gaming machines

Abstract

To provide a game board capable of improving maintainability.SOLUTION: A game board includes a first operation unit that is connected to a first board via a first harness and has at least a first operation section and a second operation section, first processing may be executed by operation of the first operation section, second processing may be executed by operation of the second operation section, the first processing may be executed when the first harness is changed from a non-connected state to a connected state in a state in which the first operation section is under operation, the second processing may be executed when the first harness is changed from a non-connected state to a connected state in a state in which the second operation section is under operation, and only the first processing from among the first processing and the second processing may be executed when the first harness is changed from a non-connected state to a connected state in a state in which the first operation section and the second operation section are at least under operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 194

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a pinball gaming machine (pachinko machine), a slot machine, an enclosed gaming machine, or a medalless slot machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a slot machine is known as one of gaming machines (for example, see Patent Document (See Reference 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-296354 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For this type of gaming machine, improved maintainability is desired.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can be easily maintained. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The gaming machine according to the present invention comprises: a first substrate; a first operation unit connected to the first board via a first harness; A gaming machine equipped with the first operation unit has a first operation part and a second operation part, A first process may be executed by operating the first operation unit, A second process may be executed by operating the second operation unit, When the first harness changes from a disconnected state to a connected state while the first operating unit is being operated, the first process may be executed. When the first harness changes from a disconnected state to a connected state while the second operating unit is being operated, the second process may be executed. the first operating unit and the second operating unit Department manipulated After that, the first operating unit and the second operating unit are operated. situation While maintaining When the first harness changes from a disconnected state to a connected state, there is a certain case (hereinafter referred to as the "first case") in which only the first process of the first process and the second process is executed, After the first case, in a situation where the first harness changes from a connected state to a disconnected state without any operation being performed on any part other than the first operating unit and the second operating unit, and then the first case is resumed, there may be a case where an output result by the first processing in the previous first case differs from an output result by the first processing in the later first case, the first operating unit and the second operating unit Department manipulated After that, the first operating unit and the second operating unit are operated. situation While maintaining There is another case (hereinafter referred to as the "second case") in which the first harness changes from a non-connected state to a connected state, In a situation where the first harness changes from a connected state to a disconnected state after the second case and the second case occurs again, the first process may be executed in the first second case, and the first process and the second process may not be executed in the second case. the first processing is a cursor display movement processing, the second processing is a cursor display movement processing, the first operation unit is a first direction button, the second operation unit is a second direction button, It is characterized by: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to improve maintainability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of a slot machine 100 as seen from the front side (player side). [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a winning line. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a circuit block diagram of a control unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of symbols on each reel in a planar view. [Figure 5] 10 is a diagram showing the types of winning combinations (including activated combinations), the symbol combinations corresponding to each winning combination, and the payouts for each winning combination. [Figure 6] 1 is a transition diagram of the game state (RT) of the slot machine 100. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the transition of game states regarding advantageous and non-advantageous zones of the slot machine 100. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of main processing by a main control unit. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a main control unit timer interrupt process. [Figure 10] (a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400, (b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400, and (c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400. [Figure 11] (a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500, (b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, (c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, and (d) is a flowchart of the image control processing of the second sub-control unit 500. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing examples of notifications in chronological order when a first operation instruction notification is made in a certain game. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing examples of notifications in chronological order when a second operation instruction notification is made in a certain game. [Figure 14] (a) is a front view of the slot machine 100 in a state where the setting key is turned from OFF to ON when the power is OFF, (b) is a front view showing an example where a first notification is executed in a first state, and (c) is a front view showing an example where a second notification is executed in a second state. [Figure 15] 1A is a diagram showing a time series of Example 1 of a setting change operation, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a time series of Example 2 of a setting change operation. [Figure 16] 10A is a diagram showing a time series of Example 3 of the setting change operation, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a time series of Example 4 of the setting change operation. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of a slot machine 100 as seen from the front side (player side). [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a line. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of a slot machine 100. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a reel unit 700. [Figure 21] 7A is a perspective view showing the structure of a backlight module 740, and FIG. 7B is a front view of the backlight module 740. FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a first selection switch 190 and the like shown in FIG. [Figure 23] 10 is a diagram showing an example of selection of a setting value using a first selection switch 190 and a second selection switch 194. FIG. [Figure 24] 1 is a circuit block diagram of a control unit. [Figure 25] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of connections between each board and each unit. [Figure 26] This is a diagram showing the state in which the front door 102 of the slot machine 100 in a power-off state is opened and the left reel 110 is being manually spun. [Figure 27] 19. (a) is a perspective view of the hopper unit 180 shown in FIG. 19 seen obliquely from above, and (b) is a view showing how the hopper disk 182 is being manually rotated. [Figure 28]26 is a diagram showing an example in which a relay board is provided between the main control board 300B shown in FIG. 25 and the hopper unit 180 and reel unit 700 also shown in FIG. [Figure 29] (a) is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the slot machine of the second embodiment, (b) is a side view showing the field of view of a person H1 in a standing position, and (c) is a side view showing the field of view of a person H2 in a sitting position. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the inside of a slot machine according to a second embodiment. [Figure 31] 26 is a diagram showing a modified example of the connection example between each board and each unit shown in FIG. 25. FIG. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a protection circuit provided between the reel motor driving IC 322i and the 24V power supply line. [Figure 33] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of a slot machine 100 as seen from the front side (player side). [Figure 34] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a line. [Figure 35] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of a slot machine 100. [Figure 36] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the medal selector 170. [Figure 37] (a) is a table showing the display order of the setting values ​​displayed on the setting value display 293, (b) is a table summarizing the performance differences for each setting value, and (c) to (f) are figures showing examples of setting-related notifications (setting suggestion notifications, setting confirmation notifications). [Figure 38] FIG. 2 is a circuit block diagram of a control unit. [Figure 39] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of main processing by a main control unit. [Figure 40] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a main control unit timer interrupt process. [Figure 41] 40 is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit initial setting process (step S101) in FIG. [Figure 42] 42 is a flowchart showing the process of changing settings (step S1013) in FIG. 41. [Figure 43] (a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400, (b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400, and (c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400. [Figure 44] (a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500, (b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, (c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, and (d) is a flowchart of the image control processing of the second sub-control unit 500. [Figure 45] 10 is a table summarizing the procedure for setting to setting b by changing the setting and the states of the related components. [Figure 46] 46 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the state of the components at each stage from (A) to (S) in FIG. 45. FIG. [Figure 47] (a) is a table summarizing the state of the related components when the front door 102 is repeatedly opened and closed with the setting value set to setting b, and (b) is a table summarizing the state of the related components when the settlement operation is performed immediately after the third stop with the setting value set to setting b. [Figure 48] 48A to 48C are diagrams showing the components in each stage of FIG. 47. [Figure 49] (a) is a table summarizing the state of the relevant components when checking the settings with the default setting of Setting 1, and (b) is a table summarizing the state of the relevant components when checking the settings in power saving mode with Setting 1. [Figure 50] 49A to 49C are diagrams each showing the state of the components in each stage of FIG. 49. [Figure 51] (a) is a table summarizing the state of the related components when checking the settings with setting b set, and (b) is a table summarizing the state of the related components when checking the settings in power saving mode with setting b set. [Figure 52] 52 is a diagram showing the state of the components in each stage of FIG. 51. FIG. [Figure 53] (a) is a diagram for explaining the transition of the game state in the slot machine in this modified example, (b) is a diagram for explaining some of the roles that are the subject of the role lottery in RT1 and the high and low probability of winning, and (c) is a diagram for explaining some of the roles that are the subject of the role lottery in RT2 and the high and low probability of winning. [Figure 54] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of payout rates for RT1 and RT2. [Figure 55] 10 is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the first sound is output when the front door 102 is closed after the setting has been changed. [Figure 56] This is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the reels are rotated before closing the front door 102 after changing the settings, and the first sound is output when the front door 102 is closed while the reels are rotating. [Figure 57] This is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the reels are rotated before the front door 102 is closed after a setting change, a power outage occurs while the reels are rotating, and the front door 102 is closed while the reels are rotating after the power is restored. [Figure 58] This is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the front door 102 is closed while the inserted medals are being settled and dispensed before the front door 102 is closed after the settings are changed. [Figure 59] This table summarizes the status of the relevant components when a power outage occurs and is restored while the inserted medals are being settled and dispensed before the front door 102 is closed after a setting change, and the front door 102 is closed during the dispensing process after the power is restored. [Figure 60] 10 is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the front door 102 is closed during setting confirmation after a setting change. [Figure 61] This is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the front door 102 is closed after the setting is changed and the game state is transitioned to the second game state. [Figure 62]This table summarizes the status of the relevant components when the setting key switch 281 is turned on after one setting confirmation has been performed and the inserted medals are settled after the front door 102 is in a pseudo-closed state. [Figure 63] This is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when a setting check is performed once, the setting key switch 281 is turned on with the front door 102 in a pseudo-closed state, and one game is played. [Figure 64] 10 is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the setting value display 293 displays a setting value even when the setting key switch 281 is in the OFF state. [Figure 65] This table summarizes the state of the relevant components when the setting is confirmed once, a medal is inserted with the front door 102 in a pseudo-closed state, the setting key switch 281 is turned on, and the inserted medal is settled. [Figure 66] This is a table summarizing the states of the relevant components when the setting is confirmed once, a medal is inserted with the front door 102 in a pseudo-closed state, the setting key switch 281 is turned on, and play is performed. [Figure 67] 1 is a rear view of a pachinko machine to which the present invention can be applied; [Figure 68] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of the slot machine 100 and the lending machine 700 as seen from the front side (player side). [Figure 69] FIG. 2 is a circuit block diagram of a control unit. [Figure 70] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of connections between each board and each unit. [Figure 71] 71 is a diagram showing an example in which a relay board is provided between the main control board 300B shown in FIG. 70 and the reel unit 109 also shown in FIG. [Figure 72] FIG. 69 is a configuration diagram of a gaming system including the slot machine 100 and the lending machine 700 shown in FIG. 68. [Figure 73] This is a table summarizing gaming machine status information, gaming machine performance information, and gaming machine installation information. [Figure 74]10 is a diagram showing a communication sequence when a game control state command is sent from the game control unit 302 to the medal count control unit 350. FIG. [Figure 75] A diagram showing details of communication between the medal count control unit 350 and the lending machine 700. [Figure 76] (a) is a diagram showing details of the hall control and fraud monitoring information, and (b) is a list of error codes. [Figure 77] 10 is a table showing game control state commands. [Figure 78] 10 is a table showing medal count control state commands. [Figure 79] 10 is a diagram showing a communication sequence when a game control priority command is sent from the game control unit 302 to the medal count control unit 350. FIG. [Figure 80] 10A is a diagram showing details of the game control priority command, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing details of the response command returned from the medal count control unit 350 to the game control unit 302. FIG. [Figure 81] 10 is a diagram showing a communication sequence when a game control priority command 2 is transmitted from the game control unit 302 to the medal count control unit 350. FIG. [Figure 82] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a game control unit main process. [Figure 83] 83 is a flowchart of the medal insertion / start lever reception process (step S102) in FIG. 82. [Figure 84] 84 is a flowchart of the medal insertion process (step S1011) in FIG. 83. [Figure 85] 85 is a flowchart of the settlement button process (step S1102) in FIG. 84. [Figure 86] This is a flowchart of the process of sending change information to the medal count control unit (steps S1111, S1205, and S1605) in Figures 84, 85, and 89. [Figure 87] 87 is a flowchart of triple command transmission processing (step S1307) in FIG. 86. [Figure 88]83 and 87. This is a flowchart of the process of sending a priority command to the medal count control unit (steps S1014, S1403, S1406, and step S1409) in FIG. [Figure 89] 83 is a flowchart of the medal awarding process (step S109) in FIG. 82. [Figure 90] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a game control unit timer interrupt process. [Figure 91] 91 is a flowchart of a disconnection determination process, which is one of the error monitoring processes (step S203) in FIG. 90. [Figure 92] 91 is a flowchart of the medal count control command reception process (step S206) in FIG. 90. [Figure 93] 91 is a flowchart of the game control command transmission process (step S207) in FIG. 90. [Figure 94] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a medal count control unit main process. [Figure 95] 95 is a flowchart of the RAM abnormality determination process (step S302) in FIG. 94. [Figure 96] 10 is a table showing the target range of RAM clear processing. [Figure 97] 96 is a flowchart of the error request setting process (step S3022) in FIG. 95 etc. [Figure 98] 95 is a flowchart of the preparation process (step S303) in FIG. 94. [Figure 99] 95 is a flowchart of the gaming machine information notification transmission process (step S304) in FIG. 94. [Figure 100] 99. This is a flowchart of the gaming machine information type acquisition process (step S3305) in FIG. [Figure 101] 95 is a flowchart of the counting notification transmission process (step S305) in FIG. 94. [Figure 102] 95 is a flowchart of the lending notification reception confirmation process (step S306) in FIG. 94. [Figure 103]95 is a flowchart of the loan acceptance result response transmission process (step S308) in FIG. 94. [Figure 104] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of medal count control unit timer interrupt processing. [Figure 105] 105 is a flowchart of the lending notification receiving process (step S404) in FIG. [Figure 106] 106 is a flowchart of the lending number determination process (step S4004) in FIG. [Figure 107] 105 is a flowchart of the process of updating the number of sheets to be counted (step S405) in FIG. [Figure 108] 105 is a flowchart of the game control unit command receiving process (step S406) in FIG. [Figure 109] 108 is a flowchart of the game control state command receiving process (step S4304). [Figure 110] 108. This is a flowchart (first half) of the game control priority command receiving process (step S4305) in FIG. [Figure 111] 108. This is the flowchart (second half) of the game control priority command receiving process (step S4305) in FIG. [Figure 112] 112 is a flowchart of the input command reception process (step S4517) in FIG. [Figure 113] 112 is a flowchart of the settlement command receiving process (step S4519) in FIG. [Figure 114] 112 is a flowchart of the start lever acceptance command reception process (step S4521) in FIG. [Figure 115] This is a flowchart of the game information setting process (steps S4806, S4A19) in Figures 114 and 116. [Figure 116] 112 is a flowchart of the payout command receiving process (step S4523) in FIG. [Figure 117]117 is a flowchart of the game medal number overflow confirmation process (step S4A11) in FIG. [Figure 118] 112 is a flowchart of the error occurrence command reception process (step S4524) in FIG. [Figure 119] 105 is a flowchart of the error monitoring process (step S407) in FIG. [Figure 120] 105 is a flowchart of the medal count control command transmission process (step S408) to the game control unit in FIG. [Figure 121] 105 is a flowchart of the display device display process (step S409) in FIG. [Figure 122] 85 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the processing during medal insertion in FIG. 84. [Figure 123] 88 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the triple-command transmission process of FIG. 87. [Figure 124] 113 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the input command receiving process of FIG. [Figure 125] 108 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the scheduled count number update process of FIG. [Figure 126] 108 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the scheduled count number update process of FIG. [Figure 127] (a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400, (b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400, (c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400, and (d) is a flowchart of the command processing (step S307) in (a). [Figure 128] (a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500, (b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, (c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, and (d) is a flowchart of the image control processing of the second sub-control unit 500. [Figure 129]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first example in which the count button 171 is operated. [Figure 130] 10 is a timing chart showing a first example of a presentation when counting is being performed. [Figure 131] 10 is a timing chart showing an example in which a bet operation has been performed before the count button 171 is operated and the number of bets is not 0. [Figure 132] 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a counting end effect. [Figure 133] 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where the settlement button 134 is operated. [Figure 134] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which the number of counted sheets increases as the operation time of the count button 171 becomes longer. [Figure 135] (a) is a timing chart showing an example of a continuation of the example shown in Figure 134(c), and (b) is a timing chart showing an example of the case in which a power outage occurs when the planned number of sheets to be counted is set to 30 in the example shown in Figure 134(c) and then power is restored. [Figure 136] 127 is a timing chart showing an example in which the process of updating the number of sheets to be counted in FIG. 126 is adopted. [Figure 137] (a) is a timing chart showing an example in which automatic counting ends when the value of the "number of game medals" stored in RAM 358 reaches a certain value, and (b) is a timing chart showing an example in which power is interrupted during automatic counting and then restored. [Figure 138] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display indicating that automatic counting is in progress. [Figure 139] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a sound output indicating that automatic counting is in progress. [Figure 140] 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where power is interrupted before 0.5 seconds, which is the determination time for a long press operation, has elapsed after the start of operation of the count button 171. [Figure 141] 141 is a timing chart showing a modified example of the example shown in FIG. 140. [Figure 142] 141 is a timing chart showing another modified example of the example shown in FIG. 140. [Figure 143] 10A is a diagram showing an example of a change display (subtraction) on the game medal count display device 170, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing an example of a change display (addition) on the game medal count display device 170. FIG. [Figure 144] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing other examples of change display in the game medal count display device 170. FIG. [Figure 145] 13 is a diagram showing an example in which the "number of game medals played" stored in the RAM 358 is displayed not only on the game medal number display device 170 but also on the effect image display device 157. FIG. [Figure 146] FIG. 146 is a diagram showing a modified example of the example shown in FIG. 145. [Figure 147] FIG. 146 is a diagram showing another example that is completely different from the example shown in FIG. 145. [Figure 148] 10A is a timing chart showing a case where a dispense is attempted in excess of the dispensing threshold, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing another example of an over-upper-limit error notification. [Figure 149] 10A is a timing chart showing a case where a dispense is about to be made when the amount exceeds the second threshold for dispensing, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing another example of a notification that the upper limit is approaching. [Figure 150] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example in which a highly urgent error notification overlaps with a notification prompting counting. [Figure 151] 10A is a diagram showing an example in which the notification prompting counting continues even after transitioning to the demonstration display, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing an example of the notification after the count button 171 is operated during the demonstration. [Figure 152] (a) is a diagram showing an example of a notification when the "number of game medals" exceeds a certain specified number, such as a payout threshold or a second payout threshold, and then falls below that specified number, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a notification that prompts counting when the "number of game medals" exceeds the second payout threshold over multiple games. [Figure 153](a) is a diagram showing an example of a notification prompting the player to count each time the "number of game medals" increases by a predetermined number, (b) is a diagram showing an example of a case where the counting button 171 is operated in a state advantageous to the player, and (c) is a diagram showing an example of a case where the counting button 171 is operated in a state disadvantageous to the player. [Fig. 154] (a) is a diagram showing a modified example of the example shown in Figure 153(b), (b) is a diagram showing an example in which counting that was forcibly terminated is restarted, and (c) is an example of the modified example described using (a) and (b) when the player is in a disadvantageous state (for example, a normal state). [Figure 155] This is a timing chart showing an example of when the VL signal from the rental machine 700 is turned off. [Figure 156] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second modified example in which the operation differs depending on whether the "number of game medals" is less than a certain threshold value. [Figure 157] 10 is a timing chart showing another example of when the VL signal from the rental device 700 is turned off. [Figure 158] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the change in the number of game medals when the count button 171 is pressed and held. [Figure 159] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of effects executed according to the number of game medals. [Figure 160] A figure showing an example of a presentation executed depending on the number of medals acquired in the AT state. [Figure 161] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the operation when an overflow of the number of game medals occurs. [Figure 162] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the operation when a medal count control wire break error (error code E0) occurs. [Figure 163] This is a diagram showing an example of the operation when an error in which the number of game medals exceeds the upper limit and an error in which the medal number control is disconnected (error code E0) occur simultaneously. [Fig. 164] A diagram showing an example of operation when a medal count control unit wire break error occurs. [Figure 165]10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation in which, when a counting sound is output in response to a counting process, an output permission period for the sound is set. [Figure 166] FIG. 165(b) shows the state of the slot machine 100 during the operation of FIG. 165(a). [Figure 167] FIG. 165(b) shows the state of the slot machine 100. [Figure 168] (a) is a diagram showing an example of update conditions for the difference number counter (first counting means) and the virtual difference number counter (second counting means). (b) is a diagram showing an example of the difference number counter (first counting means) and the virtual difference number counter (second counting means), and various processes that refer to these counting means. [Figure 169] 10 is a diagram showing an example of counting by a difference number counter (first counting means) and a virtual difference number counter (second counting means) in time series. FIG. [Figure 170] 10 is a graph showing an example of the change in the difference in number of coins during a certain gaming period. [Figure 171] This is a diagram showing an example of various presentations during a certain game period shown in Figure 171. [Fig. 172] This is a diagram showing an example of various presentations during a certain game period shown in Figure 171. [Figure 173] 10 is a graph showing an example of the change in the difference in number of coins during a certain gaming period. [Fig. 174] This is a diagram showing an example of various presentations during a certain game period shown in Figure 173. [Figure 175] This is a diagram showing an example of various presentations during a certain game period shown in Figure 173. [Figure 176] (a) A diagram showing an example of a complete function advance notification. (b) A diagram showing an example of a complete upper limit reaching notification. (c) A diagram showing an example of a game value display upper limit reaching advance notification. (d) A diagram showing an example of a game value display upper limit reaching notification. [Figure 177] 10 is a graph showing an example of the change in the difference in number of coins during a certain gaming period. [Figure 178]This is a diagram showing an example of various effects and notifications during a certain game period shown in Figure 177. [Figure 179] This is a diagram showing an example of various effects and notifications during a certain game period shown in Figure 177. [Figure 180] This is a diagram showing an example of various effects and notifications during a certain game period shown in Figure 177. [Figure 181] This figure shows modified examples of various effects and notifications during a certain game period shown in Figure 177. [Figure 182] This figure shows modified examples of various effects and notifications during a certain game period shown in Figure 177. [Figure 183] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a performance produced by the shutter 163. [Figure 184] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of position correction by the shutter 163 during execution of a complete function advance notification. [Figure 185] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of position correction by the shutter 163 during execution of a complete upper limit reaching notification. [Figure 186] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of main processing by a main control unit. [Figure 187] 187 is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit initial setting process (step S101) in FIG. 186. [Figure 188] 187 is a flowchart showing the process of complete function activation (step S119) in FIG. 186. [Figure 189] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the connection of circuit boards inside the gaming machine. [Figure 190] 10A is a diagram showing the flow of operations when the harness is normally connected, and FIGS. 10B and 10C are diagrams showing an example of operations when the lever unit harness HA1 is disconnected. [Figure 191] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation when the lever unit harness HA1 is disconnected. [Figure 192] 10 is a diagram showing an example of an operation when a harness HB1 connecting a main control board 300B and a relay board RB1 is disconnected. FIG. [Figure 193]10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of the operation when the lever unit harness HA1, the stop button unit harness HA2, and the bet button unit harness HA3 are each disconnected. [Figure 194] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation when the menu button unit harness HC1 is disconnected and reconnected. [Figure 195] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation when a harness connecting a main control board and a sub-control board is disconnected and reconnected. [Figure 196] FIG. 1 is a front view showing the slot machine 100 with the front door 102 open. [Figure 197] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the slot machine 100 as seen from the side. [Figure 198] FIG. 10 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the sub-board case 500a and the main board case 300a. [Figure 199] 1 is a diagram showing an example of air flow inside the slot machine 100. FIG. [Figure 200] 1 is a diagram showing an example of air flow inside the slot machine 100. FIG. [Figure 201] 10 is a diagram showing the airflow from the cooling fan 950 when the front door 102 is open. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A slot machine according to an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention will be described below.

[0010] The slot machine of the present embodiment, which will be described below, has a predetermined amount of game value (medals, electronic medals, etc.). etc.) is inserted, and multiple reels with multiple types of symbols are rotated in a predetermined manner. The rotation starts when the start instruction operation is received, and the rotation start instruction operation is received. Based on the results of the draw, the winners of multiple types of roles will be determined by lottery. Each wheel stops its rotation individually by receiving a specific rotation stop instruction operation, and the The winning combination is determined by the winning combination based on the result of the selection and the symbols that appear when the reels stop. If the conditions are met, the game value is paid out and the game ends. If the game is not completed, the game will end without paying out any game value.

[0011] <Basic configuration> First, the basic configuration of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the slot machine 100 as seen from the front side (player side). FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an in-

[0012] The slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to an example of a gaming machine of the present invention. a body 101, and a front door attached to the front side of the body 101 and capable of being opened and closed relative to the body 101; (Door) 102.

[0013] In this example, the door is closed by inserting a key held by the manager of the gaming establishment into the door key hole 140. The front door 102, which is locked in a chained state, can be opened. can unlock the front door 102 (change it from a closed state to an open state), but only the administrator can Outsiders (for example, players) cannot unlock the front door 102.

[0014] On the right side of the main body 101, an optical sensor (detection means) consisting of a light projecting part and a light receiving part is provided. The light-emitting part and the light-receiving part of this open / close sensor are The front door 102 is configured so that a light-blocking piece of a certain length provided thereon passes through the gap.

[0015] The main control unit 300 performs a main control timer interrupt process, which will be described later, to detect the opening and closing of the The state of the various sensors 318 is monitored. When the front door 102 is closed, When the light blocking piece moves to a position where it blocks the light from the light projecting part of the open / close sensor of the main body 101, The closed sensor sends a signal (for example, a low-level signal) to the main control unit to indicate that the closed state has been detected. Output towards 300.

[0016] On the other hand, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the light-shielding piece of the front door 102 is in the opening and closing state of the main body 101. When the sensor is moved to a position where it does not block the light from the light-emitting part of the sensor, the open / close sensor detects the open state. The controller 300 outputs a signal (for example, a high-level signal) indicating that the power is turned on.

[0017] That is, the open / close sensor is a detection means capable of detecting the open / close state of the front door (door) 102. When the front door 102 is in the closed state, the detection state becomes the closed detection state, and the front door 102 is opened. In the open state, the detection state becomes the open detection state.

[0018] The "detection means" according to the present invention is not limited to an optical sensor, but may be, for example, a magnetic sensor. The switch may be a proximity switch, a micro switch, a Hall element, etc. Therefore, it is not limited to a state where the open detection state and the closed detection state always switch, and Even if there is a detection state, it may be possible for the detection state to become a closed detection state, or conversely, Even if the door is closed, the detection state may be an open detection state. stomach.

