JP2000176103A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To greatly enhance the interests in a game machine, as a whole, wherein a plurality of rows of patterns can be displayed. SOLUTION: A special pattern action hole 31 and a special scoring mechanism 33 are arranged on a game board 5 of a pachinko machine, while a special pattern display unit 32 provided with a display 41 is incorporated into the central portion of the board 5. A plurality of pattern rows are displayed on the display 41 and if a fixed pattern is a big hit pattern, the mechanism 33 is actuated to provide a large number of prize balls for a player. The above components of the pachinko machine are controlled by a controller 81, and by varying the pattern display conditions of the display 41 by the controller 81, the amusingness of pattern variation can be enhanced.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As one type of gaming machine, a pachinko machine having a symbol display means for displaying a fixed symbol after variably displaying a symbol row including a plurality of symbols is known. In this kind of pachinko machine, a special game state advantageous to the player is generated on the condition that the confirmed symbol displayed on the symbol display means is a specific symbol. As an example of the special game state, for example, in a pachinko machine provided with a special accessory having a special winning opening, there is a state in which the special winning opening is opened and a player can acquire a large amount of premium balls. By the way, the symbol display means displays symbol columns in a plurality of columns, for example, three columns of left, middle, and right. In general, a game state is set.

[0003]

However, for example, in the case of a gaming machine of the type in which the symbol columns are displayed in three columns, that is, left, middle, and right, as described above, after the symbol columns are simultaneously displayed in a fluctuating manner, For example, the symbols are merely stopped in order from left to right and are determined symbols, and the player does not have much interest in the symbol display means unless the so-called reach state is reached, and the reach state frequently occurs. Because of this, there are many parts that are monotonous as a whole game. Of course, to make it seem as if all the symbol rows have been stopped temporarily, and then to display all the symbol rows all at once, such as full rotation display, to improve the interest of the game. However, this only occurs under very limited circumstances, such as immediately before the special gaming state occurs, and
At the stage before the full-rotation display, it is a simple matter of simply stopping each symbol row sequentially, and from the viewpoint of improving the interest of the whole game, the actual effect is not so high.

[0004] Therefore, in a gaming machine capable of displaying a plurality of symbol rows, one of the main problems of the gaming machine is to dramatically improve the interest in the game as a whole.

[0005]

Means effective for solving the above-mentioned problems will be described below. The operation, effects, and the like will be described as needed.

[0006] 1. A symbol display means for displaying a determined symbol after variably displaying a symbol row composed of a plurality of symbols, and a special game state generation for generating a special game state advantageous to a player on condition that the determined symbol is a specific symbol A game machine comprising: means for displaying a plurality of symbol rows on the symbol display means, and changing the number of effective symbol rows in the symbol display means under predetermined conditions. According to this means, since the number of symbol rows displayed as valid on the symbol display means is changed under predetermined conditions, the number of game rows is smaller than that of the conventional game in which the number of valid symbol rows is determined. Can greatly improve the interests of people.

[0007] 2. In the means 1, in the plurality of symbol rows that can be displayed on the symbol display means, a plurality of symbols in at least one symbol row include symbols that can be visually identified from each other. Otherwise, it is difficult for the player to recognize the occurrence of the special game state.

[0008] 3. In the means (1) or (2), the change of the symbol row in the symbol display means is performed so that each symbol in the symbol row is circulated in a predetermined order. With this configuration, since the appearance order of each symbol can be recognized by the player in advance, it is possible to know at which timing a symbol that can generate the special game state appears, and particularly, the display state of the symbol display means is the reach state. In this case, the sense of expectation due to the approach of a symbol that can generate a special game state is increased, and the interest of the game is improved. At the time of the cyclic display, it is possible to display the symbols such that the symbols are sequentially switched or to display the symbols such that the symbols continuously flow in a predetermined direction.

4. In any one of the above means 1 to 3, it is configured such that whether or not the confirmed symbol of the symbol display means is a specific symbol is accidentally determined at a time when the fluctuation start condition of the symbol display means is satisfied. . With this configuration, since whether or not a specific symbol is set is not set in advance, it is possible to ensure a sense of fairness of the player with respect to the gaming machine. Please note that this contingent decision
It is preferable that the random number is randomly determined at a predetermined probability by random number acquisition means provided in the gaming machine. It is preferable that the random number acquisition means is performed based on a random number value randomly derived using a random number counter stored in the storage means. At this time, it is preferable to be taken out from the random number counter at a timing derived with a correlation with the timing when the symbol variation start condition is satisfied,
With this configuration, the expected value of whether or not the confirmed symbol is a specific symbol can be kept fair in the gaming machine.

[0010] 5. In any of the above means 1 to 4, control of the gaming machine including display control of the symbol display means and determination of whether or not a condition for generating a special game state is satisfied,
Being performed by a control device including a CPU provided in the gaming machine. With this configuration, it is possible to cope with complicated control.

6. In the above means 1, the predetermined condition is a condition which is achieved based on a game result of another game means playing a game different from the symbol display means. With this configuration, there is an expectation that the number of effective symbol rows varies depending on the result of another game means, and the game can be given a thickness.

7. The predetermined condition in the means 1,
Alternatively, the different game means in the means 6 is performed by being notified by the notice notifying means at least before the finalized symbol is displayed on the symbol display means. With this configuration, the player does not simply look at the number of symbol rows of the symbol display means, but also expects whether or not a notice result advantageous to the player will be obtained, and the interest of the game is further improved. Is done.

8. In the means 7, the notice by the notice notifying means is a notice by a display. With this configuration, the player can easily understand the occurrence of the notice. It is preferable that the notice notifying means relating to the display notice be displayed on the same screen as the symbol display means, or be incorporated in a single display device.

9. In the above means 8, the display notice by the notice notifying means is performed by a notice symbol intuitively suggesting or indicating the number of effective symbol rows by the symbol display means. With this configuration, it is possible to immediately understand what the display notice means. Among them, a preferable example is that the notice symbol includes at least one of a number indicating the number of effective symbol columns and the notice symbol indicates the effective symbol column itself.

10. In the above means 8 or 9, the display notice by the notice notifying means includes a plurality of display modes (a plurality of patterns, a mode by lighting / flashing, etc.), and is determined after being variably displayed. With this configuration, a feeling of expectation as to what kind of result the display notice indicates is obtained, and the interest of the game is further improved. In this case, from the viewpoint of further improving interest, it is preferable that a plurality of variations exist before the display notice is confirmed.

11. In any of the above means 8 to 10, the display announcement by the announcement notifying means is performed every time in one-to-one correspondence with each symbol change of the symbol display means.
In this way, if the display notice is given each time, the player will not be bored. In this case, the display notice may include a light-off, a blank, and the like.

[12] In any one of the means 8 to 11, the display notice by the notice notifying means is to be variably displayed almost simultaneously with the start of the symbol change by the symbol display means. With this configuration, one of the elements that hinder the smooth progress of the game can be eliminated.

13. In any one of the above means 7 to 12, display of a confirmed symbol by the symbol display means is performed after a notice by the advance notification means is made. According to this structure, the symbol is displayed on the symbol display means based on the result of the announcement after sufficiently enjoying the result of the announcement notification means, so that the game can be enjoyed in two stages. In addition, since the notice by the notice notifying means and the display of the confirmed symbol by the symbol display means are performed with a time difference, the flow of the game can be easily grasped.

