Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine having an advantageous section, and capable of preventing aggression from occurring while increasing a player's interest in a game.SOLUTION: When a setting value is changed, a game machine is initialized to be in a non-RT state and initialized to be in a normal section. In a game in which an advantageous section starts, AT control means can execute a start state setting control on the basis of the game state set in the game before the advantageous section starts. The game machine is more advantageous for a player by the start state setting control when the game state set in the game before the advantageous section starts is an RT2 state than a state in which the game state set in the game before the advantageous section starts is the non-RT state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, gaming machines (rotary gaming machines, slot machines) equipped with a plurality of reels having symbols arranged on their outer peripheral surfaces are known. This type of gaming machine gives a certain gaming value to gaming media such as medals and pachinko balls, and conducts a game to obtain such gaming media. Also, this type of gaming machine performs an internal lottery and starts the rotation of a plurality of reels upon the player's rotation start operation, and controls to stop the plurality of reels in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery upon the player's stop operation. Then, the result of the game is determined by the symbol combination displayed on the winning determination line in the state where the plurality of reels have stopped, and payouts such as medals are made according to the result of the game.

[0003] In the above-described gaming machine, as an effect state for executing a winning assistance effect for assisting the winning of a combination, there is known a configuration in which the winning probability of a combination is varied and it becomes easier to obtain gaming media by shifting to an assist time state (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In recent years, gaming machines have been required to prevent excessive payouts of game value by limiting the period during which auxiliary gameplay can be performed to a specific period (advantageous period). In such gaming machines, while it is necessary to enhance the player's enjoyment of the game by using controls related to auxiliary gameplay within the limited period during which it can be performed, it is also necessary to prevent the gaming machine from becoming too strategic and thus reducing its marketability.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a gaming machine that has a favorable period and can improve the player's enjoyment of the game while preventing the development of strategies that can be exploited. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention comprises multiple reels, Multiple stop buttons, It comprises an internal lottery means for conducting an internal lottery, The aforementioned plurality of reels include a first reel, a second reel, a third reel, In the aforementioned internal lottery, the success or failure of multiple types of winning scenarios is determined. The aforementioned multiple types of winning patterns include a first winning pattern (for example, winning area "5-choice bell A", paragraphs

[0059] ,

[0182] , Figures 3 and 14), a second winning pattern (for example, winning area "5-choice bell 3A", paragraphs

[0059] ,

[0182] , Figures 3 and 14), a third winning pattern (for example, winning area "5-choice bell 4A", paragraphs

[0059] ,

[0182] , Figures 3 and 14), a fourth winning pattern (for example, winning area "5-choice bell 5A", paragraphs

[0059] ,

[0182] , Figures 3 and 14), and a fifth winning pattern (for example, winning area "5-choice bell 6A", paragraphs

[0059] ,

[0182] , Figures 3 and 14), The sixth winning method, It includes, The first winning pattern, the second winning pattern, the third winning pattern, the fourth winning pattern, and the fifth winning pattern are each associated with the simultaneous winning of the first payout prize and the second payout prize, respectively. The sixth winning pattern is associated with the simultaneous winning of a bonus and the second payout small win. The previous 1st dividend was a higher dividend than the previous 2nd dividend. The first winning mode allows for the winning of the first payout when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the first operation mode. The second winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the second operation mode. The third winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the third operation mode. The fourth winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the multiple stop buttons are stopped in the fourth operation mode. The fifth winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the multiple stop buttons are stopped in the fifth operation mode. The first operating mode is an operating mode in which the stop button corresponding to the first reel is first stopped, The second operating mode is an operating mode in which the stop button corresponding to the second reel is first stopped, The third operating mode is one in which the stop button corresponding to the second reel is stopped first, and the second stop button operated is operated in a different manner from the second operating mode. The fourth operating mode is an operating mode in which the stop button corresponding to the third reel is first stopped, The fifth operating mode is such that the stop button corresponding to the third reel is the first to be stopped, and the second stop button to be operated is an operating mode different from that of the fourth operating mode. In the aforementioned first winning configuration, the secondary winning combination associated with the secondary winning combination includes a first combination and a second combination. In the aforementioned second winning configuration, the secondary payout associated with the duplicate win includes the first secondary payout and the second secondary payout. In the third winning configuration, the second payout's minor role associated with the overlapping win includes the first minor role and the second minor role. In the sixth winning configuration, the second winning combination associated with the double win includes the first combination and the second combination. When the first winning pattern is achieved and the multiple stop buttons are stopped in the fourth or fifth operation pattern, the second payout prize can be won with a specific probability (for example, a probability of 1 / 2, paragraph

[0182] , Figure 14), When winning the second winning mode and when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the fourth operation mode or the fifth operation mode, the minor winning combination of the second dividend can win at the specific probability (for example, a probability of 1 / 2, paragraph

[0182] , FIG. 14). When winning the third winning mode and when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the fourth operation mode or the fifth operation mode, the minor winning combination of the second dividend can win at the specific probability (for example, a probability of 1 / 2, paragraph

[0182] , FIG. 14). It is characterized by this.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can prevent the emergence of a strategic nature while improving the player's interest in the game in a gaming machine having an advantageous section.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] It is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining the functional blocks of the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing a winning area that can be won in an internal lottery in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and winning combinations included in each winning area. [Figure 4] It is a diagram for explaining the symbol arrangement of the reels in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing the winning symbol combinations of RBB1 to RBB3, RB1 to RB3, SB, replay 1 to replay 3, minor winning combination 1 to minor winning combination 10, the dividends of minor winning combination 1 to minor winning combination 10, and the RT state to which it transitions when the symbol combination is stopped and displayed on the effective line L1 in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing the winning symbol combinations of minor winning combination 11 to minor winning combination 32, the dividends of minor winning combination 11 to minor winning combination 32, and the RT state to which it transitions when the symbol combination is stopped and displayed on the effective line L1 in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]A diagram showing the winning symbol combinations of minor winning combinations 33 to 39, the payouts of minor winning combinations 33 to 39, and the RT state to which the machine transitions when the symbol combination stops and is displayed on the valid line L1 in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] A state transition diagram of the gaming state in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] A transition diagram related to the normal section and the advantageous section controlled by the AT control means in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the effect state during the advantageous section. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing the start state setting control executed by the AT control means in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] A diagram showing the number of lottery values associated with each winning area that is the target of the internal lottery in the non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state, non-RT state during SB operation, RT1 state during SB operation, and RT2 state during SB operation in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] A diagram showing the number of lottery values associated with each winning area that is the target of the internal lottery in the RBB1 internal middle state to RBB3 internal middle state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, RBB1 operating RB1 internal middle state to RBB3 operating RB3 internal middle state, and RBB1 operating RB1 operating state to RBB3 operating RB3 operating state in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] A diagram showing the game results for each batting order when winning in the batting order minor winning mode in the non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] A diagram showing the game results for each batting order when winning in the batting order minor winning mode in the RBB1 internal middle state to RBB3 internal middle state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, and RBB3 operating RB3 internal middle state in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] A diagram showing the game results for each batting order when winning in the batting order minor winning mode in the RBB1 operating RB1 internal middle state and RBB2 operating RB2 internal middle state in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] (A) is a diagram showing the combination of winning symbols for a role that is set to be established when the winning area "6-choice bell 1" is won in a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and (B) is a diagram showing the number of combinations of winning symbols that can be displayed when the stop button B1 is performed as the first stop operation and the symbols that can be stopped among the symbols arranged on the left reel are stopped and displayed on the active line. [Figure 17] (A) is a diagram showing the payout rates for each gameplay method in the non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state, non-RT state during SB operation, RT1 state during SB operation, RT2 state during SB operation, RBB1 internal state to RBB3 internal state, when a replay is treated as a payout of the same number as a predetermined number of inputs in a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. (B) is a diagram showing the payout rates for each gameplay method in the general state during RBB1 operation to the general state during RBB3 operation, the RB1 internal state during RBB1 operation to the RB3 internal state during RBB3 operation, and the RB1 operation state during RBB1 operation to the RB3 operation state, when a replay is treated as a payout of the same number as a predetermined number of inputs. (C) is a diagram showing the payout rates for each gameplay method in the general state during RBB3 operation, the RB3 internal state during RBB3 operation, and the RB3 operation state during RBB3 operation, when a replay is treated as a replay. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. The embodiments described below are not intended to unduly limit the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, not all configurations described in these embodiments are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0011] 1. Overview of the configuration of the gaming machine Figure 1 is a front view showing the external configuration of a slot machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The slot machine 1 of this embodiment is a so-called reel-type gaming machine, and is a type of gaming machine that uses tokens as the game medium.

[0012] The slot machine 1 of this embodiment has a box-shaped casing consisting of a cabinet BX, an upper front door UD, and a lower front door DD, within which a reel unit 310 (see Figure 2) consisting of multiple reels, from the left reel R1 to the right reel R3, is housed. A hopper unit 320 (see Figure 2), which serves as a medal dispensing device, is housed below the reel unit 310 inside the cabinet. Furthermore, the cabinet of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment also houses a control board that controls the operation of the slot machine 1, which is equipped with a CPU, ROM (an example of an information storage medium), RAM, etc.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 are each divided into 20 regions (hereinafter referred to as "frames") at regular intervals on their outer surface, and one of several types of symbols is arranged in each frame.

[0014] The front upper door UD and the front lower door DD are provided to be individually openable and closable. The front upper door UD is equipped with a display device 330, which serves as a display means for displaying various videos and images to assist or enhance the gameplay. The display device 330 has a display area 330a in which images are displayed, and a specific area 330b facing the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 is made of a transparent liquid crystal display, allowing the rotation and stopping states of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 to be observed through the display device 330. When the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 are stopped, three symbols (upper, middle, and lower) that are arranged consecutively on the outer surface of each of the multiple types of symbols arranged at regular intervals on the outer surface of each of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 can be observed from the front of the slot machine 1 through the display device 330.

[0015] Furthermore, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, each reel is provided with an upper, middle, and lower display position for observing the symbols through the display device 330, and an active line L1 is set for the combination of display positions on each reel. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the number of tokens required for one game, the so-called prescribed number of tokens (prescribed number), is set to 3 in all game states, and when tokens equivalent to the prescribed number of tokens are inserted, the active line L1, which consists of the lower position of the left reel R1, the middle position of the middle reel R2, and the upper position of the right reel R3, is activated.

[0016] The game result is determined by the combination of symbols that stop and are displayed on the active line L1. If the combination of symbols on the active line L1 corresponds to a predetermined winning combination, the hopper unit 320 dispenses medals, etc., as if the winning combination has been achieved.

[0017] The front upper door UD is equipped with a game information display unit DS. The game information display unit DS consists of LEDs, lamps, a 7-segment display, etc., and displays various game information such as the number of medal credits, the number of medals paid out or acquired in one game, the total number of medals paid out or acquired in bonus mode, information on the winning combination in the current game, and information suggesting how to press stop buttons B1, B2, and B3, which are related to medal payouts.

[0018] The game information display unit DS includes a main control display device 500 consisting of a 7-segment display. When a specified number of tokens are inserted and the start lever SL is operated, a notification display is shown, which corresponds to the winning combination command, a control signal created based on the winning combination information for the current game. After the notification display is shown, when the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 stop, the notification display ends and the number of tokens dispensed or acquired is displayed. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, a notification display is executed in which each segment of the main control display device 500 lights up and turns off in a display mode corresponding to the winning combination command.

[0019] Furthermore, the main control display device 500 is equipped with a section notification unit 500A, which is a dot on a 7-segment display and lights up when the advantageous section is started by the AT control means 200 (see Figure 2), described later, and the expected value of medal acquisition is 1 or more due to the assistance of winning small roles. In addition, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, multiple sound devices 340 for sound effects are provided on the front lower door DD. Various sounds are output from the sound devices 340 to assist in or enhance the gameplay.

[0020] The front lower door DD is equipped with various operating means. These operating means include a max bet button MB for inserting a predetermined number of credited (stored) medals, a start lever SL for initiating the start operation by rotating the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 to begin playing, stop buttons B1 to B3 for initiating the stop operation by the player, and a settlement button BS for settling the credited medals.

[0021] Furthermore, a medal payout port MO and a medal receiving tray MP are provided at the bottom of the front lower door DD, and the number of medals corresponding to the game result are dispensed from the medal payout port MO to the medal receiving tray MP. Also, when the settlement button BS is pressed while the number of credited medals is stored in the game machine, a settlement process is executed in response to the pressing of the settlement button BS, dispensing a number of medals corresponding to the number of credits (the number of medals credited) from the hopper unit 320, and the medals are dispensed from the medal payout port MO to the medal receiving tray MP.

[0022] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment. The slot machine 1 of this embodiment is controlled by a game control means 10 which serves as a control board. The game control means 10 receives input signals from input means such as a medal insertion switch 210, a bet switch 220, a start switch 230, a stop switch 240, a setting change switch 250, and a reset switch 260, which serve as a plurality of operation detection means, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the performance device 300, the reel unit 310, the hopper unit 320, and the main control display device 500 based on the calculation results.

[0023] Furthermore, the game control means 10 includes a setting change means 100, an input acceptance means 105, a random number generation means 110, an internal lottery means 120, a reel control means 130, a prize determination means 140, a payout control means 150, a replay processing means 160, a game state transition control means 170, a performance control means 180, a storage means 190, and an assist time control means (AT control means) 200. Each means constituting the game control means 10 reads and executes the respective control program pre-stored in the storage means 190 when executing each control process.

