JP4912092B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine that notifies the magnitude of a privilege given to a player.

For example, in order to provide a pachinko machine in which the player can adjust the probability change notification time and greatly increase the fun of the game, winning the start winning opening, winning the jackpot lottery through the big winning lottery Whether to change the probability by changing the round function that repeats the opening of the big prize opening, the probability variation function that increases the jackpot probability at the next jackpot lottery, and the probability variation determination symbol that is displayed variably In a pachinko machine equipped with a probability change notification function that gives notifications, the number of winning prizes for notification of probability changes is the cumulative number of winnings across multiple rounds during the round function (cumulative prizes). (Storing in a number storage area), it is possible to extend the probability change notification point to a point close to the final round, and the expectation as to whether or not the probability change will continue. Pachinko machine has been proposed that (for example, see Patent Document 1.).
JP 2005-168993 A

  In such a gaming machine, the timing for notifying the player whether the probability changes after the end of the jackpot is extended to the point just before the end of the jackpot as much as possible, so that the player's willingness to play continues and is more interesting. Rise. However, in the gaming machine of Patent Document 1 described above, the timing of notification of probability variation can be adjusted to some extent by the player himself, but the timing of notification until the time when the entry to probability variation is confirmed (timing of jackpot end) is reached. It is impossible to stretch.

  On the other hand, if the notification is performed in a mode that requires a certain amount of time, if the notification is not completed before the end of the jackpot, the gaming state is determined before the notification result is finalized, and the notification of the folding angle is spoiled. Therefore, it is necessary to appropriately determine the notification start timing. If the time required from the start to the end of each round of jackpot is constant, the start timing can be uniquely determined, but it takes from the start to the end of the round of jackpot by the nail adjustment or the player's game procedure. When the time may vary, it is difficult to determine the notification start timing.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a gaming machine that can appropriately determine the notification time so as not to lose the player's willingness to play, even for gaming machines that may vary the time required for each round of jackpot The purpose is to do.

In the first invention, when a game is played by launching a game ball in the game area, a supplementary game is executed when a predetermined condition is established, and the supplementary game results in a special result, a privilege is given to the player. A gaming machine comprising a game control means for generating a special gaming state to be granted, a privilege value determining means for determining the value of the value of the privilege, and a first state capable of accepting the launched game ball, A variable winning device that converts the fired game ball into a second state incapable of being received, and a winning game ball counting means that detects a game ball that has won the variable winning device and counts the detected game balls; When the special gaming state occurs, the variable winning device is converted to the first state, and the number of counts by the winning game ball counting means of the gaming balls won in the variable winning device converted to the first state is a predetermined count. When the number is reached , Conversion control means for converting the variable prize device to the second state, repeat control means for repeating the conversion operation of the variable prize device by the conversion control means up to a predetermined maximum number of times, and variable prize winning by the conversion control means. A timing means for timing the time during which the device is controlled to be converted to the first state, and means for notifying the player of the value of the privilege value determined by the privilege value determining means, the special gaming state with the progress of the game before the time when the magnitude of the value of the privilege is found, and pre-informing means for informing between the size a predetermined period the value of the award, the in, the pre notifying means, said The notification start time is determined so that the notification start time is relatively earlier as the time measurement by the time measuring means becomes longer .

  According to a second aspect, in the first aspect, the present invention further comprises cumulative storage information storage means for cumulatively storing past timing results by the timing means even if a special gaming state newly occurs, wherein the prior notification means The notification time is determined based on the time measurement result stored in the cumulative storage information storage means.

  According to a third aspect, in the second aspect, there are a plurality of candidates for the maximum continuation number, and one maximum continuation number is set from among the candidates according to the occurrence of the special gaming state. Even if the number of times is set, the predetermined count number is set to the same number, and the accumulated storage information storage means displays the time-measurement result timed by the time-counting means even in a special gaming state in which the maximum number of continuations are different from each other. Memorize cumulatively.

According to a fourth invention, in the first to third inventions, the advance notification means determines the length of the notification time at random, thereby determining the value of the privilege to the player. Change the time of notification.

According to a fifth invention, in the first to fourth inventions, the privilege value determining means determines the gaming state after the end of the special gaming state, thereby increasing the value of the privilege given to the player. Associated game state determining means for determining the game state, and the game control means generates the game state determined by the associated game state determining means after the end of the special game state. Before the end of the special gaming state, the player is notified of the gaming state determined by the accompanying gaming state determination means.

In a sixth aspect based on the first to fifth aspects, the special gaming state includes a short-term special gaming state that ends at a specific time in the special gaming state and a long-term that continues after the specific time. A special game state, and the privilege value determining means determines whether or not the special game state is long-term, thereby determining the value of the value of the privilege to be given to the player. Game state period determining means is included, and the prior notification means indicates whether or not the special gaming state determined by the special gaming state period determining means is long before the specific time point. Inform.

According to the first invention, when a game is played by launching a game ball into the game area, the auxiliary game is executed when a predetermined condition is established, and when the auxiliary game has a special result, the player is A gaming machine provided with a game control means for generating a special gaming state for granting a privilege, a privilege value determining means for determining the value of the privilege, and a first capable of accepting the fired game ball A winning prize game ball count for detecting a game ball that has won the state, a variable winning device that converts the fired game ball into a second state that cannot be accepted, and a winning game ball that has won the variable winning device; And when the special gaming state occurs, the variable winning device is converted to the first state, and the number of counts by the winning game ball counting means of the game balls won in the variable winning device converted to the first state is predetermined. Reached the count of In other words, conversion control means for converting the variable prize apparatus to the second state, repeat control means for repeating the conversion operation of the variable prize apparatus by the conversion control means up to a predetermined maximum number of times, and the conversion control means And a means for timing the time during which the variable winning device is controlled to be converted to the first state, and means for notifying the player of the value of the privilege determined by the privilege value determining means, the game progress prior to the time when the magnitude of the value of the benefits is found in special game state, and a pre-informing means for informing between the size a predetermined period the value of the award, the pre notification means is the starting time of the notification, so determined as the clock means start timing of relatively the notification about the time measurement result is longer by the earlier, informing the prior notification means, benefits value of size There it is possible to properly carry out just before the point in time that would revealed with the progress of the game, it is possible to increase the player's interest. In addition, since the notification is executed to the end without being interrupted, the effect of the notification assumed at the time of design is sufficiently exhibited. Furthermore, it becomes difficult for the player to understand how the ball approaches the variable winning device, and the result of the nail adjustment becomes difficult for the player to grasp.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided cumulative storage information storage means for cumulatively storing past timing results by the timing means even if a new special gaming state occurs, wherein the prior notification means is the cumulative storage Since the notification time is determined based on the time measurement result stored in the information storage means, a large amount of information collected over a long period of time is used, so that the time measurement error by the time measurement means can be reduced.

  According to the third invention, there are a plurality of candidates for the maximum number of continuations, and one maximum continuation number is set from among the candidates by occurrence of the special gaming state, and any maximum continuation number is set. However, the predetermined count number is the same, and the cumulative storage information storage means cumulatively stores the time measurement result timed by the time measurement means even in the special gaming state where the maximum number of continuations is different from each other. Therefore, even if the special game state has a different maximum number of continuations, the specified count number is the same, so that it can be effectively used to increase the accuracy of the timing result.

According to a fourth invention, the prior notification means changes the time when the value of the privilege is notified to the player by randomly determining the length of the notification time. Therefore, the notification time is not constant, and the time when the value of the privilege is determined becomes various, so that the interest of the game can be enhanced.

According to the fifth invention, the privilege value determining means determines the value of the value of the privilege given to the player by determining the gaming state after the end of the special gaming state. State determining means is included, and the game control means generates the gaming state determined by the accompanying gaming state determining means after the special gaming state ends, and the prior notification means ends the special gaming state. Since the game state determined by the accompanying game state determination means is notified to the player prior to the point of time, the timing at which the notification result is recognized by the player is determined as soon as the special game state ends, that is, as much as possible. The notification can be made until the timing immediately before the state changes, and the player's interest can be enhanced.

According to the sixth invention, the special gaming state includes a short-term special gaming state that ends at a specific time in the special gaming state and a long-term special gaming state that continues after the specific time. The privilege value determining means includes special game state period determining means for determining the value of the value of the privilege given to the player by determining whether or not the special gaming state is long-term. The prior notification means notifies the information on whether or not the special gaming state determined by the special gaming state period determination means is long before the specific time point. The timing recognized by the player can be brought close to the timing (specific time point) reflected in the execution of the game, whether the special gaming state is short-term or long-term, and can enhance the player's interest it can.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine (pachinko machine) 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The front frame 2 of the gaming machine 1 is assembled to the machine frame 3 via a hinge 4 so as to be capable of opening and closing. A storage frame is attached to the back surface of the front frame 2 to store the game board 5. A glass frame 6 is attached to the front frame 2 through a hinge so as to be opened and closed. A substantially circular opening 7 is formed on the front surface of the glass frame 6. The front surface of the game board 5 is covered with a front structural member (cover glass) 8 incorporated in the opening 7 of the glass frame 6.

