Slot machines

Abstract

To provide a slot machine improved in connection with a penalty caused by an operation step.SOLUTION: Game control means performs irregular control more disadvantageous than normal control when plural stop switches are irregularly operated differently from normal operation while performing normal operation when the plural stop switches are operated normally in a non-notification game in a notification state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 23

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a slot machine including a variable display unit capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each of which is distinguishable, deriving a display result by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after variably displaying the variable display unit, and enabling a winning to occur according to the display result.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, a slot machine includes a variable display unit having reels on the outer peripheral part of which a plurality of types of symbols as identification information are drawn. When a start switch is operated in a state where a prescribed number of bets is set, the reels start to rotate, and when a stop switch is operated and the rotation of the reels stops, a winning occurs by deriving a predetermined symbol combination (for example, 7-7-7, hereinafter also referred to as a combination of display results or a winning combination) on a winning line.

[0003] As such a slot machine, in a game where the operation procedure of a stop switch is not notified, there is a slot machine that performs control disadvantageous to a player when the player operates the stop switch by an operation procedure other than a common operation procedure (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the slot machine of Patent Document 1, by performing control unfavorable to the player (so-called penalty), the player can be urged to operate the stop switch according to a common operation procedure. However, there is still room for improvement regarding imposing a penalty due to such an operation procedure.

[0006] The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a slot machine with improvements regarding penalties caused by operation procedures.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A plurality of variable display units capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be individually identified are provided. In a slot machine in which, after variably displaying the variable display unit, the variable display of the variable display unit is stopped to derive a display result, and a winning can occur according to a display result combination that is a combination of the display results of the plurality of variable display units. A game control means for controlling the progress of the game. An effect control means for controlling the effects. A plurality of derivation operation means operated to derive a display result combination, are provided. The game control means includes A pre-determination means for determining a display result combination that allows derivation. A derivation control means for performing control to derive a display result combination according to the determination result of the pre-determination means and the operation of the plurality of derivation operation means. A notification state control means for controlling to a notification state in which the operation procedure of the plurality of derivation operation means can be notified. The effect control means includes a notification effect means for notifying the operation procedure in the notification state. The game in the notification state includes a notification game in which the operation procedure is notified and a non-notification game in which the operation procedure is not notified. The derivation control means is such that the determination result of the pre-determination means is ComplexWhen any of several types of specific determination results is obtained, when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the operation procedure corresponding to the specific determination result, it is possible to derive a grant display result combination in which a grant winning that confers a gaming value occurs. The notification state further includes a normal notification state and a special notification state, and the notification state control means can be controlled to the special notification state until a specific condition is satisfied in the notification state. The game control means Game is capable of executing a privilege determination process for determining a privilege to be granted to a technician. In the normal notification state, After the display results of the plurality of variable display units are derived, it is determined whether the game is any one of the notification game and the non-notification game. When it is the notification game, without determining whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to a normal procedure or an irregular procedure different from the normal procedure in the game, a privilege granting determination process is executed. When it is the non-notification game, it is determined whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the normal procedure or the irregular procedure in the game. When operated according to the normal procedure, the privilege granting determination process is executed. When operated according to the irregular procedure, the privilege granting determination process is not executed. before a first determination is made as to whether the game is the notification game or the non-notification game and whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in a regular procedure different from the normal procedure in the game, a second determination is made as to whether it is the special notification state. When it is the special notification state, the first determination and the privilege granting determination process are not executed. The game control means Accumulatively count the game value further includes a value counting means and the value counting means The counting result of outputs information based on Do an information output means. The value counting means counts the gaming value when the gaming value is granted based on the occurrence of a winning, regardless of whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the normal procedure or the irregular procedure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] [Embodiment] As a gaming machine according to this embodiment, a slot machine will be described based on the following examples. With reference to FIGS. 1 to 32, the slot machine according to the embodiment will be described.

[0010] [Configuration of Slot Machine] FIG. 1(a) is a front view of the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 1(b) is a diagram showing an example of the main internal configuration of the slot machine 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the symbol arrangements of the respective reels. As shown in FIG. 1(a), the slot machine 1 includes a front door 1b pivotally supported rotatably at a side end of a housing 1a having an open front surface. Inside the slot machine 1, reels 2L, 2C, 2R (hereinafter, left reel, middle reel, right reel) in which a plurality of types of distinguishable symbols are arranged in a predetermined order and in the same number respectively are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction. As shown in FIG. 2, among the symbols arranged on these reels 2L, 2C, 2R, three consecutive symbols are arranged in the upper, middle, and lower three stages respectively in a perspective window 3 provided substantially at the center of the front surface of the slot machine 1 so as to be visible from the player side.

[0011] In the present embodiment, a configuration using three reels is illustrated, but a configuration using only one reel, a configuration using two reels, or a configuration using four or more reels may be used. Further, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the symbols displayed in the perspective window 3 are variably displayed by the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R is defined as a variable display unit. However, not limited to the reels, for example, a configuration in which the symbols can be variably displayed by moving a belt on which a plurality of symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface may be used. Further, in the present embodiment, the variable display unit is configured by physical reels, but the variable display unit may be configured by an image display device such as a liquid crystal display.

[0012] On the front of the slot machine 1, as shown in FIG. 1, a medal insertion unit 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout outlet 9 from which medals are paid out, a MAXBET switch 6 that is operated when setting the maximum number of bets (in the present embodiment, 3) among a specified number (in the present embodiment, 3) of bets determined according to the game state within the range using credits (the number of medals stored as the game value owned by the player), a start switch 7 that is operated when starting the game, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R that are operated when stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R respectively, and an effect switch 56 that is operated by the player during an effect are respectively provided so as to be operable by the player.

[0013] Hereinafter, an operation on the start switch 7 (for example, an operation of manually pressing the start switch 7) is referred to as a "start operation", an operation on the stop switch for stopping the rotation of the first reel (for example, an operation of manually pressing the stop switch) is referred to as a "first stop operation", an operation on the stop switch for stopping the rotation of the second reel (for example, an operation of manually pressing the stop switch) is referred to as a "second stop operation", and an operation on the stop switch for stopping the rotation of the third reel (for example, an operation of manually pressing the stop switch) is also referred to as a "third stop operation" or a "final stop operation". Further, the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation are collectively referred to as a "stop operation". Furthermore, the release of the pressing on the first stop switch (first stop operation) (for example, removing the hand from the stop switch) is referred to as a "first stop release", the release of the pressing on the second stop switch (second stop operation) (that is, removing the hand from the stop switch) is referred to as a "second stop release", and the release of the pressing on the third stop switch (third stop operation) (that is, removing the hand from the stop switch) is also referred to as a "third stop release" or a "final stop release". The order in which the player operates the reels 2L, 2C, 2R is also referred to as an "operation procedure".

[0014] On the front of the slot machine 1, beside the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, a side lamp 27 composed of a plurality of LEDs is provided. Also, in the vicinity of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, reel backlights 28L, 28C, 28R (hereinafter also simply referred to as "reel backlight 28") are provided corresponding to the respective reels 2L, 2C, 2R and irradiating light from the back side or the side of the reels to the respective reels 2L, 2C, 2R. Further, above the liquid crystal display 51, a speaker 53 for outputting sound is provided.

[0015] On the front of the slot machine 1, as shown in FIG. 1, there is a credit display 11 that displays the number of medals stored as credits, a game auxiliary display 12 that displays the number of medals paid out due to a winning and an error code indicating the content in case of an error, a 1 BET LED 14 that notifies by lighting that the bet number is set to 1, a 2 BET LED 15 that notifies by lighting that the bet number is set to 2, a 3 BET LED 16 that notifies by lighting that the bet number is set to 3, an insert request LED 17 that notifies by lighting that the insertion of medals is possible, a start valid LED 18 that notifies by lighting that the start operation of the game by operating the start switch 7 is valid, a status LED 19 that notifies by lighting that it is controlled to a state such as an advantageous section AT described later, and a replay in progress LED 20 that notifies by lighting that it is in the middle of a replay game. A game display section 13 is provided.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1(b), inside the slot machine 1, a main control unit 41 is provided that controls the progress of the game and outputs various commands according to the progress of the game. The main control unit 41 includes a main CPU 41a that performs various controls related to the progress of the game and a RAM 41c that stores various data related to the progress of the game. The main control unit 41 detects operations on the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, and the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, etc., and the insertion of medals into the medal insertion unit 4, and performs controls related to the progress of the game, such as the rotation / stop of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R and the lighting / extinguishing of each LED in the game display section 13, according to the detected operations.

[0017] Inside the slot machine 1, a sub-control unit 91 is provided that controls effects according to commands from the main control unit 41. The sub-control unit 91 includes a sub-CPU 91a that performs various controls related to effects, and a RAM 91c that stores various data related to effects. The sub-control unit 91 controls the display of images on the liquid crystal display 51, the sound output from the speaker 53, and the lighting / extinguishing of the side lamp 27 and the reel backlight 28 based on commands from the main control unit 41. The effect data used for the image display on the liquid crystal display 51 and the sound output from the speaker 53 is stored in the RAM 91c. Further, the sub-control unit 91 detects an operation on the effect switch 56 and controls the display of images on the liquid crystal display 51 and the sound output from the speaker 53 according to the detected operation.

[0018] When playing a game on the slot machine 1, the player inserts medals into the medal insertion unit 4 or sets a specified number of bets by operating the MAXBET switch 6 or the like. As a result, the winning line LN becomes valid, and the operation on the start switch 7 becomes valid, enabling the game to start. The winning line LN is a line for determining whether the combination of symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, 2R displayed in the perspective window 3 matches the combination of winning symbols. In the present embodiment, a so-called mountain line, such as the lower stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, and the lower stage of the reel 2R, is defined as the winning line. Note that the winning line is not limited to the mountain, and may be provided horizontally in the middle stage, such as the middle stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, and the middle stage of the reel 2R. Also, not limited to a single line, a plurality of winning lines may be provided. Further, invalid lines may be provided to make it easier to recognize that the combination of symbols constituting a win is aligned on the winning line LN.

[0019] When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can start, the reels 2L, 2C, 2R rotate. At this time, an internal lottery is performed by the main control unit 41. The internal lottery is a process of determining a combination of symbols (display result combination) that allows derivation.

[0020] Specifically, in the internal lottery process, the main control unit 41 determines whether each lottery target role has won in a predetermined order. For example, in the internal lottery process, the main control unit 41 obtains a random number from an integer within a predetermined range (0 to 65535). For each lottery target role, a number of determination values corresponding to the game state is previously assigned from within the integer range (0 to 65535). The main control unit 41 adds the number of determination values of each lottery target role in a predetermined order to the obtained random number. When the addition result overflows (exceeds 65535), the lottery target role that was the addition target at that time is determined as the winning role. By winning the lottery target role through the internal lottery, the derivation of the symbol combination corresponding to the lottery target role is permitted.

[0021] Note that the administrator can change the winning probability of roles in the internal lottery by changing the settings. Specifically, the payout rate (payout rate) of medals changes by determining the winning probability used in the internal lottery according to the setting value set by the administrator. The setting value consists of 6 levels from 1 to 6. When 6 is set as the setting value, it is most advantageous for the player, and the degree of advantage gradually decreases in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. That is, when 6 is set as the setting value, it is most advantageous for the player, and the degree of advantage gradually decreases as the values decrease in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.

[0022] When the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R are operated, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the operated stop switch stops. As a result, the symbol combination is derived and displayed in the perspective window 3. When the symbol combination that matches the symbol combination of the winning role stops on the winning line LN, the winning corresponding to the winning role occurs.

[0023] The roles in which winning is possible include special roles (bonuses), minor roles, and replay roles. The special role (bonus) is a role in which, when winning, the game state is controlled to a bonus state where the probability of winning a minor role is higher than in the non-bonus state. The special role (bonus) includes first-type special bonus items such as RB (Regular Bonus) and BB (Big Bonus), and second-type special bonus items such as CB (Challenge Bonus). In this embodiment, BB is provided as the special role. The minor role is a role in which medals are awarded when winning. The replay role is a role in which, when winning, the next game can be started without consuming the medals owned by the player.

[0024] In order for winning of each role determined according to the game state to occur, it is necessary to win the internal lottery and have the winning flag of the role set. The internal lottery is determined by the main control unit 41 using a random number before the display results of all the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are derived (specifically, at the time of detection of the start switch 7) as to whether to allow winning for each of the above-mentioned roles.

[0025] Among the winning flags of each role, the winning flags of the minor role and the replay role are valid only in the game in which the flag is set and become invalid in the next game. However, the winning flag of the special role is valid until the combination of roles allowed by the flag is complete and becomes invalid in the game in which the allowed combination of roles is complete. That is, once the winning flag of the special role wins, even if the combination of roles allowed by the flag cannot be completed, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game.

[0026] In addition, in the internal lottery, when a stop operation is performed in a predetermined operation mode (for example, operation procedure (pressing order), operation timing), small winning combinations or replay winning combinations (hereinafter, also referred to as "pressing order winning combinations") that are more advantageous than when the stop operation is performed in other operation modes can be won. The pressing order winning combinations include, for example, winning combinations that result in a more advantageous stop mode than the stop mode that stops when the stop operation is performed in a predetermined operation mode compared to when the stop operation is performed in other operation modes, and winning combinations with a higher percentage of stops in a more advantageous stop mode than when the stop operation is performed in a predetermined operation mode compared to when the stop operation is performed in other operation modes. Further, the advantageous stop mode includes not only a stop mode accompanied by the awarding of medals, but also a stop mode accompanied by a transition to an advantageous gaming state and a stop mode that avoids a transition to an unfavorable gaming state.

[0027] In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the procedure of operating the stop switch 8L first in one game is referred to as the "normal procedure", and the procedure of operating the stop switch 8C or the stop switch 8R first is also referred to as the "irregular procedure". That is, the "normal procedure" includes the procedure of operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the order of the stop switch 8L, the stop switch 8C, and the stop switch 8R (from left to right in the middle), and the procedure of operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the order of the stop switch 8L, the stop switch 8R, and the stop switch 8C (from left to right in the middle). The "irregular procedure" includes the procedure of operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the order of the stop switch 8C, the stop switch 8L, and the stop switch 8R (from middle to left to right), the procedure of operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the order of the stop switch 8C, the stop switch 8R, and the stop switch 8L (from middle to right to left), the procedure of operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the order of the stop switch 8R, the stop switch 8L, and the stop switch 8C (from right to left to middle), and the procedure of operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the order of the stop switch 8R, the stop switch 8C, and the stop switch 8L (from right to middle to left). Further, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the "normal procedure" is also referred to as the "normal operation", and operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R in the "irregular procedure" is also referred to as the "irregular operation".

[0028] When the main control unit 41 wins the pressing order role by internal lottery, it can execute a navigation that notifies navigation information corresponding to an operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R that is advantageous to the player. Specifically, the main control unit 41 can control to an assist time (advantageous section) that is a notification period in which it can execute navigation notification that notifies an operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R that is advantageous to the player according to the internal lottery result by the lighting mode of the game assist display 12.

[0029] When a predetermined lottery condition is satisfied in the normal section, the main control unit 41 performs an advantageous section transition lottery to determine whether to control to the advantageous section. By winning the advantageous section transition lottery, the control in the advantageous section is started. Winning the advantageous section transition lottery is also referred to as "winning the advantageous section". In the advantageous section, when the main control unit 41 wins the push order combination, it executes navigation notification, and notifies the operation modes (for example, operation procedures, operation timings, etc.) of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R that are advantageous to the player using the game auxiliary display 12. At the same time, by sending a command (command "instruction number" described later) that can specify the operation mode advantageous to the player to the sub-control unit 91, a navigation effect for notifying the operation mode using the liquid crystal display 51, the speaker 53, etc. is executed. On the other hand, a game in which the operation mode is not notified using the liquid crystal display 51, the speaker 53, etc. is hereinafter referred to as a "game without navigation effect execution". That is, a game without navigation effect execution is a game in which the operation mode is not notified using the liquid crystal display 51, the speaker 53, etc., regardless of whether it is a normal advantageous section or an AT state.

