JP6862264B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine capable of playing a game.

As a game machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when the game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something that can be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variable display (also referred to as “variation”) of the identification information is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result in the variable display device, the gaming state (game). The state of the machine. Therefore, specifically, the state in which the game machine is controlled) is changed to give a predetermined game value to the player (so-called pachinko machine).

Further, after setting a predetermined number of bets for one game on a predetermined game medium, the player operates the start lever to start variable display of the identification information by the variable display device, and the player changes each. By operating the stop button provided corresponding to the display device, the variable display of the identification information is stopped within the range of the maximum delay time predetermined from the operation timing, and the variable display of all the variable display devices is displayed. When a prize is generated according to the display result derived when the game is stopped, a predetermined game medium determined in advance is paid out according to the prize, and a specific prize is generated, the player sets the game state to the predetermined game value. There is something that is configured to give to (so-called slot machine).

The game value means that the state of the variable winning ball device provided in the game area of the game machine is in an advantageous state for the player who is likely to win a prize, or is in an advantageous state for the player. It is to generate rights and to be in a state where the conditions for paying out prize balls are easily satisfied.

In the pachinko gaming machine, as a display result of the variable display of the special symbol (identification information) started in the variable display device based on the winning of the game ball in the starting winning opening, a predetermined specific display mode is derived and displayed. If so, a "big hit" will occur. The derivation display is to finally stop and display the symbol (final stop symbol). When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times to shift to a big hit game state in which a hit ball is easy to win. Then, in each opening period, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) is won in the large winning opening, the large winning opening is closed. The number of times the large winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the large winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each large winning opening may be referred to as a round. In addition, a game in a round may be called a round game.

Further, in the variable display device, symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol among the left, middle, and right symbols) are stopped and shaken in a state of being consistent with a specific display result for a predetermined time. A big hit can occur before the final result is displayed due to movement, enlargement / reduction or deformation, multiple symbols fluctuating synchronously with the same symbol, or the positions of the displayed symbols being swapped. The effect performed in the state where the sex continues (hereinafter, these states are referred to as the reach state) is referred to as the reach effect. In addition, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Further, the variable display including the reach effect is called the reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol that is variablely displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes "off" and the variable display state ends. The player plays the game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

In such a game machine, a control means for controlling based on a received command, a receive register in which the received command is first stored, and an analysis buffer in which the received command is finally stored are provided. Some commands are configured to read the command stored in the receive register and store it in the analysis buffer based on the timer interrupt that occurs every predetermined period. For example, in Patent Document 1, the receive register (FIFO) is monitored at a timing of a certain period, and in the normal reception process, the data stored in the receive register (FIFO) is taken out by using the timer interrupt, and the command buffer is used. It is described that the registration process to (analysis buffer) is performed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-248158 (paragraphs 0080, 028)

However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when a large number of commands are received, the reception register (FIFO) may become full and commands may be missed.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine capable of reducing missed commands when a large number of commands are received.

(Means A) The gaming machine according to the present invention is
It is a game machine that can play games
Control means that controls based on the received command,
It is provided with a command receiving means that receives a plurality of command data constituting a command and stores them in the first storage area.
The first storage area where the received command is stored first, and
A second storage area where received commands are temporarily stored, and
It has a third storage area where the received command is finally stored, and
The control means
Based on the fact that the reception interrupt that occurs each time the command receiving means receives the command data occurs a predetermined number of times, the command data stored in the first storage area is read out and stored in the second storage area. The first storage control means and
A second storage control means that reads command data stored in the second storage area and stores it in the third storage area based on a timer interrupt that occurs every predetermined period.
The analysis means for analyzing the command data stored in the third storage area is included.
When the command data is stored in the second storage area, the first storage control means determines whether or not the capacity of the command data stored in the second storage area has reached the limit value, and the determination is made. Execute the process according to the result,
The second storage control means determines the type of command data read from the second storage area, and based on the determination result, sets the command data into an area corresponding to the type of command data in the third storage area. Store,
It is characterized by that.
(Means 1) The other gaming machine is a gaming machine capable of playing a game, and is a control means (for example, an effect control microcomputer 100) that controls based on a received command (for example, an effect control command). ), A first storage area (for example, a reception register included in the serial communication circuit 115) in which the received command is first stored, and a second storage area (for example, the built-in RAM 112) in which the received command is temporarily stored. A transfer buffer) and a third storage area (for example, an analysis buffer provided in the external SDRAM 116) in which the received command is finally stored, and the control means is generated every time the command is received. In the first storage control means (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100), the command stored in the first storage area is read out and stored in the second storage area based on the reception interruption (for example, serial reception interruption). Based on the part that executes steps S721 to S723) and the timer interruption that occurs every predetermined period (for example, 1 ms), the command stored in the second storage area is read and stored in the third storage area. 2 Storage control means (for example, a portion that executes steps S741 to S748 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and analysis means for analyzing a command stored in the third storage area (for example, in the effect control microcomputer 100). The third storage area includes the first area (for example, the analysis buffer (upper)) for storing the upper data of the command and the second area (for example) for storing the lower data of the command, including the portion for executing step S704). For example, the analysis buffer (lower) is included, and the first storage control means stores the command read from the first storage area as it is in the second storage area (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 has step S745. The second storage control means stores the upper data of the command read from the second storage area in the first area, and stores the lower data of the command read from the second storage area in the second area (executes). For example, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes step S746). According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the omission of commands when a large number of commands are received. In addition, it is possible to reduce the processing load when a reception interrupt occurs, which can lead to prevention of command omission.

(Means 2) In the means 1, the second storage area is configured to be provided in the RAM built in the control means (for example, as shown in FIG. 26, the built-in RAM 112 is provided with a transfer buffer). It may have been. According to such a configuration, the command can be transferred from the first storage area to the second storage area at high speed.

(Means 3) In the means 1 or the means 2, the first storage control means reads a command stored in the first storage area based on the occurrence of a predetermined number of reception interruptions (for example, 10 times). (For example, in the modified example shown in FIG. 32, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes steps S721 to S723 when it is determined to be Y in step S752). You may. According to such a configuration, the processing time for each interrupt is shortened by performing the process of transferring the command from the first storage area to the second storage area only once every time the reception interrupt occurs a predetermined number of times. can do.

(Means 4) In any one of means 1 to means 3, the second storage area has a larger storage capacity than the first storage area, and the third storage area stores as compared with the second storage area. The capacity is large (for example, as shown in FIG. 26, the capacity of the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 is 16 bytes, whereas the capacity of the transfer buffer is as large as 128 bytes, and the analysis buffer (upper) and the analysis buffer (upper) The capacity of each analysis buffer (lower) may be as large as 256 bytes). According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the omission of commands by increasing the storage capacity of the storage area of the transfer destination.

(Means 5) In any of the means 1 to the means 4, the second storage control means has reached the maximum value of the storage capacity of the second storage area for the command stored in the second storage area. In this case, the command stored in the second storage area is read out and stored in the third storage area regardless of the occurrence of the timer interrupt (for example, it is determined as Y in step S724 in the effect control microcomputer 100). Occasionally, it may be configured to execute steps S725-S734). According to such a configuration, when the second storage area is full, the command can be moved to the third storage area as much as possible to reduce the omission of the command.

It is a front view which looked at the pachinko machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure example of the game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit composition example of an effect control board, a lamp driver board, and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process executed by the CPU in the main board. It is a flowchart which shows the 4ms timer interrupt processing in the game control microcomputer. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit determination table, the small hit determination table, and the big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of special symbol process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of special symbol process processing. It is a flowchart which shows the start port switch passing process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the configuration example of the hold storage buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal processing. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal processing. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the display result specification command transmission processing. It is a flowchart which shows the process during special symbol change. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop processing. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of the special symbol display control processing. It is a block diagram which shows the configuration example of the production control microcomputer. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the address map in the production control microcomputer. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of the interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt setting, and an example of the setting contents. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of the interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting, and an example of the setting contents. It is explanatory drawing which shows one configuration example of a receive register and each receive buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the effect control main process executed by the effect control CPU. It is a flowchart which shows the 1ms timer interrupt processing in the production control microcomputer. It is a flowchart which shows the transfer buffer transfer process for transfer. It is a flowchart which shows the buffer transfer process for analysis. It is a flowchart which shows the effect control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the modification of the transfer buffer transfer process for transfer.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 which is an example of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the front.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 is composed of an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and a game frame that is openably and closably attached to the inside of the outer frame. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape provided in the gaming frame so as to be openable and closable. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanical parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (game described later). It is a structure including (excluding board 6).

On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2, there is a ball hitting plate (upper plate) 3. At the lower part of the hitting ball supply plate 3, a surplus ball receiving plate 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply plate 3 and a hitting ball operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-shaped body constituting the game board 6 and various parts attached to the plate-shaped body. Further, on the front surface of the game board 6, a game area 7 is formed in which the driven game ball can flow down.

An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The display screen of the effect display device 9 has an effect symbol display area for variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of the effect symbol. In the effect symbol display area, for example, there is a symbol display area for variably displaying three decorative (effect) effect symbols of "left", "middle", and "right". The symbol display area has "left", "middle", and "right" symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9, and the symbol display area does not have to be fixed. The three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the effect control microcomputer is executing the variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a, the effect display device 9 executes the effect display in accordance with the variable display, and the second special When the variable display of the second special symbol is being executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 in accordance with the variable display, so that it is possible to easily grasp the progress of the game. ..

Further, in the effect display device 9, symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol among the left and right middle symbols) continue for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol). It is stopped, rocked, enlarged / reduced or deformed while matching the combination of symbols), or multiple symbols are synchronized with the same symbol and fluctuate, or the positions of the displayed symbols are swapped. The effect performed in a state where the possibility of a big hit continues before the final result is displayed (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as a reach effect. In addition, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Further, the variable display including the reach effect is called the reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol that is variablely displayed on the effect display device 9 is not the jackpot symbol, it becomes "missing" and the variable display state ends. The player plays the game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

In the upper right portion of the display screen of the effect display device 9, fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d for displaying the fourth symbol following the effect symbol and the special symbol and the ordinary symbol described later are provided. In this embodiment, the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol and the second symbol display area 9c for which the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol described later. A fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol is provided, in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol.

In this embodiment, the variation display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol (however, to be exact, the variation display of the effect symbol varies on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. It is performed by measuring the fluctuation time recognized based on the pattern command.) When performing the production using the effect display device 9, for example, the effect content including the variation display of the effect symbol disappears from the screen for a moment. The mode of production is diversifying, such as the production of production and the production of moving objects blocking all or part of the screen. Therefore, even when looking at the display screen on the effect display device 9, it may be difficult to recognize whether or not the variable display is currently being performed. Therefore, in this embodiment, is the state of the current variable display by confirming the state of the fourth symbol by further performing the variable display of the fourth symbol on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Whether or not it can be reliably recognized. It should be noted that the fourth symbol is always displayed in a variable manner with a constant operation, and is not erased from the screen or shielded by a shield, so that it can always be visually recognized.

The 4th symbol for the 1st special symbol and the 4th symbol for the 2nd special symbol may be collectively referred to as the 4th symbol, and the 4th symbol display area 9c and the 2nd special for the 1st special symbol. The fourth symbol display area 9d for symbols may be collectively referred to as the fourth symbol display area.

The variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol is realized by continuing the state in which the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are repeatedly turned on and off at a predetermined display color (for example, blue) at regular time intervals. .. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol are synchronized with each other. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol are synchronized with each other. Note that "variable display is synchronized" means that the start time and end time of the variable display are the same, and the period of the variable display is the same. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, the display color reminiscent of the jackpot in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol (display color different from the missed, for example, the missed). Sometimes it is displayed in blue, but when it is a big hit, it is displayed in red. It should be noted that the display color may be different depending on whether it is a normal big hit or a probabilistic big hit. It remains lit. When the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the display color reminiscent of the jackpot in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol (display color different from the missed one). For example, it is displayed in blue when it is out of the way, but it is displayed in red when it is a big hit. Note that the display color is different depending on the type of big hit (normal big hit or probabilistic big hit). The display color of the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d when the lights are turned off is assimilated with the background image and disappears when the lights are turned off. It is desirable that the display color is different from the image (for example, black).

In this embodiment, the case where the fourth symbol display area is provided on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is shown, but a light emitting body such as a lamp or an LED is used separately from the effect display device 9. The fourth symbol display area may be realized. In this case, for example, the fluctuation (variable display) of the fourth symbol may be realized by continuing the state in which the two LEDs are alternately lit, and any of the two LEDs is stopped. Depending on whether it is displayed or not, it may be indicated whether or not the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed.

Further, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which the first special symbol and the second special symbol are associated with each other and separate fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are provided, but the first special symbol and the second special symbol are provided. A fourth symbol display area common to the symbols may be provided on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Further, a fourth symbol display area common to the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be realized by using a light emitting body such as a lamp or an LED. In this case, when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol, and when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special symbol. For example, the variable display of the fourth symbol may be distinguished and executed by performing a display in which the display of different display colors is repeatedly turned on and off at regular time intervals. Further, when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol, and when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special symbol, for example. , The variable display of the fourth symbol may be distinguished and executed by displaying the lights and turns off repeatedly at different time intervals. Further, for example, the same jackpot symbol is used when the stop symbol is derived and displayed in response to the variation display of the first special symbol and when the stop symbol is derived and displayed in response to the variation display of the second special symbol. However, the stop symbol of a different mode may be stopped and displayed.

On the left side of the lower part of the game board 6, a first special symbol display (first variable display unit) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, a 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying the numbers 0 to 9. That is, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. On the lower right side of the game board 6, a second special symbol display (second variable display unit) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information is provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, a 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

The small display is formed in a square shape, for example. Further, in this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both numbers 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display, for example, a number (or a two-digit symbol) from 00 to 99, respectively.

Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol display (variable display unit). I have something to do.

In this embodiment, the case where two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided is shown, but the gaming machine may include only one special symbol indicator.

In the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the execution condition of the variable display, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening). After passing through 14 (including winning), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0, and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed). It is started based on the establishment of a state (a state in which the jackpot game is not executed), and when the variable display time (variable time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. In addition, the passing of the game ball means that the game ball has passed through a pre-determined area such as a winning opening or a gate, and the concept includes that the game ball has entered (winning) in the winning opening. Is. Further, the derivation display of the display result means that the symbol (example of identification information) is finally stopped and displayed.

Below the effect display device 9, a winning device having a first starting winning opening 13 is provided. The game ball that has won the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back surface of the game board 6 and is detected by the first starting opening switch 13a.

