JP6132871B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that determines whether or not a special game advantageous to a player is performed when a start condition is satisfied.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, there is a gaming machine that determines whether or not to win a game ball by winning a starting ball provided on a game board and changes three symbols (for example, numbers) on a display screen. When such a gaming machine is determined to be a jackpot, the three symbols that have been changed are stopped with a combination indicating a jackpot such as a so-called “zolo”, and then the jackpot game is started. In the jackpot game, the gaming machine opens a big prize opening provided on the game board. A player can obtain a large number of prize balls by winning a game ball in an open big prize opening (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2010-51734 A

  However, in the prior art, there is a case where the player cannot be interesting and does not contribute to the improvement of the interest of the game.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of a game in order to solve the problems caused by the prior art.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the gaming machine according to the present invention performs a special game determination for determining whether or not a special game advantageous to the player is performed when a start condition is established. Means, and when the special game determination is performed by the special game determination means, the symbol control means for displaying the effect symbols in a variable manner and then stopping and displaying the determination result of the special game determination, and the symbol control means Effect control means for performing a predetermined effect on the basis of the determination result of the special game determination when the effect symbol variation display is performed, the effect control means during the effect symbol variation display A first stage effect that is executed without using the stage design and an effect that is executed as a result of the previous stage stage and suggests that the special game may be performed. And a non-notice effect that is an effect that is executed as a result effect of the previous stage effect and that does not notify that the first effect is performed. Is performed, the second effect suggesting that the first effect or the special game is not performed is performed after the notice effect. On the other hand, when the non-notice effect is performed, the non-notice effect is performed. Thereafter, the third effect or the second effect is performed, which is an effect different from the first effect and suggests that the special game may be performed.

  According to the present invention, there is an effect that the interest of the game can be improved.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the information display unit of the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of effects performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. 4-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. 4-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. 4-3 is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. 4-4 is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a normal display mode and a special display mode of effect symbols in the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of a table stored in the ROM of the main control unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of an example of a table stored in the ROM of the main control unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a table stored in the effect control unit of the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the main process. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the start port switch process. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the special symbol process. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the jackpot determination process. FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variation pattern setting process. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the stop process. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the special winning opening control process. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the game state setting process. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect timer interrupt process. FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of command reception processing. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect start process. FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect display start process. FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of button notice effect start processing. FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the button notice effect processing.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiment described below, an example in which the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine (so-called “digital patch”) belonging to the former type 1 will be described, but the contents of the present invention are limited. is not. For example, the gaming machine according to the present invention can be applied to a revolving gaming machine called a so-called “slot machine”. Further, specific numerical values and the like shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and do not limit the contents of the present invention.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
First, the basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment includes a gaming board 101. A launching unit (see reference numeral 728 in FIG. 7) for launching a game ball is provided at a lower position of the game board 101.

  The game ball launched by the launching unit rises along the rail 102 and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls in the game area 103. A large number of nails and windmills are provided in the game area 103, and the dropping trajectory of the game ball falling in the game area 103 is changed by these. Further, the game area 103 is provided with various winning ports (for example, a starting port and a big winning port) through which game balls can be won.

  An image display unit 104 is provided at a substantially central portion of the game board 101. A liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) or the like is used for the image display unit 104. The image display unit 104 is display-controlled by the gaming machine 100 and displays various images (for example, later-described effect designs and effect images).

  Below the image display unit 104 are provided a first start port 105 and a second start port 106 through which game balls can be won. The second starting port 106 is provided with an ordinary electric accessory 107 that can be opened and closed. When the ordinary electric accessory 107 is opened, the game ball can easily win the second starting port 106. On the contrary, when the ordinary electric accessory 107 is closed, it is difficult for the game ball to win the second starting port 106. The normal electric accessory 107 is normally closed and is opened based on the determination result of the normal symbol determination. This normal symbol determination is performed when a game ball passes through the gates 108 provided on the left and right sides of the image display unit 104.

  On the right side of the image display unit 104, an openable large winning opening 109a is provided. When the upper university winning opening 109a is opened, the game ball can be awarded to the upper university winning opening 109a. On the other hand, when the upper large winning opening 109a is closed, the game ball cannot be won in the upper large winning opening 109a. The top prize winning port 109a is normally closed and is opened based on the determination result of the jackpot determination. This jackpot determination is performed by winning a game ball at the first start port 105 or the second start port 106.

  In addition, a lower large winning opening 109b that can be opened and closed is provided below the upper large winning opening 109a. When the lower major prize opening 109b is opened, the game ball can be awarded to the lower major prize opening 109b. On the contrary, when the lower major prize opening 109b is closed, the game ball cannot enter the lower major prize opening 109b. The lower prize winning opening 109b is normally closed, and is opened based on the determination result of the jackpot determination. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls every time one gaming ball wins an upper winning hole 109a or a lower winning hole 109b.

  Below the image display unit 104, a normal winning opening 110 is provided. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls every time one gaming ball wins the normal winning opening 110. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 111 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  An information display unit 112 is provided in the lower left portion of the game board 101. The information display unit 112 displays special symbols, normal symbols, and the like. Here, the special symbol is a symbol indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination. The normal symbol is a symbol indicating the determination result of the normal symbol determination. The information display unit 112 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  A frame member 113 is provided on the game board 101 so as to surround the outer periphery of the game area 103. The frame member 113 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides on the top, bottom, left and right of the game board 101 and protrudes toward the player. The frame member 113 incorporates a speaker 114, an effect light unit 115, and the like.

  An operation handle 116 is provided at a lower position of the frame member 113. The operation handle 116 is provided so as to protrude to the player side, and is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by the launcher. Specifically, the operation handle 116 includes a firing instruction member 117. The firing instruction member 117 is provided on the outer periphery of the operation handle 116 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player.

  The launcher launches a game ball with an intensity corresponding to the rotation angle of the firing instruction member 117 relative to the operation handle 116. The operation handle 116 is provided with a sensor for detecting that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 117. The launching unit launches a game ball when it is detected by this sensor that the firing instruction member 117 is directly operated by the player.

  An effect button 118 and a cross key 119 are provided in the lower part of the game area 103 in the frame member 113. For example, the effect button 118 and the cross key 119 function as operation means for receiving an operation related to the effect from the player.

  Further, a hitting ball supply tray (not shown) is provided in the lower portion of the game area 103 in the frame member 113, and a game ball is accommodated in this hitting ball supply tray. Further, the hitting ball supply tray has a shape inclined toward the launching unit, and sequentially sends out the stored game balls to the launching unit.

  Furthermore, on the game board 101, movable accessories 130a to 130d that are driven during a predetermined performance are provided. For example, the movable accessories 130a to 130d advance to the front surface of the image display unit 104 at a predetermined effect corresponding to each, and are otherwise retracted from the entire surface of the image display unit 104 as shown in FIG. The

(Details of information display section)
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the information display unit of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the information display unit 112 includes a special symbol display unit 201, a normal symbol display unit 202, a hold number display unit 203, and a round number display unit 204. A lamp indicator or the like is used for each of the display units 201 to 204.

  The first special symbol display unit 201a is for displaying a first special symbol indicating a determination result of the jackpot determination performed by winning a game ball at the first starting port 105. For example, eight LED (Light (Emitting Diode) lamp.

  For example, the first special symbol display unit 201a is variably displayed by repeatedly turning on and off the LED lamps of the first special symbol display unit 201a so as to flow from left to right in FIG. Indicates that Further, the first special symbol display unit 201a indicates that the first special symbol is stopped and displayed by lighting only the predetermined LED lamp after the first special symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time. Which LED lamp is lit after the first special symbol variation display is determined according to the determination result of the jackpot determination performed at the start of the first special symbol variation display.

  For example, in the jackpot determination by the gaming machine 100, the lower big prize opening 16 rounds (hereinafter “R” is abbreviated as “R”) probability variation jackpot, the lower major prize opening 8R probability variation jackpot, and the lower big prize opening 8R normal jackpot Then, it is determined which of the five types of jackpots is the big jackpot 2R probability variation jackpot and the upper prize winning port 8R probability variation jackpot.

  And the lighting mode (big-hit symbol) of the LED lamp in the 1st special symbol display part 201a is predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 for each jackpot type. The first special symbol display unit 201a determines in advance according to the type of the jackpot if it is determined that one of the above jackpots is determined by the jackpot determination made by winning the game ball at the first starting port 105. The LED lamp is turned on in the lighting mode.

  The second special symbol display unit 201b is for displaying a second special symbol indicating a determination result of the jackpot determination performed by winning the game ball at the second starting port 106, and the first special symbol display unit As with 201a, for example, eight LED lamps are provided.

  The second special symbol display unit 201b repeats lighting and extinguishing so that each LED lamp of the second special symbol display unit 201b flows from left to right in FIG. It shows that. Further, the second special symbol display unit 201b indicates that the second special symbol is stopped and displayed by lighting only the predetermined LED lamp after the second special symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time. Similarly to the first special symbol display unit 201a, the second special symbol display unit 201b is determined to be one of the above big hits by the big hit determination made by winning a game ball at the second starting port 106. In this case, the LED lamp is turned on in a predetermined lighting manner according to the type of jackpot.

  The normal symbol display unit 202 is for displaying a normal symbol indicating a determination result of the normal symbol determination performed by the game ball passing through the gate 108. For example, “O”, “Δ”, “X” is displayed. 3 LED lamps are provided.

  The normal symbol display unit 202 displays each of the LEDs of the normal symbol display unit 202 by sequentially turning on and off in order of “O” → “Δ” → “×” → “O” →. Indicates that it is inside. Further, the normal symbol display unit 202 indicates that the normal symbol is stopped and displayed by lighting only the predetermined LED lamp after the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner for a predetermined time. Which LED lamp is turned on after the normal symbol variation display is determined according to the determination result of the normal symbol determination performed at the start of the variation display of the normal symbol.

  For example, in the normal symbol determination by the gaming machine 100, it is determined which of the two types of normal symbols per normal symbol length open and per normal symbol short open per normal symbol. And the lighting mode of the LED lamp in the normal symbol display part 202 is predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 for each normal symbol. For example, the normal symbol display unit 202 turns on the “◯” LED when it is determined that the normal symbol length is about to be released, and turns on the “Δ” LED when it is determined that the symbol is about to be released. . When it is determined that the normal symbol display unit 202 does not hit the normal symbol, the “x” LED is turned on.

  The number-of-holds display unit 203 is for displaying the number of pieces of on-hold information (hereinafter referred to as “number of on-hold information”). The first special symbol hold number display unit 203a, the second special symbol hold number display unit 203b, And a normal symbol hold number display section 203c.

  The first special symbol hold number display unit 203a displays the number of hold information stored when the game ball wins the first start opening 105 during the special symbol variation display (hereinafter referred to as “first hold information number”). To do. The second special symbol number-of-holds display section 203b displays the number of reserved information stored when the game ball wins the second starting port 106 during the special symbol variation display (hereinafter referred to as "second number of reserved information"). To do. In the following, the sum of the number of the first holding information and the number of the second holding information is referred to as the “number of special figure holding information”. The normal symbol hold number display unit 203c displays the number of hold information stored when the game ball passes through the gate 108 during the normal symbol change display (hereinafter referred to as “the number of common figure hold information”).

  In the gaming machine 100, the upper limit number of the first hold information number, the second hold information number, and the usual hold information number is set to “4”. Therefore, the first special symbol reservation number display unit 203a, the second special symbol reservation number display unit 203b, and the normal symbol reservation number display unit 203c each include four LED lamps. And the 1st special symbol reservation number display part 203a, the 2nd special symbol reservation number display part 203b, and the normal symbol reservation number display part 203c light the LED lamp of the same number as the number of corresponding hold information respectively.

