JP2001025543A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which is not deviated from a special game state informing condition which is decided in advance, by allowing a game control means to manage information production concerning the special game state. SOLUTION: The CPU of a main substrate sends a command indicating starting of reliable variation information at the time of starting the variable display of a pattern for informing reliable variation, sends a reliable variation information pattern stopping command at the time of stopping the variable display of the pattern for informing reliable variation and after that, sends a command indicating the finish of reliable variation information. A CPU for display control fluctuate-controls a pattern for information in accordance with the command of the start and stop of reliable variation and at the time of receiving the command indicating the finish of reliable variation information, a variable display part erases a pattern for informing reliable variation to return the displaying state of the variable display device to display in the middle of big prize-winning game.

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.

[0003] The fact that the display result of the variable display section is a combination of a predetermined specific display mode is usually 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.

[0004] 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.

[0005] In addition, among the combinations of the display modes of "outside" other than the combination of "big hit", at a stage where some of the display results of the plurality of variable display portions have 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.

[0006] When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the gaming machine is set to a special gaming state which is advantageous for a player who increases the probability of generating a big hit or shortens the time required for changing symbols on the variable display section. There is something to migrate. The predetermined condition is satisfied, for example, when the combination of the stop symbols of the special symbol is a combination of the predetermined symbol (probable change symbol). Hereinafter, a state in which the probability of generating a big hit is improved is referred to as a probability change (probable change) state.

[0007] Since the probable change state is a particularly advantageous state for the player, the player has a strong interest in establishing a condition for entering the probable change state. The entry condition to the probability change state may be the occurrence of the probability change symbol as described above, but may not be the case. If not, it is better to notify the player that the player enters the certainty change state by some means.

[0008]

The notification of entering the probable change state (hereinafter referred to as probabilistic change notification) is often made by an effect due to a change in a symbol or an effect based on the movement of a predetermined character. That is, the certain change notification is performed by a predetermined display. If the game control means controls the display of the display, the control load becomes heavy, and the display is controlled by the dedicated display control means. Therefore, the effect for reporting the certainty change is also controlled by the display control means. However, if the display control means performs the display effect control for informing the certainty change, it may not be possible to match the game control by the game control means controlling the entire game.
For example, when it is determined that the probability change notification is to be executed within a period in which a predetermined game is being played, the probability change notification period may exceed the period.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine in which a game control means can manage a notification effect relating to a special game state and does not deviate from a predetermined special game state notification condition. And

[0010]

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 machine controllable to a specific game state advantageous to a player on condition that the specific display mode is set, the game machine including game control means for controlling the progress of the game, and the game control means Specific game state determining means for determining whether or not to play, special game state determining means for determining whether or not to make a special game state in which a specific game state is likely to occur, specific game state determining means, and special game state determining means Command output means for outputting a command including information related to the display based on the determined content of the specified game state. A first display control means for controlling the derivation display of the display result, and a display content different from the display content by the first display control means, wherein the display related to the content determined by the special game state determination means is controlled. And a second display control means for performing a display start command to the command output means at a timing for starting display based on the content determined by the special game state determination means with respect to the second display control means. A display end command is output to the command output means at the timing of outputting and terminating the display.

The second display control means is capable of performing control to derive and display a display result after starting variable display relating to the content determined by the special game state determination means.
A display start command is transmitted to the second display control means at a timing at which the variable display is started, a display stop command is transmitted at a timing at which the variable display is stopped, and a display end command is transmitted at a timing at which the stop display is terminated. It may be configured to do so.

The game control means releases the display start command and the display end command a predetermined number of times so that the game ball can easily win in a specific game state after the display control of the display result by the first display control means is performed. It may be configured to transmit at a stage before the winning opening is first opened.

[0013] The game control means may be configured to transmit the display start command and the display end command during a period from when the special winning opening is first opened to when it is finally closed.

[0014] The game control means is configured to transmit the display start command and the display end command during a period from the last closing of the special winning opening until the first display control means starts variable display. You may.

[0015] The display end command may be configured to be also used as a control command relating to a display other than the display relating to the content determined by the special game state determining means.

[0016] The first display control means and the second display control means may be formed on the same substrate.

The command output means of the game control means may be constituted so as to output a command only once at a timing when control is required.

