Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of improving amusement properties of a game when stocks obtained in a normal time are carried over to a plurality of game states.SOLUTION: A game machine capable of generating a general normal state in which a degree of expectation for a shift to an AT state is low and a special normal state in which a degree of expectation for a shift is high includes: specific right imparting means for imparting a specific right which is a right to generate a pseudo bonus; and storage means for storing the specific right imparted by the specific right imparting means. In the special normal state, a plurality of specific rights are stored. When the shift to the pseudo bonus is determined, one specific right of the plurality of specific rights is consumed, and the other specific rights are carried over without being consumed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, gaming machines have been proposed that allow common stocks (rights) acquired in a normal stage to be carried over to subsequent stages (game states) and consumed in other game states (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). Such gaming machines can prevent a decline in interest in gaming due to the disappearance of stocks as the stage transitions. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-198898 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned conventional gaming machines, the consumption of stocks differs between each gaming state, which poses a problem that the player may not be able to grasp the benefits of carrying over stocks.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and aims to provide a gaming machine that can increase gaming interest when stocks acquired during normal play are carried over to multiple game states. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The gaming machine of the present invention is a gaming machine capable of generating a normal state with a low expectation of winning and a special state with a higher expectation of winning than the normal state. The normal state includes a general normal state with a low expectation of transition to a special state and a special normal state with a high expectation of transition. Furthermore, as special states, it is possible to generate a general special state that continues for a predetermined number of special games and a return special state to which a transition is made when the number of special games has been played.

[0007] In the gaming machine of the present invention, a specific right to generate a general special state is granted and stored by a specific right granting means. In this gaming machine, a special normal lottery is executed to determine whether or not to transition to a general special state in a special normal state, and a return special lottery is executed to determine whether or not to transition to a general special state in a return special state. When a transition to the general special state is determined by the special normal lottery or the return special lottery, a transition to the general special state occurs.

[0008] The special right granting means can set conditions corresponding to each special right. In the special normal lottery and the return special lottery, if the conditions set by the special right granting means are met, a transition to the general special state is determined. In the gaming machine of the present invention, if multiple special rights are stored in the special normal state or the return special state and a transition to the general special state is determined, one of the multiple special rights is consumed, and the other special rights are carried over without being consumed.

[0009] In this way, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when a special right is consumed in the special normal state or the return special state to transition to the general special state, if multiple special rights are stored, the special rights other than the consumed special right can be carried over to the general special state. This gaming machine can provide the player with a sense of security that the special rights common to each game state can be carried over, which is expected to increase the player's interest in the game. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] An explanatory diagram of the gaming state in a non-bonus state. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the slot machine and the card unit. [Figure 3] A diagram of the patterns arranged around the outer periphery of the reels. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the slot machine and the card unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing slot machine winning combinations and winning symbols. [Figure 6] An explanatory diagram showing the number of internal winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role lottery table (for example, setting 1). [Figure 7] 10 is a diagram showing transitions of game states in a slot machine. [Figure 8] A figure showing an example of a display screen for stock and CB game numbers. [Figure 9] An explanatory diagram of points that can be earned through the point winning lottery. [Figure 10] An explanatory diagram of the lottery probabilities for the winning point lottery at the start of the CZ. [Figure 11] An explanatory diagram of the winning probability of the pseudo bonus lottery when the winning points are 10 points. [Figure 12] An explanatory diagram of the lottery probability for the CB game number acquisition lottery. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described using the following examples. (Example) This example is an example of a slot machine 1 that can generate two non-bonus states: a normal state in which the probability of winning is low, and an AT state (an example of a special state, hereinafter referred to as AT) in which the probability of winning is increased by push order navigation. This content will be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 12.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the normal state of the slot machine (gaming machine) 1 of this example is divided into a general normal state and a chance zone (hereinafter referred to as CZ). The CZ is a special normal state with different gameplay. Furthermore, as AT, a pseudo-bonus state (hereinafter referred to as pseudo-bonus), which is a general special state to which the player transitions in response to a win under the normal state, and a challenge battle (hereinafter referred to as CB), which is a return special state to which the player transitions in response to the end of the pseudo-bonus, may occur. In the following explanation, the general normal state will be simply referred to as normal time to distinguish it from the CZ.

[0013] The slot machine 1 (Fig. 2) is a gaming machine that is played with points awarded from a separately installed card unit 3. The slot machine 1 is connected to the card unit 3 via a dedicated interface so that it can communicate with the card unit 3. Below, we will explain (A) the configuration of the slot machine and the card unit, (B) an overview of the gameplay of the slot machine, and (C) the distinctive gameplay of the slot machine, in that order.

[0014] (A) Configuration of the slot machine and card unit The external configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. The front portion of the slot machine 1 is composed of a front frame 10 having a substantially rectangular symbol display window 11 disposed approximately in the center. In the front frame 10, an effect display unit 12 is disposed above the symbol display window 11, and a base unit 100 is disposed below the symbol display window 11. The effect display unit 12 displays effect images such as animations and photographs to enhance the game. A speaker (not shown in FIG. 2) for effect purposes is housed on the back side of the front frame 10. A canopy-shaped protrusion 105 is disposed at the top of the slot machine 1, and a decorative lamp 106 is disposed in front of the protrusion 105. The decorative lamp 106 enhances the game with light.

[0015] The base unit 100 is formed to protrude opposite the symbol display window 11, which is positioned away from the player. The base unit 100 has a shelf-like operation surface 14 at its upper end adjacent to the symbol display window 11, and has an operation panel 13 adjacent to the lower side of the operation surface 14. The operation surface 14 is provided with a bet button 141 for placing a bet on a game (playing points), an effect button 143, etc., and is also provided with an information display unit 140. The operation panel 13 is provided with a start lever 131 (start switch) for starting the movement of symbols on the reels 21, and a stop button 133 for stopping the movement of symbols.

