JP2000225243A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of increasing time which can be taken by a game control means for original game control by reducing a burden for control concerning the identification information display of a game control means. SOLUTION: At the time of receiving a command showing a varying time and a command showing a stopping pattern from a game control means, a display control means starts varying of patterns. After right and left patterns are stopped, the middle pattern of a pattern (d) is varied. Then, a ready-for- winning operation is started and the middle pattern is varied according to a pattern (b) and a pattern (c). At the time of receiving a display control command instructing the stoppage of all the patterns from the game control means, the locking variation state of the right and left patterns is finished to be in a defined state where the right, left and middle patters are not moved. In addition, the display control means replaces a pattern before starting the ready-for- winning operation to define the patterns by stopping patterns reported from the game control means.

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 game machine or a coin game machine, and more particularly to a game machine including a variable display device whose display state can be changed, wherein a display result on the variable display device is predetermined. The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which a predetermined game value can be given when the display mode is changed to the display mode.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a gaming machine, a variable display device having a variable display portion whose display state can be changed is provided, and when a display result of the variable display portion becomes a predetermined specific display mode, the player is provided with a variable display device. Some are configured to shift to an advantageous jackpot game state. The variable display device includes a plurality of variable display units, and is generally configured to display the display results of the plurality of variable display units at different times.
On the variable display section, for example, a plurality of identification information such as symbols are variably displayed. Usually, that the display result of the variable display unit is a combination of predetermined specific display modes,
It is called "big hit." In addition, the game value is a right to make the state of the variable prize ball device provided in the game area of the gaming machine advantageous for a player who is easy to win a hit ball, or a right for the player to be in an advantageous state. Or to generate.

[0003] When a big hit occurs, for example, a big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the state shifts to a big hit game state in which a hit ball is easy to win. Then, in each open period, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning prizes is won, the winning prize opening is closed. The number of opening of the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 16 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and if the opening time elapses even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the winning opening is closed. Further, if a predetermined condition (for example, winning in a V zone provided in the special winning opening) is not satisfied at the time when the special winning opening is closed, the big hit game is performed even if the predetermined number of times is not reached. The state ends.

[0004] In addition, among the combinations of the display modes of "outside" other than the combination of "big hit", at the stage where a part of the display results of the plurality of variable display portions has not been derived and displayed yet, the display results are already displayed. The state in which the display mode of the variable display unit that is derived and displayed satisfies the display condition that is a combination of the specific display modes is referred to as “reach”. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

The progress of a game in a game machine is controlled by game control means such as a microcomputer. The identification information, the character image, and the background image displayed on the variable display device are controlled by display control means operating according to display control command data from the game control means.
The identification information, the character image, and the background image displayed on the variable display device generally include a display control microcomputer and a video display processor (FIG. 1) that generates image data in accordance with instructions from the microcomputer and transfers the image data to the variable display device side. VDP), and the display control microcomputer has a large program capacity. Therefore, the microcomputer of the game control means having a limited program capacity cannot control the identification information or the like displayed on the variable display device, and the display control microcomputer (microcomputer) is different from the microcomputer of the game control means. Display control means).

Therefore, the game control means for controlling the progress of the game needs to transmit a command for display control to the display control means. The generation of image data such as identification information is performed by the display control means, but the display position of the changing identification information on the screen every moment is preferably performed by the game control means for controlling the progress of the game. Is determined by the game control means. Therefore, the game control means determines the display position of the identification information at an appropriate timing and transmits the display position to the display control means.

[0007]

As described above, in the conventional gaming machine, since the display position of the changing identification information is determined by the game control means, the burden of control on the display of the identification information by the game control means is reduced. There is a problem in that the processing time that can be spent for other game control is limited in the game control means. In order to solve such a problem, for example, the game control means causes the display control means to change the speed of the identification information (including the start and stop of the change).
It is conceivable to determine the display position of the identification information according to the speed transmitted and received by the display control means. However, even with such identification information change control, since a command is transmitted from the game control means to the display control means many times during one change, the burden of control on the display of identification information by the game control means is also reduced. large.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of further reducing the burden of control on display of identification information of the game control means and increasing the time that the game control means can perform the original game control. And

[0009]

A gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
Including a variable display unit having a plurality of display areas whose display state can be changed, starts changing the identification information displayed in the display area in accordance with satisfaction of a condition for starting the change, and the display result of the identification information is predetermined. A game control device capable of giving a predetermined game value to a player on condition that the specific display mode is set, and a game control means for controlling the progress of the game, and a display control for performing a display control of a variable display portion. Means, a game control means, a jackpot determining means for determining whether or not a big hit, a display content determining means for determining the display content of the variable display portion, according to the establishment of the condition for starting the change of the identification information Command output means for outputting a command for changing the display state of the variable display unit to the display control means, and at least a fluctuating time within a predetermined period can be specified based on the determination by the display content determining means. It is possible to output information that can specify a change display pattern and information that can specify stop identification information at a predetermined time related to starting a change within a predetermined period, and can be used to determine all identification information. At this time, it is possible to send out information that is different from the stop identification information and that indicates determination of the identification information.

[0010] Here, the predetermined period may be a period from the start of the change of the identification information to the determination, or may be a section in which the period from the start of the change of the identification information to the determination is divided into a plurality of sections. .

Until all the identification information is determined, the display control means performs a swing fluctuation in which the previously stopped identification information is repeatedly displayed in the same manner as the normal fluctuation in the forward and reverse directions. It may be configured as follows.

[0012] Therefore, the suspension of the identification information is not only a state in which the identification information is completely stopped, but also a state in which the identification information fluctuates until the last identification information to be stopped is fixed (in the same manner as the normal fluctuation). This is a concept that includes a so-called swing stop in a state in which a change in the direction opposite to the direction is repeated).

[0013] Between the game control means and the display control means,
It is desirable that data can be transferred only in the direction from the game control means to the display control means.

[0014] The command output means may be configured to be an irreversible transmission means for transmitting a signal in only one direction.

The command output means may include an output port and an output driver.

The display control means includes: a determination means capable of determining whether or not the information from the game control means capable of specifying the variable display pattern and the information capable of specifying the stop identification information correspond to each other; If it is determined that the variable display pattern is not supported, the identification information correcting unit may be configured to correct the stop identification information based on the information capable of specifying the variable display pattern and use the information for the display control.

In the gaming machine, the identification information to be displayed is replaced at a predetermined position before the identification information to be stopped at a stage before the identification information stops, and the display control means is controlled by the game control means. May be configured to include replacement destination setting means for setting replacement destination identification information based on information capable of specifying the identification information from.

When the stop identification information indicates a big hit, the display control means determines whether the hit is a big hit or a normal big hit that brings a more advantageous game value to the player, and the determination result is It may be configured to include a jackpot display content selecting means for selecting the display content related to the jackpot and using it for display control.

[0019]

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, will be described. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the front, FIG. 2 is an overall rear view showing the internal structure of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and FIG. 3 is a rear view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the back. Here, a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and may be, for example, a coin gaming machine.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 comprises:
It has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2, there is a hit ball supply tray 3. Below the hitting ball supply tray 3, a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing prize balls overflowing from the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing a hitting ball are provided. Behind the glass door frame 2,
The game board 6 is detachably attached. A game area 7 is provided on the front of the game board 6.

In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, a variable display section 9 for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols and a 7-segment L
A variable display device 8 including a variable display 10 using an ED is provided. In this embodiment, the variable display section 9 has three symbol display areas of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. On the side of the variable display device 8, a passing gate 11 for guiding a hit ball is provided. The hit ball that has passed through the passing gate 11 is guided to the starting winning opening 14 via the ball exit 13. In a passage between the passage gate 11 and the ball outlet 13, there is a gate switch 12 for detecting a hit ball that has passed through the passage gate 11. In addition, the winning ball that entered the starting winning port 14 is
It is guided to the back of the game board 6 and is detected by the starting port switch 17. In addition, a variable winning ball device 15 that performs opening and closing operations is provided below the starting winning port 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16.

An opening / closing plate 20 which is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific game state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball apparatus 15. In this embodiment, the opening and closing plate 20 serves as a means for opening and closing the special winning opening. The winning ball that enters one (V zone) of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6 is detected by the V count switch 22. The winning ball from the opening / closing plate 20 is detected by the count switch 23. Variable display device 8
A start winning prize storage display 18 having four display sections for displaying the number of winning balls entering the starting winning prize port 14 is provided below. In this example, the start winning prize storage display 18 increases the number of lit display units by one each time there is a starting prize, with the upper limit being four. Then, each time the variable display of the variable display unit 9 is started, the number of the lit display units is reduced by one.

The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports 19 and 24. Decorative lamps 25 are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7 so as to blink during the game.
There is an out port 26 for absorbing a hit ball that does not win. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided at upper left and right sides outside the game area 7. A game effect LED 28a and a game effect lamp 2
8b and 28c are provided. And in this example,
A prize ball lamp 51 that lights up when a premium ball is paid out is provided near one of the speakers 27, and a ball out lamp 52 that lights up when a supply ball runs out is provided near the other speaker 27. Further, FIG. 1 shows a pachinko gaming table 1
Also shown is a card unit 50, which is installed adjacent to and allows lending of balls by inserting a prepaid card.

The hit ball fired from the hit ball launching device enters the game area 7 through the hitting ball rail, and thereafter, enters the game area 7.
Come down. When a hit ball is detected by the gate switch 12 through the passage gate 11, the display number of the variable display 10 is changed continuously. Further, when a hit ball enters the starting winning opening 14 and is detected by the starting opening switch 17, the symbol in the variable display section 9 starts rotating if the symbol can be changed. If it is not possible to start changing the symbol, the start winning memory is increased by one. The start winning memory will be described later in detail. The rotation of the image in the variable display unit 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of images at the time of stop is a combination of big hit symbols, the game shifts to a big hit game state. That is, the opening and closing plate 20
Is released until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls is won. Then, when a hit ball wins in the specific winning area while the opening and closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V count switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening and closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is permitted a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

If the combination of images in the variable display section 9 at the time of stoppage is a combination of big hit symbols with probability fluctuation, the probability of the next big hit increases. That is, a high probability state, which is more advantageous for the player, is obtained. Also, when the stop symbol on the variable display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the high probability state, the probability that the stop symbol on the variable display 10 hits the symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times the variable winning ball device 15 is opened are increased.

Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. On the back of the variable display device 8, as shown in FIG. 2, a prize ball tank 38 is provided above the mechanism plate 36, and when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed on the gaming machine installation island, a prize ball is provided from above. Premium ball tank 3
8 is supplied. The prize ball in the prize ball tank 38 reaches the ball payout device through the guide gutter 39.

