JP5370533B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine effectively using a display portion and increasing game interest. <P>SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine 1 has a game board 8 provided with an operating hole 11 and a jackpot pocket 12, and the game board 8 has a center part incorporated with a special symbol display device 20 including the display portion 20a. On the display portion 20a, a plurality of symbol columns 21-23 are displayed besides a background image, and the symbol column consists of a plurality of kinds of symbols. A display control board executes symbol variation based on a command from a main board 50. During a period of variation display of the symbols, when a display mode is switched from a first display mode to a second display mode, suggestion which may be a cause or opportunity of the switching, is executed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2012,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine having a variable display device.

Conventionally, a gaming machine provided with a variable display device is known. In addition to displaying symbols on the display unit of the variable display device, a background or the like is displayed .

By the way, during the change of at least one symbol, the player naturally pays attention to the changing symbol. If there is a symbol that has already been stopped, the line of sight is also poured into that symbol .

  For this reason, there are few game machines that are equipped with a conventional variable display device that attract the player's interest other than the variation of symbols, and there is a demand for improvement in this respect.

The present invention was made in view of the above exemplified circumstances such as the purpose is to provide the possible gaming machine to improve the Xing flavor.

In order to achieve the above object , in the present invention,
A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbols on the display unit,
The display unit is configured to be able to derive a special gaming state advantageous to the player when a specific winning symbol combination is stopped and displayed, and reach game before the specific winning symbol combination is stopped and displayed. A gaming machine configured to be able to derive a state,
Means for switching the display mode from the first reach gaming state to a second reach gaming state different from the first reach gaming state;
Means for displaying a predetermined character at least before the switching;
Means for displaying any one of a plurality of types of identification signs different from the symbols, while the predetermined character performs a first predetermined action during the first reach gaming state; Prepared,
After the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, a first identification mark is displayed among the plurality of types of identification marks, and the display mode is changed to the second reach gaming state in response to the display. When switched,
The first identification mark among the plurality of types of identification signs is displayed after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, and the display mode cannot be switched to the second reach gaming state. When,
After the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, a second identification mark is displayed among the plurality of types of identification marks, and the display mode is changed to the second reach gaming state in response to the display. When switched,
A third identification mark is displayed among the plurality of types of identification signs after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, and the display mode is not switched to the second reach gaming state. And
further,
Means for displaying the predetermined character to perform the second predetermined action when the display mode is switched to the second reach state after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed. When,
When the display mode cannot be switched to the second reach state after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, the predetermined character is displayed so as to perform the third predetermined action. And means.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve interest.

It is a perspective view which shows the pachinko machine in one embodiment. It is a front view of the pachinko machine mainly showing a game board. It is a block diagram which shows electrical structures, such as a display control board. It is a block diagram which shows electrical structures, such as VDP. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of the symbol at the time of the normal fluctuation | variation in a display part, (b), (c) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of the symbol at the time of jackpot occurrence. It is a schematic diagram for introduce | transducing an example of the symbol displayed on a display part. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of the symbol at the time of the reach state in a display part, (b)-(d) is a schematic diagram which shows the state of the display part at the time of a rough reach state generation | occurrence | production. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows the state of the display part at the time of lantern reach state generation | occurrence | production in a display part, (b) is a schematic diagram which shows the state of the display part at the time of typhoon reach state generation | occurrence | production in a display part. It is a figure for demonstrating the fluctuation direction of the symbol displayed on a display part, Comprising: It is a virtual conceptual diagram which shows the fluctuation direction at the time of visually recognizing a display part from a horizontal direction. (A), (b), (c), (d) is a figure which shows the display part for demonstrating an effect | action at the time of a countdown notice. (A), (b), (c), (d) is a figure which shows the display part for demonstrating an effect | action at the time of a countdown notice. (A), (b), (c), (d) is a figure which shows the display part for demonstrating the example of the display pattern at the time of countdown notice.

  Means 1. A gaming machine including a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information on a display unit, wherein the display is displayed from a first display mode to a second display mode during a period in which the identification information is variably displayed. A game machine characterized in that, when a mode is switched, a suggestion that may be the cause or trigger of the switching is performed.

  According to the means 1, a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed on the display unit of the variable display device. Now, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode during the period in which the identification information is variably displayed, the suggestion that may be the cause or trigger of the switching is performed. For this reason, along with the suggestion, the player can grasp that the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, and the suggestion causes or triggers the switching. Watch your suggestions carefully. Therefore, the player's interest extends to other than the changing identification information, and an unprecedented interest can be improved. In addition to the identification information, the display unit can be used effectively by providing a display area for suggestion.

  Mean 2. A gaming machine comprising a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information in a display area set in a display unit, wherein the identification information is variably displayed from a first display mode to a second When the display mode is switched to the display mode, a suggestion that may be the cause or trigger of the switching is performed in an area other than the display area of the display unit.

  Mean 2. A plurality of identification information is variably displayed in the display area set in the display unit of the variable display device. Now, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode during the period in which the identification information is variably displayed, the suggestion that may be the cause or trigger of the switching is performed. For this reason, along with the suggestion, the player can grasp that the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, and the suggestion causes or triggers the switching. Watch your suggestions carefully. In particular, since the suggestion is made in an area other than the display area of the identification information, the player's interest extends to the area other than the identification information that is changing, thereby improving the interest that has never been seen before. In addition, the display unit can be used effectively.

  Means 3. A gaming machine comprising a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information in a display area set in a display unit, wherein the identification information is variably displayed from a first display mode to a second When the display mode is switched to the display mode, a suggestion that the timing of switching is grasped in advance is performed in an area other than the display area of the display unit.

  According to the means 3, a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed in the display area set in the display unit of the variable display device. Now, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode during the period in which the identification information is variably displayed, an indication is given that the switching timing is grasped in advance. Therefore, along with the suggestion, the player can grasp the timing at which the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, and during the period from the suggestion to the switching, Carefully watch over the area where it was done. In particular, since the suggestion is made in an area other than the display area of the identification information, the player's interest extends to the area other than the identification information that is changing, thereby improving the interest that has never been seen before. In addition, the display unit can be used effectively.

  Means 4. A gaming machine comprising a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information in a display area set in a display unit, wherein the identification information is variably displayed from a first display mode to a second When the display mode is switched to the display mode, a suggestion regarding the switching timing is performed in a region other than the display region of the display unit from a predetermined time before the switching.

  According to the means 4, a plurality of identification information is variably displayed in the display area set in the display unit of the variable display device. Now, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode during the period in which the identification information is variably displayed, suggestions regarding the switching timing are made from a predetermined time before the switching. Therefore, along with the suggestion, the player can grasp the timing when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, and after a suggestion regarding the switching timing is made, a predetermined time has elapsed. During this period, we will carefully watch the area related to the suggestion. In particular, since the suggestion is made in an area other than the display area of the identification information, the player's interest extends to the area other than the identification information that is changing, thereby improving the interest that has never been seen before. In addition, the display unit can be used effectively.

  Means 5. When the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner, a special gaming state advantageous to the player is generated, and the identification information is displayed during a period when the identification information is variably displayed. 5. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 4, wherein the gaming machine is in a reach state, which is a preceding stage in which a fixed stop is displayed in a predetermined manner.

  According to the means 5, when the identification information is fixedly stopped and displayed in a predetermined manner, a special gaming state advantageous to the player is generated. In such a gaming machine, the above suggestion is performed during a reach state that is a stage before the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner. Therefore, since the display mode is switched during the reach state that is most exciting for the player, the player watches the suggestion more carefully. As a result, it is possible to further enhance the effect of suggestion, thereby further enhancing the interest.

  Means 6. When the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, the identification information is more likely to be displayed in a fixed manner in a predetermined manner than when switching is not performed. The gaming machine according to means 5, wherein the gaming machine is set.