[0019] Here, the open / close sensor according to this example detects whether the front door 102 is open or closed by performing a predetermined operation. Even if the door is in the closed state, the detection state is set to the closed state. When the front door 102 is in the open state, the light emitting part and the light receiving part of the open / close sensor of the main body 101 are A light-shielding piece of a certain length is inserted and fixed with tape or the like, and the light is projected from the light-emitting part of the open / close sensor of the main body 101. By blocking the light, the detection state of the open / close sensor is strengthened even when the front door 102 is open. By automatically setting the door to a closed state (hereinafter, this state may be referred to as "door pseudo-closed"), This can be done.

[0020] The "predetermined operation" according to the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the "predetermined operation" may be, for example, closing the open / close sensor. A DIP switch is provided to set the detection state, and the operation of this DIP switch is the specified operation. In addition, when the detection means is configured with a magnetic sensor, it is possible to bring a magnet close to the sensor. Then, the detection state of the open / close sensor may be set to the closed detection state.

[0021] In the center of the main body 101, there is a reel (not shown) on the outer periphery of which a variety of symbols are arranged. The slot machine contains three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112). These reels 110 to 112 are configured to rotate inside the The roller is rotated by a driving device such as a flipping motor.

[0022] In this embodiment, each design is printed on the belt-shaped member at equal intervals in an appropriate number, and the belt-shaped member is Each of the reels 110 to 112 is attached to a fixed cylindrical frame material. The symbols 110 to 112 are displayed vertically in approximately three rows from the display window 113 when viewed by the player. A total of nine designs are visible. The symbol displayed on the top row of reel 110 (position 1 shown in the diagram) is the symbol displayed on the top row of the left reel, The symbol displayed in the middle row of the left reel (position 2 in the figure) is the symbol displayed in the middle row of the left reel, and the symbol displayed in the middle row of the left reel is the symbol displayed in the left reel. The symbol displayed on the bottom row of 10 (position 3 shown in the figure) is the bottom symbol on the left reel, and the symbol displayed on the middle reel is 111. The symbol displayed on the top row (position 4 shown in the figure) is the symbol on the top row of the middle reel, and the symbol on the middle row of the left reel is the symbol on the middle row of the left reel. The symbols displayed on the row (position 5 shown in the figure) are the middle row symbols of the middle reel, and the bottom row symbols of the middle reel 111 ( The symbols displayed on the bottom row of the middle reel and the top row of the right reel (position 6 shown in the figure) are the symbols displayed on the bottom row of the middle reel and the top row of the right reel (position 6 shown in the figure). The symbols displayed on the top row of the right reel (position 7 shown in the figure) are the symbols displayed on the middle row of the right reel (position 112 shown in the figure). The symbol displayed on the right reel middle row (position 8) and the symbol displayed on the right reel bottom row (position 9 shown in the figure) The symbols displayed on the right reel are called the bottom symbols, and the symbols on each reel (110-112) are called the bottom symbols. Each symbol is displayed in three rows vertically on each of the reels 110 to 112 through a display window 113. A total of nine reels are displayed. By spinning each of the reels 110 to 112, a game The combination of symbols that the player sees will change. The display functions as a display device that displays a combination of multiple types of symbols in a variable manner. As such a display device, in addition to a reel, an electronic image display device such as a liquid crystal display device can also be used. In this embodiment, three reels are provided inside the center of the slot machine 100. However, the number of reels and the installation positions of the reels are not limited to this.

[0023] The back of each of the reels 110 to 112 is illuminated with a display window 113 to illuminate the individual symbols. The backlight is shielded for each image. It is desirable to be able to illuminate each individual symbol evenly. In the vicinity of each of the reels 110 to 112 inside the optical system 100, an optical projection unit and an optical receiving unit are provided. A sensor (not shown) is provided, and a reel is placed between the light-emitting part and the light-receiving part of this optical sensor. The optical sensor is configured so that a light-shielding piece of a certain length provided on the Based on the detection results, the rotational position of the symbols on the reels is determined, and the target symbol is placed on the winning lane. Stop reels 110-112 as shown in the image.

[0024] The winning line indicator lamp 120 is a lamp that indicates the winning line that is active. The indicator indicates whether or not a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination, which will be explained later in Figure 5, is displayed. In this embodiment, the line is determined by the symbols in the middle row of the left reel, the symbols in the middle row of the middle reel, and There is only one line, the middle winning line L1, which is made up of the middle symbols on the right reel. This pay line L1 is shown in FIG. 2. The number of medals bet on the winning jackpot (sometimes called the "effective line") is determined by the number of medals bet on the winning jackpot. The slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 requires three medals. If the number of Dal coins inserted is less than 3, no winning line will be valid and 3 medals will be bet. When the winning line is activated, the start lever You can start playing by operating -135. For example, in addition to the middle winning line L1, there is also the left winning line. The winning line is composed of the upper symbols on the right reel, the middle symbols on the middle reel, and the lower symbols on the right reel. Or, a right-sloping win consisting of the bottom pattern on the left reel, the middle pattern on the middle reel, and the top pattern on the right reel A total of three winning lines may be set as valid winning lines, and the number of lines may be set according to the bet amount. The pay line L1 may be set as the valid pay line. , (the area consisting of numbers 2, 5 and 8 in FIG. 2) may be referred to as an effective line area S1. In addition, the area other than the effective line area S1 of the symbol display window 113 (numbers 1, 3, 4, 6, The area consisting of lines 7 and 9 may be referred to as the non-effective line area S2.

[0025] The notification lamp 123 indicates, for example, a specific winning combination (specifically, Special Role 1, Special Role 2) has been internally won, or the special role internal winning state described below has been This lamp informs the player that a special game mode is being played. The lamp 124 is a lamp that notifies the player that a game medal can be inserted. The replay lamp 122 indicates a replay role (details will be explained later) which is one of the winning roles in the previous game. If you win, you can play the game again (no need to insert a medal). The reel panel lamp 128 is a lamp for effect purposes. is.

[0026] The bet buttons 130 and 132 are used to select medals stored electronically in the slot machine 100. This button is used to insert a predetermined number of coins (called credits). In this case, one coin is inserted each time the bet button 130 is pressed, and one coin is inserted each time the bet button 132 is pressed. When the bet is placed, three coins are inserted (maximum of three coins). It is also called the MAX BET button. The medal insertion lamp 129 indicates the number of inserted medals. The lamps corresponding to the number of medals are lit, and when the specified number of medals is inserted, the game starts. The game start lamp 121 lights up to indicate that the game is ready to be played.

[0027] The chance button 190 is a button for effects, and is also called the effect button 190. The entrance 141 is an insertion port through which a player inserts a medal when starting a game. That is, medals are inserted electronically using the bet buttons 130 and 132. You can also insert actual medals (by inserting) into the medal insertion slot 141. The term "investment" includes both.

[0028] The stored number indicator 125 indicates the number of medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100. The game information display 126 is a display for displaying various internal information (for example, This is a display that shows the number of medals paid out during the special game state. The display 127 displays the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a result of winning a certain winning combination. In the following, the term "payout to the player" is used in the same sense as "payout to the player." In this embodiment, the number of reserved coins indicator 125, the game information table The indicator 126 and the dispensed number indicator 127 are configured as 7-segment (SEG) indicators. It is being done.

[0029] The start lever 135 is a lever-type start lever for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, the desired number of medals is inserted into the medal insertion slot 141, or the bet is When the buttons 130 and 132 are operated and the start lever 135 is operated, the reels 110 to The operation of the start lever 135 is the start operation of the game. It's called "saku."

[0030] The stop button unit 136 includes a left stop button 137 and a middle stop button 13 Stop buttons (stop operation means) 137-8 and right stop button 139 The stop buttons 137 to 139 are provided to control the operation of the start lever 135. Button-type switches that individually stop reels 110 to 112 that have started spinning by the operation. The left and right reels 110 to 112 are associated with the left and right reels 110 to 112. The left reel 110 can be stopped by operating the stop button 137. By operating the middle stop button 138, the middle reel 111 can be stopped. The right reel 112 can be stopped by operating the right stop button 139. Hereafter, the operation of the stop buttons 137 to 139 is called the stop operation, and the first stop The first stop operation is called the first stop operation, the next stop operation is called the second stop operation, and the last stop operation is called the third stop operation. In addition, the reels that are stopped in response to these stop operations are the first stop reel, the second stop reel, and so on. Furthermore, all of the reels 110 to 112 that are rotating are called the stop reel and the third stop reel. The order in which the stop buttons 137 to 139 are operated to stop the Furthermore, the operation sequence in which the first stop operation is the stop operation of the left reel 110 is called "forward push." This is called the "operation sequence" or simply "forward push", and the first stop operation is the stop operation of the right reel 112. The stop operation is called the "reverse push operation sequence" or simply "reverse push." A light emitting body may be provided inside the stop buttons 137 to 139, and the operation of the stop buttons 137 to 139 If possible, the light may be turned on to notify the player.

[0031] The medal return button 133 is pressed to remove the inserted medal when it becomes jammed. The settlement button 134 is a button for removing the electronically stored winnings from the slot machine 100. The button for settling the medals and bets and discharging them from the medal payout outlet 155 The door key hole 140 is used to unlock the front door 102 of the slot machine 100. This is a hole into which a key is inserted to lock the device.

[0032] The stop button unit 136 has a tab at the bottom for displaying the model name and attaching various certificate stamps. A title panel 162 is provided. A medal payout outlet is provided at the bottom of the title panel 162. 155, and a medal tray 161 is provided.

[0033] The sound hole 145 is connected to a speaker 277 (see FIG. 3) provided at the bottom inside the slot machine 100. The front door 102 has a hole for outputting the sound of the The lamp 144 is a decorative lamp to enhance the excitement of the game. The performance device 160 is provided on the upper side of the slot machine 100. A sound output unit for outputting sound from a speaker 272 (see FIG. 3) provided at the top inside the device to the outside. This performance device 160 has two right shutters that can be opened and closed horizontally. A shutter (shielding device) 163 consisting of a left shutter 163a and a right shutter 163b, The display unit 157 (liquid crystal display device) is provided at the rear of the monitor 163. The left shutter 163a and the right shutter 163b are positioned horizontally outward in front of the effect image display device 157. When the display screen of the effect image display device 157 is opened, the display screen of the effect image display device 157 is displayed on the front side of the slot machine 100 (the player side, front The structure appears on the surface (face side).

[0034] It should be noted that a display device other than a liquid crystal display device can be used that can display various effect images and various game information. Any device can be used, such as a multi-segment display (7-segment display), dot Matrix display, organic EL display, plasma display, reel (drum Alternatively, a display device consisting of a projector and a screen may be used. The face is rectangular and is configured so that the entire face can be seen by the player. The display screen is rectangular, but may be square. In addition, decorations (not shown) may be provided around the periphery of the display screen. As a result, part of the periphery of the display screen is hidden by the decoration, making the display screen appear oddly shaped. In this embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but it may be a curved surface. stomach.

[0035] Inside the main body 101, there is a setting key that can be turned on and off by rotating it. This setting key is used to set a setting value (in this example, It is an operation means for starting to change or check the settings (1 to 6). Inside the box, there is a list of buttons that can be pressed to change the settings (setting value change operation). A set switch (hereinafter also referred to as "reset SW") is provided. The SW is an error reset switch that can perform operations to clear various errors (error clearing operations) described later. It is an operating means that also functions as a touchpad.

[0036] These setting keys and reset switch can only be operated when the front door 102 (door) is open. The operation means is provided at a position where it can be operated, and when the front door 102 (door) is in a closed state, In other words, operations that can only be performed by the manager of the gaming establishment (e.g., store staff) It is an operating means that cannot be operated by the player.

[0037] Inside the main body 101, a set value display device 101a (see FIG. 14) is provided that can display set values. In this example, the set value display device 101a is configured as a 7-segment display. As will be described later in detail, when a setting change operation is performed, the setting value display device 1 In 01a, the setting value (one of setting 1 to setting 6) is displayed and the start When the setting value is confirmed by operating the lever 135, the setting value is not displayed. When the confirmation operation is performed, a number indicating the current setting value is displayed on the setting value display device 101a. The value is displayed.

[0038] Also, on the inner wall of the main body 101, there is a main control board that is connected to the main control unit 300. An external centralized terminal board (not shown) is attached to output information from the lot machine 100 to an external device. This external centralized terminal board is equipped with information stored in a hall computer (not shown) and other equipment. An external cable (not shown) extending from the input circuit 652 (see FIG. 3) is connected to the external cable. The external cable is connected to the LED terminal block (not shown). The cable is inserted into the main body 101 through a cable hole opened on the rear surface of the main body 101, and is connected to an external collection It is connected to the external cable connection part of the middle terminal board.

[0039] Also, on the inner wall of the main body 101, there is provided a medal dispensing device (not shown in the figure; medals collected in a bucket are dispensed). A medal dispenser (a device that dispenses medals) is provided, and to the right of the medal dispenser is an auxiliary medal storage (not shown). is provided behind which an overflow terminal is provided (not shown).

[0040] In addition, a power supply box (not shown) with a power supply board is arranged on the left side of the medal payout device. A power switch (not shown) is provided on the front of the power box. converts AC power supplied from an external source to the slot machine 100 into DC and converts it into a predetermined voltage. and supplies the signals to each control unit, such as the main control unit 300, sub-control units 400 and 500, which will be described later, and each device. Furthermore, certain components (such as the RAM of the main control unit 300) continue to operate even after the external power supply is cut off. 308, etc.) for a predetermined period (for example, 10 days). It is equipped with a condenser.

[0041] <Circuit configuration of control unit> Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The figure shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit.

[0042] The control unit of the slot machine 100 can be roughly divided into a main control unit 300 that controls the progress of the game. In response to a command signal (hereinafter simply referred to as a "command") sent by the main control unit 300, The first sub-control unit 400 controls the main performance, and the second sub-control unit 400 controls the frames transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400. and a second sub-controller 500 that controls various devices based on the received commands. Therefore, as for the main control unit 300, if the data volume becomes large, it becomes difficult to check the program. This will lead to security issues such as making the system difficult to operate and creating a breeding ground for unauthorized modifications. Therefore, there is a limit to the data capacity of the ROM 306 and RAM 308 of the main control unit 300. There are.

[0043] <Main control unit> First, we will explain the main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100. The main control unit 300 The main control unit 300 is provided with a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire main control unit 300. , CPU 304, control program data, lottery data used in the internal lottery for winning combinations, ROM306 that stores the symbol arrangement and stop position of the ball, and a memory for temporarily storing data. RAM 308, I / O 310 for controlling input and output of various devices, and Counter timer 312 for measuring the time, etc., and WDT (watchdog timer) 314 It should be noted that other storage devices may be used for the ROM 306 and RAM 308. This also applies to the first sub-control unit 400 and second sub-control unit 500 described below. The CPU 304 of this basic circuit 302 receives a clock signal having a predetermined period output from a crystal oscillator 315b. Furthermore, the CPU 304 operates by receiving a clock signal as a system clock. When this is done, the data for frequency division stored in a specified area of ​​ROM 306 is written to counter timer 3. 12, and the counter timer 312 determines the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data. The CPU 304 determines the interrupt time and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 304 at each interrupt time. This interrupt request triggers the monitoring of each sensor and the transmission of drive pulses. The clock signal output by the crystal oscillator 315b is 8 MHz, and the frequency division value of the counter timer 312 is 1 / 256, when the division data of ROM306 is set to 47, the reference time of the interrupt is 256×47÷8MHz=1.504ms.

[0044] The main control unit 300 calculates a value between 0 and 65 based on the clock signal input from the crystal oscillator 315a. Random number generator used as a hardware random number counter that fluctuates between 535 circuit 316, and a start signal output circuit that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when power is turned on. The CPU 304 receives a start signal from the start signal output circuit 338. When the button is pressed, game control is started (the main control unit main processing, which will be described later, is started).

[0045] The main control unit 300 also includes a sensor circuit 320, and the CPU 304 receives an interrupt Various sensors 318 (bet button 130 sensor, bet button 132 sensor, A medal receiving sensor for the medal inserted from the medal insertion port 141, a start lever 135 sensor Sensor, left stop button 137 sensor, middle stop button 138 sensor, right stop button a button 139 sensor, a settlement button 134 sensor, a medal dispensed from a medal dispenser 180, medal payout sensor of reel, optical sensor of reel 110-112 (index sensor 80 ), etc.) are monitored.

[0046] When the sensor circuit 320 detects the H level of the start lever sensor, A signal indicating the detection is output to the random number generating circuit 316. Upon receiving this signal, the random number generating circuit 31 6 is a register that latches the value at that timing and stores the random number used in the lottery. Store in.

[0047] Two medal acceptance sensors are installed in the internal passage of the medal insertion port 141. There are two start lever 135 sensors inside the start lever 135. The left stop button 137 sensor is installed to detect the start operation by the player. , the middle stop button 138 sensor, and the right stop button 139 sensor correspond to The stop buttons 137 to 139 are installed to control the game. Detects the work.

[0048] The bet button 130 sensor and the bet button 132 sensor detect the corresponding bet button. The data is stored electronically in RAM 308. Detects the insertion operation when inserting a medal as an insertion medal for a game. The sensor 4 is provided on the payment button 134. When the payment button 134 is pressed once, The medal payout sensor is a medal payout device 180. is a sensor for detecting the medals to be paid out. It may be a contact type sensor or a contact sensor.

[0049] The optical sensors (index sensors 80) of the reels 110 to 112 are The light-shielding piece (detection piece) on the reel frame is installed in the specified position on the mounting base of 112. 50) goes to L level every time it passes. Once it goes to L level, it goes to L level again. During this time, the rotation position information, which indicates how far the reels have rotated from the base position, is It is calculated based on the count value of the clock signal output by the oscillator 315b. When the L level signal is detected, the reel 304 determines that the reel has rotated once and The rotation position information is reset to zero. This rotation position information is stored in RAM3 of the main control unit 300. It is stored in 08.

[0050] The main control unit 300 controls the driving of the stepping motors provided on the reels 110 to 112. The circuit 322 drives a solenoid provided in the medal selector 170 that selects the inserted medals. a drive circuit 324 for driving the motor provided in the medal payout device 180; , various lamps 336 (winning line display lamp 120, notification lamp 123, game medal insertion The possible lamp 124, the replay lamp 122, and the medal insertion lamp 129 are the lamps for starting the game. 121, the number of stored coins indicator 125, the game information indicator 126, the number of coins paid out indicator 127) It is provided with a drive circuit 328 for operating the sensor.

[0051] In addition, the basic circuit 302 is connected to an information output circuit 334, and the main control unit 300 Through this information output circuit 334, an external hall computer (not shown) or the like The information input circuit 652 receives game information of the slot machine 100 (for example, information indicating the game status). ) and lights up the external central terminal board LED when game information is output.

[0052] The main control unit 300 also receives power from a power management unit (not shown). The power supply includes a voltage monitoring circuit 330 that monitors the voltage value of the power supply. If the voltage value is less than a predetermined value (9V in this embodiment), it indicates that the voltage has dropped. A low voltage signal is output to the basic circuit 302 .

[0053] The main control unit 300 also has an output interface for sending commands to the first sub-control unit 400. The main control unit 400 is equipped with an interface, which enables communication with the first sub-control unit 400. The information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400 is one-way communication. The first sub-controller is configured to be able to send signals such as commands to the sub-controller 400. The system is configured so that signals such as commands cannot be sent from 400 to the main control unit 300.

[0054] <Sub-controller> Next, the first sub-control unit 400 of the slot machine 100 will be described. 00 receives the control command sent by the main control unit 300 via the input interface. The first sub-control unit 400 controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 based on this control command. The basic circuit 402 includes a CPU 404 and a temporary device. RAM 408 for storing data and I / O 4 for controlling input and output of various devices. 10 and a counter timer 412 for measuring time, number of times, etc. Basic circuit The CPU 404 in 402 receives a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator 414 and outputs the clock signal to the system. The ROM 406 stores the data for controlling the entire first sub-control unit 400. Control programs and data for controlling the backlight lighting pattern and various displays The data for controlling the operation is stored.

[0055] The CPU 404 reads data from a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 406 via a data bus at a predetermined timing. The stored data for frequency division is sent to the counter timer 412. The interrupt time is determined based on the received frequency division data, and an interrupt is generated every time this time is reached. The CPU 404 sends an interrupt request to the CPU 404. The CPU 404 determines the timing of the interrupt request. It controls each IC and each circuit.

[0056] The first sub-control unit 400 is also provided with a sound source IC 418. Speakers 272 and 277 are provided via the output interface. are output from the amplifiers and speakers 272 and 277 in response to commands from the CPU 404. It controls the sound. The sound source IC418 contains an S-ROM (Sound Read Only Memory) that stores sound data. The audio data obtained from this ROM is amplified by an amplifier and Output from markers 272 and 277.

[0057] The first sub-controller 400 is provided with a drive circuit 422, and the drive circuit 422 is connected to an input / output Various lamps 420 (upper lamp, lower lamp, side lamp 14) are connected via the interface. 4. Title panel lamp, bet button lamp, chance button lamp, reel back Light 94, etc.) are connected.

[0058] The first sub-controller 400 also includes a drive circuit 424 for driving the motor of the shutter 163. The drive circuit 424 is provided with a shutter 163 via an output interface. The drive circuit 424 drives the shutter 163 in response to a command from the CPU 404. A drive signal is output to a stepping motor (not shown).

[0059] The first sub-control unit 400 is also provided with a sensor circuit 426. The CPU 404 is connected to the shutter sensor 428 via the input interface. The state of the shutter sensor 428 is monitored at each interrupt time.

[0060] Furthermore, the CPU 404 transmits and receives signals to the second sub-control unit 500 via the output interface. The second sub-control unit 500 controls the performance image display device 157 and the display control of the performance image display device 157. 60. The second sub-control unit 500 controls, for example, the effect image display device 157. a control unit that controls the display of the 163) and other control units that control the motor drive. Good too.

[0061] The second sub-control unit 500 receives the control command sent by the first sub-control unit 400 through an input interface. The second sub-control unit 500 receives the control command via the IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n interface and controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on this control command. The basic circuit 502 includes a CPU 504 and a temporary data and an I / O 510 for controlling the input and output of various devices. and a counter timer 512 for measuring time, number of times, etc. The CPU 504 of the 502 receives a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator 514 and outputs it to the system. The ROM 506 stores the data that controls the entire second sub-control unit 500. The control program and data for controlling the image display, etc. are stored in the memory.

[0062] The CPU 504 reads data from a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 506 via a data bus at a predetermined timing. The stored data for frequency division is transmitted to the counter timer 512. The counter timer 512 The interrupt time is determined based on the received frequency division data, and an interrupt is generated every time this time is reached. The CPU 504 sends an interrupt request to the CPU 404. The CPU 504 determines the timing of the interrupt request. It controls each IC and each circuit.

[0063] The second sub-controller 500 also includes a VDP516 (video display processor) The VDP516 is connected to the ROM506 and VRAM518 via a bus. The VDP 516 stores data in the ROM 506 based on a signal from the CPU 504. The image data stored in the memory is read out and the display image is generated using the work area of ​​the VRAM518. The image is displayed on the performance image display device 157.

[0064] <Pattern Arrangement> Next, the arrangement of symbols on the reels 110 to 112 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the figure shows the left reel 110, the center reel 111, and the right reel 112. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the applied patterns in a planar view.

[0065] Each reel 110 to 112 has multiple types (10 types in this embodiment) shown on the right side of the figure. The symbols are arranged in a predetermined number of frames (20 frames numbered 0 to 19 in this embodiment). The numbers 0 to 19 shown on the left side of the figure represent the positions of the symbols on each reel 110 to 112. For example, in this embodiment, the left reel 110 has a number 1 on it. The number 2 on the middle reel 111 has the "Seven 1" symbol, and the number 2 on the right reel 112 has the "Seven 2" symbol. Each piece has a "Seven 1B design" placed on it.

[0066] In the slot machine 100 of this embodiment, in order to enhance the enjoyment of the game, The corresponding reel 1 is pulled within the maximum retraction range (less than 5 frames in this embodiment) from the retracted position. It is configured to stop 10 to 112.

[0067] <Types of winning roles> Next, the types of winning combinations of the slot machine 100 will be explained with reference to FIG. , type of winning role (including working role), pattern combination corresponding to each winning role, payout of each winning role FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the number of times the data is given.

[0068] The winning combinations of the slot machine 100 include special combination 1, replay combination, and small combinations 1 to 8. The types of winning combinations are not limited to these combinations, and any combination may be adopted.

[0069] Among the winning combinations in this embodiment, the special combination 1 is a combination in which a predetermined benefit is given to the player upon winning. In addition, the replay role is a role that moves to a special game state where new medals are used. This is a role that allows you to play again without inserting the coin. These special roles 1 and replay roles are "operation roles" In addition, in this embodiment, "winning" does not involve the award of medals. The combination of symbols that work (without paying out medals) is displayed on the active line. For example, the special role 1 and the replay role are included. If it is not determined that the special role will be carried over to the next game, other roles will be awarded. If it is not determined that the above is the case, it is a general role that will not be carried over to the next game.

[0070] Special role 1 is a role (operation role) that transitions to a special game state (RT2) by winning. However, medals will not be paid out for winning these combinations. The combination is "Seven 3 - Seven 1 - Replay". Betsuyaku 1 is sometimes referred to as "RB1" or "RB."

[0071] When special role 1 is internally won, the internal winning flag corresponding to this internally won special role is turned on. (stored in a predetermined area of ​​the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300). If the flag corresponding to 1 is set to ON, the main control unit 300 changes the game state to the special role. This flag will remain on until the corresponding activation symbol is won. The state of the operation will be maintained, and it will be easier to win these operating roles in the next game onwards. Specifically, even if you do not win the special role 1 in the game where you have internally won the special role 1, In subsequent games, the state will be the same as when you internally won Special Role 1, and the corresponding symbol combination will The combination will be perfect, making it easier to win.

[0072] The special role internal winning state will be explained in detail later, but in the special role internal winning state, If you have internally won other roles other than the role, the symbols that make up this other role will be prioritized. In this way, reel stop control is executed.

