JP7323364B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko machine capable of playing games.

Among gaming machines of this type, there is a game machine capable of executing a game-related explanation effect for a player (Patent Document 1).

JP 2012-183247 A

However, in conventional gaming machines such as those disclosed in Patent Document 1, explanation effects are not given in consideration of the level of gaming experience of the player who is the target of the explanation effects. There was a problem that it was not possible to

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been devised in view of such circumstances, and its object is to provide a gaming machine capable of providing a suitable explanation performance in accordance with the gaming experience of the player.

(a) A gaming machine capable of playing games,
variable display means capable of variable display;
a detection means capable of detecting the action of a player;
and an explanation effect executing means capable of executing an explanation effect related to the game,
The detection means is
a first detection means for detecting a player's action related to an effect different from the explanation effect;
a second detection means for detecting a player's action related to the explanation effect, unlike the first detection means;
The explanation production executing means
As the explanation effects, a first explanation effect capable of displaying information about the effect of the game machine using a plurality of explanation stages, and a second explanation effect capable of displaying information about the game method of the game machine using a plurality of explanation stages. The explanation effect can be executed both in a state where the game is not progressing and in a state where the game is progressing,
It is possible to advance the explanation stage of the first explanation effect according to the player's action detected by the second detection means,
It is possible to advance the explanation stage of the second explanation effect according to the player's action or the passage of time detected by the second detection means,
executing the first explanation effect using the specific display displayed during the variable display ;
In the second explanation effect, the amount of characters displayed at one time is smaller than that in the first explanation effect .
The gaming machine may have the following configuration.
(1) A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1, etc.) capable of playing games,
detection means (cross key sensor 052F103, etc.) capable of detecting the action of the player;
An explanation effect executing means (CPU 120 for effect control, S162 in FIG. 7, etc.) capable of executing an explanation effect related to the game,
The explanation production executing means
As the explanation effect, a first explanation effect (such as the effect explanation effect in FIG. 8-2) related to the effect of the game machine using a plurality of explanation stages (three stages such as FIG. 8-4), and a plurality of explanations A second explanation effect (such as the game explanation effect shown in FIG. 8-3) regarding the game method of the gaming machine using stages (such as five stages as shown in FIG. 8-4) can be executed,
According to the action of the player detected by the detection means, it is possible to advance the explanation stage of the first explanation effect (manual progress of the explanation stage as shown in FIGS. 8-2 and 8-4, etc.). ),
It is possible to advance the explanation stage of the second explanation effect according to the player's action or the passage of time detected by the detection means (explanation stages such as those shown in FIGS. 8-3 and 8-4). manual progress or automatic progress of the explanation stage, etc.).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to provide a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the player.

(2) In the gaming machine described in (1) above,
variable display means (image display device 5, etc.) capable of variable display;
a specific display means capable of displaying a specific display (such as the first character image 052F001 in FIG. 8-2 (b3)) during the variable display,
The explanation effect executing means executes the first explanation effect using the specific display (FIG. 8-2, etc.).

According to such a configuration, by executing the first explanation effect using the specific display during the variable display, it is possible for the player to have an image of the actual effect, and even a player who sees the game for the first time can play the game. It is possible to make the presentation of the machine easier to understand.

(3) In the gaming machine described in (1) or (2) above,
The explanation effect executing means executes the first explanation effect using a still image (such as the still images in (b1) to (b3) of FIG. 8-2).

According to such a configuration, by executing the first explanation effect using a still image, it is possible to make it easier for the player to clearly recognize the attention point of the effect of the gaming machine.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
A specific effect execution means (effect control CPU 120, S172 in FIG. 7, etc.) capable of executing a specific effect (character image cut-in effect, etc.) as the effect of the gaming machine is further provided,
The specific effect execution means controls to a first effect mode (such as a cut-in effect by the second character image 052F037 in FIG. 8-2 (b11)) or an advantageous state more advantageous to the player than the first effect mode. The specific effect using the image can be executed by the second effect mode (such as cut-in effect by the first character image 052F001 in FIG. 8-2 (b12, etc.)) in which the ratio of
The explanation effect executing means executes the first explanation effect using an image displayed in the specific effect of the second effect mode when explaining the specific effect as the effect of the gaming machine (Fig. 8-2 (b3), etc.).

According to such a configuration, when explaining the specific effect as the effect of the gaming machine, the first explanation effect using the image displayed in the specific effect of the second effect mode is executed. It is possible to increase the expectation of the game and improve the interest of the game.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
The explanation effect execution means executes the second explanation effect using images related to the gaming machine (pachinko game machine image 052F023 in FIG. 8-3 (c3), start winning opening image 052F026 in FIG. 8-3 (c4), etc.) Execute (Fig. 8-3 (c3), (c4), etc.).

According to such a configuration, even a player who is playing the game machine for the first time understands the game method of the game machine by executing the second explanation effect on the game method of the game machine using the image of the game machine. can be made easier.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5) above,
The explanation effect executing means executes the second explanation effect using a moving image (such as the game ball moving image 052F081 in FIG. 8-3 (c4)) for at least a part of the explanation (see FIG. 8-3 etc.).

According to such a configuration, by executing the second explanation effect using a moving image for at least a part of the explanation, it becomes easier for the player to have an image of the actual game method, and the game is played for the first time. Therefore, even a person can easily understand the game method of the game machine.

(7) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (6) above,
The explanation production executing means
In each of the explanation regarding the performance of the gaming machine in the first explanation performance and the explanation concerning the game method of the gaming machine in the second explanation performance, information related to the explanation is displayed (the sub-image display device 150 shown in FIG. 8-2). display of a game performance explanation image in , display of a game method explanation image in the sub-image display device 150 shown in FIG. 8-3, etc.),
Compared to the information displayed in the first explanation effect, the information displayed in the second explanation effect has a smaller amount of information that can be displayed at one time (regarding the number of explanation items on one screen, the game method shown in FIG. The explanation image has fewer explanation items than the game effect explanation image shown in FIG. 8-2. (e.g., explanation of performance contents for multiple items, etc.).

According to such a configuration, the amount of information displayed in the second explanation effect is smaller than the amount of information displayed in the first explanation effect at one time, so the information displayed in the second explanation effect Since the amount of information to be recognized at one time by watching the game is relatively small, even a player who plays the game for the first time can easily understand the game method of the game machine.

(8) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (7) above,
further comprising variable display means (image display device 50, etc.) capable of variable display,
During variable display, a plurality of types of character images (first character image 052F001 in FIGS. 1 and 8-2, second character image 052F036 in FIGS. 8-2 and 8-3, third character image 052F038 in FIG. 1, etc.) ) can be displayed, and
During the execution of the second explanation effect, the explanation effect executing means selects, among the plurality of types of character images, a character image having a high appearance frequency during the variable display by the variable display means (the first character image as the main character). 052F001) can be displayed (Fig. 8-3 (c1) to (c5), etc.).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to display a character image with a high appearance frequency during the variable display during execution of the second explanation effect, thereby making it possible to give a sense of familiarity to the contents of the gaming machine. As a result, it is possible to stimulate the player's interest in the gaming machine.

(9) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (8) above,
The first explanation effect has fewer explanation stages than the second explanation effect (as shown in FIGS. 8-3, 8-4, and 8-13, the game explanation is explained in three stages. However, the explanation of the production will be explained in five stages, etc.).

According to such a configuration, since the number of explanation steps is smaller in the first explanation effect than in the second explanation effect, the explanation information of the explanation about the effect of the gaming machine, which is unnecessarily many from the standpoint of experienced players, can be provided. By receiving it, the interest in the game can be prevented from decreasing.

(10) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (9) above,
The explanation effect execution means permits the progress of the explanation stage of the first explanation effect according to the player's action detected by the detection means, and the explanation stage of the first explanation effect according to the passage of time. Restrict progress (as shown in FIG. 8-4 (A), the effect explanation allows the progress of three stages of explanation stages according to the detection of the player's actions, but three stages of explanation according to the passage of time not allow progression of stages, etc.).

According to such a configuration, the progress of the explanation stage according to the action of the player is allowed for the first explanation effect, but the progress of the explanation stage according to the passage of time is restricted, thereby reducing the gaming experience. Players, etc. can be allowed to proceed freely in the explanation stage of the first explanation performance, and a suitable explanation performance can be provided in accordance with the game experience of the player.

(11) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (10) above,
The detection means is
a first detection means (controller sensor unit 35A, push sensor 35B, etc. in FIG. 2);
including a second detection means (cross key sensor 052F103, button sensor 052F104, etc. in FIG. 2) different from the first detection means,
variable display means (image display device 50, etc.) capable of variable display;
A variable display effect executing means (the effect control CPU 120, S172 in FIG. 7, etc.) capable of executing the effect in the variable display is further provided,
During the variable display (FIG. 8-5 (d1), etc.), the variable display effect execution means performs a predetermined Action production (start of battle production) can be executed (Fig. 8-5 (d3), etc.),
The explanation effect executing means can start executing the explanation effect in accordance with the action of the player detected by the second detection means (FIGS. 8-2 (c1) to (c3), FIG. 8- 4(A), etc.).

According to such a configuration, as the detection means, a first detection means capable of executing a predetermined action effect in accordance with the detected motion of the player, and a By providing the second detection means capable of starting the execution of the performance, it is possible to suppress the risk that a player who does not desire the execution of the explanation performance will erroneously start the execution of the explanation performance. .

(12) In the gaming machine described in (11) above,
The variable display effect execution means is adapted to perform the explanation effect being executed when the predetermined action effect is executed according to the action of the player detected by the first detection means during execution of the explanation effect. After the effect (such as the game explanation effect in FIG. 8-5 (d2)) is interrupted, the predetermined action effect (battle effect) is executed (FIG. 8-5 (d4), etc.).

According to such a configuration, during the execution of the explanation effect, the explanation effect being executed is interrupted when the predetermined action effect is executed according to the action of the player detected by the first detection means. By executing the predetermined action effect later, the player's attention can be drawn to the predetermined action effect.

(13) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (12) above,
The explanation production executing means
Different speeds for the explanation stage of the first explanation effect and the explanation stage of the second explanation effect (40 seconds for one stage of the production explanation, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 20 seconds for the explanation stage of the game explanation) automatic progress in seconds) (Fig. 8-13 (A1), (B1)),
Different contents can be explained in each of the plurality of explanation stages in the second explanation stage, and the explanation stages can proceed at different speeds according to the contents explained in the plurality of explanation stages. (Prohibited items require a longer period of time to progress than game methods other than prohibited items).

According to such a configuration, the explanation stage of the first explanation effect and the explanation stage of the second explanation effect can be progressed at different speeds. By being able to explain different contents and progressing the explanation stage at different speeds according to the contents explained in the plurality of explanation stages, the first explanation effect and the second effect are realized. It is possible to provide a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the target player for each of the explanations.

(14) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (13) above,
The explanation production executing means
The second explanation effect has more explanation stages than the first explanation effect (as shown in FIGS. 8-4 and 8-13, the game explanation is explained in three stages, is explained in five steps, etc.),
It is possible to advance the explanation stage faster with the second explanation effect than with the first explanation effect (as shown in FIGS. , the game explanation can be automatically advanced in 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 20 seconds for one stage of the explanation stage, etc.).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to advance the explanation stages more quickly in the second explanation stage, which has more explanation stages than in the first explanation stage, so that the explanation stage with more explanation stages can be performed. can be progressed at a good tempo, and it is possible to prevent the player from becoming bored with the explanation performance.

(15) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (14) above,
The explanation production executing means
In the second explanation effect, a specific explanation stage (prohibited matter explanation stage in Fig. 8-3 (c3), etc.) explaining prohibited matters related to the gaming machine and matters related to the game method different from the prohibited matters related to the gaming machine are explained. Predetermined explanation stage (explanation stage of Fig. 8-3 (c2), (c4) etc.) (Fig. 8-3 etc.),
It is possible to advance the explanation stage later in the predetermined explanation stage than in the specific explanation stage (as shown in FIG. 8-4, the prohibited matter explanation stage in FIG. 8-3 (c3) , 10 seconds or 20 seconds, etc.).

According to such a configuration, the specific explanation stage for explaining the prohibited items related to the gaming machine is slower than the specific explanation stage for explaining the prohibited items related to the gaming machine. Therefore, the progress speed of the explanation stage can make it easier for the player to recognize the prohibited items regarding the gaming machine.

(16) In the gaming machine described in (15) above,
The explanation effect execution means can execute the explanation in the specific explanation stage in a manner that is easier to recognize than the explanation in the predetermined explanation stage (prohibited item explanation stage as shown in FIG. 8-3 (c3) can be executed in a manner that makes it easier to recognize the content of the explanation than other explanation stages by displaying a large X mark, etc.).

According to such a configuration, the explanation at the specific explanation stage for explaining the prohibited items related to the gaming machine is executed in a manner that is easier to recognize than the predetermined explanation stage for explaining the items related to the game method different from the prohibited items related to the gaming machine. Since it is possible, the explanation mode can make it easier for the player to recognize the prohibited matters related to the game.

(17) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (16) above,
Depending on the detection status of the detection means, it is possible to limit the explanation effect by the explanation effect execution means (light amount (brightness) reduction and effect interruption of the image of the effect explanation, light amount (brightness) reduction and effect interruption of the image of the game explanation ) further includes an explanation production limiting means (production control CPU 120, S162 in FIG. 7, 052FS012, 052FS019 in FIGS. 8-10),
The explanation production executing means
It is possible to advance the explanation stage of the first explanation effect and the explanation stage of the second explanation effect (FIGS. 8-2 and 8-3) according to the action of the player detected by the detection means. , Figure 8-4),
The explanation effect limiting means includes:
When the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period by the detection means during the execution of the first explanation effect, it is possible to limit the first explanation effect (FIGS. 8-9 (A), FIG. 8-10 052FS009, 052FS012),
It is possible to limit the second explanation effect after the second explanation effect progresses to the final stage when the detection means does not detect the action of the player for a specific period during the execution of the second explanation effect. (052FS009, 052FS010, 052FS012 in FIG. 8-9(B) and FIG. 8-10).

According to such a configuration, when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period of time during the execution of the explanation regarding the performance of the gaming machine in the first explanation effect, the first explanation effect can be restricted, and the first explanation effect can be restricted. When the action of the player is not detected for a specific period during the execution of the game method explanation in the second explanation effect, the second explanation effect can be limited after the second explanation effect progresses to the final stage. , the first explanation effect and the second effect explanation can provide a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the target player.

(18) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (17) above,
a first explanation effect display area (sub-image display device 150 shown in FIG. 8-2) capable of displaying the first explanation effect by the explanation effect executing means;
further comprising a second explanation effect display area (such as the sub-image display device 150 shown in FIG. 8-3) capable of displaying the second explanation effect by the explanation effect executing means,
The explanation effect limiting means includes:
During the execution of the first explanation effect, if the detection means does not detect the action of the player for a predetermined period (50 seconds), the luminance (light quantity) of the first explanation effect display area can be reduced. (052FS009, 052FS012, etc. in FIG. 8-9 (A) and FIG. 8-10),
During execution of the second explanation effect, if the detection means does not detect the action of the player for a specific period, after the second explanation effect progresses to the final stage, the brightness of the second explanation effect display area ( (052FS009, 052FS010, 052FS012 in FIGS. 8-9(B) and 8-10).

According to such a configuration, when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period of time during execution of the game effect explanation in the first explanation effect, the luminance of the first explanation effect display area is reduced to reduce the brightness of the first explanation effect display area. 1 explanation effect can be limited, and when the action of the player is not detected for a specific period during the execution of the game method explanation in the second explanation effect, the second explanation effect progresses to the final stage, and then the second explanation effect is performed. Since the second explanation effect can be restricted by reducing the luminance of the second explanation effect display area, each of the first explanation effect and the second effect explanation is suitable for the game experience of the target player. You can make an explanation.

(19) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (18) above,
a first explanation effect display area (sub-image display device 150 shown in FIG. 8-2) capable of displaying the first explanation effect by the explanation effect executing means;
further comprising a second explanation effect display area (such as the sub-image display device 150 shown in FIG. 8-3) capable of displaying the second explanation effect by the explanation effect executing means,
The explanation effect limiting means includes:
During the execution of the first explanation effect, when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period (50 seconds) by the detection means, after limiting the first explanation effect (FIG. 8-9 (A), 052FS009, 052FS012, etc. in FIGS. 8-10), the first explanation effect is interrupted when the detection means does not detect the action of the player for a predetermined period (30 seconds) (see FIG. 8-9 ( A), 052FS018, 052FS019, etc. in FIGS. 8-10).

According to such a configuration, when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period of time, after limiting the first explanation effect, when the action of the player is not detected for the predetermined period of time, the Since the first explanation effect is interrupted, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the first explanation effect is left in a restricted state.

(20) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (19) above,
variable display means (image display device 5, etc.) capable of variable display;
Further comprising a standby control means capable of being controlled to a standby control state when no game is played for a specified period of time,
The explanation effect limiting means includes:
During the control of the explanation effect during execution of the variable display, if the action of the player is not detected by the detection means for a predetermined period, the explanation effect is restricted (the effect control CPU 120, S162 in FIG. 7, Figure 8-5),
During the control of the explanation effect in the standby control state, even if the detection means does not detect the action of the player for a predetermined period, the explanation effect is continued without limitation (the effect control CPU 120, shown in FIG. 7). S162, FIGS. 8-11).

According to such a configuration, when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period during the control of the explanation effect during the execution of the variable display, the explanation effect is limited, while in the standby control state To reduce the influence of the explanation performance on the performance during variable display by continuing the explanation performance without limiting it even when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period during the control of the explanation performance. can be performed, and the explanation effect can be suitably executed.

(21) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (20) above,
The language used for the explanation rendering is a plurality of types of languages including a first language (main language such as Japanese) and a second language different from the first language (secondary language such as English). Language selection means (production control CPU 120, S162 in FIG. 8-2, language selection screen in FIG. 8-3 (c1), etc.) that can be selected from among them is further provided,
The explanation production executing means
As the effect means using the language selected by the language selection means, at least the first effect means (speakers 8L, 8R, etc.) and the second effect means (the first character image as the main character) different from the first effect means Sub-image display device 150 etc. for comment display effect by 052F001) and the explanation effect using a plurality of types of the effect means (Fig. 8-3 (b2) etc.),
When the first language is selected by the language selection means, the explanation effect using the first effect means and the second effect means can be executed (Fig. 8-3 (c2) to (c5) It is possible to execute explanation effects including voice and comment display, etc.),
When the second language is selected by the language selection means, it is possible to execute the explanation effect using the second effect means without using the first effect means (FIGS. 8-7 (e2) to ( (e.g., it is possible to execute an explanation effect including comment display without voice as in e4)).

According to such a configuration, when the first language is selected, the explanation effect using the first effect means and the second effect means can be executed, and when the second language is selected, Since the explanation effect using the second effect means can be executed without using the first effect means, it is possible to execute a suitable explanation effect even for foreign players, and it is possible to select It is possible to reduce the number of man-hours required for creating an effect process relating to an explanation effect when the number of languages is increased, and it is possible to perform a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the player.

(22) In the gaming machine described in (21) above,
The first language is the main language (Japanese) that is used most frequently in gaming machines (FIGS. 8-3 (c2) to (c5), etc.).

According to such a configuration, since the first language is the main language with the highest percentage of use in the game machine, it is possible to suitably execute the explanation effect using a language suitable for the installation environment of the game machine. can be done.

(23) In the gaming machine according to either (21) or (22) above,
According to the type of language selected by the language selection means, the explanation effect executing means has a different speed at which the explanation stage of the explanation effect progresses (when Japanese is selected, as shown in FIG. 8-3). The game explanation automatically progresses through one stage of the explanation stage in 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 20 seconds, and when English or Chinese is selected, the game explanation is the explanation stage as shown in Fig. 8-7 or Fig. 8-8. automatic progress in 12 seconds, 35 seconds, or 25 seconds, etc.).

According to such a configuration, the speed at which the explanation stage of the explanation effect progresses differs depending on the type of language selected by the language selection means, so that the explanation is given at a suitable speed according to the type of language selected. can perform the performance.

(24) In the gaming machine according to any one of (21) to (23),
further comprising audio output means (speakers 8L, 8R, etc.) capable of outputting audio,
The explanation production executing means
When executing the explanation effect, it is possible to execute an effect that outputs a sound corresponding to the explanation effect to be executed from the audio output means (FIG. 8-3 (b2) to (b5), etc.),
When the second language is selected by the language selection means, fewer types of sounds are output in response to the explanation effect to be executed than when the first language is selected by the language selection means. (In the game explanation effect when English is selected in FIG. 8-7, the sound output corresponding to the game explanation effect is compared to the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected in FIG. 8-3. There are few types (the number of types of English voices is 0 because no guide voice is output when English is selected)).

According to such a configuration, when the second language is selected, the number of types of sounds to be output corresponding to the explanation effect to be executed is reduced compared to when the first language is selected. Explanation rendering can be performed with a suitable type of voice corresponding to the type of language selected.

It is a front view of the pachinko game machine in this embodiment. It is a configuration diagram showing various control boards and the like mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. It is a flow chart showing an example of timer interrupt processing for game control. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design process processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a display screen view of the sub-image display device 150 showing an image related to the player menu screen. FIG. 11 is a display screen diagram of the sub-image display device 150 showing a display example of an effect explanation effect image. It is a display screen diagram of the sub-image display device 150 showing a representative example of game explanation effects. It is a timing chart showing a control timing example of the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect. FIG. 10 is a display screen diagram showing a display example of the image display device and the sub-image display device when a variable display is executed during execution of an explanation effect and an operation effect is executed during the variable display. FIG. 11 is a display screen diagram showing a display example of the image display device and the sub-image display device when a variable display is executed during execution of an explanation effect, and an integrated effect is executed during the variable display. It is a figure which shows the game explanation production|presentation when English is selected and set. It is a figure which shows the game explanation production|presentation when Chinese is selected and set. 10 is a timing chart showing a comparison of control timings of the effect explanation effect limit control and the technique explanation effect limit control by the effect control CPU. It is a flow chart which shows explanation production control processing. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an explanation effect executed while a demonstration image is being displayed; FIG. 11 is a display screen diagram of the sub-image display device showing a display example of an effect explanation effect image when the effect explanation effect can be automatically advanced. It is a timing chart showing an example of the control timing of the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect when both the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect can be automatically advanced.

