Slot machines

Abstract

To provide an AT machine of a partially secret type capable of inhibiting a player's stress from building up as compared with a conventional machine even when the player continues failure to win a maximum dividend small combination in a game in which only part of information required for the maximum dividend small combination to be won is given and the remainder is kept secret.SOLUTION: In a game in which any of pressing order bells G1-G12 is won. there is a low net increase AT section in which of correct operation orders, only a first stop reel is indicated, and a second stop reel and a third stop reel are kept secret, and a high net increase AT section in which all of the correct operation orders are indicated. The low net increase AT section is configured so that a small combination with a dividend of three tokens is won if only the first stop reel is as indicated, even if an alternative option of the second stop is failed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a slot machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, slot machines have been known that perform an internal lottery to determine a winning combination in response to a game start operation, start the rotation of multiple reels, and stop the corresponding reels in response to a reel stop operation. If the winning combination is achieved as a result of stopping all the reels, medals are paid out as a payout for the winning combination.

[0003] Many conventional slot machines are equipped with an instruction function that, in a game in which a so-called push order minor role is won as a result of an internal lottery, displays information to assist in winning the minor role with the largest payout (hereinafter referred to as the maximum payout minor role) among the winning roles before the reel stopping operation. Generally, the game period during which the instruction function operates is called AT (Assist Time), and slot machines equipped with this instruction function are called AT machines.

[0004] In recent years, variable net increase type AT machines have become known, which vary the expected number of medals increased per game during the AT (hereinafter referred to as net increase) by appropriately changing the probability of activation of the instruction function in a game in which the push order minor role is won (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0005] Also known are AT machines that, in a game where a push-order minor feature is won, vary the net increase by changing the disclosure scope of information necessary to win the maximum payout minor feature. Hereinafter, this function will be referred to as the partial concealment function. Specifically, in a three-reel AT machine equipped with the partial concealment function, in a game where a push-order minor feature is won, the stopping order of all three reels can be specified, or only the reel that should be stopped first can be specified, with the stopping order of subsequent reels kept secret. If only the reel that should be stopped first is specified, the player must correctly select one of two possible stopping orders for the remaining two reels to win the maximum payout minor feature. Therefore, the probability of winning the maximum payout minor feature can be 100% in a game where all information is specified, and 50% in a game where only some information is concealed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-10540 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Incidentally, in an AT machine equipped with a partial concealment function, in a game in which some of the information necessary to win the maximum payout minor role is concealed, in order to win the maximum payout minor role, the player must rely on their own intuition to hit the correct operation that is concealed without being instructed. Because some of the correct operation is instructed, the probability of winning the maximum payout minor role is improved compared to a game in which the instruction function is not activated, but whether or not the maximum payout minor role is won is ultimately up to the player's intuition. For this reason, when a player experiences a so-called downswing in which they continue to miss out on winning the maximum payout minor role, they become fed up with their own poor intuition, and there is a problem in that they accumulate stress about their own pathetic state of not being able to take advantage of the opportunity, even though they are more advantageous than in a game in which the instruction function is not activated.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a partially concealed type AT machine in which only part of the information necessary to win the maximum payout minor role is indicated and the rest is concealed, and even if a player continues to miss the win of the maximum payout minor role, the accumulation of stress can be suppressed more than before. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention will be described below. In order to facilitate understanding of the invention, reference numerals in the accompanying drawings are given in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to the form of the drawings. The slot machine (1) of the present invention comprises: a lottery means for drawing a winning combination that allows a win from a plurality of combinations in response to a game start operation; reel start means for starting rotation of three or more reels (R1, R2, R3) each having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on its outer periphery in response to the game start operation; After all the reels (R1, R2, R3) start to rotate, the reel control means controls the reel (R1, R2, R3) corresponding to the stop operation to stop within a predetermined maximum retraction range based on the result of the lottery by the lottery means and the stop operation for each reel (R1, R2, R3). The results of the lottery by the lottery means include multiple types of minor roles with different payouts being determined as the winning roles, and multiple types of instruction target winning patterns (push order bell G1 to G12 / push order bell M1 to M24) in which the combinations of the multiple types of minor roles determined as the winning roles are different from each other.

[0010] In the slot machine (1) of the first invention, the reel control means, in a game (hereinafter referred to as an instruction target game) in which the result of the lottery by the lottery means is one of the plurality of types of instruction target winning patterns (push order bell G1 to G12), Only when the stop operation sequence for the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) matches the correct operation sequence determined according to the type of the winning instruction target winning mode (push order bell G1 to G12), the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) are stopped so that the maximum payout minor role with the largest payout among the winning roles is won; If only the reel that was stopped first (hereinafter referred to as the first stopped reel) matches the correct operation sequence, and the subsequent stop operation sequence does not match the correct operation sequence, the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) are stopped so that a small combination with a payout smaller than the maximum payout small combination is awarded among the winning combinations. If the first stopped reel does not match the correct operation order, the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) are stopped so that a small combination with a payout smaller than the maximum payout small combination is won, or no small combination is won. an instruction means for notifying information relating to the correct operation sequence in the instruction target game; A first AT period (high pure increase AT section) in which all of the correct operation sequences are notified by the instruction means; The device is characterized by having a second AT section (low pure increase AT section) in which the indication means notifies only the reel that should be stopped first based on the correct operation sequence, and the subsequent stop operation sequence is kept secret.

