JP5486825B2 - Game machine evaluation apparatus and game machine manufacturing method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that draws a big hit by winning a game ball, and more particularly to a gaming machine evaluation device connected to the gaming machine and a manufacturing method of the gaming machine. It is.

  In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, a big hit lottery is performed when a game ball wins a prize such as a start opening. When the jackpot is won, the gaming machine is put into a jackpot gaming state in which the jackpot is opened and many winning balls can be obtained. In the gaming machine, various effects such as display on the image display unit, lighting of various lamps, and sound by a speaker are performed in accordance with the game of the game ball by the player.

  These jackpot lotteries and various effects are performed by the CPU provided in the gaming machine using predetermined programs and data. And a predetermined program, data, etc. are stored beforehand in ROM with which a game machine is provided, and CPU reads from ROM as needed.

  Conventionally, various technologies have been proposed for ROMs included in gaming machines (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration that enables high-speed access to a character ROM in a gaming machine to increase the capacity.

JP 2008-131001 A

Here, in the manufacturing process of the gaming machine, for example, when performing an evaluation debugging work, the ROM is often written a plurality of times. Writing such ROM involves a series of operations of separating the case of the board to which the ROM is attached, removing the ROM from the board, writing with a ROM writer, and then mounting the ROM on the board and attaching the case. Is. Therefore, if the number of times of ROM writing increases, the number of ROM writing man-hours increases accordingly, and it is difficult to shorten the development period.
An object of the present invention is to provide an evaluation apparatus and a method for manufacturing a gaming machine that can simplify the writing operation of a ROM mounted on the gaming machine.

In the gaming machine evaluation apparatus 10 to which the present invention is applied, a plurality of CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201 cooperate to perform various controls associated with a game with a plurality of ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, 202, a gaming machine evaluation apparatus 10 connected to a gaming machine 100 using information stored in a corresponding ROM of 202, wherein the plurality of CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, a reception means 13 for accepting said information used for each that by the control of the 201, a rewritable area is set corresponding to each of the plurality of ROM302,312,322,402,202 of the gaming machine 100 wherein storing the information accepted by the accepting unit 13 in the storage unit 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, and 32e, 34, the The storage unit 32a, 32b, 32c which ROM302,312,322,402,202 number corresponds to an instruction from each of the plurality of CPU301,311,321,401,201 of the gaming machine 100 is not implemented, Output means 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, 35 for outputting the information of 32d, 32e, 34 to the instructed CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 201, and the storage means 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, 34 and the output means 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, 35, the information of the storage means 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, 34 is used as the output means 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d. , 33e, storing means side interface unit 3 is an interface for passing the 35 a, 33b, 33c, 33d, and 33e, 35, the output unit 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, 35 and the plurality of ROM302,312,322,402,202 of the gaming machine 100 is not implemented the plurality of interfaces and a game machine side interface section 33a for passing the information to each of the plurality of CPU301,311,321,401,201 between CPU301,311,321,401,201, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, and 35, and when the gaming machine 100 is not mounted with the plurality of ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, and 202, the storage means 32a provided in the gaming machine evaluation device 10 , 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, 34, the information stored in a rewritable manner. The contents of control performed by the plurality of CPU301,311,321,401,201 of the gaming machine 100 using the broadcast and is characterized that you evaluate the information received in the reception unit 13 .

Here, the receiving unit 13 specifies the areas of the storage units 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, and 34 that store the received information based on attributes of the received information. can do. Also, the storage unit 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e , as the area, the same number as the number of said plurality of CPU301,311,321,401,201 of the gaming machine 100 RAM32a, 32b, 32c, 32d 32e, and the RAMs 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, and 32e store the information to be output to any one of the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201. be able to. The storage means 34 includes a single RAM 34 having all of the areas for storing the information to be output to each of the plurality of CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201 of the gaming machine 100. It can be characterized by being. Furthermore, it can be characterized by further comprising notification means 14 for notifying that the reception means 13 is receiving the information.

