Gaming machine

Abstract

This proposal proposes a gaming machine that enhances the usefulness of the betting amount setting function and improves the enjoyment of the game. [Solution] The game is provided with two normal game states: a first normal game state in which a 3-coin bet game can be played, and a second normal game state in which a 2-coin bet game can be played. The second normal game state has a higher probability of winning bonus roles such as BB and RB than the first normal game state, and also a higher probability of winning CB, making it a normal game state in which players can aim to win bonus roles while increasing their medal count. After a bonus game state triggered by BB, the game transitions to the first normal game state in which a 3-coin bet game can be played, and after a bonus game state triggered by RB, the game transitions to the second normal game state in which a 2-coin bet game can be played.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine that conducts a game in which a bet number is set, symbols are varied by operating a start lever, and then the symbols are stopped by operating a stop button.

Background Art

[0002] In a gaming machine typified by a slot machine, when a bet number is set by inserting medals or operating a bet button, symbols are varied on a symbol display device by operating a start lever, and the symbols are stopped by operating a stop button, and a profit corresponding to the stopped symbol pattern is provided. More specifically, upon operating the start lever, a lottery is conducted to determine whether or not a winning combination has been selected. When a winning combination is selected, based on the operation of the stop button, the symbols are stopped in a stop symbol pattern corresponding to the winning combination selected by the lottery, and a profit corresponding to the stopped symbols is generated. On the other hand, when no winning combination is selected, the symbols are stopped in a losing stop symbol pattern by operating the stop button. Also, even if a winning combination has been selected, if the symbols cannot be stopped in the stop symbol pattern corresponding to that winning combination by operating the stop button, the symbols are stopped in a losing stop symbol pattern by operating the stop button and no profit is generated. As such a gaming machine, for example, the configuration of Patent Document 1 has been proposed.

[0003] Generally, the slot machine can set any one of up to three as the bet number (number of bets), and allows a player to select one of them for each game to set the bet number. And, the higher the bet number, the relatively higher the profit rate (the larger the expected value of the obtainable profit). Therefore, players are supposed to set the bet number to three (the upper limit) and play the game.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005] By the way, in slot machines, the game is more advantageous with the maximum bet amount, so the game is basically only played with the maximum bet amount. Also, for this reason, many machines fix the bet amount to only three coins in normal play. Therefore, there is room for improvement in such slot machines.

[0006] This invention proposes a gaming machine that enhances the usefulness of its functions by using multiple betting options, thereby improving the enjoyment of the game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The gaming machine of the present invention includes a symbol display device that displays multiple symbols in a variable manner, a bet setting means for setting the number of bets for one game, a win / fail determination means that, with the number of bets set by the bet setting means, performs a win / fail determination of a winning combination by the player's start operation, a symbol variation means that starts displaying the variable symbols on the symbol display device based on the execution of the win / fail determination, a symbol stop means that stops displaying the symbols that have been varied by the symbol variation means by the player's stop operation, and a symbol stop means that can stop the symbols of the winning combination that have been determined in the win / fail determination. The system includes a symbol stop control means that enables the stopping of symbols, a bonus granting means that grants a bonus corresponding to the winning combination when the symbols stop in a pattern corresponding to the winning combination, a game state conversion means that, when a special combination is won by a win / fail judgment and the symbols of the special combination stop, allows the player to transition to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state, and when the symbols of a special combination stop, the stopping by the symbol stop control means for only one game becomes a special control, allowing the player to transition to a special game state in which the symbols of the winning combination can stop, and the system is started by a start operation and stopped by a stop operation. In a gaming machine where the game ends when the symbols stop, the betting number setting means includes a first game state in which a win / loss judgment can be performed when a first betting number is set, and a second game state in which a win / loss judgment can be performed when a second betting number is set, and the machine also includes a first special win and a second special win as special wins, and if the first special win is won, the symbols of the first special win can be stopped, and when the symbols of the first special win are stopped, the machine can transition to the first special game state, and if the second special win is won, the second The game allows the reels to stop on two special winning symbols, and when the second special winning symbol stops, the game transitions to the second special game state. After the first special game state ends, the game transitions to the first game state, and after the second special game state ends, the game transitions to the second special state. After the special game state ends, the game returns to the normal game state at the time of winning. The second game state has a higher probability of winning either a special winning symbol or a special winning symbol than the first game state, and the probability of winning a special winning symbol in the second game state is higher than the probability of winning any special winning symbol.

[0008] The gaming machine of the present invention is equipped with a first special role and a second special role. After the first special game state triggered by the first special role, the game transitions to the first game state, and after the second special game state triggered by the second special role, the game transitions to the second game state, resulting in different betting amounts per game in the normal game state. In the second game state, the probability of winning special roles and special roles is higher than in the first game state, and furthermore, the probability of winning a special role is higher than that of any other special role. Therefore, the probability of winning a prize through a special role is higher, making it a more advantageous state than the first game state. As a result, the subsequent gameplay is completely different depending on which special role is achieved, which increases the player's interest in which special role will be achieved.

[0009] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, if either the first special role or the second special role is won, the symbol stop control means may set the machine to a winning state in which the symbols of the selected special role can be stopped in subsequent games even if the machine does not stop on the symbols of the selected special role. Alternatively, the machine may not be able to stop on the symbols of the special role when it is in a winning state for a special role.

[0010] This method allows the player to maintain a state where either the first or second special role has been won. In this state, the special role symbols do not stop, preventing the player from continuing the second game state and maintaining a state where it is easy to achieve a special role even after winning a special role. This makes it possible to quickly achieve the winning special role. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the enjoyment of the game can be enhanced by using multiple betting numbers to produce different gameplay experiences. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a front view of slot machine 1 according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of slot machine 1. [Figure 3]This is a diagram showing the arrangement of patterns on each reel, 4L, 4C, and 4R. [Figure 4] This chart shows the probability of winning each role. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the main processing performed by the main control board 40. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the process for setting the number of bets. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the rotation start control process. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the process for determining the roles. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart showing the rotation stop control process. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart showing the state transformation process. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the bonus game state conversion process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described below, and various forms can be taken as long as they fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the following examples and alternative examples can be combined as appropriate.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a display panel 3 on the front, which has a display window 2 (capable of displaying the effective area of ​​a 3x3 stop pattern). Inside the slot machine 1, three reels 4L, 4C, and 4R are arranged, and three of the multiple patterns arranged in rows on the outer surface of each reel 4L, 4C, and 4R are displayed in the display window 2. In other words, the player can see a total of nine patterns through the display window 2. In addition, a bet lamp 5 that displays the number of bets, a credit display device 42 that displays the remaining number of credits, and a payout medal display device 44 that displays the number of medals paid out upon winning are arranged around the display window 2.