On the mechanism plate 36, a variable display control unit 29 for controlling the variable display section 9 via the relay board 30, and a game control board (main board) covered with a board case 32 and mounted with a game control microcomputer and the like. ) 31, a relay board 33 for relaying a signal between the variable display control unit 29 and the game control board 31, and a prize ball board 37 on which a payout control microcomputer for performing payout control of a prize ball is mounted. is set up. Further, the mechanism plate 36 includes
A hitting ball launching device 34 for shooting a hitting ball into the game area 7 using the rotational force of a motor, and a lamp control board 35 for sending signals to the speaker 27 and the game effect lamps / LEDs 28a, 28b, 28c are provided.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the gaming board of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the rear. On the back of the game board 6, FIG.
As shown in the figure, the winning ball set cover 4 for guiding the winning ball winning each winning port and the winning ball device along a predetermined winning path.
0 is provided. Of the prize balls guided to the prize ball collection cover 40, those that have won through the opening and closing plate 20 are controlled so that the ball payout device 97 pays out a relatively large number of prize balls (for example, 15). The winnings through the starting winning opening 14 are controlled so that a ball payout device (not shown in FIG. 3) pays out a relatively small number of prize balls (for example, six). Then, the winnings through the other winning ports 24 and the winning ball device are controlled so that the ball payout device pays out a relatively medium number of prize balls (for example, 10). Note that FIG. 3 illustrates the relay board 33 as an example.

Signals from the winning ball detection switch 99, the starting port switch 17 and the V count switch 22 are sent to the main board 31 to perform the winning ball payout control. When the ON signal of the winning ball detection switch 99 is sent to the main board 31, a winning ball number signal is sent from the main board 31 to the winning ball board 37. The winning is detected by the winning ball detection switch 99. In this case, the main board 31 sends the winning ball board 3
7 is provided with a prize ball number signal. For example, when the winning ball detection switch 99 is turned on in response to the turning on of the starting port switch 17, "6" is output as the winning ball number signal, and the winning ball detection is performed in response to the turning on of the count switch 23 or the V count switch 22. When the switch 99 is turned on, “15” is output as the prize ball number signal. When the winning ball detection switch 99 is turned on when these switches are not turned on, "10" is output as the winning ball number signal.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board 31. FIG. 4 also shows the prize ball control board 37, the lamp control board 35, the sound control board 70, the emission control board 91, and the display control board 80. On the main board 31, a basic circuit 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 12,
A switch circuit 58 that supplies signals from the starting port switch 17, the V count switch 22, the count switch 23, and the winning ball detection switch 99 to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 that opens and closes the variable winning ball device 15, and the opening and closing plate 2.
A solenoid circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the 0 according to a command from the basic circuit 53;
It includes a lamp / LED circuit 60 for driving the variable display 10 by ED and the decorative lamp 25.

According to the data supplied from the basic circuit 53, jackpot information indicating occurrence of a jackpot, effective start information indicating the number of start winning balls used to start displaying an image on the variable display section 9, and probability fluctuation have occurred. And an information output circuit 64 that outputs probability change information or the like indicating the fact to a host computer such as a hall management computer.

The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing a control operation in accordance with the control program, and an I / O port unit 57. The ROM 54 and the RAM 55 may be built in the CPU 56 in some cases.

Further, the main board 31 has an initial reset circuit 65 for resetting the basic circuit 53 when the power is turned on.
A periodic reset circuit 66 for periodically (eg, every 2 ms) giving a reset pulse to the basic circuit 53 to re-execute the game control program from the beginning, and decode an address signal given from the basic circuit 53. I
Address decode circuit 67 for outputting a signal for selecting any I / O port in I / O port unit 57
Are provided. In addition, there is also switch information input to the main board 31 from the ball dispensing device 97, but these are omitted in FIG.

A hit ball launching device that hits and launches a game ball is driven by a drive motor 94 controlled by a circuit on a launch control board 91. Then, the driving force of the driving motor 94 is adjusted according to the operation amount of the operation knob 5. That is, the circuit on the firing control board 91 is controlled so that the hit ball is fired at a speed corresponding to the operation amount of the operation knob 5.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration in the display control board 80 together with the CRT 82 as an example of the variable display section 9 and the output buffer circuit (output driver) 63 of the main board 31. Display control CPU 101
Operates according to a program stored in the control data ROM 102, and receives an input buffer circuit 105 from the main board 31.
When a strobe signal is input via the input buffer 105a, a display control command is received via the input buffer 105a. The output buffer circuit 63 of the main board 31 is a circuit that receives a signal from an output port of the basic circuit 53 and outputs the signal from the main board 31, but in one direction (a direction from the main board 31 to the display control board 80). Signals only to.

The display control CPU 101 controls display of a screen displayed on the CRT 82 in accordance with the received display control command. Specifically, a command corresponding to the display control command is given to the VDP 103. VDP103
Reads necessary data from the character ROM 86. The VDP 103 generates a CRT 8 according to the input data.
2 is generated, and the image data is stored in the VRAM 87. Then, the image data in the VRAM 87 is converted into R, G, B signals, converted into analog signals by the DA converter 104, and output to the CRT 82.

FIG. 5 also shows a reset circuit 83 for resetting the VDP 103, an oscillation circuit 85 for supplying an operation clock to the VDP 103, and a character ROM 86 for storing frequently used image data. The frequently used image data stored in the character ROM 86 is, for example, a person, an animal, or an image composed of characters, graphics, or symbols displayed on the CRT 82.

The input buffer 105a in the input buffer circuit 105 can pass signals only in the direction from the main board 31 to the display control board 80. Therefore, there is no room for a signal to be transmitted from the display control board 80 side to the main board 31 side. Even if a circuit in the display control board 80 is tampered with, a signal output by the tampering is not transmitted to the main board 31 side. Further, by providing the output buffer circuit 63 that transmits a signal only in one direction, the one-way signal transmission from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 can be further ensured.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the voice control command signal transmitting portion of the main board 31 and the voice control board 70. In this embodiment, according to the progress of the game, the voice control command for instructing the voice output of the speaker 27 provided outside the game area 7 is:
It is output from the main board 31 to the voice control board 70.

As shown in FIG. 6, the voice control command is
It is output from an output port (output port E) 575 of the I / O port unit 57 in the basic circuit 53. In the audio control board 70, each signal from the main board 31 is input to the audio control CPU 701 via the input buffer circuit 705. When the audio control CPU 701 does not include an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuit 705 and the audio control CPU 701. Then, for example, the voice synthesizing circuit 702 based on the digital signal processor generates a voice or sound effect according to the instruction of the voice control CPU 701 and outputs it to the volume switching circuit 703. The sound volume switching circuit 703 includes a sound control CPU 7
The output level “01” is set to a level corresponding to the set volume and output to the volume amplification circuit 704. The volume amplification circuit 704 outputs the amplified audio signal to the speaker 27.

As the input buffer circuit 705, for example,
74HC244 which is a general-purpose CMOS-IC is used. A low level (GND level) is always applied to the enable terminal of the 74HC244. Therefore, the output level of each buffer is the input level, that is, the main board 31.
Signal level has been determined. Therefore, there is no room for a signal to be transmitted from the voice control board 70 side to the main board 31 side.
Therefore, even if the circuit in the voice control board 70 is tampered with, the signal output by the tampering is transmitted to the main board 31.
It does not reach the side.

In the main board 31, the output port 5
An output buffer circuit 71 is provided outside the circuit 75.
As the output buffer circuit 71, for example, a general-purpose CMOS
-74HC244 which is IC is used. The enable terminal is always given a low level (GND level). According to such a configuration, since a signal input from the outside to the inside of the main board 31 is blocked, a signal line to which a signal may be supplied from the voice control board 70 to the main board 31 is more reliably eliminated. be able to.

Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG.
5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the basic circuit 53 on the main board 31. As described above, this process is started, for example, every 2 ms by the reset pulse generated by the periodic reset circuit 66. When the basic circuit 53 is started, the basic circuit 53 first sets a clock monitor register incorporated in the CPU 56 to a clock monitor enable state in order to make the clock monitor control operable (step S1). Note that the clock monitor control is a control in which a reset is automatically generated inside the CPU 56 when a decrease or stop of an input clock signal is detected.

Next, the CPU 56 performs a stack setting process for setting the designated address of the stack pointer (step S2). In this example, 00FFH is set in the stack pointer. Then, a system check process is performed (step S3). In the system check process, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the RAM 55 contains an error.
Processing such as initializing 5 is performed.

Next, after processing for setting the command data sent to the display control board 80 to a predetermined area of the RAM 55 is performed (display control data setting processing: step S
4), a process of outputting command data as display control command data is performed (display control data output process: step S5).

Next, processing for outputting the contents of the storage area for various output data to each output port is performed (data output processing: step S6). Further, the lamp timer is decremented by one, and when the lamp timer times out (when it becomes 0), the lamp data pointer is updated and a new value is set in the lamp timer (lamp timer processing: step S7).

Further, output data setting processing for setting output data such as data of the address indicated by the lamp data pointer, jackpot information, start information, and probability variation information output to the hall management computer in the storage area is performed (step S8). ). Further, various abnormality diagnosis processes are performed by a self-diagnosis function provided inside the pachinko gaming machine 1, and an alarm is issued if necessary according to the result (error process: step S9).

Next, a process of updating each counter indicating a random number for determination such as a random number for big hit determination used in game control is performed (step S10). FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows. (1) Random 1: Determine whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit determination = for special symbol determination) (2) Random 2-1 to 2-3: For left and right middle missing symbol determination (3) Random 3: Determine the combination of symbols at the time of the big hit (for big hit symbol determination = for special symbol judgment) (4) Random 4: Decide whether or not to reach at the loss (for reach judgment) (5) Random 5: Give big hit notice (6) Random 6: Determine the fluctuation time at the time of reach (for reach)

In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (6) are used. In step S10, the CPU 56 counts up (adds 1) a counter for generating the jackpot determination random number (1) and the jackpot symbol determination random number (3).
That is, they are the random numbers for determination.

Next, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process (step S11). In the special symbol process control, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to a gaming state. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each processing according to the gaming state. Further, a normal symbol process is performed (step S12). In normal symbol processing, 7 segments L
A corresponding process is selected and executed according to a normal symbol process flag for controlling the variable display 10 by the ED in a predetermined order. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

The CPU 56 further includes a switch circuit 58
, And performs necessary processing according to the switch state (switch processing: step S1).
3). In addition, a process of transmitting audio data in the process data described later to the audio control board 70 is performed (audio processing: step S14).