  According to the means 6, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, the possibility that a special gaming state will occur increases. Needless to say, it is awaited that the suggestion is made, and when the suggestion is actually made, expectation and excitement are further enhanced. As a result, it is possible to further enhance the effect of suggestion, thereby further enhancing the interest.

  Mean 7 A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information in a display area set in the display unit, and a special display that generates a special gaming state advantageous to the player when the identification information is fixedly stopped and displayed in a predetermined manner. A gaming machine comprising gaming state generation means and reach state effect display means for effecting display of a reach state before the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner. When the display mode is switched from the display mode to the second display mode, a suggestion that may be the cause or trigger of the switching is performed in an area other than the display area of the display unit. Machine.

  According to the means 7, the plurality of identification information is variably displayed in the display area set in the display unit of the variable display device. When the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner, a special game state advantageous to the player is generated by the special game state generating means. Further, the reach state is displayed by the reach state effect display means before the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner. Therefore, during the reach state, the player plays a game while hoping that the identification information is displayed in a predetermined manner. Now, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode during the reach state, suggestions that may be the cause or trigger of the switching are in areas other than the display area of the display unit. Done. Therefore, along with the suggestion, the player can grasp the timing at which the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, and during the period from the suggestion to the switching, Carefully watch over the area where it was done. In particular, since the suggestion is made in an area other than the display area of the identification information, the player's interest extends to the area other than the identification information that is changing, thereby improving the interest that has never been seen before. In addition, the display unit can be used effectively.

  Means 8. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information in a display area set in the display unit, and a special display that generates a special gaming state advantageous to the player when the identification information is fixedly stopped and displayed in a predetermined manner. A gaming machine comprising gaming state generation means and reach state effect display means for effecting display of a reach state before the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner. When the display mode is switched from the display mode to the second display mode, the suggestion that the switching timing is grasped in advance is performed in an area other than the display area in the display unit. A featured gaming machine.

  According to the means 8, a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed in the display area set in the display unit of the variable display device. When the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner, a special game state advantageous to the player is generated by the special game state generating means. Further, the reach state is displayed by the reach state effect display means before the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner. Therefore, during the reach state, the player plays a game while hoping that the identification information is displayed in a predetermined manner. Now, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode in the reach state, an indication that the switching timing is grasped in advance is the display area of the display unit. It is done in other areas. For this reason, along with the suggestion, the player can grasp that the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, and the timing of switching can be grasped in advance by the suggestion. Watch your suggestions carefully. In particular, since the suggestion is made in an area other than the display area of the identification information, the player's interest extends to areas other than the changing identification information that is directly related to the occurrence of the special gaming state. It is possible to improve interests that are not present, and to effectively use the display unit.

  Means 9. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information in a display area set in the display unit, and a special display that generates a special gaming state advantageous to the player when the identification information is fixedly stopped and displayed in a predetermined manner. A gaming machine comprising gaming state generation means and reach state effect display means for effecting display of a reach state before the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner. When the display mode is switched from the display mode to the second display mode, suggestions regarding the switching timing are made in a region other than the display region in the display unit from a predetermined time before the switching. A gaming machine.

  According to the means 9, a plurality of identification information is variably displayed in the display area set in the display unit of the variable display device. When the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner, a special game state advantageous to the player is generated by the special game state generating means. Further, the reach state is displayed by the reach state effect display means before the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a predetermined manner. Therefore, during the reach state, the player plays a game while hoping that the identification information is displayed in a predetermined manner. Now, when the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode in the reach state, an indication that the switching timing is grasped in advance is the display area of the display unit. It is done in other areas. Therefore, along with the suggestion, the player can grasp the timing at which the display mode is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, and during the period from the suggestion to the switching, Carefully watch over the area where it was done. In particular, since the suggestion is made in an area other than the display area of the identification information, the player's interest extends to the area other than the identification information that is changing, thereby improving the interest that has never been seen before. In addition, the display unit can be used effectively.

  Means 10. The first display mode is a display mode corresponding to normal reach, and the second display mode is a super reach in which the identification information is set to be more likely to be displayed in a definite stop state than the normal reach. The gaming machine according to any one of means 7 to 9, wherein the gaming machine is a display mode corresponding to the above.

  According to the means 10, the display mode corresponding to the normal reach is switched to the display mode corresponding to the super reach. For this reason, when the display mode is switched, the possibility that a special gaming state will occur increases. Therefore, the player is looking forward to the suggestion as well as the switching. When the suggestions are actually made, expectation and excitement will be further enhanced. As a result, it is possible to further enhance the effect of suggestion, thereby further enhancing the interest.

  Means 11. The first display mode is a display mode corresponding to a predetermined reach pattern, and the second display mode is a display mode corresponding to an extended reach pattern for the predetermined reach pattern. The gaming machine according to any one of 7 to 10. Note that “the predetermined reach pattern may be a normal reach pattern”, “the predetermined reach pattern may be a super reach pattern”, or “the predetermined reach pattern may be a plurality of reach patterns”. It is good also as "a specific reach pattern of the above" (the same applies to the means 12 and 13).

  According to the means 11, the display mode corresponding to the predetermined reach pattern is switched to the display mode corresponding to the developed reach pattern corresponding thereto. For this reason, when such a display mode is switched, the expectation (or possibility) that a special gaming state will occur is increased, so that the player can, of course, perform the switching, Looking forward to the suggestion being made and actually making the suggestion, the expectation and excitement will be further enhanced. As a result, it is possible to further enhance the effect of suggestion, thereby further enhancing the interest.

  Means 12. The first display mode is a display mode corresponding to a predetermined reach pattern, and the second display mode is a display mode corresponding to the identification information being confirmed and stopped in a predetermined mode. A gaming machine according to any one of means 7 to 11.

  According to the means 12, the display mode corresponding to the predetermined reach pattern is switched to the display mode corresponding to the identification information being confirmed and stopped in a predetermined mode. For this reason, when such a display mode is switched, a special gaming state occurs, so the player is looking forward to the suggestion as well as the switching, The joy is at its peak when actually suggested. As a result, it is possible to further enhance the effect of suggestion, thereby further enhancing the interest.

  Means 13. The first display mode is a display mode corresponding to a predetermined reach pattern, and the second display mode is a display mode corresponding to the identification information being fixedly stopped and displayed in a mode other than the predetermined mode. The gaming machine according to any one of means 7 to 12, characterized in that there is a gaming machine.

  According to the means 13, the display mode corresponding to the predetermined reach pattern is switched to the display mode corresponding to the fact that the identification information is confirmed and stopped in a mode other than the predetermined mode. For this reason, when such display mode switching is performed, a special gaming state does not occur, so the player is disappointed when the switching is performed. As a result, the difference in expectation between when the suggestion is made and after the changeover is made becomes large, and in this respect, the directing effect by the suggestion can be further enhanced, thereby further improving the interest. Can do.

  Means 14. The gaming machine according to any one of means 7 to 13, wherein the second display mode includes a case of a display mode similar to the first display mode.

  According to the means 14, the case where the second display mode is the same display mode as the first display mode is included. That is, even when there is a suggestion, the display mode may not be substantially switched. For this reason, a variation can be given to a production | presentation aspect and the further improvement of an interest can be aimed at in this point.

  Means 15. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 14, wherein the suggestion is performed by a technique of continuously informing a change in time until the switching timing. In addition, as a “method for continuously informing changes in time”, for example, animation or a live-action image is used to display a state in which the remaining amount of the meter, the analog timer, etc. gradually decrease, For example, it is possible to display a state in which the remaining length of the dynamite squib exploding gradually decreases.

  According to the means 15, the player's expectation is continuously (gradually) enhanced by the suggestion, and it is easy to detect the switching timing.

  Means 16. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 14, wherein the suggestion is performed by a method of informing stepwise the change in time until the switching timing.

  According to the means 16, the player's sense of expectation is increased step by step by the suggestion, and it is easy to detect the switching timing.

