JP6718893B2 - Amusement machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine and a slot machine.

In Patent Document 1, a game machine provided with an image display means (decorative pattern display device 208 in Patent Document 1) capable of displaying an effect pattern or the like in a rectangular effect display area corresponding to a display screen (Pachinko in Patent Document 1) Device 100), the effect display in which a plurality of images in the effect display area are also deformed and displayed according to the effect display area being transformed from a rectangle to a trapezoid (in Patent Document 1, a rectangular image in a non-shaking state) It is disclosed that an effect display for transforming the display into a trapezoidal image display in a shake state is displayed.

JP, 2005-164598, A

In the gaming machine of Patent Document 1, there is room for improvement in the effect display that changes the shape of the effect display area in which effect symbols and the like are displayed.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the enjoyment of effect display.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention,
A gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1),
The effect display area is provided with effect display means (for example, image display device 5) capable of displaying effect images,
The effect display area has a first effect display area (for example, a first effect display area EA1) and a second effect display area (for example, a second effect display area EA2),
It is possible to change the ratio between the display area of the first effect display area and the display area of the second effect display area (for example, the effect control CPU 120 that executes the processing of S323A and S347G).
Depending on the type of effect image displayed in the first effect display area, the display area is changed in a different manner (for example, the first effect image GA1 is displayed in the first effect display area EA1 shown in FIG. 14A1). 14A2 and A3, the display area changes such that the first effect display area EA1 changes to the first shape (for example, trapezoidal shape) according to the characteristics of the first effect image GA1. When the second effect image GA2 is displayed in the first effect display area EA1 shown in FIG. 14(B1), the first effect as shown in FIGS. 14(B2) and (B3) is achieved. This is a change mode (second change mode) of the display area in which the effect display area EA1 changes to a second shape (for example, an inverted trapezoidal shape) according to the characteristics of the second effect image GA2),
further,
First control means (for example, a main board 9011) for outputting a command based on a lottery (for example, a variation pattern designation command),
A second control unit (for example, a production control board 9012) that executes a process (for example, step S90171 that is a process for execution of production) according to the command output by the first control unit,
The second control unit receives a command output by the first control unit and outputs a command according to the received command, and a process according to the command output from the first processing unit. And a second processing unit that executes
The commands output by the first control unit include a first command and a second command different from the first command.
The first processing unit,
When the received command is the first command, the first command is output as it is without being converted into another command,
When the received command is the second command, the second command is converted into the first command and output.

The first control means and the second control means may be composed of a plurality of hardware (boards and processors). Further, at least a part of the first control means and the second control means may be configured by a common hardware configuration.

For example, in the embodiment described later, a portion for converting the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into the variation pattern “8100” (the portion where the common module 90120A executes steps S90751 to S90752) is provided on the main board 9011. Good. In this case, for example, the CPU 90103 determines a fluctuation pattern by lottery and generates a fluctuation pattern designation command (which is output to the RAM 90102). Then, the CPU 90103 performs the same processing as step S90704 to convert the fluctuation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into fluctuation patterns “8100”. Then, the CPU 90103 supplies the converted command to the effect control board 9012. In this way, the second control unit may include a part of the main board 9011.

For example, in an embodiment described later, the common module 90120A is realized by a board different from the main board 9011 and the effect control board 9012, or a processor provided on the effect control board 9012 but different from the effect control CPU 90120. You may do it. In this way, in the second control means, the part that handles a plurality of different commands as the same command and the part that executes the process may be realized by different hardware.

The process according to the command may be a process of determining a performance to be executed or a process of executing a performance (a process executed by the display control unit 90123). In addition, treating a plurality of commands as the same command means not only treating a plurality of commands as one command of the plurality of commands but also treating a plurality of commands as a command other than the plurality of commands. Including. In addition, treating a plurality of commands as the same command may be realized by converting the commands as in the embodiment described later, or performing the same processing for a plurality of commands (thus, the same command Be handled).

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The degree of expectation varies depending on the rate of change of the first effect display area or the second effect display area (for example, as compared to the rate of change of the first effect display area EA1 shown in FIG. ), the change rate of the first effect display area EA1 has a higher degree of expectation).
According to this configuration, it is possible to pay attention to the rate of change in the effect display area.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2) above,
The ratio of the display area of the first effect display area or the second effect display area can be changed in a predetermined period of variable display (for example, the display area deformation effect period (S347E) of the reach effect period (S346) shown in FIG. 12). (For example, the ratio of the display area of the first effect display area EA1 changes as shown in FIGS. 14A2 and 14B2).
According to this configuration, since the ratio of the display area can be changed only during the predetermined period of the variable display, it is possible to concentrate on the change of the display area within the predetermined period.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
By changing the length of at least one end of the first effect display area shorter than the length of the other end opposite to the one end, the ratio of the display area to the second effect display area is changed (for example, FIG. (A2), (B2), etc., the proportion of the display area is changed by making the length of one end of the first effect display area EA1 shorter than the length of the other end).
With this configuration, the effect images in the first effect display area can be made to appear as if they are facing different directions.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
A predetermined image relating to the progress of the game can be displayed in the effect display area (for example, a hold display can be displayed in the first effect display area EA1 shown in (A1) and (B1) of FIG. 14). Even if the display area of the first effect display area or the second effect display area changes, the display mode of the predetermined image is not changed (for example, by the effect control CPU 120 that executes the process of S347F, FIG. As shown in (B2), the hold display is displayed in the second effect display area EA2, and the display mode of the hold display is not changed).
With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the progress of the game.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5) above,
A motion detection unit (for example, a push sensor 35B) for detecting a motion of the player (for example, an operation of the push button 31B) is provided,
The display area of the first effect display area or the second effect display area can be changed based on the detection of the operation detecting means (for example, push by the effect control CPU 120 that executes the processing of S347B to S347D and S347G). If the button 31B is operated, the display area of the first effect display area EA1 changes as shown in FIGS. 14A2 and 14B2),
The degree of expectation is higher when the display area of the first effect display area or the second effect display area is changed than when the change of the display area is not executed (for example, FIG. 11B). In the case of the super reach A (big hit) shown in (1), when the display area deformation effect is executed (first display area deformation effect patterns PTA-1 and PTA-2), it is a big hit compared to when the display area deformation effect is not executed. You have high expectations.)
According to this configuration, the interest can be improved.

Further, the modes for carrying out the invention described below include the inventions according to the following (7) to (18). Conventionally, in a gaming machine, a first control unit (main control unit 310) that outputs a command based on a lottery and a command output by the first control unit, as shown in JP-A-2007-130191. There was a gaming machine provided with a second control means (sub-control unit 340) that executes processing according to the (variation pattern command). However, for example, in the development of the above-mentioned gaming machine, there are cases where a large number of commands (for example, commands indicating a variation pattern) output by the first control means are prepared in advance (because the work becomes complicated if added later). As a result, there is a surplus of commands for the processing that can be performed by the second control means (for example, there are surplus commands for a fluctuation pattern that is actually used). In such a case, for example, inconvenience may occur in which the second control unit cannot be preferably operated with respect to the extra command (for example, inconvenience that there is no effect to be executed based on the extra command). Gaming machines do not consider such inconveniences. As in this example, in the conventional gaming machine, there is a problem that the second control means cannot be suitably operated with respect to a predetermined command. In view of this point, it is demanded to provide a gaming machine capable of suitably operating the second control means.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of (7) according to another aspect,
(7) First control means (for example, main board 9011) that outputs a command based on lottery (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command),
A second control unit (for example, a production control board 9012) that executes a process (for example, step S90171 that is a process for execution of production) according to the command output by the first control unit,
The second control means treats a plurality of different commands (for example, fluctuation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102”) as the same command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8100”) and executes the processing (for example, , In step S90752, the variation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” are converted into “8100” (see also FIG. 35), treated as “8100”, and step S90171 is executed),
It is characterized by

The first control means and the second control means may be composed of a plurality of hardware (boards and processors). Further, at least a part of the first control means and the second control means may be configured by a common hardware configuration.

For example, in the embodiment described later, a portion for converting the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into the variation pattern “8100” (the portion where the common module 90120A executes steps S90751 to S90752) is provided on the main board 9011. Good. In this case, for example, the CPU 90103 determines a fluctuation pattern by lottery and generates a fluctuation pattern designation command (which is output to the RAM 90102). Then, the CPU 90103 performs the same processing as step S90704 to convert the fluctuation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into fluctuation patterns “8100”. Then, the CPU 90103 supplies the converted command to the effect control board 9012. In this way, the second control unit may include a part of the main board 9011.

For example, in an embodiment described later, the common module 90120A is realized by a board different from the main board 9011 and the effect control board 9012, or a processor provided on the effect control board 9012 but different from the effect control CPU 90120. You may do it. In this way, in the second control means, the part that handles a plurality of different commands as the same command and the part that executes the process may be realized by different hardware.

The process according to the command may be a process of determining a performance to be executed or a process of executing a performance (a process executed by the display control unit 90123). In addition, treating a plurality of commands as the same command means not only treating a plurality of commands as one command of the plurality of commands but also treating a plurality of commands as a command other than the plurality of commands. Including. In addition, treating a plurality of commands as the same command may be realized by converting the commands as in the embodiment described later, or performing the same processing for a plurality of commands (thus, the same command Be handled).

According to such a configuration, since a plurality of different commands are treated as the same command and processing is performed, the second control unit can be preferably operated.

(8) In the gaming machine of (7) above,
The plurality of commands include a first command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8100”) and a second command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8101”),
The second control means
Treat the second command as the first command (see, eg, FIG. 35),
When the first command is received from the first control means and when the second command is received from the first control means and the received second command is treated as the first command, the same kind of Execution is executed at the same ratio (for example, in step S90171 and the like, the same processing is executed regardless of whether or not the variation pattern designation command “8100” is converted from “8101”, and thus the same processing is performed. Execute the same type of image-based production (reach production, notice production, variable display of decorative designs),
You may do it.

With such a configuration, the second control means can be operated appropriately.

(9) In the gaming machine of (7) or (8) above,
The plurality of commands include a first command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8100”) and a second command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8101”),
The second control means treats the second command as the first command (see, for example, FIG. 35),
The first command and the second command are commands that are output by lottery with reference to the same table (for example, the fluctuation pattern designating commands “8100” and “8101” use the same table as shown in FIG. 27. Output as a command (based on the lottery) that specifies the variation pattern selected in the referenced lottery),
You may do it.

With this configuration, it is possible to easily understand the relationship between the first command and the second command.

(10) In the gaming machine of (9) above,
The rate at which the first command is output is the highest in the lottery or all the lottery including the lottery (see, for example, FIGS. 26 to 27 ),
The ratio of outputting the second command is the lowest in the lottery or all the lottery including the lottery (see, for example, FIGS. 26 to 27 ),
You may do it.

With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the usage rate of the second command, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of inconvenience caused by a malfunction that cannot handle the first command as the second command. Further, by treating the second command as the first command having a high determination rate, it is possible to easily adjust the determination rate in the lottery.

(11) In the gaming machine of (7) or (8) above,
The plurality of commands include a first command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8100”) and a second command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8101”),
The second control means treats the second command as the first command (see, for example, FIG. 35),
The first command and the second command are commands that are not individually output in each lottery using different tables (see, for example, FIGS. 26 to 27 ),
You may do it.

With this configuration, it is possible to easily understand the relationship between the first command and the second command.

(12) In the gaming machine according to any one of (7) to (11) above,
The plurality of commands include a first command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8100”) and a second command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8101”),
Whether the first command and the second command have a serial number of the entire command (for example, a serial number attached to each variation pattern) or a value indicated by these commands (for example, a value of EXT data) within a predetermined range, Belong to a group that specifies a variation pattern in the same category (for example, non-reach) (see, for example, FIG. 25),
You may do it.

With this configuration, it is possible to easily understand the relationship between the first command and the second command.

(13) In the gaming machine according to any one of (7) to (12) above,
The plurality of commands are commands (for example, fluctuation pattern designating commands) indicating an effect pattern (for example, fluctuation pattern),
You may do it.

With such a configuration, the second control means can be preferably operated with respect to frequently used commands.

(14) In the gaming machine according to any one of (7) to (12) above,
The plurality of commands are commands indicating information used to execute the prefetching notice effect (for example, see FIG. 36),
You may do it.

With such a configuration, the second control means can be preferably operated with respect to frequently used commands.

(15) In the gaming machine of (7) to (12) above,
The plurality of commands is a command (for example, a fluctuation pattern designation command) indicating a fluctuation pattern of variable display (for example, a fluctuation pattern),
The plurality of commands treated as the same command (for example, variation patterns “PA1′-1” to “PA1′-3”) specify the same variation time (for example, special figure variation time) (for example, As shown in FIG. 25, the variation patterns "PA1'-1" to "PA1'-3" specify the same special figure variation time),
You may do it.

According to such a configuration, the same effect (for example, variable display of the decorative pattern) can be executed with each of the plurality of commands without a feeling of strangeness.

(16) In the gaming machine according to any one of (7) to (15) above,
The second control unit specifies the command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102”) other than the specific command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8100”) of the plurality of commands. Converted into a command and held in a storage unit (for example, a variable pattern designation command storage area) (for example, steps S90752 to S90753),
You may do it.

With such a configuration, the second control means can be operated appropriately.

(17) In the gaming machine according to any one of (7) to (16) above,
The first control means is a main control means (for example, a main board 9011) for controlling the progress of the game,
The second control unit is a performance control unit (for example, a performance control board 9012) that controls performance of performance.
You may do it.

With such a configuration, the effect control means can be operated appropriately.

(18) In the gaming machine according to any one of (7) to (17) above,
The first control means is a first effect control means (for example, effect control CPU 90120 in a modified example) that controls the progress of the effect,
The second control unit is a second effect control unit (for example, a display control unit 90123 in a modified example) that controls execution of effects.
You may do it.

According to such a configuration, the second effect control means can be suitably operated.

It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine in an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the example of various control boards etc. of the pachinko game machine of FIG. It is the figure which shows one example of the main production control command which is transmitted setting with special design process processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a fluctuation pattern. It is an explanatory view showing an example of processing contents performed in command analysis processing. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control main processing. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control process treatment. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of variable display start setting processing. (A) is an example of an effect screen of the image display device, (B) is an explanatory view showing an example of the relationship between the first effect display area and the second effect display area, (C) is the priority order of each display and each display flag It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the state of. (A) is a flowchart showing an example of display area deformation effect setting processing, (B), (C) is a diagram showing an example of determining the display area deformation effect in the case of each super reach. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production processing during variable display. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the 1st production display field modification production execution processing. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect screen which changed the change mode of the display area according to the kind of effect image of super reach. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect screen of the image display apparatus of the modification 1. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect screen of the image display apparatus of the modification 2. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect screen which changed the change mode of the display area according to the kind of the effect image of the super reach of the modified example 3. (A) is a flowchart showing an example of the hitting process of the modified example 4, (B) is a diagram showing a determination example of the display area deformation effect in the case of promotion effect. It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine in an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing various control boards and the like mounted on a pachinko gaming machine. It is a functional block diagram or the like of the effect control CPU and the like. It is the figure which shows the constitution example of the main production control command. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design process processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of change pattern setting processing. It is a figure which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of a big hit. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of a loss. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control main processing. It is the figure which shows the processing contents example of production control command analysis etc processing (step S90704). It is a flow chart which shows an example of change pattern designation command processing. It is an example of a variation pattern designation command conversion table. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control process treatment. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of variable display start setting processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of processing during variable display. It is a figure explaining the example of conversion of a fluctuation pattern designation command. It is a figure explaining the example of conversion of the command which designates the change pattern (execution pattern of change effect) of the 2nd reservation display image.

(Configuration and the like of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention)
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, showing a layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly divided into a gaming board (gauge board) 2 that constitutes a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame (underframe) 3 that supports and fixes the gaming board 2. A game area is formed on the game board 2, and a game ball as a game medium is shot into the game area by a hitting ball launching device. At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the right side of the game area in FIG. 1), a variable display (special drawing game) of special designs (special drawing) that are a plurality of types of special identification information is performed, and a first special symbol display device. 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are provided. These are composed of 7-segment LEDs and the like, and the special symbol may be a number indicating "0" to "9" or a lighting pattern such as "-". The special pattern may include a pattern in which all the LEDs are turned off.

The variable display of special symbols is to change (display variably) a plurality of types of special symbols by update display and the like (same for other variable displays). At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stopped (displayed) as a display result (variable display result). The special symbols that are variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A are also referred to as "first special symbols", and the special symbols that are variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B are also referred to as "second special symbols". The special figure game of the first special figure is also called a "first special figure game", and the special figure game of the second special figure is also called a "second special figure game".

An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. On the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special drawing game and the second special drawing game, it is possible to change a decorative pattern (a pattern showing numbers or the like) which is a plurality of types of decorative identification information different from the special pattern. The display is done. As an example, on the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special drawing game or the second special drawing game, each of the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, 5R. In, variable display of decorative design (for example, vertical scroll display or update display) is performed. A display area 5H is arranged on the screen of the image display device 5. In the display area 5H, a hold display image corresponding to the special figure game whose execution is held is displayed. The number of reserved special game is also referred to as the number of reserved special memory. The 1st reservation display 25A and the 2nd reservation display 25B which display the number of special figure reservation memory so that specification is possible are provided. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B is configured to include a plurality of LEDs, and the first special figure hold storage number (the first special figure game hold storage number) is set according to the number of LEDs that are turned on. The second special figure hold storage number (the second special figure game hold storage number) is displayed.

Below the image display device 5, a normal winning ball device 6A and a normal variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning hole which is always kept in a fixed open state in which a game ball can enter by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. When the game ball enters the first start winning port, the first start port switch 22A (see FIG. 2) is turned on, whereby the entry of the game ball is detected (at this time, a predetermined number (for example, three) ), and the first special map game can be started. The ordinary variable winning ball device 6B is an electric tulip-type hand having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed to a closed state in which the solenoid 81 (see FIG. 2) for an ordinary electric accessory is in a vertical position and an open state in which the tilted position is in a tilted position. An object (normal electric accessory) is provided to form a second starting winning opening. In the normal variable winning ball device 6B, for example, when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position, so that the tip of the movable wing piece approaches the normal winning ball device 6A, and the second start winning prize. It becomes a closed state where the game ball does not enter the mouth. On the other hand, the normal variable winning ball device 6B is in an open state in which the game ball can enter the second starting winning port by the movable wing piece being tilted when the solenoid 81 is in the on state. When the game ball enters the second start winning port, the second start port switch 22B (see FIG. 2) is turned on, whereby the entry of the game ball is detected (at this time, a predetermined number (for example, three) ), the second special map game can be started while the prize balls are paid out).

A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball device 7 is provided with a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 (see FIG. 2) for the special winning opening door, and the special winning opening door changes between an open state and a closed state. Form a special winning opening as an area. As an example, in the special variable winning a prize ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door is in the off state, the special winning opening door closes the special winning opening, and the game ball enters the special winning opening (for example, You cannot pass. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door is in the on state, the special winning opening door opens the special winning opening, and the game ball easily enters the special winning opening. Become. When the game ball enters the special winning opening, the count switch 23 (see FIG. 2) is turned on, whereby the entry of the game ball is detected. At this time, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. Thus, when the game balls enter the big winning opening, more prize balls are paid out than when the game balls enter the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening, for example.

At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in FIG. 1), a normal symbol display device 20 is provided. As an example, the normal symbol display device 20 includes a 7-segment LED or the like, and variably displays a normal symbol (general symbol, normal symbol) that is a plurality of types of normal identification information different from the special symbol. The variable display of ordinary patterns is also called a regular figure game (ordinary figure game). The ordinary figure game is executed based on that the game ball has passed through the passage gate 41. When the game ball passes through the passage gate 41, the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. 2 is turned on, whereby the passage of the game ball is detected. Above the normal symbol display device 20, a universal symbol holding display device 25C is provided. The universal figure hold indicator 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the number of stored universal figure reserves, which is the number of ordinary figure games that are pending to be executed, by the number of LEDs that have been lit.

The surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill that changes the flow direction and speed of the game balls and a large number of obstacle nails. At the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an outlet for taking in the game balls that have not entered any of the winning openings. Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting a sound effect and the like are provided at upper and left upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 for a game effect is provided in a peripheral portion of the game area. The game effect lamp 9 is configured to include an LED. At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hit ball operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to shoot a game ball toward a game area is provided. At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area, an upper plate that holds (stores) the game balls and a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls from the upper plate are provided. A push button 31B is provided on a member forming the upper plate. A push sensor 35B that detects a player's operation (for example, pressing) of the push button 31B and outputs an operation detection signal to the production control board 12 is provided inside the main body of the upper plate or the like at the installation position of the push button 31B. There is.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 is equipped with, for example, a main board 11, a performance control board 12, a sound control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, etc. as shown in FIG. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and a power supply board are arranged on the back surface of the game board or the like of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and sends a production control command to the production control board 12 for controlling the progress of a game (execution of a special figure game, a general figure game, etc.) in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Including the function to do). The main board 11 has a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like. The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 102, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103. , A random number circuit 104 and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105. As an example, the CPU 103 executes the program stored in the ROM 101 to realize the function of the main board 11 (control of the progress of the game). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 101 (data such as fluctuation patterns and various determination tables) is used, and the RAM 102 is used as a main memory.

The random number circuit 104 counts updatable numerical value data indicating various random number values (game random numbers) used when controlling the progress of the game. The game random number may be updated by the CPU 103 executing a predetermined computer program. The I/O 105 has an input port for inputting various signals and an output port for transmitting various signals. The switch circuit 110 is a detection signal (a game ball passes or a game ball passes) from various switches for detecting a game ball (gate switch 21, starting opening switch (first starting opening switch 22A and second starting opening switch 22B), count switch 23). A detection signal indicating that the switch has been turned on when the switch enters is taken in and transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100. The solenoid circuit 111 sends a solenoid drive signal (for example, a signal for turning on the solenoid 81 or the solenoid 82) from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory or the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door. To transmit. The effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15.

The production control board 12 is a sub-side control board that is independent of the main board 11, receives the production control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and performs various types based on the received production control command. Has the function of executing the effect (including variable display of decorative patterns). On the effect control board 12, an effect control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display controller 123, a random number circuit 124, and an I/O 125 are mounted. As an example, the effect control CPU 120 executes a program stored in the ROM 121 to realize the function of the effect control board 12 (execution of effect). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 121 (data used for effect control patterns and data such as various determination tables) is used, and the RAM 122 is used as a main memory.

The display control unit 123 outputs a video signal of the effect image displayed on the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120, and displays the effect image on the image display device 5. As an example, the display control unit 123 may include a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), and the like. The random number circuit 124 updatable counts numerical data indicating various random number values (random numbers for effect) used when controlling the effect operation. The effect random number may be updated by the effect control CPU 120 executing a predetermined computer program. The I/O 125 mounted on the production control board 12 includes an input port for receiving the production control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like, and an output port for transmitting various signals.

The sound control board 13 has a function of outputting sound (sound specified by the sound effect signal) from the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound effect signal from the effect control board 12. The lamp control board 14 has a function of turning on/off the game effect lamp 9 (turning on/off according to the drive content indicated by the lighting signal) based on the lighting signal from the effect control board 12. The image display device 5 includes a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel and a driver circuit that drives the display panel. The video signal supplied from the display control unit 123 to the image display device 5 via the I/O 125 is input to the driver circuit. The driver circuit displays the image represented by the video signal on the display panel. As a result, various effect images are displayed on the image display device 5.

(Progress of games and production)
When the player rotates the hit ball operation handle of the pachinko gaming machine 1, the game ball is shot toward the game area. When the game ball that has flowed through the game area passes through the passage gate 41, the universal game is started. When the general-purpose game cannot be started, such as during the opening control described below in which another general-purpose game is already being executed, the execution of the general-purpose game is suspended with an upper limit of four. The suspended general-university game starts when it becomes ready to start.

The variable display results that are stopped and displayed in the universal figure game include a universal figure per symbol (for example, a regular figure such as "7") and a universal figure lost symbol (for example, a regular figure such as "-"). When the per-universal figure design is stopped (derived), the variable display result is "per-universal figure". When the universal figure lost design is stopped and displayed, the variable display result is "universal figure lost". In the case of "universal hit", the opening control (the second start winning port is opened) is performed in which the movable wing piece of the normally variable winning ball device 6B is tilted for a predetermined period. When the game ball flowing down the game area enters the first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A, the first special figure game is started. When the game ball enters the second starting winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the second special figure game is started. If another special figure game is already running, or if the special figure game cannot be started (when the start condition is not met), such as when it is controlled to the jackpot gaming state described later, the upper limit is four, etc. The execution of the special figure game is suspended. The reserved special figure game is executed when the start condition is satisfied.

The variable display results stopped and displayed in the special drawing game include a big hit symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “3” and “7”) and a lost symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “−”). When the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed (derived), the variable display result is "big hit". When the lost symbol is stopped and displayed (derived), the variable display result is "missed". When the variable display result of the first or second special figure game is "big hit" (specific display result), the big hit game state is controlled as an advantageous state advantageous to the player. When the variable display result is "miss", the big hit game state is not controlled.

In the big hit game state, the special winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball device 7 is opened. The open state is either the elapse timing of a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) or the timing until a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the special winning opening and generate a prize ball, whichever comes first. It continues until the timing. This open state is called a round game (round). In the jackpot game state, the round game is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, "15 times") is reached (the special winning opening is closed in the period other than the round game). In "big hit", big hit types such as "non-probable change" and "probable change" are set. When the jackpot type is "non-probable change", the jackpot symbol "3" is stopped and displayed. When the jackpot type is “probability change”, the jackpot pattern “7” is stopped and displayed. The "big hit" when the big hit type is "probable change" is also called "probable change big hit", and the "big hit" when the big hit type is "non-probable change" is also called "non-probable change big hit". The jackpot game state based on the "probable variation jackpot" is also called "probability variation jackpot gaming state". The big hit game state based on the "non-probable variation big hit" is also called "non-probability variation big hit game state".

After the probability variation big hit game state ends, the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” (big hit probability) is controlled to be the probability variation state higher than the normal state. The probability variation state continues until the next big hit game state is started. The probability variation state is a gaming state that is advantageous to the player. After the probability variation big hit game state or non-probability variation big hit game state is finished, the average variable display time (variable display period) is controlled to a time saving state which is shorter than the normal state. As for the time saving state, one of the ending conditions is first established among the special figure game being executed a predetermined number of times (100 times in the embodiment) and the next big hit game state being started. Continue. The time saving state is a gaming state that is advantageous to the player. In the time saving state, the normal variable winning prize ball device 6B is changed between the open state and the closed state in an advantageous change mode in which the game ball is more likely to enter the second start winning hole than in the non-time saving state such as the normal state. For example, the control to make the variation time of the regular symbols in the figure game (the period of variable display of the figure, also called the figure variation time) shorter than in the normal state, the variable display result in each figure game The normal variable winning a prize ball device 6B may be changed between the open state and the closed state in an advantageous change mode by a control for improving the probability that "is a "universal figure"" than in the normal state. Such control is called high opening control (also referred to as "time saving control" or "high base control"). By controlling to such a time saving state, the time required until the variable display result becomes "big hit" next is shortened, and the game state becomes more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

The normal state is a game state other than an advantageous state such as a big hit game state, a time saving state, a probability variation state, or the like that is advantageous to the player, and the variable display result in the ordinary figure game is "universal figure hit". The probability that the variable display result in the special figure game and the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” are the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when the system is reset, a predetermined return process is executed after the power is turned on. It is in the same controlled state as (when not performed).

The time saving state is called "high base", the gaming state which is not the time saving state is "low base" "non-time saving state", and the probability change state is also called "high probability". The game state that is not the probability change state is also called "low probability" or "non-probability change". The gaming state when it is in the probability changing state and the time saving state is also referred to as "high accuracy high base". The gaming state when it is in the probability changing state but not in the time saving state is also referred to as "high accuracy low base". The gaming state when not in the probability changing state but in the time saving state is also referred to as "low accurate high base". The normal state is also referred to as "low accurate low base".

In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of the image display device 5, the decorative symbol can be changed corresponding to the start of the first or second special figure game. The display (this is also one of the effects) is started. When the variable display result (also referred to as a fixed special symbol) is stopped and displayed in the first and second special drawing games, the fixed decorative symbol (of the three decorative symbols) becomes the display result (variable display result) of the variable display of the decorative symbol. The combination) is stopped and displayed (derived display).

In the period from the start to the end of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the variable display mode of the decorative pattern may be a predetermined reach mode (reach is established). Here, the reach mode is a decorative pattern that is not yet stopped and displayed when the decorative pattern stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 constitutes a part of a jackpot combination described later (“reach variation”). (Also referred to as “design”) is a display mode in which the fluctuation continues. In the embodiment, the reach effect is executed in response to the above-mentioned reach mode during the variable display. As reach productions, normal reach, super reach A (developing from normal reach), and super reach B (developing from normal reach) having different production modes are prepared. In the embodiment, the jackpot expectation is higher in the order of super reach B>super reach A>normal reach (normal reach that does not develop into super reach). The jackpot expectation is, for example, a rate at which the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, and here is also the rate at which the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is “big hit”.

When the variable display result of the special figure game is "big hit", a fixed decorative design which is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 as the display result of the variable display of the decorative design. (The display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is "big hit"). As an example, the same decorative pattern on a predetermined effective line in the decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" (for example, "7" at the time of probability variation big hit, non-probability variation big hit) At the time of, "6" and the like) are all displayed together and stopped. In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3B, which will be described later, the “non-probable variation” includes an uncertain variation jackpot in which a promotion effect (failure) is executed during a jackpot, and an uncertain variation jackpot in which the promotion effect itself is not performed. There are two types of “probable variation”, a probable variation jackpot in which promotion effect (success) is executed during a jackpot and a probable variation jackpot in which promotion effect itself is not performed. The promotion effect is a probability variation promotion effect, and is an effect that is executed in a predetermined round (for example, 7 rounds) during the big hit and displays that the promotion to the probability variation big hit has succeeded or failed. When the type of jackpot is "non-probable change (promotion effect failure)", the same decorative pattern "6" is stopped and displayed together, and the probable variation promotion effect (failure) is executed in 7 rounds during the jackpot. When the jackpot type is "probable variation (successful production success)", the same decorative pattern "6" is stopped and displayed together, and the probable variation promotion production (success) is executed in the seventh round during the jackpot. The probability variation promotion effect may be executed in a round other than 7 rounds or a plurality of rounds, or may be executed in a fanfare effect, an ending effect, or the like. Further, the promotion effect may be a round promotion effect for notifying the continuation of the round.

If the variable display result is "miss", the variable display mode of the decorative pattern does not become the reach mode, and the fixed decorative pattern of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed as the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern. Alternatively, after the variable display mode of the decorative pattern becomes the reach mode, as a result of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the fixed decorative pattern of the predetermined reach combination (reach-miss combination) which is not the jackpot combination may be stopped and displayed.

The main operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to flowcharts and the like. In each operation (each process), a process that does not appear in the flowchart may be performed.

(Main operation of main board 11)
In the main board 11, the CPU 103 executes a game control timer interrupt process. The game control timer interrupt process is performed every time a timer interrupt is generated by an interrupt request signal from a CTC (counter/timer circuit) supplied every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds), that is, at an interrupt request signal supply interval. It is executed every predetermined time (2 ms). In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 103 executes a switch process, a game random number update process, a special symbol process, a normal symbol process process, a command control process, etc., and the game control timer interrupt process repeatedly executes each timer interrupt. As a result, game control and the like are realized.

In the switch processing, each switch is determined by determining whether a detection signal has been input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110. It is determined for each switch whether or not it is turned on (that is, whether or not a game ball has entered or passed). The result of this determination is used in a special symbol process process or a normal symbol process process. The game random number update process is a process for updating at least a part of a plurality of types of game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software. The special symbol process process is a process for realizing the holding and execution of the special symbol game, the big hit game state, and the like, based on the determination result in the switch process. Ordinary symbol process process, based on the determination result in the switch process, such as hold or execution of the universal game, the normal variable winning ball device 6B (second start winning hole) open state, etc. This is a process for doing. The command control process is a process of actually transmitting the effect control command set to be transmitted in the special symbol process process or the like from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12.

(Production control command set for transmission in special symbol process processing)
Next, the production control command which is set to be transmitted in the special symbol process processing and is transmitted from the main board 11 to the production control board 12 in the command control processing will be described. FIG. 3A shows an example of main effect control commands. A variation pattern designation command 81XX (H), a display result designation command 8CXX (H), a symbol determination designation command 8F00 (H), etc. are prepared in advance. “XX” indicates EXT data, and “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number.

(Special symbol process processing)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of special symbol process processing. Each flag, each counter, and each timer described below are provided in the RAM 102. In the special symbol process process, the CPU 103 executes a start winning determination process (S101). For example, the CPU 103 determines whether the first starting opening switch 22A is on (whether it is determined to be on by the switch processing. The same applies to other switches). When it is on, it is determined whether the number of the first special figure reservation storages has reached the upper limit number (for example, 4), and when it has not reached the upper limit number, it is determined that the first start winning is generated, and the random number circuit. 104 or a random number value for game updated in the random number update process for game, a random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result (variable display result of the special game), a random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, and a variation pattern determination. The random number MR3 for RAM is extracted, and the extracted numerical value is stored in the first special figure reservation storage unit of the RAM 102 as the first reservation data. It is determined whether the second starting opening switch 22B is on. If it is ON, it is determined whether the number of second special figure reservation storages has reached the upper limit number (for example, 4). If it has not reached the upper limit number, it is determined that the second start winning has occurred, and Similarly, random number values MR1 to MR3 are extracted, and the extracted numerical values are stored in the second special figure reservation storage unit of the RAM 102 as second reservation data. The first hold data and the second hold data are held in the order of starting winning. The number of first special figure reserved memories and the number of second special figure reserved memories may be specified by the number of the first reserved data or the second reserved data or a counter that counts each memory number (the same applies hereinafter). In the starting winning determination process, when the first starting winning is made, the transmission setting of the first starting winning designation command and the addition designation command of the first special figure reservation storage number is set, and when the second starting winning is made. The transmission setting of the second start winning award designation command and the second special figure reserved storage number addition designation command is performed.

After executing S101, the CPU 103 selects and executes any of the processes of S110 to S117 according to the value of the special figure process flag. The time saving flag described below is a flag that is turned on in the time saving state, and the probability variation flag is a flag that is turned on in the probability variation state.

The special symbol normal process of S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "0". For example, when the second special figure pending storage number is not "0", the CPU 103 performs processing for executing the second special figure game, updates the value of the special figure process flag to "1", and executes this processing. finish. When the second special figure reservation storage number is "0" and the first special figure reservation storage number is not "0", processing for executing the first special figure game is performed, and the value of the special figure process flag is set to "1". ", and the present process ends. When both are "0", this processing is ended.

In the process for executing the second special figure game, the oldest second reserved data among the second pending data (random number values MR1 to MR3) held in the second special figure pending storage unit is set as the second special figure pending. The data is read from the storage unit into a predetermined buffer of the RAM 102. The read second reserved data is deleted from the second special figure pending storage unit. Then, based on the random number value MR1 of the second reserved data read out to the predetermined buffer and the jackpot determination table (stored in the ROM 101. The same applies to the determination table below), the second special figure executed this time. The variable display result (“big hit” or “miss”) of the game is determined. The determination rate of “big hit” is higher in the probability variation state (when the probability variation flag is on) than in the non-probability variation state (when the probability variation flag is off). When the "big hit" is determined, the big hit type ("probability variation" or "non-probability variation") is determined based on the random number value MR2 and the jackpot type determination table. In the embodiment, any one of “non-probability change”, “non-probability change (promotion effect failure)”, “probability change”, and “probability change (promotion effect success)” is determined. The determination result and information indicating that the second special figure game is to be executed are held in the RAM 102 and appropriately referred to (the same applies to other determinations). Also in the processing for executing the first special figure game, the same processing as the processing for executing the second special figure game is performed, the first reserved data is read into a predetermined buffer, and the first special figure game is changed. Determines the display results (including determining the jackpot type).

The variation pattern setting process of S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "1". For example, the CPU 103 determines (selects) a variation pattern, and sets execution start of the first special figure game or the second special figure game. The variation pattern is for designating a variable display execution time (special figure variation time) and a variable display pattern of a decorative design. In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, there are PA1-1, PA2-1, PA3-2 and PA3-4 as the variation patterns at the time of loss. There are B3-2-PB3-4 as the variation patterns at the time of big hit. PA1-1 and PA2-1 specify non-reach. PA2-1 is a pattern for time saving (with shortening) in which the special figure variation time (execution period of the special figure game) is shorter than normal (PA1-1). PA3-2 and PB3-2 specify execution of normal reach (no development to super reach), PA3-3 and PB3-3 specify execution of super reach A (development from normal reach), and PA3 -4 and PB3-4 specify execution of super reach B (which evolves from normal reach).

When the variable display result of this time is “big hit”, the CPU 103 PB3-2 based on the random number value MR3 of the first and second reserved data read in the predetermined buffer and the big hit variation pattern determination table. Any one of PB3-4 is determined as the current variation pattern. When the variable display result is “miss” and in the non-time saving state (when the time saving flag is off), PA1-1 and PA3 are determined based on the random number value MR3 and the first loss variation pattern determination table. Any one of −2 to PA3-4 is determined as the current variation pattern. When the variable display result is “miss” and when the time saving state is set (when the time saving flag is on), PA2-1 and PA3- based on the random number value MR3 and the second variation change pattern determination table. Any one of 2 to PA3-4 is determined as the current variation pattern. The rate of determination of the variation pattern is high in the order of PA1-1 or PA2-1>PA3-2>PA3-3>PA3-4 at the time of loss. At the time of a big hit, PB3-4>PB3-3>PB3-2 in order. For this reason, the jackpot expectation is high in the order of super reach B>super reach A>normal reach.

After the fluctuation pattern is determined, for example, the drive signal is started to be supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, and the execution of the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game is started. A display result designation command, a designation command for subtracting the first or second special figure reserved storage number, a variation pattern designation command for designating the above determination result or the current game state (which can be identified by the state of the probability variation flag or the time saving flag) After making the transmission setting of, and setting the value of the special figure process flag to "2", this processing is ended.

The special symbol variation process of S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "2". For example, the CPU 103 has reached the special figure variation time corresponding to the variation pattern of this time, since the elapsed time from the start of the special figure game (may be measured by a timer or the like. The same applies to other elapsed times). Whether or not (whether it is the timing of deriving the variable display result) is determined, and when it is not reached, the drive signal for executing the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game is the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol. This process is terminated after the process of supplying the display device 4B and changing the special symbol is performed. On the other hand, when the special symbol variation time is reached, a predetermined drive signal is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, and the symbol of the variable display result this time (in the case of "miss", " -", "7" in case of "probable variation big hit", "3" etc. in case of "non-probability variation big hit" are stopped and displayed (derived display), and transmission setting of the symbol confirmation designation command is set, and special figure process flag The value of is updated to "3". The special figure game is executed by repeatedly executing S112 each time a timer interrupt occurs.

The special symbol stop process of S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "3". For example, the CPU 103 resets the time saving flag and the probability variation flag to OFF when the variable display result this time is “big hit”. After that, the transmission of the hit start designation command is set, the special figure process flag is updated to "4", and the present process is terminated. When the time is "miss" and is in the time saving state, it is determined whether or not the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times in the time saving state (for example, a counter or the like may be used for counting), and the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times. If so, the time saving flag is reset to OFF, the value of the special figure process flag is set to "0", and the present process is terminated. Even when the variable display is not performed due to "miss" and the variable display is not executed a predetermined number of times, the value of the special figure process flag is set to "0" and the present process is terminated.

The big hit opening preprocessing of S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "4". For example, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the transmission setting of the hit start designation command has reached the preset fanfare wait time (waiting time from the start of fanfare to the end in the big hit game state). If it has not reached, the big hit opening pretreatment is ended. When the fanfare wait time is reached, processing for opening the special winning opening (supply of solenoid drive signal) is performed to start the round game, and the special figure process flag is updated to "5". By repeating S114 each time a timer interrupt occurs, waiting for the start timing of the round game (waiting for the end of the fanfare) and opening of the special winning opening are realized.

The big hit opening process in S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "5". For example, the CPU 103 determines whether it is time to end the round game. The number of times the count switch 23 is turned on (the number of game balls that have entered the special winning opening) becomes a predetermined value (for example, "9") (it may be counted by a counter or the like), or after starting the round game ( If the elapsed time of (after opening the special winning opening) reaches the upper limit period of the round game (for example, 29 seconds), and it is time to end the round game, return the special winning opening to the closed state. A process for ending the round game (a process for turning off the solenoid 82) and the like are performed. At this time, when the finished round game is the last round game (for example, the 15th round) (it may be counted by a counter or the like), a setting for transmitting a hit end designation command is made, and the special figure process flag is set. The value is updated to "7", and this processing ends. When it is not the last round game, the special figure process flag is updated to "6", and this processing is ended. If it is not the time to end the round game, the present process is ended as it is (a process for maintaining the special winning opening in an open state may be performed). By repeating S115 every time the timer interrupt occurs, the open state of the special winning opening is maintained until the timing of returning the special winning opening to the closed state, and finally the special winning opening is closed.

