JP4771476B2 - Image generation method and apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for generating a three-dimensional CG image representing a state in which an object moves in a spiral shape.

  In recent years, image display using three-dimensional computer graphics (CG) technology has been performed in various situations. In recent years, various effects have been performed on image displays using the three-dimensional CG technology even in game machines such as pachinko machines.

  In 3D CG, a modeling process for creating a 3D object for each object, a scene layout process for placing a 3D object in a 3D virtual space, a rendering process for generating an image viewed from a predetermined viewpoint in a 3D virtual space, etc. After that, the image is displayed.

  In a game machine or the like, for example, a CG display of an object (stars, water, wind, or an object carried by water or wind) moving in a spiral, such as a spiral nebula, a vortex on the water surface, or a tornado think of.

  For example, in a method in which a single picture depicting a spiral nebula is simply rotated and displayed, the relative positional relationship between the stars is always fixed and moved together. The display will lack lack of force.

  On the other hand, in order to avoid the display in which the stars move together, it is also possible to display the state in which the stars move individually as a plurality of images like animation. However, many man-hours are required to generate such a plurality of images, and a large storage area is also required to store the plurality of images. In particular, in a gaming machine or the like, since the memory capacity to be mounted is not so large, it is difficult to adopt a method that requires a large storage area.

  Therefore, the present invention has an object of providing powerful display with a sense of depth and a sense of presence while suppressing a necessary memory capacity when displaying a state where an object moves spirally by CG. .

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the image generation method of the present invention generates a CG image of a state in which an object moves spirally using N (N ≧ 2) spiral part objects having substantially the same shape. A method of setting N rotation axes corresponding to each spiral part object perpendicular to the circle P at a position obtained by dividing the circumference of a predetermined circle P into approximately N equal parts in a three-dimensional virtual space; The step of arranging N spiral part objects so as to be substantially N times rotationally symmetric when viewed from the circle P in the three-dimensional virtual space, and the three-dimensional virtual part objects arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space Projecting onto a two-dimensional plane based on a predetermined viewpoint in a virtual space, and mapping corresponding texture data to each spiral part object projected onto the two-dimensional plane, and generating a CG image viewed from the viewpoint Do And rotating each swirl part object arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space around the corresponding rotation axis while synchronizing, and arranging again to perform projection and mapping on the two-dimensional plane, The projection area (hereinafter referred to as “part passage area”) onto the plane containing the circle P of the rotating body obtained when the spiral part object is rotated around the corresponding rotation axis is the part of the adjacent spiral part object. The radius of the circle P is set so as to overlap with the passing area.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the necessary memory capacity by using the three-dimensional object, and it seems that each spiral part object rotates while being wound around each other to form one spiral as a whole. A powerful CG image with a sense of reality can be generated.

  Preferably, the texture data is texture data corresponding to any of a spiral nebula, a water surface vortex, and a tornado.

  In addition, preferably, when the spiral part object is rotated around the corresponding rotation axis, the shape of each spiral part object is set to overlap with the adjacent spiral part object at least once during the rotation. It is characterized by.

  An image generation apparatus of the present invention is an apparatus that generates a CG image of an object moving in a spiral shape using N (N ≧ 2) spiral part objects having substantially the same shape, and each spiral part. Object data storage means for storing object polygon data and texture data, and corresponding to each spiral part object in a three-dimensional virtual space at a position obtained by dividing the circumference of a predetermined circle P into approximately N equal parts. The polygon data of each spiral part object is acquired with reference to the means for setting N rotation axes and the object data storage means, and is substantially N-fold rotationally symmetric as viewed from the circle P in the three-dimensional virtual space. Means for arranging N swirl part objects and N swirl part objects arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space in a predetermined view in the three-dimensional virtual space. Means for projecting onto a two-dimensional plane based on the above, means for mapping the corresponding texture data to N spiral part objects projected onto the two-dimensional plane, and generating a CG image viewed from the viewpoint; Means for rotating each swirl part object arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space around a corresponding rotation axis while synchronizing and re-arranging the swirl part objects for projection and mapping on the two-dimensional plane, The projection area onto the plane including the circle P of the rotating body (hereinafter referred to as “part passage area”) obtained when the is rotated about the corresponding rotation axis overlaps the part passage area of the adjacent spiral part object. As described above, the radius of the circle P is set.

  A gaming machine according to the present invention includes the image generating apparatus according to the present invention.

  The image generation method of the present invention can be implemented by a computer. A computer program therefor can be used for various purposes such as a CD-ROM, a magnetic disk, a semiconductor memory, and a communication network, for example, for business use or home use. It can be installed or loaded into a memory in an information processing apparatus such as a video game machine or a personal computer. In this case, these video game machines and personal computers function as game devices that simulate the game machine of the present invention.

  According to the present invention, when a state in which an object moves in a spiral shape is displayed by CG, it is possible to perform powerful display with a sense of depth and presence while suppressing a necessary storage area.

  Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the image generation technique of the present invention can be adopted in various gaming machines such as pachinko machines (including first-class pachinko machines and second-class pachinko machines), rotary gaming machines (slot machines), and the like. However, in the present embodiment, as an example, a so-called first type pachinko machine (hereinafter referred to as a pachinko machine) will be described as an example.

(Pachinko machine 100)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of an external configuration of the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, a pachinko machine (game machine) 100 includes a game board (gauge board) that constitutes a game board surface and a game machine frame that supports and fixes the game board.

  The game board includes a plurality of nails 101, windmills 102a and 102b, a normal symbol operating gate 103, a normal electric accessory 104, a center decorative part 105, a special symbol display device 106, an effect display device 107, a normal symbol display device 108, an outside A rail 110, an inner rail 109, and the like are provided as game parts. Further, the game board is provided with a general winning port 111, a starting winning port 112, a big winning port 113, and an out port 114.

  The inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 are for guiding the launched game balls to the game area 115.

  The nail 101 and the windmills 102a and 102b are provided at predetermined positions in the game area 115. For example, the movement of the game ball that enters the game area 115 and moves from top to bottom in FIG. Or the winning of the game ball to the general winning port 111, the start winning port 112, and the big winning port 113 and the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103 are adjusted.

  The special symbol display device 106 is provided on the side of the inner rail 109, and includes, for example, a 7-segment LED 116 that displays the special symbol and four LEDs 117 that display the number of winnings to the starting winning port 112 of the game ball. It is prepared for. Here, the special symbol is a symbol for indicating whether or not to generate a “hit” in accordance with the result of a lottery performed with the winning of the game ball at the start winning port 112 as a trigger.

  In this embodiment, the 7-segment LED 116 is caused to emit light based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112, and “3” and “7”, which are special symbols corresponding to “big hit”, and “losing”. After the corresponding special symbol “-” is displayed in a variable manner, one of these three types of special symbols is stopped and displayed based on the result of the lottery.

  The four LEDs 117 for displaying the number of lottery results held based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112 sequentially emit light each time the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, and also display a special symbol change display. Turns off sequentially when starting. That is, the number of light emission of the four LEDs 117 corresponding to the upper limit value of the number of holdings is notified to the player of the current number of holdings of the lottery result based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112. As described above, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of holds of the lottery result based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112 is set to four. Then, when the number of reserves is four and a game ball is won at the start winning opening 112, the number corresponding to winning at the start winning opening 112 without performing a lottery based on the winning of the game ball. Only to play the prize ball.

  The effect display device 107 is provided at a substantially central position of the game area 115 so as to be easily recognized by the player, and includes a liquid crystal display device for performing various displays.

  For example, the effect display device 107 performs a variable display of decorative symbols. The decorative symbol is a symbol for visually producing the result of the lottery, and is set in correspondence with, for example, numbers “0” to “9” and alphabets “A” to “F”.

  Also, for example, the effect display device 107 performs reach effect display.

  Reach production means that a plurality of decorative symbols are variably displayed during variable display of special symbols in order to increase the player's expectation for special games. This is a special effect that is executed when the decorative symbols that are variably displayed are stopped one by one in order, and the jackpot symbol is completed when the last decorative symbols are aligned.

  In addition, the effect display device 107 not only displays the decorative symbol variation display and reach representation display, but also provides the player with a background image during variation display, a transition to the reach state, and the expectation of “big hit”. The character image is also displayed. Further, the effect display device 107 may display the number of winnings of the game ball at the start winning opening 112 and notify the player of the current number of winnings at the starting winning opening 112.

  Below the effect display device 107, an ordinary electric accessory 104 is provided. The ordinary electric accessory 104 opens and closes to guide the game ball to the start winning opening 112.

  A big prize opening 113 is formed below the ordinary electric accessory 104. The big prize opening 113 becomes a “hit” and when the game shifts to a special game, the big prize opening door 120 falls and opens. In the present embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed in a special game. More specifically, during a unit game, when a game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) 121 formed in the big prize opening 113, it may shift to the next unit game. As much as possible, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed. In the present embodiment, the specific area 121 is formed in the special winning opening 113, but the specific area 121 is not necessarily formed. In this case, when shifting to the special game, it is guaranteed that 15 unit games will be executed.

  The center decorative component 105 is a molded product including a translucent part, and is provided around the effect display device 107. The center decoration part 105 plays a role of protecting the effect display device 107 or decorating the pachinko machine 100. Further, in the pachinko machine 100 shown in FIG. 1, the game ball that has entered the through portion 105 a formed at the upper part of the center decorative part 105 passes through the center decorative part 105 and is placed below the center decorative part 105. A flow path is formed so as to move to the formed stage 105b.

  The normal symbol operation gate 103 is provided between the normal electric accessory 104 and the inner rail 109. For example, a game ball can pass through the normal symbol operation gate 103 from top to bottom. It is configured.