[0030] In the game where the push order combination is won, when the operation mode of the player matches the operation mode corresponding to the won push order combination (hereinafter also referred to as "correct procedure"), a combination advantageous to the player (in this embodiment, the plum combination) wins.

[0031] The player can win the combination with a larger number of medal payouts among the combinations included in the push order combination by operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R according to the correct procedure following the navigation. Alternatively, the player can win the combination that has no possibility of missing a win among the combinations included in the push order combination by operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R according to the correct procedure following the navigation. Among the combinations included in the push order combination, the combination that can win when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated according to the correct procedure is also referred to as the "main combination", and the combination that can win when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated according to an incorrect procedure different from the correct procedure is also referred to as the "sub combination".

[0032] In the operation mode notified by navigation notification and navigation guidance, by operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, it is possible to surely win the main role included in the winning order role selected by internal lottery.

[0033] [State Transition] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the transition of the game state. As shown in FIG. 3, the states managed by the main control unit 41 include game states related to the winning probability in the internal lottery.

[0034] The game states include non-internal, internal, and BB. The internal state is a state in which the game can proceed and the medal payout rate based on a predetermined design value is guaranteed. In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, most games are played by the player in the internal state.

[0035] On the other hand, the non-internal state is a state in which the player does not play the game, or even if the player plays the game, the time is extremely short. In the non-internal state, when winning the BB and missing the winning of the BB, the game state shifts to the internal state from the next game. That is, the internal state is a state in which the winning of the BB is carried over.

[0036] In both the non-internal state and the internal state, a game in which it is possible to win the BB (hereinafter, also referred to as a "BB winning possible game") may be played. Specifically, in the non-internal state, if it is possible to derive the symbol combination of the BB according to the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the game in which the BB is won, the player wins the BB. In this case, the game state is controlled to the BB from the next game. That is, in the non-internal state, the game in which the BB is won becomes a BB winning possible game.

[0037] Internally, the BB winning is carried over. Here, when the BB and a minor winning occur simultaneously, the reel control is performed so as to preferentially derive the symbol combination of the minor winning. Further, if the minor winning is a non-missable winning, in a game where the BB and the minor winning occur simultaneously, regardless of the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, the minor winning will surely win a prize, and the BB cannot win a prize. Similarly, when the BB and a replay winning occur simultaneously, the reel control is performed so as to preferentially derive the symbol combination of the replay winning. Generally, since the replay winning is a non-missable winning, in a game where the BB and the replay winning occur simultaneously, regardless of the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, the replay winning will surely win a prize, and the BB cannot win a prize. Therefore, internally, only in a game that loses in the internal lottery (a game that does not win any winning), if the symbol combination of the BB can be derived according to the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, the BB will win a prize. In this case, the game state will be controlled to the BB from the next game. That is, internally, a game that loses in the internal lottery becomes a game in which the BB can win a prize.

[0038] During BB, BB games are played over a predetermined number of games (for example, 60G). However, since the payout rate during BB is about 101%, the net increase in the number of balls is hardly increased. Therefore, the BB is merely in a state of consuming a predetermined number of games (for example, 60G) for the player. When the BB ends, the game state shifts back to the non-internal state again.

[0039] The states within include a normal section and a favorable section. The normal section is a state where navigation is not executed and is a non-notification state where navigation information cannot be notified. The favorable section is a state where navigation can be executed and is a notification state where navigation information can be notified. In the present embodiment, among the favorable sections, usually in the favorable section, navigation is not executed, but in the first state, the second state, and the ending state, navigation can all be executed. Note that even if navigation is executed usually in the favorable section, in the first state, the second state, and the ending state, the execution probability of navigation for winning the main role when selecting the push order role is higher than that in the normal favorable section. Thus, in the AT state in the favorable section such as the first state, the second state, and the ending state, navigation is performed with a higher probability than when it is in the favorable section or the normal favorable section.

[0040] In the normal section, when winning in the favorable section transition lottery (winning the favorable section), the state is controlled to the favorable section. Note that in the present embodiment, since the winning of most roles that can be won during normal play is a condition for winning the favorable section, the stay time of the game during normal play is about 1G. Note that the condition for winning the favorable section may be established when any one of all the roles that can be won during normal play is won.

[0041] In the normal section, since navigation is not executed in the game where the push order role is won, the net increase number of medals per game that the player can obtain is 0 or negative considering the number of medals used for setting the bet number. Note that the net increase number of medals per game is the number obtained by subtracting the number of medals used for setting the bet number per game from the number of medals paid out per game. In the present embodiment, the normal medal payout rate is set at 40%. Thus, usually, the medal payout rate is 1 or less (100% or less) or less than 1 (less than 100%).

[0042] The advantageous section usually includes a first state, a second state, and an ending state. Hereinafter, the first state, the second state, and the ending state are collectively referred to as the "AT state". In the normal advantageous section, since navigation is not executed in the game in which the pushing winning combination is selected, the net increase in the number of medals per game that can be obtained by the player is 0 or negative when considering the number of medals used for setting the bet number. In the present embodiment, the normal medal payout rate in the advantageous section is set to 40%. Thus, in the normal advantageous section, the medal payout rate is 1 or less (100% or less) or less than 1 (less than 100%).

[0043] In the normal advantageous section, an AT continuous effect suggesting a transition to the first state is executed. The AT continuous effect is an effect that continues for 3 to 5 games from the start, and in the final game, it is an effect that notifies the player whether or not to transition to the first state.

[0044] In the first state of the advantageous section, the number of games (hereinafter also referred to as the AT game number) is fixed. For example, in the present embodiment, the AT game number in the first state is predetermined to be 30G or 50G. In the first state of the advantageous section, a life specialization continuous effect suggesting a transition to the life specialization zone is executed. The life specialization continuous effect is an effect that continues for 3 to 5 games from the start, and in the final game, it is an effect that notifies the player whether or not to transition to the life specialization zone. The life specialization zone indicates a state in which there is a high possibility of obtaining a life, which will be described with reference to FIG. 22(d) below. The 3 to 5 games of the life specialization continuous effect in the first state are included in the predetermined AT game number when transitioning to the first state. That is, the life specialization continuous effect is executed within the AT game number of 30 games or 50 games. Hereinafter, the AT continuous effect and the life specialization continuous effect may be collectively simply referred to as the "continuous effect".

[0045] In the first state, when all of the predetermined number of AT games have been completed, the state transitions from the first state to the second state (hereinafter also referred to as the AT second state). In the second state, the number of AT games is indefinite. Specifically, in the second state, the friendly character battles the enemy character. When the friendly character wins the battle, the state transitions to the first state. On the other hand, when the friendly character loses the battle, the AT state ends and the state transitions to the non-AT state.

[0046] In order for the friendly character to battle the enemy character in the second state, life is required as the right to conduct the battle. In the present embodiment, life can be acquired in the first state, but life cannot be acquired in the second state. That is, the player acquires life while staying in the first state and consumes the life acquired in the first state in the second state, so that the friendly character can battle the enemy character. In the second state, the battle can be conducted as many times as the number of lives owned. Even if the friendly character loses to the enemy character in the battle, as long as life remains, the friendly character can battle the enemy character again. If no life remains when the friendly character loses to the enemy character, the AT state ends and the state transitions to the non-AT state.

[0047] When the friendly character wins against the enemy character in the second state and the state transitions to the first state, life can be acquired again in the first state. Therefore, as long as life remains, it is also possible to repeatedly transition between the first state and the second state. During that time, when a push-order bell (such as the 213-choice role A described later) is won, navigation is performed, and by the player operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R according to the navigation, the net increase in the number of medals can be increased.

[0048] In addition, the first state includes a first section and a second section as sections with different net medal increase numbers. The first section is the first half section (for example, if the first state is 30G, it is 1G to 15G) in the first state where the number of AT games is fixed. The first section is a section where the frequency of navigation is less than that of the second section and the net medal increase number is lower than that of the second section. For example, the net medal increase number per 1G in the first section is 1 medal.

[0049] On the other hand, the second section is the second half section (for example, if the first state is 30G, it is 16G to 30G) in the first state where the number of AT games is fixed. The second section is a section where the frequency of navigation is more than that of the first section and the net medal increase number is higher than that of the first section. For example, the net medal increase number per 1G in the second section is 5 medals. Thus, among the AT states, when it is the second section, navigation is performed with a higher probability than when it is the first section.

[0050] As described above, the net medal increase number in the first section in the first state is lower than that in the second section. Thus, for the player, it is more advantageous to stay in the second section in terms of being able to acquire more medals.

[0051] Note that in the second state, similar to the second section, the frequency of navigation is more than that of the first section and the net medal increase number is high. For example, the net medal increase number per 1G in the second state is 5 medals, similar to the second section in the first state. Therefore, the player can acquire more medals during the battle in the second state. Thus, among the AT states, when it is the second state, navigation is performed with a higher probability than when it is the first section in the first state.

[0052] In the present embodiment, when a specific symbol (watermelon, strong cherry) is won, the advantage degree of the player becomes high. Specifically, in the first section in the first state, when the strong cherry is won, the granting of life is determined. In the second state, when the strong cherry is won, it is determined that the ally character wins in the battle.

[0053] In the normal advantageous section, processes such as a lottery related to control to the first state are performed. Specifically, in the normal advantageous section, the main control unit 41 performs a point acquisition lottery to be described later with reference to Fig. 17(a). The points updated by the point acquisition lottery are managed by the main control unit 41. The main control unit 41 includes a point counter (not shown) for counting points internally. Also, when the value of the point counter reaches a specified value, the main control unit 41 executes an AT lottery to be described later with reference to Fig. 17(b).

[0054] In the advantageous section, when the total number of medals generated by winning during the advantageous section updated based on the progress of the game reaches a predetermined number of ED transition medals, the ending state is controlled. The number of ED transition medals is updated during the advantageous section and is not updated in the normal section or BB. The ending state is, for example, a state where control to the advantageous section state continues until the total value of the net increase medals reaches the upper limit number of medals (for example, 2400 medals) or until the number of consumed games during the advantageous section reaches the upper limit number of games (for example, 1500G). In the ending state, similar to the second state or the second section, the frequency of navigation is higher than that in the first section, and the net increase number of medals is higher. Thus, even among the AT states, when it is in the ending state, navigation is performed with a higher probability than when it is in the first section of the first state. The number of ED transition medals is set when transitioning from the normal section to the advantageous section. Note that the number of ED transition medals may be determined by lottery or may be predetermined. The number of ED transition medals is managed by the main control unit 41. That is, the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41 stores the number of ED transition medals. The main control unit 41 cumulatively counts the number of ED transition medals and ends the advantageous section according to the counting process.

[0055] When the limiter condition is satisfied in the advantageous section, the control shifts from the advantageous section to the normal section. Specifically, when the number of sheets in the advantageous section (net increase in the number of sheets in the advantageous section) reaches 2,400, the advantageous section ends and the control shifts to the normal section. The number of sheets in the advantageous section is counted by the number-of-sheets-in-advantageous-section counter stored in the RAM 41c. That is, when the number of sheets in the advantageous section reaches the upper limit number, it is said that the "limiter condition" is satisfied. Alternatively, in the advantageous section, when the total number of played games (advantageous-section G number) updated based on the progress of the game reaches a predetermined upper limit G number (for example, 1,500G), the advantageous section ends and the control shifts to the normal section. The advantageous-section G number is counted by the net-increase counter stored in the RAM 41c.

[0056] When the control shifts from the advantageous section to the normal section, the total value of the played games and the net increase in the number of sheets counted in the advantageous section, as well as the points that can be obtained during the game, are also initialized. The advantageous-section G number and the net increase in the number of sheets in the advantageous section are updated not only during the advantageous section but also during the BB, and are not updated in the normal section.

[0057] When the setting is changed during the advantageous section, the control shifts to the normal section. At this time, the total value of the played games and the net increase in the number of sheets counted in the advantageous section, as well as the points that can be obtained during the game, are also reset. The slot machine 1 of the present embodiment is such that the medal payout rate changes according to the set value. Specifically, the winning probability in a predetermined lottery such as a point acquisition lottery described later is made different according to the set value (for example, 1 to 6), so that the medal payout rate changes. A store clerk or the like of the game parlor can change this set value by making a setting change. When the setting change is made, no lottery such as determining the initial value of the played games until the ceiling game number is reached is performed.

[0058] Thus, the conditions for the state to shift from the advantageous section to the normal section include the limiter condition and the arbitrary end condition that are satisfied based on the progress of the game, and the condition that a setting change is made.

[0059] [Winning Role] Figures 4 to 7 are diagrams for explaining the types of winning roles, the symbol combinations of winning roles, and the awards given upon winning. In the name column of Figures 4 to 7, the names of the winning roles are shown, and in the symbol combination column, the symbol combinations for which the winning role wins are shown. Also, in the award column, the values (number of medals paid out, additional game awards, etc.) given upon winning are shown.

[0060] As shown in Figure 4, as replay roles, Replay 1 to Replay 6 are provided. As shown in Figure 5, as special roles, BB is provided. As shown in Figures 5 to 7, as minor roles, Plum 1 to 6, Watermelon, and Single Medal 1 to 33 are provided. Plum 1 to 6 are the main roles that can win when winning the draw order role. When winning, 9 medals, which is more than the number of medals (3) used for betting, are paid out. Plum 1 to 6 are also collectively referred to as the "Plum Role". Single Medal 1 to 33 are the secondary roles that can win when winning the draw order role. When winning, 1 medal, which is less than the number of medals (3) used for betting, is paid out. Single Medal 1 to 33 are also collectively referred to as the "Single Medal Role".

[0061] As shown in Figure 6, among the symbol combinations in which the winning of Single Medal 22 occurs, when "Character - Character - Black 7" is derived on Reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, 3 character symbols are arranged side by side on the reel. Specifically, by deriving character symbols at the lower stage of the left reel 2L, the middle stage of the middle reel 2C, and the upper stage of the right reel 2R respectively, the character symbols are arranged side by side in an upward - right direction. Note that the arrangement of character symbols side by side is also referred to as "character alignment".

[0062] As shown in Figure 7, among the symbol combinations in which the winning of Single Medal 23 occurs, when "Character - Character - Plum" or "Character - Plum - Plum" is derived on Reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, 3 seven - symbols are arranged side by side on the reel. Specifically, by deriving seven - symbols at the upper stage of the left reel 2L, the upper stage of the middle reel 2C, and the upper stage of the right reel 2R respectively, the seven - symbols are arranged side by side at the upper stage. Note that the arrangement of seven - symbols side by side is also referred to as "seven - alignment".