14. In the above means 1, the change of the number of effective symbol columns is performed by switching the number of symbol columns displayed on the symbol display means. With this configuration, for example, when the symbol row is switched from 3 rows to 2 rows, it is possible to prohibit the display of an extra row which is an invalid symbol row, and all the displayed symbol rows are valid symbol rows. In other words, the inconvenience of the player misunderstanding the fixed symbol can be avoided.

15. In the means 14, the symbol display areas are made substantially the same regardless of the number of symbol columns to be displayed. With this configuration, the smaller the number of displayed symbol columns, the higher the probability of occurrence of at least the special game state on the surface. In this case, the display becomes dynamic and the expectation of the occurrence of the special game state is increased. It is further enhanced and the interest of the game is further improved.

16. In the above means 14, the change of the number of effective symbol rows is performed in a state in which the symbol of the symbol display means is fluctuated at a high speed to such an extent that it cannot be visually recognized. With this configuration, the display of the number of effective symbol rows can be smoothly switched.

17. In the above means 1, the change of the number of effective symbol columns is performed by selecting an effective symbol column from a plurality of displayed symbol columns without changing the number of symbol columns displayed on the symbol display means. To be done in With this configuration, it is not necessary to change the number of symbol columns on the display by the symbol display means, and the display control of the symbol display means is relatively simplified. In this case, it is possible to determine the effective symbol sequence after displaying the confirmed symbol on the symbol display means without necessarily giving the notice.

18. In the means 1, the number of effective symbol rows and the expected value of the special game state have a correlation. In particular, the smaller the number of effective symbol rows, the higher the expected value of occurrence of the special game state. With this configuration, not only does the interest of the game on the display increase, but also the actual profit state for the player increases, as the number of effective symbol rows decreases, and the probability of occurrence of a special game state such as a big hit increases. This has an effect, and the player can be more attracted to the game.

19. In the above-mentioned means 1, when at least one effective symbol row is one row, at least one of the confirmed symbols is removed and set as a symbol. The out-of-place design includes a blank design such as a blank. Providing a deviating symbol even when the number of effective symbol rows is one means that the probability that the number of effective symbol rows becomes one can be increased. In other words, if there is no missing symbol, the number of effective symbol columns is 1, which means that the condition for generating the special game state is satisfied, and as a result, the chance of the number of effective symbol columns being 1 decreases. is there.
And by configuring in this way, the number of effective symbol rows is reduced to 1
It is possible to prevent the significance of including those that are set to be impaired.

20. In the means 7 to 13, the judgment of the notice by the notice notifying means is made based on a random number value randomly derived using a random number counter stored in the storage means. In this way, a sense of fairness of the player with respect to the gaming machine can be ensured. Further, it is preferable that the judgment of the notice by the notice notifying means is performed simultaneously with the judgment of whether or not the confirmed symbol of the symbol display means in the means 4 is a specific symbol. In particular, it is preferable to be taken out from the random number counter at a timing derived with a correlation with the timing when the symbol change start condition of the symbol display means is satisfied.
In addition to the expected value of whether or not the confirmed symbol is a specific symbol, the content of the announcement by the announcement notification means can be kept fair in the gaming machine.

21. In the above means 1, all of the patterns of the number of effective symbol rows that can be changed in the symbol display means are set to an expected value higher than an expected value at which the special game state occurs. With such a configuration, the patterns of the number of effective symbol rows prepared in advance appear relatively frequently, and the player can enjoy various patterns.

22. In the above means 1, the gaming machine is a pachinko machine. Above all, as a basic configuration of a pachinko machine, an operation handle is provided, and a game ball is fired to a predetermined game area in accordance with the operation of the handle, and the game ball is provided at an operating port arranged at a predetermined position in the game area. The symbol display means may be started to change as a requirement for winning. In addition, when a special game state occurs, the variable prize device arranged at a predetermined position in the game area is opened in a predetermined mode so that game balls can be won. , Writing to a magnetic card, etc.).

[0028]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment in which a gaming machine is embodied as a pachinko machine will be described below with reference to the drawings.

First, an outline of the entire pachinko machine will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 1 has an outer frame 2. Here, the outer frame 2 is formed of a wooden frame, and has a rectangular frame shape. A front frame 3 is mounted on the front side of the outer frame 2 so as to be openable and closable so as to rotate about a rotation shaft arranged on one side thereof. In the figure, the front frame 3 is in a closed state. A relatively large window hole 4 penetrating in the front-rear direction is formed in the front frame 3, and a mounting frame (not shown) as a mounting portion is provided so as to surround the window hole 4 from the back side. The mounting frame may be formed integrally with the front frame 3, and in that case, it is preferable that the mounting frame is made of synthetic resin from the viewpoint of ease of manufacturing. A game board 5 is detachably mounted on the mounting frame from the back side. The game board 5 may also be provided integrally with the mounting frame or the front frame 3. Further, as the pachinko machine 1 in which the outer frame 2 is omitted, the front frame 3 of the pachinko machine 1 may be attached to a so-called island of a game arcade. Therefore, it can be said that the main body of the pachinko machine 1 is configured with the front frame 3 as a minimum essential requirement, and the gaming board 5 is provided in the main body.

A mechanism panel (not shown) is detachably or removably mounted on the mounting frame so as to overlap the back side of the game panel 5. The mechanism board includes a collecting gutter for collecting game balls guided from the game board 5 side, a tank for receiving and storing game balls sent from the outside, and a premium ball for paying out premium balls according to the game situation. A ball handling mechanism such as a payout device is provided. Therefore, it can be said that the ball handling mechanism is provided on the back side of the main body of the pachinko machine 1. The ball handling mechanism including the mechanism board may be installed on a so-called island of a game arcade separately from the pachinko machine 1.

A glass door frame 6 is mounted above the window hole 4 of the front frame 3 so as to be openable and closable. The glass door frame 6 supports, for example, a pair of glass plates 7 in the frame. However,
The number of the glass plates 7 may be one or plural. This glass plate 7
The surface facing the game board 5 has a function as a guide member for guiding a game ball to fall on the game board 5 surface. Below the window 4 of the front frame 3, an upper tray 8 provided on the front side and a front plate 9 provided with an automatic ball hitting supply device on the back side are mounted so as to be opened and closed. The front panel 9 is provided with a speaker 10 embedded therein. The speaker 10 generates sound effects such as voices and musical sounds in accordance with the progress of the game, and can be positioned as a notification unit provided in the pachinko machine 1. The speaker 10 may be installed at a place other than the front panel 9.

Below the window 4 of the front frame 3, a lower tray 11 is mounted. The lower tray 11 discharges and stores a prize ball that cannot be accommodated in the upper tray 8, a ball that has been removed from the upper tray 8, or a surplus ball such as a foul ball from the surplus ball outlet 12. . On the side of the lower tray 11 in the front frame 3, an operation handle 13 as an operation unit for firing a game ball is rotatably mounted. A motor (not shown) as driving means is mounted on the back side of the front frame 3 corresponding to the operation handle 13, and the motor is turned by the turning operation of the operation handle 13. (Not shown) is intermittently operated, and is adjusted to a resilient force according to the rotation angle of the operation handle 13. Therefore, a ball launching device is constituted by the motor, the hitting rod, and the like.