  The normal symbol display device 108 is provided at a position facing the normal symbol operation gate 103 through the normal electric accessory 104. For example, the 7-segment LED 122 for displaying the normal symbol and the normal symbol operation gate 103 for the game ball are provided. And four LEDs 123 that display the number of passages to. Here, the normal symbol is a symbol for indicating whether or not the normal electric accessory 104 is to be released according to the result of a lottery performed with the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103 as a trigger.

  The normal symbol display device 108 causes the 7-segment LED 122 to emit light based on the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 and, for example, “7” and “−” as the normal symbols are alternately displayed in a variable manner. Either “7” or “−” is stopped and displayed. Then, when “7” is stopped and displayed, it is determined as “winning” and the ordinary electric accessory 104 is opened. On the other hand, when “−” is stopped and displayed, it is “lost”, and the ordinary electric accessory 104 is not opened.

  The four LEDs 123 that display the number of passes of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 sequentially emit light each time the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 103, and when the normal symbol variation display is started. Turns off sequentially. That is, the number of passages of the normal symbol operation gate 103 is notified to the player by the number of light emission of the four LEDs 123.

  The general winning opening 111 is provided between the normal symbol operating gate 103 and the inner rail 109. When a gaming ball wins the general winning opening 111, a predetermined number of gaming balls are paid out.

  The out port 114 is provided at the lowermost part of the game area 115 and collects game balls that have not won any of the start winning port 112, the general winning port 111, and the big winning port 113. The collected game balls are released to the outside of the pachinko machine 100.

  The gaming machine frame includes an outer frame 124, a front frame 125, a transparent plate 126, a door 127, and a ball tray unit 128.

  The outer frame 124 has an opening and is a frame for fixing the pachinko machine 100 to a position where it should be installed. The front frame 125 is a frame body aligned with the opening portion of the outer frame 124, and is attached to the outer frame 124 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The front frame 125 has a mechanism for launching a game ball, a mechanism for detachably storing a game board, a mechanism for guiding or collecting the game ball, and the like. Further, on the peripheral edge portion of the front frame 125, electrical decoration parts 130a to 130d such as game effect lamps that are turned on according to the state of the game are provided.

  The transparent plate 126 is for protecting the game board, and is, for example, a transparent glass plate. A player plays a game through the transparent plate 126 while seeing through the game area 115 of the game board.

  The door 127 is for supporting the transparent plate 126, and is attached to the front frame 125 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The ball tray unit 128 is provided below the front frame 125. The ball tray 128a stores a certain amount of game balls (rental balls and prize balls), a mechanism for storing game balls, and fires the game balls. A mechanism for sending out the game ball to the mechanism for the above, a ball removal mechanism for extracting the stored game ball into a ball exit storage box (so-called dollar box), a firing handle 131, an operation switch 132, and the like.

  In the pachinko machine 100 of this embodiment, a push button type is adopted as the ball removing mechanism. More specifically, when the player presses the bullet release button 128b, a part of the bottom surface of the ball tray 128a is opened, and the game ball stored in the ball tray 128a is released to the outside.

  The launch handle 131 is operated by the player when launching the game ball toward the game area 115. When the player rotates the launch handle 131, the game ball is guided toward the game area 115 by being guided by the inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 at a speed corresponding to the rotation angle.

  The operation switch 132 is operated by the player, and a game effect is executed by reflecting the operation content. In the present embodiment, the operation switch 132 includes a push button and a cross key (not shown).

  In addition, speakers 133 for reproducing and outputting sound effects are provided on both sides of the ball removal mechanism 128b.

(Outline of the game)
Here, an outline of the game in the pachinko machine 100 will be described.

  First, in the state where the rented game balls (rental balls) are placed on the ball tray 128a, when the player turns the launch handle 131 in the clockwise direction toward FIG. 1, the game balls are moved to the game area. Fired at 115. The game ball that has entered the game area 115 collides with the nail 101 or the windmill 102 formed in the game area 115, and moves in the game area 115 from top to bottom while moving irregularly.

  When the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, a predetermined number of prize balls (four prize balls in the present embodiment) are paid out to the ball tray 128a, and the special symbol display device 106 displays a variable display of symbols. Be started. In addition, in the effect display device 107, the decorative symbol variation display is started. Thereafter, when a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 and a combination of predetermined decorative symbols (for example, the same decorative symbol) corresponding to “big jackpot” is stopped and displayed in the decorative symbol display area, the “big hit” is displayed. Thus, the game shifts from the normal game to the special game.

  In the special game, the big prize opening door 120 falls down and the big prize opening 113 is opened. Each time a game ball wins the open big winning opening 113, a predetermined number of prize balls (15 prize balls in this embodiment) are paid out. In this embodiment, when the grand prize opening 113 is opened for 29.5 seconds or when a specific number of game balls are won in the grand prize opening 113, the grand prize opening door 120 is raised. Then, the big prize opening 113 is closed. In the following description, when the specific number is 10, that is, either the big prize opening 113 is opened for 29.5 seconds or ten game balls are won in the big prize opening 113. A description will be given by taking as an example a case where the grand prize opening door 120 is raised when the state is reached.

  When the game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) formed in the big prize opening 113 while the big prize opening 113 is open as described above, the big prize opening 113 is obtained. Will open again. In the present embodiment, the opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning opening 113 is performed up to 15 times. That is, as described above, in the special game, a unit game in which the opening / closing of the special winning opening 113 is set as a set is performed 15 times at maximum.

  In this way, when a special game is executed, a large amount of prize balls are paid out in a short period of time, and a great merit can be given to the player.

  When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol display device 108 (7-segment LED 122) starts to display the normal symbol in a variable manner. Thereafter, when a predetermined normal symbol (“7” in the present embodiment) is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108 (7-segment LED 122), the normal electric accessory 104 opens and closes. When the ordinary electric combination 104 is opened, it is possible for the game ball to win the start winning opening 112 without passing between nails (so-called life nails) above the start winning opening.

  Further, in accordance with the result of the lottery executed based on the winning at the start winning opening, after the special game is executed, the mode is changed to either the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode”. At this time, when shifting to the “probability change mode”, “7” is displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display device 106, and the effect display device 107 executes an effect indicating that it shifts to the “probability change mode”. , Inform the player. Further, when shifting to the “short time mode”, the special symbol display device 106 displays “3” as a special symbol, and the effect display device 107 executes an effect indicating that the mode is shifted to the “short time mode”. Inform the player.

  Here, the “probability change mode” is a mode in which a “big hit” is made, and after a special game is executed, a state in which the probability of becoming a “big hit” is higher than in a normal game is formed. Further, in this “probability change mode”, after the execution of the special game, until the next special game starts, the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is different from that in the normal game, and the game ball is placed in the start winning opening 112. It is also designed to form a state where it is easy to win.

  On the other hand, the “short-time mode” is a “hit”, and after the special game is executed, until the game is executed 100 times, for example, the operation of the ordinary electric actor 104 is different from the normal game. This mode is a mode in which a ball is easy to win at the start winning opening 112 and returns to the normal game when the predetermined number of games are executed.

  As described above, when the transition to the “probability change mode” is performed after the execution of the special game, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible until the next special game is started. Further, even when the mode is shifted to the “short time mode”, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible for a while after the execution of the special game.

  When a game ball wins the general winning opening 111, a predetermined number of prize balls (four prize balls in this embodiment) are paid out to the ball tray 128a. If the game ball has not won any winning opening, the game ball flows into the out opening 114.

(System configuration)
Next, a system configuration such as an internal configuration of the pachinko machine 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the pachinko machine 100. As shown in FIG.

  Inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100, there are a main control board 201, a sub control board 202 connected to the main control board 201, a winning hole board 203, an LED drive board 204, a launch control board 205, a payout control board 206, A power receiving board 207, an electric decoration board 208, and the like are provided.

(Main control board 201)
The main control board 201 is provided with a main CPU 201a, ROM 201b, RAM 201c, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 201d, which are connected to each other via a bus 201e.

  The main CPU 201a reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. And main CPU201a reads the program, data, etc. which are memorize | stored in ROM201b, and controls the whole pachinko machine 100 based on these.

  The ROM 201b stores programs, data, and the like necessary for the main CPU 201a to perform processing shown in FIG. The RAM 201c is used as a work area when the main CPU 201a performs various controls and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The I / F circuit 201d transmits and receives signals performed between the main control board 201, the sub control board 202, the winning hole board 203, the LED drive board 204, the launch control board 205, and the payout control board 206. Control the timing. However, between the main control board 201 and the sub control board 202, transmission of signals from the main control board 201 to the sub control board 202 is performed, but transmission of signals from the sub control board 202 to the main control board 201 is not performed. Not done. That is, only one-way transmission is possible.

  In addition, the I / F circuit 201 d is supplied with predetermined power from the power supply device 209 disposed inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 via the power receiving board 207. With this power, the main control board 201 can perform various processes described later.

(Sub control board 202)
The sub control board 202 is provided with a sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image control processor 202d, image data ROM 202e, video RAM 202f, tone generator circuit 202g, amplifier 202h, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 202i. The sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image control processor 202d, tone generator circuit 202g, and I / F circuit 202i are connected to each other via a bus 202j. The image data ROM 202e and the video RAM 202f are connected to the image control processor 202d, and the amplifier 202h is connected to the sound source circuit 202g. Furthermore, an electrical decoration board 208 is connected to the I / F circuit 202i.

  The sub CPU 202a reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. Then, the sub CPU 202a reads a program, data, and the like stored in the ROM 202b, and controls the entire sub control board 202, in particular, controls the effects for the player.