[0073] The replay role is to play the game without inserting medals (game media) in the next game by winning. This is a winning role (operation role) that can be performed, and medals will not be paid out. You can play again with the same number of bets as the number of coins you inserted last time. Replay-replay-replay.

[0074] The replay role allows the player to play the next game without inserting a medal. Therefore, for example, if you win a replay, you will be able to insert medals the next time you play. Automatically insert (restores the number of inserted medals to the memory area for the number of inserted medals prepared in RAM308) The medals inserted in the game that won the replay may be used as the The winnings may be carried over and used in the next game.

[0075] Small symbols 1 to 8 are winning symbols that pay out a predetermined number of medals. The combination is "Watermelon - Watermelon - Watermelon" for small win 1 and "Replay - Check" for small win 2. Lee-Replay", small role 3 is "Cherry-Cherry-Cherry", small role 4 is "Bell B - Bell - Bell" and small win 5 is "Bell B - Bell (or Bell B) - Bell" The small win 6 is "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1" and the small win 7 is "Seven 2-Seven 2" -Seven 2" and the small win 8 is "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3". The number of coins dispensed is as shown in Figure 5.

[0076] Of the above small roles, small role 1 is "watermelon", small role 2 is "weak cherry", small role 3 is "strong cherry" -", small role 4 is called "common bell", small role 5 is called "push order bell", small role 6 to 8 is called "1 piece role". This may be the case.

[0077] <Types of game status (RT)> Next, the types of game states of the slot machine 100 and their transitions will be described. FIG. 6 is a transition diagram of the gaming state (RT) of the slot machine 100.

[0078] The slot machine 100 has a low replay probability state, a special role internal winning state, a special game state, It is configured to be able to switch between three different states with different degrees of advantage. The degree of advantage changes depending on the transition of the state, increasing the interest of the game. In the past, this game state is sometimes called RT, and the above-mentioned low replay probability state, special role The internal winning state and special game state are referred to as RT0, RT1, and RT2, respectively. In addition, when switching between these RTs, the corresponding lottery table will be changed. The RT is controlled by the main control unit 300.

[0079] In Figure 6, each of the RTs explained above is shown, and the transition conditions are written on the arrows. When the transition condition corresponding to each arrow is met, the RT transitions in the direction of the arrow. These transition conditions include, for example, winning a predetermined combination, or winning an internal combination. A specific symbol combination stops and displays on a specific winning line. This may include when the coins have been consumed and when a specified number of coins have been paid out.

[0080] Hereinafter, each RT will be explained with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

[0081] <Low replay probability state (RT0)> RT0 has a lower internal winning probability of replaying than RT1, making it the most unfavorable R for players. It's T.

[0082] In RT0, the internal winning combinations include special combination 1, replay combination, and small combinations 1 to 8. If you do not win the role, it is a loss and the pattern combination corresponding to the role will not be displayed. In addition, when the winning symbol combination does not stop on the winning line, it is called a "miss." In addition, if you do not win a prize, you may be referred to as "winning a losing prize." There is a match.

[0083] In Figure 6, if RT0 is set and special role 1 is internally won, the special role described below will be It is shown that the state will transition to an internal winning state.

[0084] <Special role internal winning state (RT1)> RT1 is a state in which the internal winning flag corresponding to special role 1 is set to on. The probability of winning a replay role is higher than with RT0, making this RT more advantageous than RT0.

[0085] In RT1, the internal winning roles include replay roles and small roles 1 to 8.

[0086] Figure 6 shows the case where special combination 1 is won in RT1 (the corresponding symbol combination is displayed). It has been shown that when the

[0087] <Special game state (RT2)> RT2 has a higher probability of winning the common bell (small role 4) than other RTs, and the medal acquisition This is an advantageous RT that becomes easier.

[0088] In RT2, the only internal winning combination is the common bell (small combination 4). In this case, when a predetermined number of games (6 times in this example) have been played, or when a predetermined number of games (6 times in this example) have been played, It is indicated that if there are 5 or more winning attempts, the game will transition to RT0.

[0089] The conditions for ending RT2 are not particularly limited. For example, if a specified number of coins or more are paid out, The game may end when a predetermined combination is won, or when a predetermined combination is won.

[0090] <Non-advantageous and advantageous sections> In the slot machine 100 of this embodiment, in addition to the RT described above, the game state can be displayed as a non- The system is divided into advantageous and unfavorable zones. In the advantageous zone, the internal winning role is Notification of the stop operation sequence (hereinafter referred to as "operation navigation" or "operation instruction notification"). is allowed, and this operation navigation is not displayed in the non-advantageous area. The operation guide will be displayed depending on the order of the push, but the operation guide will not be displayed even if the push order bell is internally selected. These situations will be explained below with reference to Figure 7. A diagram showing the transition of game states regarding advantageous and non-advantageous zones of machine 100.

[0091] In this embodiment, the initial state (for example, the state at the time of shipment from the factory) is set to a non-advantageous zone. Also, if the RAM is cleared (settings are changed), this non-advantageous section will be set. The state of the advantageous zone is called normal state A. In this embodiment, the state of the advantageous zone is called normal state A. There are three types of states: State B, Chance State, and AT State (including Super AT State). There are four states that can transition: normal state A, normal state B, chance state, and AT state. In this embodiment, if it is a non-advantageous zone, the advantageous zone flag is set to OFF, and if it is a beneficial zone, the advantageous zone flag is set to OFF. If the zone is in a favorable zone, the favorable zone flag is set to on. A distinction is made between advantageous and unprofitable zones. In order to prevent the encouragement of gambling, If the number of games played continues for a predetermined number of times (for example, 1,500 games), or if the number of games played continues for a predetermined number of times (for example, 1,500 games), If the number of coins exceeds the limit (for example, 2,400 coins), the system is configured to become a non-beneficial zone. .

[0092] The advantageous zone may be in the AT state only, or in the AT state. A precursory state before the transition may be further provided, and the configuration is not limited to the configuration of this embodiment. Similarly, there may be multiple types of states for the non-advantageous zone.

[0093] In addition, the non-advantageous zone and the advantageous zone are set separately from the RT. For example, the advantageous zone There is a chance that the game will shift to RT2 during the period. However, in RT2, the push order bell will not be selected internally, and the player will not be able to operate the game. Since the navigation system is not displayed, we have temporarily set up a non-advantageous section for RT2. It is also possible to set the timing so that the player returns to the advantageous zone after RT2 ends. In RT2, the push order bell is configured to be internally won and operation navigation is displayed. This may be done.

[0094] Below, we will explain each state of the non-advantageous zone and the advantageous zone.

[0095] <Normal state A> In the non-advantageous zone (normal state A), the transition lottery to the advantageous zone is based on the internal winning role. If you win this lottery, you will move to normal state B in the advantageous zone.

[0096] <Normal state B> In normal state B, the transition to the chance state occurs when the transition condition for the chance state is met. Also, when the transition condition is met, the number of games in the chance state is set. For example, in normal state B, a predetermined number of games are executed. Conditions for the transition to the game chance state in normal state B are executed, and the lottery is won. The condition that is met when the point is reached is the point that is added according to the result of one game in normal state B. The condition is met when (any of 1 to 3) reaches the specified number (100 points). As mentioned above, any conditions can be adopted.

[0097] <Chance state> In the chance state, when a specific role (in this example, 1-piece role (small role 6-8)) is internally won If the AT lottery is held, the set number of games will be played. If the AT set number is 0, the game will move to normal state B. If not, it will transition to AT state. When transitioning to AT state, the number of AT sets will be reduced by 1. Then, a predetermined number of game times (for example, 50) is set for the remaining number of AT games.

[0098] In the slot machine 100 of this embodiment, an AT lottery is executed in the chance state. However, for example, when shifting from a non-favorable section to a favorable section, an AT lottery (addition of the number of AT sets) may be performed, and the timing and execution conditions of the AT lottery can be arbitrarily adopted. That is possible.

[0099] Also, when winning the AT lottery, notification (operation instruction notification) including a suggestion of a symbol aimed at stopping may be executed (details will be described later). Note that the operation instruction notification is not limited to notification including a suggestion of a symbol aimed at stopping. For example, it may be notification including a pressing order (for example, "center → right → left", "press the center", etc.).

[0100] <AT state> Next, the AT state will be described. Hereinafter, the AT state may simply be referred to as AT in some cases. That is the case.

[0101] In the AT state, when an internal winning occurs in the pressing order bell (minor combination 5), an operation navigator indicating the correct pressing order corresponding to each is displayed. Note that this operation navigator is not limited to indicating the pressing order. For example, it may be a display such as "aim at ···!" that indicates the timing of the stop operation, or it may be a display that indicates both the pressing order and the timing. Also, in the payout number display 127, the 7-segment lights up in a manner corresponding to the correct pressing order (hereinafter, it may sometimes be referred to as navigator lighting). Regarding the display on this payout number display 127, it may light up in a manner corresponding to the timing of the stop operation, or it may be a display that lights up corresponding to both the pressing order and the timing. ​The light may be lit in a manner corresponding to both of the above.

[0102] In this embodiment, the number of remaining AT games is subtracted as the game progresses in the AT state. When the number of remaining AT games becomes 0, if the number of AT sets is greater than 0, the number of remaining AT games will be counted again. Set a predetermined value (for example, 50) for the number of AT sets, and if the number of AT sets is 0, enter the chance state. A lottery will be held. If you win the lottery, you will move to the chance state. If you do not win, A moves from the favorable zone to the non-favorable zone (initializing the parameters related to the favorable zone). If the special game state (RT2) occurs during the T state, the number of remaining AT games will be subtracted. The subtraction will resume when the RT reaches 0. It may be added by winning the lottery (which is carried out during the internal lottery in this embodiment). .

[0103] In addition, the configuration is not limited to using the number of AT sets or the number of AT remaining games, but may be based on a predetermined condition (for example, The AT state may be started and ended according to the timing (when a certain game state is reached).

[0104] <Processing Overview> The processing of the main control unit 300, the first sub-control unit 400, and the second sub-control unit 500 will be described below. This will be explained using:

[0105] <Main processing in the main control section> First, referring to FIG. 8, the main control unit main processing executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described. The figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the main processing of the main control unit.

[0106] As described above, when the power is turned on, the main control unit 300 receives a start signal (reset signal). A start signal output circuit (reset signal output circuit) 338 is provided to output the start signal. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 to which the signal is input is reset and started by a reset interrupt. 8 according to a control program stored in advance in the ROM 306. Implement the theory.

[0107] When the power is turned on, first, in step S101, the main control unit is initialized. In this main control unit initial setting process, the stack pointer (SP) of the CPU 304 is Setting of initial values ​​for the clock, setting of interrupt prohibition, initial setting of I / O 310, and each setting to be stored in RAM 308 It performs initial setting of seed variables, operation permission for WDT 314, setting of initial values, etc.

[0108] In step S103, a game start process is executed. In this process, the insertion of medals (manual insertion) or the operation of the bet buttons 130, 132), and The winning line indicator lamp 120 is turned on. When a medal is inserted, the first sub The control unit 400 prepares to send an insertion command indicating that a medal has been inserted. If you won a replay in the previous game, the number of medals you put in in the previous game will be the same as the number of medals you put in in the previous game. Since the system performs a process of inserting a number of medals, there is no need for the player to insert medals. Whether the start lever 135 is operated when the specified number (3) of medals have been used If the start lever 135 is operated, the number of medals inserted and the validity The valid winning line is determined and the game begins.

[0109] In step S105, various lottery processes including the lottery process for internal winning combinations are executed. In this method, the lottery table for the internal winning combination stored in ROM 306 is calculated according to the current RT. The random number obtained from the random number generating circuit 316 is used to perform an internal lottery (lottery for the winning combination). ) to determine the internal winning role. As a result of the internal lottery, if any role (including the active role) is selected, If a winning combination is achieved, the flag for that combination is turned on. An internal lottery command including internal winning information indicating the result of the internal lottery is sent to the first sub-control unit 400. For example, if you win the replay, you will receive the replay. An internal lottery command indicating that an internal lottery has been won (replay) is sent to the first sub-control unit 400. If the result of the internal lottery for winning the prize is a miss (non-winning role), The first sub-control unit 400 prepares to send the internal lottery command shown in the figure to the first sub-control unit 400. The selection command includes information on the internal winning role as well as information on the current advantageous zone (if the period is limited). In some cases, this includes information on the number of remaining games, such as the number of remaining AT games), AT lottery and A It contains information that can identify the results of the T-addition lottery. Regarding the number of times, it is not included in the internal winning command in non-AT state, but in AT state It may be included in the internal winning command. Furthermore, in the AT state, the push order bell (Small win 5) The internal winning command includes the internal winning of the stop button 137~1 It also includes operation instruction information that indicates the correct operation sequence (press order) of the 39 operations.

[0110] In step S111, based on the result of the internal winning combination lottery, the lead corresponding to the first stop operation is This reel stop data is stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300. is stored in

[0111] In step S113, the game interval timer (decremented in the timer update process described later) is 0. On the condition that the reel rotation start process is executed, the reels 110 to 112 start to rotate. In addition, when reels 110 to 112 start spinning, the reel spin start command is sent to the first sub-controller. Then, the reels 110 to 112 are rotated at a predetermined speed. The optical sensors installed on each reel detect the position of the symbols on each reel. When the stop button 137 is pressed, the stop operation for the stop buttons 137 to 139 is enabled. The interval counter ensures the minimum time required for one game (4.1 seconds in this embodiment). , and curbs speculation.

[0112] In step S115, a reel stop control process is executed. After the stop button 137-139 is pressed, the pressed stop button The reels 110 to 112 corresponding to the buttons 137 to 139 are stopped. Every time a stop operation is performed, the stop table of the reel stop data is referenced and the data set in the stop table is The reels 110 to 112 corresponding to the stop operation are stopped according to the number of retracted frames that have been input. , for the first stop operation, reel stop data corresponding to the second stop operation is prepared, and the second stop Regarding the operation, reel stop data corresponding to the third stop operation is prepared. In order to transmit the corresponding commands (first to third pressing commands) to the first sub-control unit 400 Each time reels 110 to 112 stop, the corresponding command (first to third stop) is executed. The first sub-control unit 400 prepares to transmit a stop command to the first sub-control unit 400. When 2 stops, the process proceeds to step S117.

[0113] In step S117, a winning determination process is performed. If a symbol combination corresponding to a winning role is displayed, the player wins that winning role. For example, if the activated pay line has a "watermelon-watermelon-watermelon" combination, If so, it is determined that the small win 1 has been won. After determining the winning role, Preparations are made to send the above to the first sub-control unit 400.

[0114] In step S119, if any winning combination with a payout has been won, The corresponding number of medals are given (paid out), and the number of medals given is displayed using the payout number display 127. Display.

[0115] In step S121, the RT update process is performed. In this process, the The RT transitions based on the conditions.

[0116] In step S123, a game status update process is performed. Update the status of the non-advantageous and advantageous sections as explained in 7. For example, When transitioning from state A to normal state B, the advantageous zone flag is set to ON, and the AT state is changed to normal state B. When transitioning to normal state A, the advantageous zone flag is set to OFF. This command prepares the transmission of the RT information, the non-advantageous zone and the advantageous zone. Information about the game (for example, advantageous zone flag, AT set number and AT remaining game number) is included. can be.

[0117] This completes one game. After that, the process returns to step S103 and the above-mentioned process is repeated. This will allow the game to progress.

[0118] <Main control unit 300 timer interrupt processing> Next, referring to FIG. 9, the main control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described. The process will be explained below. The same figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit timer interrupt process. is.

[0119] The main control unit 300 generates a timer interrupt signal at a predetermined cycle (approximately once every 2 ms in this embodiment). The main control unit is provided with a counter timer 312 that generates an interrupt signal. Timer interrupt processing is started at a predetermined cycle.

[0120] In step S201, a timer interrupt start process is performed. In this timer interrupt start process, C It performs processing such as temporarily saving the values ​​of each register of PU 304 to the stack area.

[0121] In step S203, the count value of the WDT 314 is set to the initial setting value (32 in this embodiment). To prevent a WDT interrupt from occurring for more than 0.8ms (to prevent processing abnormalities from being detected), The WDT 314 is periodically (in this embodiment, at a cycle of about 2 ms, which is the cycle of the main control unit timer interrupt). 1) Restart.

[0122] In step S205, an input port state update process is performed. In this example, the sensor circuits 320 of the various sensors 318 detect signals via the input ports of the I / O 310. The presence or absence of a detection signal is monitored by inputting a signal, and the RAM 308 is divided into sections for each of the various sensors 318. The status of the optical sensor is confirmed in this process and stored in the signal status storage area provided. do.

[0123] In step S207, various game processes are executed, and the interrupt status (various sensors 31 8) and executes processing according to the interrupt status. For example, if the interrupt status is during medal insertion processing, medal insertion acceptance processing will be performed. Also, if the interrupt status is in the payout process, the medal payout process is performed.

[0124] In step S209, a timer update process is performed. For example, the game interval timer is decremented. In this way, the various timers are updated in their respective time units.

[0125] In step S211, a command setting and transmission process is performed, and the main process of the main control unit 300 and Sends various commands that have been prepared for transmission by timer interrupt processing, etc., to the first sub-control unit 400. The output schedule information sent to the first sub-control unit 400 is strobe information (if ON, data is being set), command type (in this embodiment, basic command, Insert command, start lever acceptance command, internal winning command, performance associated with performance lottery processing command, reel rotation start command accompanying the start of rotation of reels 110 to 112, stop The first to third pressing commands in response to the operation of the buttons 137 to 139, and the reel 110 ~112 stop command, first to third stop command, winning command, medal payout processing Dispense quantity command, payout end command, status update command), command data (command It consists of the following information:

[0126] The first sub-control unit 400 executes the main control according to the command type included in the received output schedule information. It is possible to determine the performance control according to the change in the game control in the control unit 300, and Determining the content of the performance control based on the command data information included in the schedule information You will be able to do this.

[0127] In step S213, an external signal setting process is performed. In this external signal setting process, RAM The game information stored in the memory 308 is transmitted to the slot machine 100 via the information output circuit 334. is output to a separate information input circuit 652.

[0128] In step S215, device monitoring processing is performed. In this device monitoring processing, first, In step S205, the signal states of the various sensors 318 stored in the signal state storage area are read. It monitors for errors such as medal insertion abnormalities and medal payout abnormalities, and If an error is detected (not shown), an error process is executed. Then, the medal selector 170 (a medal selector in which a solenoid is provided) is operated. Sets various lamps, 7-segment (SEG) indicators, and other indicators. .

[0129] In step S217, it is monitored whether the low voltage signal is on. If a low voltage signal is received (if a power cutoff is detected), the process proceeds to step S221. If no signal is received (if no power interruption is detected), the process proceeds to step S219. nothing.

[0130] In step S219, a timer interruption end process is performed. Processing such as setting the temporarily saved values ​​of each register in step S201 to the original values ​​of each register After that, the process returns to the main processing of the main control unit shown in FIG.

[0131] On the other hand, in step S221, specific variables and states for returning to the state at the time of power outage when power is restored are set. Information that needs to be saved, such as a tack pointer, is saved in a predetermined area of ​​the RAM 308. derive a checksum value for a predetermined area including at least the eight used areas and store it in RAM 308 and sets a power flag to ON, indicating that power has been cut off.

[0132] <Processing of the first sub-control unit 400> Next, the processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. 10a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400. FIG. 10(b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt process of the first sub-control unit 400. 10(c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400.

[0133] First, in step S301, various initial settings are performed. This process initializes the input / output ports and stores the data in the RAM 408. This process initializes the area, etc. This process stores the internal winning information, which is information that indicates the results of the internal winning. and an area for storing RT update information, which is information representing the game status. The areas are provided in the RAM 408.

[0134] In step S303, it is determined whether the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable reaches 10 or more, and then step S305 The process moves to step 1.

[0135] In step S305, the timer variable is set to 0. In step S307, the main control unit Command processing, which is processing corresponding to each command received from 300, is executed.

[0136] In step S309, the performance control process is performed. Here, the performance data is expanded and stored in RAM. The process of setting device data in the performance execution area provided in RAM 408 and and a process of setting performance data in a performance reservation area provided in the Based on the information contained in the command, the performance data is set and control processing is executed. In addition, the performance data set in the performance reservation area and the performance execution area There are cases where device data is updated (overwritten) with other data. In this case, the overwrite The performance content is changed based on the data.

[0137] In step S311, sound control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, the device data set in the performance execution area corresponding to the speakers 272 and 277 The control data is acquired from the IC418, and output to the sound source IC418. The performance will be carried out according to the instructions.

[0138] In step S313, lamp control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, the device data set in the performance execution area corresponding to the various lamps 420 The control data is acquired from the lamp driver 422 and output to the drive circuit 422. The performance is performed by the following.

[0139] In step S315, shutter control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, from the device data set in the performance execution area corresponding to the shutter 163, The control data is acquired from the driver circuit 424, and the acquired control data is output to the driver circuit 424. The performance will be carried out by Ta163.

[0140] In step S317, the second sub-control unit 500 is For example, the information output process is performed to set up the transmission of the control command. If there is device data set in the performance execution area corresponding to 7, this device data The process prepares to send the data to the second sub-control unit 500, and returns to step S303.

[0141] Next, the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be explained using FIG. 10(b). This command reception interrupt process is performed by the first sub-control unit 400 in response to the command output from the main control unit 300. This is the process executed when a strobe signal is detected. In step S321, the command output by the main control unit 300 is stored in the RAM 40 as an unprocessed command. The command is stored in the command storage area provided at 8.

[0142] Next, referring to FIG. 10(c), the first sub-control unit 400 executes the second sub-control operation. The first sub-control unit timer interrupt process will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 performs a timer interrupt process at a predetermined interval (in this embodiment). In this embodiment, a hardware timer is provided that generates a timer interrupt every 2 ms. The timer interrupt is used as a trigger to execute the timer interrupt process at a predetermined cycle.

[0143] In step S331, the step in the first sub-control unit main processing shown in FIG. 10(a) is executed. The value in the timer variable storage area of ​​RAM 408 explained in S303 is added by 1 to return it to the original value. Therefore, in step S303, the value of the timer variable is stored in the timer variable storage area. It is judged to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms x 10).

[0144] In step S333, the device set in step S315 to the second sub-control unit 500 is It transmits data and updates random numbers for effects.

[0145] <Processing of the second sub-control unit 500> Next, the processing of the second sub-control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. 10a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 11(b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt process of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 11(c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500. 11(d) is a flowchart of the image control process of the second sub-control unit 500.

[0146] First, in step S401 of FIG. 11(a), various initial settings are performed. When the program is started, an initialization process is first performed in step S401. It performs port initial settings, initialization of storage areas in RAM 508, and the like.

[0147] In step S403, it is determined whether the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable reaches 10 or more, and then step S405 The process moves to step 1.

[0148] In step S405, 0 is substituted into the timer variable. In step S407, the command In command processing, the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500 executes the command processing in accordance with the first sub-control unit 40. It is determined whether a command has been received from CPU 404 of 0.

[0149] In step S409, a performance control process is performed. If a command is received, the corresponding process is performed. For example, the background image is The processing for reading the performance data for controlling the image from the ROM 506 is also executed. Processing such as reading performance data other than the above from ROM 506 is performed, and performance data needs to be updated. In such cases, updating of the performance data is included.

[0150] In step S411, image control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S409. For example, if the performance data read in step S409 contains an image control command, For example, the image control corresponding to this command is performed on the display image (notification image, background image). This image control process will be described later with reference to FIG. 11(d). When this image control process is completed, the process returns to step S403.

[0151] Next, the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500 will be explained using FIG. 11(b). This command reception interrupt process is executed by the second sub-control unit 500 in response to the command output by the first sub-control unit 400. This is the process executed when the command reception interrupt signal is detected. In step S415, the command output by the first sub-control unit 400 is treated as an unprocessed command and R The command is stored in the command storage area provided in the AM508.

[0152] Next, referring to FIG. 11(c), the second sub-control unit 500 executes the second sub-control operation. The second sub-control unit timer interrupt process will now be described. The second sub-control unit 500 performs a timer interrupt process at a predetermined interval (in this embodiment). In this embodiment, a hardware timer is provided that generates a timer interrupt every 2 ms. The timer interrupt is used as a trigger to execute the timer interrupt process at a predetermined cycle.

[0153] In step S417, the step in the second sub-control unit main processing shown in FIG. 11(a) is executed. The value in the timer variable storage area of ​​the RAM 508 explained in S403 is added by 1 to return it to the original value. Therefore, in step S403, the value of the timer variable is stored in the timer variable storage area. It is judged to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms x 10).

[0154] In step S419, the random number values ​​for effect are updated.

[0155] Next, referring to FIG. 11(d), step S4 in the main processing of the second sub-control unit 500 The image control process of FIG. 11 will be described. The same figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the image control process. FIG.

[0156] In step S421, an instruction to transfer image data is issued. First, the drawing area designation of display area A and display area B of VRAM 518 is swapped. Therefore, the image of one frame stored in the display area that is not specified as the drawing area is displayed as a performance image. The display device 157 then displays the attribute register of the VDP 516. ROM coordinates (transfer source address in ROM 506) based on the position information table, After setting the VRAM coordinates (destination address of VRAM518), etc., The VDP 516 sets a command to start transferring image data to the VRAM 518. Image data is read from ROM 506 to VR based on the command set in the attribute register. Then, the VDP 516 sends a transfer end interrupt signal to the CPU 504. and output it.

[0157] In step S423, it is determined whether or not a transfer end interrupt signal has been input from the VDP 516. If a transfer end interrupt signal is input, the process proceeds to step S425; otherwise, Wait for the transfer end interrupt signal to be input.

[0158] In step S425, the production scenario configuration table and attribute data are Here, the CPU 504 sets parameters based on the VR Displayed in display area A or B of VRAM518 based on image data transferred to AM518 In order to form an image, the image data information constituting the display image (the coordinate axis of the VRAM 518) , image size, VRAM coordinates (position coordinates), image overlay and transparency, etc.) The VDP516 executes the instruction stored in the attribute register. Set parameters according to the attributes.