Next, the structure on the game board 5 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, a guide rail 21 is provided on the front side of the game board 5 of the pachinko machine 1. The guide rail 21 has a launch path of the game ball B formed by a double structure of the inner rail and the outer rail in a path portion of the initial stage of the launch of the game ball B, and has a substantially annular shape as a whole without overlapping in other portions. is set up. A substantially circular area surrounded by the guide rail 21 is a game area 22.
The guide rail 21 may be a part of the ring, and the other part may be a guide member such as a resin. Such a guide rail 21 and the guide member have a function as a game area setting member.

In the game area 22 of the game board 5, a special symbol operating port 31, a special symbol display device 32, a special accessory 33, an ordinary symbol operating port 34, an ordinary symbol display device 35, an ordinary accessory 3
6 and the like are provided. In addition, the special symbol display device 32,
A display device such as the ordinary symbol display device 35 does not necessarily need to be installed in the game area 22.
It is sufficient that the device is installed so as to be visible to the player at any one of the locations.

The special symbol operating port 31 is provided at the lower center of the game board 5. The special symbol operation port 31 is always open, so that the game ball B can be received. Here, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out along with the prize of the game ball B to the special symbol operation port 31 and has a function as a winning port. It is not necessary to pay out the prize ball, and the game ball B that has entered the special symbol operation port 31 is returned to the game area 22 again, or the special symbol operation port 31 is used as a gate structure so that the game ball B simply passes. The configuration may be any. The winning of the game ball B to the special symbol operation port 31 is a symbol change start condition of the special symbol display device 32, and the special symbol operation port 31 has a function as an operation port.

The special symbol display device 32 is fixed to the central portion of the game board 5 from the back side of the game board 5. The special symbol display device 32 includes a display unit 41 as a display unit on which symbols are displayed. Display 41
Is constituted by a liquid crystal display (LCD) in this embodiment.
Other display means such as an ED, electroluminescence, a fluorescent display tube, and a drum may be used. The symbol displayed on the display unit 41 is determined after the start of the change, with the requirement of winning the game ball B to the special symbol operating port 31 as a necessary condition.

A holding lamp 42 is incorporated in the special symbol display device 32 adjacent to the display section 41. Here, the game ball B is again transferred to the special symbol operating port 31 before the symbol whose fluctuation has been started is determined in the special symbol display device 32.
Is won in preparation for the variable display after the current variable display is determined. Here, the maximum number of suspensions is set to four. The number of the holding lamps 42 is the same as the maximum number of holdings. The hold lamp 42 is sequentially turned on for each hold, and is turned off sequentially in accordance with the execution of the variable display corresponding to the hold, and has a function as a hold state display means. Note that the maximum number of times of holding is not limited to this, and the holding lamp 42 may be omitted so as not to hold. The display of the hold state may be shared by the display unit 41 or the like.

The special accessory 33 can be positioned as a variable winning device or a variable winning device, and is provided at a lower center portion of the gaming board 5. The special accessory 33 is activated when a special game state occurs, and gives a valuable value such as allowing the player to acquire a large number of prize balls at the time of the activation. The special accessory 33 is provided with a special winning opening 43 as a winning opening that is opened on the front of the gaming board 5. Grand Prize Winner 4
By the winning of the game ball B to No. 3, a prize ball is paid out according to the winning number. A shutter 44 as opening / closing means is provided in front of the special winning opening 43, that is, on the entrance side. The shutter 44 is operated by an opening / closing solenoid 45 as a driving means provided on the side of the special winning opening 43 to open and close the special winning opening 43. More specifically, when the opening / closing solenoid 45 is in the excited state, the shutter 44 tilts substantially horizontally, the large winning opening 43 is opened, and the opening / closing solenoid 45 is opened.
Is in a non-excited state, the shutter 44 is in a substantially vertical state, and the special winning opening 43 is closed. Therefore, the shutter 44 has a function as a switching means for switching between a first state in which the game ball B is easily received in the special winning opening 43 and a second state in which the game ball B is unacceptable or unacceptable.

A V zone and a prize zone are provided at the back of the special prize port 43. The game ball B that has won the special winning opening 43 is guided to either the V zone or the winning zone. A seesaw 46 is provided at the back of the special winning opening 43 to guide the game ball B to one of the two zones. The game ball B that has won the special winning opening 43 is a seesaw 46.
It rolls up and is guided to a prize ball processing device (not shown) through either the V zone or the prize zone.
The seesaw 46 is tilted by driving a tilting solenoid 47 as a driving means provided adjacent to the special winning opening 43. The tilting solenoid 47 is normally in a non-excited state. In this state, the seesaw 46 is tilted so that the game ball B passes through the V zone. When the tilting solenoid 47 is excited, the seesaw 46 tilts so that the game ball B is guided to the winning zone. In the present embodiment, when at least one game ball B has passed through the V zone in the open state of the shutter 44, the seesaw 46 is tilted toward the winning zone,
Is closed, the seesaw 46 is tilted toward the V zone. Therefore, the seesaw 46 functions as a guide unit for guiding the game ball B to any one of a plurality of regions (the V zone and the winning zone in the above example), and as a changing unit for changing the guided region. With function.

The normal symbol operation ports 34 are provided on both left and right sides of the game board 5. Normally, the symbol operation port 34 is always open, and is configured to pass through after a game ball B has been won, forming a gate structure. A configuration in which a predetermined number of premium balls are paid out may be adopted. The winning of the game ball B to the normal symbol operation port 34 is a symbol change start condition of the normal symbol display device 35, and the normal symbol operation port 34 has a function as an operation port.

The ordinary symbol display device 35 is arranged in parallel above the special symbol display device 32. Ordinary symbol display device 35
Are integrally assembled with the special symbol display device 32, so that the assembling of the pachinko machine 1 is facilitated. The ordinary symbol display device 35 includes an ordinary symbol display unit 51 as a display unit on which symbols are displayed. Normally, the symbol display section 51 is constituted by seven segments composed of light emitting diodes in this embodiment. The normal symbol display unit 51 displays a normal fixed symbol by changing a plurality of symbols in a predetermined order and then stopping, for example.
For example, symbols consisting of one-digit numbers from "1" to "9" are variably displayed in ascending order. Ordinarily, the symbol display section 51 may use display means such as an LCD, a CRT, a dot matrix, electroluminescence, a fluorescent display tube, and a drum, in addition to the light emitting diode. Further, the display unit 41 may also be used. Symbols displayed on the normal symbol display section 51 (numbers from "1" to "9" in the above example)
Is determined after the change is started on condition that the winning of the game ball B into the ordinary symbol operation port 34 is required. The ordinary symbol display device 35 incorporates a holding lamp 52 adjacent to the ordinary symbol display section 51. The holding lamp 52 also has a function as a holding state display unit similar to the holding lamp 42, but the holding function is eliminated and the holding lamp 52 is omitted as in the above-described example, and the normal symbol display unit 51 and the display unit are used. 4
One may also be used.

The ordinary role item 36 can be positioned as a variable winning device or a variable winning device, and is provided at the lower center of the game board 5. Here, the ordinary accessory 36 has a pair of blades 53 as opening / closing means arranged at the entrance of the special symbol operating port 31. The blades 53 can be opened and closed with each other, and are appropriately opened when the fixed normal symbol of the normal symbol display section 51 is a predetermined specific symbol such as “7”. As an aspect of this opening, there is an aspect in which it is opened for a predetermined time (for example, several seconds) and then closed, or the procedure is repeated a plurality of times. Opening of the blades 53 increases the probability of winning the special symbol operating port 31, and more specifically, can increase the expected value of obtaining a special game state. When the special symbol operating port 31 is of a type in which a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out when a prize is won, it can be said that the number of obtained prize balls is increased. Accordingly, the actuation of the ordinary accessory 36, that is, the opening and closing of the blades 53, has a function as an added value giving means for giving an added value to the player which is larger than usual and smaller than the special game state. Here, the wings 53 are provided in the special symbol operating port 31 and the operating port 31 is also used as a winning port of the ordinary accessory 36. However, the ordinary accessory 36 may be provided independently of the special symbol operating port 31.

