Game System

Abstract

Provides an engaging game where players expect an increase in the number of special state options. [Solution] The game system 100 comprises a game control unit that changes the state of at least one of multiple options to a special state when predetermined conditions are met during the progress of the game; a first lottery unit that performs a first lottery to select one of the multiple options; and a second lottery unit that is performed when an option in the special state is selected from the multiple options by the first lottery. The game control unit sets two or more of the options in the special state to an advantageous state when the number of options in the special state is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to games.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, lottery games have been proposed in which a player is given a reward when winning in a lottery. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a special lottery is started when a special state option is selected in a preliminary lottery.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, the special state option is only a start condition for the special lottery. Therefore, what is important for the player is that the special state option is selected among a plurality of options, and there is room for improvement in enhancing the趣味性 of the game. In view of the above circumstances, one aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide an interesting game in which the player expects an increase in the special state options.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To solve the above problems, a game system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a game control unit that changes the state of at least one option among a plurality of options to a special state when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the progress of the game, a first lottery unit that executes a first lottery for selecting any one of the plurality of options, and when the special state option among the plurality of options is selected by the first lottery The second drawThe game control unit comprises a second lottery unit for execution, and when the number of options in the special state is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the game control unit sets some of the two or more options in the special state from among the plurality of options to an advantageous state. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] This is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the game system. [Figure 2] A diagram illustrating the game's overview. [Figure 3] These are floor plans of each of the multiple stations. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the game system. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps involved in typical game processing. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram regarding attribute selection. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram regarding the preliminary lottery. [Figure 8] This is a diagram explaining each option. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram of the options that create an advantageous situation. [Figure 10] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a control device. [Figure 11] This flowchart illustrates the specific steps taken after the attribute selection process. [Figure 12] This flowchart illustrates a part of the normal game processing according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This is an explanatory diagram for item granting. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The embodiments for implementing this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the dimensions and scale of the elements in each drawing may differ from those of the actual product. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are illustrative examples of embodiments that may be envisioned when implementing this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments exemplified below.

[0008] A: First Embodiment Figure 1 is a plan view of a game system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The game system 100 is installed, for example, in a gaming facility. A gaming facility is, for example, an entertainment facility such as an arcade or casino, or a commercial facility such as a shopping center. The game system 100 provides games to multiple users (i.e., players) within the gaming facility. A game system 100 used in a casino, for example, is also referred to as a gaming machine.

[0009] As illustrated in Figure 1, the game system 100 comprises multiple stations 1 and a central unit U. The multiple stations 1 are arranged circumferentially, surrounding the central unit U. Each station 1 is a unit used by users to play the game. Games played by different players proceed in parallel on multiple stations 1. Although six stations 1 are shown in Figure 1, the number of stations 1 is arbitrary.

[0010] The central unit U is a lottery mechanism shared by multiple stations 1. The central unit U is supported in a manner that allows it to rotate about an axis along the vertical direction. The central unit U comprises three lottery units U1 to U3, each corresponding to a different attribute An (n=1 to 3). Each attribute An is a color that symbolizes a lottery unit Un. For example, attribute A1 is red, attribute A2 is yellow, and attribute A3 is blue. Note that attribute An is not limited to colors. For example, a specific name (e.g., a country name) or a character may be attribute An.

[0011] By rotating the central unit U, any one of the three lottery units U1 to U3, i.e., lottery unit Un, faces a specific station 1. The structures of each of the three lottery units U1 to U3 may be the same or different.

[0012] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram regarding the outline of the game. As illustrated in FIG. 2, in the game system 100, normal game processing, special lottery, attribute lottery, and preliminary lottery are executed. The normal game processing is a process for controlling a game in which each player plays steadily using the station 1. The normal game processing is executed in parallel for each of the plurality of stations 1. Note that the preliminary lottery is an example of the "first lottery". Also, the special lottery is an example of the "second lottery".

[0013] The special lottery is a lottery process for determining the winning / losing of a player and is executed by the central unit U. A special reward (jackpot) is given to a player who wins the special lottery. For the special lottery corresponding to different attributes An, three types of special lotteries are prepared. For the special lottery of each attribute An, the lottery unit Un corresponding to the attribute An among the three lottery units U1 to U3 of the central unit U is used. That is, lottery unit U1 is used for the special lottery of attribute A1, lottery unit U2 is used for the special lottery of attribute A2, and lottery unit U3 is used for the special lottery of attribute A3. Note that the three types of special lotteries corresponding to different attributes An are an example of "a plurality of lottery processes corresponding to different attributes".

[0014] Also, "winning / losing" is a different result determined by the special lottery. For example, in the special lottery, either winning or losing is determined by the lottery. However, the special lottery is not limited to a lottery that alternatively selects either winning or losing. For example, when selecting any one of a plurality of winning prizes by lottery, it may be interpreted that when a specific winning prize among the plurality of winning prizes is selected by lottery, it is "winning", and when another winning prize is selected, it is "losing".

[0015] Attribute extraction is performed for the station 1 among the plurality of stations 1 where the condition for executing the special extraction in the normal game process is satisfied. Attribute extraction is an extraction process for selecting any one of different attributes An. The preliminary extraction is an extraction process for determining whether the special extraction can be executed. That is, the special extraction corresponding to the attribute An selected in the attribute extraction is executed on the condition of winning in the preliminary extraction. If the result of the preliminary extraction is a loss, the normal game is resumed without executing the special extraction.

[0016] Figure 3 is a plan view of each of the plurality of stations 1. As illustrated in Figure 3, each station 1 includes a display device 11, an operation panel 12, a game device 13, a lottery device 14a, a lottery device 14b, and a supply device ......

[0017] The display device 11 displays various images. The display device 11 is composed of a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) panel. The operation panel 12 is an input device that receives operations by the player. Specifically, the operation panel 12 includes an operation device 120, a reception device 121, and a payout device 122. The operation device 120 is an operator operated by the player. Note that a touch panel that detects contact by the player may be used as the operation device 120.

