JP2018148939A - Gaming machine configured to freely attach/detach external device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To detachably attach an external device with respect to a gaming machine.SOLUTION: Before starting a game, the gaming machine sets up a setup type according to a connecting state of an external device involved in execution of the game; in a setup type connected with the external device, reads video data relating to the game according to the connection of the external device, from a storage device; displays a video generated on the basis of the video data, on a display device; in a setup type not connected with the external device, reads, from the storage device, video data alternatively displaying a configuration involved in execution of the game, which are lost by disconnection of the external device; and displays the video generated on the basis of the video data on the display device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which an external device is detachable.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a slot machine as a gaming machine is provided with a wheel portion at the top of a slot machine for executing a bonus game that is linked with the slot machine and gives a privilege different from that of a base game (see Reference Document 1).

US Pat. No. 8,758,114

  Conventional gaming machines include models in which external devices having physical movable parts and light emitting parts, such as wheels and toppers, are provided in order to further enhance the production effect as part of the decoration of the gaming machine. However, a model having such an external device is more expensive than a model having no external device. Further, since the external device is responsible for part of the effect such as winning or losing of the game, the display of the effect becomes an important effect element for displaying the game. Therefore, the external device cannot be simply removed from the model having the external device and sold. For this reason, even for gaming machines that execute the same game content, it is common to prepare both models that physically attach external devices and models that do not have external devices.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine in which an external device is detachable.
In addition, the objective of this invention, the subject, and an effect (benefit) are understood from description of a claim itself, and should not be unfairly interpreted by the following description.

  The present invention provides the following gaming machines.

A gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
That is, a gaming machine that is electrically connected to an external device,
A power supply unit for starting,
A storage device storing a game program and video data for video to be displayed based on the execution of the game program;
A display device for displaying video based on the video data;
A controller that executes a game program stored in the storage device and controls an image displayed on the display device based on the game program;
The controller sets the setting type according to the connection state of the external device involved in the execution of the game before the game is started (at power-on, before the first game after setting AUDIT),
In the case of a setting type in which the external device is connected, video data related to a game corresponding to the connection of the external device is read from the storage device, and a video generated based on the video data is displayed on the display device. A first state;
When the external device is of a non-connected setting type, video data that is displayed as a substitute for the configuration involved in the execution of a game that is lacking due to the non-connection of the external device is read from the storage device, and a video generated based on the video data In a second state of displaying on the display device.

  According to this configuration, even when the external device is removed from the gaming machine, the controller determines whether the external device is connected to the gaming machine or not connected before starting the game. When the controller is set to a non-connected setting type in which the external device is removed from the gaming machine, the controller sets the setting type based on the video data stored in the storage device. A configuration related to the execution of the game that is lacking due to the connection can be displayed on the display device as a substitute, and the same effect as when the external device is connected can be displayed.

  The controller sets a setting type according to a connection state of the external device involved in the execution of the game before starting the game based on a connection confirmation and setting program that is activated when the power supply unit starts up. It is characterized by setting.

  According to this configuration, the controller performs the first state or the second state according to the connection or non-connection state of the external device based on the connection confirmation and setting program activated based on the connection confirmation and setting program. The display device can be automatically switched to a state.

In the above configuration, an input device (interrupt by key operation) for transmitting a signal for attaching / detaching the external device from the outside to the controller;
A setting unit (such as a touch panel) for setting the setting type to which the external device is connected and the setting type to which the external device is not connected;
The controller displays the switching screen (Audit screen) of the two setting types on the display device based on the operation of the setting unit,
One of the setting types is set based on a setting operation from the setting unit.

  According to this configuration, the administrator can set one of the two setting types based on a manual input operation according to the connection state of the external device.

  According to the present invention, an external device can be freely attached to and detached from a gaming machine.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a slot machine as a gaming machine. It is a front view of the display apparatus equipped with the ring member. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the circuit structure of a slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the main control processing of a slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the setting process accompanying attachment or detachment of the external apparatus with respect to a slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the setting process accompanying the attachment or detachment of the external apparatus with respect to the slot machine of a modification.

