JP5913488B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine played by a player.

  Whether or not the pachinko gaming machine is notified of the big hit in the notification effect for performing the big hit lottery determination in advance when the game ball is won at the starting port and based on the preliminary determination Some notices (pre-reading notices) are made in a notice effect before that. In some cases, the pre-reading notice is performed using a reserved image (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

"Pachinko must-see guide", Hakuyo Shobo Co., Ltd., issued April 1, 2012, April 1, 2012 issue, page 64, CR Pachinko Special Killer IV

  Players are not only looking forward to winning a winning ball by winning a big hit, but also demanding the gaming machine to enjoy various effects such as the above-mentioned pre-reading notice. For this reason, what kind of pre-reading notice is performed is a very important issue that determines the value of the gaming machine.

  Therefore, a main object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing a novel look-ahead notice effect that attracts players.

  In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention employs the following configuration. Note that reference numerals in parentheses, explanatory texts, step numbers, and the like indicate correspondence with embodiments described later in order to help understanding of one aspect of the present invention. It does not limit the range at all.

A gaming machine (1),
Determination information acquisition means (100, S2) for acquiring determination information (random number) by establishment of the start condition (game ball winning to the first start port 21 or the second start port);
Special game determination means (100, S57) for determining whether or not to perform a special game beneficial to the player (big hit game) based on the determination information acquired by the determination information acquisition means;
Determination information storage means (100, S24, S30, S54, S56) capable of storing up to a predetermined number of determination information acquired by the determination information acquisition means;
Pre-determining means (100, S25, S31) for pre-determining (prefetching) whether or not to perform the special game based on the determination information stored in the determination information storage means;
Effect display control means (400, 500) capable of causing the effect display means (6) to perform the advance determination effect display (FIG. 6: display of the prefetch battle effect) based on the result of the prior determination by the prior determination means. And
The effect display control means includes:
First image selection means (400, S122) for selecting at least one image from images stored in the image storage means (FIG. 7) based on the result of the prior determination by the prior determination means;
Second image selection means (400) for selecting at least one image from the images stored in the image storage means based on the image selected by the first image selection means and the result of prior determination relating to the selection. , S123)
Using the image selected by the first image selecting means and the image selected by the second image selecting means, the prior determination effect display is performed.

In addition, the first image selection unit selects at least one image from images stored in the image storage unit from a first group of images (upper part of FIG. 7),
The second image selection means may select at least one image (lower stage in FIG. 7) from the second group of images stored in the image storage means.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the game machine which can perform the novel prefetch notice effect which attracts a player can be provided.

Schematic front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention The enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator 4 provided in the pachinko machine 1 of FIG. Partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of FIG. The block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the control apparatus provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 The figure which shows a mode that the special image lottery is performed and the hold image RI which shows that the decoration symbol DI is variably displayed and the special symbol lottery is put on hold in order to notify the determination result The figure for demonstrating an example of the prefetch battle effect performed in the decoration design change effect of this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the example of the military commander character image which appears in the prefetch battle effect performed in the decoration design change effect of this embodiment An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100 An example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing effect control processing performed by the effect control unit 400 An example of a detailed flowchart of the process of step S105 in FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the process of step S110 of FIG.

  Hereinafter, a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Hereinafter, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be simply referred to as a gaming machine 1.

[Schematic configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing an example of the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of the gaming machine 1.

  In FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 is a pachinko gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by a player's operation wins a prize, for example. This gaming machine 1 includes a game board 2 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 5 surrounding the game board 2. The frame member 5 is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the main part of the gaming machine 1 around a hinge provided on the shaft support side, and is detachably attached to the game board 2. And the lock part 43 is provided in the predetermined position (for example, edge part on the opposite side to a shaft support side) which becomes the front side of the frame member 5, and the frame member 5 is unlocked by unlocking the lock part 43. Can be opened.

  A game area 20 for playing a game with a game ball is formed on the front surface of the game board 2. In the gaming area 20, a rail member (from which a game ball launched from below (the launching device 211; see FIG. 4) rises along the main surface of the game board 2 and forms a path toward the upper position of the gaming area 20 ( (Not shown) and a guide member (not shown) for guiding the raised game ball to the right side of the game area 20.

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an image display unit 6 that displays images for various effects at positions that are easily visible to the player. The image display unit 6 notifies the player of the result of the special symbol lottery (big hit lottery), for example, by displaying a decorative symbol according to the progress of the game by the player, or by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item A notice effect is displayed, or a hold image indicating the number of times the special symbol lottery is put on hold is displayed. The image display unit 6 is configured by a liquid crystal display device, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, or the like, but any other display device may be used. Furthermore, a movable accessory 7 and a board lamp 8 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 2. The movable accessory 7 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2, and produces an effect by performing a predetermined operation in accordance with the progress of the game or in accordance with the operation of the player. The board lamp 8 emits light according to the progress of the game, thereby performing various effects by light.

  In the game area 20, a game nail and a windmill (both not shown) that change the falling direction of the game ball are arranged. Further, in the game area 20, various bonuses related to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In FIG. 1, the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the gate 25, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24 are arranged on the game board 2 as an example of various prizes related to winning and lottery. It is installed. In addition, the game area 20 is provided with a discharge port 26 through which game balls that have not been won in any of the game areas of the game balls launched into the game area 20 are discharged out of the game area 20. .

  The first start port 21 and the second start port 22 are awarded when a game ball enters, respectively, and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) is started. The first start port 21 operates a predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 23) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (first special symbol display 4a described later). It is a winning opening related to winning a game ball. Further, the second start opening 22 operates the special electric accessory and / or a predetermined special symbol display device (second special symbol display device 4b described later), and wins related to winning a game ball. The mouth. When the game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol lottery (the following open / close lottery of the electric tulip 27) starts. Note that the lottery is not started at the normal winning opening 24 even if a game ball wins.

  The 2nd starting port 22 is provided in the lower part of the 1st starting port 21, and is equipped with the electric tulip 27 in the vicinity of the entrance of a game ball as an example of a normal electric accessory. The electric tulip 27 has a pair of wings imitating tulip flowers, and the pair of wings opens and closes to the left and right by driving an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (for example, an electric solenoid), which will be described later. Lights up or blinks together. When the pair of blade portions are closed, the electric tulip 27 is in a closed state in which the game ball does not enter the second start port 22 because the opening width guided to the entrance of the second start port 22 is extremely narrow. On the other hand, the electric tulip 27 is in an open state in which the game ball can easily enter the second starting port 22 because the opening width guided to the inlet of the second starting port 22 increases when the pair of wings open to the left and right. . When the electric tulip 27 passes through the gate 25 and the normal symbol lottery is won, the pair of blades opens for a specified time (for example, 0.10 seconds) and opens and closes for a specified number of times (for example, once). To do.

  The big winning opening 23 is located at the lower center of the second starting opening 22 and is opened according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The big prize opening 23 is normally in a closed state so that no game balls can enter, but depending on the result of the special symbol lottery, it protrudes from the main surface of the game board 2 and is in an open state. The game ball is easy to enter. For example, the special winning opening 23 repeats a round that is in an open state until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapses or a winning of 10 game balls) is satisfied a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times).

  In addition, a display 4 is provided at a predetermined position (for example, lower right) of the game board 2 to display the result of the above-described special symbol lottery or normal symbol lottery and the number of holds. Details of the display 4 will be described later.