  Means 17. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 14, wherein the suggestion is performed by a count-down method so that a change in time until the switching timing is notified step by step.

  According to the means 17, since the suggestion is performed in a countdown manner, the expectation for the player is enhanced and the fun is further increased along with the countdown.

  Means 18. The gaming machine according to claim 17, wherein the countdown is performed in accordance with a variable display of the identification information frame by frame.

  According to the means 18, the countdown is performed in accordance with the fluctuating display of the identification information for each frame. For this reason, it is possible to foresee the type of identification information when the display mode is switched, and this is further interesting.

  Means 19. The gaming machine according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the countdown is performed at regular intervals as time passes. Instead of “on time”, “every predetermined number of seconds” may be used.

  According to the means 19, since the countdown is performed periodically as time elapses, it is easy for the player himself to take the switching timing, and it becomes easier to grasp the game content.

  Means 20. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 19, wherein the suggestion is performed by displaying an identification mark.

  According to the means 20, the suggestion is performed by displaying an identification mark. For this reason, the player pays attention to the identification mark in addition to the identification information, so that the display unit can be effectively used more reliably. Examples of the identification mark include numerals (number of frames, seconds, etc.), characters, symbols, or signs such as a pattern indicating the type of identification information corresponding to the switching timing.

  Means 21. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 19, wherein the suggestion is performed based on changing a display mode of an identification mark.

  According to the means 21, the player pays attention to the change in the display mode of the identification sign in addition to the identification information, so that the display unit can be effectively used more reliably. In addition, it is good also as "changing the display mode of an identification mark continuously", and good also as "changing the display mode of an identification mark in steps."

  Means 22. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 21, wherein a plurality of the suggestion patterns are prepared, and the suggestion patterns adopted depending on the patterns are different from time to time.

  According to the means 22, a plurality of suggestion patterns are prepared, and the suggestion patterns adopted depending on the times are different. For this reason, the player plays the game while he is excited about what pattern is suggested. As a result, the game content can be thickened, and further enhancement of interest can be achieved.

  Means 23. Any one of means 1 to 22 is characterized in that a plurality of second display modes after the switching are prepared, and the second display modes to be switched and displayed at different times are different. The gaming machine described.

  According to the means 23, a plurality of second display modes are prepared, and the second display mode adopted depending on the second display mode is different. For this reason, the player plays the game while wondering what display mode can be switched. As a result, the game content can be thickened, and further enhancement of interest can be achieved.

  Means 24. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 23, wherein the suggestion is also performed in an external device other than the variable display device. Examples of the external device include sound generating means such as a speaker, and light emitting means such as a lamp.

  According to the means 24, the suggestion is also performed in an external device other than the variable display device. Therefore, it is possible to further enhance the production effect by suggestion.

  Means 25. Furthermore, the gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 24, wherein after the display mode is switched, an effect based on the second display mode is performed on the display unit.

  According to the means 25, after the display mode is switched, an effect based on the second display mode is further performed on the display unit. For this reason, the fact that the display mode has been switched to the second display mode can be easily understood by the player, and emotions based on the switching can be promoted. In this respect, the game content can be further thickened.

  Means 26. In any one of means 1 to 25, the gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine. Among other things, the basic configuration of a pachinko gaming machine has an operation handle that is provided with an operation handle, fires a game ball in a predetermined game area according to the operation of the handle, and the game ball is arranged at a predetermined position in the game area. In other words, the identification information that is variably displayed on the variable display device is determined and stopped after a predetermined time as a necessary condition. In addition, when a special gaming state occurs, a variable winning device arranged at a predetermined position in the gaming area is opened in a predetermined manner so that a gaming ball can be won, and a valuable value (not only a prize ball) according to the winning number , Including writing to a magnetic card).

  Means 27. In any one of means 1 to 25, the gaming machine is a revolving type gaming machine. Here, as the configuration of the spinning cylinder type game machine, “a discriminating information sequence consisting of a plurality of identification information (specifically, a reel and identification information is a symbol attached to the reel) is variably displayed (specifically Is provided with variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after the reel has been rotated), and the change of the identification information is started due to the operation of the start operation means (for example, the operation lever), and the stop operation means When the change of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of (for example, a stop button) or when a predetermined time elapses, the special gaming state advantageous to the player is obtained when the fixed identification information at the time of the stop is the specific identification information. A spinning-type game machine provided with special game state generating means to be generated. In the case of a rotating type gaming machine, the variable display means including the reel or the like may be regarded as a variable display device, or provided separately from the reel and corresponding to the identification information (pseudo). A display device that can display identification information (for example, a liquid crystal display device) may be regarded as a variable display device. In this case, the variable display device is installed in a main body box that defines a gaming machine main body.

  Means 28. In any one of means 1 to 25, the gaming machine is a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are fused. In particular, the basic configuration of the merged gaming machine is “variable display of an identification information string (specifically, a reel and identification information is a symbol attached to the reel) consisting of a plurality of identification information”. The display is provided with variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after the rotation of the reel), and the change of the identification information is started due to the operation of the start operation means (for example, the operation lever). Special game advantageous to the player when the change of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of the means (for example, stop button) or after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the confirmed identification information at the time of the stop is the specific identification information A special game state generating means for generating a state, using a game ball as a game medium, and requiring a predetermined number of game balls to start the change of the identification information, and generating a special game state Saishi it becomes gaming machine "in which a is configured such that a number of game balls are paid out. In such a gaming machine, the variable display means including the reel or the like may be regarded as a variable display device, or provided separately from the reel and corresponding to the identification information (in pseudo correspondence). A display device (for example, a liquid crystal display device) capable of displaying identification information may be regarded as the variable display device here.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment in which a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a “pachinko machine”) is embodied as a gaming machine will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame 2 and a front frame 3 provided at the front thereof. The front frame 3 is mounted so as to be openable and closable at one side of the outer frame 2. A glass door frame 4 is provided on the front side of the front frame 3 so as to be freely opened and closed, and an upper plate 5 for storing a game ball B (see FIG. 2) below the glass door frame 4 is Similarly, lower trays 6 for storing the game balls B are provided at positions below the tray 5.

  A handle 7 as an operating means is provided on the side of the lower plate 6 on the front side of the front frame 3, and the handle 7 is connected to a game ball launching device (not shown). A game board 8 (see FIG. 2) is detachably mounted on the rear side of the front frame 3 (in the back of the glass door frame 4 and inside the outer frame 2). A game ball B is fired toward the top of the board 8. The game ball launcher is controlled by a launch control board 140 (see FIG. 3).

  Further, a speaker 9 is embedded in the front frame 3 (side the upper plate 5) for sounding various sound effects as the game progresses and for notifying the player of the game state by voice. . The speaker 9 is controlled by a sound control board 130 (see FIG. 3).

  Now, as shown in FIG. 2, the game board 8 is provided with an inner rail 10a and an outer rail 10b, and the game ball B launched by the game ball launching device is along the inner rail 10a and the outer rail 10b. To the upper part of the game board 8.

  At the lower part of the game board 8, there are provided an operation port 11 and a prize winning port 12. The operating port 11 includes a passage for the game ball B, and a blade 13 is supported at the entrance of the passage so as to be opened and closed. A seesaw 14 is provided in the back of the big prize opening 12, a V zone 15 is provided on the right side thereof, and a winning path 16 is provided on the left side (the right and left may be reversed). That is, when the game ball B wins the big winning opening 12, the game ball B is distributed by the seesaw 14 so as to roll to either the V zone 15 or the winning path 16, and either the V zone 15 or the winning path 16 is allocated. It is the structure which is derived | led-out through.

  A shutter 17 that opens and closes the big prize opening 12 is provided in front of the big prize opening 12. The shutter 17 is actuated by a large winning opening solenoid 18 provided on the side of the large winning opening 12. Specifically, when the big prize opening solenoid 18 is in an excited state, the shutter 17 tilts substantially horizontally and the big prize opening 12 is opened. In addition, when the special winning opening solenoid 18 is in a non-excited state, the shutter 17 is in a substantially vertical state, and the special winning opening 12 is closed.

