Patent Application
20160335853
This application claims the benefit of Japanese Pat. App. No. 2015-097763, filed on May 12, 2015 and Japanese Pat. App. No. 2015-097766, filed on May 12, 2015 each of which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
The present invention relates to a gaming machine that yields a rescue award, when a game continues without awarding of any benefit.
Traditionally, in a facility where gaming machines such as slot machines and the like are set up, games are played by betting various types of gaming medium such as a credit and the like in the slot machines. In each slot machine are set a plurality of result determination areas (areas for which determination of win or loss is carried out) on which a bet is placeable, and a benefit (payout) is awarded based on the number of result determination areas on which a bet is placed, the number of bet credits, and the game result (see for example, PTL 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2008-229017)).
Further, amongst the slot machines are those configured to perform an awarding (rescue) to the player, when the number of plays of the normal game resulting no benefit reaches a predetermined number (see for example PTL 2 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,910,048)). For example, a free game is awarded or a predetermined amount is paid out when the number of plays of the normal game resulting in no benefit reaches a predetermined value (so-called ceiling number).
When the free game is awarded as the above-described awarding (rescue), it may lead to unfairness if the rescue is conducted in the same manner no matter whether a betted credit amount is small or large.
For the reason above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which a credit amount betted in a normal game is taken into consideration in a free game which is awarded when games without any benefit are continued.
The present invention relates to a gaming machine including: an input device configured to allow selection of a condition required to start a normal game from plural start conditions;
a display device configured to display a result of the normal game and a result of a free game;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective start conditions, counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game, and store, for each of the counters,
a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game; and
a controller programmed to execute the processes of:
(1a) accepting the selection of a condition required to start the normal game from the plural start conditions by the input device;
(1b) incrementing the number of game play in the counter corresponding to the start condition selected in the process (1a), at the start of the normal game;
(1c) awarding a benefit based on the result of the normal game displayed on the display device and the start condition selected in the process (1a);
(1d) determining whether the number of game play in the counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count;
(1e) in the free game, based on the result of the free game displayed on the display device and the start condition corresponding to the counter reaching the threshold game play count in the process (1d), awarding the benefit.
With the arrangement above, at the start of the normal game, the counter corresponding to the selected start condition is incremented, and the right to execute the free game for the predetermined number of times is awarded when the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count. As such, the counters for counting the number of game play are individually set for the respective start conditions, the conditions required for the player to start the normal game are diversified.
In addition to the above, in the free game, the benefit is awarded based on the result of the free game and the start condition corresponding to the counter having reached the threshold game play count. Therefore, because the start condition required to start the normal game is taken into consideration in the benefit in the free game, the player is encouraged to select the start condition required to start the normal game, in consideration of the payout in the free game.
The present invention relates to a gaming machine including: a credit type input device configured to allow betting with plural credit types which are different in a credit amount; a display device configured to display a result of a normal game and a result of a free game by rearranging symbols;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective credit types, credit type counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game, and store, for each of the credit type counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game; and
a controller programmed to execute the processes of:
(2a) accepting betting with a credit type by the credit type input device;
(2b) at the start of the normal game, incrementing the number of game play in the credit type counter corresponding to the credit type with which the betting is performed in the process (2a);
(2c) awarding a payout based on the result of the normal game displayed on the display device and the credit type with which the betting is performed in the process (2a);
(2d) determining whether the number of game play in the credit type counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count; and
(2e) in the free game, based on the result of the free game displayed on the display device and the credit type corresponding to the credit type counter reaching the threshold game play count in the process (2d), awarding the payout.
With the arrangement above, at the start of the normal game, the number of game play in the credit type counter corresponding to the credit type with which the betting is performed is incremented, and the right to run the free game for the predetermined number of times is awarded when the number of game play in the credit type counter reaches the threshold game play count. As such, because the credit type counters counting the number of game play are set for the respective credit types, the credit types with which the player places a bet are diversified.
In addition to the above, in the free game, the payout is awarded based on the result of the free game and the credit type corresponding to the credit type counter having reached the threshold game play count. Therefore, because the credit type with which the betting is performed in the normal game is taken into consideration in the payout in the free game, the player is encouraged to select the credit type with which the betting is performed in the normal game, in consideration of the payout in the free game.
In the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that,
the controller is programmed to
award the right to run the free game for the predetermined number of times when, in the process (2c), a predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game displayed on the display device.
According to this arrangement, the free game awarded as a result of the normal game and the free game awarded when the number of game play in the credit type counter reaches the threshold game play count are arranged to be identical. This simplifies the game design and the operation of the gaming machine. Furthermore, because the free game is shared, it is possible for the player to understand the rules of the free game soon.
According to the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that, the controller is programmed to further execute the processes of:
(2f) when the number of game play in the credit type counter reaches the threshold game play count, displaying a combination of predetermined symbols on the display device;
(2g) when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game, awarding the right to run the free game for the predetermined number of times; and
(2h) when the predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game, displaying the combination of the predetermined symbols on the display device.
According to the arrangement above, the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device when the number of game play in the credit type counter reaches the threshold game play count is arranged to be identical with the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device when the predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game. On this account, when the right to execute the free game is awarded, it is difficult to tell from the outside (according to the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device) whether the right to execute the free game is awarded because the number of game play in the credit type counter reaches the threshold game play count or because the predetermined condition is satisfied as a result of the normal game. Therefore it is difficult to estimate the threshold game play count from the outside, and hence expectations on when the right to execute the free game game is awarded as the number of game play in the credit type counter reaches the threshold game play count are maintained.
According to the present invention, a gaming machine includes: a result determination area input device configured to allow selection of any of result determination areas;
a display device configured to display a result of a normal game and a result of a free game by rearranging symbols in the selected result determination area;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective result determination areas, result determination area counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game, and store, for each of the result determination area counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game; and
a controller programmed to execute the processes of:
(3a) accepting the selection of a result determination area by the result determination area input device;
(3b) incrementing the number of game play in the result determination area counter corresponding to the result determination area selected in the process (3a), at the start of the normal game;
(3c) on the display device, displaying the result of the normal game by rearranging the symbols in the result determination area selected in the process (3a), and awarding a payout based on the displayed result of the normal game;
(3d) determining whether the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count; and
(3e) in the free game, displaying, on the display device, the result of the free game by rearranging the symbols in the result determination area corresponding to the result determination area counter reaching the threshold game play count in the process (3d), and awarding the payout based on the displayed result of the free game.
According to the arrangement above, in accordance with the start of the normal game, the number of game play of the result determination area counter corresponding to the selected result determination area is incremented, and the right to execute the free game for a predetermined number of times is awarded when the number of game play of the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count. As such, because the result determination area counters counting the number of game play are independently set for the respective result determination areas, the result determination areas selectable by the player are diversified.
In the free game, the result of the free game is displayed on the display device by rearranging the symbols in the result determination area corresponding to the result determination area counter reaching the threshold game play count, and the payout is awarded based on the displayed result of the free game. As such, the payout in the free game is influenced by the result determination area selected in the normal game, and hence the player is encouraged to select the result determination area in the normal game, in consideration of the payout in the free game.
In the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that, in the process (3c), the controller awards the right to execute the free game for the predetermined number of times, when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game displayed on the display device.
According to this arrangement, the free game awarded as a result of the normal game and the free game awarded when the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count are arranged to be identical. This simplifies the game design and the operation of the gaming machine. Furthermore, because the free game is shared, it is possible for the player to understand the rules of the free game soon.
In addition to the above, the gaming machine is arranged such that, the controller is programmed to further execute the processes of:
(3f) displaying a combination of predetermined symbols on the display device when the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count;
(3g) awarding the right to execute the free game for the predetermined number of times when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game; and
(3h) displaying the combination of the predetermined symbols on the display device when the predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game.
According to the arrangement above, the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device when the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count is arranged to be identical with the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device when the predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game. On this account, when the right to execute the free game is awarded, it is difficult to tell from the outside (according to the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device) whether the right to execute the free game is awarded because the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count or because the predetermined condition is satisfied as a result of the normal game. Therefore it is difficult to estimate the threshold game play count from the outside, and hence expectations on when the right to execute the free game game is awarded as the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count are maintained.
The present invention relates to a gaming machine including: a credit type input device configured to allow betting with plural credit types which are different in a credit amount; a result determination area input device configured to allow selection of any of result determination areas;
a display device configured to display a result of a normal game and a result of a free game by rearranging symbols in the selected result determination area;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective credit types corresponding to the result determination areas, game play counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game, and store, for each of the game play counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game; and a controller programmed to execute the processes of:
(4a) accepting betting with a credit type by the credit type input device, and accepting the selection of a result determination area by the result determination area input device;
(4b) incrementing the number of game play in the game play counter corresponding to the result determination area and the credit type accepted in the process (4a), at the start of the normal game;
(4c) awarding a payout based on the result of the normal game displayed on the display device and the credit type and the result determination area accepted in the process (4a);
(4d) determining whether the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count;
(4e) in the free game, awarding a payout based on the result of the free game displayed on the display device and the result determination area and the credit type corresponding to the game play counter reaching the threshold game play count in the process (4d).
According to the arrangement above, in accordance with the start of the normal game, the number of game play in the game play counter corresponding to the selected result determination area and the selected credit type is incremented, and the right to execute the free game for a predetermined number of times is awarded when the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count. As such, because a game play counter for counting the number of game play is independently set for each of the credit types corresponding to the result determination areas, the credit types based on which the player places a bet and the result determination areas selectable by the player are diversified.
In addition to the above, in the free game, a payout is awarded based on a result of the free game and the result determination area and the credit type corresponding to the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count. On this account, because the credit type with which a bet is placed in the normal game and the selected result determination area are taken into consideration in the free game payout, the player is encouraged to select a credit type with which a bet is placed in the normal game and a result determination area, in consideration of the payout in the free game.
According to the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that, in the process (4c), the controller awards the right to execute the free game for the predetermined number of times, when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game displayed on the display device.
According to this arrangement, the free game awarded as a result of the normal game and the free game awarded when the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count are arranged to be identical. This simplifies the game design and the operation of the gaming machine. Furthermore, because the free game is shared, it is possible for the player to understand the rules of the free game soon.
According to the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that, the controller is programmed to further execute the processes of:
(4f) displaying a combination of predetermined symbols on the display device when the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count;
(4g) awarding the right to execute the free game for the predetermined number of times when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game;
(4h) displaying the combination of the predetermined symbols on the display device when the predetermined condition is satisfied by the result of the normal game.
According to the arrangement above, the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device when the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count is arranged to be identical with the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device when the predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game. On this account, when the right to execute the free game is awarded, it is difficult to tell from the outside (according to the combination of the symbols displayed on the display device) whether the right to execute the free game is awarded because the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count or because the predetermined condition is satisfied as a result of the normal game. Therefore it is difficult to estimate the threshold game play count from the outside, and hence expectations on when the right to execute the free game game is awarded as the number of game play in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count are maintained.
