Information processing device and game control method

Abstract

To impart entertaining properties which enable a player to expect repetition of a free game stepwise and gradually while reducing enlargement of data to be used for controlling symbol determination and fear of causing complication of a program.SOLUTION: An information processor 1 executes a normal game, shifts to a first special state that a first free game performing a second lottery of high probability of obtaining a game result more advantageous than a first lottery is executable for a prescribed number of times when a prescribed game result occurs in the first lottery of a normal game, shifts to a second special state that a second free game performing a third lottery whose probability of shifting to the first free game is higher than the first lottery after the first special state is over is executable for a prescribed number of times, and shifts to the first special state again after the second special state is over when a special game result occurs in a plurality of third lotteries in the second special state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device and a game control method. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, in stationary slot machines, and more recently in smartphones (information processing devices) and social games with slot game applications installed, a lottery for the normal game is conducted on the condition that a specified number of bets is placed, and symbols are rearranged based on the results of the lottery.

[0003] For example, in the slot game of Patent Document 1, when the symbols rearranged by lottery in the normal game form a predetermined combination, the player is given a privilege such as a payout or a transition to a special game that is more advantageous than the normal game. Generally, one special game is a set of N times of symbol rearrangement (hereinafter referred to as a free game) without a bet, and the free game is set so that it is easier to win a payout by winning than the normal game. Furthermore, when a special symbol combination is realized (retriggered) in a free game executed during a special game, the number of free games is added during the special game, and the number of free games executed in one special game is increased. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017-0200346 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, slot games that adopt transition to a special game that depends on symbol lottery, in which a special symbol combination is achieved in any of a plurality of free games executed during a special game as described above, and one special game is played consecutively, have become too common and have become monotonous. On the other hand, since slot games are games based on symbol lottery, if an attempt is made to improve the entertainment value of transitioning to a special game while relating to the symbol lottery, problems may arise such as the data related to the symbol lottery process becoming bloated or the program itself becoming complicated.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device and a game control method that can solve the above problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing device of the present invention comprises: a display on which a plurality of symbols are rearranged; A controller that performs the following operations: and The controller: a first lottery is executed after the betting operation, and a base game is executed in which a game result determined by the first lottery is displayed on the display; If a predetermined game result is established in the first lottery, a transition is made to a first special state in which a first free game can be executed a predetermined number of times, in which a second lottery is executed which requires no betting operation and has a higher possibility of obtaining a more favorable game result than the first lottery, and the game result determined by the second lottery is displayed on the display; After the first special state ends, a transition is made to a second special state in which a betting operation is not required, a third drawing is executed which has a higher possibility of transitioning to the first free game than the first drawing, and a second free game in which a game result determined by the third drawing is displayed on the display is executed a predetermined number of times; When a special game result is achieved in multiple third lotteries in the second special state, the game transitions to the first special state again after the second special state ends.

[0008] According to the above configuration, a transition to the first special state is made again by obtaining a special game result in the third drawing of the free game (three times in this embodiment) which is repeated in the second special state to which a transition can be made from the first special state. This makes it possible to add an element of excitement that allows the player to gradually and gradually look forward to repetition of free games that are more advantageous than normal games, while reducing the risk of data bloating and program complication used in controlling symbol determination by making the second special state act as a trigger for the first special state.

[0009] In the information processing device of the present invention, The third lottery object includes a plurality of special symbols each having a different numerical value associated therewith; The controller: In the second free game in the second special state, when the special symbol is determined as a rearrangement target, the numerical values ​​assigned to the special symbol are accumulated; If an accumulated value accumulated in the second special state exceeds a predetermined threshold, the second special state may be followed by a transition to the first special state.

[0010] According to the above configuration, the transition to the first special state is determined by the accumulation of values ​​resulting from winning special symbols in multiple free games in the second special state, which further adds to the excitement of gradually and incrementally creating anticipation for repetition of the free games.

[0011] The game control method of the present invention comprises: rearranging the plurality of symbols on the display; executing a first lottery after a betting operation, and executing a base game in which a game result determined by the first lottery is displayed on the display; transitioning to a first special state in which a first free game can be executed a predetermined number of times, in which, when a predetermined game result is established in the first lottery, a second lottery is executed which does not require a betting operation and has a higher possibility of obtaining a more favorable game result than the first lottery, and the game result determined by the second lottery is displayed on the display; After the first special state ends, a transition is made to a second special state in which a betting operation is not required, a third drawing is executed which has a higher possibility of transitioning to the first free game than the first drawing, and a second free game in which a game result determined by the third drawing is displayed on the display is executed a predetermined number of times. When a special game result is established in a plurality of third lotteries in the second special state, transitioning to the first special state again after the end of the second special state; The present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0012] According to the above configuration, a transition to the first special state is made again by obtaining a special game result in the third drawing of the free game (three times in this embodiment) which is repeated in the second special state to which a transition can be made from the first special state. This makes it possible to add an element of excitement that allows the player to gradually and gradually look forward to repetition of free games that are more advantageous than normal games, while reducing the risk of data bloating and program complication used in controlling symbol determination by making the second special state act as a trigger for the first special state. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of a game control system. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the game control system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the information processing terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of a game state. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the information processing terminal. [Figure 6]FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a special symbol table. [Figure 7] 13 is a flowchart of a game control process. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart of a first special state execution process. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart of a second special state execution process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] The information processing apparatus of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing device 1 of this embodiment is configured such that, after the end of a first special state to which a transition can be made from a normal game, a transition can be made to a second special state in which a second free game is played in which a symbol selection different from that of the first free game executed in the normal game or the first special state is made, and such that a transition can be made again to the first special state when a special game result is achieved in the second special state.

[0016] The information processing device 1 has a display 2 that displays a game screen, a memory 3, a touch panel 5 that functions as an input device for switching the number of bets and starting a slot game, and a controller 4. The controller 4 has a function of executing a normal game that requires the consumption of a game value that can be switched on the touch panel 5, and a function of executing a free game that is more advantageous than the normal game in a special game.