  Furthermore, a seesaw solenoid 19 is provided at one side of the special winning opening 12. Normally, the seesaw solenoid 19 is in a non-excited state, and the seesaw 14 in this state is inclined toward the V zone 15. That is, the inclination is such that the game ball B passes through the V zone 15. Further, when the seesaw solenoid 19 is energized, the seesaw 14 is inclined so that the game ball B passes through the winning path 16. In the present embodiment, when at least one game ball B passes through the V zone 15 in the open state of the shutter 17, the seesaw solenoid 19 is in an excited state, and when the shutter 17 is closed, The seesaw solenoid 19 is configured to be in a non-excited state.

  A special symbol display device 20 as a variable display device is incorporated in the central portion of the game board 8. The special symbol display device 20 includes a display unit 20a composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) having a diagonal length of about 7 inches (about 17 cm), and can display a plurality of symbol rows. . In the present embodiment, as these symbol strings, there are three symbol strings (identification information strings) including a left symbol string 21, a middle symbol string 22, and a right symbol string 23 (see FIG. 5A). However, the number of symbol strings other than the three symbol strings may be displayed.

  Furthermore, in the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20, the symbol variation display (scroll variation display in the present embodiment) of each symbol row 21 to 23 is performed based on the winning of the game ball B to the operation port 11. It is configured to be performed. In addition, when a new game ball B wins the operating port 11 during this variation display, the corresponding variation display is performed after the end of the variation display performed at that time. That is, the variable display is on standby (held). The maximum number of variable displays to be held is determined for each model of the pachinko machine, but in this embodiment, the maximum number of holds is set to four. However, the maximum number of times of holding is not limited to this.

  Above the display unit 20a, hold lamps 24a, 24b, 24c, and 24d made of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that indicate the number of hold times of the variable display of symbols as described above are incorporated. The number of the holding lamps 24a to 24d is the same as the maximum holding number described above (four in this case). The hold lamps 24a to 24d are turned on every time the variable display is held, and are turned off when the variable display corresponding to the hold is executed.

  A normal symbol display device 31 is provided on the upper part of the special symbol display device 20. The normal symbol display device 31 has four holding lamps 32 made of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a 7-segment display portion 33 made of LEDs which are normal symbol display portions. In addition, a pair of passing gates 34 are disposed on both the left and right sides of the special symbol display device 20, and the normal symbol display device 31 is activated when the game ball B passes through the passing gate 34. ing. The normal symbol display device 31 in the present embodiment variably displays numbers from “0” to “9” and causes the 7-segment display unit 33 to display segments. When the number stops at a predetermined value (“7” in the present embodiment), the blade 13 of the working port 11 is opened for a predetermined number of seconds. The normal symbol display device 31 can store up to four times the number of passes of the game ball B through the passage gate 34, and displays the number of holds on the hold lamp 32. Therefore, even when the game ball B passes through the passing gate 34 in a state where the four holding lamps 32 are lit, the game ball B is not counted. In addition, as long as the holding lamp 32 is lit, the normal symbol display device 31 operates as many times as the number of holdings even if the game ball B does not pass through the passing gate 34.

  Furthermore, other various production lamps and electrical decoration members (not shown) for enhancing the gaming effect are attached to a plurality of locations of the pachinko machine 1. The lighting state (light-off, lighting, blinking, etc.) of these effect lamps, illumination members, etc. (hereinafter simply referred to as “lamps”) can be appropriately changed according to the progress of the game. These lamps are controlled by a lamp control board 120 (see FIG. 3).

  Further, the game board 8 includes a through switch 40 for detecting the gaming state of the pachinko machine 1 that changes in accordance with the player's operation, an operating port switch 41, a V zone switch 42, a count switch 43, and the like. Installed. The through switch 40 detects the passing of the game ball B through the passing gate 34, and the operating port switch 41 detects the winning of the gaming ball B into the operating port 11, and the V zone switch 42. Is for detecting a winning in the V zone 15 of the game ball B in the big winning opening 12, and the count switch 43 is for detecting a winning in the big winning opening 12 of the game ball B.

  In the present embodiment, the solenoids 18, 19, the special symbol display device 20 (display unit 20a), the holding lamps 24a-24d, the speaker 9, the normal symbol display device, based on the detection results of the switches 40-43. A control device (main board) 50 is provided to drive and control 31 (holding lamp 32 and 7-segment display unit 33), blades 13 and the like.

  The main board 50 is used for main control, and includes a read only memory (ROM), a central processing unit (CPU), a random access memory (RAM), and the like. The ROM stores a predetermined control program and initial data in advance, and the CPU executes various arithmetic processes according to the ROM control program. The RAM temporarily stores the calculation results by the CPU in a symbol random number buffer, symbol random number area, stop symbol area, and the like. The main board 50 is mounted in a sealed state in a board box (not shown) on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The RAM also includes a random number counter for determining occurrence of a jackpot state as a special gaming state described later. The random number counter is updated by one count every 2 ms, for example, within a predetermined range (for example, “0” to “299”) by random number update processing. In the present embodiment, when the game ball B wins the operating port 11 and is detected by the operating port switch 41 (except for the maximum number of times of holding), the value of the random number counter is a predetermined value, for example, In the case of “7”, a big hit state is generated.

  The CPU, ROM and RAM are connected to each other via a bus line. As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 3, the bus line is also connected to the interface 50a of the main board 50. The interface 50a is connected to the interface 61 of the display control board 110 and other devices via connectors and cables. It is connected. The interface 50a is connected to various sensors such as the operation port switch 41 via a connector and a cable. That is, the main board 50 receives a winning signal or the like from the operation port switch 41 or the like via the interface 50a, and also to the display control board 110 or other input / output devices (including other control boards) via the interface 50a. Various operation commands such as control data are output to control various actuators such as solenoids and control boards.

  Now, in the present embodiment, various display controls in the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20 are configured to be performed mainly on the display control substrate 110 of the special symbol display device 20, not the main substrate 50 that performs the main control. Has been. The display control board 110 is incorporated in the special symbol display device 20.

  Further, in the present embodiment, lighting and blinking control of various (production) lamps is mainly performed in the lamp control board 120, and control of sound emitted from the speaker 9 is mainly performed in the sound control board 130. Done. Further, the launch control of the game ball B in the game ball launching apparatus is also performed on the launch control board 140 instead of the main board 50.

  Here, the electrical configuration of the display control board 110 that performs display control mainly in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. As shown in the figure, the display control board 110 has various game states (based on the interface 61 for sequentially receiving commands sent from the main board 50, the control program stored in the program ROM 62, and various information). CPU 63 for generating screen configuration information of a display image displayed in normal fluctuation, reach effect, jackpot notification, etc., work RAM 64 for temporarily storing processing results in CPU 63, and screen configuration information generated by CPU 63 And a VDP 67 that generates display images in various gaming states by taking out image data from the image data ROM 66 based on the screen configuration information stored in the video RAM 65 and writing the data in the screen configuration information. I have. The generated display image is output to the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a.

  The interface 61 receives a command (command) transmitted from the main board 50. These commands are stored in the command buffer area 64 a provided in the work RAM 64 by the CPU 63.

  The CPU 63 operates according to a control program stored in the program ROM 62. Specifically, the command is monitored, a task corresponding to the command is generated, and stored in the work RAM 64. By executing the task, screen configuration information of a display image displayed in various game states (normal fluctuation, reach production, jackpot notification, etc.) is generated in the work RAM 64, and this screen configuration information is written in the video RAM 65. The screen configuration information is generated for each vertical operation signal (VSYNC) of the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a.

  The work RAM 64 includes the command buffer area 64a for storing commands from the main board 50, a task buffer area 64b for storing generated tasks, and image configuration information (in normal fluctuation or reach state). A sprite chain area 64c is set in which various types of information are stored in order to collectively write a design image instruction, its arrangement position, display priority order, and the like into the video RAM 65.

