation device for a second-class special role).

On the other hand, in conventional gaming machines, if the continuous operation device for the second-class special feature ends without a predetermined combination being won, the continuous operation device for the second-class special feature will not jam and will transition to a more advantageous state than the normal state.

However, conventional gaming machines only provide gameplay in which a predetermined role is won while the continuous device for operating the special feature associated with the second-class special feature is in operation, and the question is whether the continuous device for operating the special feature associated with the second-class special feature will jam. Therefore, it is difficult to say that such gaming machines provide interesting gameplay.

In contrast, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the probability of winning an RB during MB execution differs between MB1 and MB2. Also, if no RB is won by internal lottery during MB execution based on winning MB1 or MB2, after the MB ends, the RT state control unit 616 transitions the RT state to RT4, which makes it easier to win a bonus (MB3) than RT0.

As a result, the expected probability of moving on to RT4 (probability of winning an RB) differs depending on whether MB1 or MB2 wins in RT0. Therefore, the degree of advantage in the game differs depending on which MB wins, MB1 or MB2, so players will be nervous and excited as they play the MB.

In this way, this embodiment can provide an exciting gaming machine that uses bonuses.

Other Embodiments
The various control means and processing procedures described in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses. The various control means and processing procedures can be appropriately modified in design without changing the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the various control means, processing procedures, and processing contents described in each embodiment can be configured individually or combined as appropriate.

Furthermore, the various definitions used in this specification are commonly used throughout the specification unless otherwise specified in each example.

Although not described in the above embodiment, it is also possible to control the fluctuations in ball output by changing the probability of winning a small feature, such as a common bell, which has a payout number greater than the number of game value bets, between RT0 and RT4. In this case, for example, the probability of winning a small feature in RT0 can be made greater than the probability of winning a small feature in RT4. By doing this, it is possible to increase the ball output rate in RT0, where a long stay is expected, while lowering the ball output rate in RT4, where a transition to RT3 is confirmed, thereby increasing the expectation of ball output in RT3. Furthermore, it is also possible to make the probability of winning a small feature in RT4 greater than the probability of winning a small feature in RT0.

Furthermore, the payout rates may be the same or different in RT1 to RT3. For example, since the MB blowout rate in RT1 is higher than the MB blowout rate in RT2 and RT3, it may be easier to win small prizes in RT1 than in RT2, etc. Since the MB blowout rate in RT2, etc. is lower than the MB blowout rate in RT1, it may be harder to win small prizes in RT2, etc. than in RT1. By doing this, it is possible to equalize the expected payout values between RT1, RT2, and RT3.

In addition to RT0 to RT4 in the above embodiment, an RT5 may be provided, which is entered when special conditions are met. This RT5 may have a payout rate equivalent to a set value of 6, for example. Furthermore, once the RT state has entered RT5, the RT state control unit may keep the RT state in RT5 until a specified number of games have been played or the set value is changed.

In addition, without being limited to the above embodiment, the MB may not be an automatic JAC-in type role, and if the MB is won, the player may be able to line up the symbols to win the MB. This means that if the player intentionally presses the buttons in a way that does not result in the symbols lining up, the MB can be prevented from winning, and the game can be played within the MB. By making the gameplay within the MB different from when the MB is won or when the MB is not won, it is possible to provide a more exciting game.

In the above embodiment, an example is described in which the RT state transitions to RT4 if a predetermined combination is not "won" even once during the operation of a bonus based on a bonus win, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the RT state may transition to RT4 if a predetermined combination is not "won" even once during the operation of a bonus. In this case, unlike the above embodiment, the RB is not an automatic JAC-in type combination, and if the RB wins during the execution of the MB, the player may be able to prevent the RB from winning (to remove the MB break) by pressing the button at the right time.

Furthermore, without being limited to the above embodiment, in RT4, MB1 and MB2 may be awarded in addition to MB3. By doing this, even if the RT state transitions to RT4, there is a possibility that the RT state will transition to RT1 or RT2, and it will not necessarily transition to RT3, allowing players to experience an even more thrilling feeling.

Furthermore, without being limited to the above embodiment, the predetermined number of times may be two or more times instead of one. In this case, for example, if the RB is won three times during the execution of the MB, the MB may crash.

Furthermore, the number of MBs or RTs is not limited to the above and may be set as appropriate. In this case, a special RT may be set in addition to RT4, with the number of MBs set to MB1 to MB3 allocated to it.

In addition, while the above embodiment describes an example in which the slot machine is a medal-less machine, the present invention is not limited to this. The slot machine may be equipped with, for example, a medal insertion slot, a hopper unit, a medal payout slot, a bottom tray, etc., so that medals, which are real items, can be used in games.