[0017] In this embodiment, the free game has a first free game that is executed a predetermined number of times in a special game (first special state) to which a transition is made when a predetermined game result is achieved in a normal game, and a second free game that is executed a predetermined number of times in a special game (second special state) to which a transition can be made after the first special state. In this embodiment, the first special state is a set of a predetermined number of free games (e.g., eight times) that are not conditional on the consumption of a bet number. Also, the second special state is a set of a predetermined number of free games (e.g., three times) that are not conditional on the consumption of a bet number. In this way, the information processing device 1 executes a slot game in a plurality of game states (a state in which a normal game is executed, a first special state in which a first free game is executed, and a second special state in which a second free game is executed).

[0018] The game value is consumed as a condition for playing a normal game, and may be awarded as a game result of the normal game and the free game. That is, a user bets the game value to play one slot game (unit game), and may acquire a benefit such as game value as a result of the slot game. The game value may be game points that do not contain valuable information used in the game as a pseudo substitute for credit, or may be coins, bills, or electronic valuable information equivalent thereto. In the following description, the game value may be referred to as credit. The number of game values ​​used for betting may be referred to as the number of bets.

[0019] The special game includes one or more free games. A free game is a game that is executed without a bet of game value and pays out an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, a free game is a game that is started without the consumption of game value. In other words, for the user, a free game is a game that is started without the need for a betting operation. In contrast, a normal game is a game that is executed with a bet of game value and pays out an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, a normal game is a game that is started with the consumption of game value. In other words, for the user, a normal game is a game that is started with the condition of making a bet operation.

[0020] In this embodiment, the information processing device 1 is configured to be able to execute a normal game, a first free game, and a second free game as slot games. In the slot game, the positions at which symbols are rearranged are determined based on a lottery, and a game result is obtained based on the arrangement positions. Hereinafter, the lotteries for determining the positions at which symbols are rearranged, which are performed in the normal game, the first free game, and the second free game, respectively, may be referred to as a first lottery, a second lottery, and a third lottery. The information processing device 1 transitions the game state (a state in which the normal game is executed, a first special state, and a second special state) according to the first lottery, the second lottery, and the third lottery. The information processing device 1 displays these lottery results and the game results obtained from the lottery results on the display 2.

[0021] In this embodiment, the information processing terminal 1 is a smartphone having a touch panel 5 provided on a display 2, but is not limited to this. The information processing terminal 1 may be either a portable type or a stationary type. Examples of the portable information processing terminal 1 include portable computers, laptop computers, tablet personal computers, handheld personal computers, and portable information devices such as PDAs (Personal Data Assistants).

[0022] Examples of the display type of the display 2 include various display types such as a liquid crystal type, an organic electroluminescence type, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) type, and a plasma type. The touch panel 5 is configured to be able to detect the coordinates of a part touched by a user's finger or the like. Known technologies such as an electromagnetic induction type and an electrostatic capacitance type are adopted for the touch panel 5. The information processing terminal 1 detects the coordinates touched by the user and the manner of touch such as a swipe based on the signal from the touch panel 5, determines the object or the like on the screen touched by the user, and responds according to the determination result.

[0023] In this embodiment, the touch panel 5 operates as an input device that accepts switching of the bet number, but is not limited to this. For example, the input device may be a microphone or a camera, and may accept the user's voice or gesture as an instruction operation.

[0024] As described later, a symbol display area in which a plurality of symbols are rearranged is provided on the display 2. Note that the term "a plurality of symbols are rearranged" includes the concept that symbols are determined as a result of a symbol lottery, and is not limited to the actual rearrangement of symbols as a performance.

[0025] The memory 3 stores programs and various data for implementing the functions of the controller 4. The data and programs stored in the memory 3 may be stored in advance at the factory shipping stage, or may be downloaded and stored from a server (not shown) by a communication means. That is, the above programs are stored in the memory 3, which is a non-transient recording medium. The communication means may be a transmission path capable of two-way communication such as the Internet or cable television, or may be broadcasting that transmits information only in one direction. The data and programs stored in the memory 3 may be stored in 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 in the memory as necessary.

[0026] As illustrated in Fig. 1, the program stored in the memory 3 executes the following processes to realize the above-mentioned functions. That is, the program stored in the memory 3 is configured to cause the information processing device 1 to execute a process (A1) of executing a normal game in which a first lottery is executed, a process (A2) of determining whether or not a predetermined game result is achieved in the normal game, a process (A3) of transitioning from the normal game to a first special state when a predetermined condition is established (A2: YES) and executing a predetermined number of first free games in which a second lottery is executed in each state, a process (A4) of transitioning to a second special state and executing a predetermined number of second free games in which a third lottery is executed in each state, and a process (A5) of determining whether or not a special game result is established by a plurality of third lotteries executed in the second special state. That is, the above-mentioned program is configured to cause the information processing terminal 1 (computer) to execute the above-mentioned processes.

[0027] Furthermore, the information processing terminal 1 having the above program executes the processes (A1) to (A6), whereby a game control method including the processes (A1) to (A6) is realized in the information processing device 1. That is, in the information processing device 1, a game control method is realized which includes the following: executing a first lottery after a betting operation, executing a normal game in which a game result determined by the first lottery is displayed on the display 2; if a predetermined game result is established in the first lottery, executing a second lottery in which a betting operation is not required and which is more likely to result in a more favorable game result than the first lottery, and transitioning to a first special state in which a first free game in which the game result determined by the second lottery is displayed on the display 2 can be executed a predetermined number of times; after the first free game is completed, executing a third lottery in which a betting operation is not required and which is more likely to transition to the first free game than the first lottery, and transitioning to a second special state in which a second free game in which the game result determined by the third lottery is displayed on the display 2 can be executed a predetermined number of times; and if a special game result is established in multiple third lotteries in the second special state, transitioning again to the first special state after the second special state is completed.