  Here, the payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball enters (wins) the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, a predetermined number per game ball is determined according to the place where the game ball has won. The prize ball is paid out. For example, when one game ball is won at the first start port 21 and the second start port 22, three prize balls are awarded, and when one game ball is won at the big prize port 23, thirteen prize balls are given to the normal prize slot 24. When one game ball is won, ten prize balls are paid out. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

  The frame member 5 on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 includes a handle 31, a lever 32, a stop button 33, a take-out button 34, a speaker 35, a frame lamp 36, an effect button 37, an effect key 38, a plate 39, a lock portion 43, and the like. Is provided.

  When the player touches the handle 31 and performs an operation to rotate the lever 32 clockwise, the launching device 211 (100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle (for example, 100 per minute). 4) electrically fires the game ball. The tray 39 (see FIG. 3) is provided so as to protrude in front of the gaming machine 1 and temporarily stores game balls supplied to the launching device 211. In addition, the above-described prize balls are paid out to the plate 39. The game balls stored in the tray 39 are supplied to the launching device 211 one by one by a supply device (not shown) at a timing linked with the operation by the player's lever 32.

  The stop button 33 is provided on the lower side surface of the handle 31, and even when the player touches the handle 31 and rotates the lever 32 in the clockwise direction, the game ball is released by being pressed by the player. Is temporarily stopped. The take-out button 34 is provided on the front surface in the vicinity of the position where the tray 39 is provided, and when the player presses it, the game balls accumulated in the tray 39 are dropped into a box (not shown).

  The speaker 35 and the frame lamp 36 respectively notify the gaming state and situation of the gaming machine 1 and perform various effects. The speaker 35 performs various effects using music, voice, and sound effects. In addition, the frame lamp 36 performs various effects by light depending on a pattern by lighting / flashing or a difference in emission color.

  Next, the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2, the display 4 includes a first special symbol display 4a, a second special symbol display 4b, a first special symbol hold indicator 4c, a second special symbol hold indicator 4d, a normal symbol indicator 4e, and a normal symbol indicator 4e. A symbol hold display 4f and a game status display 4g are provided.

  The first special symbol display 4a is displayed with the display symbol varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first starting port 21. For example, the first special symbol display 4a is composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball is won at the first starting port 21, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and then the lottery result is displayed. Further, the second special symbol display 4b is displayed with the display symbols varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the second starting port 22. For example, the second special symbol display 4b is similarly composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball wins at the second starting port 22, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the lottery result is displayed. To do. In the normal symbol display 4e, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the game ball passing through the gate 25. For example, the normal symbol display 4e is constituted by an LED display device, and when a game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and displayed.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 4c displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when a game ball wins at the first start port 21. The second special symbol hold indicator 4d displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when the game ball wins at the second start port 22. The normal symbol hold display 4f displays the number of times the normal symbol lottery is held. For example, the first special symbol hold indicator 4c, the second special symbol hold indicator 4d, and the normal symbol hold indicator 4f are each composed of LED display devices arranged in a row, and the number of times of hold is displayed according to the lighting mode. The

  The game state display 4g displays the game state (normal state, short time state, etc.) when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  Next, an input device provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an effect button 37 and an effect key 38 as an example of an input device.

  The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are provided for the player to input the effect. The effect button 37 is provided on the side of the upper surface of the tray 39 protruding forward of the gaming machine 1. The production key 38 has a center key and four direction keys arranged in a substantially cross shape, and is provided on the upper side of the plate 39 adjacent to the production button 37. The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are each pressed by the player to perform a predetermined effect. For example, the player can enjoy a predetermined effect by pressing the effect button 37 at a predetermined timing. Further, the player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 6 by operating the four direction keys. Further, the player can input the selected image as information by operating the center key.

  In addition, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, a ball tank for storing game balls for payout and a payout device (payout drive unit 311) for paying out the game balls to the tray 39 are provided, and various substrates are attached. ing. For example, a main board, a sub board, and the like are disposed on the rear surface of the game board 2. Specifically, a main control board on which a main control unit 100 (see FIG. 4) that performs internal lottery and determination of winning is configured is disposed on the main board. The sub-board includes a firing control board 200 (see FIG. 4) configured to control a launching device 211 that launches a game ball to the upper part of the game area 20, and a payout control unit 300 that controls the payout of a prize ball. A payout control board configured with an effect control board configured with an effect control section 400 for overall control of effects, an image control board configured with an image acoustic control section 500 for controlling effects with images and sounds, and various types The lamp control board etc. in which the lamp control part 600 which controls the effect by the lamp (frame lamp 36, panel lamp 8) and the movable accessory 7 are arranged. In addition, on the rear surface of the gaming board 2, the power source of the gaming machine 1 is switched on / off, and 24V (volt) AC power supplied to the gaming machine 1 is converted into DC power of various voltages. A switching power supply is provided for outputting the direct current power to the various substrates described above.

[Configuration of control device of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a control device that performs operation control and signal processing in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device provided in the gaming machine 1.

  4, the control device of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 100, a launch control unit 200, a payout control unit 300, an effect control unit 400, an image sound control unit 500, a lamp control unit 600, and the like.

  The main control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103. The CPU 101 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of payout prize balls, such as internal lottery and determination of winning. The ROM 102 stores programs executed by the CPU 101 and various data. The RAM 103 is used as a working memory for the CPU 101. Hereinafter, main functions of the main control unit 100 will be described.

  The main control unit 100 performs a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) when a game ball wins at the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22, and effects control is performed on determination result data indicating whether or not the special symbol lottery is won. Send to part 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening time when the blade portion of the electric tulip 27 is opened, the number of times the blade portion is opened and closed, and the opening / closing time interval at which the blade portion is opened and closed. Further, the main control unit 100 executes the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the first start port 21, the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the second start port 22, In addition, the number of execution suspensions of the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 25 is managed, and data related to the number of suspensions is sent to the effect control unit 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 23 according to the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the main controller 100 repeats a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) in which the big winning opening 23 projects and inclines and opens. Control to repeat only 15 times). Further, the main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing time interval at which the special winning opening 23 opens and closes.

  The main control unit 100 changes the game state in accordance with the progress of the game, and according to the progress of the game, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the execution interval of the special symbol lottery (the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4) In other words, it may be said that it is a time to stop and display), and the opening / closing operation of the electric tulip 27 is changed.

  When a game ball wins the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, the main control unit 100 determines a predetermined amount per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 300 is instructed to pay out a number of prize balls. Even if the main control unit 100 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, the main control unit 100 does not instruct the payout control unit 300 to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith. When the payout control unit 300 pays out a prize ball according to an instruction from the main control unit 100, information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 300 is sent to the main control unit 100. Then, the main control unit 100 manages the number of paid-out prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control unit 300.

  In order to realize the above-described functions, the main control unit 100 includes a first start port switch 111a, a second start port switch 111b, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112, a gate switch 113, a big prize opening switch 114, a big prize opening opening / closing. 115, normal winning opening switch 116, display 4 (first special symbol display 4a, second special symbol display 4b, first special symbol hold indicator 4c, second special symbol hold indicator 4d, normal symbol display 4e, a normal symbol hold display 4f, and a game status display 4g) are connected.

  The first start port switch 111 a detects that a game ball has won the first start port 21 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The second start port switch 111 b detects that a game ball has won the second start port 22 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 opens and closes the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 27 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The gate switch 113 detects that a game ball has passed through the gate 25 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The big prize opening switch 114 detects that the game ball has won the big prize opening 23 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The special prize opening / closing unit 115 opens and closes the special prize opening 23 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The normal winning port switch 116 detects that a game ball has won the normal winning port 24 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100.