[0159] In step S427, a drawing instruction is issued. In this drawing instruction, the CPU 504 The VDP 516 starts drawing the image in accordance with the instruction from the CPU 504. Starts drawing an image in the image buffer.

[0160] In step S429, a generation completion interrupt signal is generated from the VDP 516 based on the completion of image drawing. If a generation end interrupt signal is input, the process advances to step S43. If not, it waits for the generation completion interrupt signal to be input.

[0161] In step S431, a predetermined area of ​​the RAM 508 is set and an image of a certain scene is generated. The scene display counter is incremented (+1) and the process ends. .

[0162] <<Embodiment C>> Next, referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, regarding a gaming machine (slot machine) according to embodiment C, Regarding the terms and phrases that overlap with other embodiments, the terms and phrases of this embodiment will take precedence. For descriptions that overlap with drawings other than those in FIGS. 12 and 13, the descriptions in FIGS. 12 and 13 take precedence. .

[0163] <Notification means> Next, before explaining various notifications, the notification means provided in the slot machine 100 will be explained. Reveal.

[0164] <Notification means (display means)> The slot machine 100 is provided with a display means capable of displaying information as one of the notification means. The display means provided in the lot machine 100 may be, for example, the liquid crystal display described with reference to FIG. Device (performance image display device) 157, payout number display 127, storage number display 125, game In this example, the display means is a liquid crystal display device, an LED, etc. , segment display, etc.

[0165] <Notification means (sound output means)> The slot machine 100 is provided with a sound output means capable of outputting a sound as one of the notification means. The sound output means provided in the slot machine 100 may be, for example, the sound output means described with reference to FIG. Speakers 272, 277, etc.

[0166] <Notification means (light emitting means)> The slot machine 100 has a function of emitting (outputting) light as one of the notification means. The slot machine 100 includes a light emitting means, for example, the light emitting means shown in FIG. The side lamp 144, title panel (lamp) 162, and performance button 190 explained above , stop buttons 137 to 139, start lever 135, as well as an upper lamp 142 (Fig. 14), reel backlights (not shown) for each of the reels 110 to 112, etc. In this example, all of these light emitting means are composed of LEDs.

[0167] In addition, the performance button 190, the stop buttons (stop operation means) 137 to 139, the start The lever 135 also functions as an operating means that can be operated by the player. The present invention can also be applied to pachinko machines, and the light emitting means provided in pachinko machines include frame lamps, Examples include buttons and accessories.

[0168] <Stop instruction notification> Next, the stop instruction notification will be explained. This refers to a notification (for example, operation navigation) that includes a suggestion of a target pattern, and is related to this embodiment. The notification means of the gaming machine is a first operation instruction including a suggestion of a first symbol to be stopped. and a second operation instruction notification including a suggestion of a second pattern that is the target of stopping. This may occur.

[0169] <First stop instruction notification> FIG. 12 shows an example of a notification in a time series when a first operation instruction notification is made in a certain game. The state shown in FIG. 1(a) is a state in which the first operation instruction notification is executed in a certain game. This is the state.

[0170] In this example, the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is triggered by the pressing of the start lever 135. At the same time, when the AT lottery is won during the chance state, the LCD display In the display area of ​​the device 157, a first operation instruction notification ID1 is being executed.

[0171] The first operation instruction notification is a notification including a suggestion of a first pattern that is a target to be stopped. In this example, as the first operation instruction notification ID1, a seven-one symbol is displayed on the winning line L1. Operate the stop buttons 137 to 139 so that the (first symbol) is displayed. Target symbol notification ID1a (in this example, an image of a Seven-1 symbol and a message saying "Aim!") A display including a character string) and a push order notification I that suggests the order in which stop buttons 137 to 139 should be pressed. D1b (In this example, the middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button (A display suggesting that the stop operation should be performed in the order of steps 137)

[0172] The first operation instruction notification is not limited to this example, and may be a first operation instruction notification having a goal of stopping the Any notification including a suggestion of a pattern may be used. For example, the stop buttons 137 to 139 It may be a notification that does not include the push order notification ID1b that suggests the push order of "Aim for blue 7" The notification may be made up of only a character string such as "," or in addition to the notification by the display means (or Alternatively, a notification may be given by a sound output means such as a speaker 272, 277 (for example, "Blue 7"). A voice command such as "Aim" may be applied.

[0173] The execution condition for the first operation instruction notification is not limited to this example. For example, When you win (or win a prize), or when you enter a specific game state, you will receive a specified number of points (e.g. For example, it may be the case that the number of points accumulated reaches 100.

[0174] <First stop instruction notification → First stop mode → Execution of first notification> The state shown in FIG. 12(b-1) is when reel 1 is in a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the first stopping mode.

[0175] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a first operation instruction notification (in this example, the first operation instruction In a game in which the notification ID1 is executed, the reels are stopped in the first stopping mode (in this example, "Seven-One" -Seven 1-Seven 1) symbol combination, you will receive at least the first It is configured to perform notification.

[0176] In the state shown in FIG. 12(b-1), the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction notification) In the game in which the above is executed, the player follows the first operation instruction notification ID1 and aims for the seven-one symbol. So, the order is middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137. The reels 110 to 112 will display the "Seven 1 - Seven 1 - Seven 1" pattern. The combination (first stopping pattern) was stopped ("Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven" was displayed on the winning line L1) Since the symbol combination of "1" (first stop mode) is complete, the first notification RD1 (first notification In this example, the image of the Seven-1 symbol, the character string "Get!", and the effect image are (including display) is running.

[0177] In addition, in the game where the first operation instruction notification was executed as a result of winning the AT lottery, Then, the reels 110 to 112 are stopped in the first stopping mode (in this example, "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven"). In the next game after stopping on the symbol combination "1", as shown in Figure 12(d), The machine will transition to this state and AT play will begin.

[0178] In this example, the first stop mode is set to the first symbol (in this example, seven 1) on all reels. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the goal is to make the ball stop. The combination may be any other combination of symbols including the first symbol.

[0179] The first notification is not limited to this example, and may be, for example, a character string such as "Congratulations on the Blue 7." In addition to (or instead of) the notification by the display means, Notification by sound output means such as speakers 272, 277 (for example, "Congratulations on the blue 7" sound output) or by light emitting means such as upper lamp 142 and side lamp 144 (for example, For example, flashing red light may be applied.

[0180] The timing of the first notification is determined by the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction notification). The reel may be stopped in the first stop mode only, or the game may be stopped in the first stop mode only. In addition, it may be executed in any game after the game.

[0181] <First stop instruction notification → Second stop mode → No first notification> The state shown in FIG. 12(b-4) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the second stopping mode.

[0182] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a first operation instruction notification (in this example, the first operation instruction In a game in which the notification ID1 is executed, the reels stop in the second mode (in this example, "Seven 3 -Seven 3-Seven 3) symbol combination, you will receive at least the first The system is configured so that notification is not executed.

[0183] In the state shown in FIG. 12(b-4), the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction notification) In the game in which the above is executed, the player does not follow the first operation instruction notification ID1 and the seven-three symbol appears. Aim for the middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137 The reels 110 to 112 will stop in the following order: Seven 3 - Seven 3 - Seven 3 The symbol combination (second stopping mode) was stopped ("Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven" was on the winning line L1). Since the symbol combination of "Bun 3" (the second stopping mode) is completed, the symbol combination shown in Figure 12 (b-1) First notification RD1 (First notification. In this example, an image of a Seven-1 symbol and the message "Get!" The display (including the text and effect image) is not executed.

[0184] According to this example, the first operation instruction notification (in this example, the first operation instruction notification shown in FIG. 12(a)) In a game in which the reels are stopped in the first stopping mode (in this example, "Seven 1-Seven"), When the symbol combination "Bun 1-Seven 1" is reached, at least the first notification will be given in that game. (In this example, the first notification RD1 shown in FIG. 12(b-1)) is executed while the first operation In a game in which the instruction notification is executed, the reels stop in the second mode (in this example, "Seven 3-Seven" When the symbol combination "Seven 3" is displayed, the first notification will be given at least in that game. Since the game is not executed, the notification can be made without misleading the player. This prevents the player from losing his or her motivation to play the game.

[0185] In addition, the first stopping mode is when the first symbol (in this example, the seven-one symbol) stops on all reels. The second stopping mode is when the second symbol (in this example, seven 3) appears on all reels. Since the symbol (pattern) has stopped, the symbol suggested by the first operation instruction notification is displayed as a stop symbol. This can be displayed so that the player will not get confused.

[0186] In this example, the second stop mode is set to the second symbol (in this example, seven 3) on all reels. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the goal is to make the ball stop. The combination may be other combinations of symbols that do not include the first symbol.

[0187] The timing for not executing the first notification is determined by the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction The notification may be given only for the game in which the reels stop in the second stop mode, or In addition to the technique, it may be non-executable in any subsequent games.

[0188] <First stop instruction notification → fourth stop mode → no first notification> The state shown in FIG. 12(b-2) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the fourth stopping mode.

[0189] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a first operation instruction notification (in this example, the first operation instruction In a game in which the notification ID1 is executed, the reels are stopped in the fourth stop mode (in this example, the first stop mode). Stops in a stop mode other than the first, second, or third stop mode (so-called scattered stops) In this case, the first notification is not executed at least in the game.

[0190] In the state shown in FIG. 12(b-2), the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction notification) In the game in which the above is executed, the player follows the first operation instruction notification ID1 and aims for the seven-one symbol. So, the order is middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137. The player performed the stop operation in the first turn (or the player did not follow the first operation instruction notification ID1 and stopped the game) (Stop the reels by pressing buttons 137-139) and reels 110-112 will be "Bell Seven 1" -Replay" symbol combination (fourth stopping mode) ("Bell-Second" on the winning line L1) Since the "Bun1-Replay" symbol combination (fourth stopping mode) is complete, Figure 12 (b- 1) shown in the first notification RD1 (first notification. In this example, the image of the Seven 1 symbol and the message "Get !" string and a display including the effect image) is not executed.

[0191] According to this example, the first operation instruction notification (in this example, the first operation instruction notification shown in FIG. 12(a)) In a game where knowledge ID1 is executed, the reels stop without a specific pattern being aligned on all reels. The fourth stop mode (in this example, the first stop mode, the second stop mode, the third stop mode) is a mode in which If the reels stop in a stop mode other than the stop mode (so-called scattered lines), at least in that game Therefore, the first notification (in this example, the first notification RD1 shown in FIG. 12(b-1)) is not executed. The notification can be made in a way that does not mislead the player, and the player will not be confused. This can prevent the player's motivation to play from declining.

[0192] In this example, the fourth stopping mode is a specific symbol (in this example, seven-one) on all reels. The machine stopped without matching any of the following symbols: Seven 2 symbol, Seven 3 symbol, However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other specific patterns may stop without being aligned.

[0193] The timing for not executing the first notification is determined by the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction The notification may be given only for the game in which the reels have stopped in the fourth stop pattern, or In addition to the technique, it may be non-executable in any subsequent games.

[0194] <First stop instruction notification → Third stop mode → Execution of third notification> The state shown in FIG. 12(b-3) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the third stopping mode.

[0195] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a first operation instruction notification (in this example, the first operation instruction In a game in which the notification ID1 is executed, the reels stop in the third mode (in this example, "Seven 2" -Seven 2-Seven 2" symbol combination), you will receive at least the third It is configured to perform notification.

[0196] In the state shown in FIG. 12(b-3), the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction notification) In the game in which the above is executed, the player does not follow the first operation instruction notification ID1 and the seven 2 pattern is displayed. Aim for the middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137 The reels 110 to 112 will stop in the following order: Seven 2 - Seven 2 - Seven 2 The symbol combination (third stopping mode) was stopped ("Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven" on the winning line L1). Since the "Bun 2" symbol combination (third stop mode) is complete, the third notification RD3 (third In this example, an image of the Seven 2 pattern, the character string "Get!", and an effect image are displayed. (including the image).

[0197] In addition, in the game where the first operation instruction notification was executed as a result of winning the AT lottery, Then, the reels 110 to 112 are stopped in the third stop mode (in this example, "Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven"). In the next game after stopping on the symbol combination "2", as shown in Figure 12(d), The machine will transition to this state and AT play will begin.

[0198] According to this example, the first operation instruction notification (in this example, the first operation instruction notification shown in FIG. 12(a)) In the game where the reels are used to play the game, the third symbol (in this example, the The third stop mode (in this example, "Seven 2-Seven 2-") is a mode in which the Seven 2 symbol has stopped. When the symbol combination "Seven 2" is reached, the third notification (in this example) will be given at least in that game. In order to execute the third notification RD3) shown in FIG. 12(b-3), the first notification is executed. This makes the player believe that the reels have stopped in the first stopping mode, which increases the player's interest. It is possible.

[0199] In this example, the third stopping mode is set to a third symbol (in this example, seven 2) on all reels. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the goal is to make the ball stop. The combination may be other combinations of symbols that do not include the first symbol.

[0200] The third notification is not limited to this example, and may be, for example, a character string such as "Congratulations on Red 7." In addition to (or instead of) the notification by the display means, Notification by sound output means such as speakers 272, 277 (for example, "Congratulations on the red 7" sound output) or by light emitting means such as upper lamp 142 and side lamp 144 (for example, If necessary, a flashing yellow light may be applied.

[0201] The execution timing of the third notification is the first operation instruction notification ID1 (first operation instruction notification The game may be only a game in which the reel stops in the third stop mode, or the game In addition, it may be executed in any game after the game.

[0202] <Temporary suspension of the first suspension mode> The state shown in FIG. 12(c-2) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed. In the next game after 10 to 112 have stopped in the second stopping mode, the reel effect will be executed. The same figure (c-1) shows the state in which the first operation instruction notification is executed. In the next game after the reels 110 to 112 have stopped in the fourth stopping mode, the reel effect is performed. This is currently being carried out.

[0203] In the gaming machine according to this embodiment, after the reels have stopped in the second stopping mode (or After stopping in the fourth stopping mode), the first stopping mode (in this example, "Seven It is designed to stop at the symbol combination "1-Seven 1-Seven 1".

[0204] In the state shown in FIG. 12(c-2), as shown in FIG. 12(a), the first After the operation instruction notification ID1 is executed, as shown in FIG. 1(b-4), the reels 110 to 112 However, in the first stopping mode (in this example, the symbol combination "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1") Instead, it stopped in the "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3" symbol combination (second stopping mode). Therefore, the first notification RD1 shown in FIG. 12(b-1) is not executed, but the next time a certain game is played, In this game, the reel effect is started by pressing the start lever 135. The first stopping mode (in this example, the symbol combination of "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1") is used as the rule effect. After the first notification RD1 is executed, the AT game starts. is doing.

[0205] According to this example, the reels are stopped in the second stopping mode and then stopped in the first stopping mode. This can increase the interest of the player. Even if the reel stops in the second stop mode, the reel will not stop in the first stop mode in the next or subsequent games of a certain game. This makes it possible to give the player a surprise.

[0206] In addition, in the state shown in FIG. 12(c-1), as shown in FIG. 12(a), After the first operation instruction notification ID1 is executed, as shown in FIG. 112 is the first stopping mode (in this example, the symbol combination of "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1" ) but stopped on the "Bell-Seven-1-Replay" symbol combination (fourth stopping pattern). Therefore, the first notification RD1 shown in FIG. 12(b-1) is not executed, but after a certain game, In a game, the reel effect starts when the start lever 135 is pressed. The first stop mode as a reel effect (in this example, the pattern "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1" After the first notification RD1 is executed, the AT game starts. It has begun.

[0207] According to this example, the reels are stopped in the fourth stopping mode and then stopped in the first stopping mode. This can increase the interest of the player. Even if the reel stops in the fourth stop mode, the first reel will not be displayed in the next or subsequent game of a certain game. This makes it possible to give the player a surprise.

[0208] <Second stop instruction notification> FIG. 13 shows an example of a notification in a time series when a second operation instruction notification is made in a certain game. The state shown in FIG. 1(a) is a state in which the second operation instruction notification is executed in a certain game. This is the state.

[0209] In this example, the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is triggered by the pressing of the start lever 135. At the same time, when the Super AT lottery is won in the chance state, the LCD display In the display area of ​​the device 157, the second operation instruction notification ID2 is being executed.

[0210] The second operation instruction notification is a notification including a suggestion of a second pattern that is the target to be stopped. In this example, as the second operation instruction notification ID2, a seven-three symbol is displayed on the winning line L1. Operate the stop buttons 137 to 139 so that the (second symbol) is displayed. Target symbol notification ID2a (in this example, an image of a seven-three symbol and a message saying "Aim!") A display including a character string) and a push order notification I that suggests the order in which stop buttons 137 to 139 should be pressed. D2b (In this example, the middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button (A display suggesting that the stop operation should be performed in the order of steps 137)

[0211] The second operation instruction notification is not limited to this example, and may be a second operation instruction notification having a goal of stopping the Any notification including a suggestion of a pattern may be used. For example, the stop buttons 137 to 139 It may be a notification that does not include the push order notification ID2b that suggests the push order of "Aim for Gold 7" The notification may be made up of only a character string such as "," or in addition to the notification by the display means (or Alternatively, a notification may be given by a sound output means such as speakers 272, 277 (for example, "Gold 7"). A voice command such as "Aim" may be applied.

[0212] The execution condition for the second operation instruction notification is not limited to this example. For example, When you win (or win a prize), or when you enter a specific game state, you will receive a specified number of points (e.g. For example, it may be the case that the number of points accumulated reaches 100.

[0213] <Second stop instruction notification → second stop mode → execution of second notification> The state shown in FIG. 13(b-4) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the second operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the second stopping mode.

[0214] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a second operation instruction notification (in this example, the second operation instruction In a game in which the reels are stopped in the second stop mode (in this example, "Seven 3"), -Seven 3-Seven 3) symbol combination, you will receive at least the second It is configured to perform notification.

[0215] In the state shown in FIG. 13(b-4), the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction notification) In the game in which the above is executed, the player follows the second operation instruction notification ID2 and aims for the seven-three symbol. So, the order is middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137. The reels 110 to 112 will display the "Seven 3 - Seven 3 - Seven 3" pattern. The combination (second stopping pattern) was stopped ("Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven" on the winning line L1) Since the symbol combination of "3" (second stop mode) is complete, the second notification RD2 (second notification In this example, the image of the Seven 3 pattern, the character string "Get!", and the effect image are (including display) is running.

[0216] In addition, in the game where the second operation instruction notification was executed as a result of winning the Super AT lottery, In this example, the reels 110 to 112 are in the second stop mode ("Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven"). In the next game after stopping on the symbol combination "3", as shown in Figure 13(d), The game shifts to a super AT state, which is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, and the super AT game begins.

[0217] As described above, the first stopping mode (in this example, the symbol combination of "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1") In the next game after stopping in the AT state, the second stop mode (In this example, the symbol combination "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3") In the technique, the player transitions to a super AT state, which is more advantageous to the player than the AT state, so the first stop mode (In this example, the symbol combination "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1") (In this example, the symbol combination "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3") is the symbol combination. It is highly valuable.

[0218] Also, the third stop mode (in this example, the symbol combination of "Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2") In the next game after stopping, the game will transition to the AT state, so the first stop mode (in this example is the symbol combination of "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1") and the third stopping mode (in this example, The symbol combination "Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2" has the same value as the symbol combination. be.

[0219] In this example, the second stop mode is set to the second symbol (in this example, seven 3) on all reels. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the goal is to make the ball stop. The combination may be other symbols including a second symbol.

[0220] The second notification is not limited to this example, and may be, for example, a character string such as "Congratulations on Friday 7th." In addition to (or instead of) the notification by the display means, Notification by sound output means such as speakers 272, 277 (for example, "Congratulations on Friday 7th!") sound output) or by light emitting means such as upper lamp 142 and side lamp 144 (for example, For example, flashing red light may be applied.

[0221] The timing of the second notification is determined by the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction notification). The reel may be stopped in the second stop mode only, or the game may be stopped in the second stop mode only. In addition, it may be executed in any game after the game.

[0222] <Second stop instruction notification → First stop mode → No second notification> The state shown in FIG. 13(b-1) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the second operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the first stopping mode.

[0223] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a second operation instruction notification (in this example, the second operation instruction In a game in which the reels are stopped in the first stop mode (in this example, "Seven-One" -Seven 1-Seven 1" symbol combination), you will receive at least the second The system is configured so that notification is not executed.

[0224] In the state shown in FIG. 12(b-1), the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction notification) In the game in which the player performed the above, the player did not follow the second operation instruction notification ID2 and the Seven-1 symbol Aim for the middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137 The reels 110 to 112 will stop in the following order: Seven 1 - Seven 1 - Seven 1 The symbol combination (first stopping mode) is stopped ("Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven" is on the winning line L1) Since the symbol combination of "Bun 1" (first stopping mode) is complete, the symbol combination shown in Figure 13 (b-4) Second notification RD2 (Second notification. In this example, an image of the Seven 3 symbol and the message "Get!" The display (including the text and effect image) is not executed.

[0225] According to this example, the second operation instruction notification (in this example, the second operation instruction notification shown in FIG. 13(a)) In a game in which the reels are stopped in the second stopping mode (in this example, "Seven 3-Second" When the symbol combination "Bun 3-Seven 3" is reached, the second notification will be given at least in that game. (In this example, the second notification RD2 shown in FIG. 12(b-4)) is executed while the second operation In a game in which the instruction notification is executed, the reels are stopped in the first stopping mode (in this example, "Seven 1-Seven" When the symbol combination "Seven 1-Seven 1" is displayed, the second notification will be given at least in that game. Since the game is not executed, the notification can be made without misleading the player. This prevents the player from losing his or her motivation to play the game.

[0226] In addition, the first stopping mode is when the first symbol (in this example, the seven-one symbol) stops on all reels. The second stopping mode is when the second symbol (in this example, seven 3) appears on all reels. Since the symbol (pattern) has stopped, the symbol suggested by the second operation instruction notification is displayed as a stop symbol. This can be displayed so that the player will not get confused.

[0227] In this example, the first stop mode is set to the first symbol (in this example, seven 1) on all reels. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the goal is to make the ball stop. The combination may be other combinations of symbols that do not include the first symbol.

[0228] The timing for not executing the second notification is determined by the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction The notification may be given only for the game in which the reels stop in the first stop mode, or In addition to the technique, it may be non-executable in any subsequent games.

[0229] <Second stop instruction notification → fourth stop mode → non-execution of second notification> The state shown in FIG. 13(b-2) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the second operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the fourth stopping mode.

[0230] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a second operation instruction notification (in this example, the second operation instruction In a game in which the notification ID2 is executed, the reels are stopped in the fourth stop mode (in this example, the first stop mode) Stops in a stop mode other than the first, second, or third stop mode (so-called scattered stops) In this case, the second notification is not executed at least in the game.

[0231] In the state shown in FIG. 13(b-2), the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction notification) In the game in which the above is executed, the player follows the second operation instruction notification ID2 and aims for the seven-three symbol. So, the order is middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137. The player performed the stop operation in the turn (or the player did not follow the second operation instruction notification ID2 and stopped the game) (Stop the reels by pressing buttons 137-139) and reels 110-112 will be "Bell Seven 1" -Replay" symbol combination (fourth stopping mode) ("Bell-Second" on the winning line L1) Since the "Bun1-Replay" symbol combination (fourth stopping mode) is complete, Figure 13 (b- 4) shows the second notification RD2 (second notification. In this example, the image of the seven-three symbol and the message "Get !" string and a display including the effect image) is not executed.

[0232] According to this example, the second operation instruction notification (in this example, the second operation instruction notification shown in FIG. 13(a)) In a game where knowledge ID2 is executed, the reels stop without a specific pattern being aligned on all reels. The fourth stop mode (in this example, the first stop mode, the second stop mode, the third stop mode) is a mode in which If the reels stop in a stop mode other than the stop mode (so-called scattered lines), at least in that game Therefore, the second notification (in this example, the second notification RD2 shown in FIG. 13(b-4)) is not executed. The notification can be made in a way that does not mislead the player, and the player will not be confused. This can prevent the player's motivation to play from declining.

[0233] In this example, the fourth stopping mode is a specific symbol (in this example, seven-one) on all reels. The machine stopped without matching any of the following symbols: Seven 2 symbol, Seven 3 symbol, However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other specific patterns may stop without being aligned.

[0234] The timing for not executing the second notification is determined by the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction The notification may be given only for the game in which the reels have stopped in the fourth stop pattern, or In addition to the technique, it may be non-executable in any subsequent games.

[0235] <Second stop instruction notification → third stop mode → non-execution of second notification> The state shown in FIG. 13(b-3) is when reel 1 is rotated in a game in which the second operation instruction notification is executed. 10 to 112 are states stopped in the third stopping mode.

[0236] The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a second operation instruction notification (in this example, the second operation instruction In a game in which the reels are stopped in the third stop mode (in this example, "Seven 2"), -Seven 2-Seven 2" symbol combination), the second The system is configured so that notification is not executed.

[0237] In the state shown in FIG. 13(b-3), the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction notification) In the game in which the player performed the above, the player did not follow the second operation instruction notification ID2 and the seven 2 pattern Aim for the middle stop button 138 → right stop button 139 → left stop button 137 The reels 110 to 112 will stop in the following order: Seven 2 - Seven 2 - Seven 2 The symbol combination (third stopping mode) was stopped ("Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven" on the winning line L1). Since the symbol combination of "Bun 2" (third stopping mode) is completed, the symbol combination shown in Figure 13 (b-4) Second notification RD2 (Second notification. In this example, an image of the Seven 3 symbol and the message "Get!" The display (including the text and effect image) is not executed.

[0238] According to this example, the second operation instruction notification (in this example, the second operation instruction notification shown in FIG. 13(a)) In a game where knowledge ID2 is executed, the reels stop without a specific pattern being aligned on all reels. The third stopping mode (in this example, the symbol combination of "Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2") When the reels stop at the same time, the second notification (in this example, FIG. 13(b-4) ) is not executed, so that the player is not misled. This prevents players from misunderstanding and prevents players from losing their motivation to play. It is possible.

[0239] In this example, the third stopping mode is set to a third symbol (in this example, seven 2) on all reels. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the goal is to make the ball stop. The combination may be other combinations of symbols that do not include the first symbol.

