JP4808263B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine and a coin gaming machine, and in particular, displays a variation display of first identification information based on the entry of a gaming medium into a first starting area provided in the gaming area. First variation display means for deriving and displaying the result, and second display for deriving and displaying the display result by performing variation display of the second identification information based on the fact that the game medium has entered the second start area provided in the game area . and a 2 variable display means, a game in which the first variable display unit or the second variable display specific display results predetermined for means is controlled to an advantageous specific game state for the player when derived displayed Related to the machine.

Generally known as this type of gaming machine is the identification of symbols and the like that can be identified based on the fact that a predetermined variable display execution condition such as winning at a start winning opening is established. It has two fluctuation display means, a first fluctuation display means and a second fluctuation display means, for performing fluctuation display of information and deriving and displaying the display result, and is predetermined for the first fluctuation display means or the second fluctuation display means. There is a pachinko gaming machine that is controlled to a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to the player when a specific display result (big hit display result) is derived and displayed .

In the gaming machine having such two variation display means, the first special symbol display as the first variation display means performs the variation display of the first special symbol based on the winning to the first start winning opening, was something Nau Rigyo by the variable display of the second special symbol based on the winning of the second start winning opening the second special symbol display device as a second variation display means (Patent documents 1 and 2).

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-31627 (paragraphs 0029 and 0033, FIG. 1) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-312813 (paragraphs 0055 to 0059, FIGS. 4 and 9)

This onset bright object is to solve the problems caused Oite the game machine variable display is performed in two variable display means.

Specific examples of means for solving the problems and their effects

(1) First variation display means (special symbol display unit 8a) that performs variation display of the first identification information based on the fact that the game medium has entered the first start region provided in the game region and derives and displays the display result. ) And second variation display means (second special symbol) for performing variation display of the second identification information based on the fact that the game medium has entered the second start region provided in the game region and for displaying the display result. A specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player when a predetermined specific display result (big hit display result) is derived and displayed on the first fluctuation display means or the second fluctuation display means. A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) controlled to (big hit gaming state),
First predetermination that determines whether or not the display result of the first variation display means is to be the specific display result on the condition that a game medium has entered the first start area, before the display result is derived and displayed. Means (game control microcomputer 560, S62 of FIG. 25 in the first special symbol process),
Second pre-determination that determines whether or not the display result of the second variation display means is to be the specific display result on the condition that a game medium has entered the second start area, before the display result is derived and displayed. Means (step corresponding to S62 in the second special symbol process);
A plurality of variation patterns (variation patterns in FIGS. 10 and 11) that can identify the variation display time from the beginning of variation display to the end of variation display when variation display by the first variation display means is executed. First variation pattern determining means determined from (game control microcomputer 560, S77, S78 of FIG. 25 in the first special symbol process),
Second variation pattern determining means for determining, from a plurality of variation patterns, a variation pattern capable of specifying a variation display time from the start of variation display to the end of variation display when variation display by the second variation display means is executed. A game control microcomputer 560, steps corresponding to S77 and S78 in the second special symbol process, and
First fluctuation pattern storage means for storing a first fluctuation pattern table used for determining a fluctuation pattern by the first fluctuation pattern determination means;
Second fluctuation pattern storage means for storing a second fluctuation pattern table used for determining a fluctuation pattern by the second fluctuation pattern determination means;
First identification information control means for controlling fluctuation display of the first identification information according to the fluctuation pattern determined by the first fluctuation pattern determination means;
Second identification information control means for controlling the variation display of the second identification information in accordance with the variation pattern determined by the second variation pattern determination means;
Waiting means for waiting for the start of the other variable display while one of the first identification information and the second identification information is variably displayed;
The first hold number for which the game medium has entered the first start area but the change display of the first identification information has not yet started, and the game medium has entered the second start area but the change of the second identification information has not yet started. A hold number indicator for displaying a second hold number that has not started to be displayed;
An effect display device that performs effect display and displays the first hold number and the second hold number,
The first fluctuation pattern storage means and the second fluctuation pattern storage means have a predetermined number of total numbers of the first hold number and the second hold number as the first change pattern table and the second change pattern table. When the total number is determined to be a variation pattern in which the variation display time is shorter than when the total number is less than the predetermined number, and when the total number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number and the total number is In any case where the number is less than the predetermined number, a table is stored that is defined such that the ratio of the variation display time determined to be a variation pattern is different between the first variation pattern table and the second variation pattern table .

According to this structure, the by variable display variation display means any hand of the first variable display means and the second variable display means, as compared with the variation displayed by the variable display means other hand, display result The frequency of deriving and displaying is increased.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a gaming state, and explanatory drawing for demonstrating background mode. It is a state transition diagram showing an example of how to change the gaming state. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the gaming state and jackpot type when a gaming state is a high probability and a high base state, and the number of determination values of 8 at random. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the variation pattern of a special symbol, a decoration symbol, and an effect symbol. It is a figure for demonstrating the data table for the variation pattern selection which memorize | stored the judgment value used in order to select and determine the variation pattern of a special symbol, a decoration symbol, and an effect symbol. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows production control command control processing. It is a flowchart which shows production control command control processing. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st start port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding storage specific information storage area (holding specific area). It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st game state determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a response | compatibility with the kind of jackpot, the game state after a jackpot game, and an effect designating command. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st pending | holding memory number transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU for production control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the aspect of a variable display of a decoration symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display state of a total pending storage display part. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a notice selection process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st decoration symbol display control process. It is a flowchart which shows a pending | holding memory | storage display control process. It is a flowchart which shows the command analysis process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the command analysis process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the command analysis process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the command analysis process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation symbol fluctuation start process in 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the fluctuation | variation aspect in 5th Embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Although a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of the gaming machine, the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and may be another gaming machine such as a coin gaming machine, and a predetermined variable display execution condition is established. The first variation display means or the second fluctuation display means for displaying the variation of the identification information that can be identified based on the first variation display means and the second variation display means for deriving and displaying the display result. Any gaming machine may be used as long as it is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on the display means.
[First Embodiment]
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (bullet ball gaming machine) 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, there is provided an effect display device 9 which is an effect display unit composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD). On the display screen of the effect display device 9, change display (also referred to as variable display or update display) of effect symbols (identification information each identifiable) synchronized with the change display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. There is an effect symbol display area 91 for performing. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing the variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display. When the change display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the change display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  On the left side of the lower part of the game board 6, there is provided a first special symbol display (first variation display means) 8a that variably displays a first special symbol as identification information that can be identified. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display device 8a is realized by a simple and small display device (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. On the right side of the lower part of the game board 6, a second special symbol display (second variation display means) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information that can be identified is provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  The small display is formed in a square shape. In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display, for example, a number (or a two-digit symbol) of 00 to 99, for example.

  The first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b may be collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator.

  For the variation display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition which is the execution condition of the variation display is satisfied (for example, the hit ball is the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14). And then start based on the fact that the start condition of the variable display (for example, the state where the special symbol variable display is not executed and the big hit game is not executed) is established. When a predetermined variable display time (the time from the start of the variable display to the end of the variable display) elapses, a display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying a display result is to stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information) (excluding stop before so-called re-variation).

  In the effect symbol display area 91 of the effect display device 9, for example, in each of the nine display areas provided in the effective lines of 0, for example, one line in the vertical direction, one line in the horizontal direction, and six lines in the diagonal direction. The effect symbols composed of numbers 0 to 9 are displayed in a variable manner. Effect symbol display area 91 Effect symbol variation display during the first special symbol variation display time by the first special symbol display 8a and during the second special symbol variation display time by the second special symbol display 8b. Done. In the variable display in the effect symbol display area 91, after the effect symbols start to change in all the display areas, the effect symbols are stopped and displayed in the respective display areas in accordance with a predetermined order. The display result is determined when the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in the area.

  In the vicinity of the first special symbol display 8a, as a decorative (production) symbol that is identification information that can be identified during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a. A first decorative symbol display (first variation display unit) 9a for performing variable display of the first decorative symbol is provided. In this embodiment, the first decorative symbol display 9a is composed of two LEDs. The first decorative symbol display 9a is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. Further, in the vicinity of the second special symbol display 8b, the decorative (production) symbols which are identification information that can be identified during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. The second decorative symbol display (second variable display unit) 9b for displaying the variation of the second decorative symbol is provided. The second decorative symbol display 9b is composed of two LEDs. The second decorative symbol display 9b is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  The first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol, and the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol display. .

  The variation of the decorative pattern (variable display) is realized by continuing the state where the two LEDs are alternately lit. The fluctuation display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the fluctuation display of the first decoration symbol on the first decoration symbol display 9a are synchronized. The variation display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variation display of the second decorative symbol on the second decoration symbol display 9b are synchronized. Synchronous means that the start point and end point of variable display are the same and the period of variable display is the same. Further, when the big hit symbol (the big hit display result) is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, the LED on the side that recalls the big hit on the first decorative symbol display 9a remains lit. When the big-hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the LED on the side that recalls the big-hit on the second decorative symbol display 9b remains lit.

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port (second starting port) 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below the winning device having the first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. It has been. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  The first start winning port 13 and the second start winning port 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning port or a starting port.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail is arranged densely around 13 or the nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is difficult for the game balls to guide to the first starting winning opening 13, It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13. As will be described later, in the high base state, the winning rate of the second start winning opening 14 is high. In that case, the winning rate of the second starting winning port 14 is higher than the winning rate of the first starting winning port 13. Therefore, the ratio (base) of the number of prize game balls to be paid out with respect to the predetermined number of game balls put into the game area 6 is high. That is, it is a high base state.

  On the side of the first decorative symbol display 9a, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed. A first special symbol storage memory display 18a comprising four displays is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  On the side of the second decorative symbol display 9b is a second special symbol reserved memory display 18b comprising four indicators for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. And whenever the fluctuation | variation display by the 2nd special symbol display 8b is started, the number of the indicators to light is reduced by one.

  In addition, the display screen of the effect display device 9 displays an area (hereinafter referred to as a summed pending storage display unit 18c) that displays a total number (total number of pending pending memories) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. .) Since the summation pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. In addition, since the total reserved memory display unit 18c is provided, the first special symbol reserved memory display 18a and the second special symbol reserved memory display 18b may not be provided.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol indicator 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol indicator 8b. The effect symbol as a symbol is displayed in a variable manner. The change display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the change display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variation display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variation display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Here, the synchronization means that the start point and end point of the variable display are the same and the period of the variable display is the same. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot Combination (big hit display result) is stopped.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 1, below the variable winning ball apparatus 15, when a specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and on the second special symbol display 8b. There is provided a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) that occurs when a specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 forms a big winning opening. The game ball that has entered the big prize opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  The game area 6 is also provided with winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, 39 for paying out a predetermined number of premium game balls determined in advance based on winning of game balls. The game balls won in the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided at the lower right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information called “normal symbols” (for example, “◯” and “x”).

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the display variation of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when turned on) are turned on alternately to perform variable display. For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Then, each time the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  A decorative lamp 25 blinkingly displayed during the game is provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, and an outlet 26 for receiving a hit ball that has not won a prize is provided below. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c provided on the front frame are provided at the outer periphery upper portion, the outer periphery left portion, and the outer periphery right portion of the game area 7. Also, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball break lamp 52 that is turned on when the supply ball is cut out is provided in the vicinity of the right frame lamp 28c. Is provided.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning port 13 and is detected by the first start port switch 13a, if the variation display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variation display of the special symbol ends, 1), the first special symbol display unit 8a starts the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol, and the first decorative symbol display unit 9a displays the variable display of the first decorative symbol. The effect display device 9 starts displaying the effect symbols in a variable manner. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol, the first decorative symbol, and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning port 14 and is detected by the second start port switch 14a, if the variation display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the variation display of the special symbol ends, 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts the variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the second decorative symbol display 9b displays the variable display of the second decorative symbol. The effect display device 9 starts displaying the effect symbols in a variable manner. That is, the change display of the second special symbol, the second decorative symbol, and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as a storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit. 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  Also, an input driver circuit for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a and 39a to the game control microcomputer 560. 58 is also mounted on the main board 31. Also, an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening according to a command from the game control microcomputer 560 is also provided. It is mounted on the substrate 31. Further, a system reset circuit (not shown) for resetting the game control microcomputer 560 when the power is turned on, and an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state are sent to an external device such as a hall computer. An information output circuit (not shown) for outputting is also mounted on the main board 31.

  The effect control means (comprising the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77, and displays the decorative design. Display control is performed on each of the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b that perform variable display and the effect display device 9 that displays variable effects in a variable manner.

  The main board 31 is formed with a circuit for performing display control for deriving and displaying the display result after starting the special symbol variation display in each of the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b. ing. The game control microcomputer 560 outputs the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display by causing the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b to output a driving signal according to a program. The display of the device 8b is controlled. With such a configuration, the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the effect display device 9 are connected to the main board 31 provided with the game control microcomputer 560 in parallel. . Based on such a configuration, a control board for a special symbol display equipped with a driver circuit and a microcomputer is provided between the main board 31 and the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b. When the display control of the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 9b is performed by the control substrate or the like based on the command signal from the main substrate 31, for example, the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator are displayed. Compared to the case where the device 9b is connected in a connection mode other than parallel, such as when connected to the main board 31 in a serial mode via the effect control board 80 (where the effect control microcomputer 100 is provided). Therefore, the reliability of correctly displaying the result of the jackpot determination is high.

  In addition, the main board 31 notifies the number of numerical data stored in the corresponding reserved storage buffer in each of the first special symbol reserved memory display 18a and the second special symbol reserved memory display 18b. A circuit is formed. The game control microcomputer 560 outputs a drive signal corresponding to the number of reserved memories to each of the first special symbol reserved memory display 18a and the second special symbol reserved memory display 18b according to the program, and holds the first special symbol reserved. The memory display 18a and the second special symbol reservation storage display 18b are controlled.

  Further, the main board 31 is provided with a circuit for performing display control for deriving and displaying the display result after the variable display is started in the normal symbol display 10. The game control microcomputer 560 controls the display of the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal to the normal symbol display 10 according to a program. As a result, a control board for a normal symbol display equipped with a driver circuit and a microcomputer is provided between the main board 31 and the normal symbol display 10, and the normal symbol is transmitted by the control board or the like based on a command signal from the main board 31. Compared with the case where the display control of the display 12 is performed, the result of the normal symbol hit determination can be surely displayed.

