Gaming machines, methods of delivering games, and programs

Abstract

We aim to provide games that possess new gameplay elements that capture players' interest and offer them new thrills and excitement. [Solution] The gaming machine comprises a display unit and a control unit having a display area on which winning lines are provided. The control unit spins and stops multiple reels to display symbols in the display area. When the multiple reels have stopped, if the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions, it determines which reel to respin. If a special symbol has stopped in the display area on the reel to be respun, it miniaturizes the special symbol so that other symbols can stop in the cell on which the special symbol has stopped and holds it in that cell. The reel to be respun is then respun and stopped. The bonus is determined based on the symbols on the winning lines and the bonus amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the winning lines, and the determined bonus is awarded to the player.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a gaming machine, a game providing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a gaming machine that provides a slot game. This gaming machine provides a Persistent Symbol that is continuously displayed on the screen from a certain round to subsequent rounds according to conditions such as game events. The Persistent Symbol, for example, maintains its position and effect through two or more consecutive rounds of the game. For example, the Persistent Symbol doubles the prize at the time of winning in the arranged payline.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the feature that the effect of the Persistent Symbol is continuously obtained in subsequent rounds when the Persistent Symbol appears is easy for players to understand and is applied to various games. However, even when the Persistent Symbol appears, the symbol may not be continued in subsequent rounds if the conditions are not met, and there are not a few cases where the appearance of the Persistent Symbol fails to meet the players' expectations. In view of such prior art, the present disclosure aims to provide a game that has a new gameplay that attracts players' interest and can realize a development that sufficiently gives players new stimuli and excitement. Note that the gameplay in this specification refers to the general term for rules for advancing the game, mechanisms for generating winning, mechanisms for determining the amount of benefits, and the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A gaming machine relating to one aspect of this disclosure has a display area for displaying symbols in each of the cells arranged in a matrix, the display area is provided with a winning line consisting of multiple cells, and the symbols include a display unit that includes a special symbol to which a predetermined bonus amount has been assigned, and a control unit connected to the display unit, the control unit spins and stops multiple reels to display symbols in the display area, determines which reel to respin if the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions when the multiple reels have stopped, if a special symbol has stopped in the display area by the reel to be respun, miniaturizes the special symbol so that other symbols can stop in the cell in which the special symbol has stopped and holds it in that cell, respins and stops the reel to be respun, determines a bonus based on the symbols on the winning line and the bonus amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the winning line, and awards the determined bonus to the player.

[0006] In this gaming machine, symbols appear in the display area cells as multiple reels spin and stop. When multiple reels stop and the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions, the reel to be respun is determined. At this time, if a special symbol stops in the display area due to the respin target reel, the special symbol is miniaturized and held in that cell. This allows other symbols to stop in the cell where the special symbol stopped. Then, the reel to be respun respins and stops. Because other symbols stop in the cell where the special symbol was held, two symbols—the special symbol and other symbols—stop in one cell. Then, the bonus is determined based on the symbols on the winning line and the bonus amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the winning line, and the determined bonus is awarded to the player. In this way, this gaming machine can also determine the bonus using the bonus amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol held on the winning line of the reel to be respun. Therefore, it is possible to avoid situations where a special symbol that has been displayed once moves due to a respin and is no longer eligible for the bonus, thereby preventing situations that do not meet the player's expectations. At the same time, it is possible to make the player anticipate new wins that may occur as other symbols stop while the special symbol remains. Thus, this gaming machine can provide a game that has a new gameplay that attracts the player's interest and can deliver developments that provide the player with plenty of new excitement and thrills.

[0007] In one embodiment, the control unit may determine which reel to respin when multiple reels stop and a special symbol forms a series of adjacent symbols on the winning line. In such a gaming machine, for example, a win may be determined when a series of adjacent symbols consisting of a predetermined number of special symbols are formed, and the respin can provide an opportunity to win or an opportunity to increase the bonus for winning.

[0008] In one embodiment, the control unit may award the player the sum of the bonus amount given to the special symbol that forms a series of adjacent symbols on the winning line and the bonus amount for the miniaturized special symbol that appears in the same cell as the said special symbol. Such a gaming machine can provide a game in which a win is determined when a series of adjacent symbols are formed on the winning line. Furthermore, since the player is awarded not only the bonus amount given to the special symbol that forms a series of adjacent symbols, but also the bonus amount for the miniaturized special symbol, the total bonus amount that can be obtained at once can be increased.

[0009] In one embodiment, the control unit may hold reels that form a series of adjacent symbols and respin any unheld reels. Such a gaming machine can hold reels that contribute to a win or reels that already constitute a win, thus avoiding disadvantage to the player through respins.

[0010] In one embodiment, the control unit may, if a new special symbol connects to a series of adjacent symbols when the respun reel stops, continue to hold the reel associated with the new special symbol while respinning the unheld reels. If a new special symbol does not connect to a series of adjacent symbols when the respun reel stops, the control unit may not perform the next respin. Such a gaming machine can provide a game in which a respin is performed again if a new special symbol connects to a series of adjacent symbols as a result of the respin, and the respin is terminated if a new special symbol does not connect to a series of adjacent symbols as a result of the respin. Furthermore, by repeating the respin, it is possible to stop two or more symbols in a single cell and use two or more symbols for a bonus.

[0011] In one embodiment, when a respin is performed, the control unit displays a frame surrounding a first display area corresponding to the held reel and a second display area corresponding to the adjacent reel next to the held reel. If a new special symbol stops on an adjacent reel, the frame may be expanded to include a third display area corresponding to the reel further adjacent to the reel that stopped the special symbol. When the respin is completed, the player may receive the total amount of bonuses attached to the special symbols that stopped within the frame and the miniaturized special symbols. Such a gaming machine can distinguish and display the special symbols that are eligible for winning among the displayed special symbols using the frame. Therefore, the player can play the game without being aware of the winning lines.

[0012] A method for providing a game relating to another aspect of this disclosure is a method for providing a game performed on a gaming machine comprising a display unit having a display area for displaying symbols in each of the cells arranged in a matrix, the display area being provided with a winning line consisting of multiple cells, and the symbols including special symbols to which a predetermined bonus amount has been assigned, and a control unit connected to the display unit, wherein the control unit performs the steps of: spinning and stopping multiple reels to display symbols in the display area; determining a reel to be respun if the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions when the multiple reels have stopped; miniaturizing the special symbol to which the special symbol has stopped and holding it in the cell to which the special symbol has stopped if a special symbol has stopped in the display area by the reel to be respun, so that other symbols can stop in the cell to which the special symbol has stopped; respinning and stopping the reel to be respun; determining a bonus based on the symbols on the winning line and the bonus amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the winning line; and awarding the determined bonus to the player. This method for providing a game has the same effect as the gaming machine described above.