[0016] The information display unit 140 can display the cumulative gaming points, such as gaming points based on the scores received from the card unit 3 and gaming points based on the scores awarded in response to winning combinations. The gaming points displayed by the information display unit 140 are subtracted each time gaming points are bet on the game, and are added in response to winning combinations. In the slot machine 1, the game can be played until the gaming points reach zero.

[0017] The information display unit 140 is made up of a touch panel type liquid crystal display, and various touch operations such as information display operations and counting operations are possible. Depending on the information display operations, it is possible to switch between display screens showing various game data such as the number of jackpots and the number of games played. By using the counting operation, it is possible to transfer the game points stored as credits in the slot machine 1 to the card unit 3.

[0018] The bet button 141 is an operation button for a bet operation to bet game points on a game. In response to the bet operation, a specified number of game points (3 points in this example) are bet from the game points stored in the slot machine 1, and the game can be started. The start lever 131 is an operation switch (start switch) for a start operation to start the game. When a start operation is detected with the specified number of game points bet, the game starts. The effect button 143 is an operation button for starting various effects.

[0019] The symbol display window 11 is a display window in which three vertically long symbol display areas are arranged side by side. Each symbol display area is a symbol display area for three symbols. The entire symbol display window 11 displays nine symbols arranged in a two-dimensional matrix of three rows and three columns.

[0020] Reels 21 constituting the variable symbol display means are disposed on the rear side of the three symbol display areas. Reels 21L, 21C, and 21R are cylindrical rotating reels. As shown in FIG. 3, which shows the cylindrical outer peripheral surface developed in a plane, 20 symbols are disposed at approximately regular intervals on the outer peripheral surface of reels 21L, 21C, and 21R. Note that instead of the rotating reel of this example, an image-type reel that displays variable symbols on a liquid crystal display can also be used as reel 21.

[0021] In the symbol display window 11, in which nine symbols 27 are arranged across three rows and three columns, there are set up prize lines, which are the direction in which the winning symbols that are eligible for winning are lined up. The prize lines are made up of five lines, consisting of the top, middle and bottom horizontal prize lines and the diagonal prize lines.

[0022] In the slot machine 1, a stop button 133 is provided for each of the reels 21L, 21C, and 21R. A left stop button 133L corresponding to the left reel 21L, a center stop button 133C corresponding to the center reel 21C, and a right stop button 133R corresponding to the right reel 21R are provided.

[0023] Next, the card unit 3 (FIG. 2) attached to the slot machine 1 is a gaming device installed separately from the slot machine 1. The card unit 3 is installed, for example, in the vertically long gap between the corresponding slot machine 1 and the adjacent slot machine 1. The card unit 3 executes score-related processes, such as the process of awarding points using an awarding function (lending function) and the process of issuing a gaming card 50C recording points (scores). Points are gaming value that become the right when betting gaming points on a game. The card unit 3 receives various gaming information from the corresponding slot machine 1 and outputs the various gaming information to an in-game management device (not shown) or the like.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the front of the card unit 3 is provided with a status indicator lamp 31 that displays the operating status of the device, such as an error, a bill insertion slot 320, a touch-operable display unit 33, an add button 34 for receiving points (loan) in exchange for withdrawing payment, a replay button 35 for converting the counted points into game points, a return button 36 for requesting the return of the game card 50C, and a card insertion slot 370 for inserting the game card 50C.

[0025] Next, the electrical configuration of the slot machine 1 and the card unit 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. In addition to the components already mentioned, the main control unit 20, which controls the overall operation of the slot machine 1, is connected to a reel drive unit 211 which, together with the reels 21, constitutes a variable symbol display means, a reference position detection unit 213 which detects the rotation position of the reels 21, a touch panel 140P, an effect control unit 25 which controls various effects, and the like. Furthermore, an interface circuit (I / F) 200 which mediates communication with the card unit 3 is connected to the main control unit 20.

[0026] 4, the main control unit 20 has a CPU, ROM and RAM as memory means, an I / O unit as an input / output interface, a random number generation unit that generates random numbers, and a random number extraction unit that extracts random numbers for internal winning combination lottery. The CPU executes software programs read from the ROM to realize various functions described below.

[0027] The reel driving unit 211 includes a stepping motor (not shown) that can be controlled in steps, and drives the reel 21 to rotate by the rotational driving force of this stepping motor. The reference position detection unit 213 detects the passage of the reference position piece for each of the reels 21L, 21C, and 21R, and outputs a detection signal. The touch panel 140P is a transparent sheet that is laminated on the display screen of the information display unit 140 and that realizes a touch function.

[0028] The performance control unit 25 is connected to an audio output unit 260 that drives the speaker 26, a decorative lamp 106, a display control unit 120 that controls the performance display unit 12, and the like. The performance control unit 25, which is a performance control means, performs various performances using the speaker 26 and the decorative lamp 106, and also performs game performances by displaying performance videos and photos on the performance display unit 12. Sound, music, etc. are output from the speaker 26. The decorative lamp 106 performs performances using light.

[0029] Like the main control unit 20, the performance control unit 25 is equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. (not shown). The performance control unit 25 realizes various functions by having the CPU execute software programs read from the ROM. In particular, the performance control unit 25 functions as a lottery means that executes various lotteries for performances. Each lottery is executed using random numbers generated by the performance control unit 25. The performance control unit 25 functions as a lottery means, such as a special normal lottery means and a special return lottery means. The lotteries executed by the performance control unit 25 as lottery means include, for example, the following lotteries.

