JP2014083363A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

There is provided a gaming machine capable of stopping a specific symbol of each reel at a display position when a certain time has elapsed since the start of rotation of the reel.
When a start lever 18 is operated, the number of frames between the position of the symbol “7” at that time and the middle position of the reel window 8 is acquired. Then, based on the number of frames, the symbol “7” stops at the middle position of the reel window 8 when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R. The number of constant speed rotation steps for rotating the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C and right reel 4R at a constant speed, and the number of low speed rotation steps for rotating the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R at a lower speed than the constant speed. And are calculated. Then, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is controlled based on the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a slot machine.

  For example, in a slot machine, when a start lever is operated after a medal is inserted or a bet is operated by operating a bet button, three reels arranged side by side start to rotate all at once. A plurality of types of symbols are drawn on the peripheral surface of each reel. In addition, a plurality of winning combinations are set, and an internal lottery regarding the winning combinations is performed when the start lever is operated. When a reel stop button provided in association with each reel is operated, the reel corresponding to the operated reel stop button stops. When a combination of symbols corresponding to any combination is arranged on the winning line when all the reels are stopped, the combination is awarded, and depending on the combination, a predetermined number of medals are paid out. The above is one game of the slot machine.

  Some slot machines perform so-called reel effects. The reel effect is an effect produced by the main board controlling the rotation of each reel. In the reel production, for example, after the rotation of the reel is stopped until the operation of the reel stop button is made effective, the rotation of the reel is temporarily stopped, and after a specific stop appearance (arrangement of symbols) appears, Reel rotation is resumed. With the appearance of a specific stop event, for example, winning of a BB (Big Bonus) combination in the internal lottery is announced. For this reason, the reel effect can give the player an unexpected surprise and a sense of expectation for winning the BB role.

  In parallel with the reel effect, the effect of the reel effect can be enhanced by performing the sub effect such as the display of the effect image on the liquid crystal display and the output of the sound effect from the speaker. it can. For the purpose of preventing fraud, the ROM mounted on the main board has a limited capacity that can be used for the program code, so the control of each part for sub-production is connected to the main board so as to be communicable Performed by sub-board.

JP 2012-95966 A

  However, in order to prevent fraud, communication in only one direction from the main board to the sub board is possible between the main board and the sub board, and communication from the sub board to the main board is prohibited. For this reason, the main board cannot accurately grasp the progress of the sub effect by the control of the sub board. Therefore, in order to synchronize the reel effect and the sub effect, the reel effect and the sub effect must be started and ended simultaneously.

  However, the stop appearance before the start of reel rotation is not fixed, and in order to make a specific stop appearance appear in a certain time regardless of the stop appearance, considerable ingenuity is required for controlling the rotation of the reel. It is.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of stopping a specific symbol of each reel at a display position when a certain time has elapsed from the start of rotation of the reel.

  The present invention will be described below. In order to facilitate understanding of the invention, reference numerals and the like in the accompanying drawings are appended in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to the display form.

  In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine (1) according to one aspect of the present invention provides a specific symbol so that one symbol is arranged at a predetermined display position for each movement of one frame on the peripheral surface. A plurality of included symbols are provided for each of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) arranged on the peripheral surface and the reels (4L, 4C, 4R), and the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are rotated. A drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) that generates a driving force for starting, a start instruction member (18) operated to instruct the start of rotation of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R), and the reel ( 4L, 4C, 4R), the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) based on the number of frames between the position of the specific symbol and the display position when the start instruction member (18) is operated. ) When a certain time has elapsed since the start of rotation A first time during which the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are rotated at a first speed so that the symbol is stopped at the display position, and the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are driven at a first speed lower than the first speed. Based on the time calculation means (31) for calculating the second time for rotation at two speeds, the operation of the start instruction member (18), and the first time and the second time calculated by the time calculation means (31). Reel effect means (31) for executing a reel effect to stop the specific symbol of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) at the display position by controlling the drive of each drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) Including.

  According to this configuration, when the start instructing member (18) is operated, the drive sources (51L, 51C, 51R) are driven and rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is started. A plurality of symbols including specific symbols are arranged on the peripheral surface of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R), and one symbol is arranged at a predetermined display position for each movement of the frame on the peripheral surface. The

  When the start instruction member (18) is operated, the number of frames between the position of the specific symbol and the display position at that time is acquired. Then, based on the number of frames, the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are placed on the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) so that the specific symbol stops at the display position when a certain time has elapsed from the start of the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R). A first time for rotating at one speed and a second time for rotating the reel (4L, 4C, 4R) at a second speed lower than the first speed are calculated. Based on the first time and the second time, the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is controlled.