[0018] The reception device 121 receives tokens from the player. Specifically, the reception device 121 receives physical tokens G and electronic tokens from the player. Physical tokens G are tangible, disc-shaped game tokens. Electronic tokens are intangible game tokens realized through electronic data. The mechanism of the reception device 121 that receives physical tokens G comprises an insertion slot into which the physical tokens G are inserted and a detector that detects the insertion of physical tokens G into the insertion slot. The mechanism of the reception device 121 that receives electronic tokens is, for example, a communication device that communicates with an account management system (not shown) that manages the player's electronic token account. For example, the reception device 121 performs the electronic token withdrawal process by communicating with the account management system. Alternatively, a communication device that performs the electronic token withdrawal process via short-range wireless communication with a recording medium that stores the quantity of electronic tokens may be used as the reception device 121.

[0019] The tokens received by the reception device 121 from the player are exchanged for credits. Specifically, a value corresponding to the number of tokens received by the reception device 121 is added to the credits held by the player. Credits are the game value that the player consumes to play the game.

[0020] The dispensing device 122 outputs medals. Specifically, the dispensing device 122 outputs a quantity of medals corresponding to the credits held by the player. The mechanism of the dispensing device 122 that outputs physical medals G comprises a storage container for storing physical medals G and an output mechanism that sequentially discharges physical medals G from the storage container. The mechanism of the dispensing device 122 that outputs electronic medals is a communication device that performs the electronic medal deposit process by communicating with the aforementioned account management system. Alternatively, a communication device that performs the electronic medal deposit process by short-range wireless communication with a recording medium that stores the quantity of electronic medals may be used as the dispensing device 122.

[0021] The game device 13 is a mechanism that provides a player with a regular game. The game device 13 in this embodiment is a pusher game machine that comprises a fixed table 130, a movable table 131, a coin dispenser 132, and a fixed wall 133.

[0022] The fixed table 130 is a flat plate installed approximately horizontally. The movable table 131 is a three-dimensional structure (pusher table) that moves back and forth on the fixed table 130. Numerous physical medals G are placed on the fixed table 130 and the movable table 131.

[0023] The insertion device 132 supplies physical medals G onto the movable table 131 in response to player input to the operating device 120. The insertion device 132 also inserts physical medals G onto the upper surface of the movable table 131 in exchange for the consumption of electronic medals or credits received from the player.

[0024] The fixed wall 133 is a structure facing the upper surface of the movable table 131. Physical medals G placed on the movable table 131 are pressed forward by the fixed wall 133 as the movable table 131 moves backward. Multiple physical medals G that have moved forward due to the pressure from the fixed wall 133 fall from the movable table 131. Similarly, multiple physical medals G on the fixed table 130 fall from the fixed table 130 as they are pressed forward by the movable table 131. A number of physical medals G corresponding to the number of physical medals G that have fallen from the fixed table 130 is dispensed from the dispensing device 122. A value corresponding to the number of physical medals G that have fallen from the fixed table 130 may be added to the player's credits.

[0025] Multiple lottery holes 134 are formed on the front surface of the movable table 131. Some of the multiple physical medals G that fall from the surface of the movable table 131 enter the lottery holes 134. The entry of physical medals G into the lottery holes 134 triggers the execution of a normal lottery. The normal lottery is a lottery process that determines whether the player wins or loses by lottery.

[0026] The supply device 15 supplies physical medals G or special balls B to the game machine 13. For example, physical medals G are supplied onto the movable table 131, and special balls B are supplied onto the fixed table 130. For example, the supply device 15 supplies special balls B on the condition that the player wins in the normal lottery. The special balls B are supplied in conjunction with the reciprocating motion of the movable table 131 to supply physical medals G. and They both move forward and eventually fall from the fixed table 130. The supply device 15 also supplies lottery ball Ba to the lottery device 14a and lottery ball Bb to the lottery device 14b.

[0027] The lottery device 14a is a lottery mechanism used for attribute lottery to determine one of three types of attributes A1 to A3. Specifically, the lottery device 14a is a roughly disc-shaped structure (a so-called roulette wheel) with a lower central portion compared to its peripheral portion. The lottery device 14a has three lottery holes H1 to H3, each corresponding to a different attribute An. Each lottery hole Hn is a through hole into which a lottery ball Ba can enter. The lottery ball Ba supplied from the supply device 15 rolls circumferentially on the upper surface of the lottery device 14a, approaching the center, and eventually enters one of the three lottery holes H1 to H3. The attribute An corresponding to the lottery hole Hn into which the lottery ball Ba enters is the result of the lottery by the lottery device 14a.

[0028] The lottery device 14b is a lottery mechanism used for preliminary lotteries. Specifically, the lottery device 14b has a lottery hole Hb into which the lottery ball Bb can enter. The lottery ball Bb supplied from the supply device 15 swings along the upper surface of the lottery device 14b, gradually approaching the lottery hole Hb, and eventually entering the lottery hole Hb.

[0029] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the game system 100. 4 As illustrated, the game system 100 includes a control device 2 and a storage device 3, in addition to multiple stations 1 and a central unit U.

[0030] As illustrated in Figure 4, the control unit 2 is one or more processors that control the entire game system 100. Specifically, the control unit 2 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Note that some or all of the functions of the control unit 2 may be installed in each station 1.

[0031] The storage device 3 is one or more memories that store programs executed by the control device 2 and various data used by the control device 2. The storage device 3 is composed of known recording media such as magnetic recording media or semiconductor recording media. The storage device 3 may be composed of a combination of multiple types of recording media. Alternatively, a portable recording media that can be attached to and detached from the game system 100, or a recording media that can be written to or read by the control device 2 via a communication network such as the internet (e.g., cloud storage), may be used as the storage device 3.

[0032] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of normal game processing. During the operation of the game system 100, normal game processing is executed iteratively. Normal game processing is executed in parallel for each of the multiple stations 1.

