JP4475889B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

【０１３３】
この表１のようにメモリ内に記憶されたコマンドは、表２に示される如く、エリア単位で送信優先順位が定められており、１回の送信では４コマンド分が送信可能である。
【０１３４】
【表２】

【０１３５】
すなわち、表２では、優先順位を定める場合、優先順位１と優先順位５は、空欄となっており、緊急の場合のスペースが設けている。すなわち、優先順位１のスペースには、イレギュラーにコマンドが設定可能であり、最初の送信の際に必ず送信できることになる。また、優先順位５は、必ずしも最初の送信での送信である必要はないが、比較的早期に送信するべきコマンドが設定される。
【０１３６】
すなわち、優先順位２〜４には、本実施の形態における、上述の「最初のパケット通信時間（０．００４秒）後に、当該図柄変動パターン演出に関するコマンドを全て演出制御部１５２へ送出」という目的を達成するべく、固定的に図柄変動パターン演出に関するコマンドである、変動開始コマンド、特別図柄１コマンド、特別図柄２コマンドが設定されることになる。
【０１３７】
以下に本実施の形態の作用を説明する。
【０１３８】
まず、通常遊技の流れを図１０（Ａ）に示す主制御部１５０におけるメインルーチンに従い説明する。
【０１３９】
遊技者がハンドル３０を把持し、発射のための操作を行なうと、このハンドル操作量（回転量）に応じた強度で、パチンコ球が打ち出される。
【０１４０】
パチンコ球が打ち出されると、外バンド３６及び内バンド３８に案内されて盤面３２の釘３４や風車３５等に当接しながら、予測し得ない移動をしながら落下していく。ここで、始動口４６にパチンコ球が入賞すると（ステップ４００での肯定判定）、ステップ４０２へ移行して保留数Ｍが４か否か（すなわち、保留が満杯が否か）が判断され、満杯ではないと判定されると、ステップ４０４へ移行して乱数カウンタから乱数を取得して、ステップ４０６へ移行する。
【０１４１】
なお、ステップ４０２で肯定判定された場合には、抽選の権利がないため、始動口４６への入賞分を賞球払出を行い、処理は終了する。
【０１４２】
ステップ４０６では、現在図柄変動パターン演出中（変動中）であるか否かが判断され、肯定判定されると、ステップ４０８へ移行して保留メモリＭに取得した乱数を記憶し、次いでステップ４１０で保留数Ｍをインクリメント（Ｍ←Ｍ＋１）して、このルーチンは終了する。
【０１４３】
また、ステップ４０６で否定判定された場合には、ステップ４１２へ移行して前記取得した乱数に基づいて当／外抽選を実行する。
【０１４４】
ここで、前記ステップ４００で否定判定され、ステップ４１４へ移行して保留が存在すると判定（肯定判定）された場合には、保留メモリから最初に記憶した乱数を読出し（ステップ４１６）、次いで保留数Ｍをデクリメントして（ステップ４１８）、ステップ４１２へ移行する。この場合にも、ステップ４１２では、読み出した乱数に基づいて当／外抽選が実行される。
【０１４５】
ステップ４１２での当／外抽選が終了すると、ステップ４２０へ移行して変動パターンを設定し、次いでステップ４２２へ移行して連続予告の抽選処理が実行される。これは、保留されている乱数の当／外を先読みして、この保留した乱数の中に当たりがあるか否かを判断し、当たりがあった場合に、事前の図柄変動パターン演出から当たりの予告を行うものである。
【０１４６】
次のステップ４２４では、当／外抽選結果、図柄変動パターン種、連続予告の有無、入賞に基づいて予め設定された賞球払出数等のデータを演出制御部１５２又払出制御部１５４へ命令信号として送信（コマンド送信）し、ステップ４２６へ移行する。
【０１４７】
ステップ４２６では、当／外の抽選結果が当たりか否かが判断され、抽選の結果が当りの場合は、予め設定したラウンド数（例えば、１５ラウンド）の大当たり処理が実行される（ステップ４２８）。この大当たり処理中は、大入賞口４４がほとんど開放状態であるため、遊技者によって有利な状態とすることができる。所定ラウンドの大当たり処理が終了すると、通常の遊技に戻る。
【０１４８】
また、このメインルーチンの実行中、図１０（Ｂ）の割り込みルーチンが実行されている。
【０１４９】
すなわち、割り込みルーチンは、停止操作ユニット６０の操作部６４の操作状態を判別するルーチンであり、強制停止操作があった、すなわち、光電センサ７８の受光部７８Ｂに投光部７８Ａからの光が入光し、信号が反転（オン）したことを認識すると、この割り込みルーチンが実行され、ステップ４２９で変動中と判定された場合にステップ４３０で強制停止操作があったことを示す強制停止信号（コマンド）を演出制御部１５２へ送信する。
【０１５０】
（演出制御部１５２における変動パターン強制停止制御「作用効果」）
上記のように当／外の抽選が実行されて、図柄変動パターンに関連するコマンドが演出制御部１５２へ送信されると、演出制御部１５２では、様々な演出制御を実行する。その最も特徴となる演出として、遊技者介入による図柄変動パターン演出の強制停止操作（変動パターン短縮操作）である。
【０１５１】
すなわち、図柄変動パターン演出が開始されてから０．００４秒後、終了する１秒前までの間に、停止操作ユニット６０の操作部６４に遊技者が手をかざすと、光電センサ７８の投光部７８Ａからの光が、手によって反射し、受光部７８Ｂへ入光する。この受光部７８Ｂへの入光によって光電センサ７８の信号が反転し、強制停止の指示があったことを認識する。
【０１５２】
この強制停止指示に基づいて、図柄変動パターン演出が中断され、即時に抽選結果を示す停止図柄が表示される。
【０１５３】
以下に、図１１のフローチャートに従い、この強制停止制御を含む、図柄変動パターン演出制御ルーチンを説明する。
【０１５４】
ステップ４５０では、命令信号（コマンド）の入力があったか否かが判断され、肯定判定されると、ステップ４５２へ移行して命令信号の解析が実行される。
【０１５５】
次のステップ４５４では、解析した命令信号の内容を判別し、図柄変動パターン関連のコマンドの場合には、ステップ４５６へ移行する。
【０１５６】
ステップ４５６では、その図柄変動パターン関連のコマンドが変動開始命令か否かが判断され、肯定判定されると、ステップ４５８へ移行して変動開始命令に付加された図柄変動パターン種に基づいて図柄変動パターンを読出し、次いでステップ４６０へ移行して、変動を開始する。
【０１５７】
また、ステップ４５６で否定判定された場合には、ステップ４６２へ移行して変動終了命令か否かが判断される。このステップ４６２で肯定判定されると、ステップ４６４へ移行して変動が停止され、最終停止図柄が表示されてこのルーチンは終了する。
【０１５８】
ここで、図１１は、後述するスーパーリーチ報知制御を含めたフローチャートとしているが、図１１の鎖線で囲まれたルーチンは、スーパーリーチ報知制御を行わない場合には不要なルーチンである。
【０１５９】
すなわち、スーパーリーチ報知制御不要の場合には、ステップ４５４で解析した内容が強制停止命令である場合、ステップ４７２へ移行して、変動中画面を白黒静止画像に変換（非スーパーリーチ時）、或いは動画像に変換（スーパーリーチ時）し、ステップ４７４へ移行する。
【０１６０】
すなわち、現在の変動パターンがどこまで演出が進行していようと、当該強制停止命令があった時点で即時に中止し、他の画面（白黒静止画像或いは動画像）に変換されるため、遊技者はこの変換された画像を見ることで、強制停止が正常に働いていることを視覚を通じて認識することができる。
【０１６１】
次のステップ４７４では、この白黒静止画像或いは動画像の表示が所定時間（ここでは、０．５秒程度）経過したか否かが判断され、肯定判定されると、ステップ４７６へ移行して、最終停止図柄を表示してこのルーチンは終了する。
【０１６２】
このように、操作部６４の操作有効期間を、全ての変動パターンを対象とし、かつ図柄変動開始直後（０．００４秒後）から図柄変動終了直前（１．０秒前）までとし、遊技者の判断でいつでも変動中の図柄を即時に停止させ、当／外抽選結果を報知する最終停止図柄を表示するようにしたため、遊技の進行を早めたい遊技者は操作部６４の操作を行えばよいし、図柄変動パターン演出を楽しみたい遊技者は操作部６４を操作することなく、そのまま表示部４３を見ていればよいため、遊技者の相反する要求に応えることができる。
【０１６３】
（スーパーリーチ報知制御「作用効果」）
次に、図１１の鎖線で囲まれたスーパーリーチ報知制御のためのルーチンを付加した場合の制御の流れを説明する。すなわち、図１１のステップ４５４において、解析した命令信号の内容が強制停止命令の場合には、ステップ４６６へ移行する。
【０１６４】
ステップ４６６では、フラグＦがセット（１）されているか否かが判断され、否定判定された場合には、ステップ４６８へ移行して、次の変動パターンがスーパーリーチか否かが判断される。
【０１６５】
このステップ４６６で肯定判定された場合、或いは前記ステップ４６８で否定判定された場合には、ステップ４７０へ移行してフラグＦをリセット（０）し、次いでステップ４７２で変動中画面を白黒静止画像に変換（非スーパーリーチ時）、或いは動画像に変換（スーパーリーチ時）し、ステップ４７４へ移行する。
【０１６６】
すなわち、現在の変動パターンがどこまで演出が進行していようと、当該強制停止命令があった時点で即時に中止し、他の画面（白黒静止画像或いは動画像）に変換されるため、遊技者はこの変換された画像を見ることで、強制停止が正常に働いていることを視覚を通じて認識することができる。
【０１６７】
次のステップ４７４では、この白黒静止画像或いは動画像の表示が所定時間（ここでは、０．５秒程度）経過したか否かが判断され、肯定判定されると、ステップ４７６へ移行して、最終停止図柄を表示してこのルーチンは終了する。
【０１６８】
一方、ステップ４６８において、肯定判定、すなわち、今回の図柄変動パターンがスーパーリーチであると判定された場合には、ステップ４７８へ移行して、表示部４３での変動を継続しながら、その表示上にメッセージを表示する。
【０１６９】
メッセージ内容は、「スーパーリーチに発展します。強制停止するならもう一度停止操作を行ってください。」等の文字表示である。
【０１７０】
次のステップ４８０では、メッセージが表示され、現在の図柄変動パターン演出がスーパーリーチに発展することを認識させたとして、フラグＦをセットしてこのルーチンは終了する。
【０１７１】
上記フラグＦをたてておくことで、次にこのルーチンの処理が実行されるとき、ステップ４６６で肯定判定されるため、遊技者にスーパーリーチ演出を見るか否かを猶予を与えることができる。すなわち、１回目の強制停止操作では、スーパーリーチの場合に、図柄変動パターンの演出を省略してよいか否かの猶予が与えられ、スーパーリーチに関係なく強制停止を行いたい場合には、再度操作部６４の操作を実行することで、強制停止操作の指示が有効となる。
【０１７２】
なお、上記では、最初の操作部６４の操作のとき、スーパーリーチであった場合に、そのまま図柄変動パターン演出を継続しながら、メッセージを表示するようにしたが、図柄変動パターン演出を一時停止した状態でメッセージを表示するようにしてもよい。この場合、再度の操作部６４の操作可能時間を設け（例えば、２〜３秒程度）、この間に再操作がなければ図柄変動パターン演出を再開し、操作があれば、即時に最終停止図柄を表示するようにすればよい。
【０１７３】
また、スーパーリーチの場合には、操作部６４の操作を最初から無効として、必ずスーパーリーチの図柄変動パターン演出を全編表示するようにしてもよい。
【０１７４】
（主制御部１５０におけるコマンド送出制御「作用効果」）
ここで、前記メインルーチンを含む制御フローは、０．００４秒サイクルで処理されており、図１０（Ａ）に示すメインルーチンのステップ４２４におけるコマンド送信では、０．００４秒を１パケットとし、この間に可能なコマンドを送信し、送信しきれないコマンドは次のパケットで送信する。
【０１７５】
ところが、この本実施の形態の場合、上記強制停止制御を図柄変動パターン演出開始直後（実際には、開始後０．００４秒後）には、最終停止図柄が認識されている必要がある。
【０１７６】
このため、本実施の形態では、図柄変動パターンに関連するコマンドを他のコマンドに優先して、送信する（表２参照）。言い換えれば、変動パターン演出開始後、最初のパケット通信時間（０．００４秒）後には、当該図柄変動パターン演出に関するコマンドが全て演出制御部１５２へ送出されていることになる。
【０１７７】
図１８は、コマンド出力処理ルーチンを示している。本実施の形態におけるコマンド出力は、送信を４回に分けて、モードデータ（ＭＯＤＥ）とイベントデータ（ＥＶＥＮＴ）とをペアにして送信している（表２では、変動開始コマンド、特別図柄１コマンド、特別図柄２コマンドは必ず、メモリコマンドは別途緊急の送信コマンドがない場合）。
【０１７８】
ステップ５７０では、送信カウンタに「０」をセットし、次いでステップ５７２で送信カウンタが「４」になったか否かが判断される。
【０１７９】
このステップ５７２で肯定判定された場合には、全てのコマンドの送信が完了したと判断され、メインルーチンへリターンする。
【０１８０】
また、ステップ５７２で否定判定された場合には、ステップ５７４へ移行してコマンドテーブル（図２０参照）に「ＦＦ」があるか否かが判断される。この「ＦＦ」はコマンドデータが無いことを意味する。
【０１８１】
ステップ５７４で肯定判定された場合には、コマンド自体がないため、メインルーチンへリターンする。
【０１８２】
また、ステップ５７４で否定判定された場合には、ステップ５７６へ移行して送信処理を実行する。
【０１８３】
送信処理は、図１９に示される如く、ステップ５７６Ａでモードデータ（ＭＯＤＥ）を送信し、次いでステップ５７６Ｂでイベントデータ（ＥＶＥＮＴ）を送信する。
【０１８４】
上記ステップ５７６における送信処理が終了すると、ステップ５７８へ移行して、送信カウンタをインクリメントし、ステップ５７２へ戻る。
【０１８５】
上記コマンド出力処理の際、メインルーチンにおける最初のコマンド出力時に図柄変動パターンに関するデータを優先して送信することで、遊技者には見掛け上、図柄変動パターン変動開始直後（人間の感覚としては、０．００４秒の遅れは無視できる）から停止操作を有効とすることが可能となる。
【０１８６】
また、強制停止操作の有効終了時期を変動終了１秒前に設定したのは、可動部６２等、機械的な図柄変動表示装置を適用した場合の、メカ的なレスポンスに対応するためである。また、本実施の形態には適用していないが、リールや球体等を用いて特別図柄を表示する場合にも必要な時間となる。なお、この強制停止操作有効期間の終了時期は、これ以上経過した後（終了１秒以内）での強制停止操作はほとんど意味がないため、遊技の進行に大きな影響を及ぼすこともない。
【０１８７】
（演出制御部１５２における期待値に基づく可動部６２の動作制御「作用効果」、並びに連続予告制御「作用効果」）
前記始動口４６に入賞すると、保留が満杯でない限り、当／外の抽選が実行されるが、保留があると、その順番待ちの期間がある。すなわち、現在図柄変動パターン演出中において４個の保留があるとすると、この保留分の４個は先の抽選結果の報知が終了されるまで待機状態となる。