[0013] A program relating to another aspect of this disclosure is a gaming machine comprising a display unit having a display area for displaying symbols in each of the cells arranged in a matrix, the display area being provided with a prize line consisting of multiple cells, and the symbols including special symbols to which a predetermined bonus amount has been assigned, and a control unit connected to the display unit, wherein the program is executed in the control unit and enables the control unit to perform the following functions: spinning and stopping multiple reels to display symbols in the display area; determining which reel to respin if the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions when the multiple reels have stopped; miniaturizing the special symbol to hold in the cell to which the special symbol has stopped if the special symbol has stopped in the display area due to the respin target, so that other symbols can stop in the cell where the special symbol has stopped; respinning and stopping the reel to respin; determining a bonus based on the symbols on the prize line and the bonus amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the prize line; and awarding the determined bonus to the player. This program has the same effect as the gaming machine described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to this disclosure, a gaming machine, a method for providing a game, and a program are provided that can deliver a game that has new gameplay that will attract players' interest and that can deliver developments that will give players plenty of new stimulation and excitement. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the gaming machine shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the display area of ​​the gaming machine shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of a virtual reel strip. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a symbol. [Figure 6] (A), (B), and (C) of FIG. 6 are diagrams showing one state of a symbol arrangement in a game. [Figure 7] (A), (B), and (C) of FIG. 7 are diagrams showing one state of a symbol arrangement in a game. [Figure 8] (A), (B), and (C) of FIG. 8 are diagrams showing one state of a symbol arrangement in a game. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a directory configuration diagram and a block diagram showing a program and data stored in the memory of FIG. 2. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a system related to a gaming machine. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the game application program of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the system application program of FIG. 10. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a gaming machine.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each figure, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment. Here, a gaming machine is a device that accepts betting items such as money, medals, or tokens from a player to start a game, and pays out prizes, benefits, or payouts to the player according to the randomly determined game result. Such gaming machines are designed and manufactured in accordance with local regulations and are installed in licensed facilities such as casinos after obtaining approval from a licensing body as equipment. The gaming machine 10 shown in Figure 1 accepts a predetermined game value from a player, generates a game result, and can provide payouts to the player according to the game result and paytable. The gaming machine 10 provides a video slot game as an example. The video slot game includes, for example, a regular game, a free game, and a feature game. The regular game, free game, and feature game are provided when predetermined conditions are met. In the regular game, free game, and feature game, symbols displayed in the display area constitute the game result (such as a combination of symbols), and a win is determined.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the gaming machine 10 includes a display 16 (an example of a display unit) and a cabinet 12. The cabinet 12 also houses a control unit 22 (see Figure 2) that controls the components of the gaming machine 10.

[0019] The display 16 is a flat panel display device such as a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL display device. The display 16 is controlled via the control unit 22 to provide the game screen to the player. Decorative illumination 36 may be provided around the display 16.

[0020] The cabinet 12 is positioned below the display 16. The cabinet 12 has a control panel 18 that protrudes forward from its front. The control panel 18 is equipped with a player tracking unit 20, a speaker 26, a banknote / ticket identification unit 28, a printer unit 30, and an operating section 32.

[0021] The player tracking unit 20 includes a card reader that recognizes a player identification card, a display that presents data to the player, and a keypad that accepts input from the player. The player tracking unit 20 works in cooperation with the control unit 22 or an external system to read information recorded on the player identification card inserted into the card reader by the player, and displays that information and / or information obtained by communicating with the external system on the display. Furthermore, input from the player is accepted via the keypad, the display changes according to that input, and communication with the external system is performed as necessary.

[0022] The speakers 26 are located on the left and right sides of the control panel 18. The speakers 26 provide sound to the player by being controlled via the control unit 22.

[0023] The banknote / ticket identification unit 28 can be housed in the cabinet 12 with its insertion opening for banknotes / tickets exposed. Inside the insertion opening, an identification unit is provided that identifies banknotes / tickets using various sensors. A banknote / ticket storage unit is provided on the output side of the identification unit. The banknote / ticket identification unit 28 receives banknotes / tickets (including vouchers and coupons) that represent game value, identifies them as game value, and notifies the control unit 22.

[0024] The printer unit 30 can be housed in the cabinet 12 with the ticket output slot exposed. Inside the ticket output slot is a printing section for printing predetermined information onto paper, and a storage section for storing the printing paper is provided on the paper inlet side of the printing section. Under the control of the control unit 22, the printer unit 30 prints the information onto paper and outputs tickets from the gaming machine 10 according to the credit payout process. The output tickets can be inserted into the banknote / ticket identification unit 28 of another gaming machine, allowing the paid-out credits to be used for gameplay, or they can be exchanged for cash at a kiosk terminal or casino cage within the casino.

[0025] The control unit 32 receives input from the player. The control unit 32 includes a group of buttons that receive various instructions from the player of the gaming machine 10. For example, the control unit 32 may include a group of spin buttons and a group of setting buttons. The spin button receives instructions to start an instance of the game (start spinning the reels). The group of setting buttons includes a group of bet buttons and a cash-out button, etc. The group of bet buttons receives instructions from the player regarding the amount of credits to bet (bet amount). The cash-out button receives instructions to pay out credits accumulated in the gaming machine 10.

[0026] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a gaming machine. The gaming machine 10 includes a control unit 22. The control unit 22 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 38 including a processor, an interface unit 40, memory 42, and storage 44, etc. The control unit 22 may be housed inside the cabinet 12 as a control board. The control unit 22 is configured to communicate with each part via the interface unit 40 and controls the operation of each part by executing a program recorded in the memory 42 (an example of a storage unit) or storage 44 (an example of a storage unit) of the CPU 38, and provides the game to the player.

[0027] The interface unit 40 includes a chipset that provides communication functions for the CPU 38, such as a memory bus connected to the CPU 38, various expansion buses, a serial interface, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, and an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface.

[0028] The memory 42 can be configured to include a volatile storage medium such as RAM (Random Access Memory), a non-volatile storage medium such as ROM (Read Only Memory), and a rewritable non-volatile storage medium such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). The storage 44 provides the control unit 22 with the function of an external storage device and can use removable storage media such as memory cards and magneto-optical disks, and can also use hard disks.