[0033] As illustrated in Figure 5, when normal game processing begins, the control device 2 determines whether or not a physical medal G has fallen from the front edge of the fixed table 130 (Sa1). If a physical medal G has fallen (Sa1: YES), the control device 2 dispenses a predetermined amount of physical medal G from the dispensing device 122 (Sa2). If a physical medal G has not fallen (Sa1: NO), the dispensing of physical medal G (Sa2) is not performed.

[0034] The control device 2 determines whether or not a physical medal G has fallen into the lottery hole 134 of the movable table 131 (Sa3). If a physical medal G has fallen into the lottery hole 134 (Sa3: YES), the control device 2 performs a normal lottery (Sa4). The normal lottery is a lottery process that determines whether a player wins or loses.

[0035] A normal draw is, for example, a video slot. The control device 2 determines whether a specific combination of symbols has been achieved in the normal draw (Sa5). If a specific combination of symbols has been achieved (Sa5: YES), the control device 2 controls the supply device 15 to supply special ball B to the game device 13 (Sa6). If the physical medal G does not fall into the draw hole 134 (Sa3: NO), the normal draw (Sa4) and the supply of special ball B (Sa6) are not performed.

[0036] The control device 2 determines whether or not special ball B has fallen from the fixed table 130 (Sa7). If special ball B has fallen (Sa7:YES), the control device 2 performs an attribute lottery. The specific procedures after the attribute lottery will be described later. If special ball B has not fallen (Sa7:NO), the control device 2 proceeds to step Sa1 without performing an attribute lottery.

[0037] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram regarding attribute selection. Attribute selection is initiated when special ball B falls (Sa7:YES) during normal game processing (Figure 5). As illustrated in Figure 6, the attribute selection utilizes the selection device 14a and display device 11 at each station 1. The control device 2 implements a function (attribute selection unit 20) for controlling attribute selection by executing a program stored in the storage device 3.

[0038] The attribute selection unit 20 displays a plurality of selection images 110a to 110c on the display device 11. Each of the plurality of selection images 110 corresponds to one of the different attributes An. Specifically, selection image 110a corresponds to attribute A1, selection image 110b corresponds to attribute A2, and selection image 110c corresponds to attribute A3. Each selection image 110 is a circular image containing a plurality of choices 111. Each of the plurality of choices 111 is a sector-shaped image arranged in the circumferential direction. The total number of choices 111 that make up each selection image 110 is arbitrary. Furthermore, forms in which the central angles of each choice 111 differ, or forms in which the central angles of each choice 111 change dynamically are also conceivable.

[0039] As described above, the lottery ball Ba supplied from the supply device 15 rolls circumferentially on the upper surface of the lottery device 14a, approaching the center, and eventually enters one of the three lottery holes H1 to H3. The attribute lottery unit 20 selects one of several attributes An according to the behavior of the lottery ball Ba in the lottery device 14a. Specifically, the attribute lottery unit 20 selects the attribute An (hereinafter referred to as "selected attribute As") corresponding to the lottery hole Hn into which the lottery ball Ba fell. Then, the attribute lottery unit 20 selects the lottery image 110 (hereinafter referred to as "selected lottery image 110s") from among several lottery images 110 that corresponds to the selected attribute As.

[0040] After the attribute lottery is performed, a preliminary lottery is conducted. Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the preliminary lottery. As illustrated in Figure 7, the display device 11 and lottery device 14b at each station 1 are used for the preliminary lottery. The control device 2 implements multiple functions (preliminary lottery unit 21, game control unit 22) for controlling the preliminary lottery by executing a program stored in the storage device 3. Note that the preliminary lottery unit 21 is an example of a "first lottery unit".

[0041] First, the preliminary drawing unit 21 displays the selection drawing image 110s and the instruction image 112 on the display device 11. The preliminary drawing unit 21 rotates the selection drawing image 110s in the circumferential direction. The instruction image 112 is an image that indicates a specific position in the circumferential direction of the selection drawing image 110s. That is, one of the multiple options 111 in the selection drawing image 110s is indicated by the instruction image 112.

[0042] As described above, the lottery ball Bb supplied from the supply device 15 to the lottery device 14b gradually approaches the lottery hole Hb while oscillating on the upper surface of the lottery device 14b, and finally enters the lottery hole Hb. The preliminary lottery unit 21 selects one of the multiple options 111 in the selection lottery image 110s according to the behavior of the lottery ball Bb in the lottery device 14b. Specifically, the preliminary lottery unit 21 selects one of the multiple options 111 in the selection lottery image 110s that is indicated by the instruction image 112 at the time the lottery ball Bb falls into the lottery hole Hb of the lottery device 14b.

[0043] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of each option 111. The game control unit 22 changes the state of each option 111 stepwise with each selection in the preliminary draw. Specifically, the game control unit 22 changes each option 111 from the initial first state to an intermediate second state with the first selection, and then changes it from the second state to a special state with the second selection. That is, each option 111 is changed stepwise up to the special state by the game control unit 22 with each selection by the preliminary draw unit 21. Therefore, the multiple options 111 selected by the preliminary draw include an option 111 in the first state, an option 111 in the second state, and an option 111 in the special state. As each option 111 is sequentially changed to the special state by the game control unit 22, the number of options 111 in the special state among the multiple options 111 increases. In the first embodiment, with each selection in the preliminary draw, the state of each option 111 changes stepwise from the first state to the special state. Therefore, the player can grasp the process of the number of options 111 in the special state increasing.

[0044] As can be understood from the above explanation, the preliminary draw is a lottery process in which one of several options 111, including option 111 in the special state, is selected. If option 111 in the special state is selected in the preliminary draw, the special draw is initiated. In other words, option 111 in the special state is a lottery element that serves as a condition for initiating the special draw.

[0045] Furthermore, if option 111 in the special state is not selected in the preliminary draw, the state of at least one of the multiple options 111 will change. In other words, the probability of option 111 in the special state being selected in the next preliminary draw increases. Therefore, even if option 111 in the special state is not selected in the preliminary draw, an incentive to continue the game can be given to the player.