  The video RAM 65 is a memory that stores the image configuration information and the display image data generated by the VDP 67. The video RAM 65 is provided with a first frame memory 65a and a second frame memory 65b that are storage areas for storing display image data for one screen displayed on the display unit 20a. Information and display image data generated by the VDP 67 can be stored alternately.

  The image data ROM 66 is a memory for storing various image data such as symbols and background images displayed on the display unit 20a. The image data includes various kinds of information necessary for generating, for example, a design, a background image, and the like that define a shape, size, pattern, color scheme, color tone, and the like.

  The VDP 67 is an image data processor that performs image generation processing of a display image. That is, the VDP 67 reads the image data stored in the image data ROM 66 based on the image configuration information stored in the video RAM 65, and writes the information included in the image data in the image configuration information, thereby displaying the display unit. A display image that can be displayed on 20a is generated. Then, the generated display image is output to the display unit 20a.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the VDP 67 has an interface 67a for receiving various commands and data sent from the CPU 63, and an image stored in the video RAM 65 based on the various commands and data sent from the interface 67a. An image generation unit 67b that reads configuration information and generates a display image based on the image configuration information, and a palette RAM 67c that stores color information of the display image.

  The image generation unit 67b that receives various commands and data from the interface 67a reads the image configuration information stored in the first frame memory 65a or the second frame memory 65b of the video RAM 65. Based on the image configuration information, image data is read from the image data ROM 66, and various information included in the image data is written into the image configuration information. At the same time, color information corresponding to the image data is acquired from the palette RAM 67c and written into the image configuration information. As a result, a display image with a color scheme based on the color information is generated.

  At the same time, the image generation unit 67b reads display image data stored in the first frame memory 65a or the second frame memory 65b that has not been written, and outputs the read image data to the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a. At this time, the display image data is output as RGB signals, and the color tone (color, saturation, luminance, contrast, etc.) is controlled based on the RGB signals and displayed on the display unit (liquid crystal display) 20a. Further, new image configuration information is written in the first frame memory 65a or the second frame memory 65b in which display image data is output and no data is stored. Note that the display image generated by the image generation unit 67b is composed of a plurality of layers for patterns and background images, and these are superimposed and generated as a display image for one screen.

  The palette RAM 67c holds a plurality of types of color palettes in which a plurality of types of color information is set, and gives a color palette according to the color information included in the image data to the image generation unit 67b. Here, giving a color palette means giving the storage address of the color palette stored in the palette RAM 67c to the image generation unit 67b, for example. Note that the color information is determined by a blending ratio obtained by combining basic color information of primary colors such as red (R), green (G), and blue (B).

  Here, in the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20, the configuration of the display image displayed during the gaming state and the like will be specifically described, and the jackpot state, the reach state, the disengaged state, etc. based on the display mode explain.

  As shown to Fig.5 (a), on the display part 20a of the special symbol display apparatus 20, background images, such as a roof YN, are displayed, and each symbol row | line | columns 21-23 are displayed so that it may be located in the front side. It is like that. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each symbol row 21 to 23 is constituted by a plurality of types and a plurality of symbols 70 A to 70 H and identification symbols 70 I as identification information. Each of the symbols 70A to 70H, excluding the off symbol 70I, is composed of a combination of a spider and a number “1” to “eight” (of course, various symbols, only various characters, or numbers and characters). A combination of various designs may be used as a design). These symbols 70 </ b> A to 70 </ b> H are arranged in descending order for the left and middle symbol rows 21 and 22, and in ascending order for the right symbol row 23. These symbols 70A to 70H can be any of a jackpot symbol, a miss reach symbol, and a miss symbol as special game symbols (these will be described later).

  Further, the off symbol 70I is constituted by a “small heel” mark, and is arranged between the symbols 70A to 70H. Furthermore, the off symbol 70K does not become a jackpot symbol as the name suggests, and can only be a off symbol.

  In each of the symbol rows 21 to 23, the symbols 70A to 70H and 70I to be displayed are displayed as if they move from the bottom to the top in a predetermined display area in principle. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the bag is displayed in a variable manner as if it is rising in the depth direction while drawing a reverse parabola. A character GC as a display target is displayed on the side of the left symbol row 21. In each of the symbol columns 21 to 23, the arrangement order of the symbols 70A to 70I is changed at random and displayed in a variable manner, or the number of symbols 70A to 70I is increased or decreased as appropriate, or the same as one symbol column, for example, the left symbol column 21 A plurality of symbols such as symbols 70A may be displayed, or the variation display mode of symbols 70A to 70I, such as scroll variation display and replacement variation display, may be appropriately changed.

  As shown in FIG. 5 (c), the symbols 70A to 70I of the symbol rows 21 to 23 that are variably displayed as described above are displayed on the jackpot lines L1 to L5 of the display unit 20a after a predetermined time has elapsed. Stop display (confirmed stop display). At this time, one of the jackpot symbols, the missed reach symbol, and the missed symbol is selected and displayed on the jackpot lines L1 to L5. The stop symbol is a symbol that is determined and displayed when each symbol row 21 to 23 stops symbol variation. In the present embodiment, the symbol variation is stopped in the order of the left symbol row 21, the right symbol row 23, and the middle symbol row 22.

  Next, the jackpot state as a special gaming state advantageous to the player will be described. FIG. 5C and FIG. 5B are diagrams showing screens when a big hit state occurs in the display unit 20a. As shown in the figure, the jackpot symbol is a symbol for generating a jackpot state as a special gaming state advantageous to the player after passing the reach gaming state (reach state) from the normal gaming state. Specifically, when the fluctuation of all the symbol rows 21 to 23 is stopped, the displayed combinations of symbols 70A to 70H are predetermined jackpot combinations, that is, symbols 70A to 70H of the same type are jackpots. In some cases, the patterns 70A to 70H are combined when lined up along the lines L1 to L5. The symbol constituting this combination is the “big hit symbol”.

  In the present embodiment, the jackpot lines L1 to L5 are configured by the upper, middle, and lower horizontal lines L1, L2, and L3 and the two diagonal lines L4 and L5 (referred to as five lines). When the jackpot combination is established, the special electric accessory is activated (the jackpot 4 is opened), and it is possible to obtain a jackpot state that is advantageous to the player, that is, to obtain more prize balls. (For example, in FIG. 5C, symbols 70C of “three”, “three”, and “three” are stopped and displayed on the oblique line L4).

  In this embodiment, once a big hit state occurs, after the grand prize opening 12 is opened, (1) 10 game balls B win the big prize opening 12, and (2) about 29.5 seconds have elapsed. When either one of the conditions is satisfied, the special winning opening 12 is closed. This open / close cycle of the big prize opening 12 is repeated a maximum of a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times: 16 rounds) in which the game ball B wins the V zone 15.

  The reach state means a state immediately before the jackpot (of course, the jackpot state may not be reached). As shown in FIG. 7A, in the reach state in the present embodiment, the symbol variation of the right symbol row 23 is the same type of symbol as the stop symbol of the left symbol row 21 on the jackpot line L1 to L5. The state to stop is included.

  In the above reach state, the symbol variation of the middle symbol row 22 will eventually stop at the same kind of symbols (big hit symbol) as the stop symbols of both the left and right symbol rows 21 and 23 and will be in a big hit state Also included are those that stop at different types of symbols (this is referred to as “outgoing reach design”) and do not become a big hit state (hereinafter referred to as “outgoing reach state”). Furthermore, after the symbol variation of the middle symbol row 22 is temporarily stopped (it is not necessary to stop), the entire symbol row (or a part of the symbol rows) is changed, and then the symbols 70A to 70A of all the symbol rows 21 to 23 are changed. The case where 70H stops (also referred to as re-variation reach or full rotation reach) is also included.