[0029] The interface unit 40 is connected to a banknote / ticket identification unit 28, a printer unit 30, a player tracking unit 20, a graphics controller (GPU: Graphics Processing Unit) 50, an input controller 52, a sound controller 53, and an illumination controller 54. The graphics controller 50, input controller 52, sound controller 53, and illumination controller 54 can be housed inside the cabinet 12 as a control board.

[0030] The control unit 22 is connected to the display 16 via the graphics controller 50. The control unit 22 is connected to the operation unit 32 via the input controller 52. The control unit 22 is connected to the illumination 36 via the illumination controller 54.

[0031] The control unit 22 controls each component by executing programs stored in the memory 42 and storage 44, and provides the game to the player. Here, for example, the control unit 22 may be configured to store the operating system and subsystem programs and data that provide the basic functions of the control unit 22 in the EEPROM of the memory 42, and the application programs and data that provide the game in the storage 44. With such a configuration, the game can be easily changed or updated by replacing the storage 44. Furthermore, the control unit 22 may be a multiprocessor configuration including multiple CPUs.

[0032] The following describes each block connected to the control unit 22. The banknote / ticket identification unit 28 receives banknotes / tickets at the insertion slot and notifies the control unit 22 of identification information corresponding to the banknote type or credit payout process. The control unit 22 increases the amount of credits available in the game according to the notified information. The printer unit 30, under the control of the control unit 22 which receives operation of the cash-out button included in the operation unit 32, prints information corresponding to the credit payout process from the gaming machine 10 onto a ticket and outputs it.

[0033] The player tracking unit 20 works in cooperation with the control unit 22 to send and receive player information and other data to and from the casino management system. The graphics controller 50 controls the display 16 under the control of the control unit 22 and displays a display image including various graphics data. The sound controller 53 drives the speaker 26 under the control of the control unit 22 and provides various sounds such as announcements, sound effects, and background music. The illumination controller 54 controls the lighting of the illumination 36 under the control of the control unit 22.

[0034] The interface unit 40 includes various communication interfaces for communicating with the outside world of the gaming machine 10. For example, the interface unit 40 can communicate with an external network via Ethernet 55, 58, 60, and a serial interface 62. Figure 2 shows examples of communication with other gaming machines 10, a known server-side gaming network (server-based gaming), a G2S network (game-system), and a slot information system (slot data system). The control unit 22 can share game-related information with other gaming machines 10 by communicating with the control unit 22 of the other gaming machine 10 via Ethernet 55 without using an I / O board.

[0035] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the display area of ​​the gaming machine shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 22, which is executing a predetermined program, displays the game screen on the display area of ​​the display 16. The game screen has a symbol display area 64 that displays a slot game. The symbol display area 64 is displayed, for example, in the lower area of ​​the game screen. Above the symbol display area 64, there is an area 65 where information related to the game is displayed.

[0036] The symbol display area 64 includes a grid 68 on which symbols can be displayed. By using such a display area, the gaming machine 10 operates as a slot machine that determines winning combinations and pays out payouts according to the combinations of symbols displayed in the grid 68 of the symbol display area 64.

[0037] The display 16 displays multiple symbols in a grid 68. The grid 68 includes multiple rows and columns. The grid 68 is composed of multiple cells 70, which are the stopping positions of the symbols. Figure 3 shows a game screen including multiple cells arranged in a 5x3 grid (matrix). The number of columns and rows of the grid is not particularly limited and may be other configurations such as 5x4, 3-4-4-4-3, 6x3, 6x4, 3-3-3-5-5, etc., and may increase or decrease depending on the game progress and / or the bet amount. One symbol is displayed in the stopping position of each of the multiple cells 70 in the symbol display area 64.

[0038] The symbols placed in each of the multiple cells 70 are determined using a virtual reel strip to display the virtual reel 66. Hereafter, the virtual reel 66 will also be simply referred to as a reel. Figure 4 shows an example of a virtual reel set in a typical game. The virtual reel set includes multiple virtual reel strips, each of which contains a symbol sequence indicating the order of symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area 64. In each cell 70 of the grid 68 shown in Figure 3, symbols are displayed based on the symbol sequence of the virtual reel 66, which includes the virtual reel strips 72, 74, 76, 78, and 80 that make up the virtual reel set 82. In other words, each cell 70 of the grid 68 is associated with a virtual reel strip 72-80 for each column, and the symbols placed in a predetermined portion of each virtual reel strip 72-80 are displayed. Furthermore, the symbols displayed in the cells 70 of the grid 68 change by moving (scrolling or spinning) each symbol column by column based on the symbol sequence of the virtual reel strips 72-80, and the symbols stop when the movement (scrolling or spinning) for each column is stopped. Here, the virtual reel strips 72-80 are data, and the control unit 22 uses the program contained in memory 42 or storage 44, and the data that displays the symbol arrangement (i.e., the order of symbols on each reel strip) which is adjusted for each cell column. The virtual reel set 82 is a collective term for such virtual reel strips 72-80.

[0039] The virtual reel strips 72-80 shown in Figure 4 are composed of symbols 84 at each symbol position 86, and these symbols are arranged in a defined order for each reel. The number of symbols forming the virtual reel strips 72-80 is not limited to this and can be any number. Also, the number of symbols forming the virtual reel strips 72-80 may be the same or may be different from each other.

[0040] Figure 5 shows details of the symbols 84 shown in Figure 4. Each virtual reel strip 72-80 contains symbols selected from the symbol set 88 of the various symbols 84 shown in Figure 5. The symbol set 88 includes card symbols ("J", "Q", "K", and "A") that mimic playing cards as standard symbols, as well as picture symbols ("Pic-A", "Pic-B", "Pic-C", "Pic-D", and "Pic-E") that depict people, animals and plants, objects, treasures and coins, etc.

[0041] Symbol set 88 includes special symbol 85 ("SP"). Special symbol 85 is a symbol that is awarded a bonus amount. For example, special symbol 85 is a credit symbol that awards a predetermined amount of credits as a bonus. Credit symbols can maintain or increase player interest by encouraging players to directly understand the amount of credits they can earn and the chances of winning when a credit symbol with a high credit amount appears. A credit symbol can be, for example, a symbol that displays the amount of credits to be awarded on a predetermined image such as a coin. Special symbol 85 may also be a jackpot symbol that is awarded a jackpot category (rank) instead of a credit amount. Jackpot categories are categories according to the size of the prize, such as MINI, MAJOR, MAXI, MEGA, and GRAND. For example, MINI is converted to a credit amount of "100", MAJOR to a credit amount of "500", MAXI to a credit amount of "1000", MEGA to a credit amount of "5000", and GRAND to a credit amount of "10000". The jackpot symbol can be, for example, a symbol that displays the jackpot category awarded on top of a predetermined image, such as a coin.