  The ROM 202b stores programs and data necessary for the sub CPU 202a to execute processing shown in FIGS. 10, 12, and 15 to be described later, and other effects during the game. The RAM 202c is used as a work area when the sub CPU 202a performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The ROM 202b and the RAM 202c may be the same as the ROM 201b and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201, respectively, but it is preferable to use one having a larger capacity than these.

  The image control processor 202d is an image control processor having a normal two-dimensional CG function and a three-dimensional CG function. Under control of the sub CPU 202a, two-dimensional and three-dimensional CG image data to be displayed on the effect display device 107 is obtained. Generate.

  In the image data ROM 202e, in addition to original image data such as characters, characters, and backgrounds displayed on the effect display device 107, decorative symbol objects used when displaying decorative symbols, spiral part objects used for effect display, etc. The data of the various three-dimensional objects are stored.

  Here, the object data includes polygon data and texture data. The polygon data is a set of coordinate values of each vertex of the polygon, and such coordinate values are expressed in a local coordinate system with one predetermined vertex constituting the polygon data as a reference (origin), for example. The texture data can be expressed by, for example, a two-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and is configured by associating density values of three colors of R, G, and B for each point, and an α value indicating transparency as necessary. Can do.

  Hereinafter, of the area (object data storage means) for storing object data in the image data ROM 202e, the area for storing polygon data is referred to as polygon data storage means 7051, and the area for storing texture data is referred to as texture data storage means 7052. .

  The polygon data storage unit 7051 stores the polygon data of the decorative symbol object corresponding to each decorative symbol in association with the ID of predetermined texture data (for example, texture data using a character or the like as a motif) (FIG. 13A). reference). In this embodiment, the decorative symbol object is modeled to display numbers and alphabets according to its shape.

  The polygon data storage means 7051 stores polygon data of six spiral part objects having substantially the same shape in association with IDs of predetermined texture data (for example, texture data using a spiral nebula as a motif) (see FIG. 13 (b)).

  In the present embodiment, the state of the stars moving like a spiral nebula is expressed by combining six spiral part objects having substantially the same shape. Therefore, as described above, each of the six spiral part objects is expressed as follows. Stores and manages polygon data. However, the number of spiral part objects is not limited to six and can be determined in accordance with the design within a range of two or more. The shape of the spiral part object can be determined in advance according to the design. For example, a planar object (see FIG. 14A) or a three-dimensional object along the surface of the hemispherical dome (see FIG. 14 (b)).

  The texture data storage unit 7052 stores texture data mapped to each decorative symbol object, texture data mapped to each spiral part object, and the like in association with the texture data ID (FIG. 13C).

  The video RAM 202f is a memory used when the image control processor 202d generates image data to be displayed on the effect display device 107, and image data generated based on the original image data read from the image data ROM 202e is a frame. The data is developed in the video RAM 202f as data. The effect display device 107 is connected to the sub-control board 202 so that the frame data stored in the video RAM 202f can be displayed.

  The sound source circuit 202g is for generating an audio signal corresponding to the game effect, and is connected to the amplifier 202h. The sound based on the sound signal generated by the sound source circuit 202g is amplified by the amplifier 202h and output from the speaker 133.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, in addition to the effect display device 107 and the speaker 133, an electrical decoration component 130 that is turned on or off according to the state of the game is provided as the effect peripheral device. For example, as the illumination component 130, an illumination component (LED) that is lit when a reach state is formed, an illumination component (LED) that is lit during execution of a special game, and an illumination component that is lit during a prize ball ( LED).

  These effect peripheral devices are peripheral devices that are not directly related to the game, and output the effects during the game, and are controlled only by the sub-control board 202 and not by the main control board 201. .

  The I / F circuit 202 i performs timing control when receiving a signal from the main control board 201. Further, the I / F circuit 202i detects the operation of the operation switch 132 and transmits the detection signal to the sub CPU 202a. Thereby, the sub CPU 202a recognizes the operation content of the operation switch 132.

  As described above, signals are transmitted from the main control board 201 to the sub control board 202, but signals are not transmitted from the sub control board 202 to the main control board 201. Further, the I / F circuit 202 i is supplied with predetermined power from the power supply device 209 disposed inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 via the power receiving board 207. With this electric power, the sub-control board 202 can perform various processes described later.

(Electric board 208)
The above-mentioned electrical decoration part 130 is connected to the electrical decoration board 208, and the electric power supplied from the power supply device 209 arranged inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 is output to the electrical decoration part. Thereby, the electrical decoration component 130 performs lighting or light extinction.

(Prize opening board 203)
On the winning opening board 203, a start winning opening switch 210 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 112, a normal symbol operating gate switch 211 for detecting the passing of the gaming ball to the normal symbol operating gate 114, A general winning opening switch 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the winning opening 111, a large winning opening switch 213 that detects a winning of a gaming ball to the big winning opening 113, and a specification formed in the large winning opening 113 A specific area detection switch 214 that detects passage of a game ball to the area 121 is connected.

  Based on the signals transmitted from the start winning port switch 210, the normal symbol operating gate switch 211, the general winning port switch 212, the large winning port switch 213, and the specific area detecting switch 214, the winning port board 203 It identifies which region has passed and transmits a game ball passing signal indicating the identified result to the main control board 201.

  Further, the prize winning board 203 has an ordinary electric accessory solenoid 215 for opening the ordinary electric accessory 104, a big prize opening solenoid 216 for opening the big prize opening 113, and the big prize opening 113. A specific area solenoid 217 for controlling the movement of the game ball is connected. Specifically, the specific area solenoid 217 makes it easy to pass the game ball to the specific area until the specific area detection switch 214 detects the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121, and enters the specific area 121. When the passage of the game ball is detected, the state where the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 becomes easy is released.

  The prize opening board 203 outputs a current for driving the ordinary electric combination 104 to the ordinary electric combination solenoid 215 when an ordinary electric combination release instruction signal is input from the main control board 201 as will be described later. As a result, the ordinary electric accessory 104 performs an opening / closing operation.

  In addition, when the prize winning hole opening instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the prize winning hole board 203 outputs a current for driving the big prize winning hole door 120 to the big prize winning hole solenoid 216. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened. On the other hand, when a special winning opening closing instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the output of the current for driving the special winning opening door 120 is stopped. Thereby, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  Furthermore, when the game ball passes through the specific area, it is determined that the special game will be transferred to the next unit game, and when the specific area control instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the winning opening board 203 is A current for releasing the state where the passing of the game ball to 121 is facilitated is output to the specific area solenoid 217. As described above, in this embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are continued in one special game.

(LED drive board 204)
A special symbol display device 106 and a normal symbol display device 108 are connected to the LED drive board 204. When a special symbol display instruction signal is input from the main control board 201 as described later, the LED drive board 204 receives the 7-segment LED 116 disposed in the special symbol display device 106 based on the special symbol display instruction signal, The four LEDs 117 that display the number of winnings are made to emit light. In addition, when the normal symbol display instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the LED drive board 204, based on the normal symbol display instruction signal, the 7-segment LED 122 disposed in the normal symbol display device 108, and the gate passage The four LEDs 123 for displaying the numbers are caused to emit light.

(Launch control board 205)
The launch control board 205 is connected to a launch handle 131 for launching a game ball into the game area 115. The launch control board 205 detects that the launch handle 131 has been operated by the player, and transmits a launch operation detection signal indicating the detected result to the main control board 201. As a result, the main control board 201 recognizes that the firing handle 131 has been operated.

  The main control board 201 transmits a launch permission signal to the launch control board 205 when the game balls are not stored in the ball tray 128a in a certain amount or more. Then, the launch control board 205 controls the launch handle 131 so that the game ball is launched toward the game area 115.

  On the other hand, when a certain amount or more of the game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch non-permission signal to the launch control board 205. Thereby, the launch control board 205 controls the launch handle 131 so that the game ball is not launched toward the game area 115.

(Discharge control board 206)
When the payout control board 206 receives a prize ball number signal transmitted from the main control board 201 as will be described later, the number of prize balls (game balls) corresponding to the prize ball number signal is paid out to the ball tray 128a. Thus, the dispensing device 218 disposed inside the pachinko machine 100 is controlled. Thereby, the payout device 218 pays out a winning ball (game ball) corresponding to the winning.

  The winning a prize board 203, the LED drive board 204, the launch control board 205, and the payout control board 206 operate based on the power supplied from the power supply device 209 via the power receiving board 207.

(Power receiving board 207)
When the power switch 219 disposed inside the pachinko machine 100 is turned on, the power receiving board 207 is supplied with power from the power supply device 209, and the power is supplied to the main control board 201 and the sub-control as described above. This is distributed to the board 202, the winning hole board 203, the LED driving board 204, the launch control board 205, the payout control board 206, and the decoration board 208.

(Main control board 201)
Next, a functional configuration of the main control board 201 will be described. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 301)
The winning determination unit 301 determines which region the game ball has passed based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning hole board 203. Specifically, based on the game ball passing signal, the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball is a start winning port 112, a normal symbol operating gate 103, a general winning port 111, a large winning port 113, and a specific area 121. Which of the above has been passed is determined.

  The winning determination unit 301 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Payout instruction unit 303)
The payout instructing unit 303 transmits the award ball number signal indicating the number of winning balls to the payout control board 206 based on the result determined by the winning determination unit 301. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the start winning port 112 (that the game ball has won the start winning port 112), the payout instructing unit 303 receives the award. The prize ball number signal indicating that the number of balls is “4” is transmitted to the payout control board 206.

