Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of dealing with a player leaving his / her seat.SOLUTION: A slot machine 1 can be operated in any one of a plurality of operation states including a first operation state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game, and a second operation state in which a second type of predetermined operation T2 related to an absence from a seat can be executed. When a specific operation is performed on an operation unit in the first operation state, processing for shifting from the first operation state to the second operation state can be executed. When the operation unit is operated in the second operation state, the second type of predetermined operation T2 can be executed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a gaming machine.

Background Art

[0002] A player may leave the gaming machine for breaks such as using the toilet or having a meal. If others start playing without knowing that the gaming machine is unattended, it may cause trouble. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that a gaming machine has a memo function that can be set by the player, and as one type of the memo function, it is possible to display that the machine is unattended. However, although the gaming machine can display that it is unattended using the memo function, others can operate it, and others can proceed with the game.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides a gaming machine capable of coping with a player's absence.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A first aspect is operable in any of a plurality of operating states including a first operating state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game and a second operating state in which a predetermined operation related to being unattended can be executed. When a specific operation is performed on an operation unit in the first operating state, a process of shifting from the first operating state to the second operating state can be executed. When the operation unit is operated in the second operating state, the predetermined operation can be executed. It is a gaming machine.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to the present disclosure, a gaming machine capable of responding to a player's departure can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] [Embodiment] A slot machine 1 according to an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "connection" includes both cases where the connection targets are directly connected and cases where the connection targets are indirectly connected via other boards, devices, etc.

[0009] In this embodiment, an example is illustrated in which the slot machine 1 is a rotary type gaming machine that handles the quantity (number of medals) of game values as electronic data without using physically existing medals. Different from conventional slot machines, in the slot machine 1, it is not necessary to insert and pay out physically existing medals, and the game can proceed using a pseudo-game medium converted into electronic data as game value data. Such a slot machine 1 is called a medal-less machine, Smart Slot (registered trademark), an enclosed rotary gaming machine, etc.

[0010] The pseudo-game medium, that is, the game value, increases or decreases according to the progress of the game. Therefore, the player can play the game without having physically existing medals in hand, and during the game, it is also possible to check the quantity of the game value in possession by the credit display of the slot machine 1.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a front view of the above-described slot machine 1. As shown in FIG. 2, this slot machine 1 is communicably connected to a card unit 9. First, the card unit 9 will be described below.

[0012] The card unit 9 (corresponding to an external device) is a device capable of executing processes related to lending game values to the slot machine 1 and returning them from the slot machine 1.

[0013] Although not shown, on the outer surface of the card unit 9, in addition to a cash insertion opening and a card insertion / ejection opening, there are provided a display panel capable of displaying an input instruction for a password, a lending balance, etc., a game value lending button, and a card ejection button. Inside the card unit 9, in addition to an I / F for communication with the slot machine 1, as shown in FIG. 2, a cash management mechanism 91, a card management mechanism 92, and a card unit side control unit 93 are provided.

[0014] The cash management mechanism 91 introduces and detects the banknotes inserted from the cash insertion opening into the card unit 9 and accumulates them.

[0015] The card management mechanism 92 introduces and stores the card inserted through the card insertion / ejection opening, or ejects the card through the insertion / ejection opening when the card ejection button is operated.

[0016] The card unit side control unit 93 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, etc. The card unit side control unit 93 performs operation control of the cash management mechanism 91 and the card management mechanism 92 respectively, lending processing of game values, card authentication processing, data reading and writing processing from and to the card, etc.

[0017] The operation processing of the cash management mechanism 91 includes processing for operating the cash management mechanism 91 so that the inserted banknote is introduced into the card unit 9, processing for giving an error notification to that effect when the inserted banknote jams in the cash management mechanism 91, processing for adding the game value corresponding to the inserted banknote to the current lending balance and temporarily storing it in the RAM, etc.

[0018] The operation processing of the card management mechanism 92 includes processing for operating the card management mechanism 92 so that the inserted card is introduced into the card unit 9, processing for operating the card management mechanism 92 so that the card is ejected in accordance with the operation of the card ejection button, etc.

[0019] The lending processing of game values includes processing for transmitting the data of the game values to be lent to the slot machine 1 in accordance with the operation of the lending button. At the time of this transmission, processing for subtracting the game value corresponding to the amount to be lent from the data of the game values of the lending balance temporarily stored in the RAM in the card unit 9 is also performed.

[0020] In the card authentication process, when a card is inserted into the insertion / ejection opening and a PIN is entered via the display panel, a process of determining whether the entered PIN matches the PIN written on the card is included. When the card unit side control unit 93 determines that they match, it allows the card to be continuously used as the authentication target. However, when it determines that they do not match, it may not allow (restrict the use of) the card to be continuously used as the authentication target.

[0021] In the data reading process from the card, when game value data is written on the card, a process of reading this data and temporarily storing it in the RAM as the loan balance is included.

[0022] In the writing process to the card, when game value data is transferred to the card unit 9 along with the operation of the count button 46 (described later) of the slot machine 1, the data is received and temporarily stored in the RAM, and then the data is written to the card along with the operation of the card ejection button. When the card ejection button is operated and game value data is already written on the card, the card unit side control unit 93 performs a process (update process) of adding the game value received from the slot machine 1 to the data and writing it to the card.

[0023] As a result, when the card ejection button is operated in the card unit 9, a card with at least one of the game value and loan balance data owned by the player written on it is ejected from the card insertion / ejection opening.

[0024] In addition, the card unit 9 is also communicably connected to devices other than the slot machine 1, such as a hall computer (not shown) and a unit management computer. To the hall computer and the unit management computer, for example, information regarding advantageous gaming states, including the number of gaming times in advantageous gaming states (such as AT, CZ, special combination (bonus) execution states, etc.), the transition of the quantity of gaming values, the number of games played, the accessory ratio, and various other information related to the slot machine 1 are sent from the card unit 9.

[0025] <Configuration of Slot Machine> As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 1, which is a medal-less machine, has a housing 10. A front door 100 is provided on the front surface of the housing 10.

[0026] In the front door 100, near the right end portion of the front door 100 in a front view, a keyhole is provided. The keyhole is capable of inserting a key for locking or unlocking the front door 100 and the housing 10. During the game, since the locked state of the front door 100 and the housing 10 is maintained, the player cannot access the inside of the housing 10. Also, since the slot machine 1 is a medal-less machine, there is no need to provide a selector or a hopper device inside the housing 10, and the operation of replenishing actual medals by the store staff during the game is omitted. Therefore, during the game, except when an error occurs in the slot machine 1, in principle, there should be no scene where the store staff unlocks the front door 100 and the housing 10. When the store staff performs setting change work, setting value confirmation work, maintenance work, etc., the front door 100 and the housing 10 are unlocked, and the front door 100 becomes rotatable with respect to the housing 10. Thereby, the store staff can access the inside of the housing 10.

[0027] In the central portion of the front door 100, a transparent reel window 200 is provided. The player can visually recognize a plurality of symbols displayed on the surfaces of a plurality of rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c, which will be described later, through this reel window 200.

[0028] Above the reel window 200, a liquid crystal display screen 3, a speaker 102, and a lighting decoration unit 103 for performing various effects during the game are provided. The liquid crystal display screen 3, the speaker 102, and the lighting decoration unit 103 correspond to the notification unit.

[0029] The liquid crystal display screen 3 displays various effect videos (effect screens) during the player's game.

[0030] The speaker 102 outputs a predetermined BGM (background music), SE (sound effect), and voice.

[0031] The lighting decoration unit 103 lights up or goes out in a predetermined pattern, for example, when a highly anticipated effect screen is displayed or a winning combination is achieved.

[0032] Below the reel window 200, an operation unit 4 is provided. The operation unit 4 is provided at a position where it can be visually recognized and touched by the player. The operation unit 4 includes a plurality of stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, a bet switch 41, a lever 42, a media display unit 43, a game information display unit 44, a cancel button 45, a counting button 46, and an effect button 47, etc.

[0033] Each of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c is provided corresponding to each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c. Each of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c accepts an operation to stop the rotation of each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c while the rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c are rotating.

[0034] A lamp may be provided inside each of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c. For example, the lamp can indicate in color that the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are in an inoperative state from when the lever 42 is operated until each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c reaches a steady rotation state. Also, the lamp can indicate in a color different from the above-mentioned coloring that the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are in an operative state from when each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c reaches a steady rotation state until the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are operated.

[0035] The bet switch 41 is used when betting game values. In the present embodiment, an example is given where a predetermined number (for example, three sheets) of game values that can be played in one game are automatically bet by pressing the bet switch 41 once.

[0036] The lever 42 functions as a start switch that receives an operation for rotating each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. Note that for the start of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, it is necessary to satisfy a "wait condition" in which there is an interval of at least a minimum game time (about 4.1 seconds) from the start of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c in the previous game to the start of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c in the next game. Therefore, when the lever 42 is operated, each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c starts after this wait condition is satisfied.

[0037] The medium display unit 43 displays the quantity of game values (hereinafter also referred to as the credit number) managed by the medium management unit 620 of the slot machine 1, the number of payouts of game values, etc., and is composed of, for example, a plurality of 7-segments.

[0038] The "number of payouts of game value" in this embodiment does not refer to the operation of actually paying out medals outside the slot machine 1, but rather means that based on the winning combination established by internal lottery, the game value corresponding to that winning combination increases. In other words, the number of payouts of game value means that the numerical value of the virtual game medium in electronic data form increases.