[0011] In the slot machine of the second invention, the reel control means, in a game (hereinafter referred to as an instruction target game) in which the result of the lottery by the lottery means is one of the plurality of types of instruction target winning modes (push order bells M1 to M24), Only when the stop operation sequence for the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) matches the correct operation sequence determined according to the type of the winning instruction target mode that has been won and the first stop operation is performed at a specific timing, the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) are stopped so as to win a maximum payout minor combination with the maximum payout among the winning combinations; If the stop operation sequence for the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) matches the correct operation sequence, but the first stop operation does not match the specific timing, the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) are stopped so as to win a small combination with a payout smaller than the maximum payout small combination among the winning combinations; If the first stopped reel does not match the correct operation order, the plurality of reels (R1, R2, R3) are stopped so that a small combination with a payout smaller than the maximum payout small combination is won, or no small combination is won. an instruction means for notifying information relating to the correct operation sequence and the specific timing in the instruction target game; A first AT period (high pure increase AT section) in which both the correct operation sequence and the specific timing are notified by the instruction means; The present invention is characterized by comprising a second AT section (low pure increase AT section) in which only the correct operation sequence is notified by the instruction means and the specific timing is kept secret. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the slot machine of the present invention, in a game in which only part of the information necessary to win the maximum payout minor role is indicated and the rest is kept secret, it is possible to provide a partially concealed type AT machine which can suppress the accumulation of stress more than before even if the player keeps missing out on winning the maximum payout minor role. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a slot machine 1. [Figure 2] 1 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the game ball etc. lending device 5 of the slot machine 1. FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the slot machine 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram showing a state in which a slot machine 1 is installed in a pachinko parlor 301 and connected to an external device. [Figure 5]1 is a diagram for explaining symbol stop positions and pay lines of the slot machine 1. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of various processes from the start to the end of one game in the slot machine 1. [Figure 7] 1 is a transition diagram of a game zone related to an instruction function in the slot machine 1. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram showing the arrangement of symbols on the left reel, center reel, and right reel of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the correspondence between the stop operation order and the payout in the winning game of the push order bells G1 to G12 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G1 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G2 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G3 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G4 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G5 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G6 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G7 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G8 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 18] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G9 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G10 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G11 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 21]A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell G12 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 22] 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of symbols on the left reel, center reel, and right reel of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the correspondence between the timing and order of stop operations for the first stop reel and the payout in a winning game of push order bells M1 to M12 in the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the correspondence between the timing and order of stop operations for the first stop reel and the payout in the push order bell M13 to M24 winning game of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 25] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M1 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 26] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M2 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 27] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M3 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 28] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M4 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 29] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M5 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 30] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M6 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 31] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M7 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 32] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M8 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 33] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M9 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 34] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M10 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 35] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M11 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 36]A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M12 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 37] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M13 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 38] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M14 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 39] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M15 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 40] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M16 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 41] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M17 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 42] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M18 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 43] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M19 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 44] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M20 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 45] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M21 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 46] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M22 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 47] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M23 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 48] A diagram showing the configuration of the push order bell M24 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] <1. Definition of Terms> The terms used in this specification are explained below.

[0015] "Gaming media" refers to the electromagnetic medals or gaming balls used in gaming machines. Information indicating the number of gaming media stored electrically or magnetically in a gaming machine is called "credits," and this number is called the "number of credits."

[0016] A "bet" refers to placing a bet on gaming media to start a game. The bet gaming media are consumed when the game begins. The number of gaming media bet to start a game is called the "number of bets." A "bet button" refers to a device that a player operates to place a bet.

[0017] A "game" refers to the entire process from operating the start lever, through the rotation and stopping of the reels, to the completion of processing based on the result of the winning determination. "One game" or "one game" refers to one of the entire process. Also, "game" may be written instead of "game."

[0018] The "win line" refers to a combination of predetermined symbol positions that is the target of determining whether a winning combination will occur. The determination of whether a winning combination will occur changes from an invalid state to a valid state depending on the bet.

[0019] A "win" refers to a combination of symbols corresponding to a winning combination being stopped and displayed on a valid winning line. Hereinafter, a valid winning line will be referred to as an active line. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0020] <2. Appearance of the gaming machine> 1 is a perspective view of a slot machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The slot machine 1 is a so-called smart pachislot (hereinafter referred to as "Sma-Slo") that does not use medals as game medals, but lends or wins game medals, or uses game medals for play only by electromagnetic means.

[0021] The slot machine 1 comprises a box-shaped main body 2 with an open front and a front door 3 that can be opened and closed on the front of the main body 2. Inside the main body 2, a left reel R1, a center reel R2, and a right reel R3 are arranged side by side at a position slightly above the vertical center. The left reel R1, the center reel R2, and the right reel R3 have a reel band wound around the periphery of a drum-shaped reel frame, and are rotatable around an axis extending left and right at the center of the reel frame. Twenty symbols are arranged circumferentially on the reel band.

[0022] The front door 3 is provided with an operation panel 4, a display panel unit 9, and a liquid crystal display 16. The display panel unit 9 is provided in a position facing the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3. A reel window 8 is provided in the center of the display panel unit 9 to make part of the circumferential surfaces of the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 visible. While the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 are spinning, the symbols of the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 appear one after another in the reel window 8 (variable symbol display). When the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 stop, three symbols each of the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 are displayed in the reel window 8, for a total of nine symbols (stop symbol display).

[0023] A winning number display 10 is disposed below the reel window 8. The winning number display 10 is made up of a three-digit seven-segment display with dots.

[0024] An operation unit 4 is provided on the front door 3 below the display panel unit 9. The operation unit 4 is provided with a game medal count display device 5, a 1-coin bet button 7, a MAX bet button 11, a start lever 12, a left stop button 15L, a center stop button 15C, a right stop button 15R, and a settlement button 17.

[0025] In addition, in the center of the operation unit 4, an effect button PB and a cross key JK are arranged, which are prompted to be operated when a player intervention type effect is executed on the liquid crystal display 16.

[0026] Furthermore, on the front door 3, below the operation unit 4, there are arranged a display panel 14 that displays the model name of the slot machine 1, a pair of speakers 6L, 6R that output sound effects to liven up the atmosphere during play, and a tray 13.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 2, the game medal count display device 5 includes a credit count display 5a that displays the current number of credits in the slot machine 1, and a counting button 5b that is operated when returning credits to a dedicated unit 60 described later.

[0028] Returning to FIG. 1, the MAX BET button 11 is a button that is operated to set the number of bets to the maximum of three by deducting medals from the credits.

[0029] The 1 coin bet button 7 is a button that is operated to add 1 to the number of bets by deducting medals from the credits.

[0030] The start lever 12 is a lever that is operated to start a game. After the number of medals required to play one game (hereinafter referred to as the specified number) is bet, when the start lever 12 is operated, the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 start to spin.

[0031] The left stop button 15L is a button operated to stop the left reel R1, the center stop button 15C is a button operated to stop the center reel R2, and the right stop button 15R is a button operated to stop the right reel R3. For example, if the left stop button 15L is pressed while the left reel R1 is spinning, the left reel R1 will stop spinning.

[0032] The medal number display 10 displays the number of medals acquired by winning.