The basic circuit 53 further performs a process of updating the display random number (step S15). That is, the counter for generating random numbers 2, 4, 5, and 6 is incremented (addition of 1).

The basic circuit 53 includes a prize ball control board 37.
Is performed (step S16). That is, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a winning ball control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the winning ball control board 37. Award ball control board 3
The CPU for controlling a prize ball mounted on 7 drives the ball payout device 97 according to the received number of prize balls. After that, the basic circuit 53 repeats the display random number updating process in step S17 until the next reset pulse is given from the periodic reset circuit 66.

Next, a method of determining a symbol variably displayed on the variable display section 9 based on a winning in the starting winning opening 14 will be described with reference to flowcharts of FIGS.
FIG. 9 shows a process for determining that the hit ball has won the starting winning opening 14, and FIG. 10 shows a process for determining a variable display stop symbol of the variable display unit 9. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not to make a big hit.

When the hit ball wins the starting winning port 14 provided in the game board 6, the starting port sensor 17 is turned on. In the switch processing in step S10, the CPU 56
If it is determined via the switch circuit 58 that the starting port sensor 17 has been turned on (step S41), it is checked whether or not the starting winning storage number has reached the maximum value of 4 (step S42). If the number of stored start winnings has not reached 4, the number of stored started winnings is increased by 1 (step S43), and the value of the random number for jackpot symbol determination is extracted. Then, it is stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the value of the number of stored winning prizes (step S44). If the number of stored start winnings has reached 4, the process of increasing the number of stored start winnings is not performed. That is, in this embodiment, the number of hit balls that have won the maximum of four starting winning openings 17 can be stored.

The CPU 56 confirms the value of the number of stored winning prizes in the special symbol process of step S8 (step S50). If the start winning prize memory number is not 0, the value stored in the random number storage area corresponding to the start prize storing number = 1 is read out (step S51), the value of the starting prize storing number is reduced by 1, and The value of the random number value storage area is shifted (step S52). In other words, the value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memory = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is calculated as follows:
1 is stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to 1.

Then, the CPU 56 determines a winning / losing based on the value read in step S51, that is, the value of the extracted random number for jackpot symbol determination (step S53). Here, the random number for the jackpot symbol determination is 0
A value in the range of ２４249 is assumed. As shown in FIG. 11, when the probability is low, for example, if the value is “3”, “big hit” is determined, and if the value is any other value, “miss” is determined. At the time of the high probability, for example, if the value is any one of “3”, “7”, “79”, “103”, and “107”, it is determined to be “big hit”. Mistake ".

If it is determined that a big hit has occurred, the basic circuit 53 determines a stop symbol based on the value of the big hit symbol determining random number. Here, if the limiter is not in operation, a stop symbol is determined from a table including all symbols according to the value of the random number for jackpot symbol determination (steps S54 and S5).
5). When the limiter is operating, the basic circuit 53
Determines a stop symbol from a symbol table that does not include a symbol combination (probably variable symbol) that causes a probability variation according to the value of the big hit symbol determination random number (steps S54 and S5).
6). The limiter is for restricting the occurrence of the jackpot due to the probable symbol continuously, that is, the continuation of the high probability state continuously. For example, if the high probability state continues four times in a row, the limiter is activated.
Therefore, in the limiter operating state, the stop symbol is determined from the table that does not include the special symbol in which the probability change is performed.

Further, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to give a big hit notice. That is, the value of the random number (random 5) for the jackpot notice is extracted, and if the value is 0 or 1, it is determined to perform the jackpot notice (step S65). Also,
The reach random number (random 6) is extracted, and the reach type is determined based on the value (step S57). As will be described later, in this embodiment, two types of jackpot notices are prepared, and therefore, in step S65, it is also determined which mode of the jackpot notice is to be performed using, for example, another random number.

If it is determined that there is a loss, the CPU 56
Determines whether to reach (step S58).
For example, when the value of random number 4 as a random number for reach determination is any one of “105” to “1530”,
Decide not to reach. Then, when the value of the reach determination random number is any of “0” to “104”, it is determined to be reach. When determining to reach, the CPU 56 determines a reach symbol.

In this embodiment, the left and right symbols are determined according to the value of random 2-1 (step S59). Also, the middle symbol is determined according to the value of the random 2-2 (step S60). That is, one of the symbols corresponding to the values 0 to 15 of the values of the random 2-1 and the random 2-2 is determined as the stop symbol. Here, when the determined middle symbol matches the left and right symbols, the symbol corresponding to the value obtained by adding 1 to the value of the random number corresponding to the middle symbol is set as the fixed symbol of the middle symbol so that it does not match the big hit symbol. I do.

Further, the CPU 56 extracts the value of the random number (random 5) for the jackpot notice, and if the value is 0 or 1, decides to execute the jackpot notice (step S6).
6). Further, the reach random number (random 6) is extracted, and the reach type is determined based on the value (step S5).
7).

If it is determined in step S58 not to reach, the left and right middle symbols are determined according to the values of random 2-1 to 2-3 (step S61). As will be described later, in this embodiment, in the high probability state, a variation pattern in which the variation time is shortened is used as the variation pattern at the time of a loss. Therefore, in the high probability state, CP
U56 determines whether to use the normal variation pattern at the time of out-of-position or to use the shortened variation pattern, for example, using a predetermined random number or the like.

As described above, it is determined whether the display mode of the symbol variation based on the winning start is a jackpot, a reach mode, or a loss mode, and the combination of the respective stopped symbols is determined.

The reach type determined in step S57 indicates the variable display period of the symbol at the time of the reach. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, at the time of the reach, 19.5 seconds, 24.5 seconds and 2
Any variable display period of 9.5 seconds is used. Therefore, in step S57, one of the three types of periods is determined according to the value of the extracted random number 6.

In the high-probability state, the probability of the next big hit increases, the time until the variable display of the variable display 10 is determined by the 7-segment LED is shortened, and the variable display of the variable display 10 is changed. The pachinko gaming machine 1 may be configured to increase the number of times and the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 at the time of hitting based on the result, or the probability of hitting based on the variable display result of the variable display 10 is high. It may be constituted so that it may become.
Further, the present invention is also applicable to the pachinko gaming machine 1 in which only one or a plurality of these states occur.

For example, when the combination of symbols stopped on the variable display section 9 becomes a specific symbol, the probability of a big hit does not increase, but the variable winning ball device 15 at the time of hitting based on the variable display result of the variable display 10 does not increase. Even in a gaming machine in which the number of times of opening and the opening time are increased, if it is determined that the reach is to be made, it is determined whether or not the left and right stopped symbols match the display mode of the specific symbol, that is, which symbol is used to generate the reach state The present invention is also applicable to gaming machines determined by means such as a predetermined random number. Further, the range of the random numbers and the random number values used in this embodiment is an example, and any random numbers may be used, and the range setting is arbitrary.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol processing program executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process process shown in FIG. 12 is a specific process of step S11 in the flowchart of FIG. When performing the special symbol process processing, the CPU 56 determines in step S3 shown in FIG.
One of the processes from 00 to S309 is performed. In each process, the following processes are performed.

Special symbol change waiting processing (step S30)
0): The start winning port 14 (in this embodiment, the winning port of the variable winning ball device 15) is hit and the start port sensor 17 is turned on. When the starting port sensor 17 is turned on, the starting winning memory number is increased by + if the starting winning memory number is not full.
1 and a big hit determination random number is extracted. That is, the processing shown in FIG. 9 is executed. Special symbol determination processing (step S301): When a state in which the variable display of the special symbol can be started, the number of start winning prizes is confirmed. If the starting prize storage number is not 0, it is determined whether to make a jackpot or a losing according to the value of the extracted jackpot determination random number. That is, the first half of the process shown in FIG. 10 is executed. Stop symbol setting process (step S302): A stop symbol for the left and right middle symbols is determined. That is, the middle half of the processing shown in FIG. 10 is executed.

Reach operation setting processing (step S30)
3): It is determined whether or not to perform the reach operation according to the value of the reach determination random number, and the fluctuation period at the time of reach is determined according to the value of the reach random number. That is, the latter half of the process shown in FIG. 10 is executed.

All symbols change start processing (step S30)
4): In the variable display section 9, control is performed so that all symbols start to change. At this time, with respect to the display control board 80,
The left and right middle final stop symbols and information instructing the variation mode are transmitted. When a background or a character is also displayed on the variable display unit 9, control is performed so that display control command data corresponding to the background or character is transmitted to the display control board 80.

All symbols stop wait processing (step S30)
5): Control is performed so that all symbols displayed on the variable display section 9 are stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed. Also, control is performed so that the left and right symbols are stopped at a predetermined timing until the timing of stopping all symbols. Further, control is performed so that display control command data corresponding to a background or a character displayed on the variable display unit 9 is transmitted to the display control board 80 as appropriate.

Big hit display processing (step S306):
If the stop symbol is a combination of jackpot symbols,
The internal state (process flag) is updated so as to proceed to step S307. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S309. The combination of the big hit symbols is a combination in which the right and left middle symbols are aligned. Also, when the left and right symbols are aligned, it reaches reach.

Big winning opening opening process (step S30)
7): Control for opening the special winning opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening.

Processing during opening of the special winning opening (step S30)
8): Control for transmitting display control command data of the special winning opening round display to the display control board 80, processing for confirming establishment of the closing condition of the special winning opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition of the special winning opening is satisfied, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307 unless the end condition of the big hit gaming state is satisfied. If the jackpot gaming state end condition is satisfied, the internal state is updated to shift to step S309.

Big hit end processing (step S309):
A display for notifying the player that the jackpot gaming state has ended is performed. When the display is completed, the internal flags and the like are returned to the initial state, and the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

As described above, when a ball is hit in the starting winning opening 14, the basic circuit 53 determines whether to make a big hit or a loose hit, a stop symbol, and a variable in the special symbol process in step S11 (see FIG. 7). The display period is determined, and a display control command corresponding to the determination is given to the display control CPU 101 of the display control board 80. The display control CPU 101 controls the display of the variable display unit 9 according to a display control command from the main board 31.

