Information processing device, game program, and game control method

Abstract

To provide an interface that issues a notification relating to continuity of a special state in a novel mode.SOLUTION: An information processing device 1 displays a symbol display area 21 in which a plurality of symbols 500 including a special symbol 501 is re-arranged and executes a normal game and a special game that is more advantageous than the normal game and re-arranges the special symbol 501 in the symbol display area 21. The information processing device 1 determines whether to re-arrange a special symbol 501, which is re-arranged in the symbol display area 21 at the time of beginning a special game, in a next game, and when determining to re-arrange the special symbol 501, executes the next game as the special game.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a game program, and a game control method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in stationary slot machines and recently in smartphones (information processing apparatuses) or social games in which a slot game application is installed, a normal game lottery is performed on the condition of a bet with a specified number of bets, and symbols are rearranged based on the lottery result.

[0003] For example, in the slot game of Patent Document 1, when the symbols rearranged by the lottery of the normal game form a predetermined combination, a privilege such as awarding a payout or shifting to a special state more advantageous than the normal state in which the normal game is executed is given to the player. Generally, one special state is a set of N rearrangements of symbols (hereinafter referred to as free games) without the condition of a bet, and in the free games, the payout by winning is set to be easier to obtain than in the normal game. Further, in the free games executed during the special state, when a special combination of symbols is formed (retriggered), the number of free games during the special state is added, and the number of free games that can be executed in one special state is increased.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the area where the symbols are rearranged and the location where the number of free games is displayed are generally different. For users who primarily focus on the symbol display area that shows the game results, it was necessary to look at the separate area that displays the number of free games in addition to the symbol display area to determine whether the free games are still continuing and how many free games remain.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an information processing device, a game program, and a game control method that can provide an interface for providing notification regarding the continuity of the special state described above in a new form. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing device of the present invention is A display that shows a symbol display area in which multiple symbols, including special symbols, are rearranged, A control unit that executes a normal game and a special game which is more advantageous than the normal game and rearranges the special symbols in the symbol display area, and controls the display of the symbol display area on the display, It has, The control unit, The system determines whether or not to rearrange the special symbol, which has been rearranged in the symbol display area at the start of the special game, for the next game. If it is decided to rearrange the special symbols, the next game will be played as the special game.

[0008] According to the above configuration, the game in which the special symbols are rearranged becomes a special game, and the symbol display area itself becomes an interface that informs the user that it is a special game. This makes it possible to provide an interface that notifies the user about the continuation of the special state in a new form.

[0009] In the information processing apparatus of the present invention, The control unit, The position data indicating the position to rearrange the special symbol in the symbol display area is updated for each special game. The position in which the special symbol is repositioned in the next special game may be controlled based on the updated position data.

[0010] With the above configuration, it is possible to change the game for the user by updating the position of the special symbol while maintaining notification that it is a special game through the special symbol.

[0011] In the information processing apparatus of the present invention, The control unit, Each time the special game ends, the position data is updated according to a predetermined rule. Whether or not to rearrange the special symbol in the next special game may be determined based on whether or not the updated position data is within the range of the symbol display area.

[0012] With the above configuration, compared to special games where the number of games is simply fixed, the special game continues as long as the special symbols, which move according to predetermined rules for each special game, remain within the symbol display area. This makes it possible to offer users the possibility of playing a larger number of special games.

[0013] In the information processing apparatus of the present invention, Each symbol display area consists of multiple cells and has multiple scroll areas where the multiple symbols are sequentially stopped. The control unit, When certain conditions are met, the system transitions to a special state in which the special game can be played. In the first special game in the special state, the special symbol may be rearranged to the last scrollable area among the multiple scrollable areas.

[0014] According to the above configuration, since the special symbol is rearranged in the scroll area that stops last, it is possible to enhance the user's sense of anticipation.

[0015] In the information processing apparatus of the present invention, the special symbol occupies the scroll area and functions as a wild symbol that can substitute for other symbols in all the cells it occupies, the control unit, in the special game, rearranges the special symbol to the scroll area that stops at the timing one before the scroll area where the special symbol was arranged in the previous special game, in the special game, when it is determined to stop a predetermined number or more consecutive symbols of the same type from the cells of the scroll area that stops first at the winning determination line set in the symbol display area, a winning related to the symbol of that type may be determined.

[0016] According to the above configuration, in a special game in which winning determination is performed in a so-called pipeline method, a wild symbol that occupies the scroll area is rearranged. And every time the special game is executed, the special symbol moves to the scroll area that stops at the previous timing. In the pipeline method, the possibility of winning increases when the wild symbol stops at a position with an earlier stop timing. Therefore, it is possible to configure a game that improves the expected value of winning every time the special game is executed.

[0017] The game program of the present invention, on a computer having a display and a memory, performs a process of displaying a symbol display area in which a plurality of symbols including a special symbol are rearranged, executes a normal game and a special game that is more advantageous than the normal game and rearranges the special symbol in the symbol display area, and performs a process of controlling the display of the symbol display area of the display, A process of determining whether to relocate the special symbol rearranged in the symbol display area at the start of the special game in the next game, and when it is determined to relocate the special symbol, a process of executing the next game as the special game, are executed.

[0018] According to the above configuration, since the game in which the special symbol is relocated becomes the special game, the symbol display area serves as an interface for notifying the user that it is a special game as it is. As a result, it is possible to provide an interface for notifying the continuity of the special state in a new form.

[0019] The game control method of the present invention includes displaying a symbol display area where a plurality of symbols including special symbols are rearranged, executing a normal game and a special game that is more advantageous than the normal game and relocates the special symbol to the symbol display area, and performing display control of the symbol display area, determining whether to relocate the special symbol rearranged in the symbol display area at the start of the special game in the next game, and when it is determined to relocate the special symbol, executing the next game as the special game. is characterized by including the above.