  A configuration of a slot machine as an example of the gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the ring member 4 constituting the outer peripheral portion which is a part of the wheel 10 used for executing the bonus game (jackpot game) is used as the external device of the present invention. As an example, a description will be given of a slot machine 1 that is detachable.

(Specific configuration of slot machine)
As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 1 is detachably attached to the cabinet 2 such that the cabinet 2, the display device 3 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 2, and the back surface is in close contact with the front surface of the display device 3. A ring device 4, a reel device 5 provided in the lower part of the display device 3, and a topper device 6 provided on the upper surface of the cabinet 2.

  The display device 3 is configured by a vertically long liquid crystal display or an EL panel. Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the display device 3 is different depending on whether or not the ring member 4 is attached to the slot machine 1 in a state where it is electrically connected and when it is not electrically attached. The image of the wheel 10 is displayed.

  When the ring member 4 is mounted, the display device 3 displays a plurality of squares indicating a plurality of fixed payouts and a plurality of types of progressive bonuses (for example, GRAND, MAJOR, MINOR, and MINI) in the opening inside the ring member 4. The image of the wheel board 11 having the winning box is displayed. At this time, the display area of the display device 3 that is covered with the ring member 4 and cannot be visually recognized displays an image having the same configuration as that of the ring member 4 or a black area in order to reduce the data amount of the image to be displayed. Or display a single color such as white. In addition, the display of the image | video of the wheel board 11 at the time of mounting | wearing with the ring member 4 is equivalent to the 1st state of this invention.

  When the ring member 4 is not attached, the display device 3 displays an image of the ring member 4 that replaces the ring member 4. The display of the image of the wheel plate 11 when the ring member 4 is not attached corresponds to the second state of the present invention, and in the present embodiment, the image of the second state is the attachment of the ring member 4. The image of the wheel plate 11 at the time is enlarged and displayed. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the diameter of the wheel plate 11 when the ring member 4 is not attached is set to the maximum width L <b> 1 of the display area of the display device 3. The diameter L2 of the wheel plate 11 when the other ring member 4 is mounted is the same as the inner opening of the ring member 4, and is set smaller than the maximum width L1 of the display area. The significance of enlarging and displaying the image of the wheel plate 11 when the ring member 4 is not attached is as follows.

  The jackpot game executed in the wheel 10 is a bonus game that enables a player to obtain a higher payout than the fixed payout of the base game, and the lottery of the bonus game and the display of the results are the interests of the player. ing. Therefore, by making the outer diameter of the ring member 4 larger than the width of the slot machine 1 so that the ring member 4 protrudes from the width of the slot machine 1 and stands out, the player shows interest in the wheel 10. It is configured to be easy. However, when the ring member 4 is removed from the slot machine 1 and the entire image of the wheel 10 including the ring member 4 is displayed on the display device 3, the image is reduced as compared with the ring member 4 having a hard structure. It may become inconspicuous and, in turn, reduce the player's interest in the wheel 10. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the ring member 4 is removed from the slot machine 1, the problem image is displayed by enlarging and displaying the image of the wheel when the ring member 4 is not attached rather than the image of the wheel plate 11 when the ring member 4 is attached. Has solved. In the present embodiment, the image of the wheel plate 11 is not limited to an enlarged display when the ring member 4 is not attached, and can be displayed in the same size or reduced size as the ring member 4.

  Furthermore, the display device 3 according to the present embodiment has four progressive bonus payout amounts and a plurality (three) of wheels in the lower half of the display area regardless of whether the ring member 4 is attached or not. Displays images of the same composition, such as a board and a flame pattern.

  The ring member 4 as an external device is made into a ring shape by drawing a harness provided with a plurality of LEDs at a predetermined interval in the hollow inside of an acrylic casing, and functions as a decoration by lighting or blinking the LEDs. By providing the triangular pointer 7 indicating the stop position of the wheel, a part of the structure of the wheel 10 is carried. The ring member 4 is configured to be detachable from the cabinet 2 so as to be in close contact with the front surface of the display device 3 so as to surround the wheel plate 11 displayed on the display device 3. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ring member 4 has a flame pattern along the ring in addition to the pointer.