Next, the variation of the symbol will be described using a specific example. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a left and right middle symbol used in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, each of the symbols displayed as the left and right middle symbols is
It is the same 12 symbols in the left and right. When the symbol of symbol number 12 is displayed, next, the symbol of symbol number 1 is displayed.
And the middle left and right symbols are, for example, "one", "three",
A high-probability state is reached when stopping at "five", "seven", "nin" or "clogs". That is, they become probable symbols.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a background symbol displayed on the variable display section 9 used in this embodiment. In this example, (A) dojo, (B) flash, (C) aura, and (D) smoke background are used. FIG.
The display shown in (E) shows an example of a demonstration screen displayed during a non-game of the gaming machine or the like.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of characters displayed on the variable display section 9 used in this embodiment. In this example, (A) character A, (B) character B, and (C) character C are used. In addition,
The character A is also used as a jackpot notice character, and when the character A is displayed so as to shine (notice 1), or when the character A gives a notice in a balloon (notice 2), the big hit notice is given. Will be. Further, the character A is also used as a character for establishing a reach, and when a predetermined condition is established, a display control in which the foot of the character A is displayed so as to kick the right symbol and the left and right symbols stop at the same symbol is performed. Done.

Display Control CP on Display Control Board 80
When receiving the display control command from the main board 31, the U101 performs control to move and display a predetermined background or character on the screen in each variation pattern. The background and the character are switched at a predetermined timing, and the display control CPU 101 independently controls them.

FIGS. 16 to 19 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of display control commands transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 used in this embodiment. In this example, 1
One display control command is 2 bytes (CMD1, CMD1).
It consists of 2).

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a display control command capable of specifying a variable display period of symbols and a display control command for instructing stop of all symbols. As shown in FIG. 16, in this example, as the display control commands that can specify the variable display period, “outside”, “all symbol variations at the time of probable change”,
There are "reach short term", "reach medium term" and "reach long term".

FIG. 17 shows a display control command indicating a stop symbol of the left symbol. As shown in FIG.
A stop symbol is designated by a display control command composed of byte control data CMD1 and CMD2. In addition,
In those designations, the control data CMD of the first byte
The value of 1 is “8B (H)”.

FIG. 18 shows a display control command indicating a stop symbol of a middle symbol. As shown in FIG.
A stop symbol is designated by a display control command composed of byte control data CMD1 and CMD2. In addition,
In those designations, the control data CMD of the first byte
The value of 1 is “8C (H)”.

FIG. 19 shows a display control command indicating a stop symbol of the right symbol. As shown in FIG.
A stop symbol is designated by a display control command composed of byte control data CMD1 and CMD2. In addition,
In those designations, the control data CMD of the first byte
The value of 1 is “8D (H)”.

FIG. 20 shows the main board 31 to the display control board 8.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a display control command transmitted to 0.
As shown in FIG. 20, in this embodiment, a display control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 through eight signal lines of display control signals CD0 to CD7. Further, between the main board 31 and the display control board 80, a signal line of a display control signal INT for transmitting a strobe signal, a supply line of + 5V and + 12V serving as a power supply of the display control board 80, and a ground level are provided. Signal lines for supplying are also wired.

FIG. 21 shows the main board 31 to the game control board 8
FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing an example of a transmission timing of a display control command given to 0. In this example, the 2-byte display control data constituting the display control command data is transmitted every 2 ms as shown in FIG. Then, a strobe signal (display control signal INT) is output in synchronization with each display control data. Since the display control CPU 101 is interrupted at the rising edge of the strobe signal,
The display control CPU 101 can fetch each display control data by the interrupt processing program.

Hereinafter, an example of a symbol variation pattern will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing patterns (variation states) constituting each variation pattern. FIG. 23 is a timing chart showing an example of the change of the symbol at the time of the out of reach. 24 to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing an example of a change in a symbol at the time of a reach (a case of a big hit and a case of no big hit). The command A0 indicates the period from the start of the change to the determination.

In this embodiment, at the time of detachment, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 3A, in the “left” symbol display area of the variable display section 9, first, the symbol is changed in accordance with the pattern a. The pattern a is a pattern in which the fluctuation speed gradually increases as shown in FIG. After that, the pattern b fluctuates at a constant speed, and the stop symbol 3
After the symbol before the symbol is controlled to be displayed, three symbols are changed according to the pattern c. As shown in FIG. 22, the pattern c is a pattern that is gradually delayed and stops.

Further, in the "right" symbol display area of the variable display section 9, symbols are changed in accordance with the pattern "a". Then, after a constant speed fluctuation, the control is performed so that the symbol three symbols before the stop symbol is displayed, and then the pattern c
In accordance with the symbol. Also in the "medium" symbol display area, the symbol is first changed in accordance with the pattern a. Then, after a constant speed fluctuation, the control is performed so that the symbol three symbols before the stop symbol is displayed, and then the pattern c
In accordance with the symbol.

The display control CP of the display control board 80
U101 repeatedly fluctuates the left and right symbols in the opposite direction of the change direction until the middle symbol is determined. That is,
The left and right symbols are displayed and controlled in a so-called swing fluctuation state. The swing fluctuation means that the symbol is displayed swinging up and down. The swing fluctuation is performed until the final stop symbol (fixed symbol) is displayed. When a display control command instructing stop of all the symbols is received from the main board 31, the swing fluctuation state of the left and right symbols is ended, and the left and right symbols are brought into a fixed state in which the middle symbols do not move. In addition, the swinging operation may be performed for the medium symbol after the fluctuation by the pattern c, and then the medium symbol may be set to the final state.

While the symbol is changing, the display control CPU
Reference numeral 101 denotes display control so that "Dojo" (see FIG. 14) is displayed as a background, and display control is performed so that the character A (see FIG. 15) is displayed on the screen and the character A is appropriately moved. Do. Specifically, the VDP 103 is notified of the background and the character. Then, VDP
103 creates image data of the designated background. Further, image data of the designated character is created and combined with the background image. Further, the VDP 103 converts the synthesized image into
The image data of the middle left and right symbols is synthesized. VDP103 is
The display control that the character moves and the display control that the symbol fluctuates are also performed. That is, the shape and display position of the character are changed according to a predetermined exercise pattern. Further, the symbol display position is changed according to the fluctuation speed notified from the display control CPU 101.

The display control CPU 101 controls the display of the symbol three symbols before the stop symbol at a predetermined timing in the symbol display area in the left and right so that the symbol change stops at the specified stop symbol. At the start of the change, the left and right stop symbols are notified, and the change pattern at the time of disconnection is determined in advance.
1 can recognize the switching timing from the pattern a to the pattern b and the switching timing from the pattern b to the pattern c, and can also determine a symbol three symbols before to be replaced. The determined replacement symbol is VDP
103, the VDP 103 displays the notified symbol regardless of the symbol displayed at that time.

FIG. 23B shows an example of a variation pattern at the time of a loss in the probability variation state. In this variation pattern, as shown in the figure, the left and right middle symbols are simultaneously stopped after the left and right middle symbols are changed according to the pattern a and the pattern b.

FIG. 24 shows an example of a fluctuation pattern displayed when 19.5 seconds (reach short period) is notified from the main board 31 as a fluctuation time. Display control CPU 101
When the short reach period is notified, independently determines which variation pattern among a plurality of variation patterns of 19.5 seconds to use. FIG. 24 illustrates three patterns (A) to (C) as a plurality of variation patterns. Note that the CPU 56 of the main board 31 may determine the reach type and send a command indicating a variation pattern according to the determined reach type.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 24 (A), after the left and right symbols have stopped, the middle symbol of pattern d is changed. Pattern d is a pattern in which the fluctuation speed gradually decreases and thereafter changes at a constant speed. Then, the reach operation is started, and the variation of the middle symbol is performed according to the pattern b and the pattern c. When a display control command instructing stop of all the symbols is received from the main board 31, the swing fluctuation state of the left and right symbols is ended, and the left and right symbols are fixed so that the middle symbols do not move. Further, the display control CPU 101 performs symbol replacement (symbol skip control) before the start of the reach operation so that the symbol is determined by the stop symbol notified from the main board 31. Since the variation pattern is determined in advance, the display control CPU 101 can recognize the switching timing from the pattern d to the pattern b and the switching timing from the pattern b to the pattern c, and a symbol three symbols before to be replaced. Can also be determined.
The background and the type of the character do not change during the change of the middle symbol.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 24B, after the left and right symbols have stopped, the middle symbol of the pattern d is changed. Then, the reach operation is started, and the middle symbol is changed according to the pattern a and the pattern c. When a display control command instructing stop of all the symbols is received from the main board 31, the swing fluctuation state of the left and right symbols is ended, and the left and right symbols are fixed so that the middle symbols do not move. Also, a display control CPU
101 replaces the symbols before the start of the reach operation so that the symbols are determined by the stopped symbols notified from the main board 31. In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 24B, when the right symbol is stopped, the display control CPU 101 performs display control so that the character A kicks the right symbol (FIG. 15).
reference). Therefore, the player feels as if the reach has been established by the character A kicking the right symbol.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 24C, after the left and right symbols have stopped, the middle symbol of pattern d is changed. Then, the reach operation is started, and the middle symbol is changed according to the pattern b and the pattern h. After halt, the pattern h fluctuates by 0.9 symbols,
This is a pattern that fluctuates in symbol order. When a display control command instructing stop of all the symbols is received from the main board 31, the swing fluctuation state of the left and right symbols is ended, and the left and right symbols are fixed so that the middle symbols do not move. In addition, the display control CPU 101 replaces the symbols before the reach operation starts so that the symbols are determined by the stop symbols notified from the main board 31. In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 24C, when the right symbol stops, the display control CPU 101 switches the background image to “aura” (see FIG. 14) and changes the character appearing on the screen to the character B ( (See FIG. 15).

The display control CPU 10 does not change even with the fluctuation pattern of the fluctuation time of 19.5 seconds shown in FIGS.
1 swings the left and right symbols up and down until the middle symbol is determined. The symbol replacement control of the middle symbol is executed at the timing when the right symbol stops. Display control CPU
Reference numeral 101 denotes a middle stop symbol which is notified from the main board 31 at the start of the change, and the number of symbol changes in the reach change period (for example, the change period of the pattern d, the pattern b, and the pattern c in FIG. 24A). To determine the replacement symbol.