  By this control, the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are rotated at the first speed for the first time, and are rotated at the second speed for the second time. As a result, the rotation of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) stops when a certain time has elapsed from the start of the rotation of the reel (4L, 4C, 4R), and each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) is specified. The symbol can be stopped at the display position.

  Since the time from the start of rotation of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) until the specific symbol is stopped at the display position is constant, the rotation of the reel (4L, 4C, 4R) is controlled by the main board. The display and sound control accompanying the effect (reel effect) due to the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is executed by the sub board, and the direction from the main board (31) to the sub board (32, 33) In the configuration in which only communication is allowed, the control by the main board (31) and the control by the sub-boards (32, 33) can be well synchronized. As a result, the production by the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) can be effectively raised by the sub production by display and / or sound.

  For each reel (4L, 4C, 4R), the reel (4L, 4C, 4R) rotates at the first speed for the first time, and then the reel (4L, 4C, 4R) rotates at the second speed for the second time. Thus, it is preferable that the drive of each drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) is controlled.

  In this way, the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are rotated at a relatively low second speed after being rotated at a relatively high first speed, and thus the normal reels (4L, 4C, 4R) that are not effects are produced. ), It is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable with the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) for production.

  Further, in response to the operation of the start instructing member (18), the drive of each drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) is controlled so that the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) start to rotate all at once. Is preferred.

  By this control, the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is started and stopped all at once, so that it is possible to give the player a clear impression of the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R).

  After each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) stops when a certain time has elapsed from the start of rotation, each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) rotates again, and the peripheral surface of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) The drive of each drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) may be controlled so that the predetermined number of frames moves.

  By moving the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) once after stopping, the player can be surprised. As a result, the interest of reel production can be increased.

  In the gaming machine (1) according to another aspect of the present invention, a plurality of symbols including specific symbols are arranged on the circumferential surface so that one symbol is arranged at a predetermined display position for every movement of one frame on the circumferential surface. Reels (4L, 4C, 4R), a drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) for generating a driving force for rotating the reels (4L, 4C, 4R), and the reels (4L, 4C) , 4R), the start instruction member (18) operated to instruct the start of rotation, and the position of the specific symbol and the display position at the time when the start instruction member (18) is operated. Based on the number of frames, the reel (4L, 4C, 4R) is moved so that the specific symbol stops at the display position when a certain time has elapsed from the start of rotation of the reel (4L, 4C, 4R). A first time of rotation at a first speed and said Lee A time calculating means (31) for calculating a second time for rotating (4L, 4C, 4R) at a second speed lower than the first speed; an operation of the start instruction member (18); and a time calculating means ( Based on the first time and the second time calculated in step 31), the reel source effect for stopping the specific symbol at the display position is executed by controlling the driving of the driving sources (51L, 51C, 51R). Reel production means (31).

  According to this configuration, when the start instruction member (18) is operated, the drive sources (51L, 51C, 51R) are driven, and the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is started. A plurality of symbols including a specific symbol are arranged on the peripheral surface of the reel (4L, 4C, 4R), and one symbol is arranged at a predetermined display position for every movement of one frame on the peripheral surface. .

  When the start instruction member (18) is operated, the number of frames between the position of the specific symbol and the display position at that time is acquired. Then, based on the number of frames, the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are placed on the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) so that the specific symbol stops at the display position when a certain time has elapsed from the start of the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R). A first time for rotating at one speed and a second time for rotating the reel (4L, 4C, 4R) at a second speed lower than the first speed are calculated. Based on the first time and the second time, the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is controlled.

  By this control, the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are rotated at the first speed for the first time, and are rotated at the second speed for the second time. As a result, when a certain time has elapsed from the start of rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R), the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is stopped, and the specific symbols of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are displayed. It can be stopped at the display position.

  Since the time from the start of rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) until the specific symbol is stopped at the display position is constant, the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is controlled by the main board (31). The display and sound control associated with the effect (reel effect) by rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) is executed by the sub-boards (32, 33), and the sub-board (32 33), the control by the main board (31) and the control by the sub board (32, 33) can be well synchronized. As a result, the production by the rotation of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) can be effectively raised by the sub production by display and / or sound.