(Basic explanation)
First, the basic configuration and control of the pachinko game machine 1 (also the configuration and control of a general pachinko game machine) will be described.

(Structure of pachinko machine 1, etc.)
FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko game machine 1, showing the arrangement layout of the main members. A pachinko game machine (game machine) 1 is roughly composed of a game board (gauge board) 2 forming a game board surface and a game machine frame (underframe) 3 supporting and fixing the game board 2 . A game area is formed in the game board 2, and a game ball as a game medium is shot from a predetermined ball shooting device and hit into the game area.

At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area), a variable display (also called a special game) of special symbols (also called special symbols) as a plurality of types of special identification information is displayed. A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided. Each of these consists of a 7-segment LED or the like. The special symbols are represented by numbers indicating "0" to "9" and lighting patterns such as "-". The special symbol may include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off.

In addition, the "variable display" of the special symbols means, for example, that a plurality of types of special symbols are displayed in a variable manner (the same applies to other symbols described later). Variations include updating display of a plurality of patterns, scrolling display of a plurality of patterns, deformation of one or more patterns, enlargement/reduction of one or more patterns, and the like. In the variation of special symbols and normal symbols, which will be described later, a plurality of types of special symbols or normal symbols are updated and displayed. In the variation of decorative patterns, which will be described later, a plurality of types of decorative patterns are scrolled or updated, and one or more decorative patterns are deformed or enlarged/reduced. Note that the variation also includes a mode in which a certain symbol is displayed blinking. At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as derivation or derivation display) as a display result (the same applies to variable display of other symbols to be described later). Variable display may be expressed as variable display or variation.

The special symbols variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A are also called "first special symbols", and the special symbols variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B are also called "second special symbols". Also, a special game using the first special game is called a "first special game", and a special game using the second special game is called a "second special game". In addition, the number of special symbol display devices that variably display the special symbols may be one.

An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2 . The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display) or an organic EL (ElectroLuminescence), and displays various effects images. The image display device 5 may be composed of a projector and a screen. Various effect images are displayed on the image display device 5 .

For example, on the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronism with the first special game and the second special game, a plurality of types of decorative patterns (such as patterns showing numbers) as decoration identification information different from the special patterns. variable display is performed. Here, in synchronization with the first special game or the second special game, decorative symbols are variably displayed (for example, vertically direction scroll display and update display). In addition, the variable display of the special figure game and the decorative pattern that are executed in synchronism is generically called simply variable display.

Sub-image display devices 150 are provided on the left and right sides of the image display device 5, respectively. The sub-image display device 150 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) smaller than the image display device 5, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the sub-image display device 150, in addition to various effects related to variable display and starting winnings on the image display device 5 and effects such as displaying one or two types of images integrated with the image display device 5, An image display such as an explanation effect such as an effect explanation effect and a game explanation effect can be executed.

Each of the two sub-image display devices 150 performs an operation of tilting the display surface with respect to the image display device 5, an operation of directing the display surface to the front side, and a position superimposed on the front side of the image display device 5 (overlapping position ) can be performed. With such a configuration, it is possible to perform effect display in the display area of the sub-image display device 150 and effect accompanying the operation of the sub-image display device 150 . Therefore, it is possible to perform an impactful performance, and prevent a decrease in the interest in the game. The image display device 5 is also called a main liquid crystal, and the sub-image display device 150 is also called a sub-liquid crystal.

It should be noted that each of the two sub-image display devices 150 is made of transmissive liquid crystal, and is operable at a position superimposed on the front side of the image display device 5 (overlapping position), and the image display device 5 can be seen through at the superimposed position. It may be configured to be With this configuration, it is possible to use the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 to display more varied and interesting images.

A display area may be provided on the screen of the image display device 5 for displaying suspended display corresponding to the variable display whose execution is suspended and active display corresponding to the variable display being executed. Suspended display and active display are also collectively referred to as variable display corresponding display corresponding to variable display.

The number of variable representations that are reserved is also referred to as the number of reserved memories. The reserved memory number corresponding to the first special game is also referred to as the first reserved memory number, and the reserved memory number corresponding to the second special game is also referred to as the second reserved memory number. The sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count is also referred to as the total reserved memory count.

At a predetermined position of the game board 2, a first suspension display 25A and a second suspension display 25B each including a plurality of LEDs are provided. , the number of first reserved memories is displayed, and the second reserved display 25B displays the number of second reserved memories according to the number of lit LEDs.

Below the image display device 5, a winning ball device 6A and a variable winning ball device 6B are provided.

Winning ball device 6A, for example, forms a first starting winning opening that is kept in a constant open state in which game balls can enter, for example, by a predetermined ball receiving member. When a game ball enters the first start winning hole, a predetermined number (for example, three) of prize balls are paid out, and the first special game can be started.

The variable winning ball device 6B (ordinary electric accessory) forms a second starting winning hole that changes between a closed state and an open state by a solenoid 81 (see FIG. 2). The variable winning ball device 6B is provided with, for example, an electric tulip-shaped accessory having a pair of movable winglets. comes close to the winning ball device 6A, and the closed state in which the game balls do not enter the second starting winning opening (also referred to as the second starting winning opening being closed). On the other hand, the variable winning ball device 6B is in an open state in which the game ball can enter the second start winning opening (second start It is also said that the prize-winning mouth is open.). When the game ball enters the second start winning hole, a predetermined number (for example, three) of prize balls are paid out, and the second special game can be started. Note that the variable winning ball device 6B may be any device that changes between a closed state and an open state, and is not limited to a device provided with an electric tulip-shaped accessory.

At predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, four positions on the left and right sides of the game area), there are provided general winning holes 10 which are always kept open by predetermined ball receiving members. In this case, when the player enters one of the general winning openings 10, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls are paid out as prize balls.

Below the winning ball device 6A and the variable winning ball device 6B, a special variable winning ball device 7 having a large winning hole is provided. The special variable winning ball device 7 is provided with a large winning opening door that is driven to open and close by a solenoid 82 (see FIG. 2), and the special winning opening as a specific area that changes between an open state and a closed state by the large winning opening door. Form.

As an example, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big winning door (for the special electric accessory) is in the OFF state, the big winning door closes the big winning door, and the game ball is pushed out. You will not be able to enter (pass through) the prize gate. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big winning gate door is in the ON state, the big winning gate door opens the big winning gate, making it easier for the game ball to enter the big winning gate. Become.

When game balls enter the big winning hole, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. When the game balls enter the big winning hole, more prize balls are paid out than when the game balls enter the first starting winning hole, the second starting winning hole and the general winning hole 10, for example.

Entering a game ball into each winning hole including the general winning hole 10 is also called "winning". In particular, winning a prize to a starting opening (first starting winning opening, second starting winning opening starting opening) is also referred to as starting winning.

A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display device 20 is composed of a 7-segment LED or the like, and performs variable display of normal symbols as a plurality of types of normal identification information different from special symbols. The normal symbols are represented by numbers indicating "0" to "9", lighting patterns such as "-", and the like. The normal pattern may include a pattern in which all the LEDs are turned off. Such a variable display of normal patterns is also called a normal pattern game.

A passage gate 41 through which game balls can pass is provided on the left side of the image display device 5 . Based on the game ball passing through the passage gate 41, the normal game is executed.

Above the normal pattern display 20, a normal pattern holding display 25C is provided. The general pattern suspension display 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the normal pattern suspension storage number, which is the number of general pattern games whose execution is suspended, by the number of lit LEDs.

The surface of the game board 2 is provided with, in addition to the above structure, a windmill for changing the flowing direction and speed of the game ball and a large number of obstacle nails. At the bottom of the game area, an out port is provided for taking in game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports.

Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the game machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 for game effects is provided at the periphery of the game area. ing. The game effect lamp 9 includes an LED.

At a predetermined position (not shown in FIG. 1) of the game board 2, a movable member 52 (not shown in FIG. 1) that operates according to the performance is provided.

A ball hitting operation handle (operation knob) 30 operated by a player or the like to shoot a game ball toward the game area by the ball shooting device is provided at the lower right portion of the game machine frame 3 .

At a predetermined position of the game machine frame 3 below the game area, game balls paid out as prize balls and game balls lent from a predetermined ball lending machine are held (stored) so as to be supplied to the ball shooting device. ) is provided with a batted ball supply plate (upper plate). Below the upper plate, there is provided a batted ball supply plate (lower plate) from which prize balls are dispensed when the upper plate is full.

A stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by a player is attached to a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area. The stick controller 31A is provided with a trigger button that can be pressed by the player. An operation on the stick controller 31A is detected by a controller sensor unit 35A (see FIG. 2).

At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area, there is provided a push button 31B that allows the player to perform a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation. An operation on the push button 31B is detected by a push sensor 35B (see FIG. 2).

A cross key 052F101 and a cross key button 052F102 that can be operated by the player are provided at specific positions of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area. The cross key 052F101 is a cross-shaped operating means that can be operated in any one of up, down, left, and right directions by the player's motion. The cross key button 052F102 is provided at the center of the cross key 052F101, and is an operation means that can be pressed by the player's action, separately from the cross key 052F101.

The cross key 052F101 includes an up key provided in the upper portion, a down key provided in the lower portion, a left key provided in the left portion, and a right key provided in the right portion. An operation on the up key is called an upward operation, an operation on the down key is called a downward operation, an operation on the left key is called a left operation, and an operation on the right key is called a right operation. . Up, down, left, and right directions of the cross key 052F101 are detected by a cross key sensor 052F103 (see FIG. 2) as detecting means capable of detecting the action of the player. A pressing operation on the cross key button 052F102 is detected by a button sensor 052F104 (see FIG. 2) as detecting means capable of detecting the action of the player.

In the pachinko gaming machine 1, as detection means for detecting actions (operations, etc.) of the player, a stick controller 31A (controller sensor unit 35A), a push button 31B (push sensor 35B), a cross key sensor 052F103 (cross key button 052F102), And, a button sensor 052F104 (cross key button 052F102) is provided, but detection means other than these may be provided. For example, instead of detecting the operation of the operation means such as the stick controller 31A, detection means such as an infrared sensor or a motion sensor that can directly detect the action of the player may be used.

(Overview of Game Progress)
A game ball is shot toward a game area by a player's rotation operation of a ball hitting operation handle 30 provided in the pachinko game machine 1 . When the game ball passes through the passage gate 41, the normal pattern display device 20 starts the normal pattern game. In addition, when the game ball passes through the passage gate 41 during the period during the execution of the previous normal game (when the game ball passes through the passage gate 41 but the normal game based on the passage cannot be executed immediately) , the normal game based on the passage is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

In this general pattern game, if a specific normal pattern (normal pattern winning pattern) is stopped and displayed, the display result of the normal pattern becomes "normal pattern winning". On the other hand, if a normal pattern (normal pattern losing pattern) other than the normal pattern per pattern is stop-displayed as the determined normal pattern, the display result of the normal pattern becomes "normal pattern losing". When it comes to "normal game", the variable winning ball device 6B is opened for a predetermined period of time and the opening control is performed (the second start winning opening is opened).

When a game ball enters the first starting winning hole formed in the winning ball device 6A, the first special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A is started.

When the game ball enters the second starting winning hole formed in the variable winning ball device 6B, the second special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B is started.

In addition, when the game ball enters (wins) the start winning opening during the period during which the special game is running, or during the period when it is controlled to the big win game state or the small win game state described later (although the start win has occurred If the special game based on the starting prize cannot be executed immediately), the execution of the special game based on the entry is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

In the special symbol game, when a specific special symbol (a big hit symbol, for example, "7", the actual symbol varies depending on the type of the big hit to be described later) is stopped and displayed as a fixed special symbol, it becomes a "big hit" and a big winning symbol. If a predetermined special symbol (a small winning symbol, for example, "2") different from the symbol is stop-displayed, it becomes a "small winning". Also, if a special symbol (losing symbol, for example, "-") different from the big-hit symbol or the small-hit symbol is stop-displayed, it becomes "losing".

After the display result in the special game becomes "big win", the game is controlled to a big win game state as an advantageous state for the player. After the display result in the special game becomes "small hit", it is controlled to the small win game state.

In the jackpot game state, the player can get a prize ball by entering the game ball into the big winning hole. Therefore, the jackpot gaming state is an advantageous state for the player. The larger the number of rounds in the jackpot game state and the longer the upper limit period of opening, the more advantageous the player is.

In addition, a jackpot type is set in the "jackpot". For example, a plurality of types of opening modes (number of rounds and upper limit period of opening) of the big winning opening and game states after the jackpot game state (normal state, time saving state, variable probability state, etc. described later) are prepared, and the jackpot is obtained according to these. type is set. As the jackpot type, there may be provided a jackpot type in which a large number of prize balls can be obtained, and a jackpot type in which a small number of prize balls or almost no prize balls can be obtained.

In the small winning game state, the big winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball device 7 is opened in a predetermined opening mode. For example, in the small winning game state, the same opening mode as the big winning game state when some jackpot types etc.), the big prize opening is opened. In addition, you may provide a small-hit classification also in a "small-hit" like a big-hit classification.

After the jackpot game state is finished, depending on the jackpot type, it may be controlled to a time-saving state or a variable probability state.

In the time saving state, the control (time saving control) that shortens the average special figure fluctuation time (period of varying the special figure) than the normal state is executed. In the time-saving state, by shortening the average normal figure fluctuation time (the period during which the normal figure is changed) than in the normal state, and by improving the probability of becoming a "normal figure hit" in the general figure game than in the normal state, etc. Control (high opening control, high base control) that makes it easier for game balls to enter the second start winning opening is also executed. Since the time-saving state is a state in which the variation efficiency of the special symbols (especially the second special symbols) is improved, it is an advantageous state for the player.

In the variable probability state (probability variable state), in addition to the time-saving control, the variable probability control in which the probability that the display result is a "jackpot" is higher than in the normal state is executed. The variable probability state is a state in which the variation efficiency of the special symbols is improved, and in addition, a "big hit" is likely to occur, so it is a further advantageous state for the player.

The time saving state and the variable probability state are continued until one of the end conditions such as execution of the special game for a predetermined number of times and start of the next big win game state is established first. The end condition that the special figure game of a predetermined number of times has been executed is also referred to as a number cut (number cut time reduction, number cut probability variable, etc.).

The normal state means a game state other than a special state such as an advantageous state such as a jackpot game state that is advantageous to the player, a time saving state, a variable probability state, etc., and the display result in the normal game is "normal game". The pachinko gaming machine 1, such as the probability and the probability that the display result in the special game will be a "jackpot", returns to the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when the system is reset, a predetermined return after power-on) It is the state controlled in the same way as when processing is not executed).

The state in which probability variable control is executed is also called a high probability state, and the state in which probability variable control is not executed is also called a low probability state. A state in which time-saving control is performed is also referred to as a high-based state, and a state in which time-saving control is not performed is also referred to as a low-based state. Combining these, the short-time state is also called a low-probability-high base state, the probability-variable state is a high-probability-high base state, and the normal state is a low-probability-low base state. The high probability state and the low base state are also referred to as the high probability low base state.

After the small win game state is over, the game state is not changed, and the game state before the display result of the special figure game becomes "small win" is continuously controlled (however, "small win" occurs If the special game at the time is the special game for the predetermined number of times in the above cut, the game state is naturally changed). In addition, there may not be a "small hit" as a display result of a special figure game.

In addition, the game state may change based on the fact that the game ball has passed through a specific area (for example, a specific area within the big winning opening) during the jackpot game state. For example, when the game ball passes through the specific area, it may be controlled to the probability variable state after the big hit game state.

(Progress of production, etc.)
In the pachinko gaming machine 1, various effects (effects such as notifying the progress of the game and exciting the game) are executed according to the progress of the game. The production will be described below. The effect is performed by displaying various effect images on the image display device 5. In addition to or instead of the display, sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R and/or the game effect lamp 9 This may be performed by turning on/off, operation of the movable member 52, or the like.

As an effect executed according to the progress of the game, the first special game or the second In response to the start of the 2 special figure game, the variable display of the decoration pattern is started. At the timing when the display result (also called fixed special pattern) is stopped and displayed in the first special game or the second special game, a fixed decorative pattern (combination of three decorative patterns) which is the display result of variable display of decorative patterns ) is also stopped (derived).

During the period from the start of the variable display of the decorative design to the end of the variable display, the variable display of the decorative design may be in a predetermined ready-to-win state (ready-to-win state is established). Here, the ready-to-win mode means that when the decorative symbols stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 constitute a part of the jackpot combination described later, the decorative symbols that are not stopped and displayed are displayed in a variable manner. It is the aspect that is continuing.

Further, a ready-to-win effect is executed in response to the above-described ready-to-win mode during the variable display of decorative symbols. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, the display result (the display result of the special game or the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern) is a "big win" (also called the "big win reliability" or "big win expectation") depending on the performance mode. A plurality of different types of ready-to-win effects are executed. The ready-to-win performance includes, for example, a normal reach and a super-to-win with higher reliability than the normal reach.

When the display result of the special game is a "big hit", a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived as a display result of the variable display of decorative patterns on the screen of the image display device 5 (decoration The display result of the variable display of the pattern becomes a "jackpot"). As an example, the same decoration patterns (for example, "7" etc.) are stop-displayed together on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle" and "right" decoration pattern display areas 5L, 5C and 5R. .

In the case of the ``variable probability big hit'' controlled to the variable probability state after the end of the big win game state, odd decorative patterns (for example, "7" etc.) are stopped and displayed, and the variable probability state is entered after the end of the big win game state. In the case of an uncontrolled "non-probability variable jackpot (normal jackpot)", even-numbered decorative symbols (for example, "6") may be stop-displayed together. In this case, the odd-numbered decorative design is also called the probability variable design, and the even-numbered decorative design is also called the non-probable variable design (normal design). After becoming a ready-to-win mode with non-probability variation symbols, a promotion performance may be executed to finally become a "probability variation big hit".

When the display result of the special figure game is "small hit", on the screen of the image display device 5, as a display result of the variable display of decorative patterns, a fixed decorative pattern (for example, " 1, 3, 5", etc.) are derived (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern becomes a "minor hit"). As an example, decoration symbols constituting a chance eye are stopped and displayed on predetermined effective lines in the “left”, “middle” and “right” decoration symbol display areas 5L, 5C and 5R. In addition, when the display result of the special game is a "big hit" of some jackpot types (jackpot types in the same manner as the small win game state), and when it becomes a "minor hit" , a common fixed decoration pattern may be derived and displayed.

When the display result of the special game is "Loss", the variable display mode of the decorative pattern does not become the ready-to-win mode, and the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is the fixed decorative pattern of the non-reach combination (" Also referred to as "non-reach loss".) may be stopped (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern becomes "non-reach loss"). In addition, when the display result is "losing", after the mode of variable display of the decorative pattern becomes the ready-to-win mode, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is a predetermined ready-to-win combination ("reach losing") that is not a big hit combination. (Also called) fixed decorative pattern is displayed stop (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is "reach lost").

The effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 1 include displaying the variable display corresponding display (suspended display and active display). In addition, as other effects, for example, a notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big hit is executed during the variable display of the decorative symbols. The notice effect includes a notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big win in the variable display during execution and a pre-reading notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big win in the variable display before execution (variable display whose execution is suspended). As the pre-reading advance notice effect, an effect of changing the display mode of the display corresponding to variable display (suspended display or active display) to a mode different from normal may be executed.

Also, in the image display device 5, the decorative patterns are temporarily stopped during the variable display of the decorative patterns, and then the variable display is restarted, so that one variable display is simulated as a plurality of variable displays. A pseudo continuous effect may be executed.

During the big winning game state, the performance during the big winning is executed to report the big winning game state. As the effect during the big win, the effect of notifying the number of rounds or the promotion effect indicating that the value of the big win game state is improved may be executed. Also, during the small-hit game state, an effect during the small-hit game for notifying the small-hit game state is executed. In addition, during the small-hit game state, some of the big-hit types (in the big-hit type of the big-hit game state in the same manner as the small-hit game state, for example, the jackpot type in which the subsequent game state is a high probability state) By executing a common performance in both states, the player may not know whether the current state is a small win game state or a big win game state. In such a case, by executing a common performance after the end of the small winning game state and after the end of the big winning game state, it is made impossible to distinguish whether the state is a high probability state or a low probability state. may

Further, for example, when a special game or the like is not being executed, a demonstration (demonstration) image is displayed on the image display device 5 (customer waiting demonstration effect is executed).

(Substrate configuration)
The pachinko game machine 1 is equipped with a main board 11, an effect control board 12, a sound control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, etc., as shown in FIG. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and a power supply board are arranged on the back surface of the pachinko game machine 1 .

The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and the progress of the above-mentioned games in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (execution of a special game (including management of suspension), execution of a general-purpose game (including management of suspension), jackpot game state, small hit game state, game state, etc.) has a function to control. The main board 11 has a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like.

The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (ReadOnlyMemory) 101, a RAM (RandomAccessMemory) 102, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103, a random number circuit 104, and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105 .

The CPU 103 executes a program stored in the ROM 101 to perform processing for controlling the progress of the game (processing for realizing the functions of the main substrate 11). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 101 (variation patterns described later, effect control commands described later, data such as various tables referred to when making various decisions described later) are used, and the RAM 102 is used as the main memory. . The RAM 102 is a backup RAM that retains stored contents for a predetermined period of time even if the power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is stopped in part or in its entirety. All or part of the program stored in the ROM 101 may be developed in the RAM 102 and executed on the RAM 102 .