【０１８８】
この場合、保留された乱数値を先読みし、保留の中に当たりが存在する場合には、事前の図柄変動パターン演出（最大４回）から、連続して当たりを予告する演出を行っている。また、この連続予告は、最低１回から、すなわち、現在図柄変動パターン演出中の抽選結果から適用可能である。
【０１８９】
この場合、抽選結果に対する連続予告の対象として、本実施の形態では、強制停止操作ユニット６０の可動部６２と、表示部４３での表示と、の２種類としている。
【０１９０】
この場合、従来では、主制御部１５０において、連続予告を行うか否かを抽選し、行う場合に予告対象を選択して、それぞれの予告対象に対して動作設定等を行うといった全ての制御を実行していたため、主制御部１５０に大きな負担がかかっていた。そこで、本実施の形態では、この制御を主制御部１５０と演出制御部１５２とに振り分けることで、主制御部１５０での負担を軽減した。
【０１９１】
以下、図１２乃至図１４のフローチャートに従い、前記振り分けた各制御動作ルーチンを示す。
【０１９２】
図１２は、主制御部１５０における連続予告抽選制御ルーチンが示されている。
【０１９３】
ステップ５００では、連続予告抽選を実行し、次いでステップ５０２において、この連続予告抽選に当選したか否かが判断される。ステップ５０２で肯定判定、すなわち連続予告に当選したと判断されると、ステップ５０４へ移行して連続予告コマンドを演出制御部１５２へ送信し、このルーチンは終了する。また、ステップ５０２で否定判定の場合はこのルーチンは終了する。
【０１９４】
主制御部１５０では、上記連続予告の抽選のみを行うようにしたため、主制御部１５０での制御負担を軽減することができる。
【０１９５】
図１３は、演出制御部１５２における連続予告判別制御ルーチンを示している。
【０１９６】
ステップ５０６では、連続予告コマンドが主制御部１５０が送られてきたか否かが判断され、肯定判定されると、ステップ５０８で連続予告実行フラグをオンにしてこのルーチンは終了する。また、ステップ５０６で否定判定の場合には、連続予告実行フラグはオフのまま処理は終了する。
【０１９７】
続いて、図１４は、演出制御部１５２における変動パターンコマンド設定制御ルーチンを示している。
【０１９８】
ステップ５１０では、連続予告実行フラグがオンされているか否かが判断され、肯定判定されると、ステップ５１２へ移行して大当たり確定の連続予告か否かが判断される。
【０１９９】
このステップ５１２で否定判定されると、外れ確定（期待値８０から９９％）であると判定され、ステップ５１４へ移行して外れ時予告動作抽選が実行され、ステップ５１６へ移行する。
【０２００】
ステップ５１６では、抽選の結果が可動部動作に当選したか否かが判断され、肯定判定された場合には、ステップ５１８へ移行して可動部６２の動作を開始し、ステップ５２０へ移行する。ステップ５２０では、変動パターン指定コマンドを図柄・音声制御部１５６へ送信して、このルーチンは終了する。
【０２０１】
また、ステップ５１０で否定判定、すなわち連続予告実行フラグがオンされていない場合、或いはステップ５１６において否定判定、すなわち可動部動作を行わない場合には、ステップ５２０へ移行して、変動パターン指定コマンドを図柄・音声制御部１５６へ送信して、このルーチンは終了する。
【０２０２】
次に、ステップ５１２で肯定判定されると、大当たり確定（期待値１００％）であると判定され、ステップ５２２へ移行して当たり時予告動作抽選が実行され、ステップ５２４へ移行する。
【０２０３】
ステップ５２４では、抽選の結果が可動部動作に当選したか否かが判断され、肯定判定されるとステップ５１８へ移行し、可動部６２の動作を開始し、ステップ５２０へ移行する。ステップ５２０では、変動パターン指定コマンドを図柄・音声制御部１５６へ送信して、このルーチンは終了する。
【０２０４】
また、ステップ５２４において、否定判定、すなわち可動部動作を行わない場合には、ステップ５２６へ移行して、大当たり連続予告付変動パターンに当選しているか否かが判断され、否定判定された場合には、ステップ５２０へ移行して、変動パターン指定コマンドを図柄・音声制御部１５６へ送信して、このルーチンは終了する。
【０２０５】
また、ステップ５２６で肯定判定された場合には、ステップ５２８へ移行して大当たり連続予告付変動パターン指定コマンドを図柄・音声制御部１５６へ送信し、このルーチンは終了する。
【０２０６】
以上のように、連続予告については、この連続予告をするかしないかの抽選のみを主制御部１５０で行うようにしたため、主制御部１５０での制御負担が軽くなり、制御プログラムも簡略化することができる。
【０２０７】
（可動部の原点位置復帰までの移動時間と図柄変動期間との相関関係「作用効果」）
本実施の形態では、可動部６２の動作が付加された図柄変動パターン演出中に、操作部６４により強制停止操作指示があった場合、次の図柄変動パターン演出の開始時までに、可動部６２がどの位置にあっても、原点位置に復帰させるようにしている。
【０２０８】
すなわち、可動部６２の動作中に、前記操作部６４の操作があった場合、図柄変動自体が即時に中止され、最終停止図柄が表示された後、保留メモリがあった場合、直ちに次の図柄変動に移行する。次の図柄変動開始時に可動部６２を動作させる設定がなされている場合、可動部６２は原点位置に戻っている必要がある。
【０２０９】
そこで、本実施の形態では、図柄変動パターン演出終了時と、次の図柄変動パターン演出開始時との間に表示仕様下での時間ｔ_HSに加えてブランキング期間ｔ_BKを設けた。
【０２１０】
これにより、強制停止操作有効期間終了時点、或いは操作部６４の操作時点とほぼ一致する図柄変動終了時から次の図柄変動までの時間はｔ_HS＋ｔ_BK＝１．０＋０．６＝１．６秒となり、これは、可動部６２の標準的な最大ストロークの移動にかかる時間ｔ_MSの２倍であるため、可動部６２の原点位置への復帰動作中に負荷がかかっても、確実に次の図柄変動パターン演出開始までには、復帰することができる。
【０２１１】
図１６及び図１７には、可動部６２の動作が付加された図柄変動パターン演出時のタイムチャートが示されている。なお、このタイムチャートに示す図柄は、表示部４３の特別図柄表示部４３Ａに表示する特別図柄を対象としている。
【０２１２】
図１６は、図柄変動パターン演出中に、操作部６４の操作がなかった場合を示しており、変動時期の立ち上がりから０．００４秒後に、操作部６４の操作が有効となり、変動時期の立ち下がり（第２特別図柄の停止時）よりも１秒前にこの操作部６４の操作有効期間が終了する。
【０２１３】
可動部６２は、変動時期の立ち上がりとほぼ同時に第１の動作パターン或いは第２の動作パターンの何れかで動作を開始し、全ての動作パターンが終了するのは、前記操作部６４の操作有効期間と一致している。
【０２１４】
その後、０．８秒かけて原点位置へ復帰する（図４（Ｃ）及び図４（Ｄ）参照）。
【０２１５】
ところで、前記変動時期の立ち下がりから次の変動時期の立ち上がりまでの間に、ブランキング期間ｔ_BKを設けることで、前記可動部６２の復帰動作にかかる時間ｔ_MSの２倍の余裕が出る。このため、可動部６２の復帰動作中に何らかの負荷がかかったとしても、十分に次の変動時期の立ち上がりまでの間に復帰させることができる。
【０２１６】
図１７は、操作部６４の操作有効期間中に操作部６２が操作されたとき、すなわち可動部６２が動作途中のときの復帰動作を示している。
【０２１７】
操作部６４が操作されると、本実施の形態の標準仕様に従って、図柄変動は時間ｔ_HS（１．０秒）で停止する。
【０２１８】
また、可動部６２も前記操作部６４の操作をトリガとして、原点位置へ復帰する動作となる。なお、図１７では最大ストロークを予測している。
【０２１９】
この場合でも、前記時間ｔ_HSとブランキング期間ｔ_BKとの和が１．６秒であるため、可動部６２の復帰動作中に何らかの負荷がかかったとしても、十分に次の変動時期の立ち上がりまでの間に復帰させることができる。
【０２２０】
（演出制御部１５２における効果音予告制御「作用効果」）
次に、本実施の形態では、停止操作ユニット６０の操作部６４の操作を、操作判別素子（ここでは、光電センサ７８）に遊技者が直接手を触れるのではなく、手をかざすのみという仕様を採用している。
【０２２１】
このため、手をかざしたか否かを効果音によって明確にしている。
【０２２２】
通常は、この効果音として特別強調されるような音域や音量ではない、通常停止音であるが、変動パターンがスーパーリーチの場合には、通常音とは異なる音色の効果音を出し、（スーパーリーチ停止音）、当／外抽選の結果が当たりであり、かつ予告抽選に当選した場合には、前記通常効果音の音量よりも大きく、かつ高周波数帯域等、周囲の音に対して強調された効果音（直撃音）を出力する。
【０２２３】
以下、図１５のフローチャートに従い、強制停止時予告音制御ルーチンを説明する。
【０２２４】
ステップ５５０では、直撃音演出の抽選が実行され、次いでステップ５５２でこの直撃音抽選に当選したか否かが判断される。
【０２２５】
このステップ５５２で否定判定された場合には、ステップ５５４へ移行して、スーパーリーチか否かが判断される。
【０２２６】
すなわち、ステップ５５２及びステップ５５４において、ステップ５５６による直撃音に設定するか（ステップ５５２での肯定判定）、ステップ５５８による通常停止音に設定するか（ステップ５５４での否定判定）、ステップ５６０によるスーパーリーチ停止音に設定するか（ステップ５５４での肯定判定）に分類することができる。
【０２２７】
前記ステップ５５６、５５８、５６０の何れかで効果音の設定がなされると、それぞれステップ５６２へ移行してスーパーリーチか否かが再度判断される。
【０２２８】
ステップ５６２で否定判定された場合には、ステップ５６４へ移行して通常停止表示演出に設定され、肯定判定された場合には、ステップ５６６へ移行してスーパーリーチ停止演出に設定され、このルーチンは終了する。
【０２２９】
上記効果音の設定により、停止操作ユニット６０の操作部６４により強制停止の指示操作があると、通常時は白黒静止画像が表示されたときに通常効果音又は直撃音が出力される。また、スーパーリーチ時は動画像が表示されたときにスーパーリーチ効果音又は直撃音が出力される。
【０２３０】
この直撃音を聞くことで、遊技者は、当／外抽選が当たりであることを視覚を通じてのみならず、聴覚を通じて認識することができ、仮に、遊技盤面（表示部４）から目を離していても、当たりを認識することができる。
【０２３１】
【発明の効果】
以上説明した如く本発明では、送信すべきコマンド数がこの制限されたコマンド数を超える場合に、前記図柄関連コマンドを最高位の優先順位に設定し、当該優先順の高い図柄関連コマンドから送信するように制御することで、図柄関連コマンドは、初回の送信間隔で全ての送信を完了させることができるため、操作手段の操作と、最終停止図柄の報知との間のタイムラグの発生を回避することができる。
また、例えば、１回の送信で４個のコマンドが送信可能な場合に、定常的に３個のコマンドを送信するようにすれば、１コ分のコマンドが割り込み可能となり、緊急の場合のスペースとして利用することができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本実施の形態に係るパチンコ機の正面図である。
【図２】（Ａ）は本実施の形態に係る遊技機の正面図、（Ｂ）は図２（Ａ）のＩＩＢ−ＩＩＢ線断面図である。
【図３】本実施の形態に係るパチンコ機における制御系のブロック図である。
【図４】（Ａ）は停止操作ユニットの可動部の原点位置状態を示す拡大正面図、（Ｂ）は可動部の伸出し状態を示す拡大正面図、（Ｃ）は可動部の第１の動作パターンを示すタイムチャート、（Ｄ）は可動部の第２の動作パターンを示すタイムチャートである。
【図５】表示部による図柄変動パターン演出画面であり、（Ａ）は変動中の表示状態、（Ｂ）強制停止直後の表示状態、（Ｃ）は最終停止図柄表示状態を示す。
【図６】演出図柄を対象とした前記強制停止機能を実現するための機能ブロック図である。
【図７】演出制御部における前記可動部の駆動制御のための機能ブロック図である。
【図８】連続予告に関する制御を主制御部と演出制御部への振り分け状態を示す概念図である。
【図９】予告効果音の出力制御のための機能ブロック図である。
【図１０】（Ａ）は主制御部におけるメインルーチンを示す制御フローチャート、（Ｂ）は強制停止操作時割込ルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図１１】強制停止制御を含む、図柄変動パターン演出制御ルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図１２】主制御部における連続予告抽選制御ルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図１３】演出制御部における連続予告判別制御ルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図１４】演出制御部における変動パターンコマンド設定制御ルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図１５】強制停止時予告音制御ルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図１６】可動物の動作が付加された図柄変動パターン演出時のタイムチャートであり、操作部の操作無しの場合を示す。
【図１７】可動物の動作が付加された図柄変動パターン演出時のタイムチャートであり、操作部の操作有りの場合を示す。
【図１８】図１０のメインルーチンにおけるステップ４２４でのコマンド送信制御ルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図１９】図１８の送信処理サブルーチンを示すフローチャートである。
【図２０】主制御部に記憶されたコマンド送信を待機させるためのコマンド送信テーブルを示す模式図である。
【符号の説明】
１０ パチンコ機
６４ スピーカ
３２ 遊技盤
４３ 表示部
４３Ａ 特別図柄表示部
４４ 大入賞口
４６ 始動口
６０ 停止操作ユニット（操作手段）
６２ 可動部
６４ 操作部（操作手段）
６６ アーム
６６Ａ 装飾部材
６８ 駆動部
７２ 発光素子
７８ 光電センサ
７８Ａ 投光部
７８Ｂ 受光部
１５０ 主制御部（優先送信制御手段）
１５２ 演出制御部（副制御部）
１５４ 払出制御部（副制御部）
１５６ 図柄・音声制御部
（演出制御部における変動パターン強制停止制御）
２５０ 命令信号出力部（送信手段）
２５２ 命令信号解析部
２５４ 変動パターン読出部
２５６ 変動パターンメモリ
２５８ 読出変動パターンメモリ
２６０ 強制停止用最終停止図柄データメモリ（強制報知制御手段）
２６２ 強制停止時画像変換部
２６４ 出力データ切替部（強制報知制御手段）
２６６ 変動パターンデータ出力部
２６８ 強制停止指示部（強制報知制御手段）
２７０ スーパーリーチ認識部
（スーパーリーチ報知制御）
２７２ 発光素子点灯制御データ出力部
