JPH11197295A - Slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine which can reduce a player's operational burden by eliminating the need for wasteful operations relating to a game while taking the skill of the player into account. SOLUTION: In this slot machine 1, the result of display is displayed when a player presses stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R before a predetermined variable display time has elapsed since the start of operation of a variable display device; when the variable display time has elapsed without the pressing of the stopping buttons 9L, 9C, 9R, the result of display is automatically displayed, and, each time the player presses a stop timer switching button 73, the variable display time is changed into a shorter-than-normal time and a normal time alternately, and this change is indicated by the turning on of a stop timer shortening lamp 75 and a stop-timer normal lamp 74.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a slot machine, and more particularly, to a slot machine having a variable display device whose display state can be changed, and one game being terminated when a display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed. The present invention also relates to a slot machine capable of providing a player with a predetermined game value when a display result of the variable display device has a predetermined specific display mode.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A slot machine of this type, which is generally known, has a variable display device whose display state can be changed, and a display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed. There is a slot machine that can give a predetermined game value to a player when one game ends and a display result of the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display mode.

This type of conventional slot machine is provided with a stop button which is an example of derivation display operation means by which a player can perform an operation of deriving and displaying a display result on a variable display device. The display result of the variable display device is configured to be derived and displayed based on the timing of button operation. By operating the stop button, the display result of the variable display device can reflect the player's will,
The player can enjoy the so-called "pushing". Therefore, it can be said that the stop button is an indispensable button as a means for improving the gaming interest of the slot machine.

[0004]

By the way, in a slot machine, it is rare that the display result is expected to be a so-called off-state from the display state before the final display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed. Absent. However, even in such a case, in order to play the next game, it is necessary to end the game expected to be lost, and it is necessary to operate the stop button. In this case, the stop button is operated only for the purpose of terminating the game, and the operation is troublesome for the player, and does not fulfill the original purpose of the stop button.

In order to eliminate such inconvenience, for example,
It is conceivable to provide a selection button capable of selecting whether the variable display of the variable display device is automatically stopped or stopped based on a manual operation of the stop button. However, for example, even if the selection button is operated before the game is started and the manual operation is set to be valid, if a display state is expected to be lost during the game, In order to automatically stop, it is necessary to operate the selection button again, and although the operation of the stop button is not required, the operation of the player is still required. Conversely, if you want to manually stop the variable display on the variable display device during the game with automatic stop enabled initially, you must operate the select button during the game, The inconvenience of not being able to concentrate on

In order to solve the above problem, the display result of the variable display device is automatically derived and displayed when a predetermined time has elapsed without operating the stop button from the start of the variable display of the variable display device. It can be considered that With this configuration, the player can derive and display the display result of the variable display device at a desired timing by operating the stop button, and can enjoy the eye-catching. If the expected display state is reached, if the game is left without operating the stop button, the variable display is automatically terminated after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the next game can be performed. It is.

However, in the above configuration, the player cannot stop the variable display at his or her desired timing unless the player operates the stop button within the predetermined time. It is necessary to set the time so that the stop button can be operated with a sufficient margin to perform the operation. That said, if the predetermined time is set too long, for example, despite the fact that the variable display device is expected to result in a deviation, the player is automatically waiting for the automatic variable stop. The game does not end easily, which makes the player frustrated. Therefore, in the above configuration,
It is necessary to set the predetermined time so as to meet the needs of the player.

[0008] However, the time required for the player to perform the eye-catching depends on the player's playing skill.
The time required for a skilled person and a beginner is different. Therefore, if the predetermined time is set on the basis of a skilled person, the beginner cannot enjoy the eye-catching with sufficient time. The game will not be able to proceed quickly due to automatic digestion.

The present invention has been conceived in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to reduce the operation burden on a player by eliminating unnecessary operations related to the game while considering the game skill of the player. Is to provide a simple slot machine.

[0010]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a variable display device whose display state can be changed, and one game is ended when a display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed. A slot machine that can provide a player with a predetermined game value when a display result of the variable display device has a predetermined specific display mode, wherein the player has a display on the variable display device. Derived display operation means capable of performing an operation of deriving and displaying a result, and timing of operation of the derived display operation means performed until a predetermined variable display time elapses after the variable display device is variably started. The display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed based on the variable display device, and when a predetermined variable display time has elapsed without operating the derived display operation means from the start of variable display of the variable display device, the variable display device is displayed. Variable display control means capable of automatically deriving and displaying a display result, change operation means capable of performing an operation of changing the length of the variable display time by a player, and operation of the change operation means And a time setting means capable of setting the variable display time based on the time.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the first aspect of the invention, the time setting means is configured to operate based on an operation of the change operation means before the variable display device starts changing. The variable display time is set.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the first aspect of the invention, the change operation means includes a predetermined first time as the variable display time and a time corresponding to the first time. And the second time is also short, and the time setting means forcibly sets the variable display on condition that a predetermined condition that the game state is advantageous to the player is satisfied. It is characterized in that it is possible to perform a forced setting control for setting a time to the first time.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the third aspect, when the display result of the variable display device becomes a predetermined special display mode, the game state is changed. The time setting means may perform the compulsory setting control on condition that a special game state advantageous to a player is established and a predetermined condition for a display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is satisfied. It is characterized by being possible.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the third aspect, when the display result of the variable display device becomes a predetermined special display mode, the game state is changed. The time setting means sets the compulsory setting control on the condition that a special gaming state advantageous to the player is obtained and a reach state satisfying a condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is displayed. Can be performed.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the fourth or fifth aspect of the invention, the time setting means sets the compulsory condition on condition that the special game state ends. The setting control is ended.

[0016]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it becomes possible for a player to perform an operation for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device by the function of the derivation display operation means.
By the function of the variable display control means, the display result of the variable display device is displayed based on the operation timing of the derived display operation means performed until a predetermined variable display time elapses after the variable display device starts variably. The display result is automatically derived and displayed when a predetermined variable display time elapses without operating the derived display operation means from the start of the variable display device's variable operation. The operation of the change operation means enables the player to change the length of the variable display time, and the function of the time setting means sets the variable display time based on the operation of the change operation means. .

According to the second aspect of the present invention, in addition to the operation of the first aspect of the present invention, by the operation of the time setting means, the player can preliminarily change the variable display device before the variable display device starts to change. If the change operation means is operated, the variable display time is set based on the operation.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, in addition to the operation of the first aspect, the player operates the change operation means to set the variable display time to a predetermined first time. The time setting means can select and operate either the time or the second time shorter than the first time, provided that a predetermined condition that the game state is advantageous to the player is satisfied. , The forced setting control for forcibly setting the variable display time to the first time is performed.

According to the present invention described in claim 4, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 3, the slot machine has a special display mode in which the display result of the variable display device is predetermined. In the case, the game state becomes a special game state advantageous to the player, on the condition that a predetermined condition for the display result of the variable display device to be the special display mode is satisfied,
The forced setting control is performed by the operation of the time setting means.

According to the present invention described in claim 5, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 3, the slot machine has a special display mode in which the display result of the variable display device is predetermined. In the case, the game state becomes a special game state advantageous to the player, and the time setting means is provided on condition that a reach state satisfying a condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is displayed. , The forced setting control is performed.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the operation of the fourth or fifth aspect of the present invention, the function of the time setting means is provided on condition that the special game state ends. Thereby, the forced setting control ends, and the setting of the variable display time returns to the setting content before the start of the forced setting control.

[0022]

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an overall front view of a slot machine 1 as an example of a slot machine according to the present invention. At a predetermined location on the front side of the slot machine 1, a display window 71 is provided. Inside this display window 71,
A left variable display unit 5L, a middle variable display unit 5C, and a right variable display unit 5R for allowing a player to visually recognize identification information such as a symbol variably displayed by the variable display device 70 (see FIG. 2) are provided. The left variable display section 5L and the middle variable display section 5
C, the right variable display section 5R is configured to be able to variably display symbols in three upper and lower stages.

When the player plays a game, the player inserts a coin, which is an example of a value object, from the coin insertion slot 18 when the insertion instruction lamp 19 is lit or blinking. The insertion instruction lamp 19 turns off when three coins are inserted. However, in a regular bonus game to be described later (hereinafter, simply referred to as a bonus game), the light is turned off when one coin is inserted. When one or more coins are inserted, the start lamp 72 is turned on, thereby indicating that the start lever 12 is in a start state in which the start lever 12 can be pressed.

When the player inserts a coin and presses the start lever 12 with the start lamp 72 turned on, the variable display device 70 is variably started, and a plurality of types of variable display units 5L, 5C, and 5R are provided. Is variably displayed. Next, the player determines that each stop button 9L (also called left stop button), 9C (also called middle stop button), 9R
When a depressing operation (also referred to as a right stop button) is performed, the variable display of each corresponding variable display section 5L, 5C, 5R is stopped. When the player does not press the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R, the variable display sections 5L, 5L, 5L,
C and 5R automatically and sequentially stop in the priority order of, for example, 5L, 5C and 5R. Therefore, in the case where it is expected that the game result will be a loss result from the stop result of some of the variable display units, the variable based on the predetermined stop timer can be performed without depressing the stop button 9R or the like. Since the variable display of all the variable display units is automatically terminated when the display time elapses, it is possible to prevent the player from imposing an extra game operation burden.