The random number circuit 104 counts updatably numerical data representing various random numbers (game random numbers) used to control the progress of the game. The game random numbers may be updated (updated by software) by the CPU 103 executing a predetermined computer program.

The I/O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals (detection signals described later) are input, various signals (first special symbol display device 4A, second special symbol display device 4B, normal symbol display device 20, first reservation It includes an output port for transmitting a signal for controlling (driving) the indicator 25A, the second hold indicator 25B, the normal figure hold indicator 25C, and a solenoid drive signal).

The switch circuit 110 receives detection signals from various switches (gate switch 21, starting switch (first starting switch 22A and second starting switch 22B), count switch 23) for detecting game balls A detection signal indicating that the switch has been turned on by entering) is captured and transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100. The transmission of the detection signal means that the passage or entry of the game ball has been detected.

Solenoid circuit 111, a solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 (for example, a signal to turn on the solenoid 81 and the solenoid 82), to the solenoid 81 for normal electric accessories and the solenoid 82 for the big winning entrance door transmit.

The main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), as part of the control of the progress of the game, produces a production control command (a command to specify (notify) the progress of the game, etc.) according to the progress of the game. 12. The effect control command output from the main board 11 is relayed by the relay board 15 and supplied to the effect control board 12. - 特許庁The effect control command includes, for example, various determination results on the main board 11 (for example, the display result of the special game (including the jackpot type), the variation pattern used when executing the special game (details will be described later). )), game status (for example, start and end of variable display, opening status of big winning slots, occurrence of winning, number of reserved memories, game status), commands specifying error occurrence, and the like.

The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the effect control command, and produces effects based on the received effect control command (various effects according to the progress of the game, (including various notifications such as driving of the movable member 52, driving of the image display device 150, error notification, and notification of recovery from power failure).

The performance control board 12 is equipped with a performance control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display control section 123, a random number circuit 124, and an I/O 125.

The effect control CPU 120 executes a program stored in the ROM 121 to execute a process for executing the effect together with the display control unit 123 (a process for realizing the above function of the effect control board 12, and the effect to be executed (including the decision, etc.). At this time, various data (data such as various tables) stored in the ROM 121 are used, and the RAM 122 is used as a main memory.

The effect control CPU 120 receives detection signals from various detection means (sensors) such as the controller sensor unit 35A, the push sensor 35B, the cross key sensor 052F103, and the button sensor 052F104 (signal output when an operation by the player is detected). , and the display control unit 123 may be instructed to execute an effect based on a signal appropriately indicating the operation content.

The display control unit 123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (VideoRAM), etc., and executes an effect based on an effect execution instruction from the effect control CPU 120 .

The display control unit 123 supplies a video signal corresponding to the effect to be executed to each of the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 based on the effect execution instruction from the effect control CPU 120, so that the effect image and the like can be displayed. Various images are displayed on the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150, respectively. The display control unit 123 further supplies a sound designation signal (a signal designating the sound to be output) to the sound control board 13 in order to output sound synchronized with the display of the effect image and turn on/off the game effect lamp 9 . Also, it supplies a lamp signal (a signal specifying the lighting/extinguishing mode of the lamp) to the lamp control board 14 . Further, the display control unit 123 supplies a signal for operating the movable member 52 to the movable member 52 or a driving circuit for driving the movable member 52 . Furthermore, the display control section 123 supplies an operation instruction signal for operating (driving) the two sub-image display devices 150 to the operation control section 160 for operating (driving) the sub-image display devices 150 . The operation control unit 160 may be composed of, for example, motors and gears for operating the two sub-image display devices 150 .

The audio control board 13 is equipped with various circuits for driving the speakers 8L and 8R, drives the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound designation signal, and outputs the sound designated by the sound designation signal from the speakers 8L and 8R. Let

The lamp control board 14 is equipped with various circuits for driving the game effect lamp 9, drives the game effect lamp 9 based on the lamp signal, and turns on/off the game effect lamp 9 in a manner specified by the lamp signal. do. In this manner, the display control unit 123 controls sound output and lighting/extinguishing of the lamp.

Sound output, control of turning on/off the lamp (supply of sound designation signal, lamp signal, etc.), control of the movable member 52 (supply of signal for operating the movable member 52, etc.), and control of the sub-image display device 151 ( The supply of a signal for driving and controlling the sub-image display device 151 to the operation control unit 160, etc.) may be executed by the effect control CPU 120 .

The random number circuit 124 counts updatably numerical data indicating various random numbers (random numbers for effects) used for executing various effects. The effect random number may be updated by effect control CPU 120 executing a predetermined computer program (updated by software).

I / O 125 mounted on the production control board 12 has an input port for taking in production control commands transmitted from, for example, the main board 11, and various signals (video signal, sound designation signal, lamp signal). and an output port of

Boards other than the main board 11, such as the effect control board 12, the sound control board 13, and the lamp control board 14, are also called sub-boards. A plurality of sub-boards may be provided for each function as in the pachinko game machine 1, or one sub-board may be configured to have a plurality of functions.

(motion)
Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko game machine 1 will be described.

(Major operations of the main substrate 11)
First, main operations in the main board 11 will be described. When power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes the game control main process. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing game control main processing executed by the CPU 103 on the main substrate 11. As shown in FIG.

In the game control main process shown in FIG. 3, the CPU 103 first sets interrupt prohibition (step S1). Subsequently, necessary initial settings are performed (step S2). Initial settings include stack pointer setting, internal device register setting (CTC (counter/timer circuit), parallel input/output port, etc.), setting to make RAM 102 accessible, and the like.

Next, it is determined whether or not the output signal from the clear switch is ON (step S3). The clear switch is mounted, for example, on the power board. When the clear switch is turned on and the power is turned on, an output signal (clear signal) is input to the game control microcomputer 100 through the input port. If the output signal from the clear switch is ON (step S3; Yes), initialization processing (step S8) is executed. In the initialization processing, the CPU 103 performs RAM clear processing for clearing flags, counters, and buffers stored in the RAM 102, and sets initial values in the work area.

Moreover, CPU103 transmits the production|presentation control command which instruct|indicates initialization to the production|presentation control board 12 (step S9). When the effect control CPU 120 receives the effect control command, for example, the image display device 5 displays a screen for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized.

If the output signal from the clear switch is not ON (step S3; No), it is determined whether backup data is stored in the RAM 102 (backup RAM) (step S4). When the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped due to an unexpected power failure or the like (power failure), the CPU 103 executes the power supply stop processing immediately before the pachinko game machine 1 becomes inoperable due to the stoppage of the power supply. In this process when the power supply is stopped, a process of turning on a backup flag indicating that data is to be backed up in the RAM 102, a data protection process of the RAM 102, and the like are executed. Data protection processing includes adding an error detection code (checksum, parity bit, etc.) and backing up various data. The data to be backed up includes not only various data (including various flags, states of various timers, etc.) for progressing the game, but also the states of the backup flags and error detection codes. In step S4, it is determined whether or not the backup flag is ON. If the backup flag is off and backup data is not stored in the RAM 102 (step S4; No), an initialization process (step S8) is executed.

If backup data is stored in the RAM 102 (step S4; Yes), the CPU 103 checks the backed up data (using an error detection code) to determine whether the data is normal (step S5). In step S5, for example, it is determined whether or not the data in the RAM 102 matches the data when the power supply was stopped, using a parity bit or a checksum. If it is determined that they match, it is determined that the data in the RAM 102 is normal.

If it is determined that the data in the RAM 102 is not normal (step S5; No), the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply was stopped, so initialization processing (step S8) is executed.

If it is determined that the data in the RAM 102 is normal (step S5; Yes), the CPU 103 performs recovery processing (step S6) to return the internal state of the main substrate 11 to the state when the power supply was stopped. In the recovery process, the CPU 103 sets the work area based on the contents stored in the RAM 102 (the contents of the backed up data). As a result, the game state at the time of stopping the power supply is restored, and when the special symbols are fluctuating, the fluctuation of the special symbols is resumed from the state before restoration by executing the game control timer interrupt process described later. will be

And CPU103 transmits the production|presentation control command which instruct|indicates restoration from a power failure to the production|presentation control board 12 (step S7). In accordance with this, an effect control command that designates the game state before the power cut that is backed up, and if the special game is being executed, the effect control that designates the display result of the special game that is being executed You may make it transmit a command. These commands can use the same commands as the commands set for transmission in the special symbol process described later. When the effect control CPU 120 receives the effect control command specifying the restoration time from the power failure, for example, the image display device 5 notifies that the power failure has been restored or is being restored from the power failure. Display the screen for The effect control CPU 120 may perform appropriate screen display based on the effect control command.

After completing the recovery process or the initialization process and transmitting the effect control command to the effect control board 12, the CPU 103 executes the random number circuit setting process for initializing the random number circuit 104 (step S10). Then, the register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 100 is set so that the timer interrupt is periodically applied every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) (step S11), and the interrupt is permitted (step S12 ). After that, loop processing is entered. Thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 at predetermined time intervals (for example, 2 ms), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing.

When the CPU 103 that has executed such game control main processing receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepts the interrupt request, it executes the game control timer interrupt processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the timer interrupt process for game control shown in FIG. 4 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby, through the switch circuit 110, the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, and the second start port. It is determined whether or not detection signals have been received from various switches such as the switch 22B and the count switch 23 (step S21). Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko game machine 1 is performed, and a warning can be generated if necessary according to the diagnosis result (step S22). After that, by executing a predetermined information output process, for example, jackpot information (information indicating the number of occurrences of jackpots, etc.), start information (start Data such as information indicating the number of wins, etc.), probability change information (information indicating the number of times the odd state has occurred, etc.) is output (step S23).

Following the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least part of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software is executed (step S24). After that, the CPU 103 executes a special symbol process (step S25). CPU103 by executing the special symbol process processing for each timer interrupt, management of execution and suspension of the special symbol game, control of the big hit game state and small hit game state, control of the game state, etc. are realized (details later).

Following the special symbol process, the normal symbol process is executed (step S26). By the CPU 103 executing normal symbol process processing for each timer interrupt, management of execution and suspension of the normal symbol game based on the detection signal from the gate switch 21 (based on the game ball passing through the passage gate 41), It is possible to control the opening of the variable winning ball device 6B based on the "normal game hit". The execution of the normal pattern game is performed by driving the normal pattern display device 20, and the normal pattern reservation number is displayed by lighting the normal pattern reservation display device 25C.

After executing the normal symbol process processing, as part of the game control timer interrupt processing, processing when power failure occurs, processing for paying out prize balls, and the like may be performed. After that, the CPU 103 executes command control processing (step S27). The CPU 103 may transmit and set an effect control command in each of the processes described above. In the command control process of step S27, a process of transmitting the effect control command set for transmission to the sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 is performed. After executing the command control process, after permitting the interrupt, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing an example of the process executed in step S25 shown in FIG. 4 as the special symbol process process. In this special symbol process process, the CPU 103 first executes a starting winning determination process (step S101).

In the starting prize determination process, the process of detecting the occurrence of the starting prize, storing pending information in a predetermined area of the RAM 102, and updating the number of pending memories is executed. When a starting prize is generated, a random number value for determining the display result (including the jackpot type) and the variation pattern is extracted and stored as pending information. Further, based on the extracted random number value, a process of prefetching and judging a display result or a variation pattern may be executed. After storing the pending information and the number of pending memories, the transmission setting for transmitting the effect control command for designating the determination result such as the generation of the start winning, the number of pending memories, and the prefetch determination to the effect control board 12 is performed. . The effect control command at the time of starting winning thus set to be transmitted is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 by, for example, executing the command control process of step S27 shown in FIG. is transmitted to

After executing the starting prize determination process in S101, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes of steps S110 to S120 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM102. In addition, in each process (steps S110 to S120) of the special symbol process process, transmission setting for transmitting the effect control command corresponding to each process to the effect control board 12 is performed.

The special symbol normal process of step S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "0" (initial value). In this special symbol normal process, it is determined whether or not to start the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game based on the presence or absence of pending information. In addition, in the special symbol normal processing, based on the random number value for determining the display result, whether or not the display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is a "big hit" or "small hit", and the type of the big hit in the case of "big hit". is determined (predetermined) before the display result is derived and displayed. Furthermore, in the special symbol normal process, a fixed special symbol (any one of a big hit symbol, a small winning symbol, or a losing symbol) to be stopped and displayed in the special symbol game is set according to the determined display result. After that, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "1", and the special symbol normal process ends. In addition, the special figure game using the second special figure may be executed with priority over the special figure game using the first special figure (also called special figure 2 priority digestion). Also, the winning order of the game balls to the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening may be stored, and the condition for starting the special game may be established in the order of winning (also called winning order).

When making various decisions based on random numbers, various tables stored in the ROM 101 (tables in which decision values to be compared with random numbers are assigned to decision results) are referred to. Other decisions on the main board 11 and various decisions on the effect control board 12 are the same. Various tables are stored in the ROM 121 of the effect control board 12 .

The variation pattern setting process of step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "1". In this variation pattern setting process, one of a plurality of variation patterns is selected using random numbers for determining the variation pattern based on the result of pre-determination as to whether the display result is a "big hit" or a "small hit." including the process of determining In the variation pattern setting process, when the variation pattern is determined, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "2", and the variation pattern setting process ends.

The variation pattern is the execution time of the special game (special figure fluctuation time) (also the execution time of variable display of decorative patterns), the form of variable display of decorative patterns (whether or not there is a reach, etc.), and the variable display of decorative patterns. It specifies the content of the production (type of reach production, etc.), and is also called a variable display pattern.

The special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "2". This special symbol variation processing includes a process of setting for varying the special symbols in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and the elapsed time after the special symbol starts to vary. It includes processing to measure Also, it is determined whether or not the measured elapsed time has reached the special figure variation time corresponding to the variation pattern. Then, when the elapsed time from the start of the special symbol variation reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "3", and the special symbol variation processing ends.

The special symbol stop processing of step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "3". In this special symbol stop processing, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B stop the variation of the special symbol, and stop display (derivate) the fixed special symbol which is the display result of the special symbol. It includes a process to set for Then, when the display result is "big hit", the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "4". On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off and the display result is "small hit", the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "8". Moreover, when the display result is "losing", the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0". When the display result is "small hit" or "losing", when it is controlled to the time saving state or the probability variable state, and when the end of the number cut is established, the game state is also updated. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated, the special symbol stop processing ends.

The jackpot opening preprocessing of step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "4". This jackpot opening pre-processing includes processing for making settings for starting a round in the jackpot game state and opening the jackpot, based on the fact that the display result is a "jackpot". is When opening the big winning opening, a process of supplying a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the big winning opening door is executed. At this time, for example, an upper limit opening period for opening the big winning opening and an upper limit execution number of rounds are set according to the type of the jackpot. When these settings are completed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "5", and the big hit opening pretreatment is completed.

The process during jackpot opening of step S115 is performed when the value of a special figure process flag is "5". In this process during the opening of the big win, there is a process of measuring the elapsed time from opening the big winning hole, and based on the measured elapsed time and the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23, the big winning hole is counted. It includes processing for determining whether or not it is time to return from the open state to the closed state. Then, when returning the large winning opening to the closed state, after executing processing such as stopping the supply of the solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the large winning opening door, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "6", The process during jackpot opening is terminated.

The jackpot opening post-processing of step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "6". This jackpot opening post-processing includes processing for determining whether or not the number of executions of rounds in which the jackpot is opened has reached a set upper limit execution count, and a jackpot gaming state when the upper limit execution count is reached. It includes processing to make settings for terminating . Then, when the number of executions of the round has not reached the upper limit number of executions, the value of the special process flag is updated to "5", while when the number of executions of the round reaches the upper limit number of executions, the special process flag The value is updated to "7". When the value of the special figure process flag is updated, the jackpot release post-processing ends.

The jackpot end processing of step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "7". This jackpot end processing includes a process of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending production is executed as a production operation for notifying the end of the jackpot game state, and a probability change corresponding to the end of the jackpot game state. It includes processing for performing various settings for starting control and time saving control. When such setting is performed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0", and the jackpot ending process ends.

Small hit opening pretreatment of step S118 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "8". This small hit opening pre-processing includes a process of setting to open the big winning opening in the small win game state based on the display result being "small win". At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "9", and the small hit opening preprocessing ends.

Small hit during opening processing of step S119 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "9". In this process during opening of the small prize, there is a process of measuring the elapsed time from opening the big winning opening, and the timing of returning the big winning opening from the open state to the closed state based on the measured elapsed time. It includes processing for determining whether or not When the big winning opening is returned to the closed state and the end timing of the small winning game state comes, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "10", and the small winning open processing is ended.

Small hit end processing of step S120 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "10". This small-hit end processing includes processing of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to the period in which the performance operation for informing the end of the small-hit game state is executed elapses. Here, when the small winning game state ends, the game state in the pachinko game machine 1 before entering the small winning game state is continued. When the waiting time at the end of the small winning game state has passed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0", and the small winning end processing ends.

(Major operations of production control board 12)
Next, main operations in the effect control board 12 will be described. In the effect control board 12, when the power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board or the like, the effect control CPU 120 is activated, and the effect control main processing as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is executed. When the production control main processing shown in FIG. Perform register setting of the mounted CTC (counter/timer circuit). Also, an initial operation control process is executed (step S72). In the initial motion control process, control for initial motion of the movable member 52, such as control for driving the movable member 52 to return it to the initial position and control for confirming a predetermined motion, is executed.

After that, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is turned on (step S73). The timer interrupt flag is set to ON every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the CTC register setting. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off (step S73; No), the process of step S73 is repeated and waits.

Also, on the side of the effect control board 12, an interrupt for receiving the effect control command from the main board 11 is generated in addition to the timer interrupt that occurs each time a predetermined time elapses. This interrupt is an interrupt generated when, for example, the effect control INT signal from the main substrate 11 is turned on. When an interrupt occurs due to the effect control INT signal being turned on, the effect control CPU 120 automatically sets interrupt prohibition, but when using a CPU that does not automatically enter an interrupt prohibition state, interrupt It is desirable to issue a prohibition instruction (DI instruction). The effect control CPU 120 executes, for example, a predetermined command reception interrupt process in response to the interruption caused by the effect control INT signal being turned on. In this command reception interrupt process, the effect control command is taken in from a predetermined input port for receiving the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15 among the input ports included in the I/O 125 . The effect control command taken in at this time is stored in the effect control command reception buffer provided in the RAM 122, for example. After that, the effect control CPU 120 ends the command reception interrupt process after setting the interrupt permission.

If the timer interrupt flag is ON at step S73 (step S73; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared to be turned off (step S74), and command analysis processing is executed (step S75). In the command analysis process, for example, after reading various effect control commands that are transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the effect control command reception buffer, the read effect control command Corresponding settings and controls are performed. For example, the read production control command is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, or the read production control command is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 so that the content specified by the production control command can be confirmed by the production control process processing or the like. It turns on the provided reception flag. Further, when the effect control command specifies the game state, the display control unit 123 may be instructed to display a background according to the game state.

After executing the command analysis process in step S75, the effect control process process is executed (step S76). In the effect control process processing, for example, the display operation of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5, the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation of the decorative light emitters such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LED, and the movable member 52 Control to operate various production devices such as driving operation of is performed. Further, determination, determination, setting, and the like are performed according to the effect control command and the like transmitted from the main board 11 regarding the control contents of the effect operation using various effect devices.

Random number update processing for production|presentation is performed following the production|presentation control process processing of step S76 (step S77), and at least one part of the random number for production|presentation used by the production|presentation control board 12 side is updated by software. After that, the process returns to step S73. Other processing may be performed before returning to the processing of step S73.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of processing executed in step S76 of FIG. 6 as the effect control process processing. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 7, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a pre-reading notice setting process (step S161). In the pre-reading notice setting process, for example, based on the effect control command at the time of start winning transmitted from the main substrate 11, determination, determination, setting, etc. for executing the pre-reading notice effect are performed. Also, a process for displaying a pending display is executed based on the number of pending memories specified from the effect control command.

Next, the effect control CPU 120 executes player menu screen processing (step S162). The player menu screen process is a process for allowing the player to select and display various images for the player, such as an explanation effect including an explanation effect and a game explanation effect, which will be described later, from the menu screen.

After executing the process of step S162, the effect control CPU 120 selects and executes one of the following processes of steps S170 to S177 according to the value of the effect process flag provided in the RAM 122, for example.

The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "0" (initial value). This variable display start waiting process is a process of determining whether or not to start variable display of decorative patterns on the image display device 5 based on whether or not a command designating the start of variable display has been received from the main substrate 11. and so on. When it is determined to start the variable display of the decoration pattern on the image display device 5, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "1", and the variable display start waiting process is terminated.

The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "1". In this variable display start setting process, based on the display result and the variation pattern specified by the effect control command, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern (determined decorative pattern), the form of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the ready-to-win effect, and various other Whether or not to execute various effects such as advance notice effects, its mode, execution start timing, etc. are determined. Then, an effect control pattern (collection of control data for instructing the display control unit 123 to execute the effect) reflecting the determination result or the like is set. After that, based on the set effect control pattern, the display control unit 123 is instructed to start execution of variable display of decorative symbols, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "2", and the variable display start setting process is terminated. The display control unit 123 causes the image display device 5 to start variable display of the decorative design in response to an instruction to start execution of variable display of the decorative design.

The effect process during variable display in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "2". In this variable display effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 instructs the display control unit 123 to display the effect image based on the effect control pattern set in step S171 on the display screen of the image display device 5. , driving the movable member 52, outputting a sound or sound effect from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13, and outputting a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14. Various effects are controlled during the variable display of decorative patterns, such as turning on/off/blinking the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs by output. After performing such effect control, for example, an end code indicating the end of the variable display of the decorative pattern is read from the effect control pattern, or a command designating to stop display of the fixed decorative pattern is received from the main board 11. Corresponding to the fact that the player has done so, the fixed decoration pattern which becomes the display result of the decoration pattern is stopped and displayed. When the fixed decoration pattern is stopped and displayed, the value of the production process flag is updated to "3", and the production process during variable display ends.