According to the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that, the controller is programmed to further execute the process of resetting the number of game play in the game play counter reaching the threshold game play count, after the process (4c).
According to this arrangement, when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count, the right to execute the free game is awarded and only the value of the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count is reset. Values of the game play counters having not yet reached their threshold game play counts are maintained.
This induces the player to select the result determination area and the bet type corresponding to the game play counter which has not yet reached the threshold game play count.
In addition to the above, the present invention relates to a method of controlling a gaming machine including: an input device configured to allow selection of a condition required to start a normal game from plural start conditions;
a display device configured to display a result of the normal game and a result of a free game;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective start conditions, counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game, and store, for each of the counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game; and
a controller,
the method including, under control of the controller, the steps of:
(1a) accepting the selection of a condition required to start the normal game from the plural start conditions by the input device;
(1b) incrementing the number of game play of the counter corresponding to the start condition selected in the step (1a), at the start of the normal game;
(1c) awarding a benefit based on the result of the normal game displayed on the display device and the start condition selected in the step (1a);
(1d) determining whether the number of game play in the counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count;
(1e) in the free game, based on the result of the free game displayed on the display device and the start condition corresponding to the counter reaching the threshold game play count in the step (1d), awarding the benefit.
According to the method above, at the start of the normal game, the counter corresponding to the selected start condition is incremented, and the right to execute the free game for the predetermined number of times is awarded when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count. As such, the counters for counting the number of game play are individually set for the respective start conditions, the conditions required for the player to start the normal game are diversified.
In addition to the above, in the free game, the benefit is awarded based on the result of the free game and the start condition corresponding to the counter having reached the threshold game play count. Therefore, because the start condition required to start the normal game is taken into consideration in the benefit in the free game, the player is encouraged to select the start condition required to start the normal game, in consideration of the payout in the free game.
The present invention relates to a gaming machine including: a result determination area input device configured to allow selection of any of result determination areas;
a display device configured to display a result of a normal game and a result of a free game by rearranging symbols in the result determination area;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective result determination areas, result determination area counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game, for each of the result determination area counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game,
free game payout rate random determination tables in which payout rates are associated with random determination probabilities, and
a free game payout rate random determination table determination table in which the free game payout rate random determination tables are associated with the result determination areas; and a controller programmed to execute the processes of:
(1a) accepting the selection of a result determination area by the result determination area input device;
(1b) incrementing the number of game play in the result determination area counter corresponding to the result determination area selected in the process (1a), at the start of the normal game;
(1c) on the display device, displaying the result of the normal game by rearranging the symbols in the result determination area selected in the process (1a), and awarding the right to execute the free game when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the displayed result of the normal game;
(1d) determining whether the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count;
(1e) when running the free game awarded in the process (1c), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area selected in the normal game in which the predetermined condition is satisfied and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table,
and when running the free game awarded in the process (1d), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area corresponding to the result determination area counter reaching the threshold game play count in the process (1d) and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table;
(1f) based on the free game payout rate random determination table selected in the process (1e), randomly determining the payout rate; and
(1g) running the free game and awarding, as a free game payout, a value calculated by multiplying the payout based on the result of the free game by the payout rate determined in the process (1f).
According to the arrangement above, the free game awarded when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game and the free game awarded when the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count are able to share the free game payout rate random determination table for determining the payout rate for multiplication in the free game and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table for determining the free game payout rate random determination table.
On this account, the free game is run on the same conditions irrespective of the way of shifting to the free game (i.e., the free game is enjoyed without feeling the sense of unfairness).
In the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that,
the payout rates are provided in stages from a low payout rate to a high payout rate, and
the controller is programmed to further execute the process of
after determining the payout rate in the process (1f), displaying the payout rates step by step on the display device from the low payout rate to the determined payout rate.
According to this arrangement, on the display device, a process that a low payout rate is changed to the determined payout rate is displayed step by step. In this way, an effect that the payout rate progresses is performed. This increases the expectation on the free game payout awarded in the free game.
In the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that,
the symbols include plural types of symbols from a symbol corresponding to the low payout rate to a symbol corresponding to the high payout rate, and
the controller is programmed to further execute the process of
after determining the payout rate in the process (1f), changing the type of the symbols from the symbol corresponding to the low payout rate to the symbol corresponding to the determined payout rate.
According to the arrangement above, the type of the symbols is changed from the symbol corresponding to the low payout rate to the symbol corresponding to the determined payout rate. As such, an effect that the symbol corresponding to the payout rate progresses is performed. This increases the expectation on the free game payout awarded in the free game.
The present invention relates to a method of controlling a gaming machine which includes: a result determination area input device configured to allow selection of any of result determination areas;
a display device configured to display a result of a normal game and a result of a free game by rearranging symbols in the result determination area;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective result determination areas, result determination area counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game;
for each of the result determination area counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game,
free game payout rate random determination tables in which payout rates are associated with random determination probabilities, and
a free game payout rate random determination table determination table in which the free game payout rate random determination tables are associated with the result determination areas; and a controller,
the method comprising, under control of the controller, the steps of:
(1a) accepting the selection of a result determination area by the result determination area input device;
(1b) incrementing the number of game play of the result determination area counter corresponding to the result determination area selected in the step (1a), at the start of the normal game;
(1c) on the display device, displaying the result of the normal game by rearranging the symbols in the result determination area selected in the step (1a), and awarding the right to execute the free game when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the displayed result of the normal game;
(1d) determining whether the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count;
(1e) when running the free game awarded in the step (1c), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area selected in the normal game in which the predetermined condition is satisfied and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table, and
when running the free game awarded in the step (1d), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area corresponding to the result determination area counter reaching the threshold game play count in the step (1d) and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table;
(1f) based on the free game payout rate random determination table selected in the step (1e), randomly determining the payout rate; and
(1g) running the free game and awarding, as a free game payout, a value calculated by multiplying the payout based on the result of the free game by the payout rate determined in the step (1f).
According to the method above, the free game awarded when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game and the free game awarded when the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count are able to share the free game payout rate random determination table for determining the payout rate for multiplication in the free game and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table for determining the free game payout rate random determination table.
On this account, the free game is run on the same conditions irrespective of the way of shifting to the free game (i.e., the free game is enjoyed without feeling the sense of unfairness).
It is possible to provide a gaming machine in which a credit amount betted in a normal game is taken into consideration in a free game which is awarded when games without any benefit are continued.
The following will describe a gaming machine of an embodiment of the present invention with reference to figures.
The present embodiment deals with an example where the gaming machine is a slot machine configured to run a normal game which awards a benefit (payout, free game, etc.) based on a combination of a plurality of symbols rearranged in a result determination area selected. To be more specific, a slot machine includes: a credit type input device (e.g., a control panel 30) by which betting can be done with plural credit types which are different in credit amount; a result determination area input device (e.g., the control panel 30) by which any result determination area is selectable from plural result determination areas (later-described WAYS BET1, WAYS BET2, WAYS BET3, WAYS BET4, and WAYS BET5); a display device (lower image display panel 141) configured to display results of a normal game and a free game by rearranging symbols in the selected result determination area; a storage unit (RAM 73) configured to store game play counters each counting the number of game play incremented after the start of the normal game, for the respective credit types corresponding to the respective result determination areas, and store threshold game play counts each indicating how long does it take until the awarding of the right to run the free game, for the respective game play counters; and a controller (e.g., a main CPU 71, a ROM 72, and a RAM 73) programmed to execute processes described below. The credit type input device is equivalent to an input device by which a condition required to start the normal game is selectable from plural start conditions (e.g., plural types of BET payout rates or plural types of WAYS BET).
The steps are specifically as follows. Namely, in the slot machine, the credit type input device accepts betting with a credit type, the result determination area input device accepts the selection of the result determination area, and the normal game is run so that a benefit is awarded based on a combination of symbols rearranged in the selected result determination area and the credit type of the betting (S1). When a free game trigger is established in the normal game (S2), a payout rate of a payout awarded as a result of the running of the free game is randomly determined (S6), and the free game is run (S7).
When the number of game play of the normal game (i.e., the value of the game play counter) reaches a threshold game play count (which is determined for each of the credit types corresponding to the respective result determination areas) (S3), predetermined symbols are arranged on the display device (S5), and then random determination of a payout rate of the payout awarded as a result of the free game is performed (S6) and the free game is run (S7). In this regard, in the free game which is awarded when the number of game play (value of the game play counter) in the normal game reaches a threshold game play count, a payout is awarded based on a result of the free game displayed on the display device and a result determination area and a credit type corresponding to the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count.
Furthermore, when a mystery trigger (predetermined condition) is established in the normal game (S4), after the arrangement of the predetermined symbols on the display device (S5), a payout rate of a payout awarded when the free game is run is randomly determined (S6), and the free game is run (S7).
After the end of the free game in S7, the number of game play (value of the game play counter) of the normal game is reset (S8). Then, the process returns to the normal game (S1).
The slot machine is a type of a gaming machine. While the present embodiment deals with the slot machine as an example of the gaming machine, the slot machine may be a different type of machine on condition that a normal game can be individually run by the machine and a free game developing from the normal game can be run by the machine.
Each of the normal game and the free game in the present embodiment is a slot game of rearranging symbols.
The symbols encompasses “PHOENIX”, “TURTLE”, “FISH”, “FROG”, “PIG”, “ACE”, “KING”, “QUEEN”, “JACK”, “TEN”, “NINE”, “WILD”, and “FEATURE”.
A coin, paper money, or electrically valuable information corresponding to these is used as a gaming value (credit). Note that the gaming value in the present invention is not particularly limited. Examples of the gaming value include game media such as medals, tokens, cyber money, tickets, and the like. A ticket is not particularly limited, and a later-mentioned barcoded ticket may be adopted for example.
The free game of the present embodiment may be any type of game on condition that the gaming state thereof is different from that of the normal game. The free game is a game which is executable with a smaller amount of gaming values bet than in the normal game. Note that “bet of fewer amounts of gaming values” encompasses a bet of zero gaming value. The “free game” therefore may be a game runnable without a bet of a gaming value, which free game awards an amount of gaming values based on symbols rearranged. In other words, the “free game” is a game which starts without consumption of a gaming value. In the meanwhile, the “normal game” is executable on condition that a gaming value is bet, and a gaming value is awarded for an amount corresponding to rearranged symbols, as a result of the normal game. In other words, the “normal game” is a game which starts with consumption of a gaming value.
The term “rearrangement” indicates that the symbols are rearranged after the arrangement of the symbols is dismissed. The term “arrangement” indicates a state in which the symbols are visually recognizable by an external player.
[Explanation of Function Flow Diagram] The following describes basic functions of the slot machine related to the embodiment of the present invention, with reference to
(Start-Check)
First, the slot machine checks whether or not a BET button has been pressed by a player, and subsequently checks whether or not a spin button has been pressed by the player.
<Symbol Determination>
Next, when a spin button has been pressed by the player, the slot machine extracts a random number for symbol determination, and determines symbols to be displayed for the player at the time of stopping the scroll of the symbol array, for respective video reels displayed on a display.