[0030] (1) Pseudo bonus lottery: A lottery for transitioning to a pseudo bonus (pseudo bonus state, general special state). Pseudo bonus lotteries include special normal lotteries and special return lotteries. Special normal lotteries are pseudo bonus lotteries that are executed in the CZ (normal state), which is a non-AT state. Special normal lotteries are a type of AT lottery and are sometimes referred to as AT lottery during CZ. Special return lotteries are pseudo bonus lotteries that are executed by special return lottery means in each game of the CB. In addition, AT lotteries during normal times (sometimes referred to as AT lottery during normal times) are also a type of pseudo bonus lottery that is a lottery for transitioning to a pseudo bonus. (2) CZ lottery: A lottery to transition from the general normal state to CZ (an example of a special normal state). (3) Stock Acquisition Lottery: A lottery to acquire stocks (specific rights), which are the rights to move from CZ or CB to pseudo bonus. The stock acquisition lottery is held during normal times and pseudo bonuses. (4) Winning Points Lottery: A lottery to determine the winning points, which are the number of points required to win the pseudo-bonus lottery. This is held at the start of the CZ and the start of the CB. (5) Point Winning Lottery: A lottery to win points. This is held at each CZ game. (6) CB Game Number Acquisition Lottery: A lottery to acquire the number of CB continuation games (the CB game number, which is an example of the number of return games). This is carried out in each game during the pseudo bonus.

[0031] The performance control unit 25 has the functions of the following means in addition to the function as a lottery means. (1) Specific right granting means: A means that can grant stocks (specific rights), which are rights to generate pseudo-bonuses (general special states). (2) Storage means: A means capable of storing the stock granted by the specific right granting means. (3) General special state transition means: A means for transitioning to a pseudo bonus (general special state) when it is determined that a transition to a pseudo bonus will occur by a special normal lottery (special normal lottery means) or a return special lottery (return special lottery means). The transition to a pseudo bonus triggered by the above-mentioned normal time AT lottery is also executed by the general special state transition means.

[0032] The main control unit 20 has the functions of the following means. (4) Game start permission means: A means for permitting the start of a game when a specified number of game points have been bet on the game. (5) Internal lottery means: means for determining an internal winning role by internal lottery and for setting an internal winning flag corresponding to the internal winning role. (6) Flag control means: means for controlling an internal winning flag corresponding to an internal winning role. (7) Reel control means: means for controlling the reel 21. (8) Winning determination means: means for determining whether or not the combination of symbols 27 stopped along the winning line is a winning symbol. (9) Profit awarding means: A means for awarding points according to the winning of a small role or a replay role. When a replay role is won, the points required for a unit game are awarded, and the points are immediately bet. (10) Bonus generating means: A means for generating a bonus state, such as a big bonus (BB state) or a regular bonus (RB state), depending on the winning of the BB role or the RB role.

[0033] The ROM of the main control unit 20 stores, in addition to the program, an internal win combination lottery table used for lottery-drawing an internal win combination, and a reel control table used for controlling the stop of the reels 21. The reel control table is a data table that defines the possible stopping positions on the pay line.

[0034] The internal winning role lottery table is a data table that specifies the winning random number for each role among the random numbers for internal winning role lottery from 0 to 65535. The internal winning role lottery table includes a table that is applied in the normal state and a table that is applied in the bonus state (BB state, RB state).

[0035] In this example, the slot machine 1 is configured with minor winning combinations such as 1-point, 2-point, and 15-point combinations, two types of bonus combinations (BB and RB combinations), a replay combination, and a pseudo-bonus combination, as shown in FIG. 5. The winning combinations are defined as follows: BB winning combination, RB winning combination, 1-point winning combination, 15-point winning combination, 2-point winning combination, a replay combination, and a pseudo-bonus combination. The slot machine 1 awards points corresponding to the winning combination of a minor winning combination, and generates a corresponding bonus state corresponding to the winning combination of a BB combination or an RB combination. Furthermore, a pseudo-bonus combination, which is an example of a general special state, is generated in response to the winning combination of a pseudo-bonus combination. Each combination becomes eligible for a win if the internal winning combination is selected (internal win), and a win occurs when the corresponding winning combination stops on a winning line.

[0036] In this example, the 15-point role, which is won simultaneously with the 1-point role under normal conditions, is a push-order role in which the push order is announced during AT (special state). The 15-point role, which is a push-order role, can be won on the condition that the stop button 133 is operated according to the announced push order. Also, in the slot machine 1 of this example, the 2-point role is a rare minor role. Various lotteries are held depending on the formation of the 2-point role, and special situations occur depending on the win. The formation of the internal winning flag of the role is also referred to as "the role being formed."

[0037] The number of winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role lottery table for the normal state and the internal winning role lottery table for the bonus state differs depending on the gaming machine setting (one of settings 1 to 6). For example, in setting 1, the number of winning random numbers in the normal state and the bonus state is set as shown in Figure 6. In the figure, each number in the column headed "Normal State" indicates the number of winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role lottery table for the normal state. Each number in the column headed "During Bonus" indicates the number of winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role lottery table for the bonus state. All winning random numbers for the 15-point role, which is a push-order role, are simultaneously won with a 1-point role. Therefore, the figure does not show the number of winning random numbers for the 15-point role alone, but only the numbers of winning random numbers for the 15-point role and the 1-point role at the same time.

[0038] For example, in slot machine 1 with setting 1, the number of random numbers that can win simultaneously with a 15-point role and a 1-point role in the internal winning role lottery table for normal operation is 32,768 (see Figure 6). As mentioned above, the random number acquisition range is 0 to 65,535, so the probability of winning simultaneously with a 15-point role and a 1-point role under normal operation is nearly 50%. However, even if a 15-point role and a 1-point role are won simultaneously in a non-AT state where there is no notification of the button press order, it is not easy to win the 15-point role with a predetermined button press order, and in most cases, the 1-point role wins.