[0024] The setting change means 100 performs control (setting change control) to change the setting value stored in the setting value storage means 191 of the storage means 190. When the setting change switch 250 is in the ON state and setting changes are permitted, the setting change means 100 receives an input signal output from the reset switch 260 provided on the power supply and cyclically changes the setting value in the order of setting 1 → setting 2 → ... → setting 6 → setting 1 → ... and confirms the setting value based on the operation of the start lever SL and the receipt of a start signal output from the start switch 230. In the slot machine 1, the probability of winning in some of the winning areas among the winning areas that can be won in the internal lottery by the internal lottery means 120 is changed according to the setting value confirmed in the setting value storage means 191. In other words, the setting change means 100 is configured to change the setting value, which is a value that can change the probability of winning a role in the internal lottery by the internal lottery means 120.

[0025] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, when the setting change control by the setting change means 100 is executed, the control related to the game state executed by the game state transition control means 170 and the control related to the advantageous section executed by the AT control means 200 are initialized, the game state is set to the non-replay time state (hereinafter, replay time is also referred to as "RT"), and the control related to auxiliary games that the AT control means 200 was executing before the setting change is also initialized and the normal section is set. On the other hand, in the slot machine 1, when the power supply to the game control means 10 is cut off (power out) and then the power supply is resumed, the control related to the game state executed by the game state transition control means 170 and the control related to the advantageous section executed by the AT control means 200 are restarted from the state before the power outage, and the control related to auxiliary games that the AT control means 200 was executing before the power outage is also maintained in the state before the power outage.

[0026] The coin insertion acceptance means 105, during the coin insertion acceptance period, when a coin is inserted into the coin slot MI (see Figure 1) and the coin insertion switch 210 is activated, sets the inserted coin to the inserted state. When the bet switch 220 is activated, executing a bet operation by pressing the max bet button MB with the coins credited, the means sets the credited coins to the inserted state, up to a specified number of coins (3 coins). Based on the fact that a number of coins equivalent to the specified number of coins have been set to the inserted state, it performs a process to activate the game start operation on the start lever SL.

[0027] In this embodiment of the slot machine 1, the first press of the start lever SL, which is activated based on the insertion of a specified number of tokens, is accepted as the player's operation to start playing, triggering the rotation of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3, and also triggering the internal lottery means 120, which will be described later, to perform an internal lottery.

[0028] The random number generation means 110 is a means for generating random numbers for the lottery. In this embodiment, "random number" includes not only values ​​that are generated randomly in a mathematical sense, but also values ​​that, even if their generation is regular, can function as effectively random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

[0029] The internal lottery means 120 is a means for performing an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination is achieved based on a start signal output when the player performs a start operation on the start lever SL and the start switch 230 detects the start operation, and performs lottery table selection processing, random number determination processing, lottery flag setting processing, etc.

[0030] In the lottery table selection process, the system selects which of the multiple internal lottery tables stored in the internal lottery table storage means 192 of the storage means 190 will be used to perform the internal lottery, based on the current game state. In each internal lottery table, each of the multiple random numbers (for example, 65,536 random numbers from 0 to 65,535) is associated with various roles such as replays, minor roles, and bonuses, as well as losses (misses).

[0031] In the following description, "bonus" refers to a feature that activates a special mechanism or a continuous special mechanism activation device upon winning; "bonus activated" means that a bonus is won and the special mechanism or continuous special mechanism activation device is activated; and "bonus state" means the state in which the special mechanism or continuous special mechanism activation device is activated.

[0032] In the random number determination process, a random number (random number for drawing) generated by the random number generation means 110 for each game is obtained based on the start signal output from the start switch 230. The obtained random number is then compared with the internal drawing table selected in the drawing table selection process, and a determination is made based on the comparison result as to whether or not a winning combination has been achieved.

[0033] In the lottery flag setting process, based on the result of the random number determination process, the lottery flag corresponding to the winning combination is set from a non-established state (first flag state, OFF state) to an established state (second flag state, ON state). In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, if two or more combinations are won simultaneously, the lottery flag corresponding to each of the two or more combinations that were won simultaneously is set to an established state. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, there are lottery flags that can be carried over to subsequent games until a win is achieved (carry-over flags) and lottery flags that are reset to a non-established state without being carried over to subsequent games regardless of whether a win is achieved (carry-over non-carry-over flags). The lottery flag setting information is stored in the lottery flag storage means 193 of the storage means 190.

[0034] The reel control means 130 starts the rotation drive of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 and performs reel rotation control to control the rotation pattern of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 based on the start signal output from the start switch 230, which is activated when the player performs a start operation on the start lever SL. Furthermore, when the rotation state of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 reaches a state of steady rotation at a predetermined speed (for example, about 80 rpm), the reel control means 130 performs control to activate the stop operation detected by the stop switch 240 when the stop buttons B1 to B3 corresponding to each reel are pressed. Then, when the stop switch 240 that detected the stop operation outputs a reel stop signal, the reel control means 130 performs control to stop each of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 corresponding to the stop switch 240 that detected the stop operation (reel stop control).

[0035] In the following description, when the reel control means 130 starts the rotation of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3, and the player presses the valid stop buttons B1 to B3 respectively, the first press will be referred to as the first stop operation, the second press as the second stop operation, and the third press as the third stop operation.

[0036] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, for the left reel R1 to the right reel R3, the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is stopped within a predetermined period of 190ms from the time when stop buttons B1 to B3 are pressed (when the stop switch 240 detects the stop operation). Here, when stopping the rotating reels within 190ms from the time the stop button is pressed, the stopping position of each rotating reel is configured to allow a maximum of 4 frames of rotation from the time the stop button is pressed until the reel stops, based on the diameter and rotation speed of each reel.

[0037] Therefore, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, for the left reel R1 to the right reel R3, the range in which a symbol can be pulled onto the active line L1 (pulling range) is a total of 5 frames from the frame displayed on the active line L1 at the time the stop button is pressed until it rotates 4 frames.

[0038] When reel stop control is executed, the reel control means 130 performs a logic calculation process to determine the stopping position of the rotating reel based on a predetermined priority order, which includes a pull-in process that stops the rotating reel so that as many winning combinations as possible with the lottery flag set to the "established" state can be awarded, and a kick-off process that stops the rotating reel so that winning combinations with the lottery flag set to the "not established" state cannot be awarded, and a table reference process that determines the stopping position of the rotating reel by referring to the stop control table stored in the reel control data storage means 194 of the storage means 190, thereby stopping the rotating reel and displaying a symbol on the active line L1 (hereinafter, stopping the rotating reel by reel stop control and displaying a symbol on the active line L1 is also referred to as "stop display").

[0039] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, when multiple types of small wins are won in the internal lottery, there are two methods for determining the priority of candidate stopping positions: one is to determine the priority according to the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the active line L1 (quantity priority control), and the other is to determine the priority according to the number of medals paid out based on the predetermined payout for each small win (coin priority control). However, when executing coin priority control, if the same small win with the same payout is won multiple times, the priority of candidate stopping positions that can award each of these small wins is treated as the same.

[0040] The prize determination means 140 performs a prize determination process to determine whether a winning combination has been achieved based on the stopping patterns of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3. Specifically, while referring to the prize determination table stored in the prize determination table storage means 195 of the storage means 190, it determines whether the symbol combinations displayed on the active line L1 when all of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 have stopped correspond to predetermined winning combinations. The prize determination table is provided so that the presence or absence of a bonus, replay, or minor win can be determined (hereinafter referred to as "prize determination") based on the symbol combinations displayed on the active line L1 in the state in which each reel has stopped. In the following description, the symbol combinations that indicate the winning combination will also be referred to as "prize symbol combinations".

[0041] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, each process is executed based on the result of the prize determination means 140 in the prize determination process. As for the processes executed based on the result of the prize determination, for example, if a small win is achieved, the payout control means 150 is instructed to determine the number of medals to be paid out; if a replay is achieved, the replay processing means 160 is instructed to execute the next game without consuming medals; and if a win that triggers a transition to a game state such as a bonus is achieved, the game state transition control means 170 is instructed to transition to a new game state.

[0042] The payout control means 150 performs payout processing related to the payout of medals according to the game result. Specifically, when a minor win is achieved, it determines the number of medals to be paid out in the game based on the predetermined payout for each win, and controls the hopper unit 320, which acts as a payout device, to pay out the number of medals corresponding to the determined payout amount.

[0043] The hopper unit 320 dispenses the number of medals instructed by the dispensing control means 150. The hopper unit 320 is equipped with a dispensing medal detection switch 325 that operates each time a medal is dispensed. The dispensing control means 150 is configured to manage the number of medals actually dispensed from the hopper unit 320 based on the input signal from the dispensing medal detection switch 325. If medal credit is permitted, instead of actually dispensing medals, the hopper unit 320 performs a credit addition process, which adds the number of medals dispensed to the number of credits (number of credited medals) stored in the credit storage area (not shown) of the storage means 190, thereby virtually dispensing medals.

[0044] The replay processing means 160, when the winning determination means 140 determines that a combination of symbols indicating the winning of one of the multiple types of replay symbols described later has stopped and is displayed on the active line L1, performs a replay process (re-play process) to set the machine to a ready state that allows the next game to be played without requiring the insertion of tokens. In other words, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, when a replay is won, an automatic insertion process is performed in which a predetermined number of tokens are automatically inserted without using the player's tokens (including credit tokens), and the machine waits for the start operation of the next start lever SL with the same active line L1 as the previous game set.

[0045] The game state transition control means 170 performs the process of transitioning game states between multiple game states, and the process of activating and terminating bonuses. Here, the transition conditions for each game state may be defined as one condition or multiple conditions. If multiple conditions are defined, the game state can be transitioned to another game state based on the fulfillment of any one of the multiple predetermined conditions, or on the fulfillment of all of the multiple predetermined conditions.

[0046] The performance control means 180 controls game-related effects based on performance data stored in the performance control data storage means 197 of the storage means 190, such as image and video effects using the display device 330 and sound effects using the sound device 340. Specifically, when a player operates various components of the slot machine 1, such as inserting medals, operating the max bet button MB, start lever SL, and stop buttons B1 to B3, or when a game event occurs, such as a change in the game state, the performance control means 180 controls the execution of effects that enhance the game or assist the game by lighting or flashing lamps and LEDs, outputting sound from the sound device 340, etc. Furthermore, the performance control means 180 causes each component of the performance device 300 to execute effects based on each performance state.

[0047] The AT control means 200 is an auxiliary game control means that performs control related to the transition between an advantageous section (advantageous period), which is a section (period) in which control related to instruction functions, including auxiliary games that display notifications assisting in winning specific roles on the main control display device 500, can be executed, and a normal section (non-advantageous period, non-advantageous section), which is a section (period) in which control related to auxiliary games (control related to instruction functions) based on the results of internal lottery by the internal lottery means 120 cannot be executed, using data stored in the AT control data storage means 198, thereby performing control related to the normal section, advantageous section, and auxiliary games.

[0048] The AT control data storage means 198 stores data used in various controls related to multiple types of performance states, including the normal state and the AT state, which are executed within the advantageous period (various flags, counters, etc., which are set to the ON state or OFF state in a predetermined control process).

[0049] The AT control means 200 sets the performance state to the AT state (assist time state) under predetermined conditions during the advantageous section, and provides operation notification to assist in winning specific roles by displaying information (an example of operation instruction information) corresponding to the operation patterns of stop buttons B1 to B3 that enable the winning of specific roles on the main control display device 500, which consists of a 7-segment display. Furthermore, in the slot machine 1, when operation notification by the AT control means 200 is executed, the performance control means 180, described later, executes a navigation performance that displays an indicator corresponding to the correct sequence of hits on the display device 330. In this way, in the slot machine 1, in the AT state, the operation patterns of stop buttons B1 to B3 are notified through operation notification and navigation performance assistance, thereby executing an advantageous auxiliary game (AT game, notification game) for the player.

[0050] The AT control means 200, when a predetermined termination condition for ending the advantageous period (more specifically described later) is met, executes a predetermined termination process to end the advantageous period and start the normal period from the next game, and a predetermined initialization process to initialize various flags, numerical values, and other information related to the advantageous period that were set within the advantageous period. Furthermore, the AT control means 200 lights up the section notification unit 500A when the expected value of medal acquisition becomes 1 or more due to the start of the advantageous period and the execution of prize-winning assistance. For this reason, even when the advantageous period has started, the AT control means 200 is configured to turn off the section notification unit 500A if the performance state does not involve prize-winning assistance.

[0051] The AT control means 200, in a game in which the advantageous period has started, adds a value "1", which corresponds to one game, to the value stored in the first advantageous period counter 198a (stored value) each time a game is played, and performs a game count update process that cumulatively increments the stored value of the first advantageous period counter 198a. The AT control means 200 also performs a difference in tokens update process that cumulatively records the difference (difference in tokens) obtained by subtracting the number of tokens paid out by the number of tokens inserted from the game in which the advantageous period started, in the second advantageous period counter 198b.

[0052] In this embodiment, the AT control means 200, when controlled in an advantageous section, performs a game count update process that cumulatively adds (updates) a value of "1", which corresponds to one game, to the stored value of the first advantageous section counter 198a each time a game is executed, regardless of the game state, and a difference in the number of medals update process that cumulatively updates the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b to a value corresponding to the difference in the number of medals.