[0018]

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”. In the vicinity of the variable display section 9, there is provided a judgment symbol display 41 for notifying whether or not a big hit has occurred.

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. The winning ball that has entered the starting winning port 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and 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 audio control board 70, the emission control board 91, the display control board 80, and the sub-display control board 140. A basic circuit 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is provided on the main board 31.
A switch circuit 58 for giving signals from the gate switch 12, 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 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15; Solenoid 21 for opening / closing opening / closing plate 20
And a lamp / LED circuit 60 for lighting and extinguishing the start storage indicator 18 and for driving 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.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration in the display control board 80 together with a CRT 82 which is an example of the variable display section 9 and output ports 571 and 572 of the main board 31 and an output buffer circuit 63. . Display control C
The PU 101 operates according to the program stored in the control data ROM 102, and when a strobe signal (INT signal) is input from the main board 31 via the noise filter 107 and the input buffer circuit 105, the PU 101 displays the signal via the input buffer circuit 105. Receive control commands. The input buffer circuit 105 is, for example, a general-purpose IC 74.
HC244 can be used.

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 circuit 105 can pass a signal 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. Display control board 80
Even if the internal circuits are modified illegally, the signal output by the illegal modification is not transmitted to the main board 31 side. The outputs of the output ports 571 and 572 may be output to the display control board 80 as they are. However, by providing the output buffer circuit 63 capable of transmitting a signal in only one direction, the output from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 is provided. One-way signal transmission can be further ensured. Further, for example, a three-terminal capacitor or a ferrite bead is used as the noise filter 107 that cuts off a high-frequency signal. However, even if noise is present between display control commands between substrates due to the presence of the noise filter 107, the effect is eliminated. Is done.

FIG. 6 shows the circuit configuration in the sub-display control board 140, the variable display 10 and the judgment symbol display 41 using 7-segment LEDs, and the output port 57 of the main board 31.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram shown together with an output buffer circuit 64 and 3,574. When a strobe signal (INT signal) is input from the main board 31 via the noise filter 147 and the input buffer circuit 145, the sub display control CPU 141 receives a sub display control command via the input buffer circuit 145. As the input buffer circuit 145, for example, a 74HC244, which is a general-purpose IC, can be used. The sub display control command is a command for instructing the display state of the variable display 10 and the judgment symbol display 41.

The sub display control CPU 141 outputs a signal for controlling the display state of the variable display 10 and the judgment symbol display 41 to the output port 144 in response to the sub display control command. The output from output port 144 is
The output is supplied to the variable display 10 and the judgment symbol display 41 via the output buffer circuit (amplification circuit) 146.

Here, the input buffer circuit 145 can pass a signal only in the direction from the main substrate 31 to the sub-display control substrate 140. Therefore, there is no room for a signal to be transmitted from the sub display control board 140 to the main board 31. Even if the circuit in the sub-display control board 140 is tampered with, the signal output by the tampering is transmitted to the main board 3.
It is not transmitted to one side. The output ports 573, 5
Although the output of the sub-display control board 140 may be directly output to the sub-display control board 140, the output buffer circuit 64 capable of transmitting a signal in only one direction provides the unidirectional output from the main board 31 to the sub-display control board 140. Signal transmission can be made more reliable. For example, a three-terminal capacitor or a ferrite bead is used as the noise filter 147 that cuts off the high-frequency signal. However, even if the sub-display control command causes noise between the substrates due to the presence of the noise filter 147, the influence is not affected. Removed.

A connector 148 for externally outputting a signal is mounted on the sub display control board 140. In this embodiment, the output of the output buffer circuit 146 is branched and output to the connector. Therefore, if the measuring device is connected to the connector 148, the display state of the variable display 10 and the judgment symbol display 41 can be easily observed by the measuring device.

In this example, the output buffer circuit 146
Output branched to the connector, but the sub display control C
The PU 141 may be configured to output data indicating a normal symbol stopped and displayed on the variable display 10 and a probability change notification symbol stopped and displayed on the determination symbol display 41 from a predetermined output port to a connector or the like. With such a configuration, the stop symbol can be more easily observed from the outside.