[0039] Note that a credit upper limit is provided for the credit number in this embodiment. This credit upper limit has no relation to the operation process of the complete function described later, and is used in the notification process for prompting the player to transfer the game value to the card unit 9 when the quantity of the game value being managed is relatively large. This notification process will be described later in the "-medium management unit-".

[0040] The game information display unit 44 displays information related to the game other than the information displayed on the medium display unit 43, and is composed of an LED, a lamp, a 7-segment display, etc. The information displayed by the game information display unit 44 includes the number of bets of game value in one game, whether a special winning combination is executed or not, the fact of winning a replay (replay game), the code corresponding to the correct operation mode of the operation mode winning combination when it is won during AT or ART, etc.

[0041] The cancel button 45 can accept an operation to change the game value in the bet state to a non-bet state. For example, when the cancel button 45 is operated in a state where the game value being bet is 1 or more, the medium management unit 620 described later updates the game value being bet to "0", and adds the game value that was bet immediately before it becomes "0" to the game value being managed. As a result, the credit number displayed on the medium display unit 43 increases by the amount of the game value that was bet. In other words, the cancel button 45 can be said to be a button for causing the medium management unit 620 to execute a bet cancellation process that returns the game value being bet to the credit number by changing the bet state to a non-bet state.

[0042] Note that the bet cancellation process based on the operation of the cancel button 45 is effective when the bet is placed but the lever 42 has not been operated yet, and becomes invalid from when the lever 42 is operated until the game based on the operation of the lever 42 ends. In the present embodiment, the cancel button 45 is disposed near the bet switch 41.

[0043] The count button 46 can receive an operation for transferring data of game values managed by the medium management unit 620 of the slot machine 1 to the card unit 9 from the medium management unit 620. For example, when the count button 46 is operated in a state where the game value being managed is 1 or more, the medium management unit 620 subtracts the game value being managed toward 0. The data of the game value corresponding to the subtraction is transmitted to the card unit 9.

[0044] Note that the amount of subtraction of the game value being managed when the count button 46 is operated once may be determined in advance, such as "1" or "50". Also, while the count button 46 is being continuously operated, the game value being managed may continue to be subtracted.

[0045] In the present embodiment, the count button 46 is disposed on the side of the operation unit 4 closer to the card unit 9 in a front view of the slot machine 1. Thereby, it becomes easier for the player to understand that the count button 46 is a button related to the card unit 9, and the operation flow from when the count button 46 is pressed until the card is ejected from the card unit 9 becomes smooth.

[0046] Also, the count button 46 may be provided with a lamp that changes the emission color before and after the button 46 is operated, inside or around the button 46.

[0047] The performance button 47 is a button used for the player to perform volume settings, check game data, and various menu settings related to the game when playing the game. Also, the performance button 47 may be pressed by the player according to the performance during the game. When the performance button 47 is pressed during the game, a change occurs in the performance.

[0048] Also, inside the performance button 47, a lamp that can emit light in various colors and patterns may be provided. The lamp is lit when the performance button 47 is in an operable state, and is unlit when it is in an inoperable state. Also, when outputting a winning notification performance for an advantageous game state such as a special role or an AT in response to the operation of the performance button 47, the lamp can also blink rapidly in a color different from the normal lighting, such as red or rainbow color.

[0049] Near each switch of these operation units 4, a sensor is provided that detects the player's operation and outputs an operation signal to the control unit 6.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2, the slot machine 1 includes a rotating reel unit 2, a control unit 6, a reset button 71, and a setting change button 72. The rotating reel unit 2, the control unit 6, the reset button 71, and the setting change button 72 are arranged inside the housing 10 together with a power supply device (not shown) that turns on and off the main power supply of the slot machine 1.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the rotating reel unit 2 includes three rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c and three stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c. The rotating reel unit 2 is arranged inside the housing 10 corresponding to the position of the reel window 200. As shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of symbols are arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c. The stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c are provided corresponding to the respective rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c and drive the corresponding rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c.

[0052] The stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c stop the rotation of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c corresponding to the operated stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c within 190 milliseconds after the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are operated during the rotation of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. The stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c rotate one revolution in 504 steps. Thereby, the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c rotate at a speed of 80 revolutions per minute. That is, the number of steps that can be advanced within 190 milliseconds is 127 steps.

[0053] The rotation and stop of these rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c and stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c are controlled by a rotating reel control unit 611 (described later) in the control unit 6.

[0054] The reset button 71 is operated when releasing various errors and initializing the RAM that constitutes the control unit 6. For example, when the power of the slot machine 1 is switched from off to on while the reset button 71 is pressed, the quantity of game values managed by the medium management unit 620 of the slot machine 1 is cleared to "0", and the second game state of the slot machine 1 is set to the "general game state", and the game section is set to the "normal section".

[0055] The setting change button 72 is a button pressed by the store staff when setting any one of a plurality of levels of setting values in the slot machine 1. For example, when the power of the slot machine 1 is switched from off to on in a state where the slot machine 1 is set to the setting change mode, the setting change button 72 becomes in an operable state, and the setting value can be set by operating the setting change button 72 in this state.

[0056] During the game play or while waiting for the game, since the cabinet 10 and the front door 100 are locked, it is impossible for anyone other than those who have the right to unlock (for example, store staff who own the key) to touch the reset button 71 and the setting change button 72. The scene where it is unlocked is, in principle, limited to the case where an error occurs in the slot machine 1. Therefore, the player cannot touch the reset button 71 and the setting change button 72.

[0057] The set value represents the payout rate, which indicates the ratio of the total number of paid-out game values to the total number of input game values inserted into the slot machine 1. The set set value affects the internal lottery. This is because, depending on the set value, the winning probabilities of at least some of the winning candidate combinations are different. The set value is set by the store staff before the store opens.

[0058] <Flow of the game by the player> The player presses the effect button 47 as needed to adjust the volume output from the speaker 102 and the brightness of the liquid crystal screen 3.

[0059] The player operates the lending button of the card unit 9 to transfer the data of the game value to the slot machine 1, and then operates the bet switch 41 to bet the game value on the slot machine 1 using the game value being managed by the medium management unit 620. When a predetermined number of game values are bet on the slot machine 1, the active line L is activated. After that, the operation of the lever 42, that is, the game can start.

[0060] In FIG. 1, the case where the active line L is composed of one rising-right line is illustrated. The active line L is a virtual line for determining the winning of a combination. In the present embodiment, when three bets (triple bet) corresponding to MAX BET (max bet) are made, the active line L is activated.

[0061] In the following, not only the roles with medal payouts such as bells and watermelons are aligned on the valid line L, but also the symbols corresponding to specific roles such as special replays, chance eyes, and special roles (bonuses) are aligned on the valid line L, which is also expressed as "winning".

[0062] One game (one play) in this embodiment refers to a series of operations in which the player operates the bet switch 41, the lever 42, and the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c to obtain the result of a game including internal lottery, winning determination processing, and game value increase / decrease processing.

[0063] Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated (lever on) in a state where the game can be started, an internal lottery for determining the lottery flag is performed, and the rotation of each of the reel drums 20a, 20b, 20c starts. In this state, when any one of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c is operated, the reel drum 20a, 20b, 20c corresponding to the operated stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c stops. When all the reel drums 20a, 20b, 20c stop, a payout process for a predetermined number of game values is performed according to the combination (role) of the symbols aligned (winning) on the valid line L. Thereby, one game ends.

[0064] The player repeats the above game. As the game is repeated, the game progresses, and the display on the liquid crystal screen 3, the sound output from the speaker 102, and the light emission of the electric decoration unit 103 change according to the progress of the game.

[0065] <Regarding the game state> During the game, various types of game sections and game states are set, and an internal lottery is performed based on the set various types of game sections and game states. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the game states include a first game state and a second game state. Note that the first game state and the second game state are not mutually exclusive game states, but are merely classified states for convenience of explanation.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 4, the first gaming state includes a non-carried-over special combination state (non-bonus internal state), a carried-over special combination state (during bonus internal), and a special combination execution state (during bonus). The non-carried-over special combination state, the carried-over special combination state, and the special combination execution state are in an exclusive relationship.

[0067] The non-carried-over special combination state means a state where a special combination (type-1 BB and type-2 BB) has not been drawn by internal lottery and the winning of the special combination has not been carried over. The non-carried-over special combination state is set when condition A is satisfied, such as when the set value is changed, when the RAM is initialized, or when the number of game value payouts exceeds a predetermined number after transitioning to the special combination execution state.

[0068] The carried-over special combination state means a state where a special combination has been drawn by internal lottery but the winning of the special combination has been carried over. That is, the carried-over special combination state means a state where the flag of the special combination has been drawn by internal lottery, but the symbols indicating the special combination are not aligned on the effective line L, so the special combination has not yet won.

[0069] Here, type-1 BB is a device for continuous operation of symbols related to a type-1 special combination, and type-2 BB is a device for continuous operation of symbols related to a type-2 special combination. For example, type-1 BB may be a draw candidate when the number of bets is the maximum number "3", and type-2 BB may be a draw candidate when the number of bets is less than the maximum number. The number of bets of the game value when becoming a draw candidate may be different between type-1 BB and type-2 BB. Also, the special combination may be only type-1 BB. Also, during the carry-over of type-1 BB, type-1 BB will not be drawn again.