The special figure per waiting process of step S173 is a process executed when the value of the production process flag is "3". In this special figure hit waiting process, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not an effect control command designating the start of the big hit game state or the small hit game state is received from the main substrate 11 . Then, when receiving the production control command designating the start of the jackpot game state or the small hit game state, if the command designates the start of the jackpot game state, the value of the production process flag is set to "6". ”. On the other hand, if the command designates the start of the small-hit game state, the value of the production process flag is updated to "4", which is the value corresponding to the small-hit production process. Also, when the waiting time for receiving the command has passed without receiving a command designating the start of the big win game state or the small win game state, it is determined that the display result in the special figure game was "losing". Then, the value of the production process flag is updated to "0" which is the initial value. When the value of the production process flag is updated, the special figure per waiting process is terminated.

The production process during the small hit of step S174 is a process executed when the value of the production control process flag is "4". In this small-hit mid-performance process, the performance control CPU 120 sets, for example, a performance control pattern corresponding to the performance content in the small-hit game state, and executes various performance controls in the small-hit game state based on the set content. . In addition, in the small-hit middle production process, for example, in response to receiving a command designating to end the small-hit game state from the main board 11, the value of the production process flag is set to a value corresponding to the small-hit end production. It is updated to a certain "5", and the effect processing during the small hit is ended.

The small hit end production process of step S175 is a process executed when the value of the production control process flag is "5". In this small hit end effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the end of the small win game state, etc., and various effect control at the end of the small win game state based on the setting content. to run. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to the initial value of "0", and the small winning end effect process is terminated.

The effect process during the big hit in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "6". In this big-hit production process, the production control CPU 120 sets, for example, production control patterns corresponding to the production contents in the big-hit game state, and executes various production controls in the big-hit game state based on the set contents. In addition, in the big-hit production process, for example, in response to receiving a command designating to end the big-hit game state from the main board 11, the value of the production control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the ending production process. 7", and the effect processing during the big hit is finished.

The ending effect process of step S177 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "7". In this ending effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the end of the big win game state, etc., and controls various effects of the ending effect at the end of the big win game state based on the setting contents. Execute. After that, the value of the effect process flag is updated to the initial value of "0", and the ending effect process is terminated.

(Modified example of basic explanation)
The present invention is not limited to the pachinko game machine 1 described in the basic description above, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the gist of the present invention.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 described in the above basic description is a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media as prizes based on the occurrence of winning, but the game media are enclosed and points are awarded based on the occurrence of winning. It may be an enclosed game machine.

Only one type of pattern (for example, a symbol indicating "-") is displayed during the variable display of the special pattern, and the variable display may be performed by repeating display and extinguishing of the pattern. Further, even if the pattern is displayed during the variable display, the pattern may not be displayed when the variable display is stopped (the symbol indicating "-" may not be displayed as a display result).

In the above basic explanation, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is shown as the gaming machine, but medals are inserted to set a predetermined number of bets. A slot machine capable of executing a game (for example, a big bonus , regular bonus, RT, AT, ART, and CZ (hereinafter referred to as a slot machine equipped with one or more bonuses, etc.).

The program and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to being distributed/provided on a detachable recording medium to a computer device or the like included in the pachinko game machine 1. It may be distributed by being installed in a storage device possessed by the software. Further, the program and data for realizing the present invention can be distributed by being downloaded from another device on the network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. I don't mind.

The game can be executed not only by inserting a detachable recording medium, but also by temporarily storing programs and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. Alternatively, it may be directly executed using hardware resources of other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game may be executed by exchanging data with another computer device or the like via a network.

In this specification, expressions for comparing various ratios such as the execution ratio of effects (expressions such as “high”, “low”, “different”) indicate that one is a ratio of “0%”. may contain. For example, the ratio of one is "0%" and the other is "100%" or less than "100%".

[Overview of Control of Characteristic Portion 052F]
Next, the characterizing part 052F of this embodiment will be described. Regarding the characteristic part 052F, a first explanation effect (hereinafter referred to as an effect explanation effect) that explains the effect of the pachinko game machine 1 using a plurality of explanation stages as an explanation effect for explaining the game for the player. and a second explanation effect (hereinafter referred to as a game explanation effect) that explains the game method of the pachinko game machine 1 using a plurality of explanation stages (for example, 5 stages). do.

Basically, the number of explanation stages used in the presentation explanation effect is set to be larger than the number of explanation stages used in the game explanation presentation. Note that the plurality of explanation stage numbers used in these explanation effects may be set to different numbers of stages, or may be set to the same number of stages.

The explanation effect described below and the effect related to the explanation effect are executed by the effect control CPU 120 . In the explanation effect, the effect control CPU 120 can execute a predetermined explanation effect based on predetermined control data. 052F103 and when the operation of the cross key button 052F102 is detected by the button sensor 052F104, based on the detection signals output from these sensors, the selection control of the language used for the presentation and the presentation It is possible to execute various kinds of effect control such as an operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation, such as controlling the progress of the game.

[Example of player menu screen]
Next, a display example of a player menu screen (hereinafter also simply referred to as "menu screen") that can be displayed on the sub-image display device 150 will be described. The menu screen displays an image that enables the sub-image display device 150 to display various images for the player, including an effect explanation effect and a game explanation effect, in accordance with the player's operation. This screen is The menu screen can be displayed on at least one of the two sub-image display devices 150 . As an example of this, an example in which the menu screen can be displayed only on the sub-image display device 150 on the left side when viewed from the front will be described.

FIG. 8-1 is a display screen view of the sub-image display device 150 showing images related to the player menu screen. FIG. 8-1(a1) is a diagram showing an example of a normal screen.

In the sub-image display device 150, the player presses the cross key except for specific states such as the period of screen restoration processing after the power is turned on, the error state that causes the game to stop, and the period before and after the state is switched. By operating 052F101 in any direction, basically, it is possible to open and display a menu screen such as that shown in FIG. 8-1(a2) at all times.

For example, the period during which the player is playing with the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, the period during which the symbols (special symbols and decorative symbols) are fluctuating), the period during which the jackpot game state is controlled, and the small win game state , and the period during which it is controlled in the standby control state, not limited to the game state in particular. It is possible to open and display the screen. The standby control state is a so-called customer waiting state that is controlled when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not played for a specified period of time (for example, 90 seconds). During the standby control state, the image display device 50 displays a so-called demonstration screen that displays a demonstration (hereinafter abbreviated as demo) image as shown in FIG. 8-11 (g1). be done.

In the state where the menu screen can be displayed, when the effect display is performed using both the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 during the variable display state and during the jackpot game state, and when the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 are used. Except when the demonstration image is displayed using both the image display devices 150, the sub-image display device 150 displays a normal screen as shown in FIG. 8-1(a). In the normal screen of FIG. 8-1(a), a first character image 052F001, a suggestive image 052F002 suggesting how to display the menu screen, and a normal background image 052F100 consisting of an image of the sun and an image of a mountain are displayed. The containing image is displayed.

The first character image 052F001 is an image related to the effect image displayed on the image display device 5 during the variable display state and the game state such as the jackpot game state. The first character image 052F001 is also an image that is displayed more frequently than the other character images among the plurality of types of character images displayed on the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 . The first character image 052F001 is, for example, an image that is the main character in a story that is the subject of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (the subject of the presentation, etc.).

The suggestive image 052F002 is a character image that reads "Use cross key to go to menu screen". By displaying the suggestion image 052F002, it is possible to suggest to the player that "the menu screen will be displayed in response to the operation of the cross key 052F101". Since the suggestive image 052F002 is also an image that promotes the operation of the cross key 052F101, it can be said that the suggestive image 052F002 is an effect for promoting the operation of the cross key 052F101. When the player operates the cross key 052F101 and the operation is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103, the sub-image display device 150 displays a menu screen as shown in FIG. 8-1(a2). Also, even if the normal screen is not displayed, if the main menu screen can be displayed as described above, the player can press the cross while no screen other than the normal screen is displayed. A menu screen is displayed in response to the operation of the key 052F101.

On the menu screen shown in FIG. 8-1(a2), a plurality of icon-shaped option images are displayed. In the example of FIG. 8-1(a2), the plurality of option images are a volume/light amount adjustment menu image 052F003, an effect description menu image 052F004, a game description menu image 052F005, a customization menu image 052F006, and a highlight screen menu image. 052F007 and an end menu image 052F008.

The volume/light amount adjustment menu image 052F003 is an icon image selected when adjusting the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R and adjusting the light amount of the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150. . The effect explanation menu image 052F004 is an icon image selected when executing the above-described effect explanation effect. The game explanation menu image 052F005 is an icon image selected when executing the game explanation effect described above. The customization menu image 052F006 is an icon image selected when performing predetermined customization such as customization of the effect mode. The highlight screen menu image 052F007 is an icon image selected when executing a predetermined demonstration screen display (demonstration moving image, etc.). The end menu image 052F008 is an icon image selected when ending the menu screen.

In the menu screen, a cross key image 052F009 suggesting the cross key 052F101 is displayed. Also, on the menu screen, an image of the words "Please select (determine with the center button)" is displayed. By displaying the image of this text and the cross key image 052F009, the player can be made aware of "select the menu screen with the cross key 052F101 and decide with the cross key button 052F102". Since these images are also images that promote the operation of the cross key 052F101 and the cross key button 052F102, they can also be said to be an effect for promoting the operation of the cross key 052F101 and the cross key button 052F102.

The player can move the frame-shaped cursor displayed on the menu screen by operating the cross key 052F101 for upward and downward operations. In FIG. 8-1, the cursor is displayed as a frame that encloses one of a plurality of menu screens with a thick frame. FIG. 8-1(a2) shows a state in which the cursor is positioned on the volume/light intensity adjustment menu screen 052F003. When the menu screen is initially displayed in response to the cross key 052F101, the menu screen is displayed as a default image with the cursor positioned on the volume/light intensity adjustment menu screen 052F003.

In response to one downward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player, the cursor moves to the next lower option image. In response to one upward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player, the cursor moves to the upper option image. When the player operates the cross key button 052F102, the menu image on which the cursor is placed at that time is determined as the selected menu.

In FIG. 8-1(a2), the first character image 052F001 is displayed as in FIG. 8-1(a1).

When the menu screen is displayed, the sub-image display device 150 performs a screen switching display in which the following screens are displayed according to the player's operation. When the volume/light intensity adjustment menu screen 052F003 is selected and determined, the volume/light intensity setting screen shown in FIG. 8-1(a3) is displayed. When the player selects and determines the effect explanation menu image 052F004, the spec introduction screen shown in FIG. 8-2(b1) is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-1(1). When the player selects and determines the game explanation menu image 052F005, the language setting screen shown in FIG. 8-3(c1) is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-1(2).

When the player selects and determines the customization menu image 052F006, as shown in (3) of FIG. An effect mode selection image (not particularly shown) that can be selected based on the operation action is displayed. The pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment can execute a premium effect. The premium effect is, for example, a effect in which a character image with a premium feeling is displayed, and is an effect that enhances the interest of the game. The normal mode is a production mode in which the probability of executing the premium production is basically set to a probability that a rarity value appears. On the other hand, the premium effect mode is a effect mode set so that the probability of execution of the premium effect is higher than in the normal mode. Therefore, when the premium effect mode is selected in the effect mode selection image, the premium effect is executed with a higher probability than when the normal mode is selected. As a result, the player can select an effect mode that matches his or her taste.

When the player selects and determines the highlight screen menu image 052F007, the demo screen shown in FIG. 8-11 (g1) is displayed as shown in (4) in FIG. 8-1. As shown in FIG. 8-11 (g1), on the demo screen, for example, a character image "DEMO" is displayed on the upper left, and an ally character (a character on the side of the player's ally) and an enemy character are displayed. This is an image of a battle. This demo screen is basically an image that is displayed under the condition that it is under control in the standby control state. By selecting and determining the highlight screen menu image 052F007 according to the above, the demo screen can be displayed when the player desires.

When the end menu image 052F008 is selected and determined by the operation of the player, the display of the menu screen is ended, and as shown in (5) of FIG. 8-1, (a1) of FIG. ) to return to the normal screen.

FIG. 8-1(a3) is an image showing an example of the volume/light intensity setting image. In the example of FIG. 8-1(a3), a four-way key image 052F009, a text image of "Please adjust", a text image of "Confirm with center button", a volume gauge 052F010, and a light intensity gauge 052F011 are displayed. It is

In each of the volume gauge 052F010 and the light amount gauge 052F011, the frame-shaped cursor (thick line frame in the figure) moves to either side of the gauge according to the player's upward or downward operation of the cross key 052F101. is displayed. In the example of FIG. 8-1(a3), the cursor is positioned, for example, toward the volume gauge 052F010. Depending on the upward and downward operations of the cross key 052F101 by the player, the amount of volume and the amount of light at which the cursor is positioned is adjusted.

For example, when the cursor is positioned on the side of the volume gauge 052F010, when the player operates the cross key 052F101 in the left direction, the volume gauge decreases (the number of black dots decreases). Volume decreases. When the cursor is positioned on the side of the volume gauge 052F010, when the player operates the cross key 052F101 in the right direction, the volume gauge 052F010 increases (the number of black lines increases). increases.

For example, when the cursor is positioned on the side of the light intensity gauge 052F011, the light intensity gauge decreases (the number of black colors decreases) in response to leftward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player. The amount of light of the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 is reduced. When the cursor is positioned on the side of the light intensity gauge 052F011, when the player operates the cross key 052F101 in the right direction, the light intensity gauge increases (the number of black dots increases), thereby displaying an image. The light amount of the device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 increases.

[Production explanation production example]
Next, a display example of an effect explanation effect image that can be displayed on the sub-image display device 150 will be described. When the player menu screen is displayed on the sub-image display device 150, the effect explanation effect image is displayed on the left side when execution of the effect explanation effect is selected and determined in accordance with the operation of the player. It is an image displayed on the display device 150 .

FIG. 8-2 is a display screen diagram of the sub-image display device 150 showing a display example of the effect explanation effect image. Representation Description A rendition can proceed in multiple stages of explanation. In this embodiment, the number of explanation stages of the production explanation production is three. Further, a still image is displayed at each explanation stage of the production explanation production. In other words, the effect explanation effect is composed of three still images (three pages) (see each of FIGS. 8-2(b1) to 8-2(b3) marked with *). Also, the effect explanation effect progresses to the next stage according to the action of the player. Note that, in this embodiment, as indicated by the * mark under the title in FIG. 8-2, the effect explanation effect does not advance to the next explanation stage with the lapse of time.

In this embodiment, it is assumed that the action of the player is the operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player. As a modification, the player's motion may be a motion that does not touch the operation unit of the pachinko game machine. The action of the player may be, for example, the action of raising the hand of the player, the action of the player, and the like, and such actions may be detected.

FIG. 8-2(b1) shows an example of the spec introduction screen, which is the screen of the first stage of the effect explanation effect. A spec image 052F030, a step number image 052F031, and a first character image 052F001 are displayed on the spec introduction screen of FIG. 8-2(b1). The first character image 052F001 is the same character image as the first character image 052F001 in FIG. 8-1(a1) and the first character image 052F001 in FIG. 8-3, but has a different facial expression.

The spec image 052F030 in FIG. 8-2 (b1) includes an image showing the jackpot probability, an image showing the number of rounds in the jackpot, an image showing the probability variable entry rate, and a probability of being controlled for each of a plurality of jackpot gaming states. including images shown.

The jackpot probability is the probability that a decision to control to the jackpot game state is made in the jackpot determination. In the example of FIG. 8-2(b1), the image showing the probability of a big win indicates that the probability of a big win is "1/99". The number of rounds is the number of rounds in the jackpot gaming state. In the example of FIG. 8-2(b1), the image showing the number of rounds indicates that the number of rounds of the big win is 10R (rounds) or 4R (rounds). That is, in the example of FIG. 8-2(b1), it is shown that there are a 10R jackpot and a 4R jackpot as the jackpot types to be selected when a jackpot is determined.

The probability variable entry rate is the probability of being controlled to the probability variable state after being controlled to the jackpot gaming state. In the example of FIG. 8-2 (b1), the image showing the variable probability rush rate indicates that the variable probability rush rate is 75%. In the example of FIG. 8-2 (b1), in the pie chart, the probability of being controlled to the 10R variable probability jackpot (10R probability variable jackpot) is 3%, and the probability of being controlled to the 4R probability variable jackpot (10R probability variable jackpot) is 72. %, and the probability of being controlled to a 4R normal jackpot (4R normal jackpot) is 25%. The probability big hit is a big hit that becomes a variable probability state after being controlled to the big win game state. The normal jackpot is a jackpot that becomes a normal state [non-probability variable state) after being controlled to the jackpot game state.

In the specification introduction screen displayed in FIG. 8-2 (b1), as the information to be notified, the jackpot probability, the number of rounds, the probability variable entry rate, and the probability of controlling each of the plurality of jackpot game states are displayed. be done. Therefore, the number of pieces of information notified on the specification introduction screen is four.

Also, as indicated by the * mark at the bottom of FIG. 8-2(b1), the spec introduction screen is a still image.

In addition, in the example of FIG. 8-2(b1), a numerical value of "1/3" is displayed as the explanation level number image 052F031. The denominator of this numerical value indicates the total number of explanation stages of the effect explanation effect, and the numerator of this numerical value indicates what stage the still image in which the explanation stage number image 052F031 is displayed is. In the example of FIG. 8-2(b1), since the denominator is "3", it indicates that the total number of explanation stages of the effect explanation effect is "3". Also, in the example of FIG. 8-2(b1), since the numerator is "1", it indicates that the still image of FIG. 8-2(b1) is the still image at the first stage of explanation.

In addition, in the effect explanation effect, the screen to be displayed is switched by scrolling the image according to the player's operation, and the next explanation stage (1st stage → 2nd stage → 3rd stage) is progressed. . In the effect explanation effect, the operation to move the explanation stage to the next explanation stage is the downward operation of the cross key 052F101. Further, when the cross key 052F101 is operated upward during execution of the effect explanation effect, the screen of the explanation stage one step before is displayed.

FIG. 8-2(b2) is an image showing an example of a character explanation screen, which is an image of the explanation stage of the second stage of the explanation effect. The character explanation screen in FIG. 8-2(b2) is displayed in response to the downward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player while the spec introduction screen is being displayed. In the character explanation screen of FIG. 8-2(b2), there are face images 052F032 of characters A to C, a character image 052F033 saying "It is important to check the display of the characters that appear", and a first character image 052F001. Is displayed.

Further, on the right side of the face images 052F032 of the characters A to C, information about the degree of expectation of being controlled to the jackpot game state is displayed. In the example of FIG. 8-2(b2), the order of character A image>character B image>character C image indicates that the degree of expectation of being controlled to the big win game state is high.

Moreover, each of the characters A to C has three types of facial expressions: a smiling face, a normal face, and a crying face. The order of smiling face>normal face>crying face indicates that there is a high degree of expectation for being controlled to the jackpot game state. In other words, the character images of characters A to C are as follows: smiling face of character A image>normal face of character A image>crying face of character A image>smiling face of character B image>normal face of character B image>character B image The order of crying face>smiling face of character C image>normal face of character C image>crying face of character C image is set so that the degree of expectation of being controlled to the jackpot game state is high. Therefore, by displaying the character image 052F033 saying "It is important to discern the display of the characters that appear", it is possible to make the player recognize the difference in the degree of expectation according to the display of the face.

The specification introduction screen displayed in FIG. 8B2 displays the face of the character image, the number of types, the degree of expectation of the character image, and the fact that the degree of expectation differs depending on the facial expression of the character image. Therefore, the number of information notified on the specification introduction screen is three.

Also, as indicated by the * mark at the bottom of FIG. 8-2(b2), the character explanation screen is a still image.

In addition, in the example of FIG. 8-2(b1), since the numerical value "2/3" is displayed as the explanation level number image 052F031, the character explanation screen of FIG. Indicates that it is a still image at the stage of explaining the eyes.

FIG. 8-2(b3) is an image showing an example of the super-hot explanation screen, which is the image of the third stage of the effect explanation effect. The super hot explanation screen in FIG. 8-2(b3) is displayed in response to downward operation of the cross key 052F101 while the character explanation screen is being displayed. 8-2(b3), the super hot explanation screen includes a character image 052F034 that says, "It's super hot when this cut-in effect is executed!" The background color is also important.” and the first character image 052F001 are displayed.

Here, the cut-in effect will be described. A cut-in effect is a effect in which a predetermined image is displayed in a cut-in image format. Typically, in a frame in which the predetermined image is not displayed, the predetermined image is displayed in the next frame. be. A cut-in effect is, for example, an effect that can be executed during a predetermined reach. The cut-in effects include normal cut-in effects and advantageous cut-in effects. The advantageous cut-in performance is a performance in which the degree of expectation of being controlled to a big win game state is set higher than that of the normal cut-in performance.

FIG. 8-2 (b11) is a diagram showing an example of a normal cut-in effect, and FIG. 8-2 (b12) is a diagram showing an example of an advantageous cut-in effect. In the image display device 5, on the effect display screen when the variable display is executed, basically, the decoration pattern to be variably displayed and the pending display image 052F038 are displayed.

In FIG. 8-2 (b11), in the state before the normal cut-in effect is executed, for example, the left and right decorative patterns displayed in the central area of the screen are aligned with the "7" pattern, and the middle pattern is variable. After entering the ready-to-reach state during display, it is reduced and moved to the upper right area of the screen and displayed, and the pending display image 052F038 is displayed in the lower right area of the screen.

Then, when the normal cut-in effect is executed, as shown in FIG. A cut-in display appears in the central area of the screen accompanied by a jagged image).

