JP6950045B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

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

As a game machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into the game area by a launching device, and when the game medium wins a prize in 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 it is advantageous for the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result in the variable display device. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state.

The specific gaming state means a state in which a predetermined gaming value is given and is advantageous to the player. Specifically, the specific gaming state is, for example, a state in which the state of the special variable winning device is advantageous for a player who is likely to win a prize (big hit game state), or a state in which a right is generated to be advantageous for the player. , A state in which a predetermined game value is given, such as a state in which the conditions for paying out the prize game medium are easily satisfied.

Among such gaming machines, there are gaming machines provided with operating means that can be operated by the player. Further, there is a gaming machine provided with operating means and displaying an image for encouraging the player to operate (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, any one of a plurality of types of images for encouraging the operation of the player is displayed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-188306

In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, by displaying an image for encouraging the operation of the player, the interest of the game is improved by the production using the operating means, but the operation of the player is performed. Just displaying an image to encourage the game does not increase the interest of the game so much.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of further improving the enjoyment of gaming by directing using operating means.

(A) The game machine according to the present invention is a game machine that plays a game, and the operation means that can be operated by the player, the operation effect execution means that executes the operation effect using the operation means, and the operation effect are The operation effect executing means includes a display control means for displaying an operation promotion image for prompting the player's operation on the display means when the operation means is executed, and the operation effect executing means displays the operation means from the first aspect and the first aspect. The display control means changes the operation promotion image into one of a plurality of modes including the second mode in which the ratio of the advantageous state is high, and the ratio of the operation promotion image to the first image mode and the first image mode is more favorable than the first image mode. The operation-promoting image includes a common image display control means that displays in any of a plurality of modes including a high second image mode and displays the operation-promoting image in a mode common to the plurality of modes of the operating means. When displayed in the first image aspect, the operating means can be changed to the first aspect, and the second image aspect includes a plurality of aspects in which at least some aspects are common. The second aspect includes a plurality of aspects in which at least a part of the aspects are common, and even when the operation promotion image is displayed in any of the plurality of the second image aspects, the operation means is a plurality of the second aspects. It is characterized in that there are a plurality of types of operation promotion images of the common aspect without changing any of the embodiments.
(1) The other gaming machine is a gaming machine that plays a game, and is an operation means that can be operated by the player (for example, an operation button 150) and an operation effect execution means (for example, an operation effect execution means that executes an operation effect using the operation means). For example, a display control means (for example, a portion that executes the process of step S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and an operation promotion image for prompting the player's operation when the operation effect is executed are displayed on the display means. , A portion that executes the process of step S845 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the operation effect executing means has a first aspect and a second aspect in which the ratio of the operation means to a more advantageous state than the first aspect is high. The display control means changes the operation promotion image to any one of a plurality of modes (for example, “white”, “red”, “white / vibration”, “red / vibration” shown in FIG. 30) including A plurality of aspects (eg, "white / small", "red / small", "white / large", shown in FIG. 30), including an image aspect and a second image aspect that is more advantageous than the first image aspect. Display in any of "red / large"), and operate in a mode common to a plurality of modes of the operating means (for example, "white"("white / small" and "white / large") shown in FIG. 30). The operation promotion image is displayed in the first image mode, including a common image display control means for displaying the promotion image (for example, a portion that executes the processes of steps S501 to S503, S845, and S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100). At that time, the operating means can be changed to the first aspect, and when the operation promoting image is displayed in the second image aspect, the operating means is not changed to the second aspect, and the operation promotion of the common aspect is performed. It is characterized by having a plurality of types of images.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game by the production using the operating means.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above, the advantage may be different depending on the combination of the mode of the operation means and the mode of the operation promotion image (see FIG. 30).
According to such a configuration, the player can pay attention to the combination of the mode of the operation means and the mode of the operation promotion image.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2) above, a combination that does not appear among the combinations of the mode of the operating means and the mode of the operation promoting image (for example, "red / small" or "red" shown in FIG. 30. There may be a combination of "/ large" and "red" or "red / vibration").
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the combination that is considered inappropriate to be presented to the player from being displayed.

(4) In the game machines (1) to (3) above, after the game medium has passed through the start area, the game machine starts the variable display of the identification information based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition. A hold storage means for storing a variable display of identification information in which the game medium has passed through the start area (for example, the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14) but the start condition is not satisfied as hold storage. (For example, the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer: see FIG. 12) and the hold storage display means for displaying the hold storage corresponding to the hold storage (for example, the process of step S662 in the effect control microcomputer 100). The part to be executed), the valid period setting means for setting the valid period for which the operation on the operating means is valid (for example, the part for executing the process of step S847 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the identification within the valid period. The determination means for determining whether or not the operation means has been operated at the timing (for example, the portion for executing the processing of steps S8522 and S853 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and the determination means have specific timings (meter-like). When the end of the meter portion in the image 9c reaches a specific position: (see FIG. 34 (D)), when it is determined that the operation means has been operated, the specific effect is executed and the mode of the hold storage display is changed. It may be provided with specific effect means (for example, a portion that executes the processes of steps S856 and S857 and the process of the second modification in the effect control microcomputer 100).
According to such a configuration, since the player pays attention to the timing of the operation, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game by the production using the operation means.

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 configuration example of a relay board, an effect control board, a lamp driver board, and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main processing which a game control microcomputer executes. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the jackpot determination table and jackpot type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the start port switch passing process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the configuration example of the hold specific area and the hold area (hold buffer). It is a flowchart which shows an example of the special symbol normal processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the special symbol normal processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the variation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the display result specification command transmission processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of processing during special symbol change. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the special symbol stop processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the jackpot end processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main processing executed by the production control microcomputer. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the value of the game state data. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number used by the production control microcomputer. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating operation effect. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an effect control process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the variation pattern command reception waiting processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the effect symbol variation start processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation effect determination processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the operation effect determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the configuration example of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process during the production symbol change. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the effect symbol fluctuation stop processing. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the modification of the operation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the effect control command in the modification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the effect control command in the modification. It is a flowchart which shows the start port switch passing process in the modification. It is a flowchart which shows the determination process at the time of a prize. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the determination result storage buffer at the time of a prize. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the effect control process process in a modification. It is a flowchart which shows an example of hold mode determination processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number used by the production control microcomputer in the modification. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the holding mode determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing in the process of changing the effect symbol in the modification. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing in the process of changing the effect symbol in the modification.

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.

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, two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided, 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.

In the variable display of the special symbol, after the start condition which is the execution condition of the variable display is satisfied (for example, the game ball has passed the start winning opening 14 (including winning)), the start condition of the variable display (for example, hold). It is started based on the establishment of the case where the number of stored items is not 0, the variable display of the special symbol is not executed, and the jackpot game is not executed), and the variable display time (variable) is established. When the time has passed, 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.

An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. In the effect display device 9, a variable display of a decorative (decorative pattern) effect symbol (decorative symbol) synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is performed. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of the effect symbol. On the display screen of the effect display device 9, for example, there is a symbol display area for variably displaying three 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 symbol is displayed. 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 and fluctuated with the same symbol, 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 a reach state) 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 big hit symbol, it becomes "missing" and the variable display state ends. The player plays the game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

When the misaligned symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, 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, 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 may be executed after the reach state is reached, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become the 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, the variable display of the effect symbol is used as the effect of the liquid crystal display in the effect display device 9, but the effect performed by the effect display device 9 is not limited to the variable display of the effect symbol, for example. An effect having a predetermined story may be executed, and an effect of displaying the result of the story based on the result of the jackpot determination or the determination of the fluctuation pattern may be executed.

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 toward the variable winning ball device 15 is extremely easy to win in the second starting winning opening 14.

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 composed 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 total hold storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number (total hold storage number) which is the total of the first hold storage number and the second hold storage number is provided. ing. In this embodiment, since the total hold storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions for which the start condition for variable display is not satisfied. A first hold storage display unit for displaying the first hold storage number and a second hold storage display unit for displaying the second hold storage number may be provided.

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 are executed in synchronization. Synchronizing means that the change start timing and the fluctuation end timing are substantially the same.