[0020] According to the above configuration, since the game in which the special symbol is relocated becomes the special game, the symbol display area serves as an interface for notifying the user that it is a special game as it is. As a result, it is possible to provide an interface for notifying the continuity of the special state in a new form.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration related to the display of an information processing device. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing the general configuration of the processing equipment used for information processing. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 4] This is a functional block diagram of an information processing device. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the display in the symbol display area. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the display in the symbol display area. [Figure 7A] This is an explanatory diagram of the lottery table for the relocation of the first special symbol. [Figure 7B] This is an explanatory diagram of the lottery table for the relocation of the second special symbol. [Figure 8A] This is an explanatory diagram of the lottery table for the first special symbol multiplier. [Figure 8B] This is an explanatory diagram of the second special symbol multiplier lottery table. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram of the location data storage table. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart of the game control process. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart for the execution process of the second special game. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] The game system of the present invention will be explained based on the drawings.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 1 is configured so that the special game continues as long as the special symbol is present in the symbol display area. In other words, the information processing device 1 is configured to execute a special game in which the special symbol is repositioned in the symbol display area. Specifically, the information processing device 1 is configured so that at the start of the special game the special symbol appears at least in the scroll area where the symbol display area ends, the special symbol moves each time the special game is executed, and the special game continues until the special symbol is no longer displayed.

[0024] The information processing device 1 is connected to the server 10 via an internet line 101, enabling data communication, and a game system 100 is configured having the information processing device 1 and the server 10. However, the game system 100 is not limited to this and may consist only of the information processing device 1. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may refer to the game system itself, which has a terminal device such as a smartphone and a server, and the functions of the information processing device 1 described in this embodiment may be provided by any of the components of the game system.

[0025] Furthermore, the following explanation may assume that the user logs in to the server 10 via the information processing device 1. For example, the user enters a user ID and password into the information processing device 1, and the login is authenticated by the server 10 via the communication line. The information processing device 1 may store the login information for this authentication and automatically log in to the server 10 using the stored login information without user input when the user starts the game. Alternatively, the information processing device 1 may automatically log in to the server 10 using the stored login information when the user starts the game, after biometric authentication of the user is performed. Known biometric information such as face, fingerprints, retina, iris, vein patterns, and voiceprints can be used for biometric authentication. In this way, the server 10 is configured to log in to the information processing device 1 and run the game.

[0026] Multiple information processing devices 1 have a common application installed via an application store server or the like, corresponding to the OS (Operating System) of each information processing device 1. In this embodiment, a slot game is made playable as a game element in the application installed on the information processing device 1. That is, the user can play a slot game on this application. Note that the slot game may also be an add-in to the application. That is, the slot game may be provided separately from the application as an additional function of the application, via an application store server or server 10, etc. Furthermore, the application may make multiple types of slot games with different presentation styles and rules playable.

[0027] As will be explained in more detail later, the slot game is initiated upon the consumption of cumulative game value. If a win occurs as a result of the slot game, game value corresponding to the type of win and the game value consumed is added as a reward to the cumulative game value. In this way, the information processing device 1 executes a slot game that increases or decreases the cumulative game value according to the result. The game value may be information (game points) that does not have monetary value and is used only to start the slot game, or it may be electronically valuable information equivalent to monetary value.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 1 illustrated in this embodiment is a so-called smartphone, and has a display 2 provided on the front of the housing 11 and a touch panel 5 provided on the display 2. However, the information processing device 1 is not limited to this and may be either portable or stationary. Examples of portable information processing devices 1 include portable computers, laptop computers, tablet PCs, handheld PCs, PDAs (Personal Data Assistants), and other portable information devices.

[0029] Display 2 is configured to display images. Examples of display methods for Display 2 include liquid crystal, organic electroluminescence, CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), and plasma displays. Touch panel 5 is configured to detect the coordinates of the area touched by the user's finger or other object. Known technologies such as electromagnetic induction and capacitive touch are employed for touch panel 5. Information processing device 1 determines the object on the screen touched by the user and the type of touch, such as a swipe, from the coordinates detected by touch panel 5, and responds according to the determination result.

[0030] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the touch panel 5 operates as an input device and accepts swipe operations, touch operations, etc., but is not limited to this. For example, the input device may be a microphone or a camera, and the user's voice or gestures may be accepted as instructions.

[0031] Furthermore, the touch panel 5 is not limited to being located on the front of the display 2. For example, the touch panel 5 may be located on the back side of the housing 11 opposite to the display 2. Alternatively, the touch panel 5 may be located on a part of the display 2.

[0032] Display 2 shows the slot game screen 20. The slot game screen 20 is provided with a symbol display area 21 where the change and stop of symbols 500 are displayed when the game (normal game and free game) is started. The symbol display area 21 is provided with a first scroll area 211, a second scroll area 212, a third scroll area 213, a fourth scroll area 214, and a fifth scroll area 215. Each scroll area 211 to 215 has a total of three cells 210 arranged vertically in the upper, middle, and lower sections. In other words, the symbol display area 21 has a total of 15 cells 210 arranged in a 5 column 3 row matrix. Cells 210 are setting areas that define the stopping position of the symbols and may be displayed or hidden. One symbol 500 can be rearranged in one cell 210. In other words, when symbol 500 is rearranged, a total of 15 symbols 500 will be arranged in a 5x3 matrix. Note that the number of cells in the symbol display area 21 is not limited to this.

[0033] As shown in Figure 1, an example is set in the symbol display area 21, where one cell is selected from each scroll area 211 to 215, and the winning determination line 400 is composed of these five cells 210. The winning determination is predetermined before the symbol 500 is rearranged, but the winning result is shown to the user when the symbol 500 is rearranged.