[0039] Next, the configuration of the card unit 3 will be described. The card unit 3 is configured around the control unit 30 (see FIG. 4). In addition to the above configuration, the control unit 30 is connected to a banknote processing unit 321, a touch panel 33P, a card stock unit 37S, a card R / W unit 37, an I / F unit 300 that enables communication with the relay device 501, and the like. The banknote processing unit 321 processes banknotes inserted through the banknote insertion slot 320. The touch panel 33P is a transparent panel that enables touch operation of the display unit 33. The card stock unit 37S is configured to store newly issued gaming cards 50C (see FIG. 2) and collected gaming cards 50C, up to a maximum of 10 cards. The card R / W unit 37 is a reader / writer that reads and writes recorded data on the gaming cards 50C.

[0040] The gaming cards 50C handled by the card unit 3 include general cards for general players and membership cards for member players. General cards are gaming cards for general players, and are issued when a player finishes playing with a deposited balance and points. Membership cards are gaming cards issued in response to membership registration at an amusement facility. With a membership card, for example, a points accumulation service can be used, in which points accumulated from the previous day or earlier are deposited with the amusement facility as accumulated points. The accumulated points are stored in an in-game management device (not shown) in association with the card ID of the membership card.

[0041] To start playing with the slot machine 1 configured as described above, a player must operate the card unit 3 to receive points. To receive points, the player must insert a bill into the card unit 3 or insert a gaming card 50C. When the card unit 3 accepts a bill, it adds the amount of the bill to the deposit balance (up to 10,000 yen) and stores the amount. When the gaming card 50C is inserted, the card unit 3 requests the in-game management device to verify the card information recorded on the gaming card 50C, such as the deposit balance, the number of points held, and the number of saved points. If the verification result is OK, the card unit 3 displays the card information, such as the deposit balance, the number of points held, and the number of saved points, on the display unit 33. The number of points held is the number of points the player has already earned. The number of saved points is the number of points the player has earned or saved on the previous day or earlier and deposited with the gaming parlor. As described above, the point-saving service is a service for members. Therefore, the number of saved points is associated only with the membership card.

[0042] The card unit 3 converts the player's deposit balance, points, etc. into points in response to a player's request, such as by operating the award button 34, and transmits the converted points to the corresponding slot machine 1. For example, when the award button 34 is operated, the points are converted into points (50 points) in increments of a fixed amount (e.g., 1,000 yen) and transmitted to the slot machine 1. The slot machine 1 then credits (stores) the received points as game points. For example, when the replay button 35 is operated, the points are converted into game points in increments of 50 points and transmitted to the slot machine 1, enabling a replay (replay process). The awarded game points are displayed as credits on the information display unit 140. The player can use the game points equal to the credits in the game.

[0043] The card unit 3 stores and displays points such as the number of points owned, the number of game points, and the total number of points which is the sum of the number of points owned and the number of game points. The number of points owned is the number of points that the player has already acquired, which is stored in the card unit 3. The number of game points is the number of points that is stored as credits by the slot machine 1.

[0044] In the slot machine 1, when three or more game points are credited (stored) and the bet button 141 is operated (betting operation), three points are bet and the start of the game (unit game) is permitted. If the start of the game is permitted, the start lever 131 can be validly operated (start operation) and the game can be started. Note that when a replay winning combination is detected, the main control unit 20 automatically bets game points on the next game without consuming the credited game points and even if a betting operation is not performed.

[0045] When the main control unit 20 detects a valid start operation, it acquires a random number for lottery of an internal winning role extracted by the random number extraction unit from among the random numbers (0 to 65535) generated by the random number generation unit. The main control unit 20 compares the random number for lottery of an internal winning role with the winning random numbers of each role defined in the internal winning role lottery table, and determines the internal winning role.

[0046] The result of the internal lottery in the main control unit 20 is transmitted to the performance control unit 25. The performance control unit 25 stores various performance controls according to the result of the internal lottery. The performance control unit 25 selects and executes the performance control corresponding to the result of the internal lottery received from the main control unit 20 from the various stored performance controls. The performance control includes various types of lotteries. The performance control unit 25 executes various types of lotteries according to an internal win, for example, a rare minor role such as a two-point role.

[0047] When the main control unit 20 determines any role as an internal win role, it switches the internal win flag corresponding to that internal win role to the ON state. Internal win flags for roles other than the bonus roles (BB role, RB role) are reset to the OFF state (zero) before the start of the next game, regardless of whether or not a prize was won in the game in which the internal win flag was first established. Therefore, if no prize was won in the game in which each role other than the bonus role was internally won, all of the prizes will be lost. On the other hand, the internal win flag for the bonus role, which is the internal win flag for the bonus role, is carried over to the next game in the established state (ON state) until a prize is won, and is reset to the OFF state in response to a prize. With this control, once a bonus role is established (internal win), a prize is guaranteed.

[0048] Following the internal lottery, the main control unit 20 starts the variation of the symbols on the reels 21. The main control unit 20 inputs control pulses to the stepping motor that constitutes the reel drive unit 211, and rotates the stepping motor one step per pulse, thereby rotating the reels 21. The main control unit 20 counts the number of control pulses input to the reel drive unit 211, i.e., the number of steps rotated by the stepping motor. Note that the number of steps is reset to zero each time a detection signal is acquired for the reference position piece of each reel 21, so it is the number of steps that have occurred since the most recent detection signal was generated.

[0049] The main control unit 20 executes so-called pull-in control, which stops symbols within a predetermined pull-in range defined by rules (rules regarding the certification and type inspection of gaming machines, etc.) on a winning line. In this example, a range equivalent to four symbols is set as this pull-in range. The main control unit 20 determines the stop position by sampling the number of steps when it detects a variable stop signal in response to the operation of the stop button 133. The stop position is determined by comparing the sampled number of steps with a reel control table (not shown) that defines the possible stop positions on the winning line. If possible, the main control unit 20 pulls in a symbol corresponding to the internal win flag to that stop position and stops the reel 21.