  When the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the general winning opening 111, the payout instructing unit 303 sends the winning ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “4” to the payout control board 206. Send. Further, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113, the payout instructing unit 303 sends the award ball number signal indicating that the award ball number is “15” to the payout control board 206. Send.

  Thereby, the payout control board 206 controls the payout device 218 so that payout according to the number of prize balls indicated in the prize ball number signal is made.

  The payout instruction unit 303 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol lottery section 304)
The special symbol lottery unit 304 generates and acquires a random number ranging from “0” to “65535”, for example, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has won the start winning opening 112. For example, if no random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area in the RAM 202 c, the acquired random number is output to the winning determination unit 305.

  On the other hand, when a random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area, the acquired random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area. In the present embodiment, up to four random numbers acquired by the special symbol lottery unit 304 can be stored in the special symbol random number storage area, and the random number storage order can be identified. Then, the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the random number stored earliest in the special symbol random number storage area to the winning determination unit 305 and deletes the output random number from the special symbol random number storage region.

  The special symbol lottery unit 304 is realized by using a main CPU 201a, a ROM 201b, and a RAM 202c provided on the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 305)
The winning determination unit 305 determines whether the random number output from the special symbol lottery unit 304 corresponds to “big hit” or “lost” based on the random number value output by the special symbol lottery unit 304. Further, when the “big hit” is met, it is determined whether the “probable change mode” or the “short time mode” is to be shifted after the “big hit”. These determinations are made using, for example, a lottery table.

  Then, if it corresponds to “big hit”, the bonus flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on. Further, when the “accuracy change mode” is applicable, the probability change flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on. On the other hand, in the case of “time reduction mode”, the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on.

  In the present embodiment, a lottery table that is different between the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” and the other cases (the case where the mode is shifted to the “short-time mode” and the normal game is played) is used. It is determined whether it corresponds to the above-mentioned “big hit” or “losing”.

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, the probability variation lottery table used when shifting to the “probability change mode”, the case of shifting to the “time reduction mode”, and the case of performing a normal game There are two lottery tables, the normal lottery table to be used.

  And, in the case of shifting to the “probability mode”, the probability of being a “big hit” is higher than the case of shifting to the “short-time mode” and the case of performing a normal game. The contents of the two lottery tables are set.

  The winning determination unit 305 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol display instruction unit 306)
The special symbol display instruction unit 306 determines the special symbol variation display time in the special symbol display device 106 based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and determines the result determined by the winning determination unit 305. Based on this, the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 is determined.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is turned on (in the case of shifting to the “probability variation mode” or the “time reduction mode”) is more than that in the case where the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is turned on The special symbol fluctuation display time is made much shorter than when playing “play”.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when it corresponds to “big hit” and shifts to “probability change mode”, “7” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. On the other hand, when it corresponds to “big hit” and shifts to “time reduction mode”, “3” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. Further, in the case of “losing”, “−” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106.

  The special symbol display instruction unit 306 forms a display pattern based on the stop symbol determined in this way, the special symbol variation display time, and the like, and the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the display pattern is displayed on the LED drive base. 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  The special symbol display instruction unit 306 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Big prize opening opening instruction unit 307)
When the winning determination unit 305 determines that the lottery result by the special symbol lottery unit 304 corresponds to “big hit” by the winning determination unit 307 and the bonus flag in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on, The special winning opening release instruction signal is transmitted to the substrate 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened. After that, when it is determined that the game ball has passed the specific area 121 formed in the big prize opening 113 based on the result of the determination in the winning determination section 301, the special prize opening release instruction section 307 performs the specific area control. An instruction signal is transmitted to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the state in which the game ball can easily pass to the specific area 121 is released.

  Thereafter, for example, when it is determined that ten game balls have passed through the prize winning opening 113, or when it has been determined that 29.5 seconds have elapsed since the prize winning opening 113 was opened, the prize winning opening releasing instruction unit 307 Then, a large winning opening closing signal is transmitted to the winning opening board 203. Thereby, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  When the big prize opening 113 is closed as described above, the big prize opening opening instructing unit 307 facilitates the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 while the big prize opening 113 is being opened. It is determined whether or not the state has been released. As a result of this determination, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is released, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not the special winning opening 113 is opened 15 times. . That is, it is determined whether or not 15 unit games have been consumed.

  As a result of these determinations, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is facilitated and all the unit games in the special game have not been digested, the special winning opening release instructing unit 307 The prize winning opening instruction signal is transmitted to the prize winning board 203 to shift to the next unit game, and the operation for opening and closing the prize winning opening 113 as described above is repeated until all the unit games are consumed. Do.

  On the other hand, when all the rounds of the special game have been completed, the special game has ended, and the special winning opening 113 is not opened. Further, when the game ball does not pass through the specific area 121 while the special winning opening 113 is opened, it is a so-called “punk” state, and whether or not all unit games in the special game have been consumed. Regardless, the special game is forcibly terminated. Accordingly, in this case as well, the special winning opening 113 is not opened.

  The special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol lottery section 309)
When the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates and acquires a random number within a predetermined range. Then, when the normal symbol is not being displayed in the normal symbol display device 108 (that is, when it is not necessary to hold the normal symbol lottery result), the acquired random number is output to the winning determination unit 310. .

  On the other hand, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less and the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the normal symbol display device 108, the obtained random number Are stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. As described above, in the present embodiment, up to four random numbers acquired by the normal symbol lottery unit 309 can be stored in the normal symbol random number storage area, and the random number storage order can be identified. . Then, the normal symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area to the winning determination unit 310 and deletes the output random number from the normal symbol random number storage region.

  The normal symbol lottery unit 309 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 310)
The winning determination unit 310 determines whether the random number output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309 corresponds to “win” or “losing” based on the random number value output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309. This determination is performed using, for example, a lottery table.

  In the present embodiment, using the lottery table that is different between the case of shifting to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode” and the case of performing a normal game, either “winning” or “losing” described above is used. Judgment is made as to whether this is the case.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, a special mode lottery table used when shifting to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” and a normal lottery table used when a normal game is being performed. There are two lottery tables.

  The two lottery tables are set so that the probability of “winning” is significantly higher in the case of shifting to “probability mode” or “short-time mode” than in the case of playing a normal game. Is set. As a result, the probability of winning a normal symbol when the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode” is increased. Therefore, when the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”, the normal electric accessory 104 is released more frequently than when the normal game is played, and the ball is held as much as possible. The game can be progressed without being reduced.

  The winning determination unit 310 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol display instruction unit 311)
The normal symbol display instruction unit 311 determines the normal symbol variation display time based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and based on the lottery result determined by the winning determination unit 310, the normal symbol display time A normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the display device 108 is determined. Then, a display pattern based on the determined stop symbol and the normal symbol variation display time is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the probability change flag or the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”). The normal symbol variation display time is made much shorter than when they are not turned on (than when the normal game is played).

  If the result of the determination by the winning determination unit 310 is “winning”, for example, “7” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108. On the other hand, in the case of “losing”, for example, “−” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108.

  Then, the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 forms a display pattern based on the stop symbol determined in this way, the normal symbol variation display time, and the like, and sends the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern to the LED drive board. 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  The normal symbol display instruction unit 311 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal electric accessory driving instruction unit 312)
Based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, the lottery result determined by the winning determination unit 310, etc., the normal electric combination driving instruction unit 312 determines the operation mode of the normal electric combination 104, A normal electric accessory release instruction signal indicating the determined operation mode is transmitted.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the probability change flag or the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”). The operation mode (for example, the opening time) of the ordinary electric accessory 104 so that the game ball can easily win the start winning opening 112 rather than the case where they are not turned on (than when the normal game is performed). To decide.

  Then, the ordinary electric accessory drive instructing unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the operation mode determined in this way to the prize opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal.

  Note that the normal electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 is realized by using the main CPU 201 a and the ROM 201 b provided on the main control board 201.

(Direction command generator 313)
The effect command generation unit 313 is the result of the determination by the winning determination unit 301, the result of determination by the winning determination unit 305 (special symbol lottery result), the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and the special symbol display. Based on the special symbol variation display time determined by the instruction unit 306, an effect command corresponding to the current game state is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202.

  The production command generation unit 313 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Sub control board 202)
Next, a functional configuration of the sub control board 202 will be described. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the sub control board 202.

(Direction command analysis unit 701)
The effect command analysis unit 701 analyzes the effect command transmitted from the main control board 201 (effect command generation unit 313). For example, when an effect command indicating a decorative symbol variation display is input from the main control board 201, information such as a special symbol lottery result, a special symbol variation display time, a probability variation flag, or a time reduction flag is transmitted to the effect control unit 707. Output.

  In addition, the process which the production | presentation command analysis part 701 performs is not limited to these, The process according to the content of the production | presentation command is performed suitably.

  The effect command analysis unit 701 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, and the RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202.

(Production control unit 707)
The effect control unit 707 executes, for example, a process for controlling the variation display of the decorative symbols based on the information output from the effect command analysis unit 701.

  The effect control unit 707 performs a decorative symbol variation display control process, and includes a stop symbol determination function 501 that determines a stop symbol of a decorative symbol so as to match a lottery result of the special symbol, and the determined stop symbol and special symbol. An effect pattern selection function 502 for selecting an effect pattern so as to match the lottery result, and a decoration symbol variation display instruction function 503 for instructing a decoration symbol variation display by outputting necessary information to the image generation unit 705 or the like. ing. In FIG. 11, the above main functions are shown as functional means.

  Note that the process performed by the effect control unit 707 is not limited to the decorative symbol variation display control process, and a process according to the output content from the effect command analysis unit 701 is appropriately executed.

  The effect control unit 707 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, and the RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202.