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 big 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 from a disadvantageous state to an advantageous state for the player when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a hit symbol (a state in which the game ball can be won in the second starting winning opening 14). Changes to. In the vicinity of the ordinary symbol display 10, an ordinary symbol holding 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 LEDs to be lit 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. Furthermore, the probability variation state, which is a 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 judged as a big hit as a result of the fluctuation display of a special symbol is increased as compared with the normal state). Then, 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. Further, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased even in the time saving state (the game state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) in which the fluctuation time of the symbol is shortened although it is not the probabilistic state.

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 gaming machine is a hitting ball launching device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to the player operating the hitting ball operation handle 5 and launches the game ball into the gaming area 7 by using the rotational force of the driving motor. ) Is provided. The game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking 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.

Further, the member constituting the ball hitting plate 3 is provided with an operation button 150, which is an example of an operation means that can be operated by the player. It should be noted that an operating means such as rotation or pushing down may be used instead of pushing.

The operation button 150 incorporates a white LED (for example, a red light emitting LED, a green light emitting LED, and a blue light emitting LED are built-in), a red LED, and a vibrator (vibration motor). The operation button 150 is formed so that the player can visually recognize the colors of the white LED and the red LED. When the vibrator operates, the operation button 150 vibrates.

In this embodiment, when a probability variation jackpot occurs, the gaming state is shifted to a high probability state (probability variation state: a gaming state in which the probability of a jackpot is increased as compared with the normal state), and the game is played. High base state (high frequency state), which is a game state controlled so that the ball can easily win a starting prize (that is, the execution condition of the variable display in the special symbol display 8 and the effect display device 9 can be easily satisfied). Move to. In the high base state, 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. Then, it becomes easier to win a start prize.

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 503 that generates a hardware random number (a random number generated by the hardware circuit).

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 gaming 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 according to the control state corresponds to 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 substrate other than the main substrate 31.

The random number circuit 503 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 503 has a random number generation function for updating numerical data according to a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set. Then, the read numerical data is used as a random value.

The random number circuit 503 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 503. 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 (an ID number assigned by a different numerical value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the row is set as the initial value of the numerical data to be updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

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 storage. 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 instructs the effect content from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the effect display device 9 that receives the effect 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 relay board 77, 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 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 a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and a capture signal (capture signal) from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 (not shown). The effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103 in response to the effect control INT signal). 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.

In this embodiment, the 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.

The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulatory means.

As a signal direction regulating means, the relay board 77 allows the signal input from the main board 31 to pass only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal does not pass in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 of the above is mounted. As a unidirectional circuit, for example, a diode or a transistor is used. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. Further, a unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Further, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 which is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is regulated. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (on the side of the game control microcomputer 560). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit, which is a unidirectional circuit, may be further provided on the outside of the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation signal (pressing signal) corresponding to the pressing operation on the operation button 150 by the player from the operation button 150 via the input port 107.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 gives a drive signal to the white LED 151, the red LED 152, and the vibrator 153 via the output port 106.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED 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 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 the decorative LED 25 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 phone 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 gaming 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 gaming 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 recovery 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 part that should not be initialized is, for example, the 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 the display result stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80 (step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

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, a symbol confirmation specification command, which will be 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) 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) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization setting 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, 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 gaming 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 503 (step S14). The CPU 56 sets the random number circuit 503 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, 2 ms). That is, as an initial value, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the timer is interrupted periodically every 2 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 (ordinary 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 determining the normal symbol per round is one round (taking the random number for determining the normal symbol). 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. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a big hit symbol, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to execute the reach effect by performing a lottery to determine the fluctuation pattern using random numbers. 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 gaming 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 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 executes a display control process for controlling the display of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control to output a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33.

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, 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. do. 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.

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 2 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 in 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.

With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 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 in 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.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine the type of jackpot (probability variable jackpot, normal jackpot) (for determining the jackpot type)
(2) Random 2: Determine the (variation time) of the fluctuation pattern (for determining the fluctuation pattern)
(3) Random 3: Determine whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for determining the normal symbol hit)
(4) Random 4: Determine the initial value of random 3 (for determining the initial value of random 3)

In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 6, 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 (3). Count up (add 1). That is, they are random numbers for determination, and random numbers other than these are random numbers for display (random number 2) or random numbers for initial value (random number 4). 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 big hit 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.

FIG. 7 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 described 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.

The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit 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 (probability variation jackpot or normal jackpot) for the special symbol. The "probability" shown in FIG. 7A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, determining whether or not to make a big hit means determining whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state state, but it is determined whether or not the stop symbol on the special symbol display 8 is to be a big hit symbol. It also means that.

FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. In the jackpot type determination table, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, the jackpot type is set to "normal jackpot" or "probability variable jackpot" based on the random number for determining the jackpot type (random 2). A table referenced to determine one of them. In the jackpot type determination table, determination values (big hit type determination values) corresponding to each of "normal jackpot" and "probability variation jackpot" are set, which are numerical values to be compared with the value of random 1. 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.

The "normal jackpot" is a jackpot in which the jackpot is opened 15 times (15 rounds) during the jackpot game, and when the jackpot game is completed, the game state is changed to the non-probability state (low probability state). In addition, when the jackpot game is completed, the game state shifts to the time saving state (high base state). The time saving state continues until the variable display (variation) of the special symbol is executed 100 times. The "probability change jackpot" is a jackpot in which the jackpot is opened 15 times (15 rounds) during the jackpot game, and when the jackpot game is completed, the game state is changed to the probability variation state (high probability state). In addition, when the jackpot game is completed, the game state shifts to the time saving state (high base state). The time saving state continues until the next big hit occurs.
In this embodiment, the jackpot types include "normal jackpot" and "probability variable jackpot", but there may be other jackpot types.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the fluctuation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 8, “EXT” indicates the EXT data of the second byte in the effect control command having a 2-byte configuration. In addition, "time" indicates the fluctuation time of the special symbol (variable display period of the identification information).

In the example shown in FIG. 8, each variation pattern of the special symbol depends on the difference in various production modes such as whether it is a miss or a big hit, whether it is a reach or not, and a reach mode when it is a reach. Multiple types are available. The reach effect is executed by the effect display device 9 whose display is controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100.

"Normal variation" is a variation pattern without a reach mode. "Reach A" is a variation pattern with a predetermined reach mode (for example, a normal reach effect). The “reach B” is a variation pattern with a reach mode (for example, a super reach effect) different from that of the “reach A”. The different reach modes mean that different modes (speed, rotation direction, etc.) are changed or characters or the like appear in the reach fluctuation time. In "Reach A" and "Reach B", there are cases where a big hit is made and cases where the big hit is not made.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (including information on the variation time) for designating the 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. Fluctuation pattern command) (corresponding to fluctuation pattern XX respectively). That is, when each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 8 is given a unique number, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each of the variation 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 8C03 (H) are effect control commands that can specify whether or not to make a big 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 8C03 (H), the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (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 variable 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 effect symbol (decorative 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 effect 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 gaming machine is started. The command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the game machine is started, the game control microcomputer 560 sends a power failure recovery designation command if the data is saved in the backup RAM, and if not, the 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 command A001 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the jackpot game (hereinafter, also referred to as a jackpot start designation command or a fanfare designation command).

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. 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.

The command A301 (H) is an effect control command (big hit end designation command) for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the jackpot game.

The command B001 (H) is an effect control command (low base state designation command) indicating that the game state is the low base state. The command B002 (H) is an effect control command (high base state designation command) indicating that the game state is the high base state. The command B003 (H) is an effect control command (non-probability change state designation command) indicating that the game state is not the probability change state. The command B004 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state designation command) indicating that the game state is the probability change state.

The low-base state specification command, the high-base state specification command, the non-probability change state specification command, and the probability change state specification command may be collectively referred to as a game state specification command.

The command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (total hold storage number designation command) for designating the total number (total hold storage number) which is the total of the first hold storage number and the second hold storage number. "XX" in the command C2XX (H) indicates the total number of pending storages. The command C300 (H) is an effect control command (total hold storage number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the total hold storage number is subtracted by 1. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total hold storage number subtraction designation command when subtracting the total hold storage number subtraction designation command, but does not use the total hold storage number subtraction designation command. When subtracting the total number of pending storages, a command for specifying the total number of pending storages after subtraction may be sent.

In this embodiment, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 8, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol is in the reach state, and finally the effect display device. The effect symbols are aligned and stopped and displayed in the "left", "middle", and "right" symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R in 9.