[0028] In addition, as described later, in this embodiment, an information processing system 1000 is configured that includes an information processing terminal 1 having a display 2, a touch panel 5, and a controller 4, and a server 10. For example, in the information processing device 1, the server 10 may have at least a part of the functions of the controller 4. That is, the computer that causes the above-mentioned program to execute the above-mentioned process may represent the information processing terminal 1, or may represent the information processing terminal 1 and the server 10. In the latter case, the server 10 and the information processing device 1 can be regarded as an information processing device that is integrally controlled. In addition, the process or operation of the server 10 and the information processing device 1 can be replaced as an invention of a program, a game control method, or a system realized between the server 10 and the information processing device 1.

[0029] In this manner, the information processing device 1 has a display 2 on which a plurality of symbols are rearranged, and a controller 4, and the controller 4 is configured to execute a first lottery after a betting operation, execute a normal game in which a game result determined by the first lottery is displayed on the display 2, execute a second lottery in which a betting operation is unnecessary and a more favorable game result is more likely to be obtained than in the first lottery if a predetermined game result is established in the first lottery, transition to a first special state in which a first free game in which the game result determined by the second lottery is displayed on the display 2 can be executed a predetermined number of times, execute a third lottery in which a betting operation is unnecessary and a more favorable game result is obtained than in the first lottery after the first free game is ended, transition to a second special state in which a second free game in which the game result determined by the third lottery is displayed on the display 2 can be executed a predetermined number of times, and if a special game result is established in multiple third lotteries in the second special state, transition to the first special state again after the second special state is ended.

[0030] According to this configuration, a transition to the first special state is made again by obtaining a special game result in the third drawing of the free game that is repeated in the second special state to which a transition can be made from the first special state. This makes it possible to add an element of excitement that allows the player to gradually and gradually look forward to repetition of free games that are more advantageous than normal games, while reducing the risk of data bloating and program complexity being caused in controlling symbol determination by making the second special state act as a trigger for the first special state.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing terminal 1 includes, within a housing 11, a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a flash memory 104, an operation button 108, a power switch 109, a bus line 110, a network I / F 111, a camera 112, an image sensor I / F 113, a microphone 114, a speaker 115, an audio input / output I / F 116, a display I / F 117, a sensor controller 118, a short-range communication circuit 119, and an antenna 119a of the short-range communication circuit 119.

[0032] The server 10 is a so-called computer including a CPU 1101, a ROM 1102, a RAM 1103, a storage device 1104 such as a hard disk drive, and a network I / F 1111. The information processing terminal 1 and the server 10 are connected via the Internet (not shown). That is, the server 10 communicates with the information processing devices 1 as a plurality of user terminal devices via a communication network, and provides games to the plurality of information processing devices 1. In this way, the slot game executed in this embodiment is executed as an online game. As a result, a player can execute the slot game by accessing the content provided by the server 10 via an application such as a browser using the information processing device 1 such as a smartphone or a PC.

[0033] A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 functions as a main component of a controller in the information processing terminal 1, and controls the overall operation of the information processing terminal 1. A CPU 1101 functions as a main component of a controller in the server 10, and controls the overall operation of the server 10. That is, the CPUs 101 and 1101 function as controllers that control the overall operation of the information processing system 1000. A ROM (Read Only Memory) 102 stores programs used to drive the CPU 101, such as an IPL (Initial Program Loader).

[0034] The RAM (Random Access Memory) 103 and RAM 1103 are used as work areas for the CPU 101 and CPU 1101. The operation button 108 is a button that is operated when initially setting up the information processing terminal 1. The power switch 109 is a switch for turning the power of the information processing terminal 1 ON / OFF.

[0035] In this embodiment, the flash memory 104 functioning as the memory 3 is a computer-readable non-transient recording medium that stores various data such as a game program, a communication program, 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 terminals 1. In response to a request from the game program of the information processing terminal 1, the server 10 returns a response by appropriately referring to the database in the storage device 1104.

[0036] The network I / F (Interface) 111 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 for capturing an image of a subject under the control of the CPU 101 to obtain image data. The image sensor I / F 113 is a circuit for controlling the driving of the camera 112. The microphone 114 is a type of built-in sound collection means for inputting sound. The sound input / output I / F 116 is a circuit for processing input / output of sound signals between the microphone 114 and the speaker 115 under the control of the CPU 101. The display I / F 117 is a circuit for transmitting image data to the display 2 under the control of the CPU 101. The display 2 is provided on the front surface of the housing 11. The sensor controller 118 is a circuit for receiving input from a touch panel 5 provided 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). The bus line 110 is an address bus, a data bus, or the like for electrically connecting the various components such as the CPU 101.

[0037] Next, a slot game executed by the information processing device 1 of this embodiment will be described. The slot game is made playable by the user as a game element in an application installed in the information processing terminal 1. The slot game is a game in which a plurality of symbols are moved and then stopped (rearranged) in the symbol display area, and a bonus such as a game value is awarded according to the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area. That is, when a predetermined combination is displayed in the symbol display area, a bonus corresponding to the combination is awarded, and when the predetermined combination is not displayed in the symbol display area, no bonus is awarded.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 3, this is a game in which six video reels on which a plurality of symbols are arranged are moved within the symbol display area 21 (scrolling image of six video reels), and then stopped and displayed (rearranged), and a bonus (such as a payout or free game) is awarded based on the combination of 24 symbols (the number of symbols of the same type) displayed within the symbol display area 21. Note that the state in which the six video reels are moved and then stopped and displayed within the symbol display area 21 is called "rearrangement." Credits are awarded as a payout based on the combination of symbols displayed within the symbol display area 21.