[0042] Symbol set 88 may include wild symbols ("Wild") which are substituted for other symbols when determining winning combinations, and scatter symbols ("Scatter") which trigger a special game depending on the number of occurrences when determining winning combinations.

[0043] Multiple virtual reel sets may be provided depending on the game content. For example, the virtual reel set used in the regular game and the virtual reel set used in the special game may be the same, or they may be different. The virtual reel set used in the special game may contain more symbol symbols, wild symbols, or special symbols compared to the virtual reel set used in the regular game. By doing so, the probability of winning or the expected value in the special game can be increased, and a more valuable special game can be provided to the player.

[0044] Paylines are set in the symbol display area 64. Paylines are set to span, for example, from a cell in the leftmost column to a cell in the rightmost column. For example, a payline can consist of any cell in the leftmost column, any cell in the second column from the left, any cell in the third column from the left, any cell in the fourth column from the left, and any cell in the fifth column from the left (the rightmost column). In a 5x3 matrix, 243 types (3 to the power of 5) of paylines can be set, but 40 or 50 of these may be set. In the so-called ALL-WAYS-WIN system, all 243 types of paylines are set to be subject to prize determination. Such paylines may be configured to be activated as prize lines when selected by the player. Prize lines are paylines that are subject to prize determination. The number of prize lines can be selected by operating a group of line setting buttons included in a group of setting buttons in the player's control unit 32. Alternatively, the game may be configured so that all of the set paylines are winning lines, regardless of the player's choice.

[0045] The gaming machine 10 of this embodiment provides three types of games: a regular game (also called a main game or base game) provided when predetermined conditions are not met, and a special game and a feature game provided when predetermined conditions are met. The special game is a free game and is provided without consuming game value. The free game is provided a predetermined number of times when predetermined trigger conditions are met. A feature game is, as will be described later, an example.

[0046] In the regular game, special game, and feature game described above, the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 64 from the symbol array that represents the game result is the subject of the prize determination. The control unit 22 starts the game and randomly determines the stopping position of each virtual reel strip 72-80. The virtual reel strips 72-80 displayed on the display 16 move (scroll or spin) from their current position and stop based on the stopping position to represent the game result. Therefore, on the display 16 or grid 68, the symbols included in the virtual reel strips 72-80 change in accordance with the continuous movement (scroll or spin) of the virtual reel strips 72-80 in the vertical direction of the symbol display area 64, and are displayed so that one symbol stops in one cell 70 according to the order of symbols defined in the virtual reel strips 72-80.

[0047] The control unit 22 can be configured to change the multiple symbols displayed on the display 16 in the manner described above, according to the player's operation received by the operation unit 32, stop them in a predetermined order, and pay a payout according to the combination of symbols stopped within the symbol display area 64.

[0048] Furthermore, the control unit 22 provides a feature game when predetermined trigger conditions are met in a normal game or a special game. In the feature game, the reels that have stopped are respun to provide a new combination of symbols. Such a feature game is also called a respin game. The trigger conditions can be set arbitrarily. For example, the trigger conditions may be met when a special symbol 85 forms a series of adjacent symbols on a winning line in the symbol combination that is the result of a normal game or a special game. In the always-win system, a series of adjacent symbols is formed when at least two adjacent reels stop on the special symbol 85. The trigger conditions may also be met when the first reel and the second reel stop on the special symbol 85, assuming that the leftmost virtual reel strip 72 is the first reel and the virtual reel strip 74 next to the first reel is the second reel. The trigger conditions may also be met based on a different random number, regardless of the game result.

[0049] The control unit 22 determines which reels to respin when the trigger condition is met. If the trigger condition is met when the first and second reels stop on the special symbol 85, the control unit 22 determines which reels do not form a series of adjacent symbols to respin. In this case, the virtual reel strip 76, which is the third reel, the virtual reel strip 78, which is the fourth reel, and the virtual reel strip 80, which is the fifth reel, become the reels to respin.

[0050] If a special symbol 85 has stopped in the symbol display area 64 by the reel to be respun, i.e., if the reel to be respun is already displaying the special symbol 85, the control unit 22 miniaturizes the special symbol 85 and holds it in the cell where the special symbol 85 stopped so that other symbols can stop in that cell. Miniaturizing the special symbol 85 means, for example, reducing its size while maintaining its appearance. Miniaturizing the special symbol 85 may also involve displaying the bonus amount assigned to the special symbol 85 in the cell in a manner that allows for visual confirmation. Miniaturization is performed to the extent that it is visually apparent that other symbols have stopped in the cell. Holding it in the cell means that it is fixedly displayed in the cell regardless of the reel's spin. In other words, the miniaturized special symbol remains in the cell where it first stopped without moving even if the reel is respun. In this way, the control unit 22 holds the reels that form a series of adjacent symbols, miniaturizes the special symbol 85 that satisfies the conditions, and then respins and stops the unheld reels.

[0051] The control unit 22 may re-determine which reels to respin if predetermined trigger conditions are met after a respin. For example, if a new special symbol 85 connects to a series of adjacent symbols when the respinned reel stops, that is, if the new special symbol 85 stops in a position that connects to a series of adjacent symbols, the control unit 22 will further hold the reel associated with the new special symbol 85 and respin the unheld reels. Connecting means being adjacent in the arrangement of symbols on the winning line. For example, if the first and second reels are held reels, and the third, fourth, and fifth reels are respinned and stop, and the third reel stops on a special symbol 85, then the special symbol 85 of the third reel will connect to the series of adjacent symbols formed by the special symbols 85 of the first and second reels. In this case, the control unit 22 will make the third reel a new held reel and determine the fourth and fifth reels to be respinned. Note that multiple special symbols 85 may connect to a series of adjacent symbols at once. The control unit 22 can hold reels that contribute to a win or reels that already constitute a win, thus preventing the loss of symbols that have already constituted a win due to a respin, which would disadvantage the player.

[0052] The control unit 22 terminates the respin game if the predetermined trigger conditions are not met after a respin. For example, the control unit 22 does not perform the next respin if, when the respun reel stops, a new special symbol 85 does not connect to a series of adjacent symbols. The control unit 22 terminates the respin game if a series of adjacent symbols is formed by all reels, as there are no reels to respin.

[0053] The control unit 22 determines the winner based on the newly formed combination of symbols. At this time, the control unit 22 may add the bonus amount for the miniaturized special symbols. In other words, the control unit 22 may be configured to determine the bonus based on the symbols on the winning line and the miniaturized special symbols on the winning line, and to award the determined bonus to the player.

