JP2001017658A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To raise the expectation of a player expecting a privilege by changing a pattern display pattern to be displayed at a display part based on the intention display of the player. SOLUTION: Relating to this game machine such as a pachinko machine, when the intention display of the player who presses an instruction button (intention display detection means) is detected, a detection signal is outputted. Then, a display control substrate (pattern display means) which receives the detection signal through a main control substrate within a pattern fluctuation period (required period) displays plural images (patterns) at a special pattern display device (display part) while switching them based on a reach pattern selected from the plural reach patterns α, β, γ, δ, ε and ζ (pattern display patterns) steps S92 to S102}. Thus, the player is made to believe that a special pattern to be stopped is changed depending on the reach pattern changed by the indication of the intention display by the player. Thus, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege by large winning or the like is raised.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a technique for changing a symbol display pattern displayed on a display unit in various ways.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In many pachinko machines, which are one of the gaming machines, when a game ball wins or passes through a predetermined area (for example, a starting port or a gate), a symbol group fluctuates in a plurality of variable areas on a display. Start to let. For example, in the case of three variable regions, the symbol group starts to change in each of the left, middle, and right variable regions. Such a mode of changing the symbol group is referred to as “symbol change”. A single pachinko machine prepares a plurality of pattern fluctuation display patterns to be displayed on the display, and determines the pattern fluctuation display pattern according to random numbers or the like. After a while after the symbol change is started, the change of the symbol group is stopped and the special symbol is displayed. In the above example, the left symbol, the middle symbol, and the right symbol are stopped and displayed as special symbols after the variation in each of the left, middle, and right variation regions.

Conventionally, when a symbol change is started, for example, the left symbol and the right symbol are stopped first, and then the middle symbol is stopped. If the left symbol and the right symbol stopped earlier become the same symbol, a moving image such as a still image or animation is displayed as “reach”, or the variation speed is changed to change the symbol group in the middle variation region. Is displayed. The combination of the left symbol and the right symbol when the reach is reached in this way is called a "reach symbol", and a display pattern such as a symbol change performed on the display after the reach is reached is called a "reach pattern".

Some conventional pachinko machines are provided with a button for shortening a period from the start of symbol change to the stop of the symbol change (hereinafter, referred to as "symbol change period"). When the player presses the button during the change, the symbol change period is shortened only for the symbol change, and the special symbol is stopped earlier than the normal symbol change. For this reason, the number of symbol fluctuations that can be executed per unit time can be increased, and as a result, the chance of winning a jackpot can be increased.

[0005]

However, in the conventional pachinko machine, pressing the button merely shortens the symbol variation period, and the display pattern of symbol variation displayed on the display does not change. Since the display pattern of the symbol change does not change even if the button is pressed in this way, even if the change of the symbol group is stopped early, it is not possible to increase the expectation of the player who expects a privilege such as a jackpot. The present invention has been made in view of such a point, and by changing the symbol display pattern displayed on the display unit based on the player's intention display, it is possible to increase the expectation of a player expecting a privilege. With the goal.

[0006]

Means 1 for Solving the Problems Means 1 for solving the problems are as described in claim 1. Here, the terms described in claim 1 are interpreted as follows. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention. (1) "Pattern" refers to special patterns consisting of characters (alphanumeric characters, kanji, etc.), symbols, codes, figures (characters, etc.), video, etc., ordinary patterns, background patterns, etc., and may be still images. , Animation, etc. (2) The “display unit” may be a single display (display device) or may be composed of a plurality of displays. The display may be a device that emits light (colors), such as a liquid crystal display, to display a design, or a display, such as a drum display, that displays a design represented on a display surface. Good. Further, it may be an entire screen displayed on the display, or a partial screen (for example, a variable area) composed of one or more. (3) "Symbol display pattern" is a pattern for displaying a symbol on the display unit in a substantially continuous or discontinuous manner. For example, a variation pattern, a reach pattern, or an animation for realizing the variation of the symbol group is applicable. (4) The “recording unit” is a recording device or a recording medium, and includes all that can record a plurality of symbol display patterns. For example, a RAM, a ROM, a disk device, a disk (floppy, magneto-optical, etc.) and the like correspond to this. (5) The “required period” includes a predetermined period and an indefinite period.
The predetermined period further includes a fixed period and a specified period. The fixed period means a period that cannot be adjusted even by setting or the like, and the designated period means a period whose length can be adjusted by setting or the like.
The indefinite period refers to a period in which required conditions are satisfied, and includes, for example, a jackpot game period and a period in which an opening / closing member (a winning opening cover, a movable wing piece such as a blade or a tulip) is open.

According to the means 1, the intention display detecting means outputs a detection signal when detecting the intention display of the player. Then, the symbol display means receiving the detection signal within a required period displays the symbols on the display unit based on the symbol display pattern selected from the plurality of symbol display patterns. Therefore, when the player indicates the intention, the symbol display pattern changes, and the symbol displayed on the display unit also changes. Depending on the symbol display pattern changed (changed) in this way, it is possible to make the player think that the special symbol to be stopped or the like changes. Therefore, it is possible to increase the sense of expectation of a player who expects a privilege due to a jackpot or the like.

[0008]

Means for solving the problem 2 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 2. Means 2
According to this, if the timing of receiving the detection signal within a required period is different, the symbol display pattern selected and displayed by the symbol display means is also different. Depending on the timing described above, a symbol display pattern that is likely to receive a bonus due to a jackpot or the like may be displayed, and the expectation of the player expecting the bonus is further increased.

[0009]

Means for solving the problem 3 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 3. Here, the term "privilege" described in claim 3 means an advantageous gaming state given to the player, for example, shortening of the symbol fluctuation period (hereinafter, referred to as "time reduction"), setting of the number of time reductions, and jackpots. Changes (hereinafter referred to as “probability fluctuations”), setting of the number of times of probability fluctuations, opening and closing of lids and wings (wing pieces) provided in the winning opening, or a combination of at least two of these. There are aspects. Further, “addition of privilege” means a mode in which a game state advantageous to the player is given from a normal game state, and “change of privilege” refers to a type of privilege, a size of the privilege, a condition, and the like. It means a mode of change. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention.

According to the means 3, when the timing at which the player indicates the intention changes, the symbol display pattern is changed by the symbol display means, and the privilege is given to the player by the privilege determination means and / or the privilege is changed. (Hereinafter, simply referred to as “change of privilege”). Therefore, the player enjoys watching the changing symbol display patterns,
It is possible to play with a sense of expectation that changes in benefits are expected.

[0011]

Means 4 for solving the problem Means 4 for solving the problem are as described in claim 4. here,
The term “plurality of variable areas” described in claim 4 in relation to “display” refers to a mode in which one display has a plurality of variable areas and a plurality of variable areas for a plurality of displays. There is a mode of distribution. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention.

According to the means 4, when the timing at which the player indicates the intention changes, the order of the variable areas in which the symbols stop after the change is changed. That is, the order of the symbols to be stopped is changed, and the symbols are stopped in the fluctuation region in the order of high possibility of a big hit depending on the timing. Therefore, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege is further increased.

[0013]

Means for solving the problem 5 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 5. The means 5
According to this, the beginning of the "required period" described in claims 1 to 4 is limited to when the reach is reached. Therefore, when the player has made an intention display after reaching the reach, at least the symbol display means changes the symbol display pattern and displays. Therefore, even at least after the reach, the symbol display pattern is changed, so that the player's expectation of a big hit after the reach can be enhanced.