Further, below the winning device having the first starting winning opening (first starting opening) 13, a variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning opening 14 capable of winning a game ball is provided. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second starting opening) 14 is guided to the back surface of the game board 6 and is detected by the second starting opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is opened, the game ball can win the second starting winning opening 14 (it becomes easier to win the starting winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball is more likely to win in the second starting winning opening 14 than in the first starting winning opening 13. Further, in the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second starting winning opening 14. Therefore, in the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is closed, the game ball is more likely to win the first starting winning opening 13 than the second starting winning opening 14. In the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is closed, it may be difficult to win a prize, but it may be possible to win a prize (that is, it is difficult for a game ball to win a prize).

Hereinafter, the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a starting winning opening or a starting opening.

When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is extremely easy to win in the second starting winning opening 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly below the effect display device 9, but the distance between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 may be further narrowed, or the first start winning opening 13 may be further narrowed. The winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is made by arranging the nails densely around 13 or making it difficult to guide the game ball to the first starting winning opening 13 by arranging the nails around the first starting winning opening 13. May be higher than the winning rate of the first starting winning opening 13.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes only the second starting winning opening 14 is provided, but the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 13 and the second. A variable winning ball device that opens and closes each of the starting winning openings 14 may be provided.

On the side of the first special symbol display 8a, the number of valid winning balls that have entered the first starting winning opening 13, that is, the number of first holding storages (holding memory is also referred to as starting memory or starting winning memory) is displayed. A first special symbol hold storage display 18a composed of four displays is provided. The first special symbol hold storage display 18a increases the number of lit indicators by 1 each time there is a valid start prize. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of lit indicators is reduced by one.

On the side of the second special symbol display 8b, there is a second special symbol hold storage display 18b consisting of four indicators for displaying the number of valid winning balls entered in the second start winning opening 14, that is, the number of second hold storages. Is provided. The second special symbol hold storage display 18b increases the number of lit indicators by 1 each time there is a valid start prize. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of lit indicators is reduced by one.

Further, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, a first hold storage display unit 9a for displaying the first hold storage number and a second hold storage display unit 9b for displaying the second hold storage number are provided. ing. The first hold storage display unit 9a displays the first hold display corresponding to each of the first hold storage. Further, the second hold storage display unit 9b displays the second hold display corresponding to each of the second hold storages. In this embodiment, the case where the first reserved storage number and the second reserved storage number are displayed individually is shown, but the total number of the first reserved storage number and the second reserved storage number is added. A total hold storage display unit for displaying the number of hold storages may be provided. With such a configuration, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that do not satisfy the variable display start condition. Further, in such a configuration, in the total hold storage display unit, the first hold memory and the second hold memory are displayed side by side in the order of winning the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. , The first hold memory or the second hold memory is displayed in a recognizable manner (for example, the first hold memory is displayed in red and the second hold memory is displayed in blue). It may be configured.

The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effect) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. Variable display of the production symbol as the symbol of. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized with each other. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized with each other. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect symbol reminiscent of the jackpot on the effect display device 9. The combination of is stopped and displayed.

In this embodiment, as will be described later, the game control microcomputer 560 that controls the variation display of the special symbol transmits a variation pattern command that can specify the variation time, and the effect control microcomputer 100 transmits the variation pattern command. The variation display of the effect symbol is controlled according to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command. Therefore, since the fluctuation time is specified based on the fluctuation pattern command, the fluctuation display of the special symbol and the fluctuation display of the effect symbol should be executed synchronously in principle. However, in the unlikely event that the data of the fluctuation pattern command is garbled, the fluctuation time recognized by the game control microcomputer 560 and the fluctuation time recognized by the effect control microcomputer 100 side. There may be a gap between them. Therefore, when an unexpected situation such as garbled command data occurs, there is a possibility that the variable display of the special symbol and the variable display of the effect symbol may not be completely synchronized.

On the left side of the decorative portion around the effect display device 9, a movable member 78 that is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor 86 and moves when the motor 86 rotates is provided. In this embodiment, the movable member 78 operates when a notice effect (movable object notice effect) or a super reach effect is executed. It should be noted that the movable member 78 may be operated not only in the movable object notice effect and the super reach effect but also in the pseudo-ream effect, for example.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball device 20 is provided with an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. In the specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) that occurs when is derived and displayed, the opening / closing plate is controlled to the open state by the solenoid 21, so that the large winning opening, which is the winning area, is opened. The game ball that has won the big prize opening is detected by the count switch 23.

The game area 6 is also provided with winning openings (ordinary winning openings) 29, 30, 33, 39 for paying out a predetermined number of prize game balls determined in advance based on the winning of the game balls. The game balls that have won the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

An ordinary symbol display 10 is provided on the right side of the game board 6. The ordinary symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, "○" and "x") called ordinary symbols.

When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, the variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbol becomes visible when lit). For example, if the lower lamp lights at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. .. Then, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 is a state in which the player is advantageous from a disadvantageous state to an advantageous state (a state in which the game ball can be won in the second starting winning opening 14) when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is the winning symbol. Changes to. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol hold storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Every time the game ball passes through the gate 32, that is, every time the game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol hold storage display 41 increases the number of lit LEDs by one. Then, each time the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of lit LEDs is reduced by 1. Further, a probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit is higher than that in the normal state (a state in which the probability of being determined as a big hit as a result of changing the special symbol is increased as compared with the normal state. In the high probability state.), The probability that the stopped symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a hit symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

Decorative LEDs 25 that blink during the game are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, and an out port 26 that captures a hit ball that has not won a prize is provided at the lower part. Further, two speakers 27 for producing sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right outside the game area 7. A frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7.

The member constituting the hitting ball supply plate 3 is provided with an operation button 120 as an operation means that can be operated by the player. The operation button 120 is provided with a push button switch that allows the player to perform a pressing operation. The operation button 120 is provided not only with a push button switch capable of being pressed by the player, but also with a dial capable of being rotated by the player. The player can make a predetermined selection (for example, selection of an effect) by rotating the dial.

The game machine is a ball launching device (not shown) that drives a drive motor in response to the player operating the ball striking handle 5 and launches the game ball into the game area 7 by using the rotational force of the drive motor. ) Is provided. The game ball launched from the hit ball launcher enters the game area 7 through a hit ball rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends from the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends and the first 1), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to the winning of the first starting winning opening 13. Unless the variable display of the first special symbol can be started, the first reserved storage number is incremented by 1 on condition that the first reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value.

When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends and the second special symbol is displayed. 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts the variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts the variable display of the effect symbol. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to the winning of the second starting winning opening 14. Unless the variable display of the second special symbol can be started, the second reserved storage number is incremented by 1 on condition that the second reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value.

In this embodiment, when a probabilistic jackpot is reached, the game is shifted to the so-called probabilistic state after the jackpot game is completed, the game state is shifted to the high probability state, and the game ball is easily started and won a prize (that is, a special symbol). The game shifts to a high base state, which is a game state controlled so that the execution conditions of the variable display on the displays 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are easily satisfied). In the high base state, for example, the frequency with which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened is increased, or the time during which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened is extended as compared with the case where the high base state is not achieved. It becomes easier to win a starting prize.

It should be noted that, instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state (also referred to as an open extension state), the state shifts to a normal symbol probability variation state in which the probability that the stopped symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a hit symbol is increased. By doing so, it may shift to a high base state. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. In this case, by controlling the transition to the normal symbol probability change state, the probability that the stopped symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a hit symbol is increased, and the frequency with which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened increases. Therefore, if the state shifts to the normal symbol probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and the starting winning state becomes easy (high base state). That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is the hit symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is the probabilistic symbol, which is disadvantageous to the player. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

Further, the normal symbol display 10 may shift to the high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time reduction state in which the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol is shortened. In the normal symbol time reduction state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the fluctuation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, as the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases, the frequency of opening the variable winning ball device 15 increases, and the start winning is easy to win (high base state).

Further, in this embodiment, when the state is shifted to the high base state, it is also shifted to the time saving state (special symbol time saving state) in which the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the special symbol or the effect symbol is shortened. By shifting to the time saving state in this way, the fluctuation time of the special symbol or the effect symbol is shortened, so that the fluctuation of the special symbol or the effect symbol is started more frequently (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory is digested. It will be faster.) It is possible to reduce the situation where an invalid start prize is generated. Therefore, a valid start winning prize is likely to occur, and as a result, the possibility that a big hit game is performed increases.

Furthermore, by shifting to all the states shown above (open extension state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol time reduction state and special symbol time reduction state), it becomes easier to win a start prize (shift to a high base state). You may. In addition, by shifting to any one or more of the above-mentioned states (open extension state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol time reduction state, and special symbol time reduction state), it becomes easier to win a start prize (high base). It may be changed to the state). In addition, by shifting to only one of the above-mentioned states (open extension state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol time reduction state, and special symbol time reduction state), it becomes easier to win a start prize (high). It may move to the base state).

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration on the main board (game control board) 31. Note that FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to a game control means) 560 that controls the pachinko game machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a program for game control (game progress control), a RAM 55 as a storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built into the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer may have at least a CPU 56 and a RAM 55 built-in, and the ROM 54 may be externally attached or built-in. Further, the I / O port portion 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 also includes a random number circuit 53 that generates a hardware random number (a random number generated by the hardware circuit). In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 also has a built-in serial communication circuit 51.

Further, the RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means in which a part or all of the RAM 55 is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply board 910. That is, even if the power supply to the game machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 are stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot supply power). In particular, at least the data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (special symbol process flag, etc.) and the data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data according to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for recovering the control state before the occurrence of the power failure or the like based on the data when the data is restored after the power failure or the like occurs. Further, the data corresponding to the control state and the data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as the data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up by the power supply.

Since the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) will execute (or process) the following. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. This also applies to the microcomputer mounted on a board other than the main board 31.

The random number circuit 53 is a hardware circuit used to generate a random number for determination for determining whether or not to make a big hit based on the display result of the variable display of the special symbol. The random number circuit 53 updates the numerical data according to the set update rule within the numerical range in which the initial value (for example, 0) and the upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at random timing. Based on the fact that the winning time is the time when the numerical data is read (extracted), it has a random number generation function in which the read numerical data becomes a random number value.

The random number circuit 53 has a numerical data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), a numerical data update rule selection setting function, and a numerical data update rule selection function. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random number can be improved.

Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data to be updated by the random number circuit 53. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as ROM 54 (ID number assigned by a different numerical value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained above is set as the initial value of the numerical data to be updated by the random number circuit 53. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 53 can be further improved.

The serial communication circuit 51 has a function of converting an effect control command into a serial signal and transmitting the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 by a serial communication method.

Further, an input driver circuit 58 that gives detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. There is. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 that drives a solenoid 16 that opens and closes the variable winning ball device 15 and a solenoid 21 that opens and closes the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a large winning opening according to a command from the game control microcomputer 560. It is mounted on 31.

Further, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a for variably displaying a special symbol, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying a normal symbol, and a first special symbol hold memory. The display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol holding storage display 18b, and the normal symbol holding storage display 41 is performed.

An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

In this embodiment, the effect control means (consisting of the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 directs the effect content from the game control microcomputer 560 by the serial communication method. The display control of the effect display device 9 that receives the control command and variably displays the effect symbol is performed.

Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decorative LED 25 provided on the game board and the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35. , The sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the audio output board 70.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but a microcomputer may be mounted. Further, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 may not be provided, and only the effect control board 80 may be provided for the effect control.

The effect control board 80 is equipped with an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a built-in RAM for storing information related to the effect such as an effect symbol process flag. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the effect control microcomputer 100 is not backed up by the power supply. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates according to the program stored in the built-in ROM, and receives the effect control command using the serial communication circuit (see FIG. 22). Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to control the display of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command. Further, the effect control board 80 is equipped with an external SDRAM 116. The built-in ROM and built-in RAM of the effect control microcomputer 100 and the external SDRAM 116 will be described later.

In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that controls the display of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the effect control microcomputer 100, and VRAM is mapped there. VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

The effect control CPU 101 outputs a command for reading necessary data from the CGROM (not shown) to the VDP 109 according to the received effect control command. The CGROM stores in advance character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, people, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including effect patterns), and background image data. ROM for. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CG ROM in response to a command from the effect control CPU 101. Then, the VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 drives the motor 86 to operate the movable member 78 via the output port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 drives a motor 87 for operating the effect blade accessories 79a and 79b via the output port 106.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs a signal from the operation button 120 in response to a pressing operation of the operation button 120 by the player via the input port 107.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED or the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

In the lamp driver board 35, the signal for driving the LED or the lamp is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 based on the signal for driving the LED. Further, a current is supplied to a decorative LED 25 or the like provided on the game board side.

In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesis IC 703 generates voices and sound effects corresponding to the sound number data and outputs them to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplifier circuit 705 outputs a voice signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the voice synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data according to the sound number data. The control data according to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output mode of the sound effect or the sound in a predetermined period (for example, the fluctuation period of the effect symbol) in chronological order.

Next, the operation of the game machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When the power is turned on to the game machine and the power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, CPU 56) After executing the security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first makes necessary initial settings.

In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to the interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and the stack pointer designated address is set in the stack pointer (step S3). Then, after initializing the built-in device (initializing the built-in device (built-in peripheral circuit) CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port), etc.) (step S4), the RAM can be accessed. (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output by the built-in device is This mode indicates the interrupt address.

Next, the CPU 56 confirms the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes a normal initialization process (steps S10 to S15).

If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing in the backup RAM area (for example, processing when power supply is stopped such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the game machine was stopped. (Step S7). After confirming that such protection processing has not been performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether or not there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed by, for example, the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop processing.

After confirming that the power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 checks the data in the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and saved by the same processing in the power supply stop processing. If the data is restored after the power supply is stopped due to an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) becomes normal (match). If the check result is not normal, it means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, the initialization process executed when the power is turned on, which is not the time when the power supply is stopped, is executed.

If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs game state restoration processing (steps S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Processing) is performed. Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set in the pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power supply. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. By the processing of steps S41 and S42, the saved contents remain as they are for the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The parts that should not be initialized are, for example, data indicating the game state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability change flag, time saving flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer). ), The part where the data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Further, the CPU 56 transmits a display result designation command specifying a display result (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot, small hit, or loss) stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80 (step). S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S44, for example, when the value of the special symbol pointer described later is also stored in the backup RAM, the CPU 56 also transmits the first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command (see FIG. 8). You may try to do it. In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may restart the variation display of the fourth symbol based on the reception of the first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command.

In this embodiment, the value of the variable time timer, which will be described later, is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, after the display result designation command is transmitted in step S44, the measurement of the value of the saved fluctuation time timer is restarted, the fluctuation display of the special symbol is restarted, and the data is saved. When the value of the variable time timer that has been set timed out, the symbol confirmation specification command described later is transmitted. Further, in this embodiment, the value of the special symbol process flag described later is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, the special symbol process processing is restarted from the process corresponding to the value of the saved special symbol process flag.

Instead of always transmitting the display result specification command when the power is restored, the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the variable time timer stored in the backup RAM area is 0. .. Then, if the value of the fluctuation time timer is not 0, it is determined that there is a power failure during the fluctuation, and a display result specification command is transmitted. If the fluctuation time timer is 0, the fluctuation is occurring during the power failure. It may be determined that the state is not present and the display result specification command may not be sent.