The stop timer switching button 73 is a button provided for the player to select a variable display time when automatically terminating the variable display. By pressing the stop timer switching button 73, the setting of the stop timer inside the slot machine 1 is switched, and the variable display time at the time of automatic stop is changed from a predetermined normal time to
It will be changed to a shorter short time. The short time is, for example, 5 seconds. If the stop timer switching button 73 is pressed when the stop timer is already set to the short time, the stop timer switches from the short time to the normal time. Lighting of the stop timer normal lamp 74 or the stop timer reduction lamp 75 indicates which time the stop timer is set. Note that a state in which the stop timer is set to the normal time is called a normal mode, and a state in which the stop timer is set to a short time is called a shortened mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the stop timer can be changed to a short time shorter than the normal time by the operation of the player, so that it is possible to respond to the request of the player who wants to speed up the game. Further, since the stop timer can be set in advance by operating the stop timer switching button 73 before the start of the game, it is possible to concentrate on the game content while the game is in progress.

In particular, for a skilled player who is skilled in the technique of pushing a slot machine, the stop timer switching button 73
, The stop timer can be set to the short time, and the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R can be manually pressed during the short time, and the result is displayed during the variable display. If it is determined that the game is lost, the variable display automatically ends relatively quickly after the short time has elapsed without the need to operate the stop button, so that the next game can be played promptly. on the other hand,
For beginners who are unfamiliar with the game, it is possible to operate the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R with sufficient time to manually press them satisfactorily by setting the stop timer to the normal time. If the result is found to be incorrect during the display, a considerable amount of variable display time has already passed since it is a beginner, and again, without having to operate the stop button, the automatic Then, the variable display ends, and the next game can be played.

This slot machine 1 has a normal game (coin game) in which coins are inserted to play a game,
It is also possible to play a credit game using credits described later. In the case of a coin game, if the player inserts one coin from the coin insertion slot 18 and presses the start lever 12, the effective horizontal lines (one line in the middle row in the variable display portions 5L, 5C, and 5R) Hit line) is valid. When the symbol displayed when the variable display device 70 is stopped has a predetermined specific display mode on this one line of middle horizontal lines, a predetermined game value such as payout of a predetermined number of coins is obtained. It will be in a state where it can be given. In particular, when the display mode is set to a predetermined special display mode, coins are paid out and a big bonus game or a bonus game described later is started.

On the other hand, if the player presses the start lever 12 with two coins inserted into the coin slot 18, three horizontal lines of effective lines in the variable display portions 5L, 5C and 5R become effective, and When the display result when the display device 70 is stopped becomes a predetermined specific display mode on any of the three effective lines,
It becomes a state in which a predetermined game value can be given.

Further, if the player presses the start lever 12 with three coins inserted into the coin insertion slot 18, three horizontal rows and two diagonally diagonal rows in the variable display portions 5L, 5C, and 5R can be obtained. When a total of five activated lines are activated, and a predetermined specific display mode is established on any one of the five activated lines, a predetermined game value can be given.

That is, if the player inserts one coin and presses the start lever 12, the game becomes a so-called one-bet game, one activated line is activated, and two coins are inserted. When the start lever 12 is pressed, the game becomes a so-called two-betting game, three activated lines are activated, three coins are inserted, and the start button 1 is pressed.
Pressing 2 will be a so-called 3 betting game 5
All active lines of the book are valid.

The relationship between the number of inserted coins and the number of active lines in this case is an example,
The relationship is not limited to the above. Also, an example has been described in which the number of valid lines with respect to the number of inserted coins is fixedly determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the number of valid lines with respect to the number of inserted coins may be determined by lottery. Such a lottery may be performed for each game or may be performed for each predetermined number of games. Also,
The maximum value of the number of active lines may be changed, for example, between 1 and 5 by lottery. If the relationship between the number of inserted coins and the number of activated lines is changed in this manner, the contents of the game can be varied and the interest of the player can be improved.

Next, the credit game will be described.
In the credit game, coins are inserted in advance and accumulated in the slot machine 1 or the like as a valuable value, or coins given as prizes are accumulated in the slot machine 1 or the like as a valuable value and coins are inserted one by one. This is a game in which a game is played without using the value stored in advance. The player can switch from the normal game to the credit game by pressing the game switching button 16 once, and can switch from the credit game to the normal coin game by pressing the game switching button 16 again. it can. In the case of a credit game, the value of a total of 50 coins can be stored in advance, and when the credit operation button 14 as an example of the bet number input operation means is pressed once, the above-described single bet can be performed. When the credit operation button 14 is pressed twice, the above-mentioned two-bet game is performed, and when the credit operation button is pressed three times, the above-described three-bet game is performed. In addition,
A credit operation button is provided for each number of bets, and a single bet game is performed by pressing the single bet credit operation button, and a two-bet game is performed by pressing the double bet credit operation button. Becomes
It may be configured such that a game of three bets can be performed by pressing a credit operation button for three bets.

Next, the relationship between the operation of the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R and the operation of the slot machine 1, and the occurrence of reach will be described. If the stop button 9L, 9C, 9R is pressed after the variable display is started on the variable display device 70, the reel corresponding to the button is stopped. 11L,
Reference numerals 11C and 11R denote a left operation enable lamp, a middle operation enable lamp, and a right operation enable lamp, respectively, which are lit or flashing to indicate that the corresponding stop buttons 9L, 9C and 9R can be effectively pressed. Then, the light is turned off in response to the pressing operation of the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R. The order in which the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R are pressed is indefinite, and can be arbitrarily selected by the player. For example, when the left stop button 9L is first pressed, the left operation enable lamp 11L is turned off, and the variable display unit 5L stops.

Next, when the middle stop button 9C is pressed, the middle operation valid lamp 11C turns off and the variable display section 5C stops. If the same symbol is stopped and displayed on both variable display portions at the stage when the left variable display portion 5L and the middle variable display portion 5C are stopped, the reach is established. In particular, when the reach is established in a symbol that generates a game state advantageous to the player such as a big bonus game or a bonus game described later, the game mode is forcibly set to the normal mode, and the stop timer is set to the normal time. . In addition, the stop timer normal lamp 74 is lit or a speaker or the like is notified of this. As a result, the player can recognize that the current game state is in a serious game state (a reach state in which a bonus game or the like may occur) that greatly affects the subsequent game state, and It is possible to carefully perform the pressing in a serious game state during the normal time which is longer than the short time by one's own operation. This forced control is switched back to the original setting after the display result is derived. This allows the player to play the game again in the game mode that matches his or her will.

Further, if the stop button 9R is pressed within the time of the stop timer while the left variable display section 5L and the middle variable display section 5C are stopped, the right operation valid lamp 11R is turned off and the variable display section 5R is turned off. Stops, and the final display result is derived and displayed.

In the figure, reference numerals 21 to 23 denote valid line display lamps, and only the valid line display lamps corresponding to the valid lines which become valid in accordance with the bet amount described above are turned on or flashing.
It is configured such that the player can recognize which activated line is activated. In the figure, reference numeral 25 denotes a game number display, which is configured to display the value of a big bonus game counter or a bonus game counter, which will be described later, and to switch and display the number of the currently executed big bonus game or the bonus game. I have. Reference numeral 26 denotes a credit display, which displays the number of coins as a stored value during a credit game. Reference numeral 27 denotes a number-of-payouts display for displaying the number of coins to be awarded when a prize is established.
In the case of a coin game, if a prize is won, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of coins is paid out to the coin payout exit 2.
From 9, the number of coins paid out to the coin storage plate 30 and given within a range not exceeding the storage upper limit (50) is stored in the case of a credit game. If the storage exceeds the upper limit (50), coins exceeding the upper limit are paid out to the coin storage tray 30.

A front panel 2 is provided below the display window 71 on the front side of the slot machine 1. A predetermined key is inserted into the locking device 3 and the front panel 2 is rotated clockwise to operate the front panel 2. 2 is released, and the front panel 2 can be opened. Further, when a big bonus game described later is ended, the game cannot be re-started unless a reset operation is performed, and the reset operation is performed by inserting a predetermined key into the lock device 3 and It is performed by operating in the circumferential direction. The operation of the locking device 3 in the counterclockwise direction is detected by the reset switch 4, and the slot machine 1 is reset based on the detection output, so that the game can be played again. Note that, instead of the configuration in which the reset is performed by a manual operation, the configuration may be such that the reset is performed automatically (auto reset). In addition, a speaker 28 for generating a sound effect at the time of a prize, a big bonus game, a bonus game, or generating an alarm sound at an abnormal time, and the like.
Are provided on the back side of the coin storage tray 30. A plurality of gaming effect lamps 24 are provided above the display window 71 on the front side of the slot machine 1, and are lit or blinked when a big bonus game or a bonus game occurs. In the figure, reference numeral 20 denotes a game over lamp, which is lit or flashed when the slot machine is stopped (game over).

FIG. 2 is an overall rear view showing a partial internal structure of the slot machine. The variable display device 70 has a plurality (three in the drawing) of reels 6L, 6C, and 6R. On each reel 6L, 6C, 6R,
Reel drive motors 7L, 7 composed of stepping motors
C, 7R are provided, and the respective reels 6L, 6C are driven by respective reel drive motors 7L, 7C, 7R.
C and 6R are configured to rotate and stop. On the outer periphery of each of the reels 6L, 6C, 6R, identification information composed of a plurality of types of symbols is drawn. The identification information drawn on the outer periphery of the reel is displayed on the variable display units 5L, 5L.
It is configured to be variably displayed on C and 5R. In the figure, reference numeral 76 denotes a stop timer switch for detecting a pressing operation of the stop timer switch button 73 (see FIG. 1). The variable display time is switched from the normal time to the short time and from the short time to the normal time based on detection of the pressing operation of the stop timer switching button 73 (see FIG. 1) by the stop timer switch 76. 8L, 8C and 8R in the figure are reel position detection sensors,
This is for detecting the reference position of each reel. Each reel 6
Each time L to 6R makes one rotation, the reference position is detected by the reel position detection sensors 8L, 8C, 8R, and a detection output is derived. When the player presses the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R, the operation is stopped switches 10L, 1L.
It is detected by OC and 10R. When the player presses the game switching button 16, the operation is detected by the game switching switch 17. Player has start lever 12
Is pressed by the start switch 13. When the player presses the credit operation button 14, the operation is detected by the credit switch 15 as an example of the bet number input detecting means (the bet number input operation detecting means). When a key operation using a specific key possessed by the manager of the game hall or the like is performed, the key switch 43 detects the key operation, and in that state, the probability setting switch 44 is activated, and the manager of the game hall or the like. By operating the activated probability setting switch, the winning probability can be changed and set.