  In addition, the main control unit 100 displays the result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first starting port 21 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a first special symbol lottery) on the first special symbol display 4a. indicate. The main control unit 100 displays on the second special symbol display 4b the result of the special symbol lottery started by the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 22 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second special symbol lottery). . The main control unit 100 displays the number of times the first special symbol lottery is on hold on the first special symbol hold display 4c. The main control unit 100 displays the number of holdings for which the second special symbol lottery is held on the second special symbol holding display 4d. The main control unit 100 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery started by passing the game ball to the gate 25 on the normal symbol display 4e. The main control unit 100 displays the number of times of holding the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol hold display 4f. Further, the main control unit 100 displays the gaming state at that time on the gaming state display 4g when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  The launch control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, and a RAM 203. The CPU 201 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the launching device 211. The ROM 202 stores programs executed by the CPU 201 and various data. The RAM 203 is used as a working memory for the CPU 201.

  When the lever 32 is in the neutral position, the lever 32 is in a firing stop state without outputting a signal. When the player is rotated clockwise by the player, the lever 32 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle to the firing control unit 200 as a hitting ball firing command signal. The launch control unit 200 controls the launch operation of the launch device 211 based on the hit ball launch command signal. For example, the launch control unit 200 controls the operation of the launch device 211 so that the speed at which the game ball is launched increases as the rotation angle of the lever 32 increases. When the signal indicating that the stop button 33 is pressed is output, the launch control unit 200 stops the operation of the launch device 211 firing the game ball.

  The payout control unit 300 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, and a RAM 303. The CPU 301 performs a calculation process when controlling the payout of the payout ball. The ROM 302 stores programs executed by the CPU 301 and various data. A RAM 303 is used as a working memory for the CPU 301.

  The payout control unit 300 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the main control unit 100. Specifically, the payout control unit 300 acquires from the main control unit 100 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won. Then, the payout driving unit 311 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 311 is configured by a drive motor or the like that sends out a game ball from a game ball storage unit (ball tank).

  The effect control unit 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an RTC (real time clock) 404. In addition, the effect control unit 400 is connected to the effect button 37 and the effect key 38, and acquires operation data output from the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 in response to an operation pressed by the player. The CPU 401 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The ROM 402 stores programs executed by the CPU 401 and various data. The RAM 403 is used as a working memory for the CPU 401. The RTC 404 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 400 sets production contents based on data indicating the special symbol lottery result and the like sent from the main control unit 100. In addition, when the effect button 37 or the effect key 38 is pressed by the player, the effect control unit 400 may set the effect content according to the operation input or the detection result.

  The image sound control unit 500 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, and a RAM 503. The CPU 501 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound expressing the content of the effect. The ROM 502 stores programs executed by the CPU 501 and various data. The RAM 503 is used as a working memory for the CPU 501.

  The image sound control unit 500 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 6 and the sound output from the speaker 35 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, in the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500, a decorative symbol image for notifying a player of a special symbol lottery result, a character or item for displaying a notice effect or a pre-read notice effect for the player, etc. , Image data for displaying on the image display unit 6 a reserved image indicating that the special symbol lottery is reserved for the player, various background images, and the like are stored. The ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500 stores various types of sound data such as music and sound output from the speaker 35 in synchronization with the image displayed on the image display unit 6 or independently of the displayed image. It is remembered. The CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM 502. The CPU 501 performs image processing for background image display, decorative symbol image display, character / item display, and the like using the read image data, and performs various processes corresponding to commands sent from the effect control unit 400. Perform production display. Then, the CPU 501 displays the image indicated by the image processed image data on the image display unit 6. In addition, the CPU 501 performs sound processing using the read sound data, and outputs the sound indicated by the sound processing sound data from the speaker 35.

  The lamp control unit 600 includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, and a RAM 603. The CPU 601 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 and the operation of the movable accessory 7. The ROM 602 stores programs executed by the CPU 601 and various data. The RAM 603 is used as a working memory for the CPU 601.

  The lamp control unit 600 controls the lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 and the emission color based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. The lamp controller 600 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the command sent from the effect controller 400. Specifically, the ROM 602 of the lamp control unit 600 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 400. Data) is stored. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 based on the read light emission pattern data. Further, the ROM 602 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 7 corresponding to the contents of the effect set by the effect control unit 400. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Overview of display and hold display of decorative symbols in this embodiment]
Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the outline of the decorative symbol variation display and the hold display performed in the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 shows a state in which the decorative symbol DI is variably displayed and a reserved image RI indicating that the special symbol lottery is held is digested in order to perform the special symbol lottery and notify the determination result. FIG. The decorative symbol DI is a symbol for effectively reporting the determination result of the special symbol lottery, and in the present embodiment, the determination result is notified using three (three columns) decorative symbols DI1 to DI3. Hereinafter, the effect of notifying the result of the special symbol lottery by stopping the decorative symbol DI after the decorative symbol DI is variably displayed in this way may be referred to as a decorative symbol variation effect. The decorative symbol variation effect may include display of various effect images, output of various effect sounds, and the like. In the following, a case where the first special symbol lottery is performed as the special symbol lottery and an image indicating that the first special symbol lottery is suspended is displayed as the reserved image will be described as an example. The same applies when the second special symbol lottery is performed as the lottery.

  First, as shown in FIG. 5 (1), the decorative pattern DI (DI1 to DI3), the reserved image RI (RI0 to RI4), and the stage ST (ST0 to ST4) are displayed on the image display unit 6. The decorative symbol DI is composed of three (three columns) decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 and is displayed on the display screen of the image display unit 6. More specifically, the first decorative design DI1 is displayed on the left side, the second decorative design DI2 is displayed on the right side, and the third decorative design DI3 is displayed on the center. The first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are variably displayed in accordance with the variably displayed special symbols.

  When the special symbol variation display is started (that is, when the decorative symbol disguise effect is started), the first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are displayed in a variable manner. For example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation display, as shown in FIG. 5 (1), as the first decorative symbol DI1, for example, the symbol on which the numeral “1” is drawn is temporarily stopped. When a predetermined time further elapses, as shown in (2) of FIG. 5, for example, a symbol on which a numeral “6” is drawn is temporarily stopped as the second decorative symbol DI2. When a predetermined time has passed, after the symbol on which the numeral “2” is drawn, for example, temporarily stops as the third decorative symbol DI3, the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are completely displayed as shown in (3) of FIG. To stop. As a result, the variation display of the special symbol this time is finished (that is, the decorative design disguise effect is finished this time), and the player is notified of the result of the first special symbol lottery. That is, when the decorative symbols DI are not aligned with the same number symbol that is a hit (so-called losing eyes), it is notified that the result of the first special symbol lottery is losing. Then, as shown in (4) of FIG. 5, the display of the decorative symbol DI is started in response to the display of the next special symbol. The temporary stop means that the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative symbol DI has stopped, and is not completely stopped, for example, a state in which it slightly fluctuates up and down ( (Swinging state). This indicates that the special symbol is still changing. Further, in FIG. 5 (and subsequent figures), the decorative symbol DI that is changing or temporarily stopped is represented by a dotted line frame, and the decorative symbol DI that has been completely stopped (mainly stopped) is represented by a solid line frame.