[0063] [Target lottery winning combination] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining combinations of winning combinations read out as target lottery winning combinations for each game state. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing target lottery winning combinations arranged for each flag category. In the winning combination number columns of FIGS. 8 and 9, winning combination numbers determined for each target lottery winning combination are shown, in the flag category columns, flag categories assigned for each type of target lottery winning combination are shown, in the target lottery winning combination columns, their names are shown, in the game state columns, for each game state, it is indicated by a circle that the target lottery winning combination is a target for lottery, and in the advantageous section winning columns, the presence or absence of advantageous section winning is shown. Further, in the winning combination columns in FIG. 8, combinations of winning combinations included in each target lottery winning combination are shown.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 8, BB is provided as a target lottery winning combination for special winning combinations. As target lottery winning combinations for replay winning combinations, normal replay, 7 complete replays, 7 incomplete replays, character complete replays, and character incomplete replays are provided. As target lottery winning combinations for small winning combinations, common plum, 213 selection winning combinations A to D, 231 selection winning combinations A to D, 312 selection winning combinations A to D, 321 selection winning combinations A to D, watermelon, 7 complete 1s, 2, character complete 1, weak cherry, strong cherry, and chance eyes A, B are provided. As small winning combinations in BB, small winning combinations in BB and 1 in BB are provided. Note that 213 selection winning combinations A to D, 231 selection winning combinations A to D, 312 selection winning combinations A to D, and 321 selection winning combinations A to D are winning combinations for which navigation can be executed when won, so they are a type of push order winning combination. 213 selection winning combinations A to D, 231 selection winning combinations A to D, 312 selection winning combinations A to D, and 321 selection winning combinations A to D are collectively also referred to as "push order bells". Also, 7 complete 1s, 2 are collectively also referred to as "7 complete 1s".

[0065] In non - internal, winning combinations other than small winning combinations in BB and 1 in BB are lottery - winning possible, but in internal, since the winning of BB has already been carried over, BB, small winning combinations in BB, and 1 in BB have become lottery - winning impossible.

[0066] Flag categories have flag categories common to all roles, whether in non-internal, internal, or BB. Also, while the role numbers are determined for each lottery target role, the flag categories are assigned for each type of lottery target role. For this reason, the number of flag categories is less than the number of role numbers. Also, both the point acquisition lottery in the normal advantageous section and the privilege lottery in the advantageous section (hereinafter, these are also collectively referred to as "lotteries related to AT control") are performed based on the flag categories. For this reason, the processing burden can be reduced compared to performing these lotteries related to the control of these AT states based on the role numbers.

[0067] In this embodiment, flag categories are also assigned to losses and BBs. For BB, the same FC1 as other roles such as normal replays is assigned. Also, for the common plum, the same FC4 as the watermelon is assigned.

[0068] [Reel control for the pressing order role] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the reel control when the pressing order role is won. As described above, in this embodiment, in a game in which the pressing order role is won in the advantageous section, navigation is executed and the correct procedure is notified to the player. The player can win a winning role (main role) advantageous to the player by operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the correct procedure according to the navigation.

[0069] For example, as shown in FIG. 10, in a game in which any of the 213-choice roles A to D, 231-choice roles A to D, 312-choice roles A to D, and 321-choice roles A to D is won, when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the correct procedure, the plum role, which is the main role, wins, while when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in an incorrect procedure, the single role, which is the sub-role, wins. Note that if the winning of the single role, which is the sub-role, is missed when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in an incorrect procedure, no winning may occur at all.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 10, the "normal procedure" is not set as the "correct procedure", while the "irregular procedure" can be set as the "correct procedure". That is, in a game in which the player wins any of the 213-choice roles A to D, 231-choice roles A to D, 312-choice roles A to D, and 321-choice roles A to D, as long as the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the normal procedure, it is impossible to win the main plum role. This can also be a factor that induces the player to operate the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the irregular procedure. However, as will be described later, in this embodiment, if the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated in the irregular procedure in a game in which the navigation is not executed, a penalty disadvantageous to the player is imposed on the player. Therefore, the player is encouraged to operate the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R in the normal procedure in a game in which the navigation is not executed.

[0071] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a game start command that the main control unit 41 transmits to the sub-control unit 91 when the start switch 7 is operated. When the start switch 7 is operated (start operation), the main control unit 41 executes an internal lottery process and transmits a command group including predetermined information to the sub-control unit 91 according to the result of the internal lottery process. Hereinafter, the command groups No. 1 to No. 13 shown in FIG. 11 are simply referred to as "game start commands". The main control unit 41 transmits each command as a game start command in the order of No. 1 to No. 13. Each command has a serial number defined as the "set serial number" with the same number as the No. Each command stores various information managed by the main control unit 41.

[0072] For example, the command "Instruction Number" of No. 2 stores information related to navigation. That is, the command of No. 2 stores information that can identify the pressing order in the game when the start switch 7 is operated. Specifically, the command "Instruction Number" stores information indicating the order of pressing the stop switch 8L, the stop switch 8C, and the stop switch 8R. When the sub-control unit 91 receives the command "Instruction Number" of No. 2, based on the operation procedure that can be specified from the command "Instruction Number", it executes a navigation effect on the liquid crystal display 51. Note that the sub-control unit 91 outputs a sound for notifying the player of the operation procedure from the speaker 53 based on the operation procedure that can be specified from the command "Instruction Number".

[0073] For example, the command "Minor Role Type" of No. 3 stores information that can identify whether the role won by internal lottery is a minor role, a replay role, or a special role. Also, the command "Section State" of No. 6 stores information that can identify which state among the internal states shown in FIG. 3 the game is in when the start switch 7 is operated. Specifically, the command "Section State" of No. 6 stores information indicating whether the currently controlled state is a normal section, a favorable section, and further, among the favorable sections, whether it is a normal favorable section, the first section of the first state, the second section of the first state, the second state, or an ending state. Based on receiving the command "Section State" of No. 6, the sub-control unit 91 can identify which section state the game is in when the start switch 7 is operated. Also, in the command "Outcome State" of No. 4, information that can identify the game state of the game when the start switch 7 is operated may be stored. The command "ART Precursor G Number" of No. 9 stores the number of games of the AT continuous effect. The command "Point" of No. 10 in the game start command stores the number of points obtained in the previous game. Also, the command "Winning Number" of No. 11 stores information that can identify the role number of the role won by internal lottery.

[0074] In addition, when the main control unit 41 transmits a game start command, it stores information indicating that medals have been BET on the command "Medal Insertion" of No. 12. When information indicating that medals have been BET on the command "Medal Insertion" of No. 12 is stored, the sub-control unit 91 can determine that it has received a game start command.

[0075] FIG. 12 shows a game end command that the main control unit 41 transmits to the sub-control unit 91 at the third stop. The main control unit 41 transmits a command group from No. 1 to No. 13 to the sub-control unit 91 in the order of No. 1 to No. 13 not only when the start switch is operated but also at the third stop of the stop switch. Hereinafter, the command group from No. 1 to No. 13 shown in FIG. 12 will be simply referred to as the "game end command". In each command transmitted at the third stop, No. 11 is different from the command of No. 11 transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated. No. 11 is a command for storing information regarding winning. That is, at the third stop, the main control unit 41 transmits information regarding winning instead of information regarding the winning number.

[0076] In the command "Point" of No. 10 in the game end command, the number of points obtained in the point acquisition lottery process at the third stop, which will be described later, is stored. In addition, when the main control unit 41 transmits a game end command, it stores information indicating that the reel has stopped in the command "Reel Stop" of No. 13. When information indicating that the reel has stopped is stored in the command "Reel Stop" of No. 13, the sub-control unit 91 can determine that it has received a game end command. That is, the sub-control unit 91 determines whether the received command group is a game start command or a game end command based on the command "Medal Insertion" of No. 12 and the command "Reel Stop" of No. 13. When transmitting a game start command, the main control unit 41 does not need to transmit the command "Reel Stop" of No. 13, and when transmitting a game end command, it does not need to transmit the command "Medal Insertion" of No. 12.

[0077] [Regarding the main process] Regarding the control content of the main process performed by the main control unit 41, it will be described based on FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the control content of the main process performed by the main control unit 41. Note that the main process is repeatedly executed for each unit game. And one cycle of the main process corresponds to one unit of the game.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 13, the main control unit 41 first performs a game start waiting process (S1) to perform the process from after the end of the control of the previous game until the start of the next game. In the game start waiting process, a process of setting the bet number according to the insertion of medals, etc. is performed, and when the operation of the start switch 7 is detected in a state where the specified number of bet numbers is set, a process of starting the next game is performed.

[0079] Next, when the game starts, an internal lottery process (S2) for determining whether to allow the occurrence of a winning (internal lottery) is performed. In the internal lottery process, based on the set values (1 to 6) preset in the slot machine 1 and the random number value for internal lottery acquired simultaneously with the start of the game by detecting the start switch 7, an internal lottery for determining whether to allow the occurrence of a winning (that is, whether to allow the derivation of the display result) is performed. And the winning number (general winning combination) corresponding to the winning combination is stored in the winning number setting area of the RAM 41c so that the winning result in the internal lottery can be specified. Also, when a special winning combination is won, the winning number (special winning combination) corresponding to the won special winning combination is stored in the winning number setting area of the RAM 41c.

[0080] Next, a flag generation process for advantageous section transition (S3) that converts the winning number (general winning combination) into a flag for advantageous section transition and a flag generation process for lottery (S4) that converts the winning number (general winning combination) into a lottery flag are performed. In the flag generation process for advantageous section transition, the value of the flag for advantageous section transition corresponding to the winning number (general winning combination) is obtained using the flag conversion table for advantageous section transition and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c. Also, in the flag generation process for lottery, the values of lottery flags 1 to 3 corresponding to the winning number (general winning combination) are obtained using the flag conversion table for lottery and stored in predetermined areas of the RAM 41c, respectively.

[0081] Next, a game start time payout control process (S5) that performs processes related to the advantageous section, processes related to navigation notification, and processes related to the AT state at the timing when the game is started is performed. In the process related to the advantageous section, a process of shifting to the advantageous section when the advantageous section transition winning combination is won in the normal section is performed. In the process related to navigation notification, a process of setting the navigation number and a process related to the management of the advantageous section state are performed. In the process related to the AT state, a process of shifting to the AT state according to the winning combination in the normal advantageous section is performed. In the process of setting the navigation number, when the winning combination that is the target of navigation notification is won and navigation notification is to be performed, the navigation numbers from "1" to "13" are set in the navigation number setting area of the RAM 41c according to the operation mode to be notified. When the winning combination that is the target of navigation notification is won and navigation notification is not to be performed, or when a winning combination that is not the target of navigation notification is won, "0" is set in the navigation number setting area of the RAM 41c.

[0082] Next, interrupt prohibition is set (S6), and an operation signal setting process is performed (S7). In the operation signal setting process, a process for transmitting an operation signal that can specify the recommended stop operation mode to the test device is performed.

[0083] Next, after the operation signal setting process, set to interrupt enable (S8), perform the game start command transmission process (S9) shown in FIG. 11, and set a control state command group including a plurality of commands that can identify that one game has started and can identify various control states at the start point of one game in the command queue, and sequentially transmit it to the sub-control unit 91.

[0084] Next, after the game start command transmission process, perform a freeze process (S10) for controlling the freeze state in which the progress of the game is delayed for a predetermined period. In the freeze process, it is determined whether or not it is determined to control to the freeze state when the start switch 7 is operated and the game is started. If it is determined that it is determined to control to the freeze state, the progress of the game is delayed for a predetermined period. Also, when performing a reel effect that varies the reel in the freeze state, a process of varying the reel in a variation mode according to the type of the reel effect is performed.

[0085] Next, after the freeze process ends, set to interrupt disable (S11), and perform a game start setting process (S12) for performing a preset setting at the start of rotation of the reel. In the game start setting process, a reel rotation start process accompanying the start of the game is performed, and the rotation of the reel is started toward constant speed rotation.

[0086] Next, after the game start setting process, set to interrupt enable (S13), and perform an external signal process at the start of rotation (such as a medal IN signal indicating the number of medals used in the game) for outputting an external output signal at the start of rotation to external devices such as a call lamp, a hall computer, and a test device from a predetermined output port.

[0087] Next, after external signal processing at the start of rotation, a reel stop process (S15) is performed to control the reels to stop. In the reel stop process, if a navigation notification is performed, the game assist display 12 displays the navigation number set in the navigation number setting area to notify the operation mode. Furthermore, if all rotating reels are rotating at a constant speed, acceptance of a stop operation for the rotating reels is enabled and the system waits until a reel stop operation is performed by the player. Then, when a valid stop operation is detected for a reel for which a stop operation is enabled, reel stop control is performed to stop the reel for which the valid stop operation was performed. This reel stop control is repeatedly performed for the rotating reels until the rotation of all reels is stopped, and the reel stop process is completed.

[0088] Next, after the reel stop process, a winning search process (S16) is performed. In the winning search process, a winning symbol combination is searched for based on the symbol combination stopped on reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and a winning flag indicating whether or not a win has occurred and the number of medals to be paid out in response to the win are set in a predetermined area of RAM 41c.

[0089] Next, interruption is prohibited (S17), and a gaming machine information calculation process (S18) is performed to calculate the gaming history used when calculating gaming machine information to be displayed on the gaming machine information display 50.

[0090] Next, after the gaming machine information calculation process, interruption is permitted (S19), and a special gaming state end check process (S20) is performed. In the special gaming state end check process, it is determined whether or not the end condition is met when the special gaming state is being controlled. Next, a gaming state setting process (S21) is performed. In the gaming state setting process, the gaming state of the next game is set based on the winning data set by the winning search process and the result of the special gaming state end check process.

[0091] Next, at the timing when the game ends, a process related to the advantageous section and a process related to the navigation notification are performed, and a game end payout control process (S22) that performs a point acquisition lottery process, a life acquisition lottery process, and a one-hit victory lottery process based on predetermined conditions is performed. In the process related to the advantageous section, it is determined whether or not the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied in the advantageous section, and when the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied, a process of setting an advantageous section end flag is performed. In the process related to the navigation notification, a process related to the management of the advantageous section state is performed. The point acquisition lottery process, the life acquisition lottery process, and the one-hit victory lottery process will be described in detail later.

[0092] Next, the game end command transmission process (S23) shown in FIG. 12 is performed, and a control state command group including a plurality of commands capable of specifying various control states at the end of one game is set in the command queue and sequentially transmitted to the sub-control unit 91.

[0093] Next, after the game end command transmission process, a payout process (S24) is performed to award medals in the number corresponding to the winnings generated as the result of the game based on the payout number set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c by the winning search process (S16). In the payout process, for each winning, a predetermined number of medals determined in advance are awarded to the player according to the generated winning, and the number of medals to be added is added to the credit. When the credit reaches the upper limit number (50 in this embodiment), the medals corresponding to the amount not added to the credit are paid out from the medal payout port 9.

[0094] Next, after the payout process, an external signal process at game end (S25) is performed to output an external output signal at game end (such as a medal OUT signal indicating the number of medals awarded) to external devices such as a call lamp, a hall computer, and a test device from a predetermined output port.

[0095] Next, a game end setting process is performed (S26). In the game end setting process, it is determined whether or not the symbol combination of the replay winning combination has stopped on Reels 2L, 2C, and 2R. If the symbol combination of the replay winning combination has stopped, processes such as setting the bet number for performing a replay in the next game, setting a replay flag in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c, and controlling the replay LED 20 to the ON state (lit state) are performed.

[0096] Next, an advantageous section end process is performed (S27). In the advantageous section end process, it is determined whether or not an advantageous section end flag indicating the end of the advantageous section is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c. If it is determined that the advantageous section end flag is set, an advantageous section data initialization process for initializing an advantageous section related area in the storage area of the RAM 41c where data related to the control of the advantageous section is stored and ending the advantageous section is performed. In the advantageous section data initialization process, the in-advantageous-section flag indicating the period during the advantageous section and the navigation number set in the navigation number setting area are initialized, and the in-advantageous-section signal buffer for outputting to an external device such as a test device that it is during the advantageous section is turned off.

[0097] Next, after the advantageous section end process, an in-advantageous-section signal control process (S28) is performed. In the in-advantageous-section signal control process, when the in-advantageous-section flag is set in the RAM 41c, control is performed to turn on the in-advantageous-section signal buffer of the RAM 41c.