  In the reach state, as the reach pattern, various reach patterns are set in addition to “normal reach” in which the symbols 70A to 70H in the middle symbol row 22 are simply scrolled in the same manner as in the normal variation. Among these reach patterns, reach patterns other than “normal reach” are so-called “super reach”. When the operation of “super reach” is started, the expected value (expected value for jackpot) at which a big hit state occurs is higher than in the case of “normal reach”. Also, in “super reach”, the jackpot expectation value may differ depending on each reach pattern. Further, a reach pattern called “special reach” or “premium reach” having a higher jackpot expectation value than “super reach” may be prepared.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 (b), (c), (d) and FIGS. 8 (a), (b), as the “super reach”, the character GC wields a clown, “Matoi Reach” (see FIGS. 7B to 7D) in which symbols 70A to 70I are switched to a perfect symbol, another character KC is displayed instead of the character GC, and the background is switched to the precinct. “Paper lantern reach” (see FIG. 8A) in which the symbols 70A to 70I of the bag are switched to the symbols of the lantern, another character MC is displayed instead of the character GC, and a central symbol (for example, A “typhoon reach” (see FIG. 8B), in which the surrounding symbols rotate like a typhoon around the symbol 70E) is set. In the present embodiment, after the reach state is once generated, after the effect display at the “normal reach” for a predetermined time is performed, the display mode is switched at a predetermined timing, and then each “super reach” is displayed. "Is now being performed. Of course, there may be a case where the production of “super reach” is suddenly performed.

  Next, the operation and effect of each control unit in the pachinko machine 1 configured as described above will be described.

  First, the control process when the main board 50 recognizes that the game ball B has won the operation port 11 based on the detection signal from the operation port switch 41 will be described.

  When the main board 50 detects that the game ball B has won the operation port 11, the main board 50 detects that the corresponding holding lamps 24a to 24d (for example, two holding lamps 24a and 24b until then). When the two hold lamps are turned on, the third hold lamp 24c) is turned on, and the value of the hold counter is incremented by "1". However, the case where all the holding lamps 24a to 24d are lit is excluded.

  The main board 50 stores the values of the counters such as the internal random number counter, the jackpot symbol counter, the miss reach symbol counter, the miss symbol counter, etc. in each random number area. Then, the corresponding holding lamps 24a to 24d are turned off at a predetermined timing, the value of the holding counter is decremented, and the symbol variation is executed based on the data stored in each area or the like.

  At this time, the main board 50 outputs (transmits) a command as a command to the lamp control board 120, the voice control board 130, and the like, in addition to the display control board 110 of the special symbol display device 20, in the case of the change. The command includes (1) time information indicating that the symbols 70A to 70I are fixedly displayed after a predetermined time from the start of variation, pattern information including variation patterns represented by each reach pattern, and (2) any symbol. Symbol information indicating whether to make a fixed display at 70A to 70I is included. Here, the symbol information includes jackpot symbols, missed reach symbols, missed symbols, which are determined based on the above-described internal random number counter, jackpot symbol counter, missed reach symbol counter, missed symbol counter, etc. It is.

  The command in the present embodiment has a 2-byte configuration, and is sequentially transmitted to the display control board 110 and the like sequentially. Of the command consisting of 2 bytes, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating what information will be transmitted from now on. The latter one byte is composed of content information such as a pattern code corresponding to specific instruction content.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the first command transmitted is pattern information. In this case, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that pattern information (indicating time information and a variation pattern) is to be transmitted, and the second byte is pattern code information such as “00” and “01”. It is comprised by. Here, the pattern code information such as “00”, “01”, and the like is time information that suggests the content such as “10 seconds” or “30 seconds” as the symbol variation time. It consists of information suggesting a fluctuation pattern such as executing a fluctuation pattern (or any one of fluctuation pattern groups).

  Subsequently, the symbol information is transmitted. That is, in the case where the symbols of the three symbol sequences 21 to 23 are determined in the order of left → right → middle as in the present embodiment, first, the symbol information that is the second command transmitted following the pattern information. The first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that the symbol information of the left symbol sequence 21 will be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is composed of pattern code information suggesting a symbol to be confirmed and displayed. In addition, as the symbol information that is the third command to be transmitted, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that the symbol information in the right symbol row 23 will be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is a symbol that is confirmed and displayed. It consists of suggested pattern code information. In addition, as the symbol information to be transmitted fourth, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that the symbol information of the middle symbol sequence 22 will be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is the symbol to be confirmed and displayed. It consists of pattern code information that suggests. In this way, three pieces of display information related to the confirmed symbol are transmitted continuously. In other words, when the symbol changes once, data having a 2-byte structure is transmitted byte by byte, so that a total of 8 (1 × 2 + 3 × 2) data transmissions are performed.

  In the above embodiment, symbol information corresponding to each of the left, right, and middle symbol columns 21 to 23 is transmitted. For example, when eight symbols need to be confirmed and displayed, Even if the number of symbols is changed as appropriate, such as 1 × 2 + 8 × 2 = 18 times of data transmission, it can be applied.

  In the present embodiment, commands (a group of commands) are output not only to the display control board 110 but also to the lamp control board 120 and the voice control board 130 in synchronization ( In the strict sense, they need not be at the same time). Of course, it is desirable that the command output at this time corresponds to the command output to the display control board 110 (in some cases, it may not correspond). On the other hand, the display control board 110 that has received a group of commands related to symbol variation (a group of data sent during one symbol variation) sequentially generates display images to be displayed on the display unit 20a of the special symbol display device 20. To do.

  Further, the display control board 110 starts design variation based on the command and performs various effects based on the variation pattern until the variation is stopped. As the production, for example, reach production is mainly cited.

  That is, based on the pattern information among the above commands, the CPU 63 of the display control board 110 selects and determines a predetermined pattern from the above-described variation patterns with reference to the table, and produces an effect based on the determined pattern. Is executed for the number of seconds of the time data set separately from the start of the change to the final display. Thereafter, the CPU on the main board 50 side outputs a confirmation command to the display control board 110 at a timing corresponding to the predetermined time based on the timer that the main board 50 has.

  On the other hand, the CPU 63 of the display control board 110 displays the symbols 70A to 70I according to the symbol information in a fixed stop display after a predetermined time from the temporary stop (when the fluctuation based on the time information is completed). At this time, as a result, the symbols 70A to 70I are confirmed and displayed in synchronization with the outputted confirmation command. Similarly, the CPUs of the lamp control board 120 and the sound control board 130 also confirm and stop the lamp effect and the sound effect at the timing.

  In the present embodiment, with respect to the variation pattern, effects other than the reach effect are also controlled after being included in the variation pattern information in the same manner as described above. The effects other than the reach effect include effects such as re-change, reach notice, super reach notice, jackpot notice, “countdown notice” peculiar to the present embodiment, in addition to the above-described slip change. Here, the “notice” only needs to be able to suggest that the predetermined gaming state is likely to occur due to the effect, or the effect that the occurrence rate of the predetermined gaming state is affected by the effect. Therefore, there is no problem even if the predetermined gaming state does not occur (suggestion). Thus, in the present embodiment, main control is governed by the main board 50, and display control and the like are governed by the display control board 110 and the like based on commands from the main board 50. As a result, the burden on the main board 50 is reduced.

  Now, when a command is output from the main board 50 to the display control board 110 to change the design, the display control board 110 starts the design change. At the time of the change, as described above, the displayed symbols 70A to 70I are displayed in a variable manner as if they move in the depth direction and rise. The symbols 70A to 70I corresponding to the symbol rows 21 to 23 are stopped and displayed in the order of the left symbol row 21, the right symbol row 23, and the middle symbol row 22. Here, in the present embodiment, since so-called five lines are employed, three symbols 70A to 70I are displayed for each symbol row 21 to 23, and then confirmed and stopped. That is, a total of nine symbols 70A to 70I are displayed on the display unit 20a in a fixed stop display.

