Information processing device, game control method, and game program,

Abstract

Even if the symbol display area is enlarged, it becomes easier to design a system that ensures a balance of probabilities. [Solution] The information processing device 1 displays a symbol display area 21 in which symbols 500 are rearranged in each of a plurality of cells 210 arranged in a matrix having a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. It executes a unit game in which symbols 500 are rearranged in the symbol display area 21. In the unit game, if a special symbol 501 is rearranged in the symbol display area 21, it determines whether the number of cells 210 arranged in the column in which the special symbol 501 is rearranged is the maximum number. If the number of cells 210 is not the maximum number, it cumulatively increases the number of cells arranged in the column in which the special symbol 501 is rearranged in subsequent unit games. If the number of cells 210 is the maximum number, it grants a reward.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a game program, and a game control method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in stationary slot machines, and recently, in smartphones (information processing apparatuses) installed with slot game applications or social games, etc., a normal game lottery is performed on the condition of a bet with a specified number of bets, and symbols are rearranged and displayed based on the lottery result.

[0003] Generally, as the winning determination of the rearranged and displayed symbols, the "LEFT TO RIGHT" type is adopted. The winning determination of the "LEFT TO RIGHT" type is a determination method in which, among a plurality of symbols to be rearranged, if the same type of symbols continuously exist in a predetermined number or more from the left column to the right column regardless of the row, it is determined as a win. For example, Patent Document 1 describes that the entire symbol display area is enlarged upward and the symbols to be rearranged and displayed are increased. As a result, the target for winning determination is rapidly increased.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the conventional design described above, the entire symbol display area was enlarged, which could make it difficult for users to know where to focus their attention. Furthermore, since the probability of winning increased significantly when the entire symbol display area was enlarged, design difficulties arose in order to balance the probability of winning. This required reducing the probability of transitioning to such an advantageous state, or limiting the duration of such an advantageous state.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an information processing device, a game control method, and a game program that can easily be designed to ensure the balance of probabilities even when the symbol display area is enlarged. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing device of the present invention is A display device that displays a symbol display area in which symbols are rearranged in each of multiple cells arranged in a matrix having multiple rows and multiple columns, A controller that executes a unit game in which the symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area of ​​the display device, It has, The aforementioned controller, In the aforementioned unit game, when a special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, a process is performed to determine whether the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbol is rearranged is the maximum number. If, as a result of the determination, the number of cells is not the maximum number, the process of cumulatively increasing the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbols are rearranged in subsequent unit games, If the result of the above determination is that the number of cells is the maximum number, the process of granting the benefit is performed. It is characterized by performing the following:

[0008] According to the above configuration, the number of cells in the column where special symbols are rearranged increases cumulatively, and the number of symbols that are rearranged also increases cumulatively. As a result, the probability of winning improves in stages, maintaining a favorable state over the long term, and drawing attention to the expanded column during the period until the bonus is awarded after the maximum number of cells is reached. Consequently, it becomes easier to design a system that ensures a balance of probabilities even when the symbol display area is expanded.

[0009] In the information processing apparatus of the present invention, The column in which the number of cells increases cumulatively may be a column that is arranged consecutively among the multiple columns.

[0010] With the above configuration, the advantage of expansion is further enhanced by allowing the number of cells in consecutively arranged columns to increase cumulatively.

[0011] In the information processing apparatus of the present invention, The column that cumulatively increases the number of cells may be a column among the plurality of columns, excluding the column at the edge of the symbol display area.

[0012] According to the above configuration, the columns at the edges of the symbol display area are excluded from columns where the number of cells can increase cumulatively, thereby preventing the probability of winning from increasing unnecessarily while clearly displaying the winning symbols.

[0013] In the information processing apparatus of the present invention, If the controller grants the benefit, it may reset the column of the symbol display area to its initial state before the number of cells was cumulatively increased.

[0014] The above configuration makes it possible to prevent a situation from becoming unnecessarily advantageous.

[0015] The game control method of the present invention is A game control method performed by a computer, A process for displaying a symbol display area on a display device in which symbols are rearranged in each of multiple cells arranged in a matrix having multiple rows and multiple columns, A process of executing a unit game that rearranges the symbols in the symbol display area of ​​the display device, In the aforementioned unit game, when a special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, a process is performed to determine whether the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbol is rearranged is the maximum number. If, as a result of the determination, the number of cells is not the maximum number, the process of cumulatively increasing the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbols are rearranged in subsequent unit games, If the result of the above determination is that the number of cells is the maximum number, the process of granting the benefit is performed. It is characterized by including.

[0016] According to the above configuration, the number of cells in the column where special symbols are rearranged increases cumulatively, expanding the area of ​​that column and cumulatively increasing the number of symbols that are rearranged. As a result, the probability of winning is gradually improved, maintaining a favorable state over the long term, and drawing attention to the expanded column during the period until the bonus is awarded after the maximum number of cells is reached. Consequently, it becomes easier to design a system that ensures a balance of probabilities even when the symbol display area is expanded.

[0017] The game program of the present invention A computer equipped with a display device, A process for displaying a symbol display area in which symbols are rearranged in each of multiple cells arranged in a matrix having multiple rows and multiple columns, A process of executing a unit game that rearranges the symbols in the symbol display area of ​​the display device, In the aforementioned unit game, when a special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, a process is performed to determine whether the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbol is rearranged is the maximum number. As a result of the above determination, if the number of the cells is not the maximum number, in the subsequent unit games, perform a process of cumulatively increasing the number of the cells arranged in the column where the special symbol is rearranged, as a result of the above determination, if the number of the cells is the maximum number, perform a process of granting a privilege, and cause the above to be executed.