２７４ 発光素子ドライバ
２７６ メッセージ出力部
（演出制御部における期待値に基づく可動部の動作制御）
２８０ 命令信号解析部
２８２ 期待値判別部
２８４ 動作パターン読出部
２８６ 可動部動作パターンメモリ
２８８ 動作パターンデータ出力部
２９０ 実行指示部
２９２ ドライバ
（演出制御部における効果音予告制御）
２９４ 命令信号解析部
２９６ 予告抽選部
２９８ 音声予告実行部
３００ 強制停止操作確認部[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a gaming machine that notifies the result of the lottery / outside lottery by a symbol variation pattern effect and a stop symbol after the effect.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, in gaming machines, particularly pachinko machines, a lottery is made by detecting a pachinko ball that has won a start winning opening (special symbol start winning opening). A pachinko machine that has been opened a predetermined number of times (one opening and closing is one round and generally continues for 10 to 16 rounds) and has a function (big hit processing) that increases the winning rate of the game ball and makes it advantageous to the player There is.
[0003]
In this type of pachinko machine, a display unit (usually a liquid crystal display screen) is installed at the center of the gauge board of the pachinko machine as an effect for notifying the player of the result of the lottery. This display unit is configured with a plurality of columns (for example, three columns) of symbol variation pattern screens (there is also a background screen), and notifies the presence / absence of the symbol arrangement when stopped after the varying symbol variation pattern presentation. It is like that. By seeing the symbol variation screen, the player is amazed whether it is a hit or miss, so that the player can have a sense of expectation.
[0004]
By the way, the symbol variation pattern has a sophisticated design year by year, and its production time tends to be long. In other words, this symbol variation pattern originally informs the player of the result of the lottery / outside lottery, but recently, the design has been devised so that the symbol variation pattern itself can be enjoyed independently.
[0005]
Under such a tendency, it is good for the player to enjoy the symbol variation pattern itself, but it is bothersome and uncomfortable for the player who has advanced the game quickly.
[0006]
On the other hand, in consideration of such a player, for example, as a bonus after a big hit, a symbol variation pattern effect is executed in a time reduction (short time) mode. As a result, the game progresses quickly, and as a result, the number of lotteries per unit time increases, and a value equivalent to the probability variation can be given.
[0007]
However, the time-saving mode is often used only for bonuses or the like, and thus the symbol variation pattern has not been shortened by the player's will.
[0008]
For this reason, Patent Document 1 proposes a gaming machine provided with a shortening operation unit that can interrupt the symbol variation pattern effect halfway at the player's will and notify the lottery result at an early stage.
[0009]
According to this Patent Document 1, by operating the shortening operation unit at the player's will, the lottery result is displayed at an early stage, and the progress of the game can be accelerated.
[0010]
By the way, in the above gaming machine, a control directly related to the progress of the game, such as a lottery / outside lottery based on winning at the start winning opening, is provided as a main control unit, and the symbol variation pattern effect is executed or the symbol variation is performed. An effect control for outputting a sound effect in accordance with the pattern effect is provided as an effect control unit independently of the main control unit.
[0011]
For this reason, when the game executed by the main control unit proceeds, a command is transmitted to the effect control unit, and the effect control unit operates based on this command.
[0012]
In addition, as for the control relating to the prize ball payout, a payout control section that operates in response to a command from the main control section is provided independently as in the effect control section.
[0013]
Here, from the main control board, the symbol related command including the symbol variation pattern production (special symbol, normal symbol, etc.), the winning at the starting point during the symbol variation pattern production are memorized, and the right of the winning / external lottery is given. Many commands such as a memory related command to be stored and a prize ball payout related command for determining the number of winning ball payouts are transmitted to the effect control unit and the payout control unit.
[0014]
The main control unit operates according to a predetermined program (routine), and transmits a command by providing a command transmission step in the program (see Patent Document 2).
[0015]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-159589 [Patent Document 2]
JP 2000-325591 A
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In the case of command transmission as in Patent Document 2, since the command is transmitted in a unit corresponding to one cycle of the program (for example, 0.004 sec), the transmission amount is naturally limited.
[0017]
For this reason, a command that cannot be transmitted in one transmission unit waits until the next routine and transmits the remaining commands.
[0018]
In this case, when the shortening operation is performed, the final stop symbol must be notified immediately after that. Therefore, all the symbol related commands must be transmitted before the shortening operation.
[0019]
However, in conventional command transmission such as Patent Document 2 and the like, there is no concept of shortening operation. Therefore, when the effective time of shortening operation as in Patent Document 1 is immediately after the start of symbol variation pattern production, a command related to the final stop symbol is displayed. There is a possibility that the program will not run and the program may run out of control due to internal control. For this reason, the problem that the effective time of shortening operation had to be shifted (must be delayed) has arisen.
[0020]
In consideration of the above fact, the present invention sets the symbol-related command to the highest priority when the number of commands to be transmitted exceeds the limited command number , and transmits from the symbol-related command with the highest priority. By controlling so as to be able to complete the transmission of the symbol related command at the first transmission interval, the occurrence of a time lag between the operation of the operating means and the notification of the final stop symbol is avoided. For the purpose.