  Decorative light emitting devices 9 such as decorative lamps and LEDs are provided at the main points of the front frame 2, and these decorative light emitting devices 9 emit light according to the progress of the game when an event such as a big hit occurs. An upper plate (ball supply plate) 10 for guiding a game ball to a hitting ball launching device (not shown) is disposed below the front frame 2. In addition, a lower plate 11 and a launching operation unit 12 of a hitting ball launching device are disposed below the front frame 2. The upper plate 10 is provided with a ball storage unit 10a, and a card ball lending unit 41 (not shown) provided in the gaming machine 1 from a supply tank 13 provided on the back of the gaming machine 1 in the ball storage unit 10a (FIG. 3). The number of game balls according to the ball lending request is discharged.

  A ball lending button 15 for instructing lending a ball and a discharge button 16 for instructing discharge of a game ball are provided on the upper right portion of the upper plate 10. At the upper right of these buttons 15 and 16, a remaining sphere display unit 17 for displaying the remaining number of game balls (card balance) is provided. A sound output device (speaker) 18 and an ashtray 19 are provided on the left of the lower plate 11.

  FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 5 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  On the surface of the game board 5, a substantially circular game area 21 surrounded by the guide rail 20 is formed. The game area 21 is composed of resin side cases 22 and guide rails 20 provided on each of the four sides of the game board 5. The side case 22 provided at the lower right of the game area 21 is covered with a black transparent cardboard plate 23 at the center of the front surface. The side cases 22 provided at the upper right and lower right of the game area 21 are provided with attachment portions 24 for fixing the game board 5 to the front frame 2.

  In the game area 21, a center case 26 provided with an image display device (special symbol display device) 25 is disposed substantially at the center. The image display device 25 is attached to a recess provided in the center case 26 at a position deeper than the front surface of the center case 26. That is, the center case 26 surrounds the image display device 25 and is provided so as to protrude from the display area of the image display device 25.

  The display screen of the image display device 25 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display), a CRT (CRT), or the like. A plurality of variable display areas are provided in an area (display area) in which an image of the display screen can be displayed, and identification information (special symbol) and a character that produces a special figure variable display game are displayed in each variable display area. Is done. That is, special symbols (for example, numbers from “0” to “9” and “A” and “B” assigned as identification information are displayed in the variable display areas provided on the left, middle, and right of the display screen. 12 kinds of English characters) are variably displayed (variable display) and a special variability display game is played. In addition, an image (for example, jackpot display, fanfare display, ending display, etc.) based on the progress of the game is displayed on the display screen.

  Decoration devices 28 such as decorative lamps and LEDs are provided at key points in the game area, and these decoration devices 28 emit light according to the progress of the game when an event such as a big hit occurs.

  A direction changing member 30 is disposed on the left side of the center case 26. Also, on the lower side of the center case 26, a second special figure start gate provided with a normal symbol start gate 31, a general winning opening 32, a first special figure starting opening 33, and an ordinary variable winning apparatus (normal electric accessory) 34. 35 and a special variable winning device 36 having a big winning opening are arranged. On the left side of the special variation winning device 36, there are a special symbol display 37A for displaying a special symbol variation display of the special symbol variation display game and a special symbol memory display 37B for displaying a special symbol winning memory number (starting memory number). A special figure display 37 is provided.

  Also, on the right side of the special variable winning device 36, there is provided a general symbol display 38 comprising a general symbol display 38A on which a general symbol variable display game is executed and a general symbol memory display 38B for displaying the number of ordinary symbol winning memories. It is done.

  In the gaming machine 1, a game is played by launching a game ball (pachinko ball) toward a game area 21 from a ball hitting device (not shown). The launched game balls flow down the game area 21 while changing the rolling direction by the direction changing members 30 such as windmills arranged at various places in the game area 21, and the general winning opening 32 and the first special figure starting opening 33. The second special figure starting port 35 or the special variable winning device 36 is won or discharged from the out port 39 provided at the lowermost part of the game area 21.

  The second special figure starting port 35 is normally prevented from winning a game ball by the first special figure starting port 33 and the closed normal variation winning device 34. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol start gate 31, the normal symbol variation display game is executed. Then, when a winning state is generated as a result of the normal variation display game, the normal variation winning device 34 is converted to an open state, and the second special figure starting port 35 can accept a game ball.

  The winning of game balls to the general winning opening 32 is the winning opening sensors 32.1 to 32. N (FIG. 3).

  The winning of the game ball to the first special figure starting port 33 and the second special figure starting port 35 is detected by the special figure starting sensor 33A and the special figure starting sensor 35A (FIG. 3), respectively. The special symbol random number counter value extracted according to the passing timing of the game ball is stored in the special symbol storage area in the game control device 100 as a special symbol winning memory for a predetermined number of times (for example, a maximum of four consecutive times). The The stored number of special symbol winning memories is displayed on the special symbol memory display 37B. Based on the special symbol winning memory, the game control device 100 plays the special figure change display game on the special figure display 37A (the auxiliary game is executed).

  When a game ball wins a prize at the first special figure starting port 33 or the second special figure starting port 35, the image display device 25 displays the special symbol (identification information) composed of the above-described numbers on the left (first special figure starting point). Variation display is started in the order of symbol), right (second special symbol), and middle (third special symbol), and an image related to the special symbol variation display game is displayed. That is, in the image display device 25, the special symbol variation display corresponding to the display of the special figure display 37A is performed. The special figure display 37A accurately notifies the player of the change display state and the change display result, and the image display device 25 produces various displays for improving the interest.

  When winning at the first special figure starting port 33 or the second special figure starting port 35 is made at a predetermined timing (specifically, when the special symbol random number counter value at the time of winning detection is a winning value) It becomes a big hit state, and a specific result mode is derived by the display symbol. Specifically, the special symbol display 37A stops at a single-digit special symbol that is a winning symbol, and the image display device 25 stops when three special symbols are aligned (big hit symbol). At this time, the special variable prize-winning device 36 is in a closed state (to the player) in which the big prize opening does not accept a game ball for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) by energizing the big prize solenoid 43 (FIG. 3). It is converted from an unfavorable second state) to an open state in which a game ball can be easily received (first state advantageous to the player). In other words, the big prize opening provided in each special variable prize winning device opens greatly for a predetermined time, so that the player is given a game value that can acquire many game balls during this time.

  The winning of the game ball to the special variation winning device 36 is detected by the count sensor 36A (FIG. 3).

  The passing of the game ball to the normal symbol start gate 31 is detected by the general symbol start sensor 31A (FIG. 3). The normal symbol random number counter value extracted according to the passing timing of the game ball is stored as a normal symbol winning memory in the normal symbol storage area in the game control device 100 for a predetermined number of times (for example, up to four consecutive times). The Then, the stored number of the normal symbol winning memory is displayed on the general memory display 38B.

  When the game ball passes through the normal symbol start gate 31, the game control device 100 starts the general symbol change display game on the general symbol display 38A based on the normal symbol winning memory. That is, when the passage detection to the normal symbol start gate 31 is performed at a predetermined timing (specifically, when the normal symbol random number counter value at the time of passage detection is a winning value), the hit state is established and the normal symbol display is performed. The normal symbol displayed on the container 38A stops in the hit state. At this time, the normal variation winning device 31 provided at the upper part of the second special figure starting port 35 has a predetermined entrance to the second special figure starting port 35 by energizing the normal electric accessory solenoid 34A (FIG. 3). The game ball is converted so as to be opened for a certain period of time, and the winning of the game ball to the second special figure starting port 35 is permitted. The release time of the normal variation winning device 34 may be, for example, 2.9 seconds in the probability variation state and the variation time reduction state, and 0.5 seconds in the normal game state, and the release mode may be changed according to the game state.

  In this way, when a game ball wins the general winning opening 32, the first special figure starting opening 33, the second special figure starting opening 35 and the special variable winning opening apparatus 36, the number of prizes corresponding to the type of the winning winning opening is obtained. The balls are discharged from the dispensing unit (discharge device) to the upper plate 10 or the lower plate 11 of the front frame 2.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a part of a control system centering on the game control device 100 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The game control device 100 is a main control device that controls the game in an integrated manner, a CPU that controls the game control, a ROM that stores invariant information (programs, data, etc.) for game control, and at the time of game control The game microcomputer 101 includes a RAM used as a work area, an input interface 102, an output interface 103, and the like.

  The gaming microcomputer 101 is provided with an external communication terminal, and an identification number uniquely set in the gaming microcomputer 101 can be output from the external communication terminal. By connecting a management computer (so-called hall control), the management computer can identify the gaming machine 1.