  The reel device 5 is a mechanical type having five reel bands 101 to 105. The reel device 5 is not limited to the mechanical type, and can be changed to a configuration in which a video reel is displayed on a liquid crystal display, or a configuration in which a transmissive touch panel is provided on the front surface of the mechanical reel.

  The topper device 6 has a function of making the slot machine 1 stand out even from a remote location and a function of making the game content of the slot machine 1 visible from a remote location.

  Below the reel device 5, a control panel 30 with various buttons, a PTS terminal 700, and a bill entry 60 are provided. The control panel 30 is provided with a help button, a CASH OUT button, a plurality of bet buttons, a spin button, and the like.

  The bill entry 60 is for identifying whether or not a bill is appropriate and accepting a regular bill into the cabinet 2. The bill entry 60 is electrically connected to the PTS terminal 700, and transmits an input signal based on the amount of the bill to the PTS terminal 700 when a regular bill is received. This input signal includes information such as credit data related to the accepted bill.

  The PTS terminal 700 is a unit in which an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a human body detection camera, a microphone, and the like are integrated. The human body detection camera can detect the presence or absence of a player by a camera function. The microphone is used for the player to participate in the game by voice or to authenticate the player by voice recognition. The PTS terminal 700 is provided with a card insertion slot so that an IC card can be inserted. Thus, the player can use the credit stored in the IC card in the slot machine 1 by inserting the IC card into the card insertion slot.

(Schematic configuration of slot machine)
Next, a schematic configuration will be described with reference to a block diagram of the slot machine shown in FIG.

  The slot machine 1 includes a power supply unit 100, a storage device 200, a display device 3, an external device 4, a controller 500, and the like. The power supply unit 100 activates the slot machine 1.

  The storage device 200 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a hard disk device, and the like. The storage device 200 stores a program and various data in a predetermined storage area according to its function. In the case of this embodiment, the storage device 200 stores, for example, a system program, a game program, first video data, second video data, and the like. The first video data is video data to be displayed on the display device 3 when the external device 4 is connected to the slot machine 1. The second video data is video data to be displayed on the display device 3 when the external device 4 is disconnected from the slot machine 1.

  The display device 3 displays a video based on the first video data and the second video data under the control of the controller 500.

  The external device 4 is involved in the execution of the game, and is a ring member 4 with a pointer that constitutes a part of the wheel 10 in this embodiment. In addition, an external apparatus is not limited to the ring member 4, For example, the topper apparatus 6 can also be used as an external apparatus. For example, a participatory gaming system in which a plurality of slot machines 1 are connected to a management server, and a player is paid out based on a credit amount accumulated in the management server in accordance with the bet amount at the time of a unit game of each slot machine 1 Is configured, the common information is displayed on the display of the topper device 6 provided in each slot machine 1. Therefore, when the topper device 6 is removed, the common information is displayed in a partial area of the display device 3 including a liquid crystal display. Of course, the substitute image of the topper device 6 is displayed in an area that is not superimposed on the image of the wheel board 11 so as not to hinder the execution of the game. For example, in the configuration of FIG. 2, the video of the common information may be displayed in an area of a flame image for production.

  The controller 500 executes the game program stored in the storage device 200 when the power supply unit 100 is turned on, determines the connection state with the external device 4, and determines that the external device 4 is connected. In this case, the video data related to the game corresponding to the connection of the external device 4 is read from the storage device 200, and the video generated based on the video data is displayed on the display device 3. When it is determined that the connection is established, the video data for alternative display of the video of the external device 4 is read from the storage device 200, and the video generated based on the video data is set to the second state in which the video is displayed on the display device 3.

  According to this configuration, the controller 500 determines whether or not the external device 4 is connected to the slot machine 1, reads out different video data from the storage device 200 depending on the determination result of connection and disconnection, and responds to each state. By generating an image and displaying it on the display device 3, the state is switched between the first state and the second state. For example, when the external device 4 is removed from the slot machine 1, the display device 3 is alternatively displayed with a configuration (hardware configuration, information, and the like) related to the execution of the game that is lacking due to the disconnection of the external device 4. The external device 4 can be removed from the slot machine 1 without hindering execution. Further, when the external device 4 is mounted, an image suitable for mounting the external device 4 can be displayed on the display device 3, so that the external device 4 can be attached to and detached from the slot machine 1.