  The main board 31 is provided with a circuit for informing the number of numerical data stored in the corresponding reserved storage buffer in the normal symbol reserved storage display 41. The game control microcomputer 560 outputs a drive signal corresponding to the number of reserved memories in the reserved memory buffer to the normal symbol reserved memory display 41 according to the program to control the normal symbol reserved memory display 41.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 has an effect control microcomputer 100 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM. The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives signals from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77. In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 performs display control of the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b via the output port 106 based on the effect control command, and a VDP (video display processor) 109. The display control of the effect display device 9 is performed.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. The VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data generated by the VDP. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9.

  The effect control CPU 101 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is for storing character image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, a character, a figure, a symbol, etc. (including effect symbols) in advance. The effect control CPU 101 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the data input from the effect control CPU 101.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. The unidirectional circuit 74 is provided for each signal line passing through the relay substrate 77. Further, on the main board 31, the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output via the output port 571 that is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. The output port 571 is a unidirectional circuit that allows signals to pass only in the output direction. Thereby, the signal which goes to the inside of the main board | substrate 31 from the relay board | substrate 77 is controlled. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the main board 31 (on the game control microcomputer 560 side). Note that a signal driver circuit which is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The lamp driver 352 amplifies a signal for driving the lamp and supplies the amplified signal to each lamp provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c. Further, it is supplied to a decorative lamp 25 provided on the frame side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input / output driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When the gaming machine is turned on and the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) determines whether the contents of the program are valid. After executing the security check process, which is a process for confirming whether or not, the main process after step S (hereinafter simply referred to as S) 1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (S3). Then, after initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (S4), the RAM is made accessible. Set (S5). In interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is the interrupt address. Is the mode shown.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes a normal initialization process (S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing for the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (S7). If it is confirmed that such a protection process has not been performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state).

  After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example) (S8). In S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (S91), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (S92). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. By the processing of S91 and S92, the saved contents remain as they are in the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (first special symbol process flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer), unpaid This is a portion where data indicating the number of winning balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a gaming state restoration process (S93). In the gaming state recovery process, the CPU 56 sets a power failure recovery command transmission request flag in order to transmit a recovery command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery. Then, the process proceeds to S15.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (S10). The entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. The initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (S12).

  By the processing of S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determining random number counter, a normal symbol determining buffer, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storing buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball running out flag, a payout stop flag For example, an initial value is set in a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets an initialization command transmission request flag in order to transmit an initialization command for initializing the sub board to the sub board (S13). Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the effect display device 9.

  In S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, for example, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (S17) and the initial value random number update process (S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (S16), and when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are completed, the interrupt enabled state is set. (S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the variation pattern, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value, such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 is a game device such as a variable display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 In the process controlled by the process, or the process of transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control the game machine control process), the count value of the big hit determination random number generation counter etc. is one round (the big hit determination random number generation) When the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the counter or the like is increased), an initial value is set for the counter.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, The state is determined (switching process: S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, and a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (S22). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in S32 and S33. Execute.

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: S24, S25).

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol based on the winning of the game ball to the first start winning opening 13 (first start winning) (or the game ball to the second starting winning opening 14 To determine whether or not to generate a big win (corresponding to the variation display of the second special symbol based on the 2nd winning prize) (for determining the big hit)
(2) Random 2: Determine the detachment symbol (stop symbol) of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (for detachment symbol determination)
(3) Random 3: Determines the stop symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol when generating a big hit (for determining the big hit symbol)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern (variation time) of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(6) Random 6: Determine the initial value of random 1 (for determining the random 1 initial value)
(7) Random 7: Determine the initial value of random 5 (for determining the random 5 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine gaming state (high base state / low base state, high probability state / low probability state) and jackpot type (sudden probability change big hit, 15R big hit) (for gaming state determination)
In S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 makes (1) a big hit determination random number, (3) a big hit symbol determination random number, and (5) a normal symbol determination random number. And (8) a counter for generating a game state determining random number is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (8) are also used. In this embodiment, the jackpot determination random number is a software random number generated based on the program by the game control microcomputer 560. However, as the jackpot determination random number, hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560 is used. Alternatively, a random number generated by hardware built in the game control microcomputer 560 may be used.

  In this embodiment, the random numbers (particularly random numbers 2, 3 and 4) shown in FIG. 6 are used for both the variation of the first special symbol and the variation of the second special symbol. The random number related to the fluctuation may be different from the random number related to the fluctuation of the second special symbol.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs the first special symbol process (S26A). In the first special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed in accordance with a first special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol display 8a and the big prize opening in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the first special symbol process flag according to the gaming state. Further, the second special symbol process is performed (S26B). In the second special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed in accordance with a second special symbol process flag for controlling the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning award in a predetermined order.

  Next, the normal symbol process is performed (S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes the corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a. Execute (S30). Specifically, the payout control is performed according to the winning detection based on any one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a being turned on. A payout control command indicating the number of prize balls is output to a payout control microcomputer mounted on the substrate 37. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (S31: output processing).

  The CPU 56 also displays special symbol display control data for effect display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol in accordance with the values of the first special symbol process flag and the second special symbol process flag. Special symbol display control processing to be set in the setting output buffer is performed (S32). For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, the CPU 56 increments the value of the display control data set in the output buffer by 1 every time 0.2 seconds elapse. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a drive signal in S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer, whereby the first special symbol display unit 8a and the second special symbol display unit 8b and the first special symbol display unit 8b. 2 Executes the variable display of special symbols.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process of setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( S33). For example, if the normal symbol fluctuation speed is such that the display state (“◯” and “X”) is switched every 0.2 seconds, the CPU 56 sets the output buffer every time 0.2 seconds elapse. The value of the display control data (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer. Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (S34), and the process ends.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of S21 to S33 (excluding S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram for explaining a gaming state related to a high probability state (probability variation state) and a high base state in this embodiment. Such gaming states include high probability / high base state (a gaming state that is a high probability state and a high base state), low probability / high base state (a low probability state, and a high base state). A certain gaming state), a high probability / low base state (a gaming state that is a high probability state and a low base state), and a low probability / low base state (a low probability state and a low base state) Gaming state).

  In the high probability state, the probability of determining the jackpot is higher than in the low probability state (normal state). For example, it is 10 times. Specifically, in the high probability state, the number of determination values determined to be a big hit when it matches the value of the random number for jackpot determination is 10 times that in the normal state. In the high base state, the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is higher than in the low base state. That is, the second start winning opening 14 is easy to open, and a start winning is likely to occur. Specifically, in the high base state, the number of determination values determined to be a hit when it matches the value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is larger than that in the normal state. When the winning is determined for the normal symbol, as described above, the display result (stop symbol) of the normal symbol is displayed as the winning symbol, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time (opening time). It becomes a state and a base goes up. Further, instead of increasing the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol, or in addition to increasing the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol, the variable winning ball apparatus The number of times or the opening time of 15 may be increased, or the number of times and the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 may be increased.

  FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram for explaining the background mode in this embodiment. The background mode represents the mode (specifically, the type) of the background (the screen of the ground other than the design and the character image) on the display screen of the effect display device 9. The background mode includes a normal mode, a normal high probability mode, a high accuracy high base mode, and a low accuracy high base mode.

  The normal mode is a mode used when the gaming state is a low base state, and allows the player to recognize that there is a low probability of a high probability state or no possibility of a high probability state. It is a mode that can be. The normal high probability mode is a mode that is used when the gaming state is in the low base state, and is a mode that allows the player to recognize that the probability of the high probability state is high. The high-accuracy high-base mode is a mode used in a high probability / high base state. The low probability high base mode is a mode used in a low probability / high base state.

  FIG. 8 is a state transition diagram showing an example of a game state transition method. As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, a transition to the high probability / high base state can be made from the other three gaming states. The transition to the low probability / high base state can be made only from the high probability / high base state. To the high probability / low base state, transition can be made from two gaming states other than the high probability / high base state. A transition to a low probability / low base state can be made from a high probability / low base state. In FIG. 8, an arrow from the low probability / high base state to the low probability / low base state is shown, but the transition rate is 0%. Hereinafter, “transition” may be referred to as “transition”.

  The transition of the gaming state can transition when a big hit occurs. Even if a big hit occurs, the gaming state may not change. Although not clearly shown in FIG. 8, if a special symbol variation display that does not make the display result a big hit symbol in the low probability / high base state is continuously performed a predetermined number of times, the gaming state becomes low probability / low base. You may control so that it may change to a state.

  The numerical value “%” shown in FIG. 8 indicates the ratio of what kind of jackpot the gaming state transitions to or the same gaming state is maintained. For example, if a big hit occurs in a low probability / low base state, the gaming state transitions to a high probability / high base state at a rate of 10% (3% + 7%). Transitions to a high probability / high base state when an occurrence occurs, and transitions to a high probability / high base state when a 15R jackpot occurs at a rate of 7%. 2R jackpot is a jackpot game in which the jackpot game is executed such that the big prize opening is opened twice, and 15R jackpot is a jackpot game in which the jackpot is opened up to 15 times at the maximum Is a big hit.

  Note that the 2R big hit is also called a sudden probability change big hit. In the 2R jackpot game, the big winning opening is opened twice, but the opening time is very short (for example, 0.5 seconds). In addition, the gaming state after the big hit game is controlled to a high probability state. Therefore, the player feels as if the gaming state suddenly became a high probability state (probability variation state).

  If it is decided to win, a lottery using a random number (game state determination random number) is performed in order to determine how to change the gaming state. The gaming state determination random number takes one of the values 0 to 599. In the lottery, the gaming control microcomputer 560 determines that the gaming state determination random number value is the gaming state (the gaming state to be changed to that state, that is, If it matches the determination value determined in accordance with the game state after the transition) and the type of jackpot, it is decided to make a transition to the game state. The determination value is determined according to each of the four gaming states (the gaming state at that time). In addition, for each of the four gaming states, a determination value is determined for each type of jackpot.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing, as an example, the relationship between the gaming state (the gaming state after transition) and the jackpot type when the gaming state is a high probability / high base state, and the number of determination values of 8 at random. . The number of each determination value is determined so as to be consistent with each ratio shown in FIG. Specifically, 8 determination values are set in the ROM 54 as a table for the number of determination values. Note that FIG. 9 illustrates the number of determination values of 8 at random when the gaming state is a high probability / high base state, but other gaming states may be consistent with the ratios shown in FIG. The number of determination values is set to 8 at random.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol, the decorative symbol, and the effect symbol used in this embodiment. In FIG. 10, “EXT” indicates EXT data of the second byte in the effect control command for designating a variation pattern of a decorative pattern having a 2-byte structure. The “variation time” indicates the variation time (variation display period of identification information) of the special symbol, the decorative symbol, and the effect symbol. Note that the variation pattern indicates the variation time of the special symbol, decorative symbol, and effect symbol, etc., but the variation of the ornament symbol and the effect symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol. May be expressed as a variation pattern, a decorative pattern variation pattern, and a production pattern variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 10, when the shortening variation is not performed, the variation patterns # 1 to # 4 are used, and when the shortening variation is performed, the variation patterns # 5 to # 8 are used. In this embodiment, variation patterns # 5 to # 8 of shortening variation are used when the value of the total number of pending storages is a predetermined value (for example, 4) or more.

  Note that the variation patterns # 2 to # 4 and the variation patterns # 6 to # 8 are in a reach manner as described later in the effect display device 9 when the stop symbol is a big hit symbol and the stop symbol is a deviated symbol. It is a fluctuation pattern used when the reach effect of the time is executed. The variation pattern in such a reach mode is a variation pattern that includes the reach mode in part or all of the variation pattern. The variation pattern # 1 and the variation pattern # 5 are variation patterns that are used when the stop symbol is an off symbol and the reach display is not executed in the effect display device 9. Further, in this embodiment, the same variation pattern (any one of variation patterns # 1 to # 8) is obtained when the variation display of the first special symbol is performed and when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed. Although it is used, different variation patterns may be used when the variation display of the first special symbol is performed and when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed. In that case, for example, variation patterns # 9 to # 16 different from the variation patterns # 1 to # 8 are newly provided. As for the fluctuation patterns # 9 to # 16, the fluctuation patterns # 9 to # 12 are used when the shortening fluctuation is not performed, and the fluctuation patterns # 13 to # 16 are used when the shortening fluctuation is performed. The variation pattern # 9 and the variation pattern # 13 are variation patterns that are used when the stop symbol is an off symbol and the reach display is not executed in the effect display device 9. The variation patterns # 10 to # 12 and the variation patterns # 14 to # 16 are a case where the stop symbol becomes a big hit symbol and a case where the stop symbol is an off symbol but the reach display as described later in the effect display device 9 is performed. The variation pattern is used when the reach effect is executed. For example, any one of the variation patterns # 1 to # 8 is used for the first special symbol, and any one of the variation patterns # 9 to # 16 is used for the second special symbol.

  Next, the reach mode (reach display mode) will be described. In the present embodiment, the reach mode (reach display mode) means that the symbols that have not yet stopped when the stopped symbols constitute a part of the jackpot symbol, and that all of the symbols are displayed in a variable manner. Or, it is a variation display mode immediately before the jackpot display result is obtained, including a state in which a part of symbols constitutes all or part of the jackpot symbol and is synchronously displayed.

  For example, in the effect display device 9, an effective line that is a hit is determined in advance by stopping a plurality of symbols, and symbols predetermined in some display areas of the plurality of display areas on the effective line are stopped. The display area on the active line that has not yet stopped when the display is in progress, and all or some of the symbols on the display area on the active line are all or part of the jackpot symbol. A state in which the variable display is performed synchronously while being configured is referred to as reach mode (reach display mode) or reach.

  In addition, during the reach, an unusual performance may be performed with a lamp or sound. This production is called reach production. Further, in the case of reach, a character (an effect display imitating a person or the like, which is different from a design) is displayed, or a background display mode (for example, a color) of the effect display device 9 is changed. There may be directing. Such an effect is called reach effect display. In addition, some reach is set so that when it appears, a big hit is likely to occur compared to a normal reach. Such special (specific) reach is called super reach.