[0240] The timing for not executing the second notification is determined by the second operation instruction notification ID2 (second operation instruction The notification may be given only for the game in which the reels stop in the third stop mode, or In addition to the technique, it may be non-executable in any subsequent games.

[0241] <Temporary suspension of the second suspension mode> The state shown in FIG. 13(c) is the state of the reel 110 in the game in which the second operation instruction notification is executed. -112 is a stop mode other than the second stop mode (in this example, the first, third, or fourth stop mode) In the next game after the reel stops at either of the above conditions, the reel effect is being executed.

[0242] In the gaming machine according to this embodiment, after the reels have stopped in a stop mode other than the second stop mode, The second stopping mode (in this example, the symbol combination of "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3") is used as a rule effect. It is configured to stop when the

[0243] For example, as shown in FIG. 13(a), when a second operation instruction notification ID2 is executed in a certain game, After the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, as shown in FIG. In this example, instead of the symbol combination "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3", When the symbol combination of "Seven 1-Seven 1" (first stopping mode) is stopped, the symbol combination shown in FIG. 13 (b-4) ) is not executed, but as shown in the same figure (c), the next time of a certain game In the game, the reel effect starts when the start lever 135 is pressed. The second stopping mode (in this example, the symbol combination "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3") After the second notification RD2 is executed, the Super AT game starts. do.

[0244] According to this example, after the reels are stopped in a stop mode other than the second stop mode, Since the game can be stopped in various ways, it is possible to enhance the interest of the player. Even if the reel stops in a stop mode other than the second stop mode, In the next game or later, the second notification can be executed, so that the player can be surprised. Cut.

[0245] As described above, the gaming machine according to this embodiment (for example, the slot machine shown in FIG. 1) The reels (for example, reels 110 to 112 shown in FIG. 1) and stop operation means (for example, 1), and a notification means (for example, a liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. 1). 3, speakers 272, 277, and various lamps). The notification means notifies a first operation instruction (for example, the first operation instruction shown in FIG. 12(a)). The first operation instruction notification is a means for stopping the first operation instruction notification. The notification includes a suggestion of a first symbol (for example, a Seven-1 symbol) that is the target of the notification. The notification means is configured to notify the reel in a first stop mode in a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed. (For example, if the symbol combination "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1" is reached, at least In the game, a first notification (for example, the first notification RD1 shown in FIG. 12(b-1)) is executed. The notification means is a means for notifying the first operation instruction in a game in which the first operation instruction is notified. The reels stop in the second pattern (for example, "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3" combination). When the game is stopped, the first notification is not executed at least in the game. This is a gaming machine that is characterized by the following.

[0246] According to the gaming machine of this embodiment, in a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed, When the reel stops in the first stop mode, a first notification is executed in at least the game. In a game in which the first operation instruction notification is executed, when the reel stops in the second stop mode, At least, the first notification will not be executed in the game, so that the notification will not cause misunderstanding to the player. This will prevent players from misunderstanding and prevent players from losing their motivation to play. It can be prevented.

[0247] In addition, the first stop mode is a mode in which the first symbol (for example, a seven-one symbol) appears on all reels. ) is stopped, and the second stop mode is a mode in which a second symbol (for example, It may also be a state in which the Seven 3 symbol has stopped.

[0248] With this configuration, the symbol suggested by the first operation instruction notification is displayed in a static manner. This prevents the player from making a mistake.

[0249] Further, the notification means may be configured to notify the reels when the first operation instruction is notified. Stops on a third stopping pattern (for example, "Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2" symbol combination) And, at least in the game, the third notification (for example, the third notification shown in FIG. 12(b-3) RD3), and the third stopping mode is a means for performing a third symbol (e.g., For example, it may be a state in which two Seven symbols have stopped.

[0250] With this configuration, when the reels stop in the first stop mode in which the first notification is executed, This can make the player think that the game is a game, thereby increasing the player's interest.

[0251] Further, the notification means may be configured to notify the reels when the first operation instruction is notified. Fourth stop mode (for example, a stop other than the first stop mode, the second stop mode, or the third stop mode) When the reels stop in a certain pattern (so-called scattered patterns), the first notification is given at least in the game. The fourth stopping mode is a means for not executing the above, and the ... The machine stops without lining up any of the following symbols: Seven 1, Seven 2, or Seven 3. may be.

[0252] With this configuration, it is possible to notify the player without misunderstanding, This prevents players from misunderstanding and can prevent the players from losing their motivation to play.

[0253] After the reels have stopped in the second stopping mode, the first stopping mode is displayed as a reel effect. The stop may be in a stopping mode.

[0254] With this configuration, after the reels are stopped in the second stopping mode, This can increase the interest of the player.

[0255] The notification means may also notify a second operation instruction (for example, the second operation instruction shown in FIG. 13(a)). The second operation instruction notification ID2) is a means for executing the second operation instruction notification ID2), and the second operation instruction notification is stopped. The notification includes a suggestion of the second pattern, the suggestion being aimed at making the player win, and the notification means In a game in which the second operation instruction notification is executed, the reel stops in the second stop mode (for example, If the symbol combination "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3" is displayed, 13(b-4))。 Second notification (for example, the second notification RD2 shown in FIG. 13 (b-4)) is executed. The notification means is configured to notify the reel when the second operation instruction is notified in a game in which the second operation instruction is notified. Stops in a first stopping pattern (for example, a symbol combination of "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1") The means may be such that the second notification is not executed at least during the game.

[0256] With this configuration, it is possible to notify the player without misunderstanding, This prevents players from misunderstanding and can prevent the players from losing their motivation to play.

[0257] The first and second operation instruction notifications are symbols that are intended to be stopped. For example, the order in which the stop operation means is pressed (for example, "middle → right") may be used. The notification may include commands such as "→Left," "Middle!!," and "Press middle."

[0258] In addition, the third stop mode or the fourth stop mode is the first stop mode on all the reels. The symbol (for example, Seven 1 symbol) and the second symbol (for example, Seven 3 symbol) do not stop. It may be in a different form.

[0259] In addition, the first stop mode, the second stop mode, the third stop mode, and the All, several, or one of the fourth stop modes may be a specific letter, number, or graphic. It may also be configured to include a shape (for example, the number 7).

[0260] With this configuration, the stopping patterns are similar, which increases the player's sense of expectation. It may be possible.

[0261] In addition, it is equipped with a lottery means that allows internal lottery, and the first role (for example, 1 piece role (small role 6)) is won. In the selected game, the first operation instruction notification (for example, the first operation instruction shown in FIG. 12(a)) When the stop operation of the stop operation means is performed in accordance with the instruction notification ID1 (or when only when the reels are in the first stopping mode (e.g., "Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1" " symbol combination).

[0262] In addition, in a game in which the second role (for example, 1 piece role (small role 8)) is won, The stop instruction is given in accordance with the operation instruction notification (for example, the second operation instruction notification ID2 shown in FIG. 13(a)). When (or only when) the operation means is stopped, the reel Can be stopped in a certain pattern (for example, "Seven 3-Seven 3-Seven 3" combination) You may do so.

[0263] In addition, in a game in which the third role (for example, 1 piece role (small role 7)) is won, 12(a)) and stops the operation without following the operation instruction notification (for example, the first operation instruction notification ID1 shown in FIG. 12(a)). When (or only when) the stop operation of the stop operation means is performed, the reel The machine is designed to be able to stop in the desired pattern (for example, the symbol combination "Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2"). It may be done.

[0264] <<Embodiment D>> Next, referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, regarding a gaming machine (slot machine) according to embodiment D, Regarding the terms and phrases that overlap with other embodiments, the terms and phrases of this embodiment will take precedence. For descriptions that overlap with drawings other than those in FIGS. 14 to 16, the descriptions in FIGS. 14 to 16 take precedence. .

[0265] <Notification means> Next, before explaining various notifications, the notification means provided in the slot machine 100 will be explained. FIG. 14(a) shows the state when the setting key is turned from OFF to ON while the power is OFF. FIG. 1 is a front view of the slot machine 100 in the normal state.

[0266] <Notification means (display means)> The slot machine 100 is provided with a display means capable of displaying information as one of the notification means. The display means provided in the lot machine 100 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. In addition to the device (performance image display device) 157 and the setting value display device 101a, These include a payout number indicator 127, a reserve number indicator 125, a game information indicator 126, etc. In this example, these display means are composed of a liquid crystal display device, an LED, a segment display, etc. .

[0267] <Notification means (sound output means)> The slot machine 100 is provided with a sound output means capable of outputting a sound as one of the notification means. The sound output means provided in the slot machine 100 may be, for example, a slot machine shown in FIG. Examples include Pica 272 and 277.

[0268] <Notification means (light emitting means)> The slot machine 100 has a function of emitting (outputting) light as one of the notification means. The slot machine 100 is provided with a light emitting means. For example, the light emitting means shown in FIG. The upper lamp 142, the side lamp 144, and the title panel (lamp) 162 shown in a) In addition, the production button 190, stop buttons 137 to 139, and start button 138, which are explained using FIG. The reel backlights (not shown) of the reels 110 to 112 are also included. In this example, all of these light emitting means are made up of LEDs.

[0269] In addition, the performance button 190, the stop buttons (stop operation means) 137 to 139, the start The lever 135 also functions as an operating means that can be operated by the player. The present invention can also be applied to pachinko machines, and the light emitting means provided in pachinko machines include frame lamps, Examples include buttons and accessories.

[0270] <Settings change / settings confirmation mode> Next, before explaining various notifications, the setting change / setting confirmation mode will be explained.

[0271] In the gaming machine according to this embodiment, the front door 102 (door body) is opened, and the inside of the main body 101 is provided with When the power is turned on after a certain operation (turning the power off and on) using the specified setting key is performed, (or, after power is turned on, before the specified time has elapsed (when the control unit turns on / off the setting key) If you change the setting value (setting key) from OFF to ON (before checking the setting status), It is possible to transition to a state (setting change mode) where the settings can be changed.

[0272] Here, the setting change means changing the setting value of the gaming machine. In this example, the setting value (setting While displaying any of the setting values ​​(setting 1 to setting 6) on the setting value display device 101a, the operation means (setting switch Each time a push operation using the switch is detected, the currently set values ​​1 to 6 are The setting is updated by incrementing by 1, and when the setting value exceeds 6, it returns to 1. It is possible to change the default value.

[0273] In the setting change mode, the operation means (in this example, the start lever 135) When a pressing operation is accepted, the setting value is confirmed and a certain operation by the setting key is released. (In this example, if the setting key is removed after the on-off operation), the setting value The changeable state (setting change mode) ends and the game transitions to the normal game mode where normal play is possible. In addition, "cancelling a certain operation" refers to "turning the setting key from on to off and then canceling the setting." It is not limited to "the operation of removing the key" but may also be "the operation of turning the setting key from on to off" .

[0274] It should be noted that the operation means (start lever 13) can be operated without pressing the operation means (setting switch). 5) When the operation of 5) is performed or when the operation means (setting switch) is repeatedly pressed, The setting value goes around in a cycle (for example, setting 5 → setting 6 → setting 1 → ... → setting 5) and the operation method (start If you perform the Trevor 135 operation, the settings will be the same as the previous settings.

[0275] In the gaming machine according to this embodiment, after the front door 102 (door body) is opened and the power is turned on, A certain operation (turning from off to on) is performed using a setting key provided inside the body 101. When the setting is confirmed, it is possible to transition to a state (setting confirmation mode) where the setting value can be confirmed (setting confirmation). do.

[0276] Here, the setting confirmation means to check the setting value of the gaming machine, and in this example, By pressing the setting switch, the initial setting value (e.g., setting 1) or Or, the setting value (one of setting 1 to setting 6) set by the setting change is displayed on the setting value display unit. The set value can be confirmed by displaying it on the device 101a.

[0277] In addition, in the setting confirmation mode, a certain operation by the setting key is canceled (in this example, the ON When the setting key is removed after the operation to turn it off is performed from the front door 102, The state in which the setting value can be checked (setting check mode) ends, and normal play is possible. The "cancellation of a certain operation" refers to the "operation of changing the setting key from on to off." It is not limited to "the operation of removing the setting key after turning it on" but also "the operation of turning the setting key from on to off." That's fine.

[0278] In this specification, there are two modes: a setting change mode in which settings can be changed and a setting confirmation mode in which settings can be checked. The setting confirmation modes are sometimes collectively called setting change and setting confirmation modes. There are two modes: a setting change mode in which you can only change the settings, and a setting confirmation mode in which you can only check the settings. It includes a confirmation mode and a mode that allows you to change and confirm settings.

[0279] <Various notifications> Next, various notifications that can be performed by the gaming machine according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16. I will explain.

[0280] <Various notifications / First status, First notification> The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a notification means for an operation related to a setting change (in this example, a setting switch In the first state where the operation of the switch or the operation of the start lever 135 can be accepted, It is configured to perform notification.

[0281] Here, the first state is when the detection means (in this example, the open / close sensor) detects the door (in this example, the front door 1 02) is detected to be open.

[0282] FIG. 14(b) is a front view showing an example in which the first notification is executed in the first state.

[0283] In this example, the power is turned on after a certain operation (turning the power off) is performed using the setting key. Since the setting was changed from off to on and entered a state where the setting can be changed (setting change mode), The operation related to the setting change (in this example, the operation of the setting switch and the operation of the start lever 135) ) can be received (in this example, the front door 102 is in an open state and the open / close sensor is in a front The first notification is performed in the first state. It is being carried out.

[0284] The notification mode of the first notification is not particularly limited, but in the first notification IF1 of this example, a liquid crystal display By displaying a message including the character string "settings being changed" in the display area of ​​the display device 157, , the first display notification IF1a is executed, and the speaker 272, 277 outputs the message "The setting is being changed." By outputting the sound, the first sound notification IF1b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the The LED lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) The first light-emitting notification IF1c is executed by lighting the indicator 162 in white.

[0285] In addition, since the state has shifted to one in which the setting can be changed, the setting value display device 101a displays the following: A numerical value (1 in this example) indicating the current setting value (setting 1 in this example) is displayed.

[0286] The notification mode of the first notification is not limited to this example, and may be a display means (liquid crystal display device). One of notification, notification by sound output means (speaker), and notification by light emitting means (lamp) , several, or all of the above may be used in addition to (or instead of) these. Notification may be made by a moving object.

[0287] The first notification is not limited to a notification indicating that the setting is being changed. A message indicating that operations related to setting changes are possible (for example, "Setting change operations are possible" "The setting switch operation is valid." (including the display).

[0288] <Various notifications / second state, second notification> The notification means of the gaming machine according to this embodiment is a notification means for an operation related to a setting change (in this example, a setting switch In a second state in which the operation of the switch or the operation of the start lever 135 can be accepted, It is configured to perform notification.

[0289] Here, the second state is when the detection means (in this example, the open / close sensor) detects the door (in this example, the front door 1 02) is detected to be closed.

[0290] FIG. 14(c) is a front view showing an example in which the second notification is executed in the second state.

[0291] In this example, the power is turned on after a certain operation (turning the power off) is performed using the setting key. After turning the power on and entering the setting change mode (setting change mode), open the front door. Since 102 is closed, operations related to setting changes (in this example, operation of setting switches, The second state (in this example, the front door 102 is closed) in which the operation of the start lever 135 can be accepted. The second door is locked and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is closed. In this state, the second notification is executed.

[0292] The notification mode of the second notification is not particularly limited, but in the second notification IF2 of this example, a liquid crystal display In the display area of ​​the display device 157, it says "Change the setting while the door is open with the door key." By displaying a message including the character string "please" (please), the second display notification IF2a is executed, and the speaker From Ka 272 and 277, "Please change the settings while the door is open with the door key." By outputting the sound, the second sound notification IF2b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp The lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) 16 2 is turned on in white, the second light-emitting notification IF2c is executed.

[0293] Also, after the setting was changed to a state where it was possible to change the setting, the setting value was changed from Setting 1 to Setting 2. Therefore, the current setting value (in this example, setting 2) is displayed on the setting value display device 101a. A numerical value (2 in this example) is displayed.

[0294] According to this example, the notification means notifies the user of the first state (in this example) in which an operation related to a setting change can be accepted. In this case, the front door 102 is in an open state and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is in an open state. In the second state ( In this example, the front door 102 is in a closed state, and the open / close sensor detects the closed state of the front door 102. In order to execute a second notification different from the first notification in the state where the notification is executed, Based on the notification mode, the staff of the gaming establishment can grasp the state of the gaming machine when the setting is changed. , the setting changes can be executed appropriately.

[0295] The first state is when the detection means (in this example, the open / close sensor) detects the door (in this example, the front door 10 2) is a state in which the open state of the door is detected, and the second state is a state in which the detection means detects the closed state of the door. The alarm is different depending on whether the door is open or closed, so the staff at the game parlor must change the setting appropriately. In addition, since the notification is made differently depending on whether the door is open or closed during business hours of the gaming parlor, There are cases where a staff member at a gaming establishment can notice the fraudulent behavior of a cheater.

[0296] In the second state, the front door 102 is closed, and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is closed. It is not limited to the state where the lock state is detected, but the front door 102 is in the open state, and the open / close sensor is in the front It may also be a state in which the closed state of the door 102 has been detected.

[0297] According to this example, in the second state (in this example, the open / close sensor detects the closed state of the front door 102), In this state, the door (in this example, the front door 102) is closed and the door is open. Even if the doors are artificially closed by an unauthorized person while the amusement facility is open, Since the second notification is made, a staff member at the gaming establishment may be able to notice the fraudulent conduct of the fraudster.

[0298] The notification mode of the second notification is not limited to this example, and may be displayed by a display means (liquid crystal display device). One of notification, notification by sound output means (speaker), and notification by light emitting means (lamp) , several, or all of the above may be used in addition to (or instead of) these. Notification may be made by a moving object.

[0299] The second notification is not limited to a notification that calls attention to the setting change, and may be, for example, A message indicating that operations related to changing settings are not possible (for example, "Settings change operations are not possible" "The setting switch operation is invalid." It may be a display including columns), or a notification that prompts an operation to change the settings (for example, "door" Please close the application.")

[0300] <Settings change operation> Next, a specific example of the setting change operation will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0301] Here, the terms used in the figure will be explained. "Power switch" is explained using Figure 2. The "power switch" is the "power switch" as explained above, and the "door status" is the status of the door (front door 102) (closed or The "door sensor" is the "open / close sensor (detection means)" explained with reference to FIG. do.

[0302] The "setting key" is the "setting key" explained with reference to FIG. 1, and the "setting value display means" is the "setting key" explained with reference to FIG. " is the "setting value display device 101a" explained with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 14, and is connected to the external centralized terminal The plate LED is the "external terminal plate LED" described with reference to Figure 1.

[0303] Furthermore, the "liquid crystal display device" refers to the "liquid crystal display device 157 (display means)" described with reference to FIG. The title panel lamp is the title panel lamp 16 described with reference to FIG. 2 (light emitting means), and the upper and side lamps are the upper lamp 14 described with reference to FIG. 2 (light emitting means) and a side lamp 144 (light emitting means), and the speaker is The speakers 272 and 277 (sound output means) are used in the explanation.

[0304] <Example 1 of setting change operation> FIG. 15(a) is a diagram showing a first example of a setting change operation in time series.

[0305] <Example of setting change operation 1 / Power OFF, Door Close> The state shown in Figure 15(a)(1) is when the power switch is OFF (power OFF) and the front door 1 is open. 02 is closed and the setting key is in the OFF position.

[0306] In this state, since power is not supplied to the slot machine 100, the setting value display method The stage is hidden, and external centralized terminal board LED, LCD display, title panel lamp, All the interior and side lights are turned off and the speakers stop outputting sound.

[0307] <Example 1 of setting change operation: Power OFF, door closed → door open, setting key ON> The state shown in Figure 15(a)(2) is the same as the state shown in Figure 15(a)(1) with the power off, the door closed, and the setting In the key OFF state, the front door 102 is opened and the setting key inside the main body 101 is turned OFF. This is the state when it is turned ON from F.

[0308] In this state, the front door 102 changes from the closed state to the open state, and the setting key is turned from OFF to O. Since the status has changed to N, it means that the power switch is OFF (power OFF) and the front door 102 is open. In this state, the setting key changes to the ON state, but power is not supplied to the slot machine 100. Therefore, the set value display means is non-display, and the external centralized terminal board LED, LCD display device The title panel lamp, upper and side lamps will all be off, and the speaker will not output sound. It is stopped.

[0309] <Example 1 of setting change operation / Power OFF → Power ON, first notification> The state shown in Figure 15(a)(3) is the same as the state shown in Figure 15(a)(2) with the power off, the door open, and the setting With the key in the ON position, the power switch is turned from OFF to ON.

[0310] In this state, the power switch changes from ON to OFF, and from OFF to ON. Therefore, the door sensor detects the door being open and changes to ON, and the set value display means displays The current setting value is displayed (in this example, 1 indicates setting 1) and the external common terminal board LED outputs a control signal (in this example, information indicating that the settings are being changed) from the external centralized terminal board. It lights up to indicate it is in use.

[0311] In addition, operations related to setting changes (in this example, operation of the setting switch and start lever 1 35) can be accepted (in this example, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the opening / closing Since the sensor has detected the front door 102 being open, the first state is reached. The first notification is executed.

[0312] Specifically, similar to the first notification IF1 described with reference to FIG. 14(b), a liquid crystal display device In the display area of ​​157, by displaying the character string "changing settings", The display notification IF1a is executed, and the speaker 272, 277 outputs the message "The setting is being changed." By outputting a sound, the first sound notification IF1b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp The lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) 162 is turned on in white, thereby executing the first light-emitting notification IF1c.

[0313] <Example 1 of setting change operation: Door open, first alarm → Door close, second alarm> The state shown in FIG. 15(a)(4) is the state shown in FIG. 15(a)(3), in which the door is open, the setting key is ON, and the When one notification is being executed, the front door 102 is closed.

[0314] In this state, the front door 102 has changed from an open state to a closed state, and the door sensor detects When the closure is detected, it changes from ON to OFF, but the set value display means continues to display and the external centralized The terminal board LED remains lit.

[0315] In addition, operations related to setting changes (in this example, operation of the setting switch and start lever 1 35) can be accepted (in this example, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the opening / closing The sensor detects that the front door 102 is open. (The state in which the front door 102 is closed and the open / close sensor detects the closed state of the front door 102) Therefore, a second notification is executed in the second state.

[0316] Specifically, in this example, similar to the second notification IF2 described with reference to FIG. 14(c), In the display area of ​​the LCD display 157, it is displayed that "Change the setting while the door is open with the door key." By displaying a message including the character string "Please Peekaboo 272 and 277 say, "Please change the settings while the door is open with the door key." By outputting the voice, the second voice notification IF2b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the The LED lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) By lighting 162 in white, the second light-emitting notification IF2c is executed.

[0317] <Example 1 of setting change operation: Door closed, second alarm → Door open, first alarm> The state shown in FIG. 15(a)(5) is the state shown in FIG. 15(a)(4) with the door closed, the setting key ON, and the When the second notification is being executed, the front door 102 is open.

[0318] In this state, the front door 102 changes from the closed state to the open state, and operations related to setting changes are performed. (In this example, the second device is capable of accepting the operation of the setting switch and the operation of the start lever 135.) In this example, the front door 102 is in a closed state, and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is in a closed state. The state in which the front door 102 is detected) is changed to the first state (in this example, the front door 102 is in the open state and the opening / closing sensor Since the sensor has detected that the front door 102 is open, in the first state, The first notification is then executed.

[0319] Specifically, similar to the first notification IF1 described with reference to FIG. 14(b), a liquid crystal display device In the display area of ​​157, by displaying the character string "changing settings", The display notification IF1a is executed, and the speaker 272, 277 outputs the message "The setting is being changed." By outputting a sound, the first sound notification IF1b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp The lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) 162 is turned on in white, thereby executing the first light-emitting notification IF1c.

[0320] <Example 1 of setting change operation / setting change operation while the door is open and the first alarm is being issued> The state shown in FIG. 15(a)(6) is the state shown in FIG. 15(a)(5) with the door open, the setting key ON, and the This is a state in which a setting change operation is performed while one notification is being executed.

[0321] In this state, operations related to setting changes (in this example, setting switch operations and start In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state. When the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is open, the first operating means (the present In this example, the first notification continues because the setting switch was operated (setting change operation). While the setting value is being changed, the setting value is changed from setting 1 to setting 2, and the setting value display means A numerical value indicating the next setting value (in this example, 2 indicating setting 2) is displayed.

[0322] <Example 1 of setting change operation: Door open, setting key ON, lever operation during first alarm> The state shown in Figure 15(a)(7) is the state after the setting change operation shown in Figure 15(a)(6). This is the state in which the lever 135 has been pressed down.

[0323] In this state, operations related to setting changes (in this example, setting switch operations and start In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state. When the opening / closing sensor detects the open state of the front door 102, the operation of the first operating means Since the operation (in this example, the operation of confirming the set value by the start lever 135) has been performed, While continuing the notification of the first setting, the setting value is determined to be the second setting, and the setting value display means A numerical value (0 in this example) indicating that the setting value has been confirmed is displayed.

[0324] <Example 1 of setting change operation: Door open, setting key ON, setting key OFF during first alarm> The state shown in Figure 15(a)(8) is the state when the setting key is pressed after the lever operation shown in Figure 15(a)(7). This is the state when the switch has been turned from ON to OFF.

[0325] In this state, the setting key changes from ON to OFF (a certain operation by the setting key is canceled). Since the operation related to the setting change (in this example, the setting switch operation and the start In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state. The state in which the open / close sensor detects the open state of the front door 102 is ended, and normal play is possible. The game will transition to normal play mode, the first notification will end, and the setting change completion notification and demo performance will be displayed. It has started.

[0326] Specifically, the speaker 272, 277 outputs a voice message saying "The settings have been changed." This notifies the user that the setting change mode has ended, and the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display device 157 displays A demo animation is displayed, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp 144 are turned on in response to the demo performance. The corresponding demo pattern lights up, and the title panel (lamp) 162 lights up in white. is doing.