  The round number display unit 204 displays the number of rounds of the jackpot game. Since the gaming machine 100 has a jackpot of 16R, a jackpot of 8R, and a jackpot of 2R, the round number display unit 204 displays an LED lamp that displays “16R”, an LED lamp that displays “8R”, and “2R”. It has an LED lamp. Then, the round number display unit 204 turns on the LED lamp that displays “16R” in the case of 16R big hit. The round number display unit 204 turns on an LED lamp that displays “8R” in the case of a big hit of 8R. The round number display unit 204 turns on an LED lamp that displays “2R” in the case of 2R jackpot.

(Basic operation of gaming machines)
Next, the basic operation of the gaming machine 100 will be described. The gaming machine 100 launches a game ball into the game area 103 when the launch instruction member 117 is operated by the player. The gaming machine 100 obtains holding information and makes a jackpot determination when the game ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106. When the gaming machine 100 determines the jackpot, the special symbol display unit 201 displays the special symbol in a variable manner.

  Along with the special symbol variation display, the gaming machine 100 variably displays, for example, three effect symbols each representing a number on the image display unit 104. In addition, the gaming machine 100 performs various effects (for example, a notice effect and a reach effect) for indicating the reliability of the jackpot during the variation display of the effect symbols. When the gaming machine 100 displays the special symbol in a variable manner for a predetermined period, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the determination result of the jackpot determination.

  Then, along with the special symbol stop display, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols so as to show the determination result of the jackpot determination. For example, if the gaming machine 100 determines that it is a losing (not a big winning) in the jackpot determination, the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a losing symbol and the effect symbol is stopped and displayed as a losing eye (for example, “1 / 3.2”). To do. On the other hand, if the gaming machine 100 determines that it is a big hit, the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol, and the effect symbol is stopped and displayed at a hit (for example, “1 · 1 · 1”).

  When the gaming machine 100 determines that the jackpot is determined by the jackpot determination, the gaming machine 100 plays a jackpot game after the jackpot symbol is stopped. In the jackpot game, the gaming machine 100 opens the jackpot according to the jackpot type by the number R corresponding to the jackpot type. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number of prize balls each time a game ball wins an open upper prize winning hole 109a or lower major prize winning hole 109b.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 is in a probabilistic gaming state until 10000 jackpot determinations are made or the next jackpot is reached after a jackpot game with a promising jackpot. This probability variation jackpot includes the lower college prize opening 16R probability variation jackpot, the lower college prize opening 8R probability variation jackpot, the lower college prize opening 2R probability variation jackpot, and the upper college prize opening 8R probability variation jackpot. In addition, since the probability of not winning a jackpot even after making 10,000 jackpot determinations is extremely low, it can be said that the gaming machine 100 is substantially in a probabilistic gaming state until the next jackpot after the promising jackpot game.

  When in the probabilistic gaming state, the gaming machine 100 performs jackpot determination with an increased determination probability for determining jackpot. For example, the gaming machine 100 performs a jackpot determination with a determination probability of 1/250 when determining that it is a jackpot when not in the probability variation gaming state, while determining a jackpot determination with a determination probability of 7/250 when determining that the jackpot is in the probability variation gaming state. I do.

  In addition, when the game state is in a probable gaming state, the gaming machine 100 increases the chance of winning a game ball to the second start port 106. For example, when the game machine 100 is in the probability variation game state, the gaming machine 100 performs the normal symbol determination with a higher determination probability for determining that it is per normal symbol length release or per normal symbol short release than when it is not the probability change game state. Further, when the gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state, the gaming machine 100 extends the period during which the ordinary electric accessory 107 is opened when it is determined that it is per normal symbol length opening or normal symbol short opening per time than in the probability variation gaming state. Further, the gaming machine 100 may increase the number of determinations of the normal symbol determination that can be performed per unit time (for example, per minute) by shortening the period during which the normal symbol is variably displayed.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 is in a short-time gaming state until the jackpot determination is performed 30 times or the next jackpot is reached after the normal jackpot jackpot game. This normal jackpot includes the aforementioned lower jackpot 8R normal jackpot. When in the short-time gaming state, the gaming machine 100, unlike the probability variation gaming state, makes a jackpot determination with a determination probability of determining that it is 1/250 and increases the chances of winning a game ball to the second starting port 106 Let

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 performs normal symbol determination by acquiring holding information for normal symbol determination when the game ball passes through the gate 108. When the gaming machine 100 performs the normal symbol determination, the normal symbol display unit 202 variably displays the normal symbol. When the gaming machine 100 variably displays the normal symbol for a predetermined period, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the normal symbol determination result. When the gaming machine 100 is stopped and displayed so as to indicate the normal symbol length per opening or the normal symbol short opening per, the normal electric accessory 107 is opened for a predetermined period.

(Outline of effects performed by game machines)
Next, an outline of effects performed by the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of effects performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine 100 has a button notice effect, a reach effect, and a pseudo-continuous effect (hereinafter abbreviated as “pseudo-continuous effect”) between the start and stop display of the effect symbol variation display. Various effects such as can be performed.

  Here, the quasi-continuous effect is an effect in which the effect symbol is changed and stopped and displayed a plurality of times after the special symbol is changed once and stopped. The effect that becomes the reach effect through such a pseudo-ream effect is an effect that has a higher reliability to the jackpot than the case where the reach effect is made without the pseudo-ream effect. Therefore, from the viewpoint of the player, when the pseudo-continuous effect is performed, the expectation to the jackpot is increased as compared with the case where the pseudo-continuous effect is not performed and the reach effect is performed as it is.

  Specifically, when the gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination, for example, the game machine 100 starts to display three effect symbols in a variable manner (step S1). Although details will be described later, the gaming machine 100 can display the effect symbol in two display modes, a normal display mode and a special display mode, and displays the normal display mode effect symbol at the start of variable display.

  The gaming machine 100 performs a button notice effect when a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the change display of the effect symbol (step S2). Note that the display of the effect symbol in the normal display mode is continued during the button notice effect. Here, the button notice effect is an effect capable of accepting the player's operation. For example, when the effect button 118 is pressed by the player in the button notice effect, the gaming machine 100 indicates the result of the notice by the button notice effect to the player.

  The notice result indicated by the button notice effect includes a first result indicating that the probability that the reach effect is performed following the button notice effect is relatively low, and the probability that the reach effect is performed following the button notice effect. There is a second result indicating that is relatively high. When the gaming machine 100 indicates the player with the first result as the notice result of the button notice effect, the gaming machine 100 switches the effect display pattern display mode to the special display mode (step S3).

  If the effect symbol is in the special display mode, it includes a chance symbol that does not exist in the normal display mode. Although details will be described later, for example, when the effect design is displayed in the normal display mode, five numbers (integers) from “1” to “5” can be represented. On the other hand, when the effect symbol is displayed in a special display mode, any four numbers from “1” to “5” and the chance symbol can be represented. Here, the chance symbol is used to configure a chance item (specific appearance) for showing the player that it is a pseudo-ream effect. For example, when the gaming machine 100 starts a pseudo-continuous effect, the game machine 100 temporarily stops display (temporary stop display) at a chance.

  The gaming machine 100 switches the effect symbol to the special display mode and then performs the pseudo-continuous effect (step S4) or stops and displays the effect symbol as it is without performing the pseudo-continuous effect. Step S5). That is, the gaming machine 100 takes a chance in step S4 and does not take a chance in step S5. For example, here, the probability that the first result will be lost after the button notice effect is shown to the player, and the false result is that the first result is shown after the button notice effect is shown to the player. It is higher than the probability of production.

  When the gaming machine 100 performs the pseudo-continuous production in step S4, the gaming machine 100 then performs the reach production (step S6), whether it is a hit (for example, a doublet) indicating a big hit (step S7) or a losing eye (for example, a reach losing eye) ( In step S8), the effect symbol is stopped and displayed.

  On the other hand, when the gaming machine 100 shows the player the second result as the notice result of the button notice effect, the game machine 100 does not switch to the special display form of the effect symbol and maintains the normal display form. Then, the gaming machine 100 performs the reach effect after the button notice effect indicating the second result to the player (step S9), or stops the effect design as it is without performing the reach effect. Display (step S10). For example, here, the probability that the reach effect will be after the button notice effect indicating the second result to the player is the probability that the reach result will not be the reach effect after the button notice effect indicating the second result to the player. Higher than. In addition, the probability that the reach effect after the button notice effect indicating the second result to the player is higher than the probability that the pseudo result effect is provided after the button notice effect indicating the first result to the player. .

  When the gaming machine 100 performs the reach effect in step S9, the effect symbol is then stopped and displayed at the hitting point (for example, doublet) (step S11) or loser (for example, reach loser) indicating the jackpot (step S12).

  As described above, the gaming machine 100 can switch the effect design to the special display mode when the first result is shown in the button notice effect, and can perform the pseudo-continuous effect following the button notice effect. It is like that. In addition, when the gaming machine 100 indicates the second result in the button notice effect, the gaming machine 100 can perform the reach effect following the button notice effect.

  Further, for example, in the gaming machine 100, when comparing the reliability of the jackpot between the effect of the button notice effect → pseudo-ream effect → reach effect pattern and the effect of the button notice effect → reach effect pattern, The reliability of the production of the pattern for performing the production is higher. Further, for example, in the gaming machine 100, when the appearance rate of the pattern that becomes the reach effect after the button notice effect as the first result and the pattern that becomes the reach effect after the button notice effect as the second result are compared, 2. The appearance rate of the pattern that becomes the reach effect after the button notice effect that results is higher.

  Therefore, the gaming machine 100 can cause the player to expect a pseudo-reliable effect with higher reliability when the first result is shown in the button notice effect, and the second result in the button notice effect. When the result is shown, it can be expected that the reach effect is performed with high probability. That is, the gaming machine 100 can give a player a sense of expectation both when the first result is shown in the button notice effect and when the second result is shown.

  In addition, as described above, the first result indicates that the probability that the reach effect is performed following the button notice effect is relatively low, and the second result is that the probability that the reach effect is performed subsequent to the button notice effect is relative. It is expensive. For this reason, from the viewpoint of the probability that the reach effect will be performed, the first result is a worse notice result than the second result. However, in the case of the gaming machine 100, after the first result is shown, a highly reliable pseudo-continuous effect is provided as a so-called relief effect. For this reason, even when the gaming machine 100 shows the first result in the button notice effect, the gaming machine 100 can make the player think that “there is still a chance to become a pseudo-continuous effect”. The decline in the expectations of players can be suppressed.

(Specific example of production performed by a gaming machine)
Next, a specific example of effects performed by the gaming machine 100 will be described. 4-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. 4-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. 4-3 is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. FIGS. 4-1 to 4-3 show an effect example in the case where the gaming machine 100 shows the first result in the button notice effect.

  As shown at time t11 in FIG. 4A, the gaming machine 100 displays the left effect symbol Ez1, the middle effect symbol Ez2, and the right effect symbol Ez3 on the image display unit 104. Hereinafter, the left effect symbol Ez1, the middle effect symbol Ez2, and the right effect symbol Ez3 are collectively referred to as “effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3”. As described above, for example, the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 can represent numbers from “1” to “5”.

  When the gaming machine 100 stops displaying the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3, the gaming machine 100 indicates a determination result of the jackpot determination to the player by a combination of numbers represented by the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3. In the case of the example at the time t11, the gaming machine 100 is a losing eye (a result indicating losing) in which the left effect symbol Ez1 represents “1” and the middle effect symbol Ez2 and the right effect symbol Ez3 represent “2”. Production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped and displayed.

  Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 5 and the like, the medium effect symbol Ez2 can also represent a chance symbol. That is, the symbol string of the medium effect symbol Ez2 is configured by only a number symbol representing each number from “1” to “5” (normal display mode), and a number symbol and a chance symbol. It can take a form (special display mode). The gaming machine 100 basically displays the medium effect symbol Ez2 in the normal display mode, and displays the medium effect symbol Ez2 in the special display mode only under a specific situation.

  When the gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination, in order to show the determination result, as shown at time t12 in FIG. 4A, the display of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 is started. The lower white arrow in the drawing at time t12 indicates that the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are displayed in a variable manner. For example, the gaming machine 100 displays the numerical symbols from “1” to “5” of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 so as to scroll sequentially from the top to the bottom of the display screen.