  When receiving the effect control command indicating the variation pattern, the effect control microcomputer 100 displays the variation of the decorative symbol on the decorative symbol display for a time corresponding to the variation pattern indicated by the received effect control command. In addition to performing variation display of the effect symbol, the effect display device 9 performs a display effect of a type corresponding to the variation pattern indicated by the received effect control command. At the same time, an effect using effects parts such as a lamp, LED and speaker 27 is performed. That is, the fluctuation pattern indicates the fluctuation time and the aspect of the effect.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a variation pattern selection data table that stores determination values used for selecting and determining variation patterns of special symbols, decorative symbols, and effect symbols. As the data table for selecting the variation pattern, the first variation pattern data table for selecting the variation pattern when the variation display of the first special symbol is performed from among a plurality of variation patterns, and the variation of the second special symbol. A second variation pattern data table is provided for selecting a variation pattern at the time of display from among a plurality of variation patterns, and the variation display is performed with either the first special symbol or the second special symbol. These variation pattern data tables are selectively used depending on whether or not they are used.

  The first variation pattern data table selects and determines the first shortened variation pattern data table used for selecting and determining the variation pattern used at the time of shortening variation, and the variation pattern used at the time of non-shortened variation in which the variation time is not shortened. Including the first non-shortening variation pattern data table used for the purpose, and is stored in advance in the ROM 54 described above. In addition, the second variation pattern data table includes a second shortened variation pattern data table used for selecting and determining a variation pattern used at the time of shortening variation, and a variation pattern used at the time of non-shortened variation in which the variation time is not shortened. Including a second non-shortening variation pattern data table used for selection and determination, and stored in advance in the ROM 54 described above.

  FIG. 11A is a first non-shortening variation pattern data table that is looked up when the first special symbol is non-shortening variation. In the first non-shortening variation pattern data table, based on the result of the big hit determination using the random 1 described above, the loss determination time data table and the big hit determination time data table are selectively used.

  When it is determined to be out of place based on the jackpot determination result using random 1, a data table for determining out-of-order is used in which the relationship between the random 4 extracted value and the variation pattern to be selected and determined is as follows. It is done. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “0 to 131”, the variation pattern # 1 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “132 to 140”, the variation pattern # 2 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “141 to 146”, the variation pattern # 3 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “147 to 149”, the variation pattern # 4 is selected and determined. As described above, when it is determined to be a deviation, a variation pattern is selected and determined from a variation pattern that does not reach and a variation pattern that reaches reach.

  Further, when it is determined that the big hit is determined based on the big hit determination result using random 1, the big hit determination time data table in which the relationship between the extracted value of random 4 and the variation pattern selected and determined is determined as follows. Is used. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “0 to 29”, the variation pattern # 2 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “30 to 74”, the variation pattern # 3 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “75 to 149”, the variation pattern # 4 is selected and determined. As described above, when it is determined that a big hit is made, a variation pattern is selected and determined from among the variation patterns to be reached.

  FIG. 11B is a first shortened variation pattern data table that is looked up when the first special symbol is shortened. In the first shortened variation pattern data table, based on the result of the big hit determination using the random 1 described above, the loss determination time data table and the big hit determination time data table are selectively used.

  When it is determined to be out of place based on the jackpot determination result using random 1, a data table for determining out-of-order is used in which the relationship between the random 4 extracted value and the variation pattern to be selected and determined is as follows. It is done. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “0 to 131”, the variation pattern # 5 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “132 to 140”, the variation pattern # 6 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “141 to 146”, the variation pattern # 7 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “147 to 149”, the variation pattern # 8 is selected and determined. As described above, when it is determined to be a deviation, a variation pattern is selected and determined from a variation pattern that does not reach and a variation pattern that reaches reach.

  Further, when it is determined that the big hit is determined based on the big hit determination result using random 1, the big hit determination time data table in which the relationship between the extracted value of random 4 and the variation pattern selected and determined is determined as follows. Is used. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “0 to 29”, the variation pattern # 6 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “30 to 74”, the variation pattern # 7 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “75 to 149”, the variation pattern # 8 is selected and determined. As described above, when it is determined that a big hit is made, a variation pattern is selected and determined from among the variation patterns to be reached.

  FIG. 11C is a second non-shortening variation pattern data table that is looked up when the second special symbol is non-shortening variation. In the second non-shortening variation pattern data table, based on the result of the jackpot determination using the random 1 described above, the data table for determining the loss and the data table for determining the jackpot are properly used.

  When it is determined to be out of place based on the jackpot determination result using random 1, a data table for determining out-of-order is used in which the relationship between the random 4 extracted value and the variation pattern to be selected and determined is as follows. It is done. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “0 to 143”, the variation pattern # 1 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “144 to 146”, the variation pattern # 2 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is “147, 148”, the variation pattern # 3 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is “149”, the variation pattern # 4 is selected and determined. As described above, when it is determined to be a deviation, a variation pattern is selected and determined from a variation pattern that does not reach and a variation pattern that reaches reach. In the second non-shortened variation pattern data table, data is set so that the ratio of the selection of the variation patterns # 2 to # 4 to be reached is smaller than that in the first non-shortened variation pattern data table. Specifically, in the second non-shortened fluctuation pattern data table, the ratio of the change patterns # 2 to # 4 to be reached is determined to be 1/3 as compared with the first non-shortened fluctuation pattern data table.

  Further, when it is determined that the big hit is determined based on the big hit determination result using random 1, the big hit determination time data table in which the relationship between the extracted value of random 4 and the variation pattern selected and determined is determined as follows. Is used. In the jackpot determination time data table, the relationship between the random 4 extracted value and each of the selected variation patterns # 2 to # 4 is determined at the same rate as the first non-shortened variation pattern table. . The relationship between the random 4 extracted value in the jackpot determination time data table in the second non-shortened variation pattern data table and the variation patterns # 2 to # 4 selected and determined is the same as in the first non-shortened variation pattern table. It does not have to be.

  FIG. 11D is a second shortened variation pattern data table looked up when the second special symbol is shortened. In the second shortened variation pattern data table, based on the result of the big hit determination using the random 1, the loss determination time data table and the big hit determination time data table are selectively used.

  When it is determined to be out of place based on the jackpot determination result using random 1, a data table for determining out-of-order is used in which the relationship between the random 4 extracted value and the variation pattern to be selected and determined is as follows. It is done. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “0 to 143”, the variation pattern # 5 is selected and determined. When the random 4 extraction value is within the range of “144 to 146”, the variation pattern # 6 is selected and determined. In any case of “147, 148”, the variation pattern # 7 is selected and determined. If the random 4 extracted value is within the range of “149”, the variation pattern # 8 is selected and determined. As described above, when it is determined to be a deviation, a variation pattern is selected and determined from a variation pattern that does not reach and a variation pattern that reaches reach. In the second shortened variation pattern data table, data is set so that the ratio of the variation patterns # 6 to # 8 to be reached is determined and reduced as compared with the first shortened variation pattern data table. Specifically, in the second shortened variation pattern data table, the ratio at which the reach variation patterns # 6 to # 8 are selected and determined is 1/3 compared to the first shortened variation pattern data table.

  Further, when it is determined that the big hit is determined based on the big hit determination result using random 1, the big hit determination time data table in which the relationship between the extracted value of random 4 and the variation pattern selected and determined is determined as follows. Is used. In the jackpot determination data table, the relationship between the random 4 extracted value and each of the variation patterns # 6 to # 8 to be selected and determined is determined at the same rate as the first shortened variation pattern table. The relationship between the random 4 extracted value in the jackpot determination time data table in the second shortened variation pattern data table and the variation patterns # 6 to # 8 selected and determined is not the same as in the first shortened variation pattern table. Also good.

  Thus, in the second variation pattern data table, as compared with the first variation pattern data table, the variation pattern that reaches when the display result is out of the case of either the shortening variation or the non-shortening variation. The data is set so that the ratio at which selection is determined is reduced. Thus, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed, a variation pattern that reaches when the display result is out of place is less likely to occur than when the variation display of the first special symbol is performed. When the display result is a big hit, the first variation pattern data table and the second variation pattern data table are always selected as the variation pattern to reach without distinction between the shortened variation and the non-shortened variation. The Thereby, when reaching in the variable display of the second special symbol, the reliability that is a big hit is higher than when reaching in the variable display of the first special symbol. The player can be given an impression that the reliability of the big hit is high, as in the big hit notice informing that the reach in the variation display of the second special symbol is a big hit. Therefore, in this pachinko gaming machine 1, the effect of reaching in the variable display of the second special symbol also has the meaning as the effect of the big hit notice.

  In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the ratio of the variation pattern to be reached when the display result is out of place differs between the variation display of the first special symbol and the variation display of the second special symbol. It was. As the rate of selection of the variation pattern that reaches when the display result is out of place, the variation pattern that becomes reach is selected for either the variation display of the first special symbol or the variation display of the second special symbol The ratio to be changed may be set to 100%, or the ratio at which the reach variation pattern is selected may be selected to be 0%.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a signal line of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by using eight signal lines of the effect control signals D0 to D7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting the capture signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired.

  In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control microcomputer 100, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a signal that triggers the acquisition of effect control command data.

  The effect control command is sent only once so that the effect control microcomputer 100 can recognize it. In this example, “recognizable” means that the level of the effect control INT signal changes, and that it is sent only once so as to be recognizable means, for example, in the first byte and the second byte of the effect control command data, respectively. Accordingly, the production control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once. The effect control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control microcomputer 100. In the example shown in FIG. 14, commands 8001 (H) to 8008 (H) correspond to the variation display of the decoration symbol and the effect symbol displayed in the decoration symbol display and the effect display device 9 in response to the special symbol variation display. Is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the variation start. Therefore, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives any one of the commands 8001 (H) to 8008 (H), the decorative design indicators 9a and 9b and the production display device 9 start to display the variation of the decorative design and the production design. Control to do.

  Commands 8C00 (H) to 8C07 (H) are effect control commands (effect designating commands) indicating whether or not to make a big hit, types of big hits (2R big hit, 15R big hit), and gaming state. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the display results of the decorative symbols and the production symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C00 (H) to 8C07 (H), so that the commands 8C00 (H) to 8C07 (H) are displayed. This is called a result specific command.

  The command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that the variation display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that the variation display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a symbol variation designation command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the special symbol variation display (variation) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variation display (variation) of the decorative symbol and the effect symbol and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (power-on designation command) that is transmitted when power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to pachinko gaming machine 1 is resumed. When the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and otherwise, the power supply Send the input command.

  Command 9500 (H) is an effect control command (low base state background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is set to the low base state or the low base state is continued. The command 9501 (H) is an effect control command (high base state background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is changed to the high base state or the high base state is continued. The low base state background designation command and the high base state background designation command are referred to as a background designation command or a gaming state designation command. In response to the reception of the gaming state designation command (background designation command), the presentation control microcomputer 100 sets the background on the display screen of the presentation display device 9 as the background corresponding to the gaming state indicated by the gaming state designation command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The command A000 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start 1 designation command: fanfare designation command). A001 (H) is an effect control command (a big hit start 2 designation command: a sudden probability variation designation command) that designates that a sudden probability variation screen is to be displayed.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  Command A300 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end designation command: an ending designation command) for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game.

  The command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first start winning designation command) that designates that the first start winning has been won. The command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second start winning designation command) for designating that the second starting win has been won. The first start prize designation command and the second start prize designation command may be collectively referred to as a start prize designation command.

  The command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage number designation command) for designating a total number (total pending storage number) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C2XX (H) indicates the total pending storage number. The command C300 (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage count subtraction designation command) that designates that the total pending storage count is decremented by one. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total pending memory count subtraction designation command when subtracting the total pending memory count, but does not use the total pending memory count subtraction designation command, and does not use the total pending memory count subtraction designation command. When the stored number is subtracted, the combined pending storage number after the subtraction may be designated by a combined pending storage number designation command.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the content shown in FIG. 14, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  In the example shown in FIG. 14, the variation pattern command and the display result specifying command are transmitted as identification information variation display and second variation display unit (second decoration symbol display) on the first variation display unit (first decoration symbol display unit 9a). Game control when the production control microcomputer 100 is configured to control the first variation display portion and the second variation display portion in common with the variation display of the identification information in the device 9b). It is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the production microcomputer 560 to the production control microcomputer 100. In addition, when controlling the effect parts such as the effect display device 9 that produces an effect in accordance with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits the effect to the effect control microcomputer 100. It is possible to avoid increasing the types of commands that are executed.

  15 to 17 are explanatory diagrams illustrating examples of the transmission timing of the effect control command. FIG. 15A shows an example when a customer waiting demo command is transmitted. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a background designation command before transmitting a customer waiting demo command. Specifically, when a background designation command is transmitted in a game control process based on a timer interrupt (see FIG. 5), a customer waiting demo command is transmitted in a game control process based on the next timer interrupt.

  FIG. 15B shows an example when a start prize (first start prize or second start prize) occurs. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits the first start prize designation command (or the second start prize designation command) and then continuously transmits the total pending storage number designation command. Specifically, a first start winning designation command (or a second starting winning designation command) is transmitted by a game control process based on a timer interruption, and then a total pending storage number designation command is transmitted.

  FIG. 15C shows an example at the time of starting the variation of the special symbol. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a background designation command, a symbol variation designation command, a variation pattern command, an effect symbol designation command, and a combined pending memory number subtraction designation command at the start of variation. Specifically, when a background designation command is transmitted in a game control process based on a timer interrupt, a symbol variation designation command and a variation pattern command are transmitted in a game control process based on the next timer interrupt. Further, an effect designating command is transmitted in the game control process based on the next timer interruption. Furthermore, a total pending storage number subtraction designation command is transmitted in the game control process based on the next timer interrupt. When the variable display time has elapsed, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted.

  FIG. 16A shows an example at the time of starting the variation of the special symbol that is started when the total number of pending storages is changed from 0 to 1. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a first start prize designation command (or a second start prize designation command) in a game control process based on a timer interrupt, and then sends a total pending storage number designation command. Then, from the game control process based on the next timer interruption, each effect control command is transmitted as shown in FIG. In the game control process based on the timer interruption, the first start prize designation command (or the second start prize designation command), the total pending storage number designation command, and the background designation command are transmitted, and the next timer interruption (after 2 ms) The symbol variation designation command and variation pattern command are transmitted in the game control processing based on the timer interruption), and the effect symbol designation command is transmitted in the game control processing based on the next timer interruption (further timer interruption after 2 ms). Further, the total pending storage number subtraction designation command may be transmitted in a game control process based on the next timer interrupt (further timer interrupt after 2 ms).