(Image generation unit 705)
The image generation unit 705 generates image data (frame data) based on information output from the effect command analysis unit 701, the effect control unit 707, and the like, and outputs the image data to the effect display device 107.

  For example, if information indicating that the game ball has passed through the specific area 121 formed in the special winning opening 113 is output from the effect command analysis unit 701, the player is notified of this fact. Generate image data.

  Further, for example, when the decorative symbol variation display is instructed from the effect control unit 707, the three-dimensional CG image data based on the decorative symbol object is generated based on the information output from the effect control unit 707. Also, for example, when the effect pattern selected by the effect control unit 707 is set to an effect (swirl nebula display effect) (see FIG. 20) that displays how the stars move like a spiral nebula. The generation unit 705 generates three-dimensional CG image data based on the spiral part object.

  The image generation unit 705 refers to the polygon data storage unit 7051 to generate the 3D CG image data, and refers to the scene layout function 7053 and the texture data storage unit 7052 that arrange the 3D object in the 3D virtual space. And a rendering function 7054 for generating an image viewed from a predetermined viewpoint (virtual camera) in the three-dimensional virtual space. In FIG. 11, the above main functions are shown as functional means.

  Note that the image data generated by the image generation unit 705 is not limited to these. For example, when another effect is instructed from the effect control unit 707, image data corresponding to the content is generated.

  The image generation unit 705 is realized by using an image control processor 202d, an image data ROM 202e, and a video RAM 202f provided on the sub control board 202.

(Voice generation unit 706)
The sound generation unit 706 generates sound data based on information output from the effect command analysis unit 701, the effect control unit 707, and the like, and outputs the sound data to the speaker 133. For example, when a lottery result of a special symbol is output from the effect control unit 707, a sound corresponding to the lottery result is emitted according to the effect pattern 704 determined by the effect control unit 707. Audio data is generated and output to the speaker 133.

  Needless to say, the audio data generated by the audio generation unit 706 is not limited to these.

  The sound generation unit 706 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, the RAM 202c, and the sound source circuit 202g provided on the sub control board 202.

  The main control board 201 and the sub control board 202 may be provided with functions other than those described above.

  Next, an example of a processing operation in the pachinko machine 100 according to the present embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Processing of main control board 201)
FIG. 5 is a main flowchart showing an example of processing operation in the main control board 201.

  In step S1 of FIG. 5, when the power switch 219 is turned on, the main control board 201 performs a game ball launch process. A specific example of this game ball launching process will be described. First, after the launch operation detection signal indicating that the launch handle 131 has been operated by the player is transmitted from the launch control board 205, the main control board 201, It is determined whether or not a certain amount of game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a.

  If the result of this determination is that a certain amount or more of game balls are not stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch permission signal to the launch control board 205 and the game balls are directed to the game area 115. A command indicating that it has been fired is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. Thereby, a game ball is launched into the game area 115 and an effect during the game is started.

  On the other hand, when a certain amount or more of game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch non-permission signal to the launch control board 205, and the game balls cannot be launched into the game area 115. A command indicating this is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. In this case, even if the player operates the launch handle 131, the game ball is not fired toward the game area 115. In addition, the player is notified by turning on the illumination part 130 that a certain amount or more of the game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a.

  Next, in step S2, the main control board 201 performs a general winning process. This general winning process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 wins the general winning opening 111. Details of the general winning process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the main control board 201 performs normal symbol operation gate passage processing. This normal symbol operation gate passing process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 passes through the normal symbol operation gate. The normal symbol operation gate passing process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S4, the main control board 201 performs a start winning process. This start winning process is a process that is performed based on a winning of a game ball launched into the game area 115 to the start winning port 112. Details of the start winning process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S5, the main control board 201 performs a special game execution process. In the special game execution process, as a result of the determination of “big hit” by the winning determination unit 305, the special symbol display device 106 and the effect display device 107 display predetermined symbols and effects and become “hit”, and the process shifts to the special game. This is the process that is performed. Details of the special game execution process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  As described above, the main control board 201 repeatedly performs the game ball firing process, the general winning process, the normal symbol operation gate passing process, the starting winning process, and the special game executing process, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 below. Thus, in the present embodiment, each process is repeatedly executed while omitting unnecessary processes according to the state of the game.

(General winning process)
Next, the details of the general winning process in step S2 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In addition, each process (including the partial process to which the code | symbol is not provided) can be arbitrarily changed in order within the range which does not produce contradiction in the processing content, or can be performed in parallel (this point is other The same applies to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S <b> 11 of FIG. 6, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has won the general winning opening 111 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has won the general winning opening 111, the process proceeds to step S12, where the payout instruction unit 303 pays out the award ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “4”. Transmit to the substrate 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a. In addition, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the general winning opening 111 has been won and transmits the effect command to the sub control board 202. Thereby, the sub-control board 202 informs the player that the general winning opening 111 has been won by, for example, lighting the electric decoration part 130. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the game ball has not won the general winning opening 111, it is not necessary to perform the process of step S12, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Normal symbol operation gate passing processing)
Next, details of the normal symbol operation gate passing process in step S3 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 7-1 and 7-2.

  In step S <b> 21 of FIG. 7A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 103 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the routine proceeds to step S22, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates a random number and performs lottery (that is, obtains a random number).

  Next, in step S23, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether or not the normal symbol is being variably displayed. If the result of this determination is that the normal symbol is variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S24, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 counts the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not there are three or less. As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S25, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines the normal symbol lottery result (step S22). 5) is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area, and the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S24 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S22 may be suspended. Since normal symbols cannot be displayed based on, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that the normal symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S26, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether or not a random number is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. Determine. As a result of this determination, if random numbers are stored, the process proceeds to step S27, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less. Determine whether.

  As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S28, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines the normal symbol lottery result (step S22). Is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area.

  Next, in step S29, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 reads the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area, and proceeds to step S30.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S26 that no random number is stored, steps S27 to S29 are omitted and the process proceeds to step S30.

  If it is determined in step S27 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S22 may be suspended. Since normal symbols cannot be displayed based on, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  When the normal symbol lottery result (random number) is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S30, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 outputs the obtained random number to the winning determination unit 310.

  Next, in step S31, the winning determination unit 310 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on, it is determined that the mode is shifting to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, and the process proceeds to step S32, where the winning determination unit 310 The special mode lottery table used in the case of the “short time mode” or “probability mode” is read.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that neither the time-saving flag nor the probability variation flag is turned on, it is determined that the game is in the normal game, and the process proceeds to step S33. The winning determination unit 310 is used when the game is in the normal game. The normal lottery table to be extracted is extracted.

  As described above, when the lottery table is selected in step S33, the process proceeds to step S34 in FIG. 7-2, and the winning determination unit 310 receives the lottery result (random number) output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309 in step S30. It is determined whether or not the selected lottery table corresponds to “winning”. That is, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of this determination, if the normal symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S35, and the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 and the ordinary electric accessory driving instructing unit 312 refer to the flag storage unit 302, and It is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. That is, it is determined whether or not a transition is made to either the “time reduction mode” or the “probability change mode”. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on and the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S36.

  In step S 36, when the transition to the “short time mode” is in progress, the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner during the default normal symbol fluctuation display time in the “short time mode”. A display pattern for stopping and displaying “7” indicating “win” is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  On the other hand, when transitioning to the “probability change mode”, the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner during the default normal symbol change display time in the “probability change mode”, and then “wins”. A display pattern for stopping and displaying “7” indicating that the normal symbol is displayed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  Next, in step S <b> 37, the ordinary electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the default operation mode in the “time reduction mode” or the “probability change mode” to the winning opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The normal electric accessory release signal is transmitted after the normal symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S35 that neither the time reduction flag nor the probability variation flag is on, the normal game is in progress, so the process proceeds to step S38, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the default during normal game. During the normal symbol variation display time, after the normal symbol is variably displayed, a display pattern is formed such that “7” indicating “winning” is stopped and displayed, and the normal symbol indicating the formed display pattern is formed. A display instruction signal is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  Next, in step S <b> 39, the ordinary electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the default operation mode during the normal game to the prize opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The normal electric accessory release signal is transmitted after the normal symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108.

  If it is determined in step S34 that the normal symbol lottery has not been won, the process proceeds to step S40, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to set the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag. Determine whether it is turned on. As a result of these determinations, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on and the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S41, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 During the default normal symbol fluctuation display time in “mode” or “probability change mode”, after the normal symbol is variably displayed, a display pattern is formed so that “−” indicating “losing” is stopped and displayed. The normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S40 that neither the time reduction flag nor the probability variation flag is on, the normal game is in progress, so the process proceeds to step S42, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the default normal in normal game. After the normal symbol is variably displayed during the symbol variation display time, a display pattern is formed so that “-” indicating “losing” is stopped, and the normal symbol display instruction indicating the formed display pattern is formed. A signal is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  When it is determined in step S21 of FIG. 7-1 that the game ball has not passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the process proceeds to step S43, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 is provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the process proceeds to step S29 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processing after step S22, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Start-up winning process)
Next, details of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  In step S <b> 61 of FIG. 8A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the start winning port 112 based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning port substrate 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S62, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 generates a random number and performs lottery (that is, obtains a random number).

  Next, in step S63, the special symbol lottery unit 304 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag has been turned off, the process proceeds to step S64, and the special symbol lottery section 304 determines whether or not the special symbol is being variably displayed. If the result of this determination is that the special symbol is variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S65, where the special symbol lottery section 304 counts the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not there are three or less.

  As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S66, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines the special symbol lottery result (step S62). Is stored in the special symbol random number storage area.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S63 that the bonus flag is not turned off (turned on), the special game is being executed, and the process proceeds to step S65.