  The stop mode at this time is different in size according to the display area as in the normal variation, and is displayed as large as the upper symbols 70A to 70I. However, after the stop, it is temporarily (for example, about 1 second). 5), a mode as shown in FIG. 5B is obtained. That is, the symbol rows 21 to 23 are temporarily planar, and the symbols 70A to 70H have the same size regardless of the display area (whether it is the upper portion or the lower portion). It is assumed to be size. Thereby, the player can visually recognize each symbol evenly, and can more easily and reliably identify the stop symbol.

  In addition, at this time, the display is not just flat, but is displayed as if each stop symbol is slightly tilted. As a result, the display area can be reduced by the amount of tilting while maintaining the size of the symbols 70A to 70I to some extent (with a relatively large symbol size), thereby ensuring the display of all symbols 70A to 70I. Can be done.

  In addition, in the case of the said normal fluctuation | variation, the size of the symbols 70A-70I is gradually changed for every symbol row | line | column 21-23 according to the position by which fluctuation display is carried out. In other words, the positions at which the symbols 70A to 70I are displayed move in accordance with the change, but are changed so that the sizes of the symbols 70A to 70I are gradually reduced. As a result, a sense of depth in the case of normal fluctuation, which until now has been performed only in a flat display, is created. Therefore, the player can enjoy an ordinary variation mode that has never been seen before, and it is interesting.

  Here, when the command output to the display control board 110 to perform the symbol variation includes information indicating that “countdown notice” is to be performed, details of processing performed on the display control board 110 side will be described in detail. Describe.

  In this case, the CPU 63 of the display control board 110 starts the variation of the symbols 70A to 70I of the symbol rows 21 to 23 as shown in FIG. At this time, the variation mode is almost the same as the normal variation. However, as shown in the drawing, the tress FS of the character MT possessed by the character GC is switched from the band-like one displayed so far to the hair-like one, or the tress FS is blown by the wind. The countdown notice to be performed in the future may be further notified in advance, for example, as if it is displayed as if the character GC blinks.

  Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the fluctuation, the symbol fluctuation speed of the left symbol row 21 is made slower than the fluctuation speed until then, and then stopped at predetermined symbols 70A to 70I (in FIG. 10B). The symbol “C” of “three” is displayed in the upper part, the symbol “70I” is discontinued, and the symbol “D” of “four” is stopped and displayed in the lower part). Subsequently, the symbol fluctuation speed of the right symbol row 22 is decreased. Then, similarly to the left symbol row 21, it is stopped at predetermined symbols 70A to 70I (in FIG. 10 (b), “four” symbols 70D in the upper row, unsuccessful symbols 70I, and “three” symbols in the lower row. 70C is stopped). Thus, in the present embodiment, when the countdown notice is performed, the reach state is generated.

  Next, after the reach state occurs, as shown in FIG. 10B, a display similar to the normal reach is performed for a predetermined time (corresponding to the first display mode). That is, the background and the like are hardly changed so far, and only the symbols 70A to 70I of the middle symbol row 22 are displayed in a variably manner. Since the reach state has occurred, as shown in the figure, as if the character GC wishes to stop at the jackpot symbol, such as causing the character GC to perform a swinging motion while turning the MT, it is incidental ( It is also possible to perform a light effect. Of course, it goes without saying that such an effect may be performed during a normal reach (when no countdown notice is performed).

  Subsequently, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the CPU 63 performs the following control to execute the countdown notice. That is, as shown in FIG. 10 (c), the rotation of the rough MT that the character GC has swung up to that time is stopped, and a predetermined number, for example, 3 seconds in the present embodiment, is switched to the upper mark portion HS. A number “3” (identification indicator) indicating that it is the front is displayed.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 10D, in a state where the character GC faces in the opposite direction (with the other leg lifted), an action display is performed in which the MT is swung in the same manner as described above.

  Subsequently, after one second has elapsed from the display of the numeral “3”, as shown in FIG. 11A, the rotation of the rough MT that the character GC was swaying is stopped again, and the upper sign portion HS is turned on. , The number “2” (identification indicator) is displayed. This suggests that it is 2 seconds before switching.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11 (b), a motion display is performed in which the character GC turns around in the same manner as described above with the character GC facing in the opposite direction. Subsequently, after one second has elapsed from the display of the number “2”, as shown in FIG. 11 (c), the rotation of the rough MT that the character GC was swaying is stopped again, and the upper mark portion HS is turned on. , The number “1” (identification indicator) is displayed. This suggests that it is one second before switching. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 11 (d), an action display is performed in which the character GC is turned around in the same manner as described above with the character GC facing in the opposite direction. At this point, the feeling of excitement for the player will be enhanced, and what will be performed next (the player who knows that switching will be performed, what display mode will be switched). I will be watching the MT (marker part HS) with excitement.

  Then, after one second has elapsed from the display of the number “1”, as shown in any one of FIGS. 12A to 12D, the rotation of the rough MT that the character GC was swinging is stopped again, A predetermined identification mark set in advance is displayed on the upper mark portion HS.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality (4 types) of identification signs are prepared in advance. That is, as shown in FIG. 12A, when the number “0” is displayed on the sign section HS, the variation of the symbols 70A to 70I in the middle symbol row 22 is stopped, and the predetermined symbols 70A to 70I are changed. (In this case, it may be stopped at a missed reach symbol, or may be stopped at a missed reach symbol or a jackpot symbol).

  Also, as shown in FIG. 12 (b), when the character “Go” is displayed on the sign section HS, the variation of the symbols 70A to 70I in the middle symbol row 22 is continued, and then a predetermined developed type The effect of super reach is executed (switched to the second display mode). Therefore, the player who has recognized such a suggestion (preliminary notice) or the player who has recognized the switching will have a higher expectation of occurrence of a big hit state than before.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12 (c), when the character “x” is displayed on the sign section HS, the variation of the symbols 70A to 70I in the middle symbol row 22 is continued, but the display mode has been changed so far. On the other hand, the effect display in the normal reach is continued without being switched.

  At the same time, as shown in FIG. 12D, when the symbol “question mark” is displayed on the sign section HS, the variation of the symbols 70A to 70I in the middle symbol row 22 is continued and the display mode is changed. Until then, it will be switched. However, at this time, it is not possible to grasp the next gaming state, and thereafter, the display state is switched to a predetermined display mode. Here, the display mode to be switched may be any one of a plurality of types of super reach patterns, or may be either a super reach pattern or a highly anticipated special reach pattern, It may be a stop display with a jackpot symbol, a stop display with an outreach symbol, a continuous display with a normal reach, or any one of these combinations. Also good. Therefore, the player who has recognized such a suggestion (preliminary notice) waits for switching of the display mode in a state where anxiety and expectation are mixed in what kind of display mode the next moment will be.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment, when the display mode is switched from the display mode based on the normal reach pattern (first display mode) to the second display mode during the reach state, Suggestion that can be an opportunity, that is, countdown notice using the medium MT possessed by the character GC is performed in an area other than the variable display areas of the symbols 70A to 70I in the display unit 20a. For this reason, in accordance with the countdown notice, the player can grasp the timing when the display mode is switched from the normal reach to another display pattern, and carefully watch the sign section HS of the wearing MT during the countdown period. It becomes. In particular, since the countdown notice is performed in an area other than the display area of the symbols 70A to 70I, the player's interest also extends to the changing area of the symbols 70A to 70I. As a result, it is possible to improve the interest that has never been seen, and to effectively use the display unit 20a.