[0053] Here, in the AT control means 200, in the difference in the number of tokens update process that updates the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b, if the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b becomes less than the value "0" when the number of tokens paid out in the game is less than the prescribed number of tokens inserted, the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b is set to the value "0". As a result, the AT control means 200 can fix the value of the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b at its lowest point to the value "0", so in the control process using the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b, it is no longer necessary to change the value that serves as the threshold for judgment according to the specific numerical value at the lowest point, and the load on the control process using the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b can be reduced.

[0054] The AT control means 200 determines that a specific termination condition has been met as a predetermined termination condition for ending the advantageous section when 3000 games have been played, that is, when the stored value of the first advantageous section counter 198a reaches the value "3000", or when the player has acquired more than 2400 medals from the point in the advantageous section when the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b reaches the value "2401" from the point in time when it was at its lowest value (lowest point), and executes a predetermined termination process to end the advantageous section and start the normal section from the next game.

[0055] The AT control means 200 initializes all information used in various control processes during the advantageous period, such as each flag set to the ON state during the advantageous period and values ​​set during the advantageous period, during a predetermined initialization process. The AT control means 200 can also terminate the advantageous period if a predetermined termination condition (normal termination condition) other than the specific termination condition is met, and executes the predetermined initialization process and predetermined termination process when the normal termination condition is met. Details of the normal termination conditions set by the AT control means 200 in this embodiment will be described later.

[0056] 2. Configuration of the gaming machine in this embodiment Next, with reference to Figures 3 to 17, the details of each component of the slot machine 1 in this embodiment will be described.

[0057] <Winning areas subject to internal lottery> Figure 3 is a diagram showing the winning areas that are subject to internal lottery in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, and the winning numbers and winning combinations associated with each winning area.

[0058] In this embodiment, the slot machine 1 has the following bonuses: a regular big bonus (hereinafter, the regular big bonus is also referred to as "RBB") as a continuous activation device for a special first-class bonus, a regular bonus (hereinafter, the regular bonus is also referred to as "RB") as a special first-class bonus, and a single bonus (hereinafter, the single bonus is also referred to as "SB") as a regular bonus. Furthermore, the slot machine 1 has RBB1 to RBB3 as RBBs and RB1 to RB3 as RBs.

[0059] As shown in Figure 3, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the winning areas that are subject to internal drawing are: winning area "Replay A" to winning area "Replay C", winning area "All small wins", winning area "All single wins", winning area "5-choice bell A", winning area "5-choice bell 3A" to winning area "5-choice bell 6A", winning area "5-choice bell B", winning area "5-choice bell 3B" to winning area "5-choice bell 6B", winning area "6-choice bell 1" to winning area "6-choice bell 6", winning area "3-choice bell 1" to winning area "3-choice bell 3", winning area "Common bell 1", winning area "Common bell 2", and winning area "Bell 1". The machine has winning areas "Watermelon 1", "RB1", "RB2", "RB3", "SB", "RBB1 & Bell 2", "RBB1 & Single Coin 1", "RBB2 & Bell 3", "RBB2 & Watermelon 2", "RBB2 & Single Coin 2", "RBB3 & Watermelon 3", "RBB3 & Single Coin 3", "RBB1 & Replay A", "RBB2 & Replay A", and "RBB3 & Replay C", with winning numbers 1 through 42 corresponding to each area. In addition, in slot machine 1, the result of the internal lottery is that a losing spin is associated with winning number 0.

[0060] The winning areas "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B", "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6", and "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" are configured such that, depending on the game state, small wins can be awarded according to the order of operation of stop buttons B1 to B3. In the following description, the winning areas "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B", "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6", and "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" will also be collectively referred to as "Swing Order Small Win Winning Pattern".

[0061] Here, "batting order" refers to the sequence in which the stop buttons B1 through B3 are pressed. In the following description, the timing at which the stop buttons B1 through B3 are pressed will also be referred to as "press timing."

[0062] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the order in which the three stop buttons B1 to B3 are pressed consists of six types of pressing orders, from pressing order 1 to pressing order 6. Press order 1 is a pressing order called "sequential pressing," in which the stopping operations are performed in the order of stop button B1 → stop button B2 → stop button B3. Press order 2 is a pressing order called "scissors pressing," in which the stopping operations are performed in the order of stop button B1 → stop button B3 → stop button B2. Press order 3 is a pressing order in which the stopping operations are performed in the order of stop button B2 → stop button B1 → stop button B3. Press order 4 is a pressing order in which the stopping operations are performed in the order of stop button B2 → stop button B3 → stop button B1. Press order 5 is a pressing order in which the stopping operations are performed in the order of stop button B3 → stop button B1 → stop button B2. Furthermore, batting order 6 is a so-called reverse batting order, where the stopping operation is performed in the order of stop button B3 → stop button B2 → stop button B1.

[0063] In the random number determination process, the internal lottery means 120 determines whether each winning area is a winner or loser, starting from the winning area with the largest number among the winning areas to which the lottery value number is associated, and moving toward the losing area with winning number 0.

[0064] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, there are small wins 1 to 39 that can be won when selected by internal lottery, and there are replays 1 to 3 that can be won by internal lottery. Each small win and each replay is associated with each winning area in the combinations shown in Figure 3.

[0065] In this embodiment of the slot machine 1, the roles to which the carryover flag is associated are RBB1~RBB3 and RB1~RB3, while the minor roles, replays, and SBs are associated with the non-carryover flag. That is, in the lottery flag setting process, if the winning area including RBB1~RBB3 and RB1~RB3 is won in the internal lottery, the established state of the lottery flags for the won RBB1~RBB3 and RB1~RB3 is carried over until RBB1~RBB3 and RB1~RB3 are awarded. At this time, the internal lottery means 120 also performs an internal lottery to determine whether the minor roles and replays are won or lost, even in games where the established state of the lottery flags for RBB1~RBB3 and RB1~RB3 has been carried over. In other words, in the lottery flag setting process, in a game where the established state of the RBB1-RBB3 and RB1-RB3 lottery flags is carried over, if a small win or replay is won, two or more lottery flags corresponding to the winning combination, consisting of the already established RBB1-RBB3 and RB1-RB3 lottery flags and the lottery flag for the small win or replay won through internal lottery, are set to the established state.

[0066] <Internal Lottery Table> The slot machine 1 of this embodiment has an internal lottery table used in the internal lottery by the internal lottery means 120, which is an internal lottery table, and includes an internal lottery table A used in the non-RT state, an internal lottery table B used in the RT1 state, an internal lottery table C used in the RT2 state, an internal lottery table D used in the RT3 state, an internal lottery table E used when SB is activated in the non-RT state, an internal lottery table F used when SB is activated in the RT1 state, an internal lottery table G used when SB is activated in the RT2 state, and an internal lottery table used in the RBB1 internal middle state to the RBB3 internal middle state. The internal lottery table storage means 192 stores the following internal lottery tables: H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, and O. In each of the internal lottery tables A to O, a lottery value is associated with each winning area that is the target of the lottery. More details will be described later.

[0067] <Random number generation process> In this embodiment, the internal lottery means 120, in the random number determination process, sequentially subtracts the random number obtained from the random number generation means 110 by the number of lottery values ​​associated with each winning area in the internal lottery table obtained from the internal lottery table storage means 192. If the result of the subtraction is a negative value, it is determined that the player has won in the winning area corresponding to the number of lottery values ​​that was subtracted. Furthermore, if the result of the subtraction is a positive value after subtracting by all the number of lottery values ​​stored in the internal lottery table, it is determined that the player has not won any role and is therefore unsuccessful.

[0068] <Arrangement of patterns> Figure 4 shows the symbols arranged on the circumferential surfaces of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment. In the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the red 7 symbol "Red 7", blue 7 symbol "Blue 7", BAR symbol "BAR", replay A symbol "RPA", replay B symbol "RPB", bell A symbol "BLA", bell B symbol "BLB", cherry symbol "CH", watermelon symbol "WM", and blank symbol "BK" are arranged on the circumferential surfaces of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3. In addition, 20 symbols are arranged on the circumferential surfaces of each of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3.

[0069] <Reel control means> In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, regardless of the game state, the priority order for the winning combinations to be stopped on the active line L1 in the reel stop control is set to "Replay > Small Win > Bonus". In other words, when a bonus and a small win or a bonus and a replay are both won, the reel control means 130 executes a stop control that prioritizes the small win or replay over the bonus.

[0070] Furthermore, as described above, the reel control means 130 is configured to rotate up to 4 frames from the time the stop button is pressed until the reel stops. Therefore, it is configured to stop and display on the active line L1 regardless of the timing of pressing the stop buttons B1 to B3 for symbols arranged at intervals of 4 frames or less among the symbols arranged on the left reel R1 to the right reel R3.

[0071] Specifically, the reel control means 130 is configured to stop the watermelon symbol "WM" on the left reel R1, the bell A symbol "BLA" and cherry symbol "CH" on the middle reel R2, and the replay A symbol "RPA", bell A symbol "BLA", and watermelon symbol "WM" on the right reel R3, regardless of the timing of pressing the stop buttons B1 to B3, as long as they can be stopped on the active line L1.

[0072] Furthermore, the reel control means 130 can stop symbols even if they are not identical symbols, as long as they are arranged at intervals of four frames or less. For example, if either the bell A symbol "BLA" arranged at stop numbers 3, 8, and 18 of the left reel R1, or the bell B symbol "BLB" arranged at stop number 13, can be stopped on the active line L1, the reel control means 130 is configured to stop either the bell A symbol "BLA" or the bell B symbol "BLB" regardless of the timing of pressing the stop button B1.

[0073] <Payouts for minor roles> In this embodiment, the payout for minor roles 1 to 10, 33, and 34 is set to be 11 coins, which is more than the prescribed number of coins inserted (3 coins). The payout for minor roles 11 to 13 is set to be 3 coins, which is the same as the prescribed number of coins inserted. The payout for minor roles 16 to 32 and 35 to 39 is set to be 1 coin, which is less than the prescribed number of coins inserted.

[0074] <Winning combinations of symbols> Figures 5 to 7 show the winning symbol combinations for RBB1 to RBB3, RB1 to RB3, SB, Replay 1 to Replay 3, and Small Win 1 to Small Win 39, the payouts for Small Win 1 to Small Win 39, and the RT state that is entered when a symbol combination stops and is displayed on the active line L1.

[0075] As shown in Figure 5, RBB3 has the following winning symbol combinations: "Red 7-Red 7-Blue 7" and "Bell B-BAR-BAR (Blue 7)". In slot machine 1, for example, if the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 stop and the symbol combination "Red 7-BAR-Blue 7" is displayed on the active line L1, it is not determined that RBB3 has been won.

[0076] Furthermore, the winning symbol combinations for RBB1~RBB3, RB1~RB3, and SB are composed of symbols that can be won if the symbols constituting the winning symbol combination are operated at a timing that allows them to be stopped on the active line L1. Therefore, in slot machine 1, when RBB1~RBB3, RB1~RB3, and SB are in a state where they can be won, if the timing of operating stop buttons B1~B3 allows the symbols constituting the winning symbol combination of the available bonus to be stopped on the active line L1, the bonus will be won. If the timing does not allow them to be stopped on the active line L1, the bonus will not be won.

[0077] As shown in Figure 5, the winning symbol combination "BLA(BLB)-CH-CH" for Replay 2 is a symbol combination that triggers a transition to RT2 state when it is stopped and displayed on the active line L1. As shown in Figure 3, Replay 2 is a replay included in the winning area "Replay B". The reel control means 130 is configured to perform reel stop control when the winning area "Replay B" is won, stopping and displaying the symbols that make up the winning symbol combination "BLA(BLB)-CH-CH" for Replay 2 on the active line L1.

[0078] Therefore, in this embodiment, when RBB1 to RBB3 are not set to be active and RBB1 to RBB3 are not operating, if the winning area "Replay B" is hit, the winning symbol combination "BLA(BLB)-CH-CH" for Replay 2 is stopped and displayed on the active line L1, and the game state transitions to RT2 state.

[0079] As shown in Figure 5, the symbols that make up the winning combinations of minor roles 1 to 10, which are set to pay out 11 coins, are arranged at intervals of no more than 4 frames on each of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3. Therefore, when reel stop control is performed to make each of the minor roles 1 to 10 stop on the active line L1, they are configured to stop and display on the active line L1 regardless of the timing of pressing the stop buttons B1 to B3.

[0080] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the symbols that make up the winning combinations for minor roles 11 to 39 are configured such that at least one of the symbols from the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 may be missed depending on the timing of the operation of the stop button corresponding to that reel. Specifically, for example, the watermelon symbol "WM" on the middle reel R2 that makes up the winning combination for minor role 11 can be won if the stop button B2 is operated at the timing when the symbols within the pull-in range of the watermelon symbol "WM" from stop number 1 to the replay B symbol "RPB" at stop number 10 are rotating and displayed on the active line L1, and minor role 11 cannot be won if the symbols outside the pull-in range of the watermelon symbol "WM" are rotating and displayed on the active line L1.

[0081] <Game state transition control means> Figure 8 is a state transition diagram showing the game states that can be transitioned from each game state in the control related to the transition of game states performed by the game state transition control means 170 of this embodiment.

[0082] As shown in Figure 8, slot machine 1 has the following game states where a bonus is not activated or established: non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state; RBB1 internal state to RBB3 internal state where an RBB is established; and RBB1 activated general state to RBB3 activated general state, RBB1 activated RB1 internal state to RBB3 activated RB3 internal state, and RBB1 activated RB1 activated state to RBB3 activated RB3 activated state.