Further, the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag stored in the backup RAM area is 3. Then, if the value of the special symbol process flag is 3, it is determined that a power failure occurs during the fluctuation, and a display result specification command is transmitted. If the special symbol process flag is not 3, the fluctuation occurs during a power failure. It may be determined that it was not inside, and the display result specification command may not be sent.

In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is saved by using both the backup flag and the check data, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity to execute the game state recovery process.

In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). By the RAM clear processing, predetermined data (for example, data of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining a normal symbol hit) is initialized to 0, but is an arbitrary value or a predetermined value. It may be initialized to. Further, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, data of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining a normal symbol hit) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization table stored in the ROM 54 is set in the pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a random number counter for determining a normal symbol hit, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively processing according to the control state are initially set. The value is set.

Further, the CPU 56 is an initialization designation command (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed the initialization process) for initializing the sub-board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs a screen display for notifying that the control of the game machine has been initialized, that is, an initialization notification.

Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initializing the random number circuit 53 (step S14). The CPU 56 sets the random number circuit 53 to update the value of the random number R, for example, by executing the process according to the random number circuit setting program.

Then, in step S15, the CPU 56 sets the CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that the timer interrupt is periodically applied at predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, as an initial value, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the timer is interrupted periodically every 4 ms.

When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt prohibition state is set (step S16), and when the execution of the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process is completed, the interrupt enable state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, or a random number for determining whether or not to reach when it is not a big hit, and it is displayed. The random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating a random number for display. Further, the initial value random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to hit the normal symbol (normal symbol hit determination random number generation counter). It is a random number to determine. Game control processing that controls the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls the game devices such as the effect display device, the variable winning ball device, and the ball payout device provided in the game machine. In the process of performing, or the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, also called the game device control process), the count value of the random number for normal symbol hit determination is one lap (taking the random number for normal symbol hit judgment). The initial value is set in the counter when the step is taken by the number of numerical values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible value.

In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed by using the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9. In addition, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed (however, in the case of a sudden probability variation jackpot, the sudden probability variation jackpot symbol (for example, "135") is not a reach. May be displayed as stopped). When the display result of the special symbol is not a big hit symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to execute the reach effect by performing a lottery to determine the fluctuation pattern type and the fluctuation pattern using random numbers. To do. However, it is the effect control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the control of the reach effect.

When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process in steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power failure detection process for detecting whether or not a power failure signal has been output (whether or not it has been turned on) is executed (step S20). The power off signal is output when, for example, the power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supply supplied to the game machine. Then, in the power supply cutoff detection process, when the CPU 56 detects that the power supply cutoff signal has been output, it executes a power supply stop time process for storing necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, the detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their states are determined (switch processing: step S21). ).

Next, the CPU 56 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, and a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the hold storage display 41 is executed (step S22). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33. Take control.

In addition, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a normal symbol hit determination random number used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process process (step S26). In the special symbol process process, the corresponding process is executed according to the special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the grand prize opening in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the game state.

Next, the normal symbol process process is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process process, the CPU 56 executes the corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the game state. In the normal symbol process process of step S27, the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is executed based on the detection of the passage of the game ball to the gate 32, and the fluctuation display result is derived and displayed, or the fluctuation display result of the normal symbol is displayed. When the hit is hit, the process of controlling the variable winning ball device 15 to the open state or the closed state is executed.

Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

Further, the CPU 56 performs an information output process for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, and probability fluctuation information supplied to the hall management computer (step S29).

Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 (step S30). Specifically, the payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37 responds to the winning detection based on any of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the computer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in response to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided, but the CPU 56 relates to turning on / off the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output processing).

Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol display control process for setting the special symbol display control data for displaying the effect of the special symbol according to the value of the special symbol process flag in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data ( Step S32).

Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting the normal symbol display control data for displaying the effect of the normal symbol according to the value of the normal symbol process flag in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data (the normal symbol display control process). Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the fluctuation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“○” and “×”) of the fluctuation speed of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. At such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating "○" and 0 indicating "x") is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 executes the effect display of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting the drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

After that, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process ends.

With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the process of steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. Further, in this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process, but in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is the main process. It may be executed in.

When the misaligned symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. A combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not reach the reach state may be stopped and displayed without reaching the reach state. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a "non-reach" (also referred to as "normally out of place") variable display mode when the variable display result is an out-of-order symbol.

When the misaligned symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. The reach effect is executed after the reach state is reached, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not finally become a jackpot symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of "reach" (also referred to as "reach loss") when the variable display result is "out of reach".

In this embodiment, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Finally, the effect symbols are aligned and stopped and displayed in the "left", "middle", and "right" symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R of the effect display device 9 (however, in the case of a sudden probability change jackpot). In some cases, the probability change jackpot symbol (for example, "135") is stopped and displayed without becoming a reach.

When the small hit "5" is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the variable display mode of the effect symbol is "sudden probability change big hit" in the effect display device 9. After the variable display of the effect symbol is performed in the same manner as in the case of, a predetermined small hit symbol (the same symbol as the sudden probability change big hit symbol, for example, "135") may be stopped and displayed. The display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the stop display of the small hit symbol "5" on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is referred to as a variable display mode of "small hit". ..

Here, the small hit is a hit that is allowed up to a number of times that the number of times the big winning opening is opened is smaller than that of the big hit (in this embodiment, opening for 0.1 seconds is twice). When the small hit game is completed, the game state does not change. That is, there is no transition from the probabilistic state to the normal state or transition from the normal state to the probabilistic state. Further, the sudden probability change big hit is allowed up to the number of times that the big winning opening is opened a small number of times in the big hit game state (in this embodiment, opening for 0.1 second is twice), but the opening time of the big winning opening is extremely long. A short jackpot and a jackpot that shifts the gaming state after the jackpot game to a probabilistic state (that is, by doing so, it appears to the player as if it suddenly became a probabilistic state. Is). That is, in this embodiment, the sudden change big hit and the small hit have the same opening pattern of the big winning opening. By controlling in this way, if the big winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, it is not possible to recognize whether it is a sudden change big hit or a small hit, so it is a high probability state for the player. (Probability change state) can be expected, and the interest of the game can be improved.

When the game machine is configured so that all the big hit types are probabilistic big hits, it is not necessary to provide the small hits. In addition, when a small hit is provided when all the big hit types are probabilistic big hits, the sudden probabilistic big hit is only shifted to the probabilistic state (high probability state) and is not accompanied by the time saving state (high base state). It is preferable to provide.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot, which will be described later) (for determining the jackpot type).
(2) Random 2 (MR2): Determine the type (type) of the fluctuation pattern (for determining the fluctuation pattern type)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): Determine the fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time) (for determining the fluctuation pattern)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination).
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)

In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined by using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and the variation is determined by using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). Determine one of the fluctuation patterns included in the pattern type. As such, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-step lottery process.

The fluctuation pattern type is a group of a plurality of fluctuation patterns according to the characteristics of the fluctuation mode. For example, a plurality of fluctuation patterns are grouped by reach type, and include a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern with normal reach, a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern with super reach A, and a fluctuation pattern with super reach B. It may be divided into fluctuation pattern types. Further, for example, a plurality of fluctuation patterns are grouped by the number of re-variations of the pseudo-ream, and a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern without a pseudo-ream, a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern of one re-variation, and a re-variation. It may be divided into a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern of two fluctuations and a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern of three re-variations. Further, for example, a plurality of fluctuation patterns may be grouped according to the presence or absence of an effect such as a pseudo-ream or a sliding effect.

In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 is a counter for generating the big hit type determination random number (1) and the ordinary symbol hit determination random number (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are random numbers for determination, and random numbers other than these are random numbers for display (random 2, random 3) or random numbers for initial values (random 5). In addition, random numbers other than the above random numbers may be used in order to enhance the game effect. Further, in this embodiment, as the jackpot determination random number, a random number generated by the hardware built in the game control microcomputer 560 (may be external hardware of the game control microcomputer 560) is used. As the big hit determination random number, a software random number may be used instead of the hardware random number.

FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54, and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability variation state) and a probability variation jackpot determination table used in the probability variation state. Each numerical value shown in the left column of FIG. 7 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. 7 (A) is set in the probability variation jackpot determination table. Is set. The numerical value shown in FIG. 7A is the jackpot determination value.

7 (B) and 7 (C) are explanatory views showing a small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54, and is a table in which a small hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table includes a small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when displaying the variation of the first special symbol and a small hit determination table used when displaying the variation of the second special symbol. (For the second special design) Each numerical value shown in FIG. 7 (B) is set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), and in FIG. 7 (C) in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol). Each numerical value described is set. Further, the numerical values shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C are small hit determination values.

It should be noted that the small hit may be determined only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and the small hit may not be provided when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. In this case, it is not necessary to provide the small hit determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 7 (C). In this embodiment, when the gaming state is shifted to the probabilistic state, the variation display of the second special symbol is mainly executed. If a small hit is generated even when the game state is shifted to the probabilistic state, and an effect of inciting whether or not the game state is probable is set, even though the current game state is in the probabilistic state. On the contrary, it makes the player feel annoyed. Therefore, if it is configured so that small hits do not occur during the variable display of the second special symbol, it is difficult for small hits to occur when the game state is in the probable change state, and the fanning effect for the probable change is not performed more than necessary. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the player feels annoyed.

The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 53 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). The jackpot determination random number value is shown in FIG. 7A. If any of the jackpot determination values is matched, it is decided to make a jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot, which will be described later) for the special symbol. Further, when the random value for the big hit determination matches any of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 7 (B) and 7 (C), it is determined to make a small hit with respect to the special symbol. The "probability" shown in FIG. 7A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, the "probability" shown in FIGS. 7 (B) and 7 (C) indicates the probability (ratio) of a small hit. Further, deciding whether or not to make a big hit means deciding whether or not to shift to the big hit game state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is determined. It also means deciding whether or not to make a big hit design. Further, determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit game state, but stop at the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. It also means deciding whether or not to make the symbol a small hit symbol.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a rate of 1/300. On the other hand, when the small hit determination table (second special symbol) is used, the case where the small hit is determined at a rate of 1/3000 will be described. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the first start winning opening 13 is entered and the variation display of the first special symbol is executed, the second starting winning opening 14 is entered and the second special symbol is displayed. Compared to the case where the variable display is executed, the rate of being determined as "small hit" is high.

7 (D) and 7 (E) are explanatory views showing the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b stored in the ROM 54. Of these, FIG. 7 (D) determines the jackpot type using the hold memory based on the game ball winning the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed). It is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a of the case. Further, FIG. 7 (E) shows a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the hold memory based on the game ball winning the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). It is a jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b.

The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b set the jackpot type to "normal jackpot" or "normal jackpot" based on a random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol. It is a table referred to for determining either "probability change jackpot" or "sudden change jackpot". In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 (D) and 7 (E), eight determination values are assigned to the “sudden probability change jackpot” in the jackpot type determination table 131a (40 minutes). 2 judgment values are assigned to the "sudden probability change jackpot" in the jackpot type judgment table 131b (2/40 ratio). (Suddenly determined to be a probabilistic jackpot). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the first start winning opening 13 is entered and the variation display of the first special symbol is executed, the second starting winning opening 14 is entered and the second special symbol is displayed. Compared to the case where the fluctuation display is executed, the rate of being determined as "sudden probability change jackpot" is high. It should be noted that the "sudden probability change jackpot" is distributed only to the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol, and the "sudden probability variation jackpot" is not distributed to the jackpot type determination table 131b for the second special symbol (that is, , "Sudden probability change jackpot" may be determined only when the variation display of the first special symbol is performed).

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 (D) and 7 (E), a sudden probability change jackpot (two rounds of jackpot) as a first specific gaming state that imparts a predetermined amount of game value, and the game. In some cases, it may be determined to be a normal jackpot and a probabilistic jackpot (15 round jackpot) as the second specific game state in which a game value larger than the value is given, and the variation display of the first special symbol is executed. Although the case where it is decided to set the first specific game state at a high rate is shown, the game value to be given is not limited to the number of rounds as shown in this embodiment. For example, as compared with the first specific game state, the second specific game state in which the permissible amount of the number of winnings (count number) of the game ball to the large winning opening per round is increased as the game value is determined. May be good. Further, for example, the second specific game state in which the opening time of the big winning opening per big hit during the big hit is lengthened as compared with the first specific game state may be determined. Further, for example, even in the same 15-round big hit, the first specific gaming state in which the big winning opening is opened once per round and the second specific gaming state in which the big winning opening is opened a plurality of times per round are defined. It may be prepared and the game value of the second specific game state may be increased by substantially increasing the number of times the large winning opening is opened. In this case, for example, in either the first specific game state or the second specific game state, when the large winning opening is opened 15 times (in this case, all 15 rounds in the case of the first specific game state). In the case of the second specific game state, an undigested round remains), and an effect of a mode that encourages whether or not the jackpot continues further may be executed. Then, in the case of the first specific game state, all 15 rounds are internally completed, so the jackpot game is ended, and in the case of the second specific game state, undigested rounds remain internally. Therefore, the jackpot game may be continued (a production in which the opening of the jackpot is additionally started with a bonus after the jackpot of 15 times opening is completed).

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 (D) and 7 (E), the jackpot types include "normal jackpot", "probability change jackpot", and "sudden probability variation jackpot". In this embodiment, the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is two types, 15 rounds and 2 rounds, but the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is shown in this embodiment. It is not limited to the ones. For example, a 7R probability variable jackpot controlled for a 7-round jackpot game or a 5R probability variable jackpot controlled for a 5-round jackpot game may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, the case where the big hit types are three types of "normal big hit", "probability change big hit" and "sudden change big hit" is shown, but the case is not limited to three types, for example, four or more types. A jackpot type may be provided. On the contrary, the number of jackpot types may be less than three, and for example, only two types may be provided as jackpot types.

The "normal jackpot" is a jackpot that is controlled to a jackpot gaming state of 15 rounds and shifts to a time saving state (high base state) after the end of the jackpot gaming state (see steps S167 and 168 described later). Then, after shifting to the time saving state, when the variation display is completed 100 times, the time saving state ends (see steps S168 and S137 to 140 described later). In this embodiment, even if a big hit occurs after the transition to the time saving state and before the execution of the variation display 100 times is completed, the time saving state ends (see step S132 described later).

The "probability change jackpot" is a jackpot that is controlled to a jackpot game state of 15 rounds and shifts to a probability change state (high probability state) after the end of the jackpot game state (in this embodiment, it is shifted to the probability change state and at the same time. It also shifts to the time saving state (high base state). See steps S169 and S170 described later). Then, after shifting to the probabilistic state, the probabilistic state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S132 described later).