[0015] Below the display window 2, there are provided bed switches 7a, 7b, start lever 8, three stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R, medal insertion slot 10, etc. Above the display panel 3, there is arranged an effect image display device 15 composed of a liquid crystal display, and an effect image is displayed by the effect image display device 15 according to the progress of the game. Below the slot machine 1, there are arranged a tray 12 and a speaker box 13.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 3, on the outer peripheral surfaces of the three reels 4L, 4C, 4R, 21 symbols are arranged in a row (the numbers on the left of each reel are arrangement numbers and have no relation to the actual symbols). In this embodiment, seven types of symbols, namely, the "7" symbol (the same symbol as the arrangement number 1 of the left reel), the "BAR" symbol (the same symbol as the arrangement number 7 of the left reel), the "REPLAY)" symbol (the same symbol as the arrangement number 4 of the left reel), the "Tatsukichi" symbol (the same symbol as the arrangement number 21 of the left reel), the "BELL" symbol (the same symbol as the arrangement number 3 of the left reel), the "CHERRY" symbol (the same symbol as the arrangement number 8 of the left reel), and the "WATERMELON" symbol (the same symbol as the arrangement number 2 of the left reel), are arranged on the outer peripheral surfaces of the respective reels 4L, 4C, 4R. These respective reels 4L, 4C, 4R start rotating simultaneously by the operation of the start lever 8, and stop rotating by the operation of the respective stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R. Here, when the stop button 9L is operated, the reel 4L stops within a predetermined delay time. When the stop button 9C is operated, the reel 4C stops within a predetermined delay time. When the stop button 9R is operated, the reel 4R stops within a predetermined delay time. Then, when all the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R are operated, all the reels 4L, 4C, 4R stop, and nine symbols are stopped and displayed in the display window 2. As a result, the stop symbol state (combination) of the symbols stopped and displayed on the effective line set in the display window 2 is determined, and it is determined whether or not the following roles (BB role, RB role, CB role, minor role, replay role, etc.) are established according to the stop symbol state. When the "7" symbol stops and is displayed on the valid line, the BB combination is formed. When the "BAR" symbol stops and is displayed on the valid line, the RB combination is formed. When the "Bell" symbol stops and is displayed on the valid line, the Bell combination is formed. When the "Melon" symbol stops and is displayed on the valid line, the Melon combination is formed. When the "Replay" symbol stops and is displayed on the valid line, the Replay combination is formed. For the Tatsu-ki and Cherry combinations, they are formed when they stop and are displayed on the valid line of reel 4L. For the CB combination, it is formed when the "Bell" symbol stops and is displayed on reel 4L of the valid line, the "Bell" symbol on reel 4C, and the "Replay" symbol on reel 4R.

[0017] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the slot machine 1. The main control board 40 includes a one-chip microcomputer, input ports, output ports, etc. The input ports are connected to the bet switches 7a, 7b, the settlement switch 16, the medal insertion port switch 10a for detecting the medals inserted into the medal insertion port 10, the start lever switch 8a for detecting the operation of the start lever 8, the stop button switches 39L, 39C, 39R for detecting the operations of the respective stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R, and the position detection sensors 41L, 41C, 41R of the respective reels 4L, 4C, 4R, and the detection signals emitted from the respective switches and sensors are input. On the other hand, the output ports of the main control board 40 are connected to the credit display device 42, the bet lamp 5, the payout medal number display device 44, the count number display device 47, the drive motors 28L, 28C, 28R for rotating the reels 4L, 4C, 4R, the projection lamps 31L, 31C, 31R for illuminating the reels 4L, 4C, 4R, the sub-control board 48, and the payout control board 50, and control is performed by outputting commands to the respective devices and boards.

[0018] The main control board 40 controls the display of the credit display device 42, bet lamp 5, payout medal count display device 44, and count count display device 47, the rotation and stopping of the drive motor 28, and the turning on and off of the floodlight lamp, etc., based on the operation signals of the bet switch 7, etc., as the microcomputer operates according to the program. In this embodiment, the system is configured to include a payout medal count display device 44 and a count count display device 47, but it is also possible to omit one or both of these and have the display of these items performed by the aforementioned image display device 15.

[0019] A sub-control board 48 is connected to the main control board 40. The sub-control board 48 generates commands and data for sound control, lamp control, and visual effects according to commands and data (information) transmitted from the main control board 40, and transmits the commands and data for sound control and lamp control to the sound / lamp control board 49, and the commands and data for visual effects to the visual effects control board 55. When the sound / lamp control board 49 receives the commands and data from the sub-control board 48, it drives the speakers to output sound and drives various lamps to control the illumination. When the visual effects control board 55 receives the commands and data from the sub-control board 48, it displays the visual effects on the visual effects display device 15 according to the commands and data. In this way, the sub-control board 48 controls the generation of sound effects, the illumination of lights, and the display of visual effects via the sound / lamp control board 49 and the visual effects control board 55.

[0020] Furthermore, the main control board 40 is connected to the payout control board 50 in a bidirectional manner. The payout control board 50 controls the payout of medals by driving the medal payout device 51 based on the payout request command transmitted from the main control board 40. In addition, the payout control board 50 is connected to a payout detection switch 52 that detects the dispensed medals and outputs a detection signal. The payout control board 50 then receives input from the payout detection switch 52. The system counts the medals dispensed based on the medal detection signal.

[0021] The main control board 40 includes a random number generation unit, a random number extraction unit, a lottery table, and a role lottery unit. When the start lever 8 is operated, the random number extraction unit extracts random numbers generated by the random number generation unit, and the role lottery unit determines whether or not one of the predetermined roles has been won by evaluating the random numbers extracted by the random number extraction unit according to the lottery table (see the rotation start control process and role lottery process described later). In this role lottery, it is determined whether one role has been won or whether all roles have been lost (a miss).

[0022] Next, the operation of the slot machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. In slot machine 1, the number of bets (so-called bet amount) is set by inserting coins into the coin slot 10 or by operating the bet switches 7a and 7b. After the reels 4L, 4C, and 4R are changed by operating the start lever 8, the reels 4L, 4C, and 4R are stopped by operating the stop buttons 9L, 9C, and 9R. When a winning combination is determined by the combination of symbols that stop on the active lines in the display window 2, a prize corresponding to the winning combination is awarded. In this configuration, the game, which starts with the operation of the start lever 8 and ends when the combination of symbols that stop on the reels 4L, 4C, and 4R is determined, can be repeatedly executed.

[0023] In this embodiment, the possible winning combinations are Big Bonus (BB), Regular Bonus (RB), Challenge Bonus (CB), Bell, Watermelon, Cherry, and Replay. If none of these combinations are won, the result is a miss (failure). BB and RB are the designated bonus combinations, and when they are achieved, the corresponding bonus game state begins. Although CB is a bonus, its role differs from BB and RB, so in this embodiment, it is classified and explained separately from these bonus combinations. Furthermore, Bell, Watermelon, Cherry, and Tatsuyoshi are so-called minor combinations, and when these minor combinations are achieved, a prize is awarded, and a predetermined number of medals are paid out. Also, when a Replay combination is achieved, the game can be restarted without consuming any medals.