[0070] When a special combination is drawn when the first gaming state is the non-carried-over special combination state, the first gaming state transitions from the non-carried-over special combination state to a state where the winning of the drawn special combination is carried over (carried-over special combination state).

[0071] When a special winning combination wins (Condition B), the first game state transitions from the special winning combination carry-over state to the special winning combination execution state. The special winning combination execution state is a state in which a special winning combination (bonus) selected by internal lottery has won and the payout of a predetermined number or more of game values has not been completed. For example, when the first game state transitions to the special winning combination execution state due to the winning of a Type-1 BB or a Type-2 BB, the special winning combination execution state is maintained until the number of payout reels of the game value by the Type-1 BB or the Type-2 BB exceeds a predetermined number.

[0072] More specifically, the special winning combination execution state includes a Type-1 BB execution state, a Type-2 BB execution state, and an RB execution state. If an RB is selected by internal lottery and wins during the Type-1 BB execution state in which the Type-1 BB is being executed, the special winning combination execution state transitions from the Type-1 BB execution state to the RB execution state. When 12 games are completed or a specific winning combination wins 8 times in the RB execution state, the special winning combination execution state transitions to the Type-1 BB execution state.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 5, the second game state includes a normal game state, a chance zone (hereinafter sometimes referred to as CZ), and an AT state as a special game state. The special game state includes an AT state and a special winning combination execution state. The normal game state, the CZ, and the AT state (special game state) are in an exclusive relationship.

[0074] The normal game state is a state that is not a special game state such as an AT state and a special winning combination execution state and is not a CZ, that is, a state in which an assist function (instruction function) does not occur (or is unlikely to occur). For example, the second game state is set to the normal game state from after RAM clear or after AT end until winning the AT lottery. As an example, when the game section is an advantageous section, the AT lottery is performed according to the winning combination (rare winning combination, etc.) selected by internal lottery.

[0075] The AT state is a state in which the assist function (AT function) that notifies, via the liquid crystal screen 3, the speaker 102, and the decorative section 103, the operation mode that is the correct answer for the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c of the roles other than the special role selected by internal lottery, is operating. When AT is selected by AT lottery during a game period that is a favorable period, the second game state transitions from the general game state to the AT state. When a predetermined number of games have elapsed since the start of the game in the AT state, when the total number of payouts of game values since the start of the game in the AT state reaches a predetermined number, when it is determined not to continue AT by the continuous lottery in the AT state, when it is determined to transition to the general game state by the fall lottery from the AT state to the general game state, etc., the second game state transitions from the AT state to the general game state. Thereby, the AT state ends.

[0076] CZ is the second game state in which the expectation level of transition to the AT state (special game state) is higher than that of the general game state. That the expectation level of transition to the AT state is high includes both direct things such as a high probability of transition lottery from CZ to the AT state and indirect things such as increasing the subsequent probability of transition lottery to the AT state. Therefore, it can be said that CZ is a state in which the game is more advantageous for the player than the general game state. In terms of the state in which the game is more advantageous for the player than the general game state, CZ and the AT state are common, but it can be said that the AT state has a greater degree of advantage than CZ. CZ can enter when certain conditions are met, such as when winning the CZ lottery conducted based on the role selected by internal lottery, when the number of games cleared in the favorable period reaches a predetermined number of games, when the points accumulated according to the progress of the game reach a predetermined value, etc.

[0077] <Regarding the game period> The above-described game period is a period for determining whether or not the process related to the instruction function is performed. As shown in FIG. 6, the game period has a normal period and a favorable period. The normal period and the favorable period are in an exclusive relationship, and the game period can take either the normal period or the favorable period.

[0078] Here, the processing related to the instruction function includes processing for exerting (assisting) the instruction function, sampling processing for a mode in which the hitting probability of the AT is determined, processing for shifting to the mode, CZ sampling processing, CZ processing, AT sampling processing, AT continuation processing, AT addition processing (including addition of the number of continuous AT games, addition of the number of difference cards, and addition of the number of sets), fall processing from the AT state to the general game state, AT processing, transition processing from the advantageous section to the normal section, and the like.

[0079] The normal section is a section where the processing related to the instruction function cannot be executed, but the section transition processing to the advantageous section is performed. In the normal section, when certain conditions for shifting to the advantageous section are satisfied, the game section shifts from the normal section to the advantageous section. Note that while the second game state is the general game state, the game section can adopt the normal section.

[0080] The advantageous section is a section where the processing related to the instruction function can be executed. The advantageous section includes an advantageous section in which the second game state progresses as the general game state, an advantageous section in which it progresses with CZ, and an advantageous section in which it progresses in the AT state. The state where the game section is the advantageous section is maintained until a predetermined end condition is satisfied after the game section shifts to the advantageous section. The predetermined end condition will be described later in the "section control unit".

[0081] Here, as the above summary, the combination patterns of the game section and the second game state that can be obtained in the slot machine 1 are listed. · Pattern 1 where the game section is the normal section and the second game state is the general game state · Pattern 2 where the game section is the advantageous section and the second game state is the general game state · Pattern 3 where the game section is the advantageous section and the second game state is CZ · Pattern 4 where the game section is the advantageous section and the second game state is the AT state As described above, when the game section is the normal section, since the processing related to the instruction function cannot be carried out at all, it can be said that there are few advantages for the player. On the other hand, when the game section is the advantageous section, since the processing related to the instruction function can be carried out, the range of game progress expands, and it can be said that there are advantages for the player as compared with the normal section.

[0082] <Configuration of Each Control Unit> As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 6 mainly includes a main control unit 61, a game value number control unit 62, and a sub-control unit 63. The main control unit 61 performs controls for advancing the game, such as interrupt processing such as timer interrupts, internal lottery, and control of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. The game value number control unit 62 performs management, processing, and communication control with the card unit 9 regarding game values. The sub-control unit 63 performs controls related to effects based on signals transmitted from the main control unit 61 and the depression of the effect button 47.

[0083] Each of the main control unit 61, the game value number control unit 62, and the sub-control unit 63 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM. In the ROM of the main control unit 61, programs necessary for game progress and the like are stored, and in the RAM of the main control unit 61, game data necessary for game progress is stored. The game data includes, in addition to the current number of games, data indicating each game state and which state or section the game section is in, setting values, and the like. In the ROM of the game value number control unit 62, programs necessary for management of game values and communication with the card unit 9 are stored, and in the RAM of the game value number control unit 62, the total number of game values being managed and the like are stored. In the ROM of the sub-control unit 63, programs necessary for effect control are stored, and in the RAM of the sub-control unit 63, various data related to effect control are stored.

[0084] Here, the connection relationship and communication processing among the main control unit 61, the game value number control unit 62, and the sub-control unit 63 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. In the present embodiment, each of the main control unit 61, the game value number control unit 62, and the sub-control unit 63 is mounted on a different circuit board.

[0085] The main control board P1 on which the main control unit 61 is implemented and the game value control board P2 on which the game value control unit 62 is implemented are electrically connected by a harness, and two-way serial communication is possible. Information and commands transmitted from the main control board P1 to the game value control board P2 include outer end information, whether or not settings are being changed, commands regarding various errors, a bet request signal for game values due to the operation of the bet switch 41, a payout request signal for game values corresponding to winning combinations, a request signal for a bet cancellation process due to the operation of the cancel button 45, a transfer request for game values due to the operation of the count button 46, and the like. Information and commands transmitted from the game value control board P2 to the main control board P1 include information indicating that the complete function has been activated, information indicating that the credit number has reached the upper limit value, information regarding the presence or absence of communication abnormalities between the card unit 9 and the slot machine 1, various responses to requests from the main control unit 61, and the like.

[0086] The main control board P1 and the sub-control board P3 on which the sub-control unit 63 is implemented are electrically connected by a harness, but only one-way serial communication from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3 is performed. Information and commands transmitted from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3 include information regarding game values (for example, bet / payout information of game values, total number of acquired game values during AT), information indicating the start / end of a game, start / end information of accessory operation, information regarding various errors, and the like.

[0087] The game value control board P2 and the sub-control board P3 are electrically connected by a harness, but only one-way serial communication from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3 is performed. Information and commands transmitted from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3 include the MY value described later, information indicating the operation of the complete function, commands regarding prior notification before the operation of the complete function, information regarding the transfer of game values (for example, the fact of transfer start, during transfer, transfer completion, etc.), information indicating the number of credits and the number of acquired medals, information indicating that the number of credits has reached the upper limit, error information in case a backup error of the number of credits has occurred, and so on.

[0088] <Main control unit> Return to FIG. 2. By the CPU reading and executing the program in the ROM, the main control unit 61 functions as an internal lottery unit 610, a rotating reel control unit 611, a game result determination unit 612, a game progress control unit 614, a section control unit 615, a game state control unit 616, an error determination unit 617, and an operation state control unit 618.

[0089] -Internal lottery unit- The internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery based on the operation of the lever 42 and selects one of the flags of a plurality of winning flags as the winning flag. Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated, the internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery according to an internal lottery table (not shown) and a random number obtained when the lever 42 is operated. The internal lottery unit 610 generates an internal lottery result signal based on the result of the internal lottery. The internal lottery result signal can be used by the rotating reel control unit 611, the game progress control unit 614, and the like.