In FIG. 8-2 (b12), in the state before the advantageous cut-in effect is executed, for example, the left and right ornaments displayed in the central area of the screen are displayed in the same way as before the normal cut-in effect is executed. After being in a ready-to-reach state where the symbols are aligned with the symbols of "7" and the middle symbols are being displayed in a variable manner, it is reduced and moved to the upper right area of the screen and displayed, and the pending display image 052F038 is displayed in the lower right area of the screen. It is

Then, when the advantageous cut-in effect is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-2 (b12), the first character image 052F001, which is the image of the main character girl, holds a sword and says, "Extremely hot!" A character image and an effect image (the jagged image in the figure) are displayed in a cut-in format in the central area of the screen.

In the advantageous cut-in effect, the ratio of control to the big win game state differs according to the color of the background. For example, the ratio of control to the jackpot game state differs in the order of night background>day background>morning background.

The description is returned to FIG. 8-2(b3). 8-2(b3), the first character image 052F001 explained in FIG. 8-2(b12), that is, the degree of expectation to be controlled to the winning game state is higher than the second character image 052F037. A character image is displayed. In addition, on the super hot explanation screen in FIG. 8-2 (b3), during the actual variable display as in FIG. 8-2 (b12), multiple types of images (decorative pattern images, 052F038, first character image 052F001, character image, and effect image), the first character image 052F001, the character image, and the effect image, which are images of advantageous cut-in effects to be explained, are selected. An image of an advantageous cut-in effect in the selected display mode is displayed as an explanation object.

In addition, in the super hot explanation screen displayed in FIG. 8-2 (b3), the first character image 052F001 displayed in the advantageous cut-in effect and the cut-in effect in which the first character image 052F001 is displayed are executed. (character image 052F034) and that the ratio of control to the jackpot game state differs according to the color of the background when the first character image 052F001 is displayed (character image 052F036). Displayed by Therefore, the number of pieces of information notified on the super hot explanation screen is three.

When the cross key button 052F102 is operated while the super hot explanation screen of FIG. 8-2(b3) is displayed, the image scrolls back to the menu screen (see FIG. 8-2(a2)). .

When the effect explanation effect is being executed, that is, when one of the images of FIGS. 8-2(b1) to 8-2(b3) is displayed, the player's operation When a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 50 seconds) has passed without a pause, the effect explanation effect is limited by executing a process for limiting the effect explanation effect by the effect control CPU 120 .

The processing for limiting the effect explanation effect is a process of reducing the light amount (brightness) of the display on the sub-image display device 150 (for example, turning off the backlight of the display device) while the game explanation effect screen is being displayed. and a process of reducing the light amount of the image) is executed. In this embodiment, the process of reducing the light amount (luminance) of all the display areas of the sub-image display device 150 is executed. can be

Further, the ``processing for restricting the effect explanation effect'' may be ``processing for hiding the displayed image'', or ``a different image from the displayed image (for example, FIG. 8-1 (a1) )" or "a process of obstructing the player's view of the displayed image with a movable object or the like".

FIG. 8-2(b4) is a diagram showing an image of the sub-image display device 150 in a state where the effect explanation effect is restricted. Actually, when the spec introduction screen shown in FIG. 8-2 (b1) is displayed, when 50 seconds pass without the player's operation, the spec introduction screen is displayed as the image of FIG. 8-2 (b4). , the sub-image display device 150 displays an image with a reduced amount of light (luminance). Further, when the character explanation screen shown in FIG. 8-2 (b2) is displayed, if 50 seconds have passed without the player's operation, the image shown in FIG. 8-2 (b4) is displayed on the character explanation screen. An image with reduced (luminance) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150 . Further, when the super-hot explanation screen shown in FIG. 8-2 (b3) is displayed, when 50 seconds have elapsed without the player's operation, the super-hot explanation screen is displayed as the image of FIG. 8-2 (b4). , the sub-image display device 150 displays an image with a reduced amount of light (luminance).

In addition, as indicated by the * mark under FIG. 8-2 (b4), the operation by the player has not been performed since the time when the image displayed in the effect explanation effect was reduced in light intensity (brightness). Furthermore, when a predetermined time (30 seconds in this embodiment) elapses, the screen returns to the default screen. The default screen is, for example, an image that was displayed when the effect explanation effect was executed. For example, when the effect explanation effect is executed while the effect display during the symbol change is being executed on the sub-image display device 150, the default screen is the image of the effect display that was displayed during the symbol change. is. Further, when the effect explanation effect is executed while the display of the demonstration image is being executed on the sub-image display device 150, the default screen is the demonstration image. Further, when the effect explanation effect is executed while the normal screen as shown in FIG. 8-1(a) is displayed, the default screen is the demo image. In the example marked with * at the bottom of FIG. 8-2(b4), (a1) normal screen is described as the default screen.

In addition, after the menu screen or a screen that can be shifted from the menu screen (for example, the volume/light amount setting image shown in FIG. 8-1 (a3), etc.) is displayed, the operation is performed for a predetermined time without the player's operation. It also returns to the default screen when it has passed (eg 50 seconds). The default screen is the screen displayed on the sub-image display device 150 when the menu screen was displayed.

It should be noted that another screen may be displayed in the effect explanation effect shown in FIG. 8-2. The other screen is, for example, a screen showing the game flow of the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like. The game flow is, for example, a diagram showing transitions between states (normal state, advantageous state, etc.) controlled by the pachinko gaming machine 1 .
[Representative example of game explanation production]

Next, typical display examples of game explanation effect images that can be displayed on the sub-image display device 150 will be described. When the player menu screen of FIG. 8-1(a2) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150, the game explanation effect image is selected to execute the game explanation effect in accordance with the player's operation. This is an image displayed on the left sub-image display device 150 when the image is displayed.

FIG. 8-3 is a display screen diagram of the sub-image display device 150 showing a representative example of the game explanation effect. The game explanation effect can be advanced with a plurality of explanation stage numbers different from the explanation stage number of the effect explanation effect. The number of explanation steps of the game explanation effect is five steps (first step→second step→third step→fourth step→fifth step). In the present embodiment, as described with reference to FIG. 8-2, the effect explanation effect can be progressed in three stages (first stage→second stage→third stage). It is possible to proceed in five steps (first step→second step→third step→fourth step→fifth step). Therefore, in the present embodiment, the "number of stages to be advanced" is larger in the game explanation effect than in the effect explanation effect. In addition, as a modification, the "number of explanation stages to be advanced" may be larger in the effect explanation effect than in the game explanation effect.

As shown in FIG. 8-3(c1), a language setting screen is displayed as the first stage screen of the game explanation effect. The language setting screen is an image that allows the player to set the language used for the game explanation effect by a selection operation. The player can select and set any of Japanese, English, and Chinese on the language setting screen of FIG. 8-3(c1). Japanese is the first language as the main language with the highest rate of use in gaming machines. Each of English and Chinese is a second language as a secondary language that is used less frequently than Japanese. It should be noted that other languages may be selectable and settable. Other languages are, for example, Korean, German, and the like.

In the language setting screen of FIG. 8-3 (c1), an icon-shaped step number image 052F040, a Japanese option image 052F041, an English option image 052F042, and a Chinese option image 052F043 are displayed, and the first character Image 052F001 is displayed. Each of the Japanese option image 052F041, the English option image 052F042, and the Chinese option image 052F043 is also called a "language option image".

When the operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103, the effect control CPU 120 executes control to move the frame-shaped cursor displayed on the language setting screen according to the operation direction. . As a result, the player can select an option image in any language by operating the cross key 052F101. Specifically, the cursor is displayed as a frame that encloses one of the language option images with a thick frame. The option images are moved and displayed one by one in the vertical direction. FIG. 8-3(c1) shows a state in which the cursor is positioned on the Japanese option image 052F041. When the language setting screen is displayed, the state in which the cursor is aligned with the Japanese option image 052F041 is displayed as the default state.

With the cursor placed on any one of the Japanese option image 052F041, the English option image 052F042, and the Chinese option image 052F043, the cross key button 052F102 is operated, and the operation is detected by the button sensor 052F104. , the effect control CPU 120 selects and determines the language corresponding to the language option image on which the cursor is placed as the language used for the game explanation effect, and sets it as the language used for the game explanation effect (hereinafter referred to as the selection settings).

When Japanese is selected and set, the image shown in FIG. 8-3 (c2) is displayed, and a game explanation effect using Japanese is executed. When English is selected and set, the image shown in FIG. 8-7 (e1) is displayed, and a game explanation effect using English is executed. When Chinese is selected and set, the image shown in FIG. 8-8 (f1) is displayed, and a game explanation effect using Chinese is executed.

It should be noted that an effect (for example, an advance notice effect) during the variation of the decoration pattern may be executed in the selected and set language.

In the example of FIG. 8-3(c1), a numerical value of "1/5" is displayed as the step number image 052F040. The denominator of this numerical value indicates the total number of explanation stages of the game explanation effect, and the numerator of this numerical value indicates the stage number of the image on which the stage number image 052F040 is displayed. In the example of FIG. 8-3(c1), since the denominator is "5", it indicates that the total number of explanation stages of the game explanation effect is "5". Also, in the example of FIG. 8-3(c1), since the numerator is "1", the still image in FIG. 8-3(c1) indicates that it is the still image at the first stage of explanation. In addition, in FIG. 8-3(c1), the first character image 052F001 is also displayed.

Next, screens after FIG. 8-3(c2) will be described. FIG. 8-3 shows the case where Japanese is selected and set as the language for the game explanation effect. Japanese is used for all of the voices.

FIG. 8-3(c2) is a diagram showing the initial screen when Japanese is selected and set. In FIG. 8-3(c2), a first character image 052F001, a dialogue image 052F044, and a caption image 052F045 are displayed.

The dialogue image 052F044 is displayed in a manner in which the character associated with the first character image 052F001 is speaking. The dialog image 052F044 is an image of words indicating that the game explanation effect is an effect for explaining the game. The dialogue image 052F044 in FIG. 8-3(c2) is an image relating to the phrase "I'll explain the game now."

Also, as indicated by the *1 mark in FIG. 8-3(c2), FIG. 8-3(c2) is a still image. Further, as indicated by the *2 mark in FIG. 8-3(c2), during the period in which FIG. 8-3(c2) is displayed, the guide voice is output from the speakers 8L and 8R. This voice is a guide voice based on the wording of the dialog image 052F, and is a voice about more detailed content than the wording. Hereinafter, this guide voice may be simply referred to as "voice". During the period in which the image in Fig. 8-3 (c2) is displayed, a voice such as "The explanation of the game is about to start..." is output from the speakers 8L and 8R (* in Fig. 8-3 (c2)). 2). The caption image 052F045 is an image that displays the words corresponding to this voice.

In the initial screen shown in FIG. 8-3(c2), the information to be reported is only the information "to explain the game".

In addition, the game explanation effect of this embodiment proceeds to the next explanation stage when the player's operation of the cross key 052F101 is detected, or when a predetermined time elapses without the player's operation being detected. can be made For example, when 10 seconds have passed since the display of the initial screen of FIG. By doing so, the screen to be displayed can be switched, and the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be automatically progressed to the display of the prohibition screen, which is the next explanation stage. When the player's downward operation of the cross key 052F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103 while the initial screen of FIG. 8-3(c2) is being displayed, the image is displayed by scrolling. In the switching mode of switching the screen to be played, the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be manually advanced to the display of the prohibition screen which is the next explanation stage.

FIG. 8-3(c3) is a diagram showing a prohibition screen when Japanese is set. The prohibition screen is an image showing prohibitions related to the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 . In FIG. 8-3(c3), a first character image 052F001, a pachinko machine image 052F046, a dialog image 052F047, and a caption image 052F045 are displayed.

The pachinko gaming machine image 052F046 is an image indicating that hitting the pachinko gaming machine 1 is prohibited. In FIG. 8-3 (c3), the pachinko game machine image 052F046 is described in a simplified manner, but the pachinko game machine image 052F046 is actually an image of a reduced front view of the pachinko game machine 1. This is an image in which an image of being hit by is displayed and a cross (x) mark is superimposed on it. Thus, the pachinko gaming machine image 052F046 in FIG. 8-3(c3) is an image using an image (front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1) relating to the gaming machine.

The dialogue image 052F047 is an image related to the phrase "Don't hit the pachinko machine". Also, during the period in which the image in FIG. 8-3 (c3) is displayed, a voice saying "Please do not hit the pachinko machine" is output from the speakers 8L and 8R (FIG. 8-3 (c3) (see the *2 mark). The caption image 052F048 is an image displaying the wording corresponding to the wording related to this voice. Also, as indicated by the *1 mark in Fig. 8-3 (c3), the prohibited item screen is displayed as a still image. It should be noted that other prohibitions other than "do not hit the pachinko machine", such as "drinking prohibited", may be displayed as images of prohibitions related to games. If there are multiple prohibited items, multiple items may be displayed on one screen or multiple screens.

In the prohibition screen of FIG. 8-3(c3), the information to be reported is only the information "Don't hit the pachinko machine".

In addition, when 30 seconds have elapsed since the display of the prohibition screen of FIG. In a switching mode in which screens to be displayed are switched by scrolling display, the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be automatically advanced to display of the hitting method screen which is the next explanation stage. In this way, the ``display time of the first stage image when the downward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player is not detected'' is set so that the prohibition screen is longer than the initial screen. Also, when the player's downward operation of the cross key 052F101 is detected while the prohibition screen of FIG. In the switching mode, the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be manually advanced to the display of the hitting method screen, which is the next explanation stage.

FIG. 8-3(c4) shows the hitting method screen when Japanese is set. The hitting method screen is an image showing a hitting method in the pachinko gaming machine 1 . In FIG. 8-3(c4), a first character image 052F001, a start winning opening image 052F049, a dialogue image 052F050, a caption image 052F051, and a game ball image 052F052 are displayed.

The starting winning hole image 052F049 is an image showing the winning ball device 6A. A game ball image 052F052 is an image showing a game ball. In the example of FIG. 8-3(c4), the game ball image 052F052 is displayed as a moving image as indicated by the dashed line. This moving image is a moving image showing the behavior of the game ball until it wins the start winning hole image 052F049. In other words, in the example of FIG. 8-3(c4), a video is displayed in which the game ball indicated by the game ball image 052F052 wins the winning ball device 6A indicated by the starting winning hole image 052F049. In this way, the hitting method screen is displayed as a moving image, as indicated by *1 in FIG. 8-3(c4).

The dialogue image 052F050 is an image related to the phrase "Put the ball in the hole." During the period in which the image in FIG. 8-3 (c4) is displayed, voices such as "Please put a pachinko ball into the winning slot first" are output from the speakers 8L and 8R (FIG. 8-3 (c4) (see the *2 mark). The caption image 052F048 is an image that displays the words corresponding to this voice.

In the ball hitting method screen of FIG. is one.

Further, when 20 seconds have elapsed since the display of the hitting method screen of FIG. In the switching mode of switching the screen to be displayed by displaying, the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be automatically advanced to the display of the ending method screen which is the next explanation stage. In this way, the ``display time of the image of the first explanation stage when the downward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player is not detected'' is set to be longer for the hitting method screen than for the initial screen. . Further, when the downward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player is detected while the ball hitting method screen of FIG. In the switching mode, the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be manually advanced to the display of the ending method screen which is the next explanation stage.

FIG. 8-3(c5) is a diagram showing the ending method screen when Japanese is set. The ending method screen is an image showing how to end the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 . In FIG. 8-3(c5), a first character image 052F001, a box image 052F053 indicating that game balls are accumulated in the box, a dialogue image 052F054, and a caption image 052F055 are displayed.

The dialogue image 052F054 is an image related to the phrase "Let's exchange the pachinko balls with the clerk!". Also, during the period when the image in FIG. 8-3 (c5) is displayed, voices such as "Please ask the store clerk to change the pachinko balls" are output from the speakers 8L and 8R (see FIG. 8-3). See the *2 mark in 8-3 (c5)). The caption image 052F048 is an image of the words related to this voice. Also, as indicated by the *1 mark in FIG. 8-3(c5), the termination method screen is displayed as a still image.

In the ending method screen of FIG. 8-3 (c5), the information to be notified is only the information "When the game is over, ask the clerk to replace the pachinko balls." Information is one.

When the player's downward operation of the cross key 052F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103 while the end method screen shown in FIG. The display screen returns to the menu screen (see FIG. 8-1) in the switching mode of switching the screen to be displayed.

Further, when 50 seconds have elapsed since the initial screen of FIG. 8-3 (c2) was displayed without the player's downward operation of the cross key 052F101 being detected by the cross key sensor 052F103, all stages of the game explanation are completed. The game explanation effect is limited by executing the processing for limiting the game explanation effect later by the effect control CPU 120 . As a process for restricting the game explanation effect after all stages of the game explanation are completed, the end method screen shown in FIG. In the displayed state, as shown in FIG. lowering process) is executed. In this embodiment, the process of reducing the light amount (luminance) of all the display areas of the sub-image display device 150 is executed. can be

Further, the "processing for restricting the game explanation effect" may be "processing for hiding the displayed image", or "a different image from the displayed image (for example, FIG. 8-1 (a1 )" or "a process of obstructing the player's view of the displayed image with a movable object or the like".

In addition, as indicated by the * mark below FIG. 8-3 (c6), the player's operation is not performed after the image displayed in the game explanation effect is reduced in light intensity (brightness). Furthermore, when a predetermined time (30 seconds in this embodiment) elapses, the screen returns to the default screen. The default screen is an image displayed on the sub-image display device 150 when the game explanation effect is executed. For example, when the game explanation effect is executed while the effect display during the symbol change is being executed on the sub-image display device 150, the default screen is the image of the effect display that was displayed during the symbol change. is. Further, when the game explanation effect is executed while the display of the demonstration image is being executed on the sub-image display device 150, the default screen is the demonstration image. Further, when the game explanation effect is executed while the normal screen as shown in FIG. 8-1(a) is displayed, the default screen is the demo image. In the example marked with * under (c6) of FIG. 8-3, (a1) normal screen is described as the default screen.

In the game explanation effect, the pachinko game machine image 052F046 in FIG. 8-3 (c3), the start winning opening image 052F049 in FIG. 8-3 (c4), and the like are displayed as images related to the game machine. In the game explanation effect, the game ball moving image 052F052 and the like shown in FIG. 8-3(c4) are displayed.

In the effect explanation effect, the number of explanation items in each image is 3 or 4, whereas in the game explanation effect, the number of explanation items is 1 item. Therefore, the amount of information that can be displayed at one time is smaller than the amount of information displayed in the game explanation effect as compared to the information displayed in the effect explanation effect. As a modification, the amount of information may be the amount of other attributes. For example, the amount of information may be the number of displayed images (objects) or the number of displayed characters.

Effect explanation In each screen of the effect, the first character 052F001 as the main character is displayed. The first character 052F001 is a character image with a higher display frequency (appearance frequency) than other character images (the second character image 052F037 in FIG. 8B).

Also, the game explanation effect may be made to display another image. The other images include, for example, at least one of information about the peripherals of the pachinko gaming machine 1, images showing basic pachinko gaming machine game methods, and the like. The information related to the peripheral equipment of the pachinko game machine 1 is, for example, a call button for calling a clerk, a method of inserting money into the card unit, and the like.

It should be noted that although the display of the effect explanation effect and the display of the game explanation effect described above are respectively executed using only the left sub-image display device 150 as described above, the present invention is not limited to this. may be performed using only the right sub-image display device 150, or may be performed using the two sub-image display devices 150 on the left and right sides. That is, at least one of the two sub-image display devices 150 can display images other than the display of the effect explanation effect and the display of the game explanation effect. Also, among the images displayed by the selection operation on the menu screen shown in FIG. At least one of the sub-image display devices 150 can be displayed.

It should be noted that the following control may be executed for displaying the prohibited item screen as shown in FIG. 8-3(c3). For example, irrespective of whether or not the game explanation effect is being executed, for a prohibited matter such as "Do not hit the pachinko machine", a prohibited matter detection means such as a vibration sensor capable of detecting the prohibited matter is provided. When the prohibited item detection means detects that an action indicated as a prohibited item has been performed, an abnormality detection notification sound such as an error notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R and prohibited from being used in a game explanation effect. The effect of displaying the item screen may be executed by the effect control CPU 120 . More specifically, when the prohibited matter detection means detects that the prohibited matter has been executed multiple times over a short period of time (for example, 30 seconds), an abnormality detection notification sound such as an error notification sound is output to the speaker. In addition to output from 8L and 8R, a prohibited matter screen used in the game explanation effect (a prohibited matter screen like Fig. 8-3 (c3)) is displayed and a corresponding voice ("Please do not hit the pachinko machine ”) may be executed.

Also, in the game explanation effect shown in FIG. 8-3, an example is shown in which sounds for explaining the game corresponding to each explanation stage of the game explanation are output from the speakers 8L and 8R. Such sound for explaining the game is controlled to be output at a predetermined constant volume regardless of the setting value of the volume setting that can be set as shown in FIG. 8-1(a3). may run. Also, in the volume settings that can be set as shown in FIG. (Silence or minimum volume), and in the case of other settings, the effect control CPU 120 may perform control to output at a predetermined constant volume.

In addition, the first volume setting value that can be set by the player (volume setting like FIG. The example of setting by the setting screen, the example of setting by operating means such as a rotary switch provided on the back side of the game board, etc.) can be executed by the production control CPU 120. In this case, the first sound volume set value that can be set by the player does not change the sound output in the game explanation effect, but it is output in the game explanation effect based on the second sound volume setting value that can be set by the game clerk. The effect control CPU 120 may execute the control to change the sound.

Also, in the effect explanation effect of FIG. 8-2, an example was shown in which the explanation by voice output like the game explanation effect of FIG. 8-3 is not executed, but not limited to this, in the effect explanation effect of FIG. Alternatively, the effect control CPU 120 may execute effect control for outputting the sound for effect explanation corresponding to each explanation stage of the effect explanation from the speakers 8L and 8R.

In addition, as described above, "an effect of outputting an abnormality detection notification sound such as an error notification sound from the speakers 8L and 8R and displaying a prohibition screen used in a game explanation effect", value, the sound for game explanation is executed at a volume corresponding to the volume setting", and "At the first volume setting value that the player can set, the game explanation effect is output. "The control that does not change the sound that is output, but changes the sound that is output in the game explanation effect based on the second volume setting value that can be set by the game clerk". Only one of them may be executable, or both the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect may be executable.