  As described above, the gaming machine 100 can perform various effects such as a notice effect (for example, the aforementioned button notice effect), a pseudo-continuous effect, and a reach effect when the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are variably displayed. When the gaming machine 100 starts the button notice effect, a message such as “Start button notice effect!” Is displayed on the display screen of the image display unit 104 as shown at time t13 in FIG. 4A to start the button notice effect. To the player. Thereby, the gaming machine 100 can inform the player that the button notice effect has been started.

  The button notice effect is an effect of accepting the player's operation. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 can prevent the player from failing to operate without noticing that it is the button notice effect by guiding the start of the button notice effect to the player. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the fluctuation | variation display of effect design Ez1-Ez3 is performed similarly to the time t12 also at the time t13.

  After notifying the start of the button notice effect, the gaming machine 100 displays the left card 401 and the right card 402 on the display screen of the image display unit 104, for example, as shown at time t14 in FIG. At time t <b> 14, the left card 401 and the right card 402 represent cards that are turned over, and the player cannot check the surface. Further, the gaming machine 100 displays a cursor 403 above the left card 401 or the right card 402 on the display screen of the image display unit 104.

  The gaming machine 100 changes the display position of the cursor 403 when the player presses the left / right direction key of the cross key 119 in the button notice effect. For example, in the example at time t14, the cursor 403 is displayed above the right card 402. When the left direction key of the cross key 119 is pressed at this time, the gaming machine 100 sets the cursor 403 to the display position above the left card 401 (see the dotted line indicated by reference numeral 404 at time t14). Then, the gaming machine 100 sets the cursor 403 to the display position above the right card 402 when the right direction key of the cross key 119 is pressed while the cursor 403 is displayed above the left card 401. That is, the player can display the cursor 403 above a desired card by operating the left / right direction key of the cross key 119.

  In addition, when the player presses the effect button 118 in the button notice effect, the gaming machine 100 selects the card on the side displaying the cursor 403 (the card displayed below the cursor 403) by the player. Accepted as a received card. For example, in the gaming machine 100, when the player presses the effect button 118 while the cursor 403 is displayed above the right card 402 at time t14, the card selected by the player as the right card 402 is displayed. Accept as.

  In the gaming machine 100, when the right card 402 is selected by the player, as shown at time t15 in FIG. 4B, the right card 402 is flipped and the surface of the right card 402 is disclosed to the player. Display. As a result, the player can check the surface of the right card 402. At time t15, the gaming machine 100 displays “Sorry…” on the surface of the right card 402 to indicate that the notice result of the button notice effect is the first result.

  The gaming machine 100 determines a notice result of the button notice effect in advance before the button notice effect, and indicates the notice result to the player in the button notice effect. For example, when the gaming machine 100 determines that the notice result of the button notice effect is the first result, regardless of whether the left card 401 or the right card 402 is selected by the player, the first result is indicated by the button notice effect. Is displayed to the player (for example, “Sorry…” is displayed as described above). That is, in the gaming machine 100, the notice result does not change regardless of which card is selected in the button notice effect.

  However, the gaming machine 100 can indicate to the player that the notice result of the button notice effect is determined by the player's own selection by showing the notice result of the button notice effect by the card selected by the player. Therefore, the gaming machine 100 can give the player joy that “there was a selected (operated) armor” when the second result (good result) was shown in the button notice effect. If one result (bad result) is indicated, the player's motivation can be increased by saying, “I am disappointed, so I will show the second result next.”

  When the gaming machine 100 shows the first result in the button notice effect as at time t15, the medium effect symbol Ez2 is changed from the normal display mode to the special display mode. As a result, as shown at time t16 in FIG. 4B, a chance symbol (a heart image at time t16) appears on the display screen of the image display unit 104. As shown at time t <b> 16, the chance symbol is displayed so as to move downward from above the display screen of the image display unit 104.

  In the present embodiment, the outcome in which the medium effect symbol Ez2 becomes a chance symbol is regarded as a chance. That is, the left effect symbol Ez1 and the right effect symbol Ez3 do not affect the chance eye. For this reason, at time t16, the left effect symbol Ez1 and the right effect symbol Ez3 may be stopped and displayed so as to represent arbitrary numbers as illustrated, or may be displayed in a variable manner.

  When the middle effect symbol Ez2 is stopped and displayed with the chance symbol as shown at time t17 in FIG. The establishment of the chance eye in the gaming machine 100 indicates that it will develop into a pseudo-continuous production. Therefore, after the chance is established, the gaming machine 100 starts the pseudo-continuous effect as shown at time t18 in FIG. 4-3, and displays the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 in a variable manner (so-called “re-change”).

  After time t18, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the left effect symbol Ez1 and the right effect symbol Ez3 so as to reach a reach state, for example, as shown at time t19 in FIG. Then, after time t19, the gaming machine 100 stops displaying the middle effect symbol Ez2 so as to show the determination result of the jackpot determination as shown at time t20 in FIG. 4-3, and ends the reach effect. In the example shown at time t20, in order to indicate that the gaming machine 100 is a big hit, the middle effect symbol Ez2 is stopped and displayed so as to represent the same kind of symbols as the left effect symbol Ez1 and the right effect symbol Ez3. It is said.

  On the other hand, the gaming machine 100 may not take a chance after showing the first result in the button notice effect as shown in step S5 of FIG. In this case, after the time t16 in FIG. 4B, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the middle effect symbol Ez2 so that it does not become a chance symbol as shown at a time t31 in FIG. 4-3. At this time, as shown at time t31, the eye is lost.

  4-4 is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows an example of the production | presentation which the game machine of this Embodiment performs. FIG. 4-4 shows an example of the effect when the gaming machine 100 shows the second result in the button notice effect. In this case, for example, when the right card 402 is selected at time t14 in FIG. 4-2, the gaming machine 100 has the second result of the button notice effect as shown at time t41 in FIG. 4-4. Is displayed on the surface of the right card 402 as “reach ?!”. In this case, the medium effect symbol Ez2 is not changed to the special display mode, and the display in the normal display mode is maintained as it is.

  After the time t41, for example, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the left effect symbol Ez1 and the right effect symbol Ez3 so as to reach a reach state as shown at a time t42 in FIG. Then, after time t42, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the middle effect symbol Ez2 so as to show the determination result of the jackpot determination as shown at time t43 in FIG. 4-4, and ends the reach effect. In the example shown at time t43, in order to indicate that the gaming machine 100 is a big hit, the middle effect symbol Ez2 is stopped and displayed so as to represent the same kind of symbols as the left effect symbol Ez1 and the right effect symbol Ez3. It is said.

  Further, the gaming machine 100 may not perform the reach effect after showing the second result in the button notice effect as shown in step S10 of FIG. In this case, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 so as to indicate the determination result of the jackpot determination as shown at time t51 in FIG. 4-4. In this case, it becomes a losing eye.

  Note that a plurality of variations may be provided in the second result. For example, in this case, in addition to the above-mentioned “reach ?!”, “reach!” And “super hot” are provided. Here, “reach ?!” indicates that the possibility that a reach effect is performed is relatively high. “Reach!” Indicates that a reach production is performed. “Super hot” indicates that a specific reach effect (for example, a live-action reach effect described later) having a relatively high reliability of the jackpot is performed in the reach effect. As described above, by giving a plurality of variations to the second result, the gaming machine 100 can further entertain the player in the button notice effect. When a plurality of variations are provided in the second result in this way, as described later, for example, the gaming machine 100 determines the content of the second result based on the determination result of the jackpot determination, the effect after the button notice effect, or the like. To do.

(Normal display mode and special display mode)
Next, an example of the normal display mode and the special display mode of the medium effect symbol Ez2 will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a normal display mode and a special display mode of effect symbols in the present embodiment. 5A shows a normal display mode, and FIG. 5B shows a special display mode.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, in the case of the normal display mode, the medium effect design Ez2 includes a numeric image 501 representing “1”, a numeric image 502 representing “2”, and a numeric image 503 representing “3”. , “4”, and a symbol sequence 510 composed of a numeric image 505 representing “5”.

  On the other hand, in the case of the special display mode as shown in FIG. 5 (B), the medium effect symbol Ez2 includes a numeric image 501 representing “1”, a numeric image 502 representing “2”, a chance symbol 506, and “4”. ”And a symbol row 520 including a number image 505 representing“ 5 ”. In other words, the symbol column 520 in the special display mode is obtained by replacing the numeric symbol 503 representing “3” in the symbol column 510 in the normal display mode with the chance symbol 506.

  Although details will be described later, the gaming machine 100 is not limited to the numeric symbol 503 representing “3”, and for example, any numeric symbol 501 such as the numeric symbol 501 representing “1” and the numeric symbol 502 representing “2”. ˜505 can also be replaced with the chance symbol 506.

(Functional configuration of gaming machine)
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine 100 includes a special game determination unit 610, a symbol control unit 620, and an effect execution unit 630.

  The special game determination unit 610 performs a special game determination as to whether or not a special game advantageous to the player is performed when the start condition is satisfied. For example, the special game determination unit 610 determines whether or not to play a jackpot game when a game ball wins a predetermined start area such as the first start port 105 or the second start port 106. As described above, in the big hit game, the upper big prize opening 109a and the lower big prize opening 109b are opened, and the player is given an opportunity to win a game ball to the upper big prize opening 109a and the lower big prize opening 109b. .

  When the special game determination is performed by the special game determination unit 610, the symbol control unit 620 displays the effect symbols including a plurality of types of symbols in a variable manner, and then stops and displays the determination results of the special game determination. For example, the symbol control unit 620 displays the effect symbols Ez <b> 1 to Ez <b> 3 in the normal display mode composed of numeric symbols “1” to “5” on the image display unit 104. Then, when the jackpot determination is performed, the symbol control unit 620 stops and displays the jackpot determination determination result after variably displaying the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3. For example, the symbol control unit 620 stops and displays the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 so as to become a hit (for example, a doublet) when it is determined that the jackpot is determined to be a big hit, and if it is determined to be a loss, For example, the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped and displayed so as to be in the form of loose eyes or reach lose eyes.

  In addition, the symbol control unit 620 can also display, for example, the medium effect symbol Ez2 (predetermined effect symbol) in a special display form including a numerical symbol and a chance symbol (special symbol). It displays in either a normal display mode or a special display mode according to the effect to be performed. For example, the symbol control unit 620 normally displays in the normal display mode and switches to the special display mode at a predetermined timing. In the above-described example, the medium effect symbol Ez is switched to the special display mode, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, since the medium effect symbol Ez2 represents the chance that the chance symbol represents the chance symbol, the gaming machine 100 changes only the middle effect symbol Ez2 to the special display mode at time t16. Instead of this, for example, the right effect design symbol Ez3 may be an opportunity that represents the chance design. In this case, the gaming machine 100 changes the right effect design symbol Ez3 to a special display mode.

  In addition, for example, all of the left effect symbol Ez1, the middle effect symbol Ez2, and the right effect symbol Ez3 may represent a chance symbol (that is, a slot symbol of the chance symbol), and in this case, the gaming machine 100 changes all the left effect symbol Ez1, the middle effect symbol Ez2, and the right effect symbol Ez3 to the special display mode. In this way, which effect design is changed to the special display mode can be made different depending on the content of the chance eye.

  The effect execution unit 630 performs a predetermined effect on the display screen based on the determination result of the special game determination when the symbol control unit 620 performs the variable display. For example, in the effect execution unit 630, effect images (including both still images and moving images) corresponding to a plurality of types of effects are stored in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100. The effect execution unit 630 determines an effect to be executed from a plurality of types of effects based on the determination result of the jackpot determination, and causes the image display unit 104 to display an effect image corresponding to the effect to be executed. I do. For example, in the case of the present embodiment, the effect execution unit 630 is configured to be able to execute the aforementioned button notice effect, reach effect, and pseudo-continuous effect.