  If it is determined in step S65 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S62 may be suspended. Since normal symbols cannot be displayed based on, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S64 that the special symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S67, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether or not a random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area. Determine. If the result of this determination is that random numbers are stored, the process proceeds to step S68, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less. Determine whether.

  As a result of the determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S69, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines the special symbol lottery result (step S62). Is stored in the special symbol random number storage area.

  Next, in step S70, the special symbol lottery unit 304 reads the random number stored earliest in the special symbol random number storage area, and proceeds to step S71.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S67 that no random number is stored, steps S68 to S70 are omitted, and the process proceeds to step S71.

  If it is determined in step S68 that the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S62 may be suspended. Since the special symbol based on cannot be displayed, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  When the special symbol lottery result (random number) is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S71, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the obtained random number to the winning determination unit 305.

  Next, in step S72, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the probability variation flag is on, it is determined that the mode has been shifted to the “probability variation mode”, and the process proceeds to step S73. The lottery table for probability variation to be extracted is extracted.

  On the other hand, if the probability variation flag is not turned on, the process proceeds to step S74, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the time reduction flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag is turned on, it is determined that the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode”, the process proceeds to step S75, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302. Add 1 to the number of time reductions. That is, the number of games in which the current game falls in the “short time mode” is counted.

  Next, in step S76, the winning determination unit 305 extracts a normal lottery table to be used in the “time reduction mode”.

  Next, in step S77, the winning determination unit 305 determines whether or not the “time saving mode” has ended by digesting the prescribed number of games. If the result of this determination is that the prescribed number of games has been exhausted and the “time reduction mode” has ended, the process proceeds to step S78, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and turns off the time reduction flag.

  If it is determined in step S77 that the prescribed number of games has not been exhausted, the “time reduction mode” is ongoing, so the processing in step S78 is omitted.

  If it is determined in step S74 that the time reduction flag is not turned on, the game is in a normal game, so the process proceeds to step S79, and the winning determination unit 305 selects a normal lottery table to be used during the normal game. Extract.

  As described above, when the lottery table is extracted in steps S73, S76, and S79, the process proceeds to step S80 in FIG. 8-2, and the winning determination unit 305 outputs the lottery result output from the special symbol lottery unit 304 in step S71 ( It is determined whether or not (random number) corresponds to “big hit” in the extracted lottery table. That is, it is determined whether or not a special symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of this determination, if the special symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S81, and the winning determination unit 305 further determines whether to shift to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” after the special game. Referring to the flag storage unit 302, the bonus flag is turned on and the process proceeds to step S82. On the other hand, if the special symbol lottery is not won, the process of step S81 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S82.

  In step S82, the special symbol display instruction unit 306 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on, since either the “time reduction mode” or the “probability variation mode” is being executed, the process proceeds to step S83. The special symbol display instructing unit 306 forms a display pattern for the time reduction / probability change mode based on the determination result in steps S80 and S82, and sends the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern to the LED drive board 204. Send. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  On the other hand, if the hourly flag or the probability variation flag is not turned on, it means that the game is in the normal game, so the process proceeds to step S84, and the special symbol display instruction unit 306 uses the determination result in steps S80 and S82 for the normal game. And the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  In step S <b> 85, the payout instructing unit 303 transmits the prize ball number signal indicating that the number of prize balls is “4” to the payout control board 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a.

  Next, in step S86, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is on, the process proceeds to step S87. If the winning determination unit 305 determines in S81 to shift to the “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S88, where the flag storage unit Referring to 302, the probability variation flag is turned on.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S81 that the winning determination unit 305 shifts to the “time reduction mode”, the process proceeds to step S89, and the flag storage unit 302 is referred to and the time reduction flag is turned on.

  In step S90, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating the decorative symbol object variation display based on the determination result in steps S80 and S82 and the stored content of the flag storage unit 302, and transmits it to the sub-control board 02. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The effect command indicating the decorative symbol object variation display includes information such as a special symbol lottery result, a special symbol variation display time, a probability variation flag, or a time reduction flag as parameters, and the decorative symbol object is displayed based on these information. Based on the variation display process, the process is executed.

  If it is determined in step S61 of FIG. 8-1 that the game ball has not passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S91, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 is provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the special symbol random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the process proceeds to step S70 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processes after step S62, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Special game execution process)
Next, details of the special game execution process in step S5 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S101 of FIG. 9, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is not turned on, there is no need to perform the processing after step S102 (since it does not shift to special game), the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if the bonus flag is on, the process proceeds to step S102. In step S <b> 102, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 transmits the special winning opening opening instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened, and one round of the specific game consisting of 15 rounds starts.

  Next, in step S <b> 103, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113 based on the gaming ball passing signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203.

  If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113, the process proceeds to step S104, where the winning determination section 301 determines that the game ball is based on the gaming ball passing signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. It is determined whether or not the specific area 121 has been passed. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the specific area 121, the process proceeds to step S105, where the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203 and proceeds to step S106. move on. As a result, the state in which the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121 is released. On the other hand, if the game ball has not passed through the specific area 121, the process skips step S105 and proceeds to step S106.

  Next, in step S <b> 106, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the game ball has passed through the big prize opening 113 or the specific area 121, and transmits it to the sub control board 202. As a result, an image indicating that the game ball has passed the special winning opening 113 or the specific area 121 is displayed on the effect display device 107. Also, the payout instruction unit 303 transmits the prize ball number signal indicating that the prize ball number is “15” to the payout control board 206. Thereby, 15 prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a.

  If it is determined in step S106 that the game ball has not won the big prize opening 113, the processing of steps S104 to S106 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S107.

  Next, in step S107, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not a predetermined time (29.5 seconds) has elapsed since the special winning opening 113 is opened. As a result of the determination, if the predetermined time has elapsed, it is the end of the unit game, so the process proceeds to step S108, and the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 transmits a special winning opening closing signal to the winning opening board 203. To do. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  Next, in step S <b> 109, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not the state where it is easy to pass the game ball to the specific area 121 is released. As a result of this determination, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is released, the process proceeds to step S110, where the special winning opening release instructing unit 307 determines that all unit games in the special game (that is, It is determined whether or not (special game) has ended. If the result of this determination is that the special game has ended, the process proceeds to step S111, where the effect command generating unit 313 generates an effect command indicating the end of the special game and transmits it to the sub control board 202. Thereby, an image indicating the end of the special game is displayed on the effect display device 107. Further, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.

  In step S112, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302, turns off the bonus flag, and returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S107 that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the special winning opening 113 is opened, the process proceeds to step S113, and the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 is transmitted from the winning determination unit 301. Based on the game ball passage signal, it is determined whether or not 10 or more game balls have passed through the big winning opening 113. If the result of this determination is that there are 10 or more game balls that have passed through the special winning opening 113, it means that the unit game is over, so that the process proceeds to step S108, and the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  On the other hand, when the number of game balls that have passed through the big winning opening 113 is not ten or more, the unit game is ongoing, and the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S110 that all unit games in the special game have not ended, the process proceeds to the next unit game, and thus the process proceeds to step S114, where the effect command generation unit 313 An effect command indicating progress to a game is generated and transmitted to the sub control board 202. As a result, an image indicating that the game has progressed to the next unit game is displayed on the effect display device 107. Further, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203 and returns to the main flowchart of FIG. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.

  Needless to say, processes other than those shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 may be performed. For example, the timing for generating and transmitting an effect command is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, and other effect commands may be generated and transmitted.

(Processing operation of sub-control board 202)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing operation in the normal game on the sub-control board 202.

  In step S131 of FIG. 10, the effect command analysis unit 701 in the sub control board 202 determines whether or not an effect command has been received from the main control board 201. As a result of the determination, if an effect command is received, the process proceeds to step S132, and the effect command analysis unit 701 analyzes the received effect command.

  As a result of analyzing the effect command, if the received command is an effect command indicating a decorative symbol object variation display, the effect command analysis unit 701 displays a special symbol lottery result, a special symbol variation display time, a probability variation flag, a time reduction flag, or the like. Is output to the effect control unit 707. As a result, the effect control unit 707 executes the decorative symbol object variation display process. Details of the decorative symbol object variation display process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  On the other hand, in the case of an effect command other than those described above, the effect command analysis unit 701 instructs the image generation unit 705 to execute an effect for causing the effect display device 107 to display an image corresponding to the analysis result. .

  In addition, the effect command analysis unit 701 instructs the sound generation unit 706 to execute an effect of emitting sound corresponding to the result of analyzing the effect command. Thereby, the sound generation unit 706 generates sound data corresponding to the effect, and emits sound from the speaker 133.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S131 that an effect command has not been received, the effect command analysis unit 701 instructs the image generation unit 705 to perform an effect in standby. As a result, the image generation unit 705 generates image data for executing the standby effect and causes the effect display device 107 to display the image data.

(Decoration pattern change display control process)
Next, details of the decorative symbol variation display control process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the effect control unit 707 receives a lottery result of a special symbol from the effect command analysis unit 701, the effect control unit 707 starts a decorative symbol variation display control process.

  First, the effect control unit 707 determines a combination of stop symbols for the first to third decorative symbols so as to match the lottery result of the special symbols output from the effect command analysis unit 701 (S141). In the present embodiment, when the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “big hit” and shifts to the “probability change mode”, “111”, “333” , “555”, “777”, “999”, “AAA”, “CCC”, “EEE” are determined as combinations of stop symbols of the first to third decorative symbols .