  According to the present invention, the specific symbol of the reel can be stopped at the display position when a certain time has elapsed from the start of the rotation of the reel. Since the time from the start of rotation of the reel until the specific symbol is stopped at the display position is constant, the control of the rotation of the reel is executed by the main board, and the display accompanying the effect by the rotation of the reel (reel effect) In the configuration in which the control of sound and sound is executed by the sub-board and communication in only one direction from the main board to the sub-board is allowed, the control by the main board and the control by the sub-board can be well synchronized. As a result, it is possible to effectively excite the effect due to the rotation of the reel by the sub-effect such as display and / or sound.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine. FIG. 3A is a flowchart (part 1) showing a flow of processing executed for each game on the main board. FIG. 3B is a flowchart (part 2) showing a flow of processing executed for each game on the main board. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a table used to determine the reel rotation mode in the reel effect. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of reel effect control. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the position of a specific symbol before and after the start of the reel effect, along with a graph showing an example of the temporal change in the angular velocity of each reel by the reel effect control. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a process that can be added to the reel effect control.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<External configuration of slot machine>

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The slot machine 1 includes a box-shaped main body 2 whose front surface is opened, and a front door 3 provided so that the front surface of the main body 2 can be opened and closed.

  In the main body 2, a left reel 4 </ b> L, a middle reel 4 </ b> C, and a right reel 4 </ b> R are arranged side by side at a position slightly above the center in the vertical direction. The left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R have a configuration in which a reel band is wound around the peripheral surface of a drum-shaped reel frame and can be rotated around an axis extending in the left-right direction at the center of the reel frame. Is provided. On the reel band, 21 symbols are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction. The symbol includes, for example, a symbol “7” which is a specific symbol.

  The front door 3 is provided with a display unit 5, an operation unit 6, and an effect display unit 7.

  The display unit 5 is provided at a position facing the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R. A reel window 8 is provided at the center of the display unit 5 so that part of the peripheral surfaces of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R can be seen. While the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C and right reel 4R are rotating, the symbols of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C and right reel 4R appear one after another in the reel window 8 (variation display of symbols). When the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R are stopped, three symbols of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R are displayed in the reel window 8 (design stop display).

  On the left side of the reel window 8, for example, the number of medals betted on the game (the number of bets) and winning lines L1 to L5 (see FIG. 2) activated according to the number of bets are displayed. A winning line indicator 9 is provided for this purpose.

  Below the reel window 8, a credit number display 10 for displaying the number of medals credited to the slot machine 1 (the number of credits) and the number of medals to be paid out when winning a predetermined combination won in the internal lottery ( A payout number display 11 for displaying the number of payouts) is arranged side by side. The credit amount display 10 and the payout number display 11 are composed of, for example, a 7-segment display capable of displaying a 2-digit number.

  The operation unit 6 protrudes from the lower side of the reel window 8 to the front side, and has an upper surface 12 provided over almost the entire width of the front door 3 and a front surface 13 continuous to the front edge of the upper surface 12.

  The upper surface 12 is inclined slightly downward toward the front side. A medal slot 14 is provided at the right end of the upper surface 12.

  When a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 14, the inserted medal is bet on the game. A maximum of three medals can be bet per game. The number of winning lines L1 to L5 corresponding to the number of medals bet on one game is activated, and the activated winning lines L1 to L5 are displayed on the winning line display 9. When a medal is inserted from the medal slot 14 with three medals being bet on the game, the inserted medal is credited to the slot machine 1 up to 50.

  Further, a MAX bet button 15, a 1 bet button 16, and a 2 bet button 17 are provided at the left end portion of the upper surface 12. The one bet button 16 and the two bet buttons 17 are arranged side by side on the left side of the MAX bet button 15.

  When the MAX bet button 15 is operated while three or more medals are credited to the slot machine 1, three medals are bet on the game from the credited medals, and the number of credits is reduced by three. . Then, the credit number displayed on the credit number display 10 is updated to a number obtained by subtracting 3 from the credit number.

  When the one-sheet bet button 16 is operated, one medal is bet on the game from the medals credited to the slot machine 1, and the number of credits is decreased by one. Then, the credit number displayed on the credit number display 10 is updated to a number obtained by subtracting one.

  When the two-bet button 17 is operated, two medals are bet on the game from the medals credited to the slot machine 1, and the number of credits is reduced by two. The credit number displayed on the credit number display 10 is updated to a number obtained by subtracting 2 from the credit number.

  A start lever 18 is provided at the left end of the front surface 13. In addition, a left stop button 19L, a middle stop button 19C, and a right stop button 19R are provided at the center of the front surface 13 at equal intervals on the left and right. Further, an adjustment button 20 is provided at the right end portion of the front surface 13.

  When the start lever 18 is operated after one or more medals are bet, the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R start to rotate all at once. Thereafter, when the left stop button 19L, the middle stop button 19C and the right stop button 19R are operated, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R is stopped. When all the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C and right reel 4R are stopped, one game is over.

  If a combination of symbols corresponding to any combination is arranged on the winning lines L1 to L5 which are activated when all the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R are stopped, the winning combination of the combination is won. . Depending on the combination, a predetermined number of medals are paid out. The medals to be paid out for the winning are credited to the slot machine 1 with an upper limit of 50, and the amount exceeding 50 is discharged to the medal tray 21 provided at the lowermost portion of the front door 3.