[0034] Specifically, the prize-winning line 400 is composed of five cells: one cell in the first scroll area 211, one cell in the second scroll area 212, one cell in the third scroll area 213, one cell in the fourth scroll area 214, and one cell in the fifth scroll area 215. In the following explanation, the prize-winning line may be referred to as the prize line or pay line. In the prize-winning line 400, the arrangement order is determined to be from the cells in the first scroll area 211 to the cells in the fifth scroll area 215. Specifically, at the award-winning line 400, the cell following the cell in the first scroll area 211 is the cell in the second scroll area 212, the cell following the cell in the second scroll area 212 is the cell in the third scroll area 213, the cell following the cell in the third scroll area 213 is the cell in the fourth scroll area 214, and the cell following the cell in the fourth scroll area 214 is the cell in the fifth scroll area 215. This arrangement order matches the order in which the scrolling of the symbol 500 stops in the scroll areas. In other words, the scrolling of the symbol 500 stops in the order of the first scroll area 211 to the fifth scroll area 215.

[0035] The method used for determining winning outcomes is generally called the payline method. That is, in the winning outcome determination line 400, if a predetermined number or more of the same type of symbol 500 appear consecutively from the first scroll area 211, a win is determined for that type of symbol 500. In this embodiment, the payline method is used for determining winning outcomes in both the normal game and the free game, but it is not limited to this. For example, the so-called "LEFT TO RIGHT" method may be used for determining winning outcomes.

[0036] In this embodiment, the free game includes a special game in which the special symbol 501 shown in Figure 1 is rearranged. That is, the information processing device 1 displays a symbol display area 21 on the display 2 in which a plurality of symbols 500, including the special symbol 501, are rearranged, and executes a normal game and a special game which is more advantageous than the normal game and rearranges the special symbol 501 in the symbol display area 21, and controls the display of the symbol display area 21 on the display 2. The information processing device 1 then decides whether or not to rearrange the special symbol 501, which has been rearranged in the symbol display area 21 at the start of the special game, in the next game, and if it decides to rearrange the special symbol 501, it executes the next game as a special game.

[0037] According to the above configuration, the game in which the special symbol 501 is rearranged becomes a special game, and the symbol display area 21 directly serves as an interface to inform the user that it is a special game. This makes it possible to provide an interface for notifying the user about the continuation of the special state in a new form.

[0038] In this embodiment, the method for determining whether or not to rearrange the special symbol 501 in the next game is determined based on the position in which the special symbol 501 was rearranged in the immediately preceding special game, but is not limited to this. For example, the decision of whether or not to rearrange the special symbol 501 may be made by lottery before the next game.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the first special game, the special symbol 501 is repositioned to the fifth scroll area 215 where it will last stop. This makes it possible to increase the user's sense of anticipation. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and for example, in the first special game, the position where the special symbol 501 stops may be determined by lottery.

[0040] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the special symbol 501 occupies one scroll area and functions as a wild symbol that can substitute for other symbols in all the cells 210 it occupies. Then, in a special game, the special symbol 501 is repositioned to the scroll area that stops one timing before the scroll area where the special symbol 501 was placed in the previous special game. That is, as shown in Figure 1, if the special symbol 501 is placed in the fifth scroll area 215 in a special game, then in the next special game, this special symbol 501 will move and be repositioned in the fourth scroll area 214.

[0041] In this way, in a special game where winning is determined using a so-called payline system, special symbol 501, which acts as a wild symbol occupying the scroll area, is rearranged. Then, each time the special game is played, special symbol 501 moves to the scroll area where it stopped at the previous timing. In a so-called payline system, the earlier the wild symbol stops at the stopping timing, the higher the probability of winning, so it is possible to construct a game where the expected value of winning increases each time the special game is played.

[0042] Furthermore, since the special symbol 501 is moved each time a special game is played according to predetermined movement rules, it becomes possible to determine the remaining number of special games based on the position of the special symbol 501. For example, in the above example, if the special symbol 501 is repositioned in the first scroll area 211 and no other special symbols 501 have been repositioned, it is easy to understand that this will be the last special game. Generally, the remaining number of free games is displayed in an area different from the symbol display area 21, making it difficult for users who focus on the symbol display area 21 to grasp the remaining number of free games. However, with the above configuration, the remaining number of free games can be determined simply by focusing on the symbol display area 21.

[0043] However, special symbol 501 is not limited to this, as long as it gives an advantage to the special game compared to the regular game. Furthermore, the rules for moving special symbol 501 are not limited to this.

[0044] Furthermore, in the special game, the special symbol 501 is repositioned before scrolling begins to reposition the symbol 500 into the symbol display area 21, and the scroll area where the special symbol 501 is repositioned does not scroll. This makes it clearer that the special state in which the special game is being executed is indicated by the special symbol 501 being repositioned into the symbol display area 21. However, the system is not limited to this, and scrolling may occur in the scroll area where the special symbol 501 is repositioned.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2, the game system 100 includes an information processing device 1 which is a computer, a server 10, a display 2, memory 3, a controller 4, and a touch panel 5.

[0046] The display 2 and the touch panel 5 are provided on the information processing device 1 and function as an input device and an output device, respectively, in the game system 100.

[0047] Memory 3 stores various programs, including the game program executed by the controller 4, and various data used by those programs. Memory 3 is a conceptual memory area in the game system 100, and may be possessed by either the information processing device 1 or the server 10, or its functions may be distributed between the information processing device 1 and the server 10, or its functions may be provided on both the information processing device 1 and the server 10. That is, when a game program executed by the information processing device 1 requires data stored in the server 10, the information processing device 1 requests the data from the server 10, and the server 10 responds to the request with the data.

[0048] The controller 4, acting as a control unit, executes various processes according to the game program stored in memory 3. The controller 4 is a conceptual execution device in the game system 100 and may be located in either the information processing device 1 or the server 10, or its functions may be distributed between the information processing device 1 and the server 10, or it may be located in both the information processing device 1 and the server 10.

[0049] Thus, the game system 100 functions as a single computer comprising an information processing device 1 as an input device (touch panel 5) and an output device (display 2), and an information processing device 1 and / or a server 10 as memory 3 and a controller 4.

