JP2025072943A - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Abstract

To reduce a tedious feeling of a player under a normal state, in a game machine which generates a special state such as an AT state or the like upon winning under the normal state.SOLUTION: In a slot machine 1, when a transition to a CZ is determined by a special normal lottery in a general normal state, a game transitions to the CZ over a predetermined number of games and the expectation of transition to the AT state is set for each game in the CZ, the expectation of transition set for each game in the CZ can be suggested by consuming points imparted by point imparting means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Gaming machines that generate an AT state have been introduced to realize gameplay that can increase the interest of the game (see Patent Document 1 below). The AT state is an advantageous gaming state in which the player is notified of the order in which to press the stop buttons to win the internal winning combination. When the AT state occurs, the player is assured of winning the internal winning combination by being notified of the order in which to press the buttons, and it is possible to increase the number of points held. The AT state occurs, for example, when a lottery that is executed under normal conditions is won.

JP 2023-057501 A

In the conventional gaming machines described above, many players feel bored during the normal state in which the lottery for special states such as the AT state is held, and many players end up quitting the game.

In view of the above situation, the present invention aims to reduce the sense of boredom that a player may feel under normal conditions in a gaming machine that generates a special state such as an AT state in response to a win under normal conditions.

The gaming machine of the present invention is capable of generating a normal state with a low expectation of winning and a special state with a higher expectation of winning than the normal state, and can further generate, as normal states, a general normal state with a low expectation of transition to the special state and a special normal state with a high expectation of transition. In this gaming machine, a predetermined number of points are awarded to the player when a predetermined point awarding condition is met in response to the execution of a game.

The gaming machine of the present invention transitions to the special normal state for a predetermined number of games when a transition to the special normal state is determined by a special normal lottery in the general normal state. For each game in the special normal state, an expected degree of transition to the special state is set. In addition, in the gaming machine of the present invention, by spending points granted by the point granting means, a suggestion of the expected degree of transition set for each game in the special normal state can be received.

In this way, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the player can receive an indication of the likelihood of transitioning to a special state by spending points. Therefore, this gaming machine can motivate the player to continue playing in order to acquire points. Furthermore, this gaming machine allows the player to understand the likelihood of transitioning to a special state and play during the special normal state. When the special normal state occurs, the player of this gaming machine can understand in which game there is a high likelihood of transitioning to the special state, and can maintain a sense of expectation and tension regarding the special state.

In this way, the gaming machine of the present invention can reduce the sense of boredom that a player may feel under normal conditions in a gaming machine that generates a special state such as an AT state in response to a win under normal conditions.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the gaming state in a non-bonus state. FIG. 2 is a front view of the slot machine and the card unit. A diagram of the patterns arranged around the outside of the reel. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the slot machine and the card unit. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing slot machine roles and winning symbols. An explanatory diagram showing the number of internal winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role lottery table (e.g., setting 1). FIG. 13 is a transition diagram of a gaming state in a slot machine. An explanatory diagram showing the expected probability of winning AT (expected probability of transition) in each scenario of CZ. Front view of the presentation screen at the start of CZ ((a) presentation screen when there is no scenario suggestion, (b) presentation screen when there is a scenario suggestion). FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the navigation probability for each period under general normal conditions. An explanatory diagram illustrating the winning probability and suggested probability for each navigation probability. An explanatory diagram of a situation in which a new cycle begins before the end of the premonition period after winning the AT. An explanatory diagram of the situation when a new cycle begins before the end of the premonition period after winning the CZ lottery. An explanatory diagram illustrating the winning probability and suggested probability for each navigation probability. An explanatory diagram illustrating the patterns of lotteries during AT. An explanatory diagram illustrating the patterns of lotteries during AT. An explanatory diagram illustrating the patterns of lotteries during AT. A flow chart showing the processing flow in the final game of the AT. A front view of the presentation screen including a display of acquired points. An explanatory diagram of the point consumption procedure ((a) suggestion type selection screen, (b) point consumption confirmation screen, (c) point consumption completion screen).

The embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described using the following examples.
(Example)
This example is an example of a slot machine 1 that can generate a normal state with a low winning expectation as a non-bonus state, and an AT state (an example of a special state) with a higher winning expectation than the normal state by push order navigation. The contents will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 20.

As shown in FIG. 1, the normal state of the slot machine (gaming machine) 1 in this example is divided into a general normal state and a special normal state CZ (chance zone) with different game characteristics, and the general normal state is further divided into a first general normal state and a second general normal state with different degrees of advantage. The second general normal state is more advantageous than the first general normal state in that it has a higher AT winning expectation (expectation of transition to the AT state). In addition, the slot machine 1 is provided with a higher AT state in which the probability of the push order navigation occurring is higher than in the normal AT state. In the slot machine 1 in this example, attractive game characteristics are realized by the transition of the game state in the non-bonus state. In the following explanation, the first general normal state is called the low probability state, and the second general normal state is called the high probability state.

The slot machine 1 (Fig. 2) is a gaming machine that is played with points awarded from a separately installed card unit 3. The slot machine 1 is communicably connected to the card unit 3 via a dedicated interface. Below, we will explain (A) the configuration of the slot machine and the card unit, (B) an overview of the gameplay of the slot machine, and (C) the distinctive gameplay of the slot machine, in that order.

(A) Configuration of the Slot Machine and Card Unit The external configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. The front part of the slot machine 1 is composed of a front frame 10 having a substantially rectangular pattern display window 11 provided in the substantially center. In the front frame 10, a performance display section 12 is provided above the pattern display window 11, and a base section 100 is formed below the pattern display window 11. The performance display section 12 displays performance images such as animations and photographs to produce a game. In addition, a speaker for performance (not shown in FIG. 2) is housed on the back side of the front frame 10. A eaves-shaped overhang 105 is provided at the top of the slot machine 1, and a decorative lamp 106 is provided in front of the overhang 105. The decorative lamp 106 produces a game by sound or light.

The base unit 100 is formed to protrude relative to the symbol display window 11, which is positioned away from the player. The base unit 100 has a shelf-like operation surface 14 at the upper end adjacent to the symbol display window 11, and has an operation panel 13 adjacent to the lower side of the operation surface 14. The operation surface 14 is provided with a bet button 141 for placing points (game points) on the game, a performance button 143, etc., and is also provided with an information display unit 140. The operation panel 13 is provided with a start lever 131 (start switch) for starting the movement of the symbols on the reels 21, and a stop button 133 for stopping the movement of the symbols.

The information display unit 140 can display the cumulative game points, such as game points received from the card unit 3 and game points based on points awarded in response to winning combinations. The game points displayed by the information display unit 140 are subtracted each time game points are bet on the game, and are added in response to winning combinations. In the slot machine 1, the game can be played until the game points reach zero.

The information display unit 140 is made up of a touch panel type liquid crystal display, and various touch operations such as information display operations and counting operations are possible. Depending on the information display operation, it is possible to switch between display screens showing various game data such as the number of jackpots and the number of special drawing draws. In addition, by using the counting operation, the game points stored as credits in the slot machine 1 can be transferred to the card unit 3.

The bet button 141 is an operation button for a bet operation to bet game points on a game. In response to the bet operation, a specified number of game points (three points in this example) is bet from the game points stored in the slot machine 1, and the game can be started. The start lever 131 is an operation switch (start switch) for a start operation to start the game. When a start operation is detected with the specified number of game points bet, the game starts. The effect button 143 is an operation button for starting various effects.

The pattern display window 11 is a display window in which three vertically long pattern display areas are arranged side by side. Each pattern display area is capable of displaying three patterns. The entire pattern display window 11 displays nine patterns arranged in a two-dimensional matrix of three rows and three columns.

Reels 21 constituting the variable pattern display means are arranged behind the three pattern display areas. Reels 21L, C, and R are cylindrical rotating reels. As shown in FIG. 3, which shows the cylindrical outer surface developed into a plane, 20 patterns are arranged at approximately regular intervals on the outer surface of reels 21L, C, and R. Note that instead of the rotating reel in this example, reels 21 can also be image-type reels that display variable patterns on a liquid crystal display.