[0014]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. [Embodiment 1] Embodiment 1 is an example in which the present invention is applied to a first-type pachinko machine, which is one of gaming machines, and shows an example in which a reach pattern displayed on a liquid crystal display is changed.
Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing the external appearance of a pachinko machine 10 which is a first-class pachinko machine. Pachinko machine 1 shown in FIG.
On the game board surface 0, a gate 32 having a gate sensor 58 for detecting a passing pachinko ball, a first-type starting port 30 having a starting port sensor 60 for detecting a winning pachinko ball, a pachinko ball is a big winning port. A big winning port 34 having a V zone 56 in which a jackpot game state can be continued within a required number of times (for example, 16 times) when winning within an open period (for example, 20 seconds), and a special symbol display 22 as described later.
A combined winning device, a windmill, a nail, and the like are appropriately arranged in addition to the composite device 14 having the ball lamps 20, 28 and the like. The special winning opening 34 has a lid 74 that is opened and closed by a solenoid 54. Below the big winning opening 34, a lower starting opening 68 having a starting opening sensor 66 for detecting a winning pachinko ball is provided. The lower starting port 68 has a function equivalent to that of the first type starting port 30. In addition, the first type starting port 30
When the pachinko ball wins, the lower starting port 68 pays out the prize ball in the same manner as the normal winning port.

The composite device 14 includes a normal symbol display 24 for displaying a normal symbol in a fluctuating or stopped state, a special symbol indicator 22 for displaying a symbol, and the number of pachinko balls passing through the gate 32 during the change of the normal symbol. Sphere lamp 2 displaying
0, a holding ball lamp 28 and the like for displaying the number of pachinko balls which have won the first type starting port 30 and the lower starting port 68 during the change of the special symbol. Hereinafter, the number that can be recognized by the display of the reserved ball lamp 28 is simply referred to as “the number of reserved balls”. Normally, the symbol display 24 includes a plurality of light emitters 26 (for example, an LED that emits green and an LED that emits red). When the pachinko ball passes through the gate 32, the fluctuation starts and stops after a lapse of a predetermined time. Specifically, the light-emitting body 26 is caused to fluctuate by flickering or the like, and a specific light-emitting body 26 (eg, a red LED)
When it stops in the lighting state or the light-out state, the lower starting port 68
Is opened for a certain period of time (for example, 4 seconds).

The special symbol display 22 corresponding to the display unit uses, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays a special symbol including characters, symbols, codes, figures, and images, a background symbol, and the like. The special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 22 starts to fluctuate when a pachinko ball wins in the first type starting port 30 or the lower starting port 68, and stops after a predetermined time has elapsed. Although a liquid crystal display was used as the special symbol display 22,
Any display capable of displaying a pattern, such as a CRT, an LED display, and a plasma display, may be used. Also,
Although the normal symbol display 24 and the special symbol display 22 are used separately, the same indicator may be used for both. Each of the retaining ball lamps 20 and 28 is composed of a plurality of light emitters (for example, four LEDs).

Below the game board surface 12, an instruction button 48 by which the player instructs to change a symbol display pattern (a fluctuation pattern, a reach pattern, etc.) by his / her own intention during a game, and a pachinko ball including a prize ball are temporarily displayed. The lower plate 44 for temporarily storing, the ashtray 46 for storing cigarette butts, the handle 40 having a touch sensor 42 for detecting whether or not the player's hand is touching, and the upper plate 38 for receiving a prize ball. A speaker 50 or the like that is provided inside and emits sound (sound effect, music, and the like) is provided. Further, a frame opening sensor 36 for detecting the opening of the glass frame 18 and the lamps 16 made of a luminous body arranged at an appropriate position according to the game content of the pachinko machine 10 and the like.
Is also provided. Further, the upper plate 38 is provided with a ball lending switch 64 for commanding ball lending and a return switch 72 for commanding return of the prepaid card. The instruction button 48 corresponds to an intention display detecting unit, and outputs a detection signal.

Next, a main control board 100 for realizing a pachinko game by the pachinko machine 10 and a main control board 1
For a display control board 200 that receives a display command (corresponding to a detection signal, for example, a command block) sent from 00 and displays a symbol on the special symbol display 22, see FIG. I will explain while. The main control board 100 and the display control board 200 are provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 10, for example. In FIG. 2, a main control board 100 corresponding to the privilege determining means and the validity / invalidity control means is constituted mainly by a CPU (processor) 110, and a ROM 112 for storing a game control program and required game data (for example, a jackpot value). RAM 114 for storing random numbers, data, input / output signals, etc. of the main control board 100 in response to signals sent from various input devices.
Input processing circuit 10 for converting to a data format that can be processed within
2. an output processing circuit 104 for operating various output devices in response to operation data sent from the CPU 110;
A display control circuit 10 which receives display data sent from the display 10 and appropriately displays (including lighting and blinking) various display bodies.
6. It has a communication control circuit 116 for transmitting required data to the display control board 200 and the like. All of these components are coupled to each other on bus 118.

The CPU 110 executes a game control program stored in the ROM 112 to realize a game by the pachinko machine 10, and the game control program includes a program for realizing a first-type start-up process described later. Including. An EPROM is used for the ROM 112 and a RAM 114
Uses a DRAM, but other types of memories may be used. Other types of memory include EEPROM,
There are an SRAM, a flash memory, and the like. Input processing circuit 1
Examples of the input device for receiving the detection signal or the like by the user 02 include an instruction button 48, start-up opening sensors 60 and 66, a gate sensor 58, a winning sensor (such as a V zone sensor 52) or another sensor (a frame opening sensor 36, a touch sensor 42). Etc.). An output device from which the output processing circuit 104 outputs a signal includes, for example, the solenoid 54 and the like. Examples of the display object controlled by the display control circuit 106 include the lamps 16, the holding ball lamps 20 and 28, and the ordinary symbol display 24. The communication control circuit 116 can also send necessary data to a frame control board (not shown), a hall computer, and the like, if necessary.

Next, the display control board 200 corresponding to the symbol display means is constituted mainly by the CPU 210, and is provided with a display control program and required display data (for example, display information corresponding to a display command, and a plurality of patterns including a deviation change pattern). ROM 20 for storing fluctuation patterns, a plurality of reach patterns, etc.)
2. RA for storing display commands, display information, input / output signals, etc.
M204, a communication control circuit 206 that receives data sent from the main control board 100, a character generator 212 that stores required symbols and generates them upon receiving a command,
VDP (Video Displa) which displays the processed symbol on the special symbol display 22 in response to the display information sent from the PU 210
y Processor) 214 and the like. All of these components are coupled to each other on bus 208.

The CPU 210 executes a display control program stored in the ROM 202 to display symbols on the special symbol display 22. The display control program also includes a program for realizing a symbol display process described later. .
The ROM 202 corresponding to the recording unit uses an EPROM,
Although a DRAM is used for the AM 204, another type of memory may be used. The other type of memory includes EE
There are PROM, SRAM, flash memory and the like. The communication control circuit 206 can send necessary data to a frame control board (not shown), a hall computer, and the like, if necessary. The design data generated by the character generator 212 includes, for example, characters (alphanumeric characters, kanji, etc.), designs (special designs, ordinary designs, background designs, characters, etc.), still images, moving images (animations, etc.), and videos. VDP with VRAM, palette RAM, etc.
Reference numeral 214 denotes the character generator 2 which receives the display information.
12 reads the pattern data generated, performs pattern editing such as color designation and sprite processing, and develops the pattern data in a VRAM or a palette RAM. Finally, a video signal or a synchronization signal is transmitted to a special symbol display 22. Output.