<Symbol Display>
Then the slot machine starts the scroll of the symbol array of each video reel, and stops the scroll so that the determined symbols are displayed for the player.
<Result Determination>
Subsequently, as the rotation of the symbol array of each video reel is stopped, the slot machine determines whether the combination of the symbols displayed for the player is a combination related to winning.
<Payout>
When the combination of the symbols displayed for the player is a combination related to winning, the slot machine offers, to the player, benefit according to the combination. For example, when a combination of symbols related to a payout of coins has been displayed, the slot machine pays out coins of the number corresponding to the combination of symbols to the player.
When a combination of symbols associated with a free game trigger is displayed, the slot machine starts the free game. In the embodiment of the present invention, as the free game, a game (free game) which executes the random determination of the symbols to be stopped a predetermined number of times without consumption of coins.
In addition to the above, the slot machine has other benefits such as mystery feature, in addition to the benefit above. With the mystery feature, a predetermined number of play of free game is awarded when a winning is achieved in dedicated random determination. When a spin button is pressed, the slot machine samples a random number for the mystery bonus, and whether a mystery feature trigger is established is randomly determined.
A rescue function built in the present embodiment is a function for rescuing the player from a situation of not being able to play the free game for a long period of time (a function of awarding a return (rescue) to a player, if a predetermined benefit is not awarded in a predetermined number of plays of the game).
The administrator of the slot machine is able to select whether rescue is active or inactive. When the rescue is activated, the slot machine starts to count the number of plays of the game played. When the counted number of plays of the game played reaches a predetermined number without awarding of a large amount of payout in the free game and the like, the slot machine awards a predetermined benefit.
When a combination of symbols associated with a jackpot trigger is displayed, the slot machine may pay out coins corresponding to a jackpot amount to the player. As the jackpot, at least one of the coins consumed by the player at each slot machine is accumulated as a jackpot amount, and when the jackpot trigger is established at a slot machine, coins corresponding to the accumulated jackpot amount is paid out to that slot machine. In the present case, the slot machine calculates an amount (accumulative amount) accumulated to the jackpot amount each time the game is played, and sends the calculation result to an external controller. The external controller adds the accumulative amount sent from each slot machine to the jackpot amount.
<Determination of Effect>
The slot machine produces an effect by displaying an image on a display, outputting light from a lamp, and outputting sound from a speaker. The slot machine samples an effect-use random number and determines the content of an effect based on randomly determined symbols or the like.
[Overall Structure of Game System]
The basic functions of the slot machine have been described as above. Now, referring to
A game system 300 includes a plurality of slot machines 1 and an external controller 200 connected with the slot machines 1 via a communication line 301.
The external controller 200 is for controlling the plurality of slot machines 1. In the present embodiment, the external controller 200 is a so-called hall server installed in a gaming facility where the plurality of slot machines 1 are provided. Each of the slot machines 1 has a unique identification number, and the external controller 200 identifies which one of the slot machines 1 transmitted data, by referring to the identification number. Further, the external controller 200 determines transmission target of data with the identification number when transmitting data to a slot machine 1.
It is to be noted that the game system 300 may be constructed within a single gaming facility where various games can be performed, such as a casino, or may be constructed among a plurality of gaming facilities. Further, when the game system 300 is constructed in a single gaming facility, the gaming system may be constructed in each floor or section of the gaming facility. The communication line 301 may be a wired or wireless line, and can adopt a dedicated line, an exchange line or the like.
[Overall Structure of Slot Machine]
Now, referring to
A coin, a paper money, or electrically valuable information corresponding to these is used as a gaming value in the slot machine 1. In the embodiment of the present invention, furthermore, a later-described ticket with barcode is also used. It is to be noted that the gaming medium is not limited to these, and for example a medal, a token, cyber money or the like can be adopted.
The slot machine 1 includes a cabinet 11, a top box 12 installed on the upper side of the cabinet 11, and a main door 13 provided at the front surface of the cabinet 11.
At the center of the main door 13, a lower image display panel 141 is provided. The lower image display panel 141 is a liquid crystal panel and constitute a display. The lower image display panel 141 has a symbol display area 4. The symbol display area 4 includes 5 array areas (first array area to fifth array area) each of which is divided into three areas: the upper stage, the middle stage, and the lower stage, as shown in
In the symbol display area 4, the symbol array allocated to each video reel 3 (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e) scrolls and stops after elapse of a predetermined time. As a result, parts of the respective symbol arrays (three successive symbols in the embodiment of the present invention) are displayed for the player. In each of the first array area to the fifth array area of the symbol display area 4, one symbol is displayed in each of the three areas of the array area, i.e., the upper stage, the middle stage, and the lower stage, according to the corresponding video reel 3. To put it differently, 15 symbols forming a 5 by 3 matrix are displayed in the symbol display area 4.
In the embodiment of the present invention, “LEFT TO RIGHT” type is adopted for determining the winning. By selecting any of the five stages of WAYS BET (WAYS BET1, WAYS BET2, WAYS BET3, WAYS BET4, WAYS BET5), a result determination area to be subjected to result determination is selected out of 15 areas of the 5 by 3 matrix of the symbol display area 4 (see
Specifically, as shown in
For example, as shown in
The lower image display panel 141 includes a touch panel 114. The player is allowed to input instructions by touching the lower image display panel 141.
As shown in
The control panel 30 shown in
The change button 31 is an operation button to be used when temporarily leaving the seat, or when requesting a staff person of the gaming facility for an exchange. The cashout/take win button 32 is an operation button to be used for cashing out coins (credits) stored in the slot machine 10. The help button 33 is pressed when the operating method of a game is unclear. When the help button 33 is pressed, various types of help information are displayed on the upper image display panel 131 and the lower image display panel 141.
The WAYS BET1 button 43, the WAYS BET2 button 44, the WAYS BET3 button 45, the WAYS BET4 button 46, and WAYS BET5 button 47 are buttons for determined result determination areas to be subjected to result determination (to be activated), out of 15 areas (the 5 by 3 matrix) of the symbol display area 4. To determine the areas to be subjected to result determination by the WAYS BET1 button 43, 1 credit is required. To determine the areas to be subjected to result determination by the WAYS BET2 button 44, 5 credits are required. To determine the areas to be subjected to result determination by the WAYS BET3 button 45, 10 credits are required. To determine the areas to be subjected to result determination by the WAYS BET4 button 46, 20 credits are required. To determine the areas to be subjected to result determination by the WAYS BET5 button 47, 30 credits are required.
The 1-BET button 34 is a button to determine ×1 as the multiplying factor relative to the payout (1BET). The 2-BET button 35 is a button to determine ×2 as the multiplying factor relative to the payout (2BET). The 3-BET button 37 is a button to determine ×3 as the multiplying factor relative to the payout (3BET). The 5-BET button 39 is a button to determine ×5 as the multiplying factor relative to the payout (5BET). The 10-BET button 40 is a button to determine ×10 as the multiplying factor relative to the payout (10BET). The MAX BET button 48 is a button to determine the maximum (×10) as the multiplying factor relative to the payout. As described above, five credit types are selectable (corresponding to credit type input device).
In the present embodiment, the credit amount to be placed as a bet is determined by means of selecting any of the foregoing five stages of WAYS BET (i.e., WAYS BET, WAYS BET2, WAYS BET3, WAYS BET4, WAYS BET5) and any of the foregoing five types of BET buttons (i.e., 1-BET Button 34, 2-BET button 35, 3-BET button 37, 5-BET button 39, 10-BET button 40), and a normal game is started thereafter.
Specifically, the credit amount bet for starting the normal game is a product resulting from multiplication of the number of credits required by the selected WAYS BET by the credit value corresponding to the selected bet button. The number of credits required for the WAYS BET is 1 credit for WAYS BET1, 5 credits for WAYS BET2, 10 credits for WAYS BET3, 20 credits for WAYS BET4, and 30 credits for WAYS BET5. For example, when the WAYS BET1 and 2-BET button 35 are selected, 2 credits, which is a product of 1×2, are placed as the bet. Further, when the WAYS BET3 and 3-BET button 37 are selected, 30 credits, which is a product of 10×3, are placed as the bet. Further, when the WAYS BET5 and 10-BET button 40 are selected, 300 credits, which is a product of 30×10, are placed as the bet.
The spin button 49 is a button for starting scroll of the video reels 3 (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e). The spin button 49 also serves as a button for use in selection making in relation to the progress of the game.
The coin entry 36 is used for receiving coins into the cabinet 11. The bill entry 115 validates paper money, and accepts genuine paper money and a barcode attached ticket 175 into the cabinet 11.
An upper image display panel 131 is provided at the front face of the top box 12. The upper image display panel 131 is a liquid crystal panel and constitute a display. The upper image display panel 131 displays images related to effects and images showing introduction of the game contents and explanation of the game rules. Further, the top box 12 is provided with a speaker 112 and a lamp 111. The slot machine 1 produces effects by displaying images, outputting sounds, and outputting the light.
A ticket printer 171, a card slot 176, a data display 174, and a keypad 173 are provided on the lower side of the upper image display panel 131.
The ticket printer 171 prints on a ticket a barcode representing encoded data of the credit amount, date and time, the identification number of the slot machine 1, and the like, and then outputs the ticket as the ticket 175 with a barcode. The player is able to play games by causing the slot machine to read the ticket 175 with the barcode and to exchange the ticket 175 with the barcode for paper money or the like at a predetermined location in the gaming facility (e.g., a counter in the casino).
The card slot 176 is provided to insert a card storing predetermined data thereto. The card stores, for example, data for identifying the player and data regarding the playing history of the player. From and to the card inserted into the card slot 176, data is read and written by a later-described card reader 172. The card may store data equivalent to coins, paper money, or credits.
The data display 174 is constituted by a fluorescent display, LEDs and the like, and displays the data read by the card reader 172 and the data inputted by the player via the keypad 173, for example. The keypad 173 is provided to input instructions and data regarding the issuance of a ticket or the like.
[Symbol Arrays on Video Reels]
Next, with reference to
As shown in
As shown in
Further, as shown in
Symbol graphical images of “PHOENIX” include, as shown in
[Structures of Circuits Provided to Slot Machine]
Now, referring to
A gaming board 50 is provided with a CPU 51, a ROM 52, and a boot ROM 53, which are mutually connected by an internal bus; a card slot 55 corresponding to a memory card 54; and an IC socket 57 corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 56.
The memory card 54 includes a nonvolatile memory, and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a program related to game progression, a random determination program, and a program for producing effects by images and sounds (see e.g.,
The random determination program is a program for randomly determining to-be-stopped symbol on the video reels 3. The to-be-stopped symbol is data for determining three symbols to be displayed to the symbol display area 4 out of plural symbols forming each symbol array. The slot machine 1 of the embodiment of the present invention determines, as the to-be-stopped symbols, the symbols to be displayed in a predetermined area (e.g. the middle stage) out of the three areas provided for each of the video reels 151-155 of the symbol display area 4. This way symbols to be displayed in the three areas (the upper stage area, the middle stage area, and the lower stage area) corresponding to each video reel 3 of the symbol display area 4.