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 effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 one byte at a time with eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7. In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wavy) capture signal (effect control INT signal) instructing the capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts the process of capturing 1-byte data by the interrupt process.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of the special symbol process process (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56). 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 detects that the game ball has won the first start opening switch 13a or the second start winning opening 14 for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13. If the second starting port switch 14a for the purpose is turned on, that is, if a starting winning prize is generated for the first starting opening winning opening 13 or the second starting opening opening switch 14, the first starting opening switch passing process is executed (. Steps S311 and S312). Then, any of the processes of steps S300 to S307 is performed.

The processes of steps S300 to S307 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 storage number of the numerical data stored in the hold storage number buffer (total hold storage number) is confirmed. The number of stored numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total hold storage counter. Further, if the count value of the total pending storage 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, a fluctuation time timer that measures 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).

Processing during special symbol change (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).

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 jackpot flag is not 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, 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. 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 S306 (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.

Processing during opening of the large winning opening (step S306): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. The control of transmitting the effect control command of the round display during the big hit game state to the effect control microcomputer 100, the process of confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the big winning opening, and the like are 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). When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

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).

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312.

In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the first start port switch 13a is turned on (step S211A). If the first start port switch 13a is turned on, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the first hold storage number counter for counting the first hold storage number is 4, which is the upper limit value (step). S212A). If the value of the first hold storage counter is 4, the process proceeds to step S211B.

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 S213A), 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 S214A). Further, in the reserved storage specific information storage area (reserved specific area) for storing the winning order to the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, the area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter is set in the area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter. The data indicating "first" is set (step S215A).

In this embodiment, when the first start port switch 13a is turned on (that is, when the game ball starts and wins the first start winning opening 13), data indicating "first" is set. When the second start opening switch 14a is turned on (that is, when the game ball starts and wins in the second start winning opening 14,) data indicating "second" is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating "first" when the first start port switch 13a is turned on in the hold storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), and the first 2 When the start port switch 14a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as the data indicating “second”. In this case, if there is no corresponding hold storage, 00 (H) is set in the hold storage specific information storage area (hold specific area).

FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the reserved storage specific information storage area (reserved specific area). As shown in FIG. 12A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total hold storage counter is secured in the hold specific area. Note that FIG. 12A shows an example in which the value of the total reserved storage counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 12A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total hold storage counter value is secured in the hold specific area, and the first start winning opening 13 or the second start Based on the winning of the winning opening 14, data indicating that the winning order is "first" or "second" is set. Therefore, in the hold storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. The reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55.

Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 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 (step S216A). In the process of step S216A, a hardware random number R (random number for determining a jackpot), a random number for determining a jackpot type (random 1) and a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern (random 2), which are software random numbers, are extracted and stored in a storage area. Stored in. It should be noted that the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern (random 2) is not extracted in the 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. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random number 2) in the variation pattern setting process described later.

FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a storage area (hold buffer) for random numbers and the like corresponding to hold storage. As shown in FIG. 12B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit of the number of first reserved storages (4 in this example) is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. 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. The first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. Formed in the RAM means an area in the RAM.

Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the total hold storage number designation command to the effect control CPU 101 (step S218A).

When transmitting the 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 in 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).

Next, it is confirmed whether or not the second start port switch 14a is turned on (step S211B). If the second start port switch 14a is turned on, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the second hold storage number counter for counting the second hold storage number is 4, which is the upper limit value (step). S212B). If the value of the second hold storage counter is 4, the process ends.

If the value of the second hold storage counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second hold storage counter by 1 (step S213B) and increases the value of the total hold storage counter by 1 (step S214B).

Further, in the hold storage specific information storage area (holding specific area), the CPU 56 sets the data indicating "second" in the area corresponding to the value of the total holding storage number counter (step S215B).

Then, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 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 (step S216B). In the process of step S216B, a hardware random number R (random number for determining a jackpot), a random number for determining a jackpot type (random 1) and a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern (random 2), which are software random numbers, are extracted and stored in a storage area. Stored in. It should be noted that the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern (random 2) is not extracted in the 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. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random number 2) in the variation pattern setting process.

Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the total hold storage number designation command to the effect control CPU 101 (step S218B).

13 and 14 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, the process ends.

If the total number of pending storage is not 0, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the first data among the data set in the holding specific area (see FIG. 12A) is the data indicating "first". (Step S52). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is not the data indicating the "first" (that is, the data indicating the "second"), the CPU 56 determines the special symbol pointer (the special symbol for the first special symbol). Data indicating "second" is set in the flag indicating whether the process processing is being performed or the special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol (step S53). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is the data indicating the "first", the CPU 66 sets the data indicating the "first" in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

By executing the processes of steps S52 to S54, in this embodiment, the first special symbol changes according to the starting winning order in which the game ball wins the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. The display or the variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

It should be noted that the variation of the second special symbol may be preferentially executed with respect to the variation (variable display) of the first special symbol. That is, the CPU 56 controls so that the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is satisfied in preference to the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol. You may.

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 performs each random number stored in the storage area corresponding to the first hold storage number = 1 in the first hold storage number buffer. The numerical value is read out 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 number 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 reserved storage counter, and each storage area in the first reserved storage buffer. Shift the contents of. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the count value of the second reserved storage counter is subtracted by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the second reserved storage buffer are shifted.

That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 has a storage area corresponding to the first hold storage number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first hold storage number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random value stored in is stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number = n-1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved storage number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number = n-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 extracted is the first reserved storage number (or each second reserved storage number). Second reserved memory number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 coincides with the order.

Then, the CPU 56 reduces the number of lights of the special symbol hold storage display (first special symbol hold storage display 18a or second special symbol hold storage display 18b) indicated by the special symbol pointer by 1 (step S57). Further, the value of the hold storage counter (first hold storage counter or second hold storage counter) indicated by the special symbol pointer is decremented by 1 (step S58). Also, the value of the total number of pending storages is reduced by 1. That is, the count value of the total pending storage counter is subtracted by 1 (step S59).

Next, the CPU 56 reads a random number R (random number for determining a big hit) from the random number buffer area, and determines whether or not to make a big hit. That is, it is determined whether or not the value of the random number for jackpot determination matches any of the jackpot determination values (see FIG. 7A) set in the jackpot determination table (step S61). The CPU 56 reads out the jackpot determination random numbers extracted in step S216A of the first start port switch passage process and step S216B of the second start port switch pass process and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer. , The jackpot determination (processing of comparing the value of the random number for jackpot determination and the jackpot determination value) is performed. Specifically, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 7 (A) according to the current gaming state, the CPU 56 determines the special symbol as a big hit. Decide on that.

Whether or not the current gaming state is in the probabilistic state is determined by confirming 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 set in the process of ending the jackpot game after it is decided to be a probabilistic jackpot, and when it is determined to be a jackpot, it is reset at the timing of ending the variable display of the special symbol and stopping and displaying the stop symbol. Will be reset.

If it is decided to make a big hit, 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.

If it is confirmed in step S61 that the value of the random R (random number for jackpot determination) does not match any of the jackpot determination values, that is, if it is out of order, the process proceeds to step S74.

In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a jackpot flag indicating that it is a jackpot. Then, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot type determination table (see FIG. 7B) to correspond to the type (“Random 1) corresponding to the value of the random number (random 1) for the jackpot type determination stored in the random number buffer area. "Normal jackpot" and "probability variable jackpot") are determined as the type of jackpot (step S72).

Further, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S73). 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.

Next, the CPU 56 determines the stop symbol of the special symbol (step S74). Specifically, when the jackpot flag is not set, the out-of-order symbol "-" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol. When the jackpot flag is set, one of the jackpot symbols "3" and "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol according to the determination result of the jackpot type. That is, when the jackpot type is determined to be "normal jackpot", "3" is determined to be the stop symbol of the special symbol. If "probability change jackpot" is determined, "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol.

In this embodiment, the jackpot type is first determined, and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is determined. However, the method of determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is based on this embodiment. Not limited to what is shown. 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 S75).

FIG. 15 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 first confirms whether or not the jackpot flag is set (step S91). When the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 decides to use the jackpot variation pattern determination table (step S92). If the jackpot flag is not set, it is determined to use the deviation pattern determination table (step S93).