  That is, there is a model in which an external device such as a wheel and a topper is provided in order to further enhance the production effect as part of the decoration of the slot machine as a gaming machine. However, a model having an external device is more expensive than a model having no external device. In addition, since the external device is responsible for some of the effects such as winning or losing the game, the display of the effect is an important effect for displaying the game. It is not possible to remove external devices for sale. Therefore, it is common to prepare both a model that physically attaches an external device and a model that does not have an external device even for a slot machine that executes the same game content. On the other hand, as in the above embodiment, by displaying the video of the external device as a substitute on the display device when the external device is not mounted, the same game content for both the model with the external device mounted and the non-mounted model The external device can be attached and detached from the slot machine, and the manufacturer or distributor arbitrarily selects the model with or without the external device for sale. You can also.

(Slot machine circuit configuration)
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a configuration of a circuit included in the slot machine 1 will be described.

  The gaming board 50 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, and a boot ROM 53, which are connected to each other via an internal bus, a card slot 55 corresponding to the memory card 54, and an IC socket 57 corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 56. .

  The memory card 54 is composed of a nonvolatile memory and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a program related to the progress of the game and a program for executing effects by images and sounds. The game program includes a symbol determination program. The symbol determination program is a program for determining symbols to be rearranged.

  The card slot 55 is configured such that the memory card 54 can be inserted and removed, and is connected to the motherboard 70 via an IDE bus. Therefore, by removing the memory card 54 from the card slot 55, writing another game program in the memory card 54, and inserting the memory card 54 into the card slot 55, the type and contents of the game played in the slot machine 1 are changed. be able to.

  The GAL 56 is a kind of PLD (Programmable Logic Device) having an OR fixed type array structure. The GAL 56 includes a plurality of input ports and output ports. When a predetermined input is input to the input port, the corresponding data is output from the output port.

  The IC socket 57 is configured such that the GAL 56 can be freely attached and detached, and is connected to the motherboard 70 by a PCI bus. The contents of the game played in the slot machine 1 can be changed by replacing the memory card 54 with another program written therein or rewriting the program written in the memory card 54 with another one. .

  The CPU 51, the ROM 52, and the boot ROM 53 connected to each other by an internal bus are connected to the mother board 70 by a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits signals between the motherboard 70 and the gaming board 50 and supplies power from the motherboard 70 to the gaming board 50.

  The ROM 52 stores an authentication program. The boot ROM 53 stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for the CPU 1051 to start the preliminary authentication program.

  The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the authentication program. The authentication program and the preliminary authentication program are described in accordance with a procedure (authentication procedure) for authenticating that the target program has not been tampered with.

  The motherboard 70 is configured using a commercially available general-purpose motherboard (printed wiring board on which basic components of a personal computer are mounted), a main CPU 71, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 72, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 73, a communication And an interface 82. Here, the main CPU 71 corresponds to the controller 500 of the slot machine 1.

  The ROM 72 is composed of a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) executed by the main CPU 71 and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 71, initialization processing of predetermined peripheral devices is performed. In addition, the game program and game system program take-in process stored in the memory card 54 is started via the gaming board 50. In the present invention, the ROM 72 may be rewritable or impossible.

  The RAM 73 stores programs such as data used when the main CPU 71 operates and a symbol determination program. For example, when the above-described game program, game system program, and authentication program are loaded, these can be stored. The RAM 73 is provided with a work area for executing the program. For example, an area for storing a counter for managing the number of games, the number of Bets, the number of payouts, the number of credits, an area for storing a symbol (code number) determined by lottery, and the like are provided.

  The communication interface 82 is for controlling data transmission / reception between the PTS terminal 700 and the main CPU 71. Furthermore, it is also for controlling transmission / reception of connection authentication data between the external device 4 and the main CPU 71.

  A door PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 90 and a main body PCB 110, which will be described later, are connected to the motherboard 70 by USB. Further, the power supply unit 100 is connected to the motherboard 70.

  When power is supplied from the power supply unit 100 to the motherboard 70, the main CPU 71 of the motherboard 70 is activated, and power is supplied to the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus to activate the CPU 51.