  FIG. 16B shows an example when power supply is started (when power is turned on). The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a power-on specification command and a background specification command, and then transmits a customer waiting demonstration specification command. Specifically, when a power-on designation command and a background designation command are transmitted in a game control process based on a timer interrupt, a customer waiting demo command is transmitted in a game control process based on the next timer interrupt.

  FIG. 16C shows an example when power supply is resumed (when power failure is restored). The game control microcomputer 560 continuously transmits a power supply restoration designation command, a production symbol designation command, and a combined pending storage number designation command.

  FIG. 17A shows an example in a 15R jackpot game. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a jackpot start 1 designation command at the start of a big hit game, sends a big prize opening opening designation command at the start of each round, and designates after the big prize opening is opened at the end of each round. A command is transmitted, and a jackpot end designation command is transmitted at the end of the jackpot game.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the effect control command control processing in S28. In the effect control command control process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) checks whether or not the initialization command transmission request flag is set (S351). If the initialization command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S356. If the initialization command transmission request flag is set, the initialization command transmission request flag is reset (S352), and a power-on designation command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S353).

  Specifically, the first byte data of the power-on designation command is output to the output port for outputting the command data, 1 is output only for a predetermined period to the output port for outputting the effect control INT signal, The second byte data of the power-on designation command is output to the output port for outputting command data, and 1 is output to the output port for outputting the effect control INT signal for a predetermined period. An output port for outputting command data and an output port for outputting the effect control INT signal are connected to the effect control board 80. Note that the method of transmitting such an effect control command is the same for other effect control commands other than the power-on designation command.

  Next, the CPU 56 transmits a low base state background designation command (S354), and sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission request flag (S355).

  In S356, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the power failure recovery command transmission request flag is set. If the power failure recovery command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S361. If the power failure recovery command transmission request flag is set, the power failure recovery command transmission request flag is reset (S357), and a power failure recovery designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (S358). Next, an effect designating command is transmitted (S359). Further, a total pending storage number designation command is transmitted (S360). In S359, CPU 56 transmits an effect symbol designation command corresponding to the data stored in the effect symbol type storage area. In S360, the value of the total pending storage number counter for counting the total pending storage number is set in the command data of the second byte. The total pending storage number counter is formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  In S361, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first start winning designation command transmission request flag is set. If the first start winning designation command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S365. If the first start prize designation command transmission request flag is set, the first start prize designation command transmission request flag is reset (S362), and the first start prize designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100. (S363). Next, a total pending storage number designation command is transmitted (S364). In S364, the value of the total pending storage number counter is set to the command data of the second byte.

  In S365, the CPU 56 checks whether the second start winning designation command transmission request flag is set. If the second start winning designation command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S371. If the second start prize designation command transmission request flag is set, the second start prize designation command transmission request flag is reset (S366), and the second start prize designation command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100. (S367). Next, a total pending storage number designation command is transmitted (S368). In S368, the value of the total pending storage number counter is set to the command data of the second byte.

  In S371, the CPU 56 checks whether the background designation command transmission request flag (low base state background designation command transmission request flag or high base state background designation command transmission request flag) is set. If the background designation command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S374. If the background designation command transmission request flag is set, the background designation command transmission request flag is reset (S372), and the background designation command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S373). When the low base state background designation command transmission request flag is set as the background designation command transmission request flag, the low base state background designation command transmission request flag is set and the high base state background designation command transmission request flag is set. If it is, a high base state background designation command is transmitted.

  In S374, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the variation pattern command transmission request flag is set. If the variation pattern command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S381. If the variation pattern command transmission request flag is set, the variation pattern command transmission request flag is reset (S375), and the symbol variation designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (S376). Next, a variation pattern command is transmitted (S377). In S376, the CPU 56 transmits the first symbol variation designation command if the first variation flag is set, and if not, or if the second variation flag is set, the second symbol variation designation command is sent. Send. In step S377, a variation pattern command corresponding to the data stored in the variation pattern storage area is transmitted.

  In S381, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the effect symbol designation command transmission request flag is set. If the effect symbol designation command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S384. If the effect symbol designation command transmission request flag is set, the effect symbol designation command transmission request flag is reset (S382), and the effect symbol designation command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S383). In S383, the CPU 56 transmits an effect symbol designation command corresponding to the data stored in the effect symbol type storage area.

  In S384, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission request flag is set. If the total pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S387. If the total pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission request flag is set, the total pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission request flag is reset (S385), and the total pending storage number subtraction designation command is sent to the effect control microcomputer 100. (S386).

  In S387, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the customer waiting demo designation command transmission request flag is set. If the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission request flag is not set, the process proceeds to S391. If the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission request flag is set, the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission request flag is reset (S388), and the customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (S389). .

  In S391, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a flag indicating a request for transmitting another effect control command is set. If a flag indicating a request to send another effect control command is set, the flag is reset, and the effect control command requested by the flag is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S391). As representative examples of other effect control commands, based on the setting of a symbol confirmation designation command or a jackpot start designation command transmission request flag transmitted when the symbol confirmation designation command transmission request flag is set. There are jackpot start 1 designation commands and jackpot start 2 designation commands that are transmitted.

In this embodiment, all the production control commands are the main processing already described (see FIG. 4) and the first special symbol process processing described below (FIGS. 20, 22, 24 to 26, FIG. 28, see FIG. 30, FIG. 31) and a flag requesting command transmission in the second special symbol process, etc. (initialization command transmission request flag, variation pattern command transmission request flag, first start winning designation command transmission request flag, etc. ) Is set in the effect control command control process. However, in the first special symbol process and the second special symbol process, each effect control command may be directly transmitted instead of setting a flag for requesting transmission of the command. In such a configuration, when a plurality of effect control commands are transmitted in one game control process, they may be transmitted continuously. For example, instead of the process of S13 shown in FIG. 4, the processes of S353 to S355 may be executed. Further, instead of the process of S116 shown in FIG. 22, S3 shown in FIG.
63 and S364 may be executed. Further, instead of the process of S80 shown in FIG. 25, the processes of S376 and S377 shown in FIG. 19 may be executed.

  20 and 21 are flowcharts showing an example of a program of the first special symbol process (S26A) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the first special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a and the special winning opening is executed.

  The program of the second special symbol process (S26B) is configured in the same manner as the first special symbol process. That is, in the following description, if “first” is read as “second” and “second” is read as “first”, the second special symbol process will be described.

  When performing the first special symbol process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the demo command transmission flag is set (S41). The demo command transmission flag is a flag indicating that the background designation command transmitted immediately before the customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted (specifically, the background designation command transmission request flag is set). . Therefore, when the demo command transmission flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the demo command transmission flag (S42) and sets the customer waiting demo designation command transmission request flag (S43). Then, the process proceeds to S314.

  If the demo command transmission flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether the first special symbol is changing or a big hit game is in progress (for example, determined by the value of the first special symbol process flag). (S44A) If the first special symbol is changing or a big hit game, the value of the monitoring timer is cleared to 0 (S46), and the process proceeds to S311. Further, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first reserved storage number is 0 (S44B), and if it is 0, the process proceeds to S45. If it is not 0, the value of the monitoring timer is cleared to 0 (S46), and the process proceeds to S311. The monitoring timer is a software timer formed in the RAM 55, and is a timer for measuring a duration time in which both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are zero.

  In S45, the value of the monitoring timer is incremented by one. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the monitoring timer is a predetermined value (S47). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the monitoring timer has timed out. If the monitoring timer has not timed out, the process proceeds to S311. If the monitoring timer has timed out, the background designation command transmission request flag is set (S48), the demo command transmission flag is set (S49), and the process proceeds to S314. In S48, if the gaming state is the low base state, the low base state background designation command transmission request flag is set. If the gaming state is the high base state, the high base state background designation command transmission request flag is set. . The gaming state is confirmed by an internal flag (high base state flag).

  Even in the second special symbol process, when the second reserved memory number is not 0, the value of the monitoring timer is cleared to 0, and when the second reserved memory number is 0, the value of the monitoring timer is set to +1. To do. For example, even if the second reserved memory number is not 0, if the first reserved memory number is 0, the value of the monitoring timer is incremented by 1 in the process of S45, but the value of the monitoring timer is 0 in the second special symbol process. Therefore, if the determination value (predetermined value) in the process of S47 is set to 2 or more, it is not determined as “Y” in the process of S47. That is, even if the first reserved memory number is 0, the monitoring timer does not time out unless the second reserved memory number is 0.

  By the control as described above, both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are 0 (both the value of the first reserved memory number counter and the value of the second reserved memory number counter are 0). When a certain state) continues for a predetermined period, a customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted. The customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted only when it is detected that the state in which both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are 0 continues for a predetermined period. Even if the state continues further, the customer waiting demonstration designation command is not transmitted thereafter. Then, when the state where both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are 0 continues for a predetermined period, a customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted.

  In this embodiment, control is performed so that the customer waiting demo command is transmitted using the value of the first reserved memory number counter and the value of the second reserved memory number counter. If the state of 0 continues for a predetermined period, the customer waiting demo command may be transmitted.

  Further, in this embodiment, the customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted when both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are 0 for a predetermined period, but the special symbol fluctuates. As soon as both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number become 0, on condition that the game is not executed and the jackpot game is not executed, the customer immediately waits. You may control to send a demo command.

  Further, when the processes of S43 and S49 are executed, the processes of S311 and S312 are not executed, and it is checked that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 and the first start opening switch 13a is turned on. Although not made, the winning of the game ball to the first start winning opening 13 is not overlooked. Generally, a proximity switch or a contact pressing switch is used as the first start opening switch 13a. However, when any game ball is won at the first start winning opening 13, the switch output is turned on. It lasts for several tens of ms. In this embodiment, the first special symbol process is executed every 2 ms. However, when the processes of S43 and S49 are executed, there is a period during which the processes of S311 and S312 are not executed for several ms (for example, 4 ms). Even if such a period exists, the ON state of the output of the switch continues for several tens of milliseconds, so that the winning of the game ball to the first start winning opening 13 is not overlooked. Absent.

  In S311, if the first start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 is turned on, that is, if the first start winning is generated, the CPU 56 performs the first start. A mouth switch passage process is executed (S312). If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 1, the process ends (S313). When the value of the total pending storage number counter is not 1 and when it is detected in S311 that the first start port switch 13a is not turned on, the second special symbol is not changing and the big hit game is being played If it is not (S314), any one of S300 to S309 is performed. The fact that the second special symbol is not changing is determined, for example, by whether or not the second changing flag is set. Whether or not a big hit game is being played is determined by, for example, whether or not a big hit flag is set. Further, it may be determined by the value of the second special symbol process flag that the second special symbol is not changing and that the big hit game is not being played.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 1 when the first start port switch passing process is performed, the processing of S300 to S309 is not performed because the value of the total pending storage number counter is changed from 0 to 1. This is because, after the start winning designation command and the total pending storage number designation command are transmitted, the background designation command is desired to be transmitted in the next timer interruption process (see FIG. 16A). If the process of S300 is executed after the value of the total pending storage number counter is 1, the start winning designation command, the total pending storage number designation command, and the background designation command are transmitted in the same timer interruption process. It is. Note that each effect control command is transmitted as shown in FIG. In addition, as a modification of the transmission timing of the effect control command shown in FIG. 16A, the first start winning designation command and the total pending storage designation designation in the game control process based on the timer interruption (that is, within 2 ms) When transmitting a command and a background designation command, the determination in S313 is not performed.

The processes of S300 to S309 are as follows.
First special symbol normal process (S300): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is zero. The game control microcomputer 560 confirms the first reserved memory number when the display of the variation display of the first special symbol can be started. The first reserved memory number can be confirmed by the count value of the first reserved memory number counter. Further, if the count value of the first reserved memory number counter is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the memory to be changed next in the combined reserved memory corresponds to the first reserved memory. If it corresponds to the above, control for transmitting a game state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to S301. Note that the command transmission control specifically refers to a flag for requesting command transmission (in this case, the background designation command so that the command is actually transmitted in the effect control command control processing). A transmission request flag).

  First variation pattern setting process (S301): This process is executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 1. Decide whether or not to win. In addition, the variation pattern (corresponding to the variation time) of the variation display of the first special symbol is preliminarily determined in accordance with the value of the variation pattern determination random number (one of the display random numbers) extracted at the time of starting winning. Select from among the fluctuation patterns. Further, the first special symbol is started to be changed, and control for transmitting a change pattern command (change pattern command or the like) to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) according to S302.

  First gaming state determination process (S302): This process is executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 2. When it is determined to be a big hit, the type of the big hit and the gaming state after the big hit game are determined. Further, control for transmitting a display result specifying command is performed to the microcomputer 100 for effect control. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) according to S303.

  First reserved memory number transmission process (S303): This process is executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 3. Control is performed to transmit the total pending storage number subtraction designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) according to S304.

  First special symbol changing process (S304): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 4. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the first variation pattern setting process elapses (the first variation time timer set in S302 times out, that is, the value of the first variation time timer becomes 0), the internal state (first The special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S305 (5 in this example).

  First special symbol stop process (S305): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 5. The variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is stopped and the stopped symbol is displayed. Further, control is performed to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the production control microcomputer 100. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) according to S306. When the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) according to S300. The effect control microcomputer 100 receives the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 and controls the first ornament symbol display unit 9a to stop the first ornament symbol, and also displays the effect. The device 9 is controlled so that the effect symbol is stopped.

  First jackpot display process (S306): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 6. A predetermined period is measured by the big hit display time timer, and when the predetermined period elapses, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S307 (7 in this example). The production control microcomputer 100 performs a display for notifying the production display device 9 of the occurrence of the 15R big hit during a predetermined period. In the case of sudden probability change big hit, an effect for notifying the occurrence of sudden probability change big hit is performed.

  Pre-opening process for first big prize opening (S307): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 7. In the first big prize opening opening pre-processing, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the first big prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) according to S308. The first big winning opening opening pre-processing is executed for each round. However, when starting the first round, the first big winning opening opening pre-processing is also a process of starting a big hit game.