[0050] Controller 4 is programmed to perform the following processes. In other words, the game program stored in memory 3 causes the game system 100, acting as a computer, to perform the following processes. Specifically, Controller 4 performs the following processes: displaying the symbol display area 21 (A1), running a normal game (A2), determining whether predetermined conditions are met (A3), running a special game in which special symbols are rearranged (A4), deciding whether to rearrange the special symbols rearranged in the special game of step A4 in the next game (A5), and if it is decided to rearrange the special symbols further in the next game, proceeding to step A4 and running the next game as a special game (A6).

[0051] Thus, since the game in which the special symbol 501 is rearranged becomes a special game, the symbol display area 21 directly serves as an interface to inform the user that it is a special game. This makes it possible to provide a new form of interface for informing about the continuation of the special state.

[0052] Furthermore, by having the information processing device 1 equipped with the above program execute the processes (A1) to (A6), a game control method is realized in which the processes (A1) to (A6) are executed by the information processing device 1 (computer). In other words, the information processing device 1 is equipped with multiple processing units that each execute the processes (A1) to (A6). In the following explanation, the information processing device 1 will be used as an example, but the processes and operations of the information processing device 1 can be replaced with inventions of game programs or game control methods stored on a non-temporary recording medium. Also, the processes executed by the controller 4 may be executed only by the information processing device 1, or the functions may be provided to the game system 100 having a server 10. That is, the processes and operations of the information processing device 1 can be replaced with inventions of the game system 100.

[0053] Furthermore, the controller 4 may, for example in step A5, update position data indicating the position where the special symbol 501 in the symbol display area 21 is to be repositioned for each special game. In that case, the controller 4 may, in step A5, control the position where the special symbol is repositioned in the special game based on the updated position data. In this way, it is possible to bring about changes in the game for the user by updating the position of the special symbol while maintaining notification that it is a special game through the special symbol.

[0054] Furthermore, the controller 4 may, for example, in step A4, update the position data according to a predetermined rule, and determine whether or not to reposition the special symbol 501 in the next special game based on whether or not the updated position data is within the range of the symbol display area 21. In this way, compared to special games where the number of games is simply fixed, the special game continues as long as the special symbol, which moves according to a predetermined rule for each special game, is within the range of the symbol display area, thus providing the user with the possibility of playing a larger number of special games.

[0055] As will be described later, this embodiment has two types of special states (first special state and second special state), and different free games (first special game and second special game) are executed in each state. In the following description, the special game mentioned above corresponds to the second special game.

[0056] Referring to Figure 3, the electrical configuration of the information processing system 100, which consists of an information processing device 1 and a server 10, will be described. As shown in Figure 2, the information processing device 1 is housed in a housing 11 and includes a CPU 101, ROM 102, RAM 103, flash memory 104, operation buttons 108, power switch 109, bus line 110, network interface 111, camera 112, image sensor interface 113, microphone 114, speaker 115, audio input / output interface 116, display interface 117, sensor controller 118, short-range communication circuit 119, and antenna 119a for the short-range communication circuit 119.

[0057] Furthermore, server 10 is a so-called computer equipped with a CPU 1101, ROM 1102, RAM 1103, storage devices such as a hard disk drive 1104, and a network interface 1111.

[0058] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 functions as the main controller component in the information processing device 1 and controls the operation of the entire information processing device 1. The CPU 1101 functions as the main controller component in the server 10 and controls the operation of the entire server 10. In other words, CPUs 101 and 1101 function as controllers that control the operation of the entire game system 100. The ROM (Read Only Memory) 102 stores programs used to drive the CPU 101, such as the IPL (Initial Program Loader).

[0059] RAM (Random Access Memory) 103 and RAM 1103 are used as the work area for CPU 101 and CPU 1101. Operation button 108 is a button that is operated when initializing the information processing device 1, etc. Power switch 109 is a switch for turning the power of the information processing device 1 ON / OFF.

[0060] The flash memory 104, acting as memory, is a computer-readable, non-transient recording medium that stores various data such as game programs, communication programs, image data, and sound data. The storage device 1104 functions as a database and is a computer-readable, non-transient recording medium that stores game data for each of the multiple information processing devices 1. The server 10 responds to requests from the game programs of the information processing devices 1 by appropriately referring to the database in the storage device 1104.

[0061] For example, the flash memory 104 stores various programs, including game programs executed by the CPU 101 acting as a controller, and various data used by these programs. In other words, these programs cause the information processing device 1, which is a computer equipped with the CPU 101 and the flash memory 104, to execute the processes that these programs have. When the information processing device 1 is considered as a game system 100, the flash memory 104 and storage device 1104 store various programs, including game programs executed by the CPU 101 and CPU 1101 acting as controllers, and various data used by these programs. In other words, these programs cause the information processing device 1, which is a game system 100 equipped with the CPU 101 and CPU 1101, and the flash memory 104 and storage device 1104, to execute the processes that these programs have. In this way, the processes and operations of the information processing device 1 can be replaced with programs or game control methods.

[0062] Furthermore, the data and programs stored in the flash memory 104 and the storage device 1104 may be pre-stored at the factory before shipment, or they may be downloaded and stored from a server (not shown) via communication means. The communication means may be a bidirectional transmission path such as the internet or cable television, or it may be broadcasting that transmits information in only one direction. In addition, the data and programs stored in the flash memory 104 and the storage device 1104 may be stored on a recording medium such as a floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, MO (magneto-optical disk), or flash memory, and may be read from the recording medium and installed as needed.

[0063] Network I / F (Interface) 111 is an interface for data communication using a communication network such as the Internet. Camera 112 is a type of built-in imaging means that captures an image of a subject and obtains image data according to the control of CPU 101. Image sensor I / F 113 is a circuit that controls the driving of camera 112. Microphone 114 is a type of built-in sound collection means that inputs sound. Audio input / output I / F 116 is a circuit that processes the input and output of sound signals between microphone 114 and speaker 115 according to the control of CPU 101. Display I / F 117 is a circuit that transmits image data to display 2 according to the control of CPU 101. Display 2 is located on the front of housing 11. Sensor controller 118 is a circuit that receives input from touch panel 5 located on display 2. Near-field communication circuit 119 is a communication circuit such as NFC (Near Field Communication) (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). Bus line 110 is an address bus, data bus, etc., for electrically connecting various components such as the CPU 101.