If the coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 18 is a proper coin, it is guided to the coin receiving path 35 side, and the coin is taken into the coin storage tank 37 and stored. The inserted coin path 36 is provided with a inserted coin sensor 36 as an example of a bet amount input detecting means, and coins passing through the coin input path 35 are detected by the inserted coin sensor 36. On the other hand, if more than three coins are inserted during a coin game,
Or 50 credits during a credit game
, The flow path switching solenoid 33 (FIG. 3)
Is excited, the flow path is switched, and coins inserted thereafter are returned through a return path (not shown).

A coin payout motor 38 is provided below the coin hopper 37. When the coin payout motor 38 rotates, the coins in the coin hopper 37 can be transferred from the coin payout opening 29 to the coin storage tray. 30
Is discharged into The discharged coin is detected by the payout coin sensor 39, and a predetermined number (for example, 15)
When the coins to be paid out are detected, the coin payout motor 38
Is controlled to stop. In the case of a credit game, if the number of coins stored as credit points exceeds the upper limit of the number of stored coins (for example, 50), the excess coins are paid out into the coin storage tray 30 by the coin payout motor 38. Is done. In the figure, a control unit 45 controls the slot machine, and includes a microcomputer and the like.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control circuit used in the slot machine 1. The control circuit includes a control unit (including a microcomputer) 4 as a control center.
5 is included. The control unit 45 has a function of controlling the operation of the slot machine 1 as described below. Control unit 45
Is constituted by, for example, an LSI of several chips, in which a CPU 46 capable of executing a control operation in a predetermined procedure and an operation program of the CPU 46 are stored.
It includes an OM 47 and a RAM 48 in which necessary data can be written and read. Further, an I / O port 4 for ensuring signal consistency between the CPU 46 and an external circuit.
9, an initial reset circuit 51 for giving a reset pulse to the CPU 46 when the power is turned on, a clock generation circuit 52 for giving a clock signal to the CPU 46, and a frequency division of the clock signal from the clock generation circuit 52 to periodically generate an interrupt pulse. It includes a pulse frequency dividing circuit (interrupt pulse generating circuit) 53 to be provided to the CPU 46, and an address decoding circuit 54 for decoding address data from the CPU 46.

The CPU 46 can execute the operation of the interrupt control routine in accordance with the interrupt pulse periodically given from the pulse dividing circuit 53. The address decode circuit 54 decodes address data from the CPU 46, and stores the data in the ROM 47, the RAM 48, the I / O port 4
9. A chip select signal is given to the sound generator 50, respectively.

In this embodiment, the programmable ROM 47 is used as the ROM 47 so that the contents thereof can be rewritten, that is, the program for the CPU 46 stored therein can be changed when necessary. ing. Then, the CPU 46 provides control signals to the above-described reel drive motor, various display lamps, and the like according to a program stored in the ROM 47 and in response to input of each control signal described below.

First, the operation of the stop timer changeover button 73 is detected by the stop timer changeover switch 76, and the operation signal is transmitted via the switch / sensor circuit 55 to the I / O port 49.
Given to. When the probability setting switch 44 is operated by a game arcade manager or the like, the operation signal is given to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. When the key switch 43 is operated by a predetermined key, the operation signal is transmitted to the switch / sensor circuit 5.
5 to the I / O port 49. With this key switch, switching between the game mode and the probability setting mode is performed, and only when in the probability setting mode,
The input of the probability setting switch 44 is received. When the reset switch 4 is operated by a predetermined key, the operation signal is input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. The pressing operation of the game switching button 16 is detected by the game switching switch 17, and the detection signal is input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. The operation of the credit operation button 14 is detected by the credit switch 15, and the detection output is output to the I / O port 49
Is input to The pressing operation of the start lever 12 is detected by the start switch 13, and the detection output is input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. The respective detection signals of the left stop button 9L, the middle stop button 9C, and the right stop button 9R are applied to the left stop switch 1
0L, a middle stop switch 10C, and a right stop switch 10R are detected, and respective detection signals are input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. The coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 18 is detected by the inserted coin sensor 36, and the detection output is input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. When a coin is paid out by the coin payout motor 38 (see FIG. 2), the payout coin is detected by the payout coin sensor 39, and the detection output is input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. Is done. When the surplus coin storage tank 41 becomes full with the stored coins, the fact is detected by the full tank sensor 42, and the detection output is input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55. If the reels 6L, 6C, 6R rotate and the reference values (notches or the like are formed) of the respective reels are detected by the left, middle, and right reel position sensors 8L, 8C, 8R, respective detection signals are output. Is input to the I / O port 49 via the switch / sensor circuit 55.

The control section 45 outputs a control signal to the following various devices. First, through the motor circuit 56, left, middle,
A reel drive control signal (step signal for a stepping motor) is output to each of the right reel drive motors 7L, 7C, and 7R. A coin payout control signal is output to the coin payout motor 38 via the motor circuit 57. A solenoid excitation control signal is output to the flow path switching solenoid 33 via the solenoid circuit 58. A display control signal is output to the number-of-games display 25, the credit display 26, and the number-of-payouts display 27 via the LED circuit 59. Through the lamp circuit 60, the game effect lamp 24, the insertion instruction lamp 19, the effective line display lamps 21, 22, 23, the left operation effective lamp 11L, the middle operation effective lamp 11C, the right operation effective lamp 11R, the game over lamp 20, the start A lamp control signal is output to the lamp 72, the stop timer normal lamp 74, and the stop timer reduction lamp 75, respectively.
A sound generation control signal is output to the speaker 28 via the sound generator 50 and the amplifier 61. Note that a predetermined DC current is supplied from the power supply circuit 62 to the various devices and control circuits described above. The RAM 48 is configured to be supplied with a current for storing data from the backup power supply 63. Even if the current is not supplied from the power supply circuit 62 due to a power outage, the probability set value and the game state are set. For a predetermined period.

FIG. 4 is a development view showing symbols (symbol marks) as identification information drawn on the outer periphery of each of the reel 6L (left reel), reel 6C (middle reel), and reel 6R (right reel). . Numerals shown on the left side of FIG. 4 are symbol numbers, “7”, “BAR”, “watermelon”, “cherry”, and “7” corresponding to each symbol number of “0” to “20”.
Twenty-one symbols including symbols such as "JAC" are drawn on the outer periphery of each reel. 4 is a diagram showing a symbol drawn on the outer periphery of the left reel 6L, “middle” is a diagram showing a symbol drawn on the outer periphery of the middle reel 6C, and “right” is a right symbol. It is the figure which showed the symbol drawn on the outer periphery of the reel 6R.

If the display result when the variable display device 70 is stopped becomes, for example, "BAR, BAR, BAR" on the activated line which is validated according to the bet amount, 15 coins are paid out and the game state is changed. A first special game state advantageous to the player is set. In the first special game state, up to 12
Games are bonus games. In the bonus game, the active line is forcibly limited to only one horizontal row in the middle of the variable display section, and the winning symbol is limited to "JAC".
However, in the bonus game, an extremely high probability (for example, 1/1.
(Approximately 5), and a winning is generated (the “JAC” assortment is stopped and displayed on the variable display device 70. Hereinafter, JA)
Also called C prize. ) Can be expected, and 15 coins are paid out when a prize is generated. This first special game state continues until a maximum of 12 bonus games are completed. However, if a prize occurs eight times before the number of bonus games reaches twelve, the bonus game of that time ends. . Therefore, the player can obtain a maximum of eight prize opportunities during the first special gaming state.

On the other hand, “77
If "7" is reached, 15 coins are paid out and the gaming state becomes the second special gaming state advantageous to the player. In the second special game state, the subsequent games, for example, up to 30 times are the big bonus games. In each big bonus game, "JAC, JAC, JAC, JAC, JAC"
AC ”is available. When the “JAC” assortment is stopped and displayed in the big bonus as described above, the gaming state becomes the first special gaming state, and a maximum of 12 bonus games are provided. Then, after the end of the first special game state, the state returns to the second special game state again, and the next big bonus game is provided. For example, in the first big bonus game after the second special game state, "JA"
C, JAC, JAC ", the gaming state becomes the first special gaming state, the bonus game is provided up to 12 times, and then the game returns to the second special gaming state again. Games are offered. In this way, the game state becomes the second special game state until the maximum of 30 big bonus games are completed. However, before the big bonus game reaches 30 times, "JAC, JA"
C, JAC ”has been won three times and the game status is three.
If the first special game state is entered, the second special game state ends in the current big bonus game.
Accordingly, the player can play the bonus game up to 12 times × 3 = 36 times in the second special game state period, that is, between the start of the provision of the big bonus game and the end of the provision thereof, of which the maximum is eight. JAC winning in the bonus game can be obtained only 24 times 3 times.