[0098] Next, after the in-advantageous-section signal control process, an in-advantageous-section notification end process (S29) is performed. In the in-advantageous-section notification end process, it is determined whether or not the in-advantageous-section signal buffer of the RAM 41c is OFF. If it is determined that the in-advantageous-section signal buffer is OFF, the section display LED 19 is controlled to the off state.

[0099] Next, after the advantageous zone notification end process, the game end initialization setting process (S30) is performed. In the game end initialization setting process, the area of RAM 41c to be initialized in the game is set in the initialization process of Sa32. Except at the end of the special game state, the size of the area to be initialized at the end of every game is set, and at the end of the special game state, the size of the area to be initialized at the end of the special game state is set.

[0100] Next, interrupts are prohibited (S31), and initialization processing (S32) is performed. In the initialization processing, an area of the size set in the game end initialization setting processing is initialized from the initialization end address of the game RAM area allocated to RAM 41c, thereby initializing the area that is initialized at the end of every game except at the end of the special game state, and at the end of the special game state, the area that is initialized at the end of the special game state is initialized. Then, after the initialization processing, interrupts are permitted (S33), and processing returns to Sa1.

[0101] Thereafter, the processes of S1 to S33 are repeated. When the main process is completed, the process related to the control of one unit of game is completed, and the main process is repeatedly executed for each unit of game.

[0102] [Point Map] An example of a point map used in the normal advantageous zone will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of a point map. As shown in FIG. 14(a), the display area on the liquid crystal display 51 includes a presentation area 510 in which presentation images related to the game, such as background images, are displayed, and a map area 520 in which a point map is displayed. The presentation area 510 is located near the center of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51, and is a display area that occupies most of the display area. The map area 520 is located at the top of the screen of the liquid crystal display 51 (in this embodiment, the bottom and right edge of the screen), and is a display area that is smaller than the presentation area 510.

[0103] The point map in the map area 520 integrally displays an update image 520a that displays the updated value of points accumulated based on play, reach icon images 520c, 520d, and 520e that decorate the reached point that is the target of the accumulated points, a final icon image 520f that decorates the final point, and a moving image 520b consisting of a character (hereinafter also referred to as a "moving character") that moves toward the reached point corresponding to the accumulated points. In this embodiment, multiple points such as 100p, 300p, and 600p are set as the reached point, and 1000p is set as the final point. Note that, because the reached point is not displayed in the update image 520a, the player will focus not only on the update value in the update image 520a but also on the reached point decorated with the reached icon image.

[0104] In the normal advantageous zone, when points are awarded through the point acquisition lottery, the update value is updated by the awarded points, and the number corresponding to the updated points is reflected in the update image 520a. The point acquisition lottery is executed by the main control unit 41 based on a table described later with reference to FIG. 17(a). Furthermore, the moving character moves to a position corresponding to the update value, thereby approaching the target arrival point. Since the number of the arrival point and the arrival icon are always displayed while the moving character is moving, the player can easily recognize the number of points remaining until the arrival point is reached based on the distance between the moving character and the moving character's target position. When the moving character reaches the arrival point, an AT lottery is held, and the player may transition to the first state (AT win) based on the lottery.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 14(b), when the current update value is 50p, the moving character stops at the position of 50p on the map 520m. As shown in FIG. 14(c), then, when 10p is added, the update value is updated to 60p, and the moving character moves on the map 520m to the position of 60p. As shown in FIG. 14(d), then, when 50p is further added, the update value is updated to 110p, and the moving character moves on the map 520m to the position of 110p. In this case, since the moving character has reached the position of 100p, an AT lottery is performed.

[0106] [Effect of Point Update] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of the point update effect. The point update effect is an effect for showing the player the number of points awarded by the point acquisition lottery. As shown in FIG. 15, a character image PI indicating the number of points awarded is displayed near the center of the liquid crystal display 51. Such a point update effect is executed at the timing when the start switch 7 is pressed in the next game after the game in which the point acquisition lottery has been performed. That is, the sub-control unit 91 executes an update effect suggesting that the value of the point counter has been updated when the next game after the game in which the point acquisition lottery has been performed starts.

[0107] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a point acquisition lottery process. FIG. 16 illustrates the point acquisition lottery process executed by the main control unit 41 using a flowchart. The point acquisition lottery process is executed during the normal advantageous zone shown in FIG. 3. The main control unit 41 may execute the point acquisition lottery process during the end-of-game ball payout control process (S22) shown in FIG. 13. The main control unit 41 determines whether the stop switch 8L (left stop switch) was operated as the first stop operation during the reel stop process (S15) (step Sa1). That is, it determines whether the stop switch 8L was pressed as a normal operation. If the operation was performed using an irregular procedure (NO in step Sa1), the main control unit 41 sets a penalty (step Sa2). Setting a penalty during the normal advantageous zone is a process that changes the lottery probability for the bonus lottery process in the next game. For example, the main control unit 41 sets the point acquisition probability in the point acquisition lottery process shown in FIG. 17 executed in the next game to be lower than the point acquisition probability when a penalty is not set. This reduces the probability of points being awarded only in the next game, which is unfavorable to the player. In this way, the penalty setting may be set to perform control that is unfavorable to the player, but it is also possible to perform no setting at all. In other words, not executing the point acquisition lottery process shown in step Sa3 itself is a penalty for the game.

[0108] When the stop switch 8L (left stop switch) is operated as the first stop operation (YES in step Sa1), the main control unit 41 executes a point acquisition lottery process shown in the table shown in FIG. 17 (step Sa3). FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a table of privilege lottery processes. As shown in FIG. 17(a), the main control unit 41 executes a point acquisition lottery process based on the flag category. In FIG. 17(a), for each flag category, it is shown at what ratio each of 0 points, 1 point, 10 points, 50 points, and 100 points is awarded as the number of points. As shown in FIG. 17(a), when the flag category FC4 wins, the expected value of the points obtained by the point acquisition lottery is derived as 10 points × (179 / 256) + 50 points × (64 / 256) + 100 points × (13 / 256), so it is about 25 points. Also, when the flag category FC6 wins, the expected value of the points obtained by the point acquisition lottery is derived as 50 points × (51 / 256) + 100 points × (205 / 256), so it is about 90 points.

[0109] Also, as shown in FIG. 17(b), the main control unit 41 executes an AT lottery process based on the reached points. In FIG. 17(b), for each reached point, it is shown at what ratio the winning of AT is awarded. That is, when operated in an irregular procedure (NO in step Sa1), the main control unit 41 ends the out-ball control process at the end of the game shown in FIG. 13 without executing the point acquisition lottery process. That is, the main control unit 41 does not update the value of the point counter when operated in an irregular procedure.

[0110] For example, if the flag category of the winning combination in the internal lottery process in step S2 of the main processing shown in FIG. 13 is FC0, no points are awarded with a probability of 125 / 256, 1 point is awarded with a probability of 76 / 256, 10 points are awarded with a probability of 51 / 256, and 50 points are awarded with a probability of 3 / 256. Also, if the flag category of the winning combination in the internal lottery process in step Sa1 is FC7, 50 points are awarded with a probability of 51 / 256, and 100 points are awarded with a probability of 204 / 256, but the awarded points are never determined to be 0 points. Returning to FIG. 16, the main control unit 41 determines whether points have been awarded in the point awarding lottery process in step Sa4 (step Sa4). If the main control unit 41 determines that points have been awarded (YES in step Sa4), it executes point awarding processing (step Sa5). The point granting process is a process in which the main control unit 41 updates the points stored in RAM 41c and stores the number of points earned in the command "points" in the game end command sent to the sub-control unit 91 at the third stop described in Figure 12.

[0111] The main control unit 41 ends this process after executing the point granting process (step Sa5). If no points are acquired (NO in step Sa4), the main control unit 41 ends this process without executing the point granting process.

[0112] As described above, in this embodiment, the main control unit 41 executes the point acquisition lottery process only when a normal operation is performed. In other words, when an irregular operation is performed, the main control unit 41 does not execute the point acquisition lottery process. That is, when an irregular operation is performed, the fact that the point acquisition lottery process is not executed becomes a penalty for the player. As a result, when the stop switch is operated by a normal operation, the value of the points for controlling to the first state is updated, while when it is operated by an irregular procedure, a penalty can be given that the value of the points is not updated. Therefore, the player can be encouraged to operate by a normal operation. Further, regardless of the result of the internal lottery process, since a penalty is given when an irregular procedure is operated, the player can be encouraged to perform a normal operation.

[0113] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example in which a point update effect is executed based on a normal operation. FIG. 18 shows the relationship between (a) a player's operation, (b) the processing of the main control unit 41, and (c) the processing of the sub-control unit 91 at timings t1 to t7. As shown in FIG. 18, at timing t1, the player operates the start switch 7. Based on the operation of the start switch 7, the main control unit 41 executes an internal lottery process. After the start switch 7 is operated, at timing t2, the stop switch 8L is operated as a first stop operation. That is, a normal operation is performed. The main control unit 41 detects that the stop switch operated as the first stop operation at timing t2 is the stop switch 8L. The main control unit 41 transmits to the sub-control unit 91 that the stop switch 8L has been operated as the first stop operation. At timing t3, the stop switch 8L is operated as a second stop operation. The main control unit 41 detects that the stop switch operated as the second stop operation at timing t3 is the stop switch 8C. The main control unit 41 transmits to the sub-control unit 91 information that the stop switch 8C has been operated as the second stop operation. At timing t4, the stop switch 8L is operated as the third stop operation. The main control unit 41 detects that the stop switch operated as the third stop operation at timing t4 is the stop switch 8R. The main control unit 41 transmits to the sub-control unit 91 information that the stop switch 8R has been operated as the third stop operation. Based on the fact that the third stop operation has been performed after normal operations have been performed, the main control unit 41 executes a point acquisition lottery process. In the example of FIG. 18, the number of points acquired in the point acquisition lottery process is one or more. After executing the point acquisition lottery process, the main control unit 41 executes a point awarding process at timing t5.

[0114] At timing t5, point awarding processing is performed, and the main control unit 41 transmits a game end command shown in FIG. 12 to the sub-control unit 91. That is, in the point acquisition lottery process at timing t4, a command "point" capable of specifying the number of acquired points (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as acquired points) is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91. Here, at timing t5, the sub-control unit 91 waits without executing a point update effect shown in FIG. 15, such as displaying the acquired points on the liquid crystal display 51. After the winning determination process, at timing t6, the main control unit 41 counts the number of medals awarded based on the occurrence of a win as the ED transfer number and the advantageous section number.

[0115] Furthermore, at timing t6, the main control unit 41 counts the number of medals awarded by a win as data for display on a ratio monitor (not shown). The ratio monitor usually displays numerical values indicating the performance of the slot machine (hereinafter also referred to as "ratio information"). Numerical values indicating the performance of the slot machine are, for example, the payout ratio of designated special items to the total cumulative payout number, the consecutive special item payout ratio during the past 6000 games, the special item payout ratio during the past 6000 games, the consecutive special item payout ratio to the total cumulative payout number, the special item payout ratio to the total cumulative payout number, and the special item status ratio to the total cumulative payout number. The main control unit 41 stores the number of medals awarded by a win in the RAM 41c in order to display the ratio information on the ratio monitor. Therefore, the main control unit 41 adds the number of medals awarded by the winning determination process at timing t5 to the data stored as ratio information in the RAM 41c. That is, the main control unit 41 updates the ratio information. Thereby, the game started at timing t1 ends.

[0116] At timing t7, the start switch 7 is pressed again. That is, a new next game is started. Here, the sub-control unit 91 executes a point update effect for the acquired points received at timing t5. That is, the sub-control unit 91 indicates, by the point update effect, that the value of the point counter was updated in the game prior to the game in which the point update effect is executed.

[0117] FIG. 19 illustrates an example in which a point update effect is not executed based on an irregular operation. The example in FIG. 19 differs from FIG. 18 in that the stop switch 8L is not operated as the first stop operation at timing t2. That is, FIG. 19 illustrates an example in which an irregular operation is executed at timing t2. The main control unit 41 detects that the stop switch operated as the first stop operation at timing t2 is the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C. The main control unit 41 transmits information to the sub-control unit 91 that the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C was operated as the first stop operation. The sub-control unit 91 executes a stop effect based on the information that the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C was operated as the first stop operation. The stop effect indicates that the point acquisition lottery process was not executed due to an irregular operation that is not a normal operation, such as by canceling an effect that displays an image suggesting a winning combination. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the stop effect is executed by the sub-control unit 91 to darken the display on the LCD display 51. The stop effect may be not only a blackout effect, but also an effect that displays a text image such as "Please press the left stop switch first." Alternatively, it may be an effect that ends the execution of the point suggestion effect currently being executed and returns to the normal image before the point suggestion effect was executed.

[0118] Also, since an irregular operation has been performed, the main control unit 41 does not execute the point acquisition lottery process at timing t4 and does not execute the point awarding process at timing t5. Therefore, the sub-control unit 91 does not receive the acquired points and does not execute the point update effect at timing t7 which is the start of the next game. On the other hand, even when an irregular operation has been performed, at timing t5, the main control unit 41 updates the ED transfer number, the number of advantageous interval sheets, and the ratio information.

[0119] As described with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, only when a normal operation is performed in a predetermined game and points are acquired, when the start switch 7 of the next game is operated, a point update effect is executed. Thereby, it is possible to suggest to the player by the point update effect at the start of the next game that the point counter has been updated in the previous game, and when an irregular operation has been performed in the previous game, the point counter is not updated and the point update effect is not executed in the next game either. Therefore, it is possible to achieve consistency between the presence or absence of updating of the point counter and the presence or absence of execution of the point update effect.

[0120] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 19, even when an irregular operation has been performed, after the winning determination process, the main control unit 41 executes a process of updating the ratio information and the limiter at timing t6. That is, the main control unit 41 counts the medals when medals are awarded based on the occurrence of a winning, regardless of whether it is operated by a normal operation or an irregular operation.

[0121] As a result, the accumulation of medal counts is counted not only during normal operation but also during irregular operation, thus preventing the distinction of whether it is advantageous according to the procedures of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, and preventing it from becoming overly advantageous due to irregular operation. Also, the accumulation of medal counts is counted and the accumulated result is displayed not only during normal operation but also during irregular operation, so that the payout history of the medal counts in the slot machine 1 can be appropriately shown to the outside as ratio information.

[0122] [Point Suggestion Display] FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining an example of a point suggestion display at the time of winning a strong cherry. The point suggestion display is a display performed when winning a specific combination, and is a display for making the player anticipate the points given by suggesting the winning combination. The point suggestion display is executed during the normal advantageous period.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 20(a), when the start operation is performed, a point suggestion display in which an image indicating a cherry and an image indicating "?" are displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 is executed. Since the player sees the image indicating a cherry, the player is prompted to operate so as to win the cherry. Furthermore, since the flag category of the strong cherry is FC6, as shown in FIG. 17, when the cherry wins, the player expects that points of 50 or more will be given. That is, the point suggestion display is a display suggesting that many point awards have been established, and is a display executed based on the operation of the start switch 7.

[0124] In FIG. 20, after the point suggestion effect is presented, the case of normal operation and the case of irregular operation are described. FIGS. 20(b1), (c1), and (d1) are diagrams for explaining the case of normal operation. FIGS. 20(b2), (c2), (d2), (b3), (c3), and (d3) are diagrams for explaining the case of irregular operation. In FIG. 20(b1), the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation. That is, in FIG. 20(b1), normal operation is being performed. At this time, the images of the cherry and the image indicating "?" that are displayed as the point suggestion effect remain displayed. Thereafter, in FIG. 20(c1), the stop switch 8C is operated as the second stop operation. The images of the cherry and the image indicating "?" that are displayed as the point suggestion effect remain displayed. Finally, in FIG. 20(d1), the stop switch 8R is operated as the third stop operation. As a result, a strong cherry wins on the reel, and on the liquid crystal display 51, an image indicating that the strong cherry has won is displayed. When the start switch 7 for the next game is operated, the points awarded due to the winning of the strong cherry are displayed as a point update effect.