[0054] The control unit 22 may apply a different winning determination method in feature games than in normal games or special games. For example, the control unit 22 may award the player a bonus amount assigned to a special symbol 85 that forms a series of adjacent symbols on a winning line. The control unit 22 may also award the player a bonus amount assigned to a special symbol 85 that forms a series of adjacent symbols consisting of a predetermined number or more special symbols 85. For example, the control unit 22 may not determine a win if the series of adjacent symbols consists of special symbols 85 on the first and second reels, but may determine a win if the series of adjacent symbols consists of special symbols 85 on the first, second, and third reels. Such a winning determination method is highly compatible with respin games, and in a respin game awarded when a special symbol 85 is adjacent to the first and second reels, a bonus can be awarded depending on whether the special symbol 85 stops on the third reel after the first respin. Furthermore, simply by selecting the reels to be respun, it is possible to provide an opportunity to win or an opportunity to increase the bonus when winning.

[0055] The control unit 22 can award the player the bonus amount for the miniaturized special symbol. In other words, the control unit 22 may be configured to award the player the sum of the bonus amount awarded to the special symbol 85 that forms a series of adjacent symbols on the winning line and the bonus amount for the miniaturized special symbol that appears in the same cell as the special symbol. In this way, the control unit 22 can stop two or more symbols in a single cell and use two or more symbols for bonuses. Since the player is awarded not only the bonus amount for the special symbol 85 that forms a series of adjacent symbols, but also the bonus amount for the miniaturized special symbol, the maximum amount of bonus that can be obtained at one time can be increased.

[0056] When the control unit 22 awards the total amount of bonuses given to the special symbols 85 and miniaturized special symbols to the player, it may display a frame in the symbol display area 64 to distinguish between special symbols 85 that are awarded as bonuses upon winning and special symbols 85 that are not awarded as bonuses upon winning. For example, when the control unit 22 performs a respin, it displays a frame surrounding a first display area corresponding to the held reels and a second display area corresponding to the adjacent reels adjacent to the held reels. For example, if the first and second reels are held reels and the third, fourth, and fifth reels are not held reels, the control unit 22 displays a single frame surrounding a first display area corresponding to the first and second reels and a second display area corresponding to the adjacent third reel. Then, it starts respinning the third, fourth, and fifth reels. By focusing on the frame, players can easily see that, at the time of winning, only the special symbols 85 that land on the first, second, and third reels contribute to the prize, while the special symbols 85 that land on the fourth and fifth reels do not contribute to the prize.

[0057] When a new special symbol 85 stops on an adjacent reel, the control unit 22 expands the frame to include a third display area corresponding to the reel next to the adjacent reel that stopped the special symbol 85. For example, if the adjacent reel is the third reel, and the special symbol 85 stops on the third reel, the control unit 22 expands the frame before the fourth reel stops to include a third display area corresponding to the fourth reel, which is the reel next to the third reel. In this way, the frame expands each time an additional reel forms a series of adjacent symbols. When the respin ends, the control unit 22 awards the player the total amount of bonuses given to the special symbols 85 and the miniaturized special symbols that stopped within the area enclosed by the frame. By using the frame, the control unit 22 allows the player to play the game without being aware of the winning lines.

[0058] The following describes an example where a feature game is triggered during a regular game or free game, and an always-win respin game is provided. The trigger condition for the feature game is, for example, when the special symbol 85 appears on the first and second reels. Furthermore, an example is described where the special symbol 85 is a credit symbol, and a win is determined when a series of adjacent symbols are formed on the first, second, and third reels.

[0059] As shown in Figure 6(A), the control unit 22 spins the reels corresponding to the virtual reel strips 72-80 and stops them sequentially. As a result, the symbol combination shown in Figure 6(B) is displayed as the game result. In the displayed symbol combination, the first and second reels display a credit symbol with a credit amount of "30", so a series of adjacent symbols is formed and the feature game is triggered.

[0060] When the feature game starts, the control unit 22 displays a frame 87, as shown in Figure 6(C), which surrounds a first display area R1 corresponding to the first and second reels and a second display area R2 corresponding to the adjacent third reel. At the end of the respin game, the bonus amount assigned to the credit symbols displayed in the frame 87 is awarded. Therefore, the credit amount "30" assigned to the credit symbols on the first and second reels is awarded when a win occurs, but the credit amount "200" assigned to the credit symbol on the fifth reel is not awarded at this point, even if a win occurs. However, in this respin game, the credit symbols that have been displayed once are miniaturized and held in order to give the player another chance to win.

[0061] As shown in Figure 7(A), the control unit 22 holds a miniature symbol 89, which is a smaller version of the credit symbol displayed on the fifth reel, in the cell where the credit symbol was displayed. The miniature symbol 89 is large enough to allow other symbols to be displayed in the cell. This prevents a credit symbol that has been displayed from moving and being lost due to a respin, thus preventing the player from being excluded from the bonus and reducing their disappointment. The control unit 22 then performs a respin on the third, fourth, and fifth reels, which do not hold any symbols. At this time, on the first and second reels, which are the held reels, symbols other than the credit symbol are grayed out because they do not contribute to the bonus. Also, on the reels that are to be respun, symbols other than the credit symbol are grayed out.

[0062] As shown in Figure 7(B), the third reel stops first. Let's assume that the third reel stops on a credit symbol with a credit amount of "30". In this case, the credit symbol stopped by the third reel will be linked to the adjacent symbols formed by the first and second reels. The control unit 22 expands the frame 87 before the fourth reel stops so that the third display area R3, which corresponds to the fourth reel which is the reel next to the third reel, is included.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7(C), suppose the fourth reel stops but no credit symbol stops. In this case, since no new credit symbols are linked to adjacent symbols, frame 87 does not expand. Also, although the fifth reel stops and a credit symbol is displayed, the credit symbol is outside frame 87, so the credit amount "200" assigned to the credit symbol on the fifth reel will not be acquired at this point, even if it is a winning combination. Because a new credit symbol has been linked to adjacent symbols by the third reel, the control unit 22 performs a further respin.

[0064] As shown in Figure 8(A), the control unit 22 further holds miniature symbols 89, which are smaller versions of the credit symbols displayed on the fifth reel, in the cell where the credit symbols were displayed. There are two miniature symbols 89, each with a credit amount of "200" and "200". The control unit 22 then performs a respin of the fourth and fifth reels, which are the reels that do not hold any symbols.