When the game state is a normal state other than the first or second special game state, "7", "BA"
When the same symbols other than "R" are aligned on the active pay line, a small win is established. When a combination of the small wins is realized on one active line, the small win is achieved. A predetermined number of sheets (for example,
(15, 8, 4) coins are awarded to the player.
The "cherry" symbol drawn on each of the reels 6L, 6C and 6R is a mark called a single symbol, and when this single symbol is stopped and displayed on one valid line, two symbols are displayed. Coins are awarded to the player. In the case where there are a plurality of activated lines corresponding to the number of bets and the combination of the symbols for paying out coins is simultaneously established on the plurality of activated lines, the combination of the symbols on each activated line is used. In principle, coins corresponding to the total number of coins to be provided are provided. However, since the upper limit of the number of coins to be awarded in one game is determined to be fifteen, if the number of coins exceeds fifteen, the sixteenth and subsequent coins become invalid.

FIGS. 5 to 16 are flow charts for explaining the operation of the control circuit shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an interrupt program for the random counter updating process. The interrupt program shown in FIG. 5 is performed based on a pulse signal periodically input from the above-described pulse dividing circuit 53, and is executed, for example, once every 4 msec. First, in step S (hereinafter simply referred to as S) 1, a process of adding and updating the value R of the random counter by a predetermined number N is performed. Next, the process proceeds to S2, in which it is determined whether or not the value R of the random counter has become equal to or more than a predetermined maximum value. If the value R has not yet reached the maximum value, the process proceeds to S4, and one game is completed. A determination is made as to whether the This one game is ended when the variable display device stops when no coins are paid out as a result of display when the variable display device is stopped. Ends. If one game has not ended, the interrupt program ends as it is, and waits for the next interrupt. On the other hand, when the value R of the random counter is equal to or more than the maximum value, the process proceeds to S3, and after the process of subtracting and updating the value R of the random counter by the maximum value is performed, the process proceeds to S4. Next, if the current interrupt program is executed at the timing when one game is completed, a YES determination is made in S4, the process proceeds to S5, and the value N to be added and updated in S1 is changed based on the value R of the random counter. Processing is performed. The addition number N is selected from a plurality of types of prime numbers set in advance and one of the prime numbers whose quotient is not an integer when the maximum value is divided by the prime number, and is changed by S5. By setting the number of additions N in this way, the value R of the random counter becomes a state in which all values can be taken uniformly. In addition, every time one game is over, the addition number N is changed to another prime number by S5, so that the value R of the random counter becomes a random value. When making a decision, there is an advantage that a random decision can be made.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are flowcharts showing the game start processing. First, it is determined in S6 whether or not the game is over. This game over is set at S151 described later when the game state returns to the normal state from the second special game state after the maximum 30 bonus games have been completed, and the game is over. In this case, the process proceeds to S7, and it is determined whether or not a reset operation has been performed. Then, it waits until there is a reset operation. In this state, if the locking device 3 (see FIG. 1) is rotated counterclockwise by a predetermined key to perform a reset operation, a YES determination is made in S7 and the process proceeds to S7A, and after the game over is released, S8 is performed. Proceed to. On the other hand, if the game is not over, S6
Is determined as NO, and the process proceeds directly to S8. In S8, a process of controlling the above-described flow path switching solenoid 33 to switch the flow path of the inserted coin to the take-in side is performed.

Next, in S8A, it is determined whether or not the stop timer switching button (reel stop timer reduction button) 73 has been operated. If the operation of the stop timer switch button 73 has not been detected by the stop timer switch switch 76, the process proceeds to S9 described below.
Proceeding to 8B, it is determined whether the current mode is the compact mode. In the case of the abbreviated mode, the normal mode is set in S8D, and when the mode is not the abbreviated mode (that is, the normal mode), the mode is set in S8C.

Next, the process proceeds to S9, where it is determined whether or not a game switching operation has been performed. If there is no game switching operation, the process proceeds to S15. However, if the player presses the game switching button 16, the process proceeds to S10, and it is determined whether or not the current mode is the credit game mode. If not, a process of setting the credit game mode is performed in S11. On the other hand, if the credit game mode is already set, the process proceeds to S12, where a process for setting the coin game mode is performed, and the process proceeds to S13 to determine whether or not the credit counter is “0”. The credit counter is used to count and store the number of coins awarded as a prize in the credit game and the number of coins inserted by the player, and are incremented by "1" in S35 and S141 described later. In addition to the addition and updating, the subtraction is updated by "1" in steps S31 and S141 described later. If the credit counter is "0", the process proceeds to S15. If the credit counter is "1" or more, the process proceeds to S14, where one coin is paid out and the credit counter is decremented by "1".
Return to The process of S14 is repeated until the credit counter becomes “0”, and the payout of the number of coins corresponding to the count value of the credit counter is controlled. In other words, when the player switches to the coin game mode in the credit game mode, the number of coins corresponding to the value of the credit counter added and stored in the credit game is changed by the player. Since it is necessary to pay out to the side, payout control is performed in S14. On the other hand, if the player presses the game switching button in the coin game mode at the present time, the process proceeds to S11, and the credit game mode is set.

Then, the program proceeds to S15, in which it is determined whether or not a start operation has been performed. If the start lever 12 (see FIG. 1) has not yet been pressed, the process proceeds to S16, in which the input number counter is set to "3". A determination is made whether there is. The number-of-insertion counter is used to count the number of coins inserted by the player from the coin insertion slot 18 or the number of times the player has pressed the credit operation button 14 during the credit game when playing one game, and This is for setting the number of bets to be bet on the game result, and is incremented and updated by "1" in S32 described later, and is cleared at step S8 at the start of the next game, although not shown. The bet amount is input and set in accordance with the count value of the insertion number counter. When the bet number, that is, the count value of the insertion number counter is “1”, an effective line that is valid is set to one line in a horizontal row. When the count value is “2”, the number of valid lines is set to three in three horizontal rows, and when the count value is “3”, the number of valid lines is three in horizontal three rows and two in diagonal lines, for a total of five lines. Is set. The upper limit of the count value of this insertion number counter is set to “3”. If the count value of the insertion number counter has not reached the upper limit “3” in S16, the process proceeds to S17,
It is determined whether the bonus game flag is set. The bonus game flag is set when the bonus game is actually started based on the display result when the variable display device is stopped in steps S126 and S133.
, And is cleared in S145 when the bonus game is over. If the bonus game flag has not been set, S2
The process proceeds to S2, but if it is set, the process proceeds to S18,
It is determined whether or not the number-of-inputs counter is “0”. If the counter is “0”, the process proceeds to S22, and if it is “1” or more, the process proceeds to S19. That is, in the case of the bonus game, only one active line of the combination of the variable display devices is valid in the horizontal line as described above, so that only one betting game is permitted. Is "1"
Is controlled so as not to exceed the value. S19
Then, it is determined whether or not the game mode is the credit game mode. If the game mode is not the credit game mode, the process proceeds to S21, in which the coin flow path is switched to the return side and the coins inserted thereafter are returned. Is performed, and the process proceeds to S15. On the other hand, if it is in the credit game mode, the process proceeds to S20, where it is determined whether or not the credit counter has already reached its upper limit value of "50". Since the credit counter cannot be updated any more, S
Proceeding to 21, a process of returning the inserted coin is performed.

At S22, it is determined whether or not a coin has been inserted. If so, the process proceeds to S23, where it is determined whether or not the inserted number counter has already reached its upper limit of "3". If it is already "3", the process proceeds to S35, where a process of adding "1" to the credit counter is performed, and the process returns to S15. On the other hand, if the counter to be inserted is not "3", the process proceeds to S24, where it is determined whether or not the bonus game flag is set. If the bonus game flag is not set, the process proceeds to S32. Since there is still room in the count value of the input number counter, a process of adding "1" to the count value is performed. If the bonus game flag has been set, the process proceeds to S25, and it is determined whether or not the insertion number counter is "0". In the case of the bonus game, since the upper limit value of the insertion number counter is “1” as described above, if the insertion number counter is “1”, S
The process proceeds to step S35, where a process of adding "1", which is the number of coins inserted into the credit counter, is performed. Next, the process proceeds to S33, in which a process of retrieving and storing the value R of the random counter updated and added according to the above-described random counter updating process is performed. Next, proceed to S34,
A process of turning on the activated line and setting the expected payout number and the payout number to “0” is performed, and the process returns to S15. When the value of the input number counter is "1", the activated line is turned on by an activated line display lamp 21 for displaying one activated line in a horizontal row in the middle of the variable display units 5L, 5C, and 5R. Only when the number-of-inputs counter is "2", an effective line display lamp 21 for displaying three horizontal lines of effective lines,
22 is turned on, and when the input number counter is "3", an effective line display lamp for displaying a total of five effective lines of three horizontal rows and two diagonally diagonal lines in the variable display units 5L, 5C, and 5R. All of 21 to 23 are lighted and displayed.
Further, the expected payout number is the number of coins to be paid out to the player according to the type of the winning when the winning is determined based on the display result at the time of stopping the variable display device, and the payout number is , The number of coins actually paid out based on the winning.

Next, if it is determined in S22 that no coin has been inserted, the flow advances to S26 to determine whether or not the credit counter is "0". If not, the flow advances to S27. The process proceeds to determine whether or not a credit operation has been performed.
Return to 5. On the other hand, if the credit counter is "0", the process directly returns to S15 without making a determination in S27. This is because when the credit counter is "0", no matter how much the player performs the credit operation by pressing the credit operation button 14, the game using the count value of the credit counter can be performed. This is because it is useless to determine whether or not a credit operation has been performed. Next, if a credit operation has been performed, the process proceeds to S28, where it is determined whether or not the number-of-insertions counter has reached "3". Ignore the operation and return to S15. On the other hand, if it is not "3", the flow proceeds to S29, and it is determined whether or not the bonus game flag is set. If the bonus game flag is set, the flow proceeds to S30, and the insertion number counter is set. Is determined to be “0”, and when the insertion number counter is “1”, which is the upper limit in the bonus game, the credit operation is ignored and the process returns to S15. On the other hand, the input number counter is "0"
In the case of or the bonus game flag is not set, the process proceeds to S31, and the credit counter is set to “1”.
After the subtraction update, the process proceeds to S32, and a process of adding "1" to the number-of-insertion counter is performed.