FIG. 25 shows an example of a fluctuation pattern displayed when 24.5 seconds are notified from the main board 31 as a fluctuation time. When the display control CPU 101 is notified of the change time of 24.5 seconds, the display control CPU 101 uniquely determines which of the plurality of change patterns is to be used. FIG. 25 illustrates three patterns (A) to (C) as a plurality of variation patterns.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 25 (A), after the left and right symbols are stopped, the variation of the middle symbol of the pattern d is performed. Then, the reach operation is started, and the middle symbol is changed according to the pattern b and the pattern f. The pattern f is a high-speed change, and a pause period is set before the start of the change by the pattern f. When a display control command instructing stop of all the symbols is received from the main board 31, the swing fluctuation state of the left and right symbols is ended, and the left and right symbols are fixed so that the middle symbols do not move. The display control CPU 101 includes a main board 31.
So that the symbol is fixed with the stop symbol notified from,
The symbols are replaced before the start of the reach operation. Note that FIG.
In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 5A, when the right symbol stops, the display control CPU 101 sets the background image to “flash”.
(See FIG. 14). Also, when the right symbol is stopped,
The display control CPU 101 performs display control so that the character A kicks the right symbol (see FIG. 15). Further, when it is determined that a jackpot notice to be described later is to be performed, the display control CPU 101 performs display control such that the eyes of the character A shines or display of the character in the right and left symbol variation period. .

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 25 (B), after the left and right symbols have stopped, the middle symbol of the pattern d is changed. Then, the reach operation is started, and the middle symbol is changed according to the pattern b and the pattern h. When a display control command instructing stop of all the symbols is received from the main board 31, the swing fluctuation state of the left and right symbols is ended, and the left and right symbols are fixed so that the middle symbols do not move. Also, a display control CPU
101 replaces the symbols before the start of the reach operation so that the symbols are determined by the stopped symbols notified from the main board 31. In the variation pattern shown in FIG.
When the right symbol stops, the display control CPU 101 switches the background image to “flash” (see FIG. 14). Further, when it is determined that the big hit notice is to be given, the display control CPU 101 performs a display control such that the eyes of the character A shines or a display utterance of the character during the right and left symbol change period.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 25C, after the left and right symbols are stopped, the middle symbol is changed in the pattern d. Then, the reach operation is started, and the variation of the middle symbol is performed according to the pattern b and the pattern c. When a display control command instructing stop of all the symbols is received from the main board 31, the swing fluctuation state of the left and right symbols is ended, and the left and right symbols are fixed so that the middle symbols do not move. Also, a display control CPU
101 performs symbol replacement (symbol skip control) before the start of the reach operation so that the symbol is determined by the stop symbol notified from the main board 31. In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 25C, when the right symbol stops, the display control CPU 101 sets the background image to “aura” (see FIG. 14).
And the character appearing on the screen is switched to character B (see FIG. 15). Further, when it is determined that the big hit notice is to be given, the display control CPU 101 performs a display control such that the eyes of the character A shines or a display utterance of the character during the right and left symbol change period.

Even with the variation pattern of the variation time of 24.5 seconds shown in FIGS.
1 swings the left and right symbols up and down until the middle symbol is determined. The symbol skip control of the middle symbol is executed at the timing when the right symbol stops.

FIGS. 26 and 27 show examples of a variation pattern displayed when 29.5 seconds are notified from the main board 31 as a variation time. The display control CPU 101
When 29.5 seconds are notified as the fluctuation time, it is determined which of the plurality of fluctuation patterns to use. FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate three patterns as a plurality of variation patterns. Note that (C
The fluctuation patterns 1) and (C2) are examples showing different aspects of one fluctuation pattern. Therefore, FIG.
The variation patterns illustrated in (C1) and (C2) may be referred to as variation patterns illustrated in FIG.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 26 (A), after the left and right symbols have stopped, the middle symbol of the pattern d is changed. Then, the reach operation is started, and after the fluctuation by the pattern b, the middle symbol is fluctuated according to the pattern f after a pause period. Also, the display control CPU 101
Replaces the symbols before the start of the reach operation so that the symbols are determined by the stopped symbols notified from the main board 31. In the variation pattern shown in FIG.
When the right symbol stops, the display control CPU 101 switches the background image to “flash” (see FIG. 14). Further, when it is determined that the big hit notice is to be given, the display control CPU 101 performs a display control such that the eyes of the character A shines or a display utterance of the character during the right and left symbol change period.

Further, in the variation pattern shown in FIG. 26A, when the middle symbol fluctuates at a high speed in the pattern f, the left and right symbols similarly fluctuate at a high speed. Therefore, when the final stop symbol is a combination of big hit symbols, the temporary stop symbol at the time of temporary stop is also a combination of big hit symbols, though the type of the symbol is different. Therefore, the player feels that the big hit has occurred at the time of the temporary stop, and the big hit symbol is provided again after the fluctuation, so that the interest is again aroused.
The pause symbol is a symbol that the display control CPU 101 has independently determined from the stop symbol. Since the change speed and the change period of the pattern f are determined in advance, the display control CPU 101 can easily calculate the temporary stop symbol from the final stop symbol.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 26B, after the left and right symbols have stopped, the middle symbol of the pattern d is changed. Then, the reach operation is started, and after the fluctuation by the pattern b and the pattern h, the fluctuation of the middle symbol is performed according to the pattern f after a pause period. In addition, the display control CPU 101 replaces the symbols before the reach operation starts so that the symbols are determined by the stop symbols notified from the main board 31. In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 26B, when the right symbol stops, the display control CP is stopped.
U101 switches the background image to “aura” (see FIG. 14) and switches the character appearing on the screen to character B (see FIG. 15). The display control C
When it is determined that the big hit notice is to be given, the PU 101 performs a display control such that the eyes of the character A shine or a display utterance of the character in the right and left symbol change period.

In the variation pattern shown in FIG. 27 (C), after the left and right symbols stop, the variation of the middle symbol is performed according to the pattern c. After that, the middle symbol is changed according to the pattern g. The pattern g is a frame feed pattern. In addition, the display control CPU 101 replaces the symbols before the reach operation starts so that the symbols are determined by the stop symbols notified from the main board 31. FIG. 27
In the variation pattern shown in (C), when the right symbol stops, the display control CPU 101 switches the background image to “smoke” (see FIG. 14) and changes the character appearing on the screen to the character C (see FIG. 15). Switch to Further, when it is determined that the big hit notice is to be given, the display control CPU 101 performs a display control such that the eyes of the character A shines or a display utterance of the character during the right and left symbol change period.

Variation time 2 shown in FIGS. 26 and 27
Even with a fluctuation pattern of 9.5 seconds, the display control CPU 101
Moves the left and right symbols up and down until the middle symbol is determined. The symbol skip control of the middle symbol is executed at the timing when the right symbol stops.

In the variation pattern including the frame feed shown in FIG. 27C, at the start of the reach operation, it is assumed that the left and right display symbols are aligned irrespective of whether or not a big hit is made. Then, since the stop symbol of the middle left and right symbols is transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 at the start of the change, the stop symbol and the symbol at the start of the reach operation (the left and right middle ones are aligned) are used for frame advance Is determined.

For example, in the example shown in FIG. 27 (C1), the fixed symbols are “seven” (left symbol), “five” (middle symbol),
This is an example in the case of "seven" (right symbol). Since the symbols at the start of the reach operation are "seven", "seven", and "seven", it is necessary to change ten symbols during frame advance. Further, the example shown in FIG. 27 (C2) is an example in which the determined symbols are “seven” (left symbol), “two” (middle symbol), and “seven” (right symbol). Since the symbols at the start of the reach operation are "seven", "seven", and "seven", it is necessary to change seven symbols at the time of frame advance.

If the period of frame advance is kept constant, the fluctuation time deviates from 29.5 seconds. In order to prevent the frame from shifting, it is necessary to change the speed at which the frame is advanced according to the number of frames to be advanced. It is unnatural to perform such display control. That is, it gives the player distrust. Therefore, in this embodiment, the display control CPU 1
In the case of 01, when it is determined to use the fluctuation pattern shown in FIG. 27C, the timing at the start of the reach operation is adjusted so that the fluctuation speed at the time of the frame feed fluctuation is always constant.

That is, when the number of frames to be sent is small, the timing for starting the reach operation is delayed, and when the number of frames to be sent is large, the timing for starting the reach operation is relatively advanced.
If such display control is performed, the overall fluctuation time is 29.
After the time is kept at 5 seconds, the speed of fluctuation at the time of frame feed fluctuation can always be kept constant.

Hereinafter, control of the game control means and the display control means for realizing the above-described display example will be described. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a process of waiting for command transmission completion (step S303) in the special symbol process process shown in FIG. When the fluctuating time and the stop symbol are determined in the stop symbol setting process of step S302, transmission control of a display control command for instructing them is performed. In step S303,
First, the CPU 56 waits for completion of transmission of the command (step S303a). The command transmission completion is notified from the display control data output process (step S5) during the main process (see FIG. 7).

In this embodiment, when starting the symbol change, the CPU 56 displays any of the commands A0, A2, B1, B2, B3 capable of specifying the change time shown in FIG. 80. Subsequently, a display control command indicating the determined left and right middle stop symbols is sent to the display control board 80. Therefore, in the command transmission completion process of step S303a, it is confirmed whether or not transmission of all the commands has been completed. Note that the CPU 56 sends out the display control commands indicating the left and right middle stop symbols, and then outputs the commands A0, A2, B1, B
2 or B3 may be transmitted.

Although no command is explicitly shown in FIG. 16, the CPU 56 also sends a display control command to the display control board 80 indicating whether or not to perform the jackpot notice. The information indicating whether or not to perform the jackpot notice may be included in a command that can specify the fluctuation time. That is, each command capable of specifying the fluctuating time without notice and each command capable of specifying the fluctuating time without notice may be defined.

When the transmission of the display control command is completed, C
The PU 56 starts a fluctuation time timer for measuring the fluctuation time notified to the display control board 80 (Step S303b). Then, the special symbol process flag is updated so as to proceed to step S304 (step S304).
303c).

FIG. 29 is a flow chart of the all symbol stop waiting process (step S30) in the special symbol process process shown in FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows 4). In step S304, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the variable time timer has expired (step S304a). When the time is up, a display control command for instructing to stop all symbols is set (step S304b). Then, a display control command data transmission request is set (step S304c),
The special symbol process flag is updated so as to proceed to step S305 (step S304d). The display control command data transmission request is referred to in the display control data setting process (step S3) in the main process (see FIG. 7).

As described above, in the special symbol process processing, the CPU 56 displays the information for specifying the variation time at the start of the variation and the information for designating the stop symbol on the display control board 8.
0, and when the variation time timer times out, that is, when the designated variation time is over, information for instructing all symbols to be changed is sent to the display control board 80. Meanwhile, C
The PU 56 does not send a display control command to the display control board 80. Therefore, the load required for the display control of the CPU 56 of the main board 31 is greatly reduced.