[0018] According to the above configuration, the cells are cumulatively increased in the column where the special symbol is rearranged, and the area of the column is expanded, and the symbols to be rearranged are cumulatively increased. Therefore, the winning probability is gradually improved, so an advantageous state can be continuously maintained for a long time, and attention can be paid to the expanded column during the period until the privilege is granted after the cells reach the maximum number. As a result, even if the symbol display area is expanded, it is possible to facilitate the design for ensuring the balance of the probability.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] It is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration related to the display of an information processing device. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 3] It is a functional block diagram of an information processing device. [Figure 4] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the expansion of a column. [Figure 5] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a special symbol is rearranged in a column where the cells are expanded to the maximum number. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram showing a game screen of a free game in a bonus state. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart of game control processing. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart of privilege determination processing. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart of bonus state execution processing.

Embodiment for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 1 is connected to the server 10 via an internet line 9, enabling data communication, and a game system 100 is configured having the information processing device 1 and the server 10. However, the game system 100 is not limited to this and may consist only of the information processing device 1. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may refer to the game system itself, which has a terminal device such as a smartphone and a server, and the functions of the information processing device 1 described in this embodiment may be provided by any of the components of the game system.

[0022] Furthermore, the following explanation may assume that the user logs in to the server 10 via the information processing device 1. For example, the user enters a user ID and password into the information processing device 1, and the login is authenticated by the server 10 via the communication line. The information processing device 1 may store the login information for this authentication and automatically log in to the server 10 using the stored login information without user input when the user starts the game. Alternatively, the information processing device 1 may automatically log in to the server 10 using the stored login information when the user starts the game, after biometric authentication of the user is performed. Known biometric information such as face, fingerprints, retina, iris, vein patterns, and voiceprints can be used for biometric authentication. In this way, the server 10 is configured to log in to the information processing device 1 and run the game.

[0023] Multiple information processing devices 1 have a common application installed via an application store server or the like, corresponding to the OS (Operating System) of each information processing device 1. In this embodiment, a slot game is made playable as a game element in the application installed on the information processing device 1. That is, the user can play a slot game on this application. Note that the slot game may also be an add-in to the application. That is, the slot game may be provided separately from the application as an additional function of the application, via an application store server or server 10, etc. Furthermore, the application may make multiple types of slot games with different presentation styles and rules playable.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 1 illustrated in this embodiment is a so-called smartphone, and has a display 2 provided on the front of the housing 11, a touch panel 5 provided on the display 2, a memory 3, and a controller 4. However, the information processing device 1 is not limited to this and may be either portable or stationary. Examples of portable information processing devices 1 include portable computers, laptop computers, tablet PCs, handheld PCs, PDAs (Personal Data Assistants), and other portable information devices. The information processing device 1 may also be a stationary slot machine. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may have a device capable of accepting physical or data-based game value (described later).

[0025] Display 2 is a display device configured to display images. Examples of display methods for Display 2 include liquid crystal, organic electroluminescence, CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), and plasma displays. Touch panel 5 is configured to detect the coordinates of the area touched by the user's finger or other object. Known technologies such as electromagnetic induction and capacitive touch are employed for touch panel 5. Information processing device 1 determines the object on the screen touched by the user or the type of touch such as a swipe from the coordinates detected by touch panel 5, and responds according to the determination result. Note that the display device may be partially or entirely mechanical.

[0026] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the touch panel 5 operates as an input device and accepts swipe operations, touch operations, etc., but is not limited to this. For example, the input device may be a microphone or a camera, and the user's voice or gestures may be accepted as instructions.

[0027] Furthermore, the touch panel 5 is not limited to being located on the front of the display 2. For example, the touch panel 5 may be located on the back side of the housing 11 opposite to the display 2. Alternatively, the touch panel 5 may be located on a part of the display 2.

[0028] The display 2 shows the slot game screen 20. The slot game screen 20 is provided with a symbol display area 21 in which the symbols 500 change and stop when the game (normal game and free game) is started. In its initial state, the symbol display area 21 has a plurality of cells 210 arranged in a matrix with a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. Symbols are rearranged in each of the plurality of cells 210. In this embodiment, the symbol display area 21 is provided with a plurality of columns: a first scroll area 211, a second scroll area 212, a third scroll area 213, a fourth scroll area 214, and a fifth scroll area 215. These plurality of columns are expandable. The expansion of columns will be described later. In each column, after the symbol column (described later) is scrolled (changed display) is performed, the symbols 500 may be rearranged in each of the plurality of cells 210. In each of the plurality of cells 210, after the symbol column (described later) is scrolled (changed display) is performed, the symbols 500 may be rearranged. Each scroll area 211 to 215 initially has a total of three cells 210 arranged vertically (in this embodiment, in the scroll direction). That is, the symbol display area 21 initially has a total of 15 cells 210 arranged in a 5-column, 3-row matrix. Cells 210 are setting areas that define the stopping position of the symbol 500, and may be displayed or hidden. Note that the number of cells 210 in the symbol display area 21 in the initial state is not limited to this. The symbol 500 is rearranged into each of these multiple cells 210. One symbol 500 may be rearranged into one cell 210, or one symbol 500 may be rearranged in a way that occupies two or more cells 210.

[0029] Memory 3 stores various programs, including the game program executed by the controller 4, and various data used by those programs. Memory 3 may be a conceptual memory area in the game system 100, and may be possessed by either the information processing device 1 or the server 10, or its functions may be distributed between the information processing device 1 and the server 10, or its functions may be provided on both the information processing device 1 and the server 10. That is, if a game program executed by the information processing device 1 requires data stored in the server 10, the information processing device 1 may request the data from the server 10, and the server 10 may respond to the request with the data.