The post-big hit opening process of S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "6". For example, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the end of the round game (after closing the special winning opening) has reached a predetermined closing time (interval period of the round game), and when not reached. , The closed state is maintained, and this processing ends. When the predetermined closing time is reached, processing for opening the special winning opening is executed to start the round game, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "5", and this processing is ended. Each round game is realized by repeatedly executing S115 and S116 each time a timer interrupt occurs after the special winning opening is opened in S114.

The jackpot ending process of S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "7". For example, the elapsed time from the end of the last round game (after closing the special winning opening) is a predetermined ending waiting time (wait time from the start to the end of the ending in the big hit game state) It is determined whether it has been reached, and if it has not been reached, this processing ends. When the ending waiting time is reached, the ending will end, so when the jackpot type this time is "probability variation", the time saving flag and the probability variation flag are turned on. Leave the flag off. Then, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0" and the present process is terminated.

(Operation of production control board 12)
When the power is turned on, the effect control CPU 120 starts executing the effect control main process shown in FIG. 7. In the effect control main processing, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the effect control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (S51). After that, the process proceeds to a loop process of monitoring the timer interrupt flag (S52). When a timer interrupt occurs, the timer interrupt flag is set in the timer interrupt process. In the effect control main process, if the timer interrupt flag is set (turned on), the flag is cleared (S53), and the following process is executed.

The effect control CPU 120 analyzes the received effect control command, and performs processing such as setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: S54). In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 120 confirms the content of the command transmitted from the main board 11 stored in the received command buffer. The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 is received by the interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and is stored in the buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis processing, which effect control command (see FIG. 3) is stored in the buffer area is analyzed, and settings and control corresponding to the analysis result are performed.

Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect control process processing (S55). In the effect control process process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from among the processes corresponding to the control state, and the display control of the image display device 5 is executed. Next, the effect control CPU 120 executes effect random number updating processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating effect random numbers such as the jackpot symbol determination random number (S56). Next, when the abnormality or the error has occurred, the effect control CPU 120 executes the notification control processing for executing the notification of the abnormality or the like (S57), and thereafter shifts to S52. In the notification control process, when an abnormality such as a magnetic abnormality due to a fraudulent activity is detected, or when there are too many prize balls, shortage of prize balls, or other operation errors, notification processes of various abnormalities and errors (for example, It is possible to display a notification display for notifying the occurrence of abnormality or error on the image display device 5).

(Command analysis process)
In the command analysis process, the received command (the effect control command received by the effect control board 12) stored in the effect control command reception buffer is analyzed (for example, the MODE data is confirmed), and the effect command concerned determines which effect control. Whether or not it is a command is specified, and processing according to the specified effect control command is performed. FIG. 6 shows the relationship between the effect control command specified by the analysis by the command analysis process and the processing content performed in the command analysis process corresponding to the effect control command. Each flag and each storage area in the figure are provided in the RAM 122. “Set” for a flag means to turn the flag on. The state of each flag and the command stored in each storage area may be reset or erased at an appropriate timing. When the addition designation command or the subtraction designation command of the special figure reservation storage number is received, the number of the reservation display images in the display area 5H may be increased or decreased in response to the command.

(Production control process processing)
The CPU 120 for effect control performs start setting for starting execution of various effects in the effect control process process (start setting of effect), effect operation control for executing the effect set for start, and the like. Each flag, each timer, each counter, and the like described below are provided in the RAM 122.

The effect start setting includes, for example, setting the effect control pattern in the RAM 122 as a use pattern, and setting the process timer to an initial value according to the effect control pattern set above. After the initial value is set, the timer value of the process timer is subtracted at a predetermined timing (at the start of effect control process processing, at the time of effect operation control described later, etc.) each time a timer interrupt occurs. The production control pattern is a collection of data for executing various productions (including variable display of decorative patterns), and is associated with a process timer determination value to be compared with the timer value of the process timer and the determination value. It is composed of process control data including generated effect control execution data (display control data, voice control data, lighting control data, etc.) and an end code. The data forming the effect control pattern is stored in the ROM 121.

The effect operation control is control for executing an effect based on the effect control pattern set in the effect start setting. Specifically, of the effect control execution data corresponding to the process timer determination value that matches the current timer value of the process timer, the display control command according to the display control data is transmitted to the display control unit 123 to display an image. An image is displayed on the device 5, a sound effect signal according to the sound control data is transmitted to the sound control board 13 to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R, and an illumination signal according to the lighting control data is lamp-controlled. The game effect lamp 9 is transmitted to the board 14 to be turned on/off, and control for executing an effect is performed. Execution of various effects is realized by repeatedly performing effect operation control each time a timer interrupt occurs.

In the effect control process processing shown in FIG. 8, the effect control CPU 120 executes any of S170 to S175, depending on the value of the effect process flag. The variable display start waiting process of S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "0". The variable display start waiting process determines whether to start the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5 based on whether the first variation start command or the second variation start command from the main board 11 is received. It includes the judgment process. Then, when the first variation start command or the second variation start command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "1".

The variable display start setting process of S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "1". In the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 9, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop design or the like to be the fixed decorative design as the variable display result of the decorative design (S321). For example, the effect control CPU 120 makes a final stop based on the variable display content such as the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 or the variable display result indicated by the variable display result notification command. Determine the design. As an example, "non-reach (miss)", "reach (miss)", "non-probable change (big hit)", "probable change (big hit)" are included in the variable display contents according to the combination of the variation pattern and the variable display result. is there.

If the variable display content is "non-reach (miss)", the variable display state of the decorative pattern does not reach the reach state, and the fixed decorative pattern of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result is "miss". It will be. When the variable display content is "reach (miss)", after the variable display state of the decorative pattern becomes the reach state, the fixed decorative pattern of the reach-miss combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result becomes "miss". .. When the variable display content is "non-probable change (big hit)", the variable display result is "big hit", and the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state becomes the time saving state. When the variable display content is "probable change (big hit)", the variable display result is "big hit", and the game state after the end of the big hit game state becomes the sure change state.

When the variable display content is "non-reach (miss)", the effect control CPU 120 finalizes different (non-matching) decorative symbols in the "left" and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R. To decide. CPU120 for production control extracts the numerical data showing the random number value for the left definite symbol determination updated by the random number circuit 124 or the random counter for the production, etc., and the left definite symbol determination table prepared and stored in advance in ROM121. By referring to the determined decorative design, the left fixed decorative design to be stopped and displayed in the "left" decorative design display area 5L on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined. Next, the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the right fixed symbol which is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the random counter for production is extracted, and the right fixed symbol determination table stored in advance in the ROM 121 is referred to. As a result, the right fixed decorative pattern which is stopped and displayed in the “right” decorative pattern display area 5R on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined among the fixed decorative patterns. At this time, it may be determined such that the symbol number of the right confirmed decorative design is different from the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative design by the setting in the right confirmed symbol determination table. Subsequently, the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the medium fixed symbol which is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the random counter for the effect is extracted, and the medium fixed symbol determination table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. As a result, among the fixed decorative patterns, the medium fixed decorative pattern that is stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative pattern display area 5C on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined.

When the variable display content is "reach (lost)", the effect control CPU 120 finalizes the same (matching) decorative pattern in the "left" and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5R. To decide. The production control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating the random number value for left and right definite symbol determination updated by the random number circuit 124 or the random counter for production, and the left and right definite symbol determination table stored in advance in the ROM 121 and prepared. By referring to or the like, among the fixed decorative symbols, the decorative symbols having the same symbol numbers stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R on the screen of the image display device 5 are displayed together. decide. Further, the numerical data indicating the random number value for medium fixed symbol determination that is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the production random counter is extracted, and the medium fixed symbol determination table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. Thus, among the finalized decorative designs, the middle finalized decorative design to be stopped and displayed in the "medium" decorative design display area 5C on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined. For example, when the fixed decorative design is a big hit combination, as in the case where the design number of the medium fixed decorative design is the same as the design number of the left fixed decorative design and the right fixed decorative design, an arbitrary value (for example, " 1)) may be added to or subtracted from the symbol number of the medium fixed decorative design so that the fixed decorative design does not become a big hit combination but becomes a reach combination. Alternatively, when determining the medium fixed decorative design, the difference (design difference) between the left fixed decorative design and the right fixed decorative design is determined, and the medium fixed decorative design corresponding to the determined difference may be set. ..

When the variable display content is "non-probable change (big hit)" or "probable change (big hit)", the effect control CPU 120 causes the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. At, the same (matching) decorative design is determined as the final stop design. The CPU 120 for effect control extracts numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the jackpot confirmed symbol which is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the random counter for effect. Subsequently, by referring to the jackpot confirmed symbol determination table stored in advance in the ROM 121, the "left", "middle" and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L on the screen of the image display device 5, The decorative symbols having the same symbol numbers stopped and displayed in 5C and 5R are determined. At this time, depending on whether the variable display content is "non-probable change (big hit)" or "probable change (big hit)", whether or not the big hit middle promotion effect is executed, a normal symbol (for example, an even number It suffices to determine which one of the decorative pattern shown) and the probability variation pattern (for example, a decorative pattern indicating an odd number) is the fixed decorative pattern. In the jackpot promotion promotion, after a combination of decorative patterns (non-probability variation jackpot combination) that reminds the jackpot in the image display device 5 but does not recall the probability variation state is temporarily displayed, the jackpot gaming state or the jackpot gaming state. Is an effect that informs whether or not the probability change state will occur at the end of.

As a specific example, when the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, a fixed decorative design is determined from a plurality of types of normal designs. When it is determined that the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)” and the big hit middle promotion effect is not executed, a fixed decorative design is determined from a plurality of types of positive change designs. On the other hand, even if the variable display content is "probable change (big hit)", when it is decided to execute the big hit middle promotion effect, a fixed decorative design is determined from a plurality of types of normal designs. As a result, it is possible to prevent the promotion effect during the big hit from being executed even though the probability-variable symbols are collectively derived and displayed as the fixed decorative symbols, so that the player does not feel distrustful.

After the processing of S321, change effect setting processing for performing execution setting of the hold display change effect is executed (S322). In the change effect setting process, the execution setting of the hold display change effect is performed when the execution condition of the hold display change effect is satisfied based on the stored contents of the hold display data storage unit and the like. In the change effect setting process, the execution setting of the hold display change effect is performed when the execution condition of the hold display change effect is satisfied based on whether or not the “pseudo-link” variable display effect is executed. You may do it.

After the process of S322, the effect control pattern is determined to be one of a plurality of patterns prepared in advance (S323). For example, the effect control CPU 120 selects any one of a plurality of prepared effect control patterns (special figure effect control patterns) corresponding to the change pattern indicated by the change pattern designation command, and uses it as a use pattern. set. In addition, the effect control CPU 120 selects any one of a plurality of effect control patterns (display change effect control patterns) prepared corresponding to the execution setting of the hold display change effect in the change effect setting process of S322, and the usage pattern. Set as.

After the process of S323, the effect control CPU 120 executes a display area deformation effect setting process (S323A) for deforming the first effect display area EA1 in the case of, for example, super reach effect. As shown in FIG. 10(B), the image display device 5 performs variable display of decorative symbols, first hold display of the first hold display unit 5HR, second hold display of the second hold display unit 5HL, reach effect, and the like. A rectangular first effect display area EA1 capable of displaying a predetermined effect display (for example, display of the first effect image GA1 of super reach A effect), an image BP (operation promotion display) of the push button 31B, and the first effect. As shown in FIG. 10A, a second effect display area EA2, which has a rectangular shape larger than the display area EA1 and has a black color, can be displayed in an overlapping manner.

The RAM 122 (FIG. 2) has an effect control data holding area that holds various data used for controlling the effect operation. In the effect control data holding area, as shown in FIG. 10C, for example, as shown in FIG. 10C, the priority order of each display such as an error/error display, a first effect display area EA1 display, a second effect display area EA2 display, and the like. The state of each display flag can be stored. The display priority order of each display is as shown in FIG. When the state of the display flag is "on", it is being displayed, and when it is "off", it is not being displayed. Those with a higher display priority are displayed preferentially. That is, the smaller the display priority number, the higher the display hierarchy. For this reason, the portion of the lower display that overlaps with the upper display is hidden and invisible.

In the display area deformation effect setting process (S323A) shown in FIG. 9, for example, the execution setting of the display area deformation effect for deforming the first effect display area EA1 in the super reach effect is performed. Furthermore, in the display area transformation effect, the change mode of the display area differs depending on the type of effect image displayed in the first effect display area EA1 in the super reach effect. For example, when the first effect image GA1 of the super reach A shown in FIG. 14(A1) is displayed in the first effect display area EA1, the first effect display as shown in FIGS. 14(A2) and (A3). This is a change mode (first change mode) of the display area in which the area EA1 changes to the first shape (for example, trapezoidal shape) according to the characteristics of the first effect image GA1. When the second effect image GA2 of the super reach B shown in FIG. 14(B1) is displayed in the first effect display area EA1, the first effect display as shown in FIGS. 14(B2) and (B3). This is a change mode (second change mode) of the display area in which the area EA1 changes to a second shape (for example, an inverted trapezoidal shape) according to the characteristics of the second effect image GA2.

The display area deformation effect is an effect in which the image is deformed so as to utilize the characteristics (characteristics) of the displayed image (for example, the first and second effect images GA1 and GA2). For example, by trapezoidally transforming the effect display area, the image can be made to look as if it were peeping, the image (for example, a character) can be viewed three-dimensionally when it flies upward, or the image (for example, a character). It is possible to increase the force by making the punch thrown directly from the front fly out at one end side where the punch comes out. By doing so, the effect to be executed can be made to appear more realistic.

In the display area deformation effect setting process shown in FIG. 11A, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not it is a super reach change pattern based on the change pattern indicated by the change pattern designation command from the main board 11. (S501). When it is determined that the pattern is the super reach variation pattern (S501; Yes), the presence/absence and type of the display area deformation effect are determined (S502). Specifically, in the process of S502, the effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating the display area deformation effect determination random number, and the extracted numerical data and the display area deformation shown in FIG. 11(B) or (C). Using the determination table, it is determined whether or not to execute the display area transformation effect.

As shown in FIG. 11B, in the case of the super reach A (miss) variation pattern, “no execution” is 15%, “execution” is “first change mode small pattern PTA-1 (small deformation)”. Is determined with a probability of 55%, and the “first change mode large pattern PTA-2 (large deformation)” is determined with a probability of 30% in “execution performed”. On the other hand, in the case of the super reach A (big hit) variation pattern, the probability of “no execution” is 10%, the probability of “execution is” and “first change mode small pattern PTA-1 (small deformation)” is 20%. Then, the "first change mode large pattern PTA-2 (large deformation)" is determined with "execution" with a probability of 70%. In the case of a big hit, the display area deformation effect is more easily executed than in the case of a loss, and the player can have a sense of expectation of the big hit in the display area deformation effect, and the enjoyment of the game is improved. Further, in the case of the super reach A (big hit) variation pattern, the display area transformation effect of the “first change mode large pattern PTA-2 (large variation)” is executed more than in the case of the super reach A (miss) variation pattern. Since the first effect display area EA1 is greatly deformed in the display area deformation effect, it is possible to have an expectation of a big hit and the enjoyment of the game is improved. Further, even in the case of the super reach A (big hit) variation pattern, the "first change mode small pattern PTA-1 (small deformation)" is executed, so that the "first change mode small pattern PTA-1 (small deformation)" is executed. With respect to the display area transformation effect of “”, it is possible to have an expectation of a big hit, and the enjoyment of the game is improved.

As shown in FIG. 11C, in the case of the super reach B (miss) variation pattern, “no execution” is 10%, “execution is present” and “second change mode small pattern PTB-1 (small deformation)”. Is determined with a probability of 60%, and “execution is performed” and “the second variation mode large pattern PTB-2 (large deformation)” is determined with a probability of 30%. On the other hand, in the case of the super reach B (big hit) variation pattern, the probability of “no execution” is 5%, the probability of “execution is” and “second change mode small pattern PTB-1 (small deformation)” is 25%. The “second change mode large pattern PTB-2 (large deformation)” is determined with “execution” with a probability of 70%. In the case of a big hit, the display area deformation effect is more easily executed than in the case of a loss, and the player can have a sense of expectation of the big hit in the display area deformation effect, and the enjoyment of the game is improved. Further, in the case of the super reach B (big hit) variation pattern, the display area transformation effect of the “second variation mode large pattern PTB-2 (large transformation)” is executed more than in the case of the super reach B (miss) variation pattern. Since the first effect display area EA1 is greatly deformed in the display area deformation effect, it is possible to have an expectation of a big hit and the enjoyment of the game is improved. Further, even in the case of the super reach B (big hit) variation pattern, the "second variation mode small pattern PTB-1 (small deformation)" is executed, so that the "second variation mode small pattern PTB-1 (small deformation)" is executed. With respect to the display area transformation effect of “”, it is possible to have an expectation of a big hit, and the enjoyment of the game is improved.

Note that the change modes are not limited to two types, small and large (see FIGS. 11B and 11C), and may be three or more types. Further, the super reach fluctuation pattern may include a fluctuation pattern having pseudo continuous fluctuation. For example, the determination rate may be set such that the higher the number of pseudo-continuous fluctuations, the higher the degree of expectation. The determination rate may be set to be different depending on whether or not it is a big hit and the number of times of pseudo-variation.

After the processing of S502, it is determined whether or not the display area deformation effect is determined to be present (S503). When it is determined that the display area deformation effect is present (S503; Yes), the display area deformation effect flag indicating that the display area deformation effect is executed is set to the ON state (S504). After the processing of S504, the change mode pattern corresponding to the display area transformation effect of the type determined in S502 is set (S505). That is, the small variation pattern or the large variation pattern determined in S502 is set. If it is determined in S501 that the pattern is not the super-reach variation pattern (S501; No), if there is no display area deformation effect in S503, or after the processing in S505, the display area deformation effect setting process ends.

Returning to FIG. 9, following the processing of S323A, the effect control CPU 120 is provided in a predetermined area (effect control timer setting unit or the like) of the RAM 122 in correspondence with the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command, for example. The initial value of the production control process timer is set (S324). Then, the setting for starting the variation of the decorative design is made on the screen of the image display device 5 (S325). At this time, for example, the display control command specified by the display control data included in the effect control pattern (special effect change effect control pattern) determined in the process of S323 is transmitted to the VDP of the display control unit 123. Thus, the variation of the decorative design may be started in each of the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative design display areas 5L, 5C, 5R provided in the display area of the image display device 5.

After the processing of S325, in order to update the variable display of the decorative pattern, the first hold display of the first hold display unit 5HR and the second hold display of the second hold display unit 5HL are updated. Is set (S326). For example, when the first special figure game is executed (started), the display portion corresponding to the holding number “1” (the leftmost display portion) in the first holding display portion 5HR is erased (digested), and The 1st reservation display in the display part corresponding to other reservation numbers "2"-"4" is moved left one by one (shift). On the other hand, when the second special figure game is executed (started), in the second hold display section 5HL, the display portion corresponding to the hold number “1” (the right end display portion) is erased (digested) and , The second hold display in the display portions corresponding to the other hold numbers “2” to “4” is moved (shifted) one by one to the right. After that, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "2" which is a value corresponding to the effect display during variable display (S327), and the variable display start setting process is ended.

Returning to FIG. 8, the variable display process in S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "2". In the variable display during effect processing shown in FIG. 12, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, the timer value of the effect control process timer (S341). .. As an example, in the process of S341, the timer value of the effect control process timer is updated (for example, 1 is subtracted), and when the end code is read from the effect control pattern corresponding to the updated effect control process timer value. It may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed. When the variable display time has not elapsed in S341 (S341; No), the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not it is the hold display change effect period for executing the hold display change effect (S342). ). The hold display change effect period may be predetermined in the effect control pattern (display change effect control pattern) determined in the process of S323 shown in FIG. 9, for example. When it is the hold display change effect period (S342; Yes), control for executing the hold display change effect is performed (S343). In the process of S343, various commands created based on the setting of the display change effect control pattern are transmitted to the display control unit 123, the voice control board 13, the lamp control board 14, and the like. Thereby, a predetermined effect image is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, a predetermined sound effect is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LED are turned on, blinked, or turned off. Alternatively, it suffices that a predetermined display device can execute the hold display change effect by combining some or all of these.