  The gaming microcomputer 101 is connected to various detection devices (award opening sensors 32.1 to 32.N, special figure start sensors 33A and 35A, a general figure start sensor 31A, and a count sensor 36A) via the input interface 102. In response to the detection signal, various processes such as a big hit lottery are performed.

  In addition, the gaming microcomputer 101 is provided with a special figure display 37 (special figure display 37A, special figure storage display 37B) and a general figure display 38 (normal figure) provided in the game area 21 via the output interface 103. Various information is output to the display 38A and the general memory display 38B).

  The special figure display 37A outputs the fluctuation display mode of the special figure fluctuation display game. The special symbol winning display 37B outputs a special symbol winning memorized number display.

  A variation display mode of the variation map display game is output to the map display 38A. In addition, a normal symbol winning memory number display is output to the common symbol memory display 38B.

  In addition, the gaming microcomputer 101 transmits command signals to each subordinate control device (the display control device 150 and the discharge control device 200), the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 34A, the big prize opening solenoid 43, and the like via the output interface 103. And overall control of the game.

  The discharge control device 200 controls the operation of the payout unit based on the prize ball command signal from the game control device 100 and discharges the prize ball. Further, based on a ball rental request signal from the card ball rental unit 41 provided in the gaming machine 1, the operation of the payout unit is controlled to discharge the ball rental.

  The gaming microcomputer 101 outputs information related to the gaming machine 1 to the management computer via the board external information terminal 40.

  From the game control device 100 to the display control device 150, as a display control command signal, a special figure variation start command, a variation display command, an identification information command, a confirmation command, a demonstration display command, a fanfare command, a jackpot command, a notification effect time designation command, An error command or the like is transmitted. Further, a command signal for changing the display mode according to a difference in the gaming state such as the normal gaming state, the special gaming state, the probability variation state, or the variation time shortening state is transmitted.

  Note that the normal game state is a state in which no special game is executed and neither the probability variation state nor the variation time reduction state. The special game state is a state in which a big hit is generated as a result of the special figure variation display game and a special game (big hit game) is being executed. The probability variation state is a state in which a special prize occurrence probability is higher than that in the normal gaming state and acts on the player in an advantageous manner with respect to the occurrence of the special gaming state. The variation time reduction state is a state in which the time for which the identification information is variably displayed is reduced.

  The special figure change start command instructs the start of the special figure change display game. The variation display command indicates a variation display mode of the identification information. The identification information command indicates identification information to be stopped and displayed as a result of the special figure variation display game. The confirmation command instructs the stop of the variation display of the identification information. The demonstration display command instructs a display to be performed when the special figure variation display game is not played for a predetermined time. The fanfare command instructs display of the state before the transition to the special gaming state. The jackpot command instructs display during a special game state such as a round display during a special game state, an interval display, or a display between rounds during a special game state. The error command instructs display when there is an abnormality. The notification effect time designation command instructs display of a round promotion notification or a probability change entry notification.

  The display control device 150 can grasp the transition of the game state managed by the game control device 100 based on these display control command signals (commands).

  The display control device 150 includes a CPU 151, a GDP (Graphics Display Processor) 156, a RAM 153, an interface 155, a control ROM 152 storing programs and sequence data, and image data (design data, background image data, moving image character data, texture data, etc.). The stored image ROM 157 and CPU 151 are monitored for runaway, and when CPU 151 runaway is detected, the CPU 151 is configured to include a monitoring circuit 158 that resets the CPU 151. An image display device 25, a sound control device 300, and a decoration control device 250 are connected to the display control device 150.

  The CPU 151 executes a program stored in the control ROM 152, and displays control information (sprite data, polygon data, etc.) for a predetermined variable display game based on a display command signal received from the game control device 100 via the interface 155. The graphic display information, the background screen information, the moving picture object screen information, etc. configured by the

  Based on the image data stored in the image ROM 157 and the content of the display control information output from the CPU 151, the GDP 156 performs, for example, polygon drawing (or normal bitmap drawing) of the image and a predetermined value for each polygon. The texture is pasted and stored in a VRAM (not shown) provided in the GDP 156 as a frame buffer. The GDP 156 transmits the image in the VRAM to the image display device 25 at a predetermined timing (vertical synchronization signal V_SYNC, horizontal synchronization signal H_SYNC).

  Other drawing processes performed by the GDP 156 include point drawing, line drawing, triangle drawing, alpha blending, shading processing (such as glow shading), and hidden surface removal (such as Z buffer processing).

  Here, as the frame buffer, a plurality of frame buffers are set in a predetermined storage area of the VRAM, and the GDP 156 can be superimposed on an arbitrary image and output.

  The RGB signal output from the GDP 156 is input to a γ correction circuit (not shown). This γ correction circuit corrects non-linear characteristics of illuminance with respect to the signal voltage of the image display device 25, adjusts the display illuminance of the image display device 25, and outputs an RGB signal (display image data) to the image display device 25. ) Is generated.

  Further, the image display device 25 is connected to the GDP 156. The image display device 25 displays an image corresponding to the display area based on the image display signal from the display control device 150.

  The interface 155 that connects the display control device 150 and the game control device 100 is provided with a buffer that is a signal transmission direction regulating means. Therefore, in the communication between the game control device 100 and the display control device 150, only signal input from the game control device 100 to the display control device 150 is allowed, and signal output from the display control device 150 to the game control device 100 is not allowed. prohibited. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an unauthorized signal from being input to the game control device 100 from the display control device 150. When bidirectional communication is performed between the game control device 100 and the display control device 150, a bidirectional buffer may be used as the buffer.

  Further, the decoration control device 250 and the sound control device 300 are connected to the interface 155.

  Based on the decoration control command signal from the display control device 150, the decoration control device 250 is provided with a decoration light emitting device 9 such as a decoration lamp and LED provided on the front frame 2, and a decoration lamp and LED in the game area 21. And so on.

  The sound control device 300 controls the sound effect output from the speaker 18 based on the sound control command signal from the display control device 150.

  The power supply device (not shown) of the gaming machine 1 includes a backup power supply unit and a power failure monitoring circuit in addition to the power supply circuit. When the power failure monitoring circuit detects a voltage drop of the power supply device, the power failure monitoring circuit sequentially outputs a power failure detection signal and a reset signal to the game control device 100 and the like. When the game control device 100 receives a power failure detection signal, the game control device 100 performs a predetermined power failure process, and when it receives a reset signal, stops the operation of the CPU. The backup power supply unit supplies backup power to a RAM such as the game control device 100 to back up game data (game information, game control information (including special figure variation display game information)) and the like.

  Although the decoration control device 250 and the sound control device 300 are provided separately from the display control device 150, the decoration control device 250 and the sound control device 300 among the subordinate control devices are included in the display control device 150, and the decoration control device 250 and the sound control device 300 are included. The control device 250 and / or the sound control device 300 may be configured integrally with the display control device 150.

  Further, the decoration control device 250 and the sound control device 300 may be directly connected to the game control device 100 without being connected to the display control device 150.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the main process of game control according to the first embodiment of this invention, and is executed by the game control apparatus 100.

  When the power to the gaming machine is turned on, the gaming microcomputer 101 executes an initialization process for setting initial values for various control parameters (S11), and sets the gaming machine to an initial state. Subsequently, a stirring random number update process (S12) is performed. Thereafter, this random number update process for stirring is repeated.

  This stirring random number update process (S12) is a process for updating the initial value of the random number update process in S25 of FIG. This process will be described. Among the processes executed by the game control device 100, when a game ball wins the normal symbol start gate 31, the first special figure start port 33, and the second special figure start port 35, A lottery for deriving the corresponding game result mode, or for giving randomness to the production or decoration when a special figure variation display game is advanced based on this lottery result, Includes random number processing. As an example of these random number processes, there is a process in which the counter value is incremented by 1 in a predetermined time period, for example, 1 millisecond period between 0 and 316, and returned to 0 when the value exceeds 316. . This random number update process is executed in S25.

  This counter value is extracted when the game control apparatus 100 recognizes the above-described event such as winning of a game ball, and becomes a random value at that time. However, even if it is a random number, if the above-described processing is repeated, a random value extracted at a cycle of 317 milliseconds has a periodicity, and the randomness is degraded. Therefore, further randomness is imparted by disturbing the counter value in the random number updating process for stirring.

  Instead of starting the change of the counter value in the example described above from 0 each time, the value obtained by the random number update process for stirring is changed as the initial value of the counter value. In other words, when the change of one rotation is finished, a new value obtained by the stirring random number update process is set as the initial value of the next counter.