In the jackpot fluctuation pattern determination table, fluctuation patterns (“02H” and “04H”) selected at the time of jackpot shown in FIG. 8 are set, and a plurality of determination values are assigned to each fluctuation pattern. Further, in the deviation pattern determination table, fluctuation patterns (“00H”, “01H”, “03H”) selected at the time of deviation shown in FIG. 8 are set, and a plurality of determination values are set for each fluctuation pattern. Assigned. The deviation pattern determination table is a variation pattern determination table when the gaming state is in the normal state, and another variation pattern determination table is used when the gaming state is in the probability variation state. For example, in the deviation pattern determination table in the probabilistic state, the variation patterns (“01H”, “03H”, “05H”) selected in the case of the deviation shown in FIG. 8 are set, and each variation pattern is set. Multiple judgment values are assigned.

As the deviation pattern determination table in the time saving state, the same table as the deviation fluctuation pattern determination table in the probability variation state is used. However, a different table may be used for the deviation pattern determination table in the time saving state and the deviation fluctuation pattern determination table in the probability variation state.

In addition, as a variation pattern determination table for loss, a plurality of tables according to the total number of pending storages are used.

The CPU 56 reads a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern from the random number storage buffer, and based on the value of the read random number for determining the fluctuation pattern, uses the fluctuation pattern determination table for big hits or the fluctuation pattern determination table for loss to determine the variation pattern of the effect symbol. Determine (step S101). Specifically, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random value is determined as the variation pattern of the effect symbol executed by the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, the random number for determining the variation pattern is extracted when the start winning prize is generated and stored in the random number storage buffer, but the CPU 56 extracts the random number for determining the variation pattern at the start of the variation of the special symbol (for example, It may be extracted in the fluctuation pattern setting process) and the fluctuation pattern may be determined based on the extracted random numbers.

Next, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the symbol variation designation command (first symbol variation designation command or second symbol variation designation command) indicated by the special symbol pointer (step S103), and determines the variation pattern (variation time). ), The effect control command (variation pattern command) for specifying the variation pattern is transmitted (step S102).

When transmitting the 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 in 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).

Then, the CPU 56 sets the fluctuation time in the special symbol process timer (step S104). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S302 (step S105).

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs one of the display result 1 designation to display result 3 designation production control commands (see FIG. 9) according to whether or not the jackpot is a jackpot and the type of the jackpot that has been determined. ) Is sent. Specifically, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the jackpot flag is set (step S111). If it is not set, the process proceeds to step S113.

When the jackpot flag is set, control is performed to transmit one of the effect control commands (see FIG. 9) of the display result 2 designation to the display result 3 designation according to the type (type) of the jackpot. The jackpot type is determined by the data set in the jackpot type buffer in the process of step S73 of the special symbol normal process.

In step S113, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 1 designation command.

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 S114).

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the fluctuation time timer (step S125), and when the fluctuation time timer times out (step S126), the CPU 56 ends the fluctuation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display 8a or the first 2 Control is performed to derive and display the stopped symbol on the special symbol display 8b (step S127). When the data indicating "first" is set in the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol in the first special symbol display 8a is terminated, and the special symbol pointer indicates "second". When the data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is terminated. In addition, control is performed to send a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S128). 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 S129). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

In this embodiment, the special symbol display control process (step S32) is based on the fact that the special symbol variation display is specifically processed during the special symbol variation process and the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. (See), this is performed by setting the special symbol display control data for the special symbol variation display in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. Then, in the display control process of step S22, the variable display of the special symbol is actually executed according to the setting content of the output buffer.

Further, in this embodiment, based on the value of the special symbol process flag being 4 (value indicating the special symbol stop process), the stop symbol of the special symbol (see step S32) in the special symbol display control process (see step S32). This is performed by setting the special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol determined in step S65 of the special symbol normal process in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. Then, in the display control process in step S22, the stop symbol of the special symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting content of the output buffer.

FIG. 18 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 S133). When the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state (step S134) if the jackpot flag is set, and the effect control. Control is performed to send a jackpot start designation command to the microcomputer 100 (step S135).

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 S137). In addition, the number of times of opening (5, 10 or 15) is set in the large winning opening opening number counter (step S138). 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 S139).

If it is confirmed in step S133 that the jackpot flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the probability variation flag indicating that the probability variation state is set is set (step S140). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S147. If the probability change 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 S141). When the time saving flag is set (that is, when it is not in the probability change state but in the time saving state), the value of the time saving number counter indicating the variable number of times of the special symbol in the time saving state is set to -1 (step). S142). Then, when the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S144), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S145). Further, the control is performed to transmit the low base state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S146).

In step S147, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal processing (step S300).

FIG. 19 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, 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). Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time (big hit end display time) in which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 is set in the big hit 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.

When the jackpot end display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the jackpot type is a probabilistic jackpot (step S166). Specifically, whether or not the probability variation jackpot is determined is determined by the data set in the jackpot type buffer in the process of step S73 of the special symbol normal process. If it is not a probabilistic jackpot, the process proceeds to step S172.

In the case of a probability change jackpot, the CPU 56 sets the probability change flag and shifts the gaming state to the probability change state (step S170). Further, the CPU 56 sets the time saving flag (step S171). Then, the process proceeds to step S174.

By executing the processes of steps S170 and S171, in this embodiment, when the jackpot game based on the probability variation jackpot is terminated, the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state (high probability state) and the time saving state (high probability state). It also shifts to the base state (ie, shifts to the high probability / high base state).

In this embodiment, the time saving flag set in the process of step S173 is also used to determine whether or not to increase the number of times the variable winning ball device 15 is opened. In addition, the time reduction flag is used to determine whether or not to shorten the fluctuation time of the special symbol.

In step S172, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number (for example, 100) in the time reduction counter for counting the number of time reductions (the number of variable times in the time reduction state) (step S172). Further, the CPU 56 sets the time saving flag (step S173). Then, the process proceeds to step S174.

In step S174, the CPU 56 sends a game state specification command (low base state specification command, high base state specification command, non-probability change state specification command, or probability change state specification command) according to the current game state to the effect control microcomputer 100. Controls transmission. In the process of step S174, the UCPU 56 controls to transmit a high base state designation command when the time saving flag indicating that the time saving state is set is set. If the time saving flag is not set, control is performed to send a low base state specification command. Further, when the probability change flag indicating the probability change state is set, the control to send the probability change state specification command is performed. If the probability change flag is not set, control is performed to send a non-probability change state specification command.

In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a game state designation command each time the jackpot game ends, but for example, the game state changes before the game state designation command is to be transmitted. It may be determined whether or not the command has been performed, and the game state specification command corresponding to the changed game state may be transmitted only when the game state changes.

After that, 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 S175).

Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) 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, initializing the timer for determining the activation interval of the effect control process, and the like is performed (step S701). After that, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to the loop process for confirming the monitoring of the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interrupt occurs, the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 100 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 (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. Further, 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 the effect symbol is executed (step S706). After that, the process proceeds to step S702.

The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is a command reception buffer in a ring buffer format capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands. It is stored in (formed in RAM). Then, a command reception number counter is used to indicate in which area the received command is stored. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 analyzes which command (see FIG. 9) is the effect control command stored in the command reception buffer.

21 and 22 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the command reception buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) is stored in the command reception buffer. Check the contents of the command you are using.

Specifically, the command is stored in the command reception buffer by detecting that the effect control INT signal output from the game control microcomputer 560 has risen and first performing a 1-byte MODE by interrupt processing. Data is fetched and stored in the command reception buffer. Next, after the effect control INT signal is turned off, it is detected that the next effect control INT signal has risen, and 1-byte EXT data is fetched by interrupt processing to perform the next area of the command reception buffer. Stored in. By the above processing, one effect control command (2-byte command) is fetched and stored in the command reception buffer.

In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first confirms whether or not the received command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether or not it is stored is determined by comparing the value of the command reception count counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). After reading, the value of the read pointer is set to +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that it reads 2 bytes (1 command) at a time.

If the received effect control command is a power-on designation command (initialization designation command) (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen indicating that the initialization process has been executed on the effect display device 9. Control is performed (step S615). The initial screen includes a predetermined initial display of the effect symbol.

If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S616), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (a screen for displaying information for notifying the player that the game state is continuing) is displayed. Control to display (step S617).

If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in the variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S622). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the variation pattern command reception flag (step S623).