The aforementioned random determination program includes symbol determination data. The symbol determination data is data that specifies random numbers so that each of the symbols forming the symbol array is determined at an equal probability for each of the video reels 3. For example, for the first video reel (“Reel 1”) 3a of the normal game video reel 3 shown in
While in the embodiment of the present invention the data is arranged to differentiate the number of symbols constituting the symbol array between the video reels 3 (29 symbols for the video reel 3a (Reel1), 29 symbols for the video reel 3b (Reel2), 28 symbols for the video reel 3c (Reel3), 27 symbols for video reel 3d (Reel4), and 34 symbols for the video reel 3e (Reel5)), the number of symbols constituting the symbol column may be identical between the video reels 3. For example, each of all symbol arrays of the video reels 3a to 3e of the video reels 3 may be constituted by 50 symbols. This arrangement increases the degree of freedom in setting the probabilities of the selection of the symbols of different types in each video reel 3.
Further, the card slot 55 is configured so that the memory card 54 can be inserted thereinto and removed therefrom, and is connected to a motherboard 70 by an IDE bus.
The GAL 56 is a type of PLD (Programmable Logic Device) having a fixed OR array structure. The GAL 56 is provided with a plurality of input ports and output ports, and predetermined input into the input port causes output of the corresponding data from the output port.
Further, the IC socket 57 is configured so that the GAL 56 can be inserted thereinto and removed therefrom, and is connected to the motherboard 70 by a PCI bus. The contents and settings of the game to be played on the slot machine 1 can be changed by replacing the memory card 54 with another memory card 54 having another program written therein or by rewriting the program written into the memory card 54 as another program.
The CPU 51, the ROM 52 and the boot ROM 53 mutually connected by the internal bus are connected to the motherboard 70 by a PCI bus. The PCI bus enables a signal transmission between the motherboard 70 and the gaming board 50, and power supply from the motherboard 70 to the gaming board 50.
The ROM 52 stores an authentication program. The boot ROM 53 stores a pre-authentication program, a program (boot code) to be used by the CPU 51 for activating the pre-authentication program, and the like. The authentication program is a program (falsification check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the aforementioned authentication program. The authentication program and the pre-authentication program are written along a procedure (authentication procedure) for proving that the program to be the subject has not been falsified.
The motherboard 70 is provided with a main CPU 71, a ROM 72, a RAM 73, and a communication interface 82. The ROM 72 and the RAM 73 correspond to the storage unit.
The ROM 72 includes a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as BIOS to be executed by the main CPU 71, and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 71, processing for initializing predetermined peripheral devices is conducted. Further, through the gaming board 50, a process of loading the game program and the game system program stored in the memory card 54 is started.
The processor of the present invention includes the main CPU 71, the ROM 72, and the RAM 73 above and the memory card 54 storing the game program and the game system program, and controls the slot machine by causing the CPU 71 to execute the game program and the game system program. Needless to say, the processor may alternatively store the game program and the game system program in the ROM 72 instead of the memory card 54.
The RAM 73 stores data and programs which are used in operation of the main CPU 71. For example, when the process of loading the aforementioned game program, game system program or authentication program is executed, the RAM 73 can store the program. The RAM 73 is provided with working areas used for operations when these programs are executed. Examples of the areas include: an area that stores counters for the number of games, the bet amount, the payout amount, the credit amount and the like; and an area that stores symbols (code numbers) randomly determined.
The communication interface 82 is for communicating with the external controller 200 such as a server, through the communication line 301. Further, the motherboard 70 is connected with a later-described door PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 90 and a main body PCB 110 by respective USBs. The motherboard 70 is also connected with a power supply unit 81. When the power is supplied from the power supply unit 81 to the motherboard 70, the main CPU 71 of the motherboard 70 is activated, and then the power is supplied to the gaming board 50 through the PCI bus so as to activate the CPU 51.
The door PCB 90 and the main body PCB 110 are connected with input devices such as a switch and a sensor, and peripheral devices the operations of which are controlled by the main CPU 71. The door PCB 90 is connected with a control panel 30, a reverter 91, a coin counter 92C and a cold cathode tube 93.
For each of the buttons, the control panel 30 includes: a change switch 31S, a cashout switch 32S, a help switch 33S, a 1-bet switch 34S, a 2-bet switch 35S, a 3-bet switch 37S, a 5-bet switch 39S, a 10-bet switch 40S, a WAYS BET1 switch 43S, a WAYS BET2 switch 44s, a WAYS BET3 switch 45s, a WAYS BET4 switch 46s, a WAYS BET5 switch 47s, a MAX bet switch 48s, and a spin switch 49s. Each of the switches outputs a signal to the main CPU 71 upon detection of the pressing of the button corresponding thereto by the player.
The coin counter 92C checks whether a coin inserted into the coin receiving slot 36 is genuine in terms of the material, shape, or the like. When determining that the coin is genuine, the coin counter 92C outputs a signal to the main CPU 71. Non-genuine coins are ejected through a coin payout exit 15A.
The reverter 91 operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71, and distributes valid coins validated by the coin counter 92C into a hopper 113 or a cash box (not illustrated). That is, coins are distributed into the hopper 113 when the hopper 113 is not filled with coins, while coins are distributed into the cash box when the hopper 113 is filled with coins.
The cold cathode tube 93 functions as a backlight installed on the rear face side of the upper image display panel 131 and the lower image display panel 141, and turns on based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71.
To the main body PCB 110 are connected the lamp 111, the speaker 112, a hopper 113, a coin detector 113S, the touch panel 114, the bill entry 115, a graphic board 130, a ticket printer 171, a card reader 172, a key switch 173S and the data display 174.
The lamp 111 turns on based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71. The speakers 112 output BGM sound or the like in accordance with a control signal output from the main CPU 71.
The hopper 113 operates based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71, and pays out a designated number of coins from the coin payout exit 15A to the coin tray 15. The coin detector 113S outputs a signal to the main CPU 71 upon detection of coins paid out by the hopper 113.
The touch panel 114 detects a place on the lower image display panel touched by the player's finger or the like, and outputs to the main CPU 71 a signal corresponding to the detected place. Upon acceptance of a valid bill, the bill entry 115 outputs to the main CPU 71 a signal corresponding to the face amount of the paper money.
The graphic board 130 controls image display executed by the respective upper image display panel 131 and lower image display panel 141, based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71. The symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 displays the five video reels 3 by which the scrolling and stop motions of the symbol arrays included in the respective video reels 3 are displayed. The graphic board 130 is provided with a VDP generating image data, a video RAM temporarily storing the image data generated by the VDP, and the like.
The graphic board 130 is provided with the VDP (Video Display Processor) generating image data based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71, the video RAM temporarily storing the image data generated by the VDP, and the like. It is to be noted that the image data used for generating image data by the VDP is included in the game program that has been read from the memory card 54 and stored into the RAM 73.
Based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71, the ticket printer 171 prints on a ticket a barcode representing encoded data of the credit amount stored in the RAM 73, date and time, the identification number of the slot machine 1, and the like, and then outputs the ticket as the ticket 175 with a barcode.
The card reader 172 reads data stored in a card inserted into the card slot 176 and transmits the data to the main CPU 71, or writes data into the card based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71.
The key switch 173S is provided in the keypad 173, and outputs a predetermined signal to the main CPU 71 when the keypad 173 has been operated by the player.
The data display 174 displays data read by the card reader 172 and data inputted by the player through the keypad 173, based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU 71.
[Arrangement of Symbol Combination Table]
Now, symbol combination tables will be described with reference to
The symbol combination tables of the present embodiment define the combinations of symbols (the number of symbols) with which a winning (WIN) is achieved and payout amounts. In the slot machine 1, a win is achieved when the scroll of the symbol array of each video reel 3 is stopped and symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 forms a line which goes through the first array area to the fifth array area within the result determination area set to be the subject of the result determination by the WAYS BET. In accordance with the type of winning, a benefit such as the payout of coins is awarded to the player. In the present embodiment, the symbol combination table shown in
Basically, a winning is achieved when a predetermined number of symbols of a single kind are arranged linked to one another, as in a 3Kind, 4Kind, or a 5Kind combination, through the first array area to the fifth array area, within the result determination area set as the subject to result determination, by the WAYS BET button. The above symbols of a single kind may be, “PHOENIX”, “TURTLE”, “FISH”, “FROG”, “PIG”, “ACE”, “KING”, “QUEEN”, “JACK”, “TEN”, and “NINE”. The symbol of “WILD” is substituted by any of the following symbols: “PHOENIX”, “TURTLE”, “FISH”, “FROG”, “PIG”, “ACE”, “KING”, “QUEEN”, “JACK”, “TEN”, and “NINE”. Regarding the “FEATURE” symbol, a payout and the right to play the free game are awarded if “FEATURE” symbol occurs in three or more consecutive positions through the first array area to the fifth array area (when 3 or more Kind combination of the “FEATURE” is formed), irrespective of the area turned active by the WAYS BET button.
For example, when the “WAYS BET5” is selected, all the areas out of the symbol display area 4 are subjected to result determination (activated). When the scroll of the symbol arrays on the video reels 3 is stopped and the “PHOENIX” symbol occurs in the lower stage of the first array area, the upper stage of the second array area, the upper stage of the third array area, the middle stage of the fourth array area, and the lower stage of the fifth array area, there is a win in which the symbol occurs in five linked positions from the first array area to the fifth array area (5Kind combination of “PHOENIX” is formed). In this case, the symbol combination table shown in
Further, for a winning related to, “PHOENIX”, “TURTLE”, “FISH”, “FROG”, “PIG”, “ACE”, “KING”, “QUEEN”, “JACK”, “TEN”, “NINE”, “FEATURE”, a product of the value associated with the credit type of the normal game multiplied by the value defined in the symbol combination table is paid out. For example, when a winning related to three “PHOENIX” symbols is achieved (when 3Kind combination of “PHOENIX” is formed in a unit game where 10 bet is placed by the 10-BET button 40, the awarded credits will be 50×10=500. When winning “FEATURE”, the right to execute the free game is awarded.
(Game Play Counter)
As shown in
Furthermore, as shown in
With the game play counters described above, at the start of the normal game, the game play counter corresponding to the selected WAYS BET and the selected credit type is incremented, and the right to execute the free game 10 times is awarded when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count. As such, because 25 game play counters corresponding to the types of the WAYS BET and the credit types are independently provided, the credit types based on which the player places a bet and the types of the WAYS BET selectable by the player are diversified.
In the description above, 25 game play counters are provided in total to correspond to five types of WAYS BET and five credit types. Alternatively, as shown in
In addition to the above, as shown in
(Free Game Payout Rate Random Determination Table Determination Table)
The following describes a free game payout rate random determination table determination table with reference to
As shown in
To be more specific, in the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET1 (3WAYS), a payout rate ×3 is associated with a random determination probability of 225/1000, a payout rate ×5 is associated with a random determination probability of 301/1000, a payout rate ×8 is associated with a random determination probability of 349/1000, a payout rate ×10 is associated with a random determination probability of 110/1000, a payout rate ×15 is associated with a random determination probability of 5/1000, a payout rate ×30 is associated with a random determination probability of 5/1000, and a payout rate ×100 is associated with a random determination probability of 5/1000.