  The door PCB 90 and the main body PCB 110 are connected to input devices such as switches and sensors and peripheral devices whose operations are controlled by the main CPU 71.

  A control panel 30 and a key switch 120 are connected to the door PCB 90.

  The control panel 30 is provided with a spin switch 46S, a maximum BET switch 38S, a 5BET switch 37S, a 3BET switch 36S, a 2BET switch 35S, a 1BET switch 34S, a help switch 31S, and a CASHOUT switch 32S corresponding to the aforementioned buttons. It has been. Each switch detects that the corresponding button has been pressed by the player, and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71.

  When the front door of the cabinet 2 is opened and closed, a key switch 120 corresponding to a physical key provided inside is provided. The key switch 120 detects that the physical key has been operated by the player, and outputs an Audit screen activation signal to the main CPU 71.

  A graphic board 130 and a reel device 5 are connected to the main body PCB 110. Note that the bill validator 22 is connected to the PTS terminal 700 in this example, but may be configured to be connected to the slot machine 1.

  The banknote discriminator 22 recognizes the suitability of banknotes and accepts regular banknotes in the cabinet 2. The bills inserted into the cabinet 2 are converted into coins, and credits corresponding to the converted coins are added as player-owned credits.

  The graphic board 130 controls display of a video output to the display device 3 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71. The graphic board 130 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) that generates video data, a video RAM that stores video data generated by the VDP, and the like. Note that video data (first video data and second video data of the present invention) used when generating video data by VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card 54 and stored in the RAM 73. ing.

(Main control process when power is turned on)
Next, main control processing based on a program executed by the slot machine 1 having the above configuration will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the main control process of the slot machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, when power is turned on to the slot machine 1, the main CPU 71 reads out the authenticated game program and game system program from the memory card 54 via the gaming board 50, and writes them in the RAM 73 (step S11).

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a setting process associated with the attachment / detachment of the external device 4 to / from the slot machine 1 described later (step S12). Although the setting process will be described later, for example, the main CPU 71 switches the display mode of the display device 3 according to the connection determination process and connection or non-connection of the external device 4 connected via the communication interface 82.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs an initialization process at the end of one game (step S13). For example, unnecessary data is cleared for each play in the work area of the RAM 73, such as the number of Bets and symbols determined by lottery.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a start check process (step S14). In this process, input of a BET switch or a spin switch is checked.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a symbol lottery process described later (step S15). In this process, the symbol to be stopped is determined based on the random number for symbol determination.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs effect content determination processing (step S16). The main CPU 71 extracts an effect random number value and determines one of a plurality of predetermined effect contents by lottery. The contents of the effect can be determined according to the winning or the game situation in the slot machine 1.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a reel control process (step S17). In this process, the rotation of the reels in the five rows of the reel device 5 is started, and the scheduled stop symbol determined in the symbol lottery process in step S15 is stopped at a predetermined position of the symbol display window.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a payout amount determination process (step S18). In this process, the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of symbols displayed on the payline, and stored in a payout number storage area provided in the RAM 73.

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger has been established (step S19). When determining that the bonus game trigger has been established, the main CPU 71 conducts bonus game processing (step S20).

  The main CPU 71 performs a payout process after the process of step S20 or when it is determined in step S19 that a bonus game trigger has not been established (step S21). The main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the payout amount storage area to the credit number storage area provided in the RAM 73. Here, for example, when the player presses the CASHOUT button, the CASHOUT switch 32S that detects this button outputs a signal to the main CPU 71, and the credit amount storage area is stored in the card balance stored in the IC card held in the card unit. The amount calculated based on the value stored in is added. When the payout process ends, the process returns to step S13 to repeat the unit game.

(Setting process when an external device is attached or detached)
First, the main CPU 71 performs a connection determination process for the external device 4 (step S31). The main CPU 71 determines the electrical connection status of the external device 4 to the slot machine 1 using software or a hardware configuration. For example, in the case of software, the external device 4 and the slot machine 1 have communication interfaces 41 and 82 for electrically connecting each other, and both communication interfaces are connected via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable. . The main CPU 71 determines the connection between the external device 4 and the slot machine 1 based on the USB control.