If the received effect control command is a display result specification command (step S624), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result specification command (display result 1 designation command to display result 3 designation command) in the RAM. It is stored in the display result specification command storage area (step S625).

If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S626), the effect control CPU 101 sets the confirmation command reception flag (step S627).

If the received effect control command is a total hold storage number designation command (step S661), the effect control CPU 101 updates the total hold storage number display on the total hold storage display unit 18c (step S662). Specifically, the hold display is increased by 1.

The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a first start prize designation command indicating that when the first start prize occurs, and a second start prize indicating that fact when the second start prize occurs. When the designated command is transmitted and the effect control CPU 101 receives the first start prize designation command, the display on the total hold storage display unit 18c is incremented by 1 in the first hold mode (for example, blue), and the second start prize designation command is used. Is received, control may be performed to increase the display on the total hold storage display unit 18c by 1 in the second hold mode (for example, green).

If the received effect control command is a total hold storage number subtraction designation command (step S663), the effect control CPU 101 updates the total hold storage number display on the total hold storage display unit 18c (step S664). Specifically, the first hold display in the total hold storage display unit 18c is erased, and the remaining hold displays are shifted one by one.

If the received effect control command is a game state specification command (low base state specification command, high base state specification command, non-probability change state specification command or probability change state specification command: see FIG. 9) (step S670), the effect control CPU 101 Sets a value corresponding to the game state specified by the received game state specification command in the game state data area reserved in the RAM (step S671). Hereinafter, the value set in the game state data area is referred to as game state data.

When the reception command read in step S612 is another effect control command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the reception command (step S691).

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the value of the game state data. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the value of the game state data is "01 (H)" in the low probability low base state (non-probability variation non-time saving state). The value of the game state data is "02 (H)" in the low-probability high-base state (non-probability variation time-shortening state). In the high probability low base state (probability variation non-time saving state), the value of the game state data is "03 (H)". In the high probability high base state (probability variation time reduction state), the value of the game state data is "04 (H)".

In this embodiment, since the gaming state does not become the high probability low base state (probability variation non-time saving state), the value of the gaming state data is not set to "03 (H)".

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 24, in this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols and the random number SR2 for determining the operation effect. .. Random numbers other than these may be used in order to enhance the effect.

The random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols are "left", "middle", and "middle" in the display area of the effect display device 9 as stop symbols which are variable display results of the effect symbols. It is a random number used to determine the effect symbol (final stop symbol) that is stopped and displayed in each symbol display area of "right". The final stop symbol is three effect symbols that are finally stopped and displayed in each of the "left", "middle", and "right" symbol display areas when the variable display of the effect symbol ends. The combination of the jackpot symbols of the effect symbols is determined by any one of the random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols.

The operation effect determination random number SR2 is a random number used to determine whether or not to execute the operation effect (button effect).

FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation effect. As shown in FIG. 25 (A), the effect control CPU 101 is for prompting the player to operate a button (press the operation button 150) at a predetermined time after the display state of the effect symbol is in the reach state. Control is performed to display the operation promotion image 9a on the display screen of the effect display device 9 in a predetermined size and a predetermined color. In this embodiment, "promotion" is used not to mean to proceed with the operation of the player, but to to encourage (solicit) the operation of the player.

Further, as shown in FIG. 25B, the effect control CPU 101 has a predetermined time (in this embodiment, a display start time of the operation promotion image 9a) after the display state of the effect symbol reaches the reach state. At about the same time), the mode of the operation button 150 is changed from the normal mode.

The normal mode of the operation button 150 is a state in which no color is developed (white LED 151 and red LED 152 are turned off) and vibration by the vibrator 153 is not performed. Therefore, when the mode of the operation button 150 is changed from the normal mode, the effect control CPU 101 controls color development by the white LED 151, color development by the red LED 152, vibration by the vibrator 153, or two or more of them. conduct.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the effect control process process (step S705) in the main process. 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.

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 processing (step S803): Based on the reception of the effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) instructing to stop all symbols, the effect symbol variation is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Take control. 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, control is performed to display a screen (fanfare screen) for notifying the occurrence of the big hit to the effect display device 9. 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 a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect 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 a 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).

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process process. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set (step S811). If it is set, the flag is reset (step S812). Then, the effect control CPU 101 changes the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process process shown in FIG. 26. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S821).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display result (stop symbol) of the effect symbol according to the data stored in the display result designation command storage area (that is, the received display result designation command) (step S822).

For example, when the received display result designation command normally indicates a big hit (when the received display result designation command is the display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 has an even number of 3 symbols as stop symbols. Determine the combination of the production symbols that are aligned with the symbols (usually the stop symbols that remind you of the occurrence of a big hit). When the received display result specification command indicates a probability variation jackpot (when the received display result specification command is a display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 has 3 symbols as odd symbols as stop symbols (probability variation). Determine the combination of the production symbols that are aligned with the stop symbols) that reminds you of the occurrence of a big hit.

When determining the jackpot symbol, the effect control CPU 101 extracts SR1-1 in the process of step S822, and uses SR1-1 to stop the left middle right stop symbol (the left middle right symbol is aligned). Combination) is determined.

In the case of off, a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, the combination of the effect symbols with the two left and right symbols aligned is determined.

Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 uses SR1-1 to SR1-3, for example, when it is not decided to make the symbol out of place and it is not decided to reach it. Extract, SR1-1 is used to determine the left symbol, SR1-2 is used to determine the middle symbol, and SR1-3 is used to determine the right symbol. If the determined left and right symbols match, the right symbol is shifted by one. When it is decided to reach, SR1-1 to SR1-2 are extracted, SR1-1 is used to determine the left and right symbols, and SR1-2 is used to determine the middle symbol.

In addition, the effect control CPU 101 performs an operation effect determination process (step S823).

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing an operation effect determination process. As shown in FIG. 29, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it reaches reach (step S500). Whether or not to reach can be determined by the fluctuation pattern command stored in the fluctuation pattern command storage area. If it does not reach, the process ends. In the case of reach, a value is read from a counter for generating an operation effect determination random number, and the read value is used as an operation effect determination random number (step S501). Then, the effect control CPU 101 compares the value of the random number for determining the operation effect with the determination value set in the operation effect determination table to display the effect mode (display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the changed operation button). Aspects of 150) are determined (step S502).

FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the operation effect determination table. The operation effect determination table is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 30, in the operation effect determination table, determination values corresponding to the combination of the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 are set. In addition, the number of determination values is shown in FIG.

In the process of step S502, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150 to correspond to a determination value that matches the value of the operation effect determination random number. .. If it is determined that the display result of the special symbol is not made into a big hit symbol (is out of order), the effect control CPU 101 uses the table shown in FIG. 30 (A) and makes it a big hit symbol (big hit). If it is decided to use the table shown in FIG. 30 (B).

Then, the effect control CPU 101 stores the determined effect mode in the RAM (step S503).

As illustrated in FIG. 30, in this embodiment, the rate at which the mode of the operation button 150 is determined to be "vibration" is larger in the case of a big hit than in the case of a loss. In addition, the number of judgment values corresponding to "red" is more likely to be a big hit than when it is out of order. That is, it is suggested that there is a possibility of a big hit depending on the mode of the operation button 150 after the change.

Further, paying attention to the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a, in the case of a big hit, the ratio of being determined to be "red" is larger than in the case of a loss. The ratio determined as "red / large" is even larger in the case of a big hit than in the case of a miss.

When the mode of the operation button 150 is determined to be "red" (specifically, "red" or "red / vibration"), the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a is "white". (Specifically, "white / small" or "white / large") is determined. That is, the effect control CPU 101 displays the operation promotion image 9a in a mode common to a plurality of modes of the operation button 150. Further, even when the mode of the operation button 150 is determined to be "white" (specifically, "white" or "white / vibration"), the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a is "white". It may be determined as "white" (specifically, "white / small" or "white / large").

In this embodiment, the "common aspect" is "white", but it may be "white / small" or "white / large". That is, a part of the aspect of the operation promotion image 9a is the same. However, the "common aspect" may be the exact same aspect.

Further, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 collectively determines the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 after the change, but they may be determined separately. .. In that case, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a by, for example, a lottery using random numbers, and determines the mode of the changed operation button 150 by a lottery using other random numbers.