[0030] The controller 4, acting as a control unit, executes various processes according to the game program stored in memory 3. The controller 4 may be a conceptual execution device in the game system 100, and may be located in either the information processing device 1 or the server 10, or its functions may be distributed between the information processing device 1 and the server 10, or it may be located in both the information processing device 1 and the server 10.

[0031] Thus, the game system 100 functions as a single computer comprising an information processing device 1 as an input device (touch panel 5) and an output device (display 2), and an information processing device 1 and / or a server 10 as memory 3 and a controller 4.

[0032] The information processing device 1, configured as described above, expands the column in the symbol display area 21 where the special symbol 501 has been rearranged. When the special symbol 501 has been rearranged into the column that has been expanded to its maximum extent, the information processing device 1 grants a special benefit.

[0033] Specifically, the expansion of columns will be explained. As shown in Figure 1, multiple columns in the symbol display area 21 are expandable. Column expansion means that the area of ​​the column is expanded, and the number of cells 210 arranged in one column increases. For example, if the display device is mechanical, the increase in the number of cells 210 in one column may be indicated by the illumination of the backlight of the cells 210. In this embodiment, the second scroll area 212, the third scroll area 213, and the fourth scroll area 214 are expandable. By making consecutively arranged columns expandable in this way, the advantage of expansion is further enhanced. In addition, the first scroll area 211 and the fifth scroll area 215 are excluded from the expandable columns. By excluding the end columns in the symbol display area 21 from the expandable columns in this way, it is possible to display the winning symbols clearly while suppressing an unnecessarily high probability of winning. However, this is not limited to this, and any of the multiple columns may be expanded, or any of the columns may be excluded from the expandable columns. Furthermore, column expansion is not limited to expanding the size of the column area. For example, column expansion may be achieved by reducing the size of cell 210 while maintaining the size of the column area, thereby increasing the number of cells 210 within the column area.

[0034] Column expansion is performed on the condition that the special symbol 501 is relocated to cell 210 of the expandable column. The column containing cell 210 to which the special symbol 501 is relocated is expanded. Column expansion may be applied in the unit game (described later) in which the special symbol 501 is relocated. Column expansion may also be applied in a unit game after the unit game in which the special symbol 501 is relocated (e.g., the next unit game). The area size of a single cell 210 in the expanded column may be changed compared to before the expansion.

[0035] Column expansion is performed cumulatively. The number of cells 210 in an expanded column continues to increase cumulatively in subsequent unit games. If a special symbol 501 is repositioned in a cell 210 of an expanded column, that column is further expanded. Columns can be expanded up to a predetermined maximum number of cells 210 per column. In this embodiment, the maximum number is the same for all columns (6), but it may differ from column to column.

[0036] The initial state of the symbol display area 21 indicates the state of the symbol display area 21 after a reset. The initial state of the symbol display area 21 is a state in which multiple cells 210 are arranged in a matrix, and it is the state before all columns are expanded. A reset may be performed after a special bonus has been granted. A reset may be performed in response to a lottery. The lottery that determines whether or not to reset may be a symbol lottery that determines the symbols 500 to be rearranged, or it may be a separate lottery. A reset may be performed when a predetermined number of unit games have been played since any column was expanded. The columns to which a reset is performed may be only the columns in which the conditions for granting a special bonus have been met, or it may be all columns.

[0037] The condition for granting a special bonus is that special symbol 501 is rearranged in a column where the number of cells 210 has been expanded to its maximum. For example, the special bonus may be granted in a unit game in which the condition for granting the special bonus is met. Specifically, the special bonus may be an additional fixed payout. Alternatively, for example, the special bonus may be a change in the state of the symbols 500 that are rearranged in a unit game in which the condition for granting the special bonus is met. Specifically, the special bonus may be a change in the state of the symbols 500 that are rearranged in a unit game in which the condition for granting the special bonus is met, by replacing one or more of the symbols 500 with a wild symbol that can substitute for any other symbol 500. Alternatively, for example, the special bonus may be granted after the unit game in which the condition for granting the special bonus is met. Specifically, the special bonus may be a more favorable unit game played after the condition for granting the special bonus has been met. More specifically, a more favorable unit game may be multiple unit games played with all expandable columns expanded to their maximum extent.

[0038] The information processing device 1 configured in this way is programmed so that the controller 4 executes the following processes (A1) to (A5). In other words, the game program stored in the memory 3, which will be described later as a storage unit, causes the game system 100, which acts as a computer, to execute the following processes (A1) to (A5). Specifically, process (A1) is the process of displaying a symbol display area 21 in which symbols 500 are rearranged in each of the multiple cells 210 arranged in a matrix having multiple rows and multiple columns. Process (A2) is the process of executing a unit game in which symbols 500 are rearranged in the symbol display area 21 of the display 2. Process (A3) is the process of determining whether the number of cells 210 arranged in the column in which special symbols 501 are rearranged is the maximum number, in the case where special symbols 501 are rearranged in the symbol display area 21 during the unit game. Process (A4) is to cumulatively increase the number of cells 210 that are arranged in the column where special symbol 501 is repositioned in subsequent unit games, if the result of the check is that the number of cells 210 is not the maximum number. Process (A5) is to grant a bonus if the result of the check is that the number of cells 210 is the maximum number.

[0039] In this way, the number of cells 210 in the column where the special symbol 501 is rearranged increases cumulatively, expanding the area of ​​that column, and the number of symbols 500 that are rearranged increases cumulatively. As a result, the probability of winning is gradually improved, maintaining a favorable state over the long term, and drawing attention to the expanded column during the period until the bonus is awarded after the maximum number of cells 210 is reached. Consequently, even if the symbol display area 21 is expanded, it becomes easier to design a system that ensures a balance of probabilities.