  Further, a process for changing the counter value for one rotation is performed, and the initial value at the time of the counter value change is successively updated. Since the random number update cycle in the stirring random number update processing is considerably shorter than the random number update cycle in S25, the randomness of the counter can be increased.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the game control timer interrupt process according to the first embodiment of this invention, which is executed by the game control apparatus 100.

  After the power to the gaming machine is turned on, the game control main process is executed, and when a timer interrupt occurs for a predetermined time period (for example, every 1 millisecond), the timer interrupt process is repeatedly executed. However, the processes of S21 to S31 are not necessarily performed every time an interrupt occurs. For example, the input process S22 monitors the input signal every time, but the output process S23 may be executed every other interrupt occurrence. That is, instead of completing all the processes in one interrupt process, the interrupt process may be repeatedly executed a plurality of times to complete a series of game control processes.

  First, interrupt prohibition setting and register saving processing are performed (S21).

  Thereafter, processing such as chattering removal is performed on signals from various sensors and switches input via the input interface 102, and input processing for determining input information is performed (S22).

  Thereafter, output processing for outputting data relating to game control to a predetermined output destination (ordinary electric accessory solenoid 34A, large prize opening solenoid 43, board external information 40, etc.) is performed via the output interface 103 (S23).

  Thereafter, command transmission processing for outputting a display control command signal to the display control device 150 and outputting a prize ball command signal to the discharge control device 200 is performed (S24).

  After that, each random number counter for determining whether or not the special figure fluctuation display game is hit, and the effects or decorations when the special figure fluctuation display game is advanced (fluctuation display pattern, stop pattern, etc.) A random number update process for incrementing the value of each random number counter for imparting randomness by one is performed (S25).

  After that, an error monitoring process is performed to monitor the ball jam of the gaming machine, abnormality of various switches, sensors, etc. (S26).

  Thereafter, the presence / absence of input from the special figure start sensors 33A, 35A, the general figure start sensor 31A, the count sensor 36A, etc. is detected, and according to the result, special symbol winning memory, ordinary symbol winning memory, winning prize count to the big prize opening A switch monitoring process for updating the number and the like is performed (S27). At this time, if a game ball is detected by the special figure start sensor 33A or 35A, a special figure random number counter value (a random number related to the result mode of the special figure variation display game) is stored in the special figure start memory 31A. If the game ball is detected by the above, the usual random number counter value (random number relating to the result mode of the usual fluctuation display game) is stored in the usual figure start memory.

  After that, a special figure fluctuation display game process (S28) and a normal figure fluctuation display game process (S29) for controlling the progress of the special figure fluctuation display game are performed. The special figure variation display game process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The normal symbol variation display game process (S29) is extracted based on the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol start gate 31 detected by the general symbol start sensor 31A, and is stored in the normal symbol start memory and stored in the normal symbol start memory. It is determined whether or not the random number relating to the result mode of the general fluctuation display game extracted / stored in S27 is hit, and the process for the general fluctuation display game executed by the general graphic display 38A is performed. If the common random number counter value is a predetermined value, the common figure fluctuation display game is in a winning state, and the normal symbol fluctuation display stops at the winning symbol. Further, when the winning state is reached, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 34A is driven to open the ordinary variation winning device 34, and winning to the second special figure starting port 35 is allowed.

  Thereafter, external information editing processing for editing the board external information for outputting the state of the gaming machine 1 to the management computer connected via the board external information terminal 40 is performed (S30). The external information for the board includes information related to the progress status of the special-figure display game, such as whether the symbol has been confirmed, whether it is a big hit, whether the probability is changing, or whether the time is changing (shorter) It is.

  Thereafter, the process of restoring the temporarily saved register and the process of setting the permission of the interrupt that has been prohibited are performed (S31), the timer interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main process. The stirring random number update process is repeated until the next timer interrupt occurs.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the special figure variation display game process according to the first embodiment of this invention, which is executed by the game control device 100.

  When a game is started on the gaming machine 1, any of process numbers 0 to 6 for determining the contents of the special figure variation display game process is stored in the RAM of the game microcomputer 101 based on the game state being executed. Is done.

  Process number 0 is a “waiting for change” process, and is a number that is set when neither a change display game nor a special game is in progress. Process number 1 is a process of “changing”, and is set until the special symbol variation display game is started and the special symbol variation display is stopped. Process number 2 is a process of “waiting for big hit determination” and is set after the special symbol variation display is stopped. Process numbers 3 to 6 are processes for “big hit operation” and are set during execution of a special game. Note that the initial value of the process number is “0”. Process numbers 3 to 6 will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  In the special figure variation display game process, first, a process number stored in the RAM of the game control apparatus 100 is specified (S41). Then, the following processing is executed according to the stored processing number.

  If the process number is 0, it is neither during the variable display game nor during the special game, so the game control device 100 determines whether or not the special symbol winning memory number is not 0 (S42). If the special symbol winning memory number is 0, that is, if there is no variable display game held based on the winning of a game ball to the first special figure starting port 33 or the second special figure starting port 35, the main Return to processing.

  On the other hand, when the special symbol winning memory number is larger than 0, the game display device is held because the variable display game based on the winning of the game ball to the first special figure starting port 33 or the second special figure starting port 35 is held. 100 performs a process for starting the special figure variation display game (S43).

  Specifically, first, the stored number of 1 is subtracted from the already stored starting stored number. Next, it is determined whether the random number counter value extracted at the passing timing of the game ball to the first special figure start sensor 33A or the second special figure start sensor 35A is a winning value or an outlier. Next, a special symbol stop symbol is determined by lottery using another random number. This stop symbol is determined so as to match the determination result of the random number counter value described above.

  Next, time T1 is set in the processing timer. Time T1 is the time from when the special figure variation display game starts until the special symbol stops. Next, the processing number is set to 1. Thus, the next time the special figure fluctuation display game process is executed, the process branches to the “fluctuating” process. Next, the special symbol display 37A starts the variation display of the special symbol. Next, a special figure change start command is output to the display control device 150. As a result, the special display variation display game is started on the image display device 25 as well.

  When the process number is 1, since the variable display game has started, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the time T1 set in the process timer in step S43 has expired (S44).

  If the processing timer T1 has not timed up, the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed, and the routine returns to the timer interrupt processing while maintaining the special symbol variation display.

  On the other hand, when the processing timer T1 expires, the time T2 is set in the processing timer because the special symbol variation display time has expired. The time T2 is the time from when the special symbol variation display stops until the transition to the special game or the next variation display game, in order to make the player recognize the confirmed special symbol (big hit symbol or out symbol). Is the time. Next, the processing number is set to 2, and a special figure fluctuation stop command is output to the display control device 150 to stop the special symbol fluctuation (S45).

  When the process number is 2, since the special symbol change display has ended, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the time T2 set in the process timer in step S45 has expired (S46).

  If the processing timer T2 has not expired, the process returns to the timer interrupt process. On the other hand, if the processing timer T2 has expired, it is determined whether or not the result of the special figure variation display game is a big hit based on the determination result of the random number counter value in step S43, and the next process is determined (S47).

  If the result of the special figure variation display game is not a big hit, that is, if the game is out of play, the process number is set to 0 (S48). Thus, the next time the special figure variation display game process is executed, the process branches to the “waiting for variation” process.

  If the result of the special figure variation display game is a big hit, a big hit generation process is executed (S49). The big hit generation process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 7, but the time T3 is set in the process timer and the process number is set to 3. At time T3, fanfare display is performed on the image display device 25. Further, when the process number is 3, the next time the special figure variation display game process is executed, the process branches to the process of “big hit operation”.

  If the process number is 3 to 6, the game control device 100 executes a special game process (S50). The special game process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 8. Specifically, in the special game process, first, whether the time T3 set in the process timer in the big hit generation process (FIG. 7) in step S49 has expired. It is determined whether or not the fanfare display is finished depending on whether or not. If the processing timer T3 has timed out and the fanfare display has ended, it is determined which of the special variable prize winning devices 36 is to be opened based on the stop symbol determined in step S43.

  Then, based on the result, one of the special winning opening solenoids 43 is driven to open the special variable winning device 36 for a predetermined time so that the game ball can be easily received. Then, after the elapse of a predetermined time or when a predetermined number of game balls are awarded to the active variable winning device, the special variable winning device 36 is converted into a closed state.

  Then, a special game of a round (for example, any one of 4 rounds, 10 rounds, and 15 rounds) according to the hit type described later in FIG. 11 is executed with the predetermined time or a predetermined number of game balls won as one round. Then, the special game process ends. When the special game process ends, the process number is set to zero.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the big hit generation process according to the first embodiment of this invention, which is executed by the game control device 100.