In the pattern display window 11, in which nine patterns 27 are arranged in three rows and three columns, prize lines are set, which are the direction in which the winning patterns that are eligible for winning are arranged. The prize lines are made up of five lines, including the top, middle, and bottom horizontal prize lines and the diagonal prize lines.

In the slot machine 1, stop buttons 133 are provided individually for each of the reels 21L, 21C, and 21R. A left stop button 133L corresponds to the left reel 21L, a center stop button 133C corresponds to the center reel 21C, and a right stop button 133R corresponds to the right reel 21R.

Next, the card unit 3 (Figure 2) attached to the slot machine 1 is a gaming device that is installed separately on the slot machine 1. The card unit 3 is installed, for example, in the vertically long gap between the corresponding slot machine 1 and the adjacent slot machine 1. The card unit 3 performs processes related to points, such as the process of awarding points required for playing and the process of issuing cards on which points are recorded. The card unit 3 receives various types of game information from the corresponding slot machine 1, and outputs the various types of game information to an in-house management device (not shown) or the like.

The card unit 3 executes processes related to points, such as issuing a game card 50C that records points (scores) in addition to executing processes for granting game points using the game point granting function (lending function). Game points are a gaming value that constitutes a right when betting points on a game.

As shown in FIG. 2, the front of the card unit 3 is provided with a status indicator lamp 31 that displays the operating status of the device such as errors, a bill insertion slot 320, a touch-operable display unit 33, a loan button 34 for receiving loans of game points in exchange for payment being withdrawn, a replay button 35 for converting the points that have already been counted into game points, a return button 36 for requesting the return of the game card 50C, and a card insertion slot 370 for inserting the game card 50C.

Next, the electrical configuration of the slot machine 1 and the card unit 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. In addition to the components already mentioned, the main control unit 20, which controls the overall operation of the slot machine 1, is connected to a reel drive unit 211 which constitutes the variable pattern display means together with the reel 21, a reference position detection unit 213 which detects the rotational position of the reel 21, a touch panel 140P, a performance control unit 25 which controls various performances, and the like. In addition, an interface circuit (I/F) 200 which mediates communication with the card unit 3 is connected to the main control unit 20.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main control unit 20 has a CPU, a ROM and RAM as memory means, an I/O unit as an input/output interface, a random number generation unit that generates random numbers, and a random number extraction unit that extracts random numbers for the internal winning role lottery. The CPU executes software programs loaded from the ROM to realize various functions described below.

The reel drive unit 211 includes a stepping motor (not shown) that can be controlled in steps, and drives the reel 21 to rotate by the rotational drive force of this stepping motor.
The reference position detection unit 213 is a detection unit that detects the passage of the reference position piece for each of the reels 21L, 21C, and 21R and outputs a detection signal.
The touch panel 140P is a transparent sheet that is laminated on the display screen of the information display unit 140 and realizes a touch function.

The performance control unit 25 is connected to an audio output unit 260 that drives the speaker 26, the decorative lamp 106, and a display control unit 120 that controls the performance display unit 12. The performance control unit 25, which is a performance control means, executes various performances using the sound, music, etc. output from the speaker 26 and the light of the decorative lamp 106, and also displays performance videos and photos on the performance display unit 12 to produce the game.

Like the main control unit 20, the performance control unit 25 is equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. (not shown). The performance control unit 25 realizes various functions by having the CPU execute software programs loaded from the ROM. In particular, the performance control unit 25 has a function as a lottery means that executes various lotteries for the performance. Each lottery is executed using random numbers generated by the performance control unit 25. The lottery means by the performance control unit 25 are, for example, special state lottery means, advantage lottery means, general normal state lottery means, special normal state lottery means, advantage improvement lottery means, etc. The lotteries executed by the performance control unit 25 as lottery means include the following.

(1) High probability lottery: A lottery for transition from a low probability state (first general normal state) to a high probability state (second general normal state). An example of a general normal state lottery. Executed by a general normal state lottery means in response to the establishment of a rare minor role (internal win).
(2) Falling lottery: A lottery for transition from a high probability state (second general normal state) to a low probability state (first general normal state). An example of a general normal state lottery. This is executed by the general normal state lottery means for each game in the high probability state.
(3) CZ lottery: A lottery for transition from a general normal state to a CZ (an example of a special normal state). An example of a special normal lottery. This is executed by a special normal state lottery means in response to the establishment of a rare minor combination.
(4) AT lottery: A lottery for transition to an AT state. An example of a special state lottery for determining whether or not to transition to an AT state (an example of a special state) in a normal game state. This is executed by a special state lottery means in response to the establishment of a rare minor role, etc.
(5) Advantage Lottery: A lottery to determine by lottery one of multiple levels of navigation probability (an example of advantage. In this example, navigation probabilities A to E) that will be applied to the AT state triggered by winning the AT lottery. This is executed by the advantage lottery means every 32 game cycle under normal conditions.
(6) Higher AT lottery: A lottery for transition from the AT state to the higher AT state. This is carried out during the AT state.
(7) AT-period lottery: A lottery for improving the navigation probability. An example of an advantage degree improvement lottery. This is executed during the AT state by the advantage degree improvement lottery means.

The performance control unit 25 has the functions as the following means in addition to the function as a lottery means.
(1) Advantage setting means: a means for setting one of the multiple levels of navigation probability (an example of advantage; in this example, navigation probabilities A to E) applied to the AT state for the game in the normal state. The advantage setting means sets the navigation probability determined by the above-mentioned advantage lottery for the game in the normal state.
(2) Advantage degree application means: a means for applying the navigation probability (advantage degree) set for a game that has been determined to transition to an AT state by a special state lottery to that AT state.
(3) Special state transition means: a means for transitioning to the AT state after a premonition period including a predetermined number of games (in this example, 17 premonition games) when the special state lottery means determines to transition to an AT state (an example of a special state).
(4) Higher special state transition means: A means for transitioning to a more advantageous higher AT state in response to winning the higher AT lottery during the AT state (special state). In this example, the AT lottery is executed in response to the establishment of a rare small role of 2 points, and the AT lottery is executed in response to the consecutive winning of a 15-point role five times (an example of the target number of times). The probability of winning the AT lottery in response to the consecutive winning of a 15-point role is 100%.
(5) Special normal state transition means: A means for transitioning to CZ after a premonition period including a predetermined number of games (17 games in this example) when the special normal state lottery means determines to transition to CZ (special normal state).
(6) Point awarding means: means for awarding a predetermined number of points to a player when a predetermined point awarding condition is met in accordance with the execution of a game. In this example, the point awarding condition is set to be winning a point acquisition lottery executed for each game.
(7) Expectation setting means: a means for setting the expectation of winning the AT (expectation of transition to the AT state) for each game in the CZ.
(8) Special state termination means: a means for terminating the AT state and returning to the normal state when a predetermined number of special games (20 to 100 games in this example) have been played after transitioning from the normal state to the AT state.
(9) Higher special state transition means: a means for transitioning to a higher AT state upon winning the higher AT lottery.

Moreover, the effect display unit 12 executes various game effects under the control of the effect control unit 25. In the configuration of this example, the effect display unit 12 realizes the following functions as suggestion means.
(10) Expectation suggestion means: a means for suggesting to a player in advance the expectation of winning an AT (expectation of transition to an AT state) in each game of CZ (special normal state) by consuming points awarded by a point awarding means.
(11) Advantage suggestion means: a means for suggesting to the player the navigation probability (an example of an advantage; in this example, one of the navigation probabilities A to E) set for the game in the normal state.