[0033] The settlement button 17 is a button that is operated to return the number of medals bet by operating the MAX BET button 11 and the 1 BET button 7 to credits, and when the settlement button 17 is operated with medals bet, the number of bets at the time of operation is added to the credits and the number of bets becomes zero.

[0034] Above the display panel unit 9, a liquid crystal display 16 is arranged for displaying effect images and the like in accordance with the progress of the game.

[0035] Around the liquid crystal display 16, decorative lamps 18L, 18C, and 18R are provided to enhance the atmosphere during the game by emitting light.

[0036] <3. Electrical configuration of gaming machine> <3-1. Electrical configuration of gaming machine (main control device)> FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the slot machine 1.

[0037] The slot machine 1 includes a main control device 100 that controls the game, and a sub-control device 101 that controls the effects associated with the game.

[0038] The main control device 100 comprises a main control unit 100a and a payout control unit 100b, each of which is configured with a single-chip microcomputer. The payout control unit 100b is dedicated to credit-related processing, while the main control unit 100a is responsible for overall game control except for credit-related processing.

[0039] The input / output ports of the main control unit 100a are connected to the MAX bet button 11, 1 coin bet button 7, start lever 12, left stop button 15L, middle stop button 15C, right stop button 15R, settlement button 17, number of coins won display 10, left reel sensor 54L, middle reel sensor 54C, right reel sensor 54R, left reel motor 51L, middle reel motor 51C, right reel motor 51R, setting change switch 20, setting change button 21, payout control unit 100b, and sub-control unit 101.

[0040] When any of the MAX BET button 11, 1 BET button 7, start lever 12, left stop button 15L, middle stop button 15C, right stop button 15R, and settlement button 17 is operated, an operation signal is output from the switch (not shown) built into each button, and the operation signal is input to the main control unit 100a.

[0041] When the start lever 12 is operated, the main control unit 100a outputs drive pulse signals to the left reel motor 51L, center reel motor 51C, and right reel motor 51R, causing the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 to start rotating. Each time the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 rotate once, detection signals are output from the left reel sensor 54L, center reel sensor 54C, and right reel sensor 54R, respectively, and these detection signals are input to the main control unit 100a. The main control unit 100a constantly monitors the rotation positions of the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 based on the reel drive control details of the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3, and the detection signals from the left reel sensor 54L, center reel sensor 54C, and right reel sensor 54R.

[0042] Thereafter, when any of the left stop button 15L, middle stop button 15C, and right stop button 15R is pressed, the main control unit 100a determines the stop position based on the rotational position of the reels R1, R2, and R3 corresponding to the operated stop button 15L, 15C, and 15R, and when the rotational position of the corresponding reels R1, R2, and R3 reaches the stop operation, it stops outputting drive pulse signals to the reel motors 51L, 51C, and 51R, stopping the corresponding reels R1, R2, and R3 (reel stop control).

[0043] In the reel stop control, after the left stop button 15L, the center stop button 15C, and the right stop button 15R are operated, the left reel R1, the center reel R2, and the right reel R3 are stopped from rotating within the maximum number of retracted frames, specifically within a range of 4 frames or less.

[0044] When the game is started by operating the start lever 12, the main control unit 100a obtains a random number and executes an internal lottery in which multiple winning combinations are selected. If no winning combination is obtained through the internal lottery, the nine symbols (three symbols on each of the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3) stopped and displayed in the reel window 8 by the reel stop control will not form a winning pattern, and no winning combination will occur. When a minor winning combination that pays out medals as a payout for winning is achieved, the main control unit 100a displays the number of medals to be paid out on the winning number display 10 and sends information about the number of medals to the payout control unit 100b.

[0045] The setting change switch 20 and setting change button 21 are provided inside the main body 2, and by selecting a setting value from six setting values ​​from 1 to 6, it is possible to set the payout rate of the slot machine 1. The higher the setting value, the higher the payout rate. The setting change switch 20 is a key switch that is turned on by inserting a setting key and turning it clockwise, and the setting change button 21 is a push button.

[0046] To select (change) a setting value, first, with the front door 3 open, insert a setting key into the setting change switch 20 and rotate it clockwise to change the operating mode of the slot machine 1 to setting change mode. When the setting change mode is entered, the current setting value is displayed on the number of coins acquired indicator 10. In addition, each time the setting change button 21 is pressed in the setting change mode, the setting value displayed on the number of coins acquired indicator 10 is incremented by one if it is between 1 and 5, and returns to 1 if it is 6. In this way, the desired setting value can be selected by operating the setting change button while checking the setting value displayed on the number of coins acquired indicator 10. With the desired setting value displayed on the number of coins acquired indicator 10, the start lever 12 is operated to complete the selection (change) of the setting value. Then, the setting key inserted in the setting change switch 20 is rotated counterclockwise to return the operating mode to the normal (game) mode, and the setting selection (change) process is completed by removing the setting key from the setting change switch.

[0047] The input / output port of the payout control unit 100b is connected to a game ball etc. lending device connection terminal board 20, a credit number display 5a, and a counting button 5b. The credit number display 5a displays the current number of credits. A medal dispenser 60 that dispenses game medals to the slot machine 1 is connected to the game ball etc. dispenser connection terminal board 20. The counting button 5b is a button that is operated when returning the credits of the slot machine 1 to the medal lending device 60. By continuing to press the counting button 5b for a unit time, one is subtracted from the credits, and one game medal is returned to the medal lending device 60. In other words, the number of credits to be returned can be adjusted by the length of time that the counting button 5b is pressed.

[0048] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the slot machine 1 is installed in a pachinko parlor 301 and connected to an external device. The slot machine 1 outputs operating information from the game ball etc. lending device connection terminal board 20, including in information relating to the number of medals inserted for use in the game, out information relating to the number of medals paid out as a result of the game, and special prize information relating to whether or not the player is in a special prize period advantageous to the player (for example, during a bonus game). The operation information is transmitted from the medal dispenser 60 connected to the game ball dispenser connection terminal board 20 of the slot machine 1 to the hall computer 62 via the relay board 61 .

[0049] Meanwhile, information regarding the amount of money inserted into the medal lending device 60 for medal lending is transmitted from the medal lending device 60 to the hall computer 62, and also to the management computer company 302 via the management computer 63. The management computer company 302 provides the data to the gaming machine management center 303 in order to strengthen security against fraud and measures against gambling and other addictions.

[0050] Returning to FIG. 3, the main control unit 100a sends signals required for control to the sub-control device 101 as commands.