As described above, every time a player inserts a coin from the coin insertion slot 18 in order to input and set the bet amount to bet on the game result in one game, the random value R of the random counter is set at S33 up to three times. Is read and stored. On the other hand, the random value R of the random counter is read out and stored in S33 up to three times each time the player presses the credit operation button 14 to set and input the bet amount in the credit game. Therefore, in the case of one bet, the random value R is stored only once, and in the case of two bets, the random value R is stored twice.
Is stored, and in the case of three bets, the random value R is stored three times.

Next, if the player presses the start lever 12, YES is determined in S15 and S36.
Then, it is determined whether or not the number-of-inputs counter is "0". If the value is "0", the process proceeds to S16. Control to switch the inserted coin flow path to the return side, and shift to subsequent reel rotation control. As a result of the process in S37, coins inserted thereafter are returned to the coin storage tray 30.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing a program for reel rotation processing. First, 1
A determination is made as to whether the game timer has expired. The one game timer is for measuring a minimum time (for example, 4.1 seconds) that must elapse from the start of one game to the end thereof.
Set by S39. Note that the time set in one game timer may be changed according to the bet amount, and when the bet amount is one bet and two bets, a shorter time than in the case of three bets may be set. . If one game timer has expired, the process proceeds to S39, where one game timer is newly set, an operation invalidation timer is set, and rotation of all reels is started. As described above, the operation invalidation timer is a timer for measuring a time period during which the operation is invalidated even when the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R are operated. Next, the process proceeds to S40, in which it is determined whether the bonus game flag is set. If the bonus game flag is not set, the process proceeds to S43, and it is determined whether the big bonus game flag is set. Is performed, and if the big bonus game flag is not set, the process proceeds to S46. In S46, a process of performing a predetermined operation using the stored random value R of the random counter is performed. As described above, the random value R of the random counter is one value in the case of one bet, but has two values in the case of two bets, and three values in the case of three bets. Has a value. Therefore, 1
In the case of a single bet, a predetermined calculation is performed using the one value. In the case of a double bet, a predetermined calculation is performed using the two values, and in the case of a three bet, 3 is calculated. A predetermined operation is performed using the two values. The predetermined operation is an operation of adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing the random values R, or substituting the random values R into a predetermined function to calculate an answer. Therefore, the larger the number of random values R of the random counter is, that is, two bets than one bet.
S4 for 3 bets rather than 2 or 2 bets
The value of the calculation result by 6 becomes a random value. Next, S4
7, a process of comparing the calculation result with the determination value of each winning is performed. The judgment value of each winning is a judgment value of big bonus game winning, a judgment value of bonus game winning,
There are three types of judgment values for small role winning. In addition, the determination value of each winning is stored in the form of a table in the ROM 47 so that the larger the number of bets, the easier the winning is. Is the easiest to win, and in the case of three bets, it is easier to win at least three times than in the case of one bet. Further, the judgment value of the big bonus winning and the judgment value of the bonus winning are constant irrespective of the gaming state, and are changed only by the setting change by the probability setting switch. On the other hand, the determination value of the small win is changed according to the gaming state, but is not changed by the setting change by the probability setting switch. Next, the process proceeds to S48, where it is determined whether or not the big bonus winning flag or the bonus winning flag is set. If not, the process proceeds to S49, and the comparison result of S47 is the big bonus winning determination value. In this case, the process proceeds to S50, the big bonus winning flag is set, and the process proceeds to S53.
On the other hand, if the comparison result in S47 is the bonus winning determination value, the process proceeds to S52, and after the bonus winning flag is set, the process proceeds to S53.

The big bonus winning flag indicates that the result of the variable display started in S39 indicates that the big bonus game will be generated unless the player pushes the game very poorly.
7 "is a flag that is guaranteed with certain certainty. Therefore, even if the big bonus winning flag is set, the display result is not necessarily “77”.
7 ". The same applies to the bonus winning flag. Just because the bonus winning flag is set does not necessarily mean that the displayed result is "BAR".

In S53, a process for setting the small winning combination determination value to the value at the time of returning the same size is performed, and thereafter, the process proceeds to S56. If the small win determination value is set to the value at the same time return, the number of the determination values slightly increases from the normal small win determination value, and as a result, there is a possibility that the small win occurs. Get higher. Thereby, even when the display result for the start of the big bonus game or the display result for the start of the bonus game does not continue repeatedly when the variable display device is stopped, a large number of small roles are generated and coins held by the player are reduced. The state without increasing or decreasing is maintained.

Next, if the result of the comparison in S47 is the small winning determination value, a YES determination is made in S54 and S
The program proceeds to S55, in which the small win flag is set, and the program proceeds to S56. On the other hand, if it is neither the big bonus win determination value nor the bonus win determination value nor the small role win determination value, a NO determination is made in S54 and the process proceeds to S56. Since there are a plurality of types of small wins as described above, there are also a plurality of small win determination values in S54 accordingly.

Next, if the bonus game flag has been set, a judgment of YES is made in S40 and S4
The process proceeds to 1 to determine whether or not the bonus game counter has reached the JAC winning allowable value. S12 to be described later
6. As shown in S133, the maximum number of bonus games is 12
8 times out of the 12 bonus games
The control is performed so that the symbol of AC becomes a JAC winning in which the symbols are aligned on the activated line. If this JAC prize is won, 15 coins are paid out. Also, the maximum number of bonus games is 12
If the JAC winning occurs eight times before reaching the twelve times, the bonus game ends at that time. The number of the bonus game in which the JAC winning occurs is determined randomly and in advance in S126 and S133. Then, it is determined in S41 whether or not the bonus game being played this time is the bonus game determined to generate the JAC prize, and the bonus determined to generate the JAC prize is determined in S41. If it is a game, proceed to S42, JA
The C winning flag is set, otherwise, S56
Proceed to.

On the other hand, if the bonus game flag has not been set, the process proceeds to S43, where it is determined whether or not the big bonus game has been set. If the big bonus game has been set, the process proceeds to S44.
In S44, it is determined whether or not the big bonus game counter is at the start of the bonus game.
The big bonus game is repeated up to 30 times, as shown in S131 described later, and the gaming state in which the big bonus is being executed is the second special gaming state.
Then, the display result of the variable display device 70 becomes "JAC" at the maximum three times out of the maximum 30 games, the game state shifts to the first special game state, and a maximum of 12 bonus games are counted. Only 3 units occur. Eventually, when all of the third unit bonus games are completed, all the big bonus games are completed and the second special game state is completed.
The number of the big bonus game in which the bonus game occurs is determined in advance and randomly in S131. Then, in S44, the number of times of the currently executed big bonus game is the maximum number of bonus games 12
A determination is made as to whether or not the bonus game is to be started as a unit. If the bonus game is to be started, the JAC winning flag is set in S45. Been S
The process proceeds to 56, but otherwise proceeds to S54. Although not shown, at the stage of proceeding from S44 to S54, the same processing as S46 and S47 is performed.

Next, in S56, it is determined whether or not the operation invalidation timer has expired, and the process stands by until the operation is terminated. The time set in the operation invalidation timer is from S40 to
This is a time (for example, 1 second) longer than the time required to perform the processing of S55. When the operation invalidation timer expires, the process proceeds to S57, in which the reel stop timer is set, and control for turning on the operation effective lamps 11L, 11C, 11R (see FIG. 1) is performed. The reel stop timer is a timer for measuring a predetermined time and automatically stopping the reel when the player does not operate the stop buttons 9L to 9R at all.

Next, the program proceeds to S58A, where it is determined whether or not all the reels have stopped. If all the reels have stopped, it is determined in S58B whether or not the temporary switching flag is set. The temporary switching flag is a flag that is set when the game mode is forcibly switched from the shortening mode to the normal mode, and is described later in FIG.
Is a flag set by In the slot machine 1, for example, a big bonus symbol (for example, "7") or a bonus symbol (for example, "BA
R "or" JAC "in the big bonus game), if the game mode is set to the shortened mode when the reach is established, the game mode is forcibly switched to the normal mode, and the variable display result is derived and displayed. After that, it is configured to switch back to the original shortening mode. In such a configuration, the temporary switching flag is used to determine whether it is necessary to switch back to the original shortening mode.

If the temporary switching flag is not set, there is no need to switch the game mode, and the processing shifts to the winning determination processing described later with reference to FIG. If the temporary switching flag is set, it means that the game mode has been forcibly switched from the shortening mode to the normal mode. Therefore, after stopping all reels (S58A), it is necessary to switch back to the original mode. In S58C, the game mode is set to the shortening mode. Thereafter, after the temporary switching flag is cleared in S58D, the process proceeds to a winning determination process described later.

On the other hand, if all the reels are not stopped in S58A, the process proceeds to S58E, and it is determined whether or not two reels are stopped. If the two reels are stopped, the process proceeds to S58F, where it is determined whether or not a big bonus symbol or a reach arrangement of bonus symbols (so-called reach) is on the activated line. The process proceeds to S59 to be described later, but when reach is established, a reel stop timer temporary switching process is executed in S58G to forcibly set the game mode to the normal mode. The details of the reel stop timer temporary switching process will be described later with reference to FIG. After the reel stop timer temporary switching process ends, the process proceeds to S59 described later.