The main control unit 20 has the functions as the following means.
(12) Game start permission means: a means for permitting the start of a game when a specified number of points have been bet on the game.
(13) Internal lottery means: means for determining an internal winning combination by an internal lottery and for turning on an internal winning flag corresponding to the internal winning combination.
(14) Flag control means: means for controlling an internal win flag corresponding to an internal win role.
(15) Reel control means: means for controlling the reel 21.
(16) Winning Determination Means: A means for determining whether or not a combination of symbols 27 stopped along a winning line is a winning symbol.
(17) Profit awarding means: a means for awarding points in response to the winning of a small role or a replay role. When a replay role is won, the points necessary for a unit game are awarded, and the points are immediately bet.
(18) Bonus generating means: means for generating a big bonus state or a regular bonus state in response to the winning of the BB or RB role.

The ROM of the main control unit 20 stores, in addition to the program, an internal win lottery table used to draw an internal win, and a reel control table used to control the stopping of the reels 21.
The reel control table is a data table that specifies the possible stopping positions on the winning line.

The internal winning role selection table is a data table that specifies the winning random numbers for each role from among the random numbers used to select the internal winning role between 0 and 65535. There are two types of internal winning role selection tables: a table that is applied in the normal state, and a table that is applied in the bonus state (BB state, RB state).

As shown in FIG. 5, the slot machine 1 of this example has minor roles such as 1 point, 2 point, and 15 point roles, two types of bonus roles (BB role, RB role), and a replay role. As shown in the figure, the winning symbols for the BB role, the RB role, the 1 point role, the 15 point role, the 2 point role, and the replay role are set. The slot machine 1 awards the corresponding points according to the winning of the minor role, and generates the corresponding type of bonus state according to the winning of the BB role and the RB role. Each role becomes eligible for winning according to winning the internal winning role lottery (internal win), and a prize is won when the corresponding winning symbol actually stops on the winning line.

In this example, the 15-point role, which is won simultaneously with the 1-point role under normal conditions, is a push order role in which the push order is announced under AT conditions. The 15-point role, which is a push order role, can be won on the condition that the stop button 133 is operated according to the announced push order. Also, in this example slot machine 1, the 2-point role is a rare minor role. Various lotteries are held depending on the formation of the 2-point role, and various special situations occur depending on the win.

The number of winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role selection table for the normal state and the internal winning role selection table for the bonus state differs depending on the setting of the gaming machine (one of settings 1 to 6). For example, in the case of setting 1, the number of winning random numbers in the normal state and the bonus state is set as shown in FIG. 6. In the figure, each number in the column with the heading "Normal state" indicates the number of winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role selection table for the normal state. Each number in the column with the heading "During bonus" indicates the number of winning random numbers for each role in the internal winning role selection table for the bonus state. All winning random numbers for the 15-point role, which is the push order role, are simultaneous winning random numbers with the 1-point role. Therefore, in the figure, the number of winning random numbers for the 15-point role alone is not shown, and only the numbers of winning random numbers for the 15-point role and the 1-point role at the time are shown.

As shown in Figure 6, for example, in slot machine 1 with setting 1, the number of random numbers for simultaneous winning of 15-point and 1-point roles in the internal winning role lottery table for the normal state is 32768. As described above, the random number acquisition range is 0 to 65535, so the probability of simultaneous winning of 15-point and 1-point roles under normal conditions is nearly 50%. Even if simultaneous winning of 15-point and 1-point roles occurs in a non-AT state where there is no notification of the push order, it is not easy to win the 15-point role with a set push order, and in most cases the 1-point role will win.

Next, the configuration of the card unit 3 will be described. The card unit 3 is configured with the control unit 30 at its core (see FIG. 4). In addition to the above configuration, the control unit 30 is connected to a bill processing unit 321, a touch panel 33P, a card stock unit 37S, a card R/W unit 37, an I/F unit 300 that enables communication with the relay device 501, and the like. The bill processing unit 321 is a processing unit for bills inserted from the bill insertion port 320. The touch panel 33P is a transparent panel that allows the display unit 33 to be operated by touch. The card stock unit 37S is configured to stock newly issued game cards 50C (see FIG. 2) and collected game cards 50C, up to a maximum of 10 cards. The card R/W unit 37 is a reader/writer that reads and writes the recorded data of the game cards 50C.

The gaming cards 50C handled by the card unit 3 include general cards for general players and membership cards for member players. General cards are gaming cards issued when a general player finishes playing with a deposit balance or points held. Membership cards are gaming cards issued in response to membership registration at the gaming facility. With a membership card, for example, a points saving service can be used to deposit points held from the previous day or earlier into the gaming facility as saved points. The saved points are associated with the card ID of the membership card and stored by the in-flight management device (not shown).

To start playing with the slot machine 1 configured as above, it is necessary to operate the card unit 3 and receive game points. To receive game points, it is necessary to insert a bill into the card unit 3 or insert the game card 50C. When the card unit 3 accepts a bill, it adds the amount of the bill to the deposit balance (up to 10,000 yen) and stores it. When the game card 50C is inserted, the card unit 3 requests the in-house management device to verify the card information recorded on the game card 50C, such as the deposit balance, the number of points held, and the number of saved points. If the verification result is OK, the card unit 3 displays the card information, such as the deposit balance, the number of points held, and the number of saved points, on the display unit 33. The number of points held is the number of points that the player has already acquired. The number of saved points is the number of points that the player has already acquired the day before or earlier and deposited with the game center. The number of saved points is associated only with the membership card, and is not associated with the general card.

The card unit 3 converts the player's deposit balance, points, etc. into game points in response to a player's request, such as by operating the loan button 34, and transmits them to the corresponding slot machine 1. For example, when the loan button 34 is operated, the points are converted into game points (50 points) in fixed amounts (for example, 1,000 yen) and transmitted to the slot machine 1. The slot machine 1 credits (stores) the game points received in this way as game points. For example, when the replay button 35 is operated, the points are converted into game points in units of 50 points and transmitted to the slot machine 1 to enable replay (replay process). The awarded game points are displayed as the number of credits on the information display unit 140. The player can use the game points up to that number of credits for playing games.

The card unit 3 stores and displays points such as the number of points owned, the number of game points, and the total number of points which is the sum of the number of points owned and the number of game points. The number of points owned is the number of points already acquired by the player which is stored in the card unit 3. The number of game points is the number of points which is stored as credits by the slot machine 1.

In the slot machine 1, when three or more game points are credited (stored) and the bet button 141 is operated (betting operation), three points are bet and the start of the game (unit game) is permitted. If the start of the game is permitted, the start lever 131 can be validly operated (start operation) and the game can be started. Note that when a replay winning combination is detected, the main control unit 20 automatically bets game points on the next game without consuming the credited game points and even if a betting operation is not performed.

When the main control unit 20 detects a valid start operation, it acquires the random number for internal winning role selection extracted by the random number extraction unit from the random numbers (0 to 65535) generated by the random number generation unit. The main control unit 20 compares the random number for internal winning role selection against the winning random numbers for each role specified in the internal winning role selection table to determine the internal winning role.

The result of the internal lottery in the main control unit 20 is transmitted to the performance control unit 25. The performance control unit 25 stores various performance controls according to the result of the internal lottery. The performance control unit 25 selects and executes the performance control corresponding to the result of the internal lottery received from the main control unit 20 from the various stored performance controls. The performance control includes various types of lotteries. For example, the performance control unit 25 executes various types of lotteries according to an internal win of a two-point role, which is a rare minor role.

When the main control unit 20 determines that any role is an internal winning role, it switches the internal winning flag corresponding to that internal winning role to the ON state. The internal winning flags of roles other than the bonus roles (BB role, RB role) are reset to the OFF state (zero) before the start of the next game, regardless of whether or not the internal winning flag was won in the game in which it was first established. Therefore, if roles other than the bonus role do not win in the game in which they were internally won, all of them will be missed. On the other hand, the internal winning flag of the bonus role, which is the internal winning flag of the bonus role, is carried over to the next game in sequence until it wins, and is reset to the OFF state according to the win. With this kind of control, once a bonus role is established (internal win), it is guaranteed that it will win.