[Example of limitation of explanation effect during variable display effect]
Next, an example of the control timing of the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect in the sub-image display device 150 will be compared and explained. FIG. 8-4 is a timing chart showing an example of control timing of the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect.

FIG. 8-4(A) shows a timing chart of the effect explanation effect. FIG. 8-4 (B1) shows a timing chart of the first example of the game explanation effect. The first example of the game explanation effect shows the control timing when the game explanation effect is automatically advanced. FIG. 8-4 (B2) shows a timing chart of a second example of the game explanation effect. In the second example of the game explanation effect, control timings are shown when the game explanation effect is advanced by automatic progress and manual progress.

As shown in FIG. 8-4 (A), the effect explanation effect includes a 1/3 effect explanation screen (spec introduction screen in FIG. 8-2 (b1)) corresponding to the 1/3 explanation stage, and a 2/3 2/3 production explanation screen corresponding to the explanation stage (character explanation screen in Figure 8-2 (b2)) and 3/3 production explanation screen corresponding to the 3/3 explanation stage (drawing Atsu explanation screen) is included.

As shown in FIG. 8-4(A), a cross key sensor 052F103 and a button sensor 052F104 indicate that an effect explanation effect has been selected and determined based on the player's operation of the cross key 05F101 and cross key button 052F102 on the menu screen. , first, a spec introduction screen (1/3 effect explanation screen) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150 . After that, when the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 by the player is detected by the cross key button 052F102, the display image is immediately switched in a scroll-type image switching mode, and the character explanation screen (2/3 effect explanation screen) is displayed as a secondary. It is displayed on the image display device 150 . After that, when the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 by the player is detected by the cross key button 052F102, the display image is immediately switched in a scroll-type image switching mode, and the super hot explanation screen (3/3 effect explanation screen) is displayed. It is displayed on the sub image display device 150 . Further, when the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 by the player is detected by the cross key button 052F102, the display image is immediately switched in a scrolling image switching mode, and the menu screen of FIG. 8-1(a1) is displayed. It is displayed on the sub image display device 150 . Such display control is executed by the effect control CPU 120 . As shown in FIG. 8-4(A), the game explanation effect is executed only by manual progress.

It should be noted that when the player's operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key button 052F102 while the super hot explanation screen (3/3 effect explanation screen) is being displayed on the sub-image display device 150, The display image is switched in a scroll-type image switching mode, and the specification introduction screen (1/3 effect explanation screen) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150, thereby displaying the effect explanation screen corresponding to the 1/3 explanation stage. may be controlled to return to In that case, the effect explanation effect is repeatedly displayed in a loop format based on the advancing operation of the cross key 05F101 by the player.

As shown in FIGS. 8-4 (B1) and (B2), the game explanation effect includes a 1/5 game explanation screen (language setting screen in FIG. 8-3 (c1)) corresponding to the 1/5 explanation stage. , the 2/5 game explanation screen (initial screen in FIG. 8-3 (c2)) corresponding to the 2/5 explanation stage, and the 3/5 game explanation screen (FIG. 8-3 (c3) corresponding to the 3/5 explanation stage. ) prohibition screen), a 4/5 game explanation screen (ball hitting method screen in FIG. 8-3 (b4)) corresponding to the 4/5 explanation stage, and a 5/5 game explanation corresponding to the 5/5 explanation stage screen (end method screen in FIG. 8-3 (b5)).

As shown in FIGS. 8-4 (B1) and (B2), a cross key sensor 052F103 indicates that a game explanation effect has been selected and determined based on the player's operation of the cross key 05F101 and cross key button 052F102 on the menu screen. And when detected by the button sensor 052F104, the language selection screen (1/5 game explanation screen) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150 first. After that, when it is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103 and the button sensor 052F104 that one of the languages has been selected and determined based on the operation of the cross key 05F101 and the cross key button 052F102 by the player on the language selection screen, the initial screen is displayed. (2/5 game explanation screen) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150 .

After that, if the player does not operate the cross key 05F101 for a period of 60 seconds or more, as shown in FIG. (10 seconds for 2/5 game explanation screen, 30 seconds for 3/5 game explanation screen, 20 seconds for 4/5 game explanation screen) set for each game until When the explanation screen is displayed and the display time elapses, the display image is immediately switched in a scroll-type image switching mode, and the game explanation screen of the explanation stage of the next order is displayed, so that the 2/5 game explanation The effect control CPU 120 executes the control of automatically advancing the game explanation screen in the order of screen, 3/5 game explanation screen, 4/5 game explanation screen, and 5/5 game explanation screen.

On the other hand, during the display of each game explanation screen from the 2/5 game explanation screen to the 4/5 game explanation screen, the progress operation with the cross key 05F101 is performed before the display time set for each game explanation screen has passed. When detected by the cross key sensor 052F103, the display image is switched in a scrolling image switching mode immediately at the timing of the detection without waiting for the display time set for each game explanation screen to elapse. By displaying the game explanation screen of the explanation stage in the next order, the effect control CPU 120 executes the control of manually advancing the game explanation screen.

In FIG. 8-4 (B2), for example, during the display of the 3/5 game explanation screen, before the period of 30 seconds set for the 3/5 game explanation screen elapses (less than 30 seconds) When the progress operation with the key 05F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103, the display image is switched in the scroll type image switching mode without waiting for the 30-second period to pass, and the next 4/5 game explanation An example of manual progress control is shown on the screen.

While the ending method screen (5/5 game explanation screen) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150, when the player's progress operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F102, the scroll format image is immediately displayed. The display image is switched in the switching mode, and the menu screen of FIG. 8-1(a1) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150.

Note that when the player's progress operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103 while the ending method screen (5/5 game explanation screen) is being displayed on the sub-image display device 150, the scroll format is displayed immediately. The display image is switched in the image switching mode, and the language setting screen (1/5 game explanation screen) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150, thereby returning to the display of the game explanation screen corresponding to the 1/5 explanation stage. can be controlled as follows. In that case, the game explanation effect is repeatedly displayed in a loop format based on the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 by the player.

Such manual progress of the game explanation screen is executed only for the display of the game explanation screen in which the player's advance operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected. It should be noted that when the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 by the player is detected while the game explanation screen is being displayed, the automatic progress control of the game explanation effect is canceled at the time when the progress operation is detected, and the game explanation screen and the subsequent game explanation screens are released. Regarding the display of all game explanation screens, the effect control CPU 120 switches the control mode from automatic progress control to manual progress control so that the game explanation screen does not progress unless the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 by the player is detected. may be executed.

As shown in FIGS. 8-4 (B1) and (B2), the game explanation effect may be executed only by automatic progression or may be executed by a combination of automatic progression and manual progression.

[Display example when the operation effect is executed while the explanation effect is being executed]
Next, a display example of the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 when the operation effect is executed while the explanation effect is being executed will be described. In the image display device 5, a variable display corresponding effect corresponding to the variable display of the decorative pattern is executed, such as a display of moving a predetermined character image according to the variable display mode of the decorative pattern.

In addition, as the effect corresponding to the variable display, image display on both the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 is used when variable display is executed with a special variation pattern such as Super Reach. A dynamic production may be performed. In this way, as a trigger for executing an effect using the image display on both the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150, the effect during the variable display such as the push button 31B and the stick controller 31A is activated. It may be a condition that it is detected that the operation means used for is detected. In this way, an effect that is executed based on the operation of the operation means used for the effect during the variable display is called an operation effect (also referred to as an operation corresponding effect).

The explanation effect on the sub-image display device 150 is basically irrespective of whether the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a game state or not, and the operation means for the explanation effect such as the cross key 052F101 and the cross key button 052F102 is operated by the player. is executable based on being manipulated by Therefore, for example, during execution of the explanation effect on the sub-image display device 150, the player can start the game by shooting a batted ball. It is possible to start the explanation effect according to the operation. As a result, the explanation effect and the variable display corresponding effect described above may be executed at the same time. Therefore, the operation effect may be executed while the explanation effect is being executed.

An example of image display control in the image display device 50 and the sub-image display device 150 when an operation effect is executed during execution of the explanation effect as described above will be described below.

FIG. 8-5 is a display screen diagram showing a display example of the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 when the variable display is executed during the execution of the explanation effect and the operation effect is executed during the variable display. is. FIG. 8-5 (d1) shows the display mode on the image display device 5, and FIG. 8-5 (d2) shows the display mode on the left sub-image display device 150 (display device that executes the explanation effects). 8-5(d3) shows the display mode on the sub-image display device 150 on the right side.

As shown in FIG. 8-5(d2), the sub-image display device 150 on the left side displays, for example, a character explanation screen (FIG. 8-2(b2)) as an explanation effect, and the sub-image display device on the right side. At 150, a normal screen such as an image of a mountain is displayed. The normal screen displayed on the right sub-image display device 150 is an image corresponding to the normal screen in FIG. 8-1(a1). Before the explanation effect is executed, the normal background image 052F100 of the image shown in FIG. In response to the detection of the operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player, the left side sub-image display device 150 displays an explanation effect screen. In this case, the sub-image display device 150 on the right side maintains the display of the normal screen that has been displayed so far.

On the sub-image display device 150 on the right side, as shown in FIG. 8-5(d3), a constantly reserved number image 052F061 and a constantly fluctuating small pattern 052F062 are displayed. The always reserved number image 052F061 is an image showing the current number of reserved memories by a numerical value, and is always displayed in principle even in a state where the reserved display image 052F038 as shown in FIG. It is an image. In addition, the constantly fluctuating small patterns 052F062 are, for example, three small patterns that are variably displayed in synchronization with the three decorative patterns on the left, middle, and right, and the decorative patterns are displayed for the sake of production. It is an image of a variable display pattern that is always displayed in principle even if it is not in the state.

In addition, when the conditions for executing the operation effect are established, such as when a predetermined timing in a specific super reach has come, a predetermined operation means (operation means for operation effect) such as the push button 31B or the stick controller 31A is activated. An operation promotion effect for promoting an operation is executed by the effect control CPU 120 . It should be noted that, as the predetermined operation means used for operation effects, operation means used for explanation effects such as the cross key 052F101 and the cross key button 052F102 may be used.

For example, in a specific super reach, as shown in FIG. 8-5 (d1), at a predetermined production timing, in order to execute a special production, the central portion of the display area of the image display device 5 is variably displayed. After reaching the ready-to-win state, the decoration pattern that has been displayed is reduced and displayed as a reduced pattern 052F060 moved to the upper right area of the display area. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-5(d1), the image display device 5 executes an operation prompting effect for displaying an operation prompting screen. An operation prompting image 052F060 is displayed on the operation prompting screen. The operation prompting image 052F060 includes the wording "Push", the image showing the push button 31B, and the wording image "Press the push button!". By displaying the operation prompting image 052F060, it is possible to prompt the player to operate the push button 31B.

When the push button 31B is operated while the operation prompting image 052F060 is displayed, as shown in FIG. In the sub-image display device 150 on the right side, a battle effect as a special effect displayed across these three display devices is displayed. By executing the battle effect, the left sub-image display device 150, the image display device 5, and the right sub-image display device 150 integrally display the battle image 052F063. A battle image 052F063 is an image in which a second character image 052F037, which is an ally character image, and an enemy character image 052F039 battle. When the battle effect is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-5 (d4), the reduced pattern 052F060 is moved from the upper right corner of the image display device 5 to the upper right corner of the right sub-image display device 150 and displayed. be.

As shown in FIGS. 8-5 (d1) and 8-5 (d4), during the execution of the explanation effect (while the character explanation screen is being displayed), according to the operation of the push button 31B (the push button 31B is operated ), when the operation effect (battle effect) is executed, the effect control CPU 120 executes the operation based on the push sensor 35B detecting the operation of the push button 31B by the action of the player. After the display of the explanation effect (display of the character explanation screen) is interrupted, execution of the display of the battle effect is started.

As a result of the battle effect, when the second character image 052F037 (ally character image) wins, after the combination of the big win symbols is displayed as the display result of the decorative symbols, the game is controlled to the big win game state and the second character image is displayed. When 052F037 (teammate character image) loses, after the winning symbol combination is displayed, the game is not controlled to the jackpot game state. As described above, when the display of the explanation effect being executed is interrupted by the effect of the variable display, after the effect of the variable display ends, the effect control CPU 120 executes the control to return to the image display before the interruption. be done.

[Display example when integrated effect of sub-image display device 150 is executed during execution of explanation effect]
Next, a display example of the sub-image display device 150 when the integration effect of the sub-image display device 150 is executed while the explanation effect is being executed will be described.

During execution of the explanation effect on the sub-image display device 150, as a effect corresponding to the variable display, the two sub-image display devices 150 are moved to a position (overlapping position) superimposed on the front side of the image display device 5. In some cases, the effect control CPU 120 executes an integrated effect in which the two sub-image display devices 150 are integrated to display a predetermined image. How the effect is controlled when the integrated effect corresponding to such variable display is executed by the sub-image display device 150 while the explanation effect as described above is being executed will be described below.

The integrated effect of displaying a predetermined image by integrating two sub-image display devices 150 is frequently executed when a special effect such as super reach is executed in variable display.

FIG. 8-6 is a display screen showing a display example of the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 when the variable display is executed during the execution of the explanation effect, and the integrated effect is executed during the variable display. It is a diagram.

When the integrated effect is executed, an operation instruction signal for moving the left sub-image display device 150 and the right sub-image display device 150 to the central portion is transmitted from the effect control CPU 120 to the operation control section 160. As a result, as shown in FIG. 8-6 (d13), the two sub-image display devices 150 are driven at the same time, and simultaneously start moving in the directions of white arrows in the drawing. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-6 (d14), the two sub-image display devices 150 move to a position where they are superimposed on the front side of the image display device 5, and then stop. It looks like two sub-image display devices 150 are integrated on the side.

Before the integrated effect is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-6 (d12), the sub-image display device 150 on the left side displays an explanation effect screen. As an example, the sub-image display device 150 on the left side displays an initial screen (FIG. 8-3 (c2)) as a game explanation effect. The sub-image display device 150 on the right displays a normal screen on which a normal background image 052F100 such as an image of a mountain is displayed. In the sub-image display device 150 on the right side, as in FIG. 8-5 (d2), the always reserved number image 052F061 and the always fluctuating small pattern 052F062 are displayed. As shown in FIG. 8-6 (d12), the image display device 5 displays an image in which two decorative patterns are stopped in combination with the ready-to-win pattern and one decorative pattern is fluctuating.

FIG. 8-6 (d13) shows the left sub-image display device 150 and the right sub-image display device 150 (two sub-image display devices) mutually starting to move toward the front side of the image display device 5. It is a diagram. The two sub-image display devices 150 are simultaneously moved toward the direction of integration on the front side of the image display device 5 (the direction of the white arrow in the drawing).

FIG. 8-6 (d14) shows an image display after the left sub-image display device 150 and the right sub-image display device 150 (two sub-image display devices) operate as shown in FIG. 8-6 (d13). It is a figure which shows the state which stopped at the front side of the apparatus 5, and became the aspect which was integrated.

As shown in FIG. 8-6 (d14), when the left sub-image display device 150 and the right sub-image display device 150 are integrated, the explanation effect display on the left sub-image display device 150 is interrupted. At the same time, the display of the normal screen on the sub-image display device 150 on the right side is also interrupted. After such interruption of display, an image similar to the combination of ready-to-win symbols displayed on the image display device 5 is displayed on the integrated left sub-image display device 150 and right sub-image display device 150. A reach state image 052F065 is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 8-6 (d12) to FIG. 8-6 (d14), during the execution of the explanation effect, the left sub-image display device 150 and the right sub-image display device 150 are integrated. When doing so, after the explanation effect being executed is interrupted, a specific effect such as the effect of displaying the ready-to-win pattern 052F065 is executed. After such a specific effect is executed, the variable decorative pattern is stopped, and the effect of introducing and displaying the variable display result is executed by the effect control CPU 120. - 特許庁

It should be noted that during the execution of the explanation effect, when executing the effect in which the left sub-image display device 150 and the right sub-image display device 150 are integrated, the explanation effect being executed is interrupted, and then the sub-image display device 150 is displayed. The operation may be started, or during the period from when the operation of the sub-image display device 150 is started until the sub-image display device 150 is integrated, the explanation effect being executed may be interrupted, and the sub-image display device may be interrupted. The display of the explanation effect being executed may be maintained until 150 is integrated, and the display of the explanation effect being executed may be interrupted after the integration.

[Example of game explanation effect when English is selected and set]
FIG. 8-7 is a diagram showing a game explanation effect when English is selected and set. When English is selected and set on the language setting screen of FIG. 8-3(c1), the game explanation effect using English shown in FIG. 8-7 is executed.

Below, the main differences between the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set (see Fig. 8-3) and the game explanation effect when English is selected and set (see Fig. 8-7) will be explained. do. In the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set, the dialogue image is displayed in Japanese, whereas in the game explanation effect when English is selected and set, the dialogue image is displayed in English. Also, in the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set, sound is output, whereas in the game explanation effect when English is selected and set, sound is not output (*2 in Fig. 8-7). (see the marks and the X marks attached to the speakers 8L and 8R). Further, in the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set, a subtitle image is displayed, whereas in the game explanation effect when English is selected and set, no subtitle image is displayed. In addition, in the case where English is selected and set, Japanese is selected and set for the game explanation effect in the case where English is selected and set for the 'first-stage image display time when the downward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player is not detected'. It will be longer than the game explanation effect in the case.

In the following, the difference between the game explanation effect when English is selected and set in FIG. 8-7 and the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set as shown in FIG. 8-3 will be specifically described.

The images in FIGS. 8-7 (e1) to (e5) displayed in the game explanation effect when English is selected and set, except that the subtitle image is not displayed and the dialogue image is displayed in English. 8-3 (c2) to (c6) displayed in the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set, and the common images are automatically advanced in the same manner as when Japanese is selected and set. is displayed.

The dialogue image displayed in the game explanation effect when English is selected and set is displayed as follows. Instead of the dialogue image 052F044 of FIG. 8-3, "I'll explain the game now," a dialogue image 052F070 in which the text is translated into English is displayed. Instead of the dialogue image 052F047 "Don't hit the pachinko machine" in FIG. 8-3, a dialogue image 052F071 in which the phrase is translated into English is displayed. Instead of the dialogue image 052F050 of FIG. 8-3, "Put the ball in the hole, please," a dialogue image 052F072 in which the text is translated into English is displayed. Instead of the dialogue image 052F054 of FIG. 8-3, "Let's exchange the pachinko balls with the clerk!"

The display time set for each of the 2/5 game explanation screen to 4/5 game explanation screen in the game explanation effect when English is selected and set is 12 seconds for the 2/5 game explanation screen, and 3/5 It is 35 seconds for the game explanation screen and 25 seconds for the 4/5 game explanation screen. The time is set to be longer than the display time set for each.

[Example of game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set]
FIG. 8-8 is a diagram showing a game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set. When Chinese is selected and set on the language setting screen of FIG. 8-3(c1), the game explanation effect using Chinese shown in FIG. 8-8 is executed.

Below are the main differences between the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set (see Fig. 8-3) and the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set (see Fig. 8-8). explain. In the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set, the dialogue image is displayed in Japanese, whereas in the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set, the dialogue image is displayed in Chinese. . Also, in the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set, sound is output, whereas in the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set, sound is not output (* in Fig. 8-8). 2 and the x marks attached to the speakers 8L and 8R). In addition, in the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set, the subtitle image is displayed in Japanese, whereas in the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set, the subtitle image is displayed in Chinese. be done. In addition, in the case where Chinese is selected and set, Japanese is selected and set for the game explanation effect in the case where Chinese is selected and set for the “first-stage image display time when the downward operation of the cross key 052F101 by the player is not detected”. It will be longer than the game explanation effect in the case of

Hereinafter, the difference between the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set as shown in FIG. 8-8 and the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set as shown in FIG. 8-3 will be specifically described.

The images shown in FIGS. 8-8 (f1) to (f5) displayed in the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set include that the subtitle image is displayed in Chinese and the dialog image is displayed in Chinese. When Japanese is selected and set, the images common to the images in FIGS. 8-3 (c2) to (c6) displayed in the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set is displayed in the same manner as the automatic progress.

The dialogue image displayed in the game explanation effect when the Chinese language is selected and set is displayed as follows. Instead of the dialogue image 052F044 of FIG. 8-3, "I'll explain the game now," a dialogue image 052F080 in which the text is translated into Chinese is displayed. Instead of the dialogue image 052F047 "Don't hit the pachinko machine" in FIG. 8-3, a dialogue image 052F082 with the text translated into Chinese is displayed. Instead of the dialogue image 052F050 of FIG. 8-3, "Put the ball in the hole," a dialogue image 052F084 with the text translated into Chinese is displayed. Instead of the dialogue image 052F054 of FIG. 8-3, "Let's exchange the pachinko balls with the clerk!"

The guide voice output and the caption image displayed in the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set are as follows. It should be noted that although the caption image of each image in FIG. 8-8 is described as "...", the Chinese of the guide voice that is actually output is displayed as the caption image. Instead of the output of the guide voice and the display of the subtitle image 052F045, which reads "The explanation of the game is about to start" in FIG. be. Instead of the output of the guide voice and the display of the caption image 052F048 of "Please do not hit the pachinko machine" in Fig. 8-3, the output of the guide voice and the caption image 052F083 in which the words are translated into Chinese. is displayed. Instead of the output of the guide voice and the display of the subtitle image 052F051, which reads "First, please insert the pachinko ball into the winning slot" in Fig. 8-3, the output of the guide voice and the subtitle image in which the words are translated into Chinese. 052F085 is displayed. In place of the output of the guide voice and the display of the caption image 052F055 of "Call the store clerk to exchange the pachinko balls" in Fig. 8-3, the guide voice translated into Chinese is displayed. Output and caption image 052F088 are displayed.