The processing procedures performed by the main control board 100 and the display control board 200 to implement the present invention in the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above are shown in FIGS.
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 shows the contents of the first kind opening process, FIG. 4 shows the contents of the symbol change process, FIG. 5 shows the contents of the change display process, FIG. 6 shows the contents of the reach process, and FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the reach pattern display process, and FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the symbol display process. Among these processing procedures, the first-type start-up processing, the symbol change processing, the change display processing, the reach processing, and the reach pattern display processing are all performed on the ROM 1 in the main control board 100 shown in FIG.
Game control program stored in the CPU 11
0 is executed at an appropriate timing (for example, at a cycle of 4 milliseconds). The symbol display process is realized by the CPU 210 and the VDP 214 in the display control board 200 executing a program at an appropriate timing. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a command block. FIG. 10 shows a pattern example of a symbol displayed on the special symbol display 22. In the following description, “adding” usually means increasing the number of reserved balls by one, but includes a case where the number is increased by two or more as appropriate according to a game state or the like. On the other hand, “subtract” is similar to the case of addition except that the number of reserved balls is reduced. Further, since the first type starting port 30 and the lower type starting port 68 operate in the same manner, the first type starting port 30 will be described as an example to simplify the description.

The first-type starting port process shown in FIG. 3 realizes a winning determination of a pachinko ball to the first-type starting port 30. First, it is determined whether or not a pachinko ball has won the first-type start port 30 (step S10). Specifically, in FIG. 4, when a detection signal is received from the starting port sensor 60, it is determined that a prize has been won (YES), and when no detection signal has been received, it is determined that a prize has not been won (NO). If the first kind opening 3
When the pachinko ball wins at 0, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls has reached an upper limit (for example, 4) [Step S12].
If the number of reserved balls has not reached the upper limit (NO), the number of reserved balls is added (step S14). The LED of the holding ball lamp 28 is turned on according to the added number of holding balls. Thereafter, various random numbers are read and stored [Step S1
6], the type 1 start-up port process ends. In the case where the pachinko ball has not been won in the first type starting port 30 (step S
If the number of retained balls reaches the upper limit (NO in Step S12), or if the number of reserved balls has reached the upper limit (YES in Step S12), the first-type start-up port process is terminated.

Here, the RAM read in step S16
Various random numbers stored in 114 include, for example, the following. That is, the jackpot determination random number RA used to determine whether or not a jackpot is determined, and the jackpot determination random number R
A jackpot symbol (combination of specific symbols) displayed on the special symbol indicator 22 when it is determined to be a jackpot by A
In order to specify the display pattern from when the reach is reached until the fluctuation is stopped according to the random number RB for the jackpot symbol used for specifying the symbol, the reach symbol (combination of predetermined symbols) displayed on the special symbol indicator 22, and the like. , Or a random number RD for probability variation used to determine whether or not to perform the probability variation after a jackpot. Here, "reach (reach state)"
Except for the remaining special symbol (third symbol) which is still fluctuating, other special symbols (first symbol, second symbol) match the reach symbol.

The symbol changing process shown in FIG. 4 realizes a display for changing or stopping the symbol group on the special symbol display 22.
First, the number of reserved balls is positive (that is, the number of reserved balls> 0 is satisfied).
It is determined whether or not it is [Step S20]. If the number of retained balls is a positive number (YES), the random number RA for jackpot determination stored in step S16 is read and [step S16].
22], the number of reserved balls is subtracted in preparation for the next process [Step S24]. The LED of the holding ball lamp 28 is turned on according to the subtracted number of holding balls. Then, a variable display process is executed [Step S26]. The specific contents of the variable display processing will be described with reference to FIG.

The change display process shown in FIG. 5 realizes a display from the start of the change of the symbol group to the stop thereof. First, it is determined whether it is a "big hit" (step S40). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the jackpot determination random number RA read in step S22 matches the jackpot value. The number of jackpots is one in a normal state, but may be increased to a plurality depending on a game state (for example, probability fluctuation). If it is determined to be "big hit" (YES),
The random number R for the jackpot symbol stored in step S16 of FIG.
B is read [Step S42], and the process proceeds to Step S44 to be described later in order to start changing the symbol group. In accordance with the value of the jackpot symbol random number RB, a symbol that is to be finally stopped and determined (hereinafter, referred to as a “scheduled symbol to be stopped”) is determined. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S40 that the character is a "losing" (NO), in order to display the missing symbol on the special symbol display 22, the lost symbol data is read from the RAM 114 [step S60], and the lost symbol is reached. It is determined whether or not a symbol is included [step S62]. The reach symbol corresponds to a combination of a first symbol (for example, a left symbol) and a second symbol (for example, a right symbol).
Then it is the same pattern (so-called Zoro eyes). If a reach symbol is included (YES), it eventually becomes "out", but reaches reach halfway, so that step S44 to be described later is performed.
Proceed to. If no reach symbol is included (NO), the process proceeds to step S64 described below.

After a display command is sent to the display control board 200 to start changing the symbol group [Step S44], a reach process is executed [Step S46]. The processing performed by the display control board 200 will be described later, and the specific contents of the reach processing will be described with reference to FIG.
The reach processing shown in FIG. 6 realizes a change based on the reach display and the reach pattern. First, step S1 in FIG.
6. The reach pattern random number RC stored in step 6 is read (step S70), and the reach pattern is determined [step S70].
72]. The reach pattern corresponds to a symbol display pattern for displaying a symbol on the special symbol display 22.
2 are stored. The reach pattern is determined based on, for example, the symbol to be stopped determined in step S42 (or step S60) of FIG. 5 and the reach pattern random number RC read in step S70, as shown in Table 1 below.
Perform according to. Table 1 shows the relationship between the symbols and 0 to 10
Reach pattern random number R that can take any numerical value up to
An example of setting with C is shown. The relationship between the symbols is the shift of the symbol between the reach symbol and the third symbol (for example, the middle symbol), and two symbols before, one symbol before, the same symbol, one symbol after, and 2 symbols in consideration of the fluctuation direction. After the symbol, it is divided into other symbols (for example, three symbols before and three symbols after). For example, if the third symbol is "6" when the reach symbol is symbol "7", the third symbol viewed from the reach symbol is "one symbol before".

[0029]

[Table 1]

In the example of Table 1, six reach patterns α, β, γ, δ, ε, and ζ are set. Focusing on the reach pattern ε, it is set more when the symbol relationship is the same symbol, that is, a big hit, and is set smaller when the symbol is out. Therefore, when the reach pattern ε is displayed on the special symbol display 22, it is presumed that a player who has seen the reach pattern has a high possibility of winning, and the player has an increased sense of expectation for a privilege.