  In the big hit generation process, the game control device 100 first extracts the special symbol random number counter value for which the big hit is determined in step S43 as a big hit random number, determines an effect flag based on the extracted big hit random number value (S51), Next, a maximum value MAX (maximum number of continuations) of the number of rounds is determined based on the value of the big hit random number extracted in step S51 (S52). Here, the effect flag and the maximum value MAX of the number of rounds will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 11, but depending on the type of winning (the effect flag is, for example, one of A, B, and C, the maximum number of rounds The value MAX is determined (for example, any one of 4 rounds, 10 rounds, and 15 rounds).

  Then, the big hit elapsed timer is initialized (S53). Here, the big hit elapsed timer is a timer for measuring an elapsed time after the big hit has occurred. Then, the time T3 is set in the processing timer, the processing number is set to 3, and 0 is set to the number of rounds (S54). Here, the time T3 is the time from the start to the end of the fanfare display that produces the start of the special game.

  Then, via the display control device 150, the sound control device 300 is instructed to start the output of the music during the big hit that produces the big hit (S55). Based on this, the big hit music is output from the speaker 18. Note that the big hit music has a predetermined length and is repeatedly output until the big hit ends. Thereafter, the process returns to the special figure variation display game process.

  8 and 9 are flowcharts of the special game processing according to the first embodiment of this invention, and are executed by the game control device 100. FIG.

  In the special game process, the game control device 100 first executes a notification timing determination process (S61). The notification timing determination process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Next, the process number memorize | stored in RAM of the game control apparatus 100 is specified (S62). Then, the following processing is executed according to the stored processing number.

  When the process number is 3, the game control device 100 displays a special game start (S63), and determines whether or not the time T3 set in the process timer in step S54 (FIG. 7) has expired. (S64). Thereby, it is determined whether or not the fanfare display is completed.

  If the processing timer T3 has not expired, the display time of the fanfare display has not elapsed, so the display returns to the special figure variation display game process while maintaining the display of the special game start.

  On the other hand, if the processing timer T3 has expired, the display time of the fanfare display has ended, and the process proceeds to step S84 (see FIG. 9).

  When the process number is 4, the game control device 100 opens the special winning opening provided in the special variable winning device 36 (S65), and determines whether or not the time T4 set in the process timer in step S83 has expired. (S66).

  If the processing timer T4 has not expired, it is determined whether or not the count number is 10 or more (S67). If the count is less than 10, the process returns to the special figure variation display game process. On the other hand, if the count is 10 or more, the process proceeds to step S68.

  On the other hand, if the processing timer T4 has expired, the process proceeds to step S68.

  In step S68, the measurement of the opening time started in step S83 is terminated, and the measurement result is stored. Then, it is determined whether or not the number of rounds is MAX (S69).

  If the number of rounds is not MAX, the special game is continued, so the time T5 is set in the processing timer. The time T5 is a time from when a certain round is started to forcibly shifting to the next round regardless of whether or not the number of counts in that round has reached 10. Then, the process number is set to 5 (S70). Thus, the next time the special game process is executed, the process branches to a process of “close the big prize opening”. Thereafter, the process returns to the special figure variation display game process.

  On the other hand, when the number of rounds is MAX, the special game is ended, and therefore the time T6 is set in the processing timer. Time T6 is the time from the start to the end of the ending display that produces the end of the special game. Then, the process number is set to 6 (S71). Thus, the next time the special game process is executed, the process branches to the “special game end” process. afterwards. Return to the special figure variation display game process.

  When the process number is 5, the game control device 100 closes the special winning opening provided in the special variable winning device 36 (S81 in FIG. 9), and whether or not the time T5 set in the process timer in step S70 has expired. Is determined (S82).

  If the process timer T5 has not expired, the process returns to the special figure variation display game process.

  On the other hand, if the processing timer T5 has expired, the process proceeds to step S83.

  In step S83, the time T4 is set in the processing timer and the processing number is set to 4 in order to open the special winning opening. Then, the count number is set to 0, the round number is incremented by 1, and the open time measurement is started. Thus, the next time the special game process is executed, the process branches to the “open big prize opening” process. Thereafter, the process returns to the special figure variation display game process.

  When the process number is 6, the game control device 100 closes the special winning opening provided in the special variable winning device 36 (S84 in FIG. 9), and whether or not the time T6 set in the process timer in step S71 has expired. Is determined (S85).

  If the process timer T6 has not expired, the process returns to the special figure variation display game process.

  On the other hand, when the processing timer T6 has expired, the processing number is set to 0 (S86). Thus, the next time the special figure variation display game process is executed, the process branches to a “waiting for variation” process. Then, a probability variation flag is set with a big hit random number (S87). The probability change will be described later with reference to FIG. Then, the display control device is instructed to switch the display to the normal screen, and further, the sound control device 300 is instructed to stop the big hit music via the display control device 150 (S88). Thereafter, the process returns to the special figure variation display game process.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the notification timing determination process according to the first embodiment of this invention, and is executed by the game control device 100.

  Here, the relationship regarding the stop symbol, the maximum number of continuations, the effect flag, and the gaming state after the big hit is displayed when the big hit occurs will be briefly described. A detailed description of this relationship will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the symbol “777” is stopped on the image display device 25 as a result of the execution of the variable display game, a big hit with a maximum duration of 15 rounds occurs, and the probability change state is entered even after the big hit ends. It is decided to do. In this case, the effect flag is “D”.

  Further, when the symbol display other than “7” or “3” stops on the image display device 25 as a result of the execution of the variable display game, a big hit with a maximum duration of 4 rounds occurs, and the probability change state is reached even after the big hit ends. It is confirmed that it will not enter into. In this case, the effect flag is “D”.

  On the other hand, if the symbol “333” stops on the image display device 25 as a result of the execution of the variable display game, the maximum number of continuations will be a big hit of 15 rounds or 10 rounds. I do n’t know if it ’s going to be a round. In addition, the player does not know whether or not to enter the probable change state even after the big hit ends, at the time of the big hit start.

  However, even when the symbol “333” is stopped on the image display device 25 as a result of the execution of the variable display game, the game control device 100 determines the maximum number of continuations and the game state after the big hit at the time of the big hit. is doing. At this time, if the maximum number of continuations is 15 rounds, and it is determined that the probability variation state will be entered after the big hit, the production flag is set to “A”. If it is determined that the maximum number of continuations is 15 rounds and the probability variation state is not entered after the big hit, the production flag is set to “B”. Further, if the maximum number of continuations is 10 rounds and it is determined not to enter the probability variation state after the big hit, the production flag is set to “C”.

  Returning to FIG. 10, in the notification timing determination process, the game control device 100 first determines whether or not the effect flag is “D” (S91). The effect flag will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If the performance flag is “D”, the result of the round promotion and the probability change entry is confirmed (see FIG. 11), so the round promotion notification and the probability change entry notification are unnecessary and are not executed. Return to. On the other hand, if the effect flag is not “D”, the game control device 100 checks the jackpot elapsed timer (step S53 in FIG. 7) and starts the execution of the round promotion notification (for example, at the start of the seventh round). It is determined whether or not (S92).

  If it is not the timing for determining the start of execution of the round promotion notification, the process proceeds to step S95. On the other hand, if it is the timing for determining the start of execution of the round promotion notification, the game control device 100 determines the execution time of the round promotion notification (S93). Then, a round promotion notification execution command corresponding to the determined round promotion notification execution time is transmitted (S94), and the process proceeds to step S95.

  Here, the execution time of the round promotion notification is the time during which the round promotion notification (see FIG. 13) continues to be executed, and is the first in the jackpot of the big prize measured by the special game process (steps S83 and S68). It is determined based on the average value of the opening time from the round to the previous round (for example, the sixth round).

  In the present embodiment, for example, when the average value of the measured (timed) opening time is 10 seconds, the interval time (for example, 2 seconds) provided between the rounds is taken into consideration. The required time to finish the remaining 4 rounds (7th to 10th rounds) including 7 rounds is “the number of remaining rounds × the average value of the measured opening times + (the number of remaining rounds−1) × the interval time”, That is, it is estimated that 10 × 4 + 2 × 3 = 46 seconds. Then, a notification effect time designation command for designating the nearest effect time within a range that falls within 46 seconds of the estimated required time is selected from the effect patterns having contents corresponding to the result of whether or not to promote the round.

  For example, when the production flag is “A” or “B”, the maximum number of continuations is 15 rounds. Therefore, in FIG. 12, a command with a code “02H” for performing notification that the round is promoted over “40 seconds” Selected. When the effect flag is “C”, the maximum number of continuations is 10 rounds. Therefore, in FIG. 12, a command of code “12H” for performing notification that round is not promoted over “40 seconds” is selected.

  Then, the selected notification effect time designation command is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the display control device 150. In addition, the display control apparatus 150 that has received the selected notification effect time designation command causes the image display device 25 to display a round promotion notification image having the specified effect time.

  In step S95, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the effect flag is “C”.

  In the present embodiment, the probability change rush occurs after the round promotion, but when the production flag is “C”, the round change does not occur, so the probability change rush does not occur (see FIG. 11), and the probability change rush notification is not generated. Return to special game processing without always being executed.