[0050] After all the reels 21 have stopped, the main control unit 20 determines whether the combination of symbols 27 that have stopped and been displayed along a winning line that has been set to cross the three reels 21L, C, and R is a predetermined winning symbol. Specifically, the main control unit 20 identifies the type of symbols 27 that have stopped on the winning line based on the number of steps of the stepping motors (reel drive units 211) of the stopped reels 21L, C, and R, and determines whether the combination of symbols 27 will result in a winning combination.

[0051] When the main control unit 20 determines that any winning combination has been achieved, it awards a benefit corresponding to that winning combination. For example, if a 2-point combination is the winning combination, it awards 2 points. When a BB combination is achieved, the main control unit 20 generates a BB state, which is a bonus state, as the benefit. When an RB combination is achieved, the main control unit 20 generates an RB state, which is a bonus state, as the benefit.

[0052] The end condition for the bonus state is determined depending on whether the winning combination that triggered it was the BB combination or the RB combination. The end condition for the bonus state triggered by the BB combination is that a predetermined number of points have been awarded. The end condition for the bonus state triggered by the RB combination is that a predetermined number of games have been played, or that a specific winning combination (hereinafter referred to as a minor combination) has been won a predetermined number of times.

[0053] The points acquired during play on the slot machine 1 are added to the credit amount and displayed on the information display unit 140. During play, various game data (number of jackpots, number of games played, etc.) can be displayed on the information display unit 140 in accordance with the information display operation on the information display unit 140.

[0054] During a game, the main control unit 20 transmits various game signals indicating the results of the game to the card unit 3 as needed. Game signals transmitted to the card unit 3 include, for example, an out signal, a safe signal, a bonus signal, etc. An out signal is a signal indicating the consumption of game points, and is output in response to a bet operation of game points. An out signal is score subtraction information. A safe signal is a signal indicating the points awarded as a result of a game. A safe signal is score addition information. A bonus signal is a signal output when a bonus state (BB state, RB state) is occurring.

[0055] The card unit 3 aggregates the various game signals received from the corresponding slot machine 1 to generate and store game information, and also transmits the game information to an in-game management device (not shown) or the like as needed. The card unit 3 also updates the stored score in response to score addition and subtraction information received from the corresponding slot machine 1. The card unit 3 transmits information on the player's deposit balance and score to the in-game management device as needed.

[0056] When the game on the slot machine 1 is finished, the credited game points can be transmitted to the card unit 3 by performing a counting operation on the touch-operable information display unit 140. The credit number of the slot machine 1 is subtracted in accordance with the transmission of the game points to the card unit 3.

[0057] When the return button 36 is operated while at least one of the deposit balance, the number of points held, and the number of saved points exists in the card unit 3, the deposit balance, the number of points held, and the number of saved points are recorded on the gaming card 50C and issued. When the number of points held and the number of saved points are recorded on the gaming card 50C, the type information of the gaming machine on which the points were acquired is recorded in association with the card.

[0058] (B) Overview of slot machine gameplay The gaming states of the slot machine 1 are composed of a normal state, a bonus state, and a special state, as shown in Figure 7. The special state is a so-called AT, in which when a 15-point combination is achieved, the gaming machine will give a push order suggestion (hereinafter referred to as "navigation") with a high probability. In the slot machine 1, the bonus state and the AT are advantageous gaming states.

[0059] In the normal state, which is not an AT state, the player plays with the aim of entering the bonus state or AT (an example of a special state). In the normal state, the player stays in one of two states: "normal time (general normal state)" and "CZ (special normal state)." CZ is a gaming state in which the chance of winning the AT lottery is high and the gameplay is different from normal time. In the normal state, the player generally stays in the general normal state and enters normal time. Normal time (general normal state) is the state with the lowest chance of winning the AT, and is the gaming state that is most disadvantageous to the player.

[0060] If you win the CZ lottery, which is executed when a so-called rare small win such as a 2-point combination is formed, you can transition to the CZ. After winning, you may transition to the CZ in the next game, or in the winning game, or after a predetermined number of games (so-called premonition games) have been played after winning. Similarly, if you win the AT during normal play, you may transition to the AT in the next game after winning, or in the winning game, or after the premonition games have been played.

[0061] When you move to the CZ, an AT lottery is held, and if you win the AT lottery, you can move to the AT. On the other hand, if you do not win the AT lottery during the CZ, you will move to normal time. The gameplay of the CZ will be explained in detail later.

[0062] If you win the AT lottery, you will enter a pseudo-bonus (general special state, AT). In the pseudo-bonus, the AT continues for a predetermined number of games (for example, 20 games, or the number of special games). As mentioned above, the AT is a state in which there is a high probability of a navigation occurring when a 15-point role is formed, so there is a high probability of a 15-point role being won.

[0063] The pseudo-bonus ends when a predetermined number of games have been played. When the pseudo-bonus ends, the game transitions to the special return state, CB (Challenge Battle). The number of CB games (hereinafter referred to as the CB game number, an example of the return game number) is determined by a CB game number lottery held during the pseudo-bonus.

[0064] The CB will continue up to the number of CB games acquired during the pseudo bonus. If the return conditions (winning the special return lottery, winning the pseudo bonus) are met during the CB, you can transition (return) to the pseudo bonus. On the other hand, if the number of CB games is consumed without the return conditions being met during the CB, the game will transition to normal time, which is the general normal state.