If the two reels are not stopped in S58E, the flow advances to S58H to determine whether all reels are rotating. If all the reels are not rotating, the process proceeds to S59 described later, but if all the reels are rotating,
In S58I, it is determined whether the big bonus winning flag or the bonus winning flag is set. Each winning flag is determined based on the random value R as shown in FIG.
50, a flag set in S52. If none of the winning flags are set, the process proceeds to S59 described later.
If at least one of the winning flags is set, the process proceeds to S58, where the counter value of the predetermined counter for determining whether to forcefully switch the game mode to the normal mode is 0. Is determined. The counter used here is, for example, 0, 1, 2
Is a counter for repeatedly updating the counter value in the range of the counter value, and is configured in the RAM 48 (see FIG. 3). If the counter value is not 0, the process proceeds to S59 described later, but if the counter value is 0, the reel stop timer temporary switching process (described later with reference to FIG. 14) is executed in S58K to force the game mode to the normal mode. Is done. That is, when at least one of the big bonus winning flag and the bonus winning flag is set, the reel stop timer temporary switching process is executed with a probability of 1/3. I have. Of course, instead of this, when S58J is deleted and at least one of the big bonus winning flag and the bonus winning flag is set, the reel stop timer temporary switching process is always executed. It may be configured as follows. However, by configuring such that the reel stop timer temporary switching process is not executed according to the counter value as in this embodiment, it is possible to add surprisingness to the game and improve the interest in the game.

In this embodiment, when at least one of the big bonus winning flag and the bonus winning flag is not set, the reel stop timer temporary switching process is not executed. However, even if neither of the two winning flags is set and the variable display result is determined to be out of order, the reel stop timer temporary switching process is executed with a predetermined probability so as to be executed. You may comprise. For example, if NO is determined in S58I, S
A processing step (S58M) for determining whether or not a predetermined counter is 0 before the processing shift to 59 is added.
If the counter is 0 at 8M, the processing may shift to S58K. With such a configuration, it is also possible to impart unexpectedness to the game and improve the interest in the game.

Next, the flow proceeds to S59, and it is determined whether or not the reel stop timer has expired. If it is determined that the reel stop timer has expired, the process proceeds to S66, where the left reel 6L,
The stop flags of all the reels of the middle reel 6C and the right reel 6R are set, and the process proceeds to S67.

On the other hand, if the reel stop timer has not expired, the process proceeds to S60, where it is determined whether or not the left stop button 9L has been operated. Is determined,
If not, it is determined in S64 whether or not the right stop button 9R has been operated. If not, the flow proceeds to S67.

On the other hand, if the player presses the left stop button 9L, a determination of YES is made in S60 and the process proceeds to S61, in which the left reel stop flag is set and the left reel 6L is set.
Is controlled to stop. Next, if the player presses the middle stop button 9C, YES is determined in S62 and S6 is performed.
The program proceeds to 3, where the middle reel stop flag is set and the middle reel 6C is controlled to stop. If the player presses the right stop button 9R, YES is determined in S64 and S6 is performed.
The program proceeds to 5, where the right reel stop flag is set, and the right reel 6R is controlled to stop.

Next, the player operates the stop buttons 9L, 9C,
A case where two or more of the 9Rs are simultaneously pressed will be described.
For example, when the player sets the left stop button 9L and the middle stop button 9L
When C is pressed simultaneously, a determination of YES is made in S60, the process proceeds to S61, the left reel stop flag is set, the stop control of the left reel 6L is performed, and a determination of YES is made in S62, and the process proceeds to S63. Proceed,
The middle reel stop flag is set, and the stop of the middle reel 6C is controlled. Thus, even if the player presses a plurality of stop buttons at the same time, the reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is controlled to be stopped, and the stop operation of one of the buttons is invalidated. There is no inconvenience. The same applies to the case where three stop buttons 9L, 9C, and 9L are simultaneously pressed.

Next, in S67, it is determined whether or not the left reel stop flag is set. If not, in S71, it is determined whether or not the middle reel stop flag is set, and the flag is set. If not, it is determined in S75 whether or not the right reel stop flag has been set. If not, the flow returns to S58. If the left reel stop flag is set, the process proceeds to S68, where it is determined whether or not the left reel 6L is rotating. If the left reel 6L is rotating, S69 is performed.
After the reel stop control is performed, the process proceeds to S70,
The left reel stop flag is cleared. On the other hand, if the left reel 6L has already stopped, the determination of NO is made in S68, and the process directly proceeds to S70. Since the same processing as that of S67 to S70 described for the left reel is performed for the center reel and the right reel, the description is not repeated here. Next, when all the reels have stopped, S58
Is determined, the process proceeds to the winning determination process shown in FIG.

FIGS. 11 to 13 show S69, S73,
It is a flowchart which shows the specific content of the reel stop control defined by S77. First, in S79, a process of confirming the current symbol number is performed. As described above, there are 21 symbol numbers from 0 to 20, which are confirmed based on the number of feed steps of the reel drive motors (stepping motors) 7L to 7R and the reference position detection signals of the reel position sensors 8L, 8C, 8R. You. Next, in S80, it is determined whether or not the bonus game flag is set. If the bonus game flag is set, the process proceeds to S81, and it is determined whether or not the other two reels are stopped. The other two reels mean reels other than the reel for which the stop control is currently being performed. Then, if the other two reels have not stopped yet, the process proceeds to S88, and the control for stopping the JAC symbol within four symbols from the current symbol number confirmed in S79 on the activated line is activated. Done, S
Proceed to 116. In the case of a slot machine, a limited and very short time of about 0.2 seconds after the player presses the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R to prevent the stop control manner from becoming unnatural. The corresponding reel must be stopped within a predetermined time, and the rotation angle at which the reel can rotate within a very short predetermined time is about four symbols. Therefore, since it is impossible to stop-control a JAC symbol four or more symbols after the stop button is pressed on an effective activated line, it is determined in S88 that
If there is a JAC symbol within four symbols ahead, the JAC symbol is controlled to stop on the active line. In each reel, when the current symbol number is not a JAC symbol, the symbol array is configured such that the JAC symbol always exists within a range of four symbols ahead of the current symbol number. Next, the process proceeds to S116, where the operation valid lamps 11L, 11L
Control is performed to turn off the operation valid lamp corresponding to the stopped reel among C and 11R, and the process returns to any of S70, S74 or S78.

If the bonus game flag is set and the other two reels are stopped, the process proceeds to S82,
It is determined whether or not the JAC winning flag has been set. If the flag has been set, the process proceeds to S88, and if not, the process proceeds to S83. In S83, the JAC symbols within four symbols from the current symbol number are removed from the activated line and stopped.
Proceed to 116. In other words, since the JAC winning flag has not been set, the JA
It is not possible to establish a combination of C symbols, so JA
The C symbol is forcibly shifted and stopped from the activated effective line.

Next, if the bonus game flag has not been set, the process proceeds to S84, where it is determined whether or not the big bonus game flag has been set. Proceeding to S85, it is determined whether the JAC winning flag is set. If the JAC winning flag is set, the process proceeds to S86, and it is determined whether another reel is stopped. When the other reels are not stopped, the process proceeds to S88, and the JAC is executed in the same manner as described above.
Control is performed to stop the symbols on the activated lines that are activated. On the other hand, if the other reel is already stopped, the process proceeds to S87, and the JAC symbol within four symbols from the current symbol number is stopped on the activated line of the stopped reel JAC symbol, and the validity is determined. Stop control so that the combination of JAC symbols is established on the active line,
Then, the process proceeds to S116.

On the other hand, if the big bonus game flag has not been set or if the JAC winning flag has not been set, the flow advances to S89 to determine whether or not the big bonus winning flag has been set.
If the big bonus winning flag is set, the process proceeds to S90, where it is determined whether or not another reel is stopped. If the other reel is not yet stopped, S90 is performed.
The program proceeds to 91, where it is determined whether or not there is a big bonus symbol ("7" in the present embodiment) within four symbols from the current symbol number, and if so, the big bonus symbol is stopped on the activated line. Then, the process proceeds to S116. On the other hand, when there is no big bonus symbol within four symbol destinations from the current symbol number, the start of the big bonus game in the current game is abandoned and the process proceeds to S103. Even if the determination of NO is made in S91, since the big bonus winning flag is still set, the control for stopping the big bonus symbol on the activated line again in the next game is performed. An attempt is made and the attempt is repeatedly executed until the big bonus symbol actually stops on a valid active line.

Next, if it is determined in S90 that another reel is stopped, the flow advances to S93, and it is determined whether or not there is a big bonus symbol on the activated line. It is determined whether or not the big bonus symbol that can be stopped on the active line of the stopped big bonus symbol is within four symbols from the current symbol number, and if so, the process proceeds to S95, where the big bonus symbol is displayed. Control is performed to stop the stopped reel on the activated line of the big bonus symbol. On the other hand, if it is determined in S94 that the big bonus symbol that can be stopped on the active line of the stopped big bonus symbol is not within four symbols ahead, the current big bonus game is started in the same manner as described above. After giving up, the process proceeds to S103, and a stop control of the variable display device is attempted so that the big bonus game is started again in the next game.