[0083] Slot machine 1 is configured to manage which game state was in the previous game, by setting game state type information corresponding to each game state in the game state type storage means 196a of the game state control data storage means 196. The game state type storage means 196a is configured as a data area that stores type data corresponding to each game state, and is configured to store values ​​from "0" to "15" as game state types.

[0084] In this embodiment, the game state types are as follows: non-RT state is associated with a value of "0", RT1 state is associated with a value of "1", RT2 state is associated with a value of "2", RT3 state is associated with a value of "3", RBB1 internal state is associated with a value of "4", RBB1 operating general state is associated with a value of "5", RBB1 operating RB1 internal state is associated with a value of "6", RBB1 operating RB1 operating state is associated with a value of "7", RBB2 internal state The value "8" is associated with the general state while RBB2 is operating, the value "9" is associated with the internal state while RBB2 is operating, the value "10" is associated with the internal state while RBB2 is operating, the value "11" is associated with the internal state while RBB3 is operating, the value "12" is associated with the general state while RBB3 is operating, the value "13" is associated with the internal state while RBB3 is operating, the value "14" is associated with the internal state while RBB3 is operating, and the value "15" is associated with the internal state while RBB3 is operating.

[0085] In slot machine 1, as will be described in more detail later, when transitioning from the normal section to the advantageous section, the game state type stored in the game state type storage means 196a is referenced by the AT control means 200 based on the fact that the start lever SL was started during the first game in the advantageous section, and the performance state for the first game in the advantageous section is set.

[0086] Furthermore, the game state transition control means 170 is configured not to change the game state based on the activation of the SB when the SB is activated. For example, if the game state is in the RT1 state and an SB is won, and the SB is activated based on the SB win, the game state transition control means 170 will activate the SB while maintaining the current game state, which is the RT1 state.

[0087] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the combined probability of winning in the winning area, including replays, is set to 8978 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 7.3) in both the non-RT state and the RT1 to RT3 states, and the probability of winning in each of the winning areas, including replays, is different in each of the non-RT state and the RT1 to RT3 states. More details will be described later.

[0088] The non-RT state is the initial game state (initial game state, normal game state) among the various game states, and is set when the slot machine 1 is initialized and the game state is also initialized, such as when a setting change is performed by the setting change means 100. Furthermore, the non-RT state is configured as an infinite RT that does not end regardless of the number of times the game is played.

[0089] In the non-RT state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using an internal lottery table A, in which lottery values ​​are associated with winning areas including RBB1 to RBB3 or SB. The internal lottery table A is configured such that lottery values ​​are not associated with the winning area "Replay B", which includes Replay 2, which transitions to the RT2 state when a winning symbol combination is displayed on the active line L1. For this reason, the slot machine 1 is configured not to transition from the non-RT state to the RT2 state.

[0090] The game state transition control means 170 transitions the game state from the non-RT state to the RT1 state when, during gameplay in the non-RT state, the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 stop and a symbol combination that triggers a transition to the RT1 state (see Figures 5 and 6) is displayed on the active line L1. In addition to the winning symbol combinations that trigger a transition to the RT1 state shown in Figures 5 and 6, the slot machine 1 also includes symbol combinations (blank symbol combinations) that are displayed on the active line L1 when a win occurs in the winning areas "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", and "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B" but none of the small wins are awarded. These blank symbol combinations are also configured to trigger a transition to the RT1 state.

[0091] Due to this configuration, in slot machine 1, the displayed probability of the symbol combination that triggers the transition to RT1 state does not change depending on the player's skill, thus preventing the development of strategies that intentionally avoid the transition to RT1 state.

[0092] Furthermore, if the internal lottery results in a winning area containing any of RBB1 to RBB3, the game state transition control means 170 will transition to the game state corresponding to the winning RBB among the RBB1 internal state to RBB3 internal state, even if a symbol combination that triggers a transition to the RT1 state is stopped and displayed on the active line L1.

[0093] The RT1 state is a game state that is entered when a symbol combination that triggers the transition to the RT1 state is displayed on the active line L1, and is configured as an infinite RT that does not end depending on the number of times the game is played. In the RT1 state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to execute an internal lottery using an internal lottery table B in which lottery values ​​are associated with winning areas including RBB1 to RBB3 or SB. The internal lottery table B is configured in which lottery values ​​are associated with winning area "Replay B", which includes Replay 2, and transitions to the RT2 state when a winning symbol combination is displayed on the active line L1. For this reason, the slot machine 1 is configured to be able to transition from the RT1 state to the RT2 state.

[0094] The game state transition control means 170 transitions the game state from RT1 to RT2 when, during gameplay in RT1 state, the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 stop and the winning symbol combination "BLA(BLB)-CH-CH" (see Figure 5), which is a symbol combination that triggers a transition to RT2 state, stops and is displayed on the active line L1. In addition, if the internal lottery results in a winning area containing any of RBB1 to RBB3, the game state transition control means 170 transitions to the game state corresponding to the winning RBB from the RBB1 internal middle state to the RBB3 internal middle state.

[0095] Due to this configuration, in slot machine 1, the displayed probability of the symbol combination that triggers the transition to RT2 state does not change depending on the player's skill, thus preventing the development of strategies that intentionally avoid the transition to RT2 state.

[0096] The RT2 state is a game state that is entered when a symbol combination that triggers the transition to the RT2 state is displayed on the active line L1, and is configured as a finite RT that ends after a certain number of gameplays. In the RT2 state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using the internal lottery table C, which is associated with the number of lottery values ​​in the winning area including RBB1 to RBB3 or SB.

[0097] The game state transition control means 170 sets the value "8000" in the RT game count counter 196b of the game state control data storage means 196 when gameplay in RT2 state begins. The RT game count counter 196b is a counter that counts the number of games played in a finite RT game state, and when a value is set, it is configured to be decremented by a value of "1" corresponding to one game each time a game is played. Therefore, the RT2 state is configured to end when 8000 games have been played without winning RBB1 to RBB3.

[0098] The game state transition control means 170 determines that the termination condition for the RT2 state has been met when the stored value of the RT game count counter 196b becomes "0", and transitions the game state from the RT2 state to the non-RT state. Furthermore, since the game state transition control means 170 starts the RT2 state based on the winning symbol combination "BLA(BLB)-CH-CH" of Replay 2 being displayed on the active line L1, it is configured to maintain the RT2 state even if a symbol combination that triggers a transition to the RT1 state is displayed on the active line L1. Then, when the internal lottery results in a winning area containing any of RBB1 to RBB3, the game state transition control means 170 transitions to the game state corresponding to the winning RBB from the RBB1 internal middle state to the RBB3 internal middle state.

[0099] The RT3 state is a game state to which the activated RBB1 to RBB3 end, and is configured as a finite RT that ends after a certain number of gameplays. In the RT3 state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using an internal lottery table D associated with the number of lottery values ​​in the winning area including RBB1 to RBB3 or SB.

[0100] The game state transition control means 170 sets the value "1" to the RT game count counter 196b of the game state control data storage means 196 when gameplay in RT3 state begins. Therefore, the RT3 state is configured to end when one game is played without winning RBB1 to RBB3.

[0101] The game state transition control means 170 determines that the termination condition for the RT3 state has been met when the stored value of the RT game count counter 196b becomes "0", and transitions the game state from the RT3 state to the non-RT state. Furthermore, since the RT3 state is started based on the termination of the activated RBB1 to RBB3, the game state transitions to the RT1 state when a symbol combination that triggers a transition to the RT1 state is stopped and displayed on the active line L1, and when a symbol combination that triggers a transition to the RT2 state is stopped and displayed on the active line L1, the game state transitions to the RT2 state. Then, if the game state transition control means 170 wins a winning area that includes any of RBB1 to RBB3 in the internal lottery, it transitions to the game state corresponding to the winning RBB from the RBB1 internal middle state to the RBB3 internal middle state.

[0102] Next, we will explain the details of what happens when an SB (Super Bonus) is awarded. When an SB is awarded and the SB is activated, the game state transition control means 170 terminates the SB once one game is played. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the game state transition control means 170 is configured not to change the game state based on the activation of the SB when it is activated. Instead, it is configured to execute a game state transition based on the trigger or termination condition set for each RT (Replay Time) state when the trigger or termination condition for the game state is met.

[0103] Therefore, in slot machine 1, if the SB is activated in a non-RT state, and a combination of symbols that triggers a transition to the RT1 state is displayed on the active line L1 while the SB is activated in the non-RT state, the game state will transition from the non-RT state to the RT1 state after the SB ends, based on the fact that the trigger for transitioning to the RT1 state has been met.

[0104] Furthermore, in slot machine 1, if the SB is activated in RT1 state, and a combination of symbols that triggers a transition to RT2 state is displayed on the active line L1 while the SB is active in RT1 state, the game state will transition from RT1 state to RT2 state after the SB ends, based on the fact that the trigger for transitioning to RT2 state has been met.

[0105] Furthermore, in slot machine 1, if the SB is activated in RT2 state, and the SB is awarded and activated during the 8000th game in RT2 state, the termination conditions for RT2 state will be met before the game starts in the state where the SB is activated, and the game will be in a state where the SB is activated in a non-RT state. Also, in slot machine 1, if the SB is activated in RT2 state, and the 8000th game in RT2 state is played while the SB is activated, the termination conditions for RT2 state will be met while the SB is activated, and based on the fact that the termination conditions for RT2 state have been met, the game state will transition from RT2 state to non-RT state after the SB ends.

[0106] Furthermore, in slot machine 1, if an SB is won during the RT3 state which ends in one game, the conditions for ending the RT3 state are met before the game starts with the SB activated, and the SB is activated in a non-RT state, so there is no RT3 state with the SB activated.

[0107] In the internal lottery tables E to G used during the operation of the SB (Super Bonus), the winning area "SB" where an SB is won is associated with a number of lottery values. Therefore, in slot machine 1, when playing with the SB activated, if an SB is won and the SB is activated again, it is possible to continue playing with the SB activated.

[0108] The RBB1 internal state is a game state to which the player transitions when RBB1 is set to the active state. In the RBB1 internal state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using the internal lottery table H, in which the probability of winning a replay is set to 26108 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.5).

[0109] The RBB2 internal state is a game state to which the player transitions when RBB2 is set to the active state. In the RBB2 internal state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using the internal lottery table H, in which the probability of winning a replay is set to 26108 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.5).

[0110] The RBB3 internal state is a game state to which the player transitions when RBB3 is set to the active state. In the RBB1 internal state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using the internal lottery table H, in which the probability of winning a replay is set to 26108 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.5).

[0111] If RBB1 is awarded, the game state transition control means 170 transitions the game state to the general state while RBB1 is operating based on the operation of RBB1. The game state transition control means 170 determines that the termination condition for RBB1 has been met when the number of medals dispensed exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 285 medals), that is, when the number of medals dispensed in the general state while RBB1 is operating, the RB1 internal state while RBB1 is operating, and the RB1 operating state while RBB1 is operating exceeds the predetermined number of medals, and transitions the game state to the RT3 state.

[0112] The general state during RBB1 operation is the game state corresponding to the initial state among the game states in which RBB1 is activated. In the general state during RBB1 operation, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to execute an internal lottery using an internal lottery table I in which the probability of winning a replay is set to 4096 / 65536 (1 / 16) and the number of lottery values ​​is associated with the winning area "RB1" in which RB1 is won.

[0113] The RBB1 in operation RB1 internal state is a game state to which the player transitions when RB1 is won in an internal lottery during the RBB1 in operation general state and RB1 is set to the established state. In the RBB1 in operation RB1 internal state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using an internal lottery table J which is configured to win either a winning area including small wins or a winning area including replays.

[0114] As described above, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, regardless of the game state, the priority order for the roles to be stopped on the active line L1 in the reel stop control is set in the order of "replay > small role > bonus".

[0115] Therefore, in slot machine 1, if RB1 is won during the general state while RBB1 is operating, and RB1 is not awarded in that game, and the game transitions to the RBB1 operating RB1 internal state, then in subsequent games, RB1 and a small win or replay may be awarded simultaneously, and the symbols that make up the winning combination of the small win or replay will stop on the active line L1 in priority to RB1, so that RB1 is not awarded and the RBB1 operating RB1 internal state is maintained.

[0116] The RBB1 Activated RB1 Activated state is a game state that is entered when RB1 is awarded and RB1 is activated while RBB1 is active. In the RBB1 Activated RB1 Activated state, the game state transition control means 170 determines that the termination conditions for RB1 have been met when 8 small wins are awarded or when 12 games have been played, and terminates the operation of RB1, transitioning the game state to the RBB1 Activated General state. In the RBB1 Activated RB1 Activated state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to execute an internal lottery using the internal lottery table O.

[0117] If an RBB2 is awarded, the game state transition control means 170 transitions the game state to the general state while RBB2 is operating based on the operation of RBB2. The game state transition control means 170 determines that the termination condition for RBB2 has been met when the number of medals dispensed exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 285 medals), that is, when the number of medals dispensed in the general state while RBB2 is operating, the RB2 internal state while RBB2 is operating, and the RB2 operating state while RBB2 is operating exceeds the predetermined number, and transitions the game state to the RT3 state.