In the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET2 (9WAYS), a payout rate ×3 is associated with a random determination probability of 45/1000, a payout rate ×5 is associated with a random determination probability of 300/1000, a payout rate ×8 is associated with a random determination probability of 370/1000, a payout rate ×10 is associated with a random determination probability of 210/1000, a payout rate ×15 is associated with a random determination probability of 45/1000, a payout rate ×30 is associated with a random determination probability of 25/1000, and a payout rate ×100 is associated with a random determination probability of 5/1000.
In the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET3 (27WAYS), a payout rate ×3 is associated with a random determination probability of 45/1000, a payout rate ×5 is associated with a random determination probability of 285/1000, a payout rate ×8 is associated with a random determination probability of 356/1000, a payout rate ×10 is associated with a random determination probability of 234/1000, a payout rate ×15 is associated with a random determination probability of 50/1000, a payout rate ×30 is associated with a random determination probability of 25/1000, and a payout rate ×100 is associated with a random determination probability of 5/1000.
In the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET4 (81WAYS), a payout rate ×3 is associated with a random determination probability of 45/1000, a payout rate ×5 is associated with a random determination probability of 290/1000, a payout rate ×8 is associated with a random determination probability of 361/1000, a payout rate ×10 is associated with a random determination probability of 224/1000, a payout rate ×15 is associated with a random determination probability of 50/1000, a payout rate ×30 is associated with a random determination probability of 25/1000, and a payout rate ×100 is associated with a random determination probability of 5/1000.
In the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET5 (243WAYS), a payout rate ×3 is associated with a random determination probability of 45/1000, a payout rate ×5 is associated with a random determination probability of 295/1000, a payout rate ×8 is associated with a random determination probability of 345/1000, a payout rate ×10 is associated with a random determination probability of 235/1000, a payout rate ×15 is associated with a random determination probability of 50/1000, a payout rate ×30 is associated with a random determination probability of 25/1000, and a payout rate ×100 is associated with a random determination probability of 5/1000.
The free game payout rate random determination table determination table is referred to when, at the time of the awarding of the right to execute the free game, the free game payout rate random determination table, based on which the payout rate by which the payout awarded in the free game is multiplied is determined, is selected based on the WAYS BET selected in the normal game (when the free game trigger is established or the mystery feature is won) or based on the WAYS BET corresponding to the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count.
For example, when the value of the game play counter corresponding to the WAYS BET1 (3WAYS) and the 3BET reaches the threshold game play count “450”, with reference to the free game payout rate random determination table determination table shown in
For example, when the normal game is run with the WAYS BET3 (27WAYS) and the 5BET and the free game trigger is established or the mystery feature is won, with reference to the free game payout rate random determination table determination table shown in
With the above-described free game payout rate random determination table determination table, the free game awarded when the free game trigger is established or the mystery feature is won as a result of the normal game and the free game awarded when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count are able to share the free game payout rate random determination table for determining the payout rate by which the payout is multiplied in the free game and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table for selecting the free game payout rate random determination table. On this account, the free game is run on the same conditions irrespective of the way of shifting to the free game (i.e., the free game is enjoyed without feeling the sense of unfairness).
(Mystery Feature Winning Table)
The following describes a mystery feature winning table with reference to
The mystery feature winning table is a table for use in determining whether or not the mystery feature is won. As shown in
(Special Reel Position)
A special reel position will be described with reference to
According to the arrangement above, the combination of the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count is arranged to be identical with the combination of the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 when the mystery feature is won in the normal game. On this account, when the right to execute the free game is awarded, it is difficult to tell from the outside (according to the combination of the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4) whether the right to execute the free game is awarded because the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count or because the mystery feature is won as a result of the normal game. Therefore it is difficult to estimate the threshold game play count from the outside, and hence expectations on when the right to execute the free game game is awarded as the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count are maintained.
[Contents of Program]
Now, the program to be executed by the slot machine 1 is described with reference to
(Main Control Process)
First, with reference to
First, when the slot machine 1 is powered on, the main CPU 71 reads an authenticated game program and a game system program from a memory card 54 via a gaming board 50, and then write them in the RAM 73 (Step S11).
Next, the main CPU 71 executes an initializing process at the end of each round of the game (Step S12). This process clears data in a working area of the RAM 73, which becomes unnecessary at the end of each round of game, e.g., the amount of bet, symbols randomly determined, and the like.
Next, the main CPU 71 executes a start-check process described later with reference to
Next, the main CPU 71 executes a symbol random determination process (S14). In this process, symbols to be stopped are determined based on random numbers for symbol determination. In the present embodiment, a symbol array corresponding to the WAYS BET selected in S45 of a start-check process which will be described later with reference to
Specifically, the main CPU 71 first samples random numbers for symbol determination. The main CPU 71 then randomly determines symbols to be stopped on the video reels 3 (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e). The main CPU 71 executes random determination for each of the video reels 3 (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e), and determines any one of the symbols as the symbols to be stopped. The symbols are determined at equal probabilities. The main CPU 71 stores the symbols determined as to stop on each video reel 3 in a symbol storing area in the RAM 73.
The main CPU 71 then executes an effect contents determination process (S15). The main CPU 71 samples an effect-use random number and randomly determines any of a plurality of predetermined contents of effect.
Next, the main CPU 71 executes a symbol display control process (step S16). In the process, the scroll of the symbol array on each video reel 3 is started, and the symbols determined as the symbols to stop in the symbol random determination process of S14 are stopped at a predetermined positions (e.g. the middle stage in the symbol display area 4). That is, 15 symbols including the symbols to be stopped are displayed in the symbol display area 4. For example, the symbol with the code number “10” is to be stopped in the middle stage area, the symbols with the code numbers “9” and “11” are displayed in the upper stage and the lower stage of the symbol display area 4, respectively.
Next, the main CPU 71 executes a payout amount determination process (step S17). In this process, a symbol combination table (see
Next, the S18 executes a payout process (step S18). The main CPU 71 adds a value stored in the payout amount storage area to a value stored in the credit counter stored in the credit amount storage area provided in the RAM 73.
Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a free game trigger is met (S19). In the present embodiment, the trigger for transition to the free game is the “FEATURE” symbol occurs in three or more consecutive positions through the first array area to the fifth array area, irrespective of the area activated by a WAYS BET button. The main CPU 71, when determining that the free game trigger has been established (S19: YES), executes a later described free game process (step S24).
Next, the main CPU 71, when determining that the free game trigger is not established in the step S19 (S19: NO), executes the mystery feature random determination process (S20). In the mystery feature random determination process, a random number is sampled to determine whether or not the mystery feature results in the winning or not winning, based on the mystery feature winning table (see
Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the mystery feature is won (S21). When the mystery feature is won (S21: YES), a special reel position display process is executed (S23). In the special reel position display process, as described above, in 15 areas forming a 5 by 3 matrix in the symbol display area 4, symbols “KING”, “FEATURE”, and “QUEEN” are rearranged on the upper stage, the middle stage, and the lower stage of the first array area (Reel1), the symbols “ACE”, “FEATURE”, and “NINE” are rearranged on the upper stage, the middle stage, and the lower stage of the second array area (Reel2), the symbols “KING”, “FEATURE”, and “ACE” are rearranged on the upper stage, the middle stage, and the lower stage of the third array area (Reel3), the symbols “JACK”, “TURTLE”, and “KING” are rearranged on the upper stage, the middle stage, and the lower stage of the fourth array area (Reel4), and the symbols “JACK”, “ACE”, and “FROG” are rearranged on the upper stage, the middle stage, and the lower stage of the fifth array area (Reel5), as the special reel position.
In the present embodiment, when the mystery feature is won, as shown in
On the other hand, if the mystery feature is not won (S21: NO), whether or not the value on the game play counter counted in the game play count process (later-described S49) in the start-check process has reached the threshold game play count of 450 (S22) is determined. If the value on the game play counter has not yet reached the threshold game play count of 450 (S22: NO), the process transits to S12.
In the meanwhile, when the value of the game play counter reaches “450” which is the threshold game play count (S22: YES), the special reel position display process is executed (S23). In the present embodiment, also when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count, as shown in
Subsequently, after the step S23, a later-described free game process is executed (step S24).
After the free game process in S24, a corresponding value of the game play counter is reset (to zero) (S25).
To be more specific, when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count, in case of the execution of the free game process, only the value of the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count is reset, whereas the values of the other 24 game play counters are maintained.
When the free game process is executed after the establishment of the free game trigger or after the winning of the mystery feature, the resetting is done only for the game play counter corresponding to the type of the WAYS BET and the credit type selected in the start-check process of S13. For example, when the WAYS BET5 and the 5BET are selected in the start-check process in S13, only the value of the game play counter corresponding to the WAYS BET5 (243WAYS) and the 5BET is reset, whereas the values of the other 24 game play counters are maintained. Alternatively, when the free game process is executed after the establishment of the free game trigger or after the winning of the mystery feature, the values of all (25) game play counters each corresponding to the type of the WAYS BET and the credit type may be reset.
As described above, when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count, the right to execute the free game is awarded, and only the value of the game play counter having reaches the threshold game play count is reset, and the values of the game play counters which have not reached the threshold game play count are maintained. This induces the player to select the WAYS BET and the bet type corresponding to a game play counter which has not reached the threshold game play count.
After S25, the process transits to the step S12.
(Start-Check Process)
Next, the start-check process is described reference to
First, the main CPU 71 reads a barcode attached ticket 175 through the bill entry 115, and determines if there is an addition of a credit (step S41). When determining that there is addition of a credit (S41: YES), the main CPU 71 adds the specified amount of credits to the value stored in the credit counter stored in the credit amount storage area of the RAM 73 (step S42). It should be noted that the subject to be read by the bill entry 115 includes paper money, an IC card and the like, in addition to the barcode attached ticket 175.
After the step S42 or when determining in the step S41 that there is no addition of credits (S41: NO), the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value of the credit counter stored in the credit amount storage area is 0 (step S43). The process then transits to the step S41, if the value of the credit counter stored in the credit amount storage area is 0 (S43: YES).