Further, in this embodiment, the operation effect is always executed while the effect symbol to be reached is changed, but the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the operation effect by, for example, a lottery using random numbers. You may do so.

In the effect symbol variation control process, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the variation pattern (step S824).

FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data to be referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device (effect component) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table is composed of a collection of a plurality of combinations of process timer setting values and effect control execution data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data). The display control execution data includes data and the like indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol. Specifically, data related to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, in the process timer set value, the fluctuation time in the mode of the fluctuation is set. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, and controls to display the effect symbol in the variation mode set in the display control execution data only for the time set in the process timer set value.

The process table shown in FIG. 31 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. In addition, the process table is prepared according to each variation pattern and production type.

The effect control CPU 101 is an effect device (effect display device 9 as an effect component that variably displays the effect symbol, effect) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Control of various lamps as parts for production and speakers 27) as production parts is started (step S826). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including an effect symbol) corresponding to the fluctuation pattern on the effect display device 9 according to the display control execution data. Further, in order to control the lighting / extinguishing of various lamps, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35. Further, in order to output the sound from the speaker 27, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the fluctuation time specified by the fluctuation pattern command in the fluctuation time timer (step S827).

Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value indicating the effect symbol changing process (step S802) (step S828).

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol changing process (step S802) in the effect control process process. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 101 sets the respective values of the process timer and the variation time timer to -1 (steps S840A and S840B).

If the button validity period timer is in operation, the value of the button validity period timer is decremented by -1 (step S840C).

When the button validity period timer times out (the value becomes 0), the effect control CPU 101 erases the operation promotion screen 9s from the display screen of the effect display device 9, and changes the mode of the operation button 150. Return to the normal mode (step S840E).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S841). If the time-out has not occurred, the process proceeds to step S844. If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched. That is, the process timer is started again by setting the next set process timer setting value in the process table in the process timer (step S842). Further, the control state for the effect device (effect component) is changed based on the display control execution data, the lamp control execution data, and the sound number data set next (step S843). Then, the process proceeds to step S844.

In step S844, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the value of the fluctuation time timer has reached a value corresponding to the passage of a predetermined time. The predetermined time is the time during the reach effect after the reach is reached, and is, for example, 5 seconds before the effect symbol is determined (derrived and displayed) during the reach effect. If the value of the fluctuation time timer is not a value corresponding to the passage of a predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S852.

When the value of the fluctuation time timer reaches a value corresponding to the passage of a predetermined time, the effect control CPU 101 displays the operation promotion image 9a in a mode determined by the process of step S502 and stored in the RAM (step S845). ). Further, the mode of the operation button 150 is changed to the mode determined in the process of step S502 and stored in the RAM (step S846).

When the operation button 150 is determined to be white in the process of step S846, the effect control CPU 101 gives a drive signal to the white LED 151. When it is decided to make the operation button 150 red, a drive signal is given to the red LED 152. When it is decided to vibrate the operation button 150, a drive signal is given to the vibrator 153.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the operation valid period in the button valid period timer (step S847). Then, the process proceeds to step S852.

In step S852, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the button validity period timer is operating (whether or not the value is not 0). When the button validity period timer is operating, when the effect control CPU 101 detects that the operation button 150 has been operated via the input port 107 (see FIG. 3) (step S853), the effect display device 9 The operation promotion screen 9s is erased from the display screen of the above, and the mode of the operation button 150 is returned to the normal mode (step S854). That is, the driving of the white LED 151, the red LED 152, and the vibrator 153 is stopped.

The effect control CPU 101 executes a predetermined effect (the effect is included in the operation effect) following the process of step S854. In that case, the effect control CPU 101 may execute a fixed effect, but may select the type of effect from a plurality of types. In such a configuration, for example, in the operation effect determination process (see FIG. 29), the effect mode (display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150) is determined (step S502). ) And, for example, a lottery using random numbers to determine the type of predetermined effect to be executed. As an example of a predetermined effect, there is a display effect using a predetermined character image and a predetermined game effect.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the fluctuation time timer has timed out (step S861). When the fluctuation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803) (step S863). Even if the fluctuation time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S862), the effect control CPU 101 executes the process of step S863.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process process. In the effect symbol fluctuation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 resets the confirm command reception flag (step S8300) when the confirm command reception flag is set, and derives the stop symbol determined in the process of step S822. Control to display (step S8301).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is decided to make a big hit (step S8311). Whether or not it is decided to make a big hit is confirmed by, for example, a display result specification command stored in the display result specification command storage area. It is also possible to confirm whether or not it is decided to make a big hit by the determined stop symbol. If it is not decided to make a big hit, the process proceeds to step S8312.

When it is decided to make a big hit, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the start of the big hit (step S8313).

Then, the effect control CPU 101 starts the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S8314). Further, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (effect display device 9 as an effect component, various lamps as an effect component, and effect parts). The control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S8315).

After that, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S8316).

In step S8312, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

In the jackpot display process (step S804), the effect control CPU 101 executes the fanfare effect according to the data set in the process table selected in the process of step S8313.

As described above, the effect control CPU 101 changes the mode of the operation button 150 to one of a plurality of modes according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot gaming state, and operates according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot gaming state. Since the promotion image 9a is displayed in any of a plurality of modes, but the operation promotion image 9a in a mode common to the plurality of modes of the operation button 150 is displayed, the operation promotion image 9a is also displayed according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot gaming state. The display mode of 9a is changed to one of a plurality of display modes, and the mode of the operation button 150 is changed to one of the plurality of modes according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot gaming state, but the mode of the operation button 150 is changed to the operation promotion image. Since the mode is common to the plurality of display modes of 9a (for example, "white" (specifically, "white" or "white / vibration") shown in FIG. Can be further improved.

Further, in this embodiment, the effect is executed by combining "red / small" or "red / large" (for the operation promotion image 9a) and "red" or "red / vibration" (for the operation button 150). There is nothing. If the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a (red in this case) and the mode of the operation button 150 (red in this case) are the same, the player may expect something. By preventing the effects of the operation promotion image 9a and the operation button 150 from being executed in the same manner, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which the player expects something but the event corresponding to the expectation does not occur.

In this embodiment, the "advantage" is the expected degree (reliability) of the jackpot, but it may be the expected degree such as the occurrence of another gaming state. For example, the expectation of the probabilistic jackpot, the expectation of transition to the time saving state, the expectation of a large number of time saving times, and the function of making the player unrecognizable or difficult to recognize that the probabilistic state is in the probabilistic state (so-called latent probability change). It may be a latent probability change when it is held.

Further, in this embodiment, both the determination value corresponding to the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 are assigned according to the reliability of the jackpot (see FIG. 30), that is, , Judgment values are assigned according to the reliability for the same target (synonymous with "advantage" in the present specification), but the judgment value is assigned according to the reliability for different targets (advantage for different targets). It may be. For example, the determination value corresponding to one aspect may be allocated according to the reliability of the jackpot, and the determination value corresponding to the other aspect may be allocated according to the reliability of the probability variation jackpot.

Further, the target of the reliability (expectation) does not have to be the reliability (for example, the jackpot reliability) related to the game. For example, the effect control CPU 101 executes an effect for giving points (a kind of operation effect) based on the fact that the operation button 150 is pressed (for giving points following the process of step S854 shown in FIG. 32). ), The presence or absence of points given to the player according to the result of the production, and the reliability of the number of points may be used. In addition, for example, when the number of points acquired by the player reaches a predetermined number, the gaming machine is configured to be able to execute a special effect that is not normally executed.

Further, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 executes the operation effect during the reach effect, but may be executed, for example, during the jackpot game. In that case, the operation effect may be executed as a probabilistic promotion effect or a round promotion effect that is started when the operation button 150 is pressed. The probabilistic promotion effect is an effect for displaying the effect symbol as a normal jackpot symbol and notifying whether or not the effect symbol is promoted to the probabilistic jackpot after the start of the jackpot game. The round promotion effect is an effect for notifying that the player is actually in the jackpot game state with a large number of rounds after the effect symbol corresponding to the jackpot game state with a small number of rounds is stopped and displayed. Even when the operation effect is executed at such a timing, the determination value corresponding to the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 are reliable (advantageous) for the probability change state and the jackpot game state with a large number of rounds. It is allocated according to the degree).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 may start the advance notice effect (a kind of operation effect) when the operation button 150 is pressed before the reach is established during the variable display. Even when the operation effect is executed at such a timing, the determination value corresponding to the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 are allocated according to the reliability (advantage) for the jackpot and the super reach. Is done.