[0039] A "unit game" is a series of actions from the start of betting acceptance to a state where a prize can be awarded (a combination of symbols satisfying a predetermined relationship). In other words, a unit game includes one bet time for accepting bets, one game time for rearranging symbols, and one payout time for the payout process for awarding a payout.

[0040] Next, a slot game screen displayed on the display 120 of the smartphone 1 will be described. The slot game screen is displayed in a normal game and a free game in a special game. Specifically, the slot game screen is displayed as an effect based on rearrangement symbols determined by symbol lottery in a free game in a normal game and a special game.

[0041] 3, when a slot game is executed, a slot game screen is displayed on the display 120. The slot game screen displays a symbol display area 21, a game information display area 22 that displays information (such as the current number of owned coins) that increases or decreases as the slot game is executed, a presentation area 23 where presentations according to the development and game status of the slot game are performed, and an operation display area 24 that the player operates to progress in the slot game. A spin button 241, an AUTO button 242, an ITEM button 243, a bet button 244, a WIN display unit 245, and a shop button 246 are displayed in the operation display area 24.

[0042] The symbol display area 21 has six video reel display areas (first reel 211, second reel 212, third reel 213, fourth reel 214, fifth reel 215, sixth reel 216) arranged in the row direction. In each video reel display area, a video reel on which a plurality of symbols are arranged is variably displayed and then stopped, and the symbols are rearranged. Each video reel display area is made up of cells 20 arranged in four columns, and symbols are rearranged in these cells 20. That is, in the symbol display area 21, the cells 20 on which the symbols are rearranged are arranged in a matrix shape of 6 columns x 4 rows. Thus, in this embodiment, the area on the symbol display area on which a plurality of symbols are rearranged is set as a symbol-varying area, but is not limited thereto. For example, each area on which one symbol is rearranged may be an individual symbol-varying area. In this embodiment, a long symbol occupying the entirety of one video reel display area (four cells 20 in the column direction) may be included in the symbol row. In this way, the arrangement is not limited to one symbol being rearranged in one cell 20, and the symbol may occupy multiple cells 20.

[0043] In this way, as a result of the lottery in the slot game, symbols are rearranged on each video reel in the symbol display area 21. Note that a payline is set in the symbol display area 21, and a game result regarding a payout is determined in advance based on the symbols on the payline before the symbols are rearranged. Specifically, a payline is a set of cells 20 selected one by one from each video reel display area (the first reel 211, the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216). A plurality of paylines are set, and whether or not the symbols to be rearranged on the payline are a predetermined combination that will result in a win is determined in advance before the symbols are rearranged, and a payout is awarded for all paylines that are the predetermined combination.

[0044] In this embodiment, a "LEFT TO RIGHT" type is adopted for determining whether or not a win has been won. This means that a win is won (a payout is awarded) if a predetermined number or more (3 to 6 in this embodiment) of the same kind of symbols are consecutively connected from the reels 211 to 216 of the symbol display area 21 among the symbols rearranged in the symbol display area 21.

[0045] In this manner, the information processing device 1 determines the symbols to be rearranged by previously carrying out a lottery for the slot game, and displays the lottery result in the symbol display area 21 of the display 120.

[0046] In addition, a touch panel 5 that transmits the slot game screen is provided on the front side of the display 120. The touch panel 5 is configured to be capable of detecting the coordinates of the part touched by the player's finger or the like. As a result, for example, by touching the image of the spin button 241, one slot game (unit game) can be executed. Also, by touching the image of the AUTO button 242, consecutive slot games can be executed. Also, by touching the image of the ITEM button 243, the player can select and use an item (which has an effect that affects the slot game) that he or she has previously acquired. Also, by touching the image of the shop button 246, the smartphone 1 can access the server 100 and move to a shop where cash (cash, credit card, electronic money, prepaid card, etc. that the player possesses) can be exchanged for credits (coins) that can be used in the slot game, or cash or coins can be exchanged for items. The exchanged credits (coins) that can be used in the slot game are added to the value of a coin number counter provided in the RAM 103.

[0047] In addition, in the special game, the spin button 241 changes to an area 241a that displays the remaining number of free games. That is, when the special game starts, the value displayed in the area 241a counts from 4 to 0 each time a free game is executed.

[0048] Next, a description will be given of the configuration of the symbol arrays of the six video reels (corresponding to a reel set) displayed in the symbol display area 21. The symbol arrays of the six video reels have different configurations in the base game, the first free game, and the second free game.

[0049] Specifically, the symbols include a dividend symbol, a long wild symbol, a trigger symbol, and a special symbol. The dividend symbol is a symbol for obtaining a dividend in a slot game. In this embodiment, the dividend symbol is a symbol displayed in all slot games. That is, the dividend symbol is a symbol that is the subject of a first lottery, a second lottery, and a third lottery.

[0050] The long wild symbol is a symbol for obtaining a payout in a slot game, similar to the payout symbol. The long wild symbol occupies the entire video reel display area (four cells 20 in the column direction) and is a symbol that substitutes for a payout symbol. Substituting for a payout symbol means that, for example, when one or more long wild symbols are present among symbols of the same kind on a payline, the one or more long wild symbols are regarded as symbols of the same kind and a win is determined. In this way, when the long wild symbol becomes a subject of a lottery, a win on the payline becomes more likely. In this embodiment, the long wild symbol is a symbol that is displayed only in the normal game and the first free game. That is, the long wild symbol is a symbol that is a subject of a lottery in the first lottery and the second lottery.

[0051] In the present embodiment, in the normal game, one long wild symbol is always rearranged on any one of the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216. That is, the first selection includes a selection of which of the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216 the long wild symbol is to be rearranged on, and a selection of symbols to be rearranged in the five video reel display areas where the long wild symbol is not to be rearranged. In the first free game, two long wild symbols are always rearranged on any one of the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216. In other words, the second lottery includes a lottery to determine which two of the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216 the long wild symbol will be rearranged to, and a lottery to determine the symbols to be rearranged in the four video reel display areas where the long wild symbol will not be rearranged.