Also, for example, if four commands can be transmitted in one transmission, if three commands are transmitted on a regular basis, one command can be interrupted. It is intended to be used as
[0021]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention has a winning / external lottery function that is executed when a game ball is won at the start opening, and manages a progress state of the entire game, and a symbol for notifying the winning / external lottery result. Sub-control for managing a plurality of functions including a display function, a display function for displaying the number of winnings at the starting opening during the symbol display effect, and a function for managing the number of game balls to be paid out for winning at the winning opening including the starting opening And a game machine for notifying the result of the lottery / outside lottery by a symbol variation pattern effect and a stop symbol after the effect, the operation means for forcibly stopping the symbol variation pattern effect, when said operating means during symbol variation pattern effect has been operated, the cancel symbol variation pattern effect immediately, and forcible notification control means for notifying the final stop symbols are stored are divided for each area set in advance A command is kept waiting, and a transmission priority is determined for each area, and at least a symbol-related command, a memory-related command, a prize ball from the main control unit to the sub-control unit at a fixed transmission interval and the predetermined priority. In a packet communication with a limited number of commands to be transmitted and a transmission means for transmitting a payout-related command, it is assumed that the transmission means selects and transmits a limited number of commands in order from priority 1. In order to insert a regular command, the command content of priority level 1 is left blank, and when the number of commands exceeds the limit, among the symbol related commands among the symbol related commands, the packet communication Priority transmission control means for transmitting each command number in the command limit number unit.
In addition, the present invention has a winning / external lottery function that is executed when a game ball wins at the start opening, and notifies the result of the winning / external lottery, which controls the progress of the entire game. A sub-control unit that manages a plurality of functions including a symbol display function for displaying and a display function for displaying the number of winnings at the starting point during the symbol display effect. In addition, the gaming machine is notified by a stop symbol after the production, and at least a symbol variation start command and a current / outside lottery result are sent from the main control unit to the sub-control unit at regular intervals when the control program is reset. The command designating command is transmitted, and the transmission means in which the number of commands that can be transmitted before the control program is reset is limited, and is divided for each area preset in the main control unit. While waiting for a stored command, and when there is an irregular command that requires urgent transmission, the command can be set as the command content at priority level 1. A command transmission table having an area in which the command content of priority 1 for inserting an irregular command when there is no irregular command is set as a blank, and a packet in which the number of commands to be transmitted is limited In communication, on the assumption that a limited number of commands are selected and transmitted in order from priority 1 by the transmission means, the number of commands to be transmitted waiting in the command transmission table exceeds the limited number of commands. Even in this case, the symbol variation start command is preferentially transmitted in the first packet communication. Priority transmission control means that is fixedly set and controlled as described above, and a command in which command contents are registered in order from priority order 1 when the priority transmission control means selects a command from a higher priority to a limited number. A command for one packet while the control program is reset, and whether the command selected by the transmission command selection means reaches the limit number. The control program is repeatedly executed until transmission processing is executed until it is determined that there is no command data.
[0022]
According to the present invention , when the operation unit is operated, in order to immediately stop the drawing variation pattern effect and notify the final stop symbol, the symbol related command must be transmitted from the main control unit to the sub control unit. I must.
[0023]
However, the number of transmission command to the sub-control unit from the main control unit, if that can not be transmitted in a single transmission interval, Narazu if to wait until the next transmission interval, command symbol related commands to the standby If this is the case, the notification of the final stop symbol will be delayed, and a time lag will occur substantially between the operation of the operating means and the notification of the final stop symbol.
[0024]
Therefore, the transmission means transmits the symbol related command at a constant transmission interval.
[0025]
The fixed transmission interval means every time the control program routine is processed or every time this control program is periodically reset by a timer or the like, and the symbol related command is transmitted substantially at the first transmission time. Therefore, the symbol-related command can be transmitted without delay, and the occurrence of a time lag between the operation of the operation means and the notification of the final stop symbol can be avoided.
[0026]
More specifically, the symbol related command refers to a symbol variation start command and a special symbol command for designating a special symbol indicating the current / outside lottery result.
[0028]
If a manipulation of the operation unit, immediately stop the effect drawing variation pattern, to inform the final stop symbol, the symbol associated command must be sent from the main controller to the sub-control unit.
[0029]
However, the number of transmission command to the sub-control unit from the main control unit, if that can not be transmitted in a single transmission interval, Narazu if to wait until the next transmission interval, command symbol related commands to the standby If this is the case, the notification of the final stop symbol will be delayed, and a time lag will occur substantially between the operation of the operating means and the notification of the final stop symbol.
[0030]
Therefore, the priority transmission control means sets the symbol-related command to the highest priority when the number of commands to be transmitted exceeds the limited command number, and transmits the symbol-related command with the highest priority order. To control. As a result, the symbol-related command can be completely transmitted at the first transmission interval, so that a time lag between the operation of the operation means and the notification of the final stop symbol can be avoided.
Further, in order to notify the final stop symbol, this symbol-related command must be transmitted from the main control unit to the sub-control unit.
However, when the number of transmission commands from the main control unit to the sub-control unit cannot be transmitted in one transmission interval, it is necessary to wait until the next transmission interval. If so, the notification of the final stop symbol will be delayed.
Therefore, the priority transmission control means sets the symbol-related command to the highest priority when the number of commands to be transmitted exceeds the limited command number, and transmits the symbol-related command with the highest priority order. To control. As a result, the symbol-related command can be completely transmitted at the first transmission interval.
There is a limit to the number of commands that can be transmitted at one time , and the number of commands that are constantly transmitted is reduced by at least one. For example, as described in paragraph number 0135, which will be described later, when four commands can be transmitted in one transmission, if three commands are transmitted on a regular basis, one command can be obtained. It can be interrupted and can be used as an emergency space.
[0031]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows a pachinko machine 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 12, and one side portion (left side portion in FIG. 1) of a frame-shaped inner frame 14 having a window portion is attached to the front surface of the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable.
[0032]
The inner frame 14 is provided with a plurality of indicator lamps 61 and speakers 63. In addition, a window portion is formed at the center of the inner frame 14, and a glass frame in which a pair of glasses 16 (double structure) that are parallel to each other at a predetermined interval in the depth direction of the paper is mounted on the window portion. 20 is provided. A locking device (cylinder) 22 is provided on the right side of FIG.
[0033]
An integrated dish 26 having a ball dish part 24 is disposed below the glass frame 20. The ball tray portion 24 of the integrated dish is provided with a communication port 23 that communicates with a ball storage tank (not shown) and allows the pachinko balls in the ball storage tank to flow out to the ball tray portion 24.
[0034]
The one side part (left side part of FIG. 1) of the integrated dish 26 is attached to the inner frame 14 so that it can be opened and closed. An ashtray 28 is disposed at the lower left side on the front surface of the integrated dish 26, and a firing handle 30 is provided at the lower right side for adjusting the flight distance of the hit ball launched from the launching device 164 (see FIG. 3).
[0035]
In addition, a game board 32 that can be exchanged by being placed on the game board mounting table is installed in the window part of the inner frame 14 in correspondence with the window part.
[0036]
As shown in FIG. 2A, the game board 32 has a substantially circular game area 40 surrounded by an outer band 36 and an inner band 38.
[0037]
In the game area 40, in addition to the nail 34 and the windmill 35, a center character 42, a display unit 43 provided in the center character 42, a character such as a big prize opening (variable prize winning device) 44, a start opening 46 Game parts such as a passing device 48 and a winning device 49 are attached, and an out port 54 is arranged at the lowest position. In addition, a plurality of electrical decoration members 56 are provided at the periphery of the game area 40, and for example, lighting / extinguishing control is performed in synchronization with winning etc., and an effect by light is executed.
[0038]
In the game area 40 of the game board 32, a stop operation unit 60 is disposed along the inner peripheral surface of the inner band 38 disposed on the left side.
[0039]
The stop operation unit 60 includes a movable part 62 and an operation part 64.
[0040]
The movable portion 62 has a magic hand structure, and includes a plurality of arm parts formed so as to be relatively rotatable with each other at crossing positions substantially intersecting in an X shape. Each arm part rotates at both ends. A bellows-like arm 66 is configured to be connected.
[0041]
Here, the length of the arm 66 varies depending on the crossing angle of each arm part. In addition, by changing the crossing angle of any arm part, this change is transmitted to the other arm parts and operates so that the crossing angle is always the same.
[0042]
A driving unit (motor) 68 shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B is provided at the upper end of the arm 66 so that the crossing angle of the arm parts located at the upper end can be changed. As a result, the arm 66 can be expanded and contracted by the driving force of the driving unit 68.
[0043]
A decorative member 66 </ b> A having a hand shape with an index finger directed to the operation unit 64 is attached to the lower end of the arm 60.
[0044]
Here, in the drive unit 68, the arm 66 is normally in a retracted state, and an operation of repeatedly expanding and contracting for a predetermined time is performed at a predetermined trigger. This operation is used as a message for prompting the operation of the operation unit 64 by the index finger of the decorative member 66A.
[0045]
The operation portion 64 is provided with a circular sensor mounting portion 70, and a plurality of light emitting elements (LEDs, etc.) 72 are arranged around the operation portion 64 in a ring shape.
[0046]
As shown in FIG. 2 (B), the sensor mounting portion 70 is provided with a vertically long through hole 74, and a translucent synthetic resin plate 76 having low transmittance is fitted therein. A reflective photoelectric sensor 78 is disposed on the back side of the synthetic resin plate 76.
[0047]
The photoelectric sensor 78 is provided with a light projecting unit 78A and a light receiving unit 78B in the vertical direction, and the light irradiated from the light projecting unit is reflected at a predetermined distance so that the light receiving unit can receive the light.
[0048]
Here, the predetermined distance is set to the outermost surface of the glass 16 provided in front of the game board 32 (a surface directly facing the player). That is, normally, the light from the light projecting unit passes through the glass 16 (see FIG. 1) and travels straight as it is, so there is no light reception by the light receiving unit 78B. However, when the player holds his / her hand over the outermost surface of the glass 16 facing the photoelectric sensor 78 (synthetic resin plate 74), the light from the light projecting portion 78A is reflected by the player's hand to the light receiving portion 78B. It is the composition which leads to.
[0049]
The operation unit 64 is applied when the effect is ended by the player's intervention after the design variation pattern effect described later is started (details will be described later). Further, the light emitting element 72 is controlled to light up or blink during a period in which the operation of the operation unit 64 is effective.
[0050]
FIG. 3 shows an outline of a control system for controlling the pachinko machine 10. The control system is configured around the main control unit 150. The main control unit 150 stores a basic program relating to games, and the operation of each unit is controlled based on a command signal from the main control unit 150.
[0051]
The main control unit 150 includes a start winning sensor 168 provided at the start port 46, a passing sensor 171 that detects a pachinko ball that has passed through the passing device 48, a winning sensor 172 that detects a pachinko ball winning in the winning device 49, and A big prize opening sensor 173 that detects a pachinko ball that won the big prize opening 44 is connected. The special winning opening 44 is provided with a V zone for continuing the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening, and a V zone sensor 177 is also provided in this V zone and is connected to the main control unit 150. ing.
[0052]
The main control unit 150 is connected to the photoelectric sensor 78 of the operation unit 64 provided in the stop operation unit 60, and receives a signal indicating the light reception state at the light receiving unit 78B.
[0053]
Furthermore, a solenoid 174 for opening and closing an electric tulip 47 (see FIG. 2) provided at the start port 46 and a solenoid 175 for opening and closing the special winning opening 44 are connected to the main control unit 150.
[0054]
The main controller 150 outputs information indicating the progress of the game to the hall computer via the board external terminal 200.
[0055]
On the other hand, an effect control unit 152 and a payout control unit 154 are connected to the main control unit 150.
[0056]
The effect control unit 152 is connected to the speaker 63 and the display unit (LCD) 43 of the center accessory 42 via the symbol / sound control unit 156. In addition, the effect control unit 152 turns on / off the plurality of indicator lamps 61 attached to the glass frame 20 of the pachinko machine 10, turns on / off the electrical component 56 on the game board, and controls the stop operation unit 60. It controls lighting / extinguishing of the light emitting elements 72 arranged around the operation unit 64. The electrical decoration component 56 also includes four holding lamps 202 provided on the center accessory 42.