  The reserved image RI is an image for indicating the number of the first special symbol lottery held by the player. In addition, the image display unit 6 displays a plurality of stages ST that are positions where the reserved images RI are respectively displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 5, it corresponds to the number of times the first special symbol lottery is held on a plurality of stages ST0 to ST4 respectively arranged in the left and right direction in the lower area of the display screen of the image display unit 6. The reserved images RI0 to RI4 to be displayed are displayed. In the present embodiment, the reserved image RI is displayed until the variation of the special symbol in the first special symbol lottery is completed. That is, in addition to the number of reserved images RI1 to RI4 corresponding to the number of times that the first special symbol lottery is reserved, the reserved image RI0 (hereinafter also referred to as the 0th reserved image RI0) that is currently displayed in a variable manner is displayed. It is displayed on the image display unit 6.

  As an example, as shown in (1) of FIG. 5, the stage ST0 arranged at the right end of one of the plurality of stages ST arranged is currently in the process of changing special symbols in the first special symbol lottery. The 0th reserved image RI0 is displayed. In addition, the stage ST1 arranged on the left side of the stage ST0 holds the first special symbol lottery and then holds the first special symbol lottery (hereinafter referred to as the first hold). The reserved image RI1 (hereinafter also referred to as the first reserved image RI1) corresponding to the image is displayed. In addition, at stage ST2 arranged on the left side of stage ST1, the first special symbol lottery is currently reserved, and the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed after the first hold. A hold image RI2 (hereinafter also referred to as a second hold image RI2) corresponding to the hold (hereinafter referred to as a second hold) is displayed. In addition, at stage ST3 arranged on the left side of stage ST2, the first special symbol lottery is currently reserved, and the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed after the second hold. A hold image RI3 (hereinafter also referred to as a third hold image RI3) corresponding to the hold (hereinafter referred to as a third hold) is displayed. In addition, at stage ST4 arranged on the left side of stage ST3, the first special symbol lottery is currently reserved, and the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed after the third hold. A hold image RI4 (hereinafter also referred to as a fourth hold image RI4) corresponding to the hold (hereinafter referred to as a fourth hold) is displayed. When the maximum number of times that the first special symbol lottery can be held is four, the stage ST4 on which the fourth reserved image RI4 is displayed is arranged at the other left end of the plurality of stages arranged in a row. Become.

  The hold images RI respectively displayed on the plurality of stages ST are sequentially changed in display position (ie, stage ST) every time the first special symbol lottery is completed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5 (3), when the current special symbol variation display ends (when the decorative symbol DI variation display stops completely), as shown in FIG. 5 (4). The reserved image RI0 displayed on the stage ST0 and corresponding to the current special symbol fluctuation display disappears from the display screen by moving out of the display screen or disappearing from the stage ST0. Then, the reserved image RI1 displayed on the stage ST1 moves from the stage ST1 to the stage ST0. Similarly, the reserved images RI2 to RI4 displayed on the stages ST2 to ST4 move from the stages ST2 to ST4 to the stages ST1 to ST3, respectively. In this way, the hold image RI sequentially moves on the stage ST every time the hold of the first special symbol lottery is digested.

  By the way, as will become clear later, in the present embodiment, the lottery result for the special symbol lottery suspension is sent from the main control unit 100 to the effect control unit 400 prior to the notification immediately before the symbol variation in the special symbol lottery is started. Will be notified in advance. For example, before the third reserved image RI3 moves to the stage ST0 and the change of the special symbol in the first special symbol lottery is started, for example, when the third reserved occurs, the first special symbol for the third reserved The result of the lottery is determined in advance and notified to the effect control unit 400. Therefore, for example, it is possible to suggest to the player in advance and expect that there is a holding with a relatively high expectation degree (reliability) to be won in the first special symbol lottery. The reliability indicates the probability of winning in the first special symbol lottery held.

[Characteristic operation according to this embodiment]
Hereinafter, characteristic operations in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the prefetch battle effect executed in the decorative symbol variation effect of the present embodiment. In FIG. 6, as an example, when the fourth hold occurs, the result of the first special symbol lottery of the fourth hold is found in advance, and the result is notified from the main control unit 100 to the effect control unit 400. To do. Then, the production control unit 400 controls the production to be executed based on the lottery result determined in advance. In the following, such prior determination may be referred to as “prefetching”, and the determination result based on this prefetching may be referred to as “prefetching result”. In the present embodiment, the prefetch battle effect is an effect that is executed based on the prefetch result and suggests that the possibility (reliability) of winning the special symbol lottery is relatively high. In FIG. 6, the fourth reserved image RI4 determined to execute the prefetch battle effect is shown in black for the sake of explanation to distinguish it from other reserved images that indicate other reservations. The reserved image RI4 may be displayed in black or the like so that it can be identified from other reserved images indicating other reservations.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a military commander character image (hereinafter referred to as a character) that appears in a prefetch battle effect executed in the decorative symbol variation effect of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, characters of a teammate group with a round head and characters of an enemy group with a square head are used for the look-ahead battle effect. There are two types of characters in the ally group (hereinafter referred to as “friendly characters”): strong characters (characters with “strong” on the head: hereinafter referred to as “strong characters”) and medium-strong characters. (Character with the character “middle” on the head: hereinafter referred to as “a character on the side”) and a weak military commander character (character with the character “weak” on the head: hereinafter referred to as “a character on the side”) ) Similarly, the types of enemy characters in the enemy group (hereinafter referred to as “enemy characters”) include strong characters (characters with “strong” on their heads: hereinafter referred to as “enemy strong characters”), medium characters Characters that are strong enough (characters with the character “middle” on their heads: hereinafter referred to as “enemy characters”) and weak characters (characters with the characters “weak” on their heads): "Character"). In the present embodiment, as an example, an ally strong character and an enemy strong character have the same strength, an ally character and an enemy character have the same strength, and an ally weak character and an enemy weak character Is of comparable strength. The probability that the strong character wins the weak character is 95%, the probability that the strong character wins the middle character is 70%, and the probability that the middle character wins the weak character is 70%. Hereinafter, the prefetch battle effect will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the decorative design variation effect image displayed on the screen of the image display unit 6, a friend castle is displayed on the right side and an enemy castle is displayed on the left side as a background image. Then, as shown in FIG. 6 (1), when the special symbol variation display (hereinafter, simply referred to as “variation display”) for the 0th reserved image RI0 is being executed, A description will be given assuming that the game ball enters and the fourth hold occurs, and the fourth hold image RI4 is displayed on the stage ST4. At this time, if the production control unit 400 is notified in advance of the result of the first special symbol lottery for the fourth hold by the main control unit 100 and determines that the pre-read battle battle effect is to be executed, the ally side will eventually end up in the pre-read battle battle production. Based on the look-ahead result, it is determined whether to win (being expected) by winning or to suggest that the team has not won by hitting the team. In the scene of FIG. 6 (1), it is determined that the prefetch battle effect is to be executed, and it is determined to suggest (expect) that the ally side has finally won by winning the prefetch battle effect.