  First big winning opening opening process (S308): This process is executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 8. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. When the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S307. When all the rounds are finished, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (9 in this example) according to S309.

  First big hit end processing (S309): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 9. Control for causing the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. Also, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) according to S300.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the first start port switch passing process of S312. In the first start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first reserved memory number is 4 which is the upper limit value (S111). If the first pending storage number is 4, the process ends.

  If the first reserved memory number is not 4, the value of the first reserved memory number counter indicating the first reserved memory number is incremented by 1 (S112). Further, the value of the total pending storage number counter is increased by 1 (S113). In the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), data indicating “first start winning” is set in an area corresponding to the value of the combined reserved storage number counter (S114).

  FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). FIG. 23 illustrates a case where the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 23, in the reserved specific area, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured. The reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55. In such an on-hold specific area, data indicating the “first start prize” (“in the figure” in the figure) so that the order in which the start prizes are generated (the order of 1 to 8 in the figure) can be identified by the above-described S114. Either “first”) or data indicating “second start winning” (“second” in the figure) is stored. The data in the reserved specific area is read from the start winning data generated in the past in the oldest order, and it is confirmed whether it is the first starting winning or the second starting winning (see S52 in FIG. 24 described later). . Then, the confirmed oldest data is deleted, and the remaining data is shifted one by one (in the example shown in FIG. 23, it is shifted to the left). By the processing of S52 and S54, the variation of the special symbol is started for the start winning that has occurred in the past in the first starting winning and the second starting winning. That is, the variation of the special symbol is started in the order of the start winning prize.

  Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (such as a counter value for generating a big hit determination random number) and stores them in the reserved memory buffer corresponding to the value of the first reserved memory number counter as the extracted random number value. Processing for storing in the storage area is executed (S115). In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the first reserved storage number are secured. Further, a counter for generating a jackpot determination random number and the like and a holding storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. In step 115, random values 1 to 4 and 8 (see FIG. 6) are extracted and stored in the storage area. Further, the first start winning memory designation command transmission request flag is set (S116).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the first special symbol normal process (S300) in the first special symbol process. In the first special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks the value of the first reserved memory number (S51). Specifically, the count value of the first reserved memory number counter is confirmed.

  If the first reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the reserved specific area (see FIG. 23) is the “first start prize” (S52). ). If it is “first start prize”, the processing after S53 is performed.

  In S53, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 in the first reserved storage number buffer of the RAM 55 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Then, the content of the reserved specific area is shifted by one. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the shift is made to the left (S54). By the processing of S52 and S54, the variation of the special symbol is started for the start winning that has occurred in the past in the first starting winning and the second starting winning. That is, the variation of the special symbol is started in the order of the start winning prize.

  Next, the value of the first reserved memory number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the first reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (S55). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 is expressed as the first reserved memory number = n−. 1 is stored in the storage area corresponding to 1. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective first reserved memory numbers are extracted always coincides with the order of the first reserved memory number = 1, 2, 3, 4. It is like that. Further, the value of the total pending storage number counter is decremented by -1 (S56), and the first changing flag is set (S57).

  Further, the background designation command transmission request flag is set (S58), and the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first variation pattern setting process (S301) (S59). In S58, if the gaming state is the low base state, the low base state background designation command transmission request flag is set, and if the gaming state is the high base state, the high base state background designation command transmission request flag is set. . The gaming state is confirmed by an internal flag (high base state flag).

  In this embodiment, by performing the determination process of S52, the variable symbol display is started in the order in which the start prizes are generated regardless of the first start prize and the second start prize. The variable display may be started with priority given to. For example, if the determination process of S52 is eliminated, the first special symbol process including the first special symbol normal process is executed prior to the second special symbol process including the second special symbol normal process (FIG. 5). Reference), when the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are not 0, the variable display of the first special symbol based on the first reserved memory number has priority until the first reserved memory number becomes 0. Executed.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the first variation pattern setting process (S301) in the first special symbol process. In the first variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number (random 1) from the random number buffer area (S61), and executes the jackpot determination module (S62). The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a predetermined jackpot determination value with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot if they match. When it is determined to be a big hit (S63), the process proceeds to S71. Note that, in S63, the CPU 56 determines that the jackpot is determined as a big hit when the jackpot determination random number value coincides with the jackpot determination value. Further, determining whether or not to win a jackpot means determining whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but determining whether or not the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a is to be a jackpot symbol. It is also to do.

  If it is decided not to make a big hit, the CPU 56 reads out the random number for determining symbols out of the random number buffer area (S64), and determines the off symbol (for example, one of the even symbols) based on the random number for determining out of symbols. (S65). The CPU 56 stores the determined stop symbol in the stop symbol storage area in the RAM 55 (S66). Then, the process proceeds to S75.

  In S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag. Then, the jackpot symbol determining random number is read from the random number buffer area (S72), and the jackpot symbol (for example, one of the odd symbols) is determined based on the jackpot symbol determining random number (S73). The CPU 56 stores the determined stop symbol in the stop symbol storage area in the RAM 55 (S74). Then, the process proceeds to S75.

  In S75, the random number for determining the variation pattern is read from the random number buffer area. Then, the variation pattern is determined. At that time, if the value of the total pending storage number counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (for example, 3 or more) (S76), the variation pattern is extracted from the shortened variation pattern table (first shortened variation pattern table in FIG. 11B). Is selected (S77). In the shortened variation pattern table, as shown in FIG. 11B, data indicating the variation patterns # 5 to # 8 is set corresponding to the determination value. When the big hit flag is set, the variation pattern # 5 is not selected from the shortened variation pattern table.

  In the determination of S76, for example, it is determined whether or not it is 3 or more because the value of the total pending storage number counter has already been set to -1 in the process of S56. That is, the value of the total pending storage number counter is 4 (when the upper limit number of the first pending storage number and the second pending storage number is 4, respectively, that is, when the upper limit value of the total pending storage number counter is 8) or more. This is because it is desired to use the shortened variation pattern table for the variation display started at the time. The reason for using the shortened variation pattern table when the value of the total pending storage number counter is 4 (when the upper limit is 8) or more is as follows. That is, when the first reserved memory number is 4 (upper limit number), the variation time of the first special symbol is shortened, and when the second reserved memory number is 4 (upper limit number), the second special symbol When the variation time is shortened, for example, when the first reserved memory number is 2 and the second reserved memory number is 3, the variation time is not shortened. However, the total pending storage number displayed on the total pending storage display portion 18c is 5. At that time, since the variation time is not shortened, there is a possibility that a player who has a suspicious feeling appears. Therefore, in this embodiment, the variation time is shortened for the variation of the special symbol that is started when the value of the total pending storage number counter is 4 or more.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is less than the predetermined value (S76), a fluctuation pattern is selected from the non-shortening fluctuation pattern table (the first non-shortening fluctuation pattern table in FIG. 11A) (S78). In the non-shortening variation pattern table, as shown in FIG. 11A, data indicating the variation patterns # 1 to # 4 is set corresponding to the determination value. When the big hit flag is set, the fluctuation pattern # 1 is not selected from the non-shortening fluctuation pattern table. The CPU 56 stores data indicating the determined variation pattern in the variation pattern storage area in the RAM 55 (S79). Then, a variation pattern command transmission request flag is set (S80).

  In addition, the fluctuation pattern table used when it is decided to be a big hit (the big hit shortening fluctuation pattern table and the big hit non-shortening fluctuation pattern table) and the fluctuation used when it is decided not to be a big hit Apart from the pattern tables (the loss shortening variation pattern table and the loss non-shortening variation pattern table), the CPU 56 selects a variation pattern from a different table depending on whether or not it is decided to make a big hit. May be.

  Further, the CPU 56 starts changing the first special symbol (S81). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process of S32 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time of the variation pattern is set in the first variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (S82). Then, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first gaming state determination process (S302) (S83).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the first gaming state determination process (S302) in the first special symbol process. In the first gaming state determination process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (S101). If the big hit flag is not set, the data indicating the off-designated effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command shown in FIG. 14) is stored in the effect symbol type storage area (S106), and the process proceeds to S107.

  When the jackpot flag is set, the game state determination random number (random 8) is read from the random number buffer area (S102), and the type of jackpot (sudden probability change or otherwise jackpot) based on the value of random 8 And the gaming state after the big hit game are determined (S103). Then, an effect designating command is determined according to whether or not the game is suddenly changed and the game state after the jackpot game (S104), and data indicating the determined effect designating command is stored in the effect design type storage area (S105). ), And the process proceeds to S107.

  In this embodiment, a jackpot symbol to be a stop symbol is determined based on the value of the jackpot symbol determining random number (random 3) (see S72 and S73 in FIG. 25), and then a gaming state determining random number in S103. Although the type of jackpot and gaming state are determined based on the value in (Random 8), the type of jackpot, gaming state and jackpot symbol may be determined using one random number.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing whether or not sudden change is likely and the correspondence between the game state after the big hit game and the effect designating command. According to the gaming state at that time (corresponding to the leftmost column in FIG. 27) and according to the value of random 8, the CPU 56 wins a big hit as described as “determination result based on random 8”. The type and the gaming state after the big hit game are determined, and an effect designating command corresponding to the determination result as shown in FIG. 27 is determined.

  In FIG. 27, “Background after the end of the big hit game” indicates a background mode controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100 that has received the effect designating command. Also. For the background modes marked with (*), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the background in the effect display device 9 as such, but in fact, in the control of the game control microcomputer 560, the game state is Indicates a high probability / high base mode. That is, the actual game state and the game state that the player wants to grasp are different. Such control is performed to increase game variations.

  Further, when the gaming state is the low base state, the background mode is the normal mode or the high-accuracy low base mode (latent mode). When the gaming state is the high base state, the background mode is the high-accuracy high-base mode (active mode) or the low-accuracy base mode (resurrection mode). In each background mode, a background that allows the player to predict the game state is displayed on the effect display device 9. For example, in the active mode, the background in the effect display device 9 is the brightest background, and in the revival mode, the background is darker than the active mode but brighter than the latent mode. In normal mode, it is the darkest background. Such division is an example, and any background effect may be performed as long as the background effect is such that the player can predict the gaming state. Furthermore, different characters may be displayed on the effect display device 9 in each background mode. In addition, when in the revival mode, an effect that suggests a high probability state may be performed. For example, in the background mode marked with (*) in FIG. 27, a predetermined notice character that suggests a high probability state is displayed on the effect display device 9.

  When the gaming state is a high probability high base state, the determination result based on random 8 is 15R big hit (after big hit game, high probability / high base state), and 15R big hit (after big hit game, low probability) The effect designating command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 may be different depending on when it is in the high base state. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 may make the production (for example, the background screen in the production display device 9) the same between the high probability low base state and the low probability low base state. For example, after a big hit game, the mode shifts to the latent mode, and a predetermined condition (for example, whether to change the background mode to a mode that is less advantageous for the player by lottery for the production for each variation display (for example, a lottery using random numbers) When a decision is made to fall in the case of performing a lottery) or when a predetermined variation pattern command is received, the normal mode is entered with a predetermined probability. The effect control microcomputer 100 stores the received effect designating command, but when the effect designating command received when the jackpot game is in a low probability state, it indicates a high probability state. Compared with, it shifts to the normal mode at a higher rate.

  In S107, the CPU 56 sets an effect symbol designation command transmission request flag. Then, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first reserved storage number transmission process (S303) (S108).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the first reserved memory number transmission process (S303) in the first special symbol process. In the first reserved memory number transmission process, the CPU 56 sets a total reserved memory number subtraction designation command transmission request flag (S109). Then, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first special symbol changing process (S304) (S110).

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the process of the first special symbol changing process (S304) in the first special symbol process. In the first special symbol variation processing, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the first variation time timer (S121), and when the first variation time timer times out (S122), the value of the first special symbol process flag is set to the first special symbol. The value is updated to a value corresponding to the stop process (S305) (S123).

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the first special symbol stop process (S305) in the first special symbol process. In the first special symbol stop process, for example, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process of S32 to end the variation of the first special symbol, and causes the first special symbol display 8a to stop the symbol ( Control for deriving and displaying the display result is performed (S131). Also, a symbol confirmation designation command transmission request flag is set (S132). Then, the first changing flag is reset (S133).

  Further, if the big hit flag is set (S134), the big hit start designation command transmission request flag is set (S135). In S135, if it is determined to suddenly be a promiscuous big hit, the big hit start 2 designation command transmission request flag is set. Set the send request flag. Then, the jackpot display time timer is set to a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the 15R jackpot has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) (S136), and the value of the first special symbol process flag is set to the first. The value is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (S306) (S137). In the first jackpot display process, when the first jackpot display time timer times out, the CPU 56 updates the value of the first special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the first jackpot opening pre-process (S307).

  Here, when the gaming state during the big hit game is controlled to the low probability low base state, the high base state flag is reset before the big hit game is started (for example, before the processing of S137 is executed). The probability variation flag may be controlled to be reset. With such control, when the number of opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is increased or the opening time is extended in the high base state and the high probability state, the payout rate becomes extremely high during the big hit game. It is prevented. In the case of such control, an effect symbol 4 designation command, an effect symbol 5 designation command, an effect symbol 6 designation command or an effect symbol 8 designation command is transmitted in the processes of S143 and S144 (see FIG. 31). Set the high base state flag. Further, it may be controlled to always reset the high base state flag and the probability variation flag before the big hit game is started.

  When the big hit flag is not set (S134), the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first special symbol normal process (S300) (S138).

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the first big hit end process (S309) in the first special symbol process. In the first jackpot end process, the CPU 56 resets the jackpot flag (S141), and sets the jackpot end designation command transmission request flag (S142). Then, if the production symbol 4 designation command is transmitted at the start of variation, a high base state flag indicating that the gaming state is the high base state is set (see S143, S144, FIG. 14, FIG. 27). When the high base state flag is not set, the gaming state is a low base state. Also, which effect designating command is transmitted is determined by the data stored in the effect design type storage area. Moreover, if the CPU 56 has transmitted the effect symbol 7 designation command at the start of the fluctuation, the high base state flag is reset (S145, S146).

  Furthermore, if the CPU 56 transmits an effect symbol 2 designation command, an effect symbol 4 designation command, an effect symbol 5 designation command, an effect symbol 7 designation command, or an effect symbol 8 designation command at the start of variation, the gaming state is in a high probability state. The probability variation flag indicating this is set (S147, S148). In addition, if the effect symbol 3 designation command or the effect symbol 6 designation command is transmitted at the start of variation, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (S149, S150). When the probability variation flag is not set, the gaming state is a low probability state.