The special symbol operating port 31, the special symbol display device 32, the special accessory 33, the ordinary symbol operating port 34,
The installation positions of the ordinary symbol display device 35, the ordinary accessory 36, and the like on the game board 5 are not limited to those described above, and may be any one singular or plural. In addition, the normal symbol operation port 34,
The normal symbol display device 35 and the normal accessory 36 may be omitted from the configuration.

The game board 5 has the above-mentioned symbol operating ports 31,
A plurality of normal winning ports are provided for setting conditions for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls, in addition to the normal winning ports. Further, in the game area 22 of the game board 5, a plurality of windmills, a large number of obstacle nails, guide nails, and the like for appropriately adjusting the flowing direction and speed of the game ball B are provided. Is a pachinko machine 1
Can be positioned as a guiding means, a direction adjusting means, or a speed adjusting means of the game ball B in the game area 22 provided in the game area 22. Further, in addition to the above, inside and outside the game area 22 of the pachinko machine 1, various lamps and electric decoration members for enhancing a game effect are attached, and these electric decoration members and the like are changed according to the progress of the game. The lighting state (extinguished, lit, blinking, etc.) can be changed, and can be positioned as the illumination means provided in the pachinko machine 1.

Next, a specific configuration of the display section 41 of the special symbol display device 32 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, a special symbol display area 61 as symbol display means or special symbol display means is set on the display section 41. In addition, a notice symbol display area 62 as notice symbol display means is set at a position different from the special symbol display area 61. The notice symbol display area 62 does not necessarily need to be set in the display unit 41, and may be provided independently in another place of the game board 5. However, both display areas 61 and 6
By integrating the two in a single display unit 41, not only the structure can be simplified, but also a variety of display modes can be realized in the display unit 41.

As shown in FIG. 4 (b), a case will be described in which a notice symbol row consisting of numbers "1", "2" and "3" is displayed in the notice symbol display area 62. Each symbol in the notice symbol row is not limited to a number, but may be any pattern, color, picture, etc., as long as they can be identified from each other. Then, as described above, after the game ball B is started to fluctuate as a necessary condition for winning the game ball B to the special symbol operating port 31, the game is stopped in a state where any of the numbers “1” to “3” is displayed, and the stop is performed. The symbol is a notice confirmed symbol.

In the special symbol display area 61, when the preview confirmed symbol in the preview symbol display area 62 is “3”, FIG.
As shown in (a), a three-digit special symbol row is displayed in a variable manner. In this case, the special symbol display area 61 is the first symbol area 6
3, a third symbol area 64, and a third symbol area 65. Here, an example is shown in which the first to third symbol regions 63, 64, 65 are juxtaposed in the horizontal direction. However, for example, even if they are juxtaposed vertically or diagonally or non-linearly. Good. Each symbol area 63, 64, 6
5, a special symbol row including a plurality of symbols is variably displayed in a circulating manner. Here, as an example,
As shown in FIG. 4A, each of the symbol areas 63, 64, 65
The type of the symbol displayed in is composed of nine numbers “1” to “9” in ascending order and “Rhombus” added to a part of the array, for a total of ten symbols. Symbol area 6
A description will be given of a case where the symbols are variably displayed so as to circulate at 3, 64, 65. However, each symbol in the special symbol row is not limited to a number or a rhombus pattern, but may be distinguished from each other like other patterns, colors, pictures, etc. I just need. And here, each symbol area 63,
In the case where the special fixed symbol stopped and fixed in 64 and 65 is a number other than the “diamond” and a predetermined combination (here, each special fixed symbol matches), a big hit symbol is used. A special game state is generated. In other words, the "rhombus" is deviated from the design,
A case where the special confirmed symbols match each other except for the “diamond” is defined as a big hit symbol.

In the special symbol display area 61, when the preview confirmed symbol in the preview symbol display area 62 is "2", FIG.
As shown in (b), a two-digit special symbol sequence is variably displayed. In this case, the special symbol display area 61 is the first symbol area 6
6. The second symbol area 67 is divided into two areas. Here, the case where the first and second symbol regions 66 and 67 are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction is illustrated, but they may be arranged in a vertical direction or an oblique direction, for example. Further, the size of each of the symbol regions 66 and 67 is set to be uniform in the special symbol display region 61, but may be different from each other. In each of the symbol areas 66 and 67, a special symbol row including a plurality of symbols is variably displayed in a circulating manner. This special symbol row is also the above-mentioned notice symbol display area 6
This is the same as the case where the notice confirmation symbol of No. 2 is “3”. Here, in the case where the special fixed symbol stopped and fixed in each of the symbol regions 66 and 67 is a number other than “diamond” and is a predetermined combination (here, the special fixed symbols match each other). ) As a big hit symbol, and a special game state is generated. That is, "rhombus"
, And a case where each special fixed symbol is coincident with each other except for the “diamond” is defined as a big hit symbol.

In the special symbol display area 61, when the confirmed symbol in the preview symbol display area 62 is "1",
As shown in (c), one digit, that is, a single special symbol row is variably displayed. In this case, the special symbol display area 61 is a single symbol area 68. Here, the size of the symbol area 68 is set to be almost full in the special symbol display area 61, but may be smaller than that. In the symbol area 68, a special symbol row including a plurality of symbols is variably displayed in a circulating manner. This special symbol row is also the same as the case where the notice confirmed symbol in the above-mentioned notice symbol display area 62 is “3” or “2”. In this case, the special game state occurs when the special fixed symbol stopped and determined in the symbol area 68 is a number other than “diamond” as a big hit symbol. That is, the "diamond" is a deviated symbol.

As described above, the symbols in the special symbol display area 61 are also started to fluctuate on condition that a game ball B is to be awarded to the special symbol operating port 31. Then, after the symbols in the preview symbol display area 62 are determined, the special symbol display area 61 is divided into the first to third symbol areas as described above according to the preview determined symbols. afterwards,
The symbols in each symbol area are stopped to obtain a special fixed symbol. That is, the preview confirmed symbol in the preview symbol display area 62 appears to determine the number of symbol rows in the special symbol display area 61, and has a correlation with each other on display. Moreover, the number itself in the preview symbol display area 62 represents the number of symbol rows in the special symbol display area 61.

By the way, at the stage before the big hit symbol is obtained as the special fixed symbol in the special symbol display area 61, a reach state is passed. The reach state includes the case where the special game state that is the big hit state as described above is generated, and also the case where the finally fixed special fixed symbol is the non-big hit symbol and becomes the off-reach state. In any case, as the reach state, it is preferable to set various reach patterns set so that the expected value at which the big hit state occurs (big hit expected value) is different. Also, in the symbol variation displayed in the preview symbol display area 62, it is preferable that various variation patterns such as a pattern in which the variation speed is different from each other and a pattern in which the symbol shape changes are set.