[0051] <3-2. Electrical configuration of gaming machine (sub-controller)> The sub-control device 101 is responsible for controlling the effects associated with the game. The input / output ports of the sub-control device 101 are connected to the main control unit 101a, the liquid crystal display 16, the effect button PB, the cross key JK, the decorative lamps 18L, 18C, 18R, and the speakers 6L, 6R.

[0052] The sub-control device 101 controls the display contents of the liquid crystal display 16 relating to effects and the like accompanying the game, based on commands from the main control unit 100a, operation of the effect button PB, and operation of the cross key JK. It also controls the light effects produced by the decorative lamps 18L, 18C, and 18R, which are components of the effects, and the background music and sound effects output from the speakers 6L and 6R.

[0053] <4. Explanation of symbol stop positions and winning lines> FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the symbol stop positions and the winning lines. When the left reel R1 stops, one symbol stops at each of the symbol stop positions PL1, PL2, and PL3 arranged vertically within the reel window 8. When the center reel R2 stops, one symbol stops at each of the symbol stop positions PC1, PC2, and PC3 arranged vertically within the reel window 8. When the right reel R3 stops, one symbol stops at each of the symbol stop positions PR1, PR2, and PR3 arranged vertically within the reel window 8.

[0054] Hereinafter, the line passing through the three symbol stop positions PL1, PC1, PR1 aligned in a horizontal row in the top row within the reel window 8 will be referred to as the upper line L2, the line passing through the three symbol stop positions PL2, PC2, PR2 aligned in a horizontal row in the middle row will be referred to as the middle line L1, the line passing through the three symbol stop positions PL3, PC3, PR3 aligned in a horizontal row in the bottom row will be referred to as the lower line L3, the line passing through the three symbol stop positions PL1, PC2, PR3 aligned in a diagonal line sloping downward to the right will be referred to as the downward-right line L4, and the line passing through the three symbol stop positions PL3, PC2, PR1 aligned in a diagonal line sloping upward to the right will be referred to as the upward-right line L5.

[0055] <5.1 Game Description> FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the flow of one game executed by the main controller 100 of the slot machine 1.

[0056] <5-1. Processing flow> <5-1-1. Betting Processing> First, the 1 coin bet button 7 and the MAX bet button 11 are operated to set the number of bets (S101).

[0057] Specifically, when the 1 coin bet button 7 is operated, if the current number of bets is equal to or less than the maximum number specified for that game and there are remaining credits, the main control device 100 subtracts 1 from the credits and adds 1 to the number of bets. Also, when the MAX bet button 11 is operated, if there are remaining credits, the main control device 100 subtracts the required number of coins from the credits and sets the number of bets to the maximum number specified for that game. Furthermore, when a replay role is won, the main control device 100 executes an automatic bet process in which the number of bets that was bet in the game is bet again in the next game without subtracting from the credits.

[0058] <5-1-2. Lever reception process> When the main control device 100 receives operation of the start lever 12 with the specified number of bets set, the main control device 100 starts the game (S102). On the other hand, if the start lever 12 is operated with the number of bets less than the specified number, the game does not start.

[0059] <5-1-3. Internal lottery processing> The main control device 100 acquires a random number value when a game starts, and executes an internal lottery process to determine information for deriving the game result by lottery based on the random number value (S103).

[0060] <5-1-4. Reel rotation processing> After executing the internal lottery process, the main controller 100 spins each of the left reel R1, the center reel R2, and the right reel R3 to variably display the symbols arranged on each of the reels R1 to R3 (S104).

[0061] In addition, the reel effects and reel spinning process for the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 in the next game do not start until 4.1 seconds have passed since the start of rotation of the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 in the previous game. This keeps the time required for one game at 4.1 seconds or more.

[0062] <5-1-5. Reel stop processing> When stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R are operated while reels R1, R2, and R3 are spinning, main control device 100 determines the stop position based on the rotation position of reels R1, R2, and R3 corresponding to the operated stop button 15L, 15C, and 15R and the result of an internal lottery, and stops the rotation of corresponding reels R1, R2, and R3 at the determined stop position (S105).

[0063] <5-1-6. Pattern Determination Processing> After all reels R1, R2, and R3 have stopped, the main control device 100 determines whether the symbol combination displayed on the pay line corresponds to any one of a plurality of types of target symbol combinations that have been previously determined as targets for determination (S106).

[0064] <5-1-7. Medal payout process> When the main control device 100 determines that a winning symbol combination for a small role has been stopped and displayed among the multiple types of symbol combinations to be determined, it executes a payout process of medals equal to the payout number of the winning small role (S107). Because the slot machine 1 is a smart slot machine, it simply adds the payout number to the credit number and does not pay out actual medals.

[0065] <5-1-8. State transition processing> When the main control device 100 determines that the state transition condition for transitioning the gaming state is met as a result of the symbol determination process, the main control device 100 transitions the gaming state (S108). The above is the flow of one game.

[0066] <6. First Example> Next, the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment will be described. <6-1. Gameplay> The slot machine 1 of the first embodiment is an AT machine equipped with an instruction function, the activated line is the middle line L1, and the specified number is always set to three. FIG. 7 shows the transition of the game zones related to the instruction function of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. When the slot machine 1 is initialized after a setting change, it is set to a non-advantageous zone where the instruction function cannot be activated, and if a player wins the lottery for shifting to an advantageous zone that is executed every game during the non-advantageous zone, the player is shifted to an advantageous zone where the instruction function can be activated. The slot machine is configured so that it takes an average of 3 to 4 games to shift from the non-advantageous zone to the advantageous zone.

[0067] The advantageous zone consists of the first advantageous zone, where the instruction function is not activated, and the AT zone, where the instruction function is activated. The AT zone consists of two zones: the low pure increase AT zone and the high pure increase AT zone. When the advantageous zone transition lottery is won, the player will transition to the first advantageous zone. The first advantageous zone is the so-called normal state, with the highest stay ratio. During the first advantageous zone, an AT transition lottery is executed when the lottery conditions are met, and if the lottery is won and the right to execute the AT is acquired, the player is transitioned to the low pure increase AT zone.