[0065] As shown in Figure 8(B), the fourth reel stops first. Let's assume that the fourth reel stops on a credit symbol with a credit amount of "50". In this case, the credit symbol stopped by the fourth reel will be linked to the adjacent symbols formed by the first, second, and third reels. The control unit 22 expands the frame 87 before the fifth reel stops so that the third display area R3, which corresponds to the fifth reel, is included in the frame 87.

[0066] As shown in Figure 8(C), suppose the fifth reel stops and a credit symbol with a credit amount of "200" stops. In this case, since frame 87 is at its maximum size, it does not expand. Also, no new credit symbols are linked to adjacent symbols, so the respin game ends. Then, the control unit 22 awards the player a credit amount of "770", which is the sum of the bonus amounts "30", "30", "30", "30", "50", and "200" assigned to the credit symbols displayed in frame 87 and the bonus amounts "200" and "200" assigned to the small symbols 89.

[0067] Figures 9 and 10 are directory diagrams and block diagrams showing the programs and data stored in the memory of Figure 2. Figure 11 is a block diagram of the game application program of Figure 10. Figure 12 is a block diagram of the system application program of Figure 10. In the embodiments shown in Figures 9 to 12, memory 42 stores a game application program 92 containing computer-executable instructions, and the game is processed by executing these computer-executable instructions on the CPU 38, and the game screen is displayed on the display 16 of the gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, the game application program 92 also includes program code 94 and program object data 96 containing computer-executable instructions for implementing the game using the algorithm shown in Figure 13.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, memory 42 stores a game application program 92 and a system application program 98, which include computer-executable instructions. The game is processed by executing these computer-executable instructions on the CPU 38, and the game screen is displayed on the display 16 of the gaming machine 10. The game application program 92 provides game-specific front-end functions by being executed on the CPU, and the system application program 98 provides general-purpose back-end functions. In the illustrated embodiment, the game application program 92 and the system application program 98 are implemented on the same operating system. However, these programs may be implemented on different operating systems or on different processors.

[0069] In one embodiment, the game application program 92 includes a number of software modules, including a bet / payline button listener module 100, a start button listener module 102, a credit balance manager module 104, a sampling manager 106, a random number generator (RNG) 108, a comparison manager 110, a game result generator 112, a prize evaluation module 114, a game presenter 116, a game graphics presenter 118, a game sound presenter 120, a prize indicator 122, a rewards provider 124, an application manager 126, and an external communicator 128. The game application program 92 may also include a paytable 130, reel strip data 132, and a stop position table 134.

[0070] The bet / payline button listener module 100 is a software module for receiving signals from the bet button on the control unit 32, which is generated by the button when the player operates the button to select a bet amount. Upon receiving the signal, the bet / payline button listener module 100 transmits the signal generation to the application manager 126 in order to change the bet in the game.

[0071] The start button listener module 102 is a software module for receiving signals from the start button, which is generated when the player operates this button to start the game. Upon receiving the signal, the start button listener module 102 communicates the occurrence of the signal to the application manager 126 in order to start the game.

[0072] Upon receiving a signal from the start button listener module 102, the application manager 126 requests the sampling manager 106 to obtain the required number of random numbers from the random number generator 108.

[0073] The random number generator 108 is a software module that generates random numbers based on a predetermined random number generation calculation algorithm. The random number generator 108 may also generate pseudorandom numbers. The random number generator 108 returns random numbers in response to a request from the sampling manager 106. The random number generator 108 may be implemented in whole or in part as an integrated circuit or wired logic.

[0074] The comparison manager 110 compares the current state of the game and / or each random number with the reel strip data 132 and the stop position table 134, and specifies the corresponding stop position of the reel strip based on each random number.

[0075] The reel strip data 132 has virtual reel strips for normal games, free games, and special games. The comparison manager 110 mentioned above queries the application manager 126 to identify the current state of the game and select a virtual reel strip.

[0076] The stop position table 134 contains a range of random numbers associated with each stop position on the virtual reel strip. The comparison manager 110 determines the stop position of each reel based on the corresponding random numbers and the stop position table 134.

[0077] The game result generator 112 generates game results based on the selected reel layout, the stopping positions of each reel, the stopping positions of the internal symbols, and the attributes to be added. In one embodiment, the game result generator 112 may apply changes to the game results when predetermined conditions are met.

[0078] The prize evaluation module 114 evaluates the game result by referring to the payout table 130. Specifically, it evaluates the prize based on whether the symbols defined as winning combinations in the payout table 130 have stopped.

[0079] The game presenter 116 utilizes the game graphics presenter 118 and the game sound presenter 120 to provide a game presentation process consisting of video and sound in order to ultimately form a predetermined game result.

[0080] The game sound presenter 120 provides the sound presentation process by using the sound controller 53 and speaker 26. The winning indicator 122 shows the winning combinations and payment conditions of the winning symbols formed in the game result. The rewards provider 124 provides reward credits to the winnings meter based on the winning evaluation.

[0081] The application manager 126 manages the operation and status of each software module. In addition, the application manager 126 manages the configuration, progress, and status of the game application program 92. The application manager 126 refers to the game state storage unit 127, determines the size of the symbol display area 64 based on the stored game state, and provides the game. The external communicator 128 exchanges commands and data with the system application program 98.

[0082] The credit balance manager module 104 performs the process of decrementing the credit balance according to the bet amount and incrementing the credit balance based on the total number of wins displayed on the wins meter. The payout table 130 includes the payout or bonus amount associated with each winning combination.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, the system application program 98 provides functions other than background processing and game-specific functions. The system application program 98 includes a number of software modules, including a system manager 142, a security manager 144, a slot management module 146, a denomination manager 148, a data logger 150, a communication manager 152, a banknote acceptor manager 154, a meter management module 156, and a cash-out manager 158.

[0084] The system application program 98 may include a game recall file 160, an accounting log 162, and a meter 164. The system manager 142 is a software module for managing all functions other than background processing and game-specific functions performed by the system application program 98.

[0085] The security manager 144 is a software module for managing game verification, door security, and monitoring security sensors. The slot management module 146 is a software module for managing data storage and communicating with an external slot information system.

[0086] The denomination manager 148 is a software module for configuring the denomination settings of the gaming machine 10. The denomination settings can include 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 25 cents, 1 dollar, 5 dollars, etc. The data logger 150 is a software module for recording the results of each game in the game recall. In addition, the data logger 150 stores error events, banknote logs, cash-out logs, ticket logs, etc., in the accounting log.