[0040] Furthermore, by having the information processing device 1 equipped with the above program execute the processes (A1) to (A5), a game control method is realized in which the processes (A1) to (A5) are executed by the information processing device 1 (computer). In other words, the information processing device 1 is equipped with multiple processing units that each execute the processes (A1) to (A5). In the following explanation, the information processing device 1 will be used as an example, but the processes and operations of the information processing device 1 can be replaced with inventions of game programs or game control methods stored on a non-temporary recording medium. Also, the processes executed by the controller 4 may be executed only by the information processing device 1, or the functions may be provided to the game system 100 having a server 10. That is, the processes and operations of the information processing device 1 can be replaced with inventions of the game system 100.

[0041] Referring to Figure 2, an example of the specific electrical configuration of a game system 100 consisting of an information processing device 1 and a server 10 will be described. As shown in Figure 2, the information processing device 1 is housed in a casing 11 and includes a CPU 101, ROM 102, RAM 103, flash memory 104, operation buttons 108, power switch 109, bus line 110, network interface 111, camera 112, image sensor interface 113, microphone 114, speaker 115, audio input / output interface 116, display interface 117, sensor controller 118, short-range communication circuit 119, and antenna 119a for the short-range communication circuit 119.

[0042] Furthermore, server 10 is a so-called computer equipped with a CPU 1101, ROM 1102, RAM 1103, storage devices such as a hard disk drive 1104, and a network interface 1111.

[0043] The CPU 101 (Central Processing Unit) functions as the main controller component in the information processing device 1 and controls the operation of the entire information processing device 1. The CPU 1101 functions as the main controller component in the server 10 and controls the operation of the entire server 10. In other words, CPUs 101 and 1101 function as controllers that control the operation of the entire game system 100. The ROM 102 (Read Only Memory) stores programs used to drive the CPU 101, such as the IPL (Initial Program Loader).

[0044] RAM103 and RAM1103 (Random Access Memory) are used as work areas for CPU101 and CPU1101. Operation button 108 is used when initializing the information processing device 1, etc. Power switch 109 is a switch for turning the power of the information processing device 1 ON / OFF.

[0045] The flash memory 104, which functions as memory 3, is a computer-readable, non-transient recording medium that stores various data such as game programs, communication programs, image data, and sound data. The storage device 1104 functions as a database and is a computer-readable, non-transient recording medium that stores game data for each of the multiple information processing devices 1. The server 10 responds to requests from the game programs of the information processing device 1 by appropriately referring to the database in the storage device 1104.

[0046] For example, the flash memory 104 stores various programs, including game programs executed by the CPU 101 acting as a controller, and various data used by these programs. In other words, these programs cause the information processing device 1, which is a computer equipped with the CPU 101 and the flash memory 104, to execute the processes that these programs have. When the information processing device 1 is considered as a game system 100, the flash memory 104 and storage device 1104 store various programs, including game programs executed by the CPU 101 and CPU 1101 acting as controllers, and various data used by these programs. In other words, these programs cause the information processing device 1, which is a game system 100 equipped with the CPU 101 and CPU 1101, and the flash memory 104 and storage device 1104, to execute the processes that these programs have. In this way, the processes and operations of the information processing device 1 can be replaced with programs or game control methods.

[0047] Furthermore, the data and programs stored in the flash memory 104 and the storage device 1104 may be pre-stored at the factory before shipment, or they may be downloaded and stored from a server (not shown) via communication means. The communication means may be a bidirectional transmission path such as the internet or cable television, or it may be broadcasting that transmits information in only one direction. In addition, the data and programs stored in the flash memory 104 and the storage device 1104 may be stored on a recording medium such as a floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, MO (magneto-optical disk), or flash memory, and may be read from the recording medium and installed as needed.

[0048] The Network I / F 111 (Interface) is an interface for data communication using a communication network such as the Internet. The Camera 112 is a type of built-in imaging means that captures an image of a subject and obtains image data according to the control of the CPU 101. The Image Sensor I / F 113 is a circuit that controls the driving of the Camera 112. The Microphone 114 is a type of built-in sound collection means that inputs sound. The Audio Input / Output I / F 116 is a circuit that processes the input and output of sound signals between the Microphone 114 and the Speaker 115 according to the control of the CPU 101. The Display I / F 117 is a circuit that transmits image data to the Display 2 according to the control of the CPU 101. The Display 2 is located on the front of the Housing 11. The Sensor Controller 118 is a circuit that receives input from the Touch Panel 5 located on the Display 2. The Near Field Communication Circuit 119 is a communication circuit such as NFC (Near Field Communication) (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). Bus line 110 is an address bus, data bus, etc., for electrically connecting various components such as the CPU 101.

[0049] Next, we will explain slot games. Slot games are made playable by users as a game element within installed applications. In slot games, multiple symbols 500 are changed and then stopped (rearranged) within the symbol display area 21, and game value is assigned based on the combination of symbols 500 displayed within the symbol display area 21. The state in which multiple symbols 500 are changed and then stopped within the symbol display area 21 is referred to as "rearrangement." In slot games, a normal game is played, and if certain conditions are met in the normal game, a free game that is more advantageous to the user than the normal game may be played.

[0050] Slot games are initiated upon the consumption of cumulative game value. Game value is consumed as a condition for playing a normal game under normal conditions and may be awarded as a game result. That is, a user bets game value to play one slot game (unit game) and may win rewards such as game value as a result of the slot game. As mentioned above, game value may be non-valuable game points used as a pseudo-substitute for credits within the game, or it may be coins, banknotes, or equivalent electronic valuable information. Game value may also be non-monetary information used solely to initiate a slot game. In the following explanation, game value may be referred to as credits. The number of game value used for betting may be referred to as the number of bets.