[0125] In FIGS. 20(b2) and (b3), the stop switch 8L is not operated as the first stop operation, and an irregular operation is performed. As a result, the main control unit 41 detects that the stop switch operated as the first stop operation is the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C. The main control unit 41 transmits to the sub-control unit 91 that the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C has been operated as the first stop operation. Based on receiving that the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C has been operated as the first stop operation, the sub-control unit 91 executes an interruption effect to dim the liquid crystal display 51 as shown in FIGS. 20(b2) and (b3). Also, the image indicating a cherry and the image indicating "?" that were being displayed as the point suggestion effect disappear. That is, the sub-control unit 91 ends the execution of the point suggestion effect when an irregular operation is performed. In any of FIGS. 20(c2) and (c3) when the second stop operation is performed thereafter, and FIGS. 20(d2) and (d3) when the third stop operation is performed, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 maintains the state when the interruption effect was executed.

[0126] As a result, even if the value of the point counter is not updated due to an irregular operation after the point suggestion effect, which suggests that the point counter is updated using 50 points or more at the start of the game in which a strong cherry is selected, has been executed. This can prevent a player who has performed an irregular operation from misunderstanding that the point counter has been updated using a large value. Note that the point suggestion effect may be not only an image indicating a cherry and an image indicating "?", but also a character image directly suggesting point acquisition such as "Point acquisition?". That is, the point suggestion effect may be anything that suggests the possibility of points being awarded to the player.

[0127] FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining an example of a point suggestion effect when a watermelon wins. The point suggestion effect is also executed when a winning combination other than the strong cherry combination is selected in the internal lottery. FIG. 21 shows an example when the watermelon combination is selected in the internal lottery.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 21(a), when the start operation is performed, a point suggestion effect is executed in which an image indicating a watermelon and an image indicating "?" are displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. Since the image indicating a watermelon is displayed, the player is prompted to operate so that the watermelon wins. Further, since the flag category of the watermelon is FC4, when the watermelon wins, as shown in FIG. 17, the player expects that 10 points or more will be awarded. FIGS. 21(b1) to (d1) show the point suggestion effect when a normal operation is performed. FIGS. 21(b2) to (d2) and (b3) to (d3) show examples in which a cancellation effect is executed when an irregular operation is performed. Since the form of the effect is the same as that in FIG. 20, it will not be repeated.

[0129] Thus, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, regardless of the winning combination selected in the internal lottery, when irregular control is performed, the point acquisition lottery process is not performed and the cancellation effect is executed, so that the player can be prompted to perform a normal operation.

[0130] [Bonus lottery during AT] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing tables of life acquisition lottery and one-hit victory lottery in the first state and the second state of the advantageous section. The privileges in the present embodiment include points that can be granted during normal advantageous section, life that can be granted during the first state, and one-hit victory in battles that can be granted during the second state. Unlike life, which is consumed even if acquired in the second state and there is a possibility that the transition from the second state to the first state cannot be made, one-hit victory is a process that determines the transition from the second state to the first state. Therefore, winning one-hit victory is a more advantageous control for the player than acquiring life. Hereinafter, the first state is referred to as "AT first state", and the second state is referred to as "AT second state". Also, the life acquisition lottery and the one-hit victory lottery are collectively referred to as "privilege lottery during AT".

[0131] (Life Acquisition Lottery) Life can be granted based on a life acquisition lottery executed by the main control unit 41 during the AT first state. FIG. 22(a) shows a life acquisition lottery table referred to in the life acquisition lottery in the first section during the AT first state. As shown in FIG. 22(a), in the life acquisition lottery in the first section, the expected value of life granted per 1G is different when a role with a flag category of FC4 or FC5 is selected, when a role with a flag category of FC6 is selected, and when a role with a flag category of FC7 is selected.

[0132] Specifically, when a role with a flag category of FC4 or FC5 is selected, one life is granted with a probability of 55%, and two lives are granted with a probability of 10%. When a role with a flag category of FC6 is selected, two lives are granted with a probability of 100%. Further, when a role with a flag category of FC7 is selected, one life is granted with a probability of 35%, and two lives are granted with a probability of 20%.

[0133] Thus, in the first section during the AT first state, among the lottery conditions, the probability of multiple lives being awarded in the order of winning of the roles of FC4 or FC5, winning of the role of FC7, and winning of the role of FC6 is high.

[0134] Note that in the first section during the AT first state, when a life is awarded triggered by the winning of the role of the flag category FC6, a reverse push navigation is executed in the game where the role of the flag category FC6 is won. Therefore, when the player operates the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R according to the reverse push navigation, the BAR replays win. That is, in the first section during the AT first state, the awarding of a life is suggested to the player by the winning of the BAR replays.

[0135] In FIG. 22(b), a life acquisition lottery table referred to in the life acquisition lottery during the second section in the AT first state is shown. As shown in FIG. 22(b), when the role of the flag category FC4 or FC5 is won, one life is awarded with a probability of 20%. Also, when the role of the flag category FC6 is won, one life is awarded with a probability of 60% and two lives are awarded with a probability of 31%. Further, when the role of the flag category FC7 is won, one life is awarded with a probability of 28% and two lives are awarded with a probability of 5%.

[0136] Thus, also in the second section during the AT first state, among the lottery conditions, the probability of multiple lives being awarded in the order of winning of the roles of FC4 or FC5, winning of the role of FC7, and winning of the role of FC6 is high.

[0137] Also, the first section is a section where navigation is performed less frequently than the second section. That is, the probability of notifying navigation in the second section is higher than the probability of notifying navigation in the first section.

[0138] (Life specialization zone) The life specialization zone is a state that can transition from the first AT state based on specialization zone lottery. Figure 22(c) shows the specialization zone lottery table referred to in the specialization zone lottery during the first AT state. As shown in Figure 22(c), in the specialization zone lottery during the first AT state, the probability of entering the specialization zone is different when the role of the flag category is FC4 or FC5, when the role of the flag category is FC6, and when the role of the flag category is FC7.

[0139] Specifically, when the role of the flag category is FC4 or FC5, there is a 10% probability of entering the specialization zone. When the role of the flag category is FC6, there is a 50% probability of entering the specialization zone. Furthermore, when the role of the flag category is FC7, there is a 30% probability of entering the specialization zone.

[0140] Figure 22(d) shows the life acquisition lottery table referred to in the life acquisition lottery in the specialization zone. As shown in Figure 22(d), when the role of the flag category is FC4 or FC5, one life is given with a 50% probability and two lives are given with a 35% probability. When the role of the flag category is FC6, two lives are given with a 100% probability. Furthermore, when the role of the flag category is FC7, one life is given with a 35% probability and two lives are given with a 50% probability.

[0141] (One-hit victory lottery) One-hit victory in battle can be granted based on the one-hit victory lottery executed by the main control unit 41 during the second AT state. Figure 22(e) shows the one-hit victory lottery table referred to in the one-hit victory lottery during the second AT state. As shown in Figure 22(e), in the one-hit victory lottery during the second AT state, the one-hit victory probability is different when the role of the flag category is FC4 or FC5, when the role of the flag category is FC6, and when the role of the flag category is FC7.

[0142] Specifically, when a role with a flag category of FC4 or FC5 is won, there is a 50% chance of a one-hit win. Also, when a role with a flag category of FC6 is won, there is a 100% chance of a one-hit win. Furthermore, when a role with a flag category of FC7 is won, there is a 50% chance of a one-hit win.

[0143] Thus, during the AT second state, among the lottery conditions, the probability of a one-hit win is higher for a role with a flag category of FC6 than for a rare role such as a role with a flag category of FC4 or FC5, or a role with a flag category of FC7. Note that during the AT second state, if a one-hit win is awarded as a result of winning a role with a flag category of FC6, reverse push navigation is executed in the game in which the role with a flag category of FC6 is won. Furthermore, the first state is a section in which navigation is performed less frequently than the second state. In other words, the probability of announcing navigation is higher in the second state than in the first state.

[0144] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a bonus lottery process during an AT. In FIG. 23, the bonus lottery during an AT executed by the main control unit 41 is explained using a flowchart. The bonus lottery acquisition process during an AT can be executed within the game end ball output control process (S22) in the first state, second state, or ending state shown in FIG. 3. After a third stop operation is performed within the game end ball output control process (S22) shown in FIG. 13, the main control unit 41 determines whether the game state is in the ending state (step Sb1). If it is in the ending state (YES in step Sb1), the main control unit 41 ends the process. In other words, if it is in the ending state, the main control unit 41 does not execute the life acquisition lottery process and the one-hit win lottery process described below.

[0145] When not in the ending state (NO in step Sb1), the main control unit 41 determines whether it is a game in which navigation display is performed (step Sb2). In the internal lottery process (S2) shown in FIG. 13, the main control unit 41 determines whether it is a game in which navigation display is performed based on the role number of the winning role. A game in which navigation display is performed is a game in which the sub-control unit 91 executes a navigation effect. When it is a game in which navigation display is performed (YES in step Sb2), the main control unit 41 executes the process shown in step Sb5. When it is not a game in which navigation display is performed (NO in step Sb2), the main control unit 41 determines whether the stop switch 8L (left stop switch) has been operated as the first stop operation (step Sb3). That is, the main control unit 41 determines whether a normal operation or an irregular operation has been performed in step Sb4. When the stop switch 8L has not been operated as the first stop operation (NO in step Sb3), a penalty setting is made (Sb4) and the process ends. The penalty setting in the AT state is, for example, a process of changing the lottery probability of the life acquisition lottery process and the one-hit victory lottery process in the next game. For example, the main control unit 41 sets the winning probability of life or one-hit victory in the life acquisition lottery process and the one-hit victory lottery process shown in FIG. 22 executed in the next game to be lower than the winning probability when no penalty setting is made. As a result, the probability of being given life or one-hit victory only in the next game decreases, resulting in control that is disadvantageous to the player. Thus, in the penalty setting, a setting that is disadvantageous to the player may be made, or no setting may be made. This is because the non-execution of the life acquisition lottery process shown in step Sa6 and the one-hit victory acquisition lottery process shown in step Sa9 is a penalty in the game. Also, because an irregular operation has been performed, the sub-control unit 91 executes a cancellation effect. The cancellation effect is the same effect as the cancellation effect described in the above point acquisition lottery process, and is an effect that darkens the screen. The cancellation effect here does not indicate that the point acquisition lottery process was not executed due to the irregular operation, but indicates that the life acquisition lottery process or the one-hit victory lottery process was not executed.The stop effect may not only be a darkening effect, but also an effect that displays a text image such as "Please press the left stop switch first." In other words, when an irregular operation is performed during AT, the main control unit 41 does not execute the life acquisition lottery process or the one-hit win lottery process as a penalty to the player.

[0146] When it is determined that the stop switch 8L has been operated as the first stop operation (YES in step Sb3), the main control unit 41 determines whether the gaming state is in the first state (step Sb5). When it is in the first state (YES in step Sb5), the main control unit 41 executes a life acquisition lottery process (step Sb6). That is, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not to grant a life based on the table shown in FIG. 22(a) or 22(b) and the result of the internal lottery process. After the life acquisition lottery process, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not a life has been acquired in step Sb10 (step Sb7). When a life has not been acquired (NO in step Sb7), the main control unit 41 ends the process.

[0147] If a life is acquired (YES in step Sb7), the main control unit 41 executes a life granting process (step Sb8). The life granting process is a process in which the main control unit 41 updates the number of lives stored in the RAM 41c and stores the acquired number of lives in the game end command sent to the sub-control unit 91 at the third stop described in Fig. 12. After executing the life granting process, the main control unit 41 ends the process.

[0148] Next, returning to step Sb5, the case where the game is not in the first state will be described. If the game is not in the first state (NO in step Sb5), the main control unit 41 executes a one-hit win lottery process (step Sb9). At this time, since it was determined in step Sb1 that the game state is not in the ending state and in step Sb5 that the game is not in the first state, the main control unit 41 determines that the game state is in the second state. Since a normal operation is being performed in the second state, the main control unit 41 executes a one-hit win lottery.

[0149] That is, the main control unit 41 performs a one-shot victory lottery based on the table shown in FIG. 22(e) and the result of the internal lottery process. After the one-shot victory lottery process, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not it has won the one-shot victory (step Sb10). If the main control unit 41 determines that it has not won the one-shot victory (NO in step Sb10), the process ends. If the main control unit 41 determines that it has won the one-shot victory (YES in step Sb10), it executes a one-shot victory awarding process (step Sb11). The one-shot victory awarding process is a process in which the main control unit 41 executes a process corresponding to winning the one-shot victory, and stores the fact of winning the one-shot victory in the game end command transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 at the third stop described in FIG. 12.

[0150] In this way, in the game in the first state or the second state where the navigation display is not performed, the main control unit 41 performs control to execute the life acquisition lottery process or the one-shot victory awarding process when normally operated, while performing control not to execute the life acquisition lottery process or the one-shot victory awarding process when irregularly operated. The control not to execute the life acquisition lottery process or the one-shot victory awarding process is a control disadvantageous to the player. That is, in the slot machine 1, a penalty can be given to the player when an irregular operation is performed. Thereby, in the slot machine 1, it is possible to encourage the player to operate by normal operation.

[0151] On the other hand, the main control unit 41 performs common control in the game during the ending state, whether it is normally operated or irregularly operated. Thereby, in the ending state, even if an irregular operation is performed, by not giving a penalty, it is possible to prevent the interest of the game in the ending state, which is the last state executed during the AT, from decreasing.

[0152] [Life Award Suggestion Effect] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of a life-granting suggestion effect when a watermelon is won. The life-granting suggestion effect is an effect that is performed when a specific combination is won, and is an effect that suggests to the player that a life may be awarded by suggesting a winning combination. The life-granting suggestion effect is executed in the first state. Since the first state is during AT, the liquid crystal display 51 displays a remaining game image 51a indicating the number of games remaining and a life image 51b indicating the number of lives.

[0153] As shown in FIG. 24(a), when the start switch 7 is operated, an image showing a treasure chest is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. The image showing the treasure chest includes a watermelon, suggesting that the watermelon role has been won. The image showing the treasure chest may also be green without a watermelon, suggesting that the watermelon role has been won. In other words, when the image showing the treasure chest is displayed, the player hopes that the watermelon role has been won. In addition, a watermelon role with a flag category of FC4 is a role that triggers a life acquisition lottery process, as shown in FIG. 22(a) and FIG. 22(b). In other words, the life grant suggestion effect is an effect that suggests the possibility of a life being granted, and is executed based on the operation of the start switch 7.

[0154] FIG. 24 illustrates the cases where a normal operation is performed and an irregular operation is performed after the life-granting suggestion effect. FIGS. 24(b1), (c1), and (d1) illustrate the case where a normal operation is performed. Also, FIGS. 24(b2), (c2), (d2), and (b3), (c3), and (d3) illustrate the case where an irregular operation is performed. In FIG. 20(b1), the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation. That is, in FIG. 20(b1), a normal operation is performed. At this time, the image of the treasure chest displayed as the life-granting suggestion effect remains displayed. Then, in FIG. 24(c1), the stop switch 8C is operated as the second stop operation. The image of the treasure chest displayed as the life-granting suggestion effect remains displayed. Finally, in FIG. 24(d1), the stop switch 8R is operated as the third stop operation. As a result, a watermelon appears on the reels, and an image indicating that a life has been granted in response to the winning watermelon combination is displayed on the LCD display 51. Furthermore, as the life is granted, the sub-control unit 91 updates the life image 51b.