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 each random number for determination, such as a random number for determining a jackpot used for 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: Determines whether to generate a big hit (for big hit determination) (2) Random 2-1 to 2-3: For left and right middle out-of-design symbol determination (3) Random 3: Symbol for big hit (4) Random 4: Determine whether or not to make a probable change big hit (for probable change judgment) (5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach at the time of off (reach judgment) (6) Random 6: Determine reach type (for reach type determination) (7) Random 7: Determine whether or not to hit with normal symbols (for hit determination)

In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (7) are used. In step S10, the CPU 56 sets a large hit determination random number in (1), a big hit symbol determination random number in (3), a probability change random number in (4), and a hit determination random number in (7). Count up (1 addition). 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 the random numbers 2, 5, and 6 counts up (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.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the ordinary symbol processing (step S12). In the normal process symbol processing, the CPU 56 executes any one of the processing of steps S62 to S66 according to the value of the normal symbol process flag after performing the gate switch processing of step S61.

As shown in FIG. 10, in the gate switch processing, it is detected that the gate switch 12 is turned on based on the passing of the ball through the passing gate 11 which is a condition for starting the symbol change (step S611). If the gate switch 12 is on, it is checked whether the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value ("4" in this example) (step S6).
12). If not, the value of the gate passage storage counter is incremented by 1 (step S613). It should be noted that the LED of the passage memory display 41 depends on the value of the gate passage memory counter.
Lights up. Then, the CPU 56 extracts the value of the random number for hit determination (random 7) and stores the value (S6).
14).

In the ordinary symbol change waiting process in step S62, the CPU 56 determines that the value of the ordinary symbol passing storage counter is 0.
Otherwise, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated. If the value of the normal symbol passing storage counter is 0, nothing is performed.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the hit random number (random 7) and the hit / miss in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, when the probability is high, the hit value is one of 3 to 12, and when the probability is low, 3
5 or 7. If the value of the random number for hit determination matches the hit value, the hit is determined. In addition, the time of the high probability of the normal symbol coincides with the time of the probability change, for example.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the ordinary symbol determination processing in step S63. In the normal symbol determination process, the CPU 56 reads out the value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the number of stored gate passages = 1 (step SS631), reduces the value of the gate passage storage counter by 1, and sets each random number. The value of the numerical value storage area is shifted (step S632). That is, the value stored in the random number storage area corresponding to the gate passage storage counter = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the gate passage storage counter = n.
It is stored in the random value storage area corresponding to n-1.

Then, the CPU 56 determines in step S631
Is determined based on the value read in step 2, that is, the value of the extracted random number for collision determination (step S633). That is, the hit / los is determined based on the relationship shown in FIG. Then, a stop symbol of the ordinary symbol is determined based on a predetermined random number or the like (step S634). For example, if the normal symbol is a number from 0 to 9 and the hit symbol is "3" or "7", the stop symbol is determined to be "3" or "7" when the hit symbol is determined.
In the case of a loss, the value is determined to a value other than “3” and “7”.

Further, in order to notify the sub-display control board 140 of the stop symbol of the ordinary symbol, control for transmitting a sub-control command indicating the stop symbol is performed (step S63).
5). Specifically, a sub-control command indicating a stop symbol is stored in a predetermined storage area (RAM), and a flag for a command transmission request is set. The flag is referred to in the data output process (step S6) in the main process. Next, control for transmitting a sub-control command indicating the start of normal symbol variation is performed (step S636). Specifically, a sub-control command indicating the start of normal symbol variation is stored in a predetermined storage area (RAM), and a flag for a command transmission request is set.

Then, a normal symbol variation time timer is started (step S637). For example, at high probability,
Normally, a value equivalent to 5.1 seconds is set in the symbol fluctuation time timer. When the probability is low, the normal symbol fluctuation time timer is set to 29.
Set a value equivalent to 2 seconds. Further, the ordinary symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the ordinary symbol variation process (step S638).

The variation control of the ordinary symbol in the variable display 10 is performed by the sub display control C on the sub display control board 140.
This is executed by the PU 141. Sub display control CPU1
41 receives the sub-control command indicating the start of the normal symbol variation, and starts the variation of the ordinary symbol. Then, when a sub-control command indicating stop of normal symbol fluctuation described later is received, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is stopped, and the notified stopped symbol is displayed.