The pachinko machine 1 is provided with detection means such as various detection switches and sensors in order to detect a game state that changes according to the operation of the player. For example, it corresponds to the special symbol operating port switch 71 provided corresponding to the special symbol operating port 31, the V zone switch 72 and the count switch 73 provided corresponding to the special accessory 33, and the normal symbol operating port 34. The switch 74 for the normal symbol operation port provided as such. Special design switch 71
Detects the winning of the game ball B to the special symbol operating port 31, and
The zone switch 72 detects that the game ball B has passed through the V zone for the continuation of the round, and the count switch 73 detects that the game ball B has won the large winning opening 43. In addition, although not shown, a number of detection means such as an operation detection switch for detecting the operation state of the operation handle 13 and a magnetic sensor for preventing fraud are provided.

Based on the detection results of the detecting means such as the switches 71 to 74, the special accessory 33 (solenoids 45, 4) is used.
7) for controlling the drive of the special symbol display device 32 (display unit 41, hold lamp 42), the normal symbol display device 35 (normal symbol display unit 51 and the hold lamp 52), the normal accessory 36 (wing 53), etc. Is provided with a control device 81. Although the control device 81 is schematically shown in FIG. 2, it is actually mounted on the back side of the game board 5. Control device 8
1 is a read only memory (RO) as storage means
M), a central processing unit (CPU) as control means, a random access memory (RAM) as storage means, and the like. The control device 81 is not limited to a single control device, and may be a plurality of control devices. For example, a plurality of CPUs are provided to share control functions,
One of the PUs can be used for fraud prevention or R
Various specifications are possible, such as having a plurality of storage means such as OM or RAM and using them for backup.

The ROM stores a predetermined control program and initial data in advance. In particular, the pachinko machine 1 is stored in the ROM.
A counter group composed of various counters and an appropriate table group used for the control are stored. The counter group includes a round counter, a hold counter, a winning counter, and the like, an internal random number counter that is updated at predetermined time intervals such as 2 ms intervals, a missed reach random number counter, a jackpot symbol random number counter, a plurality of symbol random number counters, and a reach type. A decision counter and a symbol row number decision counter are included. In the table group, various fixed symbols, symbol variation modes, reach modes, and the like are stored in advance in a state associated with the counter group.

The round counter is a special accessory 33.
The winning counter is for counting the winning number of the game balls B to the special winning opening 43 based on the detection result of the count switch 73. The hold counter is used to count the number of times the special symbol display device 32 holds the variable display. The internal random number counter is for determining whether or not to generate a big hit state in the special symbol display area 61 of the special symbol display device 32. The out-of-reach random number counter is for determining whether or not to perform display in the out-of-reach state in which the special symbol display area 61 goes through the reach state but does not generate a big hit state. Further, the jackpot symbol random number counter is for determining a jackpot symbol in the special symbol display area 61. The plurality of symbol random number counters are for determining what the special fixed symbol in the special symbol display area 61 is, and determine a symbol that does not go through the reach state and a symbol that has come off in the above-mentioned reach state. Used when The reach type counter determines the type of reach (effect) performed in the special symbol display area 61. The symbol row number determination counter is used when determining the number of special symbol rows displayed in the preview confirmed symbol in the preview symbol display area 62 and the special symbol display area 61. In addition to the above counter group, a counter for determining the variation mode of the notice symbol display area 62 and various counters related to the ordinary symbol display device 35 are also prepared.

The CPU executes various arithmetic processes in accordance with a control program including the counter group and the table group in the ROM. In the RAM, calculation results by the CPU, for example, the current round number based on the round counter, the current reserved ball number based on the pending counter, the number of winning balls to the special winning opening 43 based on the winning counter, the internal random number counter The value of the big hit flag based on, the value of the big hit flag based on the big hit random number counter, the big hit symbol based on the big hit symbol random number counter when the big hit flag is standing, the big hit symbol based on the plurality of graphic random number counters, and The out-of-reach reach symbol, the reach type based on the reach type determination counter, the special symbol row number based on the symbol row number determination counter, the preview symbol, and the like are temporarily stored.

The big hit state, the off-reach state, the off-state, the special fixed symbol and the reach type, etc. in each of the above-mentioned special symbol display areas 61, and the notice symbol display area 6
The notice confirmation symbol, the reach type, and the like according to 2 are derived at the timing when the game ball B is won in the special symbol operating port 31 and detected by the special symbol operating port switch 71, or at a predetermined timing correlated with the timing. It is.

Also, the weight of the symbol row number determination counter is set so that the probability that the preview confirmed symbol in the preview symbol display area 62 will be "3" will be higher than the probability that it will be "1", and "2". Is set to be lower than “3” and higher than “1”. That is, the probability that the number of symbol rows in the special symbol display area 61 will be two rows rather than three rows and one row than two rows is set. Of course,
There is no problem even if the probability of "2" is set to be equal to the probability of "1" or "3", and it is possible to appropriately change the appearance rate of each preview confirmed symbol. However, in any case, it is preferable that the probability that the special game state occurs, that is, the probability that the special confirmed symbol becomes the big hit symbol is set lower.

When the operation handle 13 is operated by the player, the game balls B on the upper receiving tray 8 are sequentially supplied to the automatic hitting ball supply device provided on the front plate 9, and the game balls B are supplied.
Of the game board 5 along the guide rail 21 by the repulsion operation of the ball launching device including the motor and the ball rod.
Fired at 2. The game ball B guided to the game area 22 falls at random, and wins, for example, the normal symbol operation port 34. This winning is normally detected by the symbol operating switch 74, and the detection result is input to the control device 81. Then, the control device 81 causes the ordinary symbol display section 51 of the ordinary symbol display device 35 to change and display, and thereafter stops the symbol change to display the ordinary fixed symbol. If the display result is the specific symbol “7”, the control device 81 opens the blades 53 of the ordinary accessory 36 in a predetermined manner. Thereby, the winning probability of the game ball B to the special symbol operation port 31 is increased. On the other hand, when the display result of the ordinary symbol display section 51 is other than the specific symbol “7”, the ordinary accessory 36
Although the wings 53 are not opened, the winning probability of the game ball B to the special symbol operating port 31 is possible even in this case, although the winning probability is lower than the open state. In addition, the normal symbol display section 5
When the game ball B wins again in the normal symbol operating port 34 before the symbol 1 is determined, the holding lamps 52 are lit as many as the number of the holdings as the holding state. This lighting state is sequentially turned off as the suspended state is consumed.

When the game ball B falling at random in the game area 22 is won in the specific symbol operating port 31, the winning is detected by the special symbol operating port switch 71, and the detection result is controlled. It is input to the device 81.
Then, based on each of the random number counters, the control device 81 determines whether or not the jackpot is in the big hit state, whether or not the hit reach state is set, if the big hit state is, what is the big hit symbol, and if the hit reach state is, what is the hit reach symbol. If the state is neither the big hit state nor the reach state, what kind of pattern is in the off state, if the big hit state or the out-of-reach state, what is the reach type, what is the special symbol row number and what the notice confirmation design is, etc. Do. Thereafter, the control device 81 causes the special symbol display area 61 and the preview symbol display area 62 of the display section 41 of the special symbol display device 32 to be changed and displayed all at once or with a time lag, and thereafter, stops the change of the symbols and sets the preview confirmed symbol. And a specially determined symbol are displayed. If the game ball B wins again in the special symbol operating port 31 before the symbols in the special symbol display area 61 and the notice symbol display area 62 are determined, the holding lamp 42 is set to a holding state.
Are lit for the number of hold. This lighting state is sequentially turned off as the suspended state is consumed.