[0052] The trigger symbol is a symbol for establishing a condition for transitioning to a special game in a normal game. In this embodiment, when three or more trigger symbols are won in the first drawing of the normal game, the game state transitions to a first special state, and a predetermined number of first free games are executed. In this embodiment, the trigger symbol is a symbol that is displayed only in the normal game. In other words, the trigger symbol is a symbol that is the subject of the drawing in the first drawing.

[0053] In this embodiment, the special symbol is a symbol that is displayed only in the second free game in the second special state. That is, the special symbol is a symbol that is a target of the third lottery only. The special symbol includes a plurality of types to which different numerical values ​​are associated. When the special symbol is determined as a rearrangement target in the second free game in the second special state, the numerical value assigned to the special symbol is accumulated. Then, when the accumulated value in the second special state exceeds a predetermined threshold value stored in the flash memory 104, the second special state is followed by a transition to the first special state.

[0054] In this way, the multiple symbols to be rearranged have a payout symbol that is a condition for establishing a payout and a trigger symbol that is a condition for establishing a predetermined condition. In the special game, the multiple symbols to be rearranged are configured so that the trigger symbol is not included as a selection target. As a result, the trigger symbol that does not function during the special game is excluded from the symbol display area 21, so that it is possible to visually indicate that the payout rate has improved. In addition, in the free game in the special game, the reels from which the trigger symbol is excluded are displayed in a variable manner, so that it is visually clear whether the game is a normal game or a special game. Therefore, this configuration provides an improved user interface for electronic devices. In addition, by displaying the special symbol only in the second special state, it is clearly indicated that the second free game in the second special state is a game that triggers a transition to the first special state, and thus provides an improved user interface for electronic devices.

[0055] A code number is associated with the symbols arranged on each video reel, and the symbols corresponding to the code number determined as a result of a random number lottery are displayed in the symbol display area 21. The types, numbers, and arrangement order of the symbols arranged on each video reel can be set arbitrarily.

[0056] With reference to FIG. 4, the transition of basic game states controlled by the information processing terminal 1 will be described. The information processing terminal 1 has a normal game, a first special state, and a second special state as game states. The second and third lotteries of the free game in the first special state and the second special state are set to be more advantageous than the normal game in that no bet is required. Also, the second lottery of the first free game in the first special state is set to be more advantageous than the first and second lotteries of the normal game and the second special state in that a more advantageous game result is more likely to be obtained by rearranging a larger number of long wild symbols.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 4, when three or more trigger symbols are included in the 24 symbols determined in the first lottery of the slot game of the normal game, the normal game transitions to a first special state, and seven free games are executed.

[0058] In this embodiment, at the timing of transition to the first special state, it is determined whether or not to transition to the second special state after the first special state ends. Specifically, when three trigger symbols are rearranged in the normal game in which the transition to the first special state is determined, a lottery (second special state lottery) is executed at the timing of transition to the first special state to determine whether or not to transition to the second special state after the first special state. If the second special state lottery is won, the game state transitions to the second special state after the end of the first special state, and if the lottery is not won, the game state returns to the normal game after the end of the first special state. Also, when four trigger symbols are rearranged in the normal game in which the transition to the first special state is determined, it is determined that the first special state transitions to the second special state after the first special state at the timing of transition to the first special state. In this way, the winning of the trigger symbol is determined by a so-called scatter method that is not related to the payline. In this embodiment, one trigger symbol is arranged on each of the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216, so the maximum number of trigger symbols to be rearranged is four. However, the reels on which the trigger symbols are arranged and the number of reels are not limited to this.

[0059] In the first special state, seven first free games are executed, and a second lottery is performed in each of them. As described above, two long wild symbols are always won in the first free game. If the transition to the second special state is confirmed, the game state transitions to the second special state after the first special state ends. If the second special state lottery does not result in a win, the game state returns to the normal game after the first special state ends. In this embodiment, in the case of the first special state transitioned from the second special state, the game state returns to the normal game after the first special state ends, but is not limited to this. For example, when the first special state starts, the second special state lottery may be performed again, and if a win is obtained, the game state may transition to the second special state.

[0060] In the second special state, three second free games are executed, and a third lottery is performed in each of which a plurality of special symbols are included in the lottery. A different numerical value (e.g., 150, 350, 600) is associated with each of the plurality of special symbols, and each time a special symbol is won, a numerical value corresponding to the won special symbol is accumulated. If a special game result is obtained in which the accumulated value in one second special state reaches a predetermined threshold value (e.g., 1000), the game state is shifted to the first special state again after the end of the second special state. If a special game result is not obtained because the accumulated value in one second special state does not reach the predetermined threshold value, the game state is returned to the normal game after the end of the second special state.

[0061] In this manner, the information processing device 1 includes a display 120 that displays the symbol display area 21 in which a plurality of symbols including a special symbol are rearranged, a controller that executes a normal game and a free game that is more advantageous than the normal game, in which a plurality of symbols to be rearranged in the symbol display area 21 are determined and a result is output, and a storage device that is connected to the controller and stores a plurality of symbols and a predetermined threshold value. The controller executes a predetermined number of free games in a first special state to which a normal game state in which a normal game is executed can be shifted, and a second special state to which a normal game state is shifted from the first special state and in which a special symbol is included in the rearrangement target in the symbol display area 21. The controller shifts from the normal game state to the first special state when a plurality of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 21 in the normal game meet a predetermined game result condition. The controller then determines, at a predetermined timing (for example, the timing of shifting to the first special state), whether or not to shift to the second special state after the first special state ends. When the controller rearranges a special symbol in a free game in the second special state, it accumulates the numerical values ​​assigned to the special symbols, and when the accumulated value of the numerical values ​​in the second special state exceeds a predetermined threshold, the controller transitions to the first special state after the second special state.