[0024] When either the BB or RB role is achieved, a bonus game state is entered in which the probability of winning a minor role in the role lottery is increased. This bonus game state ends when a predetermined bonus termination condition is met (for example, when the number of medals acquired in the bonus game state reaches a predetermined number). Furthermore, this embodiment includes a CB role as a bonus, and when the CB role is achieved, a special bonus game state is entered in which the reels are controlled in a special way for the next game only. Note that BB is the activation of a continuous mechanism related to a Type 1 special mechanism, RB is the activation of a Type 1 special mechanism, and CB is the activation of a Type 2 special mechanism. In this embodiment, all states other than these three bonus game states are referred to as normal game states.

[0025] More specifically, in slot machine 1, the number of bets is set from 1 to 3 (maximum) by inserting tokens into the token slot 10 or by operating the bet switches 7a and 7b. When the specified number of tokens is reached, the operation of the start lever 8 is enabled. Even if the player inserts multiple tokens into the token slot 10, the number of tokens is set as the number of bets, but if the number of bets has reached the maximum, the inserted number is added as credit and displayed on the credit display device 42. Then, by operating the bet switches 7a and 7b, the number of bets is set by subtracting from the credit. In this embodiment, there is a single bet switch 7a and a max bet switch 7b. The number of bets can be set one, two, three, etc. by operating the single bet switch 7a, and the maximum number of bets (3 or 2) can be set all at once by operating the max bet switch 7b. The set number of bets is indicated by the illumination of the bet lamp 5. As will be explained in more detail later, in this embodiment, the number of bets required for a winning combination to be determined by lever operation during normal gameplay differs depending on the type of normal gameplay state, with either only 3 bets being valid or only 2 bets being valid. In this embodiment, regardless of the number of bets, in addition to the three active lines in the upper, middle, and lower rows, two active lines are set diagonally, resulting in a total of five active lines. Whether or not the aforementioned winning combination is formed is determined by the combination of symbols (stopping symbol configuration) that aligns on these set active lines. Furthermore, the number of valid lines may be determined according to the number of bets. For example, if one bet is placed, the middle row of display window 2 is set as the valid line; if two bets are placed, the top, middle, and bottom rows are set as the valid lines; and if three bets are placed, in addition to the three valid lines, two diagonal lines are added, resulting in a total of five lines.

[0026] With the start lever 8 enabled by the betting settings, the game starts when the player operates the start lever 8. The operation of the start lever 8 rotates the reels 4L, 4C, and 4R, and triggers the aforementioned prize draw. This draw determines whether the player has won either the BB prize, RB prize, CB prize, any of the minor prizes, or the replay prize, or has lost all of them (failed). If the player wins any prize, the game enters a state where the winning prize can be achieved (i.e., a state where the reels can stop in a configuration that allows the winning prize to be achieved). Specifically, if the player wins the BB prize, the game enters a BB winning state where the BB prize can be achieved; if the player wins the RB prize, the game enters an RB winning state where the RB prize can be achieved; if the player wins the CB prize, the game enters a CB winning state where the CB prize can be achieved; and if the player wins the bell prize, the game enters a bell winning state where the bell prize can be achieved. Here, while other winning states besides the BB winning state and RB winning state end when it is determined whether they are achieved or not in the game, the BB winning state and RB winning state end only if they are achieved in the game, and are maintained if they are not achieved. If the BB role is not achieved in the game in which it was won, the BB winning state is maintained and it becomes possible to achieve the BB role in subsequent games. Similarly, if the RB role is not achieved in the game in which it was won, the RB winning state is maintained and it becomes possible to achieve the RB role in subsequent games. The BB winning state and RB winning state maintained in subsequent games end when the BB role or RB role is achieved in the subsequent game. In this embodiment, the BB winning state and RB winning state are states that occur only in the normal game state and do not occur in the bonus game state. That is, in the bonus game state triggered by the BB role and RB role, it is not possible to win the BB role and RB role. Similarly, the CB role is not possible to win in the bonus game state. Furthermore, the BB winning state and RB winning state are maintained if they are not established in the game, but since the BB role, RB role and CB role are not newly awarded, the winning states do not overlap. However, during the special bonus game state triggered by the CB role, there is a possibility of winning the BB role and RB role. More precisely, the BB role is the result of the activation of the continuous activation device of the Type 1 special role, so in the bonus state caused by the BB role, the RB role will be won and established. However, since it can be activated even if the RB role symbols do not stop, it is not possible to determine visually whether the RB role has been established. The detailed control is the same as in the conventional version, so it will be omitted, but in this embodiment, it is explained that the RB role will not be won during the bonus game state caused by the BB role.

[0027] Then, in the role lottery, a random number is drawn using a lottery table with set winning probabilities to determine whether one of the aforementioned roles is won or all roles are lost (missed). Here, the lottery table is set for each of the six setting values ​​1 to 6, which can be changed by the manager of the amusement hall, and a total of six types are set in advance. That is, for each setting value, there is a lottery table corresponding to the lottery for 3-coin bets and 2-coin bets during normal gameplay and the lottery during bonus gameplay. Then, one lottery table is activated according to the set setting value and each game state, and the role lottery is performed. Furthermore, settings 1 to 6 represent six levels of advantage for the player, each with a different degree of favorability. The lottery table active at setting 6 is the most favorable to the player, while the lottery table active at setting 1 is the least favorable to the player. The settings can be changed by turning on a setting key (not shown) on the main control board 40 and then powering on the system.

[0028] The following is an example of the winning probabilities set in the lottery table. Figure 4 is the lottery table in the normal game state, and this lottery table has separate settings for the lottery probabilities for 3-coin bets and the winning probabilities for each of the winning combinations for 2-coin bets. In this embodiment, the only combinations whose winning probabilities differ depending on the setting value are the BB combination and the RB combination in the 3-coin bet lottery, and there is no difference in the winning probability for other combinations due to differences in the setting value. In the 2-coin bet lottery, there is no difference in the winning probability for the BB combination and the RB combination due to the setting value, and all combinations have the same probability. Of course, it is also possible to set different winning probabilities for combinations other than the BB combination and RB combination in the 3-coin bet, or to set different winning probabilities for each combination in the 2-coin bet.