  When the checkout button 20 is operated, medals credited to the slot machine 1 are discharged to the medal tray 21.

  The effect display unit 7 is provided with a liquid crystal display 22 for displaying an effect image in accordance with the progress of the game. In addition, the effect display unit 7 is provided with speakers 23 that output sound effects and the like for exciting the atmosphere during the game, on the left and right sides of the liquid crystal display 22.

  In addition, a display panel 24 that displays the model name of the slot machine 1 and the like is attached to the front door 3 below the operation unit 6.

  Furthermore, between the medal tray 21 and the display panel 24, a speaker 25 that outputs sound effects and the like is disposed together with the speaker 23.

<Electric configuration of slot machine>

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine.

  The slot machine 1 includes a main board 31 that performs central control of the game, an effect sub-board 32 that performs control for effects accompanying the game, and electrical decoration that performs control for lighting and sound. And a sub-board 33.

  The main board 31 includes a CPU 41, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, an input / output port 44, a random number generation circuit 45 and a signal transmission circuit 46.

  The CPU 41 is connected to the ROM 42, RAM 43, input / output port 44, random number generation circuit 45, and signal transmission circuit 46.

  Various programs are stored in the ROM 42. Various programs are executed by the CPU 41. The ROM 42 stores a lottery table.

  The RAM 43 is used as a work area when the CPU 41 executes a program.

  The input / output port 44 is connected to stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R for rotating the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R, respectively.

  The input / output port 44 is connected to reel position detection sensors 52L, 52C, and 52R. Each time the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R make one rotation, detection signals are output from the reel position detection sensors 52L, 52C, and 52R, and the detection signals are input to the CPU 41 via the input / output port 44. The

  The CPU 41 always knows the rotational positions of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R based on the number of steps of the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R and the detection signals of the reel position detection sensors 52L, 52C, 52R. . Then, the CPU 41 gives drive pulse signals to the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R based on the rotational positions of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R, and the rotation of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R. To control.

  The input / output port 44 includes a credit number display 10, a payout number display 11, a discharge destination of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 14, a medal storage unit (not shown) in the main body 2, and a medal tray 21. A medal block solenoid 53 for switching to the medal and a medal discharge motor 54 for discharging medals from the medal storage unit to the medal tray 21 are connected.

  Also connected to the input / output port 44 are a MAX bet button 15, a 1-bet button 16, a 2-bet button 17, a start lever 18, a left stop button 19L, a middle stop button 19C, a right stop button 19R, and a checkout button 20. Has been. When the MAX bet button 15, the 1 bet button 16, the 2 bet button 17, the start lever 18, the left stop button 19L, the middle stop button 19C, the right stop button 19R, and the settlement button 20 are operated, they are incorporated in them. An operation signal is output from a switch (not shown), and the operation signal is input to the CPU 41 via the input / output port 44.

  Further, a medal insertion sensor 55 and a medal discharge sensor 56 are connected to the input / output port 44. Each time one medal inserted from the medal slot 14 is discharged to the medal storage section, a detection signal is output from the medal insertion sensor 55, and the detection signal is input to the CPU 41 via the input / output port 44. Each time one medal is ejected to the medal tray 21 by the medal ejection motor 54, a detection signal is output from the medal ejection sensor 56, and the detection signal is input to the CPU 41 via the input / output port 44.

  The number of medals (credits) deposited in the slot machine 1 is counted by a counter provided in the RAM 43. The CPU 41 controls the medal block solenoid 53 until the number of credits reaches 50, the discharge destination of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 14 is the medal storage unit, and when the number of credits reaches 50, the discharge destination To the medal tray 21. In addition, when the medal payout (payout) is won after the number of credits reaches 50, the CPU 41 controls the medal discharge motor 54 to discharge the payout medal to the medal tray 21.

  The random number generation circuit 45 includes an increment counter that counts up in response to an output of a clock pulse from an oscillator (not shown), and generates a 16-bit random number.

  When the start lever 18 is operated, the CPU 41 executes an internal lottery. In the internal lottery, a random number is acquired from the random number generation circuit 45. Further, the lottery table is read from the ROM 42. The lottery table is created by assigning random numbers from 0 to 65535 generated by the random number generation circuit 45 to a plurality of lottery categories and associating the lottery category data (random number range) with the winning combination or disparity for each lottery category. Has been. The winning combination is a small combination in which a predetermined symbol is arranged on the winning line and a predetermined number of medals are paid out. A replay combination that allows execution of one game without a bet, a BB combination that grants a right to execute a big bonus (BB) game, and the like are included. Based on the lottery table and the random number acquired from the random number generation circuit 45, the winning combination or losing of the internal lottery is determined.