[0062] As a result, in a free game that is repeated in the second special state to which a transition can be made from the first special state, when the cumulative value of the numerical value accumulated by the display of the special symbol exceeds a predetermined threshold, a transition is made again to the first special state. As a result, by making the second special state act as a trigger for the first special state, it is possible to reduce the risk of data used to control the determination of symbols becoming bloated and programs becoming more complicated, while adding an element of excitement that allows the player to gradually and gradually look forward to repetition of free games that are more advantageous than normal games.

[0063] Next, an example of a game screen displayed on the display 120 of the information processing device 1 in the second special state will be described with reference to Fig. 5. In the second special state, a target object 231 to be defeated is displayed in the performance area 23. In this embodiment, a numerical value "1000" corresponding to a predetermined threshold value is displayed on the target object 231 to be defeated, but is not limited to this.

[0064] When the special symbol is won in the third lottery in the second free game in the second special state, the special symbol 400 is rearranged in the symbol display area 21. In the example shown in FIG. 5, two special symbols 400 are rearranged.

[0065] When the special symbol 400 is rearranged in the symbol display area 21, an object moves from the position where the special symbol 400 is rearranged in the symbol display area 21 toward the target object 231 to be defeated, and an attack effect 232 is performed on the target object 231 to be defeated. In this embodiment, the attack effect 232 shows a numerical value associated with the special symbol 400, but is not limited to this. Note that the attack effect 232 may be configured to have a different display mode depending on the numerical value associated with the special symbol 400.

[0066] After the attack effect 232 is performed, the numerical value shown on the object 231 to be destroyed is a value obtained by subtracting the numerical value corresponding to the rearranged special symbol 400. In the example shown in Fig. 5, a special symbol 400 corresponding to the numerical value "150" and a special symbol 400 corresponding to the numerical value "350" are rearranged, so that the cumulative value "500" is subtracted from "1000", and the subtraction result "500" is shown on the object 231 to be destroyed.

[0067] Then, in a total of three second free games, if the special symbol 400 is rearranged and the cumulative value reaches "1000", the second special state will end and the first special state will be entered.

[0068] In this way, the threshold value is set as a life gauge of the object 231 to be defeated, and the special symbol is rearranged so that an attack image on the object 231 to be defeated can be displayed.

[0069] Next, the special symbol table stored in the flash memory 104 of the information processing device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The special symbol table is used to determine which numerical value is to be associated with a special symbol when the special symbol is won in the symbol lottery (third lottery) of the slot game of the second free game. That is, the third lottery includes a lottery for determining symbols to be rearranged on the first reel 211, the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216, and a lottery for determining a numerical value to be associated with the special symbol when the special symbol is won in the lottery.

[0070] Specifically, the special symbol table has a special symbol column, a numerical value column, and a probability column. In this embodiment, three types of special symbols (first special symbol, second special symbol, and third special symbol) are provided, and data indicating these three types of special symbols is stored in the special symbol column. A numerical value for each special symbol is stored in the numerical value column. The probability column stores a probability for determining which of the three types of special symbols will be selected. That is, when a special symbol is selected in the third lottery, a lottery is performed for all the selected special symbols based on the probability column to determine which type of special symbol will be selected. Note that this is not limited to the above, and for example, when changing the image for each type of special symbol, data for referring to image data may be included in the special symbol table.

[0071] Next, a game control process executed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0072] First, the CPU 101 performs a bet / start check process (S10). In this bet / start check process, the number of credits (number of coins) to be bet is determined by touching the "+" button and the "-" button (see FIG. 3) of the bet button 244 in the operation display area 24 of the display 120 of the information processing device 1. Then, the bet credit number is stored in the BET number counter of the RAM 103. When a bet is made, the bet credit number is subtracted from the value of the coin number counter provided in the RAM 103. In this way, the bet credit number is determined, and the payout amount for the winning is calculated by multiplying the bet credit number by the payout number corresponding to the number of symbols of the same kind (3 to 6) rearranged (displayed) on the payline in the symbol display area 21 as a result of the slot game. In addition, in this bet / start check process, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the spin button 241 has been touched, and if the spin button 241 has been touched, the process proceeds to S21 to proceed with the slot game.

[0073] Next, the CPU 101 executes a first lottery process (S11). As described above, in the first lottery, the CPU 101 executes a process including a lottery for determining which of the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216 to rearrange one long wild symbol, and a lottery for determining symbols to rearrange in the five video reel display areas in which the long wild symbol is not rearranged. Here, symbols to be stopped are determined by lottery from among a plurality of symbols arranged in each of the six video reels (the first reel 211, the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216). The symbols to be stopped are 24 symbol data to be displayed in the symbol display area 21. As a result, the 24 symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area 21 are determined.

[0074] Then, the CPU 101 stores the determined 24 symbols to be stopped in a symbol storage area provided in the RAM 103.

[0075] Next, the CPU 101 performs a payout amount determination process based on the result of the symbol lottery process (S12). In this process, the CPU 101 determines the number of symbols of the same kind to be rearranged (displayed) on the payline in the symbol display area 21 by "LEFT TO RIGHT". Then, when the number of symbols of the same kind is rearranged to a predetermined number or more (3 to 6), the CPU 101 determines the payout amount (payout value) corresponding to the number of symbols of the kind to be arranged based on the pay table stored in the RAM 103. Note that when the number of symbols of any kind is not rearranged to a predetermined number or more, no payout amount is provided (payout value is 0). Then, the determined payout amount (payout) is stored in a payout amount storage area provided in the RAM 103.

[0076] Then, the CPU 101 judges whether or not three trigger symbols are drawn in the first lottery process in step S11, and the transition condition to the first special state is established (S13). When it is judged in step S13 that three trigger symbols are drawn (S13: YES), the CPU 101 executes a second special state lottery (S14) and determines whether or not to transition to the second special state after the first special state ends. Then, the CPU 101 judges whether or not the second special state lottery is drawn (S15). Then, when the second special state lottery is drawn (S15: YES), the CPU 101 sets the second special state flag to ON (S16). Then, when the second special state lottery is drawn or not drawn (S15: NO), the CPU 101 sets the first special state flag to ON (S17).