FIG. 30 shows a display control data setting process (FIG. 7).
6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of step S4) in the main processing shown in FIG. In the display control data setting process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the data sending flag is set (step S41).
1). If not set, it is confirmed whether or not the transmission request flag of the display control command data is set (step S412). If the transmission request flag has been set, the transmission request flag is reset (step S4).
13). The display control command data to be transmitted is set in the output data storage area (step S41).
4), a port output request is set (step S41)
6). The transmission request flag of the display control command data is set in the special symbol process. The data sending flag is set in a display control data output process described later.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the display control data output process (step S5) in the main process shown in FIG. In the display control data output process, the CPU 56 determines whether a port output request has been set (step S421). If the port output request has been set, the port output request is reset (step S422), and the contents of the port storage area (the first byte of the display control command) are output to the output port 571 (step S423). Then, the port output counter is incremented by one (step S424). In addition, INT
The signal is set to low level (ON state) (step S42).
5), turning on the data sending flag (step S42)
6).

If the port output request has not been set, it is determined whether the value of the port output counter is 0 (step S431). Port output counter value is 0
If not, it is checked whether the value of the port output counter is 1 (step S432). If the value of the port output counter is 1, the INT signal is turned off (= 1) because it is the INT signal off timing for the first byte of the display control command (step S43).
3). Further, the value of the port output counter is increased by 1 (step S434).

If the value of the port output counter is 2 (step S435), the output timing of the second byte of the display control command has come, so the contents of the port storage area (the second byte of the display control command) Is output to the output port 571 (step S436). Then, the port output counter is incremented by 1 (step S437). Further, the INT signal is set to low level (step S43).
8).

When the value of the port output counter is not 2, that is, when the value is 3, the INT signal off timing for the second byte of the display control command is reached, and the value of the port output counter is cleared. At the same time (step S441), the INT signal is turned off (high level) (step S442). Further, the data sending flag is turned off (step S443).

In this embodiment, the display control data output processing shown in FIG. 31 is executed once every 2 ms. Therefore, the data output process shown in FIG.
As shown in (1), one byte of data is output every 2 ms.

Next, the operation of the display control CPU 101 will be described. FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the main processing of the display control CPU 101. In the main processing, the display control CPU 101 first initializes the RAM, the I / O port, the VDP 103, and the like (step S70).
1). Then, display control is performed so that a demonstration screen appears on the variable display unit 9 (step S70).
2). Thereafter, the display random number updating process (the update process of the counter for generating the display random number) is repeatedly executed (step S703).

FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing display random numbers handled by the display control CPU 101. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 33A, in this embodiment, there are a jackpot announcement random number and a reach random number as display random numbers. The random number for the jackpot notice is for determining whether to give the jackpot notice,
The reach random number is for determining a fluctuation pattern. FIG. 33B shows the relationship between the value of the reach random number and the variation pattern.

In FIG. 33B, A, B, C, D
Are (A), (B), (C),
(D) is supported. That is, if the value of the extracted reach random number is the value shown in the upper part, the symbol is changed in the change pattern shown in the lower part. For example, when the main board 31 notifies the fluctuating time of 29.5 seconds (reach long term) and the value of the extracted reach random number is 21, which is a big hit, it is shown in FIG. 27C. It is determined that the fluctuation is performed in the fluctuation pattern. The determination as to whether or not to make a big hit is made based on the display control command indicating the stop symbol of the middle left and right symbols sent together with the display control command for designating the fluctuation time.

In this embodiment, actual fluctuation control and the like are performed by a timer interrupt process. Timer interrupt is
For example, it occurs every 2 ms. As shown in FIG. 34, in the timer interruption process, the display control CPU 101 executes a display control process process (step S711). In the display control process, a display control process according to the value of the display control process flag is performed.

The display control command from the main board 31 is I
It is received by the display control CPU 101 by the RQ2 interrupt. FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the IRQ2 interrupt processing of the display control CPU 101. In the IRQ2 interrupt processing, the display control CPU 101 first checks whether the data receiving flag is set (step S601). If not set, this interrupt is an interrupt caused by the transmission of the first byte of display control data in the display control command data. Therefore, the pointer is cleared (step S602), and the data receiving flag is set (step S603). Then, control goes to a step S604. The pointer is the display control CPU 1
01 indicates in which byte in the display control command data storage area of the built-in RAM the received data is to be stored.

If the data receiving flag is set, the strobe signal is turned off (step S60).
4), the display control CPU 101 inputs data from the input port, and stores the input data at the address indicated by the pointer in the display control command data storage area (step S605).

The display control CPU 101 increments the value of the pointer by one (step S606). When the value of the pointer becomes 2 (step S60)
7) Since the reception of the display control command data composed of 2 bytes has been completed, the data reception completion flag is set and the data reception flag is reset (steps S608 and S609). With the above processing, the display control data CMD1 and CMD2 are received by the display control board 80.

FIG. 36 shows the display control process in the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 34 (step S711).
It is a flowchart which shows. In the display control process, step S7 is performed according to the value of the display control process flag.
Any one of the processes from 20 to S870 is performed. In each process, the following processes are performed.

Display control command reception waiting processing (step S720): It is confirmed whether or not a display control command capable of specifying the fluctuation time has been received by the IRQ2 interrupt processing.

Reach operation setting processing (step S75)
0): At the time of the reach, which of the variation patterns shown in FIGS. 24 to 27 is to be used, and the type of the big hit notice is determined.

All symbols change start processing (step S78)
0): Control is performed so that the change of the middle left and right symbols is started.

Symbol change processing (step S810): The switching timing of each change state (change speed, background, character) constituting the change pattern is controlled, and the end of the change time is monitored. Also, stop control of the left and right symbols is performed.

All symbols stop wait setting processing (step S84)
0): At the end of the fluctuation time, if a display control command instructing to stop all the symbols has been received, the control of stopping the fluctuation of the symbols and displaying the final stopped symbol (fixed symbol) is performed.

Big hit display processing (step S870): After the end of the fluctuation time, the control of the probability big hit display or the normal big hit display is performed.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the display control command reception waiting process (step S720). In the display control command reception waiting process, the display control CP
U101 first checks whether or not the command non-reception timer has timed out (step S721). The command non-reception timer is set to time out when a display control command indicating a symbol change is not received from the main board 31 for a predetermined period or more. If a timeout has occurred, the display control CPU 101 performs control to display a demonstration screen on the variable display unit 9 (step S722).

If the command non-reception timer has not timed out, the display control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a display control command capable of specifying the fluctuation time has been received (step S723). The display control commands that can specify the variation time are the commands A0, A2, and B shown in FIG.
1, B2 or B3. If a display control command capable of specifying the fluctuation time is received, the value of the display control process flag is set to reach operation setting processing (step S75).
0) (step S724).

The display control command transmitted first from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 is a command for indicating a fluctuating time and a command for designating a stop symbol of the middle left and right symbols.
In addition, information without notice is also received. These are stored in the display control data storage area (FIG. 3).
7 in step S607). In the following, the stop symbol sent together with the command indicating the fluctuation time,
It is called a temporary stop symbol.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the reach operation setting process (step S750). In the reach operation setting process, the display control CPU 101 first determines from the display control command that can specify the fluctuation time whether or not it is out of reach (step S751).
Specifically, if command A0 or A2 has been received, it is incorrect.

If it is a loss, it is checked whether the left and right temporary stop symbols are different (step S7).
52). If they match, the right temporary stop symbol is shifted by one symbol (step S753). Then, the right and left temporarily stopped symbols are stored in a predetermined storage area (step S754). The monitoring timer is set to 7.9 seconds (step S752). 7.9 seconds is a value giving a margin to the fluctuation time at the time of loss of 7.8 seconds, and a predetermined process is performed when a command designating all symbols stop cannot be received before the monitoring timer times out. Is performed.

If it is determined in step S751 that there is no loss, that is, if any of the commands B1, B2, and B3 has been received, it is checked whether the left and right temporary stop symbols are the same (step S756). If they were different,
The right temporary stop symbol is made the same as the left temporary stop symbol (step S757). Then, the right and left temporarily stopped symbols are stored in a predetermined storage area (step S754). Further, the display control CPU 101 executes the command B1, B2 or B3.
A value obtained by adding 0.1 seconds to the fluctuation time according to the above is set in the monitoring timer (step S759). Then, the reach mode, that is, the variation pattern is determined (step S76).
0). That is, the count value of the counter for generating the reach random number shown in FIG.
The variation pattern is determined according to the table shown in FIG.

As described above, in this embodiment, the display control CPU 101 controls the commands A0, A2, B1, B2 transmitted from the main board 31 when starting variable display.
Or, when B3 and the received right and left middle temporary stop symbol are inconsistent, the temporary stop symbol is corrected. Therefore, even if an error occurs in the left and right temporary stop symbols for some reason, the error is corrected. The error is, for example, a case where a noise from the cable from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 causes a bit error in the command. As a result,
The display of the fixed symbol inconsistent with the loss / reach determined by the game control means is prevented.

Further, in a case where the variation time is made different between the case with and without the re-variation, and the variation pattern for performing the re-variation is settled on the positive variation symbol, the main substrate 31
From the main board 3
When the stop symbol received from 1 is not a probable symbol, the display control CPU 101 may correct the prohibition symbol. For example, when a command indicating “seven”, “six”, or “seven” as a stop symbol is received from the main board 31, the command is corrected to “seven”, “seven”, or “seven”.

Next, the display control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a notice has been given from the CPU 56 of the main board 31 (step S761). It is determined whether or not to give a notice. In the case of giving a notice, if the value of the random number for the jackpot notice is 0, the notice of the jackpot is given in the form of the jackpot notice 1 (see FIG. 15), and if the value of the random number for the jackpot notice is 1, the form of the jackpot notice 2 (See FIG. 15), a big hit notice is given (step S762).

As described above, the game control means determines whether or not to perform the jackpot notice, and the display control CPU 101 determines in what manner the jackpot notice is to be performed. Is reduced. In general, when a big hit notice is displayed, a sound corresponding to the display is emitted from the speaker 27. However, the game control means sends a command to the sound control board 70 to emit a sound at the big hit notice display timing. Send.

Although two types of jackpot notices have been illustrated here, there may be more types of jackpot notices. When a plurality of notice modes are used, a notice with a high probability of a big hit and a notice with a low probability of a big hit may be divided, and a notice with a low probability may be defined as a reach notice. That is, the notice used in the present invention may be a jackpot notice or a reach notice. Further, a notice used in a case where there is a high possibility that a big hit occurs in the probability changing symbol may be used as the probability changing big hit notice.