[0090] The internal lottery table shows information on roles that may be won by internal lottery. The internal lottery section 610 performs an internal lottery based on the internal lottery table according to the combination of the RT state (not shown) during the operation of the lever 42 and the type, set value, etc. of the special role if it is in the specific role execution state (during bonus). In the information on the roles shown in the internal lottery table, one or more combinations of symbol combinations and the roles corresponding to those combinations are set in association. The roles include losing roles where no game value is paid out, operation mode roles where game value is paid out when the operation modes of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c are the correct operation modes, rare roles, etc.

[0091] The operation mode roles include a push order role where the correct operation mode is determined only by the push order of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, a push order role that requires pressing in accordance with the push order and the stop timing of a predetermined symbol, and a pressing role where the correct operation mode is determined only by the stop timing of a predetermined symbol.

[0092] For example, when the push order role wins and the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c are pressed in accordance with the push order, the push order role wins, and a plurality (e.g., 8) of game values corresponding to that role are paid out. If the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c are not pressed in accordance with the push order even though the push order role wins, the push order role does not win, or another role (such as a 1-coin role) wins.

[0093] Note that operation mode roles such as the push order role win not only in the AT state but also during general game states and during CZ. When an operation mode role is established during a general game state, since the correct operation mode is not notified, the operation mode role may be missed or the payout may be 1 coin. During the AT state, since the correct operation mode is notified, a plurality (e.g., 8) of game values are paid out.

[0094] - Rotating Reel Control Section - The rotation reel control unit 611 controls the driving of the stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c based on the operation of the lever 42 or each stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c, and performs rotation start control to start the rotation of each rotation reel 20a, 20b, 20c or rotation stop control to stop the rotation.

[0095] Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated in a state where the rotations of all the rotation reels 20a, 20b, 20c have stopped, the rotation reel control unit 611 starts the rotations of all the rotation reels 20a, 20b, 20c. When a stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c corresponding to a rotating rotation reel 20a, 20b, 20c is operated during the rotation of at least one rotation reel 20a, 20b, 20c, the rotation reel control unit 611 stops the rotation of the rotation reel 20a, 20b, 20c corresponding to the operated stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c.

[0096] In the rotation stop control, the rotation reel control unit 611 can stop the rotation of the rotation reels 20a, 20b, 20c based on the operation of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the role indicated by the winning flag is arranged on the effective line L of the rotation reels 20a, 20b, 20c and that role wins.

[0097] Also, in the rotation stop control, the rotation reel control unit 611 performs pull-in control or kick-off control according to the winning role and the positions of the rotation reels 20a, 20b, 20c at the time of operating each stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c. Pull-in control is control to stop the rotation of the rotation reels 20a, 20b, 20c by pulling in the symbol corresponding to the winning role onto the effective line L. Kick-off control is control to stop the rotation of the rotation reels 20a, 20b, 20c so that the symbols corresponding to the non-winning roles do not align on the effective line L.

[0098] During the holding of a special symbol (during the bonus), although the rotation reel control unit 611 stops the rotation reels 20a, 20b, and 20c based on the operations of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c, when the winning permission conditions for the special symbol are not satisfied, it is possible to control so that the special symbol (bonus) being targeted does not win.

[0099] - Game result determination unit - The game result determination unit 612 determines the game result based on the results of the internal lottery and the rotation stop control of the rotation reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. The game result means the result of determining whether or not the targeted combination has won based on the symbols aligned on the effective line L. Specifically, when the combination of symbols stopped on the effective line L matches the predetermined combination of symbols, the game result determination unit 612 determines that the targeted combination has won.

[0100] - Game progress control unit - The game progress control unit 614 controls the game progress based on the operations of the player. At that time, the game progress control unit 614 controls the game progress by the player based on the set values set by the store staff.

[0101] Also, when the reset button 71 is pressed, the game progress control unit 614 initializes the RAM of the main control unit 61 to clear the game data such as the first and second game states and the game sections. When the setting change button 72 is pressed, the game progress control unit 614 changes the current set value to another set value.

[0102] - Section control unit - The section control unit 615 sets one of a plurality of game sections (normal section and advantageous section) during the game by the player.

[0103] Specifically, when the game section is the normal section, the section control unit 615 sets (transitions) the game section from the normal section to the advantageous section when the transition conditions to the advantageous section are satisfied.

[0104] In addition, when the game section is an advantageous section, the section control unit 615 determines whether to maintain the state of the advantageous section or shift to the normal section. For example, when the game section is an advantageous section, if a predetermined condition such as the second game state shifting from the AT state to the general game state is satisfied, even if the forced end condition described later is not satisfied, the game section is shifted from the advantageous section to the normal section.

[0105] Further, when a forced end condition is satisfied, including the case where the difference in the game value during the advantageous section based on the quantity of the game value at the time of entering the advantageous section reaches, for example, 2400 pieces, the section control unit 615 forcibly shifts the game section from the advantageous section to the normal section.

[0106] In the present embodiment, a limit value for the difference in the game value obtained in the advantageous section is provided. The difference is the cumulative value of the number obtained by subtracting the number of bets from the number of payouts of the game value. The limit value for the difference in the game value obtained in the advantageous section is that the difference in the game value during the advantageous section based on the quantity of the game value at the time of entering the advantageous section reaches, for example, 2400 pieces (predetermined limit value), as in an example of the forced end condition of the advantageous section. Since the quantity of the game value at the time of entering the advantageous section is used as a reference (for example, the difference is expressed as "0"), the predetermined limit value (2400 pieces) can also be said to be the limit value for the increase in the game value to be positive for the player who has been continuously playing since entering the advantageous section. As a specific example, the first example and the second example will be described. In the first example, assume that from the time of entering the advantageous section, a losing state (a state where the number of game value tokens bet is greater than the number of payout tokens) continues, and the difference becomes a negative value and a bottom value (for example, -1000 tokens) is set. Thereafter, assume that a winning state (a state where the number of game value tokens bet is less than the number of payout tokens) continues, and the difference in game value from the time of entering the advantageous section returns to 0. Further, when the winning state continues, the point in time when the difference in game value from the time of entering the advantageous section reaches 2400 tokens, the predetermined limit value, and the advantageous section is forcibly terminated is the point in time when the difference in game value from the time when the bottom value was set reaches 3400 tokens. The remaining balance of the player's game value becomes -1000 tokens initially, then +3400 tokens, and the forced termination condition of the advantageous section is satisfied when the total becomes +2400 tokens. On the other hand, in the second example, when a winning state continues from the time of entering the advantageous section, the difference in game value from the time of entering the advantageous section reaches 2400 tokens and the advantageous section is forcibly terminated. The remaining balance of the player's game value does not become negative even once, and the forced termination condition of the advantageous section is satisfied when it becomes +2400 tokens.

[0107] In this specification, when expressing the quantity of game value (for example, the number of medals) as "number of tokens", and when expressing the difference between the quantity of game value bet and the quantity of game value obtained as the result of the game as "difference in number of tokens", these expressions are not limited to the meaning applicable to gaming machines using game media such as medals. Even in gaming machines that use the quantity of virtual game media in electronic data form as the quantity of game value, for the sake of convenience of explanation, they are expressed as "number of tokens".

[0108] Also, when the set value is changed or the game data is cleared, the section control unit 615 sets the game section to the normal section regardless of the game section immediately before reset.

[0109] - Game state control unit - The game state control unit 616 makes settings for each of the first game state and the second game state.

[0110] Specifically, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to any one of a special combination non-carry-over state, a special combination carry-over state, and a special combination execution state, and sets the second game state to any one of a general game state, a CZ state, and an AT state.

[0111] As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, when predetermined conditions such as RAM clearing or setting change of the main control unit 61 are satisfied, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to the special combination non-carry-over state. Immediately after a special combination is determined by internal lottery, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to the special combination carry-over state. When the special combination wins, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to the special combination execution state.

[0112] Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the game state control unit 616 determines whether to set the second game state to the AT state (that is, whether it wins in the AT lottery) based on the result of the AT lottery. When winning in the AT lottery during the advantageous section, the game state control unit 616 sets the second game state to the AT state. Conversely, when not winning in the AT lottery, the game state control unit 616 can set the second game state to the general game state or CZ. Also, when the AT ends, the game state control unit 616 can shift the second game state from the AT state to the general game state or CZ.

[0113] Although not shown, the game state control unit 616 can perform transition control of the RT state. The RT state is an internal state of a game in which the winning probability of the replay flag is predetermined. The slot machine 1 is provided with a plurality of RT states having different winning probabilities of the replay flag, and in any RT state, when the RT transition condition is satisfied, the transition is made from the current RT state to another RT state. For example, during the special combination carry-over state in which the AT can be executed, the transition of the RT state is not performed and one RT state is maintained. Outside the special combination carry-over state, the transition of the RT state can be performed.

[0114] - Error determination unit - The error determination unit 617 determines the presence or absence of various errors. Examples of the various errors include backup anomalies, communication anomalies between the main control board P1 and the game value control board P2, connection anomalies between the slot machine 1 and the card unit 9, reaching the upper limit value of the credit number, and the like.

[0115] When the error determination unit 617 determines that at least one of these errors has occurred, a command indicating the occurred error is transmitted from the main control unit 61 to each of the game value number control unit 62 and the sub-control unit 63 as information regarding the error. Thereby, the game value number control unit 62 performs processing according to the content of the error such as backup processing of the game values under management, and the sub-control unit 63 can perform processing to notify the content of the occurred error to the liquid crystal screen 3 and the speaker 102.