Following the internal lottery, the main control unit 20 starts changing the symbols on the reels 21. The main control unit 20 inputs control pulses to the stepping motor that constitutes the reel drive unit 211, and rotates the stepping motor one step per pulse, thereby rotating the reels 21. The main control unit 20 counts the number of control pulses input to the reel drive unit 211, i.e., the number of steps the stepping motor has rotated. Note that the number of steps is reset to zero each time a detection signal is received for the reference position piece of each reel 21, so it is the number of steps that have occurred since the most recent detection signal was generated.

The main control unit 20 executes so-called pull-in control, which stops symbols within a predetermined pull-in range defined by rules (rules regarding the certification of gaming machines and the inspection of models, etc.) on the winning line. In this example, a range equivalent to four symbols is set as this pull-in range. The main control unit 20 samples the number of steps when it detects a variable stop signal in response to the operation of the stop button 133, and determines the stop position by checking the number of steps against a reel control table (not shown) that specifies the possible stop positions on the winning line. If possible, the main control unit 20 pulls in the symbol corresponding to the internal winning flag to that stop position and stops the reel 21.

After all reels 21 have stopped, the main control unit 20 determines whether the combination of symbols 27 displayed along a winning line that is set to cross the three reels 21L, C, and R is a predetermined winning symbol. Specifically, the main control unit 20 identifies the type of symbol 27 that has stopped on the winning line based on the number of steps of the stepping motor (reel drive unit 211) of each of the stopped reels 21L, C, and R, and determines whether the combination of symbols 27 will result in a winning combination.

When the main control unit 20 determines that any winning role has been achieved, it awards a benefit corresponding to that winning role. For example, if a two-point role is the winning role, two points are awarded. When a BB role is achieved, the main control unit 20 generates a BB state, which is a bonus state, as the benefit. When a RB role is achieved, the main control unit 20 generates a RB state, which is a bonus state, as the benefit.

The conditions for ending the bonus state are determined depending on whether the winning combination that triggered it was a BB or RB combination. The condition for ending the bonus state triggered by a BB combination is that a predetermined number of points have been awarded. The condition for ending the bonus state triggered by an RB combination is that a predetermined number of games have been played, or that a specific winning combination (hereafter referred to as a minor combination) has been won a predetermined number of times.

The number of game points awarded during play on the slot machine 1 is added to the number of credits and displayed on the information display unit 140. During play, various game data (number of jackpots, number of special drawing draws, etc.) can be displayed on the information display unit 140 in response to information display operations on the information display unit 140.

During play, the main control unit 20 transmits various game signals indicating the results of the game to the card unit 3 at any time. Game signals transmitted to the card unit 3 include, for example, an out signal, a safe signal, a bonus signal, etc. An out signal is a signal indicating the consumption of game points, and is output in response to a betting operation of game points. An out signal is score subtraction information. A safe signal is a signal indicating the points awarded as a result of play. A safe signal is score addition information. A bonus signal is a signal output when a bonus state (BB state, RB state) occurs.

The card unit 3 compiles the various game signals received from the corresponding slot machine 1, generates and stores game information, and transmits the game information to an in-game management device (not shown) as needed. The card unit 3 also updates the stored score in response to the addition or subtraction information received from the corresponding slot machine 1. The card unit 3 transmits information on the player's deposit balance and score to the in-game management device as needed.

When playing on the slot machine 1 is finished, the credited game points can be transmitted to the card unit 3 by performing a counting operation on the touch-enabled information display unit 140. The number of credits on the slot machine 1 is subtracted in accordance with the transmission of the game points to the card unit 3.

When the return button 36 is operated while at least one of the deposit balance, points held, and saved points exists in the card unit 3, the deposit balance, points held, and saved points are recorded on the gaming card 50C and issued. When the points held and saved points are recorded on the gaming card 50C, the type information of the gaming machine on which the points were acquired is recorded in correspondence with them.

(B) Overview of slot machine gameplay The game states that occur in the game of the slot machine 1 include a non-bonus state and a bonus state, as shown in Fig. 7. In the non-bonus state, there is a so-called AT state in which a push order notification (hereinafter referred to as "navigation") occurs with a high probability when a 15-point combination is achieved (internal win). In the non-bonus state, either the AT state or the normal state, which is a non-AT state, is set.

The player plays the game aiming to move from the normal non-AT state to the bonus state or AT state (an example of a special state). In the normal state, the player stays in one of two states: "normal (general normal state)" and "CZ (special normal state)," which has a high chance of winning the AT (expectation of transitioning to the AT state) and has a different gameplay from normal.

Under normal circumstances, a cycle of 32 games is repeated. At the start of the cycle, an advantage lottery is held to determine the type of navigation probability (advantage) to be applied to the AT state, and the determined navigation probability is set for each game in the cycle. If the AT lottery is won, the navigation probability set for the game at the time of the winning is applied to the AT state that occurs as a result of the winning. Note that while the cycle is in progress, the progress of the cycle is displayed as 28/32, for example, if 28 games have been played.

During normal play, the player will stay in either a low probability state (first general normal state) or a high probability state (second general normal state). The default state during normal play is the low probability state. The low probability state is the state with the lowest expected probability of winning the AT. The transition from the low probability state to the high probability state occurs when the player wins the high probability lottery, which is executed when a rare minor win such as a two-point win is achieved. The fall (transition) from the high probability state to the low probability state occurs when the player wins the fall lottery.

The CZ can be entered when the player wins the lottery (CZ lottery) that is held when a so-called rare small win such as a two-point win is achieved. In the configuration of this example, after the CZ lottery is won, a predetermined number of premonition games are played, and then the player enters the CZ. In this example, the number of premonition games for the CZ is 17. In each game during the CZ, an AT lottery with a high probability of winning is held, and if the AT lottery is won, the player enters the AT state. If the AT lottery is not won during the CZ, the player enters the normal state. The gameplay during the CZ will be described later.

When the AT lottery is won under normal conditions, an AT state occurs for a predetermined number of games (20 to 100 games in this example; an example of the number of special games). When the predetermined number of games has been played, the AT state ends (means for ending the special state), and the game transitions (returns) to normal, which is a non-AT state. The number of special games, which is the number of games that the AT state continues, is determined by lottery. Alternatively, the number of games that the AT state continues may be a fixed number of games.

During the AT state, when a 15-point role is achieved (when a 15-point role and a 1-point role are won simultaneously), there is a high probability of a navi (push order notification) occurring, which increases the expectation of winning the 15-point role. As will be described in more detail later, in this example slot machine 1, multiple types of navi probabilities, A to E, are provided as navi probabilities (an example of the degree of advantage), which are the probability of a navi occurring. The navi probability applied in the AT state is determined according to the normal internal state when the AT lottery is won.

In addition, during the AT state, a higher AT lottery is held to determine whether or not the player will move to a higher AT state (higher special state). The higher AT state continues for a predetermined number of games, such as 20 games, and transitions to the normal AT state after the predetermined number of games has been played. In the higher AT state, the navigation probability is higher than in the normal AT state, so players can expect to receive more game points.

The lottery for the bonus state is held in all states, including the normal state, the AT state, and the higher AT state. The AT lottery is also held in the bonus state. If you win the AT lottery in the bonus state, you can transition to the AT state after the bonus state ends.

As described above, in the slot machine 1 of this example, there are internal states with different AT winning probabilities during normal times, excluding the special normal state CZ. During normal times, the state is either a low probability state (first general normal state) with a low AT winning expectation, or a high probability state (second general normal state) with a high AT winning expectation. After the AT state ends, the state transitions to a high probability state, and the high probability state continues until the drop lottery, which is the lottery for transitioning to the low probability state, is won. In this way, the expectation of winning the AT lottery increases after the AT state ends, so continuous occurrence of the AT state can be expected. Furthermore, in the high probability state, there are multiple modes with different fall probabilities, which are the winning probability of the fall lottery. The mode with a high fall probability is called "short", and the mode with a low fall probability is called "long", etc.

(C) Characteristic Playability of Slot Machine The slot machine 1 of this example has the following characteristics: (C1) CZ gameplay, (C2) normal navigation probability, (C3) transition to higher AT state, (C4) game presentation by point consumption, etc. Below, the playability of (C1) to (C4) will be explained in order.