[0155] 24(b2) and 24(b3) show an example in which the stop switch 8L is not operated as the first stop operation, but an irregular operation is performed. As a result, the main control unit 41 detects that the stop switch operated as the first stop operation is the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C. The main control unit 41 transmits to the sub-control unit 91 that the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C was operated as the first stop operation. Based on receiving the information that the stop switch 8R or the stop switch 8C was operated as the first stop operation, the sub-control unit 91 executes a stop effect in which the LCD display 51 goes dark, as shown in FIG. 24(b2) and FIG. 24(b3). Additionally, the image showing the treasure chest that was displayed as the life-granting suggestion effect disappears. In other words, the sub-control unit 91 terminates the execution of the life-granting suggestion effect when the irregular operation is performed. In either case where the second stop operation is performed as shown in Figure 24(c2) and Figure 24(c3), or where the third stop operation is performed as shown in Figure 24(d2) and Figure 24(d3), the image displayed on the LCD display 51 remains in the state it was in when the stop effect was executed.

[0156] In this way, when an irregular operation is performed in a game in which a watermelon role is won, the life acquisition lottery is not executed, and control to extend the AT state due to the life acquisition is not performed. This encourages the player to perform normal operations.

[0157] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of a life-granting suggestion effect when a strong cherry is won. As shown in FIG. 25(a), when the start switch 7 is operated, an image showing a treasure chest is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. The image showing the treasure chest includes a cherry, suggesting that the cherry role has been won. The image showing the treasure chest may also be red without a cherry, suggesting that the cherry role has been won. In other words, when the image showing the treasure chest is displayed, the player hopes that the cherry role has been won. In addition, a strong cherry role with a flag category of FC6 is a role that triggers a life-granting lottery process, as shown in FIG. 22(a) and FIG. 22(b). The form of the effect is the same as that of FIG. 24, and will not be repeated.

[0158] In this way, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, if irregular control is performed, regardless of whether the winning role in the internal lottery is a watermelon role or a strong cherry role, the life acquisition lottery process is not performed and a stop effect is executed, thereby encouraging the player to perform normal operations.

[0159] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing the process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes the navigation effect. The following describes the process when the sub-control unit 91 receives a game start command. The sub-control unit 91 receives the game start command shown in FIG. 11 from the main control unit 41 (step Sc1). As described above, information related to navigation can be stored in the command No. 2 "instruction number" included in the game start command. In other words, the command No. 2 stores information that can identify the push order in a game in which the start switch 7 is operated. The sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not information that can identify the push order is stored in the command No. 2 "instruction number" (step Sc2).

[0160] When information that can specify the pressing order is stored in the command "instruction number" of No. 2 (YES in step Sc2), the sub-control unit 91 executes the navigation effect (step Sc3) and ends the process. On the other hand, when information that can specify the pressing order is not stored in the command "instruction number" of No. 2 (NO in step Sc2), the sub-control unit 91 ends the process without executing the navigation effect. That is, the sub-control unit 91 determines whether to execute the navigation effect using the command "instruction number" of No. 2. Here, when determining whether to execute the navigation effect, the sub-control unit 91 does not refer to commands other than the command "instruction number" of No. 2 included in the game start command.

[0161] In other words, among the game start commands received by the sub-control unit 91 from the main control unit 41, regardless of the information related to the winning combination such as the commands "minor winning combination type", "winning number", etc. in which information about the winning combination is stored, and the commands in which information that can specify the game state such as "section state", "outcome state" is stored, when information related to navigation is stored in the command "instruction number" of No. 2, the sub-control unit 91 executes the navigation effect. As a result, regardless of whether a winning combination is won or not and what the game state is, when information related to navigation is stored in the command "instruction number" of No. 2, the sub-control unit 91 executes the navigation effect, so that the operation procedure can be appropriately notified to the player.

[0162] That is, for example, even if the game state is an advantageous section, but due to an error or the like, the main control unit 41 stores information that it is a normal section in the command "section information" and transmits it to the sub-control unit 91, the sub-control unit 91 can determine whether to execute the navigation effect based on the command "instruction number" of No. 2. Similarly, even if a winning combination with a navigation display is won, but due to an error or the like, the main control unit 41 stores information that a winning combination without a navigation display is won in the command "winning number" and transmits it to the sub-control unit 91, the sub-control unit 91 can determine whether to execute the navigation effect based on the command "instruction number" of No. 2.

[0163] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the game start command transmission process in the main control unit. The following describes the process of transmitting a game start command by the main control unit 41. After the start switch 7 is operated, the main control unit 41 executes the game start command transmission process as shown in step S9 of the main process in FIG. 13. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the main control unit 41 changes the content of the command to be transmitted as the game start command depending on the winning combination. After the game start command transmission process is initiated, the main control unit 41 determines whether the winning combination number is one of combination numbers 8 to 23 (step Sd1). The combinations of combination numbers 8 to 23 are combinations that, when a stop operation is performed in a predetermined push order, are more advantageous than when the stop operation is performed in a different push order, as shown in FIG. 10. Hereinafter, the combinations of combination numbers 8 to 23 will be simply referred to as "push order combinations."

[0164] If the winning combination is a push order combination (YES in step Sd1), the main control unit 41 transmits the commands "small combination type" and "winning number" without including them in the game start command (step Sd2). That is, the main control unit 41 does not transmit the command No. 3 "small combination type" and the command No. 11 "winning number" themselves among the game start commands shown in FIG. 11, but transmits the commands No. 1, 2, 4 to 10, 12, and 13 to the sub-control unit 91. Hereinafter, the order of the game start commands No. 1, 2, 4 to 10, 12, and 13 will be referred to as a special order. That is, if the winning combination is a push order combination (YES in step Sd1), the main control unit 41 transmits the game start commands in a special order (step Sd2) and ends the processing.

[0165] If the winning combination is not a push order combination (NO in step Sd1), the main control unit 41 stores information about the winning combination in the commands "minor combination type" and "winning number" (step Sd3). The main control unit 41 transmits the game start command including the commands "minor combination type" and "winning number" (step Sd4). That is, the main control unit 41 transmits the commands No. 1 to 13 of the game start commands shown in FIG. 11 to the sub-control unit 91. Hereinafter, the order of No. 1 to 13 of the game start commands will be referred to as the "specific order". That is, if the winning combination is not a push order combination (NO in step Sd1), the main control unit 41 transmits the game start commands in the specific order (step Sd2) and ends the process.

[0166] In this way, when the push order role shown in Fig. 10 is won, the main control unit 41 sends the game start command in a special order that does not include the commands "minor role type" and "winning number" in the game start command. At this time, the main control unit 41 sends the game start command in a special order regardless of whether information about navigation is stored in the command "instruction number". In other words, even when a push order role that does not execute a navigation effect is won in the AT state, the main control unit 41 sends the game start command in a special order.

[0167] As a result, the main control unit 41 does not transmit the command "minor role type" and the command "winning number" that store information about the winning role in a game in which the navigation effect in the AT state is not executed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sub-control unit 91 from recognizing that the push order role has been won based on the game start command received from the main control unit 41.

[0168] In addition, the game start commands transmitted in a specific order include the command "minor winning combination type" and the command "winning number", while the game start commands transmitted in a special order do not include the command "minor winning combination type" and the command "winning number". Accordingly, the sub-control unit 91 can recognize whether or not the pressing-order combination has won based on whether or not the command "minor winning combination type" and the command "winning number" are included.

[0169] Also, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, even in the game end commands shown in FIG. 12, the order in which the commands shown in Nos. 1 to 13 are transmitted is referred to as "specific order". Hereinafter, in order to distinguish the specific order in the game start commands from the specific order in the game end commands, the specific order in the game start commands may be referred to as "first specific order", and the specific order in the game end commands may be referred to as "second specific order".

[0170] As described above, in FIG. 27, an example in which the main control unit 41 transmits the game start commands in a special order has been described. On the other hand, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, for the game end commands, the main control unit 41 transmits the commands including the command "minor winning combination type". Accordingly, when the game has already ended, the sub-control unit 91 can determine whether or not the pressing-order combination has won based on the command "minor winning combination type" included in the game end commands.

[0171] In addition, the main control unit 41 may also transmit the commands of Nos. 1, 2, 4 to 10, 12, and 13 among the game end commands in a special order for the game end commands. In this case, in order to distinguish the special order in the game start commands from the special order in the game end commands, the special order in the game start commands is referred to as "first special order", and the special order in the game end commands is referred to as "second special order".

[0172] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing the processing in the sub-control unit 91 when a game start command or a game end command is received. The sub-control unit 91 of the present embodiment changes the processing to be executed according to the order of the game start command and the game end command received from the main control unit 41. The sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not it has received a game start command or a game end command from the main control unit 41 (step Se1).

[0173] If the sub-control unit 91 has not received a game start command or a game end command from the main control unit 41 (NO in step Se1), the sub-control unit 91 repeats the processing of step Se1. If the sub-control unit 91 has received a game start command or a game end command from the main control unit 41 (YES in step Se1), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not the received command is in a specific order (step Se2). If it is not in the specific order (NO in step Se2), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not the received command is in a special order (step Se3). If it is not in the special order (NO in step Se3), the sub-control unit 91 performs error notification control (step Se4). As described above, the specific order is an order in which all of the commands No. 1 to 13 are included without omission in the game start command and the game end command. The special order is an order in which, in the game start command, the commands No. 4 and No. 11 are missing and which means that the pressing winning combination has won. That is, the specific order and the special order are predetermined orders in the slot machine 1. When the received command is neither in the specific order nor in the special order, the sub-control unit 91 can determine that an error or the like has occurred. Therefore, in step Se4, the sub-control unit 91 starts error notification. Hereinafter, an order that is neither in the specific order nor in the special order is referred to as a "special order". When the numerical information included in the command is outside the specified range, the sub-control unit 91 may determine that it is in a special order on the assumption that an error has occurred.

[0174] The sub-control unit 91 performs error notification control (step Se4) and ends the process. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing the liquid crystal display 51 in a state where error notification control is performed. Returning to step Se2, when the received command is in a specific order (YES in step Se2), the sub-control unit 91 performs control according to the received game start command or game end command (step Se5) and proceeds to step Se7. Also, in step Se3, when the received command is in a special order (YES in step Se3), the sub-control unit 91 performs control when the push order winning combination is selected (step Se6) and proceeds to step Se7. When the command received by the sub-control unit 91 is a game end command, in step Se3, the sub-control unit 91 may determine whether to perform either the control when the push order winning combination is selected (step Se6) or the error notification control (step Se4) based on both the game start command and the game end command. That is, the sub-control unit 91 may recognize that the push order winning combination is selected based on the fact that the game start command within a unit game is in a first special order and further that the game end command is also in a second special order.

[0175] In step Se7, the sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not the error notification control is being performed (step Se7). That is, it determines whether or not the state in which the error notification control was performed in step Se4 is maintained. When the error notification control is being performed (YES in step Se7), the sub-control unit 91 cancels the error notification control (step Se8) and ends the process. When the error notification control is not being performed (NO in step Se7), the sub-control unit 91 ends the process.

[0176] In this way, the main control unit 41 can transmit game start commands in a special order or a specific order, and can transmit game end commands in a specific order. When the sub-control unit 91 receives a game start command or a game end command from the main control unit 41 in a specific order, it performs control according to the received command. When the sub-control unit 91 receives a game start command from the main control unit 41 in a special order, it performs control when a push order role is won. When the sub-control unit 91 receives a game start command or a game end command from the main control unit 41 in a special order that is neither a specific order nor a special order, it performs error notification control. As a result, as shown in FIG. 28 , the sub-control unit 91 can perform different control depending on the order in which multiple commands included in the game start command or game end command are received from the main control unit 41.

[0177] FIG. 30 shows the timing at which an error notification is cancelled based on the reception of a game end command. FIG. 30 illustrates the relationship between (a) the player's operation, (b) the processing of the main control unit 41, and (c) the processing of the sub-control unit 91 at timings t1 and t2. As shown in FIG. 30, at timing t1, the player operates the start switch 7. Based on the operation of the start switch 7, the main control unit 41 transmits a game start command to the sub-control unit 91. Here, the sub-control unit 91 receives the game start command in a special order that is neither a specific order nor a special order. This causes the sub-control unit 91 to initiate an error notification. Specifically, the sub-control unit 91 displays the error occurrence screen shown in FIG. 29 on the LCD display 51. The player stops the reels according to the display shown in FIG. 29.

[0178] At timing t2, the player performs a third stop operation. Based on the third stop operation, the main control unit 41 transmits a game end command to the sub-control unit 91. At this time, the sub-control unit 91 receives the game end command in a specific order. The sub-control unit 91 cancels the error notification. This makes it possible to easily cancel minor communication errors that occur when transmitting the game start command.

[0179] In this way, when the start switch 7 is operated, the sub-control unit 91 initiates an error notification when it receives a game start command from the main control unit 41 in the special order. Furthermore, after the error notification has been initiated, the sub-control unit 91 terminates the error notification if it receives a game end command from the main control unit 41 in the second special order at the third stop. This allows the error notification to be terminated even if an error, such as a missing command, occurs in the game start command transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated during one game, and an error notification is initiated if no such error occurs at the third stop. Therefore, in the slot machine 1, minor errors, such as missing commands, can be easily resolved within one game.

[0180] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of canceling an error notification in the next game. FIG. 31 shows the relationship between (a) a player's operation, (b) the processing of the main control unit 41, and (c) the processing of the sub-control unit 91 at timings t1, t2, and t3. As shown in FIG. 31, at timing t1, the player operates the start switch 7. Based on the operation of the start switch 7, the main control unit 41 transmits a game start command to the sub-control unit 91. Here, the sub-control unit 91 receives the game start command in a special order that is neither a specific order nor a special order. This causes the sub-control unit 91 to start an error notification. That is, the sub-control unit 91 displays the error occurrence screen shown in FIG. 29 on the LCD display 51. The player stops the reels in accordance with the display of the error occurrence screen shown in FIG. 29.

[0181] At timing t2, the player performs a third stop operation. Based on the third stop operation, the main control unit 41 transmits a game end command to the sub-control unit 91. Here, the sub-control unit 91 receives the game end command in a special order different from the specific order. Therefore, the sub-control unit 91 does not cancel the error notification. At timing t2, the sub-control unit 91 may change the error occurrence screen shown in FIG. 29 to a screen displaying a message such as "Please operate the start switch." At timing t3, the player operates the start switch 7 again. Based on the operation of the start switch 7, the main control unit 41 transmits a game start command to the sub-control unit 91. At this time, the sub-control unit 91 receives the game start command in the specific order. The sub-control unit 91 cancels the error notification. This makes it easy to resolve minor communication errors that occurred at timings t1 and t2.

[0182] Thus, when the start switch 7 is operated, the sub-control unit 91 initiates an error notification when it receives a game start command from the main control unit 41 in a special order that is neither a specific order nor a special order. Furthermore, after the error notification has been initiated, the sub-control unit 91 terminates the error notification when it receives a game start command from the main control unit 41 in the first specific order when the start switch 7 is operated for the next game. As a result, even if an error notification is initiated due to an error such as a missing command in the game start command transmitted in response to the operation of the start switch 7, the error notification will terminate if there is no missing command in the game start command transmitted in response to the operation of the start switch 7 for the next game. Therefore, in the slot machine 1, minor missing commands due to static electricity or the like can be easily resolved in the next game.