[0029] As shown in Figure 4(a), in this embodiment, the probability of winning the BB, RB, and CB roles, which lead to the bonus game state, is higher with a 2-coin bet than with a 3-coin bet, and the CB role has the highest probability of being won with a 2-coin bet. As shown in Figure 4(b), the probability of winning the bell and cherry roles is higher with a 3-coin bet than with a 2-coin bet. The probabilities of the replay role and the Tatsukichi role are the same regardless of the number of bets, and the watermelon role can only be won with a 3-coin bet and cannot be won with a 2-coin bet. As shown in Figure 4(c), the number of medals paid out for each minor role (roles that result in medal payouts) is as follows: with a 3-coin bet, the watermelon role pays 6 medals, the bell role pays 8 medals, the cherry role pays 2 medals, and the Tatsukichi role pays 1 medal. With a 2-coin bet, the watermelon role is not won, the bell role pays 14 medals, the cherry role pays 7 medals, and the Tatsukichi role pays 15 medals. Note that although there are cherry symbols on all reels for the cherry role, it is actually achieved if the cherry stops on reel 4L, and due to reel control, it will only stop on the upper or lower row. Therefore, since there are two active lines, the number of medals paid out is doubled. Similarly, the Tatsukichi role is achieved if the Tatsukichi symbol stops on reel 4L. For other roles, the symbols must line up on an active line for it to be considered achieved. Note that there are also two active lines for the Tatsukichi role, but the maximum payout is 15 medals, so it will not exceed 15 medals.

[0030] When the start lever 8 is operated as described above, reels 4L, 4C, and 4R begin to rotate, and the stop buttons 9L, 9C, and 9R become active, the player operates the stop buttons 9L, 9C, and 9R respectively, stopping the rotation of each reel 4L, 4C, and 4R, and the symbols are displayed in the display window 2. Then, based on the combination of symbols (stopped symbol pattern) lined up on the active lines set according to the number of bets described above, it is determined whether a winning combination has been achieved in the aforementioned prize draw, or whether all combinations have been lost (a miss). Specifically, when three "7" symbols stop on an active line, the Big Bonus (BB) combination is confirmed. This combination of three "7" symbols is called the BB stop symbol pattern. Also, when three "BAR" symbols stop on an active line, the Regular Bonus (RB) combination is confirmed. This combination of three "BAR" symbols is called the RB stop symbol pattern. In addition, there are pre-set stopping patterns for the bell symbol, the watermelon symbol, the cherry symbol, the Tatsukichi symbol, and the replay symbol. By stopping on an active line with one of these stopping patterns, the respective minor role or replay role is confirmed. If the symbols stop on any pattern other than those that confirm the winning role, it is confirmed to be a miss. In other words, any stopping pattern other than those that confirm the winning role indicates a miss (hereinafter referred to as a "miss stopping pattern").

[0031] Each reel, 4L, 4C, and 4R, is controlled to stop within a predetermined delay time from the operation of each stop button, 9L, 9C, and 9R. In other words, since each reel, 4L, 4C, and 4R, can be controlled to stop between the timing of the operation of each stop button, 9L, 9C, and 9R and the expiration of the aforementioned delay time, it is possible to select the symbols that will stop on the active line within this delay time. This controls the stopping position of each reel, 4L, 4C, and 4R, so that the combination of symbols that stop on the active line (stopped symbol configuration) does not result in a combination that does not result in a winning combination in the aforementioned winning combination lottery. Furthermore, the stopping position of each reel, 4L, 4C, and 4R, is controlled to result in a winning combination as much as possible that matches the winning combination in the aforementioned winning combination lottery. Naturally, symbols that cannot stop on the active line within the aforementioned delay time cannot be stopped on the active line, and therefore, it may not be possible to line up the symbols that result in a winning combination in the winning combination lottery on the active line, resulting in a guaranteed loss.

[0032] The steady-state rotation speed (constant speed) of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) is approximately 80 revolutions per minute, completing one rotation in approximately 750ms. During normal forward rotation, each symbol scrolls from top to bottom, and the time required for a symbol to move one frame is approximately 35.7ms. The reel stop delay time is within 190ms, and it is possible to delay the reel stop by up to 4 frames by operating each of the stop buttons (9L, 9C, 9R). During the special bonus game state triggered by the CB role, a special control system is in place. The delay time for stopping the left reel is limited to 75ms, and the reel can only be delayed by a maximum of one frame from each stop button (9L, 9C, 9R). Even during the special bonus game state triggered by the CB role, the 4C and 4L reels can be delayed by up to four frames while maintaining their normal delay times. During the special bonus game state, a special lottery state is in place, making it possible to win medals by achieving roles that pay out medals (excluding watermelons when betting two medals). For this reason, even if the lottery table is executed, if the winning role is not a minor role, the machine will prioritize stopping on minor roles. Since this is an unnecessary process, it may be possible to stop on minor roles without performing a role lottery during the special bonus game state. During the special bonus game state, bonus roles will not stop even if aimed for.

[0033] Next, I will explain the normal game state and the bonus game state mentioned above. In this embodiment, the normal game state includes a first normal game state in which only 3-coin bets are valid, and a second normal game state in which only 2-coin bets are valid. Note that the term "normal game state" alone is used when it includes both normal game states. The first normal game state is a game state in which the lottery for winning combinations when betting 3 coins is performed using the lottery table for normal gameplay shown in Figure 4. This is the state in which the expected value of the number of coins that can be obtained in the game is the lowest, and the goal is to win BB or RB combinations while consuming coins.

[0034] The second normal game state is a game state in which the lottery for winning combinations when betting two coins is performed using the lottery table for normal gameplay shown in Figure 4, and is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the first normal game state. Since the second normal game state involves playing a game with two coins bet, the probability of winning a bonus round becomes significantly higher than in the first normal game state, making it possible to play the game while increasing the number of medals even though it is a normal game state.

[0035] In normal gameplay, as mentioned above, if you win the BB (Big Bonus) role through the role lottery in the game, you enter the BB winning state. This BB winning state is a state in which the BB role can be formed, that is, a state in which the BB stop symbol pattern can be stopped on the active line. If the BB role is not formed in this BB winning state (if the BB stop symbol pattern is not displayed on the active line), the BB winning state is maintained. Therefore, in subsequent games, regardless of the result of the role lottery, the BB winning state is maintained, and the BB role can be formed. The BB winning state ends when the BB role is formed in the game. Furthermore, since the BB winning state occurs during normal gameplay, in games that start in the BB winning state, the role lottery is performed using the lottery table for normal gameplay. Therefore, it is possible to be in a state where the aforementioned minor role can be achieved (for example, a bell winning state) and a BB winning state simultaneously. In this embodiment, if it is possible to achieve either the BB role or other minor roles or replay roles, the stopping positions of reels 4L, 4C, and 4R are controlled to prioritize the achievement of either a minor role or a replay role.

[0036] Furthermore, in normal gameplay, as mentioned above, if the RB role is won through the role lottery in the game, the player enters the RB winning state. This RB winning state is a state in which the RB role can be formed, that is, a state in which the RB stop symbol pattern can be stopped on the active line. If the RB role is not formed in this RB winning state (if the RB stop symbol pattern is not displayed on the active line), the RB winning state is maintained. Therefore, in subsequent games, regardless of the result of the role lottery, the RB role can be formed because the player is in the RB winning state. The RB winning state ends when the RB role is formed in the game. Furthermore, since the RB winning state occurs during normal gameplay, in games that start in the RB winning state, the role lottery is performed using the lottery table for normal gameplay. Therefore, it is possible to be in a state where the aforementioned minor role can be achieved (for example, a bell winning state) and an RB winning state simultaneously. In this embodiment, if both the RB role and other minor roles or replay roles can be achieved, the stopping positions of reels 4L, 4C, and 4R are controlled to prioritize the achievement of either a minor role or a replay role.