[0046] As mentioned above, the state of each option 111 in the selection lottery image 110s changes with each preliminary lottery, so the number of options 111 in a special state in the selection lottery image 110s (hereinafter referred to as "number of special options K") changes over time as the game progresses. If the number of special options K is greater than or equal to a predetermined value K0, the game control unit 22 sets some of the multiple options 111 in a special state in the selection lottery image 110s to an advantageous state.

[0047] An advantageous state is a state that is beneficial to players aiming to acquire rewards. In the first embodiment, an advantageous state is a state in which the amount of rewards awarded to players as a result of a special lottery increases. In the first embodiment, the amount of rewards in a special lottery triggered by the selection of an option 111 in an advantageous state is twice the amount of rewards in a special lottery triggered by the selection of an option 111 in a non-advantageous state, regardless of whether the special lottery is won or lost.

[0048] As explained above, the reward amount for a special lottery performed when a special state option 111 set to an advantageous state is selected by a preliminary draw exceeds the reward amount for a special lottery performed when a special state option 111 not set to an advantageous state is selected by a preliminary draw. According to the above embodiment, the player expects that a special state option 111 set to an advantageous state will be selected by a preliminary draw from among multiple options 111. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly engaging game in which the player expects to select an option 111 set to an advantageous state from among multiple options 111.

[0049] The game control unit 22 sets the number of options 111 to be changed to a favorable state (hereinafter referred to as "number of changes") according to the number of special options K. In the first embodiment, the number of changes increases as the number of special options K increases. The game control unit 22 then sets a number of special state options 111 to a favorable state that corresponds to the difference between the number of changes and the number of options 111 that are already in a favorable state in the selection lottery image 110s. For example, if the number of changes is 4 and 3 options 111 are already in a favorable state in the selection lottery image 110s, the game control unit 22 sets the state of one of the special state options 111 in the selection lottery image 110s to a favorable state and maintains the favorable state of the existing options 111. If the number of changes and the number of options 111 that are already in a favorable state are the same value, the game control unit 22 maintains the favorable state of the existing options 111 in the selection lottery image 110s.

[0050] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of the advantageous state option 111. In Figure 9, it is assumed that the number of special options K is 3. In this case, the game control unit 22 sets the number of changes to the value "1" corresponding to the number of special options K (K=3), and sets the option 111 with that number of changes to the advantageous state. As illustrated in Figure 9, the option 111 set to the advantageous state displays a state image Ig indicating that it is in an advantageous state. Specifically, the state image Ig is displayed outside the outer edge of the option 111 set to the advantageous state. Note that the position where the state image Ig is displayed is not limited to the above example. For example, the option 111 set to the advantageous state and the state image Ig may overlap.

[0051] Multiple options 111 are managed individually for each lottery image 110. Specifically, the state of each option 111 is stored in the storage device 3 for each lottery image 110. For example, state data representing the state of multiple options 111 (first state / second state / special state / favorable state) is stored individually in the storage device 3 for each lottery image 110. Therefore, the number of special options K is a unique numerical value for each lottery image 110.

[0052] In the initial lottery image 110, some of the multiple options 111 (for example, one option 111) are set to a special state, and the remaining options 111 are set to the first state. However, for example, all of the options 111 may be set to the first state in the initial lottery image 110. In addition to the options 111 that change to a special state, options 111 corresponding to specific rewards may also be included in the lottery image 110. For example, if a specific option 111 is selected from among the multiple options 111, the supply device 15 may supply a special ball B to the game device 13.

[0053] As mentioned above, a special lottery is executed when option 111, which represents a special state, is selected in the preliminary lottery. The lottery unit Un, which corresponds to the selected attribute As, is used in the special lottery. In other words, three types of special lotteries are prepared, corresponding to three different types of attributes A1 to A3. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control device 2. The control device 2 implements multiple functions (special lottery unit 23, reward granting unit 24) for controlling the special lottery by executing a program stored in the memory device 3. Note that the special lottery unit 23 is an example of a "second lottery unit".

[0054] The special lottery unit 23 determines whether a player wins or loses. Specifically, the special lottery unit 23 uses a lottery unit Un corresponding to the selected attribute As to determine whether a player wins or loses. The reward granting unit 24 grants the player a reward corresponding to the win or loss in the special lottery. If the result of the special lottery is a win, the reward granting unit 24 grants a special reward to the player who won the special lottery. Specifically, the reward granting unit 24 supplies the corresponding quantity of physical medals G to the game device 13 by controlling the supply device 15. If the result of the special lottery is a loss, the reward granting unit 24 supplies the game device 13 with a quantity of physical medals G corresponding to the result of the special lottery by controlling the supply device 15. Note that the amount of reward corresponding to a loss selected in the special lottery is less than the amount of reward corresponding to a win selected in the special lottery.

[0055] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps after the attribute selection. As mentioned above, the attribute selection (Sa8) is initiated when the special ball B falls (Sa7:YES) during the normal game processing (Figure 5).

[0056] The control device 2 (attribute selection unit 20) performs attribute selection (Sa8). First, the control device 2 (attribute selection unit 20) selects one of the three types of attributes A1 to A3 as the selected attribute As by performing attribute selection using the selection device 14a and the display device 11. Then, the control device 2 (attribute selection unit 20) selects a selection lottery image 110s from among the multiple lottery images 110 that corresponds to the selected attribute As.

[0057] The control device 2 (preliminary lottery unit 21) performs a preliminary lottery (Sa9). First, the control device 2 (preliminary lottery unit 21) displays a selection lottery image 110s on the display device 11 and rotates the selection lottery image 110s in the circumferential direction. Then, the control device 2 (preliminary lottery unit 21) instructs the supply device 15 to supply lottery balls Bb to the lottery device 14b, and selects the option 111 indicated by the instruction image 112 when the lottery ball Bb falls into the lottery hole Hb from among the multiple options 111.

[0058] The control device 2 determines whether or not the special state option 111 was selected in the preliminary draw (Sa10). The determination result is affirmative if the special state or advantageous state option 111 was selected, and negative if the first state or second state option 111 was selected.