[0118] The general state during RBB2 operation is the game state that corresponds to the initial state among the game states in which RBB2 is activated. In the general state during RBB2 operation, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to execute an internal lottery using an internal lottery table K in which the probability of winning a replay is set to 4096 / 65536 (1 / 16) and the number of lottery values ​​is associated with the winning area "RB2" in which RB2 is won.

[0119] The RBB2 in operation RB2 internal state is a game state to which the player transitions when RB2 is won in the internal lottery during the RBB2 in operation general state and RB2 is set to the established state. In the RBB2 in operation RB2 internal state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to execute an internal lottery using the internal lottery table L, in which the probability of winning a replay is set to 22092 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 3.0).

[0120] In the internal lottery using the internal lottery table L, the probability of losing is 13946 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 4.7). In slot machine 1, in a game where the result of the internal lottery is unsuccessful while RBB2 is active and RB2 is internally active, RB2 can be established independently, allowing the player to win RB2.

[0121] The RBB2 in operation RB2 in operation state is a game state that is entered when RB2 is awarded and RB2 is activated while RBB2 is in operation. In the RBB2 in operation RB2 in operation state, the game state transition control means 170 determines that the termination conditions for RB2 have been met when 8 small wins are awarded or when 12 games have been played, terminates the operation of RB2, and transitions the game state to the RBB2 in operation general state. In the RBB2 in operation RB2 in operation state, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to execute an internal lottery using the internal lottery table O.

[0122] If an RBB3 is awarded, the game state transition control means 170 transitions the game state to the general state while RBB3 is operating based on the operation of RBB3. The game state transition control means 170 determines that the termination condition for RBB3 has been met when the number of medals dispensed exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 285 medals), that is, when the number of medals dispensed in the general state while RBB3 is operating, the RB3 internal state while RBB3 is operating, and the RB3 operating state while RBB3 is operating exceeds the predetermined number, and transitions the game state to the RT3 state.

[0123] The general state during the operation of RBB3 is a game state corresponding to the initial state among the game states in which RBB3 is operating. In the general state during the operation of RBB3, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using an internal lottery table M in which the winning probability of replay is set to 4096 / 65536 (1 / 16) and the number of lottery values is associated with the winning area "RB3" for winning RB3.

[0124] The internal state of RB3 during the operation of RBB3 is a game state that transitions when RB3 wins in the internal lottery in the general state during the operation of RBB3 and RB3 is set to the established state. In the internal state of RB3 during the operation of RBB3, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using an internal lottery table N in which the winning probability of replay is set to 4096 / 65536 (1 / 16).

[0125] In the internal lottery using the internal lottery table N, it is configured to result in a non-winning with a probability of 31942 / 65536 (about 1 / 2.1). In the slot machine 1, in a game where the result of the internal lottery in the internal state of RB3 during the operation of RBB3 is a non-winning, RB3 can be made to win by RB3 becoming the established state alone.

[0126] The operating state of RB3 during the operation of RBB3 is a game state that transitions when RB3 wins and RB3 operates while RBB3 is operating. In the operating state of RB3 during the operation of RBB3, the game state transition control means 170 determines that the end condition of RB3 is satisfied when a minor winning occurs 8 times and when 12 games are executed, ends the operation of RB3, and causes the game state to transition to the general state during the operation of RBB3. In the operating state of RB3 during the operation of RBB3, the game state transition control means 170 causes the internal lottery means 120 to perform an internal lottery using an internal lottery table O.

[0127] <AT control means> Figure 9 is a state transition diagram showing details of the normal section and the advantageous section controlled by the AT control means 200 of this embodiment, and the performance state controlled during the advantageous section.

[0128] As described above, the normal section is a period during which no control is performed regarding auxiliary games based on the results of the internal lottery by the internal lottery means 120. In games played within the normal section, the AT control means 200 performs a favorable section lottery, which is a lottery to determine whether to end the normal section and start the favorable section, based on the winning area selected in the internal lottery by the internal lottery means 120.

[0129] In the advantageous section lottery, the AT control means 200 first obtains an advantageous section transition lottery table from the AT control data storage means 198, which is a data table in which "start of advantageous section" and "failure (miss)" are associated with each of several random numbers. Then, the AT control means 200 obtains a random number from the random number generation means 110, compares the obtained random number with the advantageous section transition lottery table, and decides whether or not to start the advantageous section based on the comparison result.

[0130] The AT control means 200 performs a favorable section lottery so that the probability obtained by multiplying the probability of winning a winning area in the internal lottery and the probability of winning "start of favorable section" in the favorable section lottery is 1 / 17500 or more.

[0131] The AT control means 200 of this embodiment, regardless of the game state, determines when a winning area "5-choice bell A", winning area "5-choice bell 3A" to winning area "5-choice bell 6A", winning area "5-choice bell B", winning area "5-choice bell 3B" to winning area "5-choice bell 6B", winning area "6-choice bell 1" to winning area "6-choice bell 6", winning area "3-choice bell 1" to winning area "3-choice bell 3", winning area "common bell 1", winning area "common bell 2", winning area "bell 1", winning area "watermelon 1", and winning area "SB" are won and activated. In a game state where no wins are occurring, if the player wins in one of the following areas, the advantageous section lottery is performed: "RBB1&Bell2", "RBB1&1-coin win1", "RBB2&Bell3", "RBB2&Watermelon2", "RBB2&1-coin win2", "RBB3&Watermelon3", "RBB3&1-coin win3", "RBB1&ReplayA", "RBB2&ReplayA", or "RBB3&ReplayC". If the player wins in any other area, the advantageous section lottery is not performed.

[0132] In this embodiment, the AT control means 200 executes a favorable section lottery with a 1 / 1 probability of winning "start of favorable section" when a winning combination of symbols that triggers a transition to the RT1 state is reliably displayed on the active line L1 when a win occurs in a non-RT state or RT3 state in a winning area (winning area "5-choice bell A", winning area "5-choice bell 3A" to winning area "5-choice bell 6A", winning area "5-choice bell B", winning area "5-choice bell 3B" to winning area "5-choice bell 6B", winning area "6-choice bell 1" to winning area "6-choice bell 6", winning area "3-choice bell 1" to winning area "3-choice bell 3", winning area "common bell 1", winning area "common bell 2"). Furthermore, the AT control means 200 executes a favorable section lottery with a high probability of approximately 1 / 1.5 when the winning area "Bell 1", winning area "Watermelon 1", or winning area "SB" is won regardless of the game state, and when the winning area "RBB1&Bell 2", winning area "RBB1&1-coin payout 1", winning area "RBB2&Bell 3", winning area "RBB2&Watermelon 2", winning area "RBB2&1-coin payout 2", winning area "RBB3&Watermelon 3", winning area "RBB3&1-coin payout 3", winning area "RBB1&Replay A", winning area "RBB2&Replay A", or winning area "RBB3&Replay C" is won in a game state where RBB1 to RBB3 have not been won or activated, and the "start of the favorable section" is won.

[0133] During the advantageous period, the AT control means 200 has three states (performance states) related to the instruction function: a normal state, a CZ state, and an AT state. Furthermore, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is configured such that the proportion of time spent in the advantageous period during the overall gameplay can be 70% or more.

[0134] In this embodiment, the AT control means 200 is configured to perform a start state setting control to set the performance state in the game in which the advantageous period begins when the game transitions from the normal period to the advantageous period. The AT control means 200 sets the performance state in the game in which the advantageous period begins to either the normal state or the CZ state through the start state setting control. Details of the start state setting control will be described later.

[0135] The normal state is the performance state that corresponds to the normal state among several types of performance states (normal performance state), which is set when the performance state has not transitioned to any other performance state. When the performance state transitions to the normal state, the AT control means 200 performs an incremental update to the normal game counter (not shown), which counts the number of games played in the normal state, by adding a value of "1" corresponding to one game each time a game is played. When the value of the normal game counter reaches the value of "700", the AT control means 200 determines that the conditions for transitioning to the CZ state (CZ transition conditions) have been met, and transitions the performance state from the normal state to the CZ state.

[0136] The AT control means 200 is configured to perform a CZ lottery to determine whether or not to transition to the CZ state in a game where the internal lottery in the normal state has resulted in a winning area that does not include RBB. Furthermore, the AT control means 200 is configured to perform a CZ lottery that is more likely to result in a favorable outcome for the player by making it easier to win "transition to CZ state" than when the winning area "Watermelon 1" is won in the internal lottery, compared to when the winning area does not include RBB and is different from the winning area "Watermelon 1". If "transition to CZ state" is won in the CZ lottery, the AT control means 200 transitions the performance state from the normal state to the CZ state.

[0137] Furthermore, the AT control means 200 decides to transition to the AT state when it wins a winning area including RBB1 in the internal lottery, or when it wins a winning area including RBB2. Also, when it wins a winning area including RBB3 in the internal lottery, the AT control means 200 performs a normal AT lottery to decide whether or not to transition to the AT state, and if it wins "transition to AT state", it determines that the conditions for transitioning to the AT state (AT transition conditions) have been met.

[0138] The CZ state is configured to allow transition to the AT state with a higher probability than the normal state when control is executed to determine whether or not to transition to the AT state as part of the auxiliary gameplay control, making it a more advantageous state for the player than the normal state. The AT control means 200 sets a value corresponding to a predetermined number of games (for example, 10 games) in the CZ game counter (not shown) of the AT control data storage means 198 at the start of the CZ state, and performs a decrement update each time a game is played by subtracting the stored value of the CZ game counter by a value "1" which corresponds to 1 game.

[0139] The AT control means 200 is configured to perform a CZ-in AT lottery in each game played in the CZ state to determine whether or not to transition to the AT state. If the CZ-in AT lottery results in "transition to AT state", the AT control means 200 transitions the performance state from the CZ state to the winning performance state after 10 games have been played from the start of the CZ state.

[0140] The AT control means 200, during gameplay in which the player wins the "transition to AT state" lottery during the CZ and the CZ state ends, performs a lottery to determine whether or not to add (add) the number of times one set of AT state is executed for the AT state that is entered after the CZ state ends.

[0141] On the other hand, if 10 games are played in the CZ state without winning the "transition to AT state" lottery during the CZ, the AT control means 200 terminates the CZ state and transitions the performance state back to the normal state.

[0142] The AT control means 200 is configured to execute lotteries related to auxiliary games performed in the CZ state (AT lottery during CZ, lottery for increasing the number of sets during CZ) regardless of the results of the internal lottery. Furthermore, the AT control means 200 is configured such that, with respect to lotteries related to auxiliary games performed in the CZ state, if the winning area "Watermelon 1" is won in the internal lottery, the probability of "not winning (losing)" is reduced compared to when other winning areas are won, resulting in a more favorable outcome for the player (in the case of the AT lottery during CZ, the probability of "transitioning to AT state" is increased).

[0143] Furthermore, the AT control means 200 decides to transition to the AT state without performing an AT lottery during the CZ when it wins a winning area including RBB1 in the internal lottery, or when it wins a winning area including RBB2. Also, the AT control means 200 performs an AT lottery during the CZ when it wins a winning area including RBB3 in the internal lottery.

[0144] If the player wins RBB1 in the normal state or CZ state, the performance control means 180 executes a performance that prompts the player to aim for the winning symbol combination for RBB1, "Blue 7-Blue 7-Blue 7," in the game where RBB1 can be won. Furthermore, if the player wins RBB2 in the normal state or CZ state, the performance control means 180 executes a performance that prompts the player to aim for the winning symbol combination for RBB1, "Red 7-Red 7-Red 7," in the game where RBB2 can be won.

[0145] Furthermore, if the conditions for transitioning to the AT state are met by the AT control means 200 and RBB3 has been won, the performance control means 180 will execute a performance that prompts the player to aim for "Red 7-Red 7-Blue 7" among the winning symbol combinations for RBB3 in a game in which RBB3 can be won. On the other hand, if the conditions for transitioning to the AT state are not met by the AT control means 200 and RBB3 has been won, the performance control means 180 will execute a performance that prompts the player to aim for "BLB-BAR-BAR (Blue 7)" among the winning symbol combinations for RBB3 in a game in which RBB3 can be won.

[0146] With this configuration, in the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, when the AT state is started based on the winning of RBB3, an animation is performed that prompts the player to aim for "Red 7-Red 7-Blue 7," which the player recognizes as a bonus. This gives the player the impression that the probability of winning a bonus has been hit when the AT state is started, thereby increasing the player's enjoyment of the game.

[0147] The AT state is a more advantageous state for the player than the normal state and the CZ state because, depending on the operation of stop buttons B1 to B3, it becomes possible to win small wins 1 to 10, which are set to pay out 11 coins, and the system is configured to enable assistance for winning small wins 1 to 10.

[0148] In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, as will be described in more detail later, in the non-RT state and RT1 to RT3 states, when a winning area "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", and "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B" is won, the stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in the correct batting order corresponding to each winning area, allowing the player to win a small prize set to pay 11 coins. In the RBB1 internal state to RBB3 internal state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, and RBB3 operating RB3 internal state, when a batting order small prize winning pattern is won, the stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in the correct batting order corresponding to each batting order small prize winning pattern, allowing the player to win a small prize set to pay 11 coins.

[0149] The AT control means 200, when in AT state and the game state is non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, or RBB3 operating RB3 internal state, executes an auxiliary game that notifies the correct sequence of button presses if it is possible to win a small prize with a payout of 11 coins by operating stop buttons B1 to B3 in the correct sequence. Furthermore, the AT control means 200 is configured to perform an auxiliary game that notifies the correct batting order when the winning area "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", and "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B" are won among the batting order small role winning patterns, but does not notify the correct batting order when the winning area "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" or "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" are won.