  As described above, the button notice effect is an effect in which the first result or the second result is shown to the player as the notice result. The button notice effect is an effect that allows the player's operation to be accepted by the effect button 118 or the cross key 119, and the result of the notice is shown at a timing according to the player's operation. Further, the button notice effect indicates the notice result by the left card 401 when the left card 401 is selected by the player, and the notice result by the right card 402 when the right card 402 is selected by the player. As described above, the notice result is shown in a form corresponding to the player's operation.

  In this case, when the effect execution unit 630 performs the effect of the pattern in which the reach effect is executed without executing the pseudo-continuous effect after the button notice effect, the effect executing unit 630 displays the effect symbol in the normal display mode. Keep the display. On the other hand, the symbol control unit 620 displays the notice result (first result) in the button notice effect when the effect executing unit 630 produces the pattern effect of executing the pseudo-continuous effect following the button notice effect. Change to the display of the effect design in the special display mode.

(Example of hardware configuration of gaming machine)
Next, an example of a detailed hardware configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. The gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 701 that controls the progress of the game, a prize ball control unit 702 that controls the payout of prize balls, and an effect control unit 703 that controls the production.

(Main control unit)
First, the main control unit 701 will be described. The main control unit 701 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 711, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 712, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 713, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 711 governs overall control of the main control unit 701. The ROM 712 stores programs and data related to the progress of the game. For example, the ROM 712 stores various tables shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. The RAM 713 is used as a work area for the CPU 711. The CPU 711 reads the program and data from the ROM 712 and executes the read program while using the RAM 713 as a work area.

  Various switches (hereinafter abbreviated as “SW”) for detecting a game ball are connected to the main control unit 701. For example, a first start port SW714a and a second start port SW714b are connected to the main control unit 701. The first start port SW 714 a is a SW that detects a game ball that has won the first start port 105. The second start port SW 714 b is a SW that detects a game ball that has won the second start port 106.

  Further, the main control unit 701 is connected to a gate SW 715, a special winning opening SW 716, and a normal winning opening SW 717. The gate SW 715 is a SW that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108. The big prize opening SW 716 includes an upper prize winning opening SW and a lower prize winning opening SW. Here, the upper large winning opening SW is a SW that detects a game ball won in the upper large winning opening 109a, and the lower large winning opening SW is a SW that detects a gaming ball won in the lower large winning opening 109b. The normal winning opening SW 717 is a SW for detecting a game ball that has won the normal winning opening 110.

  The various SWs 714 to 717 input a detection signal indicating whether or not a game ball has been detected to the main control unit 701. The main control unit 701 stores the hold information based on the detection signals input from the various SWs 714 to 717, and issues a prize ball payout instruction to the prize ball control unit 702. A proximity switch or the like can be used for the various SWs 714 to 717.

  The main controller 701 is connected to various solenoids that operate the electric accessory. For example, a normal electric accessory solenoid 718 is connected to the main control unit 701. The ordinary electric accessory solenoid 718 is a solenoid that opens and closes the ordinary electric accessory 107. The main control unit 701 is connected with a special prize opening solenoid 719. The big prize winning solenoid 719 includes an upper prize winning solenoid and a lower prize winning solenoid. Here, the upper big prize opening solenoid is a solenoid that opens and closes the upper big prize opening 109a, and the lower big prize opening solenoid is a solenoid that opens and closes the lower big prize opening 109b. The various solenoids 718 and 719 convert the electric energy input from the main control unit 701 into mechanical motion, and open / close the normal electric accessory 107, the upper prize winning port 109a, and the lower major prize winning port 109b.

  An information display unit 112 is connected to the main control unit 701. As described above, the information display unit 112 includes the special symbol display unit 201 (the first special symbol display unit 201a and the second special symbol display unit 201b), the normal symbol display unit 202, the reserved number display unit 203, the round A number display unit 204.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 791 is connected to the main controller 701. The main control unit 701 can output various types of information to the outside via the panel external information terminal board 791. For example, the main control unit 701 can realize its function by the main control board.

(About the prize ball controller)
Next, the winning ball control unit 702 will be described. The prize ball control unit 702 includes a CPU 721, a ROM 722, a RAM 723, an input / output interface (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 721 controls the entire prize ball control unit 702. The ROM 722 stores programs and data related to payout of prize balls. The RAM 723 is used as a work area for the CPU 721. The CPU 721 reads a program and data from the ROM 722 and executes the read program while using the RAM 723 as a work area.

  Various SWs for detecting a game ball are connected to the prize ball control unit 702. For example, the prize ball control unit 702 includes a fixed position detection SW 724 that detects a game ball at a predetermined position, a payout ball detection SW725 that detects a payout game ball, and a ball supply tray provided on the front of the frame. A ball presence detection SW 726 for detecting the presence or absence of the game ball and a full tank detection SW 727 for detecting that the hitting ball supply tray is filled with the game ball are connected.

  The various SWs 724 to 727 input a detection signal indicating whether or not a game ball has been detected to the prize ball control unit 702. The winning ball control unit 702 pays out a winning ball or stops paying out a winning ball based on a payout instruction output from the main control unit 701 and detection signals input from various SWs 724 to 727. The prize ball control unit 702 may output detection signals input from the various SWs 724 to 727 to the main control unit 701.

  Further, a launching unit 728 and a payout unit 729 are connected to the prize ball control unit 702. When the award ball control unit 702 detects an operation of launching a game ball, the prize ball control unit 702 controls the launch unit 728 to fire the game ball toward the game area 103. Also, the prize ball control unit 702 controls the payout unit 729 based on a payout instruction from the main control unit 701 to pay out the prize ball.

  The prize ball control unit 702 is connected with a frame external information terminal board 792. The prize ball control unit 702 can output various types of information to the outside via the frame external information terminal board 792. For example, the prize ball control unit 702 can realize its function by a prize ball control board.

(Example of table stored in ROM of main controller)
Next, an example of a table stored in the ROM 712 of the main control unit 701 will be described. FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of a table stored in the ROM of the main control unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of an example of a table stored in the ROM of the main control unit according to the present embodiment. For example, the ROM 712 includes a hit determination table illustrated in FIG. 8-1 (A), a symbol determination table illustrated in FIG. 8-1 (B), and a variation pattern determination table illustrated in FIG. 8-2 (C). Is memorized.

(About the winning judgment table)
The winning determination table shown in FIG. 8A is a table used for “hit determination” in the process of determining whether or not to determine whether or not to make a big hit in the big hit determination. In the hit determination table, a determination value that the main control unit 701 determines to be a big hit in the hit determination is set. For convenience of explanation, FIG. 8A also shows a determination probability that the main control unit 701 determines to be a big hit in the hit determination.

  The main control unit 701 determines whether or not the hit determination random number to be determined matches the determination value of the hit determination table in the hit determination, and determines that it is a big hit if they match. On the other hand, the main control unit 701 determines that it is not a big hit (losing) unless the hit determination random number to be determined matches the determination value in the hit determination table.

  The determination values set in the hit determination table include a low probability determination value 811 and a high probability determination value 812. The main control unit 701 performs the hit determination using the low probability determination value 811 if the determination probability of determining that the jackpot is low, and in the gaming state where the determination probability of determining that the jackpot is high. If there is, the hit determination is performed using the determination value 812 for high probability.

  The high-probability determination value 812 includes more determination values than the low-probability determination value 811. Accordingly, in the hit determination using the high probability determination value 812, the probability that the hit determination random number matches the determination value is higher than in the hit determination using the low probability determination value 811. As a result, the probability of being determined to be a big hit Will increase.

  Specifically, in the case of the present embodiment, the hit determination random number is an integer of “0 to 249”. The low probability determination value 811 is set to “0 (one integer)”. Therefore, the determination probability determined to be a big hit in the hit determination using the determination value 811 for low probability is “1/250”. On the other hand, “0 to 6 (seven integers)” is set in the determination value 812 for high probability. Therefore, the determination probability determined to be a big hit in the hit determination using the high probability determination value 812 is “7/250”.

(About the symbol determination table)
The symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8-1 (B) is a table used for “symbol determination” in the process of determining a jackpot symbol in the jackpot determination. The symbol determination is performed when it is determined that a big hit is made in the hit determination. In the symbol determination table, different determination values are set for each jackpot symbol.

  For convenience of explanation, FIG. 8-1 (B) also shows the determination probability that the main control unit 701 determines each jackpot symbol in the symbol determination, and the jackpot type corresponding to each jackpot symbol. Note that in the gaming machine 100, the jackpot symbol and the jackpot type have a correspondence as shown in FIG. 8-1 (B), so determining the jackpot symbol can be rephrased as determining the jackpot type. .

  The main control unit 701 determines whether or not the symbol determination random number to be determined in the symbol determination matches the determination value of each jackpot symbol in the symbol determination table. The main control unit 701 determines a jackpot symbol associated with a determination value that matches the determination target random number for symbol determination.

  The determination values set in the symbol determination table include a first start port determination value 821 and a second start port determination value 822. When the main control unit 701 performs symbol determination using the hold information acquired by winning a game ball in the first starting port 105, the main control unit 701 performs symbol determination using the first starting port determination value 821. Also, the main control unit 701 performs symbol determination using the second starting port determination value 822 when performing symbol determination using the hold information acquired by winning the game ball in the second starting port 106. .

  The first start opening determination value 821 and the second start opening determination value 822 differ in the contents of the determination value associated with each jackpot symbol. Therefore, the symbol determination using the first start port determination value 821 and the symbol determination using the second start port determination value 822 have different jackpot symbols determined as the determination result of the symbol determination.

  Specifically, in the case of the present embodiment, the random number for symbol determination is an integer of “0 to 99”. In the first start opening judgment value 821, the jackpot symbol A is associated with the judgment value “0 to 9 (10 integers)”, and the jackpot symbol B is the judgment value “10 to 24 (15 integers). ”And the jackpot symbol C is associated with the determination value“ 25 to 39 (15 integers) ”. Further, in the first start opening judgment value 821, the jackpot symbol D is associated with the judgment value “40 to 69 (30 integers)”, and the jackpot symbol E is associated with the judgment value “70 to 99 (30 pieces). Integer) ”.

  Therefore, in the symbol determination using the determination value 821 for the first start port, the determination probability determined as jackpot symbol A is “10/100”, the determination probability determined as jackpot symbol B is “15/100”, and jackpot The determination probability determined as the symbol C is “15/100”. In the symbol determination using the determination value 821 for the first start port, the determination probability determined as the jackpot symbol D is “30/100”, and the determination probability determined as the jackpot symbol E is “30/100”.

  On the other hand, in the determination value 822 for the second start port, the determination value “0 to 29 (30 integers)” is associated with the jackpot symbol A, and the determination value “30 to 44 (15 items) is associated with the jackpot symbol B. Integer) ”and the jackpot symbol C is associated with determination values“ 45 to 64 (20 integers) ”. In addition, in the second start opening determination value 822, the jackpot symbol D is associated with the determination value “65 to 69 (5 integers)”, and the jackpot symbol E is determined to be the determination value “70 to 99 (30 pieces). Integer) ”.

  Therefore, in the symbol determination using the second start opening determination value 822, the determination probability determined to be the jackpot symbol A is “30/100”, the determination probability determined to be the jackpot symbol B is “15/100”, and the jackpot The determination probability determined as the symbol C is “20/100”. In the symbol determination using the second start port determination value 822, the determination probability determined to be the jackpot symbol D is “5/100”, and the determination probability determined to be the jackpot symbol E is “30/100”.

  Thus, in the symbol determination using the second start opening determination value 822, the number of prize balls that can be obtained in the jackpot game is larger than that in the other jackpots than in the symbol determination using the first starting opening determination value 821. Therefore, the determination probability of the jackpot symbol D corresponding to the small lower jackpot 2R probability variation jackpot is low. Therefore, in the gaming machine 100, the jackpot determination performed by winning the game ball at the second starting port 106 is more advantageous to the player than the jackpot determination performed by winning the game ball at the first starting port 105. It can be said to be a big hit decision.