When it is determined in S342 that it is not the hold display change effect period (S342; No), after the process of S343, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether it is the reach effect period for executing the reach effect. Is determined (S346). The reach production period may be predetermined in the production control pattern determined according to the variation pattern, for example. When it is determined in S346 that the reach effect period is reached (S346; Yes), control for executing the reach effect is performed (S347). After the processing of S347, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the display area deformation effect flag is on (S347A). When the display area deformation effect flag is on (S347A; Yes), it is determined whether or not it is the push button operation valid period (S347B). If it is during the push button operation valid period (S347B; Yes), it is determined whether or not the push button 31B is operated (S347C). When the push button 31B is operated (S347C; Yes), the push button operation flag is set to the ON state (S347D). When it is determined in S347B that the push button operation is not valid (S347B; No), when it is determined that the push button 31B is not operated in S347C (S347C; No), and after the processing of S347D. It is determined whether or not it is a first effect display area deformation effect period for executing the first effect display area deformation effect (S347E). If it is the first effect display area deformation effect period (S347E; Yes), the hold effect is displayed in the second effect display area EA2 (S347F), and the first effect for executing the first effect display area deformation effect. Display area transformation effect execution processing is performed (S347G).

In the first effect display area deformation effect execution process shown in FIG. 13, the effect control CPU 120 gives an instruction to transfer image data (S701). Here, the effect control CPU 120 first swaps the designation of the drawing areas of the display area A and the display area B of the VRAM of the display control unit 123. As a result, the one-frame image stored in the display area that is not designated as the drawing area is displayed on the image display device 5. Next, the effect control CPU 120 sets ROM coordinates (transfer source address of ROM 121), VRAM coordinates (transfer destination address of VRAM) and the like in the attribute register of the VDP of the display control unit 123 based on the position information table. After that, a command for instructing to start the transfer of the image data from the ROM 121 to the VRAM is set. The VDP transfers the image data from the ROM 121 to the VRAM based on the instruction set in the attribute register. After that, the VDP outputs a transfer end interrupt signal to the effect control CPU 120.

After the processing of S701, it is determined whether or not the transfer end interrupt signal from the VDP is input (S703). When the transfer end interrupt signal is input (S703; Yes), it is determined whether the push button operation flag is on (S704). When the transfer end interrupt signal is not input (S703; No), the transfer end interrupt signal is waited for. When the push button operation flag is on (S704; Yes), parameter setting for the first effect display area deformation effect is performed (S705). For example, the parameter setting is performed based on the effect scenario configuration table for the first effect display area deformation effect and the attribute data. Here, in order to form a display image in the display area A or B of the VRAM based on the image data transferred to the VRAM in S701, the effect control CPU 120 has information about the image data forming the display image (coordinate axes of the VRAM, Image size, VRAM coordinates (arrangement coordinates, etc.) are instructed to the VDP. The VDP sets a parameter according to the attribute based on the instruction stored in the attribute register. On the other hand, when the push button operation flag is not turned on (S704; No), the parameter setting for the first effect display area non-deformed effect is performed (S705). For example, the parameter setting is performed based on the effect scenario configuration table for the first effect display area non-deformed effect, attribute data, and the like.

After the processing of S705 and the processing of S706, a drawing instruction is given (S707). In the drawing instruction, the effect control CPU 120 instructs the VDP to start drawing an image. The VDP starts the image drawing in the frame buffer according to the instruction of the effect control CPU 120. After the processing of S707, it is determined whether or not the generation end interrupt signal from the VDP based on the end of image drawing is input (S709). When the generation end interrupt signal has not been input (S709; No), the generation end interrupt signal is waited for. On the other hand, when the generation end interrupt signal is input (S709; Yes), the scene display counter that is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 408 and counts the number of scene images generated is incremented (+1) (S711). ), and ends the first effect display area deformation effect execution process.

Returning to FIG. 12, when it is determined in S347A that the display area deformation effect flag is not on (S347A; No), when it is determined in S347E that it is not the first effect display area deformation effect period, ( After the processing of S347E; No) and S347G, the effect control CPU 120, based on, for example, the setting in the effect control pattern determined corresponding to the variation pattern, the variable including the variable display operation of the decorative pattern. Control for executing the effect during display is performed (S348).

When the variable display time has elapsed in S341 (S341; Yes), it is determined whether or not the symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (S349). At this time, if the symbol confirmation command has not been received (S349; No), the variable display effect process is terminated and stands by. After the variable display time has elapsed, if the predetermined time has elapsed without receiving the symbol confirmation command, a predetermined error process is executed in response to the failure to receive the symbol confirmation command normally. You may do it. When the design confirmation command is received in S349 (S349; Yes), for example, a predetermined display control command is transmitted to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123, and the display result is displayed in the variable display of the decorative design. The control for deriving and displaying the final stop design (determined decorative design) is performed (S350). Further, in the process of S350, the final stop design in the variable display of the decorative design is derived and displayed. After the processing of S350, a predetermined fixed time is set as the hit start designation command reception waiting time (S351). In the process of S351A, the display area deformation effect flag and the push button operation flag are reset to the off state (S351A). Then, after updating the value of the effect process flag to "3" which is a value corresponding to the special figure waiting process (S352), the variable display effect effect process is ended.

Returning to FIG. 8, the special figure winning waiting process of S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "3". The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the current elapsed time (which may be measured by a predetermined timer) since the final stop symbol is derived and displayed has reached a preset hit start designation command reception waiting time. However, when the hit start designation command is received when it has not reached (when the hit start designation command reception flag is on), a big hit medium performance (from fanfare start executed during big hit game state to before ending) Effect setting) (setting of effect control pattern, etc.) is performed. After that, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "4", and this processing ends. If the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not been reached and the hit start designation command has not been received, this processing is terminated. When the current elapsed time has reached the waiting time, it is determined that the variable display result of the special figure game is "miss", the value of the effect process flag is updated to "0", and this processing is ended. Since the current elapsed time has not reached the above waiting time and the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed, this processing is ended as it is.

The hitting process in S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "4". The effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern or the like corresponding to the effect content in the big hit game state, displays an effect image based on the setting content on the screen of the image display device 5, and the voice control board 13. To output voices and sound effects from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the game control lamp 14, and output the command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14 to turn on/off the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LED. It controls various performance operations such as, for example, during a predetermined period in which the special winning opening door as an attacker is in an open state. In the hitting process, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "5" which is a value corresponding to the ending effect process in response to receiving the hit end designation command from the main board 11, for example. The ending process of S175 is a process that is executed when the value of the effect process flag is "5", and is a process for executing the ending when the jackpot gaming state ends.

(Example screen of Super Reach A)
The super reach A effect shown in FIG. 14(A1) is started, and the image BP of the push button 31B is displayed. When the player operates the push button 31B, the first effect display area EA1 becomes the first change mode shown in FIG. 14 (A2) or (A3). In this embodiment, when the player operates the push button 31B once, the first effect display area EA1 becomes the first change mode shown in FIG. 14(A2) or (A3), but a plurality of times during the operation effective period. The operation may be performed, and may be changed (for example, inclined) at a predetermined pitch each time the operation is performed. Further, when the number of operations reaches a predetermined upper limit number, the first effect display area EA1 may be in the first change mode (final change mode) shown in FIG. 14(A2) or (A3). If the first change mode small pattern PTA-1 (small deformation) is determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11A, the first effect display area EA1 is the first table as shown in FIG. 14A2. The shape changes (a trapezoid in which the upper side is slightly shorter than the lower side, in other words, a state in which the upper side of the first effect display area EA1 is tilted backward by a first angle), and the first change mode large pattern PTA If it is determined to be -2 (large deformation), the first effect display area EA1 becomes shorter than the second trapezoidal shape (the upper side is the first trapezoidal shape as shown in FIG. 14A3). A trapezoid, in other words, a state in which the upper side of the first effect display area EA1 is tilted inward by a second angle (angle larger than the first angle)). Further, when the player does not operate the push button 31B, the first effect display area EA1 is not deformed as shown in FIG. 14(A4). Even when there is no button operation, the first effect display area EA1 is deformed as shown in FIG. 14(A2) or (A3) according to the pattern determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11(A). Alternatively, an alternative effect other than the display area transformation effect may be displayed.

(Example of production screen of Super Reach B)
The super reach B effect shown in FIG. 14(B1) is started, and the image BP of the push button 31B is displayed. When the player operates the push button 31B, the first effect display area EA1 becomes the second change mode shown in FIG. 14 (B2) or (B3). In this embodiment, when the player operates the push button 31B once, the first effect display area EA1 becomes the second change mode shown in FIG. 14(B2) or (B3), but a plurality of times during the operation effective period. The operation may be performed, and may be changed (for example, inclined) at a predetermined pitch each time the operation is performed. Further, when the number of operations reaches a predetermined upper limit number, the first effect display area EA1 may be in the second change mode (final change mode) shown in FIG. 14(B2) or (B3). If the second change mode small pattern PTB-1 (small deformation) is determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11(A), the first effect display area EA1 is the reverse of the first as shown in FIG. 14(B2). It changes into a trapezoid (an inverted trapezoid in which the lower side is slightly shorter than the upper side, in other words, a state in which the lower side of the first effect display area EA1 is tilted inward by a first angle), and the second change mode is large. If the pattern PTB-2 (large deformation) is determined, as shown in FIG. 14(B3), the first effect display area EA1 has the second inverted trapezoidal shape (the lower side has the first inverted trapezoidal shape). The trapezoid is further shortened, in other words, the lower side of the first effect display area EA1 is changed to a state in which the lower side falls to the inner side by a second angle (angle larger than the first angle). In addition, when the player does not operate the push button 31B, the first effect display area EA1 is not deformed as shown in FIG. 14(B4). Even when there is no button operation, the first effect display area EA1 is deformed as shown in FIG. 14(B2) or (B3) according to the pattern determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11(A). Alternatively, an alternative effect other than the display area transformation effect may be displayed.

In the above-described embodiment, the manner in which the display area changes differs depending on the type of effect image displayed in the first effect display area EA1. For example, when the first effect image GA1 is displayed in the first effect display area EA1 (FIG. 14(A1)), the first effect display area EA1 has the first shape () corresponding to the characteristics of the first effect image GA1. For example, when the display area changes to a trapezoidal shape (first change mode) (FIGS. 14A2 and 14A3), and the second effect image GA2 is displayed in the first effect display area EA1 ( FIG. 14(B1)) shows a change mode (second change mode) of the display area in which the first effect display area EA1 changes to a second shape (for example, an inverted trapezoidal shape) according to the characteristics of the second effect image GA2. ((B2) and (B3) in FIG. 14). In this way, since the display area changes according to the characteristics of the effect image, the effect of displaying the effect image can be improved. Thereby, the interest of the effect display can be improved.

In addition, the degree of expectation related to the game (for example, the degree of expectation of a big hit in a big hit state) varies depending on the rate of change of the first effect display area EA1 or the second effect display area EA2. For example, as shown in FIGS. 11B and 11C, the larger the variation of the display area (the steeper the inclination of the effect display area), the higher the degree of expectation. Further, the degree of expectation may be higher as the display area of one effect display area is expanded (including that the shape is expanded without changing the shape at all or substantially). Thereby, it is possible to focus attention on the rate of change in the first effect display area EA1 or the second effect display area EA2. It should be noted that the expectation level regarding the game is not limited to the jackpot expectation degree, but may be a probability variation promotion expectation degree that is promoted to a probability variation jackpot, a reach expectation degree that a reach occurs, a reach development expectation degree that develops into an advantageous reach production, or the like. ..

Further, since the ratio of the display area can be changed only during the predetermined period of the variable display, it is possible to focus on the change of the display area during the predetermined period. For example, during the super reach effect of variable display, the tilt of the first effect display area EA1 can be changed by button operation with respect to the effect image displayed in the first effect display area EA1, or in an example of the super reach effect. Buttons during execution of a battle effect shown in FIG. 17 described later (for example, an effect in which the first effect display area EA1 and the second effect display area EA2 change when two types of hostile characters press each other) The effect display area of one character may be expanded by an operation.

Further, the ratio of the display area with the second effect display area EA2 is changed by making the length of one end of the first effect display area EA1 shorter than the length of the other end opposite to the one end. That is, as shown in FIGS. 14A2 and 14B2, the one end side of the first effect display area EA1 is changed to a state in which it is inclined in the depth direction. Therefore, the direction of the effect image in the first effect display area EA1 (that is, the vertical direction of the effect image surface) can be changed, and the appearance of the effect image in the first effect display area EA1 changes. That is, the effect images in the first effect display area EA1 can be made to appear as if they are facing different directions. In other words, it makes you feel as if you are looking at the effect image of the changed first effect display area EA1 from a direction different from the line-of-sight direction in which you were looking at the effect image of the first effect display area EA1 before the change. Different impressions can be given to players.

Further, even if the display area of the effect display area changes, the display mode of a predetermined image (for example, hold display) related to the progress of the game is not changed. For example, the hold display (FIGS. 14A1 and 14B1) displayed in the first effect display area EA1 before transformation is moved to the non-deformed second effect display area EA2 and displayed (FIG. 14A2). ), (B2), etc., or by displaying the hold display of the first effect display area EA1 in the same manner regardless of the deformation of the first effect display area EA1. Do not let As a result, an appropriate display of the predetermined image can be secured and the progress of the game can be grasped. The predetermined image may include at least one of a hold display, a small symbol, a fourth symbol, and the like. The small symbols include a first small symbol that is variably displayed corresponding to the first special symbol game and a second small symbol that is variably displayed corresponding to the second special symbol game. The fourth symbol is a symbol indicating whether or not the state is currently being variably displayed.

In addition, the display area of the first effect display area EA1 or the second effect display area EA2 can be changed based on the detection of the operation detecting means (for example, the push sensor 35B) that detects the operation of the player, and the first effect display area. The expectation is higher when the display area of the EA1 or the second effect display area EA2 is changed than when the display area is not changed. Thereby, in order to confirm whether or not the change of the display area is executed, the player can perform an action according to the detection of the action detecting means and can participate in the game more, and the interest can be improved. ..

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and the like, and various modifications and applications are possible (the above-mentioned configuration may be deleted). The following is a modification of the above embodiment. At least a part of each of the following modifications may be combined.

The image display device 5 of the modified example 1 superimposes a first effect display area EA1 and a second effect display area EA2 having the same size and the same shape as shown in FIG. This is a configuration for forming the effect screen shown in A). In the appearance area of the second effect display area EA2 exposed by the deformation of the first effect display area EA1, a predetermined image (holding display or the like) relating to the progress of the game may be displayed. Further, as shown in FIG. 15(A), the first effect display area EA1 hides the second effect display area EA2 so that it cannot be seen, and as the display area ratio changes, FIG. As shown in C), the second effect display area EA2 may appear by inclining the first effect display area EA1, and the areas of the second effect display area EA2 may change in the course of further change.

Since the image display device 5 of Modification 2 displays the predetermined image (for example, hold display) in the exposed area of the undeformed second effect display area EA2 shown in FIG. 16A, the predetermined image is properly displayed. Can be displayed.

In Modification 3, the display area is changed in a different manner according to the type of the battle effect image of the super reach effect shown in FIG. In the first battle effect of super reach A shown in FIG. 17(A1), the first effect display area EA1 is displayed on the left half of the effect screen of the image display device 5, and the second effect display area EA2 is displayed on the right half. Then, when the push button 31B is operated, if the pattern determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11A is the third variation mode small pattern PTC-1 (small deformation), it is shown in FIG. 17(A2). As described above, the first effect display area EA1 has a third trapezoidal shape (a trapezoid in which the right side is slightly shorter than the left side, in other words, the right side of the first effect display area EA1 is closer to the back side by the first angle). Mode), and if it is the third change mode large pattern PTC-2 (large deformation), the first effect display area EA1 has a third trapezoidal shape (the right side is the third side) as shown in FIG. 17(A3). The trapezoid becomes shorter than that of the trapezoid, in other words, the right side of the first effect display area EA1 changes to a position closer to the back side by the second angle (angle larger than the first angle). Further, when the player does not operate the push button 31B, the first effect display area EA1 is not deformed as shown in FIG. 17(A4). Even when there is no button operation, the first effect display area EA1 may be deformed as shown in FIG. 17(A2) or (A3) according to the pattern determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11(A), An alternative effect other than the display area transformation effect may be displayed.

In the second battle effect of super reach B shown in FIG. 17(B1), the second effect display area EA2 is displayed on the left half of the effect screen of the image display device 5, and the first effect display area EA1 is displayed on the right half. Then, when the push button 31B is operated, if the pattern determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11A is the fourth variation mode small pattern PTD-1 (small deformation), it is shown in FIG. 17(B2). As described above, the first effect display area EA1 has a fourth trapezoidal shape (a trapezoid in which the left side is slightly shorter than the right side, in other words, the left side of the first effect display area EA1 is closer to the back side by the first angle). Mode), and if it is the fourth change mode large pattern PTD-2 (large deformation), the first effect display area EA1 has a fourth trapezoidal shape (the left side is the third one) as shown in FIG. 17(B3). The trapezoid becomes shorter than that of the trapezoidal shape, in other words, the left side of the first effect display area EA1 changes to the back side by a second angle (angle larger than the first angle). Further, when the player does not operate the push button 31B, the first effect display area EA1 is not deformed as shown in FIG. 17(B4). Even when there is no button operation, the first effect display area EA1 may be deformed as shown in FIG. 17(B2) or (B3) according to the pattern determined in S505 shown in FIG. 11(A), An alternative effect other than the display area transformation effect may be displayed.

In Modification 4, the display area deformation effect is executed in the promotion effect control (S906) of the hitting process (S174) shown in FIG. 18(A). As shown in FIG. 18A, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the present is the big hit end timing (S901). The end timing may be defined by the production control pattern. If it is not the end timing (S901; No), big hit production operation control (S902) is performed. Then, after executing the processing of S902, it is determined whether or not the promotion effect is executed (S904). For example, when the display result designation command 8C02(H) or 8C04(H) shown in FIG. 3(B) is received, it is determined that the promotion effect is executed. When the promotion effect is executed (S904; Yes), it is determined whether or not it is the promotion effect execution timing (S905). When it is the promotion effect execution timing (S905; Yes), the promotion effect control (including the case of the display area deformation effect) is executed (S906). For example, in the process of S906, the effect control CPU 120 extracts the numerical data indicating the display area deformation effect determination random numbers, and the extracted numerical data and the display area deformation determination table shown in FIG. 18B. Using it, it is determined whether or not the display area transformation effect is executed. On the other hand, when there is no promotion effect execution (S904; No) or when it is not the promotion effect execution timing (S905; No), this processing is terminated after the processing of S906.

As an example of the promotion effect screen, when the jackpot type is “non-probable change (promotion effect failure)” or “probable change (promotion effect success)”, when the predetermined round during the big hit (for example, 7 rounds), the promotion effect is To be executed. The promotion effect includes, for example, a battle effect in which two characters battle each other, and if the player character of the two characters wins, the probability variation promotion succeeds, and if the player character loses, the probability variation promotion failure occurs. When the display area deformation effect is executed in the promotion effect, the display area deformation effect shown in FIG. 17 may be executed.

In the above-described embodiment, the image BP of the push button 31B is displayed as shown in FIG. 14(A1), FIG. 17(A1), etc., but it may be hidden. Even if it is not displayed, when the button operation is performed during the push button operation effective period, the display area transformation effect shown in FIG. 14, FIG. 17 or the like may be executed. Further, during the push button operation effective period, the image BP may be hidden and the push button 31B may emit light (light, blink, etc.). After the execution of the display area transformation effect in the above-described embodiment and the like, the decorative pattern in the reach mode may be changed (for example, the decorative pattern “2” is changed to “7”). In the above-described embodiments and the like, the example in which the push sensor 35B is used as the motion detecting unit has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the non-contact type motion detecting unit such as an infrared sensor or the contact type motion detecting unit such as a touch panel. May be provided to detect the movement of the player. In the above-described embodiments and the like, the display area deformation effect is executed during the super reach effect. However, for example, a notice during the variable display, a look-ahead notice, a pseudo continuous occurrence, a reach establishment, a super reach effect. You may make it perform during the reach productions (normal reach production etc.) other than.

The variable display of the identification information (special drawing, decorative design, general drawing, etc.) includes the blinking of the identification information. For example, in the special figure, a pattern in which all the segments are turned off and one pattern in which at least some of the segments are turned on (for example, a lost pattern) is alternately repeated is also included in the variable display. The special symbol stopped and displayed in the variable display may be a symbol different from the special symbol displayed before the stop display (during change) (the same applies to the decorative symbol and the ordinary symbol). The game machine of the present invention can also be applied to an enclosed game machine or a slot machine that encapsulates a game medium and gives points based on the occurrence of a prize.