[0065] In addition, when playing the slot machine 1, a bonus lottery is executed in both the normal state and the AT state. The AT lottery is also executed during the bonus state, and if the AT lottery is won, the player can move on to the pseudo bonus after the bonus state ends. In the slot machine 1 of this example, a so-called ceiling game number is set. If the AT lottery is not won until the predetermined ceiling game number is consumed during normal play, the player wins the pseudo bonus. It is also possible to win the pseudo bonus by fulfilling a predetermined condition a predetermined number of times during normal play.

[0066] (C) Slot machine gameplay Below, the game content of the slot machine 1 will be explained, divided into (C1) normal time, (C2) CZ, and (C3) AT.

[0067] (C1) Normal (general normal state) When a rare small combination is achieved in a normal game, an AT lottery (normal AT lottery) and a CZ lottery are held. In addition to these lotteries, when a rare small combination is achieved, a lottery for acquiring stocks (stock acquisition lottery), which is an example of a special right, is held.

[0068] The condition for the stock acquisition lottery to be executed is the formation of a small role during normal play. However, the bell role requires a win. Stocks are the right to generate pseudo-bonuses in CZ and CB. In this example configuration, there are multiple types of stocks for each role that triggers the stock acquisition lottery (cherry role, bell role, chance eye, etc.). In the stock acquisition lottery, different types of stocks can be acquired for each triggering role. For example, if a cherry role is formed as the formed role and you win the stock acquisition lottery, you can acquire the type of stock corresponding to the cherry role.

[0069] The probability of winning a lottery for acquiring stocks is set according to the type of winning combination. For example, if the winning combination is a cherry combination, there is a 50% chance of winning stocks, if the winning combination is a bell combination, there is a 5% chance of winning stocks, and if the winning combination is a chance eye, there is a 75% chance of winning stocks. The acquired stocks are displayed on the effect display unit 12, for example, as shown in FIG. 8. In this figure, the acquired stocks are displayed on the left side of the display screen, and the number of CB games is displayed on the right side of the display screen. Note that, instead of or in addition to the achievement of a small combination, the completion of a predetermined number of games may be set as the condition for executing the lottery for acquiring stocks. In this case, the lottery for acquiring stocks is executed instead of or in addition to each time a small combination is achieved, each time a predetermined number of games is completed.

[0070] During the CZ and CB, if a stock is acquired and a rare minor combination corresponding to that stock is formed, and the conditions set by the specific right granting means are fulfilled, the player can win the pseudo bonus regardless of the result of the regular pseudo bonus lottery. Players play in the hope of acquiring stocks that can be expected to win the pseudo bonus.

[0071] (C2) CZ (Special normal state, chance zone) During the CZ, a lottery for winning points is held when a small combination (replay, bell, or rare combination) is achieved over a set number of games, such as 10 games. In the lottery for winning points, points can be earned for each combination, as shown in Figure 9. The probability of winning a pseudo-bonus varies depending on the number of points earned in the CZ.

[0072] At the start of the CZ, a winning point lottery is held to determine the number of points (called winning points) required to win the pseudo bonus. The fewer the winning points, the easier it is to win the pseudo bonus, which is advantageous for the player. For example, the winning point lottery at the start of the CZ is held as shown in Figure 10. The smaller the winning points, the easier it is to win the pseudo bonus, but the smaller the winning points, the lower the probability of winning.

[0073] In the final game of the CZ, a pseudo-bonus lottery (special normal lottery) is held according to the number of points earned during the CZ. If the earned points reach the winning points, the player wins the pseudo-bonus. On the other hand, if the earned points do not reach the winning points, the player wins the pseudo-bonus with a predetermined probability according to the earned points. For example, the winning probability of the pseudo-bonus lottery held in the final game of the CZ where the winning points are 10 is as shown in Figure 11. If the earned points are 10 points, which are the winning points, the pseudo-bonus will be won with a 100% probability, while if the earned points are 5 points, the winning probability of the pseudo-bonus is 15%. Also, if the earned points are 0 points, the winning probability is set to 100% as a relief for the player.

[0074] If you acquire stocks during normal play and a minor combination corresponding to those stocks is formed, you can win a pseudo bonus without relying on the point acquisition lottery. In this way, if you win a pseudo bonus using stocks, those stocks will be consumed. If you have acquired multiple stocks and won a pseudo bonus by consuming one of those stocks, the remaining stocks that were not consumed will be carried over to the next pseudo bonus without being consumed.

[0075] In the configuration of this example, a pseudo bonus can be won when a small combination corresponding to a stock is achieved, but conditions corresponding to the stock may be set separately. For example, a condition may be set such that a pseudo bonus can be won when a predetermined small combination (for example, a replay combination or a bell combination) is not achieved over a predetermined number of games, or that a pseudo bonus can be won when a specific small combination is achieved a predetermined number of times. Multiple conditions may be set independently or in combination. In addition, it is also possible to make it possible to win a pseudo-bonus depending on the small winning combinations that are achieved during the CZ, regardless of the points acquired. In this case, it is recommended that the notification be made when the pseudo-bonus is won or at the final game of the CZ. Furthermore, it is recommended that any remaining stocks that have not been consumed are carried over to subsequent pseudo-bonuses without being consumed.

[0076] (C3)AT (Special Condition) AT consists of pseudo bonuses and challenge battles (CB). (pseudo bonus) A pseudo bonus can be entered by winning the pseudo bonus lottery during normal play or in the CZ, or by winning the pseudo bonus by consuming stocks in the CZ or CB. The pseudo bonus is a state in which the AT continues for a predetermined number of games (for example, 20 games, or the number of special games), and is initiated by the winning of a pseudo bonus symbol (see Figure 5) after the pseudo bonus is won. The pseudo bonus symbol can be won in some cases when a replay role or a one-point role is formed. When the pseudo bonus symbol is in a state where it can be won, a navigation effect to make the pseudo bonus symbol win is executed by the effect display unit 12.