[0183] Originally, the bonus lottery process was executed when the start switch 7 was operated. However, the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment determines whether to execute the bonus lottery process depending on whether the first stop operation is a normal operation or an irregular operation. If the bonus lottery process were executed when the start switch 7 was operated as in the past, the result of the bonus lottery process already executed when the start switch 7 was operated after the irregular operation would have to be discarded, making the process complicated. This is because the first stop operation, which determines whether to impose a penalty in a unit game, is executed after the start switch 7 is operated. Therefore, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the bonus lottery process itself is executed when the third stop operation is performed, which is after the first stop operation. As a result, even if an irregular operation is performed, the bonus lottery process has not yet been executed at the time of the first stop operation, so there is no need to discard the result of the executed bonus lottery process.

[0184] Fig. 32 is a diagram explaining the processing executed in the gaming state. Fig. 32 compares and explains the processing executed in the period when the "normal stage" and "continuous performance" are executed in the normal advantageous zone, the period when the "first zone stage" and "continuous performance" are executed in the first state, the period when the "second zone stage" and "continuous performance" are executed in the second state, the specialized zone stage, the second state stage in the second state, and the ending stage in the ending state.

[0185] As mentioned above, a "continuous effect" is an effect that suggests a transition in the gaming state, and is executed continuously for 3 to 5 games. The continuous effect in the normal advantageous zone is an effect that suggests whether or not there will be a transition to the first state. The continuous effect in the first state is an effect that suggests whether or not there will be a transition to the specialized zone of the first state. The continuous effect is, for example, an effect that progresses the story with each game, and notifies the final game whether or not there will be a transition in the gaming state.

[0186] In the normal stage and continuous performance of the normal advantageous zone, if the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation, the point acquisition lottery process is executed. On the other hand, in the normal stage and continuous performance of the normal advantageous zone, if the stop switch 8C or stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation, the point acquisition lottery process is not executed as a penalty. Furthermore, in states other than the normal advantageous zone, the point acquisition lottery process is not executed.

[0187] If stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation in the first section stage, second section stage, continuous performance, or specialized zone stage of the first state, the life acquisition lottery process is executed. On the other hand, if stop switch 8C or stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation in the first section stage, second section stage, continuous performance, or specialized zone stage of the first state, the life acquisition lottery process is not executed as a penalty. Furthermore, the life acquisition lottery process is not executed in states other than the first state.

[0188] If the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation in the second state stage of the second state, the one-hit win lottery process is executed. On the other hand, if the stop switch 8C or the stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation in the second state stage of the second state, the one-hit win lottery process is not executed as a penalty. Furthermore, in states other than the second state, the one-hit win lottery process is not executed.

[0189] In a state other than the ending state, if the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation, the stop effect will not be executed. On the other hand, in a state other than the ending state, even if the stop switch 8C or the stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation, the stop effect will not be executed. In all states, the number of advantageous zone coins and the role ratio information are updated for each game.

[0190] Next, we will explain the processing in the next game after the start switch 7 is pressed. If the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation in the normal stage and continuous performance of the normal advantageous zone, the point update performance will be executed in the next game. On the other hand, if the stop switch 8C or stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation in the normal stage and continuous performance of the normal advantageous zone, the point update performance will not be executed in the next game. Furthermore, in states other than the normal advantageous zone, the point update performance will not be executed.

[0191] Next, the updating of consecutive effects will be described. As described above, consecutive effects are effects that are executed consecutively for three to five games. The following describes an example in which the consecutive effects include five games. A different effect is executed in each of the five games included in the consecutive effects. For example, a first hype effect is executed in the first game, a second hype effect is executed in the second game, a third hype effect is executed in the third game, a fourth hype effect is executed in the fourth game, and a result notification effect is executed in the fifth game. Here, updating a consecutive effect means that after an effect in a consecutive effect is executed, an effect corresponding to the next game is executed. In other words, if a second hype effect is executed in a game after a first hype effect is executed in a first game, the consecutive effect has been updated. On the other hand, if a first hype effect is executed again in a game after a first hype effect is executed in a first game, the consecutive effect has not been updated.

[0192] In the continuous effects in each state, when the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation, the continuous effects are updated in the next game. That is, the continuous effects progress.

[0193] In the normal advantageous zone continuous performance, if the stop switch 8C or the stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation, the continuous performance will not be updated. For example, if the stop switch 8C is operated as the first stop operation in the second game of the continuous performance, the second exciting performance will be executed again in the next game. In other words, in the normal advantageous zone, the continuous performance will not be updated as a penalty.

[0194] In contrast, in the continuous performance in the first state, even if the stop switch 8C or the stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation, the continuous performance is updated. In other words, in the first state, which is advantageous to the player, if the continuous performance is executed again without being updated, the advantageous state for the player will continue. Therefore, even if an irregular operation is performed, the control is not disadvantageous to the player and no penalty is imposed. Therefore, in the slot machine 1, in the continuous performance in the first state, even if an irregular control is performed, the continuous performance is not updated.

[0195] The effect lottery process will be explained. The effect lottery process is a process that determines the type of effect to be executed. If the stop switch 8L is operated as the first stop operation in the normal stage of the normal advantageous zone, the first section stage of the first state, the second section stage, or the second state stage of the second state, the effect lottery process for the next game is executed. On the other hand, if the stop switch 8C or the stop switch 8R is operated as the first stop operation in the normal stage of the normal advantageous zone, the first section stage of the first state, the second section stage, or the second state stage of the second state, the effect lottery process for the next game is not executed as a penalty. In other words, the game progresses without any effect. The period during which no effect is executed is not limited to one game, but may be three games.

[0196] [Main components] The above has described the S-stand 2 according to this embodiment. The main configuration of the S-stand 2 according to this embodiment will now be described.

[0197] (1-1) It includes a plurality of variable display units (for example, reels 2L, 2C, 2R) that can variably display a plurality of types of identifiable identification information, each being identifiable. After variably displaying the variable display unit, the display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit. In a slot machine (for example, slot machine 1) where a winning can occur according to a display result combination that is a combination of the display results of the plurality of variable display units. Game control means (for example, main control unit 41) for controlling the progress of the game. Effect control means (for example, sub control unit 91) for controlling the effect. It includes a plurality of derivation operation means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) that are operated to derive the display result combination. The game control means Prior determination means (for example, internal lottery process by the main control unit 41) for determining a display result combination that allows derivation. Derivation control means (for example, reel control by the main control unit 41) for performing control to derive the display result combination according to the determination result of the prior determination means and the operation of the plurality of derivation operation means. In a normal state (for example, normal in the advantageous section), update means (for example, point giving process by the main control unit 41) for updating the value of a specific counter (for example, point counter) according to the progress of the game. Notification state control means (for example, process for controlling to the AT state by the main control unit 41) for controlling to a notification state (for example, AT state) in which the operation procedure of the plurality of derivation operation means can be notified when the value of the specific counter reaches a specific value (for example, 100, 300, 600, 1000) in the normal state. It includes transmission means (for example, game start command transmission process by the main control unit 41, game end command transmission process by the main control unit 41) for transmitting a command (for example, game start command, game end command) to the effect control means. The effect control means includes notification effect means (for example, process for executing a navigation effect by the sub control unit 91) for notifying the operation procedure in the notification state. When the determination result of the pre-determination means is any one of a plurality of types of specific determination results (for example, a push-order bell), the notification effect means notifies the operation procedure (for example, the correct procedure) corresponding to the specific determination result. When the determination result of the pre-determination means is any one of the plurality of types of specific determination results, and when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the operation procedure corresponding to the specific determination result, the derivation control means can derive a grant display result combination (for example, a symbol combination of a plum combination) in which a grant winning (for example, a plum combination) that grants a game value (for example, medals) occurs. The update means updates the value of the specific counter when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in a normal procedure (for example, a normal operation), while not updating the value of the specific counter when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in an irregular procedure (for example, an irregular operation) different from the normal procedure (for example, when NO in Sa1 of FIG. 16), that is, not executing the point acquisition lottery process of Sa3 shown in FIG. 16. The transmission means can transmit a determination result command (for example, commands "small combination type", "winning number") based on the determination result of the pre-determination means to the effect control means, and in a game where the notification effect means does not notify the operation procedure (for example, a normal section, a normal advantageous section, a game in which navigation is not executed in the AT state), when the determination result of the pre-determination means is any one of the plurality of types of specific determination results (for example, when YES in Sd1 shown in FIG. 27), the determination result command is not transmitted (for example, the game start command is transmitted in a special order excluding the commands "small combination type", "winning number" in Sd2 shown in FIG. 27).

[0198] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 16, when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated normally, the value of the point counter for controlling the AT state is updated, but when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated irregularly, a penalty can be imposed in which the value of the point counter is not updated, so that the player can be encouraged to operate the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R normally. Furthermore, since the commands "small role type" and "winning number" are not sent from the main control unit 41 to the sub-control unit 91, it is possible to prevent the sub-control unit 91 from recognizing that one of the push order roles has been won based on the game start command received from the main control unit 41.

[0199] (1-2) The presentation control means further includes an update presentation means (for example, a process of executing the point update presentation shown in FIG. 15 by the sub-control unit 91) that executes an update presentation (for example, a point update presentation shown in FIG. 15) indicating that the value of the specific counter has been updated when a game is started (for example, at the time of a start operation), The update effect means indicates, through the update effect, that the value of the specific counter was updated in the game prior to the game in which the update effect is executed (for example, a process in which the sub-control unit 91 executes a point update effect at timing t7 for points acquired at timing t4 shown in Figure 18).

[0200] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, it is possible to suggest to the player, by means of a point update effect at the start of the next game, that the point counter was updated in the previous game. When an irregular operation is performed in the previous game, the point counter is not updated, and the point update effect is not executed in the next game either. Therefore, the presence or absence of point counter update and the presence or absence of point update effect execution can be made consistent. Also, in a slot machine, generally, the point update effect is often executed at the timing when the start switch 7 is operated. Therefore, for the player, it is natural that the point update effect is executed at the timing when the start switch 7 is operated, and there is no sense of incongruity. Therefore, it is desirable that the point update effect is executed at the timing when the start switch 7 is operated.

[0201] (1-3) The update means updates the specific counter using a value larger than that used in a game where the advantageous update condition is not satisfied (for example, a game in which a strong cherry or watermelon is won) in a game where the advantageous update condition is satisfied (for example, the point acquisition lottery shown in FIG. 17). The effect control means further includes an advantageous update suggestion effect means for executing an advantageous update suggestion effect for suggesting that the advantageous update condition has been satisfied (for example, a process for executing the point suggestion effect shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 by the sub-control unit 91). After executing the advantageous update suggestion effect at the start of the game where the advantageous update condition is satisfied, the advantageous update suggestion effect means terminates the execution of the advantageous update suggestion effect when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the irregular procedure in the game (for example, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the sub-control unit 91 executes a cancellation effect).

[0202] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, at the start of the game in which the rare role is elected, even though a point suggestion effect suggesting that the point counter is updated using a value larger than that in the game in which the rare role is not elected is executed, thereafter, even if the value of the point counter is not updated due to an irregular operation, the execution of the point suggestion effect ends. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a player who has performed an irregular operation from misunderstanding that the point counter is updated using a large value.

[0203] (1-4) The updating means performs first update control for updating the specific counter so that the expected value of the value used for updating becomes a first value (for example, about 25 points) when the determination result of the advance determination means becomes a first determination result (for example, watermelon winning) (for example, the process when flag category FC4 in the point acquisition lottery shown in FIG. 17 by the main control unit 41 wins), performs second update control for updating the specific counter so that the expected value of the value used for updating becomes a second value (for example, about 90 points) when the determination result of the advance determination means becomes a second determination result (for example, strong cherry winning) (for example, the process when flag category FC6 in the point acquisition lottery shown in FIG. 17 by the main control unit 41 wins), when the determination result of the advance determination means is the first determination result and when it is the second determination result, when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the irregular procedure (for example, NO in Sa1 of FIG. 16), the value of the specific counter is not updated (for example, the point acquisition lottery process of Sa3 shown in FIG. 16 is not executed).

[0204] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, regardless of the role elected in the internal lottery process, the player can be prompted to perform normal operations.

[0205] (1-5) The advantageous update suggestion effect means When the determination result of the pre-determination means becomes the first determination result, a first update suggestion effect is executed as the advantageous update suggestion effect (for example, the sub-control unit 91 executes the point suggestion effect at the time of winning a strong cherry shown in FIG. 20), When the determination result of the pre-determination means becomes the second determination result, a second update suggestion effect is executed as the advantageous update suggestion effect (for example, the sub-control unit 91 executes the point suggestion effect at the time of winning a watermelon shown in FIG. 21), When any of the first update suggestion effect and the second update suggestion effect is being executed and the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the irregular procedure, the advantageous update suggestion effect is terminated (for example, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the sub-control unit 91 executes a cancellation process).

[0206] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, regardless of the winning combination in the internal lottery process, the player can be prompted to operate normally.

[0207] (2-1) A slot machine (for example, slot machine 1) including a plurality of variable display units (for example, reels 2L, 2C, 2R) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be individually identified, After variably displaying the variable display unit, the display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit, and a prize can occur according to the display result combination that is a combination of the display results of the plurality of variable display units, A game control means (for example, main control unit 41) for controlling the progress of the game, An effect control means (for example, sub-control unit 91) for controlling the effect, A plurality of derivation operation means (for example, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R) operated to derive the display result combination, The game control means includes A pre-determination means (for example, internal lottery process by the main control unit 41) for determining a display result combination that allows derivation, a derivation control means (for example, reel control by the main control unit 41) that performs control to derive a display result combination in accordance with the determination result of the advance determination means and the operation of the plurality of derivation operation means; a notification state control means (for example, a process of controlling to the AT state by the main control unit 41) that controls the operation procedures of the plurality of derivation operation means to a notification state (for example, an AT state) that can be notified; a transmission means (for example, a game start command transmission process and a game end command transmission process by the main control unit 41) for transmitting commands (for example, a game start command and a game end command) to the performance control means, The presentation control means includes a notification presentation means (for example, a process of executing a navigation presentation by a sub-control unit 91) that notifies the user of the operation procedure in the notification state, The game in the notification state (for example, a game in the first section in the first state) includes a notification game in which the operation procedure is notified (for example, a game in which a navigation effect is executed) and a non-notification game in which the operation procedure is not notified (for example, a game in which a navigation effect is not executed), The derivation control means is capable of deriving a combination of award display results (for example, a symbol combination of a plum role) that will result in a winning award (for example, a plum role) that will award a gaming value (for example, a medal) when the determination result of the advance determination means is one of the plurality of types of specific determination results (for example, a push order bell), and when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the operation procedure (for example, a correct procedure) that corresponds to the specific determination result, In the non-notification game, when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in a normal procedure (for example, a normal operation), the game control means performs normal control (for example, the processes of Sb6 to Sb8 which execute a life acquisition lottery process or the processes of Sb9 to Sb11 which execute a one-hit win lottery process shown in FIG. 23), while when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in an irregular procedure (for example, an irregular operation) different from the normal procedure, the game control means performs irregular control which is less favorable than the normal control (for example, the process of Sb4 which does not execute the life acquisition lottery process or the one-hit win lottery process shown in FIG. 23), The transmitting means can transmit a determination result command (for example, commands "minor winning category", "winning number") based on the determination result of the pre-determination means to the effect control means, and in a game where the notification effect means does not notify the operation procedure (for example, a game in which the navigation effect is not executed in the AT state), when the determination result of the pre-determination means is any of the plurality of specific determination results, the determination result command is not transmitted (for example, at Sd2 shown in FIG. 27, the game start command is transmitted in a special order that does not include the commands "minor winning category" and "winning number").