[0037] Furthermore, the bonus game state is a game state that is entered when a BB (Big Bonus) or RB (Regular Bonus) role is achieved (when the BB or RB stopping pattern is displayed on the active line), and since the role is drawn using the bonus lottery table mentioned above during the game, it is possible to win a small role with a high probability. And since only 2 coins are valid bets during the bonus triggered by the BB or RB role, the number of medals paid out when a win occurs is also large. Therefore, it is expected that more medals can be obtained compared to the normal game state. In this embodiment, there are no losing outcomes in the lottery table during the bonus game state triggered by the BB or RB role, and it is guaranteed that either a bell or a cherry will be won.

[0038] This bonus game state ends when the total number of medals acquired during the game in the bonus game state reaches a predetermined number (bonus termination condition). Here, the bonus game state triggered by the occurrence of a Big Bonus (BB) and the bonus game state triggered by the occurrence of a Regular Bonus (RB) have different total medal acquisition requirements as the bonus termination condition, with the total number of medals acquired being higher for the BB case than for the RB case. Therefore, when a BB case is achieved, the player can acquire more medals than when an RB case is achieved. In this embodiment, the game ends when a total of 250 medals are acquired in the case of a BB case, and when a total of 96 medals are acquired in the case of an RB case.

[0039] Next, we will explain the processing of various programs executed on the main control board 40. Figure 5 shows the main process. This main process is executed periodically on the main control board 40 (for example, by a timer interrupt process with a 2ms period).

[0040] In the main process S10, the bet setting process is executed, and the bet amount is set according to the player's insertion of tokens or operation of the bet switches 7a and 7b. In S15, the rotation start control process is executed, and triggered by the player's operation of the start lever 8, the aforementioned prize draw and the rotation drive of reels 4L, 4C, and 4R are performed. In S20, the rotation stop control process is executed, and when the player operates the stop buttons 9L, 9C, and 9R, the rotation of reels 4L, 4C, and 4R is stopped, and a winning combination is determined. In S25, the medal payout control process is executed. If a winning combination is achieved and a prize is won in S20, this medal payout control process sends a payout request command to the payout control board 50 instructing it to pay out a number of medals corresponding to the winning combination. As described above, when the payout control board 50 receives the payout request command, it drives and controls the acquired medal payout device 51 to pay out the medals. In S30, the game state conversion process is executed to set the state to either the normal game state or the bonus game state as described above.

[0041] The aforementioned betting amount setting process (S10) will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 6. In this bet setting process, S100 determines whether the replay flag is 1 or not. If the result is negative (S100: No), proceed to S110; if the result is positive (S100: Yes), proceed to S125. Here, the replay flag is set to 1 when a replay combination is achieved, through the state conversion process described later. If the replay flag is 1 at the end of the game, the next game can be played as a replay without inserting medals or consuming credits. The bet amount for a replay is set to the amount corresponding to the game state in which it occurred.

[0042] In S105, it is determined whether or not a medal has been inserted into the medal slot 10 (whether or not the medal slot switch 10a has detected a medal). If the determination is positive (S105: Yes), proceed to S115; if the determination is negative (S105: No), proceed to S110. In S110, it is determined whether or not the bet switches 7a and 7b have been operated. If the determination is positive (S110: Yes), proceed to S115; if the determination is negative (S111: No), terminate this process. Note that in S110, even if the bet switches 7a and 7b have been operated, if there are no remaining credits to bet, the number of bets will not increase, so it will not be determined that the bet switches have been operated. S110 is simply determining whether or not the number of bets has changed due to the operation of the bet switches 7a and 7b.

[0043] In S115, the bet determination process is executed. In this bet determination process, the number of bets is determined according to the number of medals inserted from the medal slot 10 or the operation of the bet switches 7a and 7b. Specifically, when one medal is inserted into the medal slot 10, the bet is set to 1; when two medals are inserted, the bet is set to 2; and when three (the upper limit) medals are inserted, the bet is set to 3. Also, when the single bet switch 7a is operated once, the bet is set to 1; when it is operated twice, the bet is set to 2. Furthermore, when the max bet switch 7b is operated, the bet is set to 3 or 2. In this way, a bet of 1 to 3 medals is determined. Furthermore, in the second normal game state and the bonus game state resulting from the occurrence of BB or RB roles, only bets of up to 2 coins are allowed. Therefore, when the max bet switch 7b is operated, the number of bets will be set to 2, and even when the single bet switch 7a is operated, the number of bets will only be limited to 2 coins.

[0044] Then, in S120, it is determined whether the number of bets has reached the valid number. As mentioned above, in the first normal game state, the valid number is 3, and in the second normal game state and the bonus game state resulting from the occurrence of BB or RB roles, the valid number is 2. If the number of bets has reached the valid number (S120: Yes), proceed to S125; otherwise (S120: No), proceed to S130.

[0045] In the following S125, the game enable flag is set to 1, and the process proceeds to S130. In S130, the bet display process is executed. In this bet display process, the bet lamp 5 is lit according to the bet amount determined in the bet determination process, and the credit display device 42 displays the credit reduction according to the credit reduction associated with the bet amount setting. In the following S135, if the replay flag is 1, the replay flag is set to 0.

[0046] The aforementioned rotation start control process (S15) will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 7. In the rotation start control process, S200 determines whether the game enable flag is 1 or not. If the determination is positive (S200: Yes), the process proceeds to S205; if the determination is negative (S200: No), the rotation start control process ends.

[0047] In S205, it is determined whether the start lever 8 has been operated (whether or not the ON signal from the start lever switch 8a has been detected). If the determination is positive (S205: Yes), the process proceeds to S210; if the determination is negative (S205: No), the rotation start control process is terminated.

[0048] In S210, it is determined whether the bonus flag is 1 or not. If the result is positive (S210: Yes), the process proceeds to S215; if the result is negative (S210: No), the process proceeds to S220. In S215, the aforementioned bonus lottery table is activated. Here, a bonus flag of 1 indicates that the game is in a bonus state due to the aforementioned BB or RB role, and does not include the special bonus state due to the CB role.

[0049] In S220, the aforementioned lottery table for normal gameplay is activated. Here, bonus flag = 0 indicates that the game is in the normal gameplay state or a special bonus game state due to a CB role.

[0050] S230 executes the role lottery process. This process determines whether you have won either the BB role, RB role, any of the minor roles, or the replay role, or whether you have lost all of these roles (miss). Details will be described later. Note that in the special bonus game state, the lottery table for normal gameplay is active, but as will be described later, in the special bonus game state, any minor role can be achieved regardless of the winning role.