The present invention is not limited to what has been described above. Further, the specific configuration is included in the present invention even if there are changes and additions within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention, in addition to the above-described embodiment and other examples of the embodiments described later.

In addition, all or a part of the configurations shown in the above-described embodiment and each modified example and the configurations shown in the below-described exemplary embodiment and each modified example may be arbitrarily combined.

In addition, it should be considered that the above-described embodiment and the below-described embodiment disclosed this time are exemplifications in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description and the following description but by the claims, and is intended to include meanings equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is a gaming machine that can be played (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1), and includes a performance display unit (for example, an image display device 5) that can display a performance image in a performance display area. The effect display area includes a first effect display area (for example, a first effect display area EA1) and a second effect display area (for example, a second effect display area EA2), and the display of the first effect display area is provided. It is possible to change the ratio between the area and the display area of the second effect display area (for example, the effect control CPU 120 that executes the processing of S323A and S347G), and the type of effect image displayed in the first effect display area. Accordingly, the display area is changed in a different manner (for example, when the first effect image GA1 is displayed in the first effect display area EA1 shown in FIG. 14A1, it is shown in FIGS. 14A2 and 14A3). In this manner, the first effect display area EA1 changes to the first shape (for example, trapezoidal shape) according to the characteristics of the first effect image GA1 in the display area change mode (first change mode). When the second effect image GA2 is displayed in the first effect display area EA1 shown, the first effect display area EA1 corresponds to the characteristics of the second effect image GA2 as shown in FIGS. 14(B2) and (B3). A display area changing mode (second changing mode) of changing to a second shape (for example, an inverted trapezoidal shape), and a first control means for outputting a command based on a lottery (for example, a variation pattern designation command) ( For example, the main board 9011) and second control means (for example, effect control board 9012) that executes processing (for example, step S90171 that is processing for execution of effect) according to the command output by the first control means. The second control means treats a plurality of different commands (for example, fluctuation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102”) as the same command (for example, fluctuation pattern designation command “8100”) and performs the processing. (For example, in step S90752, the variation pattern designating commands “8101” to “8102” are converted into “8100” (see also FIG. 35), treated as “8100” and executed in step S90171) Can be mentioned.

According to such a configuration, since the manner of changing the display area differs depending on the type of the effect image displayed in the first effect display area, it is possible to improve the enjoyment of the effect display. In addition, since a plurality of different commands are treated as the same command for processing, the second control means can be operated appropriately.

Further, in the above gaming machine, the display of the effect image on the effect display means may be controlled by the second control means.

The first control means and the second control means may be composed of a plurality of hardware (boards and processors). Further, at least a part of the first control means and the second control means may be configured by a common hardware configuration.

For example, in the embodiment described later, a portion for converting the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into the variation pattern “8100” (the portion where the common module 90120A executes steps S90751 to S90752) is provided on the main board 9011. Good. In this case, for example, the CPU 90103 determines a fluctuation pattern by lottery and generates a fluctuation pattern designation command (which is output to the RAM 90102). Then, the CPU 90103 performs the same processing as step S90704 to convert the fluctuation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into fluctuation patterns “8100”. Then, the CPU 90103 supplies the converted command to the effect control board 9012. In this way, the second control unit may include a part of the main board 9011.

For example, in an embodiment described later, the common module 90120A is realized by a board different from the main board 9011 and the effect control board 9012, or a processor provided on the effect control board 9012 but different from the effect control CPU 90120. You may do it. In this way, in the second control means, the part that handles a plurality of different commands as the same command and the part that executes the process may be realized by different hardware.

The process according to the command may be a process of determining a performance to be executed or a process of executing a performance (a process executed by the display control unit 90123). In addition, treating a plurality of commands as the same command means not only treating a plurality of commands as one command of the plurality of commands but also treating a plurality of commands as a command other than the plurality of commands. Including. In addition, treating a plurality of commands as the same command may be realized by converting the commands as in the embodiment described later, or performing the same processing for a plurality of commands (thus, the same command Be handled).

Further, as an example of the form of the gaming machine that can improve the interest of the effect display and can appropriately operate the second control means, a command based on a lottery (for example, a variation pattern designation command) is output. A first control unit (for example, the main board 9011) and a second control unit (for example, Step S90171 which is a process for executing an effect) according to a command output by the first control unit (for example, The production control board 9012), and the second control unit uses a plurality of different commands (for example, variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102”) as the same command (for example, variation pattern designation command “8100”). And executes the above processing (for example, in step S90752, the fluctuation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” are converted into “8100” (see also FIG. 35), and treated as “8100” and execute step S90171. Yes) game machines. Hereinafter, an example of a form example of this gaming machine will be described as another form example.

(Other form examples)
Hereinafter, another embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
(Structure of pachinko gaming machine 901, etc.)
FIG. 19 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 901 and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 901 is roughly divided into a gaming board (gauge board) 902 that constitutes a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame (underframe) 903 that supports and fixes the gaming board 902. A game area is formed on the game board 902, and a game ball serving as a game medium is shot into the game area by being shot from a predetermined hitting ball launching device.

At a predetermined position of the game board 902 (on the right side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 19), variable display of special symbols (also called special drawing) as special identification information of a plurality of types (also called special drawing game). The first special symbol display device 904A and the second special symbol display device 904B are provided. These are composed of 7-segment LEDs and the like, and the special symbol may be a number indicating "0" to "9" or a lighting pattern such as "-". The special pattern may include a pattern in which all the LEDs are turned off.

The “variable display” of the special symbol is, for example, changing (displaying in a variably manner) a plurality of types of special symbols by update display and the like (the same applies to variable display of other symbols described later). At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as a derived display) as a display result (variable display result) (the same applies to other variable displays described later). Note that scrolling, deformation, enlargement/reduction, or the like may be performed as the variation of the design (particularly, a decorative design described later).

In the following, the special symbols variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 904A are also referred to as “first special symbols”, and the special symbols variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 904B are “second special symbols”. Also called. Further, a special figure game using the first special figure is called a "first special figure game", and a special figure game using the second special figure is also called a "second special figure game".

An image display device 905 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 902. The image display device 905 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and displays various effect images.

For example, on the screen of the image display device 905, in synchronization with the first special drawing game and the second special drawing game, a decorative pattern (a pattern showing numbers, etc.) as a plurality of types of decorative identification information different from the special symbol Variable display is performed. As an example, in the image display device 905, in synchronization with the first special drawing game or the second special drawing game, the decorative patterns in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative pattern display areas 905L, 905C, and 905R. Is variably displayed (for example, vertical scroll display or update display).

Further, display areas 905HL and 905HR are also arranged on the screen of the image display device 905, and in the display area 905HL, the first reserved display image (here, the first reserved display image corresponding to the first special figure game whose execution is suspended). A circle image) is displayed right justified, and a second hold display image (here, a circle image) corresponding to the second special figure game whose execution is suspended is displayed left justified in the display area 905HR. It The first hold display image and the second hold display image are also collectively referred to as a hold display image.

In addition, the number of reserved special game is also referred to as the number of reserved special memory. In particular, the number reserved for the first special figure game is referred to as the first special figure reserved storage number. The number reserved for the second special figure game is referred to as the second special figure reserved storage number. The number of the first reserved display images indicates the first reserved figure reserved storage number, and the number of the second reserved display images indicates the second reserved map reserved storage number.

Moreover, the 1st reservation display 9025A and the 2nd reservation display 9025B comprised including several LED are provided, and the 1st reservation display 9025A shows the 1st special figure reservation storage number according to the lighting number of LED. And the second hold indicator 9025B displays the second special figure hold storage number according to the number of lit LEDs.

Below the image display device 905, a normal winning ball device 906A and a normal variable winning ball device 906B are provided.

The normal winning ball device 906A forms a first starting winning hole which is always kept in a fixed open state through which a game ball can enter by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening, the first start opening switch 9022A (see FIG. 20) is turned on, whereby the entrance of the game ball is detected (at this time, a predetermined number (for example, 3 pieces). ), and the first special figure game can be started.

The ordinary variable winning ball device 906B is an electric tulip-type hand having a pair of movable wing pieces which are changed by a solenoid 9081 (see FIG. 20) for an ordinary electric accessory into a closed state which is a vertical position and an open state which is a tilted position. An object (normal electric accessory) is provided to form a second starting winning opening. In the normal variable winning ball device 906B, for example, when the solenoid 9081 is in the off state, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position, so that the tip of the movable wing piece is close to the normal winning ball device 906A, and the second start winning a prize is achieved. It becomes a closed state in which the game ball does not enter the mouth (also referred to as the second start winning opening is closed). On the other hand, the normal variable winning ball device 906B is in an open state in which the game ball can enter the second starting winning port by setting the movable wing piece to the tilted position when the solenoid 9081 is in the on state (second It is also said that the winning opening will be open.) When the game ball enters the second start winning port, the second start port switch 9022B (see FIG. 20) is turned on, whereby the entry of the game ball is detected (at this time, a predetermined number (for example, three) ), and the second special figure game can be started at the same time.

A special variable winning ball device 907 is provided below the normal winning ball device 906A and the normal variable winning ball device 906B. The special variable winning prize ball device 907 includes a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 9082 (see FIG. 20) for the special winning opening door, and is specified to change between an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. Form a special winning opening as an area.

As an example, in the special variable winning prize ball device 907, when the solenoid 9082 for the special winning opening door is in the off state, the special winning opening door closes the special winning opening, and the game ball enters the special winning opening (for example, You cannot pass. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 907, when the solenoid 9082 for the special winning opening door is in the ON state, the special winning opening door opens the special winning opening, and the game ball easily enters the special winning opening. Become.

When the game ball enters the special winning opening, the count switch 9023 (see FIG. 20) is turned on, whereby the entrance of the game ball is detected. At this time, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. Thus, when the game balls enter the big winning opening, more prize balls are paid out than when the game balls enter the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening, for example.

At a predetermined position of the game board 902 (in the example shown in FIG. 19, the left side of the game area), a normal symbol display 9020 is provided. As an example, the normal symbol display 9020 is composed of a 7-segment LED or the like, and is a variable display of a normal symbol (also called “general symbol” or “ordinary symbol”) as plural kinds of normal identification information different from the special symbol. To do. Such variable display of ordinary symbols is also referred to as ordinary figure game (also referred to as "ordinary figure game").

The ordinary figure game is executed based on that the game ball has passed through the passage gate 9041. When the game ball passes through the passage gate 9041, the gate switch 9021 shown in FIG. 20 is turned on, whereby the passage of the game ball is detected.

Above the normal symbol display 9020, a universal figure hold display 9025C is provided. The universal figure hold indicator 9025C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the number of stored universal figure reserves, which is the number of regular figure games pending for execution, by the number of lit LEDs.

In addition to the above configuration, the surface of the game board 902 is provided with a windmill that changes the flow direction and speed of the game balls and a large number of obstacle nails. At the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an outlet for taking in the game balls that have not entered any of the winning openings.

Speakers 908L and 908R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 903, and a game effect lamp 909 for game effect is provided in the periphery of the game area. ing. The game effect lamp 909 is configured to include an LED.

At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 903, a hit ball operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to shoot a game ball as a game medium toward a game area by a hitting ball launching device is provided. There is.

At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a gaming ball paid out as a prize ball or a gaming ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so that it can be supplied to a ball striking device. An upper plate (ball hitting plate) is provided. At the lower part of the gaming machine frame 903, a lower plate for holding (storing) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 901 is provided.

(Substrate configuration)
The pachinko gaming machine 901 is equipped with, for example, a main board 9011, an effect control board 9012, a voice control board 9013, a lamp control board 9014, a relay board 9015, etc. as shown in FIG. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and a power supply board are arranged on the back surface of the game board or the like of the pachinko gaming machine 901.

The main board 9011 is a control board on the main side, and has a function of controlling the progress of a game in the pachinko gaming machine 901 (special figure game, execution of a general figure game, management of holding, a jackpot gaming state described later, etc.). The main board 9011 has a game control microcomputer 90100, a switch circuit 90110, a solenoid circuit 90111, and the like.

The game control microcomputer 90100 mounted on the main board 9011 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 90101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 90102, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 90103. , A random number circuit 90104 and an I/O (Input/output port) 90105.

The CPU 90103 executes a program stored in the ROM 90101 to perform processing for controlling the progress of the game (processing for realizing the function of the main board 9011). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 90101 (variation pattern (FIG. 25, details will be described later), effect control command (FIG. 22, details will be described later), data such as various tables) are used, and the RAM 90102 is used as a main memory. It

The random number circuit 90104 counts updatable the numerical data indicating various random number values (game random numbers) used when controlling the progress of the game. The game random number may be updated by the CPU 90103 executing a predetermined computer program (updated by software).

I/O 90105 is, for example, an input port to which various signals (detection signals described below) are input, various signals (solenoid drive signals described below, first special symbol display device 904A, second special symbol display device 904B, normal symbol display) Unit 9020, the first hold indicator 9025A, the second hold indicator 9025B, the universal figure hold indicator 9025C, and the like, and an output port for transmitting a signal).

The switch circuit 90110 is a detection signal (a game medium passes or a game medium passes or a gate switch 9021, a starting opening switch (first starting opening switch 9022A and a second starting opening switch 9022B), a count switch 9023) for detecting a game ball. A detection signal indicating that the switch has been turned on after entering is transmitted and transmitted to the game control microcomputer 90100.

The solenoid circuit 90111 sends a solenoid drive signal (for example, a signal for turning on the solenoid 9081 or the solenoid 9082) from the game control microcomputer 90100 to the solenoid 9081 for the ordinary electric auditors or the solenoid 9082 for the special winning opening door. To transmit.

The main board 9011 (game control microcomputer 90100) supplies an effect control command (command for specifying the progress status of the game, etc.) to the effect control board 9012 in accordance with the progress of the game, as a part of the control of the progress of the game. To do. The effect control command output from the main board 9011 is relayed by the relay board 9015 and supplied to the effect control board 9012.

The effect control board 9012 is a sub-side control board that is independent of the main board 9011. The effect control board 9012 receives an effect control command, and based on the received effect control command, various effects (notifying the progress status of the game, playing the game, etc.). It is an effect of encouraging, including a variable display of a decorative pattern).

On the effect control board 9012, an effect control CPU 90120, a ROM 90121, a RAM 90122, a display controller 90123, a random number circuit 90124, and an I/O 90125 are mounted.

The effect control CPU 90120 executes the program stored in the ROM 90121 to perform the process for executing the effect together with the display control unit 90123. At this time, various data (data such as various tables) stored in the ROM 90121 is used, and the RAM 90122 is used as a main memory.

The effect control unit CPU 90120 operates as the common module 90120A and the effect execution instruction unit 90120B shown in FIG. 21 by executing the process for executing the effect.

The common module 90120A executes effect control command analysis processing (step S90704 in FIG. 28. Details will be described later) and sound/lamp control processing (step S90706 in FIG. 28, details will be described later). The effect control command analysis etc. processing analyzes the effect control command transmitted from the main board 9011 to specify which effect control command the command is, and performs processing according to the specified effect control command (analysis result). This is the process to be performed. The sound/lamp control process is a process for controlling the sound output from the speakers 908L and 908R, turning on/off the game effect lamp 909, and the like.

The common module 90120A supplies the sound control signal to the sound control board 9013 to specify the sound to be output (only sound is included) in the sound/lamp control process. The voice control board 9013 is equipped with various circuits for driving the speakers 908L and 908R, drives the speakers 908L and 908R based on the sound designating signal, and outputs the sound designated by the sound designating signal from the speakers 908L and 908R. Let In this way, the common module 90120A controls the audio output via the audio control board 9013.

Further, the common module 90120A supplies the lamp control board 9014 with a lamp signal for designating the lighting/extinguishing mode of the game effect lamp 909 in the sound and lamp control processing. The lamp control board 9014 is equipped with various circuits for driving the game effect lamp 909, drives the game effect lamp 909 based on the lamp signal, and turns on/off the game effect lamp 909 in a mode designated by the lamp signal. To do. In this way, the common module 90120A controls the lighting/extinguishing of the lamp via the lamp control board 9014.

The performance execution instructing unit 90120B executes a performance control process process (step S90705 in FIG. 28. Details will be described later). In the effect control process process, execution of the image system effect is determined based on the effect control command specified by the analysis by the common module 90120A (for example, by lottery), and the image system effect determined to be executed is executed ( This is a process of instructing the display control unit 90123 to “start execution”. The image system effect is an effect for displaying an effect image on the image display device 905, and appropriately includes sound output according to the effect image and turning on/off of the game effect lamp 909 according to the effect image.

The display control unit 90123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), and the like, and executes the image system effect based on the execution instruction of the image system effect from the effect control CPU 90120. Start. In the execution of the image system effect, for example, the effect image is displayed on the image display device 905 by supplying a video signal. Further, the display control unit 90123 supplies the common module 90120A with an instruction to output audio from the speakers 908L and 908R and an instruction to turn on/off the game effect lamp 909 when executing the image system effect. The common module 90120A outputs the above-described sound designation signal and ramp signal according to these instructions. That is, the display control unit 90123 controls the sound output included in the image system effect and the turning on/off of the game effect lamp 909 via the common module 90120A.

Note that the common module 90120A outputs the above-described sound designation signal or lamp signal based on the effect control command specified by analysis, so that the sound output or the gaming effect lamp 909 is turned on independently of the display control unit 90123. It is also possible to control turning off/off (for example, turning on the game effect lamp 909 when receiving a later-described symbol fixing designation command).

The random number circuit 90124 updatable counts numerical data indicating various random number values (random numbers for effect) used when controlling the effect operation. The effect random number may be updated by the effect control CPU 90120 executing a predetermined computer program (updated by software).

The I/O 90125 mounted on the production control board 9012 transmits, for example, an input port for receiving the production control command transmitted from the main board 9011 and various signals (video signal, sound designation signal, lamp signal). And an output port of.

(Progress of games, etc.)
A game medium (game ball) is shot toward the game area by the player's rotation operation on the ball hitting operation handle of the pachinko gaming machine 901.

When the game ball flowing down the game area passes through the passage gate 9041, the normal figure game (variable display of normal symbols) is started. In addition, when the general-purpose game cannot be started (when the start condition is not satisfied), such as when another general-purpose game is already running or during the opening control described below, the maximum number of general-purpose games is four, etc. Execution is suspended. The suspended general-purpose game is executed when a start condition for starting the general-purpose game is satisfied (eg, another general-purpose game is not being executed and the opening control is not being performed). When the game ball passes through the passage gate 9041 when the number of reserved figures of the universal figure has reached the upper limit value, the number of the retained figures of general figure does not increase and the passage is invalidated.

The variable display results that are stopped and displayed in the universal figure game include a universal figure per symbol (for example, a regular figure such as "7") and a universal figure lost pattern (for example, a regular figure such as "-"). .. When the per-universal figure design is stopped (derived), the variable display result is "per-universal figure". When the universal figure loss design is stopped and displayed (derived), the variable display result is "universal figure loss".

In the case of "universal hit", the opening control (the second start winning port is opened) is performed in which the movable wing piece of the normally variable winning ball device 906B is tilted for a predetermined period. In the case of "universal figure loss", the opening control is not performed.

When the game ball that has flowed down the game area enters the first start winning hole formed in the normal winning ball device 906A, the first special figure game is started. Further, when the game ball enters the second start winning hole formed in the normal variable winning ball device 906B, the second special figure game is started. In addition, when the special figure game cannot be started (when the start condition is not satisfied), such as when another special figure game is already being executed or is controlled to the jackpot game state described later, each of the four special figure games is four. Execution of the special figure game is suspended with the upper limit of the above. The suspended special figure game is executed when the start condition for starting the special figure game is satisfied (other special figure games are not executed, the jackpot is not in the gaming state, etc.).

When the game ball enters the first starting winning opening when the first special figure reserved memory number (the first special figure game number that has been reserved) has reached the upper limit value, the first special figure reserved memory number increases. If not, the entry is invalidated (there may be a prize ball). When the game ball enters the second starting winning opening when the second special figure reservation storage number (the second special figure game number held) reaches the upper limit value, the second special figure reservation storage number increases. If not, the entry is invalidated (there may be a prize ball).

The entry (winning) of the game ball, which increases the number of the first special figure reserved memories, into the first starting winning opening is also called the first starting winning. The entry (winning) of the game ball, which increases the number of the second special figure reserved memories, into the second starting winning opening is also called the second starting winning. These prizes are collectively referred to as a starting prize.

The variable display results stopped and displayed in the special drawing game include a big hit symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “3” and “7”) and a lost symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “−”). .. When the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed (derived), the variable display result is "big hit". When the lost symbol is stopped and displayed (derived), the variable display result is "missed".