(C1) Game characteristics of CZ (special normal state) CZ is a game characteristic in which the player aims to win the AT lottery while playing a predetermined number of games, such as 10 games. During the CZ, the probability of winning the AT lottery (called the AT winning probability) increases over the course of 10 games. The AT lottery is executed according to the establishment of a replay role and a rare minor role (a 2-point role in this example).

In the configuration of this example, when the CZ lottery is won, a scenario is set that affects the AT winning probability of each game during the CZ (expectation setting means). There are multiple scenarios, and each scenario has a different AT winning expectation (expectation of transition to AT state), which is the expectation of winning the AT (winning the AT lottery). The multiple scenarios are set, for example, as shown in the table in Figure 8.

In the table of FIG. 8, "low" indicates that the probability of winning the AT (expectation of transition to the AT state) is relatively low, "medium" indicates that it is relatively medium, and "high" indicates that it is relatively high. Specifically, at "low", the probability of winning the AT lottery is 10% when a replay occurs, and 50% when a rare minor win occurs. At "medium", the probability of winning the AT lottery is 30% when a replay occurs, and 65% when a rare minor win occurs. At "high", the probability of winning the AT lottery is 50% when a replay occurs, and 100% when a rare minor win occurs. It is also possible to win a bonus during the CZ. In the case of a bonus win, the probability of winning the AT lottery is 100%, and the AT state may start after the bonus state ends.

When a CZ starts, one of the presentation screens shown in Fig. 9(a) or (b) is displayed on the presentation display unit 12. Which of Fig. 9(a) or (b) is displayed depends on whether or not points are consumed, as described in detail below. Fig. 9(a) is the CZ start screen when no points are consumed. This CZ start screen only displays the fact that a CZ is starting, and does not suggest a CZ scenario. Fig. 9(b) is a CZ start screen according to point consumption. This CZ start screen displays the fact that a CZ is starting, as well as a suggestion of a CZ scenario.

In the CZ start screen of FIG. 9(b), the CZ scenario is suggested by an arrangement of colors (e.g., blue, yellow, red, respectively) corresponding to the AT winning expectation (expectation of transition to the AT state) of, for example, "low," "medium," and "high." In the configuration of this example, different colors are stored in correspondence with the AT winning expectation of "low," "medium," and "high," and the scenario suggestion is executed using the associated colors. Note that since the attached drawing is a black and white drawing, the colors are represented in the drawing by the presence or absence and type of hatching. No hatching indicates blue, dot hatching indicates yellow, and diagonal hatching indicates red.

If the scenario shown in FIG. 9(b) is suggested, the player will be able to grasp the probability of winning the AT (probability of transitioning to the AT state) in each game under the CZ. This will encourage the player to hope for a rare minor win (internal win) in games with a high probability of winning the AT, which is expected to increase the enjoyment of the game. There are various possible methods for suggesting (displaying) the scenario. Instead of color, the scenario may be suggested by a pattern, or the brightness of the display may be suggested. Furthermore, the scenario may be suggested by sound, or it may be suggested by a presentation video, etc.

(C2) Navigation Probability in Normal State In the slot machine 1 of this example, the navigation probability (one example of an advantage) applied to the AT state is determined according to the internal state in normal state (general normal state) when an AT win occurs. In normal state, an advantage lottery is executed to determine the navigation probability. The navigation probability determined by the advantage lottery is then set for the game in the normal state, thereby setting the internal state in normal state. When an AT win is then won, the navigation probability set as the internal state in normal state, i.e., the navigation probability set for the game when the AT win is won, is applied to the AT state triggered by the AT win. Note that in the slot machine 1 of this example, a display effect is executed that suggests or notifies which navigation probability is set as the internal state in normal state (advantage suggestion means).

Under normal circumstances, at the start of each cycle (32 games per cycle in this example), an advantage lottery is held to determine the navigation probability. That is, an advantage lottery is held for each cycle, and the navigation probability is set, for example, as shown in the cycle image in Figure 10. The winning probability and contents of each navigation probability in the figure are as shown in Figure 11. The winning probability of Navi Probability A, which has a suggested probability of 1/5, which is the probability of navigation (push order notification), is 55%. The winning probability of Navi Probability B, which has a suggested probability of 1/4, is 25%. The winning probability of Navi Probability C, which has a suggested probability of 1/3, is 12.5%. The winning probability of Navi Probability D, which has a suggested probability of 1/2, is 6.25%. The winning probability of the most advantageous Navi Probability E, which has a suggested probability of 1/1, is 1.25%.

In this example configuration, if a CZ is won during a cycle, the number of games in that cycle is extended by the number of games required for that CZ. For example, if the CZ has 10 games, one cycle is treated as 32 + 10 = 42 games. Note that during the CZ, the game cycle may not progress, for example by stopping the counting of the number of games played.

The transition to the AT state or CZ may occur after a premonition period during which a specified number of premonition games (e.g. 17 games) are played, and a situation may occur in which one cycle ends and a new cycle begins while the number of premonition games is played. For example, there is the situation in Figure 12 where a new cycle begins before the end of the premonition period after winning the AT, or the situation in Figure 13 where a new cycle begins before the end of the premonition period after winning the CZ lottery.

In the situation of FIG. 12, for example, after an AT is won within a cycle in which Navi Probability D is set, a new cycle begins while the premonition games are being played, and a new Navi Probability is set by the advantage lottery at the start. At this time, if the new Navi Probability is, for example, Navi Probability A, which is less favorable than Navi Probability D, and an AT state with Navi Probability A occurs in the new cycle, this will be detrimental to the player.

The situation in Figure 13 is one in which, for example, after winning the CZ within a cycle in which Navi Probability D is set, a new Navi Probability is set at the start of a new cycle while the number of premonition games is being played. For example, if the new Navi Probability is Navi Probability A, there is a possibility that an AT win will occur in the CZ during a cycle in which Navi Probability A is set, even if a CZ has been won in a cycle in which Navi Probability D is set. If the AT state corresponding to this AT win is an AT state with Navi Probability A, it will be detrimental to the player.

In the slot machine 1 of this example, technical measures have been taken to prevent the above-mentioned disadvantages to the player from occurring. In other words, if a new cycle begins before the number of premonition games has been exhausted, a navigation probability equal to or more favorable than the navigation probability set in the game in which the AT state or CZ was won (deciding game) is determined by an advantage lottery at the start of the new cycle.

For example, if an AT state or CZ is won in a cycle in which navi probability D is set as described above, and a new cycle begins before the end of the premonition period, the winning probability of each navi probability is set in the advantage lottery at the start of the new cycle as shown in Figure 14. In this figure, the winning probability of navi probabilities A to C is zero, and only navi probabilities D and E have the potential to be won. If the winning probability of each navi probability is set in this way, either navi probability D or E will be won. Navi probability D is equal to the original navi probability D that was set in the game in which the AT state or CZ was won. Navi probability E is more advantageous than the original navi probability D. Note that Figures 12 and 13 are examples in which navi probability D is determined by the advantage lottery at the start of a new cycle.

It is also possible to give a suggestion as to which navigation probability corresponds within one cycle. This suggestion can be given in any way, and the suggestion can be given by increasing the frequency of appearance of the character corresponding to the navigation probability, or by changing the background of the display during normal times. This will be described in more detail later, but in this example, the suggestion is given according to point consumption.

(C3) Transition to higher AT state In the game of the slot machine 1 of this example, if a rare small role (2 points in this example), which is an example of a special small role, is achieved during the AT state, or if a predetermined winning role (for example, 15 points) is consecutively won, a higher AT lottery (an example of a predetermined lottery) is executed. Then, depending on the winning of the higher AT lottery, a transition to a higher AT state, for example, spanning 20 games, is determined.