When the confirmed symbol in the special symbol display area 61 is a predetermined specific symbol indicating a big hit state, a special game state occurs in the pachinko machine 1. In this special game state, the control device 81 operates the special accessory 36 in a predetermined manner. That is, first, the shutter 44 is opened by controlling the drive of the opening / closing solenoid 45. When at least one game ball B passes through the V zone, the V zone switch 72 detects this and inputs the detection result to the control device 81. Then, the control device 81 drives and controls the tilting solenoid 47 to tilt the seesaw 46 toward the winning zone, and thereafter all the game balls B that have won the big winning opening 43 are led to the winning zone. The open state of the shutter 44 is determined by a predetermined number of game balls B (for example, 1)
0) or until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses from the time of opening, and then closed. When the shutter 44 is closed, the seesaw 46 is tilted and returned to the V zone side again. The opening / closing operation of the shutter 44 is one round, and the same round is repeated on condition that the game ball B passes through the V zone during the round. On the other hand, when the V-zone switch 72 does not detect that the game ball B has passed through the V-zone, the control is performed so that the special game state ends in the round. Although a plurality of rounds such as 16 rounds are provided, for example, control for ending the special game state in one round may be performed. By digesting such a special game state, the player can acquire many premium balls.

Here, the specific display mode of the display section 32 of the special symbol display device 32 for notifying the player of whether or not to generate the special game state by display will be described. The game ball B is won and detected by the special symbol operating port switch 71, and the symbol display device 32 starts changing symbols as a result of the detection result being input to the control device 81. Here, the symbol change is started almost at the same time in the notice symbol display area 62 and the special symbol display area 61, and is changed at such a high speed that the player cannot determine the symbol. Then, first, the symbols in the notice symbol display area 62 are stopped, and the notice confirmed symbols are displayed. At the time of displaying the notice confirmed symbol, the high-speed fluctuation is still continued in the special symbol display area 61.

When the preview confirmed symbol in the preview symbol display area 62 is “3”, the first symbol area 63 and the second symbol area are displayed in the special symbol display area 61 as shown in FIG.
The state is divided into three regions, a symbol region 64 and a third symbol region 65. Thereafter, the symbol change in the first symbol area 63 is stopped, a special fixed symbol is displayed, and then the second symbol symbol is displayed.
The symbol change in the symbol area 64 is stopped, and the special fixed symbol is displayed. At this time, the first and second symbol areas 6
When each of the specially determined symbols 3 and 64 constitutes a reach symbol, the symbol change in the third symbol region 65 is stopped after a predetermined reach state, and the specially determined symbol is displayed. When the special fixed symbol forms a big hit symbol in combination with the special fixed symbol in the first and second symbol areas 63 and 64, a special game state is given. Meanwhile, the first
When the respective symbols of the second and the second symbol regions 63 and 64 do not constitute the reach symbol, the third symbol is obtained without passing through the reach state.
The symbol change in the symbol area 65 is stopped, and the special fixed symbol is displayed. The state of FIG. 5A shows a state in which each symbol in each of the symbol areas 63, 64, and 65 is stopped without going through the reach state.

When the notice confirmed symbol in the notice symbol display area 62 is “2”, as shown in FIG.
The special symbol display area 61 is divided into two areas, a first symbol area 66 and a second symbol area 67. After that, the symbol change in the first symbol region 66 is stopped, and the special fixed symbol is displayed. At this time, if the confirmed symbol in the first symbol region 66 constitutes a reach symbol, that is, if the symbol is not a “lozenge” which is a departure symbol, the symbol fluctuation in the second symbol region 67 is stopped via a predetermined reach state. To display the special confirmed symbol. This special fixed symbol is the first symbol area 6
When a big hit symbol is configured in combination with No. 6, a special game state is provided. On the other hand, when the specially determined symbol in the first symbol region 66 does not constitute a reach symbol, that is, when the symbol is a deviated symbol, the symbol change in the second symbol region 67 is stopped without passing through the reach state, and the specially determined symbol is changed. Is displayed. The state shown in FIG. 5B shows a state in which the game has gone through the reach state but has not become a big hit symbol.

Further, when the notice confirmed symbol in the notice symbol display area 62 is "1", as shown in FIG.
In the special symbol display area 61, only a single symbol area 68 appears. In this state, if the special symbol other than the "rhombus" which is a lost symbol is a special symbol, the special symbol symbol constitutes a big hit symbol. That is, when "1" is displayed as the notice confirmation symbol, the state is reached at that time. After that, the symbol change in the symbol region 68 is stopped, and the special fixed symbol is displayed. In the case where the special confirmed symbol is other than the “lozen diamond” which is a departed symbol, a special game state is provided. On the other hand, when the special fixed symbol in the symbol area 68 is “diamond”, no special game state is given. Note that the state in FIG. 5C shows a state in which a large hit symbol has been reached through the reach state.

As described above, according to this embodiment,
Since it is possible to change to a plurality of display modes in which the number of symbol rows in the special symbol display area 61 is different, it is possible to provide a new interest that is not available in the conventional pachinko machine.

Since the number of symbol rows in the special symbol display area 61 is changed after being notified in advance by the preview symbol display area 62, the special symbol display area 6 is simply changed.
In addition to paying attention to only one, attention is also paid to the symbol display in the preview symbol display area 62, and it is possible to enjoy a plurality of completely different display changes.

When the special symbol display area 61 merely displays a three-digit symbol row, for example, as in the prior art, the player pays special attention to the special symbol display area 61 only after the reach state occurs. However, in other cases, the user simply spends time in a meaningless manner. However, by providing the preview symbol display area 62 as described above, the preview symbol display area 6 can be used.
The interest of the player can be attracted from the beginning of the symbol change because the notice confirmation symbol in 2 may determine the reach state or may be likely to be in the big hit state. In other words, the time during which the player is attracted to the game is generally longer, and the player is not bored with the game.

The notice symbol row that can be a notice confirmed symbol in the notice symbol display area 62 is composed of numbers "1" to "3", and the number is used as the number of effective symbol rows in the special symbol display area 61, that is, the display. It is a direct indication of the number of symbol rows, and is intuitively understandable for a player, and can enjoy the fun of the game equally without selecting a player.

Next, another embodiment will be described.

(A) "When the first condition is satisfied in the game, at least until the second condition is satisfied after the end of the special game state, the special state that can add value to the player is continued. The gaming machine. "The special state here refers to, for example, a state in which the gaming machine provided with the probability fluctuation mode (probable mode) enters the probable mode. The probability change mode includes: (1) increasing the probability that a specific symbol such as “7” is displayed as a fixed symbol on the ordinary symbol display portion 51 as a fixed symbol, to increase the chances that the ordinary accessory 36 operates, and (2) ) By shortening the fluctuation time until the symbol is determined each time in the ordinary symbol display section 51, the ordinary character 3
(3) increase the probability of winning the game ball B by increasing the total opening time of the normal accessory 36, and (4) change the symbol of the display unit 41 of the special symbol display device 32. (5) The big hit expectation value is higher than that in the normal mode, and the like. The probable change mode usually refers to one provided with at least the above (5), but here, a so-called time reduction mode (time reduction mode) or the like is considered as one of the concepts of the probable change mode, and the above (1)
Any of one or a combination of a plurality of (5) to (5) may be used. Here, the first condition is, for example, a special symbol display area 61 in the special symbol display device 32.
May be a condition when the special fixed symbol is a predetermined symbol from the big hit symbol, a condition when another display or notification is made, or a condition only when a special game state occurs. As the second condition, for example, the special symbol display area 61 in the special symbol display device 32
, The condition that the confirmed symbol is a predetermined symbol from the big hit symbol, the condition that there is another display or notification, or the occurrence of the next or predetermined number of special game states Only, or the condition that the number of changes in the special symbol display area 61 reaches a predetermined number, or the condition that the game ball B wins a predetermined winning opening, for example, a special fixed symbol is predetermined. Or a condition until the reach state occurs once or a predetermined number of times.
Of course, the first condition and the second condition may be a combination of a plurality of conditions as described above, or may be other conditions. The entry rate or the continuation rate to the probability change mode may be set as appropriate, but in order to emphasize the accidental factor, the random number acquisition randomly enters the probability change mode at a predetermined probability or continues. Preferably. Also, after entering the probable mode, the so-called limiter control is performed so that the game is forcibly returned to the normal mode after a predetermined number of special game states have occurred, thereby suppressing the gambling for the player. This is a preferred control mode.