  Further, when the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “big hit” and shifts to the “time reduction mode”, “000”, “222”, “444” ”,“ 666 ”,“ 888 ”,“ BBB ”,“ DDD ”, and“ FFF ”are determined as combinations of stop symbols of the first to third decorative symbols.

  Furthermore, when the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “losing”, combinations of the three decorative symbols that are not the same are combined with the stop symbols of the first to third decorative symbols. Determine as. Such a combination of stop symbols may be determined by lottery, for example.

  Next, the effect control unit 707 matches the determined combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and the effect pattern is executed for the same time as the special symbol variation display time output from the effect command analysis unit 701. Is selected from the preset effect patterns 704 (S142).

  At this time, the effect control unit 707 determines whether the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “big hit” or the lottery result indicates “losing”. When the stop symbols of the first and second decorative symbols are the same among the combinations of the stopped symbols, the effect pattern in which the reach effect is set is selected. On the other hand, if the lottery result indicates “losing” and the stop symbols of the first and second decorative symbols are not the same among the determined combinations of stop symbols, the reach effect is not set Select a pattern.

  In the effect pattern 704, for each effect pattern, an effect required time, a decorative symbol variation pattern of each decorative symbol object, and the like are set. As the decorative design variation pattern, for example, a pattern in which a predetermined decorative design object is sequentially arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space and disappears can be considered.

  Also, depending on the production pattern, other special productions (reach production, so-called development production, production showing the transition to “probability mode” or “short-time mode” after executing special games, etc.) are set. There are also things.

  Next, the effect control unit 707 outputs information such as the position and line-of-sight direction of the virtual camera, information on the selected effect pattern, and the like to the image generation unit 705 (S143).

  Based on this information, the image generation unit 705 draws a state in the three-dimensional virtual space in which the decorative symbol object is arranged / erased according to the decorative symbol variation pattern as an image viewed from the virtual camera, and the decorative symbol varies. Image data to be displayed can be generated. If various effects are set for the selected effect pattern, image data is generated according to the contents of the effect.

  Next, the effect control unit 707 determines whether or not reach reach determination timing has arrived based on the selected effect pattern (S144). For example, if the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in the first and second order, the timing is the timing for displaying the stopped symbols of the second decorative symbols.

  If it is determined that it has not arrived, the process returns to step S143.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S144 that the reach presence / absence determination timing has arrived, the effect control unit 707 performs control such that the reach effect is executed according to the selected effect pattern (S145).

  For example, when the lottery result indicates “big hit” or when the lottery result indicates “losing”, the first and second decorative symbols out of the determined combination of stop symbols When the stop symbols are the same, a reach effect is set for the selected effect pattern. In this case, the effect control unit 707 displays the information on the reach effect set in the selected effect pattern, the information on the position of the virtual camera, the direction of the line of sight, the information on the stop symbol of the third decorative symbol, and the like. Etc. and control so that the reach effect is executed. In addition, when the lottery result indicates “big hit”, control is further performed so that an effect in the case of “big win” is executed.

  On the other hand, if the lottery result indicates “losing” and the stop symbols of the first and second decorative symbols are not the same among the determined combinations of stop symbols, the reach effect is applied to the selected effect pattern. Is not set. In this case, the effect control unit 707 outputs information such as the position and line-of-sight direction of the virtual camera, information on the stop symbol of the third decorative symbol, and the like to the image generation unit 705 and the like according to the selected effect pattern. Control is performed so that the decorative symbol variation display is terminated after the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Here, the effect pattern 704 of this embodiment includes an effect pattern in which a spiral nebula display effect is set (see FIG. 20).

  Therefore, in the following, the display process executed in the spiral nebula display effect will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 15 and FIG.

  First, in the three-dimensional virtual space, the image generation unit 705 divides each spiral part object perpendicularly to the spiral center circle P at a position obtained by dividing the circumference of a predetermined circle (hereinafter referred to as “swirl center circle P”) into approximately six equal parts. Are set (S151) (see FIG. 16A).

  The parameters (position, orientation of the surface, radius) of the spiral center circle P are the design process prior to the display process (the process of determining at what position and in what size the spiral nebula is displayed) In this case, it can be predetermined according to the design. For example, in the case of generating and displaying a CG image of a perfect spiral, the spiral center circle P may be determined so that the surface direction is substantially perpendicular to the viewing direction of the virtual camera. However, the spiral center circle P needs to satisfy the spiral integration condition described later in relation to the shape of the spiral part object.

  Next, the image generation unit 705 sets initial values of arrangement parameters (conversion matrix T for converting the local coordinates of the polygon data of each object into the world coordinates of the three-dimensional virtual space) for each of the six spiral part objects. Obtain (S152).

  In the present embodiment, the initial value of the transformation matrix T of each spiral part object is previously set to each element value (enlargement / reduction parameter value, translation parameter value) so as to be substantially rotationally symmetric six times as seen from the spiral center circle P. , Rotation parameter value) is calculated and stored in the image data ROM 202e. In S152, the initial value of the transformation matrix T of each object can be acquired by reading these values with reference to the image data ROM 202e.

  Next, the image generation unit 705 acquires polygon data of each spiral part object with reference to the polygon data storage unit 7051 (S153).

  Next, the image generation unit 705 performs a geometric operation on each object based on the polygon data of each spiral part object and the arrangement parameter of each spiral part object, and the polygon of each object in the world coordinates of the three-dimensional virtual space. Data is calculated (S154). Thereby, each spiral part object is arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space so as to be substantially rotationally symmetric six times as viewed from the spiral center circle P (see FIG. 16B).

  Next, the image generation unit 705 projects each arranged spiral part object onto a two-dimensional plane defined based on the parameters (position, camera direction, angle of view, etc.) of the virtual camera arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space. (S155). Specifically, for the polygon data of each object, the three-dimensional coordinate value of the world coordinate is converted to the two-dimensional coordinate value of the screen coordinate based on the parameters of the virtual camera.

  Next, the image generation unit 705 refers to the texture data storage unit 7052 to obtain texture data corresponding to each spiral part object (for example, texture data using a spiral nebula as a motif), and based on these, two-dimensional Each object projected on the plane is rendered to generate three-dimensional CG image data (frame data) (S156). When mapping texture data, a realistic display with a sense of depth can be achieved by using a transparency mapping method for background data representing outer space.

  Next, the image generation unit 705 (or screen data transfer means not shown) outputs the generated image data to the effect display device 107 (S157). As a result, a three-dimensional CG image of the stars moving in a spiral shape on the effect display device 107 is displayed.

  Next, when the production time of the spiral nebula display effect has not elapsed (S158: No), the image generation unit 705 synchronizes each spiral part object with another spiral part object in the three-dimensional virtual space (that is, The respective arrangement parameters are updated so as to rotate around the corresponding rotation axis (at the same rotation speed) (S159), and the process returns to S154. When the process returns to S154, the spiral part objects are again arranged using the updated arrangement parameters, that is, at the rotated positions (see FIG. 16C), and the processes of S155, S156, etc. are repeated.

  Note that the rotation speed of each spiral part object when the arrangement parameter is updated can be determined according to the design.

  Here, the spiral integration conditions that the spiral center circle P needs to satisfy will be described.

  In the present embodiment, a state in which the stars move in a spiral shape by combining six spiral part objects is expressed, so that the movement of the six spiral part objects needs to look like one spiral as a whole. The inventor of the present invention considers when each swirl part object appears to constitute one swirl as a whole, and considers a region (hereinafter referred to as “parts” through which each swirl part object passes by rotation. When the "passing area" overlaps with the part passing area of the adjacent spiral part object, each swirl part object is rotated while being wound around each other, and appears to form one swirl as a whole. I found Conversely, if the part passing area of each spiral part object does not overlap with the part passing area of the adjacent spiral part object, each spiral part object rotates independently as the distance between the two areas increases. It turned out that it did not appear to form one spiral as a whole.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, from the above viewpoint, when the part passing area of each spiral part object overlaps the part passing area of the adjacent spiral part object in the plane X including the spiral center circle P, the spiral integration condition Is established.

  Specifically, the part passage area is an area obtained by projecting a rotating body obtained when the spiral part object is rotated about the corresponding rotation axis onto the plane X including the spiral center circle P.

  Then, each region obtained by projecting each spiral part object arranged so as to be rotationally symmetric to the spiral center circle onto the plane X is L, the distance between the rotation axes set on the circumference of the spiral center circle P. When S is S, the spiral integration condition is satisfied when the following relationship is satisfied (part passing regions overlap in plane X).

max {Distance between points included in region S and corresponding rotation axis}> 1 / 2L
The radius of the spiral center circle P that satisfies the above relationship, that is, the spiral integration condition, can be obtained as follows, for example. First, a temporary spiral center circle having a predetermined radius is determined (S161), and the same steps as S151 to S154 are executed (S162). Then, it is determined whether or not the above relationship is established for this temporary spiral center circle (S163). If it is established, the radius of the spiral center circle P actually used is determined within a range equal to or less than the radius of the temporary spiral center circle (S164). On the other hand, if not established, the radius of the temporary spiral center circle is reduced (S165), and the process returns to S162.

  FIG. 17 schematically shows a case where the spiral integration condition is satisfied. FIG. 17A shows the arrangement of six spiral part objects on the plane X and the corresponding rotation axis on the spiral center circle P. FIG. FIG. 17B is a diagram showing one of the spiral part objects taken out, and showing the corresponding rotation axis, part passage area, and the like. FIG. 17B shows that in this case, max {distance between a point included in the region S and the corresponding rotation axis} is greater than ½ L and satisfies the above relationship. Further, FIG. 17C is a diagram showing a part passage area of each of the six spiral part objects. FIG. 17C shows that the part passing area of each spiral part object overlaps the part passing area of the adjacent spiral part object, and the spiral integration condition is satisfied.