  On the other hand, when the production flag is not “C”, the game control device 100 checks the big hit elapsed timer and determines whether or not it is a timing (for example, at the start of the 13th round) to start execution of the probability change entry notification. (S96). If it is not time to start execution of the probability change entry notification, the process returns to the special game process. On the other hand, when it is time to start execution of the probability change entry notification, the game control device 100 determines the execution time of the probability change entry notification (S97). Then, a probability change entry notification execution command corresponding to the determined execution time of the probability change entry notification is transmitted, and the process returns to the special game process.

  Here, the execution time of the probability change entry notification is the time during which the probability change entry notification (see FIG. 14) continues to be executed, and, as in the case of the round promotion notification, the jackpot of the big prize opening measured by the special game process. Is determined based on the average open time from the first round to the previous round (for example, the twelfth round).

  In the present embodiment, for example, when the lottery result enters the probability variation and the average value of the measured opening time is 10 seconds, the interval time (for example, 2 (Second), it is estimated that the time required until the remaining three rounds (13th to 15th rounds) including the 13th round are completed is 10 × 3 + 2 × 2 = 34 seconds. Then, a notification effect time designation command for designating the nearest effect time within a range that falls within 34 seconds of the estimated required time is selected from the effect patterns having contents depending on whether or not to enter the probability variation state.

  For example, when the production flag is “A”, the player enters the probability variation state after the big hit, and therefore the command “21H” for performing the notification of the probability variation entry over “30 seconds” is selected in FIG. Further, when the production flag is “B”, the command of the code “31H” for performing the notification that does not become the probability variation rush for “30 seconds” is selected because the probability variation state is not entered after the end of the big hit.

  Then, the selected notification effect time designation command is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the display control device 150. The display control device 150 that has received the selected notification effect time designation command causes the image display device 25 to display a probability change entry notification image having the specified effect time.

  As described above, since the notification image having the nearest effect time within a range that falls within the estimated required time of the number of remaining rounds of jackpot is displayed on the image display device 25, the jackpot state is about to end, that is, already The size of the privilege granted to the determined player (round promotion) is the timing immediately before the round continuation that is actually enjoyed by the player, or a new gaming state (probability change state) that has already been determined. Since the player can be made to recognize the notification result at the timing just before the time of the probability change entry that actually shifts, the player's interest can be enhanced.

  In particular, at the timing immediately before the end of the tenth round when the continuation of the round is executed, it is possible to make the player recognize whether or not the round is promoted by the round promotion notification, thereby enhancing the interest of the player. it can.

  In addition, at the timing immediately before the end of the big hit when the probability change rush is executed, it is possible to make the player recognize whether or not the probability change rush is to be made by the probability change rush notification, so that the player's interest can be enhanced.

  In addition, since the notification image having a plurality of types of execution time is provided, the notification execution time is not constant, and the time point at which the benefits (round promotion and probability change entry) given to the player are found can be varied. The fun of the game can be enhanced.

  In this embodiment, the maximum number of rounds MAX is three types, 4, 10, and 15 (rounds). However, the condition is such that the round ends when any value is selected. The count number is 10 and is the same. Therefore, the opening time measured at big hits with different maximum values MAX can also be used in common for calculating the average value of opening times. This increases the number of samples for the open time, which reduces errors in the open time, improves the accuracy of determining the notification time, and is the maximum value that has not yet occurred since the measurement of the open time has started. Even when a jackpot with MAX occurs, the notification execution time can be determined using the opening time measured with the jackpot having another maximum value MAX.

  In the present embodiment, when calculating the average value of the measured opening times, the opening times measured from the first round of jackpot to the immediately preceding round are used. The opening time measured at the hit jackpot may be included. For example, it is possible to use an average value calculated by totaling open times measured for all jackpots executed since the power-on of the business day.

  As a result, the number of samples for the opening time is increased, so that an error in the opening time is reduced and the accuracy of determining the notification time can be increased.

  In this case, the measured opening time may be stored in a RAM included in the game control device 100 backed up by the backup power supply unit. As a result, even if the power is turned off due to lightning or the like, the open time measured so far is not lost.

  In this embodiment, the execution time of the notification of the round promotion and the probability change entry is determined using the value calculated as described above from the average value of the measured opening time. The calculated value is calculated as “number of remaining rounds × average value of open times measured + (number of remaining rounds−1) × interval time + α”, and α is “average value of timed open times” It is good also as a variable which becomes short, so that it becomes long, so that it becomes long. This makes it difficult to understand how the ball approaches the variable winning device and makes it difficult for the player to grasp the result of the nail adjustment.

  Moreover, this α can be determined based on a random value acquired from a random number counter, and the notification execution time can be made random. As a result, the notification execution time is not constant, and the time when the magnitude of the profits given to the player (whether round promotion and whether or not there is a probable change) is varied, and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of the hit type according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  “Random number” shown in the figure represents a range (for example, R1 to R5) to which a special symbol random number counter value at the time of winning detection corresponding to each type belongs. “Name” represents the name of each type.

  The “symbol display” represents the display content of a stop symbol that displays that each category has been won in the effect display. The “effect flag” represents an effect flag that is turned on among effect flags that determine whether to perform round promotion notification and probability change entry notification when each category is won. “Number of rounds” represents the number of rounds in which each type of special gaming state is executed. “After winning operation” represents whether or not to enter the probability variation state after the special gaming state based on the type of each winning.

  For example, when the special symbol random number counter value extracted in step S51 of the big hit generation process (FIG. 7) is included in the range of R1 of “random number”, “honor big hit” is won. And, as shown in the figure, since the “number of rounds” is only “15R” and “after the hitting operation” is only “probability change” (entering the probability change state), this honor big hit is only round promotion notification and probability change. No rush notification is required. Accordingly, the “effect flag” is set to “D” in which neither the round promotion notification nor the probability change entry notification is executed (step S91 in FIG. 10).

  When the extracted special symbol random number counter value is included in R5, “small hit” is won. As shown in the figure, since the “number of rounds” is only “4R” and the “after winning operation” is only “probable change”, the “effect flag” is set to “D”. The

  On the other hand, when the extracted special symbol random number counter value is included in R2 to R4, the development jackpot is won. There are three types of development jackpots: “development jackpot A”, “development jackpot B”, and “development jackpot C”.

  The development jackpot A has a “number of rounds” of “15R” due to round promotion, and a “probability change” state after “hit operation”. The development jackpot B has a “number of rounds” of “15R” due to round promotion, and a “normal” state after “hit operation”. The development jackpot C is not promoted to a round, the “number of rounds” is “10R”, and “after the hit operation” is “normal”.

  Here, at the start of execution of the development jackpot, the player cannot know which of the development jackpots A to C has been won. A player can know whether or not there is a round promotion and whether or not there is a probability change entry only by a round promotion notification and a probability change entry notification.

  When the development jackpot C is won, as shown in the figure, the round promotion notification is performed (however, the notification content is not promoted round and ends at 10R), but the probability change entry notification is not performed. Is set to “C”.

  On the other hand, when the development jackpot A and the development jackpot B are won, as shown in the figure, both the round promotion notification and the probability change entry notification are performed, so the “production flag” is set to “A” or “B”, respectively. (Note that the notification content of the probability change entry notification at the time of winning the development jackpot A is “probability change”, and the notification content of the probability change entry notification at the time of winning the development jackpot B is “normal”).

  In this manner, notification corresponding to each hit type is executed in the notification timing determination processing of FIG. 10 by the effect flag determined in step S51 of the big hit generation processing of FIG.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of a notification effect time designation command according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The game control device 100 designates the content of the notification, the notification result, and the notification time by knowing that a notification effect time designation command is transmitted to the display control device 150 in steps S94 and S98 of the notification timing determination process of FIG. .

  “Code” represents a code of each notification effect time designation command. “Function” is a function of each notification effect time designation command, and represents the content that the game control device 100 designates the effect display of the notification effect with respect to the display control device 150. “H” at the end of “code” means that each code is expressed in hexadecimal.

  The content of the notification indicated by “function” is, for example, the type of profit given to the player, such as round promotion or probability change entry. The notification result is a notification as to whether or not a profit is given to the player, such as whether or not to promote a round or whether or not to enter a probability change. The notification time designates a time during which the notification is continued, such as 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds, 60 seconds, 70 seconds, 80 seconds, 90 seconds, 100 seconds, 110 seconds, or 120 seconds.

  13 and 14 are display examples of the display area of the image display device 25 according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  FIG. 13 is a display example of a round promotion notification screen. The round promotion notification display screen is an animation image that notifies whether round promotion is performed at the round promotion notification timing (for example, at the start of the seventh round) in step S92 in the notification timing determination process of FIG. It is displayed on the display device 25. Here, the stopped identification information is displayed at the upper left of the display area of the image display device 25, and the current round number is displayed at the upper part of the display area.