From another point of view, in the manufacturing method of the gaming machine 100 to which the present invention is applied, the control of the game using the game ball is performed by the CPU 201 using information stored in the ROM 202 in the game control unit 200. A gaming machine that manufactures a gaming machine 100 in which the control of the production accompanying the game is performed by the CPU 301, 311, 321, 401, 201 using the information stored in the ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, 202 in the production control unit 300 The evaluation device 10 is connected to the gaming machine 100 and evaluates the information, and the receiving unit 13 included in the evaluation device 10 receives the information, and the receiving unit of the evaluation device 10 receives the information. storage means 32a for the information received by 13 the evaluation device 10 comprises, 32b, 32c, 32d, in the region of 32e, 34 Storing repositionable to come, the storage means 32a of the evaluation device 10, 32 b, 32c, 32d, 32e, 34 output unit 33a that the information which the stored in area output to the outside of the evaluation device 10, The plurality of CPUs 301 , 311 , 321 , 401 , and 201 of the gaming machine 100 in a state where the ROMs 302 , 312 , 322 , 402 , and 202 are not mounted on the gaming machine 100. Connected to the storage means 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, 34 and the output means 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, 35, the output means 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, the information the output unit 33a of 35, 33b, 33c, 33d, interferon for passing to 33e, 35 Scan a is storage means side interface section 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, 35 and the output unit 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, 35 and the gaming machine of the plurality of CPU301,311,321,401, Through the gaming machine side interface units 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, and 35, which are interfaces for transferring the information to and from the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401 , and 201 respectively . The information of the storage means 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, 34 corresponding to the instruction from each of the CPUs 301 , 311 , 321 , 401 , 201 is output to the output means 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e. , 35 instructed from the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 2 The information is evaluated according to the control contents of the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201 using the output information, and the evaluated information is stored in the ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, and 202. The ROM 302, 312, 322, 402, 202 storing the information is mounted on the gaming machine 100.

Here, the feature that the specified based the storage means 32a for storing the information accepted by the acceptance means 13, 32 b, 32c, 32d, the area of 32e, 34, the attribute of the received information can do. Moreover, it can be characterized by notifying by the notifying means 14 with which the said evaluation apparatus 10 is provided that the said information is received by the said receiving means 13.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to simplify the writing operation of the ROM mounted on the gaming machine.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 150 that surrounds the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has a game area 111 for playing with a game ball on the front surface, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game And a guide member 113 for guiding a game ball on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. As the game progresses by the player, for example, the image display unit 114 notifies the player of the symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) with a decorative symbol, or displays a notice effect by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item. Or As the image display unit 114, for example, a configuration example using a liquid crystal display device, an EL display device, an LED dot display device, a 7-segment display device, or the like can be considered.
In the present embodiment, the front of the game board 110 is provided with a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects. The movable accessory 115 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 110 and performs various effects by movement, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by light by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, as various types of prizes and lotteries, the first start port 121 where a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) is started when a game ball enters and a position below the first start port 121 is placed. The game board 110 is provided with a second start port 122 where a special symbol lottery starts when a game ball enters and a gate 124 where a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) starts when the game ball passes. ing. Here, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 operate either one predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 125) or one predetermined special symbol display. It means a winning opening related to winning a game ball.
The second start port 122 includes an electric tulip 123 as a normal electric accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers opened and closed by an electric solenoid. When the blades of the electric tulip 123 are closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122. However, when the blades are opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 expands and the game ball moves to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 has a high probability state (for example, 1/30) from a low probability state (for example, 1/300) to a high probability state (for example, 1/30) when the jackpot probability that the jackpot is drawn in a special symbol lottery varies under a predetermined condition. ))). In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can reduce the special symbol variation time during the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning during the normal symbol lottery, or the normal symbol variation time during the normal symbol lottery. In some cases, the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be shortened, or the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be opened (electric chew support).

Further, in the present embodiment, as various types of prizes and lotteries, a large winning opening 125 that is located below the second start opening 122 and opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery, and a game ball wins. However, the game board 110 is provided with a normal winning opening 126 where the lottery does not start. The big winning opening 125 is normally closed, but a round in which the special winning lottery is maintained in an open state is maintained in an open state until a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won). Repeat a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times).
In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are disposed in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which only one of them is disposed or another start port is disposed. A configuration example is also conceivable. In the present embodiment, one big prize opening 125 is arranged in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which a plurality of big prize openings 125 are arranged is also conceivable.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110. Details of the display 130 will be described later.