Further, the "sudden change jackpot" is allowed up to the number of times that the big winning opening is opened less than the "normal jackpot" and the "probability change jackpot" (in this embodiment, opening for 0.1 second is twice). It is a big hit to be done. That is, in the case of "sudden probability change big hit", it is controlled to the big hit game state of two rounds. In addition, in "normal jackpot" and "probability jackpot", the opening time of the jackpot per round is as long as 29 seconds, while in "sudden jackpot", the opening time of the jackpot per round is long. It is extremely short at 0.1 seconds, and it can hardly be expected that a game ball will win a prize at the big prize opening during a big hit game. Then, in this embodiment, after the end of the sudden probability change jackpot game state, the probability change state (high probability state) is shifted (in this embodiment, the probability change state is shifted and the time is shortened (high base state). Is also migrated. See steps S169 and S170 described later). Then, after shifting to the probabilistic state, the probabilistic state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S132 described later).

As described above, in this embodiment, even when a "small hit" occurs, the big winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds each, resulting in a big hit game state due to the "sudden probability change big hit". Similar control is performed. Then, in the case of a "small hit", the gaming state does not change after the two opening of the large winning opening is completed, and the gaming state before the "small hit" is maintained. By doing so, it is not possible to recognize whether it is a "sudden change big hit" or a "small hit", and the interest of the game is improved.

The jackpot type judgment tables 131a and 131b are numerical values to be compared with the value of random 1, and are judgment values corresponding to each of "normal jackpot", "probability change jackpot", and "sudden probability variation jackpot" (big hit type judgment value). ) Is set. When the value of random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as the type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

8 and 9 are explanatory views showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the examples shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to the variable display of the special symbol. ) (Each corresponds to the fluctuation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the fluctuation patterns that can be used, there is a fluctuation pattern command corresponding to each of the fluctuation patterns specified by the number. In addition, "(H)" indicates that it is a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for specifying the fluctuation pattern is also a command for designating the fluctuation start. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls to start the variable display of the effect symbol.

The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit, whether or not to make a small hit, and the type of big hit. Since the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbol in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

The command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. The command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that the variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specification command (or symbol variation designation command). The variation pattern command may include information indicating whether to start the variable display of the first special symbol or the variable display of the second special symbol.

The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (variation) of the fourth symbol is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Upon receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (variation) of the fourth symbol and derives and displays the display result.

The command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when the power supply to the game machine is started. The command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when the power supply to the game machine is restarted. When the power supply to the game machine is started, the game control microcomputer 560 sends a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation. Send a command.

Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demo designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

The commands A001 to A003 (H) are effect control commands (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command) for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the jackpot game. In this embodiment, a jackpot start 1 designation command, a jackpot start 2 designation command, or a small hit / sudden probability change jackpot start designation command is used depending on the type of jackpot. Specifically, in the case of "normal jackpot", the jackpot start 1 designation command (A001 (H)) is used, and in the case of "normal jackpot", the jackpot start 2 designation command (A002 (H)) is used. In the case of "sudden probability change big hit" or "small hit", the small hit / sudden probability change big hit start designation command (A003 (H)) is used. Although the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a fanfare designation command for suddenly probabilistic jackpot start designation when it is a sudden big hit, it may be configured not to send a fanfare designation command when it is a small hit. Good.

The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (command for designating the opening of the large winning opening) indicating the display during the opening of the large winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. Since the value for designating the round is set in the EXT data and transmitted for the large winning opening opening designation command, a different large winning opening opening designation command is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the jackpot game, a command (A101 (H)) for specifying round 1 is transmitted and the tenth round during the jackpot game is executed. Is transmitted a command (A10A (H)) during which the large winning opening is open to specify round 10. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designated command after opening the large winning opening) indicating the closing of the large winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. Since the value for designating the round is set in the EXT data and transmitted for the designated command after opening the large winning opening, a different designated command after opening the large winning opening is transmitted for each round. For example, when ending the first round during the jackpot game, a designation command (A201 (H)) is transmitted after opening the jackpot to specify round 1, and when ending the tenth round during the jackpot game. Is transmitted a designated command (A30A (H)) after opening the large winning opening that designates round 10.

The command A301 (H) is an effect control command (big hit end 1 designation command: ending 1 designation command) for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot end 1 designation command (A301 (H)) is used when ending the jackpot game by "normal jackpot". The command A302 (H) is an effect control command (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command) for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot end 2 designation command (A302 (H)) is used when ending the jackpot game by "probability variation jackpot". Command A303 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / sudden probability change big hit end designation command: ending 3 designation command) for designating the end of the small hit game or the end of the sudden probability change big hit game. The game control microcomputer 560 is configured to send an ending designation command for suddenly probabilistic jackpot end designation when it is a sudden probability change jackpot, but not to send an ending designation command when it is a small hit. May be good.

The command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) for designating the background display when the game state is the normal state. The command B001 (H) is an effect control command (time saving state background designation command) for designating the background display when the gaming state is the time saving state. The command B002 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state background designation command) for designating the background display when the game state is the probability change state.

The command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first hold storage number addition designation command) for designating that the first hold storage number has been increased by 1. The command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second hold storage number addition designation command) for designating that the second hold storage number has been increased by 1. The command C200 (H) is an effect control command (first hold storage number subtraction designation command) for designating that the first hold storage number has decreased by one. The command C300 (H) is an effect control command (second hold storage number subtraction designation command) for designating that the second hold storage number has decreased by 1.

In this embodiment, as the reserved storage information, the effect control command (first reserved storage number addition designation) indicating that the reserved storage number has increased or decreased for the first reserved storage number and the second reserved storage number, respectively. The case where the command and the second hold storage number addition designation command) are transmitted is shown, but the form of the hold storage information is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, and for example, the hold storage in the following modes is shown. Information may be transmitted.

(1) Only one command is transmitted as the hold storage information, and in that one command, which of the first hold memory and the second hold memory is increased is specified, and the number of hold memories of the increased one is specified. (The first reserved storage number or the second reserved storage number) may be set as EXT data and transmitted.

(2) As the hold storage information, only one command is transmitted, and in that one command, which of the first hold memory and the second hold memory is increased is specified, and the total number of hold memories is EXT data. It may be set as and sent.

(3) As the reserved memory information, it is specified which of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 has started winning (which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory has increased). In addition to sending the effect control command (1st start winning prize designation command, 2nd start winning designation command), a hold storage number designation command for specifying the hold memory number is sent separately, and the hold memory number designation command is used. The total number of pending storages may be set as EXT data and transmitted.

(4) As the reserved memory information, it is specified which of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 has started winning (which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory has increased). In addition to sending the effect control command (1st start winning prize designation command, 2nd start winning designation command), a hold memory number designation command for specifying the hold memory number is sent separately, and the hold memory number designation command is used. The increased number of reserved storages (first reserved storage number or second reserved storage number) may be set as EXT data and transmitted.

The command C4XX (H) and the command C6XX (H) are effect control commands (winning determination result designation commands) indicating the contents of the winning determination result. Of these, the command C4XX (H) is an effect control command (symbol designation command) that indicates whether or not a big hit is made, whether or not a small hit is made, and the judgment result of the type of big hit among the judgment results at the time of winning. is there. Further, the command C6XX (H) is an effect control command indicating a judgment result (judgment result of the fluctuation pattern type) of which judgment value range the value of the random number for the fluctuation pattern type judgment falls within the judgment result at the time of winning. (Variable category command).

In this embodiment, in the prize-winning effect processing described later, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not the game control microcomputer 560 will be a big hit, whether or not it will be a small hit, the type of the big hit, and the variation pattern type at the time of the start winning. It is determined which judgment value range the value of the random number is in. Then, a value for designating a big hit or a small hit or a value for designating the type of the big hit is set in the EXT data of the symbol designation command, and control is performed to transmit to the effect control microcomputer 100. In addition, a value that specifies a range of determination values as a determination result is set in the EXT data of the variable category command, and control is performed to transmit the effect to the effect control microcomputer 100. In this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 can recognize whether or not the display result is a big hit or a small hit, and the type of the big hit, based on the value set in the symbol designation command. Based on the variation category command, the variation pattern type can be recognized when the value of the random number for determining the variation pattern type becomes a predetermined determination value.

The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-mentioned effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the image display device 9 is changed, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70 according to the contents shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. To do.

For example, the game control microcomputer 560 specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol each time a start prize is given and the variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command are transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to "1", and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to "0". Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

As a method of transmitting the effect control command, the game control microcomputer 560 converts a 2-byte effect control command into a serial signal by using a serial communication circuit (not shown) mounted on the game control microcomputer 560. However, a serial communication method is used in which the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 with one serial signal line.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the variation pattern command and the display result specification command are the variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special. An image display that can be used in common with the variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the fluctuation of the second special symbol on the symbol display 8b, and that produces an effect along with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. When controlling the effect parts such as the device 9, it is possible not to increase the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100.

10 and 11 are flowcharts showing an example of a program of special symbol process processing (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the large winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process processing, the CPU 56 starts the first start winning opening 13 if the first starting opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won is turned on, that is, the first starting winning opening 13. If a prize has been won, the first start port switch passage process is executed (steps S311 and S312). Further, if the second start opening switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 is turned on, that is, the start winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred. Then, the second start port switch passing process is executed (steps S313 and S314). Then, any of the processes of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the first start winning opening switch 13a or the second starting opening switch 14a is not turned on, any of steps S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state.

The processes of steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 0. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where the variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the storage number of the numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer (total hold storage number). The number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total hold storage count counter. Further, if the count value of the total reserved memory counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. If you want to make a big hit, set the big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S301 (1 in this example). The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. In addition, the fluctuation pattern is determined, and the fluctuation time in the fluctuation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of the variable display to the derivation display (stop display) of the display result) is defined as the fluctuation time of the variable display of the special symbol. Decide to do. In addition, control is performed to transmit a fluctuation pattern command according to the determined fluctuation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100, and a fluctuation time timer for measuring the fluctuation time of the special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S302 (2 in this example).

Display result specification command transmission process (step S302): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control is performed to send a display result designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S303 (3 in this example).

Special symbol changing process (step S303): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern selected in the fluctuation pattern setting process elapses (the fluctuation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the value of the fluctuation time timer becomes 0), the symbol is confirmed on the effect control microcomputer 100. Controls the transmission of the specified command, and updates the internal state (special symbol process flag) to the value corresponding to step S304 (4 in this example). The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when it receives the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

Special symbol stop processing (step S304): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the jackpot flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S305 (5 in this example). If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example). If neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example). In this embodiment, based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag is 4, as will be described later, special symbol display control for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol in the special symbol display control process. The data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data (see FIG. 21), and the stop symbol of the special symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting content of the output buffer in the display control process in step S22.

Pre-processing for opening the large winning opening (step S305): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-processing for opening the large winning opening, control is performed to open the large winning opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the large winning opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the large winning opening. In addition, while controlling the transmission of the large winning opening opening designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the large winning opening opening processing is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set in step S306. Update to the value corresponding to (6 in this example). The large winning opening pre-opening process is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the large winning opening pre-opening process is also a process for starting a big hit game. Further, since the value for designating the round is set in the EXT data and transmitted for the command for specifying the opening of the large winning opening, a different command for specifying the opening for the large winning opening is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the jackpot game, a command (A101 (H)) for specifying round 1 is transmitted and the tenth round during the jackpot game is executed. Is transmitted a command (A10A (H)) during which the large winning opening is open to specify round 10.

Processing during opening of the large winning opening (step S306): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. In the process of opening the large winning opening, processing for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the large winning opening is performed. If the closing condition of the big winning opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S305 (5 in this example). In addition, control is performed to send a designated command to the effect control microcomputer 100 after the jackpot is opened, and when all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S307 (this). In the example, update to 7).

Jackpot end processing (step S307): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed so that the effect control microcomputer 100 performs display control for notifying the player that the jackpot game state has ended. In addition, a process of setting a flag indicating the game state (for example, a probability change flag or a time saving flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example).

Small hit release preprocessing (step S308): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the small hit opening pre-processing, control is performed to open the large winning opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the large winning opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the large winning opening. Further, the execution time of the process during the opening of the large winning opening is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S309 (9 in this example). The small hit opening pre-processing is executed every time the large winning opening is opened during the small hit game, but when the first opening during the small hit game is started, the small hit opening pre-processing is performed by the small hit game. It is also the process to start.

Small hit opening process (step S309): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Performs processing to confirm the establishment of the closing conditions for the grand prize opening. If the closing condition of the big winning opening is satisfied and the number of times the big winning opening is opened still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to the value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example). Update. When all the releases are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S310 (10 in this example).

Small hit end process (step S310): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed so that the effect control microcomputer 100 performs display control for notifying the player that the small hit game state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example).

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in steps S312 and S314. Of these, FIG. 12A is a flowchart showing the process of passing the first start port switch in step S312. Further, FIG. 12B is a flowchart showing the process of passing the second start port switch in step S314.

First, the process of passing the first start port switch will be described with reference to FIG. 12 (A). In the first start port switch passing process executed when the first start port switch 13a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 first determines whether or not the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the first (Whether or not the value of the first hold storage number counter for counting the number of hold storage numbers is 4) is confirmed (step S1211A). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit, the process ends as it is.

If the first hold storage number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first hold storage number counter by 1 (step S1212A), and at the same time, the value of the total hold storage number counter for counting the total hold storage number. Is increased by 1 (step S1213A). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 53 and the counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the first hold storage buffer (see FIG. 13) (step S1214A). .. In the process of step S1214A, a random R (random number for determining a jackpot) which is a hardware random number, a random number for determining a jackpot type (random 1) which is a software random number, a random number for determining a variation pattern type (random 2), and a variation pattern The judgment random number (random number 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern (random 3) is not extracted in the first start port switch passing process (at the time of starting winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol. You may do so. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random number 3) in the variation pattern setting process described later.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (holding storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the holding storage. As shown in FIG. 13, in the first hold storage buffer, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first hold storage number is secured. Further, in the second hold storage buffer, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the second hold storage number is secured. In this embodiment, the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer include a random R (random number for jackpot determination) which is a hardware random number, a random number for jackpot type determination (random 1) which is a software random number, and a variation. A random number for determining the pattern type (random 2) and a random number for determining the fluctuation pattern (random 3) are stored. The first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

In this embodiment, a case where a random number value such as a random number for jackpot determination is stored as a hold storage in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer is shown, but the predetermined information to be stored as the hold storage is Not limited to random numbers. For example, it may be determined in advance whether or not to make a big hit or a small hit based on a random number for determining a big hit, and the determination result may be stored in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer as hold storage. ..

Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time saving flag indicating that the game state is the time saving state (high base state) is set (step S1215A). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S1220A as it is. If the time saving flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (step S1216A). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (that is, if it is in the big hit game state or the small hit game state), the CPU 56 proceeds to step S1220A as it is.