In the ordinary symbol change process of step S64,
It is checked whether or not the normal symbol fluctuation time timer has timed out (step S641). If timed out,
The ordinary symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the ordinary symbol stop processing (step S642).

In the ordinary symbol stop processing of step S65,
Control for transmitting a sub-control command indicating normal symbol fluctuation stop is performed (step S651). Then, when it is determined to be a hit (step S65)
2) The normal symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the start winning opening opening / closing process (step S653). In the start winning opening opening / closing process, control is performed to open the starting winning opening (variable winning ball device 15) a predetermined number of times for a predetermined period. If it is determined to be a loss, the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the normal symbol change waiting process (step S654).

The opening pattern used in the start winning opening opening / closing process is, for example, a pattern in which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened once for 0.2 seconds at a low probability. When the probability is high, the variable winning ball device 15 is set to 1.1.
After opening for 5 seconds, after a closing period of 4.4 seconds, 1.
This is a pattern that opens for 15 seconds. The variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to open and close according to an opening pattern. In this embodiment, the variable winning ball device 15 is also used as the starting winning port 14.

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. 15 shows a process of determining that the hit ball has won the start winning opening 14, and FIG. 16 shows a process of determining a variable display stop symbol of the variable display unit 9. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not to make a big hit.

When a hit ball wins the starting winning port 14 provided in the game board 6, the starting port sensor 17 is turned on. In the special symbol process process of step S8 of the main process, as shown in FIG. 15, when the CPU 56 determines that the start-up opening sensor 17 has been turned on via the switch circuit 58 (step S41), the number of start winning prize stored is maximum. It is checked whether the value has reached 4 (step S4).
2). If the number of stored start winnings has not reached 4, the number of stored start winnings is increased by 1 (step S43), and the value of the random number for big hit determination is extracted. Then, it is stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the value of the number of stored start winnings (step S).
44). 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.

As shown in FIG. 16, the CPU 56 checks the value of the number of start winning combinations 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 Shift the value of the random value storage area (step S
52). That is, the number of starting winning memories = n (n = 2, 3,
The value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to 4) is stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the number of start winning storage = n−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 determining a big hit (step S53). Here, the random number for jackpot determination is 0 to 299.
Values in the range. As shown in FIG. 17, when the probability is low, for example, when the value is “3”, “big hit” is determined, and when the value is any other value, “missing” is determined.
Is determined. When the probability is high, for example, the value is "3",
If it is one of "7", "79", "103", and "107", it is determined as "big hit", and if it is any other value, it is determined as "out".

If it is determined that a big hit has occurred, the CPU 5
No. 6 determines whether or not to set a probability variation jackpot based on the value of the probability variation determination random number (random 4) (step S63).
Then, when it is determined that the jackpot is to be the probability change jackpot (step S64), the probability change flag is set (step S65). The probability change flag is used for selecting a reach type and the like. In addition, the big hit symbol determination random number (random 3) is extracted, and the big hit symbol is determined according to the value (step S62). Further, the reach type determining random number (random 6) is extracted, and the reach type is determined based on the value (step S57).

If it is determined that there is a deviation, 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 a reach type determining random number (random 6) and determines a reach type based on the value (step S57). 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 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, and the combination of the respective stop symbols is determined.

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. 18 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. 18 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 process (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. 15 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. 16 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. 16 is executed.

Reach operation setting processing (step S30)
3): Whether or not to perform the reach operation is determined 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 type determination random number. That is, FIG.
Is executed in the latter half of the process shown in FIG.

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.

All symbols stop waiting process (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. And
If the stop symbol is a combination of jackpot symbols,
The internal state (process flag) is updated so as to proceed to step S306. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

Probable change notification process (step S306): If it is determined that a jackpot is to be set, the control for notifying the user is performed. In addition, when it is determined to be the normal probability big hit, the control for notifying that it is not the certain probability big hit is performed.