If the big bonus winning flag is not set, the process proceeds to S96, and it is determined whether the bonus winning flag is set. If the bonus winning flag is set, the process proceeds to S97, A determination is made as to whether another reel is stopped. If the other reels are not stopped, the process proceeds to S98, and it is determined whether or not there is a bonus symbol ("BAR" in the present embodiment) within four symbols from the current symbol number. The process proceeds to S99, in which the bonus symbol is stopped on the activated pay line, and the process proceeds to S116. On the other hand, if it is determined in S98 that there is no bonus symbol, the process proceeds to S103. Next, if it is determined in S97 that another reel has already stopped, the process proceeds to S100.
Then, it is determined whether or not there is a bonus symbol on the activated line. If not, the process proceeds to S103. On the other hand, when there is a bonus symbol on the activated line, the process proceeds to S101, and it is determined whether or not the bonus symbol that can be stopped on the activated line of the stopped bonus symbol is within four symbols from the current symbol number. If not, the process proceeds to S103. If there is, the process proceeds to S102. Control is performed to stop the bonus symbol on the activated line of the bonus symbol of the stopped reel, and the process proceeds to S116. On the other hand, when it is determined in S96 that the bonus winning flag is not set, the process proceeds to S103, in which it is determined whether the small role winning flag is set, and it is determined that the small role winning flag is set. If so, the flow advances to S104 to determine whether or not another reel is stopped. If the other reel is not stopped, the flow advances to S108. S1
At 08, it is determined whether or not the small symbol corresponding to the type of the set small winning flag is within four symbols from the current symbol number. If not, the process proceeds to S110, where the reel is stopped immediately. To S116. On the other hand, S10
If it is determined that there is a small winning symbol by 8, S109
The control for stopping the small symbol on the activated line is performed, and the process proceeds to S116. Next, when the other reels are stopped, a determination of YES is made in S104 and the process proceeds to S105, and it is determined whether or not there is a small symbol on the activated line. In this case, the process proceeds to S106, and it is determined whether or not the small symbol that can be stopped on the activated line of the stopped small symbol is within four symbols from the current symbol number.
The process proceeds to step S111, and in some cases, the process proceeds to step S107, in which control is performed to stop the small symbol on the activated line of the small symbol of the stopped reel, and then proceeds to step S116.

If it is determined in S103 that the small win flag has not been set, the flow proceeds to S111. S1
At 11, it is determined whether or not the other two reels are stopped, and if not stopped, the process proceeds to S113, where it is determined whether the reel currently stopped is the left reel. If it is not the left reel, S11
4, the process proceeds to S116 (see FIG. 11) immediately after the stop control. If the reel is the left reel, the process proceeds to S115. After the stop control is performed so that the single symbol "Cherry" does not stop on the activated line, the process proceeds to S116. move on. That is, S13
Even if it is determined that the small win flag is not set to 0, if the single symbol “Cherry” is stopped on the activated line, the small win is established.
According to 5, the single symbol "cherry" is forcibly shifted and stopped so as not to stop on the activated line. At the stage where the other two reels are already stopped, the process proceeds to S11.
The determination of YES is made by 1 and the process proceeds to S112. After the stop control is performed so that none of the symbols are aligned on the activated line, the process proceeds to S116. If the small win flag is set, a process of clearing the small win flag at the end of one game is performed (see S152). Therefore, despite the fact that the small win flag is set, it is not possible to align small win symbols corresponding to the type of the small win flag in the active line due to the arrangement of reel symbols in the current game. In that case, the small role winning flag is cleared and the small role winning is invalidated, and the small role winning flag is taken over in the next game, and the small role symbol is aligned on the activated line in the next game No control is performed.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a program for a reel stop timer temporary switching process. First, S1
From 53, it is determined whether the current mode is the normal mode or the shortened mode. If the game mode is already the normal mode, the process ends because there is no need to switch the game mode. If the game mode is not the normal mode, the game mode is forcibly set to the shortening mode in S154, then the temporary switching flag is set in S155, and the process ends.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a program for the winning determination process. First, in S117, it is determined whether or not the bonus game flag is set. If not, the process proceeds to S123, in which it is determined whether or not the big bonus game flag is set, and the flag is not set. In this case, the process proceeds to S127, and it is determined whether or not a winning has been made on the activated line. If there is no winning on the activated line, the process proceeds to S128, where the expected payout number is set to “0”, and thereafter, the process proceeds to coin payout control shown in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined in S127 that there is a winning on the activated line, S1
Proceeding to 29, the activated line display lamp corresponding to the activated activated line is blinked. When a prize is generated on a plurality of activated lines, the activated line on which the prize is activated is blinked. Next, the process proceeds to S130, and it is determined whether or not the winning is a big bonus winning. If it is determined that the winning is not a big bonus, the process proceeds to S132, and it is determined whether or not the winning is a bonus. If it is determined that the winning is not a bonus, the winning is a small role. Proceeding to S134, the expected payout number according to the type of the winning small combination is calculated. Next, proceed to S135,
A determination is made as to whether or not the result of the calculation is greater than 15. If the calculated result is greater than 15, the process of setting the maximum payout number "15" to the expected payout number is performed in S137, and thereafter, the flow proceeds to coin payout control. On the other hand, if the calculation result is less than or equal to "15", the flow proceeds to S136, where the expected payout number is set to the value of the calculation result, and then the flow proceeds to coin payout control.

If it is determined in S130 that a big bonus has been won, the flow advances to S131 to set the small role winning determination value to the value at the time of the big bonus, set the big bonus game counter to "30", and set the bonus number counter to The process of setting to "3", clearing the big bonus winning flag, setting the expected payout number to "15", and setting the big bonus game flag is performed. Since the control for setting the small role winning determination value to the value at the time of the big bonus and greatly increasing the number of the small role winning determination values is performed,
The probability of winning the small role is greatly improved, and the control is performed so that the small role symbols are almost aligned during the big bonus game. Note that, during the big bonus game, a predetermined one of a plurality of types of small role winning flags may be set for each game without performing the determination of the small role winning. On the other hand, if it is determined in S132 that the winning is a bonus, the process proceeds to S133, the bonus game counter is set to “12”, and the JAC winning counter is set to “8”.
, The JAC winning pattern is determined, the bonus winning flag is cleared, the expected payout number is set to “15”, and the bonus game flag is set. The determination of the JAC winning pattern is, as described above, a process of randomly determining in advance in which of the bonus games to be performed a maximum of 12 times a JAC winning is to be generated.

Next, if the bonus game flag has been set, a YES determination is made in S117, and the flow advances to S118, in which the bonus game counter is decremented by "1". It is determined whether or not there is, and if not, the expected payout number is set to “0”, and the processing shifts to coin payout control. on the other hand,
If there is a JAC winning on the activated line, the process proceeds to S120, the expected payout number is set to "15", the JAC winning counter is decremented by "1", and an activated line indicating lamp corresponding to the activated activated line is determined in S121. After blinking, the flow shifts to coin payout control.

Next, if the big bonus game flag is set, the determination of YES is made in S123, and the process proceeds to S124, in which the big bonus game counter is decremented by "1", and the active line has a JAC winning in S125. A determination is made as to whether or not S127 is satisfied.
, But if there is, the process proceeds to S126. In S126, the bonus game counter is set to “12”, and J
The AC winning counter is set to “8”, the JAC winning pattern is determined, the bonus game flag is set, and the expected payout number is set to “0”. Thus, the S13
3 is a process performed when a bonus game is started in a normal game other than a big bonus game, and S126 is a process performed when a bonus game is established at the stage when the big bonus game is started. .

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a coin payout control program. First, in S138, it is determined whether or not the number of payouts has reached the expected number of payouts. If not, the process proceeds to S139, and it is determined whether or not the game is in the credit game mode. Proceeds to S142, pays out one coin, advances the payout number by "1", and returns to S138. On the other hand, if the credit game mode is set, the process proceeds to S140, and it is determined whether or not the credit counter has reached the upper limit value "50". If so, the process proceeds to S142 to pay out coins. If not, that is, if there is still room for storing the credit counter, the process proceeds to S141, in which the credit counter is incremented by "1", and the payout amount is incremented by "1" accordingly, and then S138. Return to This S138
Steps S142 to S142 are repeatedly executed until the number of payouts becomes equal to the expected number of payouts, and each time coins are paid out or added to the credit counter, the process proceeds to S143 when the number of payouts reaches the expected number of payouts.

In S143, it is determined whether or not the bonus game flag has been set. If the bonus game flag has not been set, the process proceeds to S152, and
The JAC winning flag is cleared, the small role winning flag is cleared, and the process returns to the game start processing shown in FIG. On the other hand, if the bonus game flag has been set, S14
Then, it is determined whether or not the JAC winning counter has reached "0". If not, the process proceeds to S152. If not, the process proceeds to S145, the bonus game counter is cleared, A process for clearing the game flag is performed. As described above, when the JAC winning counter reaches “0”, the bonus game flag is cleared and the bonus game ends. Next, the process proceeds to S146, where it is determined whether or not the big bonus game flag is set.
The program proceeds to S47, in which a process of returning the small win determination value to a normal value is performed, and then proceeds to S152. In other words, if the bonus game is over and if the big bonus game is not in progress at that stage, the game will be a normal game thereafter, and the control for returning the small role winning determination value to the low value in the normal game will be performed. . On the other hand, if it is determined in S146 that the big bonus game flag has been set, S
Go to 148, subtract “1” from the bonus counter,
Proceeding to S149, it is determined whether or not the bonus number counter is "0".
If the value is "0", the process proceeds to S150, in which the big bonus game counter is cleared, the big bonus game flag is cleared, and the small winning determination value is returned to a normal value. That is, the big bonus game ends when the bonus number counter reaches “0”. Next, the process proceeds to S151, and after the game over is set, the process proceeds to S152. Due to the setting of the game over in S151, a determination of YES is made in S6, and the game is not restarted unless a reset operation is performed.

Next, modifications and features of the embodiment described above will be enumerated below. (1) There is a variable display device whose display state can be changed with respect to the definition of reach. One game is ended by displaying and displaying the display result of the variable display device, and the display result of the variable display device is determined in advance. In a slot machine in which a predetermined game value can be given to a player when the specified display mode is reached, when a part of the display result has not yet been derived and displayed, the display already derived and displayed This refers to a display state in which the result satisfies the condition for the specific display mode. In other words, the reach is a game state when the display result of the variable display device having a plurality of variable display units whose display state can be changed is a predetermined combination of specific display modes. In a slot machine in which a specific gaming state is advantageous to a player, it is determined that the variable display mode has a variable display mode in which the combination of the specific display modes is easily displayed at a stage where the display result of the variable display device is not yet derived and displayed. Means a display mode that makes the user think. And, for example, the state in which the variable display is performed by the plurality of variable display units while maintaining the state in which the combinations of the specific display modes are aligned is also included in the reach.