[0116] The operation state control unit 618 performs processing related to the player's leaving the seat, and the details will be described in detail in "<Functions related to leaving the seat>".

[0117] <Game value number control unit> By the CPU reading and executing the program in the ROM, the game value number control unit 62 functions as the medium management unit 620 and the complete operation control unit 621.

[0118] ― Medium management unit ― The medium management unit 620 performs increase / decrease processing and management processing of game values (credit numbers). For example, in response to the transfer of game values from the card unit 9, the media management unit 620 increases the game values under management. When receiving a bet request for game values from the main control unit 61, the media management unit 620 determines whether bet processing is possible based on the game values under management and the bet request. When the game values under management are equal to or greater than the bet amount, the media management unit 620 determines that "betting is possible" and subtracts the bet amount from the game values under management. When the game values under management are less than the bet amount, the media management unit 620 determines that "betting is impossible" and performs processing to transmit that fact to the main control unit 61. In the case of impossible betting, the quantity of the game values under management is maintained.

[0119] When a winning combination with a payout by internal lottery is hit, the media management unit 620 performs processing to increase the game values under management by an amount corresponding to the type of the winning combination.

[0120] Also, when the cancel button 45 is operated, the media management unit 620 increases the game values under management by the bet amount. When the count button 46 is operated, the media management unit 620 transfers the data of the game values under management to the card unit 9.

[0121] Furthermore, the media management unit 620 calculates a difference in game values, which is the cumulative value obtained by subtracting the bet amount from the number of payouts of game values. Using this difference, the media management unit 620 calculates the following. (A) The difference in game values during an advantageous period for each advantageous period (B) The range (hereinafter, MY value), which is the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the difference after the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on

[0122] The above (A) is used to determine whether the forced end condition of the advantageous period is satisfied. The above (A) is continuously calculated from when the game period shifts from the normal period to the advantageous period until it shifts back to the normal period again. Therefore, the above (A) is cleared when shifting to the normal period, and the calculation is started again when shifting to the advantageous period again.

[0123] The above (B) is used for the operation control of the following complete functions. The above (B) is continuously calculated as long as the power supply of the slot machine 1 is on, regardless of the game section or various game states. The above (B) is cleared when the power supply of the slot machine 1 is turned off, and the calculation is started again when it is turned on again.

[0124] In addition, the medium management unit 620 determines whether the game value being managed, that is, the number of credits, has reached the credit upper limit value. When the number of credits reaches the credit upper limit value, this fact is output to the main control unit 61 and the sub-control unit 63. Thereby, in the sub-control unit 63, notification processing is performed to prompt the transfer of the credit number data to the card unit 9 by operating the counting button 46 using the liquid crystal screen 3, the speaker 102, and the lighting decoration unit 103. While this notification processing is being performed, the main control unit 61 performs game stop processing to stop the progress of the game, such as disabling the operation of the bet switch 41 and the lever 42. The state in which this notification processing and game stop processing are being performed can be released when the credit number data transfer is performed by operating the counting button 46 and the number of credits falls below the credit upper limit value.

[0125] Note that from the case where the number of credits reaches a value lower than the credit upper limit and close to the credit upper limit value, notification processing to prompt the operation of the counting button 46 may be performed without performing the game progress stop processing.

[0126] - Complete operation control unit - When the above-mentioned MY value becomes equal to or greater than the MY upper limit value (for example, 19000 or more), the complete operation control unit 621 performs the operation control of the complete function.

[0127] The complete function is a stop function that puts the slot machine 1 into a non - playable state. In the slot machine 1 when the complete function is operating, the operation parts necessary for playing the game, such as the bet switch 41, the lever 42, and the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, become in a state where operations cannot be accepted. Therefore, for example, no bet processing is performed even if the bet switch 41 is operated in the slot machine 1 while the complete function is operating. The operation of this complete function is maintained by the store staff unless the power of the slot machine 1 is turned off once from on. After the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on again, the operation of the complete function is in a released state (the complete function is in a non - operating state).

[0128] Also, when the MY value is lower than the MY upper limit value but equal to or higher than a value close to the MY upper limit value (for example, 18500 or higher), the complete operation control unit 621 performs a process for transmitting a pre - notification command indicating that the operation of the complete function is approaching to the sub - control unit 63.

[0129] By the CPU reading and executing the program in the ROM, the sub - control unit 63 functions as an effect control unit 630 (corresponding to the notification control unit) and a predetermined operation execution unit 631.

[0130] - Effect control unit - Based on the progress of the game, the effect control unit 630 causes an effect video selected from a plurality of types of effect videos to be displayed on the liquid crystal screen 3, outputs an effect sound, BGM, etc. corresponding to the effect video from the speaker 102, and causes the lighting decoration unit 103 to emit light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the effect video. For example, when an AT or a bonus fails, the effect control unit 630 selects an effect pattern for displaying that fact on the liquid crystal screen 3, and performs display control of the liquid crystal screen 3, sound output control of the speaker 102, and light emission control of the lighting decoration unit 103 according to the effect pattern.

[0131] During the AT, the performance control unit 630 causes at least one of the liquid crystal display screen 3 and the speaker 102 to notify the correct operation mode of the operation mode role to be sequentially targeted (assist function, i.e., instruction function).

[0132] Also, during the game, when the notification condition of the performance suggesting the set value is satisfied, the performance control unit 630 causes at least one of the liquid crystal display screen 3, the speaker 102, and the electric decoration unit 103 to notify the performance. The player can use this performance as one of the materials for grasping what the set value of the slot machine 1 currently in the game is. Examples of the notification conditions include when a rare role is targeted, at the end of the special role (bonus) execution state, and at the end of the AT.

[0133] <Function related to leaving the seat> When the player leaves the slot machine 1 in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is provided with a function to make it known to others that the player is away and / or the slot machine 1 is in a secured state, and to prevent others from playing on the slot machine 1 in such a state. This function is realized by the operation state control unit 618 of the main control unit 61 and the predetermined operation control unit 631 of the sub-control unit 63. That is, at a timing preferred based on the player's intention, the player himself / herself forcibly switches the slot machine 1 from the main game state to a pseudo-game state (e.g., freeze state) and then leaves the seat. During this pseudo-game state (while away), even if an operation related to the game is performed, the pseudo-game state is maintained and the main game cannot be played. ―Operation state control unit 618― The operation state control unit 618 shown in FIG. 2 controls to any one of a plurality of operation states. The plurality of operation states include a first operation state and a second operation state. The operation state control unit 618 is capable of executing a process of switching between the first operation state and the second operation state (a process of transitioning between the first operation state and the second operation state) in response to an operation on the operation unit. When the operation state control unit 618 switches the operation state from the first operation state to the second operation state or from the second operation state to the first operation state, it transmits a signal indicating the operation state after the switching to the sub-control unit 63. Thereby, the sub-control unit 63 can manage whether the current operation state is the first operation state or the second operation state. Further, when an operation unit that can be grasped by the main control unit 61 in the second operation state is operated and the operation is not the release operation S2 described later, the main control unit 61 transmits a signal indicating that an operation unit other than the release operation S2 has been operated to the sub-control unit 63.

[0134] The first operation state is an operation state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game. The first operation state can also be said to be this game state. This game state is a state in which this game for displaying a symbol combination (symbol combination corresponding to the result of combination drawing) as a game result is executed. This game is a series of operations including betting of game value, operation of the lever 42, determination of internal winning combination, rotation of the reels, stop of the reels by operation of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, and payout of game value according to the winning combination when the symbol combination related to the internal winning combination is displayed in the reel window (when winning). This series of operations (normal game) is referred to as this game in order to distinguish it from the following pseudo game. After the bet switch 41 is operated in the first operation state, the game is started by operating the lever 42. Triggered by the operation of the lever 42, the internal winning combination (winning combination) is determined. When the operation to the operation unit is not the specific operation S1 (see Fig. 8) described later, the first operation state continues. That is, in the first operation state which is this game state, the reels rotate, and according to the operation of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c during the rotation of the reels, the reels corresponding to the operated stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c stop. The process of awarding game value according to the combination of symbols displayed by the three stopped reels is executed.

[0135] The second operation state is an operation state in which a predetermined operation regarding being away from the seat can be executed. The second operation state can also be said to be a pseudo game state. The pseudo game state is a kind of reel effect after the game value is bet and the lever 42 is operated. The pseudo game of this embodiment is a freeze effect. The pseudo game state is a state in which the process of betting the game value held by the player, the cancel process of returning the bet game value, and the process of awarding game value according to the combination of symbols displayed by the stopped reels (that is, winning determination) cannot be executed. The pseudo game state is a state that is neither in the game standby nor in this game state. The predetermined operation will be described later.