[0051] A "unit game" is a series of actions from the start of accepting bets to a state where a prize can be won (a combination of symbols satisfies a predetermined relationship). In other words, a unit game is a state that includes one betting time for accepting bets, one game time for rearranging symbols, and one payout time for distributing payouts if a prize is won. If no prize is won, there is no payout, and therefore the payout time is not included. The actions of a unit game may represent the visuals displayed on the display device, or the internal processing, or both.

[0052] The bonus state includes one or more free games. Free games are games with higher payouts than regular games. Generally, free games are set to have a higher probability of symbol combinations being formed than regular games, resulting in a higher likelihood of receiving higher payouts from the user. Also, free games are games that can be played with fewer bets of game value than regular games. "Can be played with fewer bets of game value" includes cases where the bet is "0". Therefore, free games may also be games that are played without requiring a bet of game value and pay an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, the bonus state may be a game that is started without the premise of consuming game value. In contrast, regular games are games that are played with a bet of game value and pay an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, regular games are games that are started with the premise of consuming game value.

[0053] This section explains how winning combinations are determined in the slot game. In the symbol display area 21, one cell 210 is selected from each of the scroll areas 211 to 215, and multiple winning combination lines 400 (one example is shown in Figure 1) are set up, each consisting of five cells 210. Winning combinations are determined in advance before the symbols 500 are rearranged, but the winning result is shown to the user when the symbols 500 are rearranged on the winning combination lines 400.

[0054] Specifically, the prize-winning line 400 is composed of five cells 210: one cell 210 in the first scroll area 211, one cell 210 in the second scroll area 212, one cell 210 in the third scroll area 213, one cell 210 in the fourth scroll area 214, and one cell 210 in the fifth scroll area 215. In the following explanation, the prize-winning line may be referred to as the prize line or pay line. In the prize-winning line 400, the order of arrangement is determined to be from the cell 210 in the first scroll area 211 to the cell 210 in the fifth scroll area 215. That is, in the prize-winning line 400, the cell 210 in the first scroll area 211 is followed by the cell 210 in the second scroll area 212. Also, the cell 210 in the second scroll area 212 is followed by the cell in the third scroll area 213. Furthermore, the cell 210 in the third scroll area 213 is followed by the cell 210 in the fourth scroll area 214. Similarly, the cell 210 in the fourth scroll area 214 is followed by the cell 210 in the fifth scroll area 215. This arrangement corresponds to the order in which the scrolling of symbol 500 stops in each scroll area 211 to 215. In other words, the scrolling of symbol 500 stops in the order of the first scroll area 211 to the fifth scroll area 215.

[0055] In regular games and free games, the winning determination method used is the so-called "LEFT TO RIGHT" method. In the "LEFT TO RIGHT" method, a win is awarded (a payout is given) if a predetermined number or more (for example, 3 to 5) of the same type of symbols are connected consecutively from the first scroll area 211 to the fifth scroll area 215 of the symbol display area 21. In other words, in the "LEFT TO RIGHT" method, a win is awarded if the same symbol 500 is rearranged in the first scroll area 211, the second scroll area 212, and the third scroll area 213, respectively. To put it another way, the "LEFT TO RIGHT" method is a method in which the winning determination line 400 is set to cover all patterns. However, it is not limited to this, and a winning determination method called the payline method may also be used. The payline method is a method of determining winnings for symbols of a specific type 500 when a predetermined number or more of the same type of symbols appear consecutively in the order described above, starting from the first scroll area 211, across multiple winning determination lines 400. In other words, the payline method is a method in which the number of winning determination lines 400 is limited compared to the "LEFT TO RIGHT" method.

[0056] Furthermore, the winning determination that determines the transition to the bonus state where free games are played uses a winning determination method called the scatter method. The scatter method is a winning determination method that determines a win when a predetermined number or more of the same type of symbols are rearranged within the symbol display area 21. For example, if three or more trigger symbols are rearranged, the game transitions from normal game to bonus state. The advantages of the bonus state may be changed depending on the number of trigger symbols at this time. For example, the number of free games in the bonus state may be changed depending on the number of trigger symbols. Also, for example, the fixed payout when transitioning to the bonus state may be increased depending on the number of trigger symbols. Note that symbols determined by the scatter method are excluded from symbols that can be substituted by wild symbols. In the following explanation, trigger symbols may also be referred to as bonus symbols.

[0057] As shown in Figure 3, the information processing device 1 has the following functions for executing the slot game described above. Specifically, the information processing device 1 has a BET input unit 601 and a spin input unit 602. The BET input unit 601 has the function of accepting bets based on user input. The spin input unit 602 has the function of accepting the start of the game based on user input, i.e., a start operation. For example, the BET input unit 601 and the spin input unit 602 are implemented by the touch panel 5.

[0058] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 includes a start check unit 603, a normal game execution unit 605, a bonus game start determination unit 606, a bonus game execution unit 607, a lottery game execution unit 608, a random value extraction unit 615, a symbol determination unit 612, a random value extraction unit for effects 616, an effects content determination unit 613, a sound output unit 617, an effects display processing unit 618, a prize determination unit 619, a prize awarding unit 620, and a game display processing unit 631.

[0059] The normal game execution unit 605 has the function of executing the normal game, which is the base game, based on the operation of the BET input unit 601. The bonus game start determination unit 606 determines whether or not to execute a bonus game based on the combination of symbols rearranged in the normal game. That is, when the bonus trigger condition is met, the bonus game start determination unit 606 has the function of determining that a bonus game has been won and transferring processing to the bonus game execution unit 607 so that the bonus game will be executed from the next unit game. The lottery game execution unit 608 has the function of drawing multiple prizes, including a bonus game, and is executed after the execution of the bonus game execution unit 607, making it possible to execute the bonus game repeatedly.