[0064] This section describes a typical slot game. Slot games are playable by users as a game element within an installed application. In a slot game, multiple symbols 500 are rotated and then stopped (re-arranged) within a symbol display area 21, and game value is assigned based on the combination of symbols 500 displayed within the symbol display area 21. The state in which multiple symbols 500 are rotated and then stopped within the symbol display area is referred to as "re-arrangement." In a slot game, a normal game is played, and if certain conditions are met in the normal game, a free game that is more advantageous to the user than the normal game may be played.

[0065] Game value is consumed as a condition for playing a normal game under normal circumstances and can be awarded as a game result. That is, a user bets game value to play one slot game (unit game) and can win rewards such as game value as a result of the slot game. As mentioned above, game value may be game points that do not contain valuable information and are used as a pseudo substitute for credits within the game, or it may be coins, banknotes, or equivalent electronic valuable information. In the following explanation, game value may be referred to as credits. Also, the number of game value used for betting may be referred to as the number of bets.

[0066] A "unit game" is a game where, from the start of betting, a prize is awarded (the combination of symbols is determined by a predetermined relationship). This is a series of actions leading up to a state where the conditions are met. In other words, a unit game is a state that includes once each of the following: a betting time when bets are accepted, a game time when symbols are rearranged, and a payout time when payouts are distributed if a prize is won. Note that if no prize is won, there is no payout, so the payout time is not included.

[0067] Game value is used within the game as a pseudo-substitute for credits and is used as a bet to run slot games. In other words, users bet game value to play one slot game (unit game) and can win game value as a result of the slot game.

[0068] A "unit game" is a series of actions from the start of accepting bets to the point where a payout can be made. In other words, a unit game is a state that includes one betting time for accepting bets, one game time for rearranging the stopped symbols, and one payout time for distributing payouts.

[0069] A special state includes one or more free games. A free game is a game in which the payout is set higher than that of a regular game. Generally, free games are set to make symbol combinations more likely to occur than in regular games, and as a result, there is a higher probability that the user will receive a larger payout than in a regular game. Also, a free game is a game that can be played with a smaller bet of game value than a regular game. "Can be played with a smaller bet of game value" includes the case where the bet is "0". Therefore, a free game may be a game that is played without requiring a bet of game value and pays an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, a special state may be a game that is started without the premise of consuming game value. In contrast, a regular game is a game that is played with a bet of game value and pays an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, a regular game is a game that is started with the premise of consuming game value.

[0070] In this embodiment, there are two special states: a first special state and a second special state. The first special state is triggered when a predetermined number (e.g., 3) of trigger symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area 21 during normal gameplay. The second special state is triggered when a lottery (second special state lottery) is held when the first special state ends. In other words, the conditions for transitioning to the second special state are the triggering of the first special state and winning the second special state lottery.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the free game played in the first special state is the general free game described above, but it may also have the following configuration.

[0072] For example, in a normal game where a transition to the first special state is achieved, the number of free games may be changed depending on the type of trigger symbol won. More specifically, the lottery table for determining the number of free games may be switched depending on whether three trigger symbols of the same type appear or three trigger symbols of different types appear from among multiple types of trigger symbols. In other words, when three trigger symbols of the same type appear, a more advantageous lottery table may be used than when three trigger symbols of different types appear. Here, "advantageous" means that the lottery table has a probability distribution that makes it easier to win a larger number of free games, or that it includes a higher number of free games as the target of the lottery, etc.

[0073] As shown in Figure 4, the information processing device 1, which is a game machine that runs a slot game, has the following functions. Specifically, the information processing device 1 has a BET input unit 601 and a spin input unit 602. The BET input unit 601 and the spin input unit 602 are types of input devices. The BET input unit 601 has the function of accepting bets based on user operation. The spin input unit 602 has the function of accepting the start of the game based on user operation, i.e., the start operation.

[0074] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 includes a start check unit 603, a normal game execution unit 605, a special game start determination unit 606, a special game execution unit 607, a lottery game execution unit 608, a random value extraction unit 615, a symbol determination unit 612, a random value extraction unit for effects 616, an effects content determination unit 613, a sound output unit 617, an effects display processing unit 618, a prize determination unit 619, a prize awarding unit 620, and a game display processing unit 631.

[0075] The normal game execution unit 605 has the function of executing the normal game, which is the base game, based on the operation of the BET input unit 601. The special game start determination unit 606 determines whether or not to execute a special game based on the combination of symbols rearranged in the normal game. That is, the special game start determination unit 606 has the function of determining that a special game has been won when the bonus trigger condition is met, and then transferring processing to the special game execution unit 607 so that the special game will be executed from the next unit game. The lottery game execution unit 608 has the function of drawing multiple prizes, including the special game, and is executed after the execution of the special game execution unit 607, making it possible to execute the special game repeatedly.

[0076] The symbol determination unit 612 includes a base game processing unit 612a and a special game processing unit 612b. The symbol determination unit 612, including these processing units 612a and 612b, has the function of determining the symbols to be rearranged using random values ​​from the random value extraction unit 615, rearranging the determined symbols in the game area 291 of the display 2, outputting symbol rearrangement information to the prize determination unit 619, and outputting performance command signals to the performance random value extraction unit 616 based on the combination of symbol rearrangement.

[0077] The random value extraction unit 616 for performance has the function of extracting random values ​​for performance when it receives a performance command signal from the symbol determination unit 612, and the function of outputting the random values ​​for performance to the performance content determination unit 613. The performance content determination unit 613 has the function of determining the performance content using the random values ​​for performance, the function of outputting the video information of the determined performance content to the performance display processing unit 618, and the function of outputting the audio and light emission information of the determined performance content to the sound output unit 617.