[0136] - Specific Operation S1 - Fig. 8 is an explanatory diagram of a specific operation S1 for shifting the operation state from a first operation state to a second operation state and a first type of predetermined operation T1 in the second operation state. As shown in Fig. 8, the operation state control unit 618 shifts the operation state from the first operation state to the second operation state in response to a specific operation S1 being performed in the first operation state. In other words, the specific operation S1 can be said to be an operation for forcibly shifting to a freeze state. In this embodiment, the specific operation S1 is an operation that the player performs immediately before leaving the seat to set the seat away state, and can be performed at a timing that the player prefers. Preferred timing can be any timing such as a break for a meal, a toilet break, a cigarette break, or a timing when the player wants to look around at other gaming machines while securing a gaming machine. The specific operation S1 can be accepted at any time, even when the standby screen is displayed, in a general gaming state, in a special gaming state such as an AT state, or in a CZ state. Furthermore, the specific operation S1 can be accepted at any time, regardless of whether the gaming zone is a normal zone or an advantageous zone. The specific operation S1 in the first embodiment is configured to include three operations S11, S12, and S13. Specifically, the specific operation S1 is that the bet switch 41 is operated (S11), and then the lever 42 is operated (S13) in a state in which the three stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are simultaneously operated (S12). The specific operation S1 includes operations on a plurality of operation units. The operations on a plurality of operation units include operations on at least one operation unit among the bet switch 41, the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c, and the lever 42. The specific operation S1 includes simultaneous operations on two or more operation units, such as pressing the three stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c simultaneously.

[0137] -Predetermined operation execution unit 631- The predetermined operation execution unit 631 in the sub-control unit 63 shown in FIG. 2 executes a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat. The predetermined operation related to being away from the seat includes a first type of predetermined operation T1 and a second type of predetermined operation T2. The first type of predetermined operation T1 is an operation that is automatically executed when in the second operation state. The second type of predetermined operation T2 is an operation that is executed when the operation unit is operated in the second operation state. Note that the operation that triggers the execution of the second type of predetermined operation T2 is assumed to be an unexpected operation by a third party other than the player who has executed the specific operation S1 in the second operation state (pseudo-game state). However, even if the operation that triggers this is performed by the player who has executed the specific operation S1, the first type of predetermined operation T1 can be executed in the same manner as when a third party performs the operation that triggers this. As shown in FIG. 8, in the second operation state, as a type of predetermined operation related to being away from the seat, the first type of predetermined operation T1 is executed. The first type of predetermined operation T1 shown in FIG. 8 is an operation of displaying a message indicating that the player is away from the seat on the liquid crystal screen 3. In the example of FIG. 8, an image saying "Currently away from the seat" is displayed on the liquid crystal screen 3. That is, when the player is forcibly switched from this game to a pseudo-game, as the first type of predetermined operation T1, it is notified that the player is away from the seat.

[0138] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram regarding the second type of predetermined operation T2 in the second operation state. As shown in FIG. 9, in the second operation state, when an operation other than the release operation S2 described later is performed on the operation unit, the second type of predetermined operation T2 is executed. The second type of predetermined operation T2 is a warning operation for notifying that the player is away from the seat. The warning operation is notified using display on the liquid crystal screen 3, an error sound from the speaker 102, lighting, flashing, etc. by the lighting decoration unit 103. Thereby, while it is notified that the player is away from the seat by the first type of predetermined operation T1 and a warning operation is performed by the second type of predetermined operation T2, it is possible to more strongly emphasize and notify that the player is away from the seat.

[0139] Note that the operation unit that triggers the execution of the first type of predetermined operation T1 and the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be the same as the operation unit used in the specific operation S1, but is not limited thereto. In the present embodiment, the operation unit that triggers the execution of the first type of predetermined operation T1 and the second type of predetermined operation T2 is an operation unit of the gaming machine and is on the outer surface of the housing 10, so that it can be operated by persons other than store staff (gamers and third parties). The operation unit that triggers the execution of the first type of predetermined operation T1 and the second type of predetermined operation T2 includes the operation unit used in the specific operation S1 and the operation units other than the operation unit used in the specific operation S1. Specifically, examples of the operation unit used in the specific operation S1 include the bet switch 41 (including the MAX bet switch and the 1 bet switch), the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, and the lever 42. The operation unit that triggers the execution of the first type of predetermined operation T1 and the second type of predetermined operation T2 includes, in addition to the bet switch 41, the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, and the lever 42, the effect buttons 47 such as the PUSH button, and the operation units managed by the sub-control unit 63 such as the cursor keys (not shown) and the menu buttons (not shown). Note that the menu button is an operation unit for calling up a screen on which game history and settings related to game effects can be set. The cursor key is an operation unit used when selecting some options such as adjusting the volume and light amount. Note that the operations that cause the execution of the first type of predetermined operation T1 and the second type of predetermined operation T2 are not limited to button operations. For example, if there is a sub liquid crystal screen, touching the sub liquid crystal screen, if the main liquid crystal screen 3 is a touch panel type, touching the main liquid crystal screen, if the lower panel of the housing can be pushed in, pushing in the lower panel, if operations such as hitting a predetermined location (such as the side surface) of the housing 10 are possible, operations on the predetermined location of the housing 10 may be included.

[0140] The specific operation of the predetermined operation execution unit 631 in the second operation state is as follows. For example, although not shown in FIG. 9, when an operation unit (such as the effect button 47, cursor keys, menu button, etc.) electrically connected to the sub-control unit 63 is operated in the second operation state, the predetermined operation execution unit 631 executes the first type of predetermined operation T1 and the second type of predetermined operation T2. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, when the predetermined operation execution unit 631 receives a signal from the main control unit 61 indicating that an operation other than the release operation S2 has been performed on an operation unit (such as the bed switch 41, stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, and lever 42, etc.) electrically connected to the main control unit 61 in the second operation state, the predetermined operation execution unit 631 executes the first type of predetermined operation T1 and the second type of predetermined operation T2.

[0141] ―Release operation S2― FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram regarding a release operation S2 for shifting the operation state from the second operation state to the first operation state. As shown in FIG. 10, the operation state control unit 618 shifts the operation state from the second operation state to the first operation state when the release operation S2 is performed in the second operation state. The release operation S2 is an operation performed when a player who has performed the specific operation S1 returns to the seat, and is an operation for returning from the pseudo-game state (freeze state) to the main game state. The release operation S2 in the first embodiment is configured to include one operation S12. Specifically, the release operation S2 is that the three stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are simultaneously operated (S12). The operation (S12) constituting the release operation S2 in the first embodiment is included in the operations (S11, S12, S13) constituting the specific operation S1. This makes it possible to prevent the player from forgetting the release operation S2. The release operation S2 includes operations on a plurality of operation units. The operations on the plurality of operation units include operations on at least one operation unit among the bet switch 41, the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c, and the lever 42. The release operation S2 includes simultaneous operations on two or more operation units, such as simultaneously pressing the three stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c. In the example shown in FIG. 10, after the release operation S2 is performed, the first game of the game after returning to the first operation state starts by operating the lever 42. The bet on the game value for this game has already been made when the bet switch 41 included in the specific operation S1 shown in FIG. 8 is operated. Also, the determination process of the winning combination in the game has already been performed when the lever 42 included in the specific operation S1 shown in FIG. 8 is operated. That is, since the operation of the lever 42 for starting the game is included in the specific operation S1, the pseudo-game state as the second operation state continues until the release operation S2 is input, and it can be said that the main game state as the first operation state is restored by the release operation S2 during the continuation of the pseudo-game state.

[0142] The specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 are configured to include only operations on an operation unit capable of inputting a signal indicating that an operation has been performed to the main control unit 61 that can execute a process of imparting a game value according to a winning combination in a symbol variation game. The process of switching between the first operation state and the second operation state is a process related to this game and a pseudo game, and can be implemented only by the main control unit 61. This is because the process related to this game and the pseudo game is a process related to the drive control of the reels, and can be executed only by the main control unit 61. The control unit 6 capable of transmitting a signal to the main control unit 61 is the game value number control unit 62, and the sub-control unit 63 cannot transmit a signal to the main control unit 61. Therefore, the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 are limited to operations on the operation unit connected to be capable of inputting a signal to the main control unit 61 and the operation unit connected to be capable of inputting a signal to the game value number control unit 62. In other words, the operation units targeted by the operations constituting the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 are limited to the operation units capable of inputting a signal to the main control unit 61, that is, the operation units managed by the main control unit 61 or the game value number control unit 62. Specifically, the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 described later include operations on at least one of the bet switch 41 (including MAX bet and 1 bet), the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, the lever 42, the cancel button 45, and the count button 46. The operation units targeted by the operations constituting the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 do not include the effect button 47, the menu button (not shown), the cursor keys (not shown), etc. that are electrically connected to the sub-control unit 63.

[0143] [1] As in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 (gaming machine) can operate in any of a plurality of operating states including a first operating state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game, and a second operating state in which a predetermined operation (second type predetermined operation T2) related to being away from the seat can be executed. When a specific operation S1 is performed on the operation unit in the first operating state, a process of shifting from the first operating state to the second operating state can be executed. When the operation unit is operated in the second operating state, it may be possible to execute a predetermined operation (second type predetermined operation T2).

[0144] <Effect of the Invention> According to this embodiment, even if a third party other than the player who has left the seat and switched the operating state of the gaming machine from the first operating state to the second operating state operates the gaming machine without knowing that the player is away from the seat, a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat is executed, so that the third party can know that the player is away from the seat, and a gaming machine that can respond to the player's departure can be provided.

[0145] [2] In the gaming machine according to the above [1], the first operating state may be the main gaming state, and the second operating state may be the pseudo gaming state. In this way, since the second operating state is the pseudo gaming state, the main game cannot be played and the game cannot proceed (the game cannot be completed), so it is possible to avoid the game being played arbitrarily during the player's absence and the game proceeding.