[0057]
The hold lamp may be controlled to notify the hold state on the display unit 43. Also, the number is not limited to four.
[0058]
Further, in the effect control unit 152, a drive unit (effect motor) 68 that extends and contracts the arm 66 in the movable portion 62 of the stop operation unit 60 is connected. The drive unit 68 controls the expansion / contraction state of the arm 66 by grasping the origin position. The drive unit 68 is provided with an origin position sensor 204 for detecting the origin position, and the detection signal is input to the effect control unit 152.
[0059]
Next, a payout device 206 for paying out pachinko balls is connected to the payout control unit 154 connected to the main control unit 150.
[0060]
In addition, a launch control unit 158 is connected to the payout control unit 154, and the launch control unit 158 controls the launch device 164 to launch a pachinko ball according to the operation of the handle 30 by the player.
[0061]
Furthermore, the payout control unit 154 sends payout information to the hall computer installed in the hall via the frame external terminal 208.
[0062]
The main control unit 150 performs a lottery drawing of special symbols and normal symbols, selects the display content (symbol variation pattern) on the display unit 43 based on the lottery result, and displays the symbol / pattern via the effect control unit 152. A command signal is output to the voice control unit 156. That is, the presentation control unit 152 stores data of different display contents (symbol variation patterns) based on a plurality of types of command signals in advance, and the data is selected based on the command signals and activated. Yes. Note that the design / sound control unit 156 may perform the control.
[0063]
As shown in FIG. 5, in the present embodiment, the display unit 43 is a strip that is divided into five vertical columns, and a plurality of symbols (production symbols) set in appearance are sequentially displayed. (Scroll). After this scrolling, each band stops at a predetermined symbol, and the final stop symbol when the scrolling of all the strips stops becomes a symbol array that displays the result of the lottery / outside lottery.
[0064]
A special symbol display unit 43A for two frames is provided at the upper left of the display unit 43, and the combination of the special symbols of the two frames displays the actual winning / exit lottery result. The final stop symbol by the effect symbol corresponds to the winning / external lottery indicated by the special symbol.
[0065]
That is, the special symbol needs to maintain a simple expression of stopping after scrolling. Instead of this, the effect of the effect can be enhanced by interweaving various reach patterns or the like with the effect symbol. Accordingly, various times are set for about 30 seconds to 2 minutes based on the reach notice, the hit reliability, etc., from the start of the variation pattern production by the production design to the display of the final stop design. ing.
[0066]
(Change pattern forced stop control in effect control unit 152)
Here, when a symbol variation pattern effect is executed in the symbol / sound control unit 156 by a command signal (command) from the effect control unit 152, the player holds his hand so as to face the operation unit 64. (Expression of intention to stop by the player), the above-mentioned symbol variation pattern effect is immediately stopped and the control for displaying the final stop symbol is executed.
[0067]
That is, by holding the hand, the light from the light emitting portion 78A of the photoelectric sensor 78 is reflected to the light receiving portion 78B, and the signal is inverted (off → on). This signal is sent to the main control unit 150, the effect control unit 152, and the symbol / voice control unit 156, and the symbol variation pattern effect is canceled due to the player's intention to stop.
[0068]
As described above, in the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the player's will during the period from the start to the end of the design variation pattern production (details will be described later) regardless of the various time variation patterns of the production design described above. Therefore, it has a forced stop function that immediately displays the final stop symbol.
[0069]
FIG. 6 shows a control block diagram for realizing the forced stop function for the effect symbol. In this block diagram, each block does not physically represent a device, but is divided into blocks according to function. A plurality of blocks may be configured by one device, or a plurality of function blocks may be represented by a single block. A single device may be used to perform processing in software.
[0070]
The stop instruction from the photoelectric sensor 78 is sent from the command signal output unit 250 of the main control unit 150 to the command signal analysis unit 252 of the effect control unit 152 as a stop instruction signal.
[0071]
The command signal analysis unit 252 receives a signal for designating a symbol variation pattern, a signal for prompting the start and end of the variation pattern, and the like from the command signal output unit 250 of the main control unit 150. Yes.
[0072]
The command signal analysis unit 252 is connected to the variation pattern reading unit 254, reads the corresponding variation pattern from the variation pattern memory 256 based on the signal designating the variation pattern, and temporarily stores it in the read variation pattern memory 258. . Further, the forced stop final stop symbol data memory 260 is connected to the variation pattern reading unit 254. In the final stop symbol data memory 260 for forced stop, a final lottery result is immediately notified when the read symbol variation pattern data is instructed by the player to stop the symbol variation pattern effect. Only stop symbol data is extracted and temporarily stored.
[0073]
The read variation pattern memory 258 is connected to the output data switching unit 264 directly through the forced stop image conversion unit 262 and the forced stop final stop symbol data memory.
[0074]
Here, in the normal symbol variation pattern effect, variation pattern data stored in the read variation pattern memory 258 is sent to the variation pattern data output unit 266.
[0075]
In the variation pattern data output unit 266, the variation pattern data is sequentially sent to the symbol / voice control unit 156, and display control on the display unit 43 is executed.
[0076]
On the other hand, when the photoelectric sensor 78 is turned on (the player holds his / her hand over the stop operation unit 64) during the design variation pattern production, the command signal analysis unit 252 receives a signal for instructing the forced stop. It is sent to the stop instruction unit 268.
[0077]
The forced stop instructing unit 268 is connected to a super reach recognition unit 270 that recognizes whether or not the variation pattern read by the variation pattern reading unit 254 is super reach, and receives a signal indicating whether or not the read variation pattern is super reach. It has come to be.
[0078]
Super reach refers to a fluctuating state in which a symbol that has reached the reach state before the final result is displayed is expected to be hit or missed by various effects. Depending on the player, this super reach Many people enjoy this as a production.
[0079]
The forced stop instruction unit 268 is connected to the forced stop image conversion unit 262 and the output data switching unit 264, and sends a forced stop signal to each.
[0080]
In the forced stop image conversion unit 262, when it is not super reach, the color tone of the read variation pattern sent from the read variation pattern memory 258 to the output data switching unit 264 is converted. In the present embodiment, the fluctuation pattern data image at the time when the forced stop is applied is a black-and-white (shading expression only) image, the black-and-white image data (still image data) is continuously output, and the subsequent fluctuation pattern data Stop sending.
[0081]
In addition, in the case of super reach, preset moving image (for example, wavy image representing fast-forward) data is inserted.
[0082]
On the other hand, the output data switching unit 264 sends the monochrome image data or moving image data to the fluctuation pattern data output unit 266 for a predetermined time (about 0.5 seconds), and then stores it in the final stop symbol data memory 260 for forced stop. The final stop symbol data is read out, switched from black-and-white image data or moving image data to this final stop symbol data, and sent to the fluctuation pattern output unit 266.
[0083]
Further, the command signal analysis unit 252 is connected to the light emitting element lighting control data output unit 272, and after receiving the first command signal necessary for the variation pattern production or the like (command signal from the main control unit 150). A light emission control signal is sent to the light emitting element driver 274 so that the light emitting element 72 emits light in a predetermined pattern (a pattern in which the light emission point moves clockwise) after 0.004 seconds from the start of sending.
[0084]
The light emission control end time of the light emitting element 72 is one second before the end of the symbol variation pattern effect, and indicates that the forced stop operation is effective during the light emission control.
[0085]
(Super reach notification control)
Here, among the multiple types of symbol variation patterns, super reach (reach that has a high degree of expectation for jackpots compared to normal reach (so-called normal reach)), which can be given a more expectation. Possible pattern variation patterns are provided. This super reach design variation pattern enhances the willingness to play by maximizing the production by the character that is the development theme of the pachinko machine 10, and does not perform the stop operation of the operation unit 64 of the stop operation unit 60. There are many players who only want to enjoy the production.
[0086]
Therefore, in the present embodiment, only when the selected (lottery) symbol variation pattern is the above-described super reach, a delay is given to the stop operation of the operation unit 64 (super reach notification control).
[0087]
The super reach notification control can be realized by adding a message output unit 276 surrounded by a chain line in FIG.
[0088]
That is, in the forced stop function block diagram shown in FIG. 6, when the symbol variation pattern data read by the variation pattern reading unit 254 is super reach, the super reach recognizer 270 recognizes that it is super reach, and the forced stop instruction unit A super reach signal is sent to the message output unit 276 based on the first forced stop instruction to 268. As a result, the message output unit 276 sends a message to the symbol / voice control unit 156. Thereby, for example, a character display such as “develops to super reach. If it is forcibly stopped, perform a stop operation again” is displayed on the display unit 43.
[0089]
In the case of super reach, in consideration of the fact that there are many players who want to increase the player's expectation and enjoy the performance in a probabilistic manner, the operation of the operation unit 64 is invalidated. May be controlled.
[0090]
(Operation control of movable unit 62 based on expected value in effect control unit 152)
The effect control unit 152 performs operation control of the movable unit 62 of the stop operation unit 60.
[0091]
In other words, the movable unit 62 is driven based on an expected value set in correlation with the winning / external lottery result, thereby giving the player a sense of expectation that the winning / external lottery is a hit. Yes, it is driven when the expected value exceeds a predetermined value.
[0092]
In the present embodiment, the effect control unit 152 drives the movable unit 62 with the first operation pattern (see FIG. 4C) when the expected value is 100%, that is, always hits, and the expected value is large (for example, , 80% to 99%), the control for driving the movable portion 62 with the second operation pattern (see FIG. 4D) is executed.
[0093]
In the first operation pattern, as shown in FIG. 4C, the hand-shaped decorative member 66A is extended from the origin position (position of FIG. 4A) to the position (position of FIG. 4B). This is an operation of extending and contracting in small increments at this extended position.
[0094]
As shown in FIG. 4D, the second operation pattern is an operation in which the decoration member 66A is expanded or contracted in small increments at the origin position and then extended to the extension position.
[0095]
FIG. 7 shows a functional block diagram for driving control of the movable unit 62 in the effect control unit 152.
[0096]
A command signal from the main control unit 150 is input to the command signal analysis unit 280. The command signal related to the drive control of the movable portion 62 includes expected value data, execution time data, and the like.
[0097]
The expected value data is sent to the expected value determination unit 282, and the expected value is determined. In the present embodiment, as described above, when the expected value is less than 80%, the movable part 62 is not driven, and the expected value (first operation pattern) is 100% and 80% to 99%. To the expected value (second operation pattern).
[0098]
The expected value determination unit 282 is connected to the expected value reading unit 284 and reads either the first operation pattern or the second operation pattern from the movable unit operation pattern memory 286 based on the selected operation pattern. Is output to the operation pattern data output unit 288.
[0099]
The operation pattern data output unit 288 is connected to an execution instruction unit 290 that operates in response to the execution time data, and the operation pattern data is sent to the driver 292 based on the execution instruction signal from the execution instruction unit 290. The drive unit 68 is driven based on the operation pattern data.
[0100]
(Continuous notice control)
In the present embodiment, if there is a winning at the start port 46 during the design variation pattern production, a maximum of four are put on hold (lottery rights are acquired), and the lottery results are sequentially notified. At this time, if the lottery results that are on hold are pre-read, and there is a win within the range of the hold according to the result, a continuous notice that predicts the win continuously from the effect before the symbol variation pattern effect that informs the hit It is carried out.
[0101]
That is, normally, the count value acquired from the random number counter is stored in the holding memory, and when the order of notification comes, it is read out, compared with the winning value, and the result of this / outside is notified. The advance notice is possible by performing the above first and recognizing the presence or absence of the hit in advance.
[0102]
In the present embodiment, as a target for expressing the continuous notice, continuous notice control by display on the display unit 43 that has been conventionally performed, and the movable part 62 of the stop operation unit 60 that is unique to the present embodiment described above. Two types, continuous notice control by operation, are prepared and used properly by lottery.