[0060] The symbol determination unit 612 includes a base game processing unit 612a and a bonus game processing unit 612b. The symbol determination unit 612, including these processing units 612a and 612b, has the function of determining the symbols to be rearranged using random values ​​from the random value extraction unit 615, rearranging the determined symbols in the game area 291 of the display 2, outputting symbol rearrangement information to the prize determination unit 619, and outputting performance command signals to the performance random value extraction unit 616 based on the combination of symbol rearrangement.

[0061] The random value extraction unit 616 for performance has the function of extracting random values ​​for performance when it receives a performance command signal from the symbol determination unit 612, and the function of outputting the random values ​​for performance to the performance content determination unit 613. The performance content determination unit 613 has the function of determining the performance content using the random values ​​for performance, the function of outputting the video information of the determined performance content to the performance display processing unit 618, and the function of outputting the audio and light emission information of the determined performance content to the sound output unit 617.

[0062] The prize determination unit 619 has the function of determining whether or not a prize has been won based on the combination of symbols when information on the rearrangement of symbols is obtained, the function of calculating the payout amount based on the winning combination when it is determined that a prize has been won, and the function of outputting a payout signal based on the payout amount to the prize awarding unit 620. The prize awarding unit 620 has the function of paying out the game value to the user.

[0063] Although not shown in the diagram, the output from each of the above processing units is appropriately transmitted to the server 10 connected via the communication line.

[0064] In this embodiment, the processing and operation are described assuming that the information processing device 1, which is a smartphone, has these functions, but the functions may be distributed among the components of the game system 100. For example, the lottery to determine the result of the slot game may be performed by the server 10. In other words, the information processing device 1 may be composed of the game system 100.

[0065] Next, with reference to Figures 4 and 5, we will describe an example of the display of the symbol display area 21 in relation to column expansion.

[0066] As shown in Figure 4, first, the symbol 500 is displayed in a variable manner in each scroll area 211 to 215 of the symbol display area 21. Then, the symbol 500 is rearranged in each cell 210 of the symbol display area 21. When the special symbol 501 is rearranged, an effect is performed in which the special symbol 501 rises in the column where the special symbol 501 was rearranged (the second scroll area 212 in the example of Figure 4). The column where the special symbol 501 was rearranged is then expanded upwards, and a cell 210 is added. The rising special symbol 501 moves to the added cell 210. In this way, the column is expanded. Then, the symbol 500 is shifted downwards to fill the empty cell 210 where the special symbol 501 was originally rearranged. In other words, in the column where the special symbol 501 was rearranged, a new symbol 500 is added to be rearranged.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, we will describe the case in which the special symbol 501 is repositioned in a column (the second scroll area 212 in the example of Figure 4) where the number of cells 210 has already been expanded to the maximum number (6 in this embodiment). In this case, for example, after an animation of the special symbol 501 rising is performed, similar to the example in Figure 4, the special symbol 501 is hidden. Then, similar to the example in Figure 4, the symbols 500 are shifted downward to fill the empty cell 210 where the special symbol 501 was originally repositioned. That is, in the column in which the special symbol 501 is repositioned, a new symbol 500 is added to be repositioned. After that, an animation 212a is performed to indicate that a special benefit will be granted. Then, the special benefit is granted. For example, in the example in Figure 5, the special benefit is that the repositioned symbol 500 is replaced with a wild symbol 502 that can substitute for other symbols 500. Note that the number of times the maximum number has been reached (the number of times the special benefit has been granted) may be stored for each column, and the special benefit may be changed according to that number.

[0068] Furthermore, the special symbol 501 may be the symbol 500 that replaces the replacement symbol (not shown) after rearrangement. That is, after the replacement symbol is rearranged, the special symbol 501 may be included in the symbol 500 that replaces the replacement symbol. Other symbols that replace the replacement symbol may include, for example, symbols that grant fixed payouts. More specifically, symbols that grant fixed payouts may, upon rearrangement, have the function of granting a payout equal to the number of bets multiplied by the assigned value.

[0069] As shown in Figure 6, the special bonus may be multiple free games. In the example shown in Figure 6, the symbol display area 21 in the free game is executed with all cells 210 of the expandable columns (scroll areas 212-214) expanded to the maximum number. Also, in the free game, the additional lottery symbol 503 is included in the symbol 500 where it is repositioned. When the additional lottery symbol 503 is repositioned, an additional lottery is held after the free game ends to determine additional bonuses, including the continuation of the free game. The additional lottery is held the same number of times as the number of times the additional lottery symbol 503 was stopped in the multiple free games. In addition, the slot game screen 20 in the free game is provided with an additional lottery count display area 22, a winning judgment line count display area 23, and a remaining free game count display area 24. The additional lottery count display area 22 displays the current number of additional lotteries. The winning judgment line count display area 23 displays the current number of winning judgment lines 400. Although not shown in the diagram, the winning line count display area 23 may also be displayed during normal gameplay. The remaining free game count display area 24 displays the remaining number of free games. The remaining free game count display area 24 may utilize the area where the spin button is displayed during normal gameplay. The spin button is an area provided for confirming bets and starting the slot game.

[0070] Next, with reference to Figure 7, the game control process executed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described.

[0071] First, the CPU 101 performs a bet start check (S10). In this bet start check, the number of credits (coins) to bet is determined by touch operation on the display 2 of the information processing device 1. The number of credits bet is then stored in the BET counter of RAM 103. When a bet is made, the number of credits bet is subtracted from the value of the coin counter in RAM 103. In this bet start check, the CPU 101 also determines whether or not the spin button has been touched. If the spin button has been touched, the process proceeds to S11 to continue the slot game.