[0327] <Example 1 of setting change operation / Door open, setting key OFF → setting key ON> The state shown in FIG. 15(a)(9) is the state shown in FIG. 15(a)(8) with the setting key OFF. The setting key is turned ON.

[0328] In this state, when the power is on, the setting key changes from OFF to ON (setting key Since a certain operation was performed by the setting switch, the operation related to the setting confirmation (in this example, A third state (in this example, the front door, 102 is in the open state, and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is open. In the first state, a setting confirmation notification is executed.

[0329] Specifically, the character string "Checking settings" is displayed in the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display device 157. By displaying the setting including the setting, a setting confirmation notification display is executed, which suggests that the setting can be confirmed. ,The speaker 272, 277 outputs the voice saying "Checking the setting." A setting confirmation voice notification is given to indicate that confirmation is possible, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp The lamps 144 are all turned on to emit blue light, and the title panel (lamp) 16 2 lights up in blue to indicate that the settings can be checked. It is running.

[0330] <Example 2 of setting change operation> FIG. 15(b) is a diagram showing the second example of the setting change operation in chronological order. )~Fig. 15(b)(3), Fig. 15(b)(8), Fig. 15(b)(9) are Fig. 15(a)(1)~ Since the state is the same as in Figures (a)(3), (a)(8), and (a)(9), the explanation is The clarification is omitted.

[0331] <Example 2 of setting change operation / Door open, setting key ON, setting change operation during first alarm> The state shown in FIG. 15(b)(4) is the state shown in FIG. 15(b)(3) with the door open, the setting key ON, and the This is a state in which a setting change operation is performed while one notification is being made.

[0332] In this state, operations related to setting changes (in this example, setting switch operations and start In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state. When the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is open, the first operating means (the present In this example, the first notification continues because the setting switch was operated (setting change operation). While the setting value is being changed, the setting value is changed from setting 1 to setting 2, and the setting value display means A numerical value indicating the next setting value (in this example, 2 indicating setting 2) is displayed.

[0333] <Example 2 of setting change operation: Door open, first alarm → Door close, second alarm> The state shown in Figure 15(b)(5) is the state shown in Figure 15(b)(4) with the door open and the setting key ON. In this state, the front door 102 is closed.

[0334] In this state, the front door 102 has changed from an open state to a closed state, and the door sensor detects When the closure is detected, it changes from ON to OFF, but the set value display means continues to display and the external centralized The terminal board LED remains lit.

[0335] In addition, operations related to setting changes (in this example, operation of the setting switch and start lever 1 35) can be accepted (in this example, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the opening / closing The sensor detects that the front door 102 is open. (The state in which the front door 102 is closed and the open / close sensor detects the closed state of the front door 102) Therefore, a second notification is executed in the second state.

[0336] Specifically, in this example, similar to the second notification IF2 described with reference to FIG. 14(c), In the display area of ​​the LCD display 157, it is displayed that "Change the setting while the door is open with the door key." By displaying a message including the character string "Please Peekaboo 272 and 277 say, "Please change the settings while the door is open with the door key." By outputting the voice, the second voice notification IF2b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the The LED lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) By lighting 162 in white, the second light-emitting notification IF2c is executed.

[0337] <Example 2 of setting change operation / Door closed, setting key ON, lever operation during second alarm> The state shown in Figure 15(b)(6) is the state shown in Figure 15(b)(5) with the door closed, the setting key ON, This is the state in which the start lever 135 is pressed during the second notification.

[0338] In this state, operations related to setting changes (in this example, setting switch operations and start In this example, the front door 102 is in a closed state. When the opening / closing sensor detects the front door 102 being closed, the operation of the first operating means Since the operation (in this example, the operation of confirming the set value by the start lever 135) has been performed, While continuing the second notification, the setting value is confirmed to be setting 2, and in the setting value display means, A numerical value (0 in this example) indicating that the setting value has been confirmed is displayed.

[0339] In this example, in the first state (in this example, the state in which the open / close sensor detects the open state of the front door 102), In this state, the first operating means is operated (in this example, the start lever 135 is used to confirm the set value). When the setting operation is executed, the operation is accepted and the second state (in this example, the open / close sensor In this example, the first operating means is operated in the state where the closed state of the front door 102 is detected. When the operation to confirm the set value by the control lever 135 is performed, the operation is accepted. .

[0340] According to this example, the first operating means This allows operations to be accepted, thereby increasing convenience for game parlor staff.

[0341] In this example, in the first state (in this example, the open / close sensor detects the open state of the front door 102), In this example, the first notification ( 14(b) is executed, and the first operation means Before and after the operation is performed, the second notification (in this example, the second notification I shown in FIG. 14(c)) is F2).

[0342] According to this example, the same notification is executed before and after the operation of the first operating means. This allows game store staff to understand the status of the gaming machine and make appropriate setting changes.

[0343] <Example 2 of setting change operation: Door closed, second alarm → Door open, first alarm> The state shown in Figure 15(b)(7) is the state when the front door is opened after the lever operation shown in Figure 15(b)(6). 102 is in the open state.

[0344] In this state, the front door 102 changes from the closed state to the open state, and operations related to setting changes are performed. (In this example, the second device is capable of accepting the operation of the setting switch and the operation of the start lever 135.) In this example, the front door 102 is in a closed state, and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is in a closed state. The state in which the front door 102 is detected) is changed to the first state (in this example, the front door 102 is in the open state and the opening / closing sensor Since the sensor has detected that the front door 102 is open, in the first state, The first notification is then executed.

[0345] Specifically, similar to the first notification IF1 described with reference to FIG. 14(b), a liquid crystal display device In the display area of ​​157, by displaying the character string "changing settings", The display notification IF1a is executed, and the speaker 272, 277 outputs the message "The setting is being changed." By outputting a sound, the first sound notification IF1b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp The lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) 162 is turned on in white, thereby executing the first light-emitting notification IF1c.

[0346] <Example 3 of setting change operation> FIG. 16(a) is a diagram showing the time series of Example 3 of the setting change operation. ), (a)(10) to (a)(11) are the same as Fig. 15(b)(3), (b)(8) )~(b)(9) of the same figure, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0347] <Example 3 of setting change operation / Door open, door sensor ON → Door sensor OFF, second alarm> The state shown in Figure 16(a)(4) is the state shown in Figure 16(a)(3) with the door open and the setting key ON. In this state, the door sensor is forcibly turned off while the front door 102 is left open.

[0348] In this state, when the front door 102 is in the open state, the light emitting portion of the door sensor of the main body 101 and A light-shielding piece of a certain length is inserted between the light receiving parts and fixed with tape or the like, and the door sensor of the main body 101 is By blocking the light from the light projecting unit, even if the front door 102 is open, the door sensor can detect the The door sensor detects the door being closed because the detection state is forcibly changed to the closed state (pseudo-closed door). The setting value display means continues to display the value, and the external common terminal board LE D remains lit.

[0349] In addition, operations related to setting changes (in this example, operation of the setting switch and start lever 1 35) can be accepted (in this example, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the opening / closing The sensor detects that the front door 102 is open. (The state in which the front door 102 is open and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is closed) Therefore, a second notification is executed in the second state.

[0350] Specifically, in this example, similar to the second notification IF2 described with reference to FIG. 14(c), In the display area of ​​the LCD display 157, it is displayed that "Change the setting while the door is open with the door key." By displaying a message including the character string "Please Peekaboo 272 and 277 say, "Please change the settings while the door is open with the door key." By outputting the voice, the second voice notification IF2b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the The LED lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) By lighting 162 in white, the second light-emitting notification IF2c is executed.

[0351] <Example 3 of setting change operation / setting change operation during door pseudo-closure and second alarm> The state shown in FIG. 16(a)(5) is the state shown in FIG. 16(a)(4) in which the door is pseudo-closed and the second alarm is being issued. This is the state in which the setting change operation has been performed.

[0352] In this state, operations related to setting changes (in this example, setting switch operations and start In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state. When the opening / closing sensor detects that the front door 102 is closed, the first operating means (the present In this example, the second notification continues because the setting switch was operated (setting change operation). While the setting value is being changed, the setting value is changed from setting 1 to setting 2, and the setting value display means A numerical value indicating the next setting value (in this example, 2 indicating setting 2) is displayed.

[0353] <Example 3 of setting change operation / operating the lever during door pseudo-closure and second alarm> The state shown in Figure 16(a)(6) is the state after the setting change operation shown in Figure 16(a)(5). This is the state in which the lever 135 has been pressed down.

[0354] In this state, operations related to setting changes (in this example, setting switch operations and start In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state. When the opening / closing sensor detects that the front door 102 is closed, the first operating means (the present In this example, the start lever 135) was operated (to confirm the setting change). While continuing the second notification, the set value is determined to be set 2, and the set value display means A numeric value (0 in this example) indicating that the set value has been confirmed is displayed.

[0355] <Example 3 of setting change operation / Setting key OFF during door pseudo-closure and second alarm> The state shown in Figure 16(a)(7) is the state when the setting key is pressed after the lever operation shown in Figure 16(a)(6). This is the state when the switch has been turned from ON to OFF.

[0356] In this state, in the second state (in this example, the front door 102 is in the open state, and the opening / closing sensor the state in which the sensor detects the closed state of the front door 102), the operation of the first operating means (in this example, After the operation of the control lever 135 (the operation to confirm the setting change) is performed, the second operation Since the operation of the step (in this example, the operation of changing the setting key from ON to OFF) was performed, The operation of the second operating means is not accepted, and the setting change mode is maintained while the second notification is continued. (You cannot exit the configuration change mode.)

[0357] In this example, in the first state (in this example, the state in which the open / close sensor detects the open state of the front door 102), In this state, the first operating means is operated (in this example, the start lever 135 is used to confirm the set value). After the setting operation) is executed, the second operating means is operated (in this example, the setting key is turned from ON to OFF) When the operation of the second operating means is executed, the operation of the second operating means is accepted, while the second In this example, the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is closed. The operation of the operating means (in this example, the operation of confirming the set value by the start lever 135) is performed. After that, the operation of the second operating means (in this example, the operation of turning the setting key from ON to OFF) is performed. When this occurs, the operation of the second operating means is not accepted.

[0358] According to this example, since the operation of the second operating means is not accepted in the second state, The store clerk must understand that the operation of the second operating means is not accepted in the second state. The current state can be determined depending on whether or not the operation of the second operating means is accepted. It can be grasped.

[0359] The notification means operates the second operation means (turning the setting key from ON to OFF) during the execution of the second notification. Even if the operation to turn the power off is performed, the execution of the second notification may be continued. Even if an unauthorized person operates the setting key while the gaming establishment is open, the second notification is made. There are cases where a store clerk can detect the fraudulent behavior of a fraudster.

[0360] In addition, even if the second operation means is operated during the execution of the second notification (setting key), the notification means According to this example, even if the game machine is turned off, the second notification may be continued. Even if the setting key is removed by an unauthorized person during the game, a second notification will be sent, so the staff of the game parlor will not be disturbed. You may be able to spot the fraudulent actions of a legitimate person.

[0361] <Example 3 of setting change operation / Setting key OFF → Setting key ON during door pseudo-closure and second alarm> The state shown in FIG. 16(a)(8) is the state shown in FIG. 16(a)(7) with the setting key OFF. The setting key is turned ON.

[0362] In this state, in the second state (in this example, the front door 102 is in the open state, and the opening / closing sensor the state in which the sensor detects the closed state of the front door 102), the operation of the first operating means (in this example, After the operation of the control lever 135 (the operation to confirm the setting change) is performed, the second operation Since the operation in the step (in this example, the operation of turning the setting key from OFF to ON) was performed, The operation of the second operating means is not accepted, and the setting change mode is maintained while the second notification is continued. It will be held.

[0363] <Example 3 of setting change operation / Door pseudo-close, second alarm → Door open, first alarm> The state shown in FIG. 16(a)(9) is the state shown in FIG. 16(a)(8) in which the door is pseudo-closed and the second alarm is being issued. In this state, the front door 102 is open.

[0364] In this state, the front door 102 changes from the closed state to the open state, and operations related to setting changes are performed. (In this example, the second device is capable of accepting the operation of the setting switch and the operation of the start lever 135.) In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the open / close sensor detects the front door 102 in a closed state. The state in which the front door 102 is detected) is changed to the first state (in this example, the front door 102 is in the open state and the opening / closing sensor Since the sensor has detected that the front door 102 is open, in the first state, The first notification is then executed.

[0365] Specifically, similar to the first notification IF1 described with reference to FIG. 14(b), a liquid crystal display device In the display area of ​​157, by displaying the character string "changing settings", The display notification IF1a is executed, and the speaker 272, 277 outputs the message "The setting is being changed." By outputting a sound, the first sound notification IF1b is executed, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp The lamps 144 are all turned on to emit white light, and the title panel (lamp) 162 is turned on in white, thereby executing the first light-emitting notification IF1c.

[0366] <Example 4 of setting change operation> FIG. 16(b) is a diagram showing the time series of Example 4 of the setting change operation. ) to (b)(7) of the same figure are in the same state as Fig. 15(a)(1) to (a)(7) of the same figure. , the explanation of which will be omitted.

[0367] <Example 4 of setting change operation / Error occurs> The state shown in FIG. 16(b)(0) is a state in which an error (first error) has occurred. .

[0368] In this state, an error occurs when the power is on, the door is open, and the setting key is off. Therefore, an error notification is issued to indicate that an error has occurred.

[0369] Specifically, the first error occurs in the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display device 157. An error message will be displayed (in this example, a message containing the string "First error occurred"). , an error sound (in this example) is emitted from the speakers 272 and 277 to indicate that a first error has occurred. Then, the voice "First error occurred" is output, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp 1 44 is lit in an error notification manner (in this example, red) to indicate that a first error has occurred. The error is reported by displaying an error code on the dispensed number display 127. is doing.

[0370] Here, the error (first error) that can occur in the slot machine 100 is as follows: Medal insertion error 1-4, Medal payout error 1-3, Overflow error, RAM failure, Winning Abnormalities, etc.

[0371] Medal insertion error 1 occurs when an inserted medal is stuck, and the corresponding error code is displayed. For example, the code is E1. After removing the cause of the error, the error release switch is turned on. The error is resolved when the switch (in this example, the setting switch) is operated. This error occurs when the number of medals inserted is greater than the specified number, and the corresponding error code is E2, for example. Coin insertion error 2 can be resolved by changing the setting value or clearing the RAM.

[0372] Coin insertion error 3 occurs when either insertion sensor 1 or insertion sensor 2 is not in operation except during the coin insertion process. This error occurs when one of the following is turned on, and the corresponding error code is E3, for example. Insertion error 4 occurs when the inserted medal does not pass through insertion sensor 1 and insertion sensor 2 properly. The corresponding error code is, for example, EA. For DAL input error 4, after removing the cause of the error, press the error release switch (in this example, the setting switch This is resolved when the operation (H) is accepted.

[0373] Medal payout error 1 occurs when no medals are paid out for a certain period of time while the medal payout device is in operation. The corresponding error code is, for example, E4. This error occurs when a medal gets stuck in the machine while it is in operation, and the corresponding error code is E5, for example. Medal payout error 3 occurs when either payout sensor 1 or payout sensor 2 is not in the process of paying out medals. This occurs when one of the following is turned on, and the corresponding error code is E5, for example. For output errors 1 to 3, after removing the cause of the error, press the error release switch (in this example, This is resolved when the operation of the power switch (setting switch) is accepted.

[0374] An overflow error occurs when the overflow terminal of the auxiliary medal storage becomes ON. The corresponding error code is E7, for example. After removing the cause, if the operation of the error release switch (setting switch in this example) is accepted, A RAM failure occurs when an abnormality is detected by checking the RAM308. The corresponding error code is, for example, E8. The winning error will be resolved when the setting key is pressed. After the game has stopped, if a winning symbol different from the winning symbol determined by the internal lottery is drawn, The corresponding error code is, for example, E9. This is resolved when the operation of the power switch (setting switch) is accepted.

[0375] The gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to the slot machine 100, but may also be applied to a pachinko machine. The errors that can occur in pachinko machines (first errors) are, for example: For example, lower tray full error, dispensing device error, over-dispensing error, incorrect dispensing error, main control error Control communication error, magnetic anomaly error, magnetic field anomaly error, frame open error, RAM clear error , shock sensor error, etc., and after removing the cause of these errors, The problem is resolved when the release switch is operated.

[0376] <Example 4 of setting change operation / Error occurs, setting key ON, setting key OFF during first alarm> The state shown in Figure 16(b)(8) is the state when the setting key is pressed after the lever operation shown in Figure 16(b)(7). This is the state when the switch has been turned from ON to OFF.

[0377] In this state, the setting key changes from ON to OFF (a certain operation by the setting key is canceled). Since the operation related to the setting change (in this example, the setting switch operation and the start In this example, the front door 102 is in an open state. The state in which the open / close sensor detects the open state of the front door 102 is ended, and normal play is possible. The game will transition to normal play mode, the first notification will end, and the game will be suspended in setting change mode. The error notification function has been resumed.

[0378] Specifically, the first error occurs in the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display device 157. An error message will be displayed (in this example, a message containing the string "First error occurred"). , an error sound (in this example) is emitted from the speakers 272 and 277 to indicate that a first error has occurred. Then, the voice "First error occurred" is output, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp 1 44 is lit in an error notification manner (in this example, red) to indicate that a first error has occurred. The error is reported by displaying an error code on the dispensed number display 127. is doing.

[0379] <Example 4 of setting change operation / Error occurs, setting key OFF → Error resolved> The state shown in FIG. 16(b)(9) is the state shown in FIG. 16(b)(8) when an error occurs and the setting key OFF In state F, the error has been resolved and the reset switch has been turned on.

[0380] In this state, the error was resolved and the reset switch changed from OFF to ON, The operation related to the setting change (in this example, the operation of the setting switch and the operation of the start lever 135) ) can be received (in this example, the front door 102 is in an open state and the open / close sensor is in a front The state where the open state of the front door 102 is detected is ended, and the state transitions to the normal game state where normal play is possible. At the same time, the error notification ends, and a notification that the setting change is complete and a demo performance begins.

[0381] Specifically, the speaker 272, 277 outputs a voice message saying "The settings have been changed." This notifies the user that the setting change mode has ended, and the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display device 157 displays A demo animation is displayed, and the upper lamp 142 and the side lamp 144 are displayed in a demo pattern. At the same time, the title panel (lamp) 162 lights up in white.

[0382] As described above, the gaming machine according to this embodiment (for example, the slot machine shown in FIG. 1) The notification means (for example, the liquid crystal display device 157 shown in FIG. 1, the speakers 272 and 273 shown in FIG. 3) 77, various lamps), and the notification means is A first state in which an operation (for example, an operation of a setting switch or an operation of the start lever 135) can be accepted. state (for example, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the open / close sensor detects the open state of the front door 102) In the state where the first notification IF1 is detected, a first notification IF1 is sent (for example, the first notification IF1 shown in FIG. 14(b)). The notification means is a means for executing the setting change. (For example, the front door 102 is closed, and the open / close sensor detects the closed state of the front door 102. or the front door 102 is in an open state and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is in a closed state. In the state where the state is detected), a second notification (for example, the second notification IF shown in FIG. 14(c)) is performed. 2), wherein the second notification is different from the first notification. The gaming machine may be one in which:

[0383] According to the gaming machine of this embodiment, a staff member of the gaming establishment can notify the player of the notification mode by the notification means. However, it is possible to grasp the state of the gaming machine when changing the settings, and to execute the setting changes appropriately. can.

[0384] Also, a first operating means (for example, a start lever 135) is provided, and in the first state, In this case, the operation of the first operating means (for example, the operation of confirming the set value by the start lever 135) ) is executed, the operation is accepted, and in the second state, the first operating means When the operation is executed, the operation may be accepted.

[0385] With this configuration, the first state can be maintained regardless of whether the first state or the second state is in effect. Since operations can be performed using the above operating means, convenience for game parlor staff can be improved. do.

[0386] Also, a second operating means (for example, a setting key) is provided, and in the first state, the first The operation of the operating means (for example, the operation of confirming the set value by the start lever 135) is performed. After that, the second operating means is operated (for example, the setting key is turned from ON to OFF). When the operation is performed, the operation of the second operating means is accepted, and in the second state, the first operating means When the operation of the second operating means is performed after the operation of the second operating means is performed, The operation of the operating means may not be accepted.

[0387] With this configuration, the operation of the second operating means is not accepted in the second state. Therefore, the staff of the gaming establishment understands that the operation of the second operating means cannot be accepted in the second state. The display can be grasped and the display can be displayed depending on whether the operation of the second operating means is accepted or not. It is possible to grasp the current state of

[0388] Further, the notification means may be configured to notify the user of an operation of the first operation means in the first state (for example, Before and after the operation of confirming the set value by the start lever 135 is performed, the first notification and the notification means is means for executing the first operation means in the first state. The second notification may be made before and after the operation is performed.

[0389] With this configuration, the same notification is given before and after the operation of the first operating means is performed. This allows game store staff to understand the status of the gaming machine and make appropriate setting changes.

[0390] Also, a detection means (for example, an opening / closing sensor) for detecting the opening / closing state of a door (for example, the front door 102) is provided. a) the first state is a state in which the detection means detects that the door is open; The second state may be a state in which the detection means detects that the door is closed.

[0391] With this configuration, the notification differs depending on whether the door is open or closed, so the staff of the game parlor can set The change can be appropriately implemented. Also, the notification can be changed depending on the door open / close state during the business hours of the amusement parlor. This allows staff at the gaming establishment to sometimes notice the cheating behavior of the cheater.

[0392] In addition, in the second state, the door may be closed, and in the second state, In this case, the door may be open.

[0393] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the doors from being closed by an unauthorized person while the amusement parlor is open. Even if the second notification is given, the staff of the gaming establishment may be able to notice the fraudulent behavior of the cheater. .

[0394] The first notification is not limited to a notification indicating that the setting is being changed. A message indicating that operations related to setting changes are possible (for example, "Setting change operations are possible" "The setting switch operation is valid." (including the display).

[0395] The first notification may be in addition to (or instead of) a notification indicating that the setting is being changed. ), a notification indicating that the open / close sensor is detecting the door open state (for example, Displays including text such as "The door is open" and voice output such as "The door is open" , blinking of various lamps, etc.

[0396] The second notification is not limited to a notification that calls attention to the setting change, and may be, for example, A message indicating that operations related to changing settings are not possible (for example, "Settings change operations are not possible" "The setting switch operation is invalid." It may be a display including columns), or a notification that prompts an operation to change the settings (for example, "door" Please close the application.")

[0397] The second notification may be in addition to (or instead of) the notification that warns about the setting change. ), a notification indicating that the open / close sensor is detecting the door being closed (for example, Displays containing strings such as "Door is closed" or "Door is pseudo-closed" or "Door is closed" "Door is pseudo-closed," or various lamps may be flashed. stomach.

[0398] The first operating means is not limited to the start lever 135 and the setting switch. The second operating means may be other operating means such as an output button, and the second operating means is not limited to a setting key. Alternatively, other operating means such as a reset switch may be used.

[0399] In addition, certain errors (for example, medal insertion error 1 to 4, medal payout error 1) Even if an overflow error, RAM failure, winning error, etc. occurs, The notification means notifies the user of an operation related to a setting change (for example, an operation of a setting switch or a start a first state (for example, the front door 102 is in an open state) in which the operation of the bar 135 can be accepted, When the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is open, an error is reported. 14(b))。 It may also be something.

[0400] With this configuration, the first notification can be given priority over the error notification. This can increase convenience for game parlor staff.

[0401] In addition, certain errors (for example, medal insertion error 1 to 4, medal payout error 1) Even if an overflow error, RAM failure, winning error, etc. occurs, The notification means notifies the user of a second state (e.g., For example, when the front door 102 is closed and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is closed, or the front door 102 is in an open state and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is in a closed state. In the state where the second notification (for example, the second notification IF shown in FIG. 14(c)) is performed, 2) may be performed.

[0402] With this configuration, the first notification can be given priority over the error notification. This can increase convenience for game parlor staff.

[0403] In addition, when the certain error occurs, the first state (for example, the front door 102 is in an open state, and the open / close sensor detects that the front door 102 is open), In the second state (for example, the front door 102 is closed and the open / close sensor detects the front door 10 2 is closed, or the front door 102 is open and the open / close sensor detects the The state transitions to the first state or the second state (state in which the closed state of the front door 102 is detected), and then When the certain error continues in the state where the previous state has ended, the notifying means Instead of the first notification or the second notification, a message indicating that the certain error has occurred is displayed. Error notification (e.g., an error message indicating that an error has occurred, An error sound is output to indicate that an error has occurred, and an error message is output to indicate that an error has occurred. The lamp may be turned on in a known manner.

[0404] With this configuration, you can reliably handle errors after changing settings. It is possible.

[0405] <<Other embodiments>> 17 to 32, a gaming machine (for example, a slot machine) to which the present invention can be applied will be described below. This section provides a detailed explanation of the various types of gaming machines, including slot machines (such as slot machines 100 and pinball gaming machines such as pachinko machines). In addition, the reference numerals shown in FIGS. 17 to 32 are used only in the description using FIGS. Even if duplicate reference numerals are shown in other drawings, the same reference numerals will be used in FIGS. 17 to 32. In the description using the symbols, the symbols shown in FIGS. 17 to 32 take precedence.

[0406] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the appearance of the slot machine 100 as seen from the front side (player side).

[0407] The slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 17 receives a predetermined number of game media and offers multiple types of games. The reels, each bearing a symbol, start spinning when a specific spin start command is received. The rotation starts, and multiple types of roles are performed based on the reception of the rotation start instruction operation. The internal winnings are determined by lottery, and each of the multiple reels rotates to a predetermined stop position. The spinning stops individually by accepting the operation to show the winning combination, and the winning combination and its combination are determined based on the result of the lottery. The conditions determined by the symbol combination when the reels stop are the predetermined payout conditions. If they match, the game media is paid out and the game ends. If they do not match, the game media is paid out. This is a gaming machine that progresses through a series of games that end without any payout. In addition, things that make it easier to obtain these benefits are sometimes called privileges. do.