  Thereafter, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first special symbol normal process (S300) (S151).

  When the gaming state is a low probability / high base state, the CPU 56 increments the value of a predetermined counter at the start of variable display where the display result is out of sync, and the count value of the counter is a predetermined value (for example, 100 ), The high base state flag may be reset to shift the gaming state to a low probability / low base state. In the case of such control, an effect symbol command (not shown in FIG. 14) for high base end / low accuracy designation is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100. Further, a low base state background designation command may be transmitted at the start of the next variation display. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 may count the number of times of variable display and independently switch the background mode.

  Next, the operation of the production control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (S701). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (S703), and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, a first decorative symbol display control process is performed (S706). In the first decorative symbol display control process, display control of the first decorative symbol display 9a is executed. Further, a second decorative symbol display control process is performed (S707). In the second decorative symbol display control process, display control of the second decorative symbol display 9b is executed. Further, a hold storage display control process for controlling the display state of the combined hold storage display unit 18c is executed (S708). Also, a notice random number update process for updating the counter value of the counter for generating the notice decision random number is executed (S709). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S702.

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The command reception buffer does not necessarily have to be a ring buffer format.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 14) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  34 to 36 are flowcharts showing specific examples of the command analysis process (S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the received command is stored in the command receiving buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received command from the command receiving buffer (S612). When reading is performed, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a background designation command (S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the background designation command in the background designation command storage area formed in the RAM (S617).

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (S618), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (S619). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (S620).

  If the received effect control command is the first symbol variation designation command (S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets the ornament symbol changing flag (first ornament symbol varying flag or second ornament symbol varying flag). If so, the decorative symbol stop request flag is set (S622, S623). Also, the first symbol variation request flag is set (S624). If the decorative symbol variation flag is not set, the process of S623 is not executed, and the first symbol variation request flag is set (S624).

  If the received effect control command is the second symbol variation designation command (S626), the effect control CPU 101 sets the ornament symbol stop request flag if the ornament symbol variation flag is set (S627, S628). Also, the second symbol variation request flag is set (S629). If the decorative symbol variation flag is not set, the process of S628 is not executed and the second symbol variation request flag is set (S629).

  The decorative symbol changing flag (the first decorative symbol changing flag or the second decorative symbol changing flag) is set during the change of the first decorative symbol and the change of the second decorative symbol. The decoration symbol stop request flag is a flag for requesting the effect symbol and the variation stop of the ornament symbol, and the effect control microcomputer 100 has the ornament symbol stop request flag set in the effect control process described later. Then, control is performed to stop the variation of the effect design and the decoration design.

  The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command are effect control commands transmitted when the variation display (variation) of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is started. In this embodiment, new variable display is started on the condition that the variable display is not performed. Therefore, when the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command is received, the decorative symbol variation display should not be performed, and the decorative symbol variation flag should not be set. The fact that the decorative symbol variation flag is set when the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command is received means that the symbol control designation for the previous variation display is performed, for example, in the microcomputer 100 for effect control. It is conceivable that the control for ending the variable display is not executed because the command has not been received normally. It is also conceivable that control for ending the variable display is not executed due to other factors. Even when the control for ending the variable display is not executed for some reason, the variable display can be reliably ended by the processes of S622, S623, S627, and S628. In addition, when the symbol confirmation designation command is not correctly transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 due to noise between the substrates, the symbol variation display cannot be terminated. If this is not the case, a new variable display should be started based on the pending storage, but the variable display will not be started, which may bring a disadvantage to the player. In the form, such a possibility can be reduced.

  If the received effect control command is an effect symbol designation command (S631), the effect control CPU 101 stores the effect symbol designation command in the effect symbol designation command storage area formed in the RAM (S632).

  If the received production control command is a combined pending storage number designation command (S635), the production control CPU 101 stores the second byte data (EXT data) of the combined pending storage number designation command in the combined pending storage number storage area. Store (S636).

  If the received effect control command is the first start winning designation command (S637), the effect control CPU 101 sets the first start winning flag (S638). If the received effect control command is the second start winning designation command (S639), the effect control CPU 101 sets the second start winning flag (S640). If the received effect control command is a total pending storage number subtraction designation command (S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a total pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag (S642).

  If the received effect control command is the customer waiting demonstration designation command (S651), the effect control CPU 101 receives the low base state background designation command (S654), and the background color in the effect display device 9 Is set to the background color in the low base state mode, and control for starting the customer waiting demonstration effect is performed in the effect display device 9 (S655). When the low base state background designation command has not been received (the high base state background designation command has been received), the background color in the effect display device 9 is controlled to be the background color of the high base state mode. Then, control for starting the customer waiting demonstration effect is performed in the effect display device 9 (S656). Note that the background color in the high base state mode has, for example, a conspicuous color tone (for example, brighter or more primary colors) than the background color in the low base state mode. In addition, when the customer waiting demonstration effect is not executed, as described above, when the gaming state is the low base state, the background mode is the normal mode or the high accuracy low base mode (latent mode), and the gaming state is When in the high base state, the background mode is the high-accuracy base mode (active mode) or the low-accuracy base mode (revival mode). For example, in the active mode, the background in the effect display device 9 has the brightest color tone. In the resurrection mode, the background is darker than the active mode but brighter than the latent mode. In normal mode, it is the darkest background.

  Since the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled by the VDP 109, the effect control CPU 101 specifically controls the display of the effect display device 9 when the effect control CPU 101 controls the VDP 109. On the other hand, it is to output a command to make the display state of the effect display device 9 so.

  If the received effect control command is a power-on designation command (S661), the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display the initial screen on the effect display device 9 (S662). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols. If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (S663), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Control is performed (S664).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (S665), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (S666). If the received effect control command is a big hit start 1 designation command (S671), the effect control CPU 101 sets a fanfare flag (S674).

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (S675).

  FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation display mode of decorative symbols (first decorative symbol and second decorative symbol). In this embodiment, the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b are composed of two LEDs. And as shown in FIG. 37, it lights alternately every predetermined time (for example, 0.5 second). When the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the upper LED is turned on as a display result of a decorative symbol reminiscent of the jackpot (see FIG. 37A). Further, when the display result of the special symbol is changed to the off symbol, the lower LED is turned on as the display result of the decorative symbol reminiscent of the off symbol (see FIG. 37B).

  FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display state of the summation pending storage display unit 18c. As shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B, the total pending storage display portion 18c displays a number of circles (up to 8) corresponding to the count value of the total pending storage number counter. The effect control microcomputer 100 causes the VDP 109 to display a circle so that the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory can be distinguished. For example, a circle corresponding to the first reserved memory is displayed in red, and a circle corresponding to the second reserved memory is displayed in green. The red display corresponding to the first hold storage and the green display corresponding to the second hold storage in the combined hold storage display unit 18c are displayed in the same order as the order of the data in the hold specific area shown in FIG. The In the figure, the circle at the bottom left is the display corresponding to the oldest start-up prize and indicates the reserved memory used for the next fluctuation display, and the circle at the upper right is the display corresponding to the newest start-up prize. is there. When the variable display based on the reserved memory is executed, the lower left circle indicating the reserved memory used for the variable display is erased, so that either the first reserved memory or the second reserved memory is used for the variable display. It is shown whether it was done. Thereby, the player can identify which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory is used for the variable display. When the circle indicating the reserved memory used for the variable display (the lower left circle) is erased, the circles for the remaining reserved memories are shifted to the lower left one by one. Thereby, it is sequentially shown whether the hold memory used for the next variable display is the first hold memory or the second hold memory. Such a display state of the combined hold storage display unit 18c is controlled by a hold storage display control process shown in FIG. 49 described later.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set. If the variation pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the notice selection process (S801).

  Prior notice selection process (S801): In the effect display device 9, it is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect process for notifying the player of the occurrence of the big hit, and when it is decided to execute the notice effect process. Determine the notice type. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (S802).

  Effect symbol variation start processing (S802): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (S803).

  Production symbol variation processing (S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. Then, when the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (S804).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (S804): When an effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to be stopped is received, control for deriving and displaying a display result (stop symbol) by stopping the variation of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol. Do. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (S805) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  Big hit display processing (S805): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (S806).

  Big hit game processing (S806): Control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when an effect control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (S807).

  Big hit end processing (S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is not set, the process returns. On the other hand, if the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (S812).

  If the low base state background designation command has been received (S813), the background color in the effect display device 9 is controlled to be the background color of the low base state mode (S814). Further, when the low base state background designation command is not received (when the high base state background designation command is received), the background color in the effect display device 9 is changed to the background color of the high base state mode. Is performed (S815).

  Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the notice selection process (S801) (S816).

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the advance notice selection process (S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. Unlike the fact that the reach variation pattern is selected at the time of the variation display of the second special symbol as described above, the selection of the reach variation is a big hit announcement for the second special symbol, and in the variation display of the first special symbol. This is a process for making a selection regarding the jackpot notice intentionally performed.

  In the advance notice selection process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the first symbol variation request flag is set (S821). The first symbol variation request flag is a flag that is set when the first symbol variation designation command is received. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits the first symbol variation designation command when the variation of the first special symbol is started. Also, a second symbol variation designation command is transmitted when the variation of the second special symbol is started.

  When the first symbol variation request flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the received variation pattern commands are variation patterns # 2 and # 3 based on the data stored in the variation pattern command storage area. , # 4, # 6, # 7, # 8 (variation pattern with reach effect) is checked (S822). If it is any of the variation patterns # 2, # 3, # 4, # 6, # 7, # 8, a random number for selecting a notice is extracted (S823), and a notice effect is performed based on the extracted random number for selecting a notice. Is determined (S824).

  When it is determined to perform the notice effect (S825), the effect control CPU 101 selects and decides to execute the notice effect A or the notice effect B (S826). The effect modes of the notice effect A and the notice effect B are different from each other. For example, the time to start the notice effect is different, or the character displayed on the effect display device 9 in the notice effect is different. When the second symbol variation request flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 has the effect of a big hit notice when the variation display is performed with the variation pattern that reaches as described above, so the first special symbol is produced. There will be no intentional jackpot notice as it would be for a variable display. When the first symbol variation request flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 performs the process in the same procedure as when the first symbol variation request flag is set, so that the first special variation request flag is set. A jackpot notice similar to the jackpot notice performed in the symbol display may be intentionally performed. In this case, the jackpot notice in the variation display of the second special symbol may be performed in the same manner as the jackpot notice in the variation display of the first special symbol, or a mode different from the jackpot notice in the variation display of the first special symbol. You may make it carry out.

  Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (S802) (S827). Further, when it is determined in S821 that the first symbol variation request flag is not set, it is determined in S822 that it is not one of the variation patterns accompanied by the reach effect, and the notice effect in S825 described above. In each case when it is determined not to perform the notification, the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (S802) in S827 without deciding to perform the notice effect as in S826. Update. Thereby, in such a case, the notice effect is not performed.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (S802) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (S831). Next, it is confirmed whether or not the first symbol variation request flag is set (S832). If the first symbol variation request flag is set, the first symbol variation request flag is reset (S833), and the first ornament symbol variation request flag indicating that the first ornament symbol variation starts is set. (S834). Then, a value corresponding to, for example, 0.5 seconds is set in the decorative symbol switching timer for determining the switching timing of the lighting LED (S835). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S841.

  If the first symbol variation request flag is not set (corresponding to the case where the second symbol variation request flag is set), the second symbol variation request flag is reset (S837), and the second ornament variation is changed. The second decorative symbol variation request flag indicating that the process is started is set (S838). Then, a value corresponding to, for example, 0.5 seconds is set in the decorative symbol switching timer (S839). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S841.

  In S841, the display result of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol (stop symbol) is determined according to the data stored in the effect symbol specifying command storage area (that is, the received effect symbol specifying command) (S841). The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the stop symbol of the determined effect symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area, and stores data indicating the display result of the determined decorative symbol in the decoration symbol display result storage area.

  In S841, if the received effect symbol designation command is the effect symbol 1 designation command (see FIG. 14), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the display result of the effect symbol is a display result reminiscent of the deviation. In the case of a production symbol, a display result reminiscent of a disparity is a display result that does not result in a state where three symbols are aligned in any direction line (a sequence of three symbols, see FIG. 1). In such a case, when determining a display result that reminds of a shift, when receiving a variation pattern that reaches the above-described reach, the display becomes a variation display mode that reminds the reach manner during the variation display. Decide on the result. A display result reminiscent of a reach mode is a display result in which two symbols are aligned on a line in either direction during variable display. At that time, the CPU 101 for effect control displays, for example, each of the line in the reach mode, the stop display result of the design in the display area in the reach mode, and the stop display result of the design in the display area not in the reach mode. 6 is randomly determined by lottery using random numbers similar to those described with reference to FIG. On the other hand, when a variation pattern that does not become reach is received, the display result is determined to be a variation display mode that does not recall the reach mode during variation display. At that time, the effect control CPU 101 randomly determines the stop display result of the symbols in the respective display areas, for example, by lottery using the same random numbers as those described with reference to FIG.

  In S841, if the received effect symbol designation command is an effect symbol designation command other than the effect symbol 1 designation command (see FIG. 14), the display result of the effect symbol is determined to be a display result reminiscent of a big hit. In the case of a production symbol, a display result reminiscent of a big hit is a state (also called a big hit mode) in which all symbols (three symbols in this example) are aligned on one or more lines in either direction. . At that time, the production control CPU 101 displays, for example, a line indicating the big hit mode, a stop display result of the design of the display area set as the big hit mode, and a stop display result of the design of the display area not set as the big hit mode, for example, 6 is randomly determined by lottery using random numbers similar to those described with reference to FIG. Here, when the production symbol designation command indicates the high base continuation designation or the high accuracy designation, it is preferable that the display result is a big hit mode in which three symbols are arranged in a plurality of lines. When the production symbol designation command indicates the high base entry designation, it is preferable that the display result is a big hit mode in which three symbols are arranged in more lines.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern command is an effect control command that designates only the variation pattern, but the variation pattern command that designates the display result together with the variation pattern as a display result reminiscent of a big hit; A variation pattern command for designating that the display result together with the variation pattern is not a display result reminiscent of a big hit may be used. In that case, when the design symbol designation command cannot be received due to noise between boards, etc., and the variation pattern command is designated to designate that the display result is a display result reminiscent of a big hit. The display result of the production symbol is controlled so as to be a display result reminiscent of the low base state among the display results reminiscent of a big hit (for example, a state where three symbols are arranged in only one line). Also good.