[0146] [3] In the gaming machine according to the above [1] or [2], the main control unit 61 and the sub control unit 63 are provided. The main control unit 61 can execute a process of assigning a game value according to the winning combination in the symbol variation game and a process of shifting between the first operating state and the second operating state. The sub control unit 63 can execute a predetermined operation. According to this configuration, since the main control unit 61 executes the transition process between the first operation state and the second operation state, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can truly respond to the player's leaving the seat, such as making the processes executable in the first operation state (game progress, granting of game values associated with game progress, cancellation of bet game values, etc.) non-executable in the second operation state.

[0147] [4] In the gaming machine according to any one of the above [1] to [3], it may be possible to execute a process of transitioning from the second operation state to the first operation state upon the occurrence of a cancellation operation S2 in the second operation state. According to this configuration, it becomes possible to advance the game by performing the cancellation operation S2 when returning from leaving the seat.

[0148] [5] In the gaming machine according to the above [4], the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 may include operations on at least one of the bet switch 41, the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, and the lever 42. According to this configuration, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can truly respond to the player's leaving the seat, such as making the processes executable in the first operation state (game progress, granting of game values associated with game progress, cancellation of bet game values, etc.) non-executable in the second operation state. Also, the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 are performed on the operation unit managed by the main control unit 61, and it is because it is the operation unit managed by the main control unit 61 that it becomes possible to realize the switching between this game and the pseudo game. If it were possible to perform the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 on the operation unit managed by the sub-control unit 63, it would be necessary to send a signal from the sub-control unit 63 to the main control unit 61, but in the gaming machine, it is virtually prohibited to send a signal from the sub-control unit 63 to the main control unit 61, so the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 cannot be performed on the operation unit managed by the sub-control unit 63. Therefore, the switching control between the first operation state and the second operation state is enabled by an operation on the operation unit managed by the main control unit 61.

[0149] [6] In the gaming machine according to the above [4] or [5], the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 may include operations on an operation unit capable of inputting signals to the main control unit 61 that can execute a process of imparting a game value according to a winning combination in a symbol variation game. According to this configuration, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can truly respond to the player's leaving the seat, such as making the processes executable in the first operating state (game progress, imparting game values accompanying game progress, canceling bet game values, etc.) non-executable in the second operating state. Further, the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 mean that they are performed on the operation unit managed by the main control unit 61. It is because it is the operation unit managed by the main control unit 61 that enables the switching between the main game and the pseudo game. If it were possible to perform the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 on the operation unit managed by the sub-control unit 63, it would be necessary to transmit a signal from the sub-control unit 63 to the main control unit 61. However, in the gaming machine, it is practically prohibited to transmit a signal from the sub-control unit 63 to the main control unit 61. Therefore, the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 cannot be performed on the operation unit managed by the sub-control unit 63. Thus, the switching control between the first operating state and the second operating state is enabled by the operation of the operation unit managed by the main control unit 61.

[0150] [7] In the gaming machine according to any one of the above [4] to [6], the specific operation S1 may be the same as the cancellation operation S2, or the specific operation S1 may include the cancellation operation S2. According to this configuration, it is possible to suppress the player from forgetting the cancellation operation S2.

[0151] [8] In the gaming machine according to any one of the above [4] to [7], the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 may include simultaneous operations on two or more operation units. According to this configuration, in the state of the second operating state where the player is away from the seat, even if a third party tries to deliberately advance the game, for example, the normal operation for advancing the game is to press each operation unit managed by the main control unit 61 one by one, and it is difficult for simultaneous operations on two or more operation units to occur accidentally. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2 from being performed erroneously.

[0152] [9] In the gaming machine according to any one of [4] to [8] above, at least one of the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2 may be settable by the player. According to this configuration, compared with the case where the operation contents of the specific operation S1 or the release operation S2 are set by default and common in the model, the player can set a favorite operation for at least one of the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2, and it is possible to prevent mischief. In addition, it is possible to suppress the player from forgetting the operation (specific operation S1, release operation S2) set. Specifically, the following examples can be cited. In the first example, a specific operation setting screen may be selected from a menu screen displayed by a menu call operation (not the menu button managed by the sub-control unit 63) for an operation unit capable of inputting a signal to the main control unit 61, and the specific operation S1 may be arbitrarily set by actually operating the operation unit. The selection operation needs to be an operation on an operation unit capable of inputting a signal to the main control unit 61. According to this, the operation unit constituting the specific operation S1 and the operation order of the operation unit can be arbitrarily set. The specific operation S1 is an operation different from the above menu call operation. This first example is an example of setting the specific operation S1. Similarly, for the release operation S2, the release operation S2 may be arbitrarily set by actually operating the operation unit. The release operation S2 is an operation different from the above menu call operation. In a second example, a specific operation S1 may be set by selecting a candidate list screen for multiple specific operations S1 from a menu screen displayed by a menu call operation (not a menu button managed by the sub-controller 63) on an operation unit capable of inputting a signal to the main controller 61, and selecting any one specific operation S1 from a list of multiple specific operations S1 set in advance. The selection operation needs to be an operation on an operation unit capable of inputting a signal to the main controller 61. This second example is an example of setting a specific operation S1, but the release operation S2 may also be set by selecting the release operation S2 to be used from a list of multiple release operations S2, and actually operating the operation unit. The operation unit used for calling up the above-mentioned menu screen and performing a selection operation is also an operation unit capable of inputting an operation signal to the main control unit 61 . The setting of the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 can be set in the first operating state, but cannot be set in the second operating state. This is to prevent cancellation by overwriting the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 by a malicious third party in the second operating state when the player is away from the seat. Not all operations can be set as the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2, and there are restrictions on the operations that can be set as the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2. The game start operation of operating the lever 42 after operating the bet switch 41 is an operation that consumes game value to start a game and spins the reels, so only two consecutive operations of operating the bet switch 41, operating the bet switch 42, and then operating the lever 42 cannot be set as the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2.

[0153]

[10] In the gaming machine described in [9] above, a process of notifying the player of the operation content of the release operation S2 may be executed when an operation unit that is provided inside the cabinet and cannot be operated by the player is operated. According to this configuration, even when the player forgets the release operation S2 that has been set, the store staff can operate the operation unit provided inside the housing, and the operation content of the release operation S2 is notified, so that the player can perform the release operation S2. Specifically, the following examples can be cited. Examples of the operation unit provided inside the housing that cannot be operated by the player include opening the door and the operation unit located inside the door. As an example, the main control unit 61 stores the operation content of the release operation S2 set by the player or the operation content of the default release operation S2. In addition, the main control unit 61 is configured to be able to receive a detection signal from a door sensor that detects the open / closed state of the door of the housing 10. When the main control unit 61 receives a signal indicating that the door is in the open state from the door sensor, it may be configured to be able to execute a process of notifying the operation content of the release operation S2 stored (such as display on the liquid crystal screen 3). As another example, the main control unit 61 stores the operation content of the release operation S2 set by the player or the operation content of the default release operation S2. In addition, the main control unit 61 is configured to be able to receive an operation signal from an operation unit (reset button 71, setting change button 72, separately provided release operation notification button, etc.) located inside the housing 10. When the main control unit 61 receives an operation signal from the operation unit located inside the housing 10, it may be configured to be able to execute a process of notifying the operation content of the release operation S2 stored (such as display on the liquid crystal screen 3).

[0154] [Other Embodiments] The various control means and processing procedures described in the above embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses. The various control means and processing procedures can be appropriately designed and changed without changing the gist of the present invention.

[0155] (A) In the second operating state, a warning operation as the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be executed, and the store management system may be notified that an operation other than the release operation S2 has been performed. In this case, a notification signal is output from the external terminal of the gaming machine.

[0156] (B) As in the above embodiment, when at least one of the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2 can be set by the player, the stored specific operation S1 and release operation S2 may be deleted by overwriting when new specific operations S1 and release operation S2 are set. On the other hand, the stored specific operation S1 and release operation S2 may not be overwritten even when new specific operations S1 and release operation S2 are set, and may be left as a history. If the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2 remain in the gaming machine as a history, by the store staff checking the history, it becomes one of the clues to trace what operations were performed when a player with suspicious behavior was playing, and it can also become one of the clues to trace the cause of an error when an error occurs. The operation contents of the set specific operation S1 and release operation S2 may be erased from the gaming machine by an erase operation. Also, the operation contents of the set specific operation S1 and release operation S2 may be erased by a power-off state exceeding several hours, setting change, or RAM clear.

[0157] (C) The specific operation S1 and the release operation S2 may be the same or different. Also, as in the above embodiment, it is possible that the specific operation S1 includes the release operation S2. Also, as shown in FIG. 11, the release operation S2 may include an operation S12 of simultaneously pressing three stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c and an operation S13 of the lever 42. The release operation S2 may operate the lever 42 while simultaneously operating (simultaneously pressing) two or more operation parts. In this way, the release operation S2 may include the operation S13 of the lever 42 that is the trigger for starting the game. In this case, the release operation S2 includes the game start operation.