(About variation pattern judgment table)
8C is a table used for “variation pattern determination” in which the main control unit 701 determines a variation pattern. In the variation pattern determination table, different determination values are set for each variation pattern. Here, the variation pattern defines the variation mode of the special symbol when the determination result of the jackpot determination is shown. For example, the variation pattern defines a variation time of a special symbol when the determination result of jackpot determination is shown as shown in FIG.

  Further, in FIG. 8-2 (C), for convenience of explanation, the main control unit 701 produces a determination probability by which each variation pattern is determined in variation pattern determination, and a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner by each variation pattern. The effect contents of the effect performed during the variable display of the effect symbol are also displayed.

  In the variation pattern determination, the main control unit 701 determines whether the variation pattern determination random number to be determined matches the determination value of each variation pattern in the variation pattern determination table. Then, the main control unit 701 determines a variation pattern associated with a determination value that matches the determination target variation pattern determination random number.

  The determination values set in the variation pattern determination table include a loss determination value 831 and a jackpot determination value 832. The main control unit 701 performs the variation pattern determination using the determination value 831 for loss when the determination result of the jackpot determination is loss. Further, the main control unit 701 performs a variation pattern determination using the jackpot determination value 832 when the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot.

  Further, the determination value 831 for losing includes a determination value (a determination value on the left side in FIG. 8B) used when the number U of special figure hold information at the time of variation pattern determination is 2 or less, and the number U Is a determination value (the determination value on the right side in FIG. 8B) used when the value is larger than 2. The main control unit 701 determines which determination value to use in accordance with the value of the special figure holding information number U when performing the variation pattern determination.

  As shown in FIG. 8-2 (C), determination values for the variation patterns Hp10a, Hp10b, Hp11, Hp12, Hp20a, Hp20b, Hp21 to Hp26 are set in the determination value 831 for loss. Therefore, the variation pattern that can be determined in the variation pattern determination using the loss determination value 831 is any one of the variation patterns Hp10a, Hp10b, Hp11, Hp12, Hp20a, Hp20b, and Hp21 to Hp26.

  In addition, in the jackpot determination value 832, determination values for the variation patterns Hp31, Hp32, Hp41 to Hp46 are set. Therefore, the variation pattern that can be determined in the variation pattern determination using the jackpot determination value 832 is any one of the variation patterns Hp31, Hp32, Hp41 to Hp46.

  In the present embodiment, for example, the variation pattern Hp11 in which the button notification effect is not performed is different from the variation pattern Hp21 in which the button notification effect is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in FIG. 8B, the fluctuation pattern Hp11 and the fluctuation pattern Hp21 define the same fluctuation time (30 seconds). In such a case, only one fluctuation pattern may be provided. . In this case, for example, the effect supervising unit 703a performs a well-known lottery process, and determines whether or not to perform the button notice effect when the symbol changes due to the change pattern. In this way, the number of fluctuation patterns can be reduced, and the storage area used for storing the fluctuation patterns can be reduced.

(About the production control unit)
Next, the production control unit 703 will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. The effect control unit 703 includes an effect control unit 703a that controls the entire effect control unit 703, an image / sound control unit 703b that performs display control of the image display unit 104 and audio output control of the speaker 114, lamp lighting control and movable A lamp control unit 703c that controls the driving of the objects 130a to 130d.

(About Director of Production)
First, the production control unit 703a will be described. The production control unit 703a includes a CPU 731, a ROM 732, a RAM 733, an RTC (Real-Time Clock) 734, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 731 controls the entire production control unit 703a. The ROM 732 stores programs and data for controlling the effect control unit 703. The RAM 733 is used as a work area for the CPU 731. The CPU 731 reads a program and data from the ROM 732 and executes the read program while using the RAM 733 as a work area.

  The RTC 734 counts and outputs real time. The RTC 734 is supplied with power by a backup power source (not shown) even if the gaming machine 100 is powered off for a certain period (for example, one day). For this reason, the RTC 734 can continue the timing operation for a certain period even when the power of the gaming machine 100 is shut off.

  Although FIG. 9 shows an example in which the RTC 734 is provided in the production control unit 703a, the RTC 734 may be provided in the main control unit 701, the image / audio control unit 703b, or the like. Further, the RTC 734 may be arranged independently and configured to output information indicating the actual time measured with respect to the production control unit 703a and the like.

  Furthermore, the effect button 118 and the cross key 119 functioning as operation means for accepting an operation from the player are connected to the effect control unit 703a. The effect button 118 and the cross key 119 input a control signal corresponding to a key operated (for example, pressed) by the player to the effect control unit 703a.

(Image / sound controller)
Next, the image / sound control unit 703b will be described. The image / sound controller 703b includes a CPU 741, a ROM 742, a RAM 743, a VRAM 744, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 741 controls the entire image / sound controller 703b. The ROM 742 stores a program, data, and the like for outputting an image and effect sound (sound) related to the effect instructed by the effect control unit 703a. For example, the ROM 742 stores effect data. The effect data includes image data representing a symbol image of the effect symbol, image data representing a background image, moving image data representing a moving image reproduced for reach production, effect sound data representing sound effects, BGM, and the like. The RAM 743 is used as a work area for the CPU 741.

  For example, the CPU 741 reads image data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect supervising unit 703 a from the effect data in the ROM 742, generates display data from this image data, and stores it in the VRAM 744. Further, the CPU 741 reads the image data of the background image corresponding to the effect mode set by the effect supervising unit 703a from the effect data, generates display data from this image data, and stores it in the VRAM 744.

  When generating the display data, the CPU 741 uses a hidden surface removal method such as a Z buffer method so that the background image is arranged on the back side of the effect design. Since the Z buffer method is a known technique, a description thereof is omitted here. The display data stored in the VRAM 744 is output to the image display unit 104 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the image indicated by the display data is displayed on the display screen of the image display unit 104.

  In addition, the CPU 741 reads the effect sound data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect control unit 703 a from the effect data in the ROM 742, generates sound output data, and stores it in the RAM 743. The audio output data stored in the RAM 743 is output to the speaker 114 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the sound indicated by the sound output data is output from the speaker 114.

(About the lamp controller)
Next, the lamp control unit 703c will be described. The lamp control unit 703c includes a CPU 751, a ROM 752, a RAM 753, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 751 governs overall control of the lamp control unit 703c. ROM752 memorize | stores the program, data, etc. for controlling lighting of the lamp | ramp regarding the effect instruct | indicated by the production | presentation supervision part 703a, or driving of movable accessory 130a-130d. The RAM 753 is used as a work area for the CPU 751.

  For example, the ROM 752 stores control data. The control data includes drive control data for driving the movable actors 130a to 130d, lighting control data for lighting each lamp of the effect light unit 115 and the panel lamp 761, and the like. The CPU 751 reads drive control data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect control unit 703a from the control data and stores it in the RAM 753. The control signal corresponding to the drive control data is stored in the movable actors 130a to 130d at a predetermined timing. Input to the motor.

  Thereby, the lamp control unit 703c can drive the movable accessories 130a to 130d. The lamp control unit 703c is also connected to a movable accessory sensor 762 that detects the position of the movable accessory 130a to 130d. The lamp controller 703c receives a detection signal from the movable accessory sensor 762, and the movable accessory is detected based on the detection signal. The driving of 130a to 130d can also be controlled.

  Further, the CPU 751 reads lighting control data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect supervising unit 703a from the control data and stores it in the RAM 753. The control signal corresponding to the lighting control data is output at a predetermined timing at the effect light unit 115 or the like. Input to the lighting control circuit of the panel lamp 761. As a result, the lamp control unit 703c can turn on the lamps of the effect light unit 115 and the panel lamp 761.

  In the present embodiment, the production control unit 703 is configured such that the production control unit 703a, the image / audio control unit 703b, and the lamp control unit 703c are provided as different boards, but these are incorporated on the same printed board. May be. However, each function is independent even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board.

(An example of a table stored in the ROM of the production control unit)
Next, an example of a table stored in the effect control unit 703 will be described. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a table stored in the effect control unit of the present embodiment. For example, the ROM 732 of the production control unit 703a and the ROM 742 of the image / audio control unit 703b store the production pattern determination table shown in FIG.

(Example of production pattern determination table)
The effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10D is a table used for “effect pattern determination” in which, for example, the effect control unit 703a determines the effect pattern of the effect to be executed. In the effect pattern determination table, a variation pattern is set for each effect pattern that defines the effect contents.

  For example, the production patterns Ep10a, Ep10b, Ep11, Ep12, Ep20a, Ep20b, Ep21b-Ep26 are associated with the variation patterns Hp10a, Hp10b, Hp11, Hp12, Hp20a, Hp20b, Hp21-Hp26 for loss. It means that it is a production pattern for loss. Further, the effect patterns Ep31, Ep32, Ep41 to Ep46 are associated with the big hit variation patterns Hp31, Hp32, Hp41 to Hp46, which means that they are big hit effect patterns.

  Further, the effect patterns Ep20a, Ep20b, Ep21 to Ep24, and Ep41 to Ep44 are effect patterns representing effects including the aforementioned button notice effect. For this reason, in the effect pattern determination table, these effect patterns are set in association with the notice result of the button notice effect.

  In addition, the production patterns Ep25, Ep26, Ep45, and Ep46 are production patterns representing productions that are pseudo-continuous productions without including the aforementioned button notice production. At the time of production represented by these production patterns, for example, after the middle production symbol Ez2 is switched to the special display mode immediately before the temporary stop display of the middle production symbol Ez2 without passing through the button notice production, the middle production symbol Ez2 displays the chance symbol. As shown, a temporary stop display is made, a chance is established, and a pseudo-continuous effect is started.

(Processing performed by the main controller)
Next, processing performed by the gaming machine 100 will be described. First, processing performed by the main control unit 701 of the gaming machine 100 will be described. Each process of the main control unit 701 described below is performed by the CPU 711 of the main control unit 701 executing a program stored in the ROM 712.

(Main process)
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the main process. For example, the main control unit 701 starts executing the main process when activated by the supply of power. In the main process, first, the main control unit 701 waits for 1000 ms (step S1101), and sets access permission to the RAM 713 (step S1102).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the RAM clear switch is ON (step S1103). If the RAM clear switch is ON (step S1103: Yes), the main control unit 701 clears the RAM (step S1104). In the RAM clear, the backup information stored in the main control unit 701 is discarded (cleared).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs initial setting of the peripheral part (step S1105), and proceeds to the process of step S1109. In step S1105, the main control unit 701 transmits an initial setting command instructing each peripheral unit such as the prize ball control unit 702 and the effect control unit 703 to perform predetermined initial settings.

  On the other hand, if the RAM clear switch is OFF (step S1103: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the backup flag is ON (step S1106). The backup flag is a flag indicating that backup information is stored in the main control unit 701. If the backup flag is OFF (step S1106: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1104.

  If the backup flag is ON (step S1106: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether the checksum is normal (step S1107). If the checksum is abnormal (step S1107: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1104.

  If the checksum is normal (step S1107: Yes), the main control unit 701 performs recovery processing (step S1108). In the restoration process, a process of returning the setting of the main control unit 701 to the state at the previous power-off time is performed.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 sets a CTC (timer counter) period (for example, 4 ms) (step S1109). The main control unit 701 executes a timer interrupt process described later at the cycle set in step S1109. Then, the main control unit 701 performs a power-off monitoring process for monitoring the power-off (step S1110). In the power-off monitoring process, backup information is generated and stored when power-off is detected.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs variation pattern determination random number update processing to increment the count value of the variation pattern determination random number counter by “+1” (step S1111). Then, the main control unit 701 performs an interrupt prohibition setting for prohibiting the interrupt execution of the timer interrupt process (step S1112), and performs a random number update process (step S1113).