  Then, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table in which process data corresponding to the variation pattern is set (S842). The process table is a data table composed of data obtained by combining a plurality of process timer set values and display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data, and will be described later with reference to FIG. Then, the process timer corresponding to the effect execution data 1 in the selected process table is started (S843). Next, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, and the production component according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). The control of the various lamps and the speaker 27 as an effect part is executed (S844). For example, a control signal is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (S845), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (S803) (S846). ).

  As described above, the production control microcomputer 100 performs the production components (the production display device 9, the first decoration design display 9a, the second decoration design display, based on the command from the game control microcomputer 560. 9b, etc.), it is possible to start an effect corresponding to the fluctuation display means (the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b) specified by the fluctuation display means specifying command (design fluctuation designation command). . That is, when the first special symbol variation display is started, the production control microcomputer 100 starts the variation display of the representation symbol by the representation display device 9 and the first ornament symbol display unit 9a. Start to display the fluctuation. In addition, when the display of the variation of the second special symbol is started, the variation display of the effect symbol is started by the effect display device 9, and the variation display of the second decoration symbol is started by the second decoration symbol display 9b. Therefore, it becomes easy for the player to grasp the progress status of the game (which special symbol display device is producing an effect corresponding to the variable display).

  FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which data to be referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 in accordance with data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. In the display control execution data, each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variation display time (variation time) of the variation display of the effect symbol is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, and performs control for variably displaying the effect symbol in the manner of change set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 controls the lighting state of various lamps based on the lamp control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value in synchronization with the control of the effect display device 9 based on the display control execution data. Then, the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. That is, the various lamps and the speaker 27 are controlled in synchronization with the control of the effect display device 9.

  The process table shown in FIG. 43 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern. Further, in the ROM of the effect control board 80, different process tables are prepared according to the difference in the notice effect mode (notice type) when the notice effect is executed. That is, in this embodiment, the effect mode of the notice effect is realized based on the process data set in the selected process table. In other words, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control according to the content of the process table corresponding to the effect mode of the notice effect when executing the notice effect.

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation processing (S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the decoration symbol stop request flag is set (S851). If the decorative symbol stop request flag is set, the process proceeds to S857.

  In this embodiment, the decorative symbol stop request flag is set when the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command is received during the variation of the ornament symbol (S622, S623, S627, FIG. 34). (See S628). The fact that the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command was received during the variation of the decorative symbol means that the display result should be derived and displayed after the variation of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol was originally terminated. Variation in effect design and decoration design due to some reason (for example, noise is applied to the signal line between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80 and the effect control microcomputer 100 cannot receive the symbol determination designation command). Means it has continued.

  Therefore, when the decorative symbol stop request flag is set, the process proceeds to S857 in order to immediately stop the variation of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol.

  When the decorative symbol stop request flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (S852) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (S853). When the process timer expires, the process data is switched (S854, S855). That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer, and the control for the rendering device is performed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next. Change state.

  If the variation time timer has timed out (S856), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (S804) (S857). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (S858), the process proceeds to S857. Even if the fluctuation time timer has not timed out, if the design confirmation designation command is received, the control shifts to stopping the fluctuation. For example, a fluctuation pattern command indicating a long fluctuation time due to noise between boards is received. Even in such a case, when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends), the variation of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol can be terminated.

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (S804) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the decoration symbol stop request flag is set (S860). If the decorative symbol stop request flag is set, the decorative symbol stop request flag is reset (S861), and the process proceeds to S864.

  If the decorative symbol stop request flag is not set, it is confirmed whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (S862). If the confirmation command reception flag is set, the confirmation command reception flag is reset (S863), and the process proceeds to S864.

  If it is confirmed in the determination process of S862 that the confirmation command reception flag has not been set, the variation time measured by the effect control CPU 101 has elapsed, but the symbol confirmation designation command has not been received and the symbol has been received. The effect control CPU 101 continues to change until the confirmation designation command is received, but in such a case, the effect control CPU 101 changes the effect design variation mode by shaking fluctuation (each effect design is changed up and down and left and right finely). In other words, it is preferable to display that the variation time has passed but has not yet been determined by repetitively displaying the enlarged design and the reduced display.

  In S864, control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol is performed in accordance with the data (data indicating the stop symbol) stored in the effect symbol display result storage area. Also, a decorative symbol variation end flag is set (S865). And when it is a big hit, the value of the production control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (S805) (S866, 867). Otherwise, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800) (S868).

  With the above control, the effect control CPU 101 recognizes that the symbol confirmation designation command has not been received and sets the decorative symbol stop request flag, regardless of whether the symbol confirmation designation command is received or not. Then, the variation display (variation) of the effect symbol is terminated, and the decorative symbol variation end flag is set. As will be described later, when the decorative symbol variation end flag is set, the decorative symbol variation display (variation) is forcibly terminated.

  FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (S805) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the fanfare flag indicating that the jackpot start 1 designation command has been received is set (S870). If the fanfare flag has been set, the fanfare flag is reset (S871), and control for displaying a big hit game start screen on the effect display device 9 is performed (S872). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (S806) (S873).

  If the game control microcomputer 560 suddenly decides to win a promising big hit, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a big hit start 2 designation command. However, the presentation control CPU 101 receives the big hit start 2 designation command. Then, a control for displaying a sudden probability change screen for notifying that a sudden probability change big hit is displayed on the effect display device 9 is performed.

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the big hit end process (S807) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end designation command reception flag indicating that the jackpot end designation command has been received is set (S875). If the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set, the jackpot end designation command reception flag is reset (S877), and control for displaying a jackpot end screen on the effect display device 9 is performed (S877).

  Then, in accordance with the data stored in the effect display designation command storage area, control for switching the background screen of the effect display device 9 is performed (S878). The background mode is a normal mode, a high accuracy low base mode (latent mode), a high accuracy high base mode (active mode), or a low accuracy high base mode (revival mode) (see FIG. 27). The effect control CPU 101 determines which background mode to use based on the data stored in the received effect designating command storage area. For example, when the production symbol 4 designation command (see FIG. 14) is stored in the production symbol designation command storage area, the high-accuracy base mode (active mode) is set. When the effect symbol designation command is not stored in the effect symbol designation command storage area (when no effect symbol designation command is transmitted even once), the background mode is set to the normal mode. When the background mode before switching is the same as the background mode after switching, the background mode before switching is maintained.

  In this embodiment, when the design symbol designation command cannot be received due to noise between boards, the data stored in the production display designation command storage area (received at the start of the previous variation). The background screen of the effect display device 9 is controlled according to the effect display designation command). However, when the variation pattern command is received, control may be performed so that the contents of the effect display designation command storage area are initialized (the effect symbol designation command is not stored).

  In the control illustrated in FIG. 47, the big hit end screen is displayed only for a short time, but in practice, the big hit end process is maintained for a predetermined period. Meanwhile, the display of the big hit end screen is continued.

  FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing the first decorative symbol display control process in the effect control main process. In the first decorative symbol display control process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the first decorative symbol changing flag is set (S881). If the first decorative symbol changing flag is set, the flow shifts to S885. If the first decorative symbol variation flag is not set, it is confirmed whether or not the first decorative symbol variation request flag is set (S882). If the first decorative symbol variation request flag is set, the first decorative symbol variation request flag is reset (S883), and the first decorative symbol variation flag is set (S884).

  In S885, it is confirmed whether or not the decorative symbol variation end flag is set. The decorative symbol variation end flag is set in S865 (see FIG. 45). If the decorative symbol variation end flag is set, the decorative symbol variation end flag is reset (S886), and the display result is displayed on the first decorative symbol display unit 9a according to the data stored in the decorative symbol display result storage area. Is derived and displayed (S891), and the first decorative symbol variation flag is reset (S892).

  If the decorative symbol change end flag is not set, the value of the decorative symbol switching timer is decremented by 1 (S887). If the value of the decorative symbol switching timer is 0 (S888), that is, if the lighting LED switching timing is reached, the LED to be lit in the first decorative symbol display 9a is switched (S889), and the decorative symbol switching timer is set. For example, a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is reset (S890).

  By the control as described above, the LEDs that are turned on in the first decorative symbol display 9a are switched, for example, every 0.5 seconds, and the variable display of the first decorative symbol is realized.

  The program of the second decorative symbol display control process (S707) is configured in the same manner as the first decorative symbol display control process. That is, in the above description of the first decorative symbol display control process, if “first” is read as “second”, the second decorative symbol display control process will be described.

  FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing the hold storage display control process in the effect control main process. In the hold memory display control process, the effect control CPU 101 stores the data in the sum hold memory number storage area in which the second byte data (EXT data) of the sum hold memory number designation command is stored in the sum hold memory number counter. It is confirmed whether or not it is larger than the value (S901). When the data in the total pending storage number storage area is not larger than the value of the total pending storage number counter, the process proceeds to S911. The fact that the data in the total pending storage count storage area is larger than the value of the total pending storage count counter means that a new total pending storage count designation command has been received. Therefore, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the first start winning flag indicating that the first start winning designation command has been received is set (S902). If the first start winning flag is set, the first starting winning flag is reset (S903), the number of round marks displayed in the total pending storage display portion 18c is increased by 1, and the increased round mark is displayed in red. Control is performed as follows (S904). Further, the data in the total pending storage number storage area is set in the total pending storage number counter (S905).

  If the first start winning flag has not been set (the second starting winning flag has been set), the second start winning flag is reset (S905), and the circle in the total pending storage display portion 18c The display number is increased by 1 and the increased circle is controlled to be displayed in green (S907). Further, the data in the total pending storage number storage area is set in the total pending storage number counter (S908).

  In S911, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not the combined pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag is set. If the total pending storage count subtraction designation command reception flag is set, the total pending storage count subtraction designation command reception flag is reset (S912), and the most recent summation storage display section 18c as shown in FIG. The displayed circle is erased, and each circle is controlled so as to be shifted to the erased circle (S913). As described above, when the variable display based on the hold memory is executed, the control for deleting the circle indicating the hold memory used for the variable display is performed, so that the next variable display is the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is shown which is the variable display based on the symbol. Thereby, the player can identify which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory is used for the next variable display. Then, the value of the total pending storage number counter is decremented by -1 (S914), and the value of the total pending storage number counter is set in the total pending storage number storage area (S915).

  When it is determined in S911 that the total pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag is set, the circle displayed most recently (displayed in the lower left corner) in the total pending storage display portion 18c is flashed. Then, after the variable display corresponding to the on-hold storage displayed in blinking is completed, display control for deleting the blinking circle may be performed. By doing so, it is shown whether the current variation display is a variation display based on the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Thereby, the player can identify which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory is used for the current variation display.

  Further, in S913, when deleting the most recently displayed circle (displayed in the lower left) in the total pending storage display portion 18c as shown in FIG. 38, the circle is erased after blinking. You may make it perform control to perform. By doing so, the player can more clearly identify which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory is used for the variable display.

  By the control as described above, the red circle is incremented by 1 when the first start winning designation command and the total pending storage designation command are received in the total pending storage display unit 18c, and the second start winning designation command and the total are displayed. Control is executed to increase the green circle by 1 when a pending storage number designation command is received. Further, when the total pending storage number subtraction designation command is received, the circle displayed on the total pending storage display portion 18c is decremented by one.

Note that, as illustrated in FIG. 16C, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits the total pending storage number designation command even when the power supply is restored. In that case, the production control microcomputer 100 can recognize the total number of pending storages, but cannot recognize the breakdown (how many of the total number of pending storages are among the total number of pending storages). Therefore, when receiving the power failure recovery designation command and the total pending storage number designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 displays the number of circles designated by the total pending storage count designation command as the total pending storage display section 18c. However, the color is changed to a color other than red or green, or displayed in a form other than a circle.
[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, due to noise on the signal line between the main board 31 and the production control board 80, the production control microcomputer 100 cannot receive the design confirmation designation command, etc. When the decorative symbol variation display continues, upon receiving the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command transmitted at the start of the next variation display, the rendering control microcomputer 100 performs the rendering. Changed the display of symbols and decorative symbols. However, the change display of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol may be terminated in response to reception of another effect control command.

  In the second embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 ends the display of the production symbols and the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the background designation command. The background designation command is also an effect control command transmitted at the start of the next variation display (see FIG. 15C).

  FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing a part of command analysis processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 according to the second embodiment. When the effect control CPU 101 receives the background designation command (S614), if the decorative symbol changing flag (the first decorative symbol changing flag or the second decorative symbol changing flag) is set, the decorative symbol stop request is sent. A flag is set (S615, S616). Unlike the case of the first embodiment, the decorative symbol stop request flag is set when the first symbol variation designation command is received (S621) and when the second symbol variation designation command is received (S626). Control is not performed.

  The other controls of the production control microcomputer 100 are the same as those in the first embodiment. The control of the game control microcomputer 560 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

In this embodiment, when the first symbol variation designation command is received and when the second symbol variation designation command is received, the control for setting the decorative symbol stop request flag is not performed. Alternatively, control for setting a decorative symbol stop request flag may be performed. The control method is the same as in the first embodiment.
[Third Embodiment]
In the third embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 terminates the display of the production symbols and the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the customer waiting demonstration designation command. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command when both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are in a state where both are zero for a predetermined period.

  51 to 53 are flowcharts showing command analysis processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 according to the third embodiment. When the effect control CPU 101 receives the customer waiting demonstration designation command (S651), if the decorative symbol changing flag (the first decorative symbol changing flag or the second decorative symbol changing flag) is set, the decorative symbol is displayed. A stop request flag is set (S652, S653). When the big hit start 1 designation command is received (S671), if the decorative symbol changing flag is set, the decorative symbol stop request flag is set (S672, S673). Even when the big hit start 2 designation command is received, if the decorative symbol changing flag is set, it is preferable to set the decorative symbol stop request flag. Unlike the case of the first embodiment, the decorative symbol stop request flag is set when the first symbol variation designation command is received (S621) and when the second symbol variation designation command is received (S626). Control is not performed.