[0059] If option 111 in the special state is selected (Sa10:YES), the control device 2 initializes the state of each option 111 in the selection lottery image 110s (Sa11). Note that the selection of option 111 in the special state (Sa10:YES) means that the winner is selected in the preliminary lottery.

[0060] As explained above, when a special state option 111 is selected in the preliminary draw, the state of each option 111 in the selection draw image 110s transitions to its initial state. That is, after the special draw is executed, the number of special options K in the selection draw image 110s, which is the trigger for executing the special draw, decreases. Therefore, an incentive can be given to the player to continue the game in order to increase the number of special state options 111 again.

[0061] If option 111 of the special state is selected (Sa10: YES), the control device 2 (special lottery unit 23) executes a special lottery corresponding to the selected attribute As (Sa12). Specifically, a special lottery is executed using lottery unit Un corresponding to the selected attribute As. The special lottery unit 23 determines whether the player is a winner or loser.

[0062] The control device 2 (reward distribution unit 24) distributes rewards to the player (Sa13). Specifically, the control device 2 (reward distribution unit 24) distributes rewards to the player corresponding to whether they won or lost in the special lottery. After distributing the rewards, the control device 2 executes normal game processing.

[0063] On the other hand, if option 111 in the special state is not selected in the preliminary draw (Sa10: NO), the control device 2 (game control unit 22) transitions the state of option 111 selected in the preliminary draw (Sa14). Specifically, the control device 2 (game control unit 22) transitions the state of option 111 if it is in the first state or the second state. If option 111 in the first state is selected in the preliminary draw, the control device 2 (game control unit 22) transitions option 111 from the first state to the second state. If option 111 in the second state is selected in the preliminary draw, the control device 2 (game control unit 22) transitions option 111 from the second state to option 111 in the special state.

[0064] The control device 2 (game control unit 22) determines whether the number of special options K in the transitioned selection lottery image 110s is equal to or greater than a predetermined value K0 (Sa15). If the number of special options K is equal to or greater than the predetermined value K0 (Sa15: YES), the control device 2 (game control unit 22) sets some of the special state options 111 in the selection lottery image 110s to an advantageous state (Sa16). First, the control device 2 (game control unit 22) sets the number of changes according to the number of special options K. Then, the control device 2 (game control unit 22) sets a number of special state options 111 that are equal to the difference between the number of changes and the number of options 111 that are already in an advantageous state in the selection lottery image 110s to an advantageous state, and maintains the advantageous state of the existing options 111. If the number of changes and the number of options 111 that are already in an advantageous state are the same value, the advantageous state of the existing options 111 in the selection lottery image 110s is maintained. If the number of special options K is less than the predetermined value K0 (Sa15:NO), the setting of the advantageous state (Sa16) will not be performed.

[0065] As explained above, the more times preliminary draws are performed, the higher the probability that the number of special options K will increase. Furthermore, the higher the number of special options K, the higher the probability that the number of changes will increase. Therefore, this provides players with an incentive to continue the game with the aim of increasing the number of special options 111.

[0066] The control device 2 stores the state of each option 111 in the selection lottery image 110s in the storage device 3 (Sa17). That is, the number of special options K is stored individually in the storage device 3 for each attribute An. After storing the state of each option 111 in the storage device 3, the control device 2 executes normal game processing. The above is the specific procedure after attribute lottery.

[0067] As described above, in this embodiment, when a special lottery is performed, the state of each option 111 in the selection lottery image 110s is initialized. Furthermore, if an option 111 in a state other than a special state is selected by the preliminary lottery, the state of that option 111 is transitioned, and after some of the multiple special state options 111 are set to an advantageous state, the state of each option 111 in the selection lottery image 110s is stored in the storage device 3. In other words, the preliminary lottery and the special lottery are managed individually for each attribute An. Therefore, a variety of game developments can be realized according to the results of the attribute lottery.

[0068] B: Second Embodiment A second embodiment of this disclosure will now be described. For elements whose function is the same as in the first embodiment in each of the embodiments described below, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment will be used, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0069] In the first embodiment, the number of options 111 in a special state increases only when an option 111 in a second state is selected by preliminary lottery (Sa10:NO). In the second embodiment, in addition to this, the number of options 111 in a special state may increase during specific game events (hereinafter referred to as "item granting events") that are performed during the progression of the game.

[0070] In item-granting events, items are awarded to players as they progress through the event. Items are game elements that give players an advantage in the game. Examples include the right to acquire physical medals G, the right to progress through the game more easily, and the right to trigger specific game events.

[0071] Figure 12 is a flowchart of a part of the normal game processing according to the second embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 12, in the normal game processing of the second embodiment, an item granting event (Sa18) is added to the processing similar to that of the first embodiment. Specifically, when the fall of special ball B is detected (Sa7:YES), the item granting event (Sa18) is executed immediately after the detection. When the item granting event (Sa18) is executed, attribute selection (Sa8) is started.

[0072] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of an item granting event. As illustrated in Figure 13, the display device 11 and the input device 132 at each station 1 are used for the game event. The control device 2 implements a function (event control unit 25) for controlling the item granting event by executing a program stored in the storage device 3. The event control unit 25 is an example of an "item granting unit".

[0073] The event control unit 25 displays a gauge 113 representing the player level on the display device 11. The player level is a parameter used by the event control unit 25 to determine the number of items to be given to the player in an item granting event. The player level increases according to the number of physical medals G detected in an item granting event. Specifically, the player level increases according to the number of physical medals G supplied by the input device 132. Each time the input device 132 supplies one physical medal G, the player level increases by a quantity corresponding to a predetermined number of divisions on the gauge 113. In addition, the player level increases according to the number of physical medals G that enter the lottery hole 134. Each time one physical medal G enters the lottery hole 134, the player level increases by a quantity corresponding to a predetermined number of divisions on the gauge 113. Note that the increase in the player level due to one physical medal G entering the lottery hole 134 is greater than the increase in the player level due to one physical medal G being supplied by the input device 132.