[0150] As described above, the AT control means 200 of this embodiment is configured to transition to the AT state when a winning area including RBB1 to RBB3 is won. For this reason, in the slot machine 1, when the state is RBB1 to RBB3, an auxiliary game is executed that notifies the correct batting order when the winning area "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B" is won among the batting order small win winning patterns, and the correct batting order is not notified when the winning area "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" or "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" is won. By configuring the machine to execute the auxiliary game at the same frequency as when the state is not RT, or when the state is RT1 to RT3, it is possible to prevent the player from determining which game resulted in a win of RBB1 to RBB3.

[0151] The AT control means 200 sets an initial value (50 games) corresponding to a predetermined number of games in the AT game counter (not shown) of the AT control data storage means 198 at the start of the AT state, and performs a decrement update each time a game is played, subtracting the stored value of the AT game counter by a value of "1" which corresponds to one game. In addition, the AT control means 200 performs an AT continuation lottery in the game in which the AT state has started, with "continuation of AT state" and "failure (miss)" as the targets of the lottery. In the AT continuation lottery, if "continuation of AT state" is selected, the AT control means 200 stores the information related to the execution of one set of AT states in the AT control data storage means 198. Furthermore, the AT control means 200, when the internal lottery by the internal lottery means 120 results in a winning area "Replay C", a winning area "Watermelon 1", a winning area "RBB2 & Watermelon 2", a winning area "RBB3 & Watermelon 3", or a winning area "RBB3 & Replay C", executes an AT set count increase lottery to determine whether or not to increase (add) the number of times one set of AT states is executed.

[0152] When the AT game counter's stored value becomes "0", the AT control means 200 determines that if one or more sets of AT states are stocked, it will continue the AT state and start the next set of AT states. On the other hand, when the AT game counter's stored value becomes "0", if no sets of AT states are stocked, the AT control means 200 determines that the normal termination condition among the termination conditions of the advantageous section has been met based on the fact that the termination condition of the AT state (AT termination condition) has been met, and executes a predetermined initialization process which initializes information related to the advantageous section along with the termination of the AT state, and a predetermined termination process which terminates the advantageous section and starts the normal section from the next game.

[0153] <Startup State Setting Control> Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the initial state setting control executed by the AT control means 200 when transitioning from the normal section to the advantageous section. In this embodiment, the AT control means 200 starts the initial state setting control when the start lever SL is operated to start the first game in the advantageous section. The slot machine 1 may be configured to execute the initial state setting control at any timing between transitioning from the normal section to the advantageous section and the execution of the internal lottery for the first game in the advantageous section.

[0154] In the initial state setting control, the AT control means 200 first obtains the game state type immediately before transitioning to the advantageous section (S1). In this process, the AT control means 200 obtains information indicating which game state was in the game immediately before the start of the advantageous section, that is, the game in which the transition from the normal section to the advantageous section was decided, by obtaining the game state type stored in the game state type storage means 196a.

[0155] Next, the AT control means 200 determines whether the game state was a non-RT state (S2). In this process, the AT control means 200 determines whether the game state type obtained in step S1 was a value of "0", which indicates a non-RT state.

[0156] In step S2, if it is determined that the game state is not a non-RT state (NO), the AT control means 200 determines whether the game state was an RT1 state or not (S3). In this process, the AT control means 200 determines whether the game state type obtained in step S1 was a value of "1", which indicates a non-RT state.

[0157] If, in step S2, it is determined that the game state is not in the RT state (YES), or if, in step S3, it is determined that the game state is in the RT1 state (YES), the AT control means 200 sets the performance state of the game in which the advantageous period begins to the normal state (S4) and terminates the start state setting control. On the other hand, if, in step S3, it is determined that the game state is not in the RT1 state (NO), the AT control means 200 sets the performance state of the game in which the advantageous period begins to the CZ state (S5) and terminates the start state setting control.

[0158] By performing a state setting control at the start, the AT control means 200 can set the performance state of the game in which the advantageous section begins to the normal state if the game state in the game that has transitioned from the normal section to the advantageous section is either the non-RT state or the RT1 state, and set the performance state of the game in which the advantageous section begins to the CZ state if the game state in the game that has transitioned from the normal section to the advantageous section is a game state other than the non-RT state or the RT1 state.

[0159] <Initialization and Start-Up State Setting Control for Gaming Machines> As described above, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is configured such that when a setting value stored in the setting value storage means 191 is changed by the setting change means 100, the section controlled by the AT control means 200 is initialized to a normal section, and the game state controlled by the game state transition control means 170 is initialized to a non-RT state.

[0160] Given this configuration, if slot machine 1 were configured to set the starting state of the advantageous section to the CZ state based on the transition from the normal section to the advantageous section, regardless of the game state, then when the advantageous section starts immediately after a setting change, it would enter the CZ state, creating a game machine that could be exploited.

[0161] Therefore, in the initial state setting control of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, the performance state of the game in which the advantageous period has started is set to the normal state in the case where the game state in which the game is played before the start of the advantageous period is initialized by a setting change, or in the case where it is the RT1 state, which can be quickly transitioned from the non-RT state and has a high probability of being transitioned to before the start of the advantageous period after a setting change. In the case where the game state is any other than the non-RT state, including the RT2 state which cannot be transitioned from the non-RT state and can be transitioned from the RT1 state, the performance state of the game in which the advantageous period has started is set to the CZ state.

[0162] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is more advantageous to the player when the game state set in the game before the start of the advantageous period is the RT2 state, compared to when the game state set in the game before the start of the advantageous period is the non-RT state, due to the initial state setting control. In a gaming machine with an advantageous period, it is possible to set a performance state that is advantageous to the player at the start of the advantageous period, thereby improving the player's enjoyment of the game. At the same time, when the gaming machine is initialized, it is prevented from being set to a performance state that is advantageous to the player when the advantageous period starts, thereby preventing the gaming machine from becoming exploitable.

[0163] This non-RT state, which is set when the system is initialized, constitutes the first game state in this embodiment. The symbol combinations that trigger the transition to the RT1 state shown in Figures 5 to 7, and the symbol combinations displayed when a win is missed in the winning areas "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", and "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B", constitute the first symbol combination that transitions to the RT1 state when stopped and displayed on the active line L1 in this embodiment. The winning symbol combination "BLA(BLB)-CH-CH" for replay 2 constitutes the second symbol combination in this embodiment, and the start state setting control constitutes the specific processing in this embodiment.

[0164] 3. Details of the gaming machine's performance in each game state Next, we will describe in detail the gameplay characteristics of each game state of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, and the performance of the slot machine 1 when a game is played in each game state.

[0165] <Winning probabilities for each winning area in each game state> Figures 11 and 12 show the number of lottery values ​​associated with the winning areas set as targets for the lottery in the internal lottery for each game state. Note that in Figure 12 and Figure 17 described later, the states from RBB1 in operation to RBB3 in operation are referred to as RB1 in operation to RB3 in operation.

[0166] As shown in Figure 11, in the internal lottery during the non-RT state, an internal lottery table A is used in which the winning area "Replay A" is associated with a lottery value of 8314, and the winning area "Replay B" is not associated with a lottery value. In the internal lottery during the RT1 state, an internal lottery table B is used in which the winning area "Replay A" is not associated with a lottery value, and the winning area "Replay B" is associated with a lottery value of 8314.

[0167] As described above, in slot machine 1, when the winning area "Replay B" is hit, the winning symbol combination "BLA(BLB)-CH-CH" for Replay 2 is displayed on active line L1, and if it is possible to transition to RT2 state, the machine is configured to transition to RT2 state.

[0168] Therefore, slot machine 1 is configured to have a probability of 8314 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 7.9) of winning the "Replay B" area, which then transitions from RT1 state to RT2 state. In addition, slot machine 1 is configured so that if the "Replay B" area is not won in the non-RT state, Replay 2 will not be awarded in the non-RT state, and the machine will not transition from the non-RT state to RT2 state.

[0169] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, in the internal lottery tables A to D used in the internal lottery in the non-RT state and the RT1 to RT3 states, the total number of lottery values ​​associated with the winning area including replays is 8978, and in all game states, including the non-RT state and the RT1 to RT3 states, the sum of the winning probabilities for the winning area including replays is 8978 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 7.3).

[0170] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, in the internal lottery table D used in the internal lottery in RT3 state, the winning area "Replay C" is associated with a lottery value of 2048. This is a larger lottery value than the 256 lottery value associated with the winning area "Replay C" in internal lottery tables A to C used in the internal lottery in non-RT state, RT1 state, and RT2 state. This configuration ensures that the probability of winning the winning area "Replay C" is higher in RT3 state than in non-RT state, RT1 state, and RT2 state.

[0171] As described above, the RT3 state is a game state that is entered when the activated RBB1 to RBB3 have finished. Furthermore, the AT control means 200 is configured to execute a lottery for adding sets during AT when the probability of entering the AT state is high when RBB1 to RBB3 are activated, and when the player is in the AT state and wins the winning area "Replay C".

[0172] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment can execute one game in which, when the AT state continues after the activated RBB1 to RBB3 have finished, the probability of the AT set number increase lottery is executed at a higher rate than when playing in the non-RT state, RT1 state, or RT2 state, thereby suppressing the decline in the player's interest in playing after the bonus has ended.

[0173] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, in a game state configured to allow winning in the winning area "SB", the probability of winning in the winning area "SB" is set to 27056 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.4), which is higher than other winning areas. This configuration allows for a high probability of activating SB by playing in a way that aims to win in SB.

[0174] As shown in Figure 12, the internal lottery table J used when RBB1 is in operation and RB1 is in the middle internal state, the internal lottery table L used when RBB2 is in operation and RB2 is in the middle internal state, and the internal lottery table N used when RBB3 is in operation and RB3 is in the middle internal state each have a different number of lottery values ​​associated with the winning area, including replays.

[0175] To achieve this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is configured to have three types of RBs, RB1 to RB3, which, when set to a winning state, trigger a change in the probability of winning a replay.

[0176] Furthermore, as will be described in more detail later, slot machine 1 has RB1 to RB3 for reel stop control when a winning combination of batting order is achieved, and is configured to perform different reel stop controls depending on whether RBB1 is in operation (RB1 internal state), RBB2 is in operation (RB2 internal state), or RBB3 is in operation (RB3 internal state).

[0177] <Game results when winning a small role in each game state> Figure 13 shows the game results for each operation method of stop buttons B1 to B3 when a winning combination of batting order is achieved in the non-RT state and RT1 to RT3 states.

[0178] As shown in Figure 13, in slot machine 1, in the non-RT state and RT1 to RT3 states, when the winning area "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", and "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B" are won, there is a set sequence of stops B1 to B3 (correct sequence) that allows a small win set to pay 11 coins with a probability of 1 / 1. If stops B1 to B3 are operated in a different sequence from the correct sequence (incorrect sequence), there is a 1 / 2 probability that a small win set to pay 1 coin will be won, and a 1 / 2 probability that no win will be won (non-win).

[0179] Furthermore, in slot machine 1, when the winning area "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" or the winning area "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" is selected in the non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state, regardless of how stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated, a small win set to pay 1 coin has a 1 / 1 probability of being awarded, and a small win set to pay 11 coins will not be awarded.

[0180] Figure 14 shows the game results for each operation of stop buttons B1 to B3 when a winning combination in the order of hitting is achieved in the following states: RBB1 internal medium state to RBB3 internal medium state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, and RBB3 operating RB3 internal medium state.

[0181] As shown in Figure 14, in slot machine 1, when a winning combination of small wins is achieved in the following states: RBB1 internal medium state to RBB3 internal medium state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, and RBB3 operating RB3 internal medium state, a sequence of stops B1 to B3 (correct sequence of stops) is set that allows for the winning of a small win with a payout of 11 coins with a probability of 1 / 1.

[0182] In slot machine 1, when the player wins in the following states: RBB1 internal medium state to RBB3 internal medium state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, or RBB3 operating RB3 internal medium state, and the player wins in the following areas: 5-choice bell A, 5-choice bell 3A to 5-choice bell 6A, 5-choice bell B, 5-choice bell 3B to 5-choice bell 6B, and the stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in an incorrect order (incorrect order), there is a 1 / 2 chance that a small win with a payout of 1 coin will be awarded, and there is a 1 / 2 chance that no win will be awarded (no win).

[0183] Furthermore, in slot machine 1, when the winning area "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" and the winning area "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" are selected in the RBB1 internal medium state to the RBB3 internal medium state, the RBB1 operating general state to the RBB3 operating general state, and the RBB3 operating RB3 internal medium state, and the stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in a different order than the correct order (incorrect order), a small win set to pay out 1 coin is awarded with a probability of 1 / 1.

[0184] Figure 15 shows the game results for each operation of stop buttons B1 to B3 when a winning combination for a specific spin order is achieved while RBB1 is in operation and RB1 is in an internal medium state, or while RBB2 is in operation and RB2 is in an internal medium state.

[0185] As shown in Figure 15, in slot machine 1, when a winning combination of small wins in the order of play is achieved during the operation of stop buttons B1 to B3, regardless of the operation of stop buttons B1 to B3, a small win set to pay 11 coins is awarded with a probability of 1 / 1.