If the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5, the prize-winning effect process is executed in which the fluctuation display result and the fluctuation pattern type when the fluctuation based on the detected start prize is subsequently executed are determined in advance at the start prize (step). S1217A). Then, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the determination result of the effect processing at the time of winning (step S1218A), and transmits the variable category command to the effect control microcomputer 100. Control is performed (step S1219A). Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the first hold storage number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1220A).

By executing the processes of steps S1218A and S1219A, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 always designates a symbol each time the start prize is entered into the first start winning opening 13 and the effect processing at the time of winning in step S1217A is executed. Both the command and the variable category command are transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

Further, in this embodiment, when the processes of steps S1218A to S1220A are executed, the start winning to the first starting winning opening 13 is generated and the winning effect processing of step S1217A is executed, the symbol is designated. A set of three commands, a command, a variable category command, and a first hold storage number addition designation command, is collectively transmitted within one timer interrupt.

However, if the winning effect processing of step S1217A is not executed because it is determined to be Y in step S1215A or step S1216A, the CPU 56 controls to transmit only the first hold storage number addition designation command in step S1220A. Is performed, and the control to send the winning judgment result specification command (design specification command, variable category command) is not performed. It should be noted that when the winning effect processing in step S1217A is not executed, the winning determination result is specified by setting a value (for example, "FF (H)") indicating that the winning determination result cannot be specified as EXT data. You may send a command (design specification command, variable category command).

Further, in this embodiment, when the process of step S1215A is executed and there is a start prize to the first start winning opening 13, only when the gaming state is the low base state, step S1217A The production process at the time of winning is executed. Further, in this embodiment, when the process of step S1216A is executed and there is a start prize in the first start winning opening 13, step S1217A is performed only when the game is not in the big hit game state or the small hit game state. The production process at the time of winning is executed. It should be noted that the transition to step S1217A may be performed only in the case of the big hit game state, and the transition to step S1217A may be performed in the case of the small hit game state to execute the winning effect processing.

Further, in this embodiment, the jackpot gaming state (specific gaming state) is controlled so that the jackpot is opened for a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) after being notified that the jackpot is to be started. We are in a state until it is notified that the opening of the big winning opening in the final round is finished and the big hit is finished. Specifically, it is a state in which the processes from the large winning opening pre-opening process (see step S305) to the big hit end process (see step S307) in the special symbol process process are being executed.

Next, the process of passing the second start port switch will be described with reference to FIG. 12 (B). In the second start port switch passing process executed when the second start port switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second hold storage number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second hold). It is confirmed (whether or not the value of the second reserved storage counter for counting the number of storages is 4) (step S1211B). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit, the process is terminated as it is.

If the second reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved storage number counter by 1 (step S1212B), and at the same time, the value of the total reserved storage number counter for counting the total reserved storage number. Is increased by 1 (step S1213B). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 53 and the counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the second hold storage buffer (see FIG. 13) (step S1214B). .. In the process of step S1214B, a random R (random number for determining a jackpot) which is a hardware random number, a random number for determining a jackpot type (random 1) which is a software random number, a random number for determining a variation pattern type (random 2), and a variation pattern The judgment random number (random number 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern (random 3) is not extracted in the second start port switch passing process (at the time of starting winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of fluctuation of the second special symbol. You may do so. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random number 3) in the variation pattern setting process described later.

Next, the CPU 56 executes the winning effect processing (step S1217B). Then, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the determination result of the effect processing at the time of winning (step S1218B), and transmits the variable category command to the effect control microcomputer 100. Control is performed (step S1219B). Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the second hold storage number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1220B).

By executing the processes of steps S1218B and S1219B, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 always designates a symbol each time the start prize is entered into the second start winning opening 14 and the effect processing at the time of winning in step S1217B is executed. Both the command and the variable category command are transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

Further, in this embodiment, when the processes of steps S1218B to S1220B are executed, the start winning to the second starting winning opening 14 is generated and the winning effect processing of step S1217B is executed, the symbol is designated. A set of three commands, a command, a variable category command, and a second hold storage number addition designation command, is collectively transmitted within one timer interrupt.

In the second start port switch passing process, the same process as in step S1215A may be performed, and if the time is shortened, the winning effect process in step S1217B may not be executed. That is, the winning effect processing in step S1217B may be executed only in the normal state (low base state), and the symbol designation command and the variable category command may be transmitted.

Further, also in the second start port switch passing process, the same process as in step S1216A may be performed, and the winning effect process in step S1217B may not be executed if the jackpot game is in progress. Further, in the second start port switch passing process, the winning effect processing in step S1217B may not be executed (that is, the winning determination process may not be executed for the second special symbol). ..

14 and 15 are flowcharts showing a special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol normal processing, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total pending storage number (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage counter is checked. If the total number of pending storages is 0, if the customer waiting demo designation command has not yet been transmitted, control is performed to send the customer waiting demo designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S51A), and the process is performed. finish. For example, when the customer waiting demo designation command is transmitted in step S51A, the CPU 56 sets the customer waiting demo designation command transmission flag indicating that the customer waiting demo designation command has been transmitted. Then, when the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interrupt is executed after the customer waiting demo specification command is transmitted, the customer waits again based on the fact that the customer wait demo specification command sent flag is set. You can control not to send the demo specification command. Further, in this case, the customer waiting demo designation command sent flag may be reset when the next variation display of the special symbol is started.

If the total number of reserved storage is not 0, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the second number of reserved storage is 0 (step S52). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second reserved storage counter is 0. If the second reserved storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 is a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether the special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or the special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol). Set the data indicating "second" in (step S53). If the second reserved storage number is 0 (that is, when only the first reserved storage number is accumulated), the CPU 66 sets the data indicating "first" in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

In this embodiment, by executing the processes of steps S52 to S54, the variation display of the second special symbol is preferentially executed with respect to the variation display of the first special symbol. In other words, the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is controlled to be satisfied in preference to the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol.

Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 has each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number = 1 in the first reserved storage buffer. Is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number = 1 in the second reserved storage buffer. It is stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

Then, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the hold storage counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the first hold storage counter, and in the hold specific area and the first hold storage buffer. Shift the contents of each storage area. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the count value of the second hold storage counter is subtracted by 1, and the contents of the hold specific area and the contents of each storage area in the second hold storage buffer are shifted. To do.

That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 is placed in the storage area corresponding to the first hold storage number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first hold storage buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number = n-1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", each stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved storage buffer of the RAM 55. The random number value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number = n-1. Further, the CPU 56 adds up the values (values indicating "first" or "second") stored in the storage area corresponding to the total number of pending storages = m (m = 2 to 8) in the reserved specific area. Stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storage = m-1.

Therefore, the order in which each random number value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved storage number (or each second reserved storage number) is always the first reserved storage number (or the first reserved storage number). The order of the second reserved memory) = 1, 2, 3, 4 is matched. Further, the order in which the values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the total number of reserved storages are extracted always matches the order of the total number of reserved storages = 1 to 8.

Then, the CPU 56 reduces the value of the total pending storage number by 1. That is, the count value of the total pending storage counter is subtracted by 1 (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage counter before the count value is subtracted by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the background designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 according to the current gaming state (step S60). In this case, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the probability change state background designation command when the probability change flag indicating the probability change state is set. Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit only the time saving flag indicating that the time saving state is set, and if the probability change flag is not set, the time saving state background designation command is transmitted. Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the normal state background specification command if neither the probability change flag nor the time saving flag is set.

Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets the address of the command transmission table (previously set in the ROM for each command) corresponding to the effect control command. Set to the pointer. Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect control command control process (step S28). In this embodiment, when the special symbol variation is started, the background specification command, the variation pattern command, the display result specification command, and the hold storage number subtraction specification command (first hold storage number subtraction) are used for each timer interrupt. It will be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 in the order of the designated command or the second reserved storage number subtraction designated command). Specifically, when starting the variation of the special symbol, the background specification command is first transmitted, the variation pattern command is transmitted after 4 ms, the display result specification command is transmitted after 4 ms, and then 4 ms later. The hold storage number subtraction designation command (first hold storage number subtraction designation command or second hold storage number subtraction designation command) is transmitted. When the special symbol variation is started, the symbol variation specification command (first symbol variation specification command, second symbol variation specification command) is also transmitted, but the symbol variation specification command is the same timer interrupt as the variation pattern command. Is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

In the special symbol normal processing, first, the data indicating "first" indicating that the processing is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, the "first" indicating that the processing is executed for the first special symbol. ", Or data indicating" second "indicating that the process is executed for the second start winning opening 14, that is," second "indicating that the process is executed for the second special symbol. The data is set in the special symbol pointer. Then, in the subsequent processing in the special symbol process processing, the processing according to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the processing of steps S300 to S310 can be standardized between the case where the first special symbol is targeted and the case where the second special symbol is targeted.

Next, the CPU 56 reads a random number R (random number for jackpot determination) from the random number buffer area and executes the jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 is for jackpot determination extracted in step S1214A of the first start port switch passage process and step S1214B of the second start port switch pass process and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer. Read the random number and make a big hit judgment. The big hit judgment module compares a predetermined big hit judgment value or small hit judgment value (see FIG. 7) with a random number for big hit judgment, and if they match, executes a process of deciding to make a big hit or a small hit. It is a program to do. That is, it is a program that executes processing of big hit determination and small hit determination.

In the jackpot determination process, when the gaming state is in the probabilistic state, the probability of becoming a jackpot is higher than when the gaming state is in the non-probability state (normal state). Specifically, the number of jackpot determination values is probabilistically changed between the probability variation jackpot determination table (the table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 7A in ROM 54 is set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance. A normal time jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the left side of FIG. 7A in the ROM 54 is set) is provided, which is set to be less than the hour jackpot determination table. Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the gaming state is in the probabilistic state, and when the gaming state is in the probabilistic state, the CPU 56 performs a jackpot determination process using the probabilistic jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When it is in the state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the normal jackpot determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 7A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. If it is decided to make a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. It should be noted that deciding whether or not to make a big hit means deciding whether or not to shift to the big hit game state, but deciding whether or not to make the stop symbol on the special symbol display a big hit symbol. But also.

It should be noted that confirmation of whether or not the current gaming state is in the probabilistic state is performed depending on whether or not the probabilistic flag is set. The probability change flag is set when the game state is changed to the probability change state, and is reset when the probability change state is finished. Specifically, it is determined to be a "probability change jackpot" or a "sudden change jackpot", and is set in the process of ending the jackpot game. Then, after the big hit game is completed, it is reset when the next big hit occurs.

If the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big hit determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 uses the small hit determination table (see FIGS. 7B and 7C). Then, the process of determining the small hit is performed. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 7 (B) and 7 (C), the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a small hit. In this case, the CPU 56 confirms the data indicated by the special symbol pointer, and when the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is "first", the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. 7 (B). ) Is used to determine whether or not to make a small hit. When the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is "second", the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. 7C is used to determine whether or not to make a small hit. .. Then, when it is decided to make a small hit (step S62), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating that it is a small hit (step S63), and proceeds to step S75.

If the value of the random R does not match either the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (N in step S62), that is, if it is out of the range, the process proceeds to step S75 as it is.

In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a jackpot flag indicating that it is a jackpot. Then, as the table used to determine the jackpot type to one of the plurality of types, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected (step S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 7 (D). Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131b for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 7 (E).

Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to use the type (“normal jackpot”, “probability variation”) corresponding to the value corresponding to the value of the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type stored in the random number buffer area. "Big hit" or "Sudden probability change big hit") is determined as the type of big hit (step S73). In this case, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type extracted in step S1214A of the first start port switch passage process and step S1214B of the second start port switch pass process and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer. Read the random number and determine the jackpot type. Further, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 7 (D) and 7 (E), when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, it is compared with the case where the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. Therefore, the ratio of suddenly changing jackpots is high.

Further, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the jackpot type is "normal jackpot", "01" is set as the data indicating the jackpot type, and when the jackpot type is "probability variation jackpot", "02" is set as the data indicating the jackpot type. When the jackpot type is "sudden probability change jackpot", "03" is set as the data indicating the jackpot type.

Next, the CPU 56 determines the stop symbol of the special symbol (step S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, "-", which is an outlier symbol, is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol. When the jackpot flag is set, one of the jackpot symbols "1", "3", "7", and "9" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol according to the determination result of the jackpot type. To do. That is, when the jackpot type is determined to be "sudden probability change jackpot", "1" is determined to be the stop symbol of the special symbol, and when it is determined to be "normal jackpot", "3" is determined to be the stop symbol of the special symbol. Then, when the "probability change jackpot" is determined, "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol. When the small hit flag is set, the small hit symbol "5" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol.

In this embodiment, the case where the jackpot type is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is determined is shown, but the method of determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is this. It is not limited to the one shown in the embodiment. For example, if a table in which the stop symbol of the special symbol is associated with the jackpot type is prepared in advance and the stop symbol of the special symbol is first determined based on the random number for determining the jackpot type, the corresponding jackpot is determined based on the determination result. It may be configured so that the type is also determined.

Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S76).

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process process. In the fluctuation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the jackpot flag is set (step S91). When the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 selects one of the jackpot variation pattern type determination tables as the table used to determine the variation pattern type to one of a plurality of types (step). S92). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

If the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S93). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the small hit variation pattern type determination table as the table used to determine the variation pattern type to one of a plurality of types (step S94). ). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

If the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time saving flag indicating that the time saving state is set is set (step S95). In this embodiment, the time saving flag is set when the time saving state is changed at the end of the big hit game based on the normal big hit, and the time saving state is also set at the end of the big hit game based on the probability change big hit. Since it is also transferred to, the time saving flag is set. Therefore, when it is determined as Y in step S95, in addition to the case where the control is performed only in the time saving state after the end of the big hit game based on the normal big hit, the control is performed in the time saving state together with the probability change state after the big hit game based on the probability change big hit. There are times when it has been done.

If the time saving flag is not set (N in step S95), that is, if the gaming state is the normal state, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (step S96). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S96), the CPU 56 uses the table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types, and the variation pattern type for outliers for normal use The determination table is selected (step S97). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Y in step S96), the CPU 56 serves as a table used to determine the variation pattern type to be one of a plurality of types, and the variation for shortening is used. The pattern type determination table is selected (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

When the time saving flag is set (Y in step S95), that is, when the gaming state is the probability variation state or the time saving state, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern type to be one of a plurality of types. As the table to be used, a variation pattern type determination table for loss time is selected (step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

In this embodiment, by executing the processes of steps S95 to S99, when the game state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the deviation pattern type determination for shortening is performed. The table is selected. Further, when the gaming state is a probabilistic state or a time saving state, the out-of-time variation pattern type determination table for the time saving time is selected. In this case, the variation pattern type for shortening variation may be determined as the variation pattern type in the process of step S100 described later, and when the variation pattern type for shortening variation is determined, the variation is performed in the process of step S102. A fluctuation pattern for shortening fluctuation is determined as a pattern. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the game state is a probability change state or a time saving state, or when the total number of reserved storages is 3 or more, the variation display of the shortened variation may be performed. In this embodiment, a case is shown in which the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation used in the probability variation state or the time saving state and the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation based on the number of reserved storages are different tables. However, a common table may be used as the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation.