[0068] In the low net increase AT section, the instruction function is activated in the game (hereinafter referred to as the instruction target game) that wins one of the push order bells G1 to G12, which are so-called push order minor roles, as a result of the internal lottery process, but only a part of the correct operation sequence that will give the maximum payout is instructed. Specifically, the reel that should be stopped first (hereinafter referred to as the first stop reel) is instructed, but the reels that should be stopped second and third (hereinafter referred to as the second stop reel and the third stop reel, respectively) are not instructed and are kept secret. The push order bells G1 to G12 will be described later.

[0069] During the low pure increase AT section, a promotion lottery is executed when the lottery conditions are met, and if the lottery is won, the game is transitioned to the high pure increase AT section. In the high pure increase AT section, all of the correct operation sequences are instructed in the instructed game.

[0070] In the high pure increase AT section, all correct operation sequences are instructed, so if you follow the instructions, you will be guaranteed to get the maximum payout. On the other hand, in the low net increase AT section, unless you rely on your intuition to guess the stopping order of the hidden second and third stop reels, you will not be able to get the maximum payout in the target game. Therefore, the net increase, which is the expected number of medals won per game, is higher in the high net increase AT section than in the low net increase AT section.

[0071] Also, in the low net increase AT section, if you follow the instructions of the first reel, even if you do not guess the order of the concealed second and third reels, you will always win a small prize of three coins. This will be explained later.

[0072] If the termination conditions are met in the low pure increase AT section or the high pure increase AT section, the low pure increase AT section or the high pure increase AT section ends and the player falls into a non-advantageous section. Slot machines equipped with a command function are required to have a limiter function that forcibly ends the advantageous state when the difference between the number of medals acquired during the advantageous section and the number of medals inserted reaches a predetermined number. For this reason, slot machine 1 is also equipped with a limiter function. Therefore, the termination conditions are set when the AT execution rights are used up or when the limiter function is activated.

[0073] <6-2. Push Order Minor Roles> Next, the push order minor winning combinations installed in the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment will be explained, but before that, the arrangement of symbols on each reel R1, R2, R3, which is the premise of the explanation, will be explained.

[0074] <6-2-1. Arrangement of symbols on each reel> FIG. 8 shows the arrangement of symbols on the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 of the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment.

[0075] The reel bands of the left reel R1, the center reel R2, and the right reel R3 each have 20 symbols (20 frames) arranged on them, and the 20 symbols on each of the reels R1 to R3 are each assigned a symbol number from "1" to "20."

[0076] The reel band of the left reel R1 has the following symbols arranged in this order: "Watermelon A," "Bell B," "Replay," "Watermelon B," "Bell B," "Blue 7," "Cherry," "Blank," "Replay," "Bell A," "Watermelon A," "Cherry," "Bar," "Replay," "Bell A," "Watermelon A," "Bell B," "Red 7," "Replay," and "Bell A," and each of these symbols is assigned a symbol number from "1" to "20."

[0077] The reel band of the middle reel R2 has the following symbols arranged in this order: "Bell A," "Replay," "Blue 7," "Watermelon A," "Cherry," "Bell A," "Replay," "Blank," "Watermelon A," "Cherry," "Bell A," "Replay," "Bar," "Watermelon A," "Cherry," "Bell A," "Replay," "Red 7," "Watermelon A," and "Cherry," and each of these symbols is assigned a symbol number from "1" to "20."

[0078] The reel band of the right reel R3 has the following symbols arranged in this order: "Watermelon A," "Bell A," "Blue 7," "Cherry," "Replay," "Watermelon A," "Bell A," "Blank," "Cherry," "Replay," "Watermelon A," "Bell A," "Bar," "Cherry," "Replay," "Watermelon A," "Bell A," "Red 7," "Cherry," and "Replay," and each of these symbols is assigned a symbol number from "1" to "20."

[0079] <6-2-2. Composition of small roles> Next, the configuration of the push order minor winning combination installed in the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment will be described. There are six possible operating sequences for the three stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R, in other words, six possible stopping sequences for the three reels R1, R2, and R3. Hereinafter, these six possible stopping operation sequences will be referred to as left-center-right, left-right-center, center-left-right, center-right-left, right-left-center, and right-center-left. For example, left, center, right indicates the stopping operation order in which the first stopped reel is the left reel R1, the second stopped reel is the center reel R2, and the third stopped reel is the right reel R3, i.e., the so-called forward push.

[0080] As shown in Fig. 9, the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment is equipped with 12 types of push order minor roles, namely push order bell G1 to push order bell G12. The push order bells G1 to G12 are configured to allow multiple types of maximum payout minor roles with a payout of 10 coins, multiple types of intermediate payout minor roles with a payout of 3 coins, and multiple types of 1-coin roles with a payout of 1 coin, that is, three types of payout minor roles, to be overlappingly won, and the combinations of overlappingly winning minor roles are configured to be different from each other. Hereinafter, the Bell A and Bell B symbols will be collectively referred to as the Bell symbols, and a state in which the Bell symbols are lined up on any of the horizontal lines L1, L2, L3 and the diagonal lines L4, L5 will be referred to as a Bell alignment.

[0081] When the maximum payout minor feature of 10 coins is won, a bell line will appear on the downward-sloping line L4. When a small intermediate payout combination with a payout of three coins is won, a bell line is formed on any of the horizontal lines of the upper line L2, the middle line L1, and the lower line L3. In a game where a one-piece role with a payout of one coin is won, or in a game where a win is missed, no bells are formed on any of the horizontal lines L1, L2, L3 and the diagonal lines L4, L5, and scattered symbols are displayed.

[0082] If the stop operation order in a game in which one of the push order bells G1 to G12 is won matches the correct operation order set for the winning push order bell G1 to G12, a maximum payout small role with a payout of 10 coins will be won regardless of the timing of the stop operation. Also, if only the first stop reel matches the correct operation order, a medium payout small role with a payout of 3 coins will be won regardless of the timing of the stop operation. On the other hand, if the first stop reel does not match the correct operation order, a 1-coin role will be won or no win will be won depending on the timing of the stop operation.

[0083] Therefore, in the low pure increase AT section where only the first stopping reel is indicated, if you follow the instructions you are guaranteed a payout of 3 coins, and if you correctly answer the two questions about selecting the second stopping reel from the remaining two reels R1, R2, and R3, you will receive a payout of 10 coins. Therefore, the expected number of medals won in the game specified by the instructions if you follow them is set to 6.5 medals (= 3 medals x 50% + 10 medals x 50%) in the low pure increase AT section, and 10 medals in the high pure increase AT section.