  The payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball wins at the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, a predetermined number of award balls per game ball are paid out according to the place where the game ball has won. It is. For example, when a game ball wins the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when the game ball wins the big prize port 125, When a game ball wins the 13 prize balls and the normal prize opening 126, 10 prize balls are paid out respectively. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

Note that various boards and the like (not shown) are attached to the rear surface of the game board 110. In other words, the main board and the sub board are arranged on the rear surface of the game board 110. That is, on the rear surface of the game board 110, a game control board in which a later-described game control unit 200 that performs internal lottery, determination of winning, and the like is provided as a main board. The game control board is sealed in a main board case made of a transparent member so that a trace remains when opened.
Further, as a sub-board, an effect control board in which an after-mentioned effect control unit 300 that controls the production in an integrated manner is configured, and an image control board in which an after-mentioned image / sound control unit 310 that controls the effect by image and sound is configured. In addition, a lamp control board on which a later-described lamp control unit 320 that controls effects by various lamps and the movable accessory 115 is provided. In addition, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power supply into a DC power supply and outputs it to various boards and the like is disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110.
In other words, a payout control board 400 that performs payout control of a payout ball, which is described later, and a supply ball that is controlled by the payout control board and is replenished from the outside are temporarily stored. The frame member 150 is provided with a payout unit (not shown) for paying out and paying out lending balls.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game ball at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing in conjunction with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device. A plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

The frame member 150 also includes a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball stored in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects based on music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects based on light depending on a pattern or light emission color caused by lighting and blinking. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display 221 variably displays the special symbol resulting from winning of the first start port 121 and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 variably displays special symbols resulting from winning at the second start port 122 and displays the lottery results. The normal symbol display unit 223 displays the normal symbol variably and displays the lottery result when the game ball passes through the gate 124. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 are configured by a 7-segment display device, and the normal symbol display 223 is configured by an LED display device. .

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. This hold will be described. If there is a prize by another game ball during the fluctuation display operation (while the fluctuation display for one win is being performed), the symbol fluctuation display operation for the prized game ball will be applied to the game ball which has been won first. Until the variable display operation is completed, a predetermined number (for example, four) is held as a limit. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220. In the present embodiment, each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is constituted by an LED display device arranged in a row, and the lighting thereof The number of holds is displayed according to the mode.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and can select the selected image by operating the center key. Can be entered as information.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 that performs various controls relating to the number of prize balls to be paid out, such as internal lottery and determination of winning, as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball. As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, and further, the effect control board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board as sub boards are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time shortening at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game ball is suspended until the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lots, or the game ball continuously passes through the gate 124. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) for the undrawn lots.
In addition, the game control unit 200 keeps an open state in a protruding manner until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Is controlled to be repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times). Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 displays the reserved number for the undrawn special symbol lottery (big win lottery) started by winning the game ball at the first start port 121 within the limit number (for example, four). A special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219 for displaying the number of unsold lots in the special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball in the second start port 122 within the limit number, A normal symbol hold indicator 220 is connected to the normal symbol lottery display (open / close lottery) started by the passage of the game ball to the gate 124 and displays the number of unsettled hold numbers within the limit number.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 for displaying a result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first start port 121, and a game ball to the second start port 122. A second special symbol display 222 that displays the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning and a normal symbol display 223 that displays the result of the normal symbol lottery are connected.

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information regarding the number of paid-out winning balls acquired from the payout control unit 400, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. .

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
Next, the effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301, various data, and the like, and a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 301 and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring the date and time.
The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using the effect button 161 or the effect key 162, the effect content corresponding to the operation input may be set. In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, an instruction to set a screen display for waiting for a customer is given as one of the effects.
Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, shortens the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery, and shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.
In addition, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling the image and sound representing the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like. And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, etc., and voice processing using the read acoustic data are performed using the read image data.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data subjected to image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 321 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
Specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls light emission from the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of payout balls, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401 and the like. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (such as the first start port 121). Then, the payout driving unit 411 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 411 includes a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the storage unit of the game ball.

The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Sphere detection unit 413 for detecting whether or not there is a storage, and whether or not the plate 153 in which a game ball used when a player plays a game or a prized ball to be held is full is detected. A full tank detection unit 414 is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Next, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in the figure, the game control unit 200 is a special symbol lottery unit 231, a normal symbol lottery unit 232, a special symbol variation control unit 233, and a special symbol lottery result determination as functional units for executing various lottery processes. A unit 234 and a normal symbol control unit 237.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 and a game progress control unit 236 as functional units that execute processing associated with special symbol variation.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is a function unit that executes operation control of various types of objects and data processing related to a prize ball, etc., as a function unit for a prize winning opening operation control unit 238, an electric tulip operation control unit 239, and a prize ball processing unit 240. And an output control unit 241 and a random number control unit 242.