(B) “A gaming machine in which a plurality of types of symbol variation modes are set in the ordinary symbol display section 51, the special symbol display area 61, or the notice symbol display area 62 until a symbol is determined.” In this case, for example, Display part 51, 61, 62
The change of the pattern in, the simple switching display, or to display the rotation fluctuation around the axis, or to switch the display while zooming up the design, or to collapse or expand the design It is only necessary to appropriately select a plurality of types from various symbol variation modes such as switching display and performing a re-variation process on a symbol that appears to be temporarily stopped.

(C) Counters related to random number acquisition (internal random number counter, out-of-reach random number counter, jackpot symbol random number counter, a plurality of symbol random number counters, reach type determination counter, symbol row number counter, etc.) may be changed as appropriate. For example, a single random number counter may be used to determine a jackpot state, an out-of-reach state, or the like based on the value.
The technical idea derived therefrom is "based on the random number value obtained from the single random number counter stored in the storage means, the symbol variation mode and the confirmed symbol in the special symbol display area 61 and the preview symbol display area 62. Gaming machine ".

(D) The present invention may be implemented as a pachinko machine of a different type from the above embodiment. For example, once a big hit, multiple times including it (for example, twice or three times)
Until the jackpot condition occurs, the pachinko machine may be implemented as a pachinko machine (commonly referred to as a twice-rights item or a three-times right item) in which the expected value of the jackpot is increased. Further, the pachinko machine may be implemented as a pachinko machine that enters a special game state on condition that a game ball B is won in a predetermined area after a big hit symbol is displayed. In addition to the pachinko machines, the present invention can also be implemented as various game machines such as arepaches, sparrow balls, slot machines, and the like. In the slot machine, for example, a symbol is changed by operating an operation lever in a state where a symbol is inserted and a symbol valid line is determined, and the symbol is stopped and determined by operating a stop button. Things. Therefore, as a basic concept of the slot machine, a symbol display means for displaying a fixed symbol after variably displaying a symbol row composed of a plurality of symbols is provided, and a symbol caused by operation of a starting operation means (for example, an operation lever) is provided. The fluctuation is started, the symbol fluctuation is stopped due to the operation of the stop operation means (for example, a stop button) or after a lapse of a predetermined time, and a required condition is that the fixed symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. And a special game state generating means for generating a special game state advantageous to the player.

(E) "The number of special symbol rows displayed in the special symbol display area 61 can be switched between the case where the advance symbol display area 62 displays the advance notice and the case where the advance notice is not displayed." With this configuration, the player is most interested in whether or not the notice is displayed first, and the thickness of the game is increased. In this case, it is preferable that the notice display is caused by an accidental factor.

(F) "The number of special symbols displayed in the special symbol display area 61 is replaced with or in addition to the advance display in the announcement symbol display area 62, and the announcement is notified by voice or musical sound." In this case, the presence of the advance notice by voice or musical sound prevents the player from overlooking the change in the number of special symbol rows. In addition, in the announcement notice by sound,
It is preferable to notify the content of the special symbol row number that can be recognized by hearing.

(G) When the number of symbol fluctuations held on the display 41 or / and the normal symbol display 51 is the maximum number of held or approaches the maximum number of symbols, the symbol on the display 41 or / and the normal symbol display 51 is displayed. Shortening the time from the start of the change to the determination (or / and the time from the determination of the symbol to the start of the next symbol change). "
For example, it is less likely that a state that satisfies the symbol change start condition, such as a case where the game ball B wins in the special symbol operating port 31, is invalidated.

(H) “The expected value to which the special game state is given differs according to the variation mode until the fixed symbol in the special symbol display area 61 and / or the notice symbol display area 62 is obtained.” With this configuration, not only the number of special symbol rows is changed, but also the symbol variation mode is paid attention, and the thickness of the game is increased.

(I) A structure in which all the symbols can be a big hit symbol without any intervening symbols ("diamonds" in the above example) being interposed in the special symbol row. In this case, when the number of effective special symbol rows becomes one, a 100% special game state is obtained. Also, for example, when the number of effective special symbols is three, if a deviated symbol is first displayed as a special fixed symbol, the subsequent symbol change in that time becomes completely meaningless. Can also be avoided. In addition, it is good also as interposing a deviating design only when an effective special design is one row.

(J) When the special game state occurs, the special accessory 3
3 is configured to open the special winning opening 43, but instead or in addition thereto, a value is given to the player by other means such as an interlocking tulip.

(K) "After the notice symbol has been stopped once in the notice symbol display area 62, a re-variation display is started so that the fluctuation starts again." In this case, the re-variation display may be performed accidentally. preferable.

(L) As shown in FIG. 6, the number of display portions (here, “1”) corresponding to the number of special symbol columns that can be changed in the special symbol display region 61 is displayed in the preview symbol display region 62.
(2) and (3) are set as the notice symbol display area 62, and display control is performed so that one of them is turned on. In FIG. 6, “3” in the notice symbol display area 62 is turned on (“1” and “2” are turned off), and the special symbol area 61 is changed into three symbol areas 63, 64 and 65 in response to this. Is shown. With this configuration, to determine whether it is possible in advance what display special symbols number of columns becomes easy to understand the game content. The technical idea derived from this is that "the number of advance display sections corresponding to the number of changeable effective symbol rows is provided, and the advance display section selected from any of the advance display sections is different from the other advance display sections. The display mode is controlled so that the number of effective symbol columns corresponding to the selected notice display unit is displayed on the symbol display means. " In this case, it is preferable that the display content of each notice display section intuitively or suggests the number of effective symbol rows like the above-mentioned numbers.