  In addition, the production control unit 400 determines the number of friendly characters and the number of enemy characters that appear in the pre-read battle effect according to the number of hold until the hold (fourth hold image RI4) that is a pre-read target. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 (1), since the number of holds until the fourth hold image RI4 is three (ie, the variable display is three times), the number of friendly characters and the enemy The number of characters is determined to be 3 each. Then, the production control unit 400 determines the first to third ally characters based on the decision that the teammate wins in the pre-reading battle production. In the example of FIG. 6, a teammate character is determined as the first friendly character, a medium character is determined as the second friendly character, and a friendly character is determined as the third friendly character. ing. Thereafter, the production control unit 400 decides the first to third enemy characters based on the decision that the teammate side wins in the look-ahead battle production and the first to third teammate characters. In the example of FIG. 6, the enemy weak character is determined as the first enemy character, the enemy strong character is determined as the second enemy character, and the enemy strong character is determined as the third enemy character. ing. That is, the enemy character is selected in consideration of the strength of the friend character and the enemy character so that the friend side can win.

  As shown in (1) of FIG. 6, when the fourth hold determined to execute the prefetch battle effect occurs (that is, when the fourth hold image RI4 is displayed), the 0th already executed. In the variable display for the reserved image RI0, the pre-reading character effect is started from the next variable display (the variable display for the first hold) without changing the effect (that is, the pre-read battle effect is not started). The

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (2), the pre-read battle effect is started in the variation display for the first hold, which is the next variation display. Specifically, as shown in (2) of FIG. 6, an effect display in which the first friendly character appears from the ally castle and an effect display in which the first weak enemy character appears from the enemy castle is displayed. By this, the player recognizes that the look-ahead battle effect has started, and strongly expects that the ally side will win the battle and be notified of the jackpot in the variable display for the first hold. It becomes. In other words, it is strongly suggested that a pre-reading notice effect is executed by the appearance of a strong teammate character and a weak enemy character in the variable display for the first hold, and a big hit is made by the prefetching notice effect.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (3), in the variation display for the second hold, which is the next variation display, an effect display in which the second friendly character appears from the ally castle is displayed, and the second enemy from the enemy castle is displayed. An effect display in which a strong character appears is displayed. As a result, the player will slightly reduce the expectation that the teammate will eventually win the battle and be notified of the jackpot in the variation display for the second hold. In other words, in the variable display for the second hold, the pre-reading notice effect by the appearance of the second strong friend character and the weak enemy character is executed, and the effect that the suggestion to win is slightly weakened.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (4), in the variation display for the third suspension, which is the next variation display, the effect display in which the third friendly character appears from the ally castle, and the third enemy from the enemy castle is displayed. An effect display in which a strong character appears is displayed. As a result, the player recovers the expectation that the teammate finally wins the battle and is notified of the jackpot in the variable display for the third hold. That is, in the variable display for the third hold, the pre-reading notice effect by the appearance of the third strong friend character and the weak enemy character is executed, and the effect that the suggestion of winning is recovered.

  In addition, although the example which increases / decreases the intensity | strength of the big hit suggestion by the prefetching notice effect of FIG.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (5), in the variation display for the fourth suspension, which is the next variation display, an effect display is displayed in which the friendly teammate characters and enemy strong characters that appear are starting a battle. Then, as shown in FIG. 6 (6), after the effect display that the teammate character survives and wins the battle is displayed, the decorative symbols DI 1 to DI 2 are in the reach state. As a result, the player greatly expects that the jackpot will be notified in the current variation display. In other words, in the change display for the fourth hold that is the source of the current look-ahead battle effect, a notice effect that wins the battle is executed and a big win is suggested.

  Note that it is determined that the prefetch battle effect is executed when the fourth hold shown in FIG. 6 (1) occurs, and it is determined to suggest that the team side is not defeated by the defeat in the prefetch battle effect. 6 (6), after the effect display that the enemy character survived and defeated the battle was displayed, the decoration symbols DI1 to DI2 were stopped at the symbol indicating that they were lost, and the jackpot lottery was lost. Is notified.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, according to the present embodiment, the ally character appearing in the prefetch battle effect is determined based on the prefetching result (preliminary determination result), and the prefetching result and appearing. Based on the ally character, an enemy character appearing in the pre-reading battle effect is determined, and the pre-reading battle effect for performing the pre-reading warning effect and the warning effect is executed. With this configuration, according to the present embodiment, in the look-ahead battle production, the player is implied by the degree of expectation (reliability) that hits in stages depending on the strength of the appearing ally character and enemy character. And enjoy it. In addition, in the variation display for the pre-read target hold (fourth hold), the display of whether or not the ally side wins is performed in consideration of the strength of the friendly character and the enemy character, and the final jackpot expectation is suggested. Therefore, the player will watch each battle while expecting the teammate character to win. As a result, the player can be drawn into the game very effectively.

  Below, the process which the pachinko game machine 1 performs in order to implement | achieve control which performs the above-mentioned operation | movement is demonstrated.

[Main operation of main control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100. Hereinafter, timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The main control unit 100 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 8 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Note that processing performed by the main control unit 100 described based on the flowcharts in FIG. 8 and the subsequent steps is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 102.

  First, in step S1, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 executes a random number update process for updating various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, a design random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number. Here, the big hit random number is a random number for determining whether or not a special symbol lottery is won or lost (that is, performing a special symbol lottery). The symbol random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot when the special symbol lottery is won. The jackpot random number and the design random number are used in the process of step S57 in FIG. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed when a special symbol lottery is lost. The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining the variation time of the special symbol. Here, the variation time of the special symbol is equal to the execution time of the decorative symbol variation effect performed during the variation of the special symbol. The reach random number and the fluctuation pattern random number are used in the process of step S58 of FIG. 10 described later. In the random number update process of step S1, the big hit random number, the design random number, the reach random number, the variation pattern random number, etc. are each added and updated by one. That is, it is counted up. Each random number is acquired in the start port switch (SW) process in step S2 and the gate switch (SW) process in step S3, and is used in the special symbol process in step S4 and the normal symbol process in step S5 described later. Note that the counter that performs the processing of step S1 is typically a loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number).

  Next, in step S2, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the first start port switch 111a and the second start port switch 111b, and when one of the switches is turned on (the first start port switch 111a or the second start port switch 111b). When a game ball detection signal is output from the mouth switch 111b), a start port that performs processing related to the number of holdings U1 of the first special symbol lottery, the number of holdings U2 of the second special symbol lottery, processing for obtaining various random numbers, etc. Execute switch processing. Details of the start port switch process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the gate switch 113, and when the gate switch 113 is turned on (when a game ball detection signal is output from the gate switch 113), the normal symbol lottery is suspended. If it is determined whether the number is less than the upper limit (for example, 4) and it is determined that the number of holds is less than the upper limit, a gate switch process is performed to obtain a random number used in the normal symbol process in step S5 described later. To do.

  Next, in step S4, the CPU 101 executes the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, and after the special symbols are variably displayed on the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b, these are displayed. A special symbol process for displaying a stop symbol indicating the lottery result or transmitting various commands to the effect control unit 400 is executed. This special symbol process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S5, the CPU 101 executes a normal symbol process for determining whether or not the random number acquired in the gate switch process in step S3 matches a predetermined hit random number. Then, the CPU 101 stops and displays the normal symbol indicating the determination result after the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 4e. At that time, the CPU 101 sets the normal symbol change time to be stopped and displayed after the normal symbol is variably displayed, and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery according to the gaming state (normal gaming state, electric support (short time) gaming state, etc.). To do.