  Further, the CPU 41 sends a command and a signal necessary for control to the effect sub-board 32 and the electrical decoration sub-board 33 via the signal sending circuit 46.

  The effect sub-board 32 includes a CPU 61, a ROM 62, a RAM 63, a signal input circuit 64, and a drive circuit 65.

  The CPU 61 is connected to the ROM 62, RAM 63, signal input circuit 64, and drive circuit 65.

  Various programs are stored in the ROM 62. Various programs are executed by the CPU 61.

  The RAM 63 is used as a work area when the CPU 61 executes a program.

  A signal from the signal transmission circuit 46 of the main board 31 is input to the signal input circuit 64.

  The CPU 61 executes a program stored in the ROM 62 and controls the display on the liquid crystal display 22 via the drive circuit 65 based on a signal input from the signal input circuit 64.

  Based on the command transmitted from the main board 31, the illumination sub-board 33 controls the lighting of the LEDs 71 built in the winning line indicator 9, the left stop button 19L, the middle stop button 19C, the right stop button 19R, and the like. . Moreover, the output of the sound effect from the speakers 23 and 25 is controlled.

<Game flow>

  3A and 3B are flowcharts showing the flow of processing (game flow) executed for each game on the main board. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a table used to determine the reel rotation mode in the reel effect.

  On the main board 31, the CPU 41 executes the processes shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B for each game.

  When a medal is bet on the game, it is determined whether or not the start lever 18 is operated (step S1). If the replay combination is won in the previous game, it is determined whether or not the start lever 18 has been operated following the end of the previous game (step S1).

  When the start lever 18 is operated (YES in step S1), a new game is started. When the game is started, the betting operation is prohibited until the end of the game. Specifically, the medal block solenoid 53 is controlled, and the discharge destination of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 14 is the medal tray 21. Also, the input of operation signals from the MAX bet button 15, the 1 bet button 16 and the 2 bet button 17 is invalidated.

  An internal lottery is executed at the timing when the start lever 18 is operated (step S2).

  Subsequently, a reel effect lottery is executed, and it is determined whether or not to execute a reel effect, which is an effect produced by the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R (step S3). The reel effect lottery is executed on the condition that the BB combination is won in the internal lottery, for example. In the reel effect lottery, a part of the random number acquired at the timing when the start lever 18 is operated is used, and when the part of the random number matches a predetermined value, it is determined that the reel effect is executed. If a part of is a value other than a predetermined value, it is determined that the reel effect is not executed.

  When the execution of the reel effect is determined (YES in step S3), the reels for which the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number are not set are the priority order of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R. Selected. Specifically, when the number of constant-speed rotation steps and the number of low-speed rotation steps are not set for any of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R, the left reel 4L is selected first ( Step S4).

  Symbol numbers “1” to “21” are associated with the 21 symbols arranged on the reel bands of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R, respectively. Taking the case where the left reel 4L is selected as an example, among the 21 symbols of the selected left reel 4L, the symbol number of the symbol stopped at the middle position of the reel window 8 is acquired ( Step S5).

  Next, based on the acquired symbol number, the number of frames (number of frame differences) between the current position of the symbol “7” and the middle position of the reel window 8 is obtained (step S6).

  The table shown in FIG. 4 is stored in the ROM 42 of the main board 31. In this table, the relationship among the frame difference number, the total number of moving frames, the constant speed rotating frame number, and the low speed rotating frame number is defined. The total number of moving frames is the total number of frames that the symbols of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R move during the reel effect. The constant speed rotating frame number is the number of symbols moved by the rotation of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R during the reel production at a constant speed. The number of low-speed rotation frames is the number of symbols moved by the rotation at a low speed that is half the constant speed of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R during the reel production. In the table, the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R are associated with each frame difference number so that the total number of moving frames according to each frame difference number rotates for a certain time (the same predetermined time). The number of constant-speed rotation frames and the number of low-speed rotation frames are set.

  When the frame difference number is obtained, the table shown in FIG. 4 is referred to, and the constant speed rotation frame number and the low speed rotation frame number corresponding to the frame difference number are determined. Then, the step number for rotating the left reel 4L at a constant speed is obtained by multiplying the number of steps of the stepping motor 51L (for example, 24) required for the left reel 4L to rotate by one frame by the number of constant speed rotation frames. The number of steps of the motor 51L (number of constant speed rotation steps) is calculated. The number of steps of the stepping motor 51L for rotating the left reel 4L at a low speed is obtained by multiplying the number of steps of the stepping motor 51L required to rotate the left reel 4L by one frame by the number of low-speed rotation frames. (The number of rotation steps) is calculated (step S7).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number have been set for all of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R (step S8). At this time, since the constant-speed rotation step number and the low-speed rotation step number are not set for the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R, the determination is negative (NO in step S8).