The special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122.
The normal symbol lottery unit 232 performs the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 124.
The special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 controls the fluctuation of the special symbol according to the lottery result when the special symbol lottery is performed.

The special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, when a special symbol lottery is performed, the lottery result is “whether it is a big hit”, “a type of jackpot when a big winner is won”, “not a big winner It is determined whether or not it is a small hit or not.
Here, the types of “big hit” include “long hit” in which a long jackpot game time can be expected to be paid out, and “short hit” in which a big hit game time is short. For example, in the “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) is repeated, for example, 15 times. In the “short win”, the round at the special winning opening 125 is repeated twice, for example.

Furthermore, the “long win” is a jackpot (“specific symbol A” in the subsequent stage), which is also called “15 round probability per change” that generates both a probability change (probability change) gaming state and a time reduction (time reduction) game state after the end of the jackpot game. And a jackpot called “ordinary jackpot” (a jackpot in the “normal symbol” in the subsequent stage) that generates only the short-time gaming state and does not generate the probability variation gaming state after the jackpot game ends. The “short win” is a so-called “two-round probable hit” (a big hit in the “specific symbol B” in the subsequent stage) that generates a probability variation gaming state after the jackpot game ends and does not generate a short-time gaming state.
In addition, the “small winning” in the case of not winning a big win, for example, a small winning game is performed in which the big winning opening 125 is opened and closed twice, and the gaming state at the time of winning the small win is continued even after the winning is completed. It is a win (winning with the “small hit symbol” in the latter part). That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the probability variation game state, the probability variation game state is continued even after the end of the small hit game, and the game state does not shift. Similarly, if the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is a normal gaming state (normal gaming state) in which neither probability fluctuation nor time reduction is made, the normal gaming state is continued even after the end of the small hitting game, The gaming state does not transition.
Further, in the “missing”, neither the “big hit” nor the “small winning” is set, and none of the above-described gaming states advantageous to the player is set (setting of the “missing symbol” in the subsequent stage).

The variation pattern selection unit 235 selects the variation pattern of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222 when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit”. Further, it is determined whether or not a reach effect is to be performed. The “reach effect” here is an effect performed by the image display unit 114 or the like for causing the player to expect a big hit.
The game progress control unit 236 controls the progress of the game in each game state.

When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether the normal symbol lottery result is “winning or lost”. Further, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is controlled according to the lottery result.
When it is determined as “winning”, the electric tulip 123 is opened for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times), and the winning probability of the game ball to the second start port 122 is increased. generate. In addition, when it is determined as “disengagement”, such an open state of the electric tulip 123 is not generated.

The special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls the opening operation of the special winning opening 125.
The electric tulip operation control unit 239 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123.
The prize ball processing unit 240 controls the number of prizes received for various types of winnings and lotteries, and controls the payout of prize balls according to the prizes.
The output control unit 241 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400.
The random number control unit 242 controls updating of various random number values used in processing by the main control unit and the sub control unit.

  The basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above is performed by a game control unit 200 which is a main control means. Then, under the control of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, which is a sub-control means, controls the game effect, and the payout control unit 400 controls the payout of the prize ball.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of the evaluation apparatus according to the first embodiment.
The evaluation device 10 shown in the figure includes a ROM emulator 11 and a CPU 12 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls. The evaluation apparatus 10 also includes signal lines 21, 22, 23, and 24 for sending a program, various data, various signals, and the like from the CPU 12 to the ROM emulator 11. Details of the signal lines 21 to 24 will be described later.

The ROM emulator 11 includes RAMs 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, and 32e as volatile memories, a controller 31 and controllers 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, and 33e for controlling writing of each of the RAMs 32a to 32e, Have
For example, DRAMs (Dynamic Random Access Memory) may be used as the RAMs 32a to 32e. As described above, the RAMs 32a to 32e are volatile memories. Therefore, the controllers 33a to 33e can execute writing to the RAMs 32a to 32e at high speed.
The controller 31 and the RAMs 32a to 32e of the ROM emulator 11 are an example of a storage unit that stores a program received by the receiving unit 13 and various data in a rewritable manner.