[0084] As shown in Figure 9, the correct operation order for the push order bells G1 to G12 is set as follows, respectively: left center right, left right center, center right left, center left left, center left left, right left center, right center left, left center right, center right left, center left left, right left center, right center left. In addition, the configuration of each push order bell G1 to G12, that is, the combination of small winning combinations that will be won multiple times, is shown in Figures 10 to 21. Below, only the configuration of the push order bell G1 will be explained with reference to Figure 10, and the configuration of the push order bell G2 to G12 will be omitted because it would be redundant.

[0085] As shown in Figure 10, the Push Order Bell G1 consists of 26 types of overlapping wins of small prizes, including 8 types of small prizes with a payout of 10 coins, 2 types of small prizes with a payout of 3 coins, and 16 types of small prizes with a payout of 1 coin. If the first stop is on the left reel R1, either the replay symbol or the watermelon B symbol, which make up the winning symbol combination for a minor win with a payout of 10 coins, will be drawn to the middle position PL2 on the active line L1 of the left reel R1. As shown in Figure 8, the bell A symbol or the bell B symbol is positioned one frame above the replay symbol and the watermelon B symbol on the left reel R1, so the bell A symbol or the bell B symbol will stop at the top position PL1 of the left reel R1.

[0086] If the next reel to stop is the center reel R2, the center reel R2 will receive a bell A symbol, which constitutes a winning combination for a small win with a payout of 10 coins, at the middle position PC2 on the pay line L1 of the center reel R2. Then, the right reel R3 will receive a winning combination for a small win with a payout of 10 coins at the middle position PR2 on the pay line L1 of the right reel R3. As shown in Figure 8, the bell A symbol is located one frame below the red 7, blue 7, bar, and blank symbols on the right reel R1, so the bell A symbol will stop at the bottom position PR3 on the right reel R3. In this way, in the correct sequence of actions, one of the eight types of small wins with a payout of 10 coins will win on the pay line L1, and a bell combination will be formed on the downward-sloping right line L4.

[0087] On the other hand, if the next second stopped reel is the right reel R3, the watermelon A symbol, which constitutes a winning combination for a small win with a payout of three coins, is drawn into the middle position PR2 on the pay line L1 of the right reel R3. As shown in FIG. 8, a bell A symbol is located one frame above the watermelon A symbol on the right reel R3, so the bell A symbol stops in the upper position PR1 on the right reel R1. Then, on the third stopped middle reel R2, the cherry symbol, which constitutes a winning combination for a small win with a payout of three coins, is drawn into the middle position PC2 on the pay line L1 of the middle reel R2. As shown in FIG. 8, a bell A symbol is located one frame above the red cherry symbol on the middle reel R2, so the bell A symbol stops in the upper position PC1 on the middle reel R2. In this way, in the left, right, and middle operation order, one of two types of small winning combinations with a payout of three coins will be awarded on the active line L1, and a bell combination will be formed on the upper line L2.

[0088] If the first stopped reel is other than the left reel R1, the maximum pull-in control is performed so that one of the 16 types of payouts will result in a small win, but if it cannot be pulled in, it will be missed.

[0089] As explained above, the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment is a so-called variable pure increase machine, which has a low pure increase AT section in which only the first stop reel of the correct operation sequence is indicated in the instructed game, and the second and third stop reels are concealed, and a high pure increase AT section in which all of the correct operation sequences are indicated. In the past, it was common to realize a variable net increase function by gradually changing the frequency of instruction function operation in the instruction target game, but the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment realizes a variable net increase function by indicating either part or all of the correct operation sequence in the instruction target game.

[0090] In addition, in the low pure increase AT section, after following the instructions to stop the reels R1, R2, and R3 that should be stopped first, if the player correctly answers the two-choice question about which reel to stop from the remaining two reels R1, R2, and R3, they will receive a payout of 10 coins, which will keep the player motivated, and even if they fail to answer the two-choice question, they are guaranteed a payout of 3 coins, so even if the player keeps missing out on winning the maximum payout minor role, the accumulation of stress can be reduced more than before.

[0091] Furthermore, even if the reel stopping operations are not performed in the instructed order in the high pure increase AT section, if the first stopped reel matches the correct operation order, a payout of three coins is guaranteed, so even in the high pure increase AT section, players' anxiety about making a mistake in the reel stopping operation order can be reduced more than before.

[0092] <7. Second Example> Next, a slot machine 1 of a second embodiment will be described. Note that a description of the configuration common to the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment will be omitted, and the description will focus on the characteristic configuration different from the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment. <7-1. Gameplay> The slot machine 1 of the second embodiment is also an AT machine equipped with an instruction function, the activated line is the downward-sloping line L4, and the specified number is always set to three. In the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment, if the stop operation order in the game in which the push order minor win is won matches the correct operation order, the maximum payout minor win is won. On the other hand, in the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment, instead of the push order minor feature of the first embodiment, a push order minor feature that requires careful pressing at the first stop (hereinafter referred to as a push order minor feature requiring careful pressing) is adopted, in which the stop operation sequence matches the correct operation sequence, and the maximum payout minor feature will not be won unless the stop operation timing for the first stop reel matches the correct timing predetermined for each push order minor feature.

[0093] In the game that is the target of instructions and has won the small role that requires a precise pressing order, in the high pure increase AT section, the correct timing and correct operation order are all instructed, while in the low pure increase AT section, the correct operation timing is kept secret and the correct operation order is all instructed.

[0094] <7-2. Minor prizes that require pressing by eye> Next, we will explain the minor winning combinations that require pressing in the order of the hits that are installed in the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment, but before that, we will explain the pattern arrangements on each reel R1, R2, and R3, which are the premise for this explanation.

[0095] <7-2-1. Arrangement of symbols on each reel> FIG. 22 shows the arrangement of symbols on the left reel R1, center reel R2, and right reel R3 of the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment.

[0096] The reel band of the left reel R1 has the following symbols arranged in this order: "Bell A," "Watermelon B," "Red 7," "Watermelon B," "Replay," "Bell B," "Watermelon B," "Cherry," "Bar," "Replay," "Bell B," "Watermelon A," "Blank," "Blank," "Replay," "Bell A," "Watermelon A," "Blue 7," "Blue 7," and "Replay," and these symbols are each assigned symbol numbers "1" to "20."