Grand 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. When the final closing condition of the special winning opening is satisfied, the internal state is updated so as 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 based on the result of the probability change determination, the internal flag indicating the hit determination probability state of the special symbol and the ordinary symbol is set to the high probability state or the low probability state. ,
The internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

As described above, when a hit ball is won in the starting winning opening 14, the basic circuit 53 determines whether to make a big hit or a miss, a stop symbol, and a reach in the special symbol process of step S11 (see FIG. 7). The mode 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.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart of waiting for all symbols to change in the special symbol process shown in FIG. 18 (step S30).
It is a flowchart which shows the process of 4). Step S3
When the change pattern and the stop symbol are determined in the stop symbol setting process and the reach operation setting process in steps S02 and S303, the transmission control of the display control command for instructing them is performed.
Waits for the completion of command transmission (step S30).
4a). The completion of the command transmission is determined by the main processing (FIG. 7).
(See step S5).

In this embodiment, the CPU 56 sends to the display control board 80 a command capable of specifying the variation mode when starting the symbol variation. 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 processing of step S304a, it is confirmed whether or not transmission of all these commands has been completed. Note that C
The PU 56 may send out a display control command indicating a left and right middle stop symbol, and then send out a command capable of specifying a variation mode.

When transmission of the display control command is completed, C
The PU 56 starts a fluctuation time timer for measuring the fluctuation time of the fluctuation mode notified to the display control board 80 (Step S304b). Then, the special symbol process flag is updated so as to proceed to step S305 (step S304c).

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the waiting for all symbols stop process (step S30) in the special symbol process shown in FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows 5). In step S305, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the variable time timer has expired (step S305a). When the time is up, a display control command instructing to stop all symbols is set (step S305b). Then, a display control command data transmission request is set (step S305).
c). The display control command data transmission request is referred to in the display control data setting process (step S4) in the main process (see FIG. 7).

Then, it is confirmed whether or not the probable change flag is set (step S305d). If set, reset the probability change flag (step S
305e), control is performed to transmit a sub-display control command indicating the start of probable change notification (probable change). More specifically, a sub-display control command indicating the start of probable change notification (probable change) is set in a predetermined storage area (RAM) (step S305).
f). If the probable change flag is not set, control is performed to transmit a sub display control command indicating the start of probable change notification (non-probable change) (step S305g). The sub-display control command indicating the start of the probability change notification (probable change) is a command instructing to perform an effect for notifying the player that the probability change is a big hit, and the sub-display control command indicating the start of the probability change notification (non-probable change) The display control command is a command for instructing the player to perform an effect for notifying the player of a normal (non-probable) big hit.

Then, a notification time timer for counting the effect time for the probability change notification is started (step S).
305h), the flag of the sub display control command transmission request is set (step S305i). The flag is referred to in the data output process (step S6) in the main process. Also, to move to step S306,
Update the special symbol process flag (step S305)
j).

Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 20, if it is determined not to make a big hit, step S
Steps 305d to S305j are not performed, and step S3
The special symbol process flag is updated so as to shift to 00.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the probable change notification process (step S306) in the special symbol process process shown in FIG. In step S306, C
The PU 56 first checks whether or not the notification time timer has timed out (step S306a). If the timeout has occurred, control is performed to transmit a sub-display control command indicating the end of the probability change notification. Specifically, a sub-display control command indicating the end of the probable change notification is set in a predetermined storage area (RAM) (step S306b), and a flag of a sub-display control command transmission request is set (step S306c). Then, the special symbol process flag is updated to shift to the special winning opening opening process (step S307) (step S306d).

As described above, in this embodiment, when the variable display on the variable display section 9 is completed, if it is determined that the large hit is determined, the sub display control board 140 is started to send the positive change notification (the positive change notification). ) Is transmitted. Then, when the time determined by the notification time timer elapses, a sub-display control command indicating the end of the probable change notification is transmitted to the sub-display control board 140. The sub control display CPU 141 of the sub display control board 140
When the sub display control command indicating the start of the probability change notification (probable change) is received, the judgment display 41 is caused to change the symbol, and when the sub display control command indicating the end of the probability change notification is received, the player recognizes that the probability change is a big hit. Display as possible. The sub-display control command indicating the end of the probability change notification is transmitted immediately before the start of the special winning opening opening process.