In this embodiment, even when the game state is a probability change state or a time saving state, when the total pending memory number is almost 0 (for example, when it is 0, 0 or 1). May not display the variation of the shortened variation. In this case, for example, when the CPU 56 determines Y in step S95, it confirms whether or not the total number of reserved storages is almost 0, and if the total number of reserved storages is almost 0, it is out of the ordinary state. The variable pattern type determination table may be selected.

Next, the CPU 56 reads random number 2 (random number for determining the variation pattern type) from the random number buffer area (first hold storage buffer or second hold storage buffer), and selects it in the process of steps S92, S94, S97, S98 or S99. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined to be one of a plurality of types (step S100).

Next, the CPU 56 is a table used to determine the fluctuation pattern to one of a plurality of types based on the determination result of the fluctuation pattern type in step S100, such as a hit fluctuation pattern determination table and a loss variation pattern determination table. One of them is selected (step S101). Further, by reading random number 3 (random number for determining variation pattern) from the random number buffer area (first hold storage buffer or second hold storage buffer) and referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in the process of step S101, the variation pattern Is determined to be one of a plurality of types (step S102). When the random number 3 (random number for determining the fluctuation pattern) is not extracted at the timing of the start winning, the CPU 56 is a random number counter for determining the fluctuation pattern for generating the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern (random number 3). The value may be directly extracted from, and the fluctuation pattern may be determined based on the extracted random number value.

Next, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Specifically, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the first symbol variation designation command when the special symbol pointer indicates "first". Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the second symbol variation designation command when the special symbol pointer indicates "second". Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S104).

Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the fluctuation time corresponding to the selected fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S105). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S106).

In the case where it is determined to be out of order, instead of suddenly determining the fluctuation pattern type, it may be determined whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. Then, the processes of steps S95 to S100 may be executed based on the determination result of whether or not to reach, and the variation pattern type may be determined. In this case, a variation pattern type determination table for non-reach and a variation pattern type determination table for reach are prepared in advance, and one of the variation pattern type determination tables is selected based on the reach determination result. The fluctuation pattern type may be determined.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits one of the display result 1 designation to display result 5 designation production control commands (see FIG. 8) according to the determined type of big hit, small hit, and loss. Control to do. Specifically, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the jackpot flag is set (step S110). If it is not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the jackpot flag is set and the jackpot type is "normal jackpot", control is performed to transmit the display result 2 designation command (steps S111 and S112). In addition, whether or not it is a "normal jackpot" can be specifically determined by confirming whether or not the data set in the jackpot type buffer is "01" in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing. .. Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 3 designation command when the type of the jackpot is "probability variation jackpot" (steps S113 and S114). It should be noted that whether or not it is a "probability variation jackpot" can be specifically determined by confirming whether or not the data set in the jackpot type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is "02". .. Then, when it is neither "normal jackpot" nor "probability jackpot" (that is, when it is "suddenly probabilistic jackpot"), the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 4 designated command (step S115).

On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N in step S110), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S116). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set (N in step S116), that is, when it is off, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 1 designation command (step S118).

Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S119).

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol change processing, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the hold storage number subtraction designation command (first hold storage number subtraction designation command or second hold storage number subtraction designation command) has already been transmitted ( Step S1121). Whether or not the hold storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted indicates, for example, that the hold storage number subtraction designation command has been transmitted when the hold storage number subtraction designation command is transmitted in step S1122 described later. The storage number subtraction designation command transmitted flag may be set, and in step S1121, it may be confirmed whether or not the hold storage number subtraction designation command transmitted flag is set. Further, in this case, the set hold storage number subtraction specification command transmission flag should be reset by the special symbol stop processing or the jackpot end processing described later when the variable display of the special symbol is terminated or the jackpot is terminated. Just do it.

Next, if the hold storage number subtraction designation command has not been transmitted, the CPU 56 controls to send the hold storage number subtraction designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1122). In this case, when a value indicating "first" is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the first hold storage number subtraction designation command. Further, when a value indicating "second" is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the second reserved storage number subtraction designation command.

Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the fluctuation time timer (step S1125), and when the fluctuation time timer times out (step S1126), controls to send a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1127). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S1128). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends as it is.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the jackpot flag is set (step S131). When the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56, if set, has a probability variation flag indicating that it is in a probability variation state, a time reduction flag indicating that it is in a time reduction state, and the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state. The time reduction counter indicating the above is reset (step S132), and control is performed to send a jackpot start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S133). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is "normal jackpot", the jackpot start 1 designation command (command A001 (H)) is transmitted. If the type of jackpot is "probability variation jackpot", the jackpot start 2 designation command (command A002 (H)) is transmitted. If the type of big hit is suddenly probable big hit, a small hit / suddenly probable big hit start designation command (command A003 (H)) is transmitted. Whether the jackpot type is "normal jackpot", "probability variation jackpot", or "sudden probability variation jackpot" is data indicating the jackpot type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the jackpot type buffer). Judgment is based on.

Further, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying the occurrence of the jackpot, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the jackpot display time timer (step S134). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times in the case of "normal big hit" or "probability change big hit" and 2 times in the case of "sudden change big hit") is set in the big winning opening opening number counter (step S135). .. In addition, the round time per round in the jackpot game is also set. Specifically, in the case of a sudden big hit, 0.1 seconds is set as the round time, and in the case of a normal big hit or a probable big hit, 29 seconds is set as the round time. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the large winning opening pre-opening process (step S305) (step S136).

If the jackpot flag is not set in step S131, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the time reduction counter indicating the variable number of times of the special symbol in the time reduction state is 0 (step S137). If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the time reduction counter by -1 (step S138). Then, when the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S139), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S140).

Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S141). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 transmits a small hit / sudden probability change big hit start designation command (command A003 (H)) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S142). Further, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (time for notifying the occurrence of the small hit by, for example, the effect display device 9) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S143). Further, the number of times of opening (for example, 2 times) is set in the large winning opening opening number counter (step S144). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start pre-processing (step S308) (step S145).

If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S141), the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal processing (step S300) (step S146).

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process process. In the jackpot end processing, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160), and if the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control is performed to transmit the jackpot end designation command (step S162). Here, if it is a "normal jackpot", a jackpot end 1 designation command (command A301 (H)) is transmitted, and if it is a "probability variation jackpot", a jackpot end 2 designation command (command A302 (H)) is transmitted. ) Is transmitted, and if it is a "sudden probability change big hit", a small hit / sudden probability change big hit end designation command (command A303 (H)) is transmitted. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the jackpot end display is being performed in the image display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the jackpot end display timer (step S163), and the process is terminated.

In step S164, the value of the jackpot end display timer is subtracted by 1. Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If it has not passed, the process ends.

If the jackpot end display time has elapsed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the jackpot game to be completed this time is based on the normal jackpot (step S166). Whether or not the jackpot game based on the normal jackpot is terminated is specifically determined by whether or not the data set in the jackpot type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is "01". It can be judged by checking. If the jackpot game based on the normal jackpot is terminated (Y in step S166), the CPU 56 sets the time saving flag and shifts the game state to the time saving state (step S167). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (100 times in this example) in the time reduction counter (step S168).

Unless the jackpot game based on the normal jackpot is terminated (that is, when the jackpot game based on the probability variation jackpot or the sudden probability variation jackpot is terminated), the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag to change the gaming state to the probability variation state. Along with the transition (step S169), the time saving flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time saving state (step S170).

Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal processing (step S300) (step S171).

In this embodiment, by executing the above processing, when the probability change state is controlled, the time saving state is also controlled. Therefore, the game state is the normal state (low probability / low base state). ), Time saving state (low probability / high base state), and probability variation state (high probability / high base state).

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of the special symbol display control process (step S32) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. In the special symbol display control process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (step S3201). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, if the processing during special symbol change is being executed), the CPU 56 sets the special symbol display control data for the special symbol change display for setting the special symbol display control data. A process of setting or updating the output buffer is performed (step S3202). In this case, the CPU 56 sets or updates special symbol display control data for variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, the value of the special symbol display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by 1 every 0.2 seconds. After that, the display control process (see step S22) is executed, and the drive signal is output to the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b according to the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b is executed.

If the value of the special symbol process flag is not 3, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (step S3203). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, when the process shifts to the special symbol stop processing), the CPU 56 stops and displays the stop symbol of the special symbol set in the special symbol normal processing. A process of setting the display control data in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data is performed (step S3204). In this case, the CPU 56 sets special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. After that, the display control process (see step S22) is executed, and the drive signal is output to the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b according to the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The stop symbol of the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b. Since the setting data is not changed after the process of step S3204 is executed and the special symbol display control data for the stop symbol display is set, the latest special symbol display control data is set in the display control process of step S22. Based on this, the latest stop symbol will continue to be stopped and displayed until the next variable display is started. Further, if the value of the special symbol process flag is either 2 or 3 in step S3201 (that is, if it is either the display result designation command transmission process or the special symbol changing process), the special symbol variation display is used. The special symbol display control data may be updated. In this case, in order to prevent a discrepancy between the fluctuation time recognized by the game control microcomputer 560 and the fluctuation time recognized by the effect control microcomputer 100, the display result designation command transmission process also fluctuates. The time timer may be configured to be decremented by 1.

In this embodiment, the case where the special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer according to the value of the special symbol process flag is shown, but in the special symbol process processing, the start flag is set at the start of the change of the special symbol. At the same time, the end flag may be set at the end of the change of the special symbol. Then, in the special symbol display control process (step S32), the CPU 56 starts updating the value of the special symbol display control data based on the fact that the start flag is set, and based on the fact that the end flag is set. It is also possible to set special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol.

Next, the configuration and operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 22 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, which includes an effect control CPU 101, a clock circuit 110, a built-in ROM 111, a built-in RAM 112, a timer circuit 113, an interrupt controller 114, and serial. It is configured to include a communication circuit 115. Although not shown in FIG. 22, the effect control microcomputer 100 has various circuits such as an external bus interface, a random number circuit, a reset circuit, an arithmetic circuit, a watchdog timer, an address decoding circuit, and an input / output port. It has an interface and a port.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an address map in the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 23, the area from the address 0000H to the address FFFFH is allocated to the area allocated to the internal ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100, the area allocated to the internal RAM, and the internal register area allocated to the internal register. Area etc. are included. Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the area allocated to the built-in ROM includes a program code / data area (an area for storing a user program and data) and a program management area. The program management area is a storage area that stores information necessary for making various settings such as interrupt operation settings for the effect control microcomputer 100, serial communication circuit settings, random number circuit settings, and internal reset operation settings. is there.

The interrupt controller 144 is a circuit that controls various interrupt requests in the effect control microcomputer 100 such as serial reception interrupt and timer interrupt. The interrupt controller 144 includes an interrupt control register for setting the enable / disable of interrupts and the priority of interrupts for each type of interrupt.

FIG. 24A shows a configuration example of an interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt setting included in the interrupt controller 144. FIG. 24B shows an example of the setting contents in each bit of the internal information data stored in the interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt setting. The internal information data Im7 stored in the bit number [7] of the interrupt control register for the serial reception interrupt setting indicates whether or not the serial reception interrupt is permitted. In the example shown in FIG. 24 (B), if the bit value of the internal information data Im7 is set to "0", the serial reception interrupt is set to the permitted state, while the bit of the internal information data Im7 is set to "1". If this is done, the serial reception interrupt will be set to the prohibited state. In the example shown in FIG. 24B, it is assumed that the initial value of the internal information data Im7 is set to "1".

The internal information data Im3 to Im0 stored in the bit number [3-0] of the interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt setting indicates the priority of serial reception interrupt. In the example shown in FIG. 24 (B), the internal information data Im3 to Im0 are set by 16-step numerical values of "0000 [0 (H)]" to "1111 [F (H)]", and are set to "0000 [0 (H)]. When it is set to "H)]", the priority of the serial reception interrupt is the highest, and when it is set to "1111 [F (H)]", the priority of the serial reception interrupt is the lowest.

FIG. 25A shows a configuration example of an interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting included in the interrupt controller 144. FIG. 25B shows an example of the setting contents in each bit of the internal information data stored in the interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting. The internal information data In7 stored in the bit number [7] of the interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting indicates whether or not timer interrupt is permitted. In the example shown in FIG. 25 (B), if the bit value of the internal information data In7 is set to "0", the timer interrupt is set to the permitted state, while the bit of the internal information data In7 is set to "1". If timer interrupt is set to the prohibited state. In the example shown in FIG. 25B, it is assumed that the initial value of the internal information data In7 is set to "1".

The internal information data In3 to In0 stored in the bit number [3-0] of the interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting indicates the priority of timer interrupt. In the example shown in FIG. 25 (B), the internal information data In3 to In0 are set by 16-step numerical values of "0000 [0 (H)]" to "1111 [F (H)]", and are set to "0000 [0 (H)]. When it is set to "H)]", the priority of timer interrupt is the highest, and when it is set to "1111 [F (H)]", the priority of timer interrupt is the lowest.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, interrupt control registers for serial reception interrupt setting and timer interrupt setting are shown as an example, but in addition to this, the interrupt controller 144 is, for example, If interrupt requests such as external interrupt, serial transmission interrupt, and interrupt by fetching a random number from a random number circuit can be accepted, an interrupt control register is provided for each interrupt, and FIG. 24 And those interrupt control registers are configured according to the same configuration as in FIG. Further, for example, when a plurality of serial communication circuits are provided and each channel is configured to accept serial reception interrupts and serial transmission interrupts, the serial reception interrupt setting and serial transmission are performed for each channel. An interrupt control register for interrupt setting is provided. Further, for example, when a plurality of timer circuits are provided and configured to be able to accept a plurality of types of timer interrupts, an interrupt control register is provided for each of these timer interrupts.

The setting data set in the interrupt control register shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 is set in advance in the program management area (see FIG. 23) of the built-in ROM. When the power of the game machine is turned on, the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the serial communication circuit, the random number circuit, the internal reset operation, and the like according to the setting contents of the program management area. By setting the setting data in the interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt (see FIG. 24) and the interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting (see FIG. 25) provided in the interrupt controller 144, the serial is serialized. Reception interrupts and timer interrupts are also set. The effect control microcomputer 100 executes this setting operation in terms of hardware regardless of the program.

In this embodiment, the internal information data Im7 of the interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt shown in FIG. 24 and the internal information data register In7 of the interrupt control register for timer interrupt shown in FIG. 25 are "0", respectively. , And the serial reception interrupt and timer interrupt are set to the permitted state, respectively. Further, in this embodiment, the internal information data Im3 to Im0 of the interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt shown in FIG. 24 is set to "0000 [0 (H)]", and the timer shown in FIG. 25 is set. The internal information data registers In3 to In0 of the interrupt control register for interruption are set to "0001 [1 (H)]", and the serial reception interrupt is set to have a higher priority than the timer interrupt.