[0051] In S235, the rotation start control process is executed. This rotation start control process starts the rotation of reels 4L, 4C, and 4R and rotates them at a constant speed. In the following S240, the game enable flag is set to 0, and the process proceeds to S245.

[0052] In S245, the rotation start command transmission process is executed. In the rotation start command transmission process, a command including information indicating the start of rotation of reels 4L, 4C, and 4R, information indicating the lottery result of the aforementioned role lottery process (information on each winning flag), and information on the bonus flag is transmitted to the sub-control board 48. Furthermore, information on the number of bets set in the aforementioned bet setting process is also transmitted to the sub-control board 48. When the sub-control board 48 receives this command signal, it drives and controls various lamps and speakers via the sound / lamp control board 49 according to the signal, and also controls the display of a predetermined image on the performance image display device 15 via the performance image control board 55.

[0053] The aforementioned role selection process (S230) will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 8. In the role lottery process, S300 executes a random number extraction process to obtain random numbers for the role lottery. S305 executes a determination process. In this determination process, the random numbers extracted in S300 are used with the lottery table activated in S215 or S220 to determine whether the random numbers have been won as either the BB role, RB role, each minor role, or the replay role, or whether all of these roles have been lost (a miss).

[0054] In the following S310, the winning role determination process is executed. In the winning role determination process, if the aforementioned determination process determines that it is a BB role, the win of the BB role is confirmed and the BB win flag is set to 1. This BB win flag = 1 indicates that the BB win state is in place. Here, the BB win state (BB win flag = 1) may be maintained in subsequent games as mentioned above. Therefore, it is possible that the aforementioned determination process using the lottery table for normal gameplay may determine that it is a BB role while in the BB win state. In this case, if the aforementioned determination process determines that it is a BB role while in the BB win state, the BB win flag is already 1, so the BB role determination is invalidated. Furthermore, even if the aforementioned determination process determines that it is an RB role or a CB role while in the BB win state (BB win flag = 1), the RB role and CB role determinations are invalidated. Furthermore, if the judgment process determines that it is an RB role, the win of the RB role is confirmed, and the RB win flag is set to 1 (the state of RB win). Here, as mentioned above, the RB win state (RB win flag = 1) may be maintained in subsequent games. Therefore, it is possible that the judgment process using the lottery table for normal gameplay may determine it is an RB role while in the RB win state. In this case, if the judgment process determines it is an RB role while in the RB win state, the RB win flag is already 1, so the RB role determination is invalidated. Also, if the judgment process determines it is a BB role or a CB role while in the RB win state (the state of RB win flag = 1), the BB role and CB role determinations are invalidated. Thus, in this embodiment, when the BB role is won or the RB role is won, none of the BB role, RB role, or CB role will be won. Furthermore, if a replay is determined, the win of that replay is confirmed, and the replay win flag is set to 1 (the aforementioned replay win state). Also, if any of the aforementioned minor roles of bell, watermelon, cherry, or Tatsukichi is determined, the win of that minor role is confirmed, and the flag indicating the won minor role is set to 1. For example, if a bell is won, the bell win flag is set to 1 (bell win state), and if a cherry is won, the cherry win flag is set to 1 (cherry win state). Furthermore, if the above determination process determines that no roles have been won, it is confirmed as a miss.

[0055] The results determined in the winning role determination process (information on each winning flag) are then transmitted by the rotation start command transmission process in S245 described above.

[0056] The aforementioned rotation stop control process (S20) will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 9. In the rotation stop control process, at S400, it is determined whether or not at least one of the reels 4L, 4C, and 4R is rotating. If the determination is positive (S400: Yes), the process proceeds to S405; if the determination is negative (S400: No), the rotation stop control process is terminated.

[0057] In S405, it is determined whether the stop buttons 9L, 9C, and 9R have been operated. If the determination is positive (S405:Yes), the process proceeds to S410; if the determination is negative (S405:No), the rotation stop control process is terminated.

[0058] In S410, reel stop control processing is executed. In the reel stop control processing, each winning flag determined in the winning combination determination processing (S310) is referenced to check whether it is one of the winning states such as BB winning state or bell winning state, or neither winning state. If it is one of the winning states, the reel corresponding to the operated stop button is stopped within the predetermined delay time so that the winning combination for that state is established. That is, the reels are stopped so that the stop symbol configuration for the winning combination (such as BB stop symbol configuration or bell stop symbol configuration) is displayed on the active line. If the stop symbol configuration for the winning combination cannot be displayed on the active line, the reels are stopped so that no other combination is established (so that it is a miss). On the other hand, if it is not one of the winning states, the reel corresponding to the operated stop button is stopped within the predetermined delay time so that no combination is established.

[0059] Furthermore, in the special bonus game state triggered by the CB role, the reel control state is different from the above, as it is a special reel control state as described above. During the special bonus game state, not only is the reel control state different, but as mentioned above, it is possible to win small wins, so if you stop the reels with the symbols corresponding to the small wins, you can win. In other words, it is possible to win a role that pays out medals, and any of the following can be achieved: cherry role (excluding watermelon role), bell role, or Tatsukichi role. In this state, the reel control is set to allow the Tatsukichi role, cherry role, and bell role to be achieved in that order of priority. Therefore, regardless of the lottery results from the lottery table, the winning combination will differ depending on the stopping timing. In other words, although there is only a delay of 1 frame on reel 4L, if the reels are stopped at a timing when they can stop on an active line, the Tatsukichi symbol and the cherry symbol will be able to stop and will be stopped preferentially. Since the Tatsukichi and cherry symbols will be formed if they stop on reel 4L, if the Tatsukichi or cherry symbol stops on reel 4L, reels 4C and 4R will be controlled to stop in a way that prevents other winning combinations from being formed. Also, if either reel 4C or reel 4R is stopped first, the reels will be controlled to stop in a way that allows the bell symbol to be stopped, and the left symbol will be controlled to stop if it is stopped in a position where the Tatsukichi symbol or cherry can be stopped, based on the priority mentioned above. Note that while it is possible to win the BB, RB, CB, and replay symbols through the lottery table, it is better to control the reels so that they are not formed, as the reels are controlled to ensure that small wins are formed.

[0060] In the following step S415, it is determined whether all reels 4L, 4C, and 4R have stopped. If the result is positive (S415: Yes), the process proceeds to S420; if the result is negative (S415: No), the rotation stop control process is terminated.

[0061] In S420, the winning determination process is executed. In the winning determination process, it is determined whether the combination of symbols that stopped on the active line (stopped symbol configuration) matches the combination of symbols that indicate the winning flag (winning state) determined in the winning configuration determination process (S310) (such as the BB stop symbol configuration or the bell stop symbol configuration). If the result of this determination is a match, the winning configuration is confirmed, while if it does not match, it is confirmed that it is a miss (no winning configuration).