Here, the controller 31 and the controllers 33a to 33e are for converting the interface and controlling the operation corresponding to the ROM. That is, the controller 31 converts the USB interface into a DRAM interface, and the controllers 33a to 33e convert the DRAM interface into a ROM interface. In addition, it can be said that the controllers 33a to 33e are for making the interfaces visible from the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201 the same.
The controllers 33a to 33e output the programs and various data stored in the RAMs 32a to 32e to the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 201 in accordance with instructions from the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 201 of the pachinko gaming machine 100. It is an example of the output means to do. Further, the controllers 33a to 33e constitute an example of the storage means side interface unit, and also constitute an example of the gaming machine side interface unit.

More specifically, the controller 31 performs control for writing. Specifically, the controller 31 performs refreshing, which is a function of writing to the RAMs 32a to 32e and a function of performing rewriting to hold the storage of the RAMs 32a to 32e. It has a function.
Further, the controllers 33a to 33e have a function of causing movement corresponding to a ROM when written in the RAMs 32a to 32e.

  The CPU 12 is connected to the ROM emulator 11 by the signal lines 21 to 24 as described above. The signal line 21 is used when the CPU 12 transmits a write signal as a write command to the ROM emulator 11. The signal line 22 is for transmitting a chip enable signal to the ROM emulator 11. The signal line 23 is for transmitting a data signal to the ROM emulator 11, and the signal line 24 is for transmitting an address signal to the ROM emulator 11.

In addition, the CPU 12 includes a receiving unit 13 that is an example of a receiving unit that receives information from the storage medium 50. Note that the storage medium 50 referred to here is an external memory that can be inserted into and removed from the evaluation apparatus 10, and for example, a USB memory can be used.
Information received by the receiving unit 13 is transmitted to the ROM emulator 11 through the signal line 23. This information includes programs executed by the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 201, various data, and the like.

The evaluation apparatus 10 includes a display unit 14 for displaying that the reception unit 13 is receiving information from the storage medium 50. It is conceivable that the display unit 14 is composed of, for example, LEDs. The display unit 14 is an example of a notification unit that notifies that the receiving unit 13 is receiving a program, various data, and the like from the storage medium 50. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the worker is notified by light is adopted, but a configuration in which notification is made by means of sound or the like other than light is also conceivable.
More specifically, the CPU 12 controls lighting and extinguishing of the display unit 14. That is, the CPU 12 turns on the display unit 14 when the reception unit 13 starts receiving information from the recording medium 50 inserted into the evaluation apparatus 10, and turns off the display unit 14 when reception of information is completed. . Therefore, the operator can recognize that the storage medium 50 should not be removed when the display unit 14 is lit, and the storage medium 50 may be removed after the display unit 14 is turned off. I can recognize that there is.

The evaluation apparatus 10 is physically connected to the CPUs 301, 311, 321, and 401 constituting part of the sub-control means, and is physically connected to the CPU 201 constituting part of the main control means.
More specifically, the ROM emulator 11 of the evaluation apparatus 10 is connected to the CPU 301 of the effect control unit 300 (see FIG. 3) via the cable 41a, and the image / sound control unit 310 (same as the above) via the cable 41b. CPU 311 of FIG. The ROM emulator 11 is connected to the CPU 321 of the lamp control unit 320 (see the same figure) via the cable 41c, and is connected to the CPU 401 of the payout control unit 400 (see the same figure) via the cable 41d.
The ROM emulator 11 is connected to the CPU 201 of the game control unit 200 (see the same figure) via the cable 41e.
In FIG. 5, the ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, and 202 are indicated by broken lines in order to indicate that the ROMs 302, 312, 322, 401, and 202 are not mounted.

When the controller 33a receives a command signal from the CPU 301 via the cable 41a, the controller 33a reads a program stored in the RAM 32a, various data, and the like and transmits the read data to the CPU 301.
Similarly, the controller 33b reads and transmits the program in the RAM 32b in response to a request from the CPU 311 via the cable 41b, and the controller 33c transmits the program in the RAM 32c in response to a request from the CPU 321 via the cable 41c. Read and send. Further, the controller 33d reads and transmits the program in the RAM 32d in response to a request from the CPU 401 via the cable 41d, and the controller 33e reads out the program in the RAM 32e in response to a request from the CPU 201 via the cable 41e. To send.
Since the write signal cannot be output from the pachinko gaming machine 100 side, the evaluation device 10 cannot be attached to the pachinko gaming machine 100 and must be provided outside the pachinko gaming machine 100.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the manufacturing method of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
In the flowchart shown in the figure, first, the evaluation device 10 is prepared (step 601), and thereafter, the program executed by the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 201 by the receiving unit 13 of the evaluation device 10, various data, and the like. Is stored in the RAMs 32a to 32e of the evaluation apparatus 10 (step 602). Details of the storage here will be described later.
When the storage in the RAMs 32a to 32e is completed, the controllers 33a to 33e of the evaluation apparatus 10 and the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 are electrically connected to each other using the cables 41a to 41e. (Step 603).