The display time set for each of the 2/5 game explanation screen to the 4/5 game explanation screen in the game explanation effect when Chinese is selected and set is 12 seconds for the 2/5 game explanation screen, and 3/5 35 seconds for the 5 game explanation screen, 25 seconds for the 4/5 game explanation screen, and the 2/5 game explanation screen to the 4/5 game explanation screen in the game explanation effect when Japanese is selected and set. is set to a longer time than the display time set for each of

Also, although not particularly shown in the drawings, the player may be able to set Korean on the language setting screen. In the game explanation effect set in Korean, a guide voice in Korean may be output and a subtitle image corresponding to the guide voice may be displayed.

[Restricted example of explanation effect]
Next, a comparison will be made between the limit control of the effect explanation effect and the limit control of the game explanation effect. As described in FIG. 8-2, when the effect explanation effect is being executed, the effect explanation effect is restricted when a predetermined time (50 seconds) has passed without the player's operation. Further, as described with reference to FIG. 8-3, when the game explanation effect is being executed and a predetermined time (50 seconds) has passed without the player's operation, the game explanation effect is restricted.

FIG. 8-9 is a timing chart showing a comparison of the control timings of the effect explanation effect limit control and the technique explanation effect limit control by the effect control CPU 120. FIG. FIG. 8-9(A) shows the control timing of the limit control of the effect explanation effect. FIG. 8-9(B) shows the control timing of the limit control of the game explanation effect.

First, the limitation control of the effect explanation effect will be described. As shown in FIG. 8-9(A), when the effect explanation effect is being executed, the effect explanation effect state is changed from 1/3 effect explanation screen to 2/3 as shown in (a1) and (a2). When 50 seconds have passed without detecting the operation of the cross key 052F101 after the operation of the cross key 052F101 for advancing to the effect explanation screen is detected, the 2/3 effect explanation screen is displayed. As control for limiting the effect explanation effect, control for reducing the light amount (luminance) of the display on the sub-image display device 150 as described in FIG. 8-2 is started. Then, when 30 seconds have passed without detecting the operation of the cross key 052F101 after the start of the control for limiting such effect explanation effect, the display on the sub-image display device 150 is changed to that shown in FIG. 8-2. By executing the control for returning to the default screen as described, the display on the sub-image display device 150 is controlled to return to the screen corresponding to the game state when the performance explanation performance is executed.

Next, the limitation control of the game explanation effect will be explained. As shown in FIG. 8-9(B), when the game explanation effect is being executed, the game explanation effect state is changed from 1/5 game explanation screen to 2/5 as shown in (b1) and (b2). When 50 seconds have passed without detecting the operation of the cross key 052F101 after the operation of the cross key 052F101 for proceeding to the game explanation screen is detected, the 1/5 game explanation screen is changed to the 2/5 game explanation screen. After 60 seconds have passed since the operation of the cross key 052F101 to proceed to When 30 seconds have elapsed without detection of an operation, control is executed to return the display on the secondary image display device 150 to the default screen as described in FIG. The display at 150 is controlled to return to the screen corresponding to the game state when the game explanation effect was executed.

[Explanation effect control processing example]
Next, an explanation effect control process executed in the player menu screen process (S162) of FIG. 7 in order to execute the explanation effect including the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect described above will be described. FIG. 8-10 is a flow chart showing the explanation effect control process. The explanation effect control process is provided as part of the player menu screen process. The explanation effect control process is executed when the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key button 052F102 in any of the effect explanation stages during execution of the effect explanation effect, or when the game explanation effect is being executed, 1/ 5 Execution is started when the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key button 052F102 in the game explanation stage where the game explanation screen is displayed.

In the explanation effect control process, first, it is confirmed whether or not the explanation effect limit flag is set (step 052FS001). Hereinafter, step 052FS will be abbreviated as 052FS. The explanation effect restriction flag is a flag set at 052FS020 when the game explanation effect or the effect explanation effect is restricted.

At 052FS001, when the explanation effect restriction flag is not set, it is confirmed whether or not the advancing operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103 (052FS002). When the advance operation of the cross key 05F101 is not detected at 052FS002, it is confirmed whether or not the game explanation completion waiting flag is set (052FS003). The game explanation end wait flag is a flag set in 052FS011 when it is necessary to wait for the end of the game explanation effect such as when the game explanation effect is restricted.

When the game explanation completion waiting flag is not set at 052FS003, it is checked whether or not the first timer is set (052FS004). The first timer is timer means for counting 50 seconds of non-operating state of the cross key 05F101, which is a condition for restricting the game explanation effect or the effect explanation effect.

When the first timer is not set in 052FS004, when the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key button 052F102 in any of the effect explanation stages, or during execution of the game explanation effect, 1/5 In the game explanation stage in which the game explanation screen is displayed, the timing is immediately after the operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key button 052F102. A timer is set (a clock data value corresponding to 50 seconds is set) (052FS005), and the process ends. On the other hand, when the first timer is set in 052FS004, the first timer value is updated (subtracted and updated) because the first timer is counting the non-operating state (052FS006). Then, it is checked whether or not the updated first timer value has timed out (first timer value=0) (052FS007).

If the first timer value has not timed out in 052FS007, the processing ends. On the other hand, when the first timer value expires at 052FS007, the first timer is reset (052FS008) to end the time counting by the first timer. Then, by confirming the effect state being executed, it is confirmed whether or not the current state is the effect explanation effect (052FS009). At 052FS009, when the effect explanation effect is being performed, as explained with reference to FIG. As a result, the restriction of the effect explanation effect such as reduction of the screen display light amount (luminance) of the effect explanation effect is executed. Then, the limited explanation effect limit flag indicating that the explanation effect is being limited is set (052FS013), the second timer is set (052FS014), and then the process is terminated. The second timer, as explained in FIGS. 8-9 (A) and (B), is the non-operating state of the cross key 05F101 for returning to the default screen from the restricted state of the game explanation effect or the restricted state of the effect explanation effect. is a timing means for timing 30 seconds of

In addition, when the game explanation effect is being performed at 052FS009, or when the game explanation end waiting flag is set at 052FS003, by confirming the effect state during execution, FIG. 8-9 (B ), it is confirmed whether or not the final explanation stage of the game explanation effect (5/5 game explanation screen display stage) has been completed (052FS010).

At 052FS010, when the final explanation stage of the game explanation effect has not been executed, the game explanation completion waiting flag is set (052FS011), and then the process is terminated. Thus, execution of the limited state of the executed game explanation effect is awaited until the final explanation stage of the game explanation effect is completed. On the other hand, when the final explanation stage of the game explanation effect has been executed in 052FS010, as explained in FIG. As a result, the restriction of the game explanation effect such as reduction of the screen display light amount (luminance) of the game explanation effect is executed. Then, a limited explanation effect limit flag indicating that the explanation effect is being limited is set (052FS013), and a second timer is set (a clock data value corresponding to 30 seconds is set) (052FS014). finish.

Further, when the explanation effect restriction flag is set at 052FS001 described above, it is confirmed whether or not the advancing operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103 (052FS016). When the progress operation of the cross key 05F101 is not detected in 052FS016, the non-operation state by the second timer being executed (when the explanation effect limit flag is set, the second timer is set by 052F2014) , the second timer value is updated (updated by subtraction) (052FS017). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the updated second timer value has timed out (second timer value=0) (052FS018).

If the second timer value has not expired in 052FS018, the process is terminated. On the other hand, when the second timer value times out at 052FS018, as explained in FIGS. A process is performed to make it possible (052FS019). With respect to the default screen, when the execution of the game explanation effect or the effect explanation effect is started, data capable of specifying the display state of the sub-image display device 150 at the start of execution is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 122. , 052FS019, the process of selecting a default screen and returning to the selected default screen is executed. Next, the explanation effect limit flag is reset (052FS020), and the process is terminated.

Further, when the advance operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected at 052FS002, or when the advance operation of the cross key 05F101 is detected at 052FS016, the first timer, the second timer, and the game explanation flag , the set one of the explanation effect control flags is reset (052FS015), and the process is terminated. As a result, the condition for controlling to the limited state of the game explanation effect or the limited state of the effect explanation effect is reset.

By executing the explanation effect limiting process as described above, the game explanation effect limit control or the effect explanation effect limit control as shown in FIGS. 8-9 and the like is executed.

[Example of unrestricted display of explanation effect during demonstration image effect]
Next, an example of non-limiting display of the explanation effect in the effect state during demonstration image display will be described. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8-5, during the control of the explanation effect during execution of the variable display, if the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period, the explanation effect is limited, An example in which the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect to continue the explanation effect without limiting it even if the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period during the control of the explanation effect in the waiting control state that is the customer waiting state. explain.

FIG. 8-11 is a diagram showing the explanation effect executed while the demonstration image is being displayed. As shown in FIG. 8-11, the sub-image display device 150 on the left side displays a character explanation screen (FIG. 8-3 (c2)) as an explanation effect, for example, and the image display device 5 displays a demonstration image. is displayed on the screen 052F090. The sub-image display device 150 on the right side displays a title logo screen showing the title logo of the pachinko gaming machine 1 . A title logo image 052F091 is displayed on the title logo screen.

As explained in FIG. 8-2 (b4), when one of the screens of each explanation stage of the effect explanation effect is displayed, when 50 seconds have elapsed without the player's operation, it was displayed An example of limiting the screen was explained. However, in the production example of FIG. 8-11, as shown in FIG. Control that does not limit the screen is executed by the effect control CPU 120 .

Also, when one of the screens of each explanation stage of the game explanation effect is displayed, even if 50 seconds have passed without the player's operation, the demo screen is displayed in the same way as the example of the effect shown in FIGS. is displayed, even if 50 seconds have elapsed without the player's operation, the effect control CPU 120 executes control that does not limit the displayed screen.

[Example of control in which both the performance explanation effect and the game explanation effect can be automatically advanced]
Next, a control example in which both the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect can be automatically advanced will be described. FIG. 8-12 is a display screen view of the sub-image display device 150 showing an example of a display of an effect explanation effect image when the effect explanation effect can be automatically advanced.

The effect explanation effect of FIG. 8-12 is different from the effect explanation effect of FIG. In addition to manual progress by downward operation of the cross key 052F101, it is possible to automatically progress over time. For example, as shown in FIG. 8-12, the spec introduction screen, which is the first stage of explanation, is switched to the character explanation screen, which is the second stage of explanation, when 40 seconds have passed since the start of display. Next, the character explanation screen, which is the second explanation stage, is switched to the super hot explanation screen, which is the third explanation stage, when 40 seconds have passed since the start of display.

FIG. 8-13 is a timing chart showing an example of the control timing of the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect when both the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect can be automatically advanced. FIG. 8-13 differs from FIG. 8-4 in the control timing of the effect explanation effect.

FIG. 8-13 (B1) shows a timing chart of a first example of the effect explanation effect. The first example of the game explanation effect shows the control timing when the game explanation effect is automatically advanced. FIG. 8-13 (B2) shows a timing chart of a second example of the game explanation effect. In the second example of the game explanation effect, control timings are shown when the game explanation effect is advanced by automatic progress and manual progress.

As shown in FIGS. 8-13 (A1) and (A2), a cross key sensor 052F103 indicates that a game explanation effect has been selected and determined based on the player's operation of the cross key 05F101 and cross key button 052F102 on the menu screen. And when detected by the button sensor 052F104, the spec introduction screen (1/3 effect explanation screen) is displayed on the sub-image display device 150 first.

Thereafter, if the player does not operate the cross key 05F101 for a period of 50 seconds or more, the 1/3 effect explanation screen and the 2/3 game explanation screen are displayed as shown in FIG. 8-13 (A1). Each effect explanation screen is displayed until the display time (40 seconds) set for has passed, and when the display time has passed, the display image is immediately switched in a scroll-type image switching mode, and the explanation of the next order By displaying the stage effect explanation screen, the effect explanation screen automatically progresses in the order of 1/3 effect explanation screen, 2/3 effect explanation screen, and 3/3 effect explanation screen. Executed by the CPU 120 .

On the other hand, during the display of the 1/3 effect explanation screen and the 2/3 effect explanation screen, the progress operation by the cross key 05F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103 before the display time set for each effect explanation screen elapses. If it is, the display image is switched in a scroll-type image switching mode immediately at the timing of the detection without waiting for the display time set for each effect explanation screen to pass, and the next order. By displaying the effect explanation screen in the explanation stage, the control for manually advancing the effect explanation screen is executed by the effect control CPU 120 .

In FIG. 8-13 (A2), for example, during the display of the 2/3 effect explanation screen, before the period of 40 seconds set for the 2/3 effect explanation screen elapses (less than 40 seconds) When the progress operation with the key 05F101 is detected by the cross key sensor 052F103, the display image is switched in a scroll-type image switching mode without waiting for the 40-second period to elapse, and the next 3/3 effect explanation An example of manual progress control is shown on the screen.

Thus, in the example of control in which both the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect can be automatically advanced, the explanation stage of the effect explanation effect and the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be advanced at different speeds. be. Specifically, the display time of the first explanation stage and the second explanation stage that automatically progress in the effect explanation effect is 40 seconds each, and the first explanation stage is 10 seconds in the explanation stage that automatically progresses in the game explanation effect. The second explanation stage is 30 seconds, the third explanation stage is 20 seconds, and the explanation stage of the performance explanation effect and the explanation stage of the game explanation effect progress at different speeds. More specifically, regarding the display time of the description stage that progresses automatically, each description stage of the game explanation effect is shorter than each explanation stage of the effect explanation effect, so the game explanation effect with a large number of explanation stages , it is possible to progress at a faster speed than the effect explanation effect with a smaller number of explanation steps.

In addition, as described above, it is possible to explain different contents in each of the plurality of explanation stages in the game explanation effect. Furthermore, as described above, in the game explanation effect, the display time of the 2/5 game explanation screen is 10 seconds, the display time of the 3/5 game explanation screen is 30 seconds, and the display time of the 4/5 game explanation screen is 20 seconds. Therefore, it is possible to advance the explanation stage at different speeds according to the contents explained in the plurality of game explanation stages.

As a modified example, the speed of progress of the performance explanation effect shown in FIG. 8-12 may be faster than the speed of progress of the game explanation effect shown in FIG. 8-3. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8-12, in the case where the effect explanation effect progresses according to the passage of time, even if the technical idea of FIG. 8-3 (c6) is applied to this effect explanation effect good. For example, when a predetermined time (50 seconds) elapses without the player's operation of the cross key from when the first image of the effect explanation effect (spec introduction screen in this embodiment) is displayed, the effect explanation effect is performed. The effect explanation effect may be restricted after the end.

[Main Effects Obtained by Characteristic Portion 052F]
(1) According to the present embodiment, it is possible to execute the effect explanation effect (Fig. 8-2) for explaining the game effect and the game explanation effect (Fig. 8-3) for explaining the game method. The explanation stage in the explanation performance can be advanced according to the action of the player, and each explanation stage in the game explanation production can be advanced according to at least one of the player's action and the passage of time of the game method explanation. . Therefore, for example, for those who have experience playing games, the explanation of the effects can proceed according to the player's free movement. On the other hand, for beginners, in addition to the player's free movement, the game explanation effect can be progressed even with the passage of time. Therefore, since it is possible to provide the effect explanation suitable for the target person of the explanation effect, it is possible to provide a suitable explanation effect suitable for the game experience of the player.

(2) In addition, in the effect explanation effect, the first character image 052F001 is displayed as a specific display used during the variation of the pattern (decorative pattern) on the super hot explanation screen of FIG. 8-2(b3). Therefore, it is possible for the player to have an image of the performance in the actual variable display, so that even a player who sees the game for the first time can easily understand the performance of the gaming machine.

(3) Further, as indicated by each * mark in (b1) to (b3) of FIG. 8-2, the effect explanation effect is executed using a still image. Therefore, it is possible to make it easier for the player to clearly recognize the attention point of the presentation of the gaming machine. Note that, as a modification, the effect explanation effect may be executed using a moving image for at least part of the explanation.

(4) Further, as shown in FIGS. 8-2(b11) and 8-2(b12), a normal cut-in effect and an advantageous cut-in effect which is more advantageous than the normal cut-in effect can be executed. Further, in the effect explanation effect, as shown in the super hot explanation screen in FIG. The effect explanation effect is executed without using other images among the images. Therefore, it is possible to heighten the expectation of the player and improve the amusement of the game.

(5) In addition, an image related to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, the pachinko gaming machine image 052F046 in FIG. 8-3 (c3), the start winning opening image 052F049 in FIG. 8-3 (c4), etc.) Execute. Therefore, since the same image as the game explanation effect for explaining the game method of the pachinko game machine 1 is used to execute the game explanation effect, even a player playing the game machine for the first time can easily understand the game effect. can be made

(6) Also, as shown in the game ball moving image 052F052 and the like in FIG. 8-3(c4), the game explanation effect is executed using a moving image as part of the game explanation effect. Therefore, it becomes easier for the player to have an image of the actual game method, and even a player who plays the game for the first time can easily understand the game method. As a modified example, all of the game explanation effects may be executed using moving images. That is, the game explanation effect may be executed using a moving image for at least part of the explanation.

(7) In addition, as described in FIGS. 8-2 and 8-3, the number of information (the number of explanation items) displayed in each image of the game explanation effect is one, while each image of the effect explanation effect The number of information (the number of explanation items) displayed by is three or four. That is, the amount of information that can be displayed at one time is smaller than the amount of information displayed in the game explanation effect as compared to the information displayed in the effect explanation effect. Therefore, since the amount of information to be recognized at one time by looking at the information displayed in the game explanation effect is relatively small, even a player who plays the game for the first time can easily understand the game method of the game machine.

(8) In addition, during execution of the effect explanation effect, the first character image 052F001 (character image of the main character), which has a high appearance frequency during the variable display, can be displayed, thereby providing a sense of familiarity with the contents of the gaming machine. Therefore, it is possible to stimulate the player's interest in the gaming machine.

(9) In addition, as shown in FIGS. 8-2 and 8-3, the number of explanation steps of the effect explanation effect is three, whereas the number of explanation steps of the game explanation effect is five. In other words, the number of explanation steps is smaller in the effect explanation effect than in the game explanation effect. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the enjoyment of the game from deteriorating due to the experienced player receiving an unnecessary amount of explanation information regarding the performance of the gaming machine from the standpoint of the experienced player.

(10) In addition, regarding the effect explanation effect, progress of the explanation stage according to the action of the player is allowed, but as shown in the * mark below the title in FIG. The progress of the explanation stage according to is restricted (the production explanation production does not move to the next explanation stage with the passage of time). Therefore, it is possible to allow the experienced player or the like to proceed freely in the explanation stage of the first explanation effect, and it is possible to provide a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the player.

(11) Also, as shown in FIG. 8-5, a battle effect can be executed in response to detection of operation of the push button 31B. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8-1 and the like, it is possible to execute an explanation rendering in response to detection of operation of the cross key 052F101. If the operation means for starting the battle effect and the operation means for starting the explanation effect are the same, the player who does not wish to execute the explanation effect erroneously starts the explanation effect. There is a problem of letting By using different operating means for starting the battle effect and operating means for starting the explanation effect as in the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of such a problem.

(12) Also, as shown in FIG. 8-5, when an operation effect (battle effect) is executed in response to detection of an operation on the push button 31B during execution of the explanation effect, After the middle explanation effect (display of the character explanation screen) is interrupted, the battle effect is executed. Therefore, it is possible to attract the player's attention to the battle presentation.

(13) Further, as shown in FIGS. 8-13 (A1) and (B1), the explanation stage of the effect explanation effect and the explanation stage of the game explanation effect can be progressed at different speeds. It is possible to explain different contents in each of the plurality of explanation stages in the production, and it is possible to progress the explanation stage at different speeds according to the contents explained in the plurality of explanation stages (prohibited (Items require a longer period of time to progress than game methods other than prohibited items), so that the effect explanation effect and the game effect explanation can each provide a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the target player. .

(14) In addition, as shown in FIGS. 8-4 and 8-13, one stage of the production explanation production is 25 seconds, and one stage of the game explanation production is the explanation stage for 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 20 seconds. A game explanation effect with a larger number of explanation stages than a production explanation production, such as being able to proceed automatically, can progress the explanation stage more quickly, so that the explanation production with a larger number of explanation stages can be performed at a good tempo. It is possible to proceed, and it is possible to prevent the player from becoming bored with the explanation effect.

(15) In addition, as explained in FIG. 8-3, the maximum duration of the specific explanation stage (explanation stage of the display of the prohibited matter screen in FIG. 8-3 (c3)) explaining the prohibited matters related to the game is 30 seconds On the other hand, the maximum duration of the predetermined explanation stage (for example, FIG. 8-3 (c2), (c4), etc.) explaining the matters related to the game method different from the prohibited matters related to the game is 10 seconds or 20 seconds. be. Therefore, the specific explanation stage for explaining the prohibited items related to the game can proceed at a slower speed than the predetermined explanation stage for explaining the items related to the game method, which is different from the prohibited items related to the game. The progress speed can make it easier for the player to recognize the prohibited matters regarding the game.

(16) In addition, as shown in FIG. 8-3(c3), the prohibition explanation stage can be executed in a manner that makes it easier to recognize the contents of the explanation than other explanation stages by displaying a large cross mark. In this way, the explanation at the specific explanation stage that explains the prohibited items related to the game can be executed in a manner that is easier to recognize than the predetermined explanation stage that explains the items related to the game method that are different from the prohibited items related to the game. Therefore, it is possible to make it easier for the player to recognize the prohibition regarding the game by the explanation mode.

(17) Also, when the effect explanation effect is being executed, that is, when any one of the images in FIGS. 8-2(b1) to 8-2(b3) is displayed , when a predetermined time (50 seconds in this embodiment) has passed without the player's operation, the effect explanation effect is restricted. On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 8-3, when the display of the initial screen is started, when 50 seconds have passed without the player's operation, as shown in FIG. After the end (the end method screen is displayed), the game explanation effect is restricted.