Further, in this embodiment, color development and vibration are used as the types of modes of the operation button 150, but the rotation of the operation button 150, the protrusion (jumping) of the operation button 150, the temperature change of the operation button 150, and the operation button 150 Curing or the like may be used. Further, in this embodiment, white and red are used as the colors of the operation button 150, and these colors are examples.

Further, in this embodiment, the operation button 150 is used as the operation means, but other types of operation means may be used. For example, an operation lever or a touch panel (infrared method or other method) that tilts in a predetermined direction can be used. When the operation lever is used, color development and vibration can be generated in the same manner as when the operation button 150 is used. When a touch panel is used, a light emitting unit (a plurality of types of light emitting units having different colors and a light emitting body capable of changing the light emitting area (size of the light emitting region)) may be provided around the touch panel.

(Modification example)
FIG. 34 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a modified example of the operation effect. As shown in FIG. 34, the variable display of the effect symbol is executed (see FIG. 34 (A)), and after reaching the reach (see FIG. 34 (B)), the meter-shaped image 9c is displayed together with the operation promotion image 9a. It is displayed on the screen (see FIG. 34 (C)). In the meter-shaped image 9c, the display is controlled so that the end of the meter portion (colored portion (black portion)) moves to the right with the passage of time. In addition to the meter-shaped image 9c, an image 9b indicating a specific position of the image 9c is also displayed. The specific position is a fixed position.

Then, based on the player pressing the operation button 150 (see FIG. 34 (D)), a specific effect (for example, a moving display of the specific character image 9d) is executed (see FIG. 34 (E)). .. Further, when the operation button 150 is pressed at a specific timing (when the end of the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c reaches a specific position), the display mode of the hold storage display changes (FIG. 34 (FIG. 34). E) See). FIG. 34 shows an example of a big hit after that (see FIG. 34 (F)).

35 and 36 are explanatory views showing an example of the contents of the effect control command in the modified example. As shown in FIG. 35, the command C4XX (H) is also specified as an effect control command. The command C4XX (H) is an effect control command (winning determination result designation command) indicating the content of the winning determination result (result of the determination process executed when the start winning is generated) (see FIG. 36). In the modified example, in the winning determination process (see FIG. 38) described later, the game control microcomputer 560 receives a starting winning prize when a starting winning prize occurs at the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14. Based on this, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is a big hit, and the variation pattern of the variable display based on the starting prize is determined. Then, the determination result is set in the EXT data of the winning determination result designation command, and the control is performed to transmit the determination result to the effect control microcomputer 100.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in the modified example. In the modified example, the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 performs a winning determination process when a starting prize occurs at the first starting winning opening 13 and when a starting winning occurs at the second starting winning opening 14. Execute (steps S217A, S217B).

FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing a winning determination process in steps S217A and S217B. In the winning determination process, the CPU 56 performs a jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in the processes of steps S216A and S216B and stored in the hold storage buffer, and a normal jackpot determination value shown in the left column of FIG. 7 (A). And confirm whether they match (step S221).

In this embodiment, at the timing when the variation of the special symbol and the effect symbol is started, it is determined whether or not to make a big hit in the special symbol normal processing described later, or the variation pattern is determined in the variation pattern setting process. However, apart from that, at the timing when the game ball wins the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, the winning judgment process is executed before the fluctuation based on the starting winning is started. do. The effect control microcomputer 100 executes control for changing the mode of the hold storage display in the total hold storage display unit 18c based on the determination result in the winning determination process.

When the jackpot determination random number (random R) matches the jackpot determination value, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot type determination random number extracted in the processes of steps S216A and S216B and stored in the hold storage buffer and the jackpot type determination table. It is used to determine the jackpot type (step S224). Then, the data corresponding to the jackpot type (“04” or “05”: see FIG. 10) is set as the EXT data of the winning determination result designation command (step S225). Then, the process proceeds to step S231.

When the big hit judgment random number (random R) does not match the big hit judgment value, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the game state at the start of the fluctuation (variable display) started based on the start winning is in the probable change state. (Step S222).

In the process of step S222, if the current gaming state is the probability change state (if the probability change flag is set), the CPU 56 matches the determination value of the normal jackpot in the hold storage buffer (see FIG. 7B). If there is a hold memory (excluding the hold memory currently being determined) having a random number for determining the jackpot type, it is determined that the game state does not become the probability change state. Further, the CPU 56 is a random number for determining the jackpot type in which the current gaming state is the normal state (the probability variation flag is not set) and matches the determination value of the probability variation jackpot (see FIG. 7B) in the hold storage buffer. It is determined that the game state does not change to the probabilistic state even when there is no hold memory (excluding the hold memory currently being determined).

When the gaming state becomes the probabilistic state, the CPU 56 performs the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in the processing of steps S216A and S216B and stored in the hold storage buffer, and the probabilistic change shown in the right column of FIG. 7 (A). It is compared with the jackpot determination value at the time, and it is confirmed whether or not they match (step S223). If they match, the process proceeds to step S224.

If they do not match, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number extracted in the processing of steps S216A and S216B and stored in the hold storage buffer and the variation pattern determination table, and the variation pattern is a reach variation pattern accompanied by a reach effect. (Steps S226 and S227). In addition, it is configured to shorten the average fluctuation time when the total number of reserved storages is large, and in the fluctuation pattern determination table, a specific reach fluctuation pattern (for example, super reach) can be applied regardless of the total number of reserved storages. When a common judgment (compared with the value of the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern) is assigned, the CPU 56 matches the value of the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern with the judgment value regardless of the total pending storage number. When this is done, it can be determined that a specific reach fluctuation pattern is obtained.

When the fluctuation pattern becomes the reach fluctuation pattern, the data ("02") corresponding to the reach loss (the fluctuation pattern is the reach fluctuation pattern, but the display result is the missed symbol) as the EXT data of the winning judgment result specification command. Alternatively, “03”: see FIG. 10) is set (step S228). Then, the process proceeds to step S231.

If the fluctuation pattern does not become the reach fluctuation pattern, the data corresponding to the non-reach outlier (the fluctuation pattern is not the reach fluctuation pattern and the display result is the outlier symbol) as the EXT data of the winning judgment result specification command ("" 01 ”: see FIG. 10) (step S229). Then, the process proceeds to step S231.

In step S231, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the winning determination result designation command in which the EXT data is set in the processes of steps S225, S228, and S229 to the effect control microcomputer 100.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a part of the command analysis process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the modified example. In the modified example, if the received effect control command is a winning determination result specification command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 uses the received winning determination result specification command in the RAM for the winning determination result. The process of storing in the first free storage area of the storage buffer (step S652) is also executed.

FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a winning determination result storage buffer. As shown in FIG. 40, an area (storage areas 1 to 8) corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total number of pending storages is secured in the winning determination result storage buffer.

Note that FIG. 40 shows an example in which five winning determination result designation commands are received (corresponding to the case where the number of reserved memories is 5).

Further, the winning determination result storage buffer is also provided with an area for storing the display mode of the determined hold storage display.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of the effect control process processing in the modified example. In the modified example, the effect control CPU 101 executes any of steps S800 to S807 after executing the hold mode determination process (step S800A) according to the value of the effect control process flag.

FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing an example of the hold mode determination process. In the hold mode determination process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not any of the winning determination result designation commands has been newly received (step S510). Specifically, it is confirmed by determining whether or not the winning determination result designation command is newly stored in the winning determination result storage buffer shown in FIG. 40. If a new winning judgment result specification command has not been received, the process ends.

When a new winning determination result designation command is received, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a random number for determining the holding mode (step S511). In the modified example, as shown in FIG. 43, the random number SR3 for determining the holding mode is also used.

The effect control CPU 101 determines the mode of the hold storage display in the total hold storage display unit 18c by comparing the value of the random number for determining the hold mode with the determination value set in the hold mode determination table (step S512). ).

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the hold mode determination table. The holding mode determination table is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 44, a determination value corresponding to the display mode of the hold storage display is set in the hold mode determination table. Note that FIG. 44 shows the number of determination values.