  In step S1113, the main control unit 701 increments the count values of various random number counters included in the main control unit 701 such as a hit determination random number counter, a symbol determination random number counter, and a variation pattern determination random number counter by “+1”. In step S1113, only the count value of a specific random number counter among the various random number counters included in the main control unit 701 may be incremented by “+1”. Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs an interrupt permission setting for permitting interrupt execution of the timer interrupt process (step S1114), and returns to the process of step S1110.

(Timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing. For example, the main control unit 701 interrupts and executes the timer interrupt process with respect to the main process at the cycle set in step S1109. In the timer interrupt process, first, the main control unit 701 performs a random number update process (step S1201). In step S1201, the main control unit 701 increments the count values of various random number counters included in the main control unit 701 by “+1” as in step S1113.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs switch processing (step S1202). The switch process includes a start-port switch process (described later) for detecting a game ball won at a start port (first start port 105, second start port 106), a gate switch process for detecting a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, This includes a big prize opening switch process for detecting game balls won in the big prize opening 109a and the lower big prize opening 109b, and a normal prize opening switch process for detecting a game ball won in the normal prize opening 110.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 executes symbol processing (step S1203). The symbol processing includes special symbol processing related to special symbols (described later) and normal symbol processing related to normal symbols. For example, in the special symbol processing, the main control unit 701 performs jackpot determination and performs display control of the special symbol. Further, in the normal symbol processing, the main control unit 701 performs normal symbol determination and performs normal symbol display control.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs an electric accessory control process (step S1204). In the electric accessory control process, a large prize opening control process (described later) for controlling the opening / closing operation of the upper prize winning port 109a and the lower prize winning port 109b, and a normal electric accessory for controlling the opening / closing operation of the ordinary electric accessory 107 Control processing. For example, in the big prize opening control process, the main control unit 701 controls the opening / closing operation of the upper big prize opening 109a and the lower big prize opening 109b based on the determination result of the big hit determination. Further, in the ordinary electric accessory control process, the main control unit 701 controls the opening / closing operation of the ordinary electric accessory 107 based on the determination result of the ordinary symbol determination.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 executes a prize ball control process (step S1205). In the prize ball control processing, the main control unit 701 sets a prize ball command instructing the prize ball control unit 702 to the RAM 713 so as to pay out the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning opening where the game ball has won.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs an output process (step S1206), and ends the timer interrupt process. In the output process, the main control unit 701 outputs the commands set in the RAM 713 by the processes in steps S1201 to S1205 to the prize ball control unit 702 and the effect control unit 703. When the timer interrupt process ends, the main control unit 701 returns to the main process.

(Start-up switch processing)
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the start port switch process. In the start port switch process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the first start port SW 714a is ON (step S1301). If the first start port SW 714a is OFF (step S1301: No), the process proceeds to step S1306.

  If the first start port SW 714a is ON (step S1301: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether the first hold information number U1 is less than 4 (U1 <4) (step S1302). If the number of first hold information U1 is 4 or more (step S1302: No), the process proceeds to step S1306.

  If the first hold information number U1 is less than 4 (step S1302: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets a value obtained by adding “+1” to the first hold information number U1 as a new first hold information number U1 (step S1302: Yes). S1303). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 refers to the count values of various random number counters included in the main control unit 701, and acquires and stores the count values at that time as hold information (step S1304). Then, a preliminary determination process is performed using the acquired hold information (step S1305), and the process proceeds to step S1306.

  Next, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the second start port SW 714b is ON (step S1306). If the second start port SW 714b is OFF (step S1306: No), the start port switch process is terminated. If the second starter SW 714b is ON (step S1306: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether the second number of pending information U2 is less than 4 (U2 <4) (step S1307). If the number of second hold information U2 is 4 or more (step S1307: No), the start port switch process is terminated.

  If the second pending information count U2 is less than 4 (step S1307: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the value obtained by adding "+1" to the second pending information count U2 as a new second pending information count U2 (step S1307: Yes). S1308). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 refers to the count values of various random number counters included in the main control unit 701, and acquires and stores the count values at that time as hold information (step S1309). Then, a preliminary determination process is performed using the acquired hold information (step S1310), and the start port switch process is terminated.

(Special symbol processing)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the special symbol process. In the special symbol process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON (step S1401). The jackpot game flag is a flag indicating that a jackpot game is being played. That is, the jackpot game flag is set to ON when the jackpot game is started, and is set to OFF when the jackpot game ends.

  If the jackpot game flag is ON (step S1401: Yes), the main control unit 701 ends the special symbol process as it is. Thereby, in the gaming machine 100, the jackpot determination is not performed during the jackpot game. If the big hit game flag is OFF (step S1401: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the special symbol is being changed (step S1402). If the special symbol variation display is in progress (step S1402: Yes), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1411. As a result, in the gaming machine 100, the jackpot determination is not performed during the variation display of the special symbol.

  If the special symbol variation display is not in progress (step S1402: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the second reserved information count U2 is equal to or greater than “1” (step S1403). If the second pending information count U2 is “1” or more (step S1403: Yes), the main control unit 701 subtracts “1” from the second pending information count U2 (step S1404) to determine the jackpot determination process (described later). ) Is performed (step S1405). As a result, in the gaming machine 100, the big hit determination based on the hold information stored when the game ball wins the second start opening 106 is stored by the game ball winning the first start opening 105. This is prioritized over the jackpot determination based on information.

  If the second pending information count U2 is less than “1” (step S1403: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether the first pending information count U1 is equal to or greater than “1” (step S1406). If the number of first hold information U1 is less than “1” (step S1406: No), the main control unit 701 ends the special symbol process as it is. Thereby, in the gaming machine 100, when the hold information is not stored, the jackpot determination is not performed.

  If the first hold information number U1 is “1” or more (step S1406: Yes), the main control unit 701 subtracts “1” from the first hold information number U1 (step S1407), and proceeds to the process of step S1405. Shift to jackpot determination process. When the determination result of the jackpot determination is derived by the jackpot determination process, the main control unit 701 performs a variation pattern setting process (described later) (step S1408). Then, the main control unit 701 starts the special symbol variation display based on the determination result of the jackpot determination derived by the jackpot determination processing and the variation pattern set by the variation pattern setting processing (step S1409).

  In step S1409, when the main control unit 701 makes a jackpot determination based on the hold information stored when the game ball wins the first starting port 105, the main control unit 701 displays the special symbol of the first special symbol display unit 201a. Display fluctuating. On the other hand, when the main control unit 701 makes a jackpot determination based on the hold information stored when the game ball wins the second starting port 106, the main control unit 701 displays the special symbol on the second special symbol display unit 201b in a variable manner.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 generates a change start command and sets it in the RAM 713 (step S1410). For example, the variation start command includes information indicating a variation start command, and information indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination derived by the jackpot determination processing and the variation pattern set by the variation pattern setting processing. The variation start command is transmitted to the effect control unit 703 and the like by output processing.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the variation time has elapsed (step S1411). In step S1411, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the variation time determined by the variation pattern set immediately before the start of variation display has elapsed since the start of variation display of the special symbol. If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (step S1411: NO), the main control unit 701 ends the special symbol process as it is. As a result, the special symbol is variably displayed on the gaming machine 100 with the variation time determined by the variation pattern.

  If the fluctuation time has elapsed (step S1411: Yes), the main control unit 701 stops and displays the special symbol during the fluctuation display so as to indicate the determination result of the jackpot determination (step S1412). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 generates a change stop command and sets it in the RAM 713 (step S1413). For example, the change stop command includes information indicating a change stop command and information indicating a determination result of the jackpot determination derived by the jackpot determination process and a change pattern set by the change pattern setting process. Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs a stop process (described later) (step S1414) and ends the special symbol process.

(Big hit judgment processing)
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the jackpot determination process. In the jackpot determination process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the high probability flag is ON (step S1501). The high probability flag is a flag indicating that the jackpot determination is performed using the determination value 812 for high probability (see FIG. 8A). That is, in the case of the gaming machine 100, the high probability flag is set to ON by the probability variation jackpot, and is set to OFF by 10,000 jackpot judgments or normal jackpots.

  If the high probability flag is ON (step S1501: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the high probability determination value 812 in the RAM 713 (step S1502). If the high probability flag is OFF (step S1501: No), the main control unit 701 sets the low probability determination value 811 in the RAM 713 (step S1503).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs a hit determination using the value of the hit determination random number for the hold information to be determined and the determination value set in the RAM 713 in step S1502 or step S1503 (step S1504). The hit determination is as described above.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the determination result of the hit determination is a big hit (step S1505). If the determination result of the hit determination is a big hit (step S1505: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the hit determination is performed based on the hold information stored when the game ball wins the first starting port 105. Is determined (step S1506).

  If the hit determination is performed based on the hold information stored by winning the game ball at the first start opening 105 (step S1506: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the first start opening determination value 821 in the RAM 713. (Step S1507). If the winning determination is performed based on the hold information stored when the game ball wins the second starting port 106 (step S1506: No), the main control unit 701 sets the second starting port determination value 822 in the RAM 713. (Step S1508).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs symbol determination using the symbol determination random number value of the hold information to be determined and the determination value set in the RAM 713 in step S1507 or step S1508 (step S1509). The symbol determination is as described above. Then, the main control unit 701 sets the jackpot symbol derived as a symbol determination result in the RAM 713 (step S1510), and ends the jackpot determination process.

  If the determination result of the hit determination is a loss (step S1505: No), the main control unit 701 sets the loss symbol in the RAM 713 (step S1511) and ends the big hit determination process.

(Variation pattern setting process)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variation pattern setting process. In the variation pattern setting process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot (step S1601). If the determination result of jackpot determination is a jackpot (step S1601: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the jackpot determination value 832 in the RAM 713 (step S1602). If it is a loss (step S1601: No), the main control unit 701 sets a determination value 831 for loss in the RAM 713 (step S1603).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs variation pattern determination using the value of the variation pattern determination random number of the hold information to be determined and the determination value set in the RAM 713 in step S1602 or step S1603 (step S1604). The variation pattern determination is as described above. Then, the main control unit 701 sets a variation pattern derived as a variation pattern determination result in the RAM 713 (step S1605), and ends the variation pattern setting process.

(Processing during stoppage)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the stop process. In the stop process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the time reduction flag is ON (step S1701). The time-short flag is a flag indicating that the game ball is in a state of being controlled so that the game ball can easily win the second starting port 106. That is, in the case of the gaming machine 100, the hourly flag is set to ON by the probability variation jackpot or the normal jackpot, and is set to OFF by the jackpot determination of a predetermined number of times (10000 times after the probability variation jackpot, 30 times after the normal jackpot). If the time reduction flag is OFF (step S1701: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1705 as it is.

  If the time reduction flag is ON (step S1701: Yes), the main control unit 701 subtracts “1” from the count value X of the time reduction counter (step S1702), and whether the count value X after subtraction is “0” or not. Is determined (step S1703). If the count value X is not “0” (step S1703: NO), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1705 as it is. If the count value X is “0” (step S1703: YES), the main control unit 701 sets the time reduction flag to OFF (step S1704), and the process proceeds to step S1705.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the high probability flag is ON (step S1705). If the high probability flag is OFF (step S1705: NO), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1709 as it is.

  If the high probability flag is ON (step S1705: Yes), the main control unit 701 subtracts “1” from the count value Y of the high probability counter (step S1706), and the count value Y after the subtraction is “0”. It is determined whether or not (step S1707). If the count value Y is not “0” (step S1707: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1709 as it is. If the count value Y is “0” (step S1707: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the high probability flag to OFF (step S1708), and proceeds to the processing of step S1709.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the stopped display symbol is a jackpot symbol (step S1709). If it is not a jackpot symbol (step S1709: NO), the main control unit 701 ends the stopping process as it is. If it is a jackpot symbol (step S1709: YES), the main control unit 701 sets the jackpot game flag to ON (step S1710).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 resets the count value X of the hour / hour counter and the count value Y of the high probability counter to “0” (step S1711), and sets the hour / hour flag and the high probability flag to OFF (step S1712). . Subsequently, the main control unit 701 starts a predetermined opening in the jackpot game (step S1713), sets an opening command in the RAM 713 (step S1714), and ends the in-stop process.