  Then, in order to set the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number, one of the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R is selected (step S4). The method for setting the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number for the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R is the same as the method for setting the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number for the left reel 4L. Is omitted.

  When the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number are set for all of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R (YES in step S8), a reel effect by reel effect control is executed (step S9). ). The reel effect control will be described later. In parallel with the reel effect control, the display of the liquid crystal display 22 is controlled by the effect sub-board 32, and an image for exciting the reel effect is displayed on the liquid crystal display 22. Further, in parallel with the reel effect control, the output of the speakers 23 and 25 is controlled by the electrical decoration sub-board 33, and sound effects for exciting the reel effect are output from the speakers 23 and 25.

  After execution of the reel effect, rotation of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R is started (step S10). If it is determined that the reel effect is not executed in the reel effect lottery (NO in step S3), the processes in steps S4 to S9 are skipped and the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R are skipped. The rotation is started (step S10).

  Thereafter, the operations of the left stop button 19L, the middle stop button 19C, and the right stop button 19R are validated. Then, it is determined whether the left stop button 19L, the middle stop button 19C, and the right stop button 19R have been pressed (step S11).

  When the left stop button 19L, the middle stop button 19C, and the right stop button 19R are sequentially pressed (YES in step S11), the left reel 4L and the middle reel are respectively based on the stop data table stored in the ROM 42 of the main board 31. The rotation of 4C and right reel 4R is stopped (step S12).

  When the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R is stopped (YES in step S13), a winning determination is made as to whether or not the winning combination in the internal lottery has been won (step S14). Processing in the game is terminated.

<Reel production control>

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of reel effect control.

  In the reel effect control, the driving of the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R is controlled in parallel.

  With the start of the reel effect control, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is started (step S21).

  Then, the rotations of the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R are accelerated until the rotation speeds (angular speeds) of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R reach a constant speed (step S22).

  When the rotation speeds of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R reach constant speeds, the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R maintain the constant speeds and the constant speeds calculated in step S7 shown in FIG. 3A. It is rotated by the number of rotation steps (step S23).

  Thereafter, the rotations of the stepping motors 51L, 51C, and 51R are decelerated until the rotation speeds of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C, and right reel 4R reach a low speed (step S24).

  When the rotation speeds of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R are reduced to low speeds, the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R maintain the low speeds and the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R calculate the number of low-speed rotation steps calculated in step S7 shown in FIG. (Step S25).

  Thereafter, the rotations of the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R are decelerated (step S26).

  Then, when the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is stopped (step S27), the reel effect control is returned.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the position of a specific symbol before and after the start of the reel effect, along with a graph showing an example of the temporal change in the angular velocity of each reel by the reel effect control.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 6, when the position of the symbol “7” of the left reel 4L is a position three frames before the middle position of the reel window 8 before the start of the reel effect, the frame difference number is 3. Based on the table shown in FIG. 4, the number of constant-speed rotation frames is set to 6, and the number of low-speed rotation frames is set to 18. Therefore, when the number of steps of the stepping motor 51L required for the left reel 4L to rotate by one frame is 24, the constant speed rotation step number is calculated as 144 (= 6 × 24), and the low speed rotation step number is 432. (= 18 × 24) is calculated.

  Then, the stepping motor 51L of the left reel 4L is rotated by 144 steps at a constant speed, and then rotated by 432 steps at a low speed that is a half of the constant speed, and then stopped. As a result, the symbol “7” of the left reel 4 </ b> L stops at the middle position of the reel window 8.

  For example, when the time required for one step of rotation of the stepping motor 51L during constant rotation of the left reel 4L is 1.4896 ms, the time for which the left reel 4L is rotated at a constant speed (constant speed rotation time) is 214. 5024 ms, and the time during which the left reel 4L is rotated at a low speed (low speed rotation time) is 1287.0144 ms, and the total rotation time thereof is 1501.5168 ms.

  If the position of the symbol “7” of the middle reel 4C is the middle position of the reel window 8 before the start of the reel effect, the frame difference number is 0, and the constant speed is determined based on the table shown in FIG. The number of rotation frames is set to 42, and the number of low-speed rotation frames is set to 0. Therefore, when the number of steps of the stepping motor 51C required for the middle reel 4C to rotate by one frame is 24, the constant speed rotation step number is calculated as 1008 (= 42 × 24), and the low speed rotation step number is 0. (= 0 × 24) is calculated.