When the variable display result of the first special figure game or the second special figure game is "big hit" (specific display result), the big hit game state is controlled as an advantageous state advantageous to the player. When the variable display result is "miss", the big hit game state is not controlled.

In the big hit game state, the special winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball device 907 is opened. The open state is until the earlier timing of the elapse timing of a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) and the timing until the number of game balls entering the special winning opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 9). Will continue. Such an open state is called a round game (also simply called "round"). In the big hit game state, the round game is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number (for example, "15 times") is reached (the special winning opening is closed during the period other than the round game).

In "big hit", big hit types such as "non-probable change" and "probable change" are set. When the jackpot type is "non-probable change", the jackpot symbol "3" is stopped and displayed. When the jackpot type is “probability change”, the jackpot pattern “7” is stopped and displayed.

The "big hit" when the big hit type is "probable change" may be called "probable change big hit", and the "big hit" when the big hit type is "non-probable change" may be called "non-probable change big hit". In addition, the jackpot gaming state based on the "probably-varying jackpot" may be referred to as the "probably-varying jackpot gaming state". The jackpot gaming state based on the "non-probable variation big hit" may be referred to as "non-probability variation jackpot game state".

After the probability variation big hit game state ends, the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” (big hit probability) is controlled to be the probability variation state higher than the normal state. The probability variation state continues until the next big hit game state is started.

After the probability variation big hit game state or non-probability variation big hit game state is finished, the average variable display time (variable display period) is controlled to a time saving state which is shorter than the normal state. As for the time saving state, one of the ending conditions is first met among the fact that the special figure game is executed a predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment) and the next big hit game state is started. Continue until you do.

In the time saving state, the normal variable winning ball device 906B is in the open state and the closed state in an advantageous change mode in which the game ball is more likely to enter the second starting winning opening than in the non-time saving state which is not in the time saving state such as the normal state. You may change to and. For example, the control to make the fluctuation time of the normal symbols in the general-purpose game (which is the variable display period of the general-use figure, also called the general-purpose figure fluctuation time) shorter than that in the normal state, and variable display in each general-purpose game The normal variable winning a prize ball device 906B may be changed between the open state and the closed state in an advantageous change mode by control such that the probability that the result is "universal figure hit" is improved as compared with the normal state. Such control is called high opening control (also referred to as "time saving control" or "high base control"). By controlling to such a time saving state, the time required until the variable display result becomes "big hit" next is shortened, and the game state becomes more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

The normal state is an advantageous state such as a big hit game state, a time saving state, or a state other than an advantageous state for the player such as a probability variation state. The probability of being a "hit" and the probability that the variable display result in the special figure game is a "big hit" will be displayed when the pachinko gaming machine 901 is in the initial setting state (for example, when the system is reset, the power is supplied. This is a state in which the same control is performed as in the case where a predetermined restoration process is not executed after the input.

The time saving state is also referred to as "high base", and the gaming state which is not the time saving state is also referred to as "low base" "non-time saving state". The probability variation state is also referred to as “high probability”, and the gaming state that is not the probability variation state is also referred to as “low probability” or “non-probability change”.

(Progress, etc.)
In the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative pattern display areas 905L, 905C, and 905R provided on the image display device 905, the first special figure game or the second special figure game is started. Then, the variable display of the decorative design (this is also a kind of image system effect) is started. At the timing at which the variable display result (also referred to as the fixed special symbol) is stopped and displayed in the first special diagram game and the second special symbol game, the fixed decorative symbol that becomes the display result (variable display result) of the variable display of the decorative symbol ( The combination of the three decorative patterns) is also stopped (displayed).

In the period from the start to the end of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the variable display mode of the decorative pattern may be a predetermined reach mode (reach is established). Here, the reach mode is a decorative pattern that is not yet stopped and displayed when the decorative pattern stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 905 constitutes a part of a jackpot combination described later (“reach variation”). (Also referred to as “design”) is a display mode in which the fluctuation continues.

Further, in this embodiment, the reach effect (an example of image-based effect) is executed in response to the above-mentioned reach mode during variable display. As the reach effect, normal reach, super reach A, and super reach B having different effect modes are prepared. In this embodiment, the jackpot expectation is higher in the order of super reach B>super reach A>normal reach.

The jackpot expectation is, for example, a rate at which the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, and here is also the rate at which the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is “big hit”.

When the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, the fixed decorative pattern which is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed on the screen of the image display device 905 as the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern. (The display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is "big hit"). As an example, the same decorative pattern (for example, "7" when the probability is a big hit, non-probability big hit) on a predetermined effective line in the "left", "middle", and "right" decoration pattern display areas 905L, 905C, and 905R. At the time of, "6" and the like) are all displayed together and stopped.

If the variable display result is "miss", the variable display mode of the decorative pattern does not become the reach mode, and the fixed decorative pattern of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed as the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern. There is. When the variable display result is “miss”, after the variable display mode of the decorative pattern becomes the reach mode, as a display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern, a predetermined reach combination other than the jackpot combination (“reach miss combination” (Also referred to as “”), the fixed decorative pattern may be stopped and displayed.

In this embodiment, as another image system effect, for example, a notice effect that gives an advance notice of a jackpot expectation degree is executed during variable display. Further, during the big hit game state, for example, a big hit mid-game effect that notifies the big hit game state is executed as an image system effect. Further, as an image system effect, for example, a demo (demonstration) image is displayed when a special figure game or the like is not executed.

(Main operation of pachinko gaming machine 901)
Hereinafter, the main operation of the pachinko gaming machine 901 will be described with reference to a flowchart and the like, but in each operation (each process), a process not described below may be performed.

(Main operation of main board 9011)
On the main board 9011, the CPU 90103 executes game control timer interrupt processing. The game control timer interrupt process is performed every time a timer interrupt is generated by an interrupt request signal from a CTC (counter/timer circuit) (not shown) that is supplied every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) (at an interrupt request signal supply interval). It is executed at every predetermined time (2 ms). In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 90103 executes the switch process, the game random number update process, the special symbol process, the normal symbol process process, the command control process, etc., and the game control timer interrupt process repeatedly executes for each timer interrupt. As a result, game control and the like are realized.

In the switch processing, each switch is determined by determining whether a detection signal is input from the various switches such as the gate switch 9021, the first start port switch 9022A, the second start port switch 9022B, and the count switch 9023 via the switch circuit 90110. It is determined for each switch whether or not it is turned on (that is, whether or not a game ball has entered or passed). The result of this determination is temporarily stored in the RAM 90102 or the like, and is used in special symbol process processing or normal symbol process processing.

The game random number update process is a process for updating at least a part of a plurality of types of game random numbers used on the main board 9011 side by software.

Special symbol process process, based on the determination result in the switch process, etc., the process of suspending and executing the special symbol game, the big hit game state, etc. (first special symbol display device 904A, second special symbol display device 904B, The first hold indicator 9025A, the second hold indicator 9025B, and the control of the special winning opening door solenoid 9082 are included.). In the special symbol process process, the transmission setting of the effect control command is performed according to the progress of the game. Details of the special symbol process processing will be described later.

Ordinary symbol process process, based on the determination result in the switch process, such as hold or execution of the universal game, the normal variable winning ball device 906B (second start winning opening) open state, etc. It is the process (including the control of the ordinary symbol display 9020, the universal figure hold display 9025C, the solenoid 9081 for the ordinary electric accessory).

The command control process is a process of actually transmitting the effect control command set for transmission in the special symbol process process or the like from the main board 9011 to the effect control board 9012.

(Production control command set for transmission in special symbol process processing)
Next, description will be made on the effect control command which is set to be transmitted in the special symbol process processing and is transmitted from the main board 9011 to the effect control board 9012 in the command control processing. FIG. 22 shows an example of main effect control commands. In addition, the following "(H)" shows that it is a hexadecimal number. The effect control command is composed of MODE data and EXT data.

The command 8000 (H) is a first fluctuation start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the first special figure game, that is, the start of variable display (variation) of the first special figure. The command 8001(H) is a second variation start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the second special figure game, that is, the start of variable display (variation) of the second special figure. The first variation start designation command and the second variation start designation command may be collectively referred to as a variation start designation command.

The command 81XX(H) is a variation pattern of variable display of a special figure game and a decorative pattern (see FIG. 25. As will be described later in detail, execution time (variable time of a special figure) of variable display of a special figure or decorative pattern, or decoration It is a variation pattern designation command for designating (notifying) a pattern designating variable display pattern). A numerical value indicating each variation pattern is set in “XX” (same for EXT data and “XX”) of the command (for example, “00” for variation pattern PA1′-1). The command is transmitted at the start of the special figure game.

The command 8CXX(H) is a display result designation command for designating (notifying) whether or not to make a big hit and a big hit type (that is, a variable display result). A numerical value indicating the display result is set in “XX” of the command (for example, “00” for “miss”, “01” for “probable variation big hit”, etc.). The command is transmitted at the start of the special figure game.

The command 8F00 (H) is a symbol fixing designation command for designating (notifying) the end of the special figure game (that is, deriving and displaying the variable display result). The symbol fixing designation command is to designate that the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbol is ended and the display result is derived and displayed. The command is transmitted at the end of the special figure game.

The command A000 (H) is a hit start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the big hit game state (also the start of fanfare). The fanfare is part of the big hit mid-game production executed during the big hit game state, and is executed at the start of the big hit game state to notify that the big hit game state has been reached. This command is sent at the start of the jackpot gaming state.

The command A300 (H) is a hit end designation command for designating (notifying) the end of the big hit game state (also the start of the ending). The ending is an effect or the like that is executed at the end of the big hit game state (after the big hit mid effect) and notifies that the big hit game state is ended. This command is sent at the end of the last round game.

The command B100(H) is a first start prize designating command for designating (notifying) that the first start prize has been generated due to the entry of the game medium into the first start prize hole. The command B101 (H) is a second start prize designating command that specifies (notifies) that the second start prize has occurred due to the entry of the game medium into the second start prize hole. The first start prize designation command and the second start prize designation command may be collectively referred to as a start prize designation command. The start winning award designation command is transmitted when a start winning is generated (at the time of starting winning).

The command C0XX(H) is a first special figure reserved storage number designating command for designating (notifying) the first special figure reserved storage number which is the number reserved for the first special figure game. The command C1XX(H) is a second special figure pending storage number designating command for designating (notifying) the second special figure pending storage number which is the pending number of the second special figure game. In "XX" of the command, a numerical value indicating the number of reserved memories is set. These commands may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved storage number designation command. The special figure reservation storage number designation command is transmitted when the start winning occurs (at the time of starting winning).

The command C600 (H) is a customer waiting demo designation command that designates display of a demo image. This command is transmitted when the special figure game is not executed.

(Special symbol process processing)
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of special symbol process processing. In this special symbol process process, the CPU 90103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S90101). After executing the start winning determination process, the CPU 90103 selects and executes any of the processes of steps S90110 to S90117 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM 90102.

(Starting prize determination processing: step S90101)
In the CPU 90103, the first starting port switch 9022A is ON (refer to the determination result of the switch processing. The same applies to the ON determination of various switches) (when the game ball enters the first starting port), and the first When the special figure reserved memory number (for example, it is counted by the first reserved memory number counter provided in the RAM 90102. The same applies hereinafter) does not reach the predetermined upper limit value (for example, "4"), the first start winning occurs. As a special figure display result (variable display result of special figure game) from among random number values updated by a random counter provided in the random number circuit 90104 or the RAM90102 (the value is updated by the game random number update process) ) Random value MR1' for determination (any value from "1" to "65535"), random number value MR2' for determination of jackpot type (any value from "1" to "100"), variation pattern determination The random number value MR3' (any value of "1" to "1000") is extracted. Each random number value thus extracted is set as reserved data at the head of an empty entry in the first special figure pending storage unit (provided in the RAM 90102). In addition, the number of first special figure reservation storage is incremented by one.

CPU90103, the second starting port switch 9022B is on (when the game ball has entered the second starting port), the second special figure pending storage number (for example, the second pending storage number provided in the RAM90102) If the counter counts the same below) does not reach a predetermined upper limit value (for example, "4"), it is determined that the second start winning has occurred, and random number values MR1' to MR3' are extracted. Each random value extracted in this way is set as reserved data at the beginning of an empty entry in the second special figure pending storage unit (provided in the RAM 90102). In addition, the number of second special figure pending storage is increased by one.

The 1st or 2nd special figure reservation storage part associates with reservation numbers "1"-"4", for example in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the 1st or 2nd starting winning a prize mouth, and random number value MR1. The numerical data of'-MR3' are stored as pending data until the number of stored data reaches a predetermined upper limit value (for example, "4"). The pending data thus stored in the first or second special figure pending storage unit indicates the first special figure game or the second special figure game whose execution is pending.

In this embodiment, the special figure game that has not been started yet (execution is pending) is stored by storing the pending data in the first special figure pending storage unit or the second special figure pending storage unit as described above. (In particular, information about the special figure game. Here, the hold data) is stored as a hold storage.

After that, the transmission setting of the command at the time of starting winning is made. The command at the time of starting winning is the first starting winning designation command (when the first starting winning occurs) or the second starting winning designation command (when the second starting winning occurs) and the first special figure reserved memory number designation command (first starting winning). When a prize is generated) or a second special figure reservation storage number designation command (when a second start prize is generated).

After the above transmission settings, the CPU 90103 ends the start winning determination process. In the one-time starting prize determination process, the above-described processes (ON determination, storing of pending data, etc.) are performed for each of the first starting-port switch 9022A and the second starting-port switch 9022B. The second starting prize can be detected without exception). When both the first starting port switch 9022A and the second starting port switch 9022B are off, the CPU 90103 ends the starting winning determination process as it is.

(Special symbol normal processing: step S90110)
The special symbol normal process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "0". In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 90103, when the number of the second special figure reservation storage is other than "0", is stored in the head area of the second special figure reservation storage unit (the storage area corresponding to the reservation number "1"). Numerical value data of the random number values MR1' to MR3' are read. The read numerical data is stored in the fluctuation random number buffer of the RAM 90102 and temporarily stored. In this case, the second special figure reservation storage number is decremented by 1, and the storage content in the second special figure reservation storage unit is shifted. For example, the reserved data stored in the storage area lower than the suspension number “1” (storage area corresponding to the suspension numbers “2” to “4”) in the second special figure suspension storage unit is moved upward by one entry. shift. At this time, the variable special figure designation buffer value, which is the value stored in the variable special figure designation buffer provided in the RAM 90102, is updated to "2".

When the second special figure reservation storage number is "0", it is determined whether the first special figure reservation storage number is "0", and when the first special figure reservation storage number is other than "0". , Numerical data of the random number values MR1′ to MR3′ stored in the first area (storage area corresponding to the reservation number “1”) of the first special figure reservation storage unit is read. The read numerical data is stored in the fluctuation random number buffer and temporarily stored. In this case, the first special figure reservation storage number is decremented by 1, and the stored contents in the first special figure reservation storage section are shifted as in the case of the second special figure reservation storage section. Also, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to "1". By the above processing, the second special figure game is executed with priority over the first special figure game.

After the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated, the special figure display result which is the variable display result of the special symbols (variable display result of the special figure game) is determined to be either “big hit” or “miss”. As an example, the first special figure display result determination table (referenced in the non-probable variation state) or the second special figure display result determination table (referenced in the probable variation state) prepared in advance in the ROM 90101 is referred to. It Whether or not the probability variation state is prepared is specified in the RAM 90102 by referring to the probability variation flag which is turned on in the probability variation state. In each special figure display result determination table, the numerical value (decision value) that is compared with the random number value MR1′ for determining the special figure display result is assigned to the special figure display result of “big hit” or “miss”. It should be. The CPU 90103 determines the special figure display result by referring to the first or second special figure display result determination table based on the random number value MR1′ read out to the random number buffer for variation (a decision value that matches the random number value. The decision result assigned to is the decision result of this time.) Note that the CPU 90103 determines the special figure display result to be a “big hit” at a higher determination rate in the probability changing state than in the case not in the probability changing state. In this embodiment, randomly determining a determination result using such a random number value and a table is expressed as “determining by lottery” or the like.

The CPU 90103 determines whether or not the determined special figure display result is “big hit”. When the special figure display result is determined to be "big hit", the big hit flag provided in the RAM 90102 is set to the ON state. After that, the jackpot type is randomly selected into any of a plurality of types (a random number value MR3′ read out to the random number buffer for fluctuation and a jackpot type determination table prepared in the ROM 90101 and having “non-probability variation” and “probability variation” as determination results. The lottery used). After that, the CPU 90103 stores the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer provided in the RAM 90102.

When the special figure display result is not "big hit", or after the big hit type is stored, the fixed special symbol which is the variable display result (special figure display result) of the special figure game executed this time is determined. As an example, when the big hit flag is off, a special symbol predetermined as a lost symbol is determined as a confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is on, depending on the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer, one of the special symbols previously determined as a plurality of kinds of big hit symbols is determined as the confirmed special symbol. Then, after updating the value of the special symbol process flag to "1", the special symbol normal process is ended.

When the number of reserved memories of the first special figure game is "0", the special symbol normal processing is ended after the demonstration display setting is performed. In the demo display setting, it is determined whether or not the customer waiting demo designation command has been transmitted (for example, the RAM 90102 is provided with a flag that is turned on when the customer waiting demo designation command has been transmitted, and depending on the state of this flag. , Make the determination). At this time, if it has been transmitted, the demo display setting is ended as it is. On the other hand, if it has not been transmitted, the customer waiting demo designation command is transmitted and set, and then the demo display setting is terminated.

(Variation pattern setting process: step S90111)
The fluctuation pattern setting process is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "1". FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the variation pattern setting process.

The CPU 90103 first determines whether or not the jackpot flag is on (step S90261). If the big hit flag is on (step S90261; Yes), the variation pattern at the time of big hit is determined by lottery (step S90262). On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off (step S90261; No), the variation pattern at the time of losing is determined by lottery (step S90263). The variation pattern specifies the execution time (special figure variation time) of the variable display of the special figure game and the decorative pattern, and the variable display pattern of the decorative pattern.

FIG. 25 shows a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In this embodiment, there are PA1'-1 to PA1'-3, PA2'-1 to PA2'-2, and PA3'-2 to PA3'-4 as variation patterns at the time of losing. Also, there are PB3'-2 to PB3'-4 as the variation patterns at the time of a big hit. Note that, as shown in FIG. 25, serial numbers (serial numbers “1” to “11”) are attached to each variation pattern.

PA1'-1 to PA1'-3 specify non-reach. “00” to “02” are sequentially set in the EXT data of each variation pattern designation command that designates PA1′-1 to PA1′-3. PA1′-1 to PA1′-3 specify the same fluctuation pattern, and the special figure fluctuation time also specifies the same length of time. When the production control board 9012 receives the variation pattern designation commands for designating PA1′-2 to PA1′-3, the common module 90120A causes the EXT data “01” to “02” to be “00” (PA1′-2. EXT data specifying -1). In other words, in the effect control board 9012, PA1′-2 and PA1′-3 are treated as PA1′-1 and various processing is performed (for other variation pattern designation commands, such treatment is performed). Absent).

PA2'-1 to PA2'-2 also specify non-reach. These are patterns for time saving (with shortening) in which the special figure variation time (execution period of the special figure game) is shorter than normal (PA1′-1 etc.). “03” to “04” are sequentially set in the EXT data of each variation pattern designation command that designates PA2′-1 to PA2′-2.

PA3'-2 and PB3'-2 specify execution of normal reach, PA3'-3 and PB3'-3 specify execution of super reach A, PA3'-4 and PB3'-4 indicate super Specifies the execution of reach B. “05” to “0A” are sequentially set in the EXT data of each variation pattern designation command that designates PA3′-2 to PA3′-4 and PB3′-2 to PB3′-4.

In the lottery in step S90262, for example, the jackpot variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 90101 and having PB3′-2 to PB3′-4 as the determination result (the determination value that realizes the determination ratio in FIG. 26 is assigned to each variation pattern). Table) and the random number value MR3′ read out to the random number buffer for variation, and any one of PB3′-2 to PB3′-4 is executed this time. Variable pattern of variable display (variation pattern at the time of big hit) ) Is decided.