  A female character is displayed on the left side of the display area of the image display device 25, and a warrior character wearing an armor is displayed on the right side of the display area. Then, an animation image in which a female character and a warrior character fight with a sword is displayed in the display area. Then, an animation image in which either the female character or the warrior character wins is displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the round promotion notification screen was displayed.

  Here, when the round promotion is not performed, an animation image in which the warrior character wins is displayed. This notifies the player that the round will not be promoted. From this, compared to the case where the jackpot state is promoted to a round, the number of rounds is shortened without being extended, so the profit obtained is less than the case where the round is promoted, resulting in an unfavorable result for the player. The player recognizes that it has become.

  In the case of a round promotion, an animation image in which a female character wins is displayed. Thereby, the player is notified that the big hit state is continued by the round promotion. From this, it is recognized by the player that more profits are obtained compared to the case where the round is not promoted, and a favorable result is obtained for the player.

  FIG. 14 is a display example of a probability change entry notification screen. The probability variation entry notification display screen is an animation image that informs whether or not to enter the probability variation state at the probability variation entry notification timing (for example, at the start of the 13th round) in step S96 in the notification timing determination process of FIG. It is displayed on the display device 25. In the present embodiment, the stopped identification information is displayed at the upper left of the display area of the notification image display device 25, and the current round number is displayed at the upper part of the display area.

  In addition, four display areas each having a shape obtained by dividing the ellipse into four equal parts are displayed in the lower center of the display area of the image display device 25. In the four display areas, the upper left area and the lower right area are displayed with “◯” to notify that the probability change state is entered. In the lower left area and the lower right area, “x” is displayed for notifying that the probability change state is not entered.

  When the probability change entry notification is started and the animation image starts to operate, one of the four display areas (the display area on the upper left in FIG. 14) has a color scheme different from that of the other display areas. The area displayed and displayed in a different color scheme from the other display areas is alternately displayed in a clockwise direction like a roulette. Then, an image that stops in one of the display areas is displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the probability change entry notification screen was displayed.

  Here, when the probability change state does not enter, the animation image of the probability change entry notification is stopped and displayed in a state of a different color scheme in the region of “x” (lower left region or upper right region). As a result, the player is informed that he will not enter the probability variation state. From this, the probability that the big hit state occurs does not increase as compared with the case of entering the probability variation state, so that the player can recognize that the profit obtained is small and the result is not preferable for the player.

  In addition, when entering the probability change state, the animation image of the probability change entry notification is stopped and displayed in a state of a color scheme in which the regions (the upper left region or the lower right region) are different. As a result, the player is notified that the probability change state has been entered. From this, the probability that a big hit state will occur increases compared to the case where the probability change state is not entered, so that more profits can be obtained and the player will recognize that the result is favorable for the player. The

  The animation shown in FIG. 13 may be used as the animation image for the probability change entry notification, and the animation shown in FIG. 14 may be used as the animation image for the round promotion notification.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the round promotion notification and the probability change entry notification can be appropriately performed immediately before the privilege is determined, the interest of the player can be enhanced. In addition, since the notification is executed to the end without being interrupted, the effect of the notification assumed at the time of design is sufficiently exhibited.

  In particular, a short-term special game state (a privilege that is less valuable to the player) that ends at a specific time point (for example, 10 rounds) during the special game state, and continues after the specific time point due to the round promotion (for example, 15 There is a long-term special gaming state (a great value for the player) that ends in the round, and a round promotion notification is made to recognize whether the special gaming state will be long-term before a specific point in time. Since the number of rounds in which the big hit is executed is notified by the player, the timing when the notification result is recognized by the player is terminated if the special gaming state is short-term or long-term, or if it is actually a short-term special gaming state However, if it is a long-term special game state, it can be brought close to the timing of the continuation (specific time), and the player's interest can be enhanced.

  By the way, if the big hit continues after this specific time (end of 10th round), it is determined that the big hit will continue up to 15 rounds. Even if a round promotion notification is made after that, the player is not interested in the notification result. Therefore, by raising the round promotion notice as soon as possible before this specific time (end of the 10th round) as much as possible before this specific time (end of the 10th round), the player's interest is most enhanced. it can.

  In addition, since the notification (notification of whether or not the jackpot will be in a probabilistic state) is made before the end of the special gaming state, the notification of the gaming state after the jackpot ends is performed. The notification can be continued until the end of the special gaming state, that is, until the timing at which the gaming state is actually changed as much as possible, thereby enhancing the interest of the player. Note that the gaming state in this case is not limited to the probability variation state (probability variation state), and may include the above-described variation time reduction state. In short, any gaming state may be used as long as it is related to the value of the privilege given to the player.

  By the way, after the end of the special gaming state, the player is not interested in the notification result even if the probability change entry notification is made after the player has already entered the probability change state. Therefore, if the special gaming state is finished, if possible, the probability change entry notification is made as soon as possible just before the special gaming state is finished, so that the player's interest can be enhanced most.

  In other words, in the process of the game progressing during the big hit, it will reach the specific time mentioned above (at the end of the 10th round), and at this point it will continue until the 15th round whether the big hit ends in 10 rounds Since it is determined whether the value of the privilege is to be determined (the value of the privilege value is determined), the round promotion notification (notification of the value of the privilege value) is intended to be performed before that time.

  Similarly, if the game progresses during the big hit, the end will be reached at the time when the big hit ends, and at this point it will be determined whether or not to enter a certain change (what happens to the game state after the special game state) Therefore, it is intended to perform the probability change entry notification (notification of the value of the privilege value) before that time.

(Second Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment described above, in the notification timing determination process, the length of execution time of round promotion notification and probability change entry notification is constant, while round promotion notification and probability change are fixed. The start timing of the rush notification changes.

  Here, only the configuration and processing different from those of the first embodiment will be described, the same components as those of the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart of notification timing determination processing according to the second embodiment of this invention, and is executed by the game control device 100.

  In the notification timing determination process of the present embodiment, the game control device 100 first determines whether or not the effect flag is “D” (S101).

  If the performance flag is “D”, the result of the round promotion and the probability change entry is confirmed (see FIG. 11), so the round promotion notification and the probability change entry notification are unnecessary and are not executed. Return to. On the other hand, if the effect flag is not “D”, the game control apparatus 100 checks the jackpot elapsed timer (step S53 in FIG. 7) and determines the timing for starting the round promotion notification (for example, at the start of the seventh round). ) Is determined (S102).

  If it is not the timing for determining the start timing of the round promotion notification, the process proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, if it is the timing for determining the start timing of the round promotion notification, the game control device 100 determines the start timing of the round promotion notification (S103). Here, it is determined how many seconds the jackpot elapsed timer initialized in step S53 of the jackpot generation process (FIG. 7) is to start the round promotion notification.

  Next, the game control device 100 compares the jackpot elapsed timer with the determination result of step S103, and determines whether it is the start timing of the round promotion notification (S104).

  If it is not the start timing of the round promotion notification, the process proceeds to step S106. On the other hand, if it is the start timing of the round promotion notification, the game control device 100 transmits a round promotion notification execution command corresponding to the notification content, and the process proceeds to step S106.

  Here, the start timing of the round promotion notification is the timing at which the round promotion notification (FIG. 13) is started, and is the first round in the big hit of the big prize mouth measured by the special game process (steps S83 and S68). To the previous round (for example, the sixth round) is determined based on the average value of the opening times.

  In the present embodiment, for example, when the average value of the measured opening time is 10 seconds, the seventh round is determined in consideration of the interval time (for example, 2 seconds) provided between the rounds. The required time until the remaining four rounds (seventh to tenth rounds) are completed is “the number of remaining rounds × the average value of the measured open times + (the number of remaining rounds−1) × the interval time”, that is, 10 It is estimated that x4 + 2x3 = 46 seconds. And in this Embodiment, since the stage time of a round promotion alert | report is constant (for example, 30 seconds), if a round promotion alert | report is started 46-30 = 16 seconds after the 7th round start time, At the same time as the round ends, the round promotion notification ends.

  Based on this, an effect command (not shown) for executing a notification effect of an effect pattern having contents corresponding to the result of whether or not to promote a round is determined at a determined start timing (for example, 16 seconds after the start of the seventh round) ) Is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the display control device 150. The display control device 150 that has received the effect command causes the image display device 25 to display the designated round promotion notification image.

  In step S106, the game control device 100 determines whether or not the effect flag is “C”.

  In the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the probability change rush occurs after the round promotion, but when the production flag is “C”, the round promotion does not occur, so the probability change rush does not occur ( 11), the probability change entry notification is not always executed, and the process returns to the special game process.