On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines that the value of the credit counter stored in the credit amount storage area is not 0 (S43: NO), the main CPU 71 enables operation of the WAYS BET buttons (WAYS BET1 button 43, WAYS BET2 button 44, WAYS BET3 button 45, WAYS BET4 button 46, WAYS BET5 button 47) and the bet buttons (1-bet button 34, 2-bet button 35, 3-bet button 37, 5-bet button 39, 10-bet button 40, and MAX BET button 48) (step S44). By selecting any of the five types of WAYS BET buttons, a result determination area to be subjected to result determination is selected out of 15 areas of the 5 by 3 matrix of the symbol display area 4 (see
Next, the main CPU 71 determines if an operation of the WAYS BET button or the bet button is detected (step S45). When the main CPU 71 detects pressing of the WAYS BET button by the player through the WAYS BET switch (WAYS BET1 switch 43S, WAYS BET2 switch 44s, WAYS BET3 switch 45s, WAYS BET4 switch 46s, WAYS BET5 switch 47s) and detects pressing of the bet button by the player through the bet switch (1-bet switch 34S, 2-bet switch 35S, 3-bet switch 37S, 5-bet switch 39S, 10-bet switch 40S, MAX bet switch 48S), the main CPU 71 updates the value of the bet amount counter stored in the bet amount storage area provided in the RAM 73, based on the product of the amount of credit necessary for the selected WAYS BET (1 credit for WAYS BET1, 5 credits for WAYS BET2, 10 credits for WAYS BET3, 20 credits for WAYS BET 4, and 30 credits for WAYS BET5) multiplied by the amount of credit corresponding to the bet button operated (step S46).
After step S46 or when no operation of the WAYS BET button or the bet button is detected in step S45 (S45: NO), the main CPU 71 enables operation of the spin button 49 (S47).
After the step S47, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not an operation of the spin button 49 is detected (step S48). When the main CPU 71 determines that an operation of the spin button 49 is not detected (S48:NO), the process moves to the step S44.
On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines that the operation of the spin button 49 has been detected (S48: YES), the game play count process is executed (step S49). In the game play count process, the value of the game play counter (see
After the step S49, the main CPU 71 subtracts the value on the bet amount counter calculated in the step S46 from the value of the credit counter stored in the credit amount storage area (step S50). Then, the start-check process is terminated.
(Free Game Process)
The following describes a free game process with reference to
To begin with, the main CPU 71 adds “10” to the free game play counter in the RAM 73 (S101).
When shifting to the free game process occurs, as shown in
Subsequently, the main CPU 71 executes a free game payout rate random determination table determination process (S102). In this free game payout rate random determination table determination process, when the free game trigger is established in S19 or the mystery feature is won in S21, the free game payout rate random determination table by which the payout rate by which the payout awarded in the free game is multiplied is determined is selected based on the type of the WAYS BET selected in S45 and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table.
Then the main CPU 71 execute a payout rate random determination process (S103). To be more specific, random determination is performed based on the free game payout rate random determination table selected in S102, so that the payout rate by which the payout awarded in the free game is multiplied is determined.
For example, in the free game payout rate random determination table determination process (S102), when the WAYS BET3 (27WAYS) and the 5BET are selected in S45 and the normal game is run and the free game trigger is established in S19 or the mystery feature is won in S21, the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET3 (27WAYS) is selected with reference to the free game payout rate random determination table determination table in
To be more specific, in the payout rate random determination process (S103) based on the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET3 (27WAYS), as shown in
In the free game payout rate random determination table determination process (S102), when in S22 the value of the game play counter has reached the threshold game play count, the free game payout rate random determination table for determining the payout rate by which the payout awarded in the free game is multiplied, based on the type of the WAYS BET and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table corresponding to the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count.
For example, when the value of the game play counter corresponding to the WAYS BET1 (3WAYS) and the 3BET reaches “450” which is the threshold game play count, the free game payout rate random determination table associated with the WAYS BET1 (3WAYS) is selected with reference to the free game payout rate random determination table determination table shown in
To be more specific, as shown in
After S103, the main CPU 71 executes a payout rate display process (S104). As detailed later, in this payout rate display process, a value calculated by multiplying the payout amount (see
To be more specific, to begin with, as shown in
Thereafter, as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
Furthermore, a display effect is performed such that the previous payout amount displayed on the upper image display panel 131 is incremented step by step in units of 1. For example, when the previous payout amount “1000” is incremented in units of 1 to “3000”, the display effect is performed in such a way that “1001”-->“1002”-->“1003”--> . . . -->“2999”-->“3000”. (In reality, the incrimination is rapidly done). When each payout amount (payout) is displayed on the upper image display panel 131, a flashing image effect is performed on the entire screen as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
Furthermore, a display effect is performed such that the previous payout amount displayed on the upper image display panel 131 is incremented step by step in units of 1. For example, when the previous payout amount “3000” is incremented in units of 1 to “5000”, the display effect is performed in such a way that “3001”-->“3002”-->“3003”--> . . . -->“4999”-->“5000”. (In reality, the incrimination is rapidly done). When each payout amount (payout) is displayed on the upper image display panel 131, a flashing image effect is performed on the entire screen as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
Furthermore, a display effect is performed such that the previous payout amount displayed on the upper image display panel 131 is incremented step by step in units of 1. For example, when the previous payout amount “8000” is incremented in units of 1 to “10000”, the display effect is performed in such a way that “8001”-->“8002”-->“8003”--> . . . -->“9999”-->“10000”. (In reality, the incrimination is rapidly done). When each payout amount (payout) is displayed on the upper image display panel 131, a flashing image effect is performed on the entire screen as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
Furthermore, a display effect is performed such that the previous payout amount displayed on the upper image display panel 131 is incremented step by step in units of 1. For example, when the previous payout amount “10000” is incremented in units of 1 to “15000”, the display effect is performed in such a way that “10001”-->“10002”-->“10003”--> . . . -->“14999”-->“15000”. (In reality, the incrimination is rapidly done). When each payout amount (payout) is displayed on the upper image display panel 131, a flashing image effect is performed on the entire screen as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
Furthermore, a display effect is performed such that the previous payout amount displayed on the upper image display panel 131 is incremented step by step in units of 1. For example, when the previous payout amount “30000” is incremented in units of 1 to “100000”, the display effect is performed in such a way that “30001”-->“30002”-->“30003”--> . . . -->“99999”-->“100000”. (In reality, the incrimination is rapidly done). When each payout amount (payout) is displayed on the upper image display panel 131, a flashing image effect is performed on the entire screen as shown in
Furthermore, as shown in
When each payout amount (free game payout) is displayed on the upper image display panel 131, a flashing image effect is performed on the entire screen as shown in
With the display state above, on the upper image display panel 131, a process that a free game payout multiplied by a low payout rate is changed to a free game payout multiplied by the payout rate determined in S103 via a free game payout multiplied by a high payout rate is displayed step by step. In this way, an effect that the free game payout (including the payout rate) progresses is performed. This increases the expectation on the free game payout awarded in the free game.
With the display state above, furthermore, a symbol graphical image is changed step by step from a normal-class symbol graphical image corresponding to a low payout rate to a middle-class symbol graphical image and a high-class symbol graphical image. As such, an effect that the symbol graphical image corresponding to the payout rate progresses is performed. This increases the expectation on the free game payout awarded in the free game.
After the step S104, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not an operation of the spin button 49 is detected (step S105). When the main CPU 71 determines that an operation of the spin button 49 is not detected (S105:NO), the operation of the spin button 49 is waited for.
In the meanwhile, when the operation of the spin button 49 is detected (S105: YES), the main CPU 71 executes a at-one-game-end initialization process in the same manner as in the step S12 (S106). Next, the main CPU 71 executes a symbol random determination process (S107) in the same manner as the step S14.
The main CPU 71 then executes the effect contents determination process (S108) in the same manner as the step S15. Next, the main CPU 71 executes the symbol display control process (S109) in the same manner as the step S16. The main CPU 71 then executes the payout amount determination process (S110) in the same manner as in the step S17.
Subsequently, the main CPU 71 executes a payout process (step S111). In this payout process, the main CPU 71 adds the value awarded in the payout amount determination process of the step S110 to the value stored in a free game payout counter. The free game payout counter is an area where the total payout amount determined during the free game is stored. When the free game process ends, the main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the free game payout counter to a credit counter provided in the RAM 73. In other words, the total payout amount determined in the free game is awarded at once. The payout may be awarded by ejecting coins from the coin payout exit 15A or by issuing a ticket with a barcode.
In regard to the type of the WAYS BET and the credit type in the free game, when the free game trigger is established or the mystery feature is won, the WAYS BET and the credit type in the normal game in which the right to execute the free game is awarded are maintained (i.e., the type of the WAYS BET and the credit type received in S45 are maintained). In the meanwhile, if the value of the game play counter has reached the threshold game play count in S22, the type of the WAYS BET and the credit type corresponding to the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count are employed as the type of the WAYS BET and the credit type in the free game. Therefore, in S107 (symbol random determination process) above in the free game of the present embodiment, a symbol array corresponding to the WAYS BET selected above is used (see
For example, when, in S22, the value of the game play counter corresponding to the WAYS BET1 (3WAYS) and the 3BET reaches “450” which is the threshold game play count, a payout of 300×3=900 is added to the value stored in the free game payout counter, provided that the payout rate determined in S103 is ×3 (see
Furthermore, for example, when the WAYS BET3 (27WAYS) and the 5BET are selected in S45 and the normal game is executed and the free game trigger is established in S19 or the mystery feature is won in S21, a payout of 300×5=1500 is added to the value stored in the free game payout counter, provided that the payout rate determined in S103 is ×3 (see
Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a re-trigger occurred (S112). In the present embodiment, the re-trigger occurs when the symbol of “FEATURE” occurs in three or more consecutive positions through the first array area to the fifth array area, irrespective of the result determination area activated by the WAYS BET. When it is determined that the re-trigger occurred (S112: Yes), the main CPU 71 adds 1 to the free game play counter in the RAM 73 and updates the value of the same (S113).
In the present embodiment, as shown in
When the main CPU 71 determines that the re-trigger is not established (S112: NO) or after S113, the main CPU 71 subtracts 1 from the value of the free game play counter (S114).
The main CPU 71 then determines whether the value on the free game play counter is 0 (S115). When determining that the value on the free game play counter is not 0 (S115: NO), the main CPU 71 proceeds to the step S105.
In the meanwhile, when the value on the free game play counter is 0 (S115: YES), the free game process is terminated.
According to the arrangement above, in accordance with the start of the normal game, the value of the game play counter corresponding to the selected type of the WAYS BET and the selected credit type is incremented, and the right to execute the free game for a predetermined number of times is awarded when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count. As such, because a game play counter for counting the number of game play is independently set for each of the credit types corresponding to the types of the WAYS BET, the credit types based on which the player places a bet and the types of the WAYS BET selectable by the player are diversified.
In addition to the above, in the free game a payout is awarded based on a result of the free game and the type of the WAYS BET and the credit type corresponding to the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count. On this account, because the credit type with which a bet is placed in the normal game and the selected WAYS BET are taken into consideration in the free game payout, the player is encouraged to select a credit type with which a bet is placed in the normal game and a type of the WAYS BET, in consideration of the payout in the free game.
Furthermore, in the arrangement above, when the free game trigger is established or when the mystery feature is won as a result of the normal game, the right to execute the free game 10 times is awarded. On this account, the free game awarded when the free game trigger is established or the mystery feature is won as a result of the normal game is arranged to be identical with the free game awarded when the value of the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count. This simplifies the game design and the operation of the slot machine 1. Furthermore, because the free game is shared, it is possible for the player to understand the rules of the free game soon.