Further, in the lottery in step S90263, for example, the first loss variation pattern determination table or the second loss variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 90101 and the random number value MR3′ read in the variation random number buffer are used, Any one of PA1'-1 to PA1'-3, PA2'-1 to PA2'-2, PA3'-2 to PA3'-4 is determined as the variable pattern (variable pattern at the time of loss) of the variable display to be executed this time. To do. The first loss variation pattern determination table realizes the determination rate of the table (FIG. 27A) in which any one of PA1′-1 to PA1′-3 and PA3′-2 to PA3′-4 is a determination result. The decision value is a table assigned to each variation pattern) and is used when the time is not in the short-time state (non-time-short time). The first loss variation pattern determination table realizes the determination rate of the table (FIG. 27(B)) in which any one of PA2′-1 to PA2′-2 and PA3′-2 to PA3′-4 is a determination result. The decision value is a table assigned to each variation pattern), and is used when it is in a time saving state (time saving). Whether or not it is the time saving state is prepared in the RAM 90102, and is specified by referring to the time saving flag that is turned on in the time saving state (hereinafter the same).

With reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, the determination rate of the variation pattern is higher in the order of PA3′-2>PA3′-3>PA3′-4 at the time of loss. At the time of a big hit, PB3'-4>PB3'-3>PB3'-2 are higher in that order. For this reason, the jackpot expectation is high in the order of super reach B>super reach A>normal reach. Further, in the time saving state, PA2'-1 and PA2'-2 (see FIG. 25) having short special figure fluctuation times are selected, so in the time saving state, the average special figure fluctuation time is in the non-time saving state. It will be shorter than when.

Further, the determination rate of PA1'-2 and PA1'-3 treated as PA1'-1 on the side of the effect control board 9012 is another determination rate (determination rate in the same table and all tables in FIGS. 26 to 27). It is lower than the decision rate in. That is, PA1′-2 and PA1′-3 are hard to be selected when determining the variation pattern. Further, PA1′-1 and PA1′-2 and PA1′-3 treated as PA1′-1 on the side of the effect control board 9012 are set as the determination results of the same table.

After performing either of the processes of steps S90262 and S90263, the special figure variation time (see FIG. 25) corresponding to the variation pattern determined this time is set (step S90266). Specifically, the timer initial value according to the special figure variation time is set in a predetermined timer of the RAM 90102.

Following the processing of step S90266, of the first special figure game and the second special figure game, one of the special figure games (change of special symbol) in which the start condition is satisfied is started (step S90267). As an example, if the variable special figure designation buffer value is “1”, a drive signal for executing the first special figure game is transmitted to the first special symbol display device 904A. On the other hand, if the variable special figure designation buffer value is “2”, a drive signal for executing the second special figure game is transmitted to the second special symbol display device 904B.

After the processing of step S90267 is executed, a variation start command (various commands for designating the determination result, the 1st or 2nd special figure reservation storage number after subtraction, etc.) as a command for starting execution of the special figure game Is set (step S90271). The variation start time command includes a first variation start designation command, a variation pattern designation command, a display result designation command, and a first special figure pending storage number designation command when the variation special figure designation buffer value is "1", When the variation special figure designation buffer value is “2”, a second variation start designation command, a variation pattern designation command, a display result designation command, and a second special figure pending storage number designation command are included.

After the process of step S90271 is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” (step S90272), and the fluctuation pattern setting process is ended.

(Special symbol variation process: step S90112)
The special symbol variation process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "2". The CPU 90103 determines whether the elapsed time from the start of the special figure game has reached the special figure change time set above (the timer value of the predetermined timer is decremented by 1 and the timer value after the decrement becomes 0). Whether or not), when not reaching, it supplies the drive signal for executing the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game to the first special symbol display device 904A or the second special symbol display device 904B special After performing the process of changing the symbol, this process is ended. On the other hand, when the special symbol variation time is reached (when the timer value becomes 0), the timing for deriving the variable display result is reached, and therefore a predetermined drive signal is output to the first special symbol display device 904A or the second special symbol display device 904A. Supplied to the special symbol display device 904B, and the symbols of the variable display result of this time determined above (“miss” are “−”, “probability variation jackpot” is “7”, “non-probability variation jackpot” is “3”) It is displayed (derived display), the transmission of the symbol confirmation designation command is set, and the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "3". The special figure game is executed by repeatedly executing step S90112 each time a timer interrupt occurs.

(Special symbol stop processing: step S90113)
The special symbol stop process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "3". When the variable display result this time is "big hit" (when the big hit flag is on), the CPU 90103 resets the time saving flag and the probability variation flag to off. After that, the transmission of the hit start designation command is set, the special figure process flag is updated to "4", and the present process is terminated. When the player is in the time saving state due to “miss” (when the big hit flag is off), it is determined whether or not the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times that can be executed in the time saving state (the number of times of variable display is provided by the time saving counter provided in RAM 90102) If the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times, the time saving flag is reset to OFF, the value of the special figure process flag is set to "0", and the present process is terminated. Even when the variable display is not performed due to "miss" and the variable display is not executed a predetermined number of times, the value of the special figure process flag is set to "0" and the present process is terminated.

(Big hit opening pre-processing: step S90114)
The big hit opening preprocessing is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "4". The CPU 90103 sets a preset fanfare wait time for the elapsed time after the transmission setting of the hit start designation command (measured by a timer or the like provided in the RAM 90102. The same applies to other elapsed times). It is determined whether or not (waiting time from the start of fanfare to the end in the big hit game state) has been reached, and if not reached, the big hit opening preprocessing is ended. When the fanfare wait time is reached, processing for opening the special winning opening (supply of solenoid drive signal) is performed to start the round game, and the special figure process flag is updated to "5". By repeating step S90114 each time a timer interrupt occurs, waiting for the start timing of the round game (waiting for the end of fanfare) and opening of the special winning opening are realized.

(Processing during big hit opening: step S90115)
The big hit opening process is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "5". The CPU 90103 determines whether it is time to end the round game. The number of times the count switch 9023 is turned on (the number of game balls that have entered the special winning opening) becomes a predetermined value (for example, "9") (it may be counted by a counter or the like provided in the RAM 90102), or a round. When the elapsed time from the start of the game (since the special winning opening is opened) reaches the upper limit period of the round game (for example, 29 seconds), and when it is the time to end the round game, the big prize will be awarded. The process of returning the mouth to the closed state and ending the round game (the process of turning off the solenoid 9082) is performed. When the finished round game is the last round game (for example, the 15th round) (it may be counted by a counter or the like provided in the RAM 90102), the hit end designation command is set to be transmitted, and the special figure process is performed. The process of updating the flag to "7" is performed, and the present process ends. When it is not the last round game, the special figure process flag is updated to "6", and this processing is ended. If it is not the time to end the round game, the present process is ended as it is (a process for maintaining the special winning opening in an open state may be performed). By repeating step S90115 each time a timer interrupt occurs, the special winning opening is kept open until the timing of returning the special winning opening to the closed state, and finally the special winning opening is closed.

(Post-opening process for jackpot: step S90116)
The big hit opening post-processing is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "6". The CPU 90103 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the end of the round game (after closing the special winning opening) has reached a predetermined closing time (interval period of the round game), and if not, The closed state is maintained, and this processing ends. When the predetermined closing time is reached, processing for opening the special winning opening is executed to start the round game, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "5", and this processing is ended.

(Big hit end processing: step S90117)
The big hit ending process is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "7". In the jackpot end processing, whether the elapsed time from the end of the last round game has reached a preset ending waiting time (time corresponding to the ending execution time executed by the effect control board 9012), that is, the ending Determine if the waiting time has expired. When the ending waiting time has not ended, since the ending has not ended, the jackpot ending process is ended as it is. When the ending waiting time ends, the ending ends, so it is next determined whether or not the type of big hit this time is “probable change”. The big hit type is stored in the big hit type buffer. When the jackpot type is "probability variation", the probability variation flag is set to the ON state. In addition, regardless of the type of jackpot, the hour and hour counter is set as an initial value (the number of variable displays that can be executed in the hour and hour state, for example, 100) (the hour and hour counter is counted for each special symbol stop process). By this, the number of times of variable display executed in the time saving state is counted, and it is possible to determine whether or not a predetermined number of variable displays that can be executed in the time saving state have been executed), and the time saving flag is turned on. .. After that, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0", and this processing is ended.

(Other)
In the above series of processing, each round game is realized by repeatedly executing S90115 and S90116 each time a timer interrupt occurs after the special winning opening is opened in step S90114. In addition, when the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0", one variable display and the like have ended, so various data such as the game control process timer and various flag states (next variable display Those that you do not want to carry over) should be reset accordingly.

(Main operation of production control board 9012)
The effect control CPU 90120 of the effect control board 9012 executes a predetermined effect control main process after the activation. FIG. 28 is a flowchart of an example of the effect control main process. When the effect control main process is started, the effect control CPU 90120 first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S90701) to clear the RAM 90122 and set various initial values. Then, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on (step S90702). The timer interrupt flag is set to the ON state each time a predetermined time (for example, 10 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the register setting of the CTC (not shown). If the timer interrupt flag is off (step S90702; No), it stands by.

Further, when the effect control command is received from a predetermined input port of the I/O 90125 separately from the effect control main processing, the effect control CPU 90120 uses the effect control command as a received command, for example, an effect control command provided in the RAM 90122. Store in receive buffer.

When the timer interrupt flag is on (step S90702; Yes), the effect control CPU 90120 clears the timer interrupt flag to turn it off, and performs the effect control command analysis processing (step S90704) and the effect control process. A process (step S90705), a sound and lamp control process (step S90706), and a random number process for production (step S90707) are executed. After step S90707, the process of step S90702 is executed. In the effect control command analysis etc. processing, the effect control CPU 90120 reads out and analyzes the received command stored in the effect control command receiving buffer to identify which effect control command the received command is, and analyzes the received command. A process according to the specified effect control command is performed (details will be described later). The effect control process process is a process of instructing the display control unit 90123 to execute an effect according to an effect control command (including execution of effect and determination of its mode) (details will be described later). The sound/lamp control process is a process of controlling voice output from the speakers 908L and 908R, turning on/off the game effect lamp 909, and the like (details will be described later). The effect random number updating process is a process of updating the effect random number value used for effect control by software. The effect control CPU 90120 operates as the common module 90120A by executing the effect control command analysis processing and the sound/lamp control processing, and operates as the effect execution instruction unit 90120B by executing the effect control process processing.

(Processing such as effect control command analysis)
The effect control CPU 90120 analyzes the received command (the effect control command received by the effect control board 9012) stored in the effect control command receiving buffer in the effect control command analysis processing (for example, confirms the MODE data). Yes), which effect control command the received command is, and performs processing according to the specified effect control command. When there are a plurality of received commands, processing such as effect control command analysis is performed for each command.

FIG. 29 shows the relationship between the effect control command specified by the effect control command analysis processing and the content of processing performed for the effect control command. Each flag, each storage area, and command buffer in the figure are provided in the RAM 90122. Further, "set" with respect to a flag means to turn the flag on. Note that the state of each flag and the command stored in each storage area are reset or erased at appropriate timings (timing when reception confirmation of the target command is no longer necessary, etc.).

When the effect control command specified by the analysis is the variation pattern designation command, the effect control CPU 90120 executes the variation pattern designation command processing shown in FIG. 30, for example. In the process, the effect control CPU 90120 determines whether or not there is conversion data for the EXT data of the fluctuation pattern designation command received this time (step S90751). For example, the determination is performed by referring to the conversion table stored in the ROM 90121 in advance. In the conversion table, for example, as shown in FIG. 31, each fluctuation pattern designation command (command to be determined in the left column) is converted to a fluctuation pattern designation command after conversion (if conversion is not performed, data without conversion) (right column). It is configured as a table to which conversion data) is assigned.

In the conversion table, when the variation pattern designation command received this time is assigned a variation pattern designation command after conversion instead of data without conversion, it means that there is conversion data for EXT data (step S90751; Yes), the EXT data of the fluctuation pattern designation command received this time is replaced with the converted fluctuation pattern designation command assigned to the command in the table. As a result, the EXT data is converted to the EXT data (specified value) specified by the conversion table as the converted data (step S90752). By this processing, the fluctuation patterns PA1'-2 to PA1'-3 to be converted are converted into PA1'-1.

After step S90752 or when there is no conversion data for the EXT data (when data without conversion is assigned to the fluctuation pattern designation command received this time) (step S90751; No), the fluctuation pattern after conversion The designation command (PA1′-1) or the fluctuation pattern designation command received this time is stored in the fluctuation pattern designation command storage area provided in the RAM 90122 (step S90753). In this way, the converted command is temporarily held in the storage means.

Through the series of processes described above, a predetermined command (a command for designating the variation patterns PA1′-2 and PA1′-3 with EXT data “01” and “02”) among the variation pattern designation commands is treated as a specific command. That is, the image system effect described below is executed. The conversion table may be composed of only EXT data. Specifically, the data in the column of the command to be determined in FIG. 31 is only the EXT data of each command (MODE data is unnecessary), and the conversion data in the right column of FIG. Data may be used (MODE data is not required).

When the production control command specified by the analysis is the customer waiting demo designation command, the display control unit 90123 is supplied with an instruction to execute the demo production, which is an image system production for displaying the demo image. The display control unit 90123 receives the execution instruction and executes the demonstration effect (for example, counts 30 seconds after receiving the execution instruction, and after 30 seconds, supplies the video signal of the demo image to the image display device 5. To start displaying the demo image).

(Production control process processing)
In the effect control process process (see FIG. 32 ), the effect control CPU 90120 executes the hold display image control process (step S90169), and then the value of the effect process flag provided in the RAM 90122 (initially “0”). .), and executes any of the following steps S90170 to S90175.

(Hold display image control process: Step S90169)
The effect control CPU 90120 determines whether or not a start winning command (first or second starting winning designation command and first or second special figure reservation storage number designation command) is received. Each command is received depending on whether the corresponding reception flag is turned on or whether the command is stored in the corresponding command storage area. For example, when the first start winning award designation command reception flag is on, it can be determined that the first starting award prize designation command has been received. For example, when the command is stored in the first special figure reserved storage number designation command storage area, it can be determined that the first special figure reserved storage number designation command has been received. The method of confirming the reception of such a command is the same as in the reception determination of other commands. If no command is received, this process ends.

When the start winning award command is received and the first starting award designation command is received, the number of the first hold display images is stored in the first special figure hold storage included in the variation start time command. The display control unit 90123 is supplied with an instruction to execute the image system effect (instruction to increase the first reserved image by one) to be updated to the same number as the reserved storage number designated by the number designation command. When the start winning award command is received and the second starting award designating command is received, the number of the second hold display images is set to the second special figure hold storage included in the variation start time command. The display control unit 90123 is supplied with an execution instruction (an instruction to increase the second reserved image by one) of the image system effect to update the same number as the reserved storage number designated by the number designation command. As a result, on the screen of the image display device 905, when the first hold display image is increased by one, the first hold display image is added right-justified, and when the second hold display image is increased by one, the first hold display image is added. 2 Hold display images are added right justified.

(Variable display start waiting process: Step S90170)
The variable display start waiting process is executed when the value of the effect process flag provided in the RAM 90122 is “0”. Whether the effect control CPU 90120 has received a variation start time command (first or second variation start designation command, variation pattern designation command, display result designation command, first or second special figure reservation storage number designation command) judge. If the above command has not been received, it is determined that the fluctuation start command has not been received yet, and the process ends. If the above command is received, it is assumed that the variation start time command has been received, and in order to start the variable display of the decorative pattern, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "1", and the variable display start waiting process ends. To do.

(Variable display start setting processing: step S90171)
The variable display start setting process is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "1". FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display start setting process.

In the variable display start setting process, the effect control CPU 90120 causes the current variation pattern (variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command stored in the variation pattern designation command storage area) and the current variable display result (display result designation command). Based on the variable display result designated by the display result designation command stored in the storage area, the final stop design (fixed decorative design) is determined (step S90321). The final stop symbol is prepared in advance according to the combination of the variation pattern and the variable display result, for example, and is determined by lottery or the like (the random number value is updated by the random number circuit 90124 or the random number updating process for effect). Use one of the random number values for production). For example, when the display result this time is "probable variation big hit", the final stop symbol is determined to be "3 3 3", "5 5 5", or "7 7 7" (determination ratio may be arbitrary. (Eg equal)).

After step S90321, the presence/absence of execution of the image system effect, the mode of the image system effect to be executed, and the like are determined (step S90322). Specifically, the presence or absence of execution of various effects such as advance notice effects and the mode thereof are determined by lottery using various tables prepared in advance in the ROM 90121 and an arbitrary random number value among the effect random number values. To do. At this time, by referring to a different table depending on the display result, the variation pattern, etc., the jackpot expectation degree (including the super-reach execution expectation degree, etc.) can be changed according to the presence or absence of execution of the notice production or the like. .. Further, when the variation pattern this time is to specify the reach, it is determined to execute the reach effect specified by the change pattern (reach effect when the reach is established with the decorative pattern forming the final stop pattern). To do. Alternatively, the same normal reach or super reach A to C may be used as categories, and a plurality of types of detailed reach effects may be prepared for each category. In this case, the reach effect to be actually executed is determined by lottery or the like based on the reach effect specified by the current variation pattern. For example, if super-reach A1, A2, A3 is prepared for super-reach A, and this variation pattern specifies super-reach A, one of super-reach A1, A2, A3 is executed this time by lottery. The reach effect is decided (the decision rate is arbitrary (for example, it may be even or the jackpot expectation may be different)).

After that, the effect control CPU 90120 sets the start timing (predetermined by the relationship between the effect to be executed and the variation pattern) of the image system effect determined to be executed in step S90322 (step S90323). Specifically, the effect specifying data for specifying the type or aspect of the image system effect that is decided to be executed, and the execution timing specifying timer value indicating the execution start timing of the image system effect (the effect control process timer (provided in the RAM 90122 are provided. , A timer value for counting various elapsed times), which is set in advance in relation to the image system effect to be executed and the variation pattern, and is prepared in the ROM 90121). It is also stored in the timer value storage area of the RAM 90122. When there are a plurality of image-based effects determined to be executed, effect control CPU 90120 stores effect-specific data and execution-timing-specific timer values in the timer value storage area for each image-based effect.

After that, the effect control CPU 90120 issues a variable display (image-based effect) execution instruction (execution start instruction) of the decorative design that derives the final stop design determined in the manner specified by the current variation pattern and determined above. 90123 (step S90324). Upon receiving the execution instruction, the display control unit 90123 starts the variable display of the decorative design (hereinafter, the display control unit 90123 executes the variable display of the decorative design separately from the effect control CPU 90120). At this time, the effect control CPU 90120 sets, in the effect control process timer, a timer value corresponding to the special figure variation time corresponding to the variation pattern of this time, as an initial value.

Then, when the first fluctuation start designation command is received this time, the number of the first reserved display images is the same as the number of reserved memories designated by the first special figure reserved memory number designation command included in the variation start command. When an instruction to execute the image-based effect to be updated to the number (an instruction to reduce the first reserved image by one) is supplied to the display control unit 90123 and the second variation start designation command is received this time, the second reserved display image is displayed. The instruction to execute the image system effect to update the number to the same number as the reserved storage number designated by the second special figure reserved storage number designation command included in the variation start command (instruction to reduce the second reserved image by one) It is supplied to the display control unit 90123 (step S90325). As a result, on the screen of the image display device 905, when the first reserved display image is decreased by one, the rightmost first reserved display image is erased and the other first reserved display images are shifted to the right one by one. However, when the number of the second reserved display images is decreased by one, the leftmost second reserved display image is erased, and the other second reserved display images are shifted to the left one by one.

After that, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "2" (step S90326), and the variable display start setting process ends.

(Processing during variable display: step S90172)
The variable display process is executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of variable display during processing.

In the variable display process, the effect control CPU 90120 reduces the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1, and determines whether or not the timer value after the subtraction is 0, and thus the special control corresponding to the current variation pattern is performed. It is determined whether the figure fluctuation time has elapsed (step S90551).

When the timer value is not 0, that is, when the variable display time has not elapsed (step S90551; No), the image system effect currently set in step S90323 (the effect determined to be executed in the variable display this time) is started. It is determined whether it is timing (step S90552). Here, the determination is performed by determining whether the execution timing identification timer value stored in the timer value storage area matches the current timer value of the effect control process timer.

When the execution timing specific timer value that matches the current timer value of the effect control process timer is stored in the timer value storage area, it is the start timing of the corresponding image system effect (step S90552; Yes). ), the display control unit 90123 (step S90553) is supplied with an execution instruction (an instruction to start execution) of the image system effect specified by the effect specifying data stored in the timer value storage area corresponding to the timer value. .. Upon receiving the execution instruction, the display control unit 90123 starts the image system effect specified by the effect specifying data (hereinafter, the display control unit 90123 executes the image system effect separately from the effect control CPU 90120. ). Note that the display control unit 90123 can also perform a plurality of image system effects in parallel, but by separately executing each image system effect in different layers, the processing load related to the execution of the effect is reduced.