[0208] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23, in a game where the navigation effect is not executed in the AT state, when normally operated, a life acquisition lottery process and a one-hit victory lottery process are executed, while when an irregular operation different from the normal operation is performed, a penalty of not executing the life acquisition lottery process and the one-hit victory lottery process can be given, so that the player can be prompted to operate normally. Further, in a game where the navigation effect is not executed, since the commands "minor winning category" and "winning number" are not transmitted from the main control unit 41 to the sub-control unit 91, it is possible to prevent the sub-control unit 91 from recognizing that the pressing winning combination has won based on the game start command received from the main control unit 41.

[0209] (2-2) The notification state includes a normal notification state (for example, the first state) and a specific notification state (for example, the second state), when the notification effect means is in the specific notification state, it notifies the operation procedure with a probability higher than the probability of notifying the operation procedure in the normal notification state, when the plurality of derived operation means are operated in the irregular procedure (for example, in the case of NO at Sb3 in FIG. 23) in the non-notification game in the normal notification state, the game control means performs the irregular control that is more disadvantageous than when the plurality of derived operation means are operated in the normal procedure (for example, in the first state, the life acquisition lottery process shown in Sb5 of FIG. 23 is not executed).

[0210] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23, in the first state, the player can be prompted to perform normal operations. Also, the normal notification state may be set as the first section of the first state, and the specific notification state may be set as the second section of the first state. Further, the normal notification state may be set as the first state, and the specific notification state may be set as the ending state.

[0211] (2-3) The game control means further includes value counting means for counting the accumulation of game values given based on the occurrence of a winning (for example, the process of counting the number of advantageous intervals by the main control unit 41), The notification state further includes a special notification state (for example, an ending state), The notification state control means can control to the special notification state until a specific condition is satisfied (for example, the limiter condition is satisfied) in the notification state, In the non-notification game in the special notification state, the game control means performs common control when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the normal procedure and when they are operated in the irregular procedure (for example, in the case of the ending state shown in FIG. 23, regardless of whether it is a normal operation or an irregular operation, common control is performed to skip the processes of Sb2 to Sb11 in FIG. 23).

[0212] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23, in the special notification state (for example, the ending state), even if an irregular operation is performed in the non-notification game, common control is performed as when a normal operation is performed, so the interest of the game can be improved.

[0213] (2-4) The notification state control means, in the notification state, performs first extension control to extend the notification state when the determination result of the pre-determination means becomes the first determination result (for example, winning a watermelon) (for example, obtaining a life based on winning FC4 in the life acquisition lottery in FIG. 22), Control for extending the notification state when the determination result of the pre-determined means is the second determination result (for example, winning a strong cherry) in the notification state, and performing second extension control that is more advantageous than the first extension control (for example, winning FC6 in the life acquisition lottery in FIG. 22 based on life acquisition), When the determination result of the pre-determined means is either the first determination result or the second determination result, and the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the irregular procedure (for example, in the case of NO in Sb3 of FIG. 23), neither the first extension control nor the second extension control is performed (for example, in the first state, the life acquisition lottery process of Sb6 shown in FIG. 23 is not executed).

[0214] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, it is possible to prompt the player to perform normal operations. Also, the second extension control may be a life acquisition lottery executed in the specialization zone.

[0215] (2-5) The effect control means In the notification state, when the determination result of the pre-determined means is the first determination result, execute a first effect (for example, when winning a watermelon, execute the life grant suggestion effect shown in FIG. 24), In the notification state, when the determination result of the pre-determined means is the second determination result, execute a second effect (for example, when winning a strong cherry, execute the life grant suggestion effect shown in FIG. 25), When the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the irregular procedure (for example, in the case of NO in Sb3 of FIG. 23) while either the first effect or the second effect is being executed, execute a cancellation effect (for example, execute the cancellation effect shown in FIGS. 24 and 25).

[0216] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, it is possible to prompt the player to perform normal operations. Also, the pause effect executed in the first effect and the pause effect executed in the second effect may be pause effects with different modes. For example, in the pause effect executed in the first effect, the life-giving suggestion effect is paused without performing a fade-out effect, while in the pause effect executed in the second effect, a fade-out effect may be performed and the life-giving suggestion effect may be paused.

[0217] (2-6) The game control means further includes value counting means for counting the accumulation of game values granted based on the occurrence of a winning (for example, the process of counting the number of advantageous intervals by the main control unit 41). The notification state control means terminates the notification state (for example, the ending state) according to the accumulation of game values counted by the value counting means. The value counting means counts the game value when the game value is granted based on the occurrence of a winning regardless of whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the normal procedure or the irregular procedure (for example, the limiter update shown in FIGS. 18 and 19). Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, not only when performing normal operations but also when performing irregular operations, the accumulation of the number of medals is counted, thus preventing the distinction of whether it is advantageous according to the operation mode and preventing it from becoming overly advantageous due to an irregular operation.

[0218] (2-7) The game control means further includes display means for performing a display based on the accumulation of game values counted by the game control means (for example, a winning ratio monitor). The value counting means counts the game value when the game value is granted based on the occurrence of a winning regardless of whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the normal procedure or the irregular procedure (for example, the winning ratio information update shown in FIGS. 18 and 19).

[0219] Specifically, as shown in Figures 18 and 19, the cumulative number of medals paid out is counted and the cumulative result is displayed not only in the case of normal operation but also in the case of irregular operation, so that the payout history of the number of medals paid out in the slot machine 1 can be properly shown to the outside.

[0220] (2-8) The transmitting means is capable of transmitting a procedure command capable of identifying the operation procedure to the performance control means (for example, transmitting a game start command and a game end command in a specific order by the main control unit 41), The presentation control means, when receiving the procedure command, notifies the operation procedure that can be identified based on the procedure command (for example, executes a navigation presentation), regardless of whether it has identified the determination result of the advance determination means to be the specific determination result based on the determination result command received from the transmission means (for example, regardless of whether the push order bell has been won in the internal lottery processing).

[0221] Specifically, as shown in Figure 26, when a game start command is received, regardless of the winning role in the internal lottery process, the sub-control unit 91 executes a navigation effect, so that the player can be properly informed of the order in which to press the buttons.

[0222] (2-9) The transmitting means can transmit a game state command that can identify the state being controlled to the performance control means (for example, transmitting a game start command and a game end command in a specific order by the main control unit 41), The presentation control means, when receiving the procedure command, announces the operation procedure that can be identified based on the procedure command (for example, executes a navigation presentation), regardless of whether the state being controlled based on the game state command received from the transmission means is the notification state (for example, regardless of the game state).

[0223] Specifically, as shown in Figure 26, regardless of the game status, when a game start command is received, the sub-control unit 91 executes a navigation effect, so that the player can be properly notified of the order in which to press buttons.

[0224] (2-10) The transmitting means is capable of transmitting the determination result command based on the determination result of the advance determination means to the presentation control means, and in a game in which the notification presentation means does not notify the operation procedure (for example, a game in which a navigation presentation is not executed in AT state), when the determination result of the advance determination means becomes one of the plurality of specific determination results (for example, when the push order bell is won), the transmitting means does not transmit the determination result command (for example, the command at the start of the game does not include the commands “minor role type” and “winning number”).

[0225] Specifically, as shown in Figure 27, in a game in which the navigation effect is not executed in the AT state, even if the push order bell is won in the internal lottery process, the commands "minor role type" and "winning number" based on the winning role are not sent from the main control unit 41 to the sub-control unit 91, so it is possible to prevent the sub-control unit 91 from recognizing that the push order bell has been won based on the game start command received from the main control unit 41.

[0226] (2-11) The transmission means is capable of transmitting a plurality of commands to the performance control means in a predetermined order; The performance control means When the plurality of commands are received from the transmitting means in a specific order (for example, when Se2 in FIG. 28 is YES), a first control is performed (for example, the processing of step Se5 by the sub-control unit 91 shown in FIG. 28), When the plurality of commands are received from the transmitting means in a special order (for example, when Se3 in FIG. 28 is YES), a second control is performed (for example, the processing of step Se6 by the sub-control unit 91 shown in FIG. 28), When the multiple commands are received from the transmitting means in an order that is neither the specific order nor the special order (for example, when Se3 in Figure 28 is NO), a third control is performed (for example, processing of step Se4 by the sub-control unit 91 shown in Figure 28).

[0227] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 28, the sub-control unit 91 can perform different controls according to the order of commands when receiving a game start command or a game end command from the main control unit 41.

[0228] (2-12) The transmission means is In a first opportunity (for example, when the start switch 7 is operated) in one unit game, the plurality of commands can be transmitted to the effect control means in a first specific order (for example, the main control unit 41 transmits a game start command in the first specific order), In a second opportunity (for example, at the third stop) after the first opportunity in the one unit game, the plurality of commands can be transmitted to the effect control means in a second specific order (for example, the main control unit 41 transmits a game end command in the second specific order), The effect control means is In the first opportunity, when receiving the plurality of commands from the transmission means in an order different from the first specific order, a special notification (for example, an error notification by the sub-control unit 91 shown at timing t1 in FIG. 30) can be started, After the special notification is started, in the second opportunity, when receiving the plurality of commands from the transmission means in the second specific order, the special notification is terminated (for example, the end of the error notification by the sub-control unit 91 shown at timing t2 in FIG. 30).

[0229] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 30, even if an error notification is started due to a command omission that occurred when the start switch 7 was operated within a unit game, if there is no command omission at the subsequent third stop, the error notification ends. Therefore, minor command omissions can be easily resolved within a unit game.

[0230] (2-13) The effect control means is At the first trigger in one game, when the plurality of commands are received from the transmitting means in an order that is neither the specific order nor the special order (for example, a special order), the special notification (for example, an error notification by the sub-control unit 91 shown at timing t1 in FIG. 31) is started as the third control, After the special notification is initiated, the special notification is terminated when the multiple commands are received from the transmitting means in the first specific order at the first trigger in the next game of the one game (for example, termination of the error notification by the sub-control unit 91 shown at timing t3 in Figure 31).

[0231] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 31, even if an error notification is initiated due to a missing command that occurs when the start switch 7 is operated in one game, if there is no missing command when the start switch 7 is operated in the next game, the error notification will end, and therefore, any minor missing command that occurred in one game can be easily resolved in the next game.

[0232] (2-14) The plurality of commands transmitted in the specific order (for example, a command at the start of a game in a specific order and a command at the end of a game in a specific order) include the determination result command (for example, the command “minor role type” or “winning number”), The plurality of commands transmitted in the special order (for example, a command at the start of a game in a special order) do not include the determination result command (for example, the command "type of small winning combination" or "winning number").

[0233] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 27, the sub-control unit 91 can recognize whether the push order role has been won or not by whether the commands "small role type" and "winning number" are included or not.

[0234] [Variations] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. Modifications of the above-described embodiment that can be applied to the present invention will be described below.

[0235] [Regarding error notification by sub-control unit 91] As described above, the sub-control unit 91 performs error notification control when the game start command and the game end command are in a special order.

[0236] In the slot machine 1 in the modification example, in order to perform error notification control, only the order of the game start command is focused on. That is, even if the game end command is in a special order, the sub-control unit 91 does not perform error notification control. Thereby, the sub-control unit 91 only needs to determine only the order of only the game start command, so that it is possible to prevent the processing from becoming complicated.

[0237] [Regarding the specialization zone] In the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, a specialization zone is provided in the first state.

[0238] In the slot machine 1 in the modification example, the specialization zone is provided in the second state. In the specialization zone in the second state, for example, a one-shot victory can be stocked with a high probability. That is, the number of one-shot victories stocked as stock determines the victory in the second state. That is, if two one-shot victories can be stocked in the specialization zone in the second state, the main control unit 41 determines a one-shot victory in the second state when entering the specialization zone. Further, in the next second state, it is also certain to win with one shot. Thereby, the interest of the game in the second state is improved.

[0239] [Regarding the frequency of navigation in the AT state] In the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, in the AT state, the frequency of executing the navigation effect is higher in the second section of the first state, the second state, and the ending state than in the first section of the first state.

[0240] In the slot machine 1 in the modification example, in at least one of the second section of the first state, the second state, and the ending state, a guidance effect is executed in all the games in which the winning combination for pushing order is won. That is, the main control unit 41 controls to a so-called full guidance state. As a result, in the AT state, the interest in the second section of the first state, the second state, and the ending state is further improved.

[0241] [Regarding the point acquisition lottery] In the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, an example of executing a point acquisition lottery process according to a flag category has been described.

[0242] In the slot machine 1 in the modification example, regardless of the flag category, the points may be uniformly updated as the game progresses. Or, even if the winning combination is a miss, it is uniformly updated, while when a rare winning combination or the like is won, the points may be updated with a value larger than the value updated when it is a miss, according to the flag category.

[0243] Also, in the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18 and the like, an example of executing a point acquisition lottery process when the third stop operation is performed has been described. In the slot machine 1 in the modification example, the main control unit 41 may execute a point acquisition lottery process when the first stop operation or the second stop operation is performed.

[0244] [Regarding the life acquisition lottery] In the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 23 and the like, an example of executing a life acquisition lottery process when the third stop operation is performed has been described. In the slot machine 1 in the modification example, the main control unit 41 may execute a life acquisition lottery process when the first stop operation or the second stop operation is performed.

[0245] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described above with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and it goes without saying that modifications and additions that do not deviate from the spirit of the present invention are also included in the present invention.

[0246] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0247] 1 slot machine, 2L, 2C, 2R reels, 7 start switch, 8L, 8C, 8R stop switches, 51 liquid crystal display, 41 main control unit, 91 sub control unit.

Claims

【Claim 1】 A slot machine comprising a plurality of variable display units capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that are each distinguishable, after variably displaying the variable display units, the display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display units, and in a slot machine in which a winning can occur according to a display result combination that is a combination of the display results of the plurality of variable display units, game control means for controlling the progress of the game, effect control means for controlling the effects, a plurality of derivation operation means that are operated to derive a display result combination, and comprising: the game control means includes: prior determination means for determining a display result combination that allows derivation; derivation control means for performing control to derive a display result combination according to the determination result of the prior determination means and the operations of the plurality of derivation operation means; notification state control means for controlling to a notification state in which the operation procedure of the plurality of derivation operation means can be notified; the effect control means includes notification effect means for notifying the operation procedure in the notification state; the game in the notification state includes a notification game in which the operation procedure is notified and a non-notification game in which the operation procedure is not notified; the derivation control means can derive a grant display result combination in which a grant winning that confers a game value occurs when the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the operation procedure corresponding to the specific determination result when the determination result of the prior determination means becomes any one of a plurality of types of specific determination results; the notification state further includes a normal notification state and a special notification state; the notification state control means can control to the special notification state until a specific condition is satisfied in the notification state; the game control means includes: capable of executing a privilege determination process for determining a privilege to be given to a player; in the normal notification state, after the display results of the plurality of variable display units are derived, it is determined whether the game is either the notification game or the non-notification game; when it is the notification game, a privilege grant determination process is executed without determining whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to a normal procedure or an irregular procedure different from the normal procedure in the game; when it is the non-notification game, it is determined whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated according to the normal procedure or the irregular procedure in the game, and when operated according to the normal procedure, the privilege grant determination process is executed, and when operated according to the irregular procedure, the privilege grant determination process is not executed. Before the first determination as to whether the game is any of the notification games and the non-notification games and as to whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in either a normal procedure or an irregular procedure different from the normal procedure in the game, a second determination as to whether it is in the special notification state is made. When it is in the special notification state, the first determination and the privilege granting determination process are not executed. The game control means further includes a value counting means for cumulatively counting game values, and an information output means for outputting information based on the counting result of the value counting means. The value counting means is a slot machine that counts game values when game values are granted based on the occurrence of a winning, regardless of whether the plurality of derivation operation means are operated in the normal procedure or the irregular procedure.

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