(Big prize opening control process)
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the special winning opening control process. As described above, this special winning opening control process is included in the electric accessory control process. In the big prize opening control process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the big hit game flag is ON (step S1801). If the big hit game flag is OFF (step S1801: No), the main control unit 701 ends the big winning opening control process as it is.

  If the jackpot game flag is ON (step S1801: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not opening is in progress (step S1802). If it is during opening (step S1802: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not a predetermined opening time has passed (step S1803). If the opening time has not elapsed (step S1803: No), the main control unit 701 ends the special winning opening control process as it is.

  If the opening time has elapsed (step S1803: YES), the main control unit 701 sets a special winning opening operation pattern in the RAM 713 (step S1804). In step S1804, based on the type of jackpot determined to be determined by the jackpot determination, the main control unit 701 sets a big winning opening to be opened, an opening time for one round, the number of rounds to continue the jackpot game, and the like.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 adds “1” to the count value R of the R number counter (step S1805), and starts to open the special winning opening based on the special winning opening operation pattern set in the RAM 713 ( Step S1806).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the opening time has elapsed from the start of opening of the big prize opening (step S1807). If the opening time has elapsed (step S1807: YES), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1809. If the opening time has not elapsed (step S1807: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not a predetermined number of game balls have been won in the big winning opening since the opening of the big winning opening (step S1808). ). If there is no winning of a predetermined number of game balls (step S1808: No), the main control unit 701 ends the large winning opening control process as it is.

  If a predetermined number of game balls have been won (step S1808: YES), the main control unit 701 closes the open large winning opening (step S1809). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not it is the final R (step S1810). For example, in the case of 16R big hit, in step S1810, the main control unit 701 determines whether the count value R is “16”, and if the count value R is “16”, the main control unit 701 determines final R. Similarly, if the count value R is “8” in the case of a big hit of 8R, the final R is determined if the count value R is “2” in the case of the big hit of 2R.

  If it is not the final R (step S1810: No), the main control unit 701 terminates the big winning opening control process as it is. If it is the final R (step S1810: Yes), the main control unit 701 starts a predetermined ending in the jackpot game (step S1811), and sets an ending command in the RAM 713 (step S1812).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 resets the count value R of the R number counter to “0” (step S1813). Then, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not a predetermined ending time has elapsed (step S1814). If the ending time has not elapsed (step S1814: No), the main control unit 701 ends the special winning opening control process as it is.

  If the ending time has elapsed (step S1814: YES), the main control unit 701 performs a game state setting process (described later) (step S1815). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 sets the jackpot game flag to OFF (step S1816), and ends the big prize opening control process.

  If the opening is not in progress in step S1802 (step S1802: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether the ending is in progress (step S1817). If it is during ending (step S1817: Yes), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1814.

  If it is not ending (step S1817: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the special winning opening is being opened (step S1818). If the special winning opening is being opened (step S1818: YES), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1807. If the special winning opening is not being opened (step S1818: NO), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1805.

(Game state setting process)
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the game state setting process. In the game state setting process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the jackpot to be ended is a normal jackpot (step S1901). If it is a normal big hit (step S1901: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the hour / hour flag to ON (step S1902), sets the count value X of the hour / hour counter to “30” (step S1903), and the game The state setting process ends.

  If it is not a normal big hit (step S1901: No), the main control unit 701 sets the hour / hour flag to ON (step S1904), and sets “10000” as the count value X of the hour / hour counter (step S1905). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 sets the high probability flag to ON (step S1906), sets “10000” to the count value Y of the high probability counter (step S1907), and ends the gaming state setting process.

(Processing performed by the Production Control Department)
Next, processing performed by the production supervision unit 703a of the gaming machine 100 will be described. Each process of the production control unit 703a described below is performed by the CPU 731 of the production control unit 703a executing a program stored in the ROM 732.

(Production timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect timer interrupt process. For example, the production control unit 703a continuously performs a production main process (not shown) during activation, and performs the production timer interruption process shown in FIG. 20 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms) for this production main process. Execute interrupt.

  In the effect timer interrupt process, the effect control unit 703a first performs a command reception process (described later) (step S2001). Subsequently, the production control unit 703a performs an operation reception process (step S2002). In the operation acceptance process, when the effect button 118 or the cross key 119 is operated, a process for setting a command corresponding to the operated key in the RAM 733 is performed.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 703a performs a command transmission process (step S2003), and ends the effect timer interrupt process. In the command transmission process, a process of transmitting a command set in the RAM 733 by a command reception process or an operation reception process is performed.

(Command reception processing)
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of command reception processing. In the command receiving process, first, the effect supervising unit 703a determines whether or not a change start command has been received (step S2101). If the change start command has not been received (step S2101: No), the production control unit 703a directly proceeds to the process of step S2103. If the change start command has been received (step S2101: Yes), the production supervision unit 703a performs the production start process (step S2102). The effect start process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a determines whether a change stop command has been received (step S2103). If the change stop command has not been received (step S2103: NO), the production control unit 703a proceeds to the process of step S2106 as it is. If the change stop command is received (step S2103: Yes), the production supervision unit 703a performs the production end process (step S2104) and performs the production mode change process (step S2105). For example, in the effect end process, an effect end command that instructs the image / sound control unit 703b or the lamp control unit 703c to end the effect being executed is set in the RAM 723.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a determines whether an opening command has been received (step S2106). If the opening command has not been received (step S2106: NO), the production control unit 703a proceeds to the process of step S2108 as it is. If the opening command has been received (step S2106: Yes), the production supervision unit 703a performs a jackpot presentation start process for starting the jackpot presentation (step S2107).

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a determines whether an ending command is received (step S2108). If the ending command has not been received (step S2108: No), the production control unit 703a ends the command reception process as it is. If the ending command has been received (step S2108: Yes), the production control unit 703a performs a jackpot presentation end process for ending the currently executed jackpot presentation (step S2109), and performs a presentation mode setting process (step S2109). In step S2110, the command reception process ends. For example, in the effect mode setting process, the probability change effect mode is set after the probability change jackpot, or the time reduction effect mode is set after the normal jackpot.

(Direction start processing)
FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect start process. As shown in FIG. 22, in the production start process, the production supervision unit 703a first uses the production pattern determination table to produce the production pattern associated with the variation pattern represented by the variation start command received from the main control unit 701. Is determined (step S2201). For example, when the variation pattern represented by the variation start command is the variation pattern Hp21, the effect pattern Ep21a and the effect pattern Ep21b are derived as the processing result of step S2201.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 703a sets the effect pattern derived as the determination result in step S2201 in the RAM 733 (step S2202), and an effect start command for starting the effect represented by the effect pattern set in step S2202 is stored in the RAM 733. (Step S2203), and the effect start process is terminated. The effect start command includes information that allows the image / sound control unit 703b and the lamp control unit 703c to specify the effect pattern set in step S2202. The effect start command set in step S2203 is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 703b and the lamp control unit 703c by the command transmission process in step S2003.

(Processing performed by the image / sound controller)
Next, processing performed by the image / sound control unit 703b of the gaming machine 100 will be described. Each processing of the image / sound control unit 703b described below is performed by the CPU 741 of the image / sound control unit 703b executing a program stored in the ROM 742.

(Production display start processing)
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect display start process. For example, the image / sound control unit 703b continuously performs the image / sound control main process (not shown) during the activation, and the image / sound control main process is performed at a predetermined period (for example, every 4 ms) as shown in FIG. The effect display start process shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 23, in the effect display start process, first, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not an effect start command is received from the effect control unit 703a (step S2301). If the image / sound control unit 703b has not received the effect start command (step S2301: No), the effect display start process ends.

  If the image / sound control unit 703b has received the effect start command (step S2301: Yes), the received effect start command is analyzed, the effect pattern represented by the effect start command is specified, and the specified effect pattern is determined. It is set in the RAM 733 (step S2302).

  Subsequently, the image / sound controller 703b determines the contents of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 to be stopped and displayed based on the effect pattern set in step S2302 (step S2303). In step S2303, for example, when the effect pattern set in step S2302 is the effect pattern Ep10a, Ep10b, Ep20a, or Ep20b, the image / sound control unit 703b determines the content (for example, “1 · 2 · 2”) to be inconsistent. To do. For example, when the effect pattern set in step S2302 is the effect patterns Ep11, Ep12, and Ep21 to Ep26, the image / sound control unit 703b determines the content that causes reach loss (for example, “1 · 2 · 1”). For example, when the effect pattern set in step S2302 is the effect patterns Ep31, Ep32, Ep41 to Ep46, the image / sound control unit 703b determines the content to be a hit (for example, “1 · 1 · 1”).

  Further, for example, in step S2303, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the effect pattern set in step S2302 is any of the effect patterns Ep23 to Ep26 and Ep43 to Ep46, that is, an effect pattern representing an effect including a pseudo-continuous effect. In this case, the contents of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 that are temporarily stopped and displayed when the chance is further determined. The contents of the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 that are temporarily stopped and displayed when the chance is reached can be arbitrary contents. For example, the image / sound control unit 703b randomly determines by performing a known lottery process or the like.

  Further, for example, in step S2303, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the effect pattern set in step S2302 is any of the effect patterns Ep23 to Ep26 and Ep43 to Ep46, that is, an effect pattern representing an effect including a pseudo-continuous effect. In this case, the number of temporary stop display of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 may be further determined in the pseudo continuous effect. In this case, the image / sound controller 703b determines any number of times within a predetermined range (for example, 1 to 4 times) by performing a known lottery process.

  For example, when determining the number of times, the image / sound control unit 703b determines three or four times with a higher probability than the effect patterns Ep23 to Ep26 for loss in the case of the jackpot effect patterns Ep43 to Ep46. On the other hand, in the case of the effect patterns Ep23 to Ep26 for the loss, it is determined once or twice with a higher probability than the effect patterns Ep43 to Ep46 for the big hit. Thereby, the gaming machine 100 can indicate to the player the reliability of the jackpot based on the number of times that the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are temporarily stopped and displayed in the pseudo-continuous effect (the number of times the change is re-variable).

  Not limited to the above example, for example, in the gaming machine 100, different variation patterns and production patterns are provided for each number of temporary stop displays of the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 in the pseudo-continuous production. The variation pattern and effect pattern of 3 or 4 times are selected with a high probability, and in the case of a loss, the variation pattern and effect pattern of 1 or 2 times are selected with a higher probability than the case of jackpot. Good. This also allows the gaming machine 100 to indicate to the player the reliability of the jackpot based on the number of times that the design symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are temporarily stopped and displayed (number of times they are re-variable) in the pseudo-continuous performance. .

  In addition, when the gaming machine 100 performs the button notice effect and the pseudo-continuous effect, the game machine 100 performs the button notice effect only at the first pseudo change (after the change is started until the first temporary stop display is displayed). It may be performed, or a button notice effect may be performed for each pseudo-variation (until the next temporary stop display is made after re-variation).

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the effect pattern set in step S2302 is a button notice effect pattern representing an effect including a button notice effect (step S2304). In step S2304, an affirmative determination is made when the effect pattern set in step S2302 is any one of the effect patterns Ep20a, Ep20b, Ep21 to Ep24, and Ep41 to Ep44, and a negative determination is made otherwise. If the image / sound control unit 703b determines in step S2304 that it is not a button notice effect pattern (step S2304: No), the process proceeds to step S2309.

  If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the button notice effect pattern is determined in step S2304 (step S2304: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b sets the notice result of the button notice effect based on the effect pattern set in step S2302 (step S2305). In step S2305, if the effect pattern set in step S2302 is any of the effect patterns Ep20a, Ep23, Ep24, Ep43, Ep44, the first result is set as the notice result. On the other hand, if the effect pattern set in step S2302 is any one of the effect patterns Ep20b, Ep21, Ep22, Ep41, Ep42, the second result is set as the notice result.