  Next, in step S6, when it is determined that the special symbol lottery is won in the special symbol processing in step S4 (when the big win is made), the CPU 101 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 115 to control the big prize opening 23. To perform a predetermined opening / closing operation or to execute a special winning opening process for transmitting various commands related to a so-called big hit game effect or the like to the effect control unit 400. By this processing, the big hit game (special game) is progressed, and the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls. In addition, when the jackpot game ends, the CPU 101 cancels the setting of the jackpot game state, and increases the winning probability of the game state (normal game state, special symbol lottery according to the type of jackpot related to the jackpot game. Probability game state that makes it easy to open the electric tulip 27, short-time game state that makes it easy to open the electric tulip 27 without increasing the winning probability of the special symbol lottery), and a command indicating the set game state 400. Thereby, the production control unit 400 can recognize the gaming state being set.

  Next, in step S7, the CPU 101 performs electric driving when the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e by the normal symbol processing in step S5 is a predetermined winning symbol (that is, when the normal symbol lottery is won). An electric tulip process for operating the tulip 27 is executed. At that time, the CPU 101 changes the opening / closing operation of the electric tulip 27 according to the gaming state (normal gaming state, electric support (short time) gaming state, etc.). In addition, when the electric tulip 27 is controlled to be in the open state, a game ball can be won at the second start port 22, and when the game ball wins at the second start port 22, a second special symbol lottery is performed. Will be.

  Next, in step S <b> 8, the CPU 101 executes prize ball processing for managing the number of winning game balls and controlling the payout of prize balls according to the prize.

  Next, in step S9, the CPU 101 sends various commands set in the RAM 103 and information necessary for the production in the special symbol processing in step S5, the big prize opening processing in step S6, the prize ball processing in step S8, etc. 400 or an output process of outputting to the payout control unit 300 is executed.

[Start-up switch processing]
FIG. 9 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. Hereinafter, the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S21, the CPU 101 of the main controller 100 receives a game ball in the first start port 21 based on the presence or absence of a detection signal from the first start port switch 111a, and the first start port switch 111a is turned on. It is determined whether or not. If the determination in step S21 is YES, the process proceeds to step S22. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S <b> 22, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 1 (“4” in the present embodiment) of the first special symbol lottery hold number from the ROM 102, and the first special symbol lottery hold number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax1. If the determination in step S22 is YES, the process proceeds to step S23, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S <b> 23, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S24.

  In step S24, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the first special symbol lottery and the like, and sets each of the acquired random numbers (game information) One example) is stored in the RAM 103 in chronological order. Each time the value of the holding number U1 of the first special symbol lottery U1 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S56 of FIG. 10 described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is in order from the earliest storage time. One set is deleted. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U1 of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of step S24 for the last three times are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. Will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S25.

  In step S25, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets a random number such as a big hit random number such as a big hit random number acquired in the latest processing of step S24 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number such as a big hit random number for the first special symbol lottery stored most recently. Whether or not the result of the first special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102. It is determined in advance whether or not to execute reach production. That is, the determination necessary for executing the prefetch battle effect described with reference to FIG. 6 is determined in advance prior to the processing of steps S57 and S58 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S26.

  In step S <b> 26, the CPU 101 sets a first hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the first special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the first pending number increase command includes information (hereinafter referred to as “preliminary determination information”) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S25. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S27, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a game ball has won the second start port 22 and the second start port switch 111b is turned on based on the presence or absence of a detection signal from the second start port switch 111b. To do. If the determination in step S27 is YES, the process proceeds to step S28, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 28, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 2 (second “4” in the present embodiment) of the second special symbol lottery from the ROM 102, and the second special symbol lottery pending number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax2. If the determination in step S28 is YES, the process proceeds to step S29, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 29, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S30, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the second special symbol lottery and the like, and sets each acquired random number as a time series. They are stored in the RAM 103 in order. Each time the value of the second special symbol lottery holding number U2 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S54 in FIG. 10 described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is stored in order from the earliest storage time. One set is deleted. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U2 of the second special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of step S30 for the last three times are stored in the RAM 103 in chronological order. Will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S31.

  In step S31, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets a random number such as a big hit random number such as a big hit random number acquired in the latest processing of step S30 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number such as a big hit random number for the second special symbol lottery stored most recently. Whether or not the result of the second special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot, based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102. It is determined in advance whether or not to execute reach production. That is, the determination necessary for executing the prefetch battle effect described with reference to FIG. 6 is determined in advance prior to the processing of steps S57 and S58 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S32.

  In step S <b> 32, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, a second hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the second special symbol lottery has increased by one. Here, the second pending number increase command includes information (preliminary determination information) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S31. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG. The first hold number increase command set in step S26 and the second hold number increase command set in step S32 are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

[Special symbol processing]
FIG. 10 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. Hereinafter, the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S51, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines that the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a big hit game (a big hit game state) based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information by a flag). ). That is, it is determined whether or not the big hit game (special game) that is executed when the special symbol lottery is won. If the determination in step S51 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 8, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S52.

  In step S <b> 52, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol change display is being performed by the first special symbol display 4 a or the second special symbol display 4 b. If the determination in step S52 is YES, the process proceeds to step S61. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S53, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the second special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S53 is YES, the process proceeds to step S54. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S55.

  In step S54, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At that time, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set stored in the RAM 103 in step S30 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S57.

  On the other hand, in step S55, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U1 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the first special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S55 is YES, the process proceeds to step S56. If this determination is NO, there is no special symbol lottery to be executed, so the process is step S5 in FIG. 8 (normal symbol processing). Move on.

  In step S56, the CPU 101 updates the hold count U1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At that time, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set stored in the RAM 103 in step S24 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S57.

  The second special symbol lottery is executed in preference to the first special symbol lottery by the processes of steps S53 to S56 described above.

  In step S57, the CPU 101 executes a big hit determination process for determining whether the special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. Specifically, when the process of step S57 is executed subsequent to the process of step S54, the CPU 101 determines that the big hit random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S54 matches the big win winning value stored in the ROM 102. Whether the result of the second special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss is determined based on whether or not to do so. On the other hand, when the process of step S57 is executed following the process of step S56, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 by the process of step S56 matches the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Based on this, it is determined whether the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. When the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be lost, the CPU 101 sets a lost symbol indicating that the special symbol lottery has been lost in the RAM 103 as a special symbol stop symbol in the setting information. On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, which of the predetermined values stored in the ROM 102 matches the symbol random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used for this determination? Based on this, the type of jackpot of this time is determined. Then, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, information on the jackpot symbol representing the jackpot and the type of jackpot as information on the stop symbol of the special symbol in the setting information. In the present embodiment, a reach effect is always executed when a big hit is made. Therefore, in the case of a big win, the setting information includes information indicating that the reach effect is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S58.

  In step S58, the CPU 101 executes a variation pattern selection process for determining a variation pattern (special symbol variation time) using a variation time table set corresponding to the gaming state.

  Specifically, when the CPU 101 determines that it is a big hit in the big hit determination process in step S57, it uses the big hit random time used in the big hit determination process by using the big hit fluctuation time table included in the change time table set to be used. Based on whether the fluctuation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 matches a predetermined value stored in the ROM 102 (a predetermined value for determining a fluctuation pattern when a big hit occurs), the fluctuation pattern (special symbol fluctuation time) is determined. decide.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that a loss has occurred in the jackpot determination process in step S57, the reach random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process is a predetermined value stored in the ROM 102 (the reach at the time of a loss). Whether or not the reach effect is to be executed is determined based on whether or not the predetermined value for execution determination is the same. If the CPU 101 determines to execute the reach effect, the CPU 101 reads out from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the current jackpot determination process, using the reachable loss variation time table included in the target variation time table set. The variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is based on which of the predetermined values stored in the ROM 102 matches the predetermined value (the predetermined value for determining the variation pattern when the reach effect is executed at the time of loss). To decide. On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that the reach effect is not executed, the CPU 101 reads from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process this time using the reach-less variation time table for reach included in the target variation time table set. The change pattern random number that is output matches the predetermined value stored in the ROM 102 (the predetermined value for determining the change pattern when the reach effect is not executed in the event of a loss), and the number of holds stored in the RAM 103 Based on U1 and U2, the variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined.