  When the hardware configuration is used, for example, the connection is detected by a contact or non-contact sensor, and the main CPU 71 determines the connection with the external device 4 based on whether or not the detection signal is received.

  In this embodiment, when the connection between the external device 4 and the slot machine 1 is determined by software, only the first connection determination at power-on is executed unlike the USB connection authentication between the personal computer and the peripheral device. Until the power of the slot machine 1 is turned off, it is set not to execute the process of periodically confirming the determination of the connection status with the external device 4. That is, the present embodiment is configured to reduce the load on the main CPU 71 when the connection determination program is periodically executed in a subroutine different from the game program. In the present embodiment, as a matter of course, the setting can be changed so that the connection confirmation with the external device 4 is periodically executed.

  If the main CPU 71 determines in step S31 that the main CPU 71 has a connection with the external device 4 (step S31; YES), the external device 4 is authenticated (step S32).

  The main CPU 71 reads the authentication data stored in the memory 42 of the external device 4 and identifies the external device 4 from the authentication data. In the said embodiment, an external apparatus is a ring member which comprises a part of wheel.

  The main CPU 71 performs a process of reading the first video data for setting the display on the display device 3 to the first state when the ring member 4 is connected (step S33). In this process, the main CPU 71 reads the first video data for generating the first video corresponding to the connection of the external device 4 from the predetermined storage area of the RAM 73 into the execution area, and loads the first video data on the graphic board 130. Send.

  Under the control of the main CPU 71, the graphic board 130 performs display processing of the first video on the display device 3 (step S34). The first video data transmitted from the main CPU 71 is stored in the video RAM of the graphic board 130. The VDP of the graphic board 130 reads the first video data from the video RAM and generates the first video, and then outputs the first video to the display device 3.

  If the main CPU 71 determines in step S31 that it is not connected to the external device 4 (step S31; NO), the process moves to step S35.

  In step S35, the main CPU 71 performs reading processing of the second video data for setting the display on the display device 3 to the second state when the ring member 4 is not connected (step S35). In this process, the main CPU 71 reads the second video data for generating the second video corresponding to the disconnection of the external device 4 from the predetermined storage area of the RAM 73 into the execution area, and loads the second video data on the graphic board 130. Send data.

  Under the control of the main CPU 71, the graphic board 130 performs display processing of the second video on the display device 3 (step S36). The second video data transmitted from the main CPU 71 is stored in the video RAM of the graphic board 130. The VDP of the graphic board 130 reads the second video data from the video RAM and generates the second video, and then outputs the second video data to the display device 3.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, The following structures may be sufficient.

  (1) In the above embodiment, the main CPU 71 automatically switches and displays the first video or the second video on the display device 3 according to the determination result of the connection of the external device 4, but the administrator arbitrarily It is also possible to configure the video to be switchable. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, a case will be described in which the administrator is involved in setting processing associated with attachment / detachment of an external device.

  First, the main CPU 71 accepts an input signal when the administrator opens the door on the front of the cabinet and performs an input operation from the physical key to activate the Audit screen (step S301). That is, a signal from the key switch 120 is transmitted to the main CPU 71. The Audit screen corresponds to the switching screen of the present invention, and the key switch 120 corresponds to the input device.

  The main CPU 71 performs an activation process of the Audit screen on the display device 3 (step S302). That is, the main CPU 71 displays an Audit screen on the display device 3 via the graphic board 130. The Audit screen includes, for example, the name and code number of the external device 4 connected to the slot machine 1 and a selection item of “ON / OFF”.

  The main CPU 71 performs setting input processing of the external device (step S303). That is, the main CPU 71 transmits when the connection with the external device is set to either ON or OFF by an administrator's touch operation from a transparent touch panel integrally provided on the front surface of the display device 3. The input signal to be received is received. The touch panel corresponds to the setting unit of the present invention.

  The main CPU 71 determines whether or not an input signal serving as a setting end command transmitted when the administrator touches the setting end item on the touch panel is received (step S304). The main CPU 71 repeats the process of step S304 until the input signal is received (step S304; NO). When the main CPPU 71 determines that an input signal has been received (S304; YES), the process proceeds to step S305.