  As described above, for example, when a plurality of variations such as “reach ?!”, “reach!”, And “super hot” are provided in the second result, the image / sound control unit 703b sets the second result in step S2305. The content of the result is determined, and the second result of this content is set.

  In this case, the image / sound control unit 703b determines the content of the second result by performing a well-known lottery process based on the effect pattern set in step S2302. For example, when the effect pattern set in step S2302 is the effect pattern Ep20b (button notice effect (second result) → normal lose), the image / sound control unit 703b sets “reach ?!” with a probability of 100%. decide.

  Further, for example, if the effect pattern set in step S2302 is the effect pattern Ep21 (button notice effect (second result) → anime reach effect → reach lose), the image / sound control unit 703b reads “reach ?!”. Decide either “Reach!”

  Further, for example, when the effect pattern set in step S2302 is the effect pattern Ep41 (button notice effect (second result) → anime reach effect → hit), the image / sound control unit 703b determines “reach ?! ”,“ Reach! ”, Or“ Gekiatsu ”. For example, in the case of the production pattern Ep41, the probability of being determined as “reach!” (Better content) is higher than in the case of the production pattern Ep21.

  For example, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the effect pattern set in step S2302 is the effect pattern Ep22 (button notice effect (second result) → live-action reach effect → reach lose), and the effect pattern Ep42 ( In the case of button notice effect (second result) → live-action reach effect → big hit), it is determined as one of “reach?”, “Reach!”, And “super hot”. For example, in the case of the production pattern Ep42, the probability of being determined to be “super hot” (better content) is higher than in the case of the production pattern Ep22.

  It should be noted that the image / sound control unit 703b is within a range in which there is no contradiction in production that causes “reach!” Or “super hot” even though the reach production is not performed following the button notice production, for example. The content of the second result may be determined as appropriate, and is not limited to the above example.

  Subsequently, the image / sound controller 703b determines whether or not the first result is set in step S2305 (step S2306). If the image / sound control unit 703b has not set the first result (step S2306: NO), the process proceeds to step S2308. When the first result is set (step S2306: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines the content of the special display mode, that is, the chance symbol placement position (step S2307).

  For example, the image / sound control unit 703b is an effect pattern in which the effect pattern set in step S2302 represents an effect including a pseudo-continuous effect, and the medium effect symbol Ez2 is temporarily stopped and displayed so as to represent “3” in step S2303. Suppose you decide. In this case, the image / sound control unit 703b determines the arrangement position of the numeric symbol representing “3” determined to be temporarily stopped as the chance symbol arrangement position. In this case, a symbol string having a content in which the numeric symbol representing “3” is replaced with the chance symbol is displayed.

  On the other hand, for example, the image / audio control unit 703b is an effect pattern in which the effect pattern set in step S2302 represents an effect that does not include a pseudo-continuous effect, and stops in step S2303 so that the medium effect symbol Ez2 represents “3”. Suppose that it is decided to display. In this case, the image / sound control unit 703b determines the arrangement position of the numeric symbol representing “2” one frame below the numeric symbol representing “3” determined to be stopped as the chance symbol arrangement position. In this case, a symbol string having contents in which the numeric symbol representing “2” is replaced with the chance symbol is displayed. As a result, even when the gaming machine 100 does not consider it as a chance, it can be shown to the player as if it is a chance, and the player can be expected to have a chance. It becomes like this.

  More specifically, the gaming machine 100 does not stop and display the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3, but displays the stop smoothly by gradually decreasing the scroll speed. For this reason, from the player's perspective, it is possible to predict which numeric symbol will be stopped and displayed from the currently displayed numeric symbol and the current scroll speed. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 sets the number symbol one frame below the number symbol determined to be stopped as a chance symbol, so that the display position at the time when the chance symbol is established (for example, time t17 in FIG. 4-3). It is possible to stop and display at (position) and show to the player as if it were a chance.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 uses the number symbol one frame below the number symbol determined to be displayed as a stop symbol as a chance symbol, so that the display position (for example, FIG. The chance symbol can be displayed once at the time t17). Thereby, the gaming machine 100 can be shown to the player as if the gaming machine 100 does not have a chance.

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b sets the button notice effect flag to ON (step S2308). Then, the image / sound control unit 703b starts the variable display of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 (step S2309), starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of the variable display (step S2310), and performs the effect display start process. finish. As will be described later, the elapsed time when the measurement is started in step S2310 is used for determining the start timing of the button notice effect.

(Button notice effect start processing)
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of button notice effect start processing. For example, the image / sound control unit 703b interrupts and executes the button notice effect start process shown in FIG. 24 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms) with respect to the image / sound control main process, similarly to the effect display start process described above. .

  As shown in FIG. 24, in the button notice effect start process, first, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the button notice effect flag is set to ON (step S2401). If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the button notice effect flag is OFF (step S2401: No), the button notice effect start process ends.

  When determining that the button notice effect flag is ON (step S2401: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether the button notice effect start timing has come (step S2402). For example, in step S2402, a determination is made as to whether or not the elapsed time from which the measurement was started in step S2310 has reached a predetermined time predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100. It is determined that the production start timing has come. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in this determination, it is determined that the button notice effect start timing is not reached. If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that it is not the button notice effect start timing (step S2402: No), the button notice effect start process ends.

  When the image / sound control unit 703b determines that it is the button notice effect start timing (step S2402: Yes), it starts displaying the button notice effect image (step S2403). The button notice effect image includes, for example, an image for guiding the player to start the button notice effect (see time t13 in FIG. 4A), and images of the left card 401, the right card 402, and the cursor 403 (FIG. 4). -2 time t14). For example, the image / audio control unit 703b displays the cursor 403 as an initial position above the right card 402 at the start of the button notice effect.

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b sets the operation valid period (step S2404), sets the button warning effect flag to ON and sets the button warning effect flag to OFF (step S2405), and sets the button warning effect. End the start process.

(Processing during button announcement)
FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the button notice effect processing. For example, the image / sound control unit 703b interrupts and executes the button announcement effect process shown in FIG. 25 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms) with respect to the image / sound control main process as in the above-described effect display start process. .

  As shown in FIG. 25, in the button notice effect processing, first, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the button notice effect flag is set to ON (step S2501). If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the button notice effect flag is OFF (step S2501: No), the process proceeds to step S2512.

  If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the button notice effect flag is ON (step S2501: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not a cross key command is received from the effect control unit 703a (step S2502). If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the cross key command has not been received (step S2502: NO), the process proceeds to step S2505.

  When determining that the cross key command has been received (step S2502: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether the operation valid period is being set (step S2503). If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the operation valid period is not being set (step S2503: No), the process proceeds to step S2505.

  When the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the operation valid period is being set (step S2503: Yes), the display position of the cursor 403 is changed based on the received cross key command and the current display position of the cursor 403 (step S2503). S2504). For example, in step S2504, when the image / audio control unit 703b receives a cross key command indicating that the left arrow key is pressed while the cursor 403 is displayed above the right card 402, the cursor 403 is moved to the left card 401. Change to the upper display position. When the image / sound control unit 703b receives a cross key command indicating that the right key is pressed while the cursor 403 is displayed above the left card 401, the image / sound control unit 703b moves the cursor 403 to the display position above the right card 402. Change to

  Subsequently, the image / audio control unit 703b determines whether or not an effect button command has been received from the effect control unit 703a (step S2505). If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that an effect button command has not been received (step S2505: NO), the process proceeds to step S2513.

  When determining that the effect button command has been received (step S2505: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether the operation valid period is being set (step S2506). If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the operation valid period is not being set (step S2506: No), the process proceeds to step S2513.

  If the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the operation effective period is being set (step S2506: Yes), the operation effective period is ended (step S2507). Then, the image / sound control unit 703b displays the notice result of the present button notice effect (the notice result set in step S2305) using a card corresponding to the current display position of the cursor 403 (step S2508). In step S2508, for example, when the effect button 118 is pressed, if the cursor 403 is displayed above the left card 401, the left card 401 displays the notice result, and the cursor 403 is displayed above the right card 402. If it has been done, the notice result will be shown by the right card 402.

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the notice result of the current button notice effect is the first result (step S2509). When the previous notice result of the button notice effect is not the first result (step S2509: No), that is, when it is the second result, the image / audio control unit 703b proceeds to the process of step S2511.

  When the previous notice result of the button notice effect is the first result (step S2509: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b changes the display form of the medium effect symbol Ez2 to the special display form (step S2510). In step S2510, the medium effect symbol Ez2 is changed to the special display mode having the content determined in step S2307 described above, and the chance symbol appears on the display screen of the image display unit 104.

  Subsequently, the image / audio control unit 703b sets the button notice effect flag to OFF (step S2511), performs the effect symbol stop display process (step S2512), and ends the button notice effect process. In the effect symbol stop display process, the image / sound control unit 703b provides the effect symbol Ez1 so that the content determined in step S2303 is the predetermined timing determined in advance for each effect pattern by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100. ˜Ez3 stop display (including temporary stop display) is performed.

  In the effect symbol stop display process, when the left effect symbol Ez1 and the right effect symbol Ez3 are stopped and displayed so that the image / sound control unit 703b reaches the reach state, the image / sound control unit 703b responds to the effect pattern set in step S2302 described above. Execute reach production. Further, in the effect symbol stop display process, when the image / sound control unit 703b stops and displays the medium effect symbol Ez2 so that there is a chance, the pseudo-continuous effect and reach according to the effect pattern set in step S2302 described above. Perform the production. Also, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the button notice effect end timing has come (step S2513). For example, in step S2513, a determination is made as to whether or not the elapsed time at which measurement was started in step S2310 has reached a predetermined time predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100. It is determined that the production end timing has come. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in this determination, it is determined that it is not the button notice effect end timing. When the image / sound control unit 703b determines that it is the button notice effect end timing (step S2513: Yes), the process proceeds to step S2507. The process proceeds to S2512.

  As described above, the gaming machine 100 switches the display mode of the medium effect symbol Ez2 to the special display mode when the predetermined condition is satisfied, and causes the chance symbol to appear on the display screen in the normal display mode. It can give a novelty to the player and enhance the fun of the game. In addition, the gaming machine 100 indicates the first result or the second result in response to the player's operation in the button notice effect, and therefore “selected (operated)” when the second result (for example, a good result) is shown. “It was worth the armor” can give the player joy, and if the first result (for example, bad result) is shown, the player will be motivated to say “Since it is regrettable, let ’s show the second result next.” Can increase the interest of the game.

  In addition, when the gaming machine 100 shows the first result with a relatively low probability that the reach effect is performed in the button notice effect, the display mode of the medium effect symbol Ez2 is switched to the special display mode, and is normally displayed on the display screen. By making a chance symbol that does not exist at the time of appearance appear, it is possible to give a novelty to the player who is disappointed with the first result, enhance the interest of the game, and maintain the interest in the game.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the interest of the game can be improved.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Game machine 104 Image display part 105 1st start opening 106 2nd start opening 109a Upper university prize opening 109b Lower university prize opening

Claims (1)

Special game determination means for performing a special game determination as to whether or not to perform a special game advantageous to the player when the start condition is satisfied;
When the special game determination is performed by the special game determination unit, a symbol control unit that displays the effect symbol in a variable manner and then stops and displays the determination result of the special game determination;
Effect control means for performing a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the special game determination when the effect control symbol is displayed by the symbol control means;
With
The production control means includes
This suggests that there is a possibility that the special game may be performed as a pre-stage effect that is executed without using the effect symbol during the variation display of the effect symbol and an effect that is executed as a result of the preceding stage effect. can be performed and notice effect to notice that the first effect is performed, the non-announcement and effect, not notice that the first effect a demonstration that result effect of the previous effect is performed Yes,
When the notice effect is performed, after the notice effect, the second effect suggesting that the first effect or the special game is not performed is performed.
When the non-notice effect is performed, after the non-notice effect, the third effect or the second effect suggesting that the special game may be performed with an effect different from the first effect. A gaming machine characterized by

Images