  Information on the variation pattern determined as described above and information indicating whether or not to execute reach production are set in the RAM 103 as setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S59.

  In step S59, the CPU 101 generates a variation effect start command including the setting information set by the big hit determination process of step S57 and the setting information set by the variation pattern selection process of step S58, and sets the command in the RAM 103. Here, the change effect start command is a command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to start the decorative symbol change effect by the image display unit 6 and the speaker 35 or the like. The setting information included in the variation effect start command also includes information indicating which one of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery has been executed. This variation effect start command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S60.

  In step S60, the CPU 101 changes the special symbol by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b based on the setting information included in the variable effect start command set in the process of step S59. Start displaying. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S61.

  In step S61, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time indicated by the variation pattern set in the variation pattern selection process in step S58 has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation display in step S60. If the determination in step S61 is yes, the process proceeds to step S62. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S5 (ordinary symbol process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 62, the CPU 101 sets a change effect stop command for instructing the end of the decorative symbol change effect by the image display unit 6 or the like in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S63. The variation effect stop command set in step S62 is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

  In step S63, the CPU 101 ends the special symbol variation display by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b started in the process of step S60 and displays the stop symbol. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S64.

  In step S64, the CPU 101 executes a stop process. Specifically, if the CPU 101 determines that the big hit is determined in step S57, the information stored in the RAM 103 (typically, information based on a flag) is in a big hit game (a big hit gaming state). And an opening command for instructing the start of the big hit game effect is set in the RAM 103. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 8, and the big hit game effect is started. In addition, the CPU 101 switches the gaming state according to the number of times that the special symbol fluctuates and is stopped and displayed by the processing of steps S60 and S63 (that is, the number of rotations) (that is, the special symbol lottery winning probability setting and the electric tulip 27 open setting etc.). Thereafter, the processing moves to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG.

[Production control processing by production control unit]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process performed by the effect control unit 400. Below, with reference to FIG. 11, the effect control process performed by the effect control part 400 is demonstrated. The effect control unit 400 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 11 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on and when the power is turned off. Note that the processing performed by the effect control unit 400 described based on the flowchart of FIG. 11 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 402. Moreover, in the following description, the description about the big hit game effect etc. which is not directly related to the feature of this embodiment is omitted.

  First, in step S101 of FIG. 11, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines whether or not a hold increase command (first hold number increase command or second hold number increase command) is received from the main control unit 100 ( (See steps S26 and S32 in FIG. 9). If the determination in step S101 is yes, the process proceeds to step S102. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S106.

  In step S102, the CPU 401 executes a hold number addition process. Specifically, when the CPU 401 receives the first hold number increase command, the CPU 401 adds 1 to the hold number of the first special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 403, and when it receives the second hold number increase command, the RAM 403 1 is added to the number of reserves for the second special symbol lottery stored in. Further, the CPU 401 extracts pre-determination information included in the hold increase command and stores it in the RAM 403 for each type of hold increase command (first hold increase command or second hold increase command). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S103.

  In step S103, the CPU 401 executes a hold display process. Specifically, when the CPU 401 receives the first hold number increase command, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to display one hold image indicating the hold number of the first special symbol lottery on the image display unit 6. Let Similarly, when the CPU 401 receives the second hold number increase command, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to display the hold image indicating the hold number of the second special symbol lottery on the image display unit 6 by one. As described above, this pending increase command includes pre-determination information indicating the result of the special symbol lottery. Therefore, in step S103, the CPU 401 may change the mode of the hold display so as to suggest, for example, the degree of expectation (reliability) of the winning for the special symbol lottery based on the prior determination information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S104, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute the prefetch battle effect described with reference to FIG. For example, if the CPU 401 determines whether or not the number of special symbol lotteries held in the RAM 403 is 2 or more and determines that the number is 2 or more, the CPU 401 stores it in the RAM 403 in the most recent step S102. It is determined whether or not to execute a prefetch battle effect based on the prior determination information. If the determination in step S104 is yes, the process proceeds to step S105. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S106.

  In step S105, the CPU 401 determines the content of the prefetch battle effect. FIG. 12 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the process in step S105. Details of the processing in step S105 will be described below with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S120 of FIG. 12, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the prefetch battle effect is won or lost based on the predetermination information (that is, the predetermination result) stored in the RAM 403 in the process of the latest step S102. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S121.

  In step S121, the CPU 401 determines the number of friendly characters and enemy characters that appear in the pre-read battle effect based on the number of special symbol lottery reservations stored in the RAM 403 by the processing in step S102 of FIG. For example, in the example of FIG. 6, the CPU 401 determines the number of teammate characters and enemy characters to be “3” based on the number of holds “4”. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S122, the CPU 401 determines a teammate character appearing from the teammate group (see the upper part of FIG. 7) based on the win / loss determined in step S120, and determines the order of appearance. For example, in the example of FIG. 6, the CPU 401 determines two friendly characters and one friendly character as appearing friendly characters, the first and third friendly characters appear, and the second friendly character appears. It has been decided that a character will appear. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S123.

  In step S123, the CPU 401 determines an enemy character to appear from the enemy group (see the lower part of FIG. 7) based on the winning / losing determined in step S120 and the ally character and appearance order determined in step S122. Determine the order of their appearance. For example, in the example of FIG. 6, the CPU 401 determines two enemy characters and one enemy weak character as enemy characters to appear, the second and third enemy characters appear, and the enemy weakest first. It has been decided that a character will appear. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S106 in FIG.

  In step S106, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the variable effect start command set in step S59 of FIG. 10 has been received. If the determination in step S106 is YES, the process proceeds to step S107. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S111.

  In step S107, the CPU 401 analyzes the variation effect start command received in step S106. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S108, the CPU 401 determines whether the decorative symbol variation effect to be executed based on the variation effect start command analyzed in step S107 is the decorative symbol variation effect determined as the execution target of the prefetch battle effect in step S105. Determine whether or not. That is, it is determined whether or not the prefetch battle effect described with reference to FIGS. 6 (1) to 6 (6) is executed in the current decorative symbol variation effect. If the determination in step S108 is YES, the process proceeds to step S110. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S <b> 109, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to start a decorative symbol variation effect that does not include the prefetch battle effect. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

  On the other hand, in step S110, as described with reference to FIG. 6, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like to start the decorative symbol variation effect including the prefetch battle effect. FIG. 13 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the process in step S110. Details of the processing in step S110 will be described below with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S130 of FIG. 13, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the current decorative symbol variation effect is a decorative symbol variation effect informing the winning or losing in the prefetch battle effect (see FIGS. 6 (5) and 6). . If the determination in step S130 is yes, the process proceeds to step S132, and if this determination is no, the process proceeds to step S131.

  In step S131, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like, and uses the contents determined in step S105 in FIG. 11 as described with reference to FIGS. A decorative design variation effect including a pre-reading notice effect in which each character appears is started. Thereafter, the processing returns to step S101 in FIG.