When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the above Table 1
May be changed (changed) such as the position and the number of the reach patterns α, β, γ, δ, ε, and. As the predetermined condition, for example, a special symbol is a designated symbol (including a combination of a specific symbol and a specific symbol, for example, a symbol “33”).
3)), or the conditions may be appropriately changed according to the type, date and time, etc. of the pachinko machine 10. In this way, the player can maintain the expectation of the jackpot until all the special symbols stop. Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the number and type of symbols that fluctuate in the fluctuation region, the configuration of the symbol group, and the like may be changed. By doing so, the modes of the reach pattern are diversified, and in some cases, a reach pattern having a high possibility of a big hit is displayed. Therefore, the player can play the game with a sense of expectation that will be a big hit as the reach pattern changes and diversifies. Furthermore, the method of determining the reach pattern is not limited to the method of determining based on the relationship between the symbols and the reach pattern random number RC, but also the method of determining based on the remainder obtained by dividing the reach pattern random number RC by a predetermined value, or a method of determining a plurality of reach patterns. (In the above example, the six reach patterns α, β, γ, δ,
ε, ζ) may be determined arbitrarily, such as a method of determining the order in ascending order, reverse order, arbitrarily rearranged order, or the like.

After the reach pattern is determined, the symbol group continues to fluctuate based on the fluctuation pattern [Step S7].
4] Then, the reach symbol is displayed [Step S8]
0]. The variation pattern is a pattern for realizing the display of the variation mode of the symbol group (design variation of the special symbol), animation (background symbol), and the like, and is determined using, for example, a random number or a data table. Among the variation modes of the symbol group, there are a normal variation of a mode of rotating a reel, a forward / reverse variation of a mode of swinging in a direction centered on a predetermined position on a screen, and all symbols (left symbol, middle symbol, right symbol). ), All symbols change in such a manner as to change while synchronizing. In addition, the fluctuation pattern for realizing the fluctuation mode of the symbol group includes a fluctuation speed and a fluctuation direction during the fluctuation, a stop timing and an order, and the like when the fluctuation is performed in each of the plurality of fluctuation regions. For example, if you change the order of symbols to stop if the fluctuation pattern is different,
Depending on the stop sequence, there may be a sense of expectation for a reach, a jackpot, or the like. Furthermore, the reach symbol is a special symbol indicator 22
, But may be displayed only on other display devices or on both. By doing so, the reach symbol and the like are also displayed on a display other than the special symbol display 22, so that it is easy to recognize what the reach symbol is. When the reach symbol is displayed, the player may be notified that the reach has been reached. As the notification, for example, characters such as "reach" or a predetermined animation are displayed, a sound or a specific sound effect is output from the speaker 50, and the handle 40 touched by the player and the chair on which the player sits are vibrated. There are various aspects. In this way, the player can more reliably recognize that the reach has been reached.

After displaying the reach symbol, the instruction button 48
Are enabled (step S82), and reach pattern display processing is executed [step S84]. Step S
When 82 is executed, the instruction button 48 is activated effectively, and for example, the validity is displayed as a symbol on the special symbol display 22 (notifying means). In addition, the player may be notified that the reach has been reached, in a manner similar to that of notifying the player. In this case, the speaker 50, the handle 40, the chair, and the like also correspond to the notification means. Here, the specific contents of the reach pattern display processing will be described with reference to FIG. The reach pattern display processing shown in FIG. 7 realizes a mode of continuously changing the symbol group based on the reach pattern. First, a part (hereinafter, referred to as “block data”) of a command block corresponding to the reach pattern determined in step S72 of FIG. 6 is set [step S90].
Here, the main control board 100 to the display control board 200
A configuration example of a command block corresponding to a display command to be sent to the server will be described with reference to FIG.

The command block 300 shown in FIG.
Is a symbol number 302 for specifying a special symbol to be displayed on the special symbol display 22, and a symbol display position 30 for specifying a position (coordinates) for displaying the special symbol specified by the symbol number 302.
4. An animation number 30 for specifying a variation mode of a symbol group displayed on the special symbol display 22 or an animation.
6, an animation timer 308 for specifying a pattern (for one screen) constituting a variation mode of a symbol group designated by the animation number 306 or an animation, and a checksum 310 used for determining validity of data. In this example, the block data corresponds to the symbol number 302, the symbol display position 304, the animation number 306, and the like.

Each of the special symbols that can be displayed is assigned a unique number, and the special symbol to be displayed is specified by the symbol number 302. When displaying a plurality of special symbols simultaneously, a symbol number corresponding to the number may be specified. When three special symbols (ie, a left symbol, a right symbol, and a middle symbol) are simultaneously displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 8B, a left symbol number 302a, a middle symbol number 302b, and a right symbol number 30
The symbol number 302 is specified by 2c or the like. When displaying a plurality of special symbols at the same time, it is necessary to specify a symbol display position corresponding to the number. In the above example, FIG.
As shown in (C), the symbol display position 304 is specified by the left symbol display position 304a, the middle symbol display position 304b, the right symbol display position 304c, and the like. The displayable animation is given a unique number, and the animation to be displayed is specified by the animation number 306. If there are a large number of animations, it is desirable to store the animations in groups so that the block data can be easily set, and to assign unique numbers to the groups. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 8D, the animation number 306 is specified by the group number 306a, the animation identification number 306b, and the like.

After setting the block data, another part of the command block 300 is set to display the current screen (step S92).
Is sent to the display control board 200 [Step S94], the symbol processing is performed, and the one screen is displayed on the special symbol display 22. Other parts of the command block 300 include an animation timer 308 and a checksum 310. For example, steps S92 and S94 are performed on substantially continuous screens.
Is executed 30 times per second, it is possible to realize the fluctuation of the symbol group, the animation, and the like by using the afterimage effect of the human eye. Then, it is determined whether or not the instruction button 48 has been pressed according to the player's intention display [step S9.
6]. Normally, since the instruction button 48 is not pressed (NO),
As long as there are remaining screens, the above steps S92 and S94 are executed to display the fluctuation of the symbol group, the animation, etc. on the special symbol display 22 [step S106].

On the other hand, if the player presses the instruction button 48 while changing (YES in step S96), the following processing is executed. That is, the reach pattern random number RC is read in the same manner as in step S16 shown in FIG.
0], the reach pattern is determined in the same manner as in step S72 shown in FIG. 6, and the reach pattern is changed as a result [step S102].
2. Execute S94 to display the fluctuation of the symbol group, animation, etc. on the special symbol display 22 [Step S10
6]. In step S102, it is necessary to reset the block data in the same manner as in step S90 so as to change the variation mode of the symbol group displayed on the special symbol display device 22, the animation, and the like in accordance with the change of the reach pattern. In this way, every time the player presses the instruction button 48, the reach pattern displayed on the special symbol display 22 can be changed. Depending on the reach pattern thus changed (changed), the player can be made to think that the special symbol to be stopped changes. Therefore, it is possible to increase the sense of expectation of a player who expects a privilege due to a jackpot or the like. In the reach pattern processing shown in FIG. 7, control is performed so that the reach pattern can be changed any number of times. However, control may be performed so that the change of the reach pattern is limited to a predetermined number of times (for example, once). In this way, the player presses the instruction button 48 with a sense of expectation and tension within a limited number of times in order to display a better reach pattern.

Note that, in addition to the processing of steps S100 and S102, the following processing may be executed at an arbitrary timing in an arbitrary model. First, when the player presses the instruction button 48 during the change (YE in step S96)
S), the big hit determination random number RA and the probability variation random number RD are read and stored in the RAM 114 [Step S9
8]. This changes the value stored in step S16 in FIG. 3, so that whether a jackpot or a probability variation is finally changed (step S28 in FIG. 4, FIG. 5).
Step S48). Depending on the timing at which the player presses the instruction button 48, a jackpot or a change in probability may occur (addition of privilege), and the type of jackpot may change (change of privilege). Examples of the type of jackpot change include a mode in which the jackpot with a small number of rounds changes to a jackpot with a large number of rounds, and vice versa.
In this way, the player can press the instruction button 48 with the expectation of expecting a change in the privilege (ie, adding the privilege and / or changing the privilege) while having the pleasure of seeing the change in the changing symbol group. . The privilege to be added and / or the privilege to be changed is not limited to the jackpot game and the probability variation, but may be added / changed the number of times saved or the probability variation, or may be arbitrarily combined with at least two of the above benefits.