When a transition to a higher AT state is decided, the state immediately transitions to the higher AT state. The most favorable navigation probability E is applied to the higher AT state. The navigation probability to be applied to the higher AT state may also be determined by lottery. In this case, a navigation probability equal to the navigation probability when the higher AT lottery is won, or a navigation probability more favorable than that navigation probability, may be determined as the new navigation probability. If the navigation probability E is the most favorable when the higher AT lottery is won, the equivalent navigation probability E will be maintained as is in the higher AT state.

When a higher AT state is occurring, the count of the number of games played in the normal AT state is stopped. For example, if the number of games in the normal AT state (number of special games) is 20, 20 games are added, which is the number of continuing games in the higher AT state, and the number of continuing games in the AT state or higher AT state becomes 40 games. Furthermore, if the number of continuing games in the normal AT state is extended, the number of continuing games in the AT state or higher AT state becomes 40 games or more. When the AT state ends, it transitions to a high probability state, and for games in this high probability state (normal state), a navigation probability is set that is equal to or more favorable than the navigation probability applied to the AT state. This makes it easier for AT states to occur consecutively after the AT state ends.

In addition, during the AT state, when a rare minor win occurs, an AT lottery is executed, and if the AT lottery is won, the navigation probability applied to that AT state improves to a more favorable navigation probability, and thereafter, AT state play proceeds with that favorable navigation probability. Then, after the end of the AT state in which the navigation probability has improved in response to a win in the AT lottery, that improved navigation probability is set for the game in the high probability state to which the AT state transitioned.

...

The flow up to the determination of the transition to the higher AT state will be explained with reference to FIG. 15. Pattern 1 in FIG. 15 is a pattern in which a 15-point role is established in each of the nth to n+4th games, a navigation (push order notification) occurs, and 15-point roles are consecutively awarded. In this pattern, a higher AT lottery is executed in response to five consecutive 15-point roles, which is won, and a transition to the higher AT state is determined. Pattern 2 is a pattern in which a 15-point role is established in each of the nth to n+3th games, a navigation occurs, and a 15-point role is awarded, but although a 15-point role is established in the nth+4th game, a navigation does not occur and a 15-point role is not awarded, so a higher AT lottery is not executed and no winning occurs. Pattern 3 is a pattern in which a 15-point role is established in each of the n to n+2 games, a navigation occurs, and a 15-point role is awarded, then in the n+3 game where a 15-point role is established, a navigation does not occur, but the push order is correct and a 15-point role is awarded, and then in the n+4 game where a 15-point role is established, a navigation occurs, a 15-point role is awarded, a higher-level AT lottery is executed, and a transition to a higher-level AT state is determined. If a navigation does not occur in the game where a 15-point role is established, a display presentation that suggests the establishment of a 15-point role and asks for the correct push order can be performed.

As shown in FIG. 16, a rare minor win may occur during consecutive wins of 15-point roles. In this case, if the consecutive wins of 15-point roles are interrupted, it may dissatisfy players hoping for a higher AT state. Therefore, if a rare minor win occurs during consecutive wins of 15-point roles, it is a good idea to make it so that the consecutive wins continue, as shown in the figure.

The pattern in Figure 16 is one in which a navigation occurs in the nth to n+2th games where a 15-point role is formed, resulting in the winning of a 15-point role, a rare small role is formed in the n+3rd game, and then a navigation occurs in the n+4th to n+5th games where a 15-point role is formed, resulting in the winning of a 15-point role. In this case, the consecutive winning of 15-point roles is carried over through the n+3rd game where a rare small role is formed, resulting in a winning of a higher-level AT state. Note that a higher-level AT lottery is also held when a rare small role is formed. Therefore, when a rare small role is formed, in addition to consecutive winning of 15-point roles, you can also expect to win the higher-level AT lottery.

If the AT state ends while the consecutive winning of 15-point roles is continuing, the player may feel that the consecutive winning of 15-point roles just before the end was a waste, which may cause dissatisfaction. Therefore, in this example slot machine 1, if the consecutive winning continues in the final game, the AT state is extended and continued from the next game onwards until the consecutive winning is broken.

Such a case will be explained by taking the pattern in FIG. 17 as an example. Pattern 5 in the figure is a pattern in which consecutive winning continues until the n+2nd game just before the end, and the AT state is extended to the n+3rd and n+4th games. In this pattern, the AT state is extended to the n+3rd and n+4th games, and the consecutive winning continues, so a higher AT lottery is executed and a transition to a higher AT state is decided. Pattern 6 is a pattern in which consecutive winning continues until the n+2nd game just before the end, and the AT state is extended to the n+3rd and n+4th games, just like pattern 5. However, in this pattern 6, the consecutive winning is interrupted at the n+4th game, so the AT state ends without a higher AT lottery being executed. It is also good to extend and continue the AT state even if a rare small role is established in the game in which the AT state is extended.

The flow of processing in the final game of the AT state will be described with reference to the flow diagram in FIG. 18. In the final game of the AT state, first, it is determined whether or not a rare minor win has been achieved (S101). If a rare minor win has been achieved (S101: YES), it is determined whether or not the consecutive win counter, which indicates the number of consecutive wins of 15-point wins, is 1 or more (S112), and if it is 1 or more (S112: YES), the AT state continues (S113). On the other hand, if a rare minor win is achieved (S101: YES) but the consecutive win counter is not 1 or more (S112: NO), the AT state ends (S123).

If no rare small win is achieved and no 15-point win is achieved (S101: NO → S102: NO), the AT state ends (S114). On the other hand, if a 15-point win is achieved (S101: NO → S102: YES), the consecutive win counter is incremented by 1 (S103), and it is determined whether the consecutive win counter has reached 5 (S104). If the consecutive win counter is 5 (S104: YES), a higher-level AT lottery is executed and there is a 100% chance of winning, which determines a transition to the higher-level AT state (S105).

On the other hand, if the consecutive winning counter is less than 5 in step S104, the AT state is extended and continues (S104: NO → S115). If the AT state is extended, the new game becomes the final game of the AT state, and the above process is repeated.

(C4) Game Effects by Point Consumption In the game of the slot machine 1 of this example, a lottery for points is held for each game, and effects advantageous to the player are produced by consuming the points acquired. As shown in Fig. 19, the effects display unit 12 displays the points acquired according to the execution of the game, as well as the total points acquired.

The accumulated points can be consumed at any time by the player. By consuming points, a specified display effect is executed at a predetermined timing. Predetermined timings include, for example, when a specified preview effect occurs, when a rare small win is achieved, when a CZ starts, when an AT state ends, the next game after points are consumed, etc. Predetermined display effects include, for example, indications of navigation probability, indications of whether or not a high probability state is reached, indications of the expected probability of winning various lotteries depending on the formation of a rare small win, CZ scenarios, indications of setting values, indications of the type of high probability state, etc.

For example, with regard to suggestions for the CZ scenario, it may be good to notify the player at the start of the CZ that they can receive suggestions by spending points. Similarly, it may be good to notify the player that they can receive suggestions by spending points when a rare minor win is achieved. On the other hand, if the suggestion is that the player's expectations are low despite the player having spent points in response to the notification, there is a high possibility that the player will feel disappointed. To avoid disappointment, it is good to notify the player that they can receive suggestions by spending points only when a certain level of expectation is exceeded.

When suggesting game-related states such as navigation probability or high probability states, the suggestion may be made to always be made in the next game after points are consumed, or the probability of the suggestion occurring may be increased until a specified LCD effect is produced. Note that the timing and content of the display effect may be of any design, as long as it is shown to be advantageous to the player.

When consuming points, for example, the suggestion type selection screen (Figure 20(a)) can be displayed by operating the effect button 143 or the information display unit 140 while the reels 21 are stopped. The suggestion type selection screen displays the timing at which the display effect will be performed, the content of the display effect, and the number of points to be consumed. The player can select and confirm the desired content by operating the effect button 143 or the information display unit 140.

When the content of the display effect is decided by the player, a point consumption confirmation screen is displayed to confirm whether or not points are to be consumed for that content (Fig. 20(b)), and if the player agrees, a point consumption completion screen is displayed indicating that points have been consumed (Fig. 20(c)). After that, a predetermined display effect is executed at a timing corresponding to the decided display content.