[0077] While the pseudo bonus is in progress, a lottery to acquire stocks is held, just like during normal play. The probability of winning the lottery to acquire stocks at this time may be the same as during normal play, or it may be higher than during normal play. During the pseudo bonus, in addition to the lottery to acquire stocks, a lottery to acquire the number of CB games is also held. CB is a special state (AT) for returning to the pseudo bonus after the pseudo bonus ends. In the lottery to acquire the number of CB games, the probability of winning the number of CB games and the number of games acquired vary depending on the combination that is formed. For example, the probability of winning when a cherry combination is formed is 50%, and the distribution of the number of CB games that can be acquired (winning probability) is as shown in Figure 12. The lottery to acquire stocks and the lottery to acquire the number of CB games may be held independently of each other, or may be held simultaneously.

[0078] (Challenge Battle) After the pseudo bonus ends, a pseudo bonus withdrawal lottery (special return lottery) will be held for the number of CB games won in that pseudo bonus. During the CB, a lottery to earn points will be held depending on the formation of small winning combinations. As with the CZ under normal conditions, the winning points required to win the pseudo bonus are determined by a lottery at the start of the CB. If the winning points are reached during the CB, the pseudo bonus will be won. On the other hand, if the winning points are not reached during the CB, the pseudo bonus will end and the game will transition to normal mode.

[0079] If there is a stock in the CB, a pseudo bonus will be won if a small combination corresponding to the stock is achieved. In this example, if a small combination corresponding to the stock is achieved, the pseudo bonus can be won, just like in the CZ. Alternatively, conditions corresponding to the stock can be set for the CB and the CZ separately.

[0080] When you reach a winning point or win a pseudo bonus by achieving a minor combination corresponding to the stock, the remaining number of CB games at that time will be carried over to the next CB. Furthermore, the number of CB games won during the returned pseudo bonus will be added to the number of CB games carried over.

[0081] If you win a pseudo bonus using stocks, those stocks will be consumed. If you have acquired multiple stocks and win a pseudo bonus by consuming one of those stocks, the remaining stocks will not be consumed and will be carried over to the next pseudo bonus. After CB, if you transition to normal time, any stocks that are not consumed will be carried over to normal time. In addition, it may be possible to win a pseudo bonus depending on the small winning combination that occurs during CB regardless of the winning points. In this case, it is recommended that a notification be made when the pseudo bonus is won. Furthermore, it is recommended that the remaining stock that has not been consumed is carried over to the next pseudo bonus without being consumed.

[0082] As described above, the gaming machine of this example is a gaming machine that can generate a normal state with a low expectation of winning and an AT state, which is a special state with a higher expectation of winning than the normal state. The normal state includes a normal time (general normal state) with a low expectation of transition to a special state, and a CZ (special normal state, chance zone) with a high expectation of transition. Furthermore, the special state can be a pseudo-bonus (general special state) that continues for a predetermined number of special games (predetermined number of games), or a CB (return special state, challenge battle) that is transitioned to when the special number of games is consumed.

[0083] In this gaming machine, a stock (specific right), which is a right to generate a pseudo-bonus (general special state), is granted by a specific right granting means, and the granted stock is stored. This gaming machine executes a special normal lottery to determine whether or not to transition to a pseudo-bonus (general special state) in a CZ (special normal state), and a return special lottery to determine whether or not to transition to a pseudo-bonus (general special state) in a CB (return special state). If a transition to a pseudo-bonus (general special state) is determined by the special normal lottery or the return special lottery, a transition to a pseudo-bonus occurs.

[0084] The specific right granting means for granting stocks (specific rights) can set conditions corresponding to each stock. The special normal lottery means and the return special lottery means determine whether to transition to a pseudo bonus (general special state) when the conditions set by the specific right granting means are met.

[0085] In this example gaming machine, multiple stocks (specific rights) are stored in CZ (special normal state) or CB (return special state), and when a transition to a pseudo-bonus (general special state) is determined by a special normal lottery or a return special lottery, one of the multiple stocks is consumed and the other stocks are carried over without being consumed.

[0086] In this way, in the gaming machine of this example, when stocks (specific rights) are consumed in the CZ (special normal state) or CB (return special state) to transition to the pseudo bonus (general special state), if multiple stocks are stored, stocks other than the consumed stocks can be carried over to the pseudo bonus (general special state). This gaming machine can provide players with a sense of security that stocks common to each game state can be carried over, which is expected to increase their interest in the game.

[0087] In this example, the gaming machine transitions to normal mode (normal mode) in the CB (return special mode) if the game does not transition to a pseudo-bonus (normal special mode) for a predetermined number of CB games (number of return games). If stocks (special rights) are stored when transitioning to normal mode, the stocks are carried over without being consumed. In this way, in this example, when transitioning to normal mode without returning to a pseudo-bonus in the CB, the acquired stocks can be carried over to the normal mode. This allows stocks acquired during the AT (special mode) to be used in the CZ (special normal mode) after transitioning to normal mode. Being able to carry over stocks to normal mode can motivate players to continue playing, and is expected to increase their interest in the game.

[0088] Instead of or in addition to the configuration of this example, the following configurations may be adopted: Also, the following configurations may be adopted in appropriate combination. Although the gaming machine is assumed to be a slot machine that does not use medals, it may also be adopted in a slot machine that pays out medals. In addition to the 2-point combination, 1-point combination and 15-point combination may be included in the rare small combination, and some of the replay combinations may be treated as rare combinations. In that case, it is a good idea to make the winning symbols different from the normal winning symbols. The numerical values ​​shown in this example may be designed in any way, and multiple numerical values ​​may be the same, or may be different depending on the setting values ​​of the gaming machine.