Second, the instruction button 48 is displayed while the player is changing.
Is pressed (YES in step S96), the reach pattern is changed [step S102], and the range to be displayed on the special symbol display 22 for the changed reach pattern is determined [step S104]. In the pachinko machine 10, the symbol fluctuation period of the reach pattern is set to a fixed period, the symbol fluctuation period becomes a fixed period due to the shortened time, and the symbol group changes in the symbol fluctuation period of the reach pattern determined in step S72 of FIG. There is something to do. In this case, the special pattern display 2 displays the changed reach pattern from the beginning to the end.
When the number is displayed as 2, the symbol fluctuation period expands and contracts.
Therefore, in order to end the change of the symbol group by the changed reach pattern during the remaining symbol change period, the display range in the changed reach pattern is determined. In particular,
The range (start time and end time) that can be set in the animation timer 308 in the command block 300 shown in FIG. 8 is determined. If the symbol variation period of the changed reach pattern is shorter than the remaining symbol variation period, all or part of the changed reach pattern may be repeated, or another reach pattern may be added. Thus, the symbol group can be changed while changing the reach pattern within the symbol change period. When the reach pattern display processing is completed, the instruction button 48 is invalidated and notified (step S86), and further, the fluctuation of the symbol group is stopped (step S88), and then the reach processing is terminated. When step S86 is executed, the instruction button 48 is invalidated even if pressed. For example, the invalidity is displayed as a symbol on the special symbol display 22 or the invalidity is notified to a player or the like by the speaker 50, the handle 40, the chair, or the like. I do. Step S8
Due to the stoppage of the change of 8, the special symbol display 22 displays, for example, a medium symbol (third symbol).

When the reach process is completed, the process returns to FIG. 5, and it is determined whether or not the probability is changed (step S48). In particular,
The determination is made based on whether or not the random number RD for probability fluctuation stored in step S16 of FIG. 3 matches a predetermined value. If it is determined that there is a probability variation (YES), the probability variation process is performed [Step S50], and then the variation display process ends.
The details of the probability variation process are well known and will not be described. When the probability variation processing is executed, the probability of stopping at the big hit symbol after the change and becoming a big hit increases after the current big hit game ends until the next big hit, and the symbol changing period of the special symbol is shortened. Also, the probability of hitting after stopping at the hit symbol after fluctuation increases,
The symbol fluctuation period of the ordinary symbol is shortened. On the other hand, when it is not determined that there is a probability variation (NO in step S48), the variation display process is terminated. Here, step S6
If it is not a reach symbol in step 2 (NO), the symbol group starts to fluctuate as in step S44 [step S6
4] After changing the symbol group based on the loss variation pattern, stop at the loss symbol [Step S66], and proceed to the above-described Step S48. Steps S64 and S66 above
Now, the corresponding display command (command block 30)
0) to the display control board 200 for realization.

When the variable display processing is completed, the process returns to FIG. 4, and it is finally determined whether or not the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 22 matches the big hit symbol (step S28). In step S40 shown in FIG. 5, it is also determined whether or not a jackpot has occurred. This determination is made based on the jackpot determination random number RA read in step S22. However, when the variable display process of step S26 is being executed, the influence of the external noise or the like may cause the expected jackpot display to become a missed display. Therefore, to prevent confusion in pachinko games,
The special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 22 is given priority to determine whether or not a big hit has occurred. In the pachinko machine 10 that is less likely to be affected by external noise and the like and has high reliability, it may be determined in step S28 whether or not a “big hit” is based only on the big hit determination random number RA. This improves the processing speed. If the determined special symbol matches the jackpot symbol (YES), a jackpot process is performed as "big hit" (step S30), and the symbol variation process ends. In the jackpot process, for example, a jackpot game such as opening the cover 74 of the special winning opening 34 for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) and paying out prize balls according to the number of winning pachinko balls is performed. On the other hand, if the determined special symbol does not coincide with the big hit symbol (NO), the losing process is performed as "losing" (step S32), and the symbol changing process ends. It should be noted that the details of the out-of-position processing are well-known, and thus description thereof is omitted.

Next, a symbol display process in which the display control board 200 receiving the display command (command block 300) sent from the main control board 100 performs symbol editing and displays symbols on the special symbol display 22 will be described. This will be described with reference to FIG. It is assumed that the command block 300 is stored in a reception buffer provided in the RAM 204 or the like shown in FIG. 2 by an interruption program executed for each reception interruption. The reception buffer has a capacity that can store one or a plurality of command blocks 300 and other reception data. In the symbol display process shown in FIG.
First, the CPU 210 reads the command block 300 stored in the reception buffer [Step S110], acquires display data based on the read command block 300, and stores it in the RAM 204 [Step S112]. More specifically, the relationship between the command block 300 and the display data is defined, and the display data is acquired with reference to a data table stored in the ROM 202 or the like. The display data is a data element (parameter) for performing symbol editing, for example, a reach pattern or block data (symbol number 302, symbol display position 304, animation number 30).
6) or the animation timer 308 or the like. The display data 210 thus obtained is obtained.
Transmits the display data to the VDP 214.

VD receiving display data from CPU 210
P214 extracts data such as patterns from the character generator 212 based on the display data [Step S114], performs pattern editing such as color designation and sprite processing [Step S116], and stores the data in the VRAM or palette RAM. Is developed [Step S118]. Then, the developed data is converted into a symbol signal and output to the special symbol display 22 [Step S120]. The symbols and the like edited on the basis of the display data are displayed on the special symbol display 2
2 can be displayed. Further, since the symbol editing is performed by the VDP 214 as hardware, the symbol can be displayed at high speed.

Next, with respect to an example in which the respective processes shown in FIGS. 3 to 7 and FIG. 9 are executed to display the symbols on the special symbol display 22, FIG. It will be described with reference to FIG. The example shown in FIG. 10 shows an example of a case where a “big hit” is obtained.
Illustrations and explanations of the cases of "missing" that occur frequently are omitted.

In FIG. 10, when the pachinko ball wins the starting port sensor 60 at time t10, the special symbol display 22
Displays the fluctuation of the symbol group based on the fluctuation pattern (step S74 in FIG. 6). Thereafter, when the reach is reached at the time t12, the change of the symbol group based on the reach pattern is displayed on the special symbol display 22 (see FIG. 7). Cases 1, 3, and 4 are examples in which the reach pattern β is determined in step S72 of FIG. 6, respectively. Similarly, case 2 is an example in which the reach pattern ε is determined. In cases 1 and 2, the player does not press the instruction button 48, but in cases 3 and 4,
Then, since the player has pressed the instruction button 48 at time t14, the reach pattern β is changed to the reach pattern ε, and the symbol group continues to fluctuate. In this example, the symbol variation period Tb of the reach pattern β is the symbol variation period Te of the reach pattern ε.
Shorter than. In case 1, the symbol group stops changing at time t16 after the symbol change period Tb has elapsed from time t12, and in case 2, the symbol group stops changing at time t18 when the symbol change period Te has elapsed from time t12. Case 3 is shown in FIG.
Is not executed, and the symbol group stops changing at time t20 when the symbol changing period Tc has elapsed since time t14 when the player pressed the instruction button 48. Therefore, the entire symbol fluctuation period is extended. Case 4 is a case in which the above-described step S104 is executed to make the symbol fluctuation period constant, and as in case 1, time t1
At 6, the fluctuation of the symbol group is stopped. Therefore, the entire symbol variation period is constant, but the symbol variation period of the reach pattern ε is shortened. In the example of FIG. 10, the instruction button 48 is pressed only once.
Each time is pressed, the reach pattern is usually changed to a different reach pattern and the fluctuation of the symbol group is continued. The reach pattern ε displayed after the time t14 is a reach pattern that has a high possibility of a big hit as described above. Therefore, the player who has seen the reach pattern ε has an increased sense of expectation of receiving a privilege such as a big hit.