[0078] The prize determination unit 619 has the function of determining whether or not a prize has been won based on the combination of symbols when information on the rearrangement of symbols is obtained, the function of calculating the payout amount based on the winning combination when it is determined that a prize has been won, and the function of outputting a payout signal based on the payout amount to the prize awarding unit 620. The prize awarding unit 620 has the function of paying out the game value to the user.

[0079] Although not shown in the diagram, the output from each of the above processing units is appropriately transmitted to the server 10 connected via the communication line.

[0080] In this embodiment, the processing and operation are described assuming that the information processing device 1, which is a smartphone, has these functions, but the functions may be distributed among the components of the game system 100. For example, the lottery to determine the result of the slot game may be performed by the server 10. In other words, the information processing device 1 may be composed of the game system 100.

[0081] Next, we will describe the screen displayed in the symbol display area 21 of display 2 during the second special state.

[0082] As shown in Figure 5, if the lottery for the second special state after the first special state is won, the second special game starts and scrolling in the symbol display area 21 (21a) begins. At this time, the special symbol 501 is displayed in a fixed position in one or more scroll areas, including the fifth scroll area 215. In the first special game in the second special state, the area where the special symbol 501 is repositioned is determined by lottery, but the fifth scroll area 215, where it stops last, is always won.

[0083] Then, in the symbol display area 21(21b), scrolling of the first to fourth scroll areas 211 to 214 stops and the game result is displayed. Here, the game result is assumed to be that all cells in the fifth scroll area 215 have been rearranged with other possible wild symbols.

[0084] Then, each time the special game is played, all special symbols 501 move one position to the previous scroll area in the stopping order. That is, in the symbol display area 21 (21c), the special symbols 501 are repositioned in the second scroll area 212, which is one position in the direction of the earlier stopping order, and the scrolling of the special game begins and then stops (symbol display area 21d).

[0085] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, in special games after the first special game, up to one additional special symbol 501 may be rearranged in the scroll area determined by lottery (symbol display area 21e-21f). In this embodiment, the special symbol 501 is assigned a numerical value indicating the multiplier to be applied to the payout. That is, if a special symbol 501 is assigned "X50", the winning payout will be multiplied by 50. All special symbols 501 displayed in the symbol display area 21 will be associated with a multiplier.

[0086] Furthermore, if the special symbol 501 is repositioned only within the first scroll area 211 in the symbol display area 21 (21g), it will be outside the range of the symbol display area 21 in the next game. In other words, if the special symbol 501 is repositioned only within the first scroll area 211, this special game will be the last special game in the second special state.

[0087] In this way, a user interface can be provided that allows users to understand that this is the final special game simply by visually observing that the special symbol 501 is located only in the first scrolling area 211.

[0088] Referring to Figures 7A and 7B, a first special symbol relocation position lottery table and a second special symbol relocation position lottery table used to determine the scroll area for relocating the special symbol 501 will be described. These special symbol relocation position lottery tables are stored in the flash memory 104 of the information processing device 1.

[0089] These special symbol repositioning location lottery tables have a repositioning location column and a probability column. The repositioning location column stores the scroll area where the special symbol will be repositioned, and the probability column stores the lottery probability for that area. The first special symbol repositioning location lottery table is used in the first special game in the second special state to determine the scroll area where the special symbol will be repositioned. The second special symbol repositioning location lottery table is used in the special games after the first special game in the second special state to determine the scroll area where the special symbol will be repositioned. When using the second special symbol repositioning location lottery table, a lottery is held for each scroll area 211 to 215. The lottery is held sequentially from the fifth scroll area 215 in reverse order of stopping, and the lottery ends when a winner is selected. In addition, the lottery is not held for scroll areas that have already been repositioned, but if the lottery is held and the resulting multiplier is better than the already assigned multiplier, that multiplier may be assigned to the new area.

[0090] Referring to Figures 8A and 8B, the first special symbol multiplier lottery table and the second special symbol multiplier lottery table used to determine the multiplier of the special symbol 501 to be repositioned will be described. These special symbol multiplier lottery tables are stored in the flash memory 104 of the information processing device 1.

[0091] These special symbol multiplier lottery tables have a multiplier column and a probability column. The multiplier column stores the multiplier associated with special symbol 501, and the probability of drawing for that multiplier is stored in the probability column. The first special symbol multiplier lottery table is used for the lottery when there is no 1000x multiplier among the rearranged special symbol 501 and there is one or fewer 100x multipliers. The second special symbol multiplier lottery table is used for the lottery when there is a 1000x multiplier among the rearranged special symbol 501 or when there are two 100x multipliers. In this way, the lottery for the multiplier of special symbol 501 is restricted so that the user does not gain an unfair advantage.

[0092] Referring to Figure 9, the position data storage table will be described. The position data storage table is stored in the flash memory 104 of the information processing device 1. The position data storage table stores which scroll area and at which magnification the special symbol 501 is currently being repositioned. A numerical value indicating the magnification is stored in the data item indicating the scroll area.

[0093] Next, with reference to Figure 10, the game control process executed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described.

[0094] First, the CPU 101 performs a bet start check process (S10). In this bet start check process, the number of credits (coins) to bet is determined by touch operation on the display 120 of the information processing device 1. The number of credits bet is then stored in the BET counter of RAM 103. When a bet is made, the number of credits bet is subtracted from the value of the coin counter in RAM 103. In this way, once the number of credits bet is determined, the payout for winning is calculated by multiplying the number of credits bet by the number of payouts corresponding to the number of identical symbols (3 to 5) rearranged (displayed) in the symbol display area 21 as a result of the slot game. In addition, in this bet start check process, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the spin button has been touched. If the spin button has been touched, the process proceeds to S11 to continue the slot game.

[0095] Next, the CPU 101 performs a symbol lottery process (S11). Here, the symbols to be stopped are determined by lottery from among multiple symbols arranged in each of the five scroll areas 211 to 215. These symbols to be stopped are the symbol data for the 15 symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area 21. This determines the 15 symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area 21.