In the structure, when the game play count in the game play counter reaches the threshold game play count, the right to execute the free game is awarded and only the value of the game play counter having reached the threshold game play count is reset. Values of the game play counters having not yet reached their threshold game play counts are maintained. This induces the player to select the WAYS BET and the bet type corresponding to the game play counter which has not yet reached the threshold game play count.
[Screen Display Specification]
Now, the screen display specification of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to
<Screen Display Specification in Normal Game>
To begin with, screen display specification in the normal game will be described with reference to
As shown in
On the lower image display panel 141 in the normal game, in addition to the above-described symbol display area 4, a credit meter 404, a bet meter 405, a win meter 406, a display area 407 for WAYS BET information, bet information and the game state, a graph-switch button 400, a help touch button 409, a language switching touch button 410, a sound volume switching touch button 411, and a denomination indicator 412. In the credit meter 404 is displayed a remaining credit amount. The default value is 0. In other words, a credit amount stored in the RAM 73 is displayed. The bet meter 405 displays the total bet amount of the current game (or the final game). The win meter 406 displays the total credit amount of win and the detail of the win. In the normal game of the present embodiment, as shown in
The display area 407 for the WAYS BET information, bet information and the game state displays the WAYS BET information and the bet information of the currently played game (or the final play of the game). Specifically, the area displays which type of the 5 staged WAYS BET (i.e., WAYS BET1, WAYS BET2, WAYS BET3, WAYS BET4, and WAYS BET5) is currently selected. Further, the display area 407 displays the state of the currently played game. The area is hidden while the current play of the game is played. When the current game state is game over, “GAME OVER” is displayed. When the current game state is waiting for gamble, “PLAY ON, GAMBLE or TAKE WIN” is displayed.
The graph-switch button 400 sequentially changes the display every time it is touched by the player, in the order of a normal screen (title logo screen)-->a line-graph G1,-->a bar-graph G2,-->a block-graph G3,-->and back to the normal screen (title logo screen).
When the player touches the help touch button 409, the first page of the help screen is displayed on the lower image display panel 141. The help touch button 409 is darkened when it is inactive, e.g., during the rotation of the video reels 3.
As the language switching touch button 410 is touched by the player, the language is switched to English or Chinese. The language switching touch button 410 is activated only during the advertisement, and is darkened when it is inactive, e.g., during the rotation of the video reels 3. Furthermore, on the language switching touch button 410, the displayed national flags are changed to “U.K./Chine” or “U.S.A./China” in accordance with the setting of the AUDIT. When the language switching is set at “DISABLE”, the language switching touch button 410 is changed to a paytable button with which a payout table is displayed on the help screen.
The sound volume switching touch button 411 is used for switching the game sound volume in three stages. Each time the sound volume switching touch button 411 is touched by the player, the game sound volume is switched such that, for example, from low to middle to high to small to middle. The denomination indicator 412 displays current denomination.
<HELP Screen Display Specification>
Next, the following describes HELP screen display specification, with reference to
As the lower image display panel 141 shown in
When the player touches the exit touch button 414, the HELP screen 413 disappears from the lower image display panel 141 and a normal game screen (see
<Screen Display Specification in Free Game>
Now, the screen display specification in the free game will be described with reference to
As shown in
As shown in
[Win Effect]
Now, a win effect in the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to
The win effect is an effect executed when a winning is achieved in the normal game or the free game. In other words, the effect is executed when symbols stopped in the result determination area subjected to result determination by operating the WAYS BET button forms a combination of a predetermined number of symbols which are linked within the first array area to the fifth array area in the symbol display area 4, the combination matching with a symbol combination on the symbol combination table (see
<Flow of Win Effect>
To begin with, as shown in
On the lower image display panel 141, the win effect is performed for the achieved win. The win effect is provided when the feature symbol occurs to three or more consecutive positions through the first array area to the fifth array area, followed by a win effect associated with a winning related to the other symbols are executed. In this regard, for symbols for each of which a win animation is prepared, an animation effect is carried out. The symbols which do not relate to any win are darkened to be less noticeable.
For example, as shown in
Subsequently, as shown in
When one kind of symbols successively appear, as shown in
<Win Signboard>
Now, the win signboard will be described with reference to
The total win amount as a result of the current play of the game is displayed on a silver signboard 421 shown in
On the other hand, when the increment amount becomes more than 50 times as much as the bet amount, the gold signboard 421 shown in the upper part of
In addition to the above, in the free game, when the TOTAL WIN in the free game is less than 15 times as much as the bet amount, as shown in
In the meanwhile, when in the free game the increment amount exceeds 50 times as much as the bet amount, an effect of displaying falling coins and bills is performed on the upper image display panel 131 and the lower image display panel 141 as shown in
<Effect Sound when Three or More “FEATURE” Symbols Appear>
Now, effect sound when three or more “FEATURE” symbols appear will be described with reference to
When three or more “FEATURE” symbols appear in the symbol display area 4, dedicated “Jilililili” sound (bell-ring like sound) is reproduced as a sound effect. The sound reproduction starts when all reels stop, and lasts three seconds until the increment starts after 30 frames elapse. During the reproduction of the bleep sound, the symbol animation, the display of the LINE WIN, and the increment display are not performed.
According to the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in
After the three seconds, as shown in
(Display Screen: Graph Display Screen)
Specifically, the graph screen display portion G11 indicates a transition of returns, the number of plays at the time of winning a feature, and amount of credits won at the time. The graph screen display portion G11 is switch over displaying of three types of graph images, by touching operation of the graph-switch button 400 while the reels on the normal screen are stopped. The three types of graph images are images of: a line-graph, a bar-graph, and a block-graph. In other words, the display is switched sequentially in an order of: the 0th page shown in
The graph-switch button 400 is arranged on the right side of the win meter 406 and allows switching over of the graph images by player's touch operations. Further, the graph-switch button 400 switches over its indication along with the switching of the graph images in the graph screen display portion G11. Specifically, as shown in
(Display Screen: Operations of Graph Display Screen)
The following describes the state of the display screen on the upper image display panel 131, when the graph-switch button 400 is touch-operated, with reference to
As shown in
Immediately after that, there will be a video effect simulating the door display portions G14a and G14b open to the left and right, as shown in
Further, as shown in
Immediately after that, there will be an image effect simulating the door display portions G14a and G14b open to the left and right, as shown in
Further, when the player touches to operate the graph-switch button 400 while the button is bright, the door display portions G14a and G14b expands inwardly their display areas, and simulate the situation that the bar-graph displayed in the graph screen display portion G11 is hidden over the closed doors. When the door display portions G14a and G14b simulate the closing doors, an effect sound of doors closing is output.
Immediately after that, there will be an image effect simulating the door display portions G14a and G14b open to the left and right. The graph-switch button 400 at this time is in the inactive state and dimmed as compared to the graph-switch button 400 in the active state. Then, when the door display portions G14a and G14b are opened, a block-graph of the third page is displayed in the graph screen display portion G11, as shown in
Further, as shown in
Immediately after that, there will be an image effect simulating the door display portions G14a and G14b open to the left and right, as shown in
By touching the graph-switch button 400, the display on the upper image display panel 131 is switched in the following sequence: the 0th page (normal screen (title logo screen)),-->the first page (line-graph)-->the second page (bar-graph),-->the third page (block-graph),-->back to the 0th page (normal screen (title logo screen)). At the same time, the graph-switch button 400 changes its graphics in a sequence of: a graph-switch button 400A corresponding to the 0th page (normal screen (title logo screen)),-->a graph-switch button 400B corresponding to the line-graph on the first page,-->a graph-switch button 400C corresponding to the bar-graph on the second page,-->a graph-switch button 400D corresponding to the block-graph on the third page,-->back to the graph-switch button 400A corresponding to the 0th page (normal screen (title logo screen)), as shown in
Further, for example, when the spin button 49 is pressed while the bar-graph on the second page is displayed in the graph screen display portion G11 as shown in
Immediately after that, there will be an image effect simulating the door display portions G14a and G14b open to the left and right, as shown in
(Display Screen: Line-Graph in Details)
Next, with reference to
As shown in
As shown in
Further, the horizontal axis K2 indicates a cumulative number of plays of the normal game players have played. The right end of the horizontal axis is given a space to indicate the play of the normal game currently taking place, and 500 plays of the game are initially indicated on the horizontal axis. In other words, the last 500 plays of the game are indicated (the left end of the horizontal axis indicates the payout rate of a play which is 500 plays before the current play of the game).
For example, when the normal game starts with the betting of 15 credits (total bet amount) and a payout of 100 credits is awarded as a result of the normal game, the payout rate is 100÷15≈6.7, and this number is rounded to the nearest whole number and then 1 is subtracted therefrom. As a result, the payout rate is determined as “6”. When a dot is plotted at ×10 as the payout rate of the previous normal game, the present payout rate is added thereto as 10+“6”, and a dot is plotted at “16”. The dot at the previous ×10 is connected with the dot at ×16 as a result of the addition of the present payout rate by a linear line, and the line-graph G1 is updated. The payout rate of the total win including the free game is indicated by a dotted line.
To the upper right of the graph screen display portion G11, a graph information notification space K5 is provided. The space displays a message notifying that a full linear line in the graph indicates the payout rate as a result of the normal game, whereas a dotted linear line in the graph indicates the payout rate in the total win including the free game.
(Display Screen: Display of Scales in Line-Graph)
The upper and lower limit values of the vertical axis K1 shift according to the payout rate. Specifically, the points of the upper limit value and the lower limit value are shifted, as follows. Namely, with the points before the shift as the references, the points are shifted to values resulting from adding the value of the current payout rate to the points before the shift.
For example, as shown in
Further, when the payout rate of the current play is 0 or lower, the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the vertical axis K1 are shifted to the values resulting from subtracting 1 from each of the upper limit values and the lower limit values before the shift, respectively.
For example, as shown in
Further, as shown in
(Display Screen: Bar-Graph in Details)
Next, with reference to
As shown in
As shown in
Further, the “total win in the free game” of a player indicated by the horizontal axis K22 covers 15 plays including the current play. A box K25 under each bar-graph indicating the “total win in the free game” indicates the number of plays of the normal game run from the last triggered free game or from the end of the last 15-choice pick game till the 15-choice pick game is newly triggered. It should be noted that the rightmost box K27 indicates the cumulative total of the plays of the normal game run from the last triggered free game or from the end of the last 15-choice pick game till the current time.
Further, as shown in
(Display Screen: Block-Graph in Details)
Next, with reference to
As shown in
As shown in
Further, the number of plays of the free game played by a player indicated by the horizontal axis K32 covers 15 plays including the current play. A box K35 under each column of the block-graph G3 indicates the number of plays of the normal game run from the end of the last free game till the free game is newly triggered. It should be noted that the rightmost box K27 indicates the cumulative total of the plays of the normal game run from the end of the last free game till the current time. The rightmost box K37, since it indicates the current value, is displayed in a different color from that of the other boxes K35 so as to make it noticeable to the player.