  Here, in the pachinko gaming machine 100, the ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, and 202 are not mounted. Therefore, the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 201 execute control using programs and various data stored in the RAMs 32a to 32e. Evaluation debugging is performed by executing such control (step 604). In addition, information exchange between the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and the RAMs 32a to 32e of the evaluation device 10 is performed via the controllers 33a to 33e.

If the evaluation result is NO (No in step 605), the process returns to step 602. If the evaluation result is OK (Yes in step 605), the cables 41a to 41e are removed from the controllers 33a to 33e of the evaluation apparatus 10 and the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201 of the pachinko gaming machine 100, and The electrical connection between the gaming machine 100 and the evaluation device 10 is released (step 606).
Thereafter, the programs and various data stored in the RAMs 32a to 32e are written into the ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, and 202 by a ROM writer (not shown) (step 607) and mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 100 (step 608).

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when the storage medium 50 is inserted into the evaluation apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. The contents of step 602 stored in the RAMs 32a to 32e of the evaluation apparatus 10 in FIG. It is shown as an example.
In the flowchart shown in the figure, first, when the CPU 12 recognizes that the storage medium 50 has been inserted into the evaluation apparatus 10 (step 701), the CPU 12 turns on the display unit 14 (step 702). Further, the CPU 12 reads out information stored in the storage medium 50 via the receiving unit 13 (step 703).

Then, the CPU 12 specifies the storage location of the read information from the RAMs 32a to 32e according to a predetermined rule (Step 704), and transmits it to the ROM emulator 11 via the signal lines 21 to 24 (Step 705). .
More specifically, for example, the CPU 12 specifies what should be stored in the RAMs 32a to 32e based on the attribute of the read information. More specifically, the storage destination RAMs 32a to 32e are specified based on a character string included in a file name assigned to each piece of information stored in the storage medium 50. As an example, the storage destination of information with the file name extension “.SYS” is the RAM 32e, and the storage destination of information with “.LMP” is the RAM 32c.
For this reason, when the operator inserts the storage medium 50 into the evaluation device 10, the programs and various data stored in the storage medium 50 are automatically transferred to the predetermined RAMs 32a to 32e.

  Then, the CPU 12 determines whether or not all of the information stored in the storage medium 50 has been read (step 706). If it is determined that the information has not been read (No in step 706), the CPU 12 returns to step 703. On the other hand, when the CPU 12 determines that the data has been read (Yes in Step 706), the display unit 14 is turned off (Step 707), and the series of processing ends.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of the evaluation apparatus according to the second embodiment. Since the basic configuration of the evaluation apparatus 10 shown in the figure is the same as that in the case of the first embodiment (see FIG. 5), common portions are denoted by common reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted. Sometimes.
As shown in FIG. 8, the ROM emulator 11 in the present embodiment includes one RAM 34. The RAM 34 corresponds to the RAMs 32a to 32e in the case of the first embodiment. That is, all the information stored in the storage medium 50 is transferred to the RAM 34.
The ROM emulator 11 is provided with another controller 35 in addition to the controller 31 for writing. The controller 35 corresponds to the controllers 33a to 33e in the case of the first embodiment. That is, the controller 35 reads and transmits the program of the RAM 34 in response to the requests of the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, and 201.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when the storage medium 50 is inserted into the evaluation apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 7 in the case of the first embodiment. Note that the processing procedure shown in the figure is common to the case of the first embodiment. Specifically, Steps 901 to 903 and Steps 906 to 907 in FIG. 9 correspond to Steps 701 to 703 and Steps 706 to 707 in FIG. 7, and thus description thereof may be omitted.
When the CPU 12 reads the information in the storage medium 50 (step 903), the CPU 12 specifies the area of the RAM 34 in which the read information is stored according to a predetermined rule (step 904), and the ROM emulator via the signal lines 21-24. 11 RAM 34 (step 905).