  Then, the stepping motor 51C of the middle reel 4C is not rotated at a low speed but is rotated by 1008 steps at a constant speed and stopped. As a result, the symbol “7” of the middle reel 4 </ b> C stops at the middle position of the reel window 8.

  For example, when the time required for one step rotation of the stepping motor 51C during constant speed rotation of the middle reel 4C is 1.4896 ms, the time for which the middle reel 4C is rotated at a constant speed (constant speed rotation time) is 1501. 5168 ms, the time during which the middle reel 4C is rotated at a low speed (low speed rotation time) is 0 ms, and the total rotation time is 1501.5168 ms.

  If the position of the symbol “7” on the right reel 4R is a position advanced three frames from the middle position of the reel window 8 before the start of the reel production, the frame difference number is 18, and the table shown in FIG. Is set to 36, and the number of low-speed rotating frames is set to 3. Therefore, when the number of steps of the stepping motor 51R required for the right reel 4R to rotate by one frame is 24, the constant speed rotation step number is calculated as 864 (= 36 × 24), and the low speed rotation step number is 72. (= 3 × 24) is calculated.

  Then, the stepping motor 51R of the right reel 4R is rotated by 864 steps at a constant speed, and then rotated by 72 steps at a low speed that is a half of the constant speed, and then stopped. As a result, the symbol “7” of the right reel 4 </ b> R stops at the middle position of the reel window 8.

  For example, when the time required for one step rotation of the stepping motor 51C during constant speed rotation of the right reel 4R is 1.4896 ms, the time required for the right reel 4R to rotate at a constant speed (constant speed rotation time) is 1287. 0.144 ms, and the time during which the right reel 4R is rotated at a low speed (low speed rotation time) is 214.5024 ms, and the total rotation time thereof is 1501.5168 ms.

  Therefore, in the reel effect, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R starts all at once, and when 1501.5168 ms has elapsed from the start, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R. Are stopped at the same time, and the symbol “7” of the left reel 4L, middle reel 4C and right reel 4R stops at the middle position of the reel window 8.

<Effect>

  As described above, when the start lever 18 is operated, the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R are driven, and the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is started. On the peripheral surfaces of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R, a plurality of symbols including the symbol “7”, which is a specific symbol, are arranged. The symbol is arranged at the middle position of the reel window 8.

  When the start lever 18 is operated, the number of frames between the position of the symbol “7” and the middle position of the reel window 8 at that time is acquired. Then, based on the number of frames, the symbol “7” stops at the middle position of the reel window 8 when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R. The left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R are rotated at a constant speed, which is the first speed, and the number of constant speed rotation steps corresponding to the first time, and the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R are constant speed. A low-speed rotation step number corresponding to the second time of rotation at a low speed, which is a lower second speed, is calculated. Then, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is controlled based on the constant speed rotation step number and the low speed rotation step number.

  By this control, the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R are rotated at the constant speed by the number of constant speed rotation steps, and then are rotated at the low speed by the number of low speed rotation steps. As a result, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R is stopped when a certain time has elapsed from the start of the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R, and the left reel 4L, the middle reel The symbol “7” of 4C and the right reel 4R can be stopped at the middle position of the reel window 8.

  Since the time from the start of rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R until the symbol “7” is stopped at the middle position of the reel window 8 is constant, The display control by the effect sub-board 32 and the sound effect control by the electric decoration sub-board 33 can be well synchronized. As a result, the reel effect can be effectively raised by the sub-effect by the display and the sound effect.

  In addition, the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R rotate at a relatively high constant speed and then at a relatively low low speed. Compared with the rotation of the reel 4R, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable with the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R for the effect.

  Furthermore, at the time of reel production, the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R starts and stops all at once, so that the player has an impression that the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R is good. Can be given.

<Modification>

  As mentioned above, although one Embodiment of this invention was described, this invention can also be implemented with another form.

  For example, the process of step S28 shown in FIG. 7 may be added after the process of step S27 shown in FIG. That is, after the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R is temporarily stopped, the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R are rotated again, and the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C and the right reel 4R are rotated. The driving of each of the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R may be controlled so that the peripheral surface moves by one frame (step S28).

  The left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R once stop and then move again to give a surprise to the player. As a result, the interest of reel production can be increased.

  When the process of step S28 is added, when the rotation of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is temporarily stopped, the symbol “7” of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is displayed. The driving of the stepping motors 51L, 51C, 51R is controlled so as to be stopped at the upper position of the reel window 8.

  Further, when the process of step S28 is added, the process of step S28 does not necessarily have to be executed. For example, a lottery for determining whether or not to execute the process of step S28 is performed. In the case of winning, the process of step S28 may be executed.