  Further, it is possible to grasp in advance that the switching is performed by the countdown notice, and it is possible to grasp the switching timing from a predetermined time before the switching (3 seconds before). For this reason, compared with the case where switching from normal reach to advanced reach is suddenly performed, the player can have a thrilling feeling from the previous stage of switching and can further enhance the effects of switching. . In particular, in the present embodiment, the display mode may be switched from the normal reach to the advanced super reach, so that the expectation that a big hit state will occur when the switching is performed is enhanced. Therefore, the player is looking forward to the countdown notice as well as the switching, and when the notice is actually given, the expectation and excitement will be further enhanced. Become. As a result, it is possible to further enhance the effect of the countdown notice, thereby further enhancing the interest. Here, the super reach pattern may be one predetermined super reach pattern, or may be a super reach pattern selected from a plurality of super reach patterns.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a plurality of (four) last display patterns of the countdown notice are prepared, and the display patterns employed depending on the display patterns are different. In addition, the second display mode adopted depending on the time is different. For this reason, the player plays the game while wondering what display pattern and what display mode can be switched. As a result, the game content can be thickened, and further enhancement of interest can be achieved.

  In addition, it is not limited to the description content of the said embodiment, For example, you may implement as follows.

  (A) In the above-described embodiment, there is a configuration in which the display mode may not be switched even when the countdown notification is performed. However, when the notification is performed, the display mode is always switched. It is good as well.

  (B) In the above embodiment, a plurality of final display patterns for the countdown notice are prepared, and the display pattern adopted depending on the time is different. In such a case, the display mode corresponding to the super reach pattern may be switched. In this case, the development timing of the super reach can be grasped in advance, and the expectation for the player is surely increased.

  (C) In the above embodiment, the suggestion is performed by the countdown method, but such a method is not necessarily adopted. For example, it may be only suggested that a predetermined time before the switching (for example, 3 seconds before). In this way, the player can grasp that the switching is performed after 3 seconds, for example, and can improve the interest.

  (D) In addition, the countdown is performed on a regular basis (every second) with the passage of time. However, the countdown may be performed in accordance with the change display of each frame of the symbols 70A to 70I. Good. In this case, it becomes easy to foresee the types of the symbols 70A to 70I when the display mode is switched, and the interest is further enhanced in this respect.

  (E) In the above embodiment, the suggestion is performed by displaying identification marks such as numerals, characters, symbols, etc., but the symbol corresponding to the switching timing (will be displayed at the time of switching) It is good also as displaying signs, such as a picture which suggests the kind of 70A-70I.

  (F) The suggestion may also be performed in an external device other than the variable display device 20. For example, when the external device is a sound generation unit such as the speaker 9, a voice may be generated from the speaker such as “3”, “2”, and “1”. Further, when the external device is a light emitting means such as a lamp, the lamp may be flashed in accordance with the stop display of the sign section HS.

  (G) Although not specifically mentioned in the above embodiment, after the display mode is switched, the display unit 20a may perform an effect based on the second display mode. For example, when the super-reach is developed by switching, an effect display such as the character GC performing a guts pose may be performed. When the switching is not performed, or when the character GC is stopped, the character GC stops at a disengaged reach design. In such a case, an effect display may be performed such that the character GC has a disappointed expression. With this configuration, the fact that the display mode has been switched to the second display mode can be easily understood by the player, and emotions based on the switching can be promoted. In this respect, the game content can be further thickened.

  (H) In the above embodiment, the suggestion is performed during the reach production, but the suggestion may be performed while the symbols 70A to 70I of all the symbol sequences 21 to 23 are fluctuating.

  (I) In the above embodiment, the symbols 70A to 70I are displayed as if they are changing in the depth direction and the vertical direction intersecting the depth direction in the case of the normal change. It does not have to be. Therefore, the scroll fluctuation may be simply performed in the left-right direction, or the scroll fluctuation may be simply performed in the vertical direction.

  (J) It does not have to be of the 5-line type as in the above embodiment. For example, a so-called two-line type (for example, one having upper and lower horizontal jackpot lines) or three-line type (for example, one having upper, middle and lower horizontal jackpot lines) may be used. Further, it may be of one line type (for example, one having one jackpot line).

  (K) As the special symbol display device 13, a CRT, a dot matrix, an LED, an electroluminescence (EL), a fluorescent display tube, or the like may be used in addition to the liquid crystal display described above.

  (L) The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine of a different type from the above embodiment. For example, it may be implemented as a pachinko machine that is in a special gaming state under the condition that a game ball is awarded in a predetermined area after a jackpot symbol is displayed. In addition to pachinko machines, the present invention can also be implemented as various game machines such as alepatches, sparrow balls, slot machines, and game machines in which pachinko machines and slot machines are integrated. In the slot machine, for example, a symbol is changed by operating a control lever in a state where a symbol effective line is determined by inserting coins, and a symbol is stopped and confirmed by operating a stop button. Is. In this case, examples of the game media include coins and medals.

  In addition, as a specific example of a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are integrated, a variable ball display unit is provided which includes a variable display means for confirming and displaying a symbol after a symbol string composed of a plurality of symbols is variably displayed. The thing which is not equipped with is mentioned. In this case, after throwing a predetermined amount of game balls based on a predetermined operation (button operation), for example, the variation of the symbol is started due to an operation of an operation lever, for example, due to an operation of a stop button or a predetermined amount As time passes, the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped, and the jackpot state that is advantageous to the player is generated on the condition that the confirmed symbol at the time of stoppage is a so-called jackpot symbol. A large amount of game balls are paid out.

  (M) In the above embodiment, the three symbol rows 21, 22, and 23 of the left, middle, and right are employed as the symbol rows. However, the symbol rows may be constituted by two or less, or four or more symbol rows. . Also, the stop order is not limited to that of the above embodiment.

  (N) In the above-described embodiment, the marker portion HS is set at a part that is out of the variable display area of the symbols 70A to 70I. However, there may be a portion that overlaps the variable display area of the symbols 70A to 70I as a suggested display part. Absent.

  (O) In the above embodiment, the suggestion is performed by the countdown method. In other words, it is performed by means of a method in which changes in time up to the switching timing are notified step by step. On the other hand, the suggestion may be made by a method of continuously informing the change in time until the switching timing. In addition, as a “method for continuously informing changes in time”, for example, animation or a live-action image is used to display a state in which the remaining amount of the meter, the analog timer, etc. gradually decrease, For example, it is possible to display a state in which the remaining length of the dynamite squib exploding gradually decreases. In this case, a meter, an analog timer, a dynamite lead wire, or the like corresponds to an identification mark (a display mode changes continuously).

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine, 8 ... Game board, 11 ... Operation opening, 12 ... Extra prize opening, 20 ... Special symbol display device as a variable display device, 20a ... Display part, 21 ... Left symbol row, 22 ... Middle symbol row, 23 ... right symbol row, 50 ... main board, 63 ... CPU of display control board, 70A to 70I ... symbol as identification information, 110 ... display control board, B ... game ball, GC ... character, HS ... sign part.

Claims (1)

A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbols on the display unit ,
The display unit is configured to be able to derive a special gaming state advantageous to the player when a specific winning symbol combination is stopped and displayed, and reach game before the specific winning symbol combination is stopped and displayed. A gaming machine configured to be able to derive a state ,
Means for switching the display mode from the first reach gaming state to a second reach gaming state different from the first reach gaming state;
Means for displaying a predetermined character at least before the switching;
Means for displaying any one of a plurality of types of identification signs different from the symbols, while the predetermined character performs a first predetermined action during the first reach gaming state; Prepared,
After the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, a first identification mark is displayed among the plurality of types of identification marks, and the display mode is changed to the second reach gaming state in response to the display. When switched,
The first identification mark among the plurality of types of identification signs is displayed after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, and the display mode cannot be switched to the second reach gaming state. When,
After the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, a second identification mark is displayed among the plurality of types of identification marks, and the display mode is changed to the second reach gaming state in response to the display. When switched,
A third identification mark is displayed among the plurality of types of identification signs after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, and the display mode is not switched to the second reach gaming state. And
further,
Means for displaying the predetermined character to perform the second predetermined action when the display mode is switched to the second reach state after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed. When,
When the display mode cannot be switched to the second reach state after the first predetermined action display by the predetermined character is performed, the predetermined character is displayed so as to perform the third predetermined action. game machine characterized by comprising a means.

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