[0408] This slot machine 100 comprises a main body 101 and a keypad attached to the front of the main body 101. The front door 102 is attached to the main body 101 and can be opened and closed. The front door 102 is provided with a locking function, and is The front door 102 cannot be opened by anyone other than the staff.

[0409] In the center of the main body 101, there is a reel (not shown) on the outer periphery of which a variety of symbols are arranged. The slot machine contains three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112). These reels 110 to 112 are configured to be rotatable inside the reels 100. It is rotated by a driving device such as a stepping motor.

[0410] Each design is printed on a belt-shaped member at equal intervals in an appropriate number, and the belt-shaped member is then placed in a predetermined circular cylindrical frame. The reels 110 to 112 are made up of the reels 110 to 112. When viewed from the player, the symbols are displayed in three rows vertically from the symbol display window 113, for a total of nine symbols. The design is visible.

[0411] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a line.

[0412] To explain this in more detail using FIG. 18, the top row of the left reel 110 (position 1 shown in the figure) The symbol displayed on the top left reel is displayed on the middle left reel (position 4 shown in the figure). The symbol shown will be displayed in the middle of the left reel and in the bottom of the left reel (position 7 shown in the figure). The symbol to be displayed will be the bottom symbol on the left reel and the top symbol on the middle reel 111 (position 2 shown in the diagram). The symbol is displayed on the top row of the middle reel and the middle row of the left reel 111 (position 5 shown in the diagram). The symbol displayed on the middle row of the middle reel and the symbol displayed on the bottom row of the middle reel 111 (position 8 shown in the figure) The symbols displayed on the bottom row of the reels and the top row of the right reel 112 (position 3 shown in the figure) are the symbols displayed on the right reel. The symbol displayed on the top row of the right reel, and the symbol displayed on the middle row of the right reel (position 6 shown in the figure) The symbol displayed on the bottom row of the right reel 112 (position 9 shown in the figure) is the symbol displayed on the bottom row of the right reel 112. The symbols on each reel 110 to 112 are displayed through a symbol display window 113. Each of the reels 110 to 112 displays three symbols vertically, for a total of nine symbols. By spinning each of the reels 110 to 112, a combination of symbols that can be seen by the player is displayed. In other words, each of the reels 110 to 112 has a combination of multiple types of symbols. It functions as a display device that displays the position of the object in a variable manner. In addition to the above, electronic image display devices such as liquid crystal display devices can also be used. The slot machine 100 has three reels inside the center of the slot machine 100. However, the number of reels and the installation positions of the reels are not limited to these.

[0413] On the back of each of the reels 110 to 112, individual symbols are displayed in a symbol display window 113. A backlight (not shown) is provided to illuminate each of the Each symbol is shielded so that each symbol can be illuminated evenly. In the inside of the net machine 100, a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit are provided near each of the reels 110 to 112. An optical sensor (not shown) consisting of a sensor part is provided. The index sensor 730 has a fixed length provided on the reel between the light emitting part and the light receiving part. The light blocking piece (not shown) is configured to pass through. The position of the symbols on the reels is determined, and the reels 11 are rotated so that the desired symbols appear on the pay line. Stops 0 to 112.

[0414] The valid line indicator lamp 120 is a lamp that indicates the valid line 114. The "in" refers to whether or not a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination, which will be explained later in FIG. 17, is displayed. This is the line on which the winnings are judged (the line on which the winnings are judged), and When the symbols corresponding to the winning combination stop, it is determined that a win has been won. Within the area of ​​13, an area for one symbol is defined for each of reels 110 to 112. In addition, lines other than the valid lines on which the winning decision is not made are called invalid lines. .

[0415] Figure 18 shows a diagram of the left reel, the middle reel, and the right reel. The middle line L1, the upper pattern of the left reel, the middle pattern of the middle reel and the lower pattern of the right reel The downward-right line L2, the bottom pattern of the left reel, the middle pattern of the middle reel and the top pattern of the right reel The right-upward line L3, which consists of the pattern, the upper pattern of the left reel, the upper pattern of the middle reel and the right reel The upper line L4 consists of the upper symbols of the left reel, the lower symbols of the middle reel and the right The five lines of the lower line L5, which is made up of the lower reel symbols, are shown. "IN" is an example, for example, the upper left reel symbol, the lower middle reel symbol, and the upper right reel symbol. Like the lines made up of symbols, there is one symbol for each of reels 110 to 112. It is sufficient if the area is defined. In this embodiment, the upper line of the lines shown in FIG. The line L4 is used as the activated line. The number of medals is predetermined. This is a dedicated machine, and if the number of medals inserted is less than three, no line will be valid. When three cards are bet, line L4 becomes active (the state in which it is used as an active line) When the line is activated, the start lever 135 is operated to start the game. The number of active lines is not limited to one. For example, the three lines L1, L2, and L3 are the middle line, the downward-sloping line, and the upward-sloping line. may be used as the activated line, or the number of activated lines may correspond to the number of bets.

[0416] The notification lamp 123 indicates, for example, a specific winning combination (specifically, The player is informed that he / she has won the special role internally or is in a special game state as described below. The medal insertion lamp 124 is a lamp that notifies the player that a medal can be inserted. The replay lamp 122 is a lamp to inform you that it is possible to replay the previous game. If you win a replay role (details will be explained later), which is one of the winning roles, this game will be replayed. This lamp informs the player that the game is playable (no medal insertion required). The reel panel lamp 128 is a lamp for effect purposes.

[0417] The bet buttons 130 to 132 are used to select the bets that are electronically stored in the slot machine 100. This button is used to insert a predetermined number of dals (called credits). In this case, one coin is inserted each time the bet button 130 is pressed, and one coin is inserted each time the bet button 131 is pressed. When pressed, two coins will be inserted, and when bet button 132 is pressed, three coins will be inserted. Hereinafter, the bet button 132 is also referred to as the MAX bet button. The insertion lamp 129 lights up the lamps in accordance with the number of inserted medals, and when the specified number of medals is When a ball is inserted, a game start indicator will appear to notify you that the game can be started. Lamp 121 will light up.

[0418] The medal insertion slot 141 is a slot through which a player inserts medals to start a game. That is, medals are inserted electronically by pressing the bet buttons 130 to 132. You can also insert actual medals into the medal slot 141 (insertion operation). The term "investment" encompasses both.

[0419] The stored number indicator 125 indicates the number of medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100. The game information display 126 is a display for displaying various internal information (for example, This is a display that shows the number of medals paid out during bonus play. The display 127 displays the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a result of winning a certain winning combination. The number of coins stored indicator 125, the game information indicator 126, and the number of coins paid out are indicators. The numeric display 127 is a seven-segment (SEG) display.

[0420] The start lever 135 is a lever-type lever for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, the desired number of medals is inserted into the medal insertion slot 141, or the number of medals is removed from the When the start buttons 130 to 132 are operated and the start lever 135 is operated, the reels 11 0 to 112 start to rotate. This is called the start operation.

[0421] The stop button unit 136 includes a left stop button 137 and a middle stop button 13 8 and a right stop button 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are rotated by operating the start lever 135. It is a button-type switch for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating. The left stop By operating the button 137, the left reel 110 can be stopped, and the center reel By operating the right stop button 138, the center reel 111 can be stopped. The right reel 112 can be stopped by operating the stop button 139. Below, the operation of the stop buttons 137 to 139 is called the stop operation, and the first stop operation is The first stop operation is called the first stop operation, the next stop operation is called the second stop operation, and the last stop operation is called the third stop operation. In addition, the reels that are stopped in response to these stop operations are called the first stop reel, the second stop reel, and so on. Furthermore, all of the reels 110 to 112 that are currently spinning are stopped. The order in which the stop buttons 137 to 139 are operated to stop the Furthermore, the operation sequence in which the first stop operation is the stop operation of the left reel 110 is called "forward push operation." The first stop operation is called the stop operation of the right reel 112. The stop operation is called "reverse push operation sequence" or simply "reverse push". A light source may be provided inside the stop buttons 137 to 139. If this is possible, the light emitter may be lit to notify the player.

[0422] The medal return button 133 is pressed to remove the inserted medal when it becomes jammed. The settlement button 134 is a button for removing the electronically stored winnings from the slot machine 100. The button for settling the medals and bets and discharging them from the medal payout outlet 155 It is.

[0423] The front door 102 is also provided with a key hole 140, and a key is inserted into this key hole 140. Insert the key and turn it to the right to unlock it, or to the left to lock it. 00 includes an opening sensor 294 (see FIG. 19(a)) that detects that the front door 102 is open. The opening sensor 294 detects the opening / closing piece that protrudes when the front door 102 is opened. By detecting this, it is detected that the front door 102 is open.

[0424] In addition, between the bet button 132 and the medal insertion slot 141, there is a first chance button 165. The first chance button 165 is provided with a second chance button 166. The second chance button 166 has a built-in second performance lamp. Whether you press the first chance button 165 or the second chance button 166, The second chance button 166 is an operation means operated by the player. The left button 167 and the right button 168 are provided on the right side. By operating the cursor, the cursor displayed on the performance image display device 157 can be moved. In this case, the second chance button 166 functions as a confirmation button. This may happen.

[0425] The stop button unit 136 has a tab at the bottom for displaying the model name and attaching various certificate stamps. A title panel 162 is provided. This title panel 162 is The title panel 162 is illuminated by a lamp 164. At the bottom of the title panel 162, there is a medal payout outlet. 155, and a medal tray 161 is provided.

[0426] The sound hole 145 provided at the bottom outputs the sound of the bass speaker 277 (see FIG. 19) to the outside. The left side lamp 144L is provided on the left side of the front door 102, and the right side lamp 144L is provided on the right side of the front door 102. The right side lamp 144R is a decorative lamp to enhance the excitement of the game. A performance device 160 is disposed above the surface door 102, and a sound hole is also provided above the performance device 160. The sound hole 143 is provided to transmit the sound of the upper speaker 272 (see FIG. 19). The performance device 160 has two right shutters that can be opened and closed horizontally. A shutter (shielding device) 163 consisting of a left shutter 163a and a right shutter 163b, The right shutter 163a is provided with a performance image display device 157 disposed at the rear side of the shutter 163. When the left shutter 163b opens outward in the horizontal direction in front of the effect image display device 157, the effect image The display screen of the display device 157 appears in front of the slot machine 100 (on the player's side). Although the performance image display device 157 is a liquid crystal display device, it is not a liquid crystal display device. In any case, any display device capable of displaying various effect images and various game information may be used. Multi-segment display (7-segment display), dot matrix display, EL display, plasma display, reel (drum), or projector The display screen may be a rectangular display device, and the entire display screen may be a rectangular display device. In the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. Although the display screen is rectangular, it may be square. Part of the periphery of the display screen is hidden by the decoration, causing the display screen to appear irregular. Furthermore, the display screen is a flat surface, but may also be a curved surface.

[0427] It should be noted that what has been referred to as a lamp so far is an example of a light emitting means, and in this specification, a light source is LEDs are also called lamps, but fluorescent lamps, cold cathode fluorescent lamps, and other light-emitting objects are also called lamps. The light emitting device is sometimes called a lamp, and the light emitting device is an example of a light emitting means.

[0428] FIG. 19 shows the internal structure of the slot machine 100. FIG. 19(a) shows the front door 1 FIG. 1(b) is a front view of the slot machine 100 with the front door 102 open. 10 is an enlarged view of the door relay board 290 provided.

[0429] The main body 101 is made up of an upper panel 261, a left side panel 260, a right side panel 260, and a lower panel 26 The main body 101 is a box-shaped body surrounded by a back panel 242 and an opening at the front. The main control board 300B is installed inside the face plate 242 at a position that does not overlap with the ventilation hole 249 provided at the top of the face plate 242. (See FIG. 9) is placed in the main control board storage case 210. A reel unit 700 having three reels 110 to 112 is disposed below the base 210. The main control board storage case 210 and the reel unit 700 are placed to the side, i.e., facing The left side panel 260 has a sub-control board 400B (see FIG. 25) housed therein. The sub-control board storage case 220 is provided with a first selection switch. The first selection switch 190 is provided inside the main body 101. Therefore, the person who can unlock the front door 102 (for example, the owner of the game parlor) The person in charge (personnel, etc.) can operate the front door 102 by opening it, but the person in charge (personnel, etc.) can operate the front door 102 by opening it. It is configured so that a person who cannot perform the operation (for example, a player) cannot perform the operation. That is, the first selection switch 190 is provided in a position where it cannot be operated by the player. The first selection switch 190 will be described in detail later. The side panel 260 is connected to the main control board 300B (see FIG. 25) and is An external central terminal board 248 is attached to output the information 00 to an external device.

[0430] Also, on the right side of the reel unit 700, the game mode (setting value) of the slot machine 100 is displayed. Setting key switch 28 for changing the setting value (also called "setting value") and checking the changed setting value. Here, the set value is the number of bets that a player makes when playing for a predetermined period of time. The total number of gaming media used on the gaming machine is the total number of gaming media paid out by the gaming machine. This is a value for adjusting the ratio, known as the "payout rate," and has multiple stages. The setting value can be set, for example, from setting "1" to setting "6".

[0431] The setting key switch 281 is operated by inserting and rotating a predetermined setting key (not shown). It is a key switch that turns on / off electrically. Specifically, it is a setting key switch 28 When a predetermined setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 281 and turned clockwise, When the setting key switch sensor detects the ON state and turns left, detects the OFF state.

[0432] The lower panel 264 is provided with a hopper unit 180 (for clearing medals accumulated in a bucket). Above the hopper unit 180, that is, the reel unit 70 Below the power supply unit 252, a power supply control board 252B (see FIG. 25) is provided. A power switch 244 is provided on the front of the power supply device 252. The power switch 244 is The power switch 244 is a toggle switch electrically connected to the power supply device 252. The slot machine 100 can be powered on or powered off by the The power supply device 252 is an AC power supply that is externally supplied to the slot machine 100. The DC voltage is converted to a predetermined voltage and sent to the main control unit 300, the first sub-control unit 400, and other control units. Furthermore, certain components (such as the main control unit) continue to operate even after the external power supply is cut off. 300 RAM 308, etc.) for a predetermined period (for example, 10 days). The capacitor is provided with a path (e.g., a capacitor).

[0433] On the right side of the hopper unit 180, there is a storage area for medals that overflow from the hopper unit 180. An auxiliary medal storage 240 is provided behind which an overflow terminal is provided. The power supply device 252 has a power cord connector for connecting a power cord 265. A power cord 265 connected to this is opened to the rear panel 242 of the main body 101. The power cord extends to the outside through a hole 262 for the power cord.

[0434] The front door 102 is hinged to the left side panel 260 of the main body 101 via a hinge device 276. Above the pattern display window 113, there is a display of a performance device 160 and a display of a controller for the performance device 160. The display window 113 is provided with a performance control board (not shown) and an upper speaker 272. At the bottom, there is a medal selector 170 for sorting the medals that are inserted. The passage 2 through which the medal passes when the counter 170 drops the illegal medals etc. into the medal tray 161. 66, etc. are provided. Furthermore, a bass speaker 277 is provided at a position corresponding to the sound hole 145. An open sensor 294 is provided on the rear surface of the front door 102. The switch 294 is in the L (OFF) state when the front door 102 is closed, and in the H (ON) state when the front door 102 is open. It is configured to be.

[0435] A door relay board 290 is disposed on the rear surface of the front door 102 below the pattern display window 113. As shown in FIG. 19(b), this door relay board 290 includes a reset switch 291, a setting switch 292, a A setting change button 292 and a setting value display 293 are provided.

[0436] The reset switch 291 is a push button switch. By pressing (short press) switch 291, the error of the slot machine 100 can be cleared. This can be done.

[0437] The setting change button 292 is also a push button type switch similar to the reset switch 291. The procedure for changing the setting value using the setting change button 292 will be described later. .

[0438] The set value display 293 is a display such as a 7-segment LED. 3 indicates the game mode (setting value) 1 to 6 set by the setting change button 292 in numbers. It is possible.

[0439] The setting value display 293 is configured to display the setting value when the power is turned on (power ON). Insert it into switch 281 and turn it clockwise (setting key OFF → ON), and the currently set The game mode (setting value) is displayed as a number, so you can check the currently set game mode. It can be used to set the Insert the setting key switch 281 and turn it clockwise (setting key OFF → ON), The setting value confirmation process will start, and you can check the value by inserting it into the setting key switch 281 and turning it counterclockwise ( When you turn the setting key ON → OFF, the setting value confirmation process ends.

[0440] Here, the procedure for changing the set value will be described. (omitted) and turn it clockwise (setting key OFF → ON) to turn off the power to the power switch 244. The setting value change becomes effective when the power is turned on (power ON) from the power OFF state. (The setting value change process is started), and the game mode is changed every time the setting change button 292 is pressed. (Setting value) changes in order from 1 to 6, and you can select the desired game mode. By operating the start lever 135, the game mode (setting) selected at that time is started. Then, turn the setting key counterclockwise (setting key ON → OFF) to confirm the setting. Then, the setting value change process ends.

[0441] In the following, the period of the setting value change operation, that is, the first time The period from the first clockwise rotation of the setting key to the last counterclockwise rotation of the setting key is the setting value change mode. This is also called the period of the setting value confirmation operation, that is, the first setting key in the setting value confirmation operation. The period from the clockwise rotation to the final counterclockwise rotation of the setting key is also called the setting value confirmation mode.

[0442] Here, the start and end conditions of the setting value change mode and setting value confirmation mode will be explained in detail. In this embodiment, the conditions for starting the setting value change mode are: (1) pressing the setting key switch; The power is turned on when 281 is ON, and other (2) front The condition for ending the setting value change mode is not that the door 102 is in an open state. (1) changing the setting key switch 281 from ON to OFF, (2) The front door 102 must be in an open state. In this state, the start condition of the setting value confirmation mode is set by pressing the setting key switch 281 while the power is on. (2) The front door 102 is in the open state. Also, the conditions for ending the setting value confirmation mode are (1) pressing the setting key switch. In addition to changing the ON state of switch 281 to the OFF state, (2) the front door 102 is opened. That is, in this embodiment, the condition is that the setting value change mode (setting The start condition for the constant value confirmation mode does not require the front door 102 to be open. The condition for ending the setting value change mode (setting value confirmation mode) is that the front door 102 is in an open state. When the front door 102 is closed, the setting value change process (setting value confirmation process) If you attempt to start a process, the start condition will be cleared, so you will not be able to It is possible to start the setting value change process (setting value confirmation process). Since the termination condition of the above cannot be met, the fraudster must change the setting value (check the setting value) This makes it easier to catch cheaters in the act. do.

[0443] In the setting value change mode, the effect image display device 157, the left side lamp 144 L, right side lamp 144R, title panel lamp 164, speakers 272 and 277 By using a presentation device such as the above, a notification indicating that the setting value is being changed (hereinafter referred to as the setting value change notification In the setting value confirmation mode, the above-mentioned production device is used to The setting value confirmation notification is sent to the device.

[0444] Next, the structure of the reel unit 700 will be described with reference to Figure 20. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a control unit 700.

[0445] As shown in FIG. 20, the reel unit 700 includes a reel case 7 made of a box-shaped metal plate. 02, there are left reel unit 700L, middle reel unit 700C and right reel unit The reel case 702 is provided with a main control board 300B (see FIG. 2) on the top of the reel case 702. 5) and a connector 70 for connecting via harnesses MR1 ​​to MR3 (see FIG. 25) The left reel unit 700L has left reel 1. 10 is arranged in the middle reel unit 700C, and middle reel 111 is arranged in the middle reel unit 700D. The right reel unit 700R is provided with a right reel 112. 0 to 112 are motors 110m, 111m, and 112m (see Figure 25) provided for each reel. Each of the motors 110m to 112m is a stepping motor. The following explanation will be given using the left reel unit 700L as an example, but the middle reel unit 700 The same applies to the right reel unit 700R and the left reel unit 700L. The motor 110m and the index sensor 7 for detecting the rotation position of the reel 110 are 30, and a backlight for irradiating light from the back surface of the strip-shaped member 710 of the reel 110 to the front surface. A light module 740 is mounted on the mounting base 732 .

[0446] In addition, replacement work can be performed for each of the reel units 700L, 700C, and 700R. For example, if the left reel unit 700L breaks down, Only the reel unit can be replaced with a new one.

[0447] FIG. 21(a) is a perspective view showing the structure of the backlight module 740, and FIG. 21(b) is a perspective view showing the structure of the backlight module 740. 7) is a front view of the backlight module 740.

[0448] The backlight module 740 includes a reflector 742 and a rear surface of the reflector 742. The reflector 742 is composed of an illumination board 744 that is detachably attached to the reflector 742. In the back panel, three openings BK1 to BK3 are formed vertically in a line, leading from the front surface to the back surface. The lighting board 744 also has LEDs at positions corresponding to the openings BK1 to BK3. There are two 745s in each location.

[0449] The openings BK1 to BK3 and the LEDs 745 are provided at positions corresponding to the symbol positions (positions No. 1 to 9 shown in FIG. 18) that will be displayed in a stopped state on the display window 113 when installed. By providing the LEDs 745 at each of the openings BK1 to BK3 as described above, light is emitted without interfering with light emitted at other positions. This allows light to be emitted at each of the positions No. 1 to 9 shown in FIG. 18. For example, by turning on all the LEDs 745, all symbols visible to the player can be illuminated from behind. Furthermore, by turning on some of the LEDs, some of the symbols visible to the player can be illuminated from behind. Note that the number and positions of the openings and LEDs are not limited to this configuration.

[0450] Next, the first selection switch 190 and the like shown in FIG. 19 will be described in detail. 10 is a diagram showing a first selection switch 190 and the like.

[0451] FIG. 22(a) is an enlarged view of the first selection switch 190. The selector switch 190 has 16 contacts and is configured to be rotatable. and a support portion 190b formed to protrude outward from the rotating portion 190a as a base end. In addition, around the first selection switch 190, there are provided 16 contacts of the rotating part 190a. The first selection switch 190 is marked with 16 numbers (0 to F in hexadecimal) corresponding to the , is an operating means for selecting one number from 16 numbers.

[0452] These 16 numbers are treated as numerical values ​​(setting values) that represent the settings. The first selection switch 190 converts the numerical value information indicated by the indicator 190b into a detection signal. For example, as shown in FIG. 1(a), an instruction unit 190 If b points to "B", the hexadecimal value of "B" is selected. The numerical information can be output as a 4-bit binary detection signal (0b1011). Therefore, the first sub-controller 400 (see FIG. 24) described later receives this detection signal. The value selected by the first selection switch 190 (any of the hexadecimal numbers 0 to F) is The first sub-control unit 400 is configured to be able to detect the instruction unit 19. The value pointed to by 0b is treated as the selected setting value.

[0453] 22(a), for example, the first selection switch 190 shown in FIG. 22(b) may be used. A rotary switch 191 such as the one shown in FIG. A hand switch 192 may be applied.

[0454] The rotary switch 191 shown in FIG. 22(b) has 16 contacts and is rotatably configured. A ring-shaped rotating portion 191a is formed, and a notched window 19 is formed in the rotating portion 191a. 1b. The rotary switch 191 has a rotary portion 191a at the bottom thereof. 16 numbers (0 to F in hexadecimal) are given to correspond to the 16 contacts of the part 191a. It is being done.

[0455] In this rotary switch 191, a value visible through a notched window 191b is selected. The numerical information can be output to the outside as a detection signal. 2(b), when the numerical value visible from the notch 191b is "F", The value of the binary number F is selected, and the information of that value is converted into a 4-bit binary detection signal ( 0b1111). Therefore, the first sub-control unit 400 (see FIG. 2) can output the 4) inputs this detection signal, the notch 19 of the rotary switch 191 Detects the selected number (in this example, any of the hexadecimal numbers 0 to F) visible from 1b This configuration makes it possible to do this.

[0456] The slide switch 192 shown in FIG. 22(c) has a rectangular guide groove 192a and a 16 and a slide portion 192b that has contacts and is slidable along the guide groove 192a. Above the slide switch 192, there are provided 16 contacts of the slide portion 192b. Corresponding to each of the codes, 16 numbers (in this example, hexadecimal numbers from 0 to F) are given.

[0457] In this slide switch 192, the value at which the slide portion 192b is positioned is selected. The numerical information can be output to the outside as a detection signal. As shown in 2(c), when the sliding portion 192b is positioned at the position of the numeral "0", The hexadecimal value 0 is selected, and the information of that value is detected as 4 bits of binary. Therefore, the first sub-control unit 400 (described later) can output the signal (0b0000). (See FIG. 24) inputs this detection signal to the slide switch 192. Detects the selected number (any of the hexadecimal numbers 0 to F) located in section 192b. This configuration makes it possible to do this.

[0458] The first selection switch 190 described above with reference to FIGS. 22(a) to 22(c) is a mechanical Because it is a mechanical switch, it can be operated even when there is no power. Even if the power is cut off due to a power outage, the selected value (setting value) can be maintained. Therefore, once you make a selection, the selected value will be retained even if the power is turned off. For example, it is easy to set the value to the desired value of the gaming establishment. It has a display that allows you to check the selected value, so you can easily check the setting value. This is easy and highly convenient.

[0459] FIG. 22(d) is an enlarged view of the second selection switch 194. The selection switch 194 is a button for selecting the left button 167, the right button 168, and the confirmation button shown in FIG. The first chance button 166 shown in FIG. The selection switch 190 is an operating means provided in a position where it cannot be operated by the player. On the other hand, the second selection switch 194 is provided in a position where it can be operated by the player. That is, the second selection switch 194 is a switch that can be operated by the player. For example, by pressing the left button 167 and the right button 168, a numerical value ( By pressing the second chance button 166, the selected Alternatively, the setting can be confirmed by pressing the left button 167 and the right button 168. A value can be selected, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the second chance button 166 is pressed. The selected setting value may be confirmed even if the setting value is changed.

[0460] This second selection switch 194 is a second chance button 166, a left button 167, or When either the right button 168 or the left button 169 is operated, a detection signal corresponding to the button is output. Therefore, the first sub-control unit 400 (see FIG. 24) described later can output this detection signal. By entering the number, you can press the second chance button 166, the left button 167, or the right button 1 68 has been operated.