[0077] On the other hand, if three trigger symbols are not selected in the first lottery process of step S11 (S13: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether four trigger symbols are selected in the first lottery process (S18). If four trigger symbols are selected (S18: YES), the CPU 101 sets the second special state flag to ON (S16), and further sets the first special state flag to ON (S17).

[0078] After step S17 or if four trigger symbols are not selected in step S18 (S18: NO), the CPU 101 executes an effect determination process (S19). The CPU 101 extracts a random number value for the effect and determines one of a plurality of predetermined effect contents by lottery. For example, the CPU 101 starts scrolling each of the first reel 211, the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216 in the symbol display area 21 (see FIG. 3), and determines an effect in which the 24 symbols determined in the first lottery process in step S11 are stopped and displayed, respectively. More specifically, for example, if the trigger symbol is selected as a stopped symbol, it may be determined to perform a predictive effect indicating that the trigger symbol will be stopped in the display area where the trigger symbol is stopped during scrolling. In addition, for example, the CPU 101 determines a highlighting effect for symbols related to winning among the stopped symbols, an effect for displaying a payout on the WIN display unit 245 (see FIG. 3), a special WIN effect when the payout is equal to or greater than a predetermined multiple of the bet amount, etc.

[0079] Then, the CPU 101 executes the effect contents at the timing of the determined effect contents (S20). For example, the CPU 101 controls to display an image for the effect on the display 120 and output a sound from the speaker 115. Also, for example, the CPU 101 displays an image of the symbols to be stopped being stopped after starting scrolling display of a plurality of symbols on the reel in the symbol display area 21. Also, for example, the CPU 101 displays an image of the symbols related to the winning among the symbols stopped and displays an effect in which the number of owned credits is incremented. Also, for example, the CPU 101 performs an effect of transition to a special game. Then, if there is a number of credits to be added as a result of the above game, the CPU 101 executes a payout process of adding the number of credits to the owned credits (S21). Note that the payout process may be executed at a predetermined timing during the effect execution process in step S24 (for example, the timing of the effect in which the number of owned credits is incremented). Then, the CPU 101 ends this subroutine. Here, the CPU 101 may clear data that is no longer necessary for each unit game in the working area of ​​the RAM 103, such as the value of the bet counter in the BET number storage area for the executed unit game and the symbols that have been determined by lottery to be displayed in the symbol display area 21.

[0080] After that, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the first special state flag is ON (S22). If the first special state flag is OFF (S22: NO), this routine is ended. If the first special state flag is ON (S22: YES), the CPU 101 executes a first special state execution process (S23). The first special state execution process will be described later with reference to FIG. 8. In this way, the CPU 101 determines that the first special state flag is ON, and confirms the transition from the normal game to the first special state.

[0081] After that, the CPU 101 judges whether or not the second special state flag is ON (S24). If the second special state flag is OFF (S24: NO), this routine is ended. If the first special state flag is ON (S24: YES), the CPU 101 executes a second special state execution process (S25). The second special state execution process will be described later with reference to FIG. 9. In this manner, the CPU 101 judges that the second special state flag is ON and determines the transition from the first special state to the second special state. After executing the second special state execution process, the CPU 101 shifts the process to step S22 and judges whether or not the special game result is satisfied in the second special state and the transition to the first special state is determined (whether or not the first special state flag is ON).

[0082] Next, a first special state execution process executed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0083] First, the CPU 101 executes the second lottery process (S44). As described above, the CPU 101 executes processes including a lottery for determining which two of the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216 the long wild symbol will be rearranged in in the second lottery, and a lottery for determining symbols to be rearranged in the four video reel display areas where the long wild symbol is not rearranged. Then, the CPU 101 executes a payout amount determination process based on the result of the second lottery process (S45). In this process, the CPU 101 determines the payout amount (dividend value) corresponding to the number of symbols of the same kind (3 to 6) on the payline to be rearranged (displayed) in the symbol display area 21 based on the pay table stored in the RAM 103. Then, the sum of these determined payout amounts (dividends) is stored in a payout amount storage area provided in the RAM 103.

[0084] Then, the CPU 101 executes a process for determining an effect (S46). The CPU 101 extracts a random number value for the effect, determines one of a plurality of predetermined effect contents by lottery, and executes the effect content at the timing of the determined effect content (S47). For example, the CPU 101 controls to display an image for the effect on the display 120 and output sound from the speaker 115. Also, for example, the CPU 101 starts scrolling display of a plurality of symbols on the reel in the symbol display area 21, and then displays an image displaying the symbols to be stopped as stopped. Also, for example, the CPU 101 displays an image displaying a symbol related to a win among the stopped symbols, and performs an effect in which the number of owned credits is incremented. Then, if there is a number of credits to be added as a result of the above game, the CPU 101 executes a payout process for adding the number of credits to the owned credits (S48).

[0085] Then, the CPU 101 executes a free game number subtraction process (S49). Specifically, the CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value in the remaining free game number field. Then, the CPU 101 executes an initialization process at the end of one game (S50). In step S50, data that becomes unnecessary for each unit game in the working area of ​​the RAM 103 is cleared, such as the value of the bet counter in the BET number storage area in the executed unit game, the symbols determined by lottery to be displayed in the symbol display area 21, and the symbol string determined to be displayed in the display area 23.

[0086] Then, the CPU 101 judges whether or not there is no free game remaining in the first special state (S51). If there is a free game remaining (S51: NO), the CPU 101 shifts the process to step S44 and executes the free game again. If there is no free game remaining (S51: YES), the CPU 101 executes a payout total display process (S52). In the payout total display process, the CPU 101 executes an effect that displays the total amount of all payouts paid in the free games in the first special state. Then, the CPU 101 sets the first special state flag to OFF (S53), and then ends this subroutine, and returns the process to the game control process of FIG. 7.