(M) As shown in FIG. 7, for example, a first symbol area 63 to a third symbol area 65 exist in the special symbol display area 61 so that the same number of special symbol rows are always displayed.
The preview symbol display area 62 is composed of a number of display portions (here, three downward arrows) corresponding to the respective symbol areas 63 to 65 of the special symbol display area 61, and the symbols which are valid from among the respective symbol areas 63 to 65. Display control is performed so that only the display sections corresponding to the areas 63 to 65 are turned on. FIG. 7 shows a state in which a pair of left and right arrows in the notice symbol display area 62 is lit (the middle arrow is turned off). In this state, the first symbol area 63 and the third symbol area 65 are the effective special symbol columns. And the effective symbol column in the special symbol display area 61 is "3""3"
It becomes a big hit pattern and becomes a big hit pattern. In such an embodiment, not only the advance notice of the number of special symbol rows, but also which of the plurality of symbol areas 63 to 65 is valid is specified. As a result, for example, even when two rows are valid, the first symbol area 63 and the second symbol area 6
4, various patterns such as a combination of the first symbol area 63 and the third symbol area 65 and a combination of the second symbol area 64 and the third symbol area 65 increase the thickness of the game. . The technical idea derived from this is that "a predetermined number of symbol columns are displayed on the symbol display means, and the number of symbol columns corresponding to the number of symbol columns and specifying which symbol column is specified is the same as the number of symbol columns. A notice display section is provided, and a notice sequence selected from any of the notice display sections is controlled so as to have a display mode different from other notice display sections, and a symbol sequence corresponding to the selected notice display section is provided. Is an effective symbol row. " Further, in this example,
Symbol areas 63 to 65 not selected as valid special symbol columns
Can be controlled so as to be distinguished from the selected one by, for example, darkening, so that the effective special symbol sequence is more clearly shown. The technical idea derived from this is that "a predetermined number of symbol columns are displayed on the symbol display means, and the number of symbol columns corresponding to the number of symbol columns and specifying which symbol column is specified is the same as the number of symbol columns. A notice display section is provided, and a notice sequence selected from any of the notice display sections is controlled so as to have a display mode different from other notice display sections, and a symbol sequence corresponding to the selected notice display section is provided. Is an effective symbol column, and the effective symbol column is displayed so as to be distinguishable from other symbol columns. " Furthermore, in this example, in each of the special symbol rows of each of the symbol regions 63 to 65, the number of symbols deviating from each of the regions 63 to 65 is changed, and the deviating symbols are eliminated in some of the regions 63 to 65. If the types of symbols included in the special symbol columns of the symbol regions 63 to 65 are changed, for example, by increasing the number of symbols that can be in the probability change mode in some of the regions 63 to 65, the same Even when the number of symbol rows is selected, the thickness of the game is further increased in terms of which area 63 to 65 is selected. The technical idea derived from this is that "a predetermined number of symbol columns are displayed on the symbol display means,
In at least one of the symbol columns, at least one of the number of symbols that can be in a state advantageous to the player or the number of symbols that can be in a disadvantageous state of the player is set to be different from other symbol columns. One or more of these symbol columns are selected as the effective symbol columns. "

(N) The timing at which the notice confirmed symbol is displayed in the notice symbol display area 62 is the same as or later than the timing at which the special confirmed symbol is displayed in the special symbol display area 61. In the case of such a configuration, it is not a notice, but the determination of the number of effective symbol rows is performed on the display simultaneously with the display of the special symbol display area 61, or the effective symbol row is later than the special symbol display area 61. By determining the number on the display, a new interest can be created. The technical idea derived from this is that "provided with a notifying means for notifying which of the effective symbol columns in the symbol display means is simultaneous with or after the confirmed symbol is displayed on the symbol display means" Become.

(O) The display colors of the respective display systems are controlled by appropriately switching according to the difference between the modes (for example, the normal mode and the probable change mode) and the difference between the expected big hits. For example,
The notice symbol indicates that the number of effective symbol columns is one,
For example, when the big hit expectation value is increased, control is performed to switch the notice symbol from green to red. Such color switching has effects such as clearing to the player that the gaming state is different from the normal state, and clearly indicating to the player that the expected big hit value has increased. The technical ideas derived from this are "switching the symbol display color according to the game state.", "Switching the symbol display color according to the mode.", And "changing the symbol display color to the big hit expected value." To be displayed in accordance with the difference between the two. "

(P) When the same content is displayed a predetermined number of times continuously in the preview symbol display area 62, the display itself indicates that the expected big hit value has increased. More specifically, when the display in which the number of effective symbol columns is set to 2 is continuous, it can be indicated that the big hit expected value is increased. Similar to this, when the notice confirmation symbols are displayed in the notice symbol display area 62 in the order of, for example, “3”, “2”, and “1”, the display itself indicates that the big hit expected value has increased. To keep. More specifically, when the display in which the number of effective symbol columns is set to 2 is continuous, it can be indicated that the big hit expected value is increased. In this way, it is possible to increase the expected value of the big hit by displaying the notice with the predetermined regularity. As a technical idea derived from this,
"When the notice is issued with a predetermined rule,
The regular advance notice has a correlation with the expected occurrence value of the special game state being raised. There is.

(Q) “The number of effective symbol rows is changed in accordance with the winning place of the game ball B.” This means, for example, that a plurality of special symbol operating ports are prepared and correspond to each operating port. This is a concept including a mode in which the number of effective symbol rows is set in advance, and the number of effective symbol rows is changed depending on which of the operating ports the gaming ball B wins. Further, a plurality of areas for determining the number of effective symbol rows may be set in the game area 22 separately from the special symbol operation port. The plurality of special symbol operation ports and the plurality of regions constitute mechanical distribution means for the number of effective symbol rows, and can generate a new interest.

(R) When changing the number of symbol areas 63 to 68 in the special symbol display area 61, the maximum symbol row number is always displayed, that is, the first to third symbol areas 63 to 6 are displayed.
5 is displayed so that it is changed only when the number of symbol rows is reduced, for example, the number of symbol rows is two or one. In this way, the display is performed in accordance with the maximum number of symbol rows that usually appears most frequently, so that meaningless display control can be reduced as much as possible. When the number of the symbol areas 63 to 68 is changed, it is preferable that the screen is once changed to another screen and then returned to the screen in which the number of the symbol areas 63 to 68 is changed.

(S) “The notice symbol display area 62 and the special symbol display area 61 are switched and displayed without always displaying them.” In this way, the notice symbol display area 62 is first used to fill the screen. After the notice symbol is determined, the special symbol display area 61 can be used to fill the entire screen, and dynamic display can be performed while effectively using the screen. It is to be noted that, without completely hiding one of the display areas 61 and 62, it is also possible to display one of the display areas 61 and 62 in an enlarged manner while reducing the other.

[0090]

As described above, according to the present invention, in a gaming machine capable of displaying a plurality of symbol rows, it is possible to dramatically improve the interest of the entire game.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a pachinko machine according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a front view schematically showing a part of the game board of the pachinko machine.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a display unit.

FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a special symbol row displayed in a special symbol display area, and FIG. 4B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a preview symbol row displayed in a preview symbol display area.

5A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display state of the display unit when the preview symbol display area is “3”, and FIG. 5B is a display unit when the preview symbol display area is “2”; Explanatory diagram showing an example of the display state of (1), (c) is a notice symbol display area is "1"
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display state of a display unit when the state is.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a display state of a display unit in another embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a display state of a display unit according to still another embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 31 ... Special symbol operation port, 32 ... Special symbol display device, 33 ... Special role part which constitutes a part of special game state generating means, 41 ... Display part as symbol display means, 43: large winning opening, 61: special symbol display area as symbol display means, 62: notice symbol display area, 6
3-68: Symbol area, 81: Control device constituting a part of special game state generating means.

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A symbol display means for displaying a determined symbol after variably displaying a symbol row comprising a plurality of symbols, and generating a special game state advantageous to a player on condition that the determined symbol is a specific symbol. In the gaming machine provided with a special game state generating means for causing the symbol display means to be able to display a plurality of symbol rows on the symbol display means, and to change the number of effective symbol rows in the symbol display means under predetermined conditions Gaming machine.