[0097] The reel band of the middle reel R2 has the following symbols arranged in this order: "Cherry," "Watermelon A," "Red 7," "Bell B," "Replay," "Cherry," "Watermelon A," "Bar," "Bell B," "Replay," "Cherry," "Watermelon B," "Blank," "Bell A," "Replay," "Cherry," "Blank," "Blue 7," "Bell A," and "Replay," and each of these symbols is assigned a symbol number from "1" to "20."

[0098] The reel band of the right reel R3 has the following symbols arranged in this order: "Bell A," "Cherry," "Blank," "Replay," "Watermelon A," "Bell B," "Bar," "Blank," "Replay," "Watermelon A," "Bell B," "Red 7," "Blank," "Replay," "Watermelon A," "Bell A," "Blue 7," "Blue 7," "Replay," and "Watermelon B," and each of these symbols is assigned a symbol number from "1" to "20."

[0099] Also, in Figure 22, when the pattern corresponding to the pattern number is on the middle line L1 at the time of the stop operation, the bell A pattern pull-in range in which the bell A pattern can be pulled onto the valid line L4 is shown with a white background, and the bell B pattern pull-in range in which the bell B pattern can be pulled onto the valid line L4 is shown with a gray background. As can be seen from Figure 22, the Bell A symbol and the Bell B symbol are arranged on each reel R1, R2, and R3 so that the Bell A symbol pull-in range and the Bell B symbol pull-in range on each reel R1, R2, and R3 are each a range of 10 consecutive frames.

[0100] In the slot machine of the second embodiment, the background color of the reel band of each reel R1, R2, R3 is white in the bell A symbol pull-in range and gray in the bell B symbol pull-in range. The correct timing of the first stopped reel in the high pure increase AT section is indicated by this background color, i.e., white or gray.

[0101] <7-2-2. Composition of small winning combinations that require pressing the button> Next, the configuration of the minor winning combination requiring pressing in the order of pressing that is installed in the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment will be described.

[0102] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment is equipped with 24 types of push-order minor roles requiring careful pushes, namely, push-order bell M1 to push-order bell M24. The push-order bells M1 to M24 are configured to allow multiple types of maximum payout minor roles with a payout of 15 coins, multiple types of intermediate payout minor roles with a payout of 3 coins, and multiple types of 1-coin roles with a payout of 1 coin, that is, three types of minor roles with overlapping wins, and the combinations of overlapping wins are different from each other.

[0103] When the maximum payout of 15 coins is won, a bell appears on the downward-sloping line L4. When a small intermediate payout win with a payout of three coins is won, a bell line is formed on any of the horizontal lines among the upper line L2, the middle line L1, and the lower line L3. In a game where a one-piece role with a payout of one coin is won, or in a game where a win is missed, no bells are formed on any of the horizontal lines L1, L2, L3 and the diagonal lines L4, L5, and scattered symbols are displayed.

[0104] If the stop operation order in a game in which one of the push order bells M1 to M24 is won matches the correct operation order set for the winning push order bell M1 to M24, and the stop operation timing for the first stop reel matches the correct timing set for the winning push order bell M1 to M24, a maximum payout small win with a payout of 15 coins will be won, regardless of the stop operation timing for the second and third stop reels. Also, if the stop operation order matches the correct operation order but the stop operation timing for the first stop reel does not match the correct timing, a medium payout small win with a payout of 3 coins will be won, regardless of the stop operation timing for the second and third stop reels. On the other hand, if the stop operation order does not match the correct operation order, a one-coin win will be won or no win will be won depending on the stop operation timing for each reel.

[0105] Therefore, in the low pure increase AT section where only the correct operation sequence is instructed, if you follow the instructions you are guaranteed a payout of 3 coins, and if you correctly answer the two questions about the stopping timing for the first stopped reel you will receive a payout of 15 coins. Therefore, the expected number of medals to be won in the game specified by the instructions if the instructions are followed is set to 9 medals (= 3 medals x 50% + 15 medals x 50%) in the low pure increase AT section, and 15 medals in the high pure increase AT section.

[0106] The push order bells M1 to M12 shown in Figure 23 are small roles requiring a push order with the correct timing set within the Bell A symbol pull range. The correct operation order for the push order bells M1 to M12 is set to left center right, left right center, center right left, center left right, right left center, right center left, left center right, left center, center right left, center left left, right left center, right center left.

[0107] The push order bells M13 to M24 shown in Figure 24 are push order minor winning combinations requiring careful attention, with the correct timing set within the Bell B symbol pull range. The correct operation order for the push order bells M13 to M24 is set to left center right, left right center, center right left, center left left, center left right, right left center, right center left, left center right, left left center, center right left, center left left, right left center, right center left.

[0108] In addition, the configuration of each push order bell M1 to M24, that is, the combination of small winning combinations that are won multiple times, is shown in Figures 25 to 48. Below, only the push order bell M1 will be explained with reference to Figure 25, and the configuration of the push order bell M2 to M24 will be omitted because it would be redundant.

[0109] As shown in Figure 25, the push order bell M1 is composed of 50 types of overlapping wins of small prizes, including 4 types of small prizes with a payout of 15 coins, 4 types of small prizes with a payout of 3 coins, and 42 types of small prizes with a payout of 1 coin.

[0110] If the first stopped reel is the left reel R1 and the timing of the stop operation is within the Bell A symbol pull-in range, the Bell A symbol, which constitutes the winning symbol combination for a minor prize with a payout of 15 coins, is pulled into the upper position PL1 of the left reel R1 on the active line L4. If the next second reel to stop is the middle reel R2, either a Bell A or a Bell B symbol, which make up a winning combination for a small win with a payout of 15 coins, is drawn into the middle position PC2 of the middle reel R2 on the active line L4. When the last right reel R3 stops, either a Bell A or a Bell B symbol, which make up a winning combination for a small win with a payout of 15 coins, is drawn into the bottom position PR3 of the right reel R3 on the active line L4. As a result, a bell line is formed on the active line L4, and the maximum payout small win with a payout of 15 coins is won.

[0111] If the next second reel to stop is the right reel R3, one of the following symbols, which make up the eight winning combinations of the one-coin role with a payout of one coin when the winning symbol on the left reel R1 is the Bell A symbol, will be drawn to the bottom position PR3 of the right reel R3 on the active line L4: Red 7, Bar, Replay, or Cherry. When the last center reel R2 stops, one of the replay and watermelon B symbols, which make up the eight winning combinations of the one-coin role mentioned above, will be drawn to the middle position PC2 of the center reel R2 on the active line L4. As a result, one of the eight winning combinations of the one-coin role mentioned above will be won.