  As described above, in this embodiment, a framework is used in which the state of the stars moving like a spiral nebula is combined with six spiral part objects, and the spiral center circle P is included. In plane X, since the spiral passing condition of each spiral part object is imposed by setting the spiral integration condition that the part passing area of each spiral part object overlaps the part passing area of the adjacent spiral part object, Each spiral part object rotates while being wound around each other, and a CG image that appears to form one spiral as a whole can be generated.

  In addition, according to this framework, each of the six spiral part objects is rotated to express how the stars move in a spiral shape, so the relative positional relationship between the stars is always fixed and integrated. In addition, since the position of the rotation axis of each spiral part object is different from each other, the two spiral part objects have different rotational radii in the adjacent portions of the two spiral part objects, and therefore at different rotational speeds. As a result of movement, a powerful display with a sense of depth and presence can be achieved by the multiple scroll effect.

  Further, since the CG image is generated using the spiral part object, it is not necessary to prepare and store a plurality of images in advance as in the case of displaying with animation, and greatly reduces the necessary memory capacity. Can do. Further, by changing the initial value of the transformation matrix T and the direction of the surface of the spiral center circle P without increasing the data of the spiral part object, various variations of spirals can be displayed.

  Actually, when the CG image of the stars moving in a spiral shape is generated using the spiral part object as shown in FIG. 16B by the method of the present invention, the spiral part object is added to the above effect. It was possible to generate a CG image in which the center of the spiral appears to open and close with the rotation of. This is because six substantially identically shaped spiral part objects rotate around the rotation axis set at substantially equal intervals on the circumference of the spiral center circle P, and at a certain timing, near the center of the spiral. The density of the spiral part object in the space increases (see FIG. 18A), and at a certain timing, the density of the spiral part object in the space near the center of the spiral decreases (see FIG. 18B) periodically repeats. This is thought to be because In particular, as a result of generating various CG images by changing the shape of the spiral part object, the radius of the spiral center circle, the positional relationship between the spiral part object and the rotation axis, etc. 1) The shape of the spiral part object itself is the spiral center circle. 2) The radius of the spiral center circle is a circle circumscribing all six spiral part objects (the size of this circle changes with the rotation of the spiral part object. 1) The condition that the rotation axis of the spiral part object exists within the minimum enveloping shape of the spiral part object is 1 It was found that a CG image in which the center of the spiral appears to open and close can be generated when more than one is satisfied.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be variously modified and applied. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the state in which the stars move like a spiral like a spiral nebula is described as an example. For example, an object other than stars (liquid, gas, etc.) CG image may be generated by applying the image generation technique of the present invention.

  In the above embodiment, the procedure for determining the radius of the spiral center circle has been described. However, it is not always necessary to determine the radius of the spiral center circle by this procedure. Even when each spiral part object is arranged without depending on the above procedure, if the spiral integration condition is satisfied as a result, the same effect as in the above embodiment can be obtained.

  For example, when each spiral part object initially arranged so as to be N times rotationally symmetric overlaps with an adjacent spiral part object at the time of the initial placement (see FIG. 16B), the spiral integration condition is always satisfied. It is not necessary to preset the radius of the spiral center circle by the above procedure. In other words, when each spiral part object is initially arranged to be N-fold rotationally symmetric and overlap with an adjacent spiral part object, the radius of the spiral center circle is set so that the spiral integration condition is satisfied. Become.

  Even if there is no overlap in the initial arrangement, the spiral integration condition is satisfied if each spiral part object overlaps with the adjacent spiral part object at any timing during rotation. In other words, when the shape of each spiral part object is set to overlap with the adjacent spiral part object at least once during the rotation when the spiral part object is rotated around the corresponding rotation axis, The spiral integration condition is established.

  In such a case where each spiral part object overlaps with the adjacent spiral part object during rotation (including the case where it overlaps in the initial arrangement), the degree to which the spiral part object appears to be rotating with another spiral part object. Therefore, it is possible to give a strong impression of constituting one spiral as a whole.

  In the above embodiment, polygon data and texture data are stored for each of the six spiral part objects. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to such a configuration. For example, data of one basic spiral part object is stored in the object data storage means, and six different transformation matrices are applied thereto, thereby arranging six spiral part objects in the three-dimensional virtual space. It is good also as a structure. In such a configuration, it is sufficient to store data for one object, so that a necessary memory capacity can be suppressed.

  In the above embodiment, the image generation unit 705 (image control processor 202d and the like) is configured to execute a scene layout process (placement of a three-dimensional object) and a rendering process. For example, the sub CPU 202a executes the scene layout process. You may comprise as follows.

  In the above-described embodiment, a pachinko machine has been described as an example. However, the image generation technique of the present invention can be applied to other hardware.

  For example, FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a simulation apparatus capable of executing the same game as the pachinko machine according to the present invention on the screen (pseudo game).

  The simulation device 500 is, for example, a personal computer, a game machine, a mobile phone, or a PDA, and includes a control device 510, a display device 520, and an input device 530.

  The control device 510 includes a CPU 510a, a ROM 510b, a RAM 510c, and the like, and centrally controls each part of the simulation device 500 by executing various control programs stored in a memory such as the ROM 510b. The memory of the control device 510 stores a simulation program for performing a pseudo game on the screen of the display device 520, and this simulation program includes an image generation program for realizing the image generation method of the present invention. It is out.

  The simulation program is installed through various storage media such as a CD-ROM, a magnetic disk, and a semiconductor memory, and from a server equipped with the simulation program via a network (such as the Internet or an intranet) or a communication interface (not shown). Can be downloaded.

  The display device 520 includes a CRT, a liquid crystal panel, and the like. In addition to an image representing each element constituting the pachinko machine 100 shown in FIG. The CG image of the object moving in a spiral shape is displayed.

  The input device 530 includes a mouse, a keyboard, and the like, and implements functions such as a start switch 41, a stop switch group 42, and a bet switch group 43 that constitute the slot machine 1. Specifically, by operating the input device 530 by the player, a game ball is fired or the like in the pseudo game.

  According to the simulation program described above, the same game as the gaming machine according to the present embodiment can be realized by a simulation device such as a personal computer or a mobile phone, and the player can enjoy a pseudo game by using the simulation device. it can.

It is a front view which shows an example of the external appearance structure of the pachinko machine of this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the system configuration | structure of the pachinko machine. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a main control board 201. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a sub control board 202. FIG. It is a main flowchart which shows an example of the processing operation in a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the general winning process in step S2 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the normal symbol action | operation gate passage process in FIG.5 S3. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the normal symbol action | operation gate passage process in FIG.5 S3. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the special game execution process in step S5 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing operation in the normal game in the sub-control board 202. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating main functional configurations of an effect control unit 707 and an image generation unit 705. FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of a decoration symbol object fluctuation | variation display process. It is a figure for demonstrating the data structure of the polygon data storage means 7051 and the texture data storage means 7052. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a spiral part object. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the display process performed in a spiral nebula display effect. It is a figure for demonstrating the display process performed in a spiral nebula display effect. It is a figure for demonstrating spiral integration conditions. It is a figure which shows typically a mode that the center of a spiral opens and closes when stars move in a spiral shape. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the simulation apparatus which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen which displays a mode that stars move like a spiral like a spiral nebula.

Explanation of symbols

100 Pachinko machine 103 Normal symbol operation gate 106 Special symbol display device 107 Production display device 108 Normal symbol display device 112 Start winning port 113 Large winning port 131 Launch handle 132 Operation switch 201 Main control board 202 Sub control board 203 Winning port board 210 Start Winning mouth switch 215 Normal electric accessory solenoid 301 Winning determination unit 302 Flag storage unit 304 Special symbol lottery unit 305 Winning determination unit 306 Special symbol display instruction unit 309 Normal symbol lottery unit 310 Winning determination unit 311 Normal symbol display instruction unit 312 Normal electric Actor drive instruction unit 313 Production command generation unit 501 Stop symbol determination unit 502 Production pattern selection unit 503 Decoration symbol variation display instruction unit 701 Production command analysis unit 704 Production pattern 705 Image generation unit 706 Audio generation unit 707 Production system Part 7051 polygon data storage unit 7052 texture data storing unit 7053 scene layout section 7054 renderer

Claims (2)

An apparatus for generating a CG image of an object moving in a spiral shape using N (N ≧ 2) spiral part objects having substantially the same shape,
Object data storage means for storing polygon data and texture data of each spiral part object;
Means for setting N rotational axes corresponding to each spiral part object perpendicular to the circle P at a position obtained by dividing the circumference of the predetermined circle P into approximately N equal parts in the three-dimensional virtual space;
Polygon data of each spiral part object is acquired with reference to the object data storage means, and N spiral part objects are arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space so as to be substantially rotationally symmetrical N times when viewed from the circle P. Means,
Means for projecting N spiral part objects arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space onto a two-dimensional plane based on a predetermined viewpoint in the three-dimensional virtual space;
Means for mapping corresponding texture data to the N spiral part objects projected onto the two-dimensional plane and generating a CG image viewed from the viewpoint;
Means for rotating each of the spiral part objects arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space around the corresponding rotation axis while synchronizing them, and arranging again to perform projection and mapping on the two-dimensional plane,
Projection area (hereinafter referred to as “part passage area”) onto the plane including the circle P of the rotating body obtained when each spiral part object is rotated around the corresponding rotation axis is the part of the adjacent spiral part object. An image generating apparatus, wherein a radius of a circle P is set so as to overlap with a passing area. A gaming machine comprising the image generating apparatus according to claim 1 .