According to the first embodiment, a detection signal is output when an intention display of the player who has pressed the instruction button 48 (intention display detecting means) is detected. The display control board 200 receives the detection signal via the main control board 100 during the symbol change period (required period).
(Symbol display means) includes a plurality of reach patterns α, β,
A symbol is displayed on the special symbol display 22 (display unit) based on the reach pattern selected from γ, δ, ε, ζ (symbol display pattern) {Steps S92 to S10 in FIG.
2｝. Therefore, when the player indicates the intention, the reach pattern changes, and the variation of the symbol group displayed on the special symbol display device 22 also changes. Depending on the reach pattern thus changed (changed), the player can be made to think that the special symbol to be stopped changes. Therefore, it is possible to increase the sense of expectation of a player who expects a privilege due to a jackpot or the like. If the timing of receiving the detection signal is different during the symbol fluctuation period, the display control board 200
Also have different reach patterns to be selected and displayed {Steps S100 and S102 in FIG. 7}. Depending on the timing, a reach pattern ε that is likely to receive a privilege due to a jackpot or the like may be displayed, and the expectation of the player expecting the privilege further increases.

Further, according to claim 3, an instruction button 48
Changes the timing at which the player indicates his intention,
Along with the change of the reach pattern by the display control board 200, the privilege given to the player by the main control board 100 (privilege determination means) is changed {Step S98 in FIG. 7}. Therefore, the player can play the game with the pleasure of seeing the changed reach pattern and the expectation of expecting a change in the privilege. According to claim 5, since the beginning of the "required period" is limited to when the reach is reached, {step S84 in FIG. 6}, the instruction button 48 after the reach is reached.
Is displayed by the player, the display control board 200
Is displayed by changing at least the reach pattern {Steps S92 and S102 in FIG. 7}. Therefore, at least the reach pattern is changed even after the reach, so that the expectation of the player who expects the big hit after the reach can be increased.

[Second Embodiment] A second embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a first-type pachinko machine as in the first embodiment, and an example in which a fluctuation pattern displayed on a liquid crystal display is changed. Show. Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. Since the configuration of the pachinko machine 10 is the same, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described for the sake of simplicity. FIG.
13 to 13 (FIGS. 6, 7)
Etc.) are given the same reference numerals.

The reach processing in FIG. 11 differs from the reach processing in FIG. 6 in the following points. That is, after determining the reach pattern (step S72), the variation pattern random number RE is read [step S73], and the variation pattern random number R
A variation pattern is determined based on E or the like [Step S7
5]. Like the reach pattern in the first embodiment,
The variation pattern corresponds to a symbol display pattern for displaying a symbol on the special symbol display 22, and a plurality of the variation patterns are stored in the ROM 202. In the same manner as the reach pattern determination method, the determination method of the variation pattern is performed based on, for example, the relationship between symbols and the variation pattern random number RE. Then, instruction button 4
8 is made valid and notified (step S76), and a variation pattern display process is executed [step S77]. Step S
When step 76 is executed, the instruction button 48 is activated effectively as in step S82 of FIG. 6, and the validity is displayed as a symbol on the special symbol display 22 or the speaker 50, the handle 40, the chair, etc. Informs the player or the like of the validity. Here, the specific contents of the variation pattern display processing will be described with reference to FIG.

The variation pattern display processing shown in FIG. 12 realizes a mode of continuing the variation of the symbol group based on the variation pattern. The variation pattern display processing shown in FIG. 12 differs from the reach pattern display processing shown in FIG. 7 in the following points. First, a variation pattern is used instead of the reach pattern. Second, steps S98 to S1 in FIG.
04 is executed instead of the following processing. That is, when the player presses the instruction button 48 during the change (YES in step S96), the change pattern random number RE is read [step S101], and the change pattern is determined based on the change pattern random number RE and the like. [Step S103], and as long as there are remaining screens, the above steps S92 and S94 are executed to display the fluctuation of the symbol group, animation and the like on the special symbol display 22 (Step S106). In step S103, it is necessary to reset the block data in the same manner as in step S90, in order to change the change mode, animation, and the like of the symbol group displayed on the special symbol display 22 with the change of the change pattern. This way, every time the player presses the instruction button 48,
The change pattern displayed on the special symbol display 22 can be changed. Depending on the variation pattern thus changed, the player can be made to think that the player has reached the reach, and the expectation of the player who expects the privilege after the reach can be increased.

In addition, in addition to the processing of steps S101 and S103, if the player presses the instruction button 48 during the change (YES in step S96), the big hit determination random number R
A or reach pattern random number RC or probability variation random number R
D and the like may be read and stored in the RAM 114 [step S99]. Then, the value stored in step S16 of FIG. 3 changes.
Whether or not there is a probability change also changes (step S2 in FIG. 4).
8, step S48 in FIG. 5), and the reach pattern for changing the symbol group after reach is changed (step S85 shown in FIG. 11). Depending on the timing at which the player presses the instruction button 48, a jackpot or a change in probability (addition of a privilege), a type of a jackpot changes (change of a privilege), or a reach pattern changes. In this way, the player has the pleasure of seeing the change of the changing symbol group and the like, and has the expectation of expecting the change of the privilege (that is, the addition of the privilege and / or the change of the privilege) and the change of the reach pattern. 48 can be pressed. The privilege to be added and / or the privilege to be changed is not limited to the jackpot game or the probability variation, but may be added / changed the number of times of saving or the probability variation, or may be an arbitrary combination of at least two of these benefits. Further, in the variation pattern processing shown in FIG. 12, the variation pattern is controlled so that it can be changed any number of times. However, the variation pattern may be controlled to be limited to a predetermined number of times (for example, once). This is the same as in the first embodiment.

When the variation pattern display processing is completed, the instruction button 48 is invalidated and notified (step S78), and a reach symbol is displayed (step S80). Step S7
When the instruction button 48 is executed, the instruction button 48 becomes ineffective even when the instruction button 48 is pressed, similarly to the step S86 in FIG.
2, the invalidity is displayed by a symbol or the like, or the invalidity is notified to a player or the like by a speaker 50, a handle 40, a chair, or the like. Then, the symbol group is changed based on the reach pattern determined in step S72 [step S8
5]. Since the method of changing the symbol group based on the reach pattern is well known, the description is omitted. After that, the fluctuation of the symbol group is stopped (step S88), and the reach processing ends. After displaying the reach symbol, the above step S8
5, the reach pattern display process according to the first embodiment may be executed (step S84 shown in FIG. 6, FIG. 7).
reference). By doing so, not only the fluctuation pattern but also the reach pattern, the fluctuation of the symbol group, the animation, and the like are diversified, so that the player can enjoy the special symbol display 22 and also increase the expectation of expecting the privilege. it can.