  The main CPU 71 compares and determines the connection state of the external device 4 that has been input and the actual connection state of the external device 4, and determines whether or not the set connection condition is appropriate (S305). For example, when appropriate, the external device 4 is connected to the slot machine 1 and the administrator selects ON in the connected state, or the external device 4 is not connected to the slot machine 1. In addition, this is a case where the administrator selects OFF in the disconnected state. If the main CPU 71 determines that any appropriate condition is satisfied (S305; YES), the main CPU 71 proceeds to step S307.

  If it is inappropriate, the external device 6 is connected to the slot machine 1 and the administrator selects OFF in the non-connected state, or the external device 6 is not connected to the slot machine 1, In this case, the administrator selects ON in the connection state. When the main CPU 71 determines that any inappropriate condition is satisfied (S305; NO), the main CPU 71 proceeds to step S306.

  In step S306, the main CPU 71 performs notification processing based on the determination of inappropriate setting conditions. For example, the main CPU 71 displays an error message on the display device 3 or generates a warning sound. Thereafter, the main CPU 71 enables the processing from step S303 to be re-settable.

  In step S307, the main CPU 71 performs a video data reading process based on the set and inputted conditions. In this process, the main CPU 71 reads video data for generating the first video corresponding to the connection of the external device or the second video corresponding to the non-connection from the predetermined storage area of the RAM 73 into the execution area, and the graphic board 130. The video data is transmitted to.

  Under the control of the main CPU 71, the graphic board 130 performs display processing of either the first or second video on the display device 3 (step S308). The first or second video data transmitted from the main CPU 71 is stored in the video RAM of the graphic board 130. The VDP of the graphic board 130 reads out the video data from the video RAM and generates a video, and then outputs the video to the display device 3. Thus, the setting process accompanying the attachment / detachment of the external device is completed, and the process returns to the main control process.

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, the wheel 10 is configured to separate the ring member 4 and the wheel plate 11. However, the wheel 10 is configured to be integrated with a display that displays the wheel 10 in the opening of the ring member 4. Can also be applied. Moreover, when utilizing this integrated wheel, it is not restricted to the form which attaches a wheel to the front surface of the display apparatus 3, For example, the said wheel attaches to the upper part of the cabinet 2 instead of the topper apparatus 6 so that attachment or detachment is possible. You can also. In this configuration, when a wheel is mounted on the slot machine 1, the display device 3 displays a game effect other than the wheel or information on the topper device 6 in the display area, and when the wheel is removed, Similar to the above embodiment, the display device 3 displays the wheel image on the upper side.

<Gaming machine definitions>
The “slot machine” is a type of game terminal in the gaming machine 1. In the present embodiment, an example of a game terminal based on a slot machine housing has been described. The model can be applied as a game terminal.

  The base game in this embodiment is executed as a slot game. The base game is a slot game in which a plurality of symbols are rearranged. The base game is not limited to the slot game, and may be a game that can be executed independently on other game terminals. That is, the base game is a concept game that is opposed to the common game.

  The rearrangement of symbols in the slot game is performed on the display device 3. The slot game may include a base game, a bonus game, a rescue process, and the like. In the base game, on the condition that a game value is bet, symbols are rearranged on the display device 3, and a process of giving a normal payout according to the rearranged symbols is executed. The bonus game is executed when symbols are rearranged under a predetermined condition in the base game.

  “Bonus game” is synonymous with feature game. The bonus game may be any kind of game as long as the game state is more advantageous than the base game. In addition, other bonus games may be employed together as long as the gaming state is advantageous to the player, that is, the gaming state is more advantageous than the base game. For example, the bonus game has various states such as a state in which more game values can be acquired than the base game, a state in which game values can be acquired with a higher probability than the base game, and a state in which the number of game values consumed is lower than in the base game. May be realized alone or in combination.