  On the other hand, when the production flag is not “C”, the game control device 100 checks the big hit elapsed timer and determines whether or not it is the timing (for example, at the start of the 13th round) for determining the start timing of the probability change entry notification. Determination is made (S107). If it is not the timing for determining the start timing of the probability change entry notification, the process proceeds to step S109. On the other hand, if it is the timing for determining the start timing of the probability change entry notification, the game control device 100 determines the start timing of the probability change entry notification (S108). Here, it is determined how many seconds the jackpot elapsed timer initialized in step S53 of the jackpot generation process (FIG. 7) is to start the probability change entry notification.

  Then, the game control device 100 compares the jackpot elapsed timer with the determination result of step S108, and determines whether it is the start timing of the probability change entry notification (for example, at the start of the 13th round) (S109). If it is not the start timing of the probability change entry notification, the process returns to the special game process. On the other hand, at the start timing of the probability change entry notification, the game control device 100 transmits a probability change entry notification execution command corresponding to the notification contents, and returns to the special game process.

  Here, the start timing of the probability change entry notification is the timing at which the probability change entry notification (FIG. 14) is started, and, as in the case of the round promotion notification, at the jackpot of the big prize opening measured by the special game process. It is determined based on an average value of opening times from the first round to the immediately preceding round (for example, the twelfth round).

  In the present embodiment, for example, when the lottery result enters the probability variation and the average value of the measured opening time is 10 seconds, the interval time (for example, 2 (Second), it is estimated that the time required until the remaining three rounds (13th to 15th rounds) including the 13th round are completed is 10 × 3 + 2 × 2 = 34 seconds. In this embodiment, the round promotion notification effect time is constant (for example, 30 seconds), so if the probability change entry notification is started after 34-30 = 4 seconds from the start of the 13th round, At the same time as the round ends, the probability change entry notification ends.

  Based on this, an effect command (not shown) for executing a notification effect of an effect pattern having a content corresponding to the result of whether or not to enter a probability change is determined at a determined start timing (for example, 4 seconds after the start of the 13th round) ) Is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the display control device 150. The display control device 150 that has received the effect command causes the image display device 25 to display the specified probability change entry notification image.

  Thus, since the notification image is displayed on the image display device 25 at the end of the estimated number of remaining rounds of the big hit, the bonus given to the player who has already been decided, that is, the player who has already been decided. Notification at the timing immediately before the time of the continuation of the round in which the size (round promotion) is actually enjoyed or at the timing immediately before the time of the probability change entry that actually shifts to the already determined new gaming state (the probability change state) Since the result can be recognized by the player, the player's interest can be enhanced.

  In particular, when a round is promoted, the player can recognize whether or not the round is promoted by a round promotion notification at the timing immediately before the end of the tenth round when the round is continued. Can enhance the interest of

  In addition, since the start timing of notification can be selected, the start time of notification is not constant, and the time at which the benefits (round promotion and probability change entry) given to the player are found can be varied. It can enhance interest.

  In the present embodiment, the notification start timing is determined from the start time of a predetermined round (for example, the seventh round for round promotion notification and the thirteenth round for probability change entry notification). It is determined as the elapsed time, but is not limited to this, and is determined as the first time after the elapsed time of the estimated remaining round among the round start time (and / or round end time) after a predetermined round. Also good.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the start timing of notification of round promotion and probability change entry is the value calculated as described above from the average value of the measured opening time, but is not limited to this. “Number of remaining rounds × average value of measured opening times + (number of remaining rounds−1) × interval time + α”, and α is “a variable that becomes shorter as the average value of timed opening times becomes longer”. It is good. This makes it difficult to understand how the ball approaches the variable winning device and makes it difficult for the player to grasp the result of the nail adjustment.

  Also, α can be determined based on the random number value acquired from the random number counter, and the notification start timing can be made random. As a result, the notification start timing is not constant, and the time when the magnitude of the profit given to the player (whether there is a round promotion and whether there is a probability change entry) is varied, and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  In addition, it is possible to prevent the degree of the ball approaching the special variable winning device 36 from being grasped by the relationship between the start timing of the notification and the music during the big hit that produces the big hit.

  In other words, the speed of progress of the big hit round depends on how the ball approaches the special variable winning device 36. If the ball closeness is set well by adjusting the nail, a large number of balls are gathered in the special variable prize winning device 36, so that the number of counts (step S67 in FIG. 8) increases rapidly, so that the round of the big hit state is accelerated. On the other hand, if the ball is set so as to be inferior, it is difficult for the balls to gather at the special variable prize winning device 36, so that the number of counts is difficult to increase and the round progress is slow.

  Here, when the big hit music of a predetermined length is repeatedly output from the big hit occurrence to the end of the big hit, the notification start timing is set at the start of a predetermined round (for example, the first round), as in the first embodiment. (7th round or 13th round), the player determines the relative number of times the music has been output or a specific position in the music and the start timing of the round promotion notification and the probability change entry notification. This makes it possible to grasp the speed of the round progress. The same applies when the player times the elapsed time from the occurrence of the big hit to the notification start timing. Then, there is a possibility that the player will be inferred how the ball approaches the special variable winning device 36 based on the speed of the round progress.

  However, since the start timing of the round promotion notification and the probability change entry notification changes, it becomes difficult for the player to grasp the speed of the round progress based on the start timing of the round promotion notification and the probability change entry notification. Thus, it is possible to prevent the degree of movement of the ball from being grasped.

  The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description of the invention described above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine (pachinko machine) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the game board of the gaming machine of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows a part of control system centering on the game control apparatus of the game machine of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the main process of the game control of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the timer interruption process of the game control of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the special figure fluctuation display game process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the big hit generation process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the special game process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the special game process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the alerting | reporting timing determination process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the kind of hit of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the alerting | reporting effect time designation | designated command list of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a display example of the display area of the image display apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a display example of the display area of the image display apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the alerting | reporting timing determination process of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 5 Game board 25 Image display apparatus 100 Game control apparatus 150 Display control apparatus 300 Sound control apparatus

Claims (6)

A game is played by firing a game ball in the game area,
When the auxiliary game is executed by the establishment of a predetermined condition, and the auxiliary game has a special result, the gaming machine is provided with a game control means for generating a special game state that gives a privilege to the player,
Privilege value determining means for determining the magnitude of the value of the privilege;
A variable winning device that is converted into a first state in which the fired game ball can be received and a second state in which the fired game ball cannot be received;
A winning game ball counting means for detecting a game ball won in the variable winning device and counting the detected game balls;
When the special gaming state occurs, the variable winning device is converted into the first state, and the number of counts by the winning game ball counting means of the gaming balls won in the variable winning device converted into the first state is a predetermined count number. When reaching the above, the conversion control means for converting the variable winning device to the second state,
Repeat control means for repeating the conversion operation of the variable prize apparatus by the conversion control means up to a predetermined maximum number of times,
Clocking means for timing the time during which the variable winning device is controlled to be converted to the first state by the conversion control means;
A means for notifying the player of the value of the value of the privilege determined by the privilege value determining means, prior to the time when the value of the value of the privilege is determined by the progress of the game in the special gaming state, Pre-notification means for notifying the value of the privilege for a certain period of time,
The prior notification means determines the notification start time so that the notification start time is relatively advanced as the time measurement result by the time measurement means becomes longer . A cumulative storage information storage means for cumulatively storing past timing results by the timing means even if a special gaming state newly occurs,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the prior notification means determines the notification timing based on a time measurement result stored in the cumulative storage information storage means. There are a plurality of candidates for the maximum duration,
Due to the occurrence of the special gaming state, one maximum continuation number is set from among the candidates, and the predetermined count number is the same regardless of which maximum continuation number is set,
3. The game according to claim 2, wherein the cumulative storage information storage unit cumulatively stores the time measurement time counted by the time measurement unit even in a special game state in which the maximum number of continuations differ from each other. Machine. The said prior notification means changes the time when the magnitude of the value of the privilege is notified to the player by randomly determining the length of time of the notification. The gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 3. The privilege value determining means includes accompanying game state determining means for determining the value of the value of the privilege given to the player by determining the gaming state after the end of the special gaming state,
The game control means generates a gaming state determined by the accompanying gaming state determination means after the special gaming state ends,
The said prior notification means alert | reports the game state determined by the said accompanying game state determination means to a player before the time when the said special game state is complete | finished , Any one of Claim 1 to 4 characterized by the above-mentioned. A gaming machine according to any one of the above. The special gaming state includes a short-term special gaming state that ends at a specific time in the special gaming state, and a long-term special gaming state that continues after the specific time,
The privilege value determining means includes special game state period determining means for determining whether or not the value of the privilege given to the player is determined by determining whether or not the special gaming state is long-term. ,
The prior notification means notifies information on whether or not the special gaming state determined by the special gaming state period determination means is long before the specific time point. The gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 5 .

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