[0461] In place of the second selection switch 194 shown in FIG. 22(d), for example, As shown in the figure, in addition to the second chance button 166, there are up, down, left, right and confirmation buttons. The cross key 195 may be used as the second selection switch 194. It is also possible to have two types of operation means, one of which also serves as a chance button. Alternatively, only one of the operating means may be the second selection switch 194. stomach.

[0462] The second selection switch 194 is not a mechanical switch, so it is not energized. It cannot operate without the function and cannot retain the selected value (setting value) by itself. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a separate storage means for storing the set values. In the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1, the number selected by the second selection switch 194 is backed up. Although the system is configured not to back up the data, it may be configured to back up the data.

[0463] FIG. 22(f) shows the second chance button 166 and the first chance button 165 shown in FIG. 22(f) also shows a left button 167 and a right button 168. The first chance button 165 is about three times larger than the second chance button 166. That is true.

[0464] Also, if the second chance button 166 or the first chance button 165 is operated, Then, a cut-in will be displayed, or one of the chance buttons will be used for rapid-fire effects, etc. The other chance button may be used as a hidden button. The operation of the means is not suggested or promoted (for example, the operation suggestion display or operation promotion display is not At least one of the following: the display device 157 is not displayed, and the built-in effect lamp is not lit. Regardless of whether the game is a game or not (or both), some kind of effect occurs when the control means is operated.

[0465] FIG. 23 shows the selection of the setting value using the first selection switch 190 and the second selection switch 194. FIG.

[0466] In the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 17, a first selection switch 190 and a second selection switch The settings that can be selected with the switch 194 are the bass speaker 277 and the upper speaker 272. This is the volume value of the sound (for example, background music, sound effects, error sounds, etc.) output from As described above, the first selection switch 190 is in a position where it cannot be operated by the player. It is an operating means provided, and is a switch used by the staff of the game parlor when selecting the setting value. In addition, the first selection switch 190 and the second selection switch 194 are 90, the slot machine 100 is set to the power saving mode or the non-power saving mode ( The slot machine 100 shown in FIG. The power saving mode is set only when the demonstration is running. Hereafter, the demonstration will be abbreviated as "demo". The demonstration performance will be If a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) passes without the game being restarted after the game has ended, In the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 17, the power saving mode is set. If the demo starts while the power saving mode is selected, can be.

[0467] When the slot machine 100 is set to the power saving mode, the effect image display device 157 displays The animation (demo animation) is played back in a dark state, and the effect image display device 157 is turned off. The power consumption is reduced and power is saved. lamp, left side lamp 144L, right side lamp 144R, and the backlight shown in FIG. 22 By turning off the module 740, the power consumption of these light emitting means is reduced, thereby saving electricity. When these light emitting means are turned off, the power consumption becomes 0, and the effect image display device 157 The power saving effect of these light emitting means is higher than that of the conventional light emitting means.

[0468] In addition, when the first selection switch 190 is operated, the first volume selection is displayed on the effect image display device 157. The icon SI1 or the second volume selection icon SI2 is displayed. The volume selection used allows you to select one volume level from seven levels. In non-power saving mode, you can also choose to mute the sound.

[0469] FIG. 23A shows how the indicator 190b of the first selection switch 190 is set to "0" as shown in FIG. 22A. This is a diagram showing the display screen of the performance image display device 157 when it is set to ".

[0470] The effect image display device 157 displays the first volume selection icon SI1. 1 The volume selection icon SI1 has seven volume level selection values ​​and seven horizontal level selection values. The first volume selection icon SI shown in FIG. 23(A) is displayed. 1 shows that the selected value of the 7-level volume level is 0 (0 / 7) and the word "Mute" is written. Also, none of the seven horizontal levels are lit. When mute is selected by switch 190, the bass speaker 277 and the upper speaker 2 The output sound from the 72 becomes completely inaudible.

[0471] FIG. 23(B) shows how the indicator 190b of the first selection switch 190 is set to "1" as shown in FIG. 22(a). This is a diagram showing the display screen of the performance image display device 157 when it is set to ".

[0472] The first volume selection icon SI1 shown in FIG. 23(B) has seven volume level selection values. The text "Volume 1 / 7" is displayed, indicating that the volume is 1. There are also 7 levels of horizontal level adjustment. In the bell display, only the first level on the far left is lit in the first color (e.g., yellow). .

[0473] FIG. 23(C) shows how the indicator 190b of the first selection switch 190 is set to the "7" position shown in FIG. 22(a). This is a diagram showing the display screen of the performance image display device 157 when it is set to ".

[0474] The first volume selection icon SI1 shown in FIG. 23(C) has seven volume level selection values. The text "Volume 7 / 7" is displayed, indicating that the volume is 7. In the bell display, all levels from 1 to 7 are lit in the first color (e.g., yellow). When the seventh volume level is selected by the first selection switch 190, the bass speaker The output sound from the upper speaker 277 and the upper speaker 272 will be at maximum volume.

[0475] FIG. 23(D) shows how the indicator 190b of the first selection switch 190 is set to the "8" position shown in FIG. 22(a). This is a diagram showing the display screen of the performance image display device 157 when it is set to ".

[0476] The first volume selection icon SI1 shown in FIG. 23(D) indicates that the selected volume is the exhibition volume. This exhibition volume is set to a level that is suitable for slot machines at exhibitions, etc. This is the volume level suitable for a presentation of 100, for example, the fourth level. The volume level is between the 1st and 5th levels. All levels from 1 to 7 are lit in the second color (e.g., red). Instead of volume, the second selection switch 194 cannot be used to select the volume, and the first selection switch 195 cannot be used to select the volume. It may be possible to select a special volume that can only be selected from 90. For example, It would be nice if it were possible to select a step tone that increases in volume by one step over time. stomach.

[0477] The first volume selection icon SI1 displayed on the performance image display device 157 is a first selection switch. It will disappear if the switch 190 is not operated for a specified period of time.

[0478] FIG. 23(a) shows the state where the indicator 190b of the first selection switch 190 is set to "9" shown in FIG. 22(a). This is a diagram showing the display screen of the performance image display device 157 when it is set to ".

[0479] The effect image display device 157 shown in FIG. 23(a) displays the second volume selection icon SI2. The background color of the second volume selection icon SI2 is the same as that of the first volume selection icon SI1. The background color is different from the SI2 volume selection icon. 7 levels of volume level selection and 7 levels of horizontal level display (indicator display) The second volume selection icon SI2 shown in FIG. 23(a) displays a power saving mode icon. The text "Volume 7 / 7" will appear, indicating that the selected volume level is 7 out of 7. In addition, in the seven-level horizontal level display, all levels from 1 to 7 are is illuminated in a third color (e.g., blue).

[0480] FIG. 23(b) shows how the indicator 190b of the first selection switch 190 is set to "F" shown in FIG. 22(a). This is a diagram showing the display screen of the performance image display device 157 when it is set to ".

[0481] The second volume selection icon SI2 shown in FIG. 23(b) has the words "power saving mode" and a 7 The text "Volume 1 / 7" is displayed, indicating that the volume level selection is 1. In addition, in the seven-level horizontal display, only the first level on the left side is a third color (for example, (e.g., blue).

[0482] The second volume selection icon SI2 displayed on the performance image display device 157 is also It will disappear if the switch 190 is not operated for a specified period of time.

[0483] In the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 17, the indicator 190b of the first selection switch 190 is When you match it with "9" or any of "A" to "F" shown in Figure 22(a), the slot The machine 100 is selected to be set in a power saving mode. Even if this is selected, the slot machine 100 is not set to the power saving mode. As mentioned above, the condition for setting the power saving mode is that the device is in the demo state. When the indicator 190b is set to any of "0" to "8" shown in FIG. 22(a), The slot machine 100 is selected to be set in a non-power saving mode. If you select to set it, it will not be set to power saving mode even when it is in demo mode. In addition, while a game is being played, the slot machine 100 is in the non-power saving mode. It is set to normal mode.

[0484] Even if the slot machine 100 is set to the power saving mode, the slot machine 100 may be set to a non-power saving mode. Even if the volume is set to 0, the volume output from the upper speaker 272 and the bass speaker 277 will be the same. Therefore, the volume output by the selection value selected in FIG. 23(B) and the volume output by the selection value selected in FIG. The volume output by the selection value selected in b) is the same, and the selection value selected in Figure 23(C) The volume output by the value and the volume output by the selected value in Figure 23(a) are the same. .

[0485] FIG. 23(A) shows the state of the effect image display device 157 when the second selection switch 194 is operated. FIG.

[0486] The second selection switch 194 that can be operated by the player is connected to the effect image display device 157. If you operate the first guide display icon GI1 (described later) while it is displayed, a special image will be displayed. The third volume selection icon SI3 is displayed on the device 157. 3 has five volume level selection values ​​and five vertical level displays (indicator display) The third volume selection icon SI3 shown in FIG. 23(A) has five volume levels. The text "Volume 1 / 5" is displayed, indicating that the bell selection value is 1. Also, 5 In the step level display, only the lowest level, the first level, lights up in a fourth color (e.g., green). Pressing the right button 168 of the second selection switch 194 once increases the level by one step. Pressing the left button 167 once will lower the level by one level. Even if the left button 167 is pressed once in the state shown, the level does not decrease any further. The mute function cannot be selected by operating the second selection switch 194. Alternatively, mute may be selected by operating switch 194.

[0487] FIG. 23(b) shows the effect when the right button 168 is pressed four times from the state shown in FIG. 23(a). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display screen of an image display device 157.

[0488] The third volume selection icon SI3 shown in FIG. 23(a) has five volume level selection values. The text "Volume 5 / 5" is displayed, indicating that the volume is 5. There are also five vertical levels. In the bell display, all levels from 1 to 5 are lit in a fourth color (e.g., green). There are.

[0489] The third volume selection icon SI3 displayed on the effect image display device 157 is and disappears if the right button 168 is not operated for a predetermined period of time.

[0490] The volume can be selected by operating the first selection switch 190 in seven stages, while the volume can be selected by operating the second selection switch 190 in seven stages. The volume can be selected from five levels by operating the switch 194. At 100, the volume setting range is from 0 to 127, and each setting value in 7 steps is 1st row: 18, 2nd row: 36, 3rd row: 54, 4th row: 73, 5th row: 91, 6th row: 1 09, the 7th row is 127. On the other hand, in the 5th row, the remaining 7th row is 127 except for the 1st and 7th rows. That is, the second row of seven steps (36) is the first row of five steps. , the sixth step of seven (109) becomes the fifth step of five. Therefore, only the staff of the game parlor can The first setting value (18) of the seven levels and the seventh setting value (127) cannot be selected. In addition, the first step of the seven-step process (18) becomes the first step of the five-step process, and the fifth step of the seven-step process (91) becomes the fifth step of the seven-step process. You can make it the 5th step of the 7th step, or you can make the 3rd step of the 7th step (54) the 1st step of the 5th step, and The seventh step (127) may be the fifth step of the five steps. Alternatively, each setting value in the five steps may be , the first row is 26, the second row is 51, the third row is 76, the fourth row is 102, and the fifth row is 127. Good too.

[0491] The first volume selection icon SI1 or the second volume selection icon SI2 is displayed on the performance image display device 157. When the second selection screen SI2 and the first guide display icon GI1 (described later) are displayed, When the left button 167 of the switch 194 is pressed once, the first volume selection that was displayed up until then is cleared. Icon SI1 or second volume selection icon SI2 becomes third volume selection icon SI3 Instead, the display will indicate that the volume level is at the second level. If the right button 167 is pressed once instead of the left button 167, the previously displayed number The first volume selection icon SI1 or the second volume selection icon SI2 is Instead of SI3, the volume selection value is displayed as the fourth level. The first volume selection icon SI1 or the second volume selection icon SI2 indicates what selection is being made. Even if the value is displayed, it will be displayed. In other words, even if the selected value is 1 / 7, the selected value will be displayed. Even if the left button 167 is pressed once, the selected value of 2 / 5 is displayed. Whether the selected value is / 7 or 7 / 7, pressing the right button 168 once , 4 / 5 selection value is displayed. This is when the third volume selection icon SI3 is displayed. The previous selection value is discarded and the third volume selection icon SI3 is set to the initial value of 3 / 5. The volume level value is reselected and can be changed by operating the left button 167 or right button 168. That is, when the second selection switch 194 is operated, the initial value (3 / 5) is changed. When the operation is accepted, the initial value of the third volume selection icon SI3 is set and the second selection icon SI4 is When the switch 194 is operated, the value that has been changed from the initial value is displayed on the third volume selection icon. The first selection switch 190 is operated by a store clerk, and the second selection switch 19 4 is designed to be operated by the player, and the player's intentions can be given priority. Conversely, when the third volume selection icon SI3 is displayed, the first selection switch When the switch 190 is operated, the selected value displayed in the third volume selection icon SI3 is The previous selection value is changed by operating the first selection switch 190. The selected value is displayed by the first volume selection icon SI1 or the second volume selection icon SI2. However, even here, the selected value is not carried over, and the first volume selection icon SI1 or the second volume selection icon SI2 is used. The initial value (for example, 4 / 7) of the volume selection icon SI2 may be set.

[0492] Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The figure shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit.

[0493] The control unit of the slot machine 100 can be roughly divided into a main control unit 300 that controls the progress of the game. In response to a command signal (hereinafter simply referred to as a "command") sent by the main control unit 300, The first sub-control unit 400 controls the main performance, and the second sub-control unit 400 controls the frames transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400. and a second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices based on the command.

[0494] <Main control unit> First, we will explain the main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100. The main control unit 300 The main control unit 300 is provided with a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire main control unit 300. , CPU 304, control program data, lottery data used in the internal lottery for winning combinations, ROM306 for storing the pattern arrangement of the balls, etc., and RAM3 for temporarily storing data. 08, I / O310 for controlling the input and output of various devices, and Counter timer 312 for clock detection and WDT (watchdog timer) 314 are installed. It should be noted that other storage devices may be used for the ROM 306 and RAM 308. The same applies to the first sub-control unit 400 and the second sub-control unit 500, which will be described later. The CPU 304 of the circuit 302 synchronizes a clock signal of a predetermined period output by the crystal oscillator 315b. Furthermore, when the power is turned on, the CPU 304 operates by inputting the clock signal as a system clock. and transmits the frequency division data stored in a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 306 to the counter timer 312. The counter timer 312 determines the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data. An interrupt request is sent to the CPU 304 at each interrupt time. Upon receiving a read request, the device monitors each sensor and transmits drive pulses.

[0495] The main control unit 300 calculates a value between 0 and 65 based on the clock signal input from the crystal oscillator 315a. Random number generator used as a hardware random number counter that fluctuates between 535 circuit 316, and a start signal output circuit that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when power is turned on. The CPU 304 receives a start signal from the start signal output circuit 338. When the button is pressed, game control is started (the main control unit main processing, which will be described later, is started).

[0496] The main control unit 300 also includes a sensor circuit 320, and the CPU 304 receives an interrupt Various sensors 318 (bet button 130 sensor, bet button 131 sensor, A bet button 132 sensor, a medal acceptance sensor for medals inserted from a medal insertion slot 141, Sa, start lever 135 sensor, left stop button 137 sensor, middle stop button 1 38 sensor, right stop button 139 sensor, payment button 134 sensor, hopper unit The medal payout sensor for medals paid out from the left reel 180, and the index sensor for the left reel 110 index sensor for the center reel 111, index sensor for the right reel 112, etc. ) status is monitored.

[0497] When the sensor circuit 320 detects the H level of the start lever sensor, A signal indicating the detection is output to the random number generating circuit 316. Upon receiving this signal, the random number generating circuit 31 6 is a register that latches the value at that timing and stores the random number used in the lottery. Store in.

[0498] Two medal acceptance sensors are installed in the internal passage of the medal insertion port 141. There are two start lever 135 sensors inside the start lever 135. The left stop button 137 sensor is installed to detect the start operation by the player. , the middle stop button 138 sensor, and the right stop button 139 sensor correspond to The stop buttons 137 to 139 are installed to allow the player to press the stop button. Detect the operation.

[0499] Bet button 130 sensor, bet button 131 sensor, and bet button 132 The sensors are installed on the corresponding bet buttons 130 to 132, and the RAM Insertion when inserting medals stored electronically in 308 as medals to be inserted into a game The settlement button 134 sensor is provided on the settlement button 134. When the button 134 is pressed once, the electronically stored medals are paid out. The sensor is a sensor for detecting medals dispensed by the hopper unit 180. Each of the above sensors may be a non-contact type sensor or a contact type sensor.

[0500] An index sensor for the left reel 110, an index sensor for the center reel 111, and The index sensor of the right reel 112 is located at a predetermined position on the mounting base of each of the reels 110 to 112. It is installed at the position where the light blocking piece on the reel frame passes, and goes to L level every time it passes. How far does the reel move from the reference position between when it goes to L level and when it goes to L level again? The rotation position information indicating how fast the crystal oscillator 315b is rotating is generated by the clock signal output by the crystal oscillator 315b. The CPU 304 detects the L level signal and calculates the count value. When this happens, it is determined that the reel has made one rotation, and the rotation position information of the reel is reset to zero. The rotational position information is stored in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300.

[0501] The main control unit 300 controls the motors provided for the reels 110 to 112 of the reel unit 700. A drive circuit 322 that drives the motors 110m to 112m (see FIG. 25) selects the inserted medals, A drive circuit 324 for driving a solenoid provided in the medal selector 170 for selecting the medals, A drive circuit 326 for driving a motor 180m (see FIG. 25) provided in the knit 180, various Lamp 339 (valid line indicator lamp 120, notification lamp 123, game medal insertion possible lamp The game start lamp 121, the replay lamp 122, and the game medal insertion lamp 129 are , the number of stored coins indicator 125, the game information indicator 126, and the number of paid coins indicator 127) It is equipped with an operating circuit 328.

[0502] In addition, the basic circuit 302 is connected to an information output circuit 334, and the main control unit 300 Through this information output circuit 334, information provided by an external hall computer (not shown) or the like is output. The information input circuit 652 receives game information of the slot machine 100 (for example, information indicating the game status). Output.

[0503] The main control unit 300 also receives power from the power supply device 252 (see FIG. 3). The voltage monitoring circuit 330 monitors the voltage value of the power supply. When the voltage value of the power supply is less than a predetermined value (9V in this example), it indicates that the voltage has dropped. The low voltage signal is output to the basic circuit 302.

[0504] The main control unit 300 also has an output interface for sending commands to the first sub-control unit 400. The main control unit 400 is equipped with an interface, which enables communication with the first sub-control unit 400. The information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400 is one-way communication. The first sub-controller 400 is configured to be able to send signals such as commands to the sub-controller 400. It is configured so that signals such as commands cannot be sent to the main control unit 300 from 00 onwards.

[0505] The components of the main control unit 300 described above are mounted on a main control unit board 300B (see FIG. 25). It is installed in.

[0506] <Sub-controller> Next, the first sub-control unit 400 of the slot machine 100 will be described. 00 receives the control command sent by the main control unit 300 via the input interface. The first sub-control unit 400 controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 based on this control command. The basic circuit 402 includes a CPU 404 and a temporary device. RAM 408 for storing data and I / O 4 for controlling input and output of various devices. 10 and a counter timer 412 for measuring time, number of times, etc. Basic circuit The CPU 404 in 402 receives a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator 414 and outputs the clock signal to the system. The ROM 406 stores the data for controlling the entire first sub-control unit 400. the control program and data for controlling the lighting pattern of the backlight module 740 and data for controlling various displays.

[0507] The CPU 404 reads data from a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 406 via a data bus at a predetermined timing. The stored data for frequency division is sent to the counter timer 412. The interrupt time is determined based on the received frequency division data, and an interrupt is generated every time this time is reached. The CPU 404 sends an interrupt request to the CPU 404. The CPU 404 determines the timing of the interrupt request. It controls each IC and each circuit.

[0508] The first sub-control unit 400 is provided with a sound source IC 418. An upper speaker 272 and a bass speaker 277 are provided via the interface. The power supply IC 418 controls the amplifier and the upper speaker 272 in response to instructions from the CPU 404. It controls the sound output from the bass speaker 277. The sound source IC 418 stores sound data. The S-ROM (sound ROM) stored in the The data is amplified by an amplifier and output from the upper speaker 272 and the bass speaker 277. .

[0509] The first sub-controller 400 is provided with a drive circuit 422, and the drive circuit 422 is connected to an input / output Various lamps 420 (upper lamp, lower lamp, left side lamp 1) can be connected via the interface. 44L, right side lamp 144R, title panel lamp 164, bet button lamp 2 00, backlight module 740, first effect built into first chance button 165 A second effect lamp, a second effect lamp built into the second chance button 166, etc. are connected to the second chance button 166.

[0510] The first sub-controller 400 also includes a motor 163m (see FIG. 25) for driving the shutter 163. The motor 163m of the shutter 163 is a stepping motor. The drive circuit 424 drives the motor 160 in response to a command from the CPU 404. m outputs a drive signal.

[0511] The first sub-control unit 400 is also provided with a sensor circuit 426. The CPU 404 is connected to the shutter sensor 428 via the input interface. The state of the shutter sensor 428 is monitored at each interrupt time. 400 is provided with a switch sensor 427, and this switch sensor 427 It also detects the pressing of the second chance button 166 and the left button 167. The second selection switch 194, which is made up of the right button 168, is also switched by pressing each of the buttons. The detection signal from the shutter sensor 428 and the switch sensor 427 is The output signal is output by the sensor circuit 426 to the basic circuit 402 .

[0512] In addition, the first selection switch sensor 190 is directly connected to the basic circuit 402. The first selection switch sensor 190 also includes a switch sensor 427 and a sensor circuit 426. may be connected to the basic circuit 402 via

[0513] Furthermore, the CPU 404 transmits and receives signals to the second sub-control unit 500 via the output interface. To believe.

[0514] The components of the first sub-control unit 400 described above are mounted on the first sub-control unit board 400B (see FIG. 2). 5).

[0515] The second sub-control unit 500 controls each of the performance devices 160 including the display control of the performance image display device 157. The second sub-control unit 500 controls, for example, the display of the effect image display device 157. a control unit that controls various driving devices for performance (for example, the shutter 163 The control unit may be configured with a plurality of control units, such as a control unit for controlling the motor drive.

[0516] The second sub-control unit 500 receives the control command sent by the first sub-control unit 400 through an input interface. The second sub-control unit 500 receives the control command via the IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n interface and controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on this control command. The basic circuit 502 includes a CPU 504 and a temporary data and an I / O 510 for controlling the input and output of various devices. and a counter timer 512 for measuring time, number of times, etc. The CPU 504 of the 502 receives a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator 514 and outputs it to the system. The ROM 506 stores the data that controls the entire second sub-control unit 500. The control program and data for controlling the image display, etc. are stored in the memory.

[0517] The CPU 504 reads data from a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 506 via a data bus at a predetermined timing. The stored data for frequency division is transmitted to the counter timer 512. The counter timer 512 The interrupt time is determined based on the received frequency division data, and an interrupt is generated every time this time is reached. The CPU 504 sends an interrupt request to the CPU 404. The CPU 504 determines the timing of the interrupt request. It controls each IC and each circuit.

[0518] The second sub-controller 500 also includes a VDP534 (video display processor) The VDP534 is connected to the ROM506 and VRAM536 via a bus. The VDP 534 stores data in the ROM 506 based on a signal from the CPU 504. The image data stored in the memory is read out and the display image is generated using the work area of ​​the VRAM536. The image is displayed on the performance image display device 157.

[0519] With the circuit configuration described above, the first sub-control unit 400 issues an instruction to set the power saving mode. The control signal is transmitted to the drive circuit 422 and the second sub-controller 500. The output image display device 157 receives the control signal via the second sub-controller 500 and outputs the first chance The first performance lamp, the side lamp 144L, and the right side lamp 14 4R and the backlight module 740 receive control signals without going through the second sub-controller 500. do.

[0520] Next, each board such as the power supply control board, the main control board, and the first sub-control board, Examples of connections for each unit, such as the hopper unit, the hopper unit, and the moving object unit, are shown below. We will explain about this.

[0521] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of connections between each board and each unit.

[0522] 25 shows a power supply control board 252B, a main control board 300B, a first sub-control board 400B, a reel unit 700, a hopper unit 180, and a performance movable body unit 160U. The performance movable body unit 160U is a unit that moves the shutter 163, incorporated into the performance device 160 shown in FIG. 17. The shutter 163 corresponds to an example of a movable body.

[0523] The power supply control board 252B, the main control unit board 300B, and the first sub-control unit board 400B Illustrated here are a number of connectors PC1 to PC4, MC1 to MC6, and SC1 to SC4. In addition, the reel...

Claims

[Claim 1] a first substrate; a first operation unit connected to the first board via a first harness; A gaming machine equipped with the first operation unit has a first operation part and a second operation part, A first process may be executed by operating the first operation unit, A second process may be executed by operating the second operation unit, When the first harness changes from a disconnected state to a connected state while the first operating unit is being operated, the first process may be executed. When the first harness changes from a disconnected state to a connected state while the second operating unit is being operated, the second process may be executed. After the first operating unit and the second operating unit are operated, if the first harness changes from a disconnected state to a connected state while the first operating unit and the second operating unit are maintained in their operated states, there is a certain case (hereinafter referred to as the "first case") in which only the first process of the first process and the second process is executed, After the first case, in a situation where the first harness changes from a connected state to a disconnected state without any operation being performed on any part other than the first operating unit and the second operating unit, and then the first case is resumed, there may be a case where an output result by the first processing in the previous first case differs from an output result by the first processing in the later first case, There is another case (hereinafter referred to as the "second case") in which, after the first operating unit and the second operating unit are operated, the first harness changes from a non-connected state to a connected state while the first operating unit and the second operating unit are maintained in their operated states, In a situation where the first harness changes from a connected state to a disconnected state after the second case and the second case occurs again, the first process may be executed in the first second case, and the first process and the second process may not be executed in the second case. the first processing is a cursor display movement processing, the second processing is a cursor display movement processing, the first operation unit is a first direction button, the second operation unit is a second direction button, A gaming machine characterized by the above.

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