Next, FIG. 3 to FIG. 5, FIG. 9, FIG.
An example of displaying the symbols on the special symbol display 22 by executing the respective processes shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 13 showing a time chart from the start to the stop of the change.
The example shown in FIG. 13 shows an example of a case where “reach” occurs. Illustration and description of a case where “reach” does not occur frequently occur and are omitted. For the sake of simplicity, six variation patterns α, β, γ,
δ, ε, ζ are stored in the ROM 202,
As in the first embodiment, the variation pattern is determined in accordance with Table 1 based on the relationship between symbols and the variation pattern random number RE (that is, the reach pattern is read as a variation pattern and determined). In addition, it is assumed that the symbol group is changed in each of the left, middle, and right changing regions provided on the special symbol display 22.

In FIG. 13, when the pachinko ball wins the starting port sensor 60 at time t30, the special symbol display 22
Starts the fluctuation of the symbol group based on the fluctuation pattern (Fig. 1
Steps S92, s94, and S106 of Step 2). Thereafter, the reach is reached at time t38, and the special symbol display 22 changes the symbol group based on the reach pattern (FIG. 1).
1 step S85). In case 1, the variation pattern α is determined first, and the instruction button 4 pressed by the player at time t34.
8 is an example in which the variation pattern is changed to a variation pattern β. Similarly, Case 2 is an example in which the variation pattern γ is determined first, and is changed to the variation pattern δ by the instruction button 48 pressed by the player at time t34. Here, an example of the relationship between the fluctuation pattern and the stop order is shown in Table 2 below.

[0055]

[Table 2]

Focusing on the variation pattern β in the example of Table 2, first, the left symbol is stopped in the left variation region, the right symbol is stopped in the right variation region, and finally, the middle symbol is stopped in the middle variation region. Stop. Similarly, focusing on the variation pattern δ, first the middle symbol is stopped in the middle variation region, then the right symbol is stopped in the right variation region, and finally the left symbol is stopped in the left variation region. If the six fluctuation patterns α, β, γ, δ, ε, and ζ are set to have different degrees of expectation for the benefits such as reach and jackpot,
The player can play a game while expecting a fluctuation pattern in which a privilege is easily obtained to be displayed.

In case 1, the instruction button 48 is pressed during the change of the symbol group based on the change pattern α, and the change is stopped based on the change pattern β. In this example, first, the left symbol stops in the left variation region at time t36, and then the right symbol stops in the right variation region at time t38, thereby reaching reach. Therefore, the fluctuation of the symbol group based on the reach pattern is performed only in the middle fluctuation area.
In Case 2, the symbol group is changed based on the change pattern γ, and the instruction button 48 is pressed after the middle symbol stops in the middle change region at time t32. In this example,
The symbol group continues to fluctuate based on the fluctuation pattern δ for each of the right and left fluctuation regions, and thereafter, at time t38, the right symbol stops in the right fluctuation region and reaches the reach. Therefore, the fluctuation of the symbol group based on the reach pattern is performed only in the left fluctuation area. As described above, the order of the symbols to be stopped is different between the case 1 and the case 2, and the order of the symbols to be stopped may be different depending on the change pattern to be changed even in the same case. If the degree of expectation of the privilege is set to be different, a stop mode is likely to be a reach or a big hit depending on the stop order. Therefore, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege can be further increased. In addition, in the example of FIG. 13, the symbol variation period in which the symbol group is varied based on the variation pattern has shown one aspect of the time t30 to t38, but similarly to the first embodiment, the symbol variation period may be different for each variation pattern. Good. Further, the variation pattern is not limited to a mode in which symbols are stopped in order, and may include a mode in which a plurality of symbols are stopped simultaneously. By doing so, the variation mode of the variation pattern is diversified, so that the player can enjoy the pleasure of seeing the special symbol display 22 more.

According to the second embodiment, when the timing at which the player indicates the intention by the instruction button 48 is changed by the instruction button 48, the order of the change area in which the symbols stop after the change is changed {FIG. See FIG. That is, the order of the symbols to be stopped is changed, and the symbols are stopped in the fluctuation region in the order of high possibility of reaching depending on the timing. Therefore, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege is further increased. It should be noted that the same effects as those of the first embodiment are obtained in relation to the first, second, third, and fifth aspects.

[Other Embodiments] The above-described pachinko machine 1
In 0 (gaming machine), the structure, shape, size, material, arrangement, operating conditions, and the like of other parts are not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, each of the following embodiments to which the above embodiment is applied may be implemented. (1) In the above embodiments, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10. Instead of this form, a game machine other than a pachinko machine (for example, a slot machine, a pachislot machine, an arrange ball machine, a sparrow ball game machine, a video game machine, etc.) having a display portion capable of displaying symbols The present invention can be similarly applied to Even when applied to other gaming machines, since the symbol display pattern displayed on the display unit can be changed based on the player's intention display, the expectation of the player expecting a bonus due to a big hit etc. Can be enhanced.

(2) In each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to a change of a symbol group displayed on the special symbol display 22 as a display unit (a symbol change of a special symbol), an animation (background symbol), and the like. Instead of (or in addition to) this form, only the variation of the symbol group (design variation of the special symbol)
The present invention may be applied to only an animation (background design) or another mode in which a design is displayed in a substantially continuous or discontinuous manner. In addition, normal symbol display 2
The present invention may be similarly applied to the variation of the symbol group (the variation of the symbol of the ordinary symbol), the animation, and the like performed in step 4.
Even in these modes, since the symbol display pattern can be changed based on the player's intention display, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege can be increased. In addition, the present invention can be similarly applied to a display other than the fluctuation of the symbol group for determining whether or not a big hit or an animation. In this case, the symbol displayed on a display such as the special symbol display 22 changes when the player indicates the intention display by the instruction button 48 (intention display detecting means). You can get more fun than before.

(3) In each of the above-described embodiments, the special symbol display 22 that emits light (colors) to display symbols is applied as a display unit. Instead of this mode, a drum display or the like that displays a symbol shown on the display surface can be applied as the display unit. For example, a drum indicator has one or more rotating bodies having a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of symbols are appropriately arranged and displayed on the surface (ie, display surface) of each rotating body. Then, the rotation of each symbol is controlled by a driving member such as a motor to rotate the rotating member in the normal direction, the reverse direction, the normal / reverse direction, and the rotation speed, thereby realizing the fluctuation of the symbol group. Even in this mode, since the symbol display pattern displayed on the display unit can be changed based on the player's intention display, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege can be enhanced.

(4) In each of the above embodiments, the player can indicate the intention using the instruction button 48 (intention display detecting means) during the symbol fluctuation period. Instead of (or in addition to) this form, a part of the symbol variation period, or a period other than the symbol variation period, and when a required condition is satisfied, an opportunity to indicate the intention of the player by the instruction button 48 is provided. May be restricted. As a part of the symbol fluctuation period, for example, a first period from the start of the symbol group fluctuation to the first stop of the symbol (at time t in case 1 in FIG. 13).
30 to t36, time t30 to t32 in case 2),
The second period from the first stop of the symbol to the reaching of the symbol corresponds to the second period. The required conditions are, for example, during a jackpot game or when the opening / closing member (the lid 74 of the special winning opening 34, a movable wing piece such as a blade or a tulip) is open, and the like. Since the first period, the second period, and the like differ depending on the fluctuation pattern and the like, the “required period” is an indefinite period. According to this embodiment, the player can use the instruction button 48 with thrill and expectation in order to obtain a better playing state or privilege.
push. Therefore, the game can be enjoyed more.