Next, the display control CPU 101 determines to use the process table corresponding to the selected variation pattern (step S763). In each process table, each variation state (variation speed, variation period at that speed, and the like) in the variation pattern is set. Each process table is set in the ROM. Then, the display control CPU 101 changes the value of the display control process flag to a value corresponding to the all symbol variation start process (step S780) (step S764).

FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the process table. In each process table corresponding to each variation pattern, the variation speed, the variation period at that speed, the switching timing of the background and the character,
Voice control data and the like are set. Also, a process timer value for determining a fluctuation period at a certain speed is set. Each process table is composed of a plurality of 3-byte process data.

For example, in the process table corresponding to the variation pattern shown in FIG. 25 (A), the first process data (3 bytes) includes changing the middle left and right symbols at a low speed and switching the next display state. A process timer value indicating the time until the timing is set. The first change is the change (acceleration) due to the pattern a.
This is because low-speed fluctuation should be started.

Next, changing the left symbol at a medium speed,
A process timer value indicating the time until the next display state switching timing is set. Then, the right symbol is changed at a medium speed, and a process timer value indicating a time until the next display state switching timing is set. Further, a process timer value indicating that the medium symbol is fluctuated at a medium speed and a time until the next display state switching timing is set. Thereafter, how to switch the display state and a process timer value indicating the time until the next display state switching timing are sequentially set.

The display state switching timing is as follows.
This is the timing for switching the speed of change of any of the right and left symbols, and further includes the timing for switching between the background and the character, and the timing for replacing the symbol.

Therefore, the display control CPU 101 can know that some display state must be changed by the expiration of the process timer. The display state to be changed can be known from the set value of the third byte of the next process data in the process table.

In the variation pattern including the frame feed as shown in FIG. 27C, each period constituting the variation pattern is variable according to the number of frames to be sent. Therefore, each process table corresponding to the number of frames to be sent is prepared. The display control CPU 101 calculates the number of frames to be sent from the temporary stop symbol when it is determined at the start of the change that the change pattern including the frame feed as shown in FIG. 27C is used. Then, in step S765, it is determined to use a process table corresponding to the number of frames to be sent.
If each process table corresponding to the number of frames to be sent is prepared, even if each period constituting the fluctuation pattern is variable, the process timer value set in the process table and the set value of the third byte are set. Thus, variable display control can be easily performed.

FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the whole symbol change start process (step S780). In the all symbol variation start processing, the display control CPU 101 starts the timer with the process timer value set first in the process table determined to be used (step S781). Further, based on the data indicating the variation state set in the third byte, the symbol variation control and the background and character display control are started (step S78).
2). Then, the value of the display control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the symbol change process (step S810) (step S783).

FIG. 41 shows a process during symbol change (step S8).
It is a flowchart which shows 10). In the symbol change processing, the display control CPU 101 checks whether the process timer has timed out (step S81).
1). If the process timer has timed out, the pointer indicating the data in the process table is incremented by +3 (step S812). Then, it is determined whether or not the data in the area pointed to by the pointer is an end code (step S).
813). If it is not the end code, the symbol variation control and the background and character display control are changed based on the data indicating the variation state set in the third byte of the process data indicated by the pointer (step S81).
4) Start the timer with the process timer value set in the first and second bytes (step S815).

If it is an end code in step S813, the value of the display control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the all symbol stop waiting process (step S840) (step S816).

FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the all symbol stop waiting process (step S840). In the all symbol stop waiting process, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not a display control command instructing to stop all symbols has been received (step S841). If the display control command instructing the stop of all the symbols has been received, the control for stopping the symbols with the stored temporarily stopped symbols is performed (step S84).
2). Then, a command non-reception timer is started to monitor the time until the reception of the next display control command (step S843).

If the display control command for designating the stop of all symbols has not been received, it is checked whether or not the monitoring timer has timed out (step S845). If a timeout has occurred, it is determined that some abnormality has occurred, and control is performed to display an error screen on the variable display unit 9 (step S846).

After performing the processing of step S843, the display control CPU 101 sets the value of the display control process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit display processing (step S870) (step S844).

FIG. 43 shows a big hit display process (step S8).
It is a flowchart which shows 70). In the big hit display process, the display control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a probability change big hit (step S871). Display control CPU 10
1 can determine whether or not it is a probability variation big hit based on the fixed symbol. If it is a probability change jackpot, display control CP
U101 performs display control to display, for example, “probable change big hit” on the variable display unit 9 (step S872). Specifically, the display instruction of “probable change big hit” is notified to the VDP 103. Then, the VDP 103 creates image data of the indicated display. The image data is combined with the background image. If it is not a probability change jackpot, the display control CPU 10
1 performs display control to display, for example, "big hit" on the variable display unit 9 (step S873).

Thereafter, in the big hit display process, the main board 31
The display control of the variable display unit 9 is performed based on the display control command in the big hit game state transmitted from. For example, the number of rounds is displayed. And the main substrate 3
When a display control command indicating the end of the big hit game is received from step 1 (step S874), the value of the display control process flag is waited for display control command reception (step S720).
Is set to a value corresponding to (step S844)

As described above, in this embodiment, the information which can specify the variable period and the stop symbol of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display section 9 is provided by the game control means, that is, the C of the main board 31.
It is sent from the PU 56 to the display control means, and the display control means
It controls the display and display switching of the background and the character irrespective of the pattern variation. Therefore, the number of display control commands sent from the game control means to the display control means for one symbol change is reduced.

Then, the game control means gives a display control command indicating stop of all symbols to the display control means at the end of the fluctuation period, and the display control means determines the symbol by the display control command indicating stop of all symbols. Therefore, the design is
It is definitely determined at the timing managed by the game control means.
As in this embodiment, the game control means transmits information that can specify the change time and information about the stop symbol at the time related to the start of the change of the symbol, and then the display control means determines the change pattern independently. In the case of performing symbol replacement control or the like, a substantial part of the display control is executed by the display control means.

In this case, since the game control means cannot recognize the specific change pattern, if no countermeasures are taken, there is a possibility that the change is performed with a shift time different from the change time determined by the game control means. However, if the game control means is configured to give a display control command indicating all symbols stop to the display control means at the end of the fluctuation period, the symbols are definitely determined at the end of the fluctuation time determined by the game control means. . If an error display is performed when a display control command instructing stop of all symbols cannot be received, it is immediately recognized that an abnormality has occurred.

In the above embodiment, the game control means
Information indicating one entire fluctuation period was transmitted to the display control board as information capable of specifying the fluctuation time. However, one variation may be divided into a plurality of sections, and the pattern information in each section may be transmitted to the display control means at the start of each section. In this case, the display control means may select one variation pattern from a plurality of variation patterns in the period from the pattern information received for each section.

For example, as shown in FIG. 44, one symbol variation is divided into a variation A portion, a variation B portion, and a variation C portion.
Then, when starting the change of the special symbol, the game control means first transmits a display control command of the pattern of the variation A portion and the temporary stop symbol to the display control means. At a predetermined timing, a display control command including a pattern of the variation B portion and the variation C portion is transmitted. Therefore, the display control means, that is, the display control CP of the display control board 80 is used.
U101 can specify the fluctuation period from the display control command that specifies the fluctuation A section, the fluctuation B section, and the fluctuation C section (there may be no fluctuation B section and the fluctuation C section). Further, upon receiving a display control command designating the variation A portion, the variation B portion, and the variation C portion, the display control means controls the switching of the variation speed in each variation pattern and also controls the display of the background and the character.

FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the display control command and the variation mode. The example shown in FIG.
This is an example in which a plurality of variation patterns are prepared corresponding to one variation section, and the display control CPU 101 is configured to select the variation pattern. In FIG. 45, A11,
A12, B10 to B14, C11, and C12 indicate display control commands, respectively. Commands B10 to B14 are commands indicating different fluctuation times, and commands C11 and C12 are commands indicating different fluctuation times.

For example, in the case of reach, the game control means always transmits the command A11 at the start of the change, but at the start of the change B section, the game control means transmits any of the commands B11 to B14. Send. Upon receiving the command B13, the display control means selects one of the two types of variation patterns and performs display control for realizing the variation pattern. When the command B14 is received, similar selection processing is performed. When the command C11 is received, one of two types of variation patterns is selected and display control for realizing the variation patterns is performed.

By such processing. In the example shown in FIG. 45, in the case of reach, six types of variation patterns (A) to (F) can be realized. In addition, regarding the fluctuation patterns (A) to (C), the game control means
At the end of the variation B section, a display control command indicating all symbols stop is transmitted to the display control means. In addition, the fluctuation pattern (D)
With regard to (F), the game control means transmits a display control command indicating all symbols stop to the display control means at the end of the variation C section.

As described above, even when one symbol variation is divided into a plurality of sections, the game control means transmits a display control command including the pattern of the variation A portion and the temporary stop symbol, and thereafter, the variation B portion. It is only necessary to send a display control command for only the pattern of section C and the final stop symbol. Therefore,
The load required for the display control of the game control means is reduced.

If a plurality of fluctuation patterns are prepared corresponding to one fluctuation section and the display control CPU 101 is configured to select a fluctuation pattern as appropriate, the game control means manages a small number of types of fluctuation time. And the load is further reduced.

In each of the above embodiments, the display control means calculates the symbol before re-change based on the temporary stop symbol in the change pattern in which the middle symbol is temporarily stopped and all the symbols are changed again. In comparison with the case where the means determines the symbol before re-change and transmits the same to the display control means, the load required for the display control of the game control means is also reduced. Also,
Since the switching of the background and the character is also managed by the display control means, the load required for the display control of the game control means is reduced.

Further, the display control means monitors by a timer that the condition for variably displaying symbols is not satisfied for a predetermined period or more, and displays a demonstration screen when a time-out occurs. There is no need to monitor that the conditions for performing do not hold. Therefore, also from this, the load required for the display control of the game control means is reduced.

In the above embodiment, the stop state is defined as including the swing operation state and the fixed state described above. That is, when the symbol displayed in that state is not changed to the next symbol, it is defined as a stopped state.

[0181]

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible for the game control device to specify the information capable of specifying the variable display pattern capable of specifying the fluctuation time within the predetermined period and the stop identification information. Information can be output to the display control means at a predetermined time related to starting a change within a predetermined period, and information indicating the determination is transmitted at a time related to determining all the identification information. Since the configuration is made possible, the burden of control on the display of the identification information by the game control means is reduced, and the time that the game control means can perform the original game control can be increased. Further, by transmitting a command indicating that to the display control means when the identification information is determined, the identification information can be surely determined within a specified variation time.