  On the other hand, in step S132, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like to battle with the content determined in step S105 of FIG. 11 as described with reference to FIGS. 6 (5) and (6). A decorative symbol variation effect including a notice effect that informs the winner later is started. Thereafter, the processing returns to step S101 in FIG.

  In step S111 in FIG. 11, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the variable effect stop command set in the process in step S62 in FIG. 10 has been received. If the determination in step S111 is yes, the process proceeds to step S112. If the determination is no, the process returns to step S101.

  In step S112, the CPU 401 finishes the decorative symbol variation effect started in the process of step S109 or S110, and informs the result of the special symbol lottery in an effective manner. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the CPU 401 executes a hold number subtraction process. Specifically, the CPU 401 executes the first special symbol lottery based on the information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery included in the setting information of the variable effect start command is executed. 1 is subtracted from the holding number of the first special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 403, and when the second special symbol lottery is executed, the second special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 403 is displayed. Subtract 1 from the number of holds. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S114, the CPU 401 executes a hold display process. Specifically, the CPU 401 executes the first special symbol lottery based on the information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery included in the setting information of the variable effect start command is executed. If this is the case, the image sound control unit 500 is instructed to display the hold image indicating the number of hold of the first special symbol lottery displayed on the image display unit 6 earliest (that is, the special symbol is currently being variably displayed One reserved image) is digested (deleted). If other reserved images are displayed, these reserved images are sequentially moved (that is, sequentially moved on the stage ST). Similarly, the CPU 401 indicates that information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery included in the setting information of the variable effect start command has been executed is that the second special symbol lottery has been executed. In the case of showing, the image sound control unit 500 is instructed to digest (delete) one reserved image indicating the number of the second special symbol lottery that is displayed earliest on the image display unit 6. Then, when other reserved images are displayed, the reserved images are sequentially moved. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

[Modification]
In the above-described embodiment, as described with reference to FIG. 6, a case where an ally character and an enemy character appear one by one (that is, in pairs) in the look-ahead battle production, and the pair fights as an example. It was. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, another pair of opponents may be fought, and more than one to one may be fought.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, as described with reference to FIG. 6, the case where the teammates and the enemy characters sequentially appear in pairs and wait in the pre-reading battle effect is described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, each time a teammate character and enemy character appear as a pair, the battle may be determined and the final victory or loss may be determined based on the number of wins. Furthermore, there may be a change display in which only one of the ally character and the enemy character appears, or a change display in which both do not appear, and there may be a one-to-many battle.

  Moreover, in the prefetch battle production demonstrated using FIG. 6, you may change a win rate according to the opponent who fights. For example, three types are provided for each of a weakly friendly character, a friendly character, a strong enemy character, a weak enemy character, a middle enemy character, and a strong enemy character. It may be easy to win, and it is difficult to win against the second type of enemy strong character.

  Moreover, in this embodiment mentioned above, as demonstrated using FIG.11 and FIG.12, in the prefetch battle | competition effect, several fluctuation | variation display (S104, S105 of FIG. 11) is determined at the time of determining to start a prefetch battle | competition effect. The case where all the contents of the look-ahead battle effect executed over the decorative symbol variation effect) are determined as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, every time a pre-read battle effect is executed, an ally character is determined based on the preliminary determination result, and an enemy character is determined based on the preliminary determination result and the ally character determined this time. May be. Furthermore, for each variable display in which the pre-read battle effect is executed, a pre-decision result is determined based on the pre-determination result and, if there is an enemy character or ally character that has already appeared, the ally character. If there is an ally character determined this time and an enemy character or ally character that has already appeared, the enemy character may be determined based on that character. In other words, the character to appear this time may be determined based on the preliminary determination result and the character that has already been determined (appeared) each time the pre-read battle effect is displayed.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, in the pre-read battle effect, the enemy character to appear is determined after determining the teammate character to appear (see FIG. 12). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in the look-ahead battle effect, after the enemy character to appear may be determined, the friend character to appear may be determined.

  Further, the shape, number, installation position, and the like of each component provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to other shapes, numbers, and installation positions. It goes without saying that the present invention can be realized without departing from the above. Further, it goes without saying that the numerical values and the like used in the above-described processing are merely examples, and the present invention can be realized even with other numerical values.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated in detail using embodiment, the above-mentioned description is only the illustration of this invention in all the points, and does not intend to limit the range. It goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is to be understood that the terms used in the present specification are used in the meaning normally used in the art unless otherwise specified. Thus, unless defined otherwise, all technical and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 4 ... Display 5 ... Frame member 6 ... Image display part 7 ... Movable accessory 8 ... Board lamp 20 ... Game area 21 ... 1st start opening 22 ... 2nd start opening 23 ... Grand prize Mouth 24 ... Normal winning port 25 ... Gate 26 ... Discharge port 27 ... Electric tulip 31 ... Handle 32 ... Lever 33 ... Stop button 34 ... Eject button 35 ... Speaker 36 ... Frame lamp 37 ... Production button 38 ... Production key 39 ... Dish 43 ... Lock part 100 ... Main control part 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 ... CPU
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 ... ROM
103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 ... RAM
111a ... 1st start port switch 111b ... 2nd start port switch 112 ... Electric tulip opening / closing part 113 ... Gate switch 114 ... Grand prize opening switch 115 ... Grand prize opening / closing part 116 ... Normal prize opening switch 200 ... Launch control part 211 ... Launching device 300 ... payout control unit 311 ... payout drive unit 400 ... production control unit 404 ... RTC
500 ... Image sound control unit 600 ... Lamp control unit

Claims (1)

Determination information acquisition means for acquiring determination information upon establishment of a start condition;
Special game determination means for determining whether or not to perform a special game beneficial to the player based on the determination information acquired by the determination information acquisition means;
A notification effect control means for executing a notification effect for notifying the determination result by the special game determination means by causing the effect display means to display the symbols in a variable manner and then stopping the display.
Determination information storage means capable of storing up to a predetermined number of determination information acquired by the determination information acquisition means when a notification effect is being executed by the notification effect control means;
Based on the determination information acquired by the determination information acquisition means, prior determination means for determining in advance prior to the determination by the special game determination means whether or not the special game determination means determines that the special game is to be performed. And
The notification effect control means causes the effect display means to perform a preliminary determination effect display from a notification effect executed before the notification effect related to the preliminary determination based on the preliminary determination result by the preliminary determination unit. Has a pre-decision effect control means capable of
The pre-decision effect control means is
Two or more first character images are selected from a first group of character images among a plurality of character images stored in the image storage means based on the result of the prior determination by the prior determination means, and the image storage means Image selecting means for selecting two or more second character images from a second group of character images among a plurality of character images stored in
Image display control means for displaying the first character image and the second character image selected by the image selection means on the effect display means as the prior determination effect display;
Suggestion effect control for executing a suggestion effect that suggests the possibility that the special game will be performed according to a result of the battle between the first character image and the second character image displayed by the image display control means Means,
The image selection means includes
The first character image can be selected including a strong character image indicating that it is easy to win the second character image and a weak character image indicating that it is difficult to win the second character image.
The second character image can be selected including a strong character image indicating that it is easy to win the first character image and a weak character image indicating that it is difficult to win the first character image.
The suggestion effect control means suggests that the special game is highly likely to be performed by winning the first character image.

Images