  Furthermore, in the process of step S28, the peripheral surfaces of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R are not limited to the case where the peripheral surfaces of the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R move by one frame. You may move more than one frame.

  Further, although the configuration in which the slot machine 1 includes the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R is taken up, the number of reels may be two or less, or may be four or more. .

  Further, in the reel effect, the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R are rotated at the constant speed by the number of constant speed rotation steps and then at the low speed by the number of low speed rotation steps. Not limited to this, the left reel 4L, the middle reel 4C, and the right reel 4R may be rotated at a low speed by the number of low-speed rotation steps, and then may be rotated at a constant speed by a constant-speed rotation step number.

  In addition, the present invention is not limited to the slot machine 1 and can be applied to other gaming machines such as a pachinko machine as long as it is a gaming machine including a reel having a pattern drawn on its peripheral surface.

  In addition, various design changes can be made to the above-described configuration within the scope of the matters described in the claims.

1 Slot machine 4C Middle reel 4L Left reel 4R Right reel 18 Start lever (starting instruction member)
51C Stepping motor (drive source)
51L stepping motor (drive source)
51R Stepping motor (drive source)
31 Main board (time calculation means, reel production means, lottery execution means)
41 CPU
42 ROM
43 RAM

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine (1) according to one aspect of the present invention provides a specific symbol so that one symbol is arranged at a predetermined display position for each movement of one frame on the peripheral surface. A plurality of included symbols are provided for each of the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) arranged on the peripheral surface and the reels (4L, 4C, 4R), and the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are rotated. A drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) that generates a driving force for starting, a start instruction member (18) operated to instruct the start of rotation of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R), and the reel ( 4L, 4C, 4R), the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) based on the number of frames between the position of the specific symbol and the display position when the start instruction member (18) is operated. ) When a certain time has elapsed since the start of rotation A first time during which the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are rotated at a first speed so that the symbol is stopped at the display position, and the reels (4L, 4C, 4R) are driven at a first speed lower than the first speed. Based on the time calculation means (31) for calculating the second time for rotation at two speeds, the operation of the start instruction member (18), and the first time and the second time calculated by the time calculation means (31). Reel effect means (31) for executing a reel effect to stop the specific symbol of each reel (4L, 4C, 4R) at the display position by controlling the drive of each drive source (51L, 51C, 51R) look including the door, first speed of each reel is the same speed, the second speed of each reel is the same speed.

Claims (6)

A plurality of reels in which a plurality of symbols including a specific symbol are arranged on the peripheral surface so that one symbol is arranged at a predetermined display position for each movement of one frame on the peripheral surface;
A driving source that is provided for each reel and generates a driving force for rotating the reel;
A start instruction member operated to instruct the start of rotation of each reel;
Based on the number of frames between the position of the specific symbol and the display position at the time when the start instruction member is operated for each reel, when a certain time has elapsed from the start of rotation of the reel, Time calculating means for calculating a first time for rotating the reel at a first speed and a second time for rotating the reel at a second speed lower than the first speed so that the specific symbol stops at the display position. When,
Based on the operation of the start instruction member and the first time and the second time calculated by the time calculation means, the drive of each drive source is controlled to stop the specific symbol of each reel at the display position. A gaming machine including a reel production means for executing a reel production.   For each reel, the reel effecting means is configured so that the reel rotates at the first speed for the first time and then the reel rotates at the second speed for the second time. The gaming machine according to claim 1, which controls driving.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the reel effecting unit controls the driving of each driving source so that the reels start to rotate simultaneously in response to an operation of the start instruction member.   The reel effecting means is configured so that each reel is stopped after a certain time has elapsed from the start of rotation, and then each reel is rotated again so that the peripheral surface of each reel moves by a predetermined number of frames. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which controls driving.   The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising lottery execution means for executing reel effect lottery for determining whether or not to execute the reel effect by the reel effect means. A reel in which a plurality of symbols including a specific symbol are arranged on the peripheral surface so that one symbol is arranged at a predetermined display position for each movement of one frame on the peripheral surface;
A driving source for generating a driving force for rotating the reel;
A start instruction member operated to instruct the start of rotation of the reel;
Based on the number of frames between the position of the specific symbol and the display position when the start instruction member is operated, the specific symbol is displayed when a certain time has elapsed from the start of rotation of the reel. Time calculating means for calculating a first time for rotating the reel at a first speed and a second time for rotating the reel at a second speed lower than the first speed so as to stop at a position;
Based on the operation of the start instructing member and the first time and the second time calculated by the time calculating means, a reel effect that stops the specific symbol at the display position by controlling the driving of the driving source. A gaming machine including a reel effecting means to be executed.

Images