[0096] The CPU 101 then stores the 15 symbols that have been determined to be stopped in the symbol storage area provided in the RAM 103.

[0097] Next, the CPU 101 performs a payout determination process based on the result of the symbol lottery process (S12). In this process, the CPU 101 determines the number of symbols of the same type that are scheduled to be rearranged (displayed) in the symbol display area 21. If the number of symbols of the same type is rearranged to a predetermined number or more (3 to 5) on the payline, the CPU 101 determines the payout (dividend value) corresponding to the number of symbols of the type to be rearranged, based on the paytable stored in the RAM 103. If no number of symbols of any type is rearranged to a predetermined number or more, there is no payout (dividend value is 0). The determined payout (dividend) is then stored in the payout memory area provided in the RAM 103.

[0098] Then, in the symbol lottery process of step S11, the CPU 101 determines whether or not three or more trigger symbols have been selected and the conditions for executing the first special state have been met (S13). If the conditions for executing the first special state have been met (S13: YES), the CPU 101 sets the first special state flag in a predetermined memory area of ​​the flash memory 104 to ON (S14). Thus, the first special state flag is a flag that indicates whether or not three or more trigger symbols have been selected in the symbol lottery during the normal game and the first special state has been triggered.

[0099] Subsequently, the CPU 101 executes the performance determination process (S19). The CPU 101 extracts random values ​​for performance and randomly determines one of several predetermined performance contents. For example, the CPU 101 decides on a performance in which it starts scrolling each of the scroll areas 211 to 215 in the symbol display area 21 and stops each of the 15 symbols determined in the symbol lottery process in step S21. More specifically, for example, if the trigger symbol is selected as a stop symbol, the CPU 101 may decide to perform a premonition performance in the display area where the trigger symbol will stop during scrolling, indicating that the trigger symbol will stop. In addition, for example, the CPU 101 may decide on a performance to highlight the symbols related to winnings among the stopped symbols, a performance to display the payout in the WIN display section, a special WIN performance when the payout is a predetermined multiple of the bet amount or more, etc.

[0100] The CPU 101 then executes the determined performance content at the timing of that performance content (S20). For example, the CPU 101 controls the display 120 to show a video for the performance and outputs sound through the speaker 115. For example, the CPU 101 starts scrolling displaying multiple symbols on the reels in the symbol display area 21, and then displays a video that stops the symbols that are scheduled to stop. For example, the CPU 101 performs a video that highlights the symbols related to winning among the stopped symbols, and performs a performance that increments the number of credits held. For example, the CPU 101 performs a performance that transitions to the special state as described above. Then, if there are credits to be added as a result of the above game, the CPU 101 executes a payout process that adds those credits to the number of credits held (S21). Note that the payout process may be performed at a predetermined timing during the performance execution process in step S24 (for example, at the timing of the performance that increments the number of credits held). Then, the CPU 101 terminates this subroutine. Here, the CPU 101 may clear data that is no longer needed in the working area of ​​RAM 103 after each unit game, such as the value of the bet counter in the BET count memory area for the unit game that was executed, or the symbols that were determined by lottery to be displayed in the symbol display area 21.

[0101] Subsequently, CPU 101 determines whether the first special state flag is ON or not (S23). If the first special state flag is ON (S23:YES), CPU 101 executes the first special state execution process (S24). In the first special state execution process, a general free game is executed. Subsequently, CPU 101 performs a second special state lottery and determines whether it has been won or not (S25). If it has been won (S25:YES), CPU 101 executes the second special game execution process (S26). If the first special state flag is not ON in step S23 (S23:NO), if the second special state lottery is not won in step S25 (S25:NO), or after the execution of the second special game execution process in step S26, CPU 101 terminates this routine.

[0102] Next, with reference to Figure 11, the second special game execution process performed by the CPU 101 of the information processing device 1 will be described.

[0103] First, the CPU 101 executes a symbol lottery process using the selected lottery table (S30). Here, the CPU 101 refers to the position data storage table and lotters for symbols to be relocated only in scroll areas where the special symbol 501 is not relocated.

[0104] The CPU 101 then determines whether the special game to be played in the second special state is the first special game (S31). If it is the first special game (S31: YES), the CPU 101 uses the first special symbol relocation position lottery table to perform a lottery to determine the relocation position of the special symbol 501 (S32). The CPU 101 then uses one of the special symbol multiplier lottery tables to determine the multiplier to be associated with each special symbol 501 to be relocated (S33), and stores the multiplier in the location in the position data storage table corresponding to the relocation position (S34).

[0105] On the other hand, if it is not the first special game (S31:NO), the CPU 101 uses the second special symbol relocation position lottery table to conduct a lottery to determine the additional relocation positions for the special symbol 501 (S35). Then, if there is an additional special symbol 501 to be added, the CPU 101 uses one of the second special symbol multiplier lottery tables to determine the multiplier to be associated with that special symbol 501 (S36), and stores the multiplier in the location data storage table corresponding to the relocation position (S37).

[0106] Subsequently, the CPU 101 performs a payout determination process based on the results of the symbol lottery process (S45). In this process, based on the pay table stored in RAM 103, it determines the payout (dividend value) corresponding to the number of identical symbols (3 to 5) that are to be rearranged (displayed) in the symbol display area 21. The sum of these determined payouts (dividends) is then stored in the payout memory area provided in RAM 103.

[0107] Then, the CPU 101 executes the performance determination process (S46). The CPU 101 extracts random values ​​for the performance, randomly determines one of several predetermined performance contents, and executes the performance contents at the timing of the determined performance contents (S47). For example, the CPU 101 controls the display 120 to show a video for the performance and outputs sound through the speaker 115. Also, for example, the CPU 101 starts scrolling display of multiple symbols on the reels in the symbol display area 21, and then displays a video that stops the symbols that are scheduled to stop. Also, for example, the CPU 101 displays a video that highlights the symbols related to winning among the stopped symbols, and performs a performance that increments the number of credits held. Then, if there are credits to be added as a result of the above game, the CPU 101 executes a payout process that adds the number of credits to the number of credits held (S48).