In this embodiment, in each of the interrupt control registers shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, "0000 [0 (H)]" and "0001 [1 (H)] are in order from the set value having the higher priority. However, the setting mode is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, "1111 [F (H)]" is set in the interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting shown in FIG. 25 in order from the set value having the lower priority, and the serial reception interrupt setting shown in FIG. 24 is set. By setting "1110 [E (H)]" in the interrupt control register for the serial reception, the serial reception interrupt may be set to have a higher priority than the timer interrupt. Further, for example, "0010 [2 (H)]" is set in the interrupt control register for serial reception interrupt setting shown in FIG. 24, and "0100" is set in the interrupt control register for timer interrupt setting shown in FIG. By setting "[4 (H)]", the serial reception interrupt may be set to have a higher priority than the timer interrupt, and at least the serial reception interrupt is higher than the timer interrupt. However, the setting method should be such that the priority is high.

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reception register and each reception buffer for storing an effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this embodiment, the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 is first stored in the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 of the effect control microcomputer 100. The receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 is composed of a 16-byte area of the FIFO (first-in, first-out) system, and can store up to eight 2-byte production control commands.

Further, as shown in FIG. 26, each time a serial reception interrupt occurs, the effect control command stored in the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 is transferred to the transfer buffer. Therefore, as described above, a maximum of eight effect control commands can be stored in the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115. However, in this embodiment, when the effect control command is received, the serial reception interrupt occurs immediately. Since it is transferred to the transfer buffer, there is no case where two or more effect control commands are substantially stored in the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115. In this example, the transfer buffer is a ring buffer type buffer that is composed of 128 bytes, which has a capacity larger than that of the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115, and can store 64 effect control commands having a 2-byte structure. As shown in FIG. 26, the transfer buffer is formed in the built-in RAM of the effect control microcomputer 100.

Further, as shown in FIG. 26, each time a timer interrupt occurs every 1 ms, the effect control command stored in the transfer buffer is transferred to the analysis buffer. In addition, there are two analysis buffers, an analysis buffer (upper level) and an analysis buffer (lower level), and the upper level data (MODE data) of the effect control commands read from the transfer buffer is It is stored in the analysis buffer (upper level), and the lower level data (EXT data) is stored in the analysis buffer (lower level). In this embodiment, the analysis buffer (upper) and the analysis buffer (lower) are each composed of 256 bytes, which has a larger capacity than the transfer buffer, and can store 256 2-byte production control commands (2 bytes). Since the upper 1 byte (MODE data) of the effect control command is stored in the analysis buffer (upper) and the lower 1 byte (EXT data) is stored in the analysis buffer (lower), 256 can be stored. It is a ring buffer type buffer. As shown in FIG. 26, the analysis buffer (upper) and the analysis buffer (lower) are formed in the SDRAM 116 externally connected to the effect control microcomputer 100.

As shown in FIG. 26, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 externally transfers the effect control command from the transfer buffer to the analysis buffer (upper level) and the analysis buffer (lower level). While access to the SDRAM 116 connected by the bus is required, when transferring the effect control command from the receive register to the transfer buffer, the serial communication circuit 115 and the built-in RAM 112 connected by the internal bus are required. You only need to access to, so you can transfer data at high speed.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. When the power is turned on, the effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process. In the main process, first, the initialization process for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing the timer for determining the activation interval (for example, 1 ms) of the effect control is performed (step S701). .. After that, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to the loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets the timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process (see FIG. 28). If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs the effect control process process (step S705). In the effect control process process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from each process according to the control state, and the display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs the fourth symbol process process (step S706). In the fourth symbol process process, the process corresponding to the current control state (fourth symbol process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state in the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d of the effect display device 9. The display control of the fourth symbol is executed.

Next, a random number update process for updating the count value of the counter for generating a random number such as a random number for determining a jackpot symbol is executed (step S707). After that, the process proceeds to step S702.

When the timer interrupt occurs every 1 ms, the effect control CPU 101 executes the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 28. In the timer interrupt process, the effect control CPU 101 first executes an analysis buffer transfer process of transferring the effect control command stored in the transfer buffer to the analysis buffer (step S711). Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets the timer interrupt flag (step S712).

In this embodiment, the case where the analysis buffer transfer process is executed in the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 28 is shown. However, in the timer interrupt process, only the timer interrupt flag is set, and FIG. 27 shows. The analysis buffer transfer process may be executed in the loop process of steps S702 to S707 of the main process (for example, the analysis buffer transfer process is executed between step S703 and step S704).

Further, when the effect control command is received from the game control microcomputer 560 and the serial reception interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sends the effect control command stored in the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 to the transfer buffer. Executes the transfer buffer transfer process for transfer. FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a transfer buffer transfer process for delivery that is executed when a serial reception interrupt occurs.

In the transfer buffer transfer process, the effect control CPU 101 first reads the received effect control command from the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 (step S721). Although the effect control command is composed of 2 bytes, the received effect control command is stored in the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 byte by byte, and the upper data (MODE data) of the effect control commands is stored. Since serial reception interruption occurs at each time when the data is received and when the lower data (EXT data) is received, in step S721, the effect control CPU 101 receives the effect control received from the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115. Read the command byte by byte. In this embodiment, the effect control command is received for receiving the upper data (MODE data) and the lower data (EXT data), and in step S721, the effect control CPU 101 generates a serial reception interrupt. It is assumed that the effect control command is read in the order of the upper data (MODE data) and the lower data (EXT data) according to the above.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 writes the read effect control command (1 byte data) to the area indicated by the write pointer in the transfer buffer (step S722). Further, the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the write pointer of the transfer buffer (step S723).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the transfer buffer is full with the received effect control command (step S724). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 determines, for example, whether or not the value of the write pointer of the transfer buffer has caught up with the value of the read pointer, and has caught up with the value of the read pointer (that is, the unread area). If the status is such that the next data is being written to the data), it can be determined that the transfer buffer is full. If the delivery buffer is not full, the process proceeds to step S735.

If the transfer buffer is full, the effect control CPU 101 reads an effect control command (1 byte of data) from the transfer buffer (step S725). In this case, the effect control CPU 101 temporarily stores the effect control command (1 byte upper data (MODE data) or lower data (EXT data)) read in step S725 in, for example, one of the data registers. Keep it. Further, the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the read pointer of the transfer buffer (step S726).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the read data is higher-level data (MODE data) of the effect control command (step S727). Specifically, in this embodiment, the upper data (MODE data) of the effect control command is always configured to have a value in the range of 80 (H) to FF (H), and the lower data (EXT data) is It is configured so that the value is always in the range of 00 (H) to 7F (H) (see FIG. 8). Therefore, in step S727, the effect control CPU 101 can determine that if the most significant bit of the read data is "1", it is the upper data (MODE data), and the most significant bit of the read data is "1". If it is "0", it can be determined that the data is lower data (EXT data).

If the read data is lower data (EXT data) (N in step S727: That is, in this embodiment, the upper data (MODE data) and the lower data (EXT data) are read in this order, so that the data is read. The fact that the data is lower data (EXT data) means that one effect control command is read out as a set of upper data (MODE data) and lower data (EXT data)), and the effect control CPU 101 is The upper data (MODE data) read earlier is written to the analysis buffer (upper) (step S728), and the lower data (EXT data) read this time is written to the analysis buffer (lower) (step S729). Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets a write completion flag indicating that writing to the analysis buffer is completed as a set of one effect control command with upper data (MODE data) and lower data (EXT data). (Step S730). Then, the process proceeds to step S732.

If the read data is higher-order data (MODE data) (Y in step S727: that is, if the lower-order data (EXT data) has not been read yet), the effect control CPU 101 resets the write completion flag ( Step S731). Then, the process proceeds to step S732.

By executing the processes of steps S727 to S731, in this embodiment, each time the effect control command is read byte by byte, the upper data (MODE data) and the lower data (EXT data) are individually buffered for each analysis. Rather than controlling to store in the analysis buffer (upper) and analysis buffer (lower)), after both the upper data (MODE data) and the lower data (EXT data) are gathered as a set, they are put together. Control to store in each analysis buffer (analysis buffer (upper) and analysis buffer (lower)).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not all the effect control commands stored in the transfer buffer have been read (step S732). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 determines, for example, whether or not the value of the read pointer of the transfer buffer is in a state of catching up with the value of the write pointer, and if it is in a state of catching up, the transfer is performed. It can be determined that the reading of all the effect control commands stored in the buffer is completed. If an unread effect control command remains in the transfer buffer, the process returns to step S725, and the effect control CPU 101 executes the processes of steps S725 to S731 again.

If the reading of all the effect control commands stored in the transfer buffer is completed, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the write completion flag is set (step S733). If the write completion flag is set (Y in step S733), the transfer buffer transfer process is terminated. If the write completion flag is not set (N in step S733), only the upper data (MODE data) of the effect control command last read from the transfer buffer is read, and the lower data (EXT data) is still read. It means that the data has not been read and the transfer to the analysis buffer has not been completed. Therefore, in this case, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the read pointer, returns one (step S734), and proceeds to step S735.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not all the effect control commands stored in the receive registers of the serial communication circuit 115 have been read (step S735). If an unread effect control command remains in the receive register, the effect control CPU 101 returns to step S721 and repeatedly executes the processes after step S721. If no unread effect control command remains in the receive register, the transfer buffer transfer process is terminated.

In this embodiment, as soon as the effect control command is received, it is transferred to the transfer buffer due to the occurrence of the serial reception interrupt, so that two or more effect control commands are substantially accumulated in the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115. Although there are almost no cases, when the power supply to the game machine is started, the game control microcomputer 560 starts up earlier than the effect control computer 100, and the effect control computer 100 is set. It may occur that the effect control command is received from the game control microcomputer 560 and stored in the reception register before the completion. Even in such a case, when the process of step S735 is executed and the effect control command is first received after the effect control microcomputer 100 is started and the serial reception interrupt occurs, this time. In addition to the received effect control commands, all the effect control commands including the effect control commands that have already been received and stored in the reception register before the start of the effect control microcomputer 100 are read out and stored in the transfer buffer. Transferred.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing an analysis buffer transfer process (step S711) executed in the timer interrupt process. In the analysis buffer transfer process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not there is an unread effect control command in the transfer buffer (step S741). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 determines, for example, whether or not the value of the read pointer of the transfer buffer has caught up with the value of the write pointer, and if it has caught up, it is for delivery. It can be determined that the reading of all the effect control commands stored in the buffer has been completed, and otherwise it can be determined that there are unread effect control commands.

If there is an unread effect control command (Y in step S741), the effect control CPU 101 reads the effect control command (1 byte of data) from the transfer buffer (step S742). In this case, the effect control CPU 101 temporarily stores the effect control command (1 byte upper data (MODE data) or lower data (EXT data)) read in step S742 in, for example, one of the data registers. Keep it. Further, the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the read pointer of the transfer buffer (step S743).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the read data is higher-level data (MODE data) of the effect control command (step S744). Specifically, in this embodiment, the upper data (MODE data) of the effect control command is always configured to have a value in the range of 80 (H) to FF (H), and the lower data (EXT data) is It is configured so that the value is always in the range of 00 (H) to 7F (H) (see FIG. 8). Therefore, in step S744, the effect control CPU 101 can determine that if the most significant bit of the read data is "1", it is the upper data (MODE data), and the most significant bit of the read data is "1". If it is "0", it can be determined that the data is lower data (EXT data).

If the read data is lower data (EXT data) (N in step S744: That is, in this embodiment, the upper data (MODE data) and the lower data (EXT data) are read in this order, so that the data is read. The fact that the data is lower data (EXT data) means that one effect control command is read out as a set of upper data (MODE data) and lower data (EXT data)), and the effect control CPU 101 is The upper data (MODE data) read earlier is written to the analysis buffer (upper) (step S745), and the lower data (EXT data) read this time is written to the analysis buffer (lower) (step S746). Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets the write completion flag (step S747), and returns to step S741.

If the read data is higher-order data (MODE data) (Y in step S744: that is, if the lower-order data (EXT data) has not been read yet), the effect control CPU 101 resets the write completion flag ( Step S748), the process returns to step S741.

Then, the processes of steps S741 to S748 are repeatedly executed until the processes of all the effect control commands stored in the transfer buffer are completed.

If there is no unread effect control command (N in step S741), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the write completion flag is set (step S749). If the write completion flag is set (Y in step S749), the analysis buffer transfer process ends. If the write completion flag is not set (N in step S749), only the upper data (MODE data) of the effect control command last read from the transfer buffer is read, and the lower data (EXT data) is still read. It means that the data has not been read and the transfer to the analysis buffer has not been completed. Therefore, in this case, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the read pointer and returns it by one (step S750), and ends the analysis buffer transfer process.

The effect control commands stored in the analysis buffer in the analysis buffer transfer process shown in FIG. 30 and the processes in steps S725 to S734 shown in FIG. 29 are analyzed in the command analysis process (see step S704). That is, in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 reads and analyzes the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 and stored in the analysis buffer, and sets a flag corresponding to the analyzed effect control command. Perform processing, etc.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the effect control process process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. 27. In the effect control process process, the effect control CPU 101 performs any of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following processes are executed. In the effect control process process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled to realize the variable display of the effect symbol, but the control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the fluctuation of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the fluctuation of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process process. It should be noted that even if the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the fluctuation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the fluctuation of the second special symbol are configured to be executed by different effect control process processes. Good. Further, in this case, it may be determined which special symbol variation display is executed depending on which effect control process process is executing the variation display of the effect symbol.

Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the fluctuation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command is received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801).

Effect symbol variation start process (step S801): Control is performed so that the effect symbol variation is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

Processing during effect symbol change (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each change state (fluctuation speed) constituting the change pattern, and monitors the end of the change time. Then, when the fluctuation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

Effect symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the fluctuation time, the effect display device 9 is controlled to display a screen for notifying the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the processing during the round (step S805).

Processing during the round (step S805): Display control during the round is performed. Then, when the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round is not completed, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the round post-processing (step S806). If the final round is completed, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S807).

Round post-processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. Then, when the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the processing during the round (step S805).

Big hit end effect processing (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

When the pre-reading advance notice effect is configured to be executable based on the pre-reading determination command such as the symbol designation command or the variable category command (see FIG. 9) received from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect control CPU 101 may be used. In the effect control process process, the pre-reading advance notice effect process that executes the pre-reading advance notice effect based on the received symbol designation command or variable category command may also be executed. In this case, for example, the effect control CPU 101 stops and displays the chance symbol or the like over a plurality of fluctuations before the start of the variation display of the advance notice target, changes the background image, or counts down as the pre-reading advance notice effect. A continuous effect may be executed, such as an effect in such a mode as the above, or a hold notice effect may be executed in which the hold display is displayed in a mode different from the normal mode.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the control means (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100) that controls based on the received command (in this example, the effect control command) and the reception The first storage area (in this example, the reception register included in the serial communication circuit 115) in which the command is first stored and the second storage area (in this example, the built-in RAM 112) in which the received command is temporarily stored are provided. It includes a transfer buffer) and a third storage area (in this example, an analysis buffer provided in the external SDRAM 116) in which the received command is finally stored. Further, the control means reads the command stored in the first storage area and stores it in the second storage area based on the reception interrupt (serial reception interrupt in this example) that occurs every time a command is received. Then, based on the timer interrupt that occurs every predetermined period (1 ms in this example), the command stored in the second storage area is read and stored in the third storage area. Then, the control means analyzes the command stored in the third storage area (in this example, in the command analysis process (see step S704), the effect control command stored in the analysis buffer is analyzed). Therefore, when a large number of commands are received, it is possible to reduce the omission of commands.