If it is not the execution start timing of the effect (step S90551; No), after step S90553, the variable display processing is ended.

In step S90551, when the timer value is 0, that is, when the variable display time has elapsed (step S90551; Yes), it is determined whether or not the symbol finalization designation command is received from the main board 9011 (step S90571). .. At this time, if the command is not received (step S90571; No), the variable display processing is ended.

When the symbol finalization designating command is received (step S90571; Yes), the timing for deriving the final stop symbol is reached, and therefore the display control unit 90123 is instructed to derive the final stop symbol (fixed decorative symbol) (step S90571). S90572). Upon receiving the execution instruction, the display control unit 90123 terminates the variable display of the decorative design on the screen of the image display device 905 and derives the fixed decorative design (variable display result). After that, a timer value corresponding to the hit start designation command reception waiting time is set in the effect control process timer (step S90573). The value of the effect process flag is updated to "3" (step S90576), and the variable display processing is ended.

(Special figure hit waiting process: step S90173)
The special figure winning waiting process is executed when the value of the effect process flag is "3". In the special figure hit waiting process, the effect control CPU 90120 determines whether or not the hit start designation command is received from the main board 9011. Then, when the hit start designation command is received, it means that the “big hit” has occurred, so an execution instruction (an instruction to start the execution) of the big hit medium effect (including fanfare) is given to the display control unit 90123. Supply. Upon receiving the execution instruction, the display control unit 90123 starts a big hit mid-range effect (image type effect) including fanfare (hereinafter, the display control unit 90123 separates the big hit mid-range effect from the effect control CPU 90120. Execute). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "4", and the special figure winning waiting process is ended.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the hit start designation command has not been received, it is determined whether the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed. For example, the passage of the waiting time is determined by subtracting 1 from the timer value of the production control process timer and determining whether the timer value obtained by subtracting 1 is "0". If the timer value after subtraction of 1 is not "0", it means that the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed, so this processing is ended as it is. If the timer value after subtracting 1 is "0", it means that the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed, so it is determined that the special figure display result in the special figure game is "miss", The value of the effect process flag is updated to "0" which is the initial value, and this processing ends.

(Processing during hit: step S90174)
The hitting process is executed when the value of the effect process flag is "4". In the hitting process, the effect control CPU 90120 determines whether or not the hit end designating command from the main board 9011 has been received, and if the hit end designating command has not been received, this process ends. When the hit end designation command is received, the ending execution instruction (execution start instruction) is supplied to the display control unit 90123. Upon receiving the execution instruction, the display control unit 90123 starts the ending (image system effect) (hereinafter, the display control unit 90123 executes the ending separately from the effect control CPU 90120). Further, a timer value corresponding to the ending effect execution time (ending waiting time) is set in the effect control process timer, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "5", and this processing is ended.

(Ending process: step S90175)
The ending process is executed when the value of the effect process flag is "5". In the ending process, the effect control CPU 90120 decrements the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1, determines whether or not the decremented timer value is "0", and if it is not "0", the present process is executed. finish. When the timer value is "0", the value of the effect process flag is updated to "0" which is the initial value, and this processing is ended.

(Other)
In the series of processes (steps S90170 to S90175), when the value of the effect process flag is updated to "0" which is the initial value, one variable display or the like ends, so the effect control process timer Alternatively, various data such as the states of various flags and the values of counters (things that should not be carried over to the next variable display) may be reset appropriately.

(Sound, lamp control processing)
The effect control CPU 90120 receives the effect control command (the command analyzed and specified by the effect control command analysis processing) or the instruction supplied from the display control unit 90123 (the instruction to output the audio in synchronization with the image effect, Based on the instruction to turn on/off the game effect lamp 909 synchronized with the image system effect), the voice is output from the speakers 908L and 908R via the voice control board 9013, and the game effect lamp 909 is sent via the lamp control board 9014. To turn on/off. As the voice output based on the effect control command and the turning on/off of the game effect lamp 909, for example, the game effect lamp 909 is turned on when the symbol confirmation designation command or the start winning designation command is received. As described above, the sound output and the lighting/extinguishing of the game effect lamp 909 are controlled by the sound and lamp control processing.

(About command conversion)
Next, handling of the variation pattern designation command will be described with reference to FIG. The fluctuation pattern designation command is transmitted from the main board 9011 at the start of fluctuation and is received by the common module 90120A. In the common module 90120A, if the EXT data of the received variation pattern designation command is “01” or “02”, these data are converted to “00” (command conversion is not performed except for “01” and “02”). .. As a result, the fluctuation pattern designation command for designating the fluctuation patterns PA1′-2 and PA1′-3 is converted into the fluctuation pattern PA1′-1. The variation pattern designation command without conversion (“8100”, “8103” to “810A”) is supplied to the performance execution instruction unit 90120B as it is and used by the performance execution instruction unit 90120B without conversion (the variation pattern designation). Based on the command, the display control unit 90123 is instructed to execute variable display of the decorative pattern, etc.). On the other hand, the variation pattern designation command with conversion (“8101” to “8102”) is supplied to the production execution instruction unit 90120B as a transformed variation pattern designation command (“8100”) and used (the variation pattern designation). Based on the command "8100", an execution instruction such as variable display of a decorative pattern is given to the display control unit 90123). As described above, in this embodiment, on the side of the effect control board 9012, the predetermined commands (“8101” to “8102”) are treated as specific commands, and the process for executing the effect is executed. In this embodiment, the effects that can be executed based on the specific command are the same regardless of whether or not the conversion is performed. That is, the specific command is treated the same regardless of conversion.

(Effects of the embodiment)
In the development of the pachinko gaming machine 901, there are cases where a large number of fluctuation pattern designating commands (which are also fluctuation patterns specified by EXT data) output by the main board 9011 are prepared in advance (the fluctuation pattern is determined when added later). As a result, the table becomes complicated, and as a result, the variation pattern designation command may be left over for the variable display pattern of the decorative pattern that can be executed by the production control board 9012 (for the variation pattern actually used). Command may be left over). Since the remaining variation pattern designation command cannot be used (because there is no effect to be executed), the effect control board 9012 cannot operate with respect to the command. In other words, the performance control board 9012 may not operate properly. In this embodiment, the effect control board 9012 treats the remaining variation pattern designation commands (“8101” to “8102”) as other variation pattern designation commands (“8100”) and receives “8100”. Since the production (image system production) is determined to be executed in the same manner as at the time, the production control board 9012 (especially in particular , CPU90120 for production control can operate suitably.

Although it is possible to delete the surplus command, it is not necessary to delete the command as much as possible because the adjustment work of the table for selecting the variation pattern becomes complicated with the deletion. Lead to). Further, it is considered that the surplus command is not used, but in such a case, when a third party checks the operation of the main board 9011 (game control microcomputer 90100), the surplus command is left for the third party. Since the role of the command is unknown, the operation check by the third party does not proceed smoothly. In this embodiment, since the remaining variation pattern designation commands (“8101” to “8102”) are treated as other variation pattern designation commands (“8100”), deletion or non-use of the commands can be avoided. In other words, the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 901 has an excellent effect that it is possible to eliminate the increase in development cost and the inconvenience that may occur during operation check.

Further, as in the above-described embodiment, the same processing is executed regardless of whether or not the variation pattern designation command “8100” which can be a command after conversion is converted from “8101” or “8102”. By performing the same type of image-based production (reach production, notice production, and variable display of decorative patterns) at the same rate, the production control board 9012 can be operated appropriately.

Further, since the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” which are the conversion target and the commands after the conversion are commands output by the lottery referring to the same table as shown in FIG. It is possible to easily grasp how the pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” are used, their mutual relations, and the like.

Further, as in the above embodiment, the determination rate of the variation pattern PA1′-1 (the rate at which the variation pattern designation command “8100” is output) is determined by lottery for determining the variation pattern PA1′-1, or All lottery including the lottery (for example, all lottery referencing different tables in the same process may be performed, or all lottery including other processes (for example, lottery performed by the same hardware) 26) to 27 (for example, the determination rate of the variation pattern PA1'-1 is higher than the determination rate of any other variation pattern in FIGS. 26 to 27), and the variation patterns PA1'-2 to PA1'-. The determination rate of 3 (the rate at which the variation pattern designating command “8101” or “8102” is output) is a lottery for determining the variation patterns PA1′-2 to PA1′-3, or all the lottery including the lottery. The lowest in the lottery (for example, all lottery that refers to different tables in the same process or all lottery including other processes (for example, lottery performed by the same hardware)) ( For example, in FIGS. 26 to 27, the determination rate of the variation patterns PA1′-2 to PA1′-3 may be lower than the determination rates of any other variation patterns). The ratio of "8101" or "8102" to be transmitted can be reduced, and, for example, a malfunction or the like in which "8101" or "8102" cannot be converted to "8100" can be suppressed as much as possible. Further, by handling the variation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” as “8100” having a high determination rate, it is possible to easily adjust the determination rate in the lottery.

In addition, the determination rate of the variation pattern PA1′-1 is set to be the highest in the lottery for determining the variation pattern PA1′-1, or in all the lottery including the lottery, and the variation patterns PA1′-2 to PA1. The determination ratio of ′-3 is set so as to satisfy only one of the lottery for determining the variation patterns PA1′-2 to PA1′-3, or the lowest in all the lottery including the lottery. The gaming machine 901 may be configured.

In addition, you may raise the determination rate of fluctuation pattern PA1'-2-PA1'-3 to some extent. For example, each of these determination ratios is determined by lottery for determining the variation patterns PA1′-2 to PA1′-3, or all lottery including the lottery (for example, all lottery references to different tables in the same process). It may be the lowest, or may not be the lowest in all lottery including other processing (for example, the lottery may be performed by the same hardware). As a result, since the variation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” are used with a certain frequency, it is possible to facilitate the operation check by the third party.

Further, as in the above embodiment, the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” are commands that are not individually output in each lottery using different tables (for example, see FIGS. 26 to 27 ). In this way, it is possible to easily understand how the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” are used, the mutual relationship, and the like.

Further, as in the above-described embodiment, the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” are the serial numbers of the entire variation pattern designation commands (in the above-described embodiment, they can be specified by the serial numbers assigned to the respective variation patterns) or the variation patterns. A group in which the value (for example, the value of EXT data) indicated by the specified command is within a predetermined range (close range (particularly serial number)) or a variation pattern of the same category (in the above embodiment, non-reach) is specified. (For example, refer to FIG. 25), and by using this, it is possible to easily grasp how the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” are used, their mutual relations, and the like. The predetermined range may be, for example, a close range such as a serial number of two fluctuation pattern designation commands or a value of EXT data within “10”. The categories may be classified according to at least one condition such as reach or non-reach, normal reach or super reach, a variation pattern at the time of losing or a variation pattern at the time of big hit, etc. (eg, , A normal reach at the time of losing, a super reach at the time of losing, a normal reach at the time of a big hit, a super reach at the time of a big hit, etc. In addition, a category may be formed depending on whether or not there is a pseudo-ream. ).

Further, regarding the variation pattern designation command, since a plurality of commands are treated as the same command, the effect control board 9012 can be preferably operated with respect to frequently used commands.

In addition, by converting the variation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” into “8100”, the command handling process can be facilitated and the effect control board 9012 can be appropriately operated. Further, since the converted “8100” is stored (held) in the storage means (variation pattern designation command storage area), “8101” to “8102” can be accurately handled as “8100” (particularly, the variation pattern). When a specified command is referenced multiple times, it is possible to suppress an increase in processing load, conversion error, and reference error when the command is converted each time). Moreover, since the same special figure variation time is set for "8100" to "8102", even if there is a command conversion for "8101" to "8102", the decorative symbol that is synchronized with the execution of the special figure game can be changed. Display and other effects can be suitably executed without a feeling of strangeness.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and the like, and various modifications and applications of the above embodiments and the like are possible. The modifications of the above-described embodiment are illustrated below, but at least some of the modifications can be combined as long as no contradiction occurs. It should be noted that the configurations of the above-described embodiment and the configurations of the following modified examples can be omitted regardless of whether or not the configurations relate to the above-mentioned "problems to be solved by the invention" (in that case Can be another invention).

(Modification 1)
The main board 9011 may be provided with a portion for converting the variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into the variation pattern “8100” (the portion where the common module 90120A executes steps S90751 to S90752). In this case, for example, the CPU 90103 determines a fluctuation pattern by lottery and generates a fluctuation pattern designation command (which is output to the RAM 90102). Then, the CPU 90103 performs the same processing as step S90704 to convert the fluctuation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” into fluctuation patterns “8100”.

Further, the common module 90120A may be realized by a board different from the main board 9011 and the effect control board 9012, or a processor provided on the effect control board 9012 but different from the effect control CPU 90120.

(Modification 2)
The variation pattern designation commands “8100” to “8102” may be converted into other common variation pattern designation commands (commands that are neither “8100” to “810A” that can be output from the main board 9011). In this case, the effect control board 9012 may perform the same process as the process based on the variation pattern designation command “8100” based on the other variation pattern designation command.

(Modification 3)
The production control board 9012 does not convert the variation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” into “8100”, and when the variation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” are received, the variation pattern designation command “8100” The same process may be performed. In this way, the variation pattern designation commands “8101” to “8102” may be treated as “8100”.

(Modification 4)
The type of command that treats a certain command as another specific command is not limited to the variation pattern designation command. For example, when there are many variable display results (there are many types of big hits), this command may be a display result designation command.

(Modification 5)
A performance control CPU 90120 that determines the execution of the effect (the portion that determines the execution of the effect may be realized by another processor such as a DSP) from the command to the display control unit 90123 (designating the execution of the effect). Command may be output to cause the display control unit 90123 to execute the effect. In this case, regarding the command from the effect control CPU 90120, a certain command may be treated as another specific command (for example, the display control unit 90123 performs command conversion or the like).

For example, display of a corresponding image (at least a hold display image of a hold display image or an active display image (an image corresponding to a special view game being executed)) corresponding to at least a hold of the special view game being held or being executed. A change effect that changes the mode over a plurality of special drawing games can be executed. The change effect is a kind of look-ahead announcement effect, and the look-ahead determination performed on the main board 9011 (whether the variable display result is a "big hit" for the special figure game held by the start prize when the start prize is given, It is executed based on the determination result of determining (predicting) whether or not the variation pattern specifies "super reach". In this case, the effect control CPU 90120 determines the execution pattern (change of the display mode of the hold display image) of the change effect based on the determination result (the effect control command designating the determination result is transmitted from the main board 9011). It is decided collectively by lottery. Then, the command designating the determined execution pattern is output to the display control unit 90123, and the display control unit 90123 is caused to execute the change effect in the execution pattern. Regarding such a command, a certain command may be treated as another specific command.

For example, an execution pattern as shown in FIG. 36 (for example, a change pattern for the second hold display image and a pattern when there are already three second hold display images) is prepared, and the execution patterns SP1′-2 to SP1. The display control unit 90123 converts the commands B5001 to B5002 that respectively specify ′-3 into a command B5000 that specifies the execution pattern SP1′-1, and executes the change effect. The contents of FIG. 36 are the second hold display image for each special figure game executed before the target special figure game (the special figure game corresponding to the second hold display image changed by the change effect). The transition of the display mode of is shown. Specifically, the leftmost display mode in the special map game three targets before the target, the middle display mode in the special map game two targets before, the rightmost one is the display mode one target before. The display mode in a figure game is shown. For example, in SP1′-6, the second hold display image of the target remains normal (display mode when not changed in the change effect) in the special figure game three before, and in the special figure game two before. Change from normal to special 1 (a mode where the target jackpot expectation is "medium"), and change from special 1 to special 2 (a target jackpot expectation is "high" in the previous special drawing game) (Note that the active display image is not included in FIG. 36).

As described above, a command that handles a certain command as another specific command may be a command used to execute the prefetching notice effect. The pre-reading notice effect may change the hold display image, derive a chance eye or the like as a fixed decorative pattern, or change the hold display image or the active display image multiple times in one variable display. Good. The command used to execute the prefetching notice effect may be a command or the like indicating the result of the prefetching determination.

With respect to the command used to execute the prefetching notice effect, since a plurality of commands are treated as the same command, the display control unit 90123 can be preferably operated for the frequently used command. Moreover, you may employ|adopt the structure (relationship of the determination rate of lottery, etc.) of the said embodiment etc. suitably.

(Modification 6)
A command that handles a certain command as another specific command may be transmitted from the effect control board 9012 to another effect control board. Further, for example, it may be a command (for example, a command indicating the number of prize balls) output from the main board 9011 to the payout control board or the like.

(Modification 7)
The variable display (may be simply variable display) of the identification information (special drawing, decorative design, general drawing, etc.) also includes blinking of the identification information. For example, in a special drawing or a general drawing, a pattern in which all the segments are turned off and a pattern in which at least some of the segments are turned on (for example, a lost pattern) are alternately repeated. This is included in the variable display of identification information ( In this case, the one pattern (for example, a lost pattern) appears to blink. Further, the decorative design and the ordinary design may be variably displayed by blinking. Further, the identification information that is variably displayed in the variable display and the identification information that is the result of the variable display may be different. For example, as a variable display of a special drawing or a general drawing, a display with one horizontal bar (“−”) blinking is performed, and as a variable display result, other display (“7” for “big hit”, The variable display of the identification information includes deriving and displaying "1" or the like in the case of "miss". For example, a decorative pattern other than the scrolled decorative pattern may be the confirmed decorative pattern. In the variable display of one time, the mode in which the identification information that was not displayed in the initial predetermined period is displayed after the predetermined period has passed is also included in the variable display of the identification information (the special symbol is the temporary stop of the final stop symbol). It may be a decorative pattern that appears for the first time, etc.). The gaming machine may be, for example, one that performs variable display.

(Modification 8)
The pre-reading determination may be performed on the effect control board 9012 side. For example, a command indicating each random number value at the time of starting winning may be transmitted from the main board 9011 to the effect control board 9012 at the time of starting winning, and the look-ahead determination may be performed in the effect control board 9012.

(Modification 9)
In the above embodiment, by determining the jackpot type at the start of the fluctuation, it is determined whether or not the gaming state after the big hit gaming state is the "probability variation state", but at the start of the variation, the big winning opening pattern ( Only the round game mode) is determined, and the gaming state after the jackpot gaming state is determined based on the fact that the game ball has passed a certain area (for example, a specific area in the special winning opening) during the jackpot gaming state You may choose to.

(Modification 10)
The present invention is also applicable between a plurality of control means in a slot machine and between a plurality of control means in an enclosed pachinko gaming machine in which game balls are enclosed.

(Modification 11)
In addition, the image display operation in the image display device and the voice output operation in the speaker for executing the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, and the lighting operation in the game effect lamp and the decorative LED. Various effect operations including the above can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

(Other)
In addition, in the present specification, one of the expressions for comparing various ratios such as the execution ratio of the effect (expressions such as “high”, “low”, and “different”) is “0%”. May be included. For example, it is also included that one is a ratio of "0%" and the other is a ratio of "100%" or a ratio less than "100%".

1 ... Pachinko gaming machine 5 ... Image display device 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 100 ... Game control microcomputer 120 ... Production control CPU
901 ... Pachinko gaming machine 902 ... Gaming board 903 ... Gaming machine frames 904A, 904B ... Special symbol display device 905 ... Image display device 906A ... Ordinary winning ball device 906B ... Ordinary variable winning ball device 907 ... Special variable winning ball device 908L, 908R ... Speaker 909 ... Game effect lamp 9011 ... Main board 9012 ... Production control board 9013 ... Voice control board 9014 ... Lamp control board 9015 ... Relay board 9020 ... Normal pattern display 9021 ... Gate switch 9022A, 9022B ... Start opening switch 9023 ... Count switch 90100... Game control microcomputers 90101, 90121... ROM
90102, 90122... RAM
90103... CPU
90104, 90124... Random number circuits 90105, 90125... I/O
90120... CPU for production control
90123... Display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing,
Equipped with effect display means capable of displaying effect images in the effect display area,
The effect display area has a first effect display area and a second effect display area,
It is possible to change the ratio of the display area of the first effect display area and the display area of the second effect display area,
Changing the display area change mode in accordance with the type of effect image displayed in the first effect display area,
further,
First control means for outputting a command based on a lottery,
Second control means for executing processing according to the command output by the first control means,
The second control unit receives a command output by the first control unit and outputs a command according to the received command, and a process according to the command output from the first processing unit. And a second processing unit that executes
The commands output by the first control unit include a first command and a second command different from the first command.
The first processing unit,
When the received command is the first command, the first command is output as it is without being converted into another command,
When the received command is the second command, the gaming machine that converts the second command into the first command and outputs the first command .