[0087] The game recall file 160 is accumulated data containing the results of each game. The game recall file 160 is stored in non-volatile memory. The accounting log 162 is accumulated data containing error events, banknote logs, cash-out logs, ticket logs, etc. The accounting log 162 is stored in non-volatile memory.

[0088] The communication manager 152 is a software module that manages communication between the game application program 92 and the system application program 98. The communication manager 152 also manages network communication between the system application program 98 and other gaming machines 10 and external networks (such as the slot management system network, G2S network, gaming servers for server-based gaming networks, or VLT system network).

[0089] The banknote acceptor manager 154 is a software module for managing banknote acceptors and receives information about banknotes inserted into them. In response to receiving information from the banknote acceptors, the banknote acceptor manager 154 communicates with the meter management module to increment the credit balance based on the inserted banknotes.

[0090] The meter management module 156 is a software module for adjusting the values ​​of the meter 164 in response to communication with the game application program 92 via the communication manager 152, the banknote acceptor manager 154, or the cash-out manager 158. The meter 164 includes a credit meter for showing the current credit balance of the gaming machine, and a winnings meter for showing the total number of winnings in the current game session. The meters further include background meters such as coin-in, coin-out, total drop, jackpot paid by the server, and / or banknote insertion. These meters may be implemented as data on non-volatile memory or as hardware meters.

[0091] The cash-out manager 158 is a software module for managing the cash-out procedure. In response to the player's operation on the cash-out button, the cash-out manager 158 is activated, and the gaming machine pays out the total amount on the credit meter in the form of cash or vouchers.

[0092] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the gaming machine. The algorithm (gaming method) for the operation of the gaming machine is implemented in the game application program 92, and is realized when the CPU 38 executes the game application program 92. The operation of the gaming machine involves multiple steps. Each step may be executed independently or in combination with other steps.

[0093] In step S10, the control unit 22 receives a game start operation from the player, and upon receiving a spin button operation from the player, it deducts the set total bet amount from the credits and obtains a predetermined number of random numbers required to provide the game. The random numbers are generated internally by the random number generator 108 of the control unit 22. The control unit 22 may also obtain random numbers from a random number generator provided separately from the control unit 22, or it may be configured to obtain random numbers from a device such as a server located outside the gaming machine 10.

[0094] In step S12, the control unit 22 starts spinning multiple reels. Next, in step S14, the control unit 22 stops spinning multiple reels. In step S16, the control unit 22 determines the symbol combination as the game result and checks if the symbol combination is a winning combination. If it is determined to be a winning combination (step S16: YES), the control unit 22 awards the amount corresponding to the winning combination as a bonus in step S18 (normal win). For example, the control unit 22 adds the amount corresponding to the winning combination to the credits held. If it is determined not to be a winning combination (step S16: NO), no bonus is awarded.

[0095] Next, in step S20, the control unit 22 determines whether a feature game has been triggered. The control unit 22 determines that a feature game has been triggered if a series of adjacent symbols are formed from the leftmost position. As a specific example, the control unit 22 determines that a feature game has been triggered if the special symbol 85 has stopped on at least the first and second reels.

[0096] If it is determined that a feature game has been triggered (step S20: YES), the control unit 22, in step S22, holds the reels that form a series of adjacent symbols. Subsequently, in step S24, the control unit 22 determines whether all reels form a series of adjacent symbols. This is to check whether there are any reels that are eligible for respin.

[0097] If it is determined that none of the reels are held (step S24: NO), the control unit 22, in step S26, determines whether any of the unheld reels have stopped on the special symbol 85. First, the control unit 22 determines that the reels other than the held reels are the reels to be respun (unheld reels). Then, the control unit 22 determines whether each unheld reel has stopped on the special symbol 85. If it is determined that any of the unheld reels have stopped on the special symbol 85 (step S26: YES), the control unit 22, in step S28, miniaturizes the stopped special symbol 85 and holds it in the cell (see Figure 7(A) or Figure 8(A)).

[0098] If it is determined that the unheld reel has not stopped the special symbol 85 (step S26: NO), or if step S28 has ended, the control unit 22 respins and stops the unheld reel as step S30. Subsequently, as step S32, the control unit 22 determines whether the special symbol 85 linked to a series of adjacent symbols has stopped.

[0099] If it is determined that the special symbol 85 linked to the series of adjacent symbols has stopped (step S32: YES), the process returns to step S22. As a result, steps S22 to S32 are repeatedly executed until it is determined that the special symbol 85 linked to the series of adjacent symbols has not stopped.

[0100] If it is determined that all reels form a series of adjacent symbols (step S24: YES), or if it is determined that no special symbol 85 linked to a series of adjacent symbols has stopped (step S32: NO), the control unit 22, in step S34, awards a bonus based on the respin result. For example, the control unit 22 awards the player the sum of the bonus amount awarded to the credit symbol displayed in frame 87 and the bonus amount awarded to the small symbol 89.

[0101] If step S34 is completed, or if it is determined that the feature game has not been triggered (step S20: NO), the flowchart shown in Figure 13 ends.

[0102] In the gaming machine 10, symbols are displayed in the cells of the symbol display area 64 as multiple reels spin and stop. When multiple reels stop and the symbols in the symbol display area 64 meet predetermined conditions, the reel to be respun is determined. At this time, if a special symbol 85 is stopped in the symbol display area 64 by the reel to be respun, the special symbol 85 is miniaturized and held in that cell. This allows other symbols to stop in the cell where the special symbol 85 stopped. Then, the reel to be respun is respun and stops. Since other symbols stop in the cell where the special symbol 85 is held, two symbols, the special symbol 85 and other symbols, will stop in one cell. Then, the prize is determined based on the symbols on the winning line and the prize amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the winning line, and the determined prize is awarded to the player. In this way, the gaming machine 10 can determine the prize using the prize amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the winning line. Therefore, the gaming machine 10 can prevent the special symbol 85, once displayed, from moving due to a respin and becoming ineligible for the bonus, thus preventing situations that fail to meet the player's expectations. At the same time, it can make the player anticipate new wins resulting from other symbols stopping while the special symbol 85 remains. Thus, the gaming machine 10 can provide a game that has a new gameplay element that attracts the player's interest and can deliver developments that provide the player with new thrills and excitement.

[0103] The gaming machine 10 may also be a client computing device, in which case the game is delivered from a network server computer system to one or more client computing devices via a communication network. The processor of the client computing device can be programmed to function as the control unit 22 of the gaming machine 10.