[0074] The item granting event ends when a predetermined termination condition is met. The termination condition is, for example, that a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the start of the event, or that the player level reaches its maximum value. The event control unit 25 determines the number of items to be granted according to the player level at the time the termination condition is met. For example, the numerical range of the player level is divided into multiple ranges corresponding to different numerical values ​​of the items. The event control unit 25 determines the number of items to be granted to the player as the number corresponding to the range to which the player level at the time the termination condition is met belongs. 2 In this embodiment, the event control unit 25 grants the player up to three items depending on the player level at the time the termination condition is met.

[0075] The item awarded to the player by the event control unit 25 is randomly selected from multiple candidates. These candidates include, for example, a reward item, a first special item, and a second special item. If a reward item is selected, the event control unit 25 controls the supply device 15 to supply a predetermined quantity of physical medals G onto the fixed table 130.

[0076] The first special item is an item that has the effect of transitioning one of the options 111 in the first state in the lottery image 110 to the second state. Specifically, the player is given a first special item corresponding to one of three types of attributes A1 to A3. If the first special item is selected, the event control unit 25 selects a lottery image 110 with attribute An corresponding to the first special item from among the multiple lottery images 110, and transitions one of the options 111 in the first state in that lottery image 110 to the second state. If there is a lottery image 110 among the multiple lottery images 110 that does not contain any options 111 in the first state, the event control unit 25 excludes the first special item corresponding to attribute An of that lottery image 110 from the multiple candidates.

[0077] The second special item is an item that has the effect of transitioning one of the options 111 in the second state in the lottery image 110 to a special state. Specifically, the player is given a second special item corresponding to one of three types of attributes A1 to A3. If a second special item is selected, the event control unit 25 selects a lottery image 110 with attribute An corresponding to the second special item from among the multiple lottery images 110, and transitions one of the multiple options 111 in the second state in that lottery image 110 to a special state. If there is a lottery image 110 among the multiple lottery images 110 that does not contain any options 111 in the second state, the event control unit 25 excludes the second special item corresponding to attribute An of that lottery image 110 from the multiple candidates.

[0078] The game control unit 22 then performs the same processing as in steps Sa15 to Sa17 on the lottery image 110 (hereinafter referred to as "transition lottery image 110") which includes the option 111 that has transitioned to a special state due to the second special item. That is, the game control unit 22 determines whether the number of special options K in the transition lottery image 110 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value K0, and sets some of the options 111 that are in a special state among the multiple options 111 in the transition lottery image 110 to an advantageous state. Then, it stores the state of each option 111 in the transition lottery image 110 in the storage device 3.

[0079] The same effects as in the first embodiment are achieved in the second embodiment. In addition, in the second embodiment, the player may be given a second special item that has the effect of transitioning the second state option 111 in the lottery image 110 to a special state. According to the above embodiment, the player expects the number of special state options 111 to increase through the item granting event. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly engaging game in which the player expects the number of special state options 111 to increase.

[0080] C: Variant The following are examples of specific modifications that may be added to each of the embodiments exemplified above. Two or more embodiments may be arbitrarily selected from the following examples and merged as appropriate, provided they do not contradict each other.

[0081] (1) In each embodiment, the condition for performing a normal lottery is the entry of a physical medal G into the lottery hole 134. However, the conditions for performing a normal lottery are not limited to the above examples. For example, a ball different from the special ball B (hereinafter referred to as "normal lottery ball") may be supplied onto the fixed table 130 by the supply device 15, and the condition for performing a normal lottery may be the fall of a normal lottery ball. Alternatively, for example, the right to perform a normal lottery may be stocked by the fall of a normal lottery ball, and when a state is reached where a normal lottery can be performed, the normal lottery may be started in exchange for the consumption of the stock of said right.

[0082] (2) In each embodiment, a configuration was shown in which the number of states of option 111 other than the special state (i.e., the number of steps to reach the special state) is two, consisting of the first state and the second state. However, the total number of states of option 111 may be changed arbitrarily. For example, option 111 may transition from the first state to the special state. That is, the second state may be omitted.

[0083] (3) In each embodiment, a configuration was shown in which the reward amount of the special lottery, which is performed when an option 111 in a favorable state is selected by a preliminary lottery, is increased. However, the conditions for increasing the reward amount of the special lottery are not limited to the above examples. For example, the reward amount of the special lottery may be changed according to the number of options 111 in a special state in the selection lottery image 110s. Specifically, the more options 111 in a special state in the selection lottery image 110s there are, the more the reward amount of the special lottery increases.

[0084] (4) In each embodiment, a configuration was shown in which the amount of rewards given to the player as a result of the special lottery increases, which is considered an advantageous state. However, the content of the advantageous state is not limited to the above examples. For example, the advantageous state may be a state in which an item is given to the player if selected in the preliminary lottery. Alternatively, for example, the advantageous state may be a state in which a specific game event is executed if selected in the preliminary lottery. In the above-described forms, the state in which the amount of rewards in the special lottery is doubled was used as an example of an advantageous state, so the state image Ig with "×2" indicating an increase in the amount of rewards was displayed, but the content of the state image Ig may be changed according to the content of the advantageous state.

[0085] (5) In the first embodiment, the game control unit 22 is shown to maintain the option 111 that has already been set to an advantageous state and to newly set another option 111 to an advantageous state. However, each time the number of special options K increases, the game control unit 22 may re-select the option 111 that will be set to an advantageous state in the selection lottery image 110s. That is, the combination of options 111 that will be set to an advantageous state may be changed each time the number of special options K increases.

[0086] (6) In the first embodiment, when an advantageous option 111 is selected, the reward amount for winning the special lottery and the reward amount for losing are both greater than the reward amount when an option 111 that is not advantageous is selected. However, the only item that may be increased when an advantageous option 111 is selected is the reward amount for winning the special lottery. That is, the reward amount for losing the special lottery is when the selected option 111 is advantageous Even if it is in that state advantageous The quantity may be the same even if it is not in that state.