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the middle left and right symbols of the special symbol used in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 22, in this embodiment, each symbol displayed as a middle left and right symbol on the variable display section 9 has the same
It is a design. The left and right middle symbols are variably displayed in the order of the symbol numbers. When the symbol of symbol number 12 is displayed, the symbol of symbol number 1 is displayed next. And the middle left and right symbols are, for example, "one", "three", "five", "seven",
A high-probability state is reached when stopping at "9" or "clogs" together. That is, they become probable symbols.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a probable change notification symbol used in this embodiment for notifying whether or not it is a probable change big hit. The judgment symbol display 41 connected to the sub display control board 140 has each display area for displaying each symbol shown in FIG. An LED is provided at the back of each display area. And
When performing a probable change notification effect, the LEDs are alternately turned on. Therefore, the player can visually recognize the symbols shown in FIG. 23 alternately. In the case of the probability change jackpot, when the probability change notification effect ends, that is, when the sub display control command indicating the end of the probability change notification is received, the sub display control CP
U141 is a symbol indicating that it is a probability change jackpot (FIG. 23)
(The flash symbol shown on the left side of).

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a sub display control command sent from the main board 31 to the sub display control board 140. As shown in FIG. 24, the sub-display control command is composed of 8-bit data and a 1-bit strobe signal (INT signal).

FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of sub-display control command data using 8-bit data. As shown in FIG. 25, for example, the upper 4 bits of the 8 bits indicate the type of control, and the lower 4 bits indicate the specific control content. For example, in this example, if the upper 4 bits are [0, 0, 1, 1], the numerical value of the lower 4 bits indicates the start of the normal symbol change or the stop of the normal symbol change. If the upper 4 bits are [0, 1, 0, 0], the start of probable change notification (probable change), the start of probable change notification (non-probable change), the end of probable change notification, etc. Then, the upper 4 bits are [0,
[1, 0, 1], a stop symbol of a normal symbol variably displayed on the variable indicator 10 is indicated by a numerical value of lower 4 bits.

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of a sub display control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the sub display control board 140. As shown in FIG. 26, in this embodiment, the sub-display control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the sub-display control board 140 through eight signal lines of sub-display control command data D0 to D7. In addition, the main substrate 31
A signal line for a sub display control INT signal for transmitting a strobe signal and a signal line for supplying a ground level are also provided between the sub display control board 140 and the sub display control board 140.

FIG. 27 is a timing chart showing an example of the transmission timing of the sub display control command given from the main board 31 to the sub display control board 140. In this example, when the sub display control command data is output, the INT signal goes low for 4 ms as shown in FIG. The sub display control CPU 141 can capture the sub display control command data by detecting that the INT signal has fallen.

When a transmission request for the sub-display control command data is generated, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 outputs the sub-display control command data to the output port 573 only once and outputs the INT signal for 4 ms only once. I do. Therefore, the load required for command transmission of the game control means does not increase so much.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a state in which the main board 31 is connected to the display control board 8.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a display control command sent to 0. As shown in FIG. 28, the display control command is composed of 8-bit data and a 1-bit strobe signal.

FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of display control command data using 8-bit data. FIG.
As shown in (1), for example, the higher 4 bits of the 8 bits indicate the type of control, and the lower 4 bits indicate the specific control content. For example, in this example, if the upper 4 bits are [0, 0, 0, 1], the reach type, stop of all symbols, and the like are indicated by the numerical values of the lower 4 bits. If the upper 4 bits are [1, 0, 0, 0], the stop symbol of the left symbol variably displayed on the variable display section 9 is indicated by the numerical value of the lower 4 bits.

FIG. 30 shows a state in which the main board 31 is connected to the display control board 8.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of a display control command transmitted to 0. As shown in FIG. 30, in this embodiment, the display control command includes display control command data D0 to D7.
Are transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 through the eight signal lines. A display control INT for transmitting a strobe signal is provided between the main board 31 and the display control board 80.
Signal lines for signals and signal lines for supplying a ground level are also wired.

FIG. 31 shows a state in which the main board 31 is connected to the display 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, when the display control command data is output, as shown in FIG.
The INT signal goes low for s. Display control CPU
101 can detect that the INT signal has fallen and take in the display control command data.

Note that the CPU 56 of the main board 31 outputs the display control command data to the output port 571 only once when the transmission request of the display control command data occurs,
The INT signal for ms is output only once. Therefore, the load required for command transmission of the game control means does not increase so much.