In this example, points can be earned through a lottery for each game, but the number of points earned can be designed in any way. It can be configured so that one point can be earned for each game. Furthermore, it can be configured so that two or more points can be earned for each game, so that more points can be earned after the opening of the arcade until a certain number of games have been played.

In addition, some players may wish to avoid ending a game with any of the above-mentioned points remaining. For such players, it may be possible to allow them to spend all of their accumulated points. In this case, it is advisable to provide a display that always suggests the game's status.

The slot machine 1 of this example, configured as described above, is a gaming machine that can generate a normal state in which the probability of winning is low, and an AT state, which is an example of a special state in which the probability of winning is higher than the normal state. In the slot machine 1, an AT lottery (special state lottery) is executed during a game in the normal state, and it is determined whether or not to transition to the AT state.

In the slot machine 1 of this example, multiple types of navigation probabilities A to E are provided as navigation probabilities, which are an example of the degree of advantage applied to the AT state, and one of the navigation probabilities is set for a game in a normal state. In this slot machine 1, the navigation probability set for a game that has been determined by AT lottery to transition to an AT state is applied to that AT state.

In playing the slot machine 1 of this example, the degree of advantage when transitioning to the AT state differs depending on which of the navigation probabilities A to E is set for the game in the normal state. This slot machine 1 can attract the player's interest in the navigation probabilities set for the game in the normal state, and can reduce the sense of boredom that the player may feel in the normal state.

In the slot machine 1 of this example, when it is decided by an AT lottery to transition to the AT state, the slot machine 1 transitions to the AT state after a premonition period including a predetermined number of games (17 games in this example). By setting a premonition period, the sense of boredom that a player may feel under normal conditions can be reduced. Meanwhile, in this slot machine 1, the navigation probability (an example of an advantage) applied to the AT state is determined by an advantage lottery every time a predetermined number of games (32 games in this example) are played. If an advantage lottery is played before the premonition period has elapsed, a navigation probability is determined that is equal to or more advantageous than the navigation probability set for the game in which the AT lottery was won and transition to the AT state was decided.

The slot machine 1 of this example can generate, as normal states, a general normal state in which the AT winning expectation is low, which is an example of the expectation of transitioning to an AT state (special state), and a CZ, which is an example of a special normal state in which the AT winning expectation is high. In the slot machine 1, when a CZ lottery (special normal lottery) executed in a game in the general normal state is won, a transition to the CZ occurs after a premonition period. The AT state (special state) to which a transition is determined by an AT lottery (special state lottery) in a game under the CZ is subject to the navigation probability (advantage) set for the game in which a transition to the CZ is determined.

In slot machine 1, the navigation probability (advantage) is determined by an advantage lottery that is executed every time a predetermined number of games (32 games in this example) are executed as described above, and is set for the game in the normal state. On the other hand, if the advantage lottery is executed before the premonition period has elapsed, this advantage lottery determines a navigation probability that is equal to or more advantageous than the navigation probability set for the game in which a transition to the CZ has been determined.

In this example of the slot machine 1, by providing a premonition period when a transition to an AT state (special state) or CZ (special normal state) is decided, the sense of boredom that a player may feel in the normal state can be reduced, while the advantage of the AT state is not deteriorated by going through the premonition period. Therefore, with this slot machine 1, the player's sense of expectation and tension for the AT state or CZ can be maintained without causing anxiety that the premonition period will induce some kind of disadvantage.

In playing the slot machine 1 of this example, the navigation probability (degree of advantage) applied to the AT state is set for the game over a predetermined period of time after the transition from the AT state to the normal state. Therefore, when the AT lottery is won during a predetermined period after the AT state ends, the navigation probability of the previous AT state is continuously applied to the newly occurring AT state. With this slot machine 1, after the end of an AT state with a high degree of advantage, the player can look forward to an AT state with a high degree of advantage continuing, and the player's sense of expectation and tension for winning the AT lottery can be maintained.

In the slot machine 1 of this example, when a CZ lottery (special normal lottery) in the general normal state determines that a transition to a CZ, which is an example of a special normal state, is to be made, the slot machine 1 transitions to a CZ spanning a predetermined number of games (10 games in this example). For each game in the CZ, an AT winning expectation, which is an example of the expectation of transition to the AT state, is set. In this slot machine 1, by spending points awarded in accordance with the execution of a game, it is possible to receive an indication of the AT winning expectation (expectation of transition to the AT state) in each game of the CZ.

In this way, in the slot machine 1 of this example, the player can receive an indication of the likelihood of winning the AT by spending points. Therefore, this slot machine 1 can motivate the player to continue playing in order to acquire points. Furthermore, this slot machine 1 allows the player to understand the likelihood of winning the AT (the likelihood of transitioning to the AT state) and play during the CZ. During the occurrence of the CZ, the player can understand in which game they should hope for the formation of a small role with a high likelihood of winning the AT, and can maintain a sense of expectation and tension for the AT state. The slot machine 1 of this example can reduce the sense of boredom that the player may feel under normal conditions.

The slot machine 1 of this example is capable of generating a higher AT state (higher special state) with an increased chance of winning as the AT state. In this slot machine 1, when a predetermined winning combination (a 15-point combination in this example) is consecutively won a target number of times (five times in this example) in the AT state, a higher AT lottery with a 100% chance of winning is executed, and the player can transition to the higher AT state. The AT state ends when the special number of games (20 to 100 games in this example) has been played, but if the consecutive winning of the predetermined winning combination continues, the state will continue even after the special number of games has been played.

The slot machine 1 has a gameplay that stimulates the player's sense of expectation and tension for the higher AT state while the normal AT state is occurring. In particular, with this slot machine 1, if a predetermined winning combination (a 15-point combination in this example) is consecutively won while the AT state is occurring, the AT state continues even after the special number of games has been played. This allows the player to maintain their sense of expectation and tension for the transition to the higher AT state without feeling dissatisfied that the AT state has ended despite the predetermined winning combination being consecutively won.

In the slot machine 1 of this example, an advantage lottery is held every time a predetermined number of games (32 games in this example) that make up one cycle are played, and the navigation probability (advantage) determined by this advantage lottery is set. In the normal state where the navigation probability is set high, the player hopes that a small role with a high AT winning expectancy (transition expectancy) will be achieved before a predetermined number of games have elapsed, and in the normal state where the navigation probability is set low, the player plays in anticipation of a new navigation probability after a predetermined number of games have elapsed. In this way, by holding an advantage lottery every cycle, the player's sense of expectation and tension for winning the AT can be maintained without feeling bored, even in situations where the expectation of winning the AT is low.

The slot machine 1 of this example is equipped with an advantage suggestion means for suggesting to the player the navigation probability (advantage) set for the game in the normal state. In the configuration of this example, the navigation probability set for the game in the normal state is suggested by a display effect by the effect display unit 12. This allows the player to understand the navigation probability, and allows the player to play based on the understood navigation probability. Even in a situation where the expectation of winning the AT is low, the player can be made to maintain a sense of expectation and tension for winning the AT without feeling bored.

The slot machine 1 of this example can generate a low probability state (first general normal state) in which the expected probability of transitioning to the AT state (special state) (expected probability of winning the AT) is low as a normal state, and a high probability state (second general normal state) in which the expected probability of transitioning is higher than that of the low probability state. The game that lasts for a predetermined period of time after transitioning from the AT state to the normal state is in a high probability state. Then, in a game in a high probability state, a drop lottery (general normal state lottery) is executed to determine whether to transition to a low probability state.

In playing with slot machine 1, after the AT state ends, a high probability state with a high expectation of winning the AT is set, and if the AT is won during this high probability state, the navigation probability of the AT state immediately preceding the high probability state is maintained. With this configuration, in an AT state that is won again after the end of an AT state in which the navigation probability was set high, the navigation probability will not be unfavorable, and the risk of the player feeling dissatisfied or bored can be avoided. The player will be able to maintain a sense of expectation and tension for winning the AT in the high probability state after the end of the AT state.