[0103]
In this case, in order to reduce the control burden on the main control unit 150, as shown in FIG. 8, the main control unit 150 performs lottery only on whether or not to execute the continuous notice, and determines the type of continuous notice control. Is performed by the production control unit 152.
[0104]
In the case where continuous announcement using the display unit 43 is performed in the production control unit 152, the production control unit 152 instructs the design / sound control unit 156 to perform production using the design variation pattern with continuous advance notice. A continuous notice is executed on the display unit 43.
[0105]
On the other hand, when the production control unit 152 performs the continuous notice using the movable unit 62, the production control unit 152 sets the operation pattern of the movable unit 62 and operates the movable unit 62 according to the expected value.
[0106]
(Correlation between moving time until return to origin position of moving part and symbol variation period)
The above-mentioned movable part 62 is controlled to operate based on the first operation pattern shown in FIG. 4C and the second operation pattern shown in FIG. 4D. In addition, when the operation unit 64 is operated, the symbol variation itself is immediately stopped, and after the last stop symbol is displayed, if there is a reserved memory, the next symbol variation is immediately started.
[0107]
In this case, if the setting is made to operate the movable part 62 at the start of the next symbol variation, the movable part 62 needs to return to the origin position.
[0108]
However, the stop operation is performed by the player's will, and it is not predictable in advance at which time of the first or second operation pattern.
[0109]
Therefore, the time t _HS from the forced stop operation effective end time to the start of the next symbol variation is set longer than the time t _MS required to move the maximum stroke in the first operation pattern and the second operation pattern. (See FIGS. 16 and 17).
[0110]
Here, in the standard specification, the time _tMS is 0.8 seconds, and the time _tHS set for another reason is 1.0 seconds, which _satisfies the condition.
[0111]
Another reason is that, for example, even when a mechanical symbol variation display device such as a reel or a sphere is applied by changing the specifications of the game board 32, it is not necessary to change the software (program), resulting in a mechanical response. It is a setting to respond. Further, the operation of the operation unit 64 after further elapses is set from the viewpoint that there is almost no meaning.
[0112]
However, since the time difference between the time t _MS and time t _HS under the standard specification of 0.2 seconds, the operation to some load when the movable portion 62 is returned to the home position is applied, it can not be cleared condition .
[0113]
Therefore, in the present embodiment, the blanking period _tBK is provided between the end of the symbol variation pattern effect and the start of the next symbol variation pattern effect.
[0114]
This blanking period _tBK is set to 0.6 seconds in the present embodiment. This setting of 0.6 seconds is set to such an extent that the player does not feel uncomfortable between the symbol changes, and as a whole, it should be within the range of 1.5 seconds to 2.0 seconds. The blanking period t _BK is 0.6 seconds as the optimum value.
[0115]
The time from the end of the symbol variation almost the same as the end of the forced stop operation effective period or the operation point of the operation unit 64 to the next symbol variation is t _HS + t _BK = 1.0 + 0.6 = 1.6 seconds. because this is twice the time t _MS according to the movement of the standard maximum stroke of the movable portion 62, even under load during return operation to the home position of the movable portion 62, ensures the following symbol variation It is possible to return before the start of pattern production.
[0116]
(Sound effect notice control in effect control unit 152)
Further, when the operation unit 64 of the stop operation unit 60 is operated (an operation in which the player holds his / her hand), a sound effect indicating that the operation is surely performed by the speaker 63 in accordance with the forced stop of the symbol variation pattern is output. It is supposed to be. Usually, it is not a range or volume that is particularly emphasized as this sound effect (normal stop sound).
[0117]
Here, when the fluctuation pattern is Super Reach, a sound effect different from the normal sound is made (Super Reach Stop Sound), the result of this lottery / outside lottery is a win, and the lottery is won As long as the sound effect when the operation unit 64 is operated, a sound effect (direct hit sound) that is higher than the normal volume and emphasized with respect to surrounding sounds such as a high frequency band is output. Yes.
[0118]
Note that the direct hit sound includes impact sound generated when an object collides with the player's hearing, burst sound generated when a balloon bursts, etc., a relatively high frequency band with impact, And say loud sound.
[0119]
FIG. 9 shows a functional block diagram for controlling the output of the notice sound effect.
[0120]
As shown in FIG. 9, the command signal indicating whether or not the super reach is received by the command signal analysis unit 294 or the winning / exit lottery result signal is sent to the notice lottery unit 296, and the winning / exit lottery is won. Sometimes a preliminary lottery is performed. As a result, the notice lottery unit 296 sends a signal indicating winning, a signal indicating failure, a no-lottery signal, or a super reach signal to the sound notice executing unit 298.
[0121]
Also, the forced stop operation signal received by the command signal analysis unit 294 is sent to the forced stop operation confirmation unit 300 to confirm that the stop operation has been performed, and a trigger signal that outputs a sound effect is executed as a sound advance notice. To the unit 298.
[0122]
The sound notification execution unit 298 outputs a sound effect for notifying the winning when a signal indicating the winning is input (here, a relatively loud sound and a bursting sound in a high frequency band). A control signal is output to
[0123]
In addition, when a signal indicating losing or a signal indicating no lottery is input, a normal stop sound (a sound effect with a relatively low volume and an intermediate frequency band that can confirm the operation) is output. A control signal is output by the control unit.
[0124]
When a super reach signal is input, a control signal is output to the symbol / sound controller 156 so as to output a super reach stop sound (a sound effect in a range slightly emphasized over the normal stop sound).
[0125]
As a result, the symbol / voice control unit 156 controls the speaker 63 for a short time from when the player holds his hand to the operation unit 64 until the symbol variation stops, so that the direct hit sound, the super reach stop sound, Or a normal stop sound can be output.
[0126]
(Command transmission control in main controller 150)
As described above, the main control unit 150 relates to the command (command signal) related to the special symbol variation pattern and the reserved memory based on the determination result of the present / outside lottery based on the winning at the start port 46. Various commands such as a command to perform, a command related to a normal symbol, a command related to a prize ball payout, and the like are sent to the effect control unit 152 and the payout control unit 154.
[0127]
Although the above command depends on the processing speed to be installed, in the case of the processing speed applied to the normal pachinko machine 10, it is assumed to be 0.004 seconds (a reset is made so as to be a fixed time), and one packet possible during this Minute commands are transmitted, and commands that cannot be transmitted are transmitted in the next packet (routine), but there is no particular restriction on the transmission order.
[0128]
However, in the case of the present embodiment, the final stop symbol needs to be recognized immediately after the forced stop control is started (actually, 0.004 seconds after the start).
[0129]
For this reason, in this embodiment, commands related to the symbol variation pattern are transmitted with priority over other commands. In other words, all commands related to the symbol variation pattern effect are sent to the effect control unit 152 after the first packet communication time (0.004 seconds) after the start of the variation pattern effect.
[0130]
This makes it possible for the player to make the stop operation effective immediately after the symbol variation pattern variation starts (as a human sense, a delay of 0.004 seconds can be ignored).
[0131]
Here, as shown in Table 1, the commands are stored in the memory of the main control unit 150 divided for each area.
[0132]
[Table 1]

[0133]
As shown in Table 2, the commands stored in the memory as shown in Table 1 have transmission priorities determined in units of areas, and four commands can be transmitted in one transmission.
[0134]
[Table 2]

[0135]
That is, in Table 2, when the priority order is determined, priority order 1 and priority order 5 are blank, and an emergency space is provided. That is, commands can be set irregularly in the space of priority 1 and can always be transmitted at the first transmission. Further, the priority level 5 is not necessarily the transmission at the first transmission, but a command to be transmitted relatively early is set.
[0136]
In other words, in the priority order 2 to 4, the above-mentioned “send all commands related to the symbol variation pattern effect to the effect control unit 152 after the first packet communication time (0.004 seconds)” in the present embodiment. In order to achieve the above, a change start command, a special symbol 1 command, and a special symbol 2 command, which are commands related to the symbol variation pattern effect, are set in a fixed manner.
[0137]
The operation of the present embodiment will be described below.
[0138]
First, the flow of the normal game will be described according to the main routine in the main control unit 150 shown in FIG.
[0139]
When the player holds the handle 30 and performs an operation for launching, a pachinko ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the handle operation amount (rotation amount).
[0140]
When the pachinko ball is launched, it is guided by the outer band 36 and the inner band 38 and abuts against the nail 34, the windmill 35, etc. of the board surface 32 and falls while moving unpredictably. Here, when the pachinko ball wins at the starting port 46 (affirmative determination at step 400), the routine proceeds to step 402, where it is determined whether or not the number M of holding is 4 (that is, whether or not the holding is full). If not, the process proceeds to step 404, a random number is acquired from the random number counter, and the process proceeds to step 406.
[0141]
If the determination in step 402 is affirmative, there is no lottery right, and the winning ball is paid out to the start port 46, and the process ends.
[0142]
In step 406, it is determined whether or not the current design variation pattern is being produced (during variation). If an affirmative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 408 to store the acquired random number in the holding memory M, and then in step 410. The holding number M is incremented (M ← M + 1), and this routine ends.
[0143]
If a negative determination is made in step 406, the process proceeds to step 412 to execute the lottery / outside lottery based on the acquired random number.
[0144]
Here, if a negative determination is made in step 400 and the process proceeds to step 414 and it is determined that there is a hold (positive determination), the first stored random number is read from the hold memory (step 416), and then the number of holds M is decremented (step 418), and the process proceeds to step 412. Also in this case, in step 412, the lottery / outside lottery is executed based on the read random number.
[0145]
When the current / outside lottery at step 412 is completed, the routine proceeds to step 420 where a variation pattern is set, and then the routine proceeds to step 422, where a lottery process for continuous notice is executed. This is done by pre-reading whether or not the random number is on hold and judging whether or not the reserved random number has a hit. Is to do.
[0146]
In the next step 424, data such as the winning / exit lottery result, the symbol variation pattern type, the presence / absence of continuous notice, and the number of prize balls paid in advance based on the winning are sent to the effect controller 152 or the payout controller 154 (Command transmission), and the process proceeds to step 426.
[0147]
In step 426, it is determined whether or not the winning / extracting lottery result is a win. If the lottery result is a win, a jackpot process of a preset number of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) is executed (step 428). . During the jackpot process, since the big prize opening 44 is almost open, it can be put in an advantageous state by the player. When the jackpot processing for a predetermined round is completed, the game returns to the normal game.
[0148]
Further, during execution of this main routine, the interrupt routine of FIG. 10B is executed.
[0149]
That is, the interruption routine is a routine for determining the operation state of the operation unit 64 of the stop operation unit 60, and there has been a forced stop operation. That is, light from the light projecting unit 78A enters the light receiving unit 78B of the photoelectric sensor 78. When the light is detected and the signal has been inverted (turned on), this interrupt routine is executed, and if it is determined in step 429 that the signal is changing, a forced stop signal (command indicating that a forced stop operation has been performed in step 430) ) Is transmitted to the effect control unit 152.
[0150]
(Fluctuation pattern forced stop control “effect” in the production control unit 152)
As described above, when the lottery / outside lottery is executed and a command related to the symbol variation pattern is transmitted to the effect control unit 152, the effect control unit 152 executes various effect controls. The most characteristic effect is a forced stop operation (variation pattern shortening operation) of a symbol variation pattern effect by player intervention.
[0151]
That is, when the player holds his / her hand over the operation unit 64 of the stop operation unit 60 between 0.004 seconds after the start of the pattern variation pattern effect and 1 second before the end, the light projection of the photoelectric sensor 78 is performed. The light from the part 78A is reflected by the hand and enters the light receiving part 78B. The light of the photoelectric sensor 78 is inverted by the incident light to the light receiving portion 78B, and it is recognized that there is an instruction to forcibly stop.