As can be seen from the description of FIGS. 24 to 31, the form of the sub-display control command sent from the main board 31 to the sub-display control board 140 and the display control command sent from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 The format of the command is the same. Therefore, the CPU 56 of the main board 31, that is, the game control means, can perform the same command transmission control on any board, and can facilitate programming of the game control means.

The signal transmission method shown in FIGS. 27 and 31 is merely an example, and the length of the INT signal may be shortened, for example. Also, the sub-display control CPU 141 and the display control CPU 101 that receive the command
May input an INT signal to an interrupt terminal to receive a command by an interrupt process, or may introduce an INT signal to an input port and search for an input port to receive a command.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a sub-display control command output portion in the data output process (step S6) in the main process shown in FIG. In the data output process, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the sub display control command is being sent (step S).
451). If the transmission is not being performed, it is confirmed whether or not a sub display control command transmission request relating to the probability change notification is set (step S452). The sub display control command transmission request relating to the probability change notification is set in the special symbol process.

If the sub-display control command transmission request for the probability change notification has not been set, it is confirmed whether or not the sub-display control command transmission request for the ordinary symbol has been set (step S453). The sub-display control command transmission request relating to the ordinary symbol is set in the ordinary symbol process.

If the sub-display control command transmission request relating to the probable change notification or the sub-display control command transmission request relating to the ordinary symbol is set, the transmission request is reset (step S454), and the contents of the transmission command storage area are output to the output port. (Output port C) It outputs to 573 (step S455). Also, the port C output counter is incremented by +1.
(Step S456), and sets bit 7 of the output port (port D) 574 to 0 (step S45).
7).

If the sub-display control command is being sent, it is checked whether or not the value of the port C output counter is 2 (step S458). If the value of the port C output counter is not 2, that is, it is 1, the value of the port C output counter is increased by 1 (step S459).

If the value of the port C output counter is 2, the value of the port C output counter is cleared (step S460), and the output port (output port D) 5 is cleared.
The bit 7 of 74 is set to 1 (step S461).

Bit 7 of output port D is a strobe signal (INT signal) applied to sub-display control board 140.
Output port. Bits 0 to 7 of the output port C are ports for outputting sub-display control command data. In this embodiment, the data output process shown in FIG. 32 is executed once every 2 ms. Therefore, the data output processing shown in FIG.
As shown in (1), when the sub-display control command data is output, the INT signal goes low for 4 ms.

As shown in steps S452 and S453, a sub-display control command transmission request relating to the notification of a probable change is prioritized with respect to a sub-display control command transmission request relating to a normal symbol. Therefore, when the output timing of the information on the normal symbol and the output timing of the information on the display of the judgment symbol display 41 occur at the same time, the information on the display of the judgment symbol display 41 is transmitted first. Since the start timing and the end timing of the probable change notification effect are related to the display stop timing of the special symbol and the like, they need to be controlled relatively strictly. However, it is configured such that priority processing is performed as in this embodiment. For example, it is possible to prevent the display stop timing of the special symbol from deviating from the certain variation notification effect.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the processing of the sub-display control CPU 141 in the sub-display control board 140. The sub-display control CPU 141 enters a loop state after initializing output ports and work areas and performing initial processing such as timer setting (step S101). In the initial processing, a timer is set such that a timer interrupt occurs every 500 μs. Therefore, in the loop state, the actual control is executed when a timer interrupt of 500 μs occurs (step S10).
2).

FIG. 34 is a flow chart showing a timer interruption process of 500 μs. When the timer interrupt occurs, the sub-display control CPU 141 performs an initial process such as starting a timer so that the next 500 μs interrupt occurs (step S111), and then performs a sub-display control command reading process (step S111). S112).

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a sub display control command reading process. In the sub-display control command reading process, the sub-display control CPU 141
Read bit 7 of the input port assigned to the T signal. Then, it is determined whether or not the bit 7 is turned on (low level) (step S121). If it is turned on, the sub-display control command data is read from the input port assigned to the input of the sub-display control command data (step S122). In addition, as described above,
The INT signal goes low when the CPU 56 of the main board 31 outputs new sub-display control command data.

If the INT signal is off, the sub-display control CPU 141 clears the sub-display communication counter (step S126). The sub display communication counter is used to count the number of times the sub display control command data is received when the INT signal is on.