[0072] Next, the CPU 101 executes a symbol lottery process (S11). As described above, in the symbol lottery, the CPU 101 performs a reassignment symbol determination process to determine which reassignment symbols to display in the symbol display area 21 from a sequence of symbols not shown. Here, the symbols to be stopped are determined by lottery from among a plurality of symbols 500 arranged in each of the five video reels (scroll areas 211 to 215). These symbols to be stopped are the symbol data to be displayed in the symbol display area 21. This determines which symbols 500 will be displayed in the symbol display area 21. The CPU 101 stores the determined symbols to be stopped in the symbol storage area provided in the RAM 103.

[0073] Furthermore, if it is decided during the symbol lottery process that special symbol 501 will be rearranged, additional symbols 500 will also be determined. Specifically, symbols 500 that will be added due to the expansion of the column (see Figure 4) and symbols 500 that will be added due to special symbol 501 being hidden (see Figure 5) will be determined.

[0074] Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol 501 is reassigned in the symbol lottery process of step S11 (S12). If the special symbol 501 is reassigned (S12: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the number of cells 210 in the column to which the special symbol 501 is reassigned is the maximum number (S13). If the number of cells 210 in the column to which the special symbol 501 is reassigned is the maximum number (S13: YES), the CPU 101 executes the reward determination process (S14). The reward determination process will be described later with reference to Figure 8. If the number of cells 210 in the column to which the special symbol 501 is reassigned is not the maximum number (S13: YES), the CPU 101 executes the column expansion process (S15). Specifically, the column expansion process identifies the column to which the symbol 500 will be added and determines which symbol 500 to add.

[0075] If the special symbol 501 is not repositioned (S12: NO), after step S14 or after step S15, the CPU 101 performs a payout determination process based on the result of the symbol lottery process (S16). In this process, the CPU 101 determines the payout based on the number of symbols of the same type that are scheduled to be repositioned (displayed) on the paylines of the symbol display area 21. If the number of symbols of the same type on the paylines is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (3 to 5), the CPU 101 determines the payout (dividend value) corresponding to the number of symbols of the type to be repositioned, based on the paytable stored in RAM 103. If the predetermined number or greater of any type of symbol is not repositioned, there is no payout (dividend value is 0). The determined payout (dividend) is then stored in the payout memory area provided in RAM 103.

[0076] Next, the CPU 101 determines whether or not three or more bonus symbols have been rearranged in the symbol lottery process of step S11 and whether or not the conditions for transitioning to the bonus state have been met (S17). If it is determined in step S13 that three or more bonus symbols have been rearranged (S17: YES), the CPU 101 sets the bonus flag to ON (S18).

[0077] If the conditions for transitioning to the bonus state are not met (S17: NO), or after step S18, the CPU 101 executes the performance determination process (S20). The CPU 101 extracts random values ​​for the performance and determines one of several predetermined performance contents by lottery. For example, the CPU 101 decides to start scrolling in the symbol display area 21 and to stop and display each of the symbols determined in the lottery process in step S11. More specifically, for example, if a bonus symbol is selected as a stop symbol, the CPU 101 may decide to perform a premonition performance indicating that a bonus symbol will be stopped in the display area where the bonus symbol will be stopped during scrolling.

[0078] The CPU 101 then executes the determined performance content at the appropriate timing (S21). For example, the CPU 101 controls the display 2 to show a video for the performance and outputs sound through the speaker 115. For example, the CPU 101 starts scrolling multiple symbols on the reels in the symbol display area 21 and then displays a video to show the symbols that are scheduled to stop. For example, the CPU 101 displays a video that highlights the symbols related to winning among the stopped symbols and performs an effect that increments the number of credits held. For example, the CPU 101 performs an effect that transitions to a bonus state. For example, the CPU 101 displays a video as shown in Figures 4 and 5, according to the determined performance content, such as an effect that expands the rows or an effect that grants special benefits, using information such as the symbols 500 determined in step S15.

[0079] Then, if the CPU 101 has a number of credits to add as a result of the above game, it executes a payout process to add that number of credits to the number of credits held (S22). Note that the payout process may be performed at a predetermined timing during the performance execution process (for example, at the timing of a performance in which the number of credits held is incremented). Then, the CPU 101 terminates this subroutine. Here, the CPU 101 may clear data that is no longer needed in the work area of ​​RAM 103 after each unit game, such as the value of the bet counter in the BET number memory area for the unit game executed, or the symbols that have been determined by lottery to be displayed in the symbol display area 21.

[0080] Subsequently, the CPU 101 determines whether the bonus flag is ON or OFF (S23). If the bonus flag is OFF (S23: NO), this routine terminates. If the bonus flag is ON (S23: YES), the CPU 101 executes the bonus state execution process (S24). The bonus state execution process will be described later with reference to Figure 9. In this way, the CPU 101 determines that the bonus flag is ON and confirms the transition from normal game to bonus state. Then, the CPU 101 executes the reset process (S25). In the reset process, the CPU 101 resets the expansion of the entire column after the transition to bonus state. Also, if the CPU 101 grants a bonus that replaces a wild symbol 502, for example, it resets the expansion of the column where the special symbol 501 was rearranged. If no bonus is granted, the CPU 101 does not execute the reset process.

[0081] Next, with reference to Figure 8, the benefit determination process executed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described.

[0082] First, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol 501 is repositioned in the third scroll area 213 (S30). If the special symbol 501 is repositioned in the third scroll area 213 (S30: YES), the CPU 101 performs a bonus lottery process (S31). In the bonus lottery process, the CPU 101 decides whether the bonus to be repositioned, the symbol 500, is to be replaced with a wild symbol (see Figure 5), or whether the bonus is to transition to a bonus state (see Figure 6).

[0083] If the game transitions to a bonus state (SS32:YES), the CPU 101 sets the bonus flag to ON (S33). If, in step S30, the special symbol 501 is repositioned to the second scroll area 212 or fourth scroll area 214 instead of the third scroll area 213 (S30:NO), or if the game does not transition to a bonus state in step S32, the CPU 101 determines which of the symbols 500 to be repositioned in the symbol display area 21 will be replaced by the wild symbol 502 (S34). After step S33 or step S4, the CPU 101 terminates this routine.