[0152]
Based on this forced stop instruction, the symbol variation pattern effect is interrupted, and a stop symbol indicating the lottery result is displayed immediately.
[0153]
The symbol variation pattern effect control routine including this forced stop control will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0154]
In step 450, it is determined whether or not an instruction signal (command) has been input. If an affirmative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 452 to analyze the instruction signal.
[0155]
In the next step 454, the contents of the analyzed instruction signal are discriminated. If the command is related to the symbol variation pattern, the process proceeds to step 456.
[0156]
In step 456, it is determined whether or not the command related to the symbol variation pattern is a variation start command. If an affirmative determination is made, the flow proceeds to step 458 and the symbol variation is based on the symbol variation pattern type added to the variation start command. The pattern is read, and then the process proceeds to step 460 to start fluctuation.
[0157]
On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step 456, the process proceeds to step 462, where it is determined whether it is a change end command. If an affirmative determination is made in step 462, the routine proceeds to step 464, where the fluctuation is stopped, the final stop symbol is displayed, and this routine ends.
[0158]
Here, FIG. 11 is a flowchart including the super reach notification control described later, but the routine surrounded by the chain line in FIG. 11 is an unnecessary routine when the super reach notification control is not performed.
[0159]
That is, when the super reach notification control is unnecessary, if the content analyzed in step 454 is a forced stop command, the process proceeds to step 472, and the changing screen is converted into a monochrome still image (during non-super reach), or The image is converted into a moving image (at the time of super reach), and the process proceeds to step 474.
[0160]
In other words, no matter how far the current fluctuation pattern has progressed, the player immediately stops when the forced stop command is issued and is converted into another screen (a monochrome still image or a moving image). By looking at the converted image, it can be visually recognized that the forced stop is working normally.
[0161]
In the next step 474, it is determined whether or not the display of the black-and-white still image or moving image has passed a predetermined time (here, about 0.5 seconds). If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 476. The final stop symbol is displayed and this routine ends.
[0162]
In this way, the operation effective period of the operation unit 64 is for all the variation patterns, and is from immediately after the start of symbol variation (after 0.004 seconds) to immediately before the end of symbol variation (before 1.0 seconds). The player who wants to speed up the game can operate the operation unit 64 because the symbol that is changing at any time is immediately stopped and the final stop symbol for notifying the result of the lottery / outside lottery is displayed. However, since the player who wants to enjoy the symbol variation pattern effect only needs to look at the display unit 43 without operating the operation unit 64, he can respond to the conflicting demands of the player.
[0163]
(Super reach notification control "effect")
Next, the flow of control when a routine for super reach notification control enclosed by a chain line in FIG. 11 is added will be described. That is, in step 454 of FIG. 11, if the analyzed instruction signal content is a forced stop instruction, the process proceeds to step 466.
[0164]
In step 466, it is determined whether or not the flag F is set (1). If a negative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 468 to determine whether or not the next variation pattern is super reach.
[0165]
If an affirmative determination is made in step 466 or a negative determination is made in step 468, the process proceeds to step 470 to reset the flag F (0), and then in step 472 the changing screen is changed to a black and white still image. Conversion (during non-super-reach) or conversion into a moving image (during super-reach), the process proceeds to step 474.
[0166]
In other words, no matter how far the current fluctuation pattern has progressed, the player immediately stops when the forced stop command is issued and is converted into another screen (a monochrome still image or a moving image). By looking at the converted image, it can be visually recognized that the forced stop is working normally.
[0167]
In the next step 474, it is determined whether or not the display of the black-and-white still image or moving image has passed a predetermined time (here, about 0.5 seconds). If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 476. The final stop symbol is displayed and this routine ends.
[0168]
On the other hand, in step 468, if the determination is affirmative, that is, if it is determined that the current symbol variation pattern is super reach, the process proceeds to step 478, while continuing the variation on the display unit 43. Display a message.
[0169]
The message content is a text display such as "Develops to super reach. If you want to forcibly stop, please stop again."
[0170]
In the next step 480, a message is displayed, and it is recognized that the current symbol variation pattern effect is developed to super reach, and the flag F is set, and this routine ends.
[0171]
By setting the flag F, the next time processing of this routine is executed, an affirmative determination is made in step 466, so that it is possible to give a grace to the player whether or not to see the super reach effect. . That is, in the first forced stop operation, in the case of super reach, a grace is given as to whether or not the design variation pattern can be omitted, and if you want to perform a forced stop regardless of super reach, By executing the operation of the operation unit 64, the instruction of the forced stop operation becomes valid.
[0172]
In the above description, when the operation of the first operation unit 64 is super reach, the message is displayed while continuing the symbol variation pattern effect as it is, but the symbol variation pattern effect is paused. You may make it display a message by a state. In this case, an operation possible time of the operation unit 64 is provided again (for example, about 2 to 3 seconds). If there is no re-operation during this time, the symbol variation pattern effect is resumed. What is necessary is just to display.
[0173]
Further, in the case of super reach, the operation of the operation unit 64 may be disabled from the beginning, and the super reach design variation pattern effect may be displayed as a whole.
[0174]
(Command transmission control “effect” in the main controller 150)
Here, the control flow including the main routine is processed in a cycle of 0.004 seconds, and in the command transmission in step 424 of the main routine shown in FIG. The command which can be transmitted to is transmitted, and the command which cannot be transmitted is transmitted in the next packet.
[0175]
However, in the case of the present embodiment, the final stop symbol needs to be recognized immediately after the forced stop control is started (actually, 0.004 seconds after the start).
[0176]
For this reason, in this embodiment, a command related to the symbol variation pattern is transmitted with priority over other commands (see Table 2). In other words, all commands related to the symbol variation pattern effect are sent to the effect control unit 152 after the first packet communication time (0.004 seconds) after the start of the variation pattern effect.
[0177]
FIG. 18 shows a command output processing routine. In the command output in this embodiment, transmission is divided into four times, and mode data (MODE) and event data (EVENT) are transmitted as a pair (in Table 2, a change start command, a special symbol 1 command) The special symbol 2 command is always used when the memory command does not have an urgent transmission command.
[0178]
In step 570, "0" is set in the transmission counter, and then in step 572, it is determined whether or not the transmission counter has become "4".
[0179]
If an affirmative determination is made in step 572, it is determined that transmission of all commands has been completed, and the process returns to the main routine.
[0180]
Further, when a negative determination is made at step 572, the process proceeds to step 574, and it is determined whether or not “FF” exists in the command table (see FIG. 20). This “FF” means that there is no command data.
[0181]
If the determination in step 574 is affirmative, there is no command itself, and the process returns to the main routine.
[0182]
If a negative determination is made in step 574, the process proceeds to step 576 to execute transmission processing.
[0183]
As shown in FIG. 19, in the transmission process, mode data (MODE) is transmitted in step 576A, and then event data (EVENT) is transmitted in step 576B.
[0184]
When the transmission process in step 576 is completed, the process proceeds to step 578, the transmission counter is incremented, and the process returns to step 572.
[0185]
In the command output process, data relating to the symbol variation pattern is preferentially transmitted at the time of the first command output in the main routine, so that it appears to the player immediately after the symbol variation pattern variation starts. It is possible to make the stop operation effective from a delay of .004 seconds).
[0186]
The reason why the effective end time of the forced stop operation is set to 1 second before the end of the fluctuation is to cope with a mechanical response when a mechanical symbol fluctuation display device such as the movable portion 62 is applied. Although not applied to the present embodiment, the time required for displaying a special symbol using a reel, a sphere, or the like is also required. Note that the forced stop operation after the end of the forced stop operation valid period (within 1 second after the end) is almost meaningless and does not significantly affect the progress of the game.
[0187]
(Operation control “action and effect” of the movable unit 62 based on the expected value in the effect control unit 152 and continuous notice control “action and effect”)
When winning at the starting port 46, the lottery is performed as long as the hold is not full. If there is a hold, there is a waiting period. That is, if there are four holds during the current symbol variation pattern production, the four pieces for the hold will be in a standby state until the notification of the previous lottery result is completed.
[0188]
In this case, the reserved random number value is pre-read, and when there is a win in the hold, the effect of continuously notifying the win is performed from the previous symbol variation pattern effect (maximum 4 times). This continuous notice can be applied at least once, that is, from the lottery result during the current symbol variation pattern production.
[0189]
In this case, in the present embodiment, there are two types of targets for continuous notice for the lottery result: the movable portion 62 of the forced stop operation unit 60 and the display on the display portion 43.
[0190]
In this case, conventionally, the main control unit 150 performs lottery to determine whether or not to perform the continuous notice, selects the notice object when performing, and performs all controls such as setting the operation for each notice object. Since it was executed, the main control unit 150 was heavily burdened. Therefore, in this embodiment, this control is distributed to the main control unit 150 and the effect control unit 152, thereby reducing the burden on the main control unit 150.
[0191]
In the following, according to the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 to 14, the distributed control operation routines are shown.
[0192]
FIG. 12 shows a continuous notice lottery control routine in the main control unit 150.
[0193]
In step 500, a continuous notice lottery is executed, and then in step 502, it is determined whether or not the continuous notice lottery is won. If an affirmative determination is made in step 502, that is, if it is determined that the continuous notice is won, the process proceeds to step 504, where a continuous notice command is transmitted to the effect control unit 152, and this routine ends. If the determination at step 502 is negative, this routine ends.
[0194]
Since the main control unit 150 performs only the lottery of the continuous notice, the control burden on the main control unit 150 can be reduced.
[0195]
FIG. 13 shows a continuous notice determination control routine in the effect control unit 152.
[0196]
In step 506, it is determined whether or not a continuous notice command has been sent from the main control unit 150. If an affirmative decision is made, the continuous notice execution flag is turned on in step 508, and this routine ends. If the determination in step 506 is negative, the process ends with the continuous notice execution flag set to off.
[0197]
Subsequently, FIG. 14 shows a variation pattern command setting control routine in the effect control unit 152.
[0198]
In step 510, it is determined whether or not the continuous notice execution flag is turned on. If an affirmative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 512, and it is determined whether or not the big notice is a continuous notice.
[0199]
If a negative determination is made in this step 512, it is determined that the release has been confirmed (expected value 80 to 99%), the process proceeds to step 514, and the advance notice lottery is executed, and the process proceeds to step 516.
[0200]
In step 516, it is determined whether the result of the lottery has been won for the movable part operation. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 518 to start the operation of the movable part 62, and the process proceeds to step 520. In step 520, a variation pattern designation command is transmitted to the symbol / speech control unit 156, and this routine ends.
[0201]
Further, if the negative determination in step 510, that is, if the continuous notice execution flag is not turned on, or if the negative determination in step 516, that is, if the moving part operation is not performed, the process proceeds to step 520 and the change pattern designation command is issued. After transmitting to the symbol / speech control unit 156, this routine ends.
[0202]
Next, when an affirmative determination is made at step 512, it is determined that the jackpot is confirmed (expected value 100%), the process proceeds to step 522, the winning hour notice operation lottery is executed, and the process proceeds to step 524.
[0203]
In step 524, it is determined whether or not the result of the lottery has been won for the movable part operation. If an affirmative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 518, the operation of the movable part 62 is started, and the process proceeds to step 520. In step 520, a variation pattern designation command is transmitted to the symbol / speech control unit 156, and this routine ends.
[0204]
In Step 524, if a negative determination is made, that is, if no moving part operation is performed, the process proceeds to Step 526, where it is determined whether or not the big hit continuous notice variation pattern is won, and if a negative determination is made. Shifts to step 520, transmits a variation pattern designation command to the symbol / speech control unit 156, and this routine ends.
[0205]
If the determination in step 526 is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 528 to transmit a big hit continuous notice change pattern designating command to the symbol / voice control unit 156, and this routine ends.
[0206]
As described above, with regard to the continuous notice, only the lottery for determining whether or not to make the continuous notice is performed by the main control unit 150, so that the control burden on the main control unit 150 is reduced and the control program is simplified. be able to.