When the INT signal is on, the received command (bits 0 to 7) is immediately before (500 μs).
(Previous) Check whether the received command is the same as the received command (step S123). If they are not the same, the sub display communication counter is cleared (step S126). If they are the same, the sub-display communication counter sets the predetermined maximum value (MA
X) is confirmed (step S12)
4). If the value has not reached the maximum value, the value of the sub display communication counter is incremented by 1 (step S125). here,
The maximum value is a value larger than the value (3 in this example) for determining that the sub-display control command data has been reliably received, and is used, for example, for counting the number of receptions in 4 ms.

Next, the sub-display control CPU 141
It is confirmed whether or not the value after the sub display communication counter has become "3" (step S127). If it is "3", a communication end flag is set (step S5).
128), and stores the received sub-display control command data in the received command storage area (step S129).
Further, the received sub display control command data is stored in the work area (step S130). If it is not "3", the received sub-display control command data is stored in the work area without setting the communication end flag (step S130). The data stored in the work area is stored in the next interrupt processing in step S1.
23.

In the 500 μs timer interrupt processing, the probability change notification symbol display processing (step S113) is executed following the sub display control command reading processing. In the probability change notification symbol display process, the sub-display control CPU 141 first checks whether or not the probability change notification symbol is changing on the determination symbol display 41 (step S141). If it is not fluctuating, it is confirmed whether or not a sub display control command indicating the start of probable change notification is received (step S142). If it has been received, the notification symbol variation process is started (step S
143). During the fluctuation of the probable change notification symbol, the sub-display control CPU 141 alternately switches the LED provided on the back of the display area of the two symbols (see FIG. 23) every 0.2 seconds, for example, on the judgment symbol display 41. Turn on.

In step S141, if the probability variation notification symbol is fluctuating, it is confirmed whether or not a sub display control command indicating the end of the probability variation notification is received (step S14).
4). If it has not been received, the notification symbol variation process is continued (step S146). If the sub display control command indicating the end of the probable change notification is received, the process proceeds to step S14.
If the sub-display control command of the probability change notification (probability change) is received in 2, the symbol change is stopped on the judgment symbol display 41 with the symbol corresponding to the probability change jackpot (step S14).
5). When the sub-display control command of the probability change notification (non-probability change) is received in step S142, the symbol change of the judgment symbol display 41 with the symbol corresponding to the normal big hit is stopped (step S145).

Following the probable change notification symbol display process, a normal symbol display process (step S114) is executed. In the normal symbol display process, the sub-display control CPU 141 first checks whether or not the normal symbol is changing on the variable pattern display 10 (step S151). If it is not fluctuating, it is confirmed whether or not a sub-display control command indicating the start of normal symbol fluctuation has been received (step S152). If it has been received, the normal symbol variation process is started (step S1).
53). Normally, the sub display control CPU
141, for example, causes the variable display 10 to count up and display a number every 0.1 seconds.

If it is determined in step S151 that the ordinary symbol is changing, it is checked whether a sub-display control command indicating the end of the ordinary symbol change has been received (step S15).
4). If it has not been received, the normal symbol variation process is continued (step S156). When the sub-display control command indicating the normal symbol change end is received, the symbol change of the variable display 10 is stopped with the stop symbol already received (step S155).

As described above, in this embodiment, the sub-display control CPU mounted on the sub-display control board 140
141 performs variable display control of the variable display 10 for variably displaying a normal symbol and the determination symbol display 41 for variably displaying a positive variation notification symbol. Then, the CPU 56 of the main board 31
Sends a command to that effect to the sub display control board 140 at the start and end of each change.

The sub-display control CPU 141 can recognize the variation time based on each command. C of main board 31
Since the PU 56 sends the command so that the fluctuation time can be specified, the CPU 56 does not need to send a command indicating other detailed control. For example, every 0.1 second or 0.2
There is no need to send a command showing the symbol after the change every second.

In this embodiment, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 allows the sub-display control CPU 141 to specify the fluctuation time by sending commands at the start and end of the fluctuation. At the start, a command indicating the fluctuation time itself may be transmitted. In such a configuration, the sub-display control CPU 141 checks whether or not a command indicating the end of the fluctuation has been received when the fluctuation time has elapsed, thereby more reliably performing the fluctuation control of the normal symbol and