In slot machine 1, if an AT lottery (an example of an advantage-improving lottery) is won during a game in the AT state, the navigation probability (an example of an advantage) applied to that AT state is improved to a more advantageous navigation probability. After the AT state ends, for a predetermined period of games in a high probability state (e.g., 20 games) when the game transitions to the normal state, a more advantageous navigation probability that has been improved in accordance with the win in the AT lottery is set.

In this way, the slot machine 1 of this example is provided with a case where the navigation probability is improved in the AT state (the lottery during the AT is won). In this case, i.e., when the lottery during the AT is won, an improved navigation probability is set for the game in the high probability state after the end of the AT state. While the improved navigation probability is set, the player will play in the hope of winning the AT, and will be able to maintain the anticipation and tension of winning the AT without feeling bored until the AT is won.

In playing slot machine 1, after transitioning from the AT state to the normal state (high probability state), the navigation probability (one example of an advantage) is set again when transitioning to a low probability state depending on winning the drop-out lottery. If the navigation probability is set again when transitioning from the high probability state to the low probability state after the end of the AT state, players can play in the hope that the navigation probability is set high, even when the high probability state has ended. Players can maintain their anticipation of winning the AT without feeling bored until a new AT win occurs.

The slot machine 1 of this example is capable of executing an effect that indicates the AT winning expectancy (transition expectancy) to the AT state in each game during the CZ by using a corresponding color. If the AT winning expectancy during the CZ for each game, which is a unit game, is displayed by color at the start of the CZ, the player will be able to more intuitively grasp the AT winning expectancy. By playing in the hope of achieving a small role with a high AT winning expectancy, the player will be able to maintain the sense of expectation and tension of winning the AT.

In the slot machine 1 of this example, when a 15-point role, which is an example of a predetermined winning role, is consecutively won five times in the AT state, a higher-level AT lottery with a 100% probability of winning is executed, and if it is won, the player can move to the higher-level AT state. In this slot machine 1, a rare small role (an example of a special small role) is established when the special number of games (20 to 100 games in this example), which is the number of games that the AT state will continue, is played, while if the consecutive winning of 15-point roles continues until just before the special number of games is played, the AT state does not end and continues to the next game. In other words, in the slot machine 1 of this example, the predetermined winning role (15-point role) is consecutively won until just before the final game of the AT state, and if a so-called rare small role is established in the final game, the AT state continues.

With this type of game specification, it is possible to prevent situations that are unfavorable to the player, such as the end of a consecutive string of predetermined winning combinations and the end of the AT state, even though a rare minor combination that is advantageous to the player has been won. If such situations can be avoided, it is possible to prevent player dissatisfaction and maintain the player's sense of expectation and tension regarding the top AT draw.

Instead of or in addition to the configuration of this example, the following configurations may be adopted. Also, the following configurations may be adopted in appropriate combination.
In this example, a slot machine that does not use medals is assumed as the gaming machine, but it may be a slot machine that pays out medals. Considering a payout type slot machine, the number of points held and the number of points saved may be called held medals and saved medals. In the slot machine 1 of this example, the number of bets (prescribed number) is fixed to 3 points, but it may be a slot machine in which the player can select the number of bets in the normal state within the range of 1 to 3 points, for example.

In this example, a 2-point combination is set as the rare minor combination, but in addition to the 2-point combination, a 1-point combination or a 15-point combination may be included, or a part of the replay combination may be treated as the rare minor combination. In that case, it is preferable to make the winning symbol different from the normal winning symbol.
Each numerical value exemplified in this example may be designed in any manner, and multiple numerical values may be the same.

The cycle for setting the navigation probability, which is an example of the degree of advantage, is set to 32 games, but the cycle can be one game or more and does not have to be a fixed number. Similarly, the number of premonition games in case of winning the CZ lottery or AT lottery can be any number of games as long as it is one game or more and does not have to be a fixed number of games.

In this example, when the higher AT lottery is won and the player transitions to the higher AT state, a navigation probability that is more favorable than the navigation probability that was applied to the original AT state is determined. Alternatively, a navigation probability that is one level more favorable than the navigation probability that was applied to the original AT state may be applied to the higher AT state.

In this example, a premonition game is set when the CZ lottery or AT lottery is won. The premonition period, which is the execution period of the premonition game, may be eliminated, and the game in which the CZ lottery or AT lottery is won may immediately transition to the CZ or AT state, or the next game after the winning may transition to the CZ or AT state.

In this example, the AT state is configured to continue if consecutive 15-point combinations are won in the final game of the AT state. In addition, in the AT state, it is possible to acquire the right to continue the AT state, and if the right is acquired, the AT state may continue regardless of whether consecutive 15-point combinations are won.

The slot machine 1 in this example is configured to suggest which navigation probability has been set through display effects. As long as the navigation probability can be suggested to the player, any suggestion can be made without relying on display effects, and suggestions can be made through audio, etc. Similarly, while a configuration in which the scenario in the CZ is suggested through color has been exemplified, character lines, sound effects, and expected values as a guideline can also be displayed through probabilities.

In this example, a configuration has been illustrated in which a transition from a high probability state to a low probability state occurs as a result of winning the drop lottery, but it is also possible for the high probability state to continue for a predetermined period of time without employing a drop lottery. In that case, for example, a high probability state with a relatively short predetermined period of time may be referred to as a "short" high probability state, and a high probability state with a relatively long predetermined period of time may be referred to as a "long" high probability state.

In the configuration of this example, the CZ is a non-AT state, but the CZ may be included in the AT state.Furthermore, the normal state may be included in the AT state, but in that case, it is better to extremely lower the navigation probability.
A part or all of the control performed by the performance control unit 25 described in this example may be performed by the main control unit 20.

Although specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail as examples above, these specific examples merely disclose examples of the technology encompassed by the scope of the claims. Needless to say, the scope of the claims should not be interpreted in a limited manner based on the configurations or numerical values of the specific examples. The scope of the claims encompasses technology that is a variety of modifications, changes, or appropriate combinations of the specific examples using publicly known technology or the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

1. Slot machine (amusement machine)
11: Pattern display window 12: Performance display section (expectation indication means, advantage indication means)
133 Stop button 131 Start lever 140 Information display section 141 Bet button 143 Performance button 21 Reel (symbol change display means)
211 Reel driving unit (variable symbol display means)
20 Main control unit (game start permission means, internal lottery means, flag control means, reel control means, winning determination means, profit awarding means, bonus generating means)
25 performance control unit (performance control means, advantage setting means, advantage application means, special state transition means, higher special state transition means, special normal state transition means, point granting means, expectation setting means, special state termination means, higher special state transition means, special state lottery means, advantage lottery means, general normal state lottery means, special normal state lottery means, advantage improvement lottery means)
3 Card unit 30 Control unit 31 Status indicator lamp 320 Bill insertion slot 33 Display unit 34 Lending button 35 Replay button 36 Return button 370 Card insertion slot 50C Game card

Claims (2)

A gaming machine capable of generating, as game states, a normal state in which the expectation of winning in a game is low and a special state in which the expectation of winning is higher than that of the normal state, and further capable of generating, as the normal states, a general normal state in which the expectation of transition to the special state is low and a special normal state in which the expectation of transition to the special state is high;
a point awarding means for awarding a predetermined number of points to a player when a predetermined point awarding condition is met in response to execution of a game;
a special normal state lottery means for executing a special normal lottery for determining whether or not to transition to the special normal state in the general normal state;
a special normal state transition means for transitioning to the special normal state over a predetermined number of games when the transition to the special normal state is determined by the special normal state lottery means;
an expectation setting means for setting an expectation of transition to the special state for each game in the special normal state;
and an expectation suggesting means for suggesting to a player in advance the transition expectation in each game in the special normal state by consuming the points awarded by the point awarding means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, in which each of the multiple transition expectancies is associated with a different color, and the expectancy suggestion means suggests the transition expectancy set for each game in the special normal state by color.

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