[0108] Then, the CPU 101 performs an initialization process at the end of one game (S50). In step S50, data that is no longer needed for each unit game is cleared from the working area of ​​RAM 103, such as the value of the bet counter in the BET count memory area for the executed unit game, the symbols that have been determined by lottery to be displayed in the symbol display area 21, and the sequence of symbols that have been determined to be displayed in the display area 23.

[0109] The CPU 101 then performs an update process on the position data storage table (S51). In this update process, the CPU 101 refers to the position data storage table and updates it by storing the stored magnifications in the scroll area opposite to the stopping order. For example, the magnification stored in the 5th scroll area 215 is moved to the 4th scroll area 214, and the magnification stored in the 1st scroll area 211 is deleted.

[0110] The CPU 101 then refers to the updated position data storage table and determines whether or not a multiplier is stored in any of the scroll areas (S52). If a multiplier is stored in any of the scroll areas (S52: YES), the CPU 101 proceeds to step S30 and runs the special game again with the special symbols repositioned to the repositioning location where the multiplier is stored. If a multiplier is not stored in any of the scroll areas (S52: NO), the CPU 101 executes the payout process (S53) and terminates this subroutine.

[0111] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. The specific configurations of each means, etc., can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely a list of the most preferred effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1. Information Processing Device 2 displays 5 Touch panel 10 servers 100 Game Systems

Claims

1. A display that shows a symbol display area in which multiple symbols, including special symbols, are rearranged, A control unit that executes a normal game and a special game which is more advantageous than the normal game and rearranges the special symbols in the symbol display area, and controls the display of the symbol display area on the display, It has, The control unit, The system determines whether or not to rearrange the special symbol, which has been rearranged in the symbol display area at the start of the special game, for the next game. If it is decided to rearrange the special symbols, the next game will be played as the special game. The position data indicating the position to rearrange the special symbol in the symbol display area is updated for each special game. Based on the updated position data, the position in which the special symbol will be repositioned in the next special game will be controlled. Each time the special game ends, the position data is updated according to a predetermined rule. An information processing device characterized by determining whether or not to rearrange the special symbol in the next special game based on whether or not the updated position data is within the range of the symbol display area.

2. The symbol display area has a plurality of scroll areas, each consisting of a plurality of cells, in which the plurality of symbols are sequentially stopped. The control unit, When certain conditions are met, the system transitions to a special state in which the special game can be played. In the special game, the position data is updated for each special game so that the special symbol is repositioned to the scroll area where it stops one timing before the scroll area where it was placed in the previous special game. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the special state continues until the special game is executed in which the special symbol is first repositioned only in the scroll region where it is stopped.

3. The symbol display area has a plurality of scroll areas, each consisting of a plurality of cells, in which the plurality of symbols are sequentially stopped. The control unit, The special symbol, which is relocated to the symbol display area at the start of the special game, is moved to determine whether or not to relocate it to a different scroll area in the next game. When certain conditions are met, the system transitions to a special state in which the special game can be played. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the first special game in the special state, the special symbol is rearranged to the last scrollable region among the plurality of scrollable regions.

4. The control unit, The position data indicating the position to rearrange the special symbol in the symbol display area is updated for each special game. The information processing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, based on the updated position data, the position in which the special symbol will be repositioned in the next special game is controlled to move from the scroll area in the previous special game to the scroll area that stops at the timing immediately preceding the said scroll area.

5. A computer having a display and memory, A process to display a symbol display area where multiple symbols, including special symbols, are rearranged, A process that executes a normal game and a special game which is more advantageous than the normal game and rearranges the special symbols in the symbol display area, and controls the display of the symbol display area on the display, A process to determine whether or not to rearrange the special symbol, which is rearranged in the symbol display area at the start of the special game, in the next game, If it is decided to rearrange the special symbols, the process of executing the next game as the special game is performed, A process to update position data indicating the position where the special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area for each special game, A process to control the position in which the special symbol will be repositioned in the next special game based on the updated position data, Each time the special game ends, the process of updating the position data according to predetermined rules, A process to determine whether or not to rearrange the special symbol in the next special game, based on whether or not the updated position data is within the range of the symbol display area, A game program characterized by causing the execution of a game program.

6. The symbol display area has a plurality of scroll areas, each consisting of a plurality of cells, where the plurality of symbols are sequentially stopped. To the aforementioned computer, A process that transitions to a special state in which the special game can be run when predetermined conditions are met, In the aforementioned special game, the process involves rearranging the special symbol to the scroll area that stops at the timing immediately preceding the scroll area where the special symbol was placed in the previous special game, The process of maintaining the special state until the special game is executed in which the special symbol is first repositioned only in the scroll area where it stops, The game program according to claim 5, characterized in that it further executes the following.

7. Displaying a symbol display area where multiple symbols, including special symbols, are rearranged, The system performs a normal game and a special game which is more advantageous than the normal game and rearranges the special symbols in the symbol display area, and controls the display of the symbol display area. To determine whether or not to rearrange the special symbol, which is rearranged in the symbol display area at the start of the special game, in the next game, If it is decided to rearrange the special symbols, the next game will be played as the special game. The position data indicating the position where the special symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area is updated for each special game. Based on the updated position data, control the position in which the special symbol will be repositioned in the next special game. Each time the special game ends, the position data is updated according to a predetermined rule, Whether or not the updated position data is within the range of the symbol display area determines whether or not the special symbol will be repositioned in the next special game. A game control method characterized by including the following:

8. The symbol display area has a plurality of scroll areas, each consisting of a plurality of cells, in which the plurality of symbols are sequentially stopped. When certain conditions are met, the system transitions to a special state in which the special game can be played, In the aforementioned special game, the special symbol is repositioned to the scroll area that stops one step before the scroll area where the special symbol was placed in the previous special game, The special state continues until the special game is executed in which the special symbol is first repositioned only in the scroll area where it stops. The game control method according to claim 7, further comprising:

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