(2) Without providing the stop timer switching button 73, the game mode may be automatically switched from the normal mode to the shortened mode and from the shortened mode to the normal mode according to the game situation. . Alternatively, the control unit 45 determines the pressing timing of the player's stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R for each game, finds out the game skill and habit of the player, and allows the player to perform the eyeing with a margin. A variable display time period in which the stop timer does not become too long may be calculated and appropriately set as the stop timer. Further, the stop timer switching button 73 may be provided on the back side of the slot machine 1 so that the player cannot operate the stop timer switching button 73, and only the gaming machine administrator can operate the stop timer switching button 73. Good.

(3) When the game mode is the shortening mode, the pressing operation of the stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R may be invalidated.

(4) A variable display time for notifying which of the first time and the second time the variable display time is set by the stop timer normal lamp 74 and the stop timer reduction lamp 75. Notification means is configured.

(5) In this embodiment, one of the normal time and the short time can be selected by the stop timer switching button 73. However, it is intended for beginners who are longer than the normal time. The long time may be selectable. Alternatively, the stop timer switching button 73 may be configured with a numeric keypad or the like so that the player can set the stop timer in a predetermined range, for example, in units of one second.

[0097]

Specific Example of Means for Solving the Problems The slot machine 1 has a variable display device whose display state can be changed,
When a display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed, one game ends, and when the display result of the variable display device has a predetermined specific display mode, a predetermined game value is given to the player. A possible slot machine is configured. The variable display device 70 constitutes a variable display device whose display state can be changed. When the display result of the variable display device 70 is a set of predetermined symbols, the predetermined specific display mode is configured. The predetermined game value is constituted by coins and credits.

Derivation display operation means which allows the player to perform an operation for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device is constituted by the respective stop buttons 9L, 9C, 9R.

The control unit 45 displays the display result of the variable display device based on the timing of the operation of the derived display operation means performed until the predetermined variable display time elapses after the variable display device is variably started. Control for automatically deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device when a predetermined variable display time has elapsed without operating the derivation display operation means from the start of the variable display device variable. Possible variable display control means are configured. The predetermined variable display time is constituted by the time set as the stop timer.

The stop timer switching button 73 constitutes changing operation means by which a player can perform an operation of changing the length of the variable display time. S8A, S8B, S8C, and S8D in the flowchart of FIG. 6 are time setting means capable of setting the variable display time based on the operation of the change operation means, wherein the change operation is performed before the variable display device starts changing. A time setting means for setting the variable display time based on the operation of the means is constituted.

The stop timer switching button 73 constitutes the change operation means capable of selecting and operating any one of a predetermined first time and a second time shorter than the first time as the variable display time. Have been. The first time is constituted by the normal time set as the timer time of the stop timer when the game mode is the normal mode, and is set as the timer time of the stop timer when the game mode is the shortened mode. The short time constitutes the second time.

S58F and S58 in the flowchart of FIG.
By G or S58I, S58J, S58K, forcible setting control for forcibly setting the variable display time to the first time is performed on condition that a predetermined condition that the game state is advantageous to the player is satisfied. The time setting means capable of setting the time is constituted. The predetermined condition is constituted by S58F or S58I.

When the display result of the variable display device 70 is "BAR" indicating the occurrence of a bonus game or "7" indicating the occurrence of a big bonus game, the predetermined value is determined in advance. The special display mode is configured. The above-mentioned first special game state in which a maximum of 12 games are a bonus game, or the above-mentioned second special game state in which a maximum of 30 games are a big bonus game, a special game state advantageous to the player. Is configured.

S58I and S58 in the flowchart of FIG.
J and S58K constitute the time setting means capable of performing the forced setting control on condition that a predetermined condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is satisfied. ing. By S58I,
A predetermined condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is configured.

S58F and S58 in the flowchart of FIG.
G, the time setting means capable of performing the forced setting control on condition that a reach state satisfying a condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is displayed. It is configured.

S58A and S58 in the flowchart of FIG.
B, S58C, and S58D constitute the time setting means for terminating the forced setting control on condition that the special game state ends.

[0107]

The effect of the concrete example of the means for solving the problems.
Regarding the above, if the player operates the deriving display operation means until the predetermined variable display time elapses from the start of variable display of the variable display device, the display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed based on the timing of the operation. On the other hand, when the predetermined variable display time has elapsed without operating the derived display operation means, the display result of the variable display device is automatically derived and displayed, so the player operates the derived display operation means. While the player can enjoy the game by reflecting his own intention on the display result of the variable display device, if the specific display mode is not expected to be in the middle of the variable display, the operation is automatically performed without any operation. It is possible to end the game. Furthermore, since the length of the variable display time can be changed by operating the change operation means, the timing for operating the derivation display operation means relatively quickly to derive and display the display result of the variable display device is provided. A skilled player or the like can shorten the variable display time and automatically and quickly end the game without any operation even when it is expected that the specific display mode will not be achieved during the variable display. It is possible to proceed the game quickly. On the other hand, a beginner who is unfamiliar with the operation of the derived display operation means can play the game with a margin by increasing the variable display time. As described above, it is possible to provide a slot machine capable of reducing the operation burden on the player by eliminating unnecessary operations related to the game while considering the amount of the game played by the player.

According to the second aspect, in addition to the effect of the first aspect, the player can set the variable display time by operating the change operation means in advance before the variable display device starts changing. To become, you can focus on the game during the game.

[0109] Regarding claim 3, in addition to the effect of claim 1, the player operates the change operation means to set the variable display time to a predetermined first time and shorter than the first time. Any one of the second time and the second time can be selected, but the variable display time is forcibly changed to the first time on condition that a predetermined condition that the game state is advantageous to the player is satisfied. Since the forced setting control to be set is performed, the player can be made aware that a predetermined condition in which the gaming state is advantageous to the player has been established, and the player has time to perform eye-catching and the like. be able to.

According to a fourth aspect, in addition to the effect of the third aspect, the forced setting control is performed on condition that a predetermined condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is satisfied. This allows the player to recognize that a predetermined condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode has been satisfied, and also allows the player to have enough time for eye-catching and the like. Can be given to.

According to the fifth aspect, in addition to the effect of the third aspect, on the condition that the reach state satisfying the condition for the display result of the variable display device to be in the special display mode is displayed. Since the forced setting control is performed, the player can be sufficiently made aware that the reach state has been displayed, and the player can have enough time for pushing and the like.

According to the sixth aspect, in addition to the effects of the fourth or fifth aspect, on the condition that the special game state ends, the forcible setting control ends, and the setting of the variable display time becomes forcible. In order to return to the setting contents before the start of the setting control, after the end of the special game state, the game can be advanced again in the variable display time desired by the player.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall front view showing a slot machine according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an overall rear view showing a partial internal structure of the slot machine.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control circuit used in the slot machine.

FIG. 4 is a development view showing a symbol drawn on the outer periphery of the reel.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an interrupt processing procedure of a random counter update processing;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of a game start processing.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of a game start processing.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a reel rotation process.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a reel rotation process.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of reel stop processing.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a reel stop process.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a reel stop process.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of reel stop processing.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a reel stop timer temporary switching process.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of a winning determination process.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a coin payout process.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 is a slot machine, 5L, 5C and 5R are variable display units,
6L, 6C, 6R are reels, 9L, 9C, 9R are stop buttons, 11L, 11C, 11R are operation valid lamps, 12
Is a start lever, 45 is a control unit, 70 is a variable display device, 73 is a stop timer switch button, 74 is a stop timer normal lamp, 75 is a stop timer reduction lamp, and 76 is a stop timer switch.

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A variable display device whose display state can be changed, a game is ended by displaying and displaying a display result of the variable display device, and a display result of the variable display device is determined in advance. A slot machine capable of giving a predetermined game value to a player when a specific display mode is set, wherein a derived display that allows the player to perform an operation of deriving and displaying a display result of the variable display device Operating means, and derives and displays the display result of the variable display device based on the timing of the operation of the derived display operation means performed until a predetermined variable display time elapses after the variable display device is variably started. A control that automatically derives and displays the display result of the variable display device when a predetermined variable display time elapses without operating the derived display operation means from the start of variable display device operation. Variable display control means, change operation means by which a player can perform an operation of changing the length of the variable display time, and time during which the variable display time can be set based on the operation of the change operation means. A slot machine comprising: setting means. 2. The slot according to claim 1, wherein the time setting means sets the variable display time based on an operation of the change operation means before the variable display device starts changing. Machine. 3. The change operation means is capable of selecting and operating one of a predetermined first time and a second time shorter than the first time as the variable display time. The setting means is capable of forcibly performing a forced setting control for forcibly setting the variable display time to the first time on condition that a predetermined condition that the game state is advantageous to the player is satisfied. The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein: 4. A game state becomes a special game state advantageous to a player when a display result of the variable display device becomes a predetermined special display mode, and a display result of the variable display device becomes the special game state. 4. The slot machine according to claim 3, wherein the time setting means can perform the forcible setting control on condition that a predetermined condition for achieving the display mode is satisfied. 5. A game state becomes a special game state advantageous to a player when a display result of the variable display device becomes a predetermined special display mode, and a display result of the variable display device becomes the special game state. 4. The slot machine according to claim 3, wherein the time setting unit can perform the forced setting control on condition that a reach state satisfying a condition for a display mode is displayed. . 6. The slot machine according to claim 4, wherein the time setting means ends the forced setting control on condition that the special game state ends.