Further, as shown in
(Setting of Audit for Switching Graph Screen: Audit)
In the present embodiment, the line-graph G1, the bar-graph G2, and the block-graph G3 displayed on the graph screen display portion G11 are switchable to active or inactive state in Audit setting (see
[Win Meter Information Display]
Now, win meter information display of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to
As shown in
The win total amount display region 406 displays a win credit and a money amount. Increment display is performed based on a win increment speed sheet, when performed. More specifically, the win total amount display region 406A displays a credit amount obtained in the current game cycle (or in the previous game cycle). When a credit is obtained more than once in one game cycle, the credit is added each time it is obtained. For example, when the free game is triggered in the normal game and the player obtains a normal win 20 and a bonus win 100, the image display is incremented from “0” to “120”. Thereafter, when the player obtains a payout amount of 200 in the free game, the increment display is conducted from 120 to 320. 0 is displayed either when the next game cycle starts or when lost in GAMBLE. In the meanwhile, when a win is achieved in GAMBLE, no increment is carried out and the displayed amount is immediately doubled.
The detail display region 406 relates to a win in the normal game and the free game. After the fifth reel stops, the win credit is displayed. When more than one payout simultaneously occurs, the line payouts are displayed one by one at intervals of 0.5 second. The payouts are serially displayed in an ascending order of the payout amount, and the smallest payout is again displayed after the largest payout is displayed. In other words, the detail display region 406 displays the details of the credit obtained by the spinning in this time. When there are plural elements (e.g., another line or scatter), the elements are switched at intervals of 0.5 second.
The total display region 406C displays the total credits of the detail display region 406 when the increment in the win total amount display region 406A is completed. The region is not displayed until the increment in the win total amount display region 406A is completed. In other words, the total display region 406C displays the details of the credit obtained by the spinning in this time. In this regard, the total credits are displayed after the increment in the win total amount display region 406A is finished.
[Gamble Specification]
Now, the GAMBLE specification in the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to
To begin with, when a winning (WIN) is achieved, the lower image display panel 141 shown in
Subsequently, on the lower image display panel 141 shown in
When the player fails in the selection, the option (“RED” or “BLACK”) which is not selected is darkened on the lower image display panel 141 shown in
When the player succeeds in the selection, the option (“RED” or “BLACK”) which is not selected is darkened on the lower image display panel 141 shown in
When GAMBLE is played until reaching the upper limit number of times, the value of win is added to the credit at once and the idle state returns. In the meanwhile, the number of times of playing the GAMBLE has not reached the upper limit, the lower image display panel 141 is changed to the lower image display panel 141 shown in
[Residual Gamble]
Now, RESIDUAL GAMBLE in the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to
[System Font Display Region]
Now, a system font display region of slot machine 1 will be described with reference to
[HELP Specification]
Now, the HELP specification in the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to
The message region 503 is displayed with system fonts. This region is linked with the control panel 30 or the control panel 460. For this reason, when another pattern is used and the number is changed, the image display on the region is changed to the correct one in accordance with the change.
As indicated in the table shown in
[Layout of Screen Touch Buttons]
Now, the following will describe the layout of the screen touch buttons in the slot machine 1, with reference to
In the layout of the screen touch buttons in the slot machine 1, a help touch button 409, a language switching touch button 410, a sound volume switching touch button 411a, a denomination indicator 412, an EXIT touch button 414, a PREV. touch button 415, or NEXT touch button 416 is provided. In particular, when the language switching is disabled and the game is in progress or the state is in GAMBLE or TAKE WIN, as shown in
[Sound Volume Switching Touch Button]
Now, referring to
[AUDIT National Flag Switch Setting]
Now, referring to
(Outline of P15-0045)
P15-0045 relates to a gaming machine capable of running a free game.
Traditionally, in a facility where gaming machines such as slot machines and the like are set up, games are played by betting various types of gaming medium such as a credit and the like in the slot machines. In each slot machine are set a plurality of result determination areas (areas for which determination of win or loss is carried out) on which a bet is placeable, and a payout or a free game is awarded based on the number of result determination areas on which a bet is placed, the number of bet credits, and the game result.
Further, amongst the slot machines are those configured to perform an awarding (rescue) to the player, when the number of plays of the normal game resulting no benefit reaches a predetermined number. For example, a payout or a free game is awarded when the number of plays of the normal game resulting in no benefit reaches a predetermined value (so-called ceiling number).
However, a player may feel the sense of unfairness, if a free game awarded as rescue and a free game awarded based on a game result of a normal game are executed based on different payout amounts or different winning probabilities, even if they are both free games.
An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of running a free game under the same condition irrespective of the way of shifting to the free game.
The present invention relates to a gaming machine including: a result determination area input device configured to allow selection of any of result determination areas;
a display device configured to display a result of a normal game and a result of a free game by rearranging symbols in the result determination area;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective result determination areas, result determination area counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game,
for each of the result determination area counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game,
free game payout rate random determination tables in which payout rates are associated with random determination probabilities, and
a free game payout rate random determination table determination table in which the free game payout rate random determination tables are associated with the result determination areas; and
a controller programmed to execute the processes of:
(1a) accepting the selection of a result determination area by the result determination area input device;
(1b) incrementing the number of game play in the result determination area counter corresponding to the result determination area selected in the process (1a), at the start of the normal game;
(1c) on the display device, displaying the result of the normal game by rearranging the symbols in the result determination area selected in the process (1a), and awarding the right to execute the free game when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the displayed result of the normal game;
(1d) determining whether the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count;
(1e) when running the free game awarded in the process (1c), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area selected in the normal game in which the predetermined condition is satisfied and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table,
and when running the free game awarded in the process (1d), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area corresponding to the result determination area counter reaching the threshold game play count in the process (1d) and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table;
(1f) based on the free game payout rate random determination table selected in the process (1e), randomly determining the payout rate; and
(1g) running the free game and awarding, as a free game payout, a value calculated by multiplying the payout based on the result of the free game by the payout rate determined in the process (1f).
According to the arrangement above, the free game awarded when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game and the free game awarded when the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count are able to share the free game payout rate random determination table for determining the payout rate for multiplication in the free game and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table for determining the free game payout rate random determination table.
On this account, the free game is run on the same conditions irrespective of the way of shifting to the free game (i.e., the free game is enjoyed without feeling the sense of unfairness).
In the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that,
the payout rates are provided in stages from a low payout rate to a high payout rate, and the controller is programmed to further execute the process of
after determining the payout rate in the process (1f), displaying the payout rates step by step on the display device from the low payout rate to the determined payout rate.
According to this arrangement, on the display device, a process that a low payout rate is changed to the determined payout rate is displayed step by step. In this way, an effect that the payout rate progresses is performed. This increases the expectation on the free game payout awarded in the free game.
In the present invention, the gaming machine is arranged such that,
the symbols include plural types of symbols from a symbol corresponding to the low payout rate to a symbol corresponding to the high payout rate, and
the controller is programmed to further execute the process of
after determining the payout rate in the process (1f), changing the type of the symbols from the symbol corresponding to the low payout rate to the symbol corresponding to the determined payout rate.
According to the arrangement above, the type of the symbols is changed from the symbol corresponding to the low payout rate to the symbol corresponding to the determined payout rate. As such, an effect that the symbol corresponding to the payout rate progresses is performed. This increases the expectation on the free game payout awarded in the free game.
The present invention relates to a method of controlling a gaming machine which includes: a result determination area input device configured to allow selection of any of result determination areas;
a display device configured to display a result of a normal game and a result of a free game by rearranging symbols in the result determination area;
a storage unit configured to store, for the respective result determination areas, result determination area counters each counting the number of game play incremented at the start of the normal game;
for each of the result determination area counters, a threshold game play count indicating how long does it take until awarding of the right to run the free game,
free game payout rate random determination tables in which payout rates are associated with random determination probabilities, and
a free game payout rate random determination table determination table in which the free game payout rate random determination tables are associated with the result determination areas; and a controller,
the method comprising, under control of the controller, the steps of:
(1a) accepting the selection of a result determination area by the result determination area input device;
(1b) incrementing the number of game play of the result determination area counter corresponding to the result determination area selected in the step (1a), at the start of the normal game;
(1c) on the display device, displaying the result of the normal game by rearranging the symbols in the result determination area selected in the step (1a), and awarding the right to execute the free game when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the displayed result of the normal game;
(1d) determining whether the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count, and awarding the right to run the free game for a predetermined number of times when the number of game play reaches the threshold game play count;
(1e) when running the free game awarded in the step (1c), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area selected in the normal game in which the predetermined condition is satisfied and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table, and
when running the free game awarded in the step (1d), selecting one of the free game payout rate random determination tables based on the result determination area corresponding to the result determination area counter reaching the threshold game play count in the step (1d) and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table;
(1f) based on the free game payout rate random determination table selected in the step (1e), randomly determining the payout rate; and
(1g) running the free game and awarding, as a free game payout, a value calculated by multiplying the payout based on the result of the free game by the payout rate determined in the step (1f).
According to the method above, the free game awarded when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game and the free game awarded when the number of game play in the result determination area counter reaches the threshold game play count are able to share the free game payout rate random determination table for determining the payout rate for multiplication in the free game and the free game payout rate random determination table determination table for determining the free game payout rate random determination table.
On this account, the free game is run on the same conditions irrespective of the way of shifting to the free game (i.e., the free game is enjoyed without feeling the sense of unfairness).
[Other Notes]
Further, the detailed description above is mainly focused on characteristics of the present invention to for the sake of easier understanding. The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and is applicable to diversity of other embodiments. Further, the terms and phraseology used in the present specification are adopted solely to provide specific illustration of the present invention, and in no case should the scope of the present invention be limited by such terms and phraseology. Further, it will be obvious for those skilled in the art that the other structures, systems, methods or the like are possible, within the spirit of the invention described in the present specification. The description of claims therefore shall encompass structures equivalent to the present invention, unless otherwise such structures are regarded as to depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, the abstract is provided to allow, through a simple investigation, quick analysis of the technical features and essences of the present invention by an intellectual property office, a general public institution, or one skilled in the art who is not fully familiarized with patent and legal or professional terminology. It is therefore not an intention of the abstract to limit the scope of the present invention which shall be construed on the basis of the description of the claims. To fully understand the object and effects of the present invention, it is strongly encouraged to sufficiently refer to disclosures of documents already made available.
The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove includes a process executed on a computer. The above descriptions and expressions are provided to allow the one skilled in the art to most efficiently understand the present invention. A process executed in or by respective steps yielding one result or blocks with a predetermined processing function described in the present specification shall be understood as a process with no self-contradiction. Further, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received and written in the respective steps. It should be noted that such a signal is expressed in the form of bit, value, symbol, text, terms, number, or the like solely for the sake of convenience. Although the present specification occasionally personifies the processes carried out in the steps, these processes are essentially executed by various devices. Further, the other structures necessary for the steps are obvious from the above descriptions.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-097763 | May 2015 | JP | national |
| 2015-097766 | May 2015 | JP | national |