[0207]
(Correlation between moving time until return to origin position of moving part and symbol variation period “effect”)
In the present embodiment, when a forced stop operation instruction is given by the operation unit 64 during the design variation pattern effect to which the operation of the movable unit 62 is added, the movable unit 62 is started by the start of the next design variation pattern effect. The position is returned to the origin position regardless of the position.
[0208]
That is, when the operation unit 64 is operated during the operation of the movable unit 62, the symbol variation itself is immediately stopped, and after the last stop symbol is displayed, if there is a reserved memory, the next symbol is immediately displayed. Move to fluctuation. When setting is made to operate the movable part 62 at the start of the next symbol variation, the movable part 62 needs to return to the origin position.
[0209]
Therefore, in the present embodiment, a blanking period t _BK is provided in addition to the time t _HS under display specifications between the end of the symbol variation pattern effect and the start of the next symbol variation pattern effect.
[0210]
As a result, the time from the end of the symbol change almost the same as the end of the forced stop operation effective period or the operation point of the operation unit 64 to the next symbol change is t _HS + t _BK = 1.0 + 0.6 = 1.6 seconds. next, which, because it is twice as long t _MS according to the movement of the standard maximum stroke of the movable portion 62, even under load during return operation to the home position of the movable portion 62, reliably follows It can be restored by the start of the design variation pattern production.
[0211]
16 and 17 show time charts at the time of the symbol variation pattern effect to which the operation of the movable portion 62 is added. The symbols shown in this time chart are for special symbols displayed on the special symbol display unit 43A of the display unit 43.
[0212]
FIG. 16 shows a case where there is no operation of the operation unit 64 during the design variation pattern production, and the operation of the operation unit 64 becomes effective after 0.004 seconds from the rise of the change time, and the fall of the change time. The operation effective period of the operation unit 64 ends one second before (when the second special symbol is stopped).
[0213]
The movable unit 62 starts to operate with either the first operation pattern or the second operation pattern almost simultaneously with the rise of the fluctuation period, and all the operation patterns end with the operation effective period of the operation unit 64. Is consistent with
[0214]
After that, it returns to the origin position over 0.8 seconds (see FIGS. 4C and 4D).
[0215]
Incidentally, the on period from the fall of the perturbation interval until the next rise of the perturbation interval, by providing the blanking period t _BK, 2 times the margin of the return operation to the time t _MS of the movable portion 62 comes out. For this reason, even if some load is applied during the return operation of the movable part 62, it can be sufficiently returned before the next rise of the fluctuation timing.
[0216]
FIG. 17 shows a return operation when the operation unit 62 is operated during the operation effective period of the operation unit 64, that is, when the movable unit 62 is in the middle of operation.
[0217]
When the operation unit 64 is operated, the symbol variation stops at time t _HS (1.0 second) according to the standard specification of the present embodiment.
[0218]
In addition, the movable unit 62 also returns to the original position with the operation of the operation unit 64 as a trigger. In FIG. 17, the maximum stroke is predicted.
[0219]
Even in this case, since the sum of the time t _HS and the blanking period t _BK is 1.6 seconds, even if any load is applied during the return operation of the movable portion 62, the next rise of the next fluctuation timing is sufficiently achieved. Can be restored in between.
[0220]
(Sound effect notice control in effect control unit 152 "effect")
Next, in the present embodiment, the operation of the operation unit 64 of the stop operation unit 60 is performed such that the player does not directly touch the operation determination element (here, the photoelectric sensor 78) but holds the hand. Is adopted.
[0221]
For this reason, it is clarified by sound effects whether or not the hand is held up.
[0222]
Usually, it is a normal stop sound that is not in the range or volume that is specially emphasized as this sound effect, but if the fluctuation pattern is super reach, a sound effect with a tone different from the normal sound is output, and (super Reach stop sound), winning / extracting lottery results are wins, and when the preliminary lottery is won, the sound volume is higher than the normal sound effects and emphasizes the surrounding sounds such as high frequency bands. The sound effect (direct hit sound) is output.
[0223]
Hereinafter, the forced stop warning sound control routine will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0224]
In step 550, a lottery for direct sound effect is executed, and then in step 552, it is determined whether or not the direct hit sound lottery is won.
[0225]
If a negative determination is made in step 552, the process proceeds to step 554, where it is determined whether or not it is super reach.
[0226]
That is, in step 552 and step 554, whether the direct hit sound in step 556 is set (positive determination in step 552), whether the normal stop sound in step 558 is set (negative determination in step 554), or super in step 560 The reach stop sound can be set (positive determination in step 554).
[0227]
When a sound effect is set in any one of steps 556, 558, and 560, the process proceeds to step 562, where it is determined again whether or not super reach is reached.
[0228]
If a negative determination is made in step 562, the routine proceeds to step 564 and the normal stop display effect is set. If an affirmative determination is made, the routine proceeds to step 566 and the super reach stop effect is set. finish.
[0229]
If there is a forced stop instruction operation by the operation unit 64 of the stop operation unit 60 by setting the sound effect, a normal sound effect or a direct hit sound is output when a black and white still image is normally displayed. Also, during super reach, a super reach sound effect or direct hit sound is output when a moving image is displayed.
[0230]
By listening to this direct hit sound, the player can recognize that the winning / outside lottery is winning not only visually but also through auditory senses, and temporarily keep an eye on the game board surface (display unit 4). Even hits can be recognized.
[0231]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, in the present invention, when the number of commands to be transmitted exceeds the limited number of commands, the symbol related command is set to the highest priority, and is transmitted from the symbol related command having the highest priority. By controlling in this way, the symbol-related command can complete the transmission at the first transmission interval, so that the occurrence of a time lag between the operation of the operation means and the notification of the final stop symbol is avoided. Can do.
Also, for example, if four commands can be transmitted in one transmission, if three commands are transmitted on a regular basis, one command can be interrupted. Can be used as
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine according to the present embodiment.
2A is a front view of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IIB-IIB in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a control system in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment.
4A is an enlarged front view showing the origin position of the movable part of the stop operation unit, FIG. 4B is an enlarged front view showing the extended state of the movable part, and FIG. 4C is a first view of the movable part. The time chart which shows an operation pattern, (D) is a time chart which shows the 2nd operation pattern of a movable part.
FIG. 5 is a symbol variation pattern effect screen by the display unit, where (A) shows a display state during variation, (B) a display state immediately after a forced stop, and (C) shows a final stop symbol display state.
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram for realizing the forcible stop function for effect symbols.
FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram for driving control of the movable part in the effect control part.
FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a state in which control related to continuous notice is distributed to a main control unit and an effect control unit.
FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram for output control of a notice sound effect.
10A is a control flowchart showing a main routine in the main control section, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing a forced stop operation interrupt routine.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a symbol variation pattern effect control routine including forced stop control.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a continuous notice lottery control routine in the main control unit.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a continuous notice determination control routine in an effect control unit.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command setting control routine in the effect control unit.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a forced stop warning sound control routine;
FIG. 16 is a time chart at the time of a symbol variation pattern effect to which an operation of a movable object is added, and shows a case where the operation unit is not operated;
FIG. 17 is a time chart at the time of a symbol variation pattern effect to which an operation of a movable object is added, and shows a case where there is an operation of the operation unit.
18 is a flowchart showing a command transmission control routine at step 424 in the main routine of FIG.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the transmission processing subroutine of FIG. 18;
FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing a command transmission table for waiting for command transmission stored in the main control unit;
[Explanation of symbols]
10 Pachinko machine 64 Speaker 32 Game board 43 Display part 43A Special symbol display part 44 Big prize opening 46 Start opening 60 Stop operation unit (operation means)
62 Movable part 64 Operation part (operation means)
66 Arm 66A Decoration member 68 Drive unit 72 Light emitting element 78 Photoelectric sensor 78A Light projecting unit 78B Light receiving unit 150 Main control unit (priority transmission control means)
152 Production control unit (sub-control unit)
154 Payout control unit (sub control unit)
156 Design / Voice Control Unit (Change Pattern Forced Stop Control in Production Control Unit)
250 Command signal output unit (transmission means)
252 Command signal analysis unit 254 Fluctuation pattern reading unit 256 Fluctuation pattern memory 258 Read fluctuation pattern memory 260 Forced stop final stop symbol data memory (forced notification control means)
262 Forced stop image conversion unit 264 Output data switching unit (forced notification control means)
266 Fluctuation pattern data output unit 268 Forced stop instruction unit (forced notification control means)
270 Super Reach Recognition Unit (Super Reach Notification Control)
272 Light Emitting Element Lighting Control Data Output Unit 274 Light Emitting Element Driver 276 Message Output Unit (Operation Control of Movable Part Based on Expected Value in Effect Control Unit)
280 Command signal analysis unit 282 Expected value determination unit 284 Operation pattern reading unit 286 Movable unit operation pattern memory 288 Operation pattern data output unit 290 Execution instruction unit 292 Driver (effect sound advance control in effect control unit)
294 Command signal analysis unit 296 Notice lottery part 298 Audio notice execution part 300 Forced stop operation confirmation part

Claims (2)

A main control unit that manages the progress of the entire game, and a symbol display function that notifies the result of the winning / external lottery A sub-control unit for managing a plurality of functions including a display function for displaying the number of winnings at the start opening during the display effect, and a function for managing the number of game balls to be paid out to the winning opening including the starting opening. A game machine for notifying the result of the lottery / outside lottery by a symbol variation pattern effect and a stop symbol after the effect, operating means for forcibly stopping the symbol variation pattern effect, and the symbol variation pattern effect when the operation means is operated during the abort symbol variation pattern effect immediately, and forcible notification control means for notifying the final stop symbols, stored are divided for each area set in advance command Together to wait, in the transmission priority determined by and fixed transmission interval and the determined priority in the area units, at least the symbol-related commands from the main controller to the sub-control unit, a memory-related commands, prize balls paid out relevant In a packet communication in which the number of commands to be transmitted and the number of commands to be transmitted are limited , an irregular command is assumed on the assumption that the transmission unit selects and transmits a limited number of commands in order from priority 1 command contents of priority 1 in order to insert a leave blank and when the number of the command exceeds the limit number, among the symbol related commands from a higher symbol related commands of those the priority ranking of the packet communication command A priority transmission control means for transmitting each command number in a limited number unit. A main control unit that manages the progress of the entire game, and a symbol display function that notifies the result of the winning / external lottery A sub-control unit that manages a plurality of functions including a display function for displaying the number of winnings at the start opening during the display effect,
A gaming machine that notifies the result of the lottery / outside lottery by a symbol variation pattern effect and a stop symbol after the effect,
At least a symbol variation start command and a symbol designating command indicating the current / outside lottery result are transmitted from the main control unit to the sub-control unit at regular intervals when the control program is reset, and until the control program is reset A transmission means in which the number of commands that can be transmitted during the period is limited;
In the case where there is an irregular command that urgently needs to be transmitted because the main control unit waits for a command that is divided and stored for each preset area and the transmission priority is determined in units of the area. the command can be set in the command contents of the priority 1, the command transmitting said when irregular command is not provided with a region set the command content of the priority 1 for inserting the irregular command as blank Table,
In the packet communication in which the number of commands to be transmitted is limited , the command transmission table should be transmitted on the assumption that the transmission unit selects and transmits a limited number of commands in order from priority 1 Even when the number of commands exceeds the limited number of commands, priority transmission control means for setting and controlling the symbol variation start command so that it is preferentially transmitted in the first packet communication, and
A transmission command selection means for selecting a command in which the command contents are registered in order from the priority order 1 when the priority transmission control means selects from the upper priority command to the limit number;
A command for one packet is transmitted while the control program is reset, and the control program is executed until the transmission unit determines that the command selected by the transmission command selection unit reaches a limit number or no command data is present. A game machine characterized by repeatedly executing a transmission process.

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