In addition, while the above embodiment describes an example in which the bonus is a device for continuously operating a special feature (MB) associated with a second-class special feature, the present disclosure is not limited to this. The bonus may also be a device for continuously operating a special feature (Type 1 BB) associated with a first-class special feature. In this case, the predetermined feature may also be RB.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the predetermined combination was a RB, which is a first-class special combination, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. The predetermined combination may be, for example, a single bonus (SIN). Note that if this single bonus is won, a JAC game (a game in which the probability of winning a small combination varies) will be played in only the next game.

In addition, in the above embodiment, an example is described in which the slot machine is a gaming machine that earns balls through a bonus (MB), but it may also be a slot machine that can execute both a bonus (MB) and an AT (or ART).

Furthermore, while the above embodiment describes a slot machine that does not have a play zone, advantageous zone difference number, range (MY), complete function, etc., the configuration of the present disclosure may also be applied to a slot machine that has a play zone, etc.

1. Slot machine (gaming machine)
61 Main control unit 610 Internal lottery unit 611 Rotation reel control unit 612 Game result determination unit 613 Setting value control unit 615 Game status control unit 616 RT status control unit 617 Error determination unit 62 Game value control unit 620 Media management unit 63 Sub control unit 630 Presentation control unit

Claims (5)

An internal lottery unit that executes an internal lottery based on an operation by an operator and determines whether or not at least one of a plurality of roles is to be won;
An RT state control unit capable of switching between RT states including a first RT state and a second RT state;
Equipped with
The role includes a bonus,
The RT state control unit, when a predetermined combination is not won or awarded a predetermined number of times by the internal lottery during the operation of the bonus, transitions the RT state to the second RT state in which the bonus is more likely to be won than in the first RT state,
The bonuses include at least a first bonus and a second bonus that can be won in the first RT state,
The first bonus and the second bonus have different winning probabilities for the predetermined combination during the operation of the bonus,
The bonuses include a third bonus,
The third bonus may be won in the second RT state, but may not be won in the first RT state.
Gaming machine. An internal lottery unit that executes an internal lottery based on an operation by an operator and determines whether or not at least one of a plurality of roles is to be won;
An RT state control unit capable of switching between RT states including a first RT state and a second RT state;
Equipped with
The role includes a bonus,
The RT state control unit, when a predetermined combination is not won or awarded a predetermined number of times by the internal lottery during the operation of the bonus, transitions the RT state to the second RT state in which the bonus is more likely to be won than in the first RT state,
The bonuses include at least a first bonus and a second bonus that can be won in the first RT state,
The first bonus and the second bonus have different winning probabilities for the predetermined combination during the operation of the bonus,
In the second RT state, the first bonus and the second bonus are not won.
Gaming machine. An internal lottery unit that executes an internal lottery based on an operation by an operator and determines whether or not at least one of a plurality of roles is to be won;
An RT state control unit capable of switching between RT states including a first RT state and a second RT state;
Equipped with
The role includes a bonus,
The RT state control unit, when a predetermined combination is not won or awarded a predetermined number of times by the internal lottery during the operation of the bonus, transitions the RT state to the second RT state in which the bonus is more likely to be won than in the first RT state,
The bonuses include at least a first bonus and a second bonus that can be won in the first RT state,
The first bonus and the second bonus have different winning probabilities for the predetermined combination during the operation of the bonus,
In the first RT state, the winning probability of the first bonus is different from the winning probability of the second bonus.
Gaming machine. An internal lottery unit that executes an internal lottery based on an operation by an operator and determines whether or not at least one of a plurality of roles is to be won;
An RT state control unit capable of switching between RT states including a first RT state and a second RT state;
Equipped with
The role includes a bonus,
The RT state control unit, when a predetermined combination is not won or awarded a predetermined number of times by the internal lottery during the operation of the bonus, transitions the RT state to the second RT state in which the bonus is more likely to be won than in the first RT state,
The bonuses include at least a first bonus and a second bonus that can be won in the first RT state,
The first bonus and the second bonus have different winning probabilities for the predetermined combination during the operation of the bonus,
The bonus further includes a third bonus that can be won in the second RT state,
The probability of winning the third bonus in the second RT state is higher than the probability of winning the first bonus in the first RT state, and is also higher than the probability of winning the second bonus.
Gaming machine. An internal lottery unit that executes an internal lottery based on an operation by an operator and determines whether or not at least one of a plurality of roles is to be won;
An RT state control unit capable of switching between RT states including a first RT state and a second RT state;
Equipped with
The role includes a bonus,
The RT state control unit, when a predetermined combination is not won or awarded a predetermined number of times by the internal lottery during the operation of the bonus, transitions the RT state to the second RT state in which the bonus is more likely to be won than in the first RT state,
The bonuses include at least a first bonus and a second bonus that can be won in the first RT state,
The first bonus and the second bonus have different winning probabilities for the predetermined combination during the operation of the bonus,
The bonus further includes a third bonus that can be won in the second RT state,
The probability of winning the third bonus in the second RT state is higher than the sum of the probability of winning the first bonus and the probability of winning the second bonus in the first RT state.
Gaming machine.