[0186] Using Figure 16, we will explain the details of the reel stop control that is executed when the winning area "6-choice bell 1" is selected and stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in turn 1, and a small win with a payout of 1 coin is awarded instead of a small win with a payout of 11 coins. Figure 16(A) shows the symbols that make up the winning symbol combinations for small wins 8, small wins 17 to 20, and small wins 35, which are set to be in a winning state when the winning area "6-choice bell 1" is selected. Figure 16(B) shows the number of small win symbol combinations that can be displayed when stop button B1 is pressed as the first stop and the symbols that can be stopped among the symbols arranged on the left reel R1 are stopped and displayed on the active line L1.

[0187] In Figure 16(B), examples are shown of the following scenarios: Stop button B1 is operated when the watermelon symbol "WM" positioned at stop number 14 on the left reel R1 is rotating and displayed on the active line L1; Stop button B2 is operated when the BAR symbol "BAR" positioned at stop number 2 on the middle reel R2 is rotating and displayed on the active line L1; and Stop button B3 is operated when the BAR symbol "BAR" positioned at stop number 12 on the right reel R3 is rotating and displayed on the active line L1.

[0188] As shown in Figure 16(B), in slot machine 1, when the watermelon symbol "WM" is stopped, the eight symbol combinations that make up the winning symbol combinations for small win 17, small win 18, small win 19, and small win 20 can be stopped and displayed on the active line L1. When the bell B symbol "BLB" is stopped, the five symbol combinations that make up the winning symbol combinations for small win 8 and small win 35 can be stopped and displayed on the active line L1.

[0189] The reel control means 130 determines that when the watermelon symbol "WM" is stopped and displayed, the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the active line L1 is maximized. Therefore, by stopping and displaying the watermelon symbol "WM" on the active line L1 using quantity-priority control, the winning combinations that can be won in this game are limited to the small wins 17 to 20, which are set to pay out one coin.

[0190] When the first stop operation is performed on stop button B1, and the winning combinations are limited to combinations 17 to 20, the second stop operation is performed on stop button B2. In slot machine 1, when the bell A symbol "BLA" is stopped and displayed, the four symbol combinations that make up the winning combinations for combination 19 and combination 20 can be stopped and displayed on active line L1. When the BAR symbol "BAR" is stopped and displayed on active line L1, the one symbol combination that makes up the winning combination for combination 17 can be stopped and displayed on active line L1. For this reason, the reel control means 130 stops and displays the bell A symbol "BLA" on active line L1 by stopping control using number priority control, and limits the winning combinations in that game to combinations 19 and 20.

[0191] When the second stop operation is performed on stop button B2, and the winning combinations are limited to winning combinations 19 and 20, and the third stop operation is performed on stop button B3, slot machine 1 will stop and display the BAR symbol "BAR" on the active line L1, as this will allow the winning combination for winning combination 20 to be displayed on the active line L1. As a result, the BAR symbol "BAR" will be stopped and displayed on the active line L1, and winning combination 20 will be awarded in that game.

[0192] As shown in Figure 4, the left reel R1 has watermelon symbols "WM" arranged at intervals of no more than 4 frames. The middle reel R2 has bell A symbols "BLA" arranged at intervals of no more than 4 frames. The right reel R3 has a blank symbol "BK" at stop number 2, a blue 7 symbol "Blue 7" at stop number 7, a BAR symbol "BAR" at stop number 12, and a red 7 symbol "Red 7" at stop number 17.

[0193] Given this configuration, in slot machine 1, if the game state is non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state, and the winning area "6-choice bell 1" is selected, and stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in turn 1, then regardless of the timing of the operation of stop buttons B1 to B3, there is a 1 / 1 probability of winning either small prize 19 or small prize 20.

[0194] In slot machine 1, when the game state is RBB1 internal medium state to RBB3 internal medium state, RBB1 operating general state to RBB3 operating general state, RBB1 operating RB1 internal medium state to RBB3 operating RB3 internal medium state, and the winning area "6-choice bell 1" is won, and stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in turn 1, and a small win set to pay 11 coins is achieved, the stop control is executed by prioritizing the number of coins, and the symbols that make up the winning symbol combination for small win 8 are stopped and displayed on the active line L1, and small win 8 is achieved.

[0195] <Payout rates for each gameplay method in each game state> Next, using Figure 17, we will explain the payout rates for each game method in each game state in slot machine 1, where the internal lottery and reel stop control described above are executed. Here, the payout rate is the ratio of the total number of medals paid out to the total number of medals inserted when a predetermined number of games are played.

[0196] Figures 17(A) and 17(B) show the payout rates for each game method in each game state, when replays are treated as a payout equal to the specified number of spins. Figure 17(C) shows the payout rates for each game method in the general state during RBB3 operation, the RB3 internal state during RBB3 operation, and the RB3 operation state during RBB3 operation, when replays are treated as replays (games in which a replay is awarded are not counted as one game).

[0197] Here, the "Normal (Non-AT)" game mode is a game mode in which, when a winning area is selected in the batting order winning pattern where two batting orders are set as the correct batting order, the correct batting order is selected with a probability of 1 / 3 and the incorrect batting order is selected with a probability of 2 / 3. When a winning area is selected in the batting order winning pattern where one batting order is set as the correct batting order, the correct batting order is selected with a probability of 1 / 6 and the incorrect batting order is selected with a probability of 5 / 6. In addition, the "Normal (AT)" game mode is a game mode in which, when a batting order winning pattern is selected, auxiliary gameplay is performed by the AT control means 200, so that stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in the correct batting order and a small win set to pay 11 coins is awarded.

[0198] As shown in Figure 17(A), in slot machine 1, when the game is played normally (non-AT), the payout rate is higher when the SB is active than when the SB is not active, for the non-RT state, RT1 state, RT2 state, and the non-RT state with SB active, RT1 state with SB active, and RT2 state with SB active.

[0199] Furthermore, in slot machine 1, when the game is played in normal (AT) mode, the payout rate is higher when the SB is not active than when the SB is active, compared to the non-RT state, RT1 state, RT2 state, and the non-RT state with SB activated, RT1 state with SB activated, and RT2 state with SB activated.

[0200] As shown in Figure 11, in slot machine 1, the probability of winning in the winning area "All Small Wins" or the winning area "All Single Wins" while the SB is active is 29502 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.2), which is higher than the probability of winning in any of the winning areas including small wins in the non-RT state (RT1 state to RT3 state) when the SB is not active, which is 29498 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.2). In other words, the probability of winning any small win while the SB is active is set to be higher than the probability of winning any small win while the SB is not active.

[0201] Furthermore, when the SB (Super Bonus) is activated, the probability of winning in the winning area "All Small Wins" is 4800 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 13.7), which is higher than the highest probability of winning any two of the 11-coin payouts for Small Wins 1-10, 33, and 34 when the SB is not activated, which is 3276 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 20.0).

[0202] Given this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is configured such that the probability of winning each of all minor roles when the SB is activated is greater than or equal to the probability of winning each of all minor roles when the SB is not activated, and The probability of winning a small role when the SB (Super Bonus) is activated is configured to be higher than the probability of winning a small role when the SB is not activated.

[0203] Furthermore, slot machine 1 is configured such that the probability of winning in the winning area "All Small Wins" when the SB is activated is lower than the probability of winning in any of the winning areas including Small Wins 1 to 10, Small Wins 33, and Small Wins 34 when the SB is not activated (the sum of the winning probabilities for each of the winning areas including Small Wins 1 to 10, Small Wins 33, and Small Wins 34), which is 28506 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.3).

[0204] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, when the SB is activated, the system is configured so that the winning pattern for the batting order of the small prize does not change, and the probability of winning a small prize does not change depending on the operation of stop buttons B1 to B3.

[0205] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is configured such that the payout rate when the SB is operating is approximately 53.3%, regardless of whether the game is played using the normal (non-AT) or normal (AT) gameplay method, as shown in Figure 17(A).

[0206] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in the non-RT state where SB is not activated, and in the RT1 to RT3 states, when winning in the winning area "5-choice bell A", winning area "5-choice bell 3A" to winning area "5-choice bell 6A", winning area "5-choice bell B", and winning area "5-choice bell 3B" to winning area "5-choice bell 6B", the machine is configured so that when stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in the correct order, a small win with a payout of 11 coins is awarded.

[0207] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is configured such that, as shown in Figure 17(A), the payout rate when the SB is not activated is approximately 53.1% when the game is played normally (non-AT), which is lower than when the SB is activated, and approximately 123.1% when the game is played normally (AT), which is higher than when the SB is activated.

[0208] Thus, in this embodiment, the lower limit of the expected value of medal acquisition rate when the SB is operating can be lowered to less than 100%, and the medal acquisition performance when the SB is not operating can be designed. This dramatically improves the design freedom of the slot machine 1, and allows for attracting the interest of players while maintaining the design freedom of the gaming machine.

[0209] Furthermore, as described above, the AT control means 200 of this embodiment is configured to execute control in each performance state that is more advantageous to the player as a control related to auxiliary gameplay than when the winning area "Watermelon 1" is won, compared to when the winning area does not include RBB. In addition, in the slot machine 1, when SB is activated, the winning area "Watermelon 1" is not associated with a lottery value. The winning symbol combination of SB "RPB-Red 7-BK" consists of symbols arranged in one frame on each of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3, making it easy for the player to avoid winning.

[0210] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment has a configuration in which the payout rate when the SB is activated is higher than when the SB is not activated, and while the probability of winning a bonus and the probability of winning the winning area related to bonuses other than WSB (RBB1~RBB3) do not change when the SB is activated, the probability of winning the winning area "Watermelon 1" increases when the game is played without hitting the SB, and a control that is advantageous to the player is executed as a control related to auxiliary gameplay, making it possible to achieve a payout rate in the normal (AT) gameplay method when the SB is not activated, that is, a higher payout rate than when the SB is activated, and playing the game while avoiding hitting the SB becomes the most advantageous gameplay method for the player.

[0211] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment does not activate the SB when the player plays using the most advantageous method, so when counting the bonus payout ratio including instructions, which is the ratio of the number of medals paid out during RB, Challenge Bonus (CB) as a Type 2 special bonus, or SB, and the number of medals paid out in games where instructions are given, the time when the SB is activated can be excluded, thereby suppressing an increase in the bonus payout ratio including instructions, and also suppressing the rate of games played with a bonus activated when the player plays using the most advantageous method (bonus stay ratio), thereby preventing the bonus payout ratio including instructions and the bonus stay ratio from becoming excessively high and compromising the fairness of the game.

[0212] Furthermore, regarding the ratio of bonus features including instructions, the system is configured to prevent double counting when counting the number of medals paid out in games where RB, CB, or SB are activated and instructions are issued. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, in the process of counting the number of medals paid out in the bonus feature counter (not shown) for the purpose of calculating the ratio of bonus features including instructions, it is determined whether or not RB, CB, or SB are activated. If it is determined that RB, CB, or SB are activated, the process of determining whether or not instructions have been issued is skipped, and the number of medals paid out in that game is counted in the bonus feature counter without determining whether or not instructions have been issued. Also, in the slot machine 1, if it is determined that RB, CB, and SB are not activated, it is determined whether or not instructions have been issued. If it is determined that instructions have been issued, the number of medals paid out in that game is counted in the bonus feature counter. If it is determined that instructions have not been issued, the bonus feature counter is not counted.

[0213] This SB, which is a regular feature, constitutes a specific bonus in this embodiment, and the winning area "SB" where SB is won constitutes the first winning pattern in this embodiment. Furthermore, small wins 1 to 10, which are set to pay out more than the number of game value tokens (3 tokens) required to start the game, constitute multiple types of specific small wins in this embodiment, and the winning areas "5-choice bell A", "5-choice bell 3A" to "5-choice bell 6A", "5-choice bell B", "5-choice bell 3B" to "5-choice bell 6B", "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6", and "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" where small wins 1 to 10 do not overlap with each other but are won in combination with other small wins constitute multiple types of second winning patterns in this embodiment. Furthermore, the winning area "All Small Wins" where small wins 1 to 10 are won in combination constitutes the third winning pattern in this embodiment.

[0214] Furthermore, when SB is activated, the winning area "Watermelon 1", which is not included in the lottery in the internal lottery, constitutes the fourth winning mode in this embodiment, and the control related to auxiliary games that is more advantageous to the player than when other winning areas are won, which is executed by the AT control means 200 when the winning area "Watermelon 1" is won (such as a CZ lottery that is more likely to result in a "transition to CZ state" than when other winning areas are won, and an AT lottery during CZ that is more likely to result in a "transition to AT state" than when other winning areas are won), constitutes the control related to auxiliary games that is advantageous to the player in this embodiment.

[0215] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, in slot machine 1, the probability of winning in the winning area "All Small Wins" or the winning area "All Single Wins" while RB1~RB3 is in operation is 29957 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.2), which is higher than the probability of winning in any of the winning areas including small wins in the non-RT state where RB1~RB3 is not in operation, or in the RT1~RT3 state, which is 29498 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.2). Moreover, when RB1~RB3 is in operation, the probability of winning in the winning area "All Small Wins" is 7300 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 9.0), and RB1~ When RB3 is not activated, the probability of winning any two of the 11 payout combinations of small wins 1-10, 33, and 34 is higher than the highest probability of 3276 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 20.0), and lower than the probability of winning any of the winning areas including small wins 1-10, 33, and 34 when RB1-RB3 is not activated (the sum of the individual winning probabilities for each area including small wins 1-10, 33, and 34), which is 28506 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 2.3).