If the predetermined period is a period from the start of the change of the identification information to the determination, the game control means may send a command at the start of the change and at the time of the determination of all the changes. This has the effect of greatly reducing the number.

Even if the predetermined period is each section obtained by dividing the period from the start of the change of the identification information to the determination thereof into a plurality of sections, a display transmitted from the game control means to the display control means for one change of the identification information. The number of control commands has been greatly reduced.

In the case where the display control means is configured to perform swing fluctuation on the previously stopped identification information until all the identification information is determined, it is easy to determine that the identification information has not been determined. The effect is recognized.

When data is transferable between the game control means and the display control means only in the direction from the game control means to the display control means, an invalid signal is sent to the game control means. This has the effect of reducing the possibility of input.

In the case where the command output means is configured to be an irreversible transmission means for transmitting a signal in only one direction, the possibility that an unauthorized signal is input to the game control means can be further reduced. There is.

When the command output means is composed of an output port and an output driver, the output means has a two-stage configuration, and the possibility that an incorrect signal is input to the game control means can be further reduced. effective.

[0188] The display control means determines whether or not the information from the game control means capable of specifying the variable display pattern and the information capable of specifying the stop identification information correspond to each other. In the case where the stop identification information is configured to be corrected based on the information capable of specifying the variable display pattern, it is prevented from being determined by unnatural identification information, and the game effect is prevented from being damaged. effective.

When the display control means is configured to set the replacement destination identification information based on the information that can specify the identification information from the game control means, the game control means changes the replacement destination identification information. There is no need to perform the processing for determination, and the effect of reducing the control load on the identification information display of the game control means can be obtained.

When the stop identification information indicates a big hit, the display control means determines whether the hit is a big hit or a normal big hit that brings a more advantageous game value to the player, and the determination result is In the case where the display content related to the big hit is selected and used for the display control, the game control means does not need to perform the display control for notifying the player of the big hit, and the game control This has the effect of reducing the burden of control on displaying the identification information of the means.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine viewed from the front.

FIG. 2 is an overall rear view showing the internal structure of the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the gaming board of the pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the rear.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration on a main board.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of a display control board.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of an audio control board.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing main processing of the basic circuit.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a process of determining that a hit ball has won a start winning opening.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process of determining a stop symbol for variable display and a process of determining a reach type.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a jackpot determination process.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process process.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a left and right middle symbol displayed on the variable display section.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a background symbol displayed on the variable display unit.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a character displayed on the variable display unit.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a display control command capable of specifying a variable display period of a symbol and a display control command instructing stop of all symbols.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a display control command of a left symbol stop symbol.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing a display control command of a stop symbol of a middle symbol.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing a display control command of a right symbol stop symbol.

FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing display control command data transmitted from the main board to the display control board.

FIG. 21 is a timing chart showing an example of transmission timing of display control command data.

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing a fluctuating state constituting each fluctuating pattern of a symbol.

FIG. 23 is a timing chart showing an example of a change in a symbol at the time of a non-reach out of position.

FIG. 24 is a timing chart showing an example of symbol fluctuation at the time of reach.

FIG. 25 is a timing chart showing an example of a change of a symbol at the time of a reach.

FIG. 26 is a timing chart showing an example of a change of a symbol at the time of a reach.

FIG. 27 is a timing chart showing an example of a change in a symbol during a reach.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a process of waiting for command transmission completion in the special symbol process process.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing an all symbol stop waiting process in the special symbol process process.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of display control data setting processing.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing display control data output processing.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating main processing of a display control CPU.

FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing display random numbers.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process of the display control CPU.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing an IRQ2 interrupt process of the display control CPU.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a display control process.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a display control command reception waiting process of the display control process process.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing a reach operation setting process of a display control process process.

FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a display control process table.

FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing an all symbol stop waiting process of the display control process process.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a whole symbol change start process of the display control process process.

FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing a display control process process of all symbols stop waiting process.

FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a jackpot display process of the display control process process.

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which one symbol variation is divided into a plurality of sections.

FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a display control command and a variation mode.

[Explanation of symbols]

 9 Variable display unit 31 Game control board (main board) 53 Basic circuit 56 CPU 63 Output buffer circuit 70 Audio control board 80 Display control board 101 Display control CPU 102 Control data ROM 103 VDP 105 Input buffer circuit

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] November 2, 1999 (1999.11.
2)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[Claims]

[Procedure amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0009

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0009]

A gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
Including a variable display unit having a plurality of display areas whose display state can be changed, starts changing the identification information displayed in the display area in accordance with satisfaction of a condition for starting the change, and the display result of the identification information is predetermined. A game control device capable of giving a predetermined game value to a player on condition that the specific display mode is set, and a game control means for controlling the progress of the game, and a display control for performing a display control of a variable display portion. Means, and the game control means comprises: a jackpot determining means for determining whether or not to make a big hit, and at least change of identification information in the variable display section .
Display content deciding means for deciding the moving time and the fixed identification information ;
Command output means for outputting a command for changing the display state of the variable display unit to the display control means in accordance with the satisfaction of the condition for starting the change of the identification information, at least for a predetermined period based on the determination of the display content determining means. The fluctuation time of
Specific possible commands <br/> a definite identification information and constant possible commands are transmittable at a predetermined time related to start varies based fluctuation time to a specific possible commands, all identification information Identification information at a time related to finalization
It is configured so that a command indicating confirmation can be transmitted.

[Procedure amendment 3]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0010

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

Here, the predetermined period may be each section obtained by dividing the period from the start of the change of the identification information to the determination thereof into a plurality of sections .

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0011

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 5]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0012

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 6]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0013

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 7]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0014

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 8]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0015

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 9]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0016

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0016] The display control means may include a variation from the game control means.
Command that can specify time and determinable identification information can be specified
And the possible determined whether or not the corresponding decision means commands, when variation if it is determined that the determination means does not correspond
It may be configured to include identification information correction means for correcting the confirmed identification information based on a command capable of specifying the interval and using it for display control.

[Procedure amendment 10]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0017

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 11]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0018

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0018] The display control means can specify fixed identification information.
Display content according to finalized identification information based on
Include display content selection means for selecting and using for display control
May be configured. Also, when the confirmed identification information indicates a big hit, it is determined whether the confirmed identification information is a big hit or a normal big hit that brings a more advantageous game value to the player, and according to the determination result, It may be configured to include a jackpot display content selection means for selecting display content related to the jackpot and using the selected content for display control.

[Procedure amendment 12]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name]

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0181]

As it is evident from the foregoing description, according to the present invention, a game machine, a game control means, Tokoro a specific possible commands deterministic identification information capable of specifying command variation time within a predetermined time period
It can be sent to the display control means at a predetermined time related to starting the fluctuation within the fixed period, and a command indicating the determination can be sent at a time related to finalizing all the identification information. With this configuration, the burden of control on the display of identification information by the game control means is reduced, and the time required for the game control means to perform the original game control can be increased. Further, by transmitting a command indicating that to the display control means when the identification information is determined, the identification information can be surely determined within a specified variation time.

[Procedure amendment 13]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name]

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 14]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0184

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 15]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0185

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 16]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name]

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 17]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0187

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 18]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0188

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

When the display control means changes from the game control means
Command that can specify time and determinable identification information can be specified
It is determined whether or not the command corresponds to the command, and if it is determined that the command does not correspond to the command , the fixed identification information is corrected based on the command capable of specifying the variation time. This has the effect of preventing the game from being determined by the identification information and preventing the game performance from being damaged.

[Procedure amendment 19]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0189

[Correction method] Deleted

[Procedure amendment 20]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name]

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0190] The display control means can identify a definite identification information
Display content according to finalized identification information based on
Include display content selection means for selecting and using for display control
Or is configured to, also, if confirmation identification information indicates a jackpot, with definite identification information to determine whether a normal big hit or a big win result in more favorable game value to the player In the case where the display content related to the big hit is selected and used for the display control according to the determination result, the game control means does not need to perform the display control or the like for notifying the player of the big hit. This also has the effect of reducing the burden of control on display of identification information by the game control means.

[Procedure amendment 21]

[Document name to be amended] Drawing

[Correction target item name] FIG.

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

FIG.

[Procedure amendment 22]

[Document name to be amended] Drawing

[Correction target item name] FIG.

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

FIG. 23

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A variable display unit having a plurality of display areas whose display states are changeable, wherein a change of identification information displayed in the display area is started in accordance with satisfaction of a change start condition,
A game machine which can provide a predetermined game value to a player on the condition that the display result of the identification information becomes a predetermined specific display mode, and a game control means for controlling a progress of the game, Display control means for performing display control of a variable display unit, wherein the game control means is a big hit determination means for determining whether or not to make a big hit, and a display content determination means for determining the display content of the variable display section, Command output means for outputting a command for changing the display state of the variable display unit to the display control means in accordance with the satisfaction of the condition for starting the change of the identification information, wherein the game control means determines a display content. Based on the determination of the means, at least the information that can specify the variable display pattern that can specify the fluctuation time within the predetermined period and the information that can specify the stop identification information can be changed within the predetermined period. Can be output at a predetermined time related to the start of the operation, and information different from the stop identification information and indicating the determination of the identification information can be transmitted at a time related to determining all the identification information. A gaming machine characterized by the following. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined period is a period from the start of the change of the identification information to the determination thereof. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined period is each section obtained by dividing the period from the start of the change of the identification information to the determination thereof into a plurality of sections. 4. A display control means for displaying the previously stopped identification information so as to repeat forward and backward fluctuations in the same manner as normal fluctuations until all of the identification information is determined. The gaming machine according to claim 1. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein data can be transferred only between the game control means and the display control means between the game control means and the display control means. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the command output means is an irreversible transmission means for transmitting a signal only in one direction. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein the command output means comprises an output port and an output driver. 8. A display control means, comprising: a determination means capable of determining whether information from the game control means capable of specifying a variable display pattern and information capable of specifying stop identification information correspond to each other; 8. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising: identification information correction means for correcting stop identification information based on information capable of specifying a variable display pattern when the determination means determines that the display pattern is not compatible, and for use in display control. . 9. At a stage before the identification information stops, the display information is replaced with a predetermined position before the identification information to be stopped and display control is performed. 9. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising replacement destination setting means for setting replacement destination identification information based on information capable of specifying identification information. 10. When the stop identification information indicates a big hit, the display control means determines whether the hit is a big hit or a normal big hit that provides a more advantageous game value to the player, and the determination is made. 10. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a jackpot display content selecting means for selecting display content relating to the jackpot according to the result and using the selected content for display control.