[0087] (7) In the second embodiment, an example was given in which an item granting event is executed when a special ball B falls. However, the conditions for the execution of an item granting event are not limited to the above example. For example, an item granting event may be executed on the condition that a physical medal G falls into the lottery hole 134.

[0088] (8) In the second embodiment, a configuration was shown in which the item that the event control unit 25 assigns to the player is randomly selected from a plurality of candidates. However, the method of selecting the item that the event control unit 25 assigns to the player is not limited to the above examples. For example, a configuration in which the player selects from a plurality of candidates, or a configuration in which the item to be assigned is predetermined are possible.

[0089] (9) In the second embodiment, a configuration was shown in which any of the multiple options 111 in the lottery image 110 that are in the second state transition to a special state by a second special item. However, an option 111 in the first state that are in the multiple options 111 in the lottery image 110 may transition from the first state to a special state by a first special item. That is, the first special item may be an item that has the effect of immediately transitioning option 111 to a special state regardless of the current state of option 111.

[0090] (10) In each embodiment, a configuration was shown in which the number of changes increases as the number of special options K increases. However, the relationship between the number of special options K and the number of changes is not limited to the above examples. For example, the numerical range of the number of special options K may be divided into multiple ranges corresponding to different quantities, and the numerical value corresponding to the range to which the current number of special options K belongs may be set as the number of changes. In other words, there may be cases in which the number of changes does not increase even if the number of special options K increases.

[0091] (11) The various lottery processes exemplified in each embodiment may be either a physical lottery implemented by a physical lottery mechanism or an electronic lottery implemented by the control device 2 through calculation processing. Alternatively, the lottery process may be implemented by a combination of physical and electronic lotteries.

[0092] (12) In each embodiment, the game system 100 is shown as being installed in real space, but the game system 100 can also be realized as a virtual object installed in a virtual space realized by computational processing. Therefore, a service similar to the game system 100 in the above-described form may be provided to the user by an information device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal. For example, a game similar to the game system 100 can be realized as an application game provided by a program executed by the information device, or as a cloud game provided by a server that can communicate with the information device.

[0093] (13) The functions of the game system 100 according to each embodiment are realized through the cooperation of one or more processors constituting the control device 2 and a program stored in the storage device 3. Programs according to the above forms can be provided in a form stored on a computer-readable recording medium and installed on a computer. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, and optical recording media such as CD-ROMs (optical discs) are good examples, but any known form of recording medium such as semiconductor recording media or magnetic recording media is also included. A non-transitory recording medium includes any recording medium except for transient propagation signals (transitory, propagating signals), and volatile recording media are not excluded. Furthermore, in a configuration in which a distribution device distributes a program via a communication network, the recording medium that stores the program in the distribution device corresponds to the non-transitory recording medium described above.

[0094] (14) The notation "the kth" (where k is a natural number) in this application is used solely as a formal and convenient label to distinguish each element in notation and has no substantive meaning whatsoever. Therefore, there is no room for restrictive interpretation of the position or manufacturing order of each element based on the notation "the kth".

[0095] D: Addendum From the forms exemplified above, the following configuration can be understood, for example.

[0096] A game system according to one aspect of the present disclosure (Aspect 1) includes a game control unit that changes the state of at least one of a plurality of options to a special state when a predetermined condition is met during the progress of the game, a first lottery unit that performs a first lottery to select one of the plurality of options, and when the option in the special state is selected from the plurality of options by the first lottery The second drawThe game control unit comprises a second lottery unit for execution, and when the number of options in the special state is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the game control unit sets some of the two or more options in the special state among the multiple options to an advantageous state. In the above embodiment, when a predetermined condition is met, the number of options in the special state among the multiple options increases. This provides the player with an incentive to continue the game with the aim of increasing the number of options in the special state. The "predetermined condition" is a condition that may occur depending on the progress of the game. For example, the conditions that are "predetermined conditions" include the selection of an option other than an option in the special state among the multiple options in the first lottery, the granting of the right to transition an option to the special state (i.e., the right to transition an option to the special state) as a reward for the lottery result, and the achievement of events that occur sequentially in the game. The "special state" is the state of an option that is the condition for executing the second lottery. That is, the second lottery is executed on the condition that an option with a special condition is selected. The "advantageous state" is a state that is advantageous to the player who aims to acquire a reward. For example, a "favorable state" can be described as a state in which the amount of reward corresponding to a favorable choice increases, or a state in which the number of types of rewards corresponding to a favorable choice increases.

[0097] In a specific example of Embodiment 1 (Embodiment 2), the system further comprises a reward granting unit that grants the player a reward corresponding to the win / loss in the second draw performed by the second drawing unit, wherein the reward amount for the second draw performed when the special state option set to the advantageous state is selected by the first draw exceeds the reward amount for the second draw performed when the special state option not set to the advantageous state is selected by the first draw. In the above embodiment, the reward amount for the second draw performed when the special state option set to the advantageous state is selected by the first draw exceeds the reward amount for the second draw performed when the special state option not set to the advantageous state is selected by the first draw. According to the above embodiment, the player expects that the special state option set to the advantageous state will be selected in the first draw from among multiple options. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly engaging game in which the player expects to select the option set to the advantageous state from among multiple options. Note that "win / lose" refers to different results determined by the second draw. For example, in the second draw, either a win or a loss is determined by the draw. However, the second lottery is not limited to a lottery where either a winner or loser is selected. For example, if one of several prizes is selected by lottery, the selection of a specific prize from among the multiple prizes may be interpreted as a "win," and the selection of any other prize may be interpreted as a "loss." A "reward" is the price for progressing in the game. A reward is something that is beneficial to the player, for example, in terms of game progression or in the real world. A reward may be, for example, a value medium usable in the game (e.g., in-game currency), an item used in the game, or the right to trigger an event that gives the player an advantage in the game. Rewards may be given to the player directly or indirectly. For example, if a reward is given as a value medium, the reward may be given by increasing the quantity of value medium held by the player. Also, if a tangible object corresponding to the value medium is released onto the game field, and as a result the player's reward increases, this constitutes an indirect granting of a reward.