[0062] In S425, the winning flag update process is executed. In the winning flag update process, the winning flags that have been won and whose flags are 1 are set to 0. That is, the winning flags for each of the aforementioned minor roles are set to 0, the replay winning flag is set to 0, and the CB winning flag is set to 0. In other words, the winning flags are set to 0 when the game ends. Also, if the BB winning flag is 1, when the BB role is established by the aforementioned prize determination process, the BB winning flag is set to 0, while if the BB role is not established, the BB winning flag remains 1 even when the game ends. Similarly, if the RB winning flag is 1, when the RB role is established by the aforementioned prize determination process, the RB winning flag is set to 0, while if the RB role is not established, the RB winning flag remains 1 even when the game ends.

[0063] In S430, the prize information transmission process is executed. In this prize information transmission process, the information of the winning combination determined by the prize determination process and the state of each winning flag updated by the winning flag update process are transmitted to the sub-control board 48. Upon receiving this information, the sub-control board 48 performs the illumination control of various lamps and the sound output control of the speaker via the sound and lamp control board 49 in order to perform the performance corresponding to the winning combination indicated in the information, and also controls the performance image control board 55 via the performance image control board 55 to display a performance image indicating the winning combination.

[0064] The state conversion process, which is a subroutine of the aforementioned game state conversion process (S30), will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 10. In the state conversion process, at S500, it is determined whether or not a replay combination has been achieved by the aforementioned winning determination process (S420). If the determination is positive (S500: Yes), the process proceeds to S505; if the determination is negative (S500: No), the process proceeds to S510. In S505, the replay flag is set to 1.

[0065] In S510, it is determined whether the BB role was achieved by the prize-winning determination process (S420). If the determination is positive (S510: Yes), proceed to S515; if the determination is negative (S510: No), proceed to S520. In S520, it is determined whether the RB role was achieved by the prize-winning determination process (S420). If the determination is positive (S520: Yes), proceed to S515; if the determination is negative (S520: No), proceed to S525.

[0066] In S515, the bonus flag is set to 1, and the process proceeds to S535. Here, the bonus game state described above is achieved because the bonus flag is set to 1. Note that while the bonus flag is set to 1 when both the BB and RB roles are achieved, it is also possible to set different bonus flags for each.

[0067] In S525, it is determined whether or not a CB role has been achieved by the aforementioned prize winning determination process (S420). If the answer is yes (S525: Yes), the special bonus flag is set to 1, and the process proceeds to S535. Here, with the special bonus flag set to 1, the special bonus game state described above is entered. Note that the special bonus game state is only executed for one game, so after the next game is played, the special bonus flag is reset to 0.

[0068] In S535, the game state information transmission process is executed. In this game state information transmission process, information on the replay flag and bonus flag is transmitted to the sub-control board 48. Upon receiving this information, the sub-control board 48 controls the illumination of various lamps and the sound output of the speaker via the sound / lamp control board 49, and also controls the display of a predetermined performance image on the performance image display device 15 via the performance image control board 55.

[0069] Next, we will explain the bonus game state conversion process, which is the other subroutine of the game state conversion process (S30), using Figure 11. In the bonus game state conversion process, S600 determines whether the bonus flag is 1 or not. If the determination is positive (S600: Yes), it is determined whether the total number of acquired coins is at the upper limit (S605). As mentioned above, the upper limit for the total number of acquired coins is 250 for the BB role and 96 for the RB role. Although the explanation is omitted, when the BB role is achieved, the acquired counter is set to 250, and when the RB role is achieved, the acquired counter is set to 96. The acquired counter is deducted by the number of coins paid out when the small role is achieved, and when the acquired counter becomes 0, it is determined that the upper limit has been reached. If it is determined in S605 that the upper limit has been reached (S600: Yes), the process proceeds to S610. If the determination in S600 or S605 is negative, this process ends.

[0070] S610 determines whether or not the game was in a bonus game state triggered by a BB role (also simply called BB). If it was a bonus game state triggered by a BB role (S610: Yes), the BB role termination process is executed to end the bonus game state triggered by the BB role (S615), the first normal flag is set to 1 (S620), and the game proceeds to S635. If it was not a bonus game state triggered by a BB role (S610: No), the game is in a bonus game state triggered by an RB role (also simply called RB), so the RB role termination process is executed to end the bonus game state (S625), the second normal flag is set to 1 (S630), and the game proceeds to S635. In S635, the bonus flag is cleared to 0, and the game proceeds to S640. Here, the bonus flag is set to 0, and if the first normal flag is 1, the game enters the first normal game state. If the second normal flag is 2, the game enters the second normal game state. S640 executes the game state information transmission process. This game state information transmission process transmits information to the sub-control board 48 indicating whether the bonus game state has ended and the game has transitioned to the first normal game state or the second normal game state.

[0071] Although not shown in the diagram, the game also includes a mechanism to reset the special bonus flag to 0 after one game is played while in a special bonus state where the special bonus flag is set to 1 due to a CB role win.

[0072] In this embodiment, a detailed explanation of the medal payout control process (S25) of the main process described above has been omitted, but conventionally known processes can be applied to the medal payout control process. Furthermore, a slot machine called a smart pachislo, which manages medals electronically as data without actually dispensing them, may also be used.

[0073] Next, the main parts of the present invention will be described. As described above, the slot machine of this embodiment has a first normal game state in which a prize draw can be performed when the start lever 8 is operated only when the number of bets is 3, and a second normal game state in which a prize draw can be performed when the start lever 8 is operated only when the number of bets is 2. Thus, depending on the game state, the game can be played with either a 3-coin bet or a 2-coin bet. The probability of winning each hand through the hand lottery differs depending on whether you bet 3 or 2 coins, making it more advantageous to bet 2 coins.

[0074] In this embodiment, if the RAM is cleared or settings are changed when the power is restored, the game will start from the first normal game state, and the game will be played with a bet of 3 coins. When you win either the BB or RB role and the corresponding stopping symbols appear, you enter a bonus game state where you bet two coins. In the bonus game state, you win small roles with a high probability, and the bell and cherry roles, which are bet two coins, pay out a large number of medals, making it possible to acquire a large number of medals in a short period of time.

[0075] If you win the BB (Big Bonus) role, stop the symbols in the pattern corresponding to the BB role. Once the BB role is established, you will enter the BB bonus game state and be able to win approximately 250 coins. After the BB bonus game state, you will return to the first normal game state. If you win the RB (Regular Bonus) role, stop the symbols in the pattern corresponding to the RB role. Once the RB role is achieved, you will enter the RB bonus game state and be able to win approximately 96 coins. After the RB bonus game state, you will return to the second normal game state.