[0112] If the first stopped reel is the left reel R1 and the timing of the stop operation is within the range for drawing in the bell B symbol, the bell B symbol, which constitutes a winning symbol combination with a payout of three coins, is drawn into the upper position PL1 of the left reel R1 on the effective line L4.

[0113] If the next reel to stop is the center reel R2, one of the following symbols, which constitute a winning combination of a small win with a payout of three coins, will be drawn to the middle position PC2 of the center reel R2 on the pay line L1: red 7, blue 7, bar, or blank. Then, for the third reel to stop, the right reel R3, one of the replay symbols, which constitutes a winning combination of a small win with a payout of three coins, will be drawn to the middle position PR2 of the pay line L1 of the right reel R3. As shown in Figure 22, one of the bell A and bell B symbols is located one frame above the red 7, blue 7, bar, or blank symbol on the center reel R2, and one of the bell A and bell B symbols is located two frames above the replay symbol on the right reel R3. Therefore, when one of the four types of payouts for a small win with a payout of three coins is won, a bell combination will be formed on the top line L2.

[0114] On the other hand, if the next second reel to stop is the right reel R3, one of the following symbols, which make up the eight winning combinations of the one-coin role with a payout of one coin, including the winning symbol on the left reel R1 as the Bell B symbol, will be drawn to the bottom position PR3 of the right reel R3 on the active line L4: Red 7, Bar, Replay, or Cherry. When the last center reel R2 stops, one of the replay and watermelon B symbols, which make up the eight winning combinations of the one-coin role mentioned above, will be drawn to the middle position PC2 of the center reel R2 on the active line L4. As a result, one of the eight winning combinations of the one-coin role mentioned above will be won.

[0115] If the first stopped reel is other than the left reel R1, the maximum pull-in control is performed so that the payout will be one of 48 small winning combinations of one coin, but if it is not possible to pull it in, the winning combination will be missed.

[0116] As explained above, the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment is a so-called variable pure increase machine, which has a low pure increase AT section in which only the correct operation sequence out of the correct timing and correct operation sequence is indicated in the instructed game, while the correct timing is kept secret, and a high pure increase AT section in which all of the correct timing and correct operation sequence are indicated. In the past, it was common to realize a variable net increase function by gradually changing the frequency of instruction operation in the instruction target game, but the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment realizes a variable net increase function by either instructing only the correct operation sequence in the instruction target game, or by instructing both the correct timing and the correct operation sequence.

[0117] In addition, in the low pure increase AT section, if the player correctly answers the two options at the first stop timing, a payout of 15 coins will be obtained, which will help maintain the player's motivation at a high level. Even if the player fails to answer the two options, if the player performs the stop operation in the correct order as instructed, a payout of 3 coins will be guaranteed, so even if the player continues to miss out on winning the maximum payout minor role, the accumulation of stress can be reduced more than before.

[0118] Furthermore, in the high pure increase AT section, even if a player makes a mistake in pressing the button at the first stop and is unable to perform the stop operation at the correct timing, if the operation is performed in the correct order, a payout of three coins is guaranteed, so even in the high pure increase AT section, the player's anxiety about making a mistake in the stop operation can be reduced more than before. Slot machines that require skill in timing tend to be avoided by beginners who are not good at timing, but by adopting the configuration of slot machine 1 of the second embodiment, a certain amount of profit can be guaranteed even if the timing is unsuccessful, so beginners' tendency to avoid them can be reduced compared to conventional machines.

[0119] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention can be modified in various ways within the scope of the claims. For example, in both the slot machines 1 of the first and second embodiments, the payout for the intermediate payout small combination is three coins, but the payout for the intermediate payout small combination may be one coin as long as it is smaller than the maximum payout small combination. In addition, in the slot machine 1 of the second embodiment, the background color of the reel band of each reel R1, R2, and R3 is white in the Bell A symbol pull-in range and gray in the Bell B symbol pull-in range, and the correct timing for the first stopped reel in the high pure increase AT section is indicated by this background color, i.e., white or gray, but the method of indicating the correct timing is not limited to this, and for example, a symbol that stands out more than other symbols and serves as a guide for pressing the button may be indicated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1. Slot Machine R1 Left reel R2 middle reel R3 Right reel 14 Start lever 15L Left stop button 15C Middle stop button 15R Right Stop Button

Claims

[Claim 1] A lottery means for drawing a winning combination that allows a win from a plurality of types of combinations in response to a game start operation; a reel start means for starting rotation of three or more reels, each having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on its outer periphery, in response to the game start operation; and reel control means for controlling the reel corresponding to the stop operation to stop within a predetermined maximum reel pull range based on the result of the lottery by the lottery means and the stop operation for each reel after all reels have started to rotate, The result of the lottery by the lottery means includes a maximum payout minor role with the largest payout, an intermediate payout minor role with a payout smaller than the maximum payout minor role, and a minimum payout minor role with a payout smaller than the intermediate payout minor role, and a plurality of types of minor roles with different payouts are determined as the winning roles, and the combinations of the plurality of types of minor roles determined as the winning roles include a plurality of types of designated winning modes that are different from each other; The reel control means, in a game in which the result of the lottery by the lottery means is one of the plurality of types of the instruction target winning patterns (hereinafter referred to as an instruction target game), Only when the stop operation sequence for the plurality of reels matches the correct operation sequence determined according to the type of the instruction target winning mode that has been won, the plurality of reels are stopped so as to win the maximum payout minor combination; If only the reel that was stopped first (hereinafter referred to as the first stopped reel) matches the correct operation sequence, and the subsequent stop operation sequence does not match the correct operation sequence, the plurality of reels are stopped so that the intermediate payout small combination is won. If the first stopped reel does not match the correct operation sequence, the plurality of reels are stopped so that the small winning combination with the minimum payout is won or no small winning combination is won; an instruction means for notifying information relating to the correct operation sequence in the instruction target game; a first AT period in which all of the correct operation sequences are notified by the indicating means; a second AT section in which the indication means notifies only the reel that should be stopped first based on the correct operation sequence, and the subsequent stop operation sequence is kept secret.

Images