[0098] In a specific example of Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 (Embodiment 3), the game control unit sets a number of the special state options corresponding to the number of special state options to the advantageous state. In the above embodiments, the more special state options there are, the more options are set to the advantageous state. Therefore, the player is given an incentive to continue playing the game with the aim of increasing the number of special state options.

[0099] In any specific example of Embodiments 1 to 3 (Embodiment 4), the predetermined condition includes the selection of an option other than the option in the special state from among the multiple options by the first draw. In the above embodiment, if the option in the special state is not selected in the first draw, the state of at least one of the multiple options is changed to the special state. That is, the probability of selecting an option in the special state in the next first draw increases. Therefore, even if the option in the special state is not selected in the first draw, an incentive to continue the game can be given to the player.

[0100] In any specific example of Embodiments 1 to 4 (Embodiment 5), the system further comprises an item granting unit that grants one of a plurality of items to the player, wherein the predetermined condition includes that the item granted to the player from among the plurality of items is an item that has the effect of transitioning the state of an option other than the option in the special state to the special state. In the above embodiments, the player may be granted an item that has the effect of transitioning the state of an option other than the option in the special state to the special state. According to the above embodiments, the player expects an increase in the number of options in the special state. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly entertaining game in which the player expects an increase in the number of options in the special state.

[0101] In any specific example of Embodiments 1 to 5 (Embodiment 6), the state of each of the multiple choices transitions to the special state through multiple stages with each selection in the first draw. In the above embodiments, each choice changes stepwise to the special state with each selection in the first draw. Therefore, the player can grasp the process of the number of special state choices increasing among the multiple choices. As can be understood from the above explanation, choices among the multiple choices that have not yet reached the special state change stepwise when selected in the first draw, and finally change to the special state, thereby increasing the number of special state choices among the multiple choices.

[0102] In any specific example of Embodiments 1 to 6 (Embodiment 7), when the option in the special state is selected from the multiple options by the first draw, the state of each of the multiple options transitions to the initial state. In the above embodiments, when an option in the special state is selected in the first draw, the state of the option transitions from the special state to the initial state. Therefore, an incentive can be given to the player to continue the game in order to increase the number of options in the special state. Note that the "initial state" is the initial state immediately after the start of the game. In other words, the transition of the state of an option to the initial state means that the state of the option returns to the state it was in immediately after the start of the game.

[0103] In any specific example of Embodiments 1 to 7 (Embodiment 8), the system further comprises an attribute lottery unit that performs an attribute lottery to select one of a plurality of attributes, the state of the plurality of choices is stored in a memory device for each of the plurality of attributes, the first lottery is a process of selecting one of the plurality of choices stored in the state for the attribute selected by the attribute lottery, and the second lottery performed by the second lottery unit is a lottery process corresponding to the attribute selected by the attribute lottery from a plurality of lottery processes corresponding to different attributes. In the above embodiment, the first lottery and the second lottery are managed individually for each attribute. Therefore, a variety of game developments can be realized according to the result of the attribute lottery. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1...Station, 2...Control device, 3...Storage device, 11...Display device, 12...Operation panel, 13...Game device, 14a...Lottery device, 14b...Lottery device, 15...Supply device, 20...Attribute lottery unit, 21...Preliminary lottery unit, 22...Game control unit, 23...Special lottery unit, 24...Reward granting unit, 25...Event control unit, 100...Game system, 110...Lottery image, 110s...Selection lottery image, 111...Selection Option, 112...Instruction image, 113...Gauge, 120...Operating device, 121...Reception device, 122...Dispensing device, 130...Fixed table, 131...Movable table, 132...Input device, 133...Fixed wall, 134...Lottery hole, A...Attribute, B...Special ball, Ba...Lottery ball, Bb...Lottery ball, G...Physical medal, H...Lottery hole of lottery device, Ig...Status image, U...Central unit, Un...Lottery unit.

Claims

1. A game control unit that, when a predetermined condition is met during the game's progression, changes the state of at least one of multiple options to a special state, A first lottery unit that performs a first lottery to select one of the aforementioned multiple options, A second lottery unit that executes a second lottery when the option for the special state is selected from the plurality of options in the first lottery, It is equipped with, The game control unit, when the number of options in the special state is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, sets two or more of the options in the special state to an advantageous state. Game system.

2. The system further comprises a reward granting unit that grants rewards to players corresponding to the winning / losing result in the second lottery performed by the second lottery unit, The reward amount for the second lottery, which is performed when the option of the special state set to the advantageous state is selected by the first lottery, is greater than the reward amount for the second lottery, which is performed when the option of the special state not set to the advantageous state is selected by the first lottery. The game system according to claim 1.

3. The game control unit sets a number of the special state options corresponding to the number of special state options to the advantageous state. The game system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The predetermined conditions include the selection of an option other than the option for the special state from among the plurality of options by the first lottery. The game system according to claim 1.

5. It further comprises an item distribution unit that grants one of several items to the player, The predetermined conditions include the fact that the item assigned to the player among the plurality of items is an item that has the effect of transitioning the state of an option other than the option in the special state among the plurality of options to the special state. The game system according to claim 1.

6. Each of the aforementioned multiple options transitions to the special state through multiple stages after each selection in the first lottery. The game system according to claim 1.

7. When the option in the special state is selected from the aforementioned multiple options by the first lottery, the state of each of the aforementioned multiple options transitions to the initial state. The game system according to claim 1.

8. The system further comprises an attribute lottery unit that performs an attribute lottery to select one of several attributes, The states of the aforementioned multiple options are stored in a memory device for each of the aforementioned multiple attributes. The first lottery is a process of selecting one of the multiple options stored in the state for the attribute selected by the attribute lottery, The second lottery performed by the second lottery unit is a lottery process corresponding to the attribute selected by the attribute lottery from among a plurality of lottery processes corresponding to different attributes. The game system according to claim 1.

Images