Specifically, in the conventional game machine, for the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect control command is directly transmitted from the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 every time a timer interrupt occurs every 1 ms. It was read and transferred to the analysis buffer. Then, even if the effect control command is received and stored in the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115, the effect control command is not read from the receive register until the timer interrupt occurs every 1 ms, so that the effect control command is not read from the receive register. If a large number of effect control commands are received in the meantime, the capacity of the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 may be exceeded, and the effect control commands may be missed. In particular, in a gaming machine configured so that the fluctuation display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol can be executed at the same time, if a start prize is generated at the same timing as the fluctuation start and a look-ahead judgment is performed, the fluctuation is performed. There is a possibility that a large number of commands at the start of fluctuation, such as pattern commands and display result specification commands, and pre-reading judgment commands, such as symbol specification commands and fluctuation category commands, will be sent at the same timing, and then within the same timer interrupt. There is a possibility that the total number of effect control commands to be transmitted exceeds 20, the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 overflows, and the effect control commands may be missed.

Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 26, a transfer buffer is further provided in the built-in RAM 112 in addition to the analysis buffer, and the serial communication circuit 115 immediately receives a serial reception interrupt. The effect control command is transferred from the receive register to the transfer buffer, and then the effect control command is further transferred from the transfer buffer to the analysis buffer every 1 ms timer interrupt. With such a configuration, in this embodiment, when a large number of effect control commands are received, it is possible to prevent the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 from overflowing and reduce the omission of the effect control command. ing.

Further, according to this embodiment, the second storage area is provided in the RAM built in the control means (in this example, as shown in FIG. 26, the built-in RAM 112 is provided with a transfer buffer. ). Therefore, the command can be transferred from the first storage area to the second storage area at high speed. That is, since it is only necessary to access the built-in RAM connected by the internal bus, data transfer can be performed at high speed.

Further, according to this embodiment, the second storage area has a larger storage capacity than the first storage area, and the third storage area has a larger storage capacity than the second storage area (this example). Then, as shown in FIG. 26, the capacity of the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 is 16 bytes, whereas the capacity of the transfer buffer is as large as 128 bytes, and the analysis buffer (upper level) and the analysis buffer (upper level) The capacity of the lower) is even larger, 256 bytes each). Therefore, by increasing the storage capacity of the storage area of the transfer destination, it is possible to reduce the omission of commands.

Further, according to this embodiment, when the capacity of the command stored in the second storage area reaches the maximum value of the storage capacity of the second storage area, regardless of the occurrence of timer interrupt, The command stored in the second storage area is read and stored in the third storage area (in this example, as shown in FIG. 29, in the transfer buffer transfer process, if the transfer buffer is full, steps S725 to 5 The process of S734 is executed, and the effect control command is transferred from the transfer buffer to the analysis buffer). Therefore, when the second storage area becomes full, the missed command can be reduced by moving the command to the third storage area as much as possible.

In this embodiment, the capacity of the transfer buffer is 128 bytes, and a maximum of 64 effect control commands can be stored. It is considered that the situation where the transfer buffer is full rarely occurs. Therefore, in the transfer buffer transfer process shown in FIG. 29, the process of steps S725 to S734 may not be provided.

Further, in this embodiment, when the transfer buffer is full, all the effect control commands in which the upper data (MODE data) and the lower data (EXT data) are stored as a set are changed from the transfer buffer to the analysis buffer. Although the case of transfer is shown, not limited to such a mode, only a part of the effect control commands may be configured to be transferred from the passing buffer to the analysis buffer. Even with such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the omission of the effect control command to some extent when the transfer buffer is full.

Further, according to this embodiment, the third storage area is a first area (in this example, an analysis buffer (upper)) for storing the upper data of the command and a second area for storing the lower data of the command. (In this example, the analysis buffer (lower)) is included. Then, the upper data of the command read from the second storage area is stored in the first area, and the lower data of the command read from the second storage area is stored in the second area (see steps S745 and S746 in FIG. 30). Therefore, it is possible to reduce the omission of commands in the second storage area. Further, the data transfer speed can be improved by increasing the data flow path at the time of transfer by separating the area for storing the upper data of the command and the area for storing the lower data.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the effect control command is transferred from the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 to the transfer buffer, it is transferred to the common transfer buffer as it is without being divided into upper data and lower data. It is configured to do. With such a configuration, in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the processing load from increasing when transferring to the transfer buffer performed for each serial reception interrupt.

In this embodiment, when a serial reception interrupt occurs, the effect control command stored in the reception register of the serial communication circuit 115 is immediately read and transferred to the transfer buffer. It is not limited to the mode. For example, in this embodiment, the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 is also provided with a capacity of 16 bytes and can store up to eight effect control commands, and the capacity of the transfer buffer is 128 bytes, which is a certain margin. Therefore, even if it is configured to read the effect control command stored in the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 and transfer it to the transfer buffer based on the occurrence of the serial reception interrupt a predetermined number of times. Good. Hereinafter, a modified example of transferring the effect control command to the transfer buffer based on the occurrence of a predetermined number of serial reception interrupts will be described.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the transfer buffer transfer process for delivery that is executed when a serial reception interrupt occurs. In the modified example shown in FIG. 32, in the transfer buffer transfer process, the effect control CPU 101 first adds 1 to the value of the interrupt count counter for counting the number of occurrences of the serial reception interrupt (step S751). Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the value of the interrupt count counter after addition has reached a predetermined number (10 in this example) (step S752). In this embodiment, the case where the predetermined number is 10 is shown, but not limited to such a mode, for example, whether or not the value of the interrupt count counter reaches 5 or 15 as the predetermined number. You may try to confirm. At least, in this embodiment, since the capacity of the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 is 16 bytes, a predetermined number is set so as to be a value equal to or less than the value corresponding to the capacity of the receive register (16 in this example). It suffices if it is determined.

If the value of the interrupt count counter does not reach the predetermined number, the transfer buffer transfer process is terminated as it is without shifting to the process of step S753 and subsequent steps. If the value of the interrupt count counter reaches a predetermined number, the effect control CPU 101 clears the value of the interrupt count counter (step S753). Then, the process proceeds to steps S721 to S723, and the process of transferring the effect control command stored in the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 to the transfer buffer is executed. In FIG. 32, the processes of steps S721 to S723 are the same as those processes shown in FIG. 29. Further, in FIG. 32, the processes of steps S724 to S735 are the same as those processes shown in FIG. 29.

According to the modification shown in FIG. 32, the command stored in the first storage area is read out and stored in the second storage area based on the occurrence of the reception interruption a predetermined number of times (10 times in this example). Store (in this example, as shown in FIG. 32, when Y is determined in step S752, the process proceeds to steps S721 to S723, and the effect control command stored in the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 is used. Executes the process of transferring to the transfer buffer). Therefore, the processing time for each interrupt can be shortened by performing the process of transferring the command from the first storage area to the second storage area only once every time the reception interrupt occurs a predetermined number of times. As described above, in this example, the capacity of the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 is 16 bytes, and the capacity of the transfer buffer is 128 bytes, so that there is some margin, so that the serial reception can be performed a plurality of times. There is no problem even if the data is transferred for each interrupt.

In the above embodiment, when the effect control microcomputer 100 stores the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560, it is temporarily transferred from the receive register of the serial communication circuit 115 to the transfer buffer. The case of finally transferring to the analysis buffer is shown, but it is not limited to such a mode. For example, when the payout control command transmitted and received between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer is stored, the configuration shown in the above embodiment is applied, and the received payout control command is transmitted to the serial communication circuit. It may be configured to transfer from the reception register of the above to the transfer buffer once, and finally to the analysis buffer. Further, for example, when the VDP 109 stores the command received from the effect control microcomputer 100, the configuration shown in the above embodiment is applied, and the received command is temporarily transferred from the reception register of the serial communication circuit to the transfer buffer. It may be configured to transfer and finally transfer to the analysis buffer.

In the above embodiment, in order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of the variation time, the variation pattern indicating the variation mode such as the type of reach effect and the presence / absence of the pseudo-ream, when the variation is started, 1 Although an example of transmitting one variation pattern command is shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, when notifying by two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command to indicate the presence / absence of a pseudo-ream, the presence / absence of a sliding effect, etc. A command indicating the fluctuation time and fluctuation mode before the second stop is sent, and the second command indicates the type of reach, the presence or absence of a re-lottery effect, etc. after reaching the reach (if it does not reach the so-called first). 2 After the stop, a command indicating the fluctuation time and the fluctuation mode may be transmitted. In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform the effect control in the variation display based on the variation time derived from the combination of the two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 notifies the fluctuation time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific fluctuation mode to be executed at each timing. You may do it. When sending two commands, the two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt, and after a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first command is sent (for example, the next timer interrupt). In), the second command may be sent. The variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. By notifying the fluctuation pattern by two or more commands in this way, it is possible to reduce the amount of data that must be stored as the fluctuation pattern command.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, "different ratios" are not limited to those having different ratios due to a relationship such as A: B = 70%: 30% or A: B = 30%: 70%. It is a concept that includes those having different ratios due to the relationship such as A: B = 100%: 0% (that is, one having 100% allocation and the other having 0% allocation).

Further, in the above embodiment, the effect control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the board on which the circuit for controlling the effect device is mounted, but the circuit for controlling the effect device is provided. It may be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted, and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. Two boards may be provided with the effect control board of 2.

Further, in the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100, but the game control microcomputer 560 is another substrate (for example, FIG. 4). The sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the audio output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, etc., and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35) shown in the above. A control command may be transmitted so as to be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or a control means such as a microcomputer is mounted on the audio output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board, and the control means receives the command. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 by executing control related to voice control and lamp control according to the operation, and further changing the received command to the command as it is or, for example, a simplified command. It may be sent to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs display control in response to the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above embodiment, and similarly, the sound output board 70 and the lamp driver. Display control can be performed according to a command received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

Further, in the above embodiment, a pachinko machine is taken as an example of a gaming machine, but in the present invention, a predetermined number of bets are set by inserting medals, and a plurality of types are used according to the operation of the operation lever by the player. When the symbol is rotated and the symbol is stopped in response to the operation of the stop button by the player, if the combination of the stop symbols becomes a specific combination of symbols, it is applied to the slot machine in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player. It is also possible. For example, with respect to the slot machine, similarly, the effect control command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer to the effect control microcomputer, and the payout control command is transmitted and received between the game control microcomputer and the payout control microcomputer. When these commands are received, the configuration shown in the above embodiment is applied, and the received commands are received by the serial communication circuit. It may be configured to transfer from the register to the transfer buffer once, and finally to the analysis buffer.

Further, in the above embodiment, an example is obtained in which a game medium is used as a game machine, but the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media as a prize, and is a game ball. It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that encloses a game medium such as the above and gives a score when the conditions for giving a prize are satisfied.

Further, in the above embodiment, there are probabilistic jackpots and normal jackpots as jackpot types, and a gaming machine that is controlled to a probabilistic state after the jackpot game is completed is shown based on the fact that the jackpot type is determined to be probabilistic jackpots. , Not limited to such gaming machines. For example, a special variable winning ball device having a predetermined probability variation region inside (a probability variation region may be provided in only one special variable winning ball device, or a plurality of special variable winning balls provided. A probability variation area may be provided in a part of the device), and the probability variation is determined based on the game ball passing through the probability variation area in the special variable winning ball device during the jackpot game. It is also possible to apply the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a gaming machine that is controlled to be in a probabilistic state after completion.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, for example, a plurality of types of special symbols and effect symbols of "1" to "9" may be variably displayed to derive and display a display result, or a plurality of types of "○" and "×" may be displayed normally. Although the case where the symbol is variably displayed and the display result is derived and displayed is shown, the variable display is not limited to such a mode. For example, the variably displayed symbol and the derived symbol do not necessarily have to be the same, and a symbol different from the variably displayed symbol may be derived and displayed. Further, it is not always necessary to variably display a plurality of types of symbols, and the variable display may be executed using only one type of symbol. In this case, for example, the variable display may be executed by alternately turning on and blinking the one type of symbol display. Even in this case, one type of symbol used for the variable display may be derived and displayed at the end, or a symbol different from the one type of symbol may be derived and displayed at the end. It may be a thing.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 side determines whether or not a big hit is achieved and the winning judgment (look-ahead judgment) of the variation pattern type, and a command (symbol designation command) indicating the winning judgment result. , Variable category command) is transmitted, and the pre-reading notice effect may be configured to be executable based on the command indicating the winning determination result on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. Regardless of the mode, for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 may be configured to perform a winning determination (look-ahead determination). In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 sends a command for specifying only the values of the jackpot determination random number (random R) and the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) extracted when the start winning is generated. Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 may be configured to perform a winning determination (look-ahead determination) based on the value of a random number specified by those commands.

The present invention is suitably applied to a game machine capable of performing variable display.

1 Pachinko game machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 2nd special symbol display 9 effect display device 9a 1st reserved storage display 9b 2nd reserved storage display 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd starting winning opening 20 special Variable winning ball device 31 Game control board (main board)
51 Serial communication circuit 56 CPU
560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP
111 Built-in ROM
112 Built-in RAM
114 Interrupt controller 115 Serial communication circuit 116 SDRAM

Claims (1)

It is a game machine that can play games
Control means that controls based on the received command,
It is provided with a command receiving means that receives a plurality of command data constituting a command and stores them in the first storage area.
The first storage area where the received command is stored first, and
A second storage area where received commands are temporarily stored, and
It has a third storage area where the received command is finally stored, and
The control means
Based on the fact that the reception interrupt that occurs each time the command receiving means receives the command data occurs a predetermined number of times, the command data stored in the first storage area is read out and stored in the second storage area. The first storage control means and
A second storage control means that reads command data stored in the second storage area and stores it in the third storage area based on a timer interrupt that occurs every predetermined period.
The analysis means for analyzing the command data stored in the third storage area is included.
When the command data is stored in the second storage area, the first storage control means determines whether or not the capacity of the command data stored in the second storage area has reached the limit value, and the determination is made. Execute the process according to the result,
The second storage control means determines the type of command data read from the second storage area, and based on the determination result, sets the command data into an area corresponding to the type of command data in the third storage area. Store,
A game machine characterized by that.

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