[0216] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, when RB1 to RB3 are activated, the system is configured so that the winning pattern for the small prize in the batting order is not selected, and the probability of winning a small prize does not change depending on the operation of stop buttons B1 to B3.

[0217] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is configured such that the payout rate when the RB is in operation is approximately 53.8%, regardless of whether the game is played using the normal (non-AT) or normal (AT) gameplay method, as shown in Figure 17(B).

[0218] Thus, in this embodiment, the lower limit of the expected value of medal acquisition rate when RB1 to RB3 are operating can be lowered to less than 100%, and the medal acquisition performance when RB1 to RB3 are not operating can be designed, thereby dramatically improving the design freedom of the slot machine 1.

[0219] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17(B), when replays are treated as the same number of payouts as the prescribed number of balls inserted, the payout rate when playing in the normal (non-AT) game mode during RBB3 operation is 54.7%, while the payout rate when playing in the normal (AT) game mode during RBB3 operation is 167.6%. Furthermore, when replays are treated as the same number of payouts as the prescribed number of balls inserted, the payout rate when playing in the normal (non-AT) game mode during RBB3 operation and RB3 internal mode is 54.7%, while the payout rate when playing in the normal (AT) game mode during RBB3 operation and RB3 internal mode is 167.6%.

[0220] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 17(C), when a replay is treated as a re-play, the payout rate when the game is played using the normal (non-AT) method in the general state while RBB3 is active is 51.1%, while the payout rate when the game is played using the normal (AT) method in the general state while RBB3 is active is 179.6%. Furthermore, when a replay is treated as a re-play, the payout rate when the game is played using the normal (non-AT) method in the internal RB3 state while RBB3 is active is 51.1%, while the payout rate when the game is played using the normal (AT) method in the internal RB3 state while RBB3 is active is 179.6%.

[0221] As mentioned above, in the general state while RBB3 is in operation, the combined probability of winning a winning area including a replay is set to 4096 / 65536 (1 / 16), which is lower than the combined probability of winning a winning area including a replay in the non-RT state and RT1 to RT3 states, which is 8978 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 7.3). Furthermore, in the general state while RBB3 is in operation, in the winning area "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" and "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" among the batting order winning patterns, in the non-RT state and RT1 to RT3 states, when a winning area is won in which a small win set to pay 11 coins is not awarded regardless of the batting order in which stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated, the setting is such that when stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in the correct batting order, a small win set to pay 11 coins is awarded.

[0222] With this configuration, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment prevents an excessive discrepancy between the payout rate when the game is played normally (non-AT) in the non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state and replays are treated as payouts equal to the prescribed number of inserts, and the payout rate when the game is played normally (non-AT) in the general state during RBB3 operation and replays are treated as replays, thereby complying with the regulations concerning the payout performance of gaming machines.

[0223] Furthermore, in slot machine 1, in the general state during RBB3 operation, the winning areas "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" and "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" are configured such that when a winning area is hit where the 11-coin payout is not awarded regardless of the order in which stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in the non-RT state, RT1 state to RT3 state, the 11-coin payout is awarded when stop buttons B1 to B3 are operated in the correct order. This allows for a difference in payout rates between the normal (non-AT) gameplay method and the normal (AT) gameplay method during the general state during RBB3 operation, thereby improving the marketability of the gaming machine with AT functionality.

[0224] In this embodiment, RB3 constitutes the first bonus, RBB3 constitutes the second bonus, and small wins 1, 7 to 10, which are set to pay out 11 coins, which is higher than the payout of 1 coin, constitute the small wins of the first payout in this embodiment, and small wins 14 to 20, 25, 26, 30, 33, 35 to 38, which are set to pay out 1 coin, constitute the small wins of the second payout in this embodiment, and the winning area is "6-choice bell 1". The winning areas "6-choice bell 6", "3-choice bell 1", and "3-choice bell 3" constitute a specific winning pattern in this embodiment, and the correct button-mashing sequence that allows for the awarding of small wins 1, 7, and 10 when winning in the winning areas "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" and "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" in the general state during RBB3 operation and the internal RB3 state during RBB3 operation constitutes a specific operation pattern in this embodiment. Furthermore, the normal state constitutes the first state in this embodiment, and the AT state that is advantageous to the player by executing an auxiliary game in which the correct button-mashing sequence is announced when winning in the winning areas "6-choice bell 1" to "6-choice bell 6" and "3-choice bell 1" to "3-choice bell 3" in the general state during RBB3 operation and the internal RB3 state during RBB3 operation constitutes the second state in this embodiment.

[0225] 4. Summary of this embodiment As described above, in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is more advantageous to the player when the game state set in the game before the start of the advantageous period is the RT2 state, compared to when the game state set in the game before the start of the advantageous period is the non-RT state, due to the starting state setting control. In a gaming machine with an advantageous period, it is possible to set a performance state that is advantageous to the player at the start of the advantageous period, thereby improving the player's enjoyment of the game, while preventing the gaming machine from being set to a performance state that is advantageous to the player when the advantageous period starts after the gaming machine has been initialized, thereby preventing the gaming machine from becoming exploitable.

[0226] 5. Variations In this embodiment, the AT control means 200 is configured to perform a start state setting control as a specific process in a game where the game transitions from a normal section to an advantageous section and the advantageous section begins, and to perform control related to auxiliary games that sets the performance state to a different performance state depending on whether the game is in a non-RT state, an RT1 state, or any other game state when the advantageous section begins, but is not limited to this. The AT control means 200 may be configured to set different advantageous performance states for each game state as a specific process to be executed in a game that transitions from a normal section to an advantageous section and starts an advantageous section. For example, if the game state immediately before the start of the advantageous section is a non-RT state, the specific process may set the normal game counter value to "700" to a normal state. If it is an RT2 state, the specific process may set the normal game counter value to "500" to a normal state. If it is an RBB1 internal middle state to an RBB3 internal middle state, it may be set to an AT state. If it is an RBB1 operating general state to an RBB3 operating general state, it may be set to an AT state with one set of AT states stocked.

[0227] Even in this configuration, as mentioned above, slot machine 1 is configured such that RBB1 to RBB3 cannot be won on their own, but rather in combination with a small win or a replay. Therefore, in a game in which RBB1 to RBB3 is won, RBB1 to RBB3 will not be awarded.

[0228] With this configuration, in slot machine 1, when the advantageous section lottery based on winning a winning area including RBB1 to RBB3 results in a "transition to the advantageous section," it is possible to prevent the game state in the game in which the advantageous section begins, and the result of the specific processing when the advantageous section begins, from changing depending on whether RBB1 to RBB3 are won or not, thereby preventing the game machine from becoming exploitable.

[0229] Furthermore, the AT control means 200 only needs to be configured such that the RT2 state is more advantageous to the player through specific processing than the non-RT state, and its specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment.

[0230] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is configured such that the sum of the probabilities of winning in the winning area including a replay during the general state while RBB1 is operating to the general state while RBB3 is operating is 4096 / 65536 (1 / 16). However, it is not limited to this, and for example, the probability of winning in the winning area including a replay during the general state while RBB1 is operating to the general state while RBB3 is operating may be configured to be 0. Any winning probability lower than the sum of the probabilities of winning in the winning area including a replay during the non-RT state and the RT1 state to RT3 state is acceptable.

[0231] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 has multiple reels, from the left reel R1 to the right reel R3, and multiple stop buttons, from stop buttons B1 to stop buttons B3, corresponding to the left reel R1 to the right reel R3. However, it is not limited to this, and may also have, for example, a fourth reel and a stop button corresponding to the fourth reel.

[0232] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 has a max bet button MB for inserting a predetermined number of tokens, but it is not limited to this, and for example, it may be configured to have a single bet button for inserting one token in addition to the max bet button MB.

[0233] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is configured to be able to insert and dispense tokens as game value, but is not limited to this. The slot machine 1 may be configured to set the game value to an inserted state based on an insertion signal output from a game value management device (dedicated unit) provided outside the slot machine 1 and configured to record the total number of game values ​​that the player can use for playing by electromagnetic means, and to output a payout signal to the game value management device when it is time to pay out game value, and the game value management device may record the game value corresponding to the payout signal on a predetermined recording medium by electromagnetic means. In other words, the slot machine 1 may be composed of a so-called tokenless game machine.

[0234] In this configuration, the slot machine 1 is configured to have, for example, a credit display means that displays the number of credits corresponding to the amount of money inserted into the game value management device by the player. The slot machine 1 is also configured to be able to credit game value equivalent to a maximum of 16,368 tokens, and if game value exceeding 16,368 tokens is credited, the game control means may be set to an error state, and the game may be disabled (the game value is not set to the inserted state and the start operation to the start lever SL is not activated) until the number of credits reaches 16,368 tokens or less by dispensing game value through a method that is electromagnetically recorded on a predetermined recording medium via the game value management device.

[0235] Furthermore, in this configuration, the slot machine 1 may not have a set upper limit on the number of games that can be played in the advantageous period, and the advantageous period may only have a set upper limit on the difference in the number of tokens as a specific termination condition. Also, in this configuration, the slot machine 1 may not have a period notification unit 500A and may not notify whether or not it is an advantageous period or whether or not the expected value of token acquisition is 1 or more.

[0236] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the AT control means 200 is configured to set the value of the second advantageous section counter 198b to "0" when, in the difference-of-coins update process for updating the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b, the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b is subtracted because the number of medals paid out in the game is less than the prescribed number of medals inserted, and the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b becomes less than "0". However, it is not limited to this configuration. The AT control means 200 may also be configured to store a negative value in the second advantageous section counter 198b when, in the difference-of-coins update process, the stored value of the second advantageous section counter 198b becomes less than "0".

[0237] In this configuration, the AT control means 200 is configured to continue the advantageous period until the stored value of the second advantageous period counter 198b becomes 2401 or greater. For this reason, in the slot machine 1, for example, if the stored value of the second advantageous period counter 198b is a negative value of -900 before transitioning to a performance state in which medals can be won, then in the performance state in which medals can be won, a total of 3301 medals can be won: 900 medals until the stored value of the second advantageous period counter 198b becomes 0, and 2401 medals until the stored value of the second advantageous period counter 198b becomes 2401 or greater.

[0238] In other words, slot machine 1 can pay out to the player the medals inserted from the start of the advantageous period until the transition to a medal-winning state, and the medals won in the medal-winning state until the net number of medals exceeds 2400. This configuration allows the player to win more than 2400 medals regardless of the number of medals inserted during the advantageous period.

[0239] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is configured to set initial values ​​for the stored values ​​of each counter and storage means, and to perform decrement updates that subtract 1 each time a game is played, or increment updates that add 1 each time a game is played. However, the method for updating each counter and storage means may be configured to perform multiplication, division, etc., and is not particularly limited. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0240] 1. Slot machine (amusement machine) 100 Methods for changing settings 120 Internal drawing method 130 Reel control means 140. Method for determining winners 170 Game state transition control means 200 AT control means (auxiliary game control means) R1 Left reel R2 Middle Reel R3 Right reel

Claims

[Claim 1] Multiple reels, Multiple stop buttons, It comprises an internal lottery means for conducting an internal lottery, The aforementioned plurality of reels include a first reel, a second reel, and a third reel. In the aforementioned internal lottery, the success or failure of multiple types of winning scenarios is determined. The aforementioned multiple types of winning patterns include the first winning pattern, the second winning pattern, the third winning pattern, the fourth winning pattern, the fifth winning pattern, and the sixth winning pattern. The first winning pattern, the second winning pattern, the third winning pattern, the fourth winning pattern, and the fifth winning pattern are each associated with the simultaneous winning of the first payout prize and the second payout prize, respectively. The sixth winning pattern is associated with the simultaneous winning of a bonus and the second payout minor role. The aforementioned first dividend is a higher dividend than the aforementioned second dividend. The first winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the first operation mode. The second winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the second operation mode. The third winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the third operation mode. The fourth winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the fourth operation mode. The fifth winning mode allows the first payout to be awarded when the plurality of stop buttons are stopped in the fifth operation mode. The first operating mode is an operating mode in which the stop button corresponding to the first reel is first stopped, The second operating mode is an operating mode in which the stop button corresponding to the second reel is first stopped, The third operating mode is such that the stop button corresponding to the second reel is stopped first, and the second stop button operated is operated in a different manner from the second operating mode. The fourth operating mode is an operating mode in which the stop button corresponding to the third reel is first stopped, The fifth operating mode is such that the stop button corresponding to the third reel is the first to be stopped, and the second stop button to be operated is an operating mode different from that of the fourth operating mode. In the aforementioned first winning configuration, the secondary winning combination associated with the secondary winning combination includes a primary winning combination and a secondary winning combination. In the second winning configuration, the secondary winning combination associated with the secondary payout includes the first combination and the second combination. In the third winning configuration, the second winning combination associated with the duplicate winning combination includes the first combination and the second combination. In the sixth winning configuration, the second winning combination associated with the second payout includes the first combination and the second combination. When the first winning pattern is selected and the multiple stop buttons are stopped in the fourth or fifth operation pattern, the second payout prize can be awarded with a specific probability. When the second winning pattern is selected and the multiple stop buttons are stopped in the fourth or fifth operation pattern, the second payout prize can be awarded with the specified probability. When the third winning pattern is selected and the multiple stop buttons are stopped in the fourth or fifth operation pattern, the second payout prize can be awarded with the specified probability. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

Images