  The other controls of the production control microcomputer 100 are the same as those in the first embodiment. The control of the game control microcomputer 560 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

  In this embodiment, the control for setting the decorative symbol stop request flag is performed when the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received and when the jackpot start 1 designation command is received. Only in this case, control for setting the decorative symbol stop request flag may be performed.

  Further, FIGS. 51 to 53 illustrate control that does not perform control for setting the decorative symbol stop request flag when the first symbol variation designation command is received and when the second symbol variation designation command is received. In these cases, control for setting the decorative symbol stop request flag may be performed. The control method is the same as in the first embodiment.

Similarly to the case of the second embodiment, when the background designation command is received, the variation display of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol may be terminated. The control method is the same as in the second embodiment.
[Fourth Embodiment]
In each of the above-described embodiments, the production control microcomputer 100 does not execute variation pattern selection control. For example, when a variation pattern command indicating variation pattern # 2 is received, variation control of the effect design is performed in a variation manner of variation pattern # 2 determined in advance. However, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives a variation pattern command, the variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns.

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing an example of control when the production control microcomputer 100 is configured to select a variation pattern to be used from a plurality of types of variation patterns. In the fourth embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines whether the first symbol variation request flag is set or whether the second symbol variation request flag is set in the effect symbol variation start process (first symbol variation). Depending on whether the designation command is received or whether the second symbol variation designation command is received), the variation mode is different. Since the variation mode (variation display mode) of the effect symbol differs between when the variation display of the first special symbol is performed and when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed, It becomes easier to grasp the progress of the game (such as which special symbol display is producing an effect corresponding to the variable display).

  FIG. 55 shows a variation mode of variation pattern # 2 as an example. When the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern command indicating the variation pattern # 2 and receives the first symbol variation designation command, the variation pattern is changed to the variation pattern illustrated in FIG. 55A. When the second symbol variation designation command is received, the variation pattern is used in the variation mode illustrated in FIG. 55 (B). FIG. 55 illustrates the variation mode of variation pattern # 2, but the production control microcomputer 100 separates the variation mode even when a variation pattern command indicating another variation pattern is received. .

  As shown in FIG. 54, in the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101, when the first symbol variation request flag is set, corresponds to the first special symbol as exemplified in FIG. It is decided to use the variation pattern (S833A). In addition, when the first symbol variation request flag is not set (the second symbol variation request flag is set), the second special symbol corresponding variation pattern as illustrated in FIG. 55B is used. That is decided (S837A). Other controls are the same as those in the above embodiments.

  In the fourth embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 uses the change display means (first special symbol display device 8a) for performing the change display of the special symbol specified by the symbol change designation command in the effect display device 9 as the effect part. And the effect corresponding to the second special symbol display device 8b) (in this example, a different effect due to the variation of the effect symbol) is started.

  In the fourth embodiment, the variation mode is changed even when the same variation pattern is received when the first symbol variation designation command is received and when the second symbol variation designation command is received. However, the variation time is the same. However, the variation time may be changed. For example, when a variation pattern command of variation pattern # 2 is received, the variation time is set to 10 seconds when the first symbol variation designation command is received, and the variation time is varied when the second symbol variation designation command is received. Set to 15 seconds. Such control may be performed even when a variation pattern command indicating another variation pattern is received.

  In addition, here, the variation pattern is selected according to the received symbol variation designation command. However, when the variation pattern command is received regardless of the received symbol variation designation command, a plurality of types of variation patterns are always selected. Therefore, the variation pattern to be used may be selected.

Next, main effects obtained by the embodiment described above will be described.
(1) As shown in FIG. 11, the display result of the variation pattern when the variation display of the first special symbol is executed is different from the variation pattern when the variation display of the second special symbol is executed. When it is determined as a result, the ratio of selecting the variation pattern of the variation display as the variation pattern # 2 to # 4 or # 6 to # 8 which becomes the reach is different. Specifically, the rate of selecting a variation pattern in which the variation display of the second special symbol becomes reach is low. Thus, the fluctuation display of the special symbol with the lower ratio of the fluctuation pattern to be reached is compared with the fluctuation display by the fluctuation display means with the higher ratio of the fluctuation pattern to be reached. The reliability that is a big hit when the fluctuation pattern becomes. For this reason, the fluctuation display of the special symbol with the lower percentage of selection of the fluctuation pattern to be reached is performed with the fluctuation pattern to be the reach, and the result of the fluctuation display becomes the specific display result. It is possible to give the player an impression as if it was an effect of notifying the player, and to increase the player's expectation. Then, as shown in FIG. 38, the first reserved memory is displayed in red and the second reserved memory is displayed in green on the total reserved memory display unit 18c, so that the first reserved memory number and the second Based on either the first fluctuation display means or the second fluctuation display means, the number of the hold memories is displayed in an identifiable manner, and when the change display based on the hold memory is executed, the hold memory is deleted. Displays whether the display is fluctuating. As a result, which variation display execution condition is satisfied for the variation display of the special symbol with the lower ratio of the variation pattern to be reached and the variation display of the special symbol with the higher ratio Clearly distinguishable. Therefore, when the variation pattern including the reach mode is executed by the variation display means with the lower ratio of selecting the variation pattern to be reached, the announcement that the variation display result is the jackpot display result It is possible to give the player an impression as if Further, when executing the variable display, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable with respect to the correspondence relationship between the display of the number of established execution conditions and the control performed based on the establishment of the execution conditions. .

  (2) As shown in FIG. 15 (b), when the variable symbol display of the special symbol, the effect symbol, and the decorative symbol is started, the variable symbol is displayed in either the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Whether to start can be specified by the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command. Thereby, the variation pattern command and the effect symbol designation command can be used in common for the variation display of the first special symbol and the variation display of the second special symbol. As described above, the command used when starting the variable display of the symbol can be shared between the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol, etc. When the effect corresponding to the special symbol specified by the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command is started by the effect parts such as the display device 9 or the like, it is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560. It is possible to prevent the number of command types to be increased.

  (3) As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b and the production control microcomputer 100 are connected in parallel to the game control microcomputer 560. The game control microcomputer 560 controls the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the effect control microcomputer 100, respectively. As a result, the control method can be simplified as compared with the case of connection in a connection mode other than parallel, such as series connection, so that each of the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b Can be controlled accurately.

  (4) As shown in S802 to S804 in FIG. 39, when the first special symbol display 8a is executing the variable display of the first special symbol, the effect display device is accompanied by the variable display based on the variable pattern command. When the effect display is executed at 9 and the variation display of the second special symbol is executed at the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed at the effect display device 9 according to the variation display based on the variation pattern command. Therefore, based on such effect display on the effect display device 9, the player can easily grasp the progress of the game.

  (5) As shown in FIG. 16A, either the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number is increased by the first start winning designation command or the second start winning designation command. The total number of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (total reserved memory number) is specified by the combined reserved memory number designation command. As a result, the total pending memory display unit 18c displays the total pending memory number and performs control to display each of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number in an identifiable manner. The designation command can be used in common when the first reserved memory number increases and when the second reserved memory number increases. For this reason, even when the special symbol variation display is executed on the two special symbol indicators, without increasing the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100, The production control microcomputer 100 can grasp whether or not the number of reserved memories for the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display has increased. Then, by not increasing the types of commands, the control burden on the game control microcomputer 560 can be reduced.

  (6) For each variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the total number of reserved memory as the total number of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is a predetermined number (for example, 4) or more. Sometimes, the variation pattern of the shortened variation in which the variation display time is shorter than when the total reserved memory number is less than the predetermined number is selected, and therefore, when the total reserved memory number is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the first special symbol One of the second special symbol and the second special symbol is displayed with the variation pattern of such a shortened variation, but the other is not displayed with the variation pattern of such a shortened variation. The situation can be prevented from occurring.

Next, modifications and feature points of the embodiment described above are listed below.
(1) In each of the above embodiments, the effect control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the effect device is mounted. The circuit may be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  (2) In each of the embodiments described above, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 may transmit another board (for example, (Sound / lamp board having the functions of the audio output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 3 or the circuit mounted on the audio output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35) An effect control command may be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to voice control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9 and the decorative symbol display. You may make it transmit to the microcomputer 100 for control. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in response to the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in each of the above-described embodiments. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the driver board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  (3) Based on the variation pattern command from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect control microcomputer 100 is an effect display device 9 as an effect part, and is used as a special symbol display specified by the symbol variation designation command. Since it is configured to execute the corresponding notice effect, even if two special symbol indicators (special symbol indicator 8a and special symbol indicator 8b) are provided, the player is informed of the progress of the game ( It is possible to make it easy to grasp which variation display means is producing an effect corresponding to the variation display.

  (4) Based on the variation pattern command from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect control microcomputer 100 is an effect display device 9 as an effect component, and is used as a special symbol display specified by the symbol variation designation command. Since it is configured to execute a variation display effect according to the corresponding variation mode, even if two special symbol indicators (special symbol indicator 8a, special symbol indicator 8b) are provided, It is possible to make it easier to grasp the progress status of the game (such as which special symbol display is producing an effect corresponding to the variable display), and abundant game variations.

  (5) In each of the above-described embodiments, a display composed of two LEDs is used as a decorative symbol display. However, the decorative symbol display is not limited to such a configuration. For example, you may comprise one or more 7 segment LED. In addition, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine that is not provided with a decorative symbol display.

  (6) The embodiment described above is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of prize balls in response to detection of a winning ball, but responds to detection of a winning ball by enclosing a gaming ball. It can also be applied to enclosed game machines that give points.

  (7) The above-described embodiment can also be applied to an apparatus such as a game machine that simulates the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The program and data for realizing the above-described embodiment are not limited to a form distributed and provided to a computer apparatus or the like by a detachable recording medium, but a storage apparatus that the computer apparatus or the like has in advance. You may take the form that is distributed by pre-installing. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter. The game execution mode is not only executed by attaching a detachable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Further, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

  (8) The above-described embodiment includes the following configuration. This is an area provided in the game area (game area 7), and when a game medium (game ball) enters, a condition for executing variable display in the first variable display means (special symbol display 8a) is satisfied. 1 start area (first start winning opening 13) and an area provided in the game area, and when the game medium (game ball) enters, the second variation display means (second special symbol display 8b) The first start area (second start winning port 14) where the execution condition of the variable display in is established, and the first start area (or the second start area), the game medium is advantageous for the player. The state (open state) and the second state (closed state), which is more disadvantageous than the first state, can be changed, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied (the normal symbol variation display result is To the first state when Variable winning means (variable winning ball apparatus 15), and when the first variation pattern determining means and the second variation pattern determining means determine that the result of the variable display is not the specific display result, Reach a variation pattern that is determined based on establishment of an execution condition for variation display based on the entry of a game medium into the starting region of the first winning region or the second starting region that the variable winning means has. A variation pattern that determines a ratio to be selected as a variation pattern including a mode based on establishment of a condition for executing a variation display that is established based on the entry of a game medium into the starting area that the variable winning means does not have is a reach mode It was made lower than the ratio selected for the fluctuation pattern including (FIG. 11). According to such a configuration, in the first starting area or the second starting area, the starting area that the variable winning means has has compared to the starting area that the variable winning means does not have, the entry of the game medium. Is the performance foreseeing that the result of the variable display will be the specific display result because the ratio of selecting the variable pattern to be determined as the variable pattern including the reach mode is low based on the establishment of the variable display execution condition by In order to generate a variation pattern including a reach mode that gives the player an impression like this, it is possible to attract the player's interest in setting the variable winning means to the first state, and to improve the fun of the game Can do.

  (9) It should be understood that the embodiment disclosed this time is illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  13 1st start winning opening, 14 2nd starting winning opening, 8a 1st special symbol display, 8b 2nd special symbol display, 1 pachinko gaming machine, 560 microcomputer for game control, 18c total pending storage display section, 100 Production control microcomputer, 9 production display device.

Claims (1)

First variation display means for performing variation display of the first identification information based on the fact that the game medium has entered the first start region provided in the game region and deriving and displaying the display result, and provided in the game region Second variation display means for performing variation display of the second identification information based on the fact that the game medium has entered the second start area and deriving and displaying the display result, wherein the first variation display means or the second variation display means A gaming machine that is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means,
First predetermination that determines whether or not the display result of the first variation display means is to be the specific display result on the condition that a game medium has entered the first start area, before the display result is derived and displayed. Means,
Second pre-determination that determines whether or not the display result of the second variation display means is to be the specific display result on the condition that a game medium has entered the second start area, before the display result is derived and displayed. Means,
First variation pattern determining means for determining, from a plurality of variation patterns, a variation pattern capable of specifying a variation display time from the start of variation display to the end of variation display when variation display by the first variation display means is executed; ,
Second variation pattern determining means for determining a variation pattern capable of specifying a variation display time from the start of variation display to the end of variation display when variation display by the second variation display means is executed from a plurality of variation patterns; ,
First fluctuation pattern storage means for storing a first fluctuation pattern table used for determining a fluctuation pattern by the first fluctuation pattern determination means;
Second fluctuation pattern storage means for storing a second fluctuation pattern table used for determining a fluctuation pattern by the second fluctuation pattern determination means;
First identification information control means for controlling fluctuation display of the first identification information according to the fluctuation pattern determined by the first fluctuation pattern determination means;
Second identification information control means for controlling the variation display of the second identification information in accordance with the variation pattern determined by the second variation pattern determination means;
Waiting means for waiting for the start of the other variable display while one of the first identification information and the second identification information is variably displayed;
The first hold number for which the game medium has entered the first start area but the change display of the first identification information has not yet started, and the game medium has entered the second start area but the change of the second identification information has not yet started. A hold number indicator for displaying a second hold number that has not started to be displayed;
An effect display device that performs effect display and displays the first hold number and the second hold number,
The first fluctuation pattern storage means and the second fluctuation pattern storage means have a predetermined number of total numbers of the first hold number and the second hold number as the first change pattern table and the second change pattern table. When the total number is determined to be a variation pattern in which the variation display time is shorter than when the total number is less than the predetermined number, and when the total number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number and the total number is In any of the cases where the number is less than the predetermined number, a table that is defined so that the ratio of the variation pattern having a long variation display time is determined to be different between the first variation pattern table and the second variation pattern table is stored. Characteristic gaming machine.

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