  As described above, in the first to second embodiments, the programs and various data stored in the storage medium 50 are stored in the RAMs 32a to 32e to the RAM 34. Then, each of the CPUs 301, 311, 321, 401, 201 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 transmits a program used for control, various data, and the like to the cables 41a to 41e instead of the unmounted ROMs 302, 312, 322, 402, 202. Through the RAM 32a to 32e or the RAM 34.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure explaining the pachinko game machine concerning this Embodiment, (a) is an enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator arrange | positioned at the lower right of a game board, (b) is a pachinko game machine FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of a control unit. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of a game control part. It is a figure explaining the structure and effect | action of the evaluation apparatus which concern on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the manufacturing method of the pachinko game machine which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence when a storage medium is inserted in the evaluation apparatus. It is a figure explaining the structure and effect | action of the evaluation apparatus which concern on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence when a storage medium is inserted in the evaluation apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Evaluation apparatus, 11 ... ROM emulator, 12 ... CPU, 13 ... Reception part, 14 ... Display part, 21, 22, 23, 24 ... Signal line, 31, 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e, 35 ... Controller 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, 34 ... RAM, 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 41e ... cable, 100 ... pachinko machine

Claims (8)

A game machine evaluation apparatus connected to a game machine in which a plurality of CPUs cooperate to perform various controls associated with a game using a game ball using information stored in a corresponding ROM of the plurality of ROMs. And
And accepting means for accepting the information used by that said control to each of the plurality of CPU of the game machine,
Storage means for storing the information received by the receiving means in a rewritable area set corresponding to each of the plurality of ROMs of the gaming machine ;
Output means for outputting the information of the storage means corresponding to an instruction from each of the plurality of CPUs of the gaming machine in which the plurality of ROMs are not mounted to the instructing CPU;
Said storing means and said information storage means side interface is an interface for passing to the output means of said storage means to and from said output means,
A gaming machine side interface unit that is an interface for transferring the information to each of the plurality of CPUs between the output means and the plurality of CPUs of the gaming machine in which the plurality of ROMs are not mounted ;
Equipped with a,
When the gaming machine is not mounted with the plurality of ROMs, the plurality of CPUs of the gaming machine using the information stored rewritably in the area of the storage means included in the evaluation device for the gaming machine control content to be performed by the, the gaming machine characterized that you evaluate the information received in the receiving unit evaluation device. 2. The gaming machine evaluation device according to claim 1, wherein the receiving unit specifies the area of the storage unit that stores the received information based on an attribute of the received information . The storage means includes, as the area, the same number of RAMs as the number of the plurality of CPUs of the gaming machine,
3. The gaming machine evaluation device according to claim 1, wherein the RAM stores the information to be output to any one of the plurality of CPUs. The said storage means is comprised including the single RAM which has all the said area | regions which store the said information output to each of these CPU of said game machine. The evaluation apparatus for gaming machines described in 1.   5. The gaming machine evaluation device according to claim 1, further comprising notification means for notifying that the reception means is receiving the information. The control of the game using the game ball is performed by the CPU using information stored in the ROM in the game control unit, and the control of the effect accompanying the game is performed using the information stored in the ROM in the effect control unit. A gaming machine manufacturing method for manufacturing a gaming machine performed by:
Prepare an evaluation device for evaluating the information by connecting to the gaming machine,
The receiving means included in the evaluation device receives the information,
The information received by the receiving means of the evaluation device is stored in an rewritable area in the storage means provided in the evaluation device,
Output means for outputting the information stored in the area of the storage means of the evaluation device to the outside of the evaluation device, the plurality of the gaming machines in a state where the ROM is not mounted on the gaming machine . Connected to the CPU,
Between the plurality of CPU of said storage means and said information is an interface for passing to the output means storing unit side interface part of the output means and the output means and the game machine to and from said output means In the gaming machine side interface unit, which is an interface for delivering the information to each of the plurality of CPUs, the information in the storage unit corresponding to the instruction from each of the plurality of CPUs is output from the output unit. Output to the instructed CPU, evaluate the information by the control content by the CPU using the output information,
Storing the evaluated information in the ROM;
A method of manufacturing a gaming machine, wherein the ROM storing the information is mounted on the gaming machine. 7. The method for manufacturing a gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein the area of the storage unit that stores the information received by the reception unit is specified based on an attribute of the received information .   The method for manufacturing a gaming machine according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the information is received by the receiving unit is notified by a notifying unit included in the evaluation device.

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