(5) In the above embodiments, the current state of the instruction button 48 (intention display detecting means) (valid / invalid)
(Steps S82 to S8 in FIG. 6).
6, steps S76 to S78 in FIG. 11). Instead of this mode, a period (time) until the instruction button 48 becomes valid / invalid may be notified in the following manner. (5a) A mode in which the time until the instruction button 48 becomes effective is notified. For example, the time until it becomes effective is displayed on the special symbol display 22 while counting up (or counting down). In this way, it is possible to know when the instruction button 48 becomes valid, so that the player or the like is ready to press the instruction button 48. (5b) A mode of notifying the time until the instruction button 48 becomes invalid. For example, the special symbol display 22 displays the time until it becomes invalid while raising (or lowering) the level. This makes it possible to know when the instruction button 48 becomes invalid, so that a player or the like can set the timing of pressing the instruction button 48.

(6) In the first embodiment, the symbol display pattern (reach pattern, change pattern, animation, etc.) to be displayed based on the player's intention is selected based on random numbers (step S72 in FIG. 6). , Step S75 in FIG. 11), and did not notify the player what symbol display pattern would be. Instead of this mode, a symbol display pattern selected by the player's intention display may be notified. For example, a unique symbol or the like is assigned to each of the plurality of symbol display patterns, and the assigned symbol or the like is notified to the player or the like by the notification means. More specifically, the unique symbol or the like is displayed on a display unit such as the special symbol indicator 22 or a 7-segment LED. When the symbol display pattern to be selected is changed by a random number or the like, the symbol display pattern to be notified is also changed. In this way, the player presses the instruction button 48 (intention display detecting means) for a symbol display pattern that is likely to be displayed when a big hit occurs. Therefore, it is possible to play with expectation of a bonus such as a big hit.

(7) In each of the above embodiments, the instruction button 48 has been applied as intention display detecting means. Instead of this mode, not only a contact sensor (for example, a switch, a touch panel, a pressure sensor, and the like) but also a non-contact sensor (for example, an optical sensor, an infrared sensor, and the like) other than the instruction button 48 may be applied as intention display detecting means. . When the contact sensor is applied, the intention display of the player can be reliably detected, and when the non-contact sensor is applied, the mechanical operation is eliminated, so that the number of failures can be reduced. In addition, the voice of the player picked up by the microphone is sent to the main control board 1
A voice recognition system that detects a player's intention by performing voice recognition at 00 or the like, or an image recognition system that detects a player's intention by recognizing an image captured by a camera using the display control board 200 or the like. May be. Even with these intention display detecting means, the intention display of the player can be detected more reliably.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, the ROM 20
2 was used as a recording unit. Instead of (or in addition to) this form, the RAM 204, the character generator 2
12, main control board 100 or communication control circuit 11
ROM and RAM in a hole computer which can be communicated through the 6,206, a disk medium such as a flexible disk, a hard disk, and a magneto-optical disk which can be accessed by a disk device; Cards or printed matter on which characters or symbols accessible by a reading device are printed may be applied. Even with such a recording device or recording medium, it is possible to appropriately store (record) a symbol, a plurality of symbol display patterns, and the like.

(9) In each of the above embodiments, the data (for example, the command block 300) for each screen is transmitted from the main control board 100 (privilege determining means) to the display control board 20.
The present invention is applied to a pachinko machine 10 that performs a symbol change based on a symbol display pattern by repeating a procedure of transmitting the symbol to a symbol display means (see FIG. 7 and the like). Instead of this mode, every time a symbol change or the like is performed, the data of the symbol display pattern is displayed from the main control board 100 on the display control board 2.
It is also possible to apply the present invention to a pachinko machine that transmits data only once in 00. If the player's intention is indicated by the instruction button 48 (intention display detecting means), the data of the symbol display pattern is transmitted from the main control board 100 to the display control board 200 only once, and the symbol change and the like are continued.
That is, a new symbol change or the like is started when the player's intention is displayed. In this case, the main control board 1
From 00, the amount of data transmitted to the display control board 200 is greatly reduced from one screen to each symbol display pattern.
Therefore, the number of design steps such as programs required for the main control board 100 can be significantly reduced, and the cost of the pachinko machine can also be reduced. Also, for the player, when the intention is displayed, a new pattern change etc. starts,
The expectation of expecting a privilege can be further maintained.

[0068]

As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described. This embodiment has not only the aspects of the invention described in the claims but also other aspects of the invention. Embodiments of the present invention will be enumerated below, and related explanations will be provided as necessary.

[Aspect 1] In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the validity / invalidity control means for controlling the intention display detecting means to be valid or invalid, and the game machine is controlled by the validity / invalidity control means. A gaming machine having a notifying unit for notifying a state of the intention display detecting unit. [Relevant Description of Aspect 1] According to this aspect, the state of the intention display detecting means controlled by the validity / invalidity control means is notified by the notifying means, so that the timing at which the player can display the intention becomes clear. The "notifying means" includes not only means for visually notifying with a display or the like but also means for audibly notifying with a speaker or the like or means for tactilely notifying with a vibration member or the like. And all means of transmitting information.

[0070]

According to the present invention, since the symbol display pattern displayed on the display unit is changed based on the player's intention display, the expectation of the player who expects a privilege such as a big hit is enhanced. Can be.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing the appearance of a pachinko machine.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a main control board and a display control board.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the contents of a first-class start-up process.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing details of a symbol variation process.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the contents of a variable display process.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of a reach process.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of a reach pattern display process.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a command block.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of a symbol display process.

FIG. 10 is a time chart showing a change from the start of the change of the symbol group to the stop thereof.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of a reach process.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the content of a variation pattern display process.

FIG. 13 is a time chart showing a change from the start of the change of the symbol group to the stop thereof.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine (gaming machine) 12 Gaming board surface 14 Composite device 22 Special symbol display (display part) 24 Normal symbol display 30 First-class starting port 32 Gate 48 Instruction button (intention display detecting means) 58 Gate sensor 60, 66 Starting port sensor 68 Lower starting port 100 Main control board (privilege determination means) 200 Display control board (symbol display means) 202 ROM (recording unit) 204 RAM 210 CPU 212 Character generator 214 VDP

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. A display unit capable of displaying symbols, a recording unit capable of recording a plurality of symbol display patterns for displaying symbols on the display unit, and an intention display for outputting a detection signal when detecting an intention display of a player A gaming machine comprising: a detection unit; and a symbol display unit that, when receiving the detection signal within a required period, displays a symbol on the display unit based on a symbol display pattern selected from the plurality of symbol display patterns. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the symbol display means changes a symbol display pattern to be selected according to a timing of receiving the detection signal within a required period. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the timing of receiving the detection signal within a required period is:
A gaming machine having privilege determining means for determining addition and / or change of a privilege to be given to a player. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the display unit includes a plurality of variable regions for displaying a group of symbols consisting of a plurality of symbols while changing or stopping the symbols. Is a gaming machine in which the order of a variable region in which symbols are stopped after a change is changed according to the timing of receiving a detection signal within a required period. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a start of a required period is a time when a reach is reached.