[0076] When you transition to the second normal game state, you will be betting two coins, so even though you are in the normal game state after the bonus game state triggered by the RB role ends, you can be in an advantageous position. In the second normal game state, you are betting two coins, so you can win the CB role with a high probability in the role lottery. When the CB role is achieved, you enter a special bonus game state, and the delay time when the left reel stops is reduced to only one frame, and you can achieve small wins regardless of the winning role. In the two-coin betting game, the Tatsukichi role pays out the most coins at 15, so the player will stop the 4L reel in a way that stops the Tatsukichi symbol on the 4L reel. Therefore, by winning the CB role with a high probability, you can increase your medals even in the normal game state. Since the game state does not change after the special bonus game state triggered by the CB role ends, the second normal game state continues. Note that even in the special bonus game state, the number of coins bet will be the number corresponding to the game state when the CB role was won.

[0077] In the second normal game state, the probability of winning the BB (Big Bonus) and RB (Regular Bonus) roles is the same. If you win either role, you will no longer be able to win the CB (Chance Bonus) role, and even in the 2-coin betting state, if you stop winning the CB role, your medals will decrease, ending the period in the second normal game state where you can increase your medals. If you win the BB role, you will return to the first normal game state after the bonus game state ends, ending your advantageous state. If you win the RB role, you will return to the second normal game state again after the bonus game state ends, allowing you to continue your advantageous state.

[0078] In this way, by differentiating the subsequent normal game state depending on the type of bonus game state, it is possible to transition to a more advantageous state, and by using both 3-coin and 2-coin betting games, it is possible to enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0079] Furthermore, to allow players to understand which of the two normal game states (first normal game state and second normal game state) is being played, the image display device 15 should display different patterns or indicate the state of play according to the game state. In addition to the image display device 15, the game machine may also be designed to allow players to understand the game state by changing the color and brightness of the floodlights 31L, 31C, and 31R according to the type of normal game state, thereby changing the appearance of the reels.

[0080] In this embodiment, the probability of winning a special role in the second normal game state was the same for both the BB role and the RB role, but they may be different, and the probability of winning one of the bonus roles may be higher in the first normal game state. However, it is preferable that the combined probability of winning the BB role and the RB role, i.e., the probability of winning a bonus role, be higher than in the first game state. Regarding the CB role, it is set to occur at a lower probability than the bonus role winning probability even in the first normal game state, but it may also be possible to not have it occur at all. This is because the purpose is to make the second normal game state more advantageous by having it occur at a high probability, and although it occurs at a low probability, it reduces unnecessary draws and processing to control special control states.

[0081] In the second normal game state, if a CB (Chance Bonus) is won, the system may notify the player to stop the symbols corresponding to the CB. During the special bonus game state, the display image device 15 may instruct the player to aim for the Tatsuyoshi symbol on the left reel. If the Tatsuyoshi symbol cannot be stopped, a bell or cherry will become available to stop, so the notification may be changed to instruct the player to aim for the bell if there is a possibility of stopping a bell. In this embodiment, the reel arrangement may not be able to produce the symbols corresponding to the CB role depending on the stopping position. However, if a CB role is won, the reel arrangement may be configured so that the symbols for the CB role can always be stopped by stopping the symbols from the left, or the reel arrangement may be configured so that the symbols for the winning role that yields the most coins can be stopped by stopping the symbols from the left, even during the special bonus game state.

[0082] If the total number of medals acquired in the second game state exceeds a predetermined number, a special display may be shown on the display image display device 15 when the player wins the first special game state or the second special game state. Alternatively, if the total number of medals acquired between the time an RB role is achieved and the player transitions to the second special game state, and the time a BB role is achieved and the first special game state occurs, a special display may be shown on the display image display device 15 during the first special game state.

[0083] In this embodiment, the winning probabilities for all roles except BB and RB were the same according to the setting value in the first normal game state, but there may be roles with different winning probabilities depending on the setting value. Also, in the second normal game state, BB and RB were selected with an equal probability, but the probability of one of them may be made higher. Furthermore, the gameplay of the second normal game state may differ depending on the setting value, such as having a higher winning probability for BB or a higher winning probability for RB. Furthermore, while the game transitions to the first normal game state after the first special game state and to the second normal game state after the second special game state, it is also possible to transition to the second normal game state after the first special game state and to the first normal game state after the second special game state.

[0084] The following explains the correspondence between the terms used in the above-mentioned embodiments and the terms described in the claims. Slot machine 1 corresponds to an example of a gaming machine according to the present invention. Display window 2, reels 4L, 4C, 4R, and drive motors 28L, 28C, 28R correspond to an example of a symbol display device according to the present invention. Small role corresponds to an example of a winning role according to the present invention, BB role corresponds to an example of a first special role according to the present invention, RB role corresponds to an example of a second special role according to the present invention, and CB role corresponds to an example of a special role according to the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0085] 1. Slot machine (amusement machine) 2 Display window 4L, 4C, 4R Reels 8. Starting lever 7a, 7b Bed switch 9L, 9C, 9R Stop button 15. Visual Display Device

Claims

1. A symbol display device that displays multiple symbols in a variable manner, A betting method for setting the number of bets per game, With the number of bets set by the aforementioned bet setting means, the win / fail determination means performs a win / fail determination when the player initiates the game, A pattern variation means that starts displaying a variation of the pattern on the pattern display device based on the execution of the correct / failure determination, A symbol stopping means that stops and displays the symbols that have been changed by the symbol changing means in response to a stop operation by the player, The symbol stopping means enables the symbol of the winning combination that has been determined in the win / fail judgment to be stopped, A reward-granting means that grants a reward corresponding to a winning combination when the symbols stop in a pattern corresponding to a winning combination, If a special role is won based on the aforementioned win / failure determination and the symbols of the special role stop, the player can transition to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state, and if the symbols of a special role stop, the player can transition to a special game state in which the stopping by the aforementioned symbol stopping control means for only one game becomes a special control and the symbols of the winning role can stop, and Equipped with, In a gaming machine that performs a game that starts with the aforementioned start operation and ends with the stopping display of the aforementioned symbols due to the aforementioned stop operation, The betting number setting means includes, as the setting of the betting number in the normal game state, a first game state in which the win / fail determination can be performed when a first betting number is set, and a second game state in which the win / fail determination can be performed when a second betting number is set. The aforementioned special roles include a first special role and a second special role. If the first special role is won, the symbols of the first special role can be stopped, and when the symbols of the first special role stop, the game can transition to the first special game state. If the second special role is won, the symbols of the second special role can be stopped, and when the symbols of the second special role stop, the game can transition to the second special game state. After the end of the first special game state, the game returns to the first game state; after the end of the second special game state, the game returns to the second special state; and after the end of the special game state, the game returns to the normal game state at the time of winning. The probability of winning any of the aforementioned special roles and special roles is higher in the second game state than in the first game state, and the probability of winning the aforementioned special role is higher in the second game state than the probability of winning any of the aforementioned special roles. A gaming machine characterized by the following.

2. If either the first special role or the second special role is won, the symbol stop control means will set the game to a winning state in which the symbol of the selected special role can be stopped in subsequent games, even if the symbol does not stop on the selected special role symbol. A gaming machine in which the symbols for the special role cannot be stopped when the special role has been won.

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