[0089] In addition to the configuration of this example, the gaming machine may also be provided with a general normal state transition means for transitioning from the AT (special state) to normal mode (general normal state) and a special state termination means for terminating the AT when a predetermined termination condition is met. The general normal state transition means transitions to normal mode when the special state is terminated by the special state termination means. In this gaming machine, the specific right granting means may be configured to grant multiple stocks (specific rights) when the above termination condition is met. Termination conditions other than pseudo bonuses or the number of CB games may also be set as conditions for terminating the special state of the AT. When such termination conditions are met, the AT will end and transition to normal mode even if the number of CB games remains. At this time, it is also possible to initialize the acquired stocks and allow the player to acquire multiple stocks up to the maximum amount that can be acquired. In this case, the above termination conditions may be set as playing a predetermined number of end games or obtaining a predetermined number of points.

[0090] If the game is forced to transition to normal mode (general normal mode) even in an AT (special mode), the player may not be able to earn the number of points that they would have earned, which may cause dissatisfaction. Even in such a case, if the game is configured to initialize the acquired stocks as described above and then grant the maximum number of stocks that can be earned, multiple stocks can be used to hopefully win the AT early, which can alleviate the player's dissatisfaction and increase their interest in the game.

[0091] Although the lottery for winning the number of CB games is held during the pseudo-bonus, the lottery for winning the number of CB games may also be held during normal play or the CZ. Although the CB is continued for the number of CB games acquired, it is also possible to acquire the right to continue the CB for a predetermined number of games instead of acquiring the number of CB games. In that case, it is preferable to be able to acquire multiple such continuation rights.

[0092] If a small combination corresponding to the acquired stock is realized again, a bonus may be given to the player. For example, a lottery for acquiring stocks different from the corresponding small combination may be held. For example, a lottery for acquiring the number of CB games may be held. For example, preferential treatment may be given in the AT lottery. For example, if a corresponding small combination wins the CZ, preferential treatment may be given in winning points during the CZ, or the probability of winning the AT lottery for the final game of the CZ may be improved. For example, a point acquisition lottery that does not affect gameplay may be held, and points may be consumed to execute effects on the gaming machine that have different occurrence frequencies or modes.

[0093] As a result of the AT lottery by CZ, the game will transition to a pseudo bonus, but it may also transition to CB. Instead of or in addition to the normal pseudo bonus, a transition to a higher pseudo bonus may be made in which the stock acquisition lottery and the CB game number acquisition lottery are favored. Furthermore, the higher pseudo bonus may be configured to improve the so-called net increase, which is the speed at which the number of points (scores) increases, by increasing the frequency of the navigation probability.

[0094] Although CZ is a non-AT state, it may be included in the AT state. Furthermore, it may be included in the AT state during normal times, but in that case, it is better to make the navigation probability extremely low. A part or all of the control performed by the production control unit 25 may be performed by the main control unit 20. Furthermore, a part or all of the control performed by the main control unit 20 may be performed by the production control unit 25.

[0095] Although specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail as examples, these examples merely disclose examples of the technology encompassed by the claims. Needless to say, the scope of the claims should not be interpreted as being limited by the configurations, numerical values, etc. of the specific examples. The claims encompass technologies that are obtained by variously modifying, changing, or appropriately combining the specific examples by utilizing publicly known technology and the knowledge of those skilled in the art. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1. Slot machines (gaming machines) 11. Pattern display window 12 Performance display section 133 Stop button 131 Start lever 140 Information display section 141 Bet Button 143 Performance button 21 Reel (variable symbol display means) 211 Reel drive unit (variable symbol display means) 20 Main control unit (game start permission means, internal lottery means, flag control means, reel control means, winning determination means, profit award means, bonus generation means) 25 Performance control unit (specific right granting means, memory means, general normal state transition means, special normal lottery means, return special lottery means, lottery means) 3 Card Unit 30 Control Unit 31 Status indicator lamp 320 Bill insertion slot 33 Display section 34 Grant button 35 Replay button 36 Return button 370 Card slot 50C Gaming Card

Claims

1. As a gaming state, a normal state in which the expectation of winning in the game is low and a special state in which the expectation of winning is higher than the normal state can be generated; In a gaming machine capable of generating, as the normal state, a general normal state in which the expectation of transition to the special state is low and a special normal state in which the expectation of transition to the special state is high, and further capable of generating, as the special state, a general special state that continues for a predetermined number of special games and a return special state to which a transition is made when the special number of games is consumed, a specific right granting means capable of granting a specific right which is a right for generating the general special state; a storage means capable of storing the specific rights granted by the specific rights granting means; a special normal lottery means for executing a special normal lottery to determine whether or not to transition to the general special state in the special normal state; a return special lottery means for executing a return special lottery to determine whether or not to transition to the general special state in the return special state; A general special state transition means for transitioning to the general special state when it is determined by the special normal lottery means or the return special lottery means that the game will transition to the general special state; Equipped with the specific right granting means is capable of setting conditions corresponding to each specific right; The special normal lottery means and the return special lottery means determine a transition to the general special state when a condition set by the specific right granting means is established, In the special normal state or the return special state, a plurality of specific rights are stored in the storage means, and when the transition to the general special state is determined by the special normal lottery means or the return special lottery means, one of the plurality of specific rights is consumed, while the other specific rights are carried over without being consumed.

2. The return special state is transitioned to the general normal state by the general special state transition means when the condition set by the return special lottery means is not established over a predetermined number of return games and it is determined that the state will not be transitioned to the general special state, 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein, when the game machine shifts to the general normal state, the specific right stored in the storage means is carried over without being consumed.

3. general normal state transition means for transitioning from the special state to the general normal state; and a special state termination means for terminating the special state when a predetermined termination condition is met, the general normal state transition means transitions to the general normal state when the special state is terminated by the special state termination means, 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the specific right granting means grants a plurality of specific rights when the termination condition is met.

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