[0084] Next, with reference to Figure 9, the first bonus state execution process performed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described.

[0085] First, the CPU 101 performs a symbol selection process in the same way as the game control process (S41). Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not additional selection symbols have been rearranged (S42). If additional selection symbols have been rearranged (S43: YES), the CPU 101 adds the number of additional selections (S43). If additional selection symbols have not been rearranged (S43: NO), or after step S43, the CPU 101 performs a payout determination process based on the result of the symbol selection process (S44). In this process, based on the paytable stored in RAM 103, the CPU 101 determines the payout (dividend value) corresponding to the number of identical symbols on the payline that are scheduled to be rearranged (displayed) in the symbol display area 21 (for example, 3 to 5). The sum of these determined payouts (dividends) is then stored in the payout storage area provided in RAM 103.

[0086] Although not shown in the diagram, if the symbol lottery process in step S41 determines that the special symbol 501 will be reassigned, a process such as replacing the reassigned symbol 500 with the wild symbol 502 may be performed.

[0087] Then, the CPU 101 executes the performance determination process (S46). The CPU 101 extracts random values ​​for the performance, randomly determines one of several predetermined performance contents, and executes the determined performance contents at the timing (S47). For example, the CPU 101 controls the display 2 to show a video for the performance and outputs sound through the speaker 115. Also, for example, the CPU 101 starts scrolling display of multiple symbols on the reels in the symbol display area 21, and then displays a video that stops the symbols that are scheduled to stop. Also, for example, the CPU 101 displays a video that highlights the symbols related to winning among the stopped symbols, and performs a performance that increments the number of credits held. Then, if there are credits to be added as a result of the above game, the CPU 101 executes a payout process that adds those credits to the number of credits held (S48).

[0088] Then, the CPU 101 performs a process to subtract the number of free games (S49). Specifically, the CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value in the remaining free games column. Then, the CPU 101 performs an initialization process at the end of one game (S50). In step S50, data that is no longer needed for each unit game is cleared from the working area of ​​the RAM 103, such as the value of the bet counter in the BET count memory area for the executed unit game, and the symbol sequence that has been determined by lottery to be displayed in the symbol display area 21.

[0089] Next, CPU 101 determines whether or not there are any remaining free games in the bonus state (S51). If there are remaining free games (S51: NO), CPU 101 proceeds to step S44 and executes the free games again. If there are no remaining free games (S51: YES), CPU 101 executes the payout total display process (S52). In the payout total display process, CPU 101 executes an animation that displays the total amount of all payouts made during the free games in the bonus state. Next, CPU 101 sets the bonus flag to OFF (S53) and then determines whether or not there are additional draws added by the rearrangement of the additional draw symbol 503 (S54). If there are additional draws (S54: YES), CPU 101 executes the additional draw process for the number of times that have been added (S55). For example, in the additional draw process, CPU 101 draws whether or not to continue the free games, including the number of free games if the free games are to continue. Furthermore, if an additional lottery process is performed, it is not guaranteed that the player will win a continuation of the free game.

[0090] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. The specific configurations of each means, etc., can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely a list of the most preferred effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0091] 1. Information Processing Device 2 displays 5 Touch panel 10 servers 100 Game Systems

Claims

1. A display device that displays a symbol display area in which symbols are rearranged in each of multiple cells arranged in a matrix having multiple rows and multiple columns, A controller that executes a unit game in which the symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area of ​​the display device, It has, The aforementioned controller, In the aforementioned unit game, when a special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, a process is performed to determine whether the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbol is rearranged is the maximum number. If, as a result of the determination, the number of cells is not the maximum number, the process of cumulatively increasing the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbols are rearranged in subsequent unit games, If the result of the above determination is that the number of cells is the maximum number, the process of granting the benefit is performed. An information processing device characterized by performing the following actions.

2. An information processing apparatus according to claim 1, The column that cumulatively increases the number of cells is a column that is arranged consecutively in the plurality of columns. Information processing device.

3. An information processing apparatus according to claim 1, The column that cumulatively increases the number of cells is the column among the plurality of columns excluding the column at the edge of the symbol display area. Information processing device.

4. An information processing apparatus according to claim 1, When the controller grants the benefit, it resets the column in the symbol display area to its initial state before the number of cells was cumulatively increased. Information processing device.

5. A game control method performed by a computer, A process for displaying a symbol display area on a display device in which symbols are rearranged in each of multiple cells arranged in a matrix having multiple rows and multiple columns, A process of executing a unit game that rearranges the symbols in the symbol display area of ​​the display device, In the aforementioned unit game, when a special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, a process is performed to determine whether the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbol is rearranged is the maximum number. If, as a result of the determination, the number of cells is not the maximum number, the process of cumulatively increasing the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbols are rearranged in subsequent unit games, If the result of the above determination is that the number of cells is the maximum number, the process of granting the benefit is performed. A game control method characterized by including the following:

6. A computer equipped with a display device, A process for displaying a symbol display area in which symbols are rearranged in each of multiple cells arranged in a matrix having multiple rows and multiple columns, A process of executing a unit game that rearranges the symbols in the symbol display area of ​​the display device, In the aforementioned unit game, when a special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, a process is performed to determine whether the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbol is rearranged is the maximum number. If, as a result of the determination, the number of cells is not the maximum number, the process of cumulatively increasing the number of cells arranged in the column where the special symbols are rearranged in subsequent unit games, If the result of the above determination is that the number of cells is the maximum number, the process of granting the benefit is performed. A game program characterized by causing the execution of [a specific action].

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