In the process of step S512, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display mode of the hold storage display to a mode corresponding to a determination value that matches the value of the hold mode determination random number. The effect control CPU 101 uses the table shown in FIG. 44 (A) when it indicates that the winning determination result designation command does not become a big hit (it becomes a big hit), and shows that it becomes a big hit. If so, the table shown in FIG. 44 (B) is used. As shown in FIG. 44, in the case of a big hit, the mode of the hold storage display is more likely to be determined to be "red" as compared with the case of a miss.

Then, the effect control CPU 101 stores the determined mode in the RAM (step S513).

45 and 46 are flowcharts showing an example of the processing during the change of the effect symbol in the modified example. In the modified example, when the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the operation valid period in the button validity period timer (step S847), the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the button operation effect (step S848). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S849). Further, the control of the effect device is started according to the contents of the process data 1 (step S850).

The meter-shaped image 9c shown in FIG. 34 and the image 9b indicating a specific position of the image 9c are displayed on the process table corresponding to the button operation effect, and then the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c is gradually displayed. Data is set to realize the control of stretching to.

Further, when the effect control CPU 101 detects that the operation button 150 has been operated (step S853), the effect control CPU 101 starts a specific effect (see FIG. 34 (E)) (step S855). If the timing is a specific timing (when the end of the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c reaches a specific position) (step S856), the hold storage display stored in the winning determination result storage buffer is displayed. According to the mode, the mode of the hold storage display in the total hold storage display unit 18c is changed (step S857). The mode of the hold storage display may not be changed (when the display mode of "red" is not set in the winning determination result storage buffer).

The effect control CPU 101 may always change the mode of the hold storage display regardless of the degree of expectation, as long as the timing at which the operation button 150 is operated is a specific timing. In that case, when the display mode of "red" is not set in the winning determination result storage buffer, for example, the display mode of the hold storage display may be changed to another color or displayed so as to blink.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 may execute an effect in which the specific character image 9d and the display mode change of the hold storage display are linked. For example, when the operation button 150 is operated at a specific timing, a display effect is performed such that the specific character image 9d acts on the hold memory display (for example, a collision) on the display screen. Display control is performed so that the mode of the hold storage display is changed as a result of the action. In that case, although the specific character image 9d exerts some action on the hold storage display, the display mode of the hold storage display may not change (for example, the display mode of "red" in the winning determination result storage buffer). (When is not set).

Further, the winning determination result storage buffer stores the determination result in the hold mode determination process shown in FIG. 42. Further, the effect control CPU 101 ends the specific effect when the predetermined time elapses.

In the modified example, when it is determined that the operation button 150 is operated at a specific timing, the effect control CPU 101 changes the mode of the hold storage display, so that the player pays attention to the operation timing as well. Therefore, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game by directing using the operation means.

As a second modification, the effect control CPU 101 may start the specific effect and change the mode of the hold storage display when it is determined that the operation button 150 has been operated at a specific timing. good. Even in that case, the player comes to pay attention to the timing of the operation, and the interest of the game can be further improved by the production using the operation means.

Further, in the pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment, a predetermined game value can be given to the player mainly when the stop symbol of the special symbol variably displayed on the variable display unit based on the start winning prize becomes a predetermined symbol. It was a pachinko game machine, but if there is a prize in a predetermined area of the electric accessory that opens based on the start prize, a predetermined game value can be given to the player, and based on the start prize. The present invention can be applied even to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continues when a predetermined electric accessory is won, which is opened when the variablely displayed symbol is stopped when the symbol is a combination of the predetermined symbols. .. Further, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine in which a game medal is inserted to set a bet number and a game is played, a game machine in which a game ball is inserted instead of a game medal to set a bet number and a game is played, and the like.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the fluctuation time, the type of reach effect, etc. (a special effect such as a pseudo-continuous effect, which is an effect in which one or more temporary stops and re-variations of the symbol are executed during one variable display). An example in which one variation pattern command is transmitted when the variation is started in order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of the variation pattern indicating the variation mode such as the presence / absence of the effect (including the case of executing the effect). However, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, when notifying with two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command as the first command, such as the presence / absence of a pseudo-ream, the presence / absence of a slip effect, etc. A command indicating the fluctuation time and fluctuation mode before the second stop is sent, and the second command is the type of reach, the presence or absence of a re-lottery effect, etc. A command indicating the fluctuation time and the fluctuation mode (after the second stop) may be transmitted. In that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform the effect control in the variable display (variable display) based on the variable time derived from the combination of the two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 may notify the fluctuation time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 may select a specific fluctuation mode to be executed at each timing. .. 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). A second command may be sent (in an interrupt). The variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to such an example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. By notifying the fluctuation pattern with two or more commands in this way, the amount of data that must be stored as the fluctuation pattern command can be reduced.

Further, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as a prize, and a gaming medium such as a gaming ball is enclosed and a score is given when the conditions for giving the prize are satisfied. It can also be applied to a type of gaming machine.

Further, in the present specification, the expression "high (large) ratio" (or "increasing the ratio}) also includes the case where it is 100% (or the case where it is set to 100%). , "The ratios are different", not only those with different ratios such as A: B = 70%: 30% and A: B = 50%: 50%, but also A: B = 100%: 0%, and the ratios are different (that is, one is 100% allocated and the other is 0%). The "low (small) rate" (or "lowering the rate}) also includes the case of 0% (or the case of setting it to 0%).

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 board. 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 27R, 27L, etc.) are mounted. You may also provide two boards, one with the second effect control board.

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. 3). 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. You may send it 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, there are variations in the fluctuation time, the type of reach effect, and the presence / absence of pseudo-ream (an effect in which one or more temporary stops and re-variations of symbols are executed during one variable display). An example was shown in which one variation pattern command was transmitted when the variation was started in order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of the variation pattern indicating the mode, but the variation pattern was produced and controlled by two or more commands. The microcomputer 100 may be notified. Specifically, when notifying with two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command as the first command, such as the presence / absence of a pseudo-ream, the presence / absence of a slip effect, etc. A command indicating the fluctuation time and fluctuation mode before the second stop is sent, and the second command is the type of reach, the presence or absence of a re-lottery effect, etc. A command indicating the fluctuation time and the fluctuation mode (after the second stop) may be transmitted. In that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform the effect control in the variable display (variable display) based on the variable time derived from the combination of the two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 may notify the fluctuation time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 may select a specific fluctuation mode to be executed at each timing. .. 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). A second command may be sent (in an interrupt). The variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to such an example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. By notifying the fluctuation pattern with 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, the gaming machine of the above embodiment is a gaming machine that has a probabilistic jackpot and a normal jackpot as a jackpot type, and is controlled to a probabilistic state after the jackpot game is completed based on the determination that the jackpot type is a probabilistic jackpot. There was, but it is 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 region may be provided in a part of the device.) The probability variation is determined based on the game ball passing through the probability variation region in the special variable winning ball device during the jackpot game, and the jackpot is determined. It is also possible to apply the function in the above embodiment to a gaming machine that is controlled to be in a probabilistic state after the end of the game.

The present invention is applicable to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines.

1 Pachinko game machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 1st special symbol display 9 effect display device 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd start winning opening 15 variable winning device 31 main board 80 effect control board 100 effect control micro Computer 150 Operation Button 151 White LED
152 red LED
153 Vibrator 560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that plays games
Operation means that can be operated by the player,
An operation effect executing means for executing an operation effect using the operation means, and an operation effect execution means.
A display control means for displaying an operation promotion image for prompting the player's operation when the operation effect is executed is provided on the display means.
The operation effect executing means changes the operation means into one of a plurality of modes including the first mode and the second mode in which the ratio of becoming more advantageous than the first mode is higher.
The display control means
The operation-promoting image is displayed in any one of a plurality of modes including the first image mode and the second image mode in which the ratio of becoming more advantageous than the first image mode is higher.
The common image display control means for displaying the operation promotion image of the aspect common to a plurality of aspects of the operation means is included.
When the operation promotion image is displayed in the first image aspect, the operation means can be changed to the first aspect.
The second image aspect includes a plurality of aspects in which at least some aspects are common.
The second aspect includes a plurality of aspects in which at least some aspects are common.
When the operation promotion image is displayed in any of the plurality of the second image modes , the operation means does not change to any of the plurality of the second modes.
A gaming machine characterized in that there are a plurality of types of operation promotion images having the common aspect.

Images