[0104] When the gaming machine 10 is used as a client computing device, it is possible to: 1) use a rich client method in which the majority of processing associated with game execution is performed on the client side and the results are sent to the server; 2) use a thin client method in which only the minimum processing is performed on the client side and the main processing is performed on the server side; or 3) use a zero client method in which the majority of data storage and processing is performed on the server side and the client is specialized in input / output. In this case, the software configuration shown in the example will be implemented by distributing it between the client and the server.

[0105] In the above-described embodiment, an example was given in which the special symbol 85 is miniaturized and held in the cell, but the special symbol 85 may be miniaturized and held in a different location. For example, the miniature symbol 89 may be held in any location within the display area of ​​the display 16. When all reels form adjacent symbols when a respin game is triggered, the control unit 22 may determine a predetermined reel or a randomly determined reel as the reel to be respun as an extra respin game and provide a respin game. The control unit 22 may enlarge the symbol display area 64 during a free game. In this case as well, the control unit 22 can provide a feature game using an always-win method.

[0106] The functions of the control unit 22 of the gaming machine 10 described above can also be realized by a program executed by a computer. That is, a program can be created to make one or more computers function in the same way as the control unit 22 described above. The program may be provided by recording it on a computer-readable recording medium such as ROM or semiconductor memory. Such a program may be divided into multiple modules.

[0107] Furthermore, various modifications are possible to the operation in each embodiment. For example, the system may acquire a required number of random numbers in advance to determine the reel stopping position, determine whether a special game has been won and whether a prize has been won, and then sequentially display the results on the display. In addition, for example, the control unit 22 may acquire a required number of random numbers all at once at the start of the game and store each random number in a memory area of ​​memory 42 or storage 44 that will not be erased even in the event of a power failure. In this case, even if a power failure occurs during the game, the control unit 22 can reproduce the game's progress by retrieving the random numbers acquired at the start of the game before the power failure occurred from memory 42 or storage 44 when resuming the game after power is restored. For example, if a power failure occurs just before a game result that yields a high payout is formed, it could be a problem if the same game progress is not reproduced after power is restored. However, as described above, by acquiring all random numbers all at once at the start of the game and saving these random numbers in memory 42 or storage 44, the game can be reproduced in the same way as before the power failure occurred after power is restored, thus avoiding such problems.

[0108] Furthermore, while the above embodiment described a configuration in which banknotes or tickets are used as the game value, and these are received by a banknote / ticket identification device and tickets are printed out by a printer unit, the present invention is not limited thereto. The game value is a concept that includes tangible objects such as coins, banknotes, tokens, medals, and tickets, or electronic data such as virtual credits or virtual currencies that have equivalent value. For example, it may be a configuration in which coins are received by a coin acceptor and coins are paid out from a coin hopper. It may also be a configuration in which the player is identified, credits accumulated in an account on the server are used and credits are paid out to the account, or it may be a configuration in which credit information recorded on a storage medium such as a magnetic card or IC card is read and used, and credits are paid out by writing to the storage medium. Furthermore, it may also be a configuration in which credits are electronically transferred between a smartphone or a wearable device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 10...Gaming machine, 16...Display (an example of a display unit), 22...Control unit.

Claims

1. Each cell arranged in a matrix has a display area for displaying a symbol, the display area is provided with a prize line consisting of multiple cells, and the symbols include a display unit that includes a special symbol to which a predetermined prize amount is awarded, The system comprises a control unit connected to the display unit, The control unit, Spin and stop multiple reels to display symbols in the display area, When the multiple reels stop, if the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions, the reel to be respun is determined. If the special symbol is stopped in the display area by the reel to be respun, the special symbol is miniaturized and held in the cell in which the special symbol is stopped so that other symbols can stop in the cell where the special symbol is stopped. The reels to be respun are respun and stopped, The prize is determined based on the symbol on the prize line and the prize amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the prize line. A gaming machine configured to grant predetermined rewards to players.

2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines which reel to respin in response to the special symbol forming a series of adjacent symbols on the winning line when the plurality of reels stop.

3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the control unit grants the player the total amount of the bonus amount given to the special symbol that forms a series of adjacent symbols on the winning line and the bonus amount of the miniaturized special symbol that appears in the same cell as the special symbol.

4. The gaming machine according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the control unit holds the reels forming the series of adjacent symbols and respins the unheld reels.

5. The control unit, If a new special symbol connects to the series of adjacent symbols when the respun reel stops, the unheld reel is respun while the reel relating to the new special symbol is held. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein if a new special symbol does not connect to the series of adjacent symbols when the respun reel stops, the next respin is not performed.

6. When performing a respin, the control unit displays a frame that surrounds a first display area corresponding to the held reel and a second display area corresponding to the adjacent reel adjacent to the held reel. If a new special symbol stops on the adjacent reel, the frame is expanded to include a third display area corresponding to the reel further adjacent to the adjacent reel that stopped the special symbol. The gaming machine according to claim 5, configured to award the player the total amount of bonuses assigned to the special symbols and miniaturized special symbols that stopped within the range enclosed by the frame when the respin ends.

7. A method for providing a game performed on a gaming machine comprising a display unit having a display area for displaying symbols in each of the cells arranged in a matrix, the display area being provided with a prize line consisting of multiple cells, and the symbols including special symbols to which a predetermined prize amount is awarded, and a control unit connected to the display unit, The control unit, The steps of spinning and stopping multiple reels to display symbols in the display area, The steps include determining which reel to respin if the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions when the plurality of reels stop, If the special symbol is stopped in the display area by the reel to be respun, the step of miniaturizing the special symbol and holding it in the cell in which the special symbol is stopped so that another symbol can stop in the cell in which the special symbol is stopped, The steps include: respinning and stopping the reel to be respun; A step of determining the prize based on the symbol on the prize line and the prize amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbol on the prize line, A method for providing a game that involves the steps of granting determined rewards to players.

8. A gaming machine comprising a display unit having a display area for displaying symbols in each of the cells arranged in a matrix, the display area being provided with a prize line consisting of multiple cells, and the symbols including special symbols to which a predetermined prize amount is awarded, and a control unit connected to the display unit, wherein a program executed by the control unit, the control unit, A function that spins and stops multiple reels to display symbols in the display area, A function to determine which reel to respin when the symbols in the display area meet predetermined conditions when the multiple reels stop, When the special symbol is stopped in the display area by the reel to be respun, the function includes miniaturizing the special symbol and holding it in the cell in which the special symbol is stopped so that other symbols can stop in that cell, A function to respin and stop the reel to be respun, A function that determines the prize based on the symbols on the prize line and the prize amount assigned to the miniaturized special symbols on the prize line, A program that implements the function of granting determined rewards to players.

Images