[0158] (D) For example, when a game screen in a special game state such as the AT state or a general game state is being displayed on the liquid crystal screen 3, if it shifts from the first operation state to the second operation state and the operation unit is operated in the second operation state to execute the second type of predetermined operation T2, an image during absence related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be superimposed and displayed on the game screen, or instead of displaying the game screen, an image during absence related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be displayed. The image during absence may be configured to be erased after a predetermined time from the start of the display. This predetermined time may be a fixed value such as one minute, or may be made changeable by the store. For example, when the operation unit is operated in the second operation state to execute the second type of predetermined operation T2 when a standby screen or an attract screen is being displayed, an image during absence related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be superimposed and displayed on the standby screen or the attract screen, or instead of displaying the standby screen or the attract screen, an image during absence related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be displayed. The image during absence may be configured to be erased after a predetermined time from the start of the display. This predetermined time may be a fixed value such as one minute, or may be made changeable by the store. In the above embodiment, the image during absence related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 is displayed on the liquid crystal screen 3, but is not limited thereto. For example, a second display may be provided on the panel below the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, and the image during absence related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be displayed on the second display.

[0159] (E) As the second type of predetermined operation T2, the LED in the housing 10 may be caused to emit light. For example, all the LEDs in the housing 10 may be caused to emit light, or the LEDs located in the upper part of the housing 10 (above the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c) may be caused to emit light. Since the line of sight of a person when sitting on the gaming table concentrates on the upper half of the housing 10, by causing the LEDs located in the upper part of the housing 10 to emit light, the LEDs are more easily visible. When the player is setting the light amount of the LED, the light amount of the LED related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be the light amount of the LED that emits light during an error such as a reel failure, without following the light amount of the LED set by the player. This is to enhance the meaning of the warning.

[0160] (F) As the second type of predetermined operation T2, sound may be output from the speaker 102. In that case, sounds such as BGM related to the game may be stopped (including fade - out), and a warning sound such as a buzzer sound may be output, or the volume of sounds such as BGM related to the game may be lowered and a warning sound such as a buzzer sound may be superimposed and output. The warning sound output as the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be the same as the error sound for calling the store staff, but it is preferably different from the error sound. Also, the store staff may be able to change the type of warning sound. The time during which the warning sound is output as the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be a fixed value such as 1 minute, or the store may be able to change it. When the player is setting the volume of the speaker 102, the volume of the speaker 102 related to the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be the same as the volume of the error sound output during an error such as a reel failure, without following the volume of the speaker 102 set by the player. This is to enhance the meaning of the warning.

[0161] (G) When a board of the game value number control unit 62 is provided separately from the board of the main control unit 61, and the count button 46 and the cancel button 45 are connected to the board of the game value number control unit 62, the count button 46 and the cancel button 45 may not be included as the operation unit targeted by the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2. On the other hand, since the board of the game value number control unit 62 can communicate bidirectionally with the board of the main control unit 61, the operation unit targeted by the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 may include the count button 46 and the cancel button 45. When the game value number control unit 62 is mounted on the board of the main control unit 61, the operation unit targeted by the specific operation S1 and the cancellation operation S2 may include the count button 46 and the cancel button 45.

[0162] (H) In the second operation state, when the number of operations other than the cancellation operation S2 performed on the operation unit of the gaming machine reaches a predetermined number or more, the second type of predetermined operation T2 may be changed or added. Also, when the bet switch 41 or the lever 42 is continuously operated several times, the warning operation may become more intense as the number of operations increases. In the second operation state, the operation unit that triggers the execution of the second type of predetermined operation T2 may include a touch panel. Examples of the touch panel include a touch panel type side liquid crystal, a touch panel type main liquid crystal screen 3, and a touch panel type lower panel.

[0163] (I) When not in a game, by operating a PUSH button, a cursor key, a side liquid crystal, etc., information indicating the game history and the current game state (informing whether the current time has a high probability of transitioning to a special game state, informing the number of games until the ceiling for transitioning to a special game state, informing whether it is a mode in which it is easy to transition to a special game state, etc.), there is a gaming machine that can display at least one of the information suggesting the setting suggestion. In this case, in the second operation state, it may be a type of predetermined operation that the above information becomes non-displayed. Of course, the above information may be made non-displayed and the second type of predetermined operation T2 (warning operation) may be executed.

[0164] (J) The gaming machine may be equipped with a haptic device that outputs a haptic effect, or a vibration device that outputs vibration. In this case, when the second type predetermined action T2 is executed in the second operating state, the haptic effect may be output by the haptic device, or vibration may be output by the vibration device. For example, the haptic effect of the touched operation part may be "hot," or the touched operation part may vibrate at an extremely high speed. In either case, the second type predetermined action T2 that makes the touch unpleasant is also preferable as a warning action.

[0165] (K) The bet switch 41 may be provided with a MAX bet switch for automatically betting the predetermined number of coins (e.g., 3 coins) of coins as well as a bet switch for betting a coins value less than the predetermined number of coins (e.g., 1 coin or 2 coins). These switches are operation units capable of inputting operation signals to the main control unit 61, and therefore can be used for the specific operation S1 and the release operation S2.

[0166] (L) In the first embodiment, the predetermined operation includes both the first type predetermined operation T1 and the second type predetermined operation T2, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first type predetermined operation T1 does not have to be executed as the predetermined operation.

[0167] (M) In the above, it was explained that the processing during the absence of a player is executed by the operation state control unit 618. However, if the processing during the absence of a player is processing related to reel drive as described above, it may be executed by the spinning reel control unit 611 instead of the operation state control unit 618.

[0168] In the above embodiment, the bet switch 41 and the lever 42 are provided separately, but the lever 42 may also function as the bet switch 41 .

[0169] In the above-described embodiment, AT and bonus are exemplified as advantageous gaming states. However, the advantageous gaming states may include ART. CZ is a gaming state in which the probability of entering AT and the replay probability are higher than when they are not CZ. ART is a gaming state in which the replay probability is higher than in the general gaming state and the correct operation mode of the operation mode role is notified. And according to the set value, the probability of entering at least one of AT, CZ, and ART may change. According to the set value, the performance of AT, CZ, and ART may change.

[0170] In addition to the production by images, the production suggesting the set value may further include that when the rotation of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c stops, the symbol visible through the reel window 200 becomes a special symbol.

[0171] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the gaming machine is an AT type slot machine is exemplified. However, the gaming machine can be realized even if it is other than an AT machine, such as an ART type slot machine. Further, the gaming machine is not limited to a slot machine, and can also be realized with a pachinko machine or other ball shooting game machines.

[0172] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the gaming machine is a medal-less machine is exemplified. However, the gaming machine is not limited to a medal-less machine, and can also be realized with a conventional slot machine that plays with actual medals.

[0173] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the card unit 9 and the slot machine 1 are separate is exemplified. However, at least a part of the functions of the card unit 9 may be mounted on the slot machine 1.

[0174] Even when these other embodiments are adopted, the effects of the present embodiment are exhibited. Also, it is possible to appropriately combine the present embodiment with other embodiments and between other embodiments.

Explanation of Signs

[0175] 61: Main control unit 63: Sub-control unit

Claims

1. It is operable in any of a plurality of operating states including a first operating state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game and a second operating state in which a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat can be executed. When a specific operation is performed on the operation unit in the first operating state, a process of shifting from the first operating state to the second operating state can be executed. When the operation unit is operated in the second operating state, the predetermined operation can be executed. The specific operation includes an operation on at least one of a bet switch, a stop switch, and a lever. A gaming machine.

2. It is operable in any of a plurality of operating states including a first operating state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game and a second operating state in which a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat can be executed. When a specific operation is performed on the operation unit in the first operating state, a process of shifting from the first operating state to the second operating state can be executed. When the operation unit is operated in the second operating state, the predetermined operation can be executed. When a release operation is performed in the second operating state, a process of shifting from the second operating state to the first operating state can be executed. The release operation includes an operation on at least one of a bet switch, a stop switch, and a lever. A gaming machine.

3. It is operable in any of a plurality of operating states including a first operating state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game and a second operating state in which a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat can be executed. When a specific operation is performed on the operation unit in the first operating state, a process of shifting from the first operating state to the second operating state can be executed. When the operation unit is operated in the second operating state, the predetermined operation can be executed. The specific operation includes a simultaneous operation on two or more operation units. A gaming machine.

4. It is operable in any of a plurality of operating states including a first operating state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game and a second operating state in which a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat can be executed. When a specific operation is performed on the operation unit in the first operating state, a process of shifting from the first operating state to the second operating state can be executed. Upon the operation unit being operated in the second operation state, it is possible to execute the predetermined operation. Upon a release operation being performed in the second operation state, a process of shifting from the second operation state to the first operation state can be executed. The release operation includes a simultaneous operation on two or more operation units, and the gaming machine.

5. It is operable in any of a plurality of operation states including a first operation state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game and a second operation state in which a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat can be executed. Upon a specific operation being performed on the operation unit in the first operation state, a process of shifting from the first operation state to the second operation state can be executed. Upon the operation unit being operated in the second operation state, it is possible to execute the predetermined operation. Upon a release operation being performed in the second operation state, a process of shifting from the second operation state to the first operation state can be executed. At least one of the specific operation and the release operation can be set by the player. Upon an operation unit provided inside the housing and not operable by the player being operated, a process of notifying the operation content of the release operation can be executed, and the gaming machine.

6. It is operable in any of a plurality of operation states including a first operation state in which a winning combination can be determined in a symbol variation game and a second operation state in which a predetermined operation related to being away from the seat can be executed. Upon a specific operation being performed on the operation unit in the first operation state, a process of shifting from the first operation state to the second operation state can be executed. Upon the operation unit being operated in the second operation state, it is possible to execute the predetermined operation. The first operation state is the main gaming state, and the second operation state is a pseudo-gaming state, and the gaming machine.

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