  For example, the bonus game may be a fixed payout, or may be a free game that is executed on the condition that a bet with a smaller game value (including 0) than the base game is included. Alternatively, a symbol lottery table having a higher payout rate than the base game may be used. Further, it may be a pick-up bonus that presents a plurality of options to the player in a selectable manner. In the case of a pickup bonus, options may include a fixed payout, a free game, and the like. Further, the pickup bonus option may include a pickup bonus trigger that causes the player to select an option. Note that the pick-up bonus options are preferably arranged randomly. Further, it is preferable that the pick-up bonus options are not displayed at the stage before the player's selection. The bonus game of this embodiment will be described in detail later. The rescue process is executed when a rescue start condition is satisfied.

  The “game value” is a coin, a bill, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these. Note that the game value in the present invention is not particularly limited, and may be a game medium such as a medal, token, electronic money, or ticket. The ticket is not particularly limited, and may be a ticket with a barcode, for example. Further, as described above, the “game value” may be an electronic game point corresponding to a game medium.

  The “rearrangement” means a state in which the symbol 501 is arranged again after the symbol arrangement is canceled. “Arrangement” means that the symbol can be visually confirmed with respect to an external player.

  “Normal payout according to rearranged symbols” means a normal payout corresponding to a rearranged winning combination. The “bonus payout according to the rearranged symbols” means a bonus payout corresponding to the rearranged winning combination. The “winning combination” means that a prize is established. Details of the winning combination will be described later.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but only specific examples are illustrated, and the present invention is not particularly limited. The specific configuration of each unit and the like can be appropriately changed. The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

  Further, in the above detailed description, the characteristic portions have been mainly described so that the present invention can be easily understood. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the detailed description above, but can be applied to other embodiments, and the scope of application is various. The terms and terminology used in the present specification are used to describe the present invention accurately, and are not used to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Moreover, it would be easy for those skilled in the art to infer other configurations, systems, methods, and the like included in the concept of the present invention from the concept of the invention described in this specification. Accordingly, the description of the claims should be regarded as including an equivalent configuration without departing from the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. The purpose of the abstract is to simplify the technical contents and essence of this application by patent offices and general public institutions, and engineers belonging to this technical field who are not familiar with patents, legal terms or technical terms. It is intended to be able to make a quick determination through a simple survey. Therefore, the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to be evaluated by the description of the scope of claims. Moreover, in order to fully understand the object of the present invention and the specific effects of the present invention, it is desired that the interpretation should be made with sufficient consideration of the literatures already disclosed.

  The above detailed description includes processing executed by a computer. The above description and expression are described for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the most efficiently. In this specification, each step used to derive one result should be understood as a self-consistent process. In each step, transmission / reception, recording, and the like of electrical or magnetic signals are performed. In the processing in each step, such a signal is expressed by bits, values, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc., but these are used only for convenience of explanation. There is a need. In addition, the processing in each step may be described in an expression common to human behavior, but the processing described in this specification is executed by various devices in principle. Further, other configurations required for performing each step will be apparent from the above description.

1 Slot machine (gaming machine)
3 Display device 4 Ring member (external device)
5 reel device 10 wheel 11 wheel plate 100 power supply unit 200 storage device 500 controller

Claims (3)

A gaming machine that is electrically connected to an external device,
A power supply unit for starting,
A storage device storing a game program and video data for video to be displayed based on the execution of the game program;
A display device for displaying video based on the video data;
A controller that executes a game program stored in the storage device and controls an image displayed on the display device based on the game program;
The controller sets a setting type according to the connection state of the external device involved in the execution of the game before the start of the game,
In the case of a setting type in which the external device is connected, video data related to a game corresponding to the connection of the external device is read from the storage device, and a video generated based on the video data is displayed on the display device. A first state;
When the external device is of a non-connected setting type, video data that is displayed as a substitute for the configuration involved in the execution of a game that is lacking due to the non-connection of the external device is read from the storage device, and a video generated based on the video data In a second state in which the display is displayed on the display device.   The controller sets a setting type according to a connection state of the external device involved in the execution of the game before starting the game based on a connection confirmation and setting program that is activated when the power supply unit starts up. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is set. An input device for transmitting a signal for attaching / detaching the external device from the outside to the controller;
A setting unit for setting one of the setting type to which the external device is connected and the setting type to which the external device is not connected;
The controller displays the switching screen of the two setting types on the display device based on the operation of the setting unit,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is set to one of the setting types based on a setting operation from the setting unit.

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