That is, when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period during execution of the effect explanation effect, the effect explanation effect can be restricted from the explanation stage during the execution of the effect explanation effect. On the other hand, when the action of the player is not detected for a specific period during execution of the game method explanation in the game explanation effect, the game explanation effect can be restricted after the game explanation effect progresses to the final stage. As a result, for example, it is considered that a high percentage of experienced gamers understand the method of progressing the effect explanation effect by action, so if the action is not detected for a predetermined period, the effect explanation effect is in the middle of execution. It is considered that no particular problem will arise even if the effect explanation effect is restricted from the explanation stage, and it is considered to be an appropriate measure for experienced gamers. On the other hand, it is thought that a high percentage of beginners do not understand how to proceed with the game explanation effect by actions, and there is a risk that they will neglect the progress without understanding how to proceed with the game explanation effect. It is considered that restricting the game explanation effect after progressing to the final explanation stage is a more appropriate measure for beginners. As described above, it is possible to provide a suitable explanation effect suitable for the game experience of the target player for each of the effect explanation effect and the game effect explanation.

(18) In addition, when the operation of the player is not detected for a predetermined period (50 seconds) during execution of the effect explanation effect, the display area of the sub-image display device 150 is changed from the explanation stage during the execution of the effect explanation effect. (052FS009, 052FS012, etc. in FIG. 8-2(c4), FIG. 8-9(A), FIG. 8-10). Further, when the action of the player is not detected for a specific period during execution of the game explanation effect, the luminance (light amount) of the display area of the sub-image display device 150 is displayed after the game explanation effect progresses to the final explanation stage. (052FS009, 052FS010, 052FS012, etc. in FIG. 8-3(c6), FIG. 8-9(B), FIG. 8-10). Therefore, it is possible to provide a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the target player for each of the game explanation effect and the effect explanation effect.

(19) In addition, when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period during the execution of the effect explanation effect, after limiting the effect explanation effect from the explanation stage during the execution of the effect explanation effect (Fig. 8- 2(d) after the luminance (light amount) of the image is lowered), the effect explanation effect is interrupted when the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period (FIG. 8-3 (b4 ) returns to the normal screen when 30 seconds have passed as indicated by the * mark). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the effect explanation effect is left in a limited state.

(20) In addition, if the action of the player is not detected for a predetermined period of time during the control of the explanation effect during execution of the variable display, the explanation effect is restricted (FIGS. 8-2 and 8- 3). As described in FIG. 8-11, even if the player's operation is not detected for a predetermined period of time during the execution of the explanation effect in the standby control state (display of the character explanation screen in the example of FIG. 8-11), To continue explanation performance without limitation. Therefore, the effect of the explanation effect on the effect during the variable display can be reduced, and the explanation effect can be preferably executed.

(21) Also, as explanation effects, it is possible to execute a first effect (such as a sound effect output from the speakers 8L and 8R) and a second effect (display of a dialogue image by the main character 052F001) different from the first effect. be. Also, as shown in FIG. 8-3(c1), the player can select either Japanese as the first language or English as the second language. The first language is the main language (Japanese) that has the highest percentage of use in the game machine. Further, when Japanese is selected, explanation effects including the first effect and the second effect can be executed. be. On the other hand, when English is selected, it is possible to execute an explanation effect that does not include the first effect but includes the second effect. Therefore, it is possible to execute a suitable explanation effect even for foreign players, and reduce the number of man-hours when creating the effect processing related to the explanation effect when the types of selectable languages are increased. Therefore, it is possible to provide a suitable explanation performance suitable for the game experience of the player. As a modification, when English is selected, explanation effects including the first effect and the second effect are executed, while when Japanese is selected, the second effect is executed without the first effect. You may make it perform the explanation production|presentation containing.

(22) In addition, the first language is the main language (Japanese) that is used most frequently in gaming machines. Therefore, since the first language is the main language most frequently used in the game machine, it is possible to use a language suitable for the installation environment of the pachinko game machine 1 to suitably execute the explanation effect.

(23) In addition, when the Japanese language is selected, as shown in FIG. 8-3, the game explanation automatically progresses through one stage of the explanation stage in 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 20 seconds. On the other hand, when English or Chinese is selected, the game explanation automatically progresses through one step of the explanation stage in 12 seconds, 35 seconds, or 25 seconds as shown in FIG. 8-7 or FIG. 8-8. Therefore, by varying the speed at which the explanation stage of the explanation effect progresses according to the type of language selected by the player, it is possible to execute the explanation effect at a suitable speed according to the type of language selected by the player. . In general, players who select English or Chinese (generally foreign players) are often unfamiliar with the pachinko gaming machine 1 . Therefore, when English or Chinese is selected, the period that triggers the progress of the explanation stage is made longer than when Japanese is selected. Therefore, even foreigners who are not familiar with the pachinko game machine 1 can appropriately recognize the game method.

As a modification, when a language different from Japanese is set, the number of images constituting the game explanation effect may be increased compared to when Japanese is set. For example, when Japanese is set, if the number of images constituting the game explanation effect is "5", if a language different from Japanese is set, the game explanation effect is constituted. Six or more images may be used. With such a configuration, it is possible to explain the game method in more detail to foreigners who are not familiar with the pachinko game machine 1 .

(24) In addition, when the first language (Japanese) is output, the number of types of voice output in the explanation effect is one, whereas when the second language (English) is output, the explanation The number of types of sounds output in the production is 0. That is, when the second language is selected, the number of types of sounds to be output in correspondence with the explanation effect to be executed is reduced compared to when the first language is selected. Therefore, when the second language is selected, the number of types of voices to be output corresponding to the explanation effect to be executed is reduced compared to when the first language is selected, so that the selected language type can be used. It is possible to execute the explanation effect with a suitable type of sound according to the situation.

As a modification, when the first language is set, the number of types of sounds to be output may be set to M, and when the second language is set, the number of types of sounds to be output may be set to N. However, M>N. For example, when the first language (Japanese) is set, a guide voice is output for each screen (five screens in this embodiment) displayed in the game explanation effect. In this case, M=5. On the other hand, when the second language (English or Chinese) is set, a specific screen (for example, the prohibition screen shown in FIG. 8-7 (e2)) among the screens displayed in the game explanation effect Outputs the guide voice only when it is displayed. In this case, N=1. With such a configuration, when the second language is selected, the number of types of sounds to be output may be smaller than when the first language is selected. In this manner, the second language, which is considered to be used less frequently than the first language, reduces the number of types of voices to be output in correspondence with the explanation effect to be executed, thereby reducing the data storage capacity for effect control. can be reduced.

(25) In addition, as shown in FIGS. 8-7 and 8-8, English subtitle images are not displayed in the game explanation effect when English is set, while the game explanation effect is displayed when Chinese is set. displays Chinese subtitle images. In general, English subtitles have a large number of characters (the number of alphabets), and this puts pressure on the display area where the screen is displayed in the game explanation effect, causing a problem that it is difficult for the player to see the screen. Therefore, in this embodiment, English subtitle images are not displayed in the game explanation effect when English is set. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the problem that the display area in which the image is displayed is squeezed by the game explanation effect, making it difficult for the player to see the image.

On the other hand, the Chinese subtitles have a small number of characters and do not put much pressure on the display area where the game explanation effect is displayed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a Chinese subtitle image is displayed in the game explanation effect when Chinese is set. Therefore, it is possible to make the player who has set the Chinese language recognize the game method.
[Modification]

(1) A special setting screen that can be displayed only by the store clerk of the game parlor where the pachinko game machine 1 is installed may be displayed. For example, a special setting screen is displayed by opening the front door of the pachinko game machine 1 with a key held by a store clerk and operating a switch (operation unit) inside the pachinko game machine 1 . The special setting screen is a screen for selecting a language that can be set. For example, each language (Japanese, English, Chinese, etc.) can be set. For example, the store clerk can set Japanese to be settable, English to be settable, and Chinese to be unsettable on the special setting screen. With such a configuration, it is possible to switch the "language set by the player" in accordance with the language that the hall staff of the game arcade can handle (for example, the language that the hall staff can speak). In addition, in the case of a configuration in which a phrase such as "Let's ask a question to the game store" is displayed in the explanation effect, a foreign player who sees this phrase asks the clerk to speak in the player's native language (foreign language). I may talk to you. If there is no hall staff who can speak the foreign language, the player may feel dissatisfied. Therefore, the problem of dissatisfaction with foreigners can be reduced by making it possible to set only the languages that the hall staff of the game arcade can handle.

In addition, on this special setting screen, an image (for example, an icon) capable of providing the player with the service contents at the game parlor where the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed is set, and the set image is displayed on the image display device 5. and the sub-image display device 150 may be displayed. The service contents are, for example, the rental of free lines, chargers for portable terminals, and the like. According to such a configuration, the image display device 5 and the sub-image display device 150 can display an image corresponding to the content of the service provided by the game parlor in which the pachinko game machine 1 is installed. , the player's convenience can be improved.

(2) Also, in the sound volume/light intensity setting image shown in FIG. 8-1(a3), the player can change the initial values (default values) to a desired sound volume and light intensity. Further, the changed volume and light amount may be returned to initial values (default values) after a predetermined period of time (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed since the standby control state was set. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the sound volume and light amount changed by the player from continuing indefinitely.

(3) In addition, in the standby control state, the number of light emitting means (for example, frame lamps of the pachinko game machine 1) to emit light may be increased compared to the normal state which is different from the standby control state. According to such a configuration, when in the standby control state, more light emitting means emit light than in the normal state, so that it is controlled in the standby control state, that is, the player is not playing a game. It is possible to appeal to people in the store that it is a game machine.

(4) In addition, in the standby control state, the amount of light emitted by the light emitting means may be increased compared to the normal state, which is different from the standby control state. According to such a configuration, when in the standby control state, the amount of light emission is greater than in the normal state, so that it is controlled in the standby control state, that is, the gaming machine that is not being played by the player. It is possible to appeal to people in the store that it is.

(5) In addition, in the standby control state, the output volume may be made smaller than in the normal state, which is different from the standby control state. "Processing to reduce the volume" is, for example, one of processing to minimize the volume and processing to zero the volume. According to such a configuration, since the sound volume is smaller in the standby control state than in the normal state, the game can be played with a game machine other than the pachinko game machine 1 controlled in the standby control state. It is possible to avoid causing trouble to the player who is there.

(6) In addition, when the menu screen is displayed during the standby control state, the period during which the player does not operate the cross key (the player does not select the menu) reaches a certain period. Sometimes, the number of light emitting means to emit light may be S, and the number of light emitting means to emit light may be T until the period in which the player does not operate the cross key reaches the fixed period. However, S and T are natural numbers, and S>T. When the period during which the player does not operate the cross key reaches the fixed period, the menu screen is displayed, but the player is present in front of the pachinko gaming machine 1 displaying the menu screen. Most likely not. Therefore, in this case, control is performed so that the number of light emitting means for emitting light is increased (to T). Therefore, it is possible to appeal to people in the pachinko parlor that there is no player in front of the pachinko game machine 1 displaying the menu screen.

(7) Further, when a specific effect is executed during a game, a specific explanation effect (third explanation effect) for explaining the specific effect in real time is executed during the execution of the specific effect. may The specific effect is, for example, an effect that can be executed during symbol variation. By executing such a specific explanation effect, it is possible to make a player who does not recognize the specific effect recognize the specific effect.

Also, whether or not to execute this specific explanation effect may be set by a menu screen or the like. According to such a configuration, a player who does not know the specific effect can recognize the specific effect by causing the specific explanation effect to be executed. On the other hand, if the player knows the specific effect, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling the trouble caused by the execution of the specific explanation effect by not executing the specific explanation effect.

(8) Further, when the game explanation effect is shifted to the last explanation stage, the pachinko game machine 1 may give a predetermined privilege. The predetermined privilege includes at least one of, for example, an increase in the execution frequency of the premium effect and an increase in the execution frequency of the high-expectation-level effect suggesting that the expectation of being controlled to the jackpot game state is high. According to such a configuration, the player is encouraged to shift the game explanation effect to the final explanation stage, that is, to make the player visually recognize all the game explanation effects based on the provision of the predetermined privilege. be able to. Further, when the effect explanation effect is shifted to the last explanation stage, the pachinko game machine 1 may give a predetermined privilege.

(9) Also, the explanation effect may be changed according to the progress of the game. For example, the number of explanation stages of the game explanation effect may be reduced based on the duration of the game. For example, when the number of symbol changes reaches a predetermined value (eg, 50 times), an image related to a specific explanation stage may not be displayed. The image related to the specific explanation step includes, for example, at least one of an image showing the game ball lending and an image showing the operation method of the hitting operation handle. If the game has been played for a certain amount of time, even a novice player has a high possibility of knowing how to lend a game ball, how to operate a hitting operation handle, and the like. If the game explanation effect is executed without reducing the number of explanation stages even when there is a high possibility that the player has recognized the method of lending the game ball and the operation method of the batting operation handle, unnecessary information for the player will be displayed. As a result, a problem may arise that the player cannot recognize the necessary information. Therefore, in this modified example, the occurrence of such a problem is suppressed by deleting the image of the specific explanation stage of the game explanation effect and reducing the number of explanation stages based on the duration of the game.

Further, if it is determined that the game has ended, for example, if the player has not operated the batting operation handle for a predetermined period of time (for example, 3 minutes), the explanation stage number You may make it return the number of explanation stages of the game explanation production|presentation which was reduced. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the game explanation effect in which the number of explanation stages is reduced from being executed indefinitely.

(10) In the example of FIG. 8-3, the ``display time of the first stage image when the operation of the down key of the cross key 052F101 by the player is not detected'' is the number of images displayed in the game explanation effect. It has been described that the image (initial screen) displayed first in the game explanation effect is the shortest. However, for the ``display time of the first stage image when the player's operation of the down key of the cross key 052F101 is not detected'', the image (initial screen) displayed at the beginning of the game explanation effect may be the longest. . According to such a configuration, it is possible to make the player clearly recognize that the game explanation effect will start.

(11) In addition, an end button image may be displayed in each image of the game explanation effect so that the end button image can be determined according to the player's operation. Further, the end button image may be displayed in the first image (for example, the initial screen) among the images of the game explanation effect. Since it is assumed that the player executing the game explanation effect is a beginner, the player often does not know how to end the game explanation effect. Therefore, in the first image of the game explanation effect, the end button image is displayed so that the beginner player can easily recognize how to end the game explanation effect.

On the other hand, it is preferable not to display the end button image in the first image of the effect explanation effect (for example, spec introduction screen). Since the player who selects the effect explanation effect recognizes the information about the pachinko game machine 1, there is a high possibility that the player also recognizes how to end the effect explanation effect. Therefore, since the end button image is not displayed, unnecessary images can be prevented from being displayed.

(12) In the gaming state controlled by the pachinko gaming machine 1, at least one of the display mode and display content of the game explanation effect may be changed. The gaming state includes, for example, a normal state, a variable probability state, a time saving state, a jackpot state, and the like. First, an example of changing the display mode of the game explanation effect will be described. For example, the color of the image displayed in the game explanation effect is made to correspond to the game state. According to such a configuration, even a novice player who is not familiar with the game state can estimate the game state being controlled from the color of the displayed image. Next, an example of changing the display contents of the game explanation effect will be described. For example, the display contents displayed in the game explanation effect are made to correspond to the game state. For example, when the game is controlled to the jackpot state, it may be possible to display a message to the effect that "right shot" is to be performed in the game explanation effect. Moreover, when it is controlled to the time saving state, the number of remaining time saving times may be displayed in the game explanation effect. In this way, in the game state controlled by the pachinko game machine 1, by changing at least one of the display mode and the display contents of the game explanation effect, the interest in the game can be improved.

(13) In addition, while outputting a sound during execution of the game explanation effect in the standby control state, while executing the game explanation effect in a state other than the standby control state (for example, during the game is being played) You may set it so that a sound may not be output. For example, when a game is being played, a game sound is being output, and when a sound for a game explanation effect is output, the game sound is hindered by the sound for the game explanation effect, and the game is stopped. It will lead to loss of interest. Therefore, by not outputting the sound of the game explanation effect while the game is being played, it is possible to prevent the game sound from being disturbed. On the other hand, it is possible to appeal to people in the pachinko parlor that there is no player in front of the pachinko game machine 1 in the standby control state by outputting a voice during execution of the game explanation effect in the standby control state. can.

(14) Further, as shown in FIGS. 8-2 and 8-3, it has been explained that the sound is output in the game explanation effect and the sound is not output in the effect explanation effect. However, P types of sounds may be output in the game explanation effect, and Q types of sounds may be output in the effect explanation effect. Here, both P and Q are natural numbers, and P>Q. For example, in the game explanation effect, guide voice, BGM, and sound effects are output as P types of sounds (three types of sounds), whereas in the effect explanation effect, only BGM is output as Q types of sounds (one type of sound). to output According to such a configuration, by outputting many kinds of sounds in the game explanation effect, the beginner player is made familiar with the game. Along with this, by outputting a small number of types of sounds in the effect explanation effect (or by not outputting a small number of types of sounds in the effect explanation effect), the processing load of sound output can be reduced.

(15) In addition, in the present embodiment, it has been described that the language is set by the player in the game explanation effect, while the language is not set by the player in the effect explanation effect. However, the language may be set by the player even in the effect explanation effect.

In this case, the control based on the language setting by the player may be made different between the game explanation effect and the effect explanation effect. For example, in the effect explanation effect, the displayed characters are translated into the set language and displayed, whereas in the game explanation effect, the displayed characters are translated into the set language and displayed. You may make it output the voice in the language which you chose. According to such a configuration, it is possible to execute a suitable explanation effect in accordance with the game experience of the player.

(16) The sub-image display device 150 may always display a character image (for example, the first character image 0652F001) regardless of whether or not the explanation effect is executed. Also, the display mode of the character image (for example, the first character image 0652F001) may be set according to the set value. Hereinafter, this character image is referred to as a "set value suggesting character image". Also, the set value is a value indicating the degree of advantage of the player (for example, the winning probability of the jackpot state). According to such a configuration, it is possible to attract attention to the setting value suggesting character image, and to improve the interest of the game. Further, for example, when the menu screen is displayed, the setting value suggesting character image is displayed so that the display layer of this character image is located in front of the display layer of the option images that constitute the menu screen. You may do so. In other words, the set value suggesting character image may be displayed so as not to be obstructed by other images (for example, option images forming the menu screen). According to such a configuration, since the display of the character image is not obstructed by other images, it is possible to attract attention to the setting value suggesting character image, thereby enhancing the interest of the game.

(17) Also, the set value suggesting character image suggesting the set value may be displayed in an explanatory effect. Further, for example, this set value suggesting character image may be displayed in the effect explanation effect, but may not be displayed in the game explanation effect. Effect Description Since there is a high possibility that the player who executes the effect is an experienced player, there is a high possibility that he/she will pay attention to the set value. Therefore, by displaying the setting value suggesting character image in the effect explanation effect, it is possible to appropriately draw attention to the setting value suggesting character image. Also, since the player who executes the game explanation effect is likely to be an inexperienced player, there is a high possibility that the set value itself is unknown. Therefore, even if the setting value suggesting character image is displayed in the game explanation presentation, not only does the display area become overwhelmed, but the setting value suggesting character image causes confusion for inexperienced players. Therefore, by not displaying the set value suggesting character image in the game explanation presentation, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of such a problem.

(18) The setting values that have been set may be suggested depending on the display mode of the menu screen. According to such a configuration, it is possible to attract the player's attention to the display mode of the menu screen. Further, the set value may be suggested by the display mode of the screen that can be shifted from the menu screen. The screen that can be shifted from the menu screen is, for example, at least one of the volume/light amount setting screen, each screen displayed in the effect explanation effect, and each screen displayed in the game explanation effect. According to such a configuration, it is possible to attract the player's attention to the display mode of the screen that can be shifted from the menu screen.

(19) At least one of the aforementioned effect explanation effect and game explanation effect may be composed of a plurality of explanation stages using a moving image. In that case, one chapter of the moving image may be set as one stage of explanation, and the moving image divided into a plurality of stages of chapters may be displayed. Further, at least one of the effect explanation effect and the game explanation effect described above may be configured by mixing a still image and a moving image in each explanation step of a plurality of steps. In that case, still images and moving images are sequentially displayed in a predetermined order.

(Explanation relating to association of characteristic portions)
Each configuration relating to a characteristic portion may be appropriately combined with part or all of each configuration relating to another characteristic portion. Features that are combined in this way, or individual features that are not combined, may be combined with part or all of each configuration relating to other features as appropriate.

It should be considered that the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the scope of the claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning of equivalents of the scope of the claims.

1 pachinko machine 052F102 cross key sensor 052F001 first character 052F037 second character 052F023 pachinko machine image 052F081 game ball moving image 150 sub-image display device 052F038 third character image 35A controller sensor unit 35B push Sensor, 052F103 cross key sensor, 052F104 button sensor, 50 image display device, 31B push button, 8L, 8R speaker.

Claims (1)

A game machine capable of playing,
variable display means capable of variable display;
a detection means capable of detecting the action of a player;
and an explanation effect executing means capable of executing an explanation effect related to the game,
The detection means is
a first detection means for detecting a player's action related to an effect different from the explanation effect;
a second detection means for detecting a player's action related to the explanation effect, unlike the first detection means;
The explanation production executing means
As the explanation effects, a first explanation effect capable of displaying information about the effect of the game machine using a plurality of explanation stages, and a second explanation effect capable of displaying information about the game method of the game machine using a plurality of explanation stages. The explanation effect can be executed both in a state where the game is not progressing and in a state where the game is progressing,
It is possible to advance the explanation stage of the first explanation effect according to the player's action detected by the second detection means,
It is possible to advance the explanation stage of the second explanation effect according to the player's action or the passage of time detected by the second detection means,
executing the first explanation effect using the specific display displayed during the variable display ;
A gaming machine in which the amount of characters displayed at one time is smaller in the second explanation effect than in the first explanation effect .

Images