[0087] Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a second special state execution process executed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described.

[0088] First, the CPU 101 executes the third lottery process (S60). As described above, in the third lottery process, the CPU 101 executes a process including a lottery for determining symbols to be rearranged on the first reel 211, the second reel 212, the third reel 213, the fourth reel 214, the fifth reel 215, and the sixth reel 216, and a lottery for determining a numerical value to be associated with the special symbol if the special symbol is won in the lottery. Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol is won as a result of the third lottery process (S61). If the special symbol is won (S61: YES), the CPU 101 executes an accumulation process for accumulating the numerical values ​​associated with all the special symbols into an accumulation value (S62). Then, the CPU 101 executes a payout amount determination process based on the result of the third lottery process (S63). In this process, based on the pay table stored in the RAM 103, a payout amount (a payout value) corresponding to the number of symbols of the same kind (3 to 6 symbols) on a payline to be rearranged (displayed) in the symbol display area 21 is determined. Then, the sum of these determined payout amounts (a payout) is stored in a payout amount storage area provided in the RAM 103.

[0089] Then, the CPU 101 executes a performance determination process (S64). The CPU 101 extracts a random number value for performance, determines one of a plurality of predetermined performance contents by lottery, and executes the performance content at the timing of the determined performance content (S65). For example, the CPU 101 performs control such as displaying a video for performance on the display 120 and outputting sound from the speaker 115. Also, for example, the CPU 101 starts scrolling display of a plurality of symbols on the reels in the symbol display area 21, and then displays a video displaying the symbols to be stopped as stopped. Also, for example, the CPU 101 displays a video displaying a symbol related to a win among the stopped and displayed symbols in an highlighted manner, and performs a performance in which the number of owned credits is incremented.

[0090] Furthermore, for example, if a special symbol is won in the third lottery, an effect is performed in the effect area 23 as described in Fig. 5. Then, if there is a credit amount to be added as a result of the above game, the CPU 101 executes a payout process to add the credit amount to the owned credit (S66).

[0091] Then, the CPU 101 executes a free game number subtraction process (S67). Specifically, the CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value in the remaining free game number field. Then, the CPU 101 executes an initialization process at the end of one game (S68). In step S67, data that becomes unnecessary for each unit game in the working area of ​​the RAM 103 is cleared, such as the value of the bet counter in the BET number storage area in the executed unit game, symbols determined by lottery to be displayed in the symbol display area 21, and symbol strings determined to be displayed in the display area 23.

[0092] Then, the CPU 101 judges whether or not there are no free games remaining in the second special state (S69). If there are free games remaining (S69: NO), the CPU 101 shifts the process to step 60 and executes the free game again. If there are no free games remaining (S69: YES), the CPU 101 executes a payout total display process (S70). In the payout display process, the CPU 101 executes an effect that displays the total amount of all payouts paid out in the first special state.

[0093] Then, the CPU 101 sets the second special state flag to OFF (S71). Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the accumulated value has reached the threshold value (S72). If the accumulated value has reached the threshold value (S72: YES), the CPU 101 sets the first special state flag to ON (S73), and then ends this subroutine and returns the process to the game control process of Fig. 7. If the accumulated value has not reached the threshold value (S72: NO), the process returns directly to the game control process of Fig. 7.

[0094] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not limit the present invention, and the specific configurations of each means, such as the number of free games in the first special state and the second special state, the numerical value associated with the special symbol in the second special state, and the threshold value to be compared with the cumulative value, can be appropriately modified in design. Moreover, the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely a list of the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1. Information processing terminal 2. Display 3. Memory 4. Controller 5. Touch Panel

Claims

1. a display on which a plurality of symbols are rearranged; A controller that performs the following operations: and The controller: a base game is executed in which a first lottery is executed after the betting operation, and a game result determined by the first lottery is displayed on the display; If a predetermined game result is established in the first lottery, a transition is made to a first special state in which a first free game can be executed a predetermined number of times, in which a second lottery is executed which requires no betting operation and has a higher possibility of obtaining a more favorable game result than the first lottery, and the game result determined by the second lottery is displayed on the display; After the first special state ends, a transition is made to a second special state in which a betting operation is not required, a third drawing is executed which has a higher possibility of transitioning to the first free game than the first drawing, and a second free game in which a game result determined by the third drawing is displayed on the display is executed a predetermined number of times. An information processing device characterized in that, when a special game result is achieved in multiple third lotteries in the second special state, after the second special state ends, the device transitions again to the first special state.

2. The third lottery object includes a plurality of special symbols each having a different numerical value associated therewith; The controller: In the second free game in the second special state, when the special symbol is determined as a rearrangement target, the numerical values ​​assigned to the special symbol are accumulated; 2 . The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein, when an accumulated value accumulated in the second special state exceeds a predetermined threshold, the information processing device transitions to the first special state after the second special state.

3. A game control method executed by a computer, comprising: rearranging the plurality of symbols on the display; executing a first lottery after a betting operation, and executing a base game in which a game result determined by the first lottery is displayed on the display; when a predetermined game result is established in the first lottery, a second lottery is executed which does not require a betting operation and has a higher possibility of obtaining a more favorable game result than the first lottery, and a transition is made to a first special state in which a first free game in which the game result determined by the second lottery is displayed on the display can be executed a predetermined number of times; After the first special state ends, a transition is made to a second special state in which a betting operation is not required, a third drawing is executed which has a higher possibility of transitioning to the first free game than the first drawing, and a second free game in which a game result determined by the third drawing is displayed on the display is executed a predetermined number of times. A game control method characterized by including the step of transitioning to the first special state again after the end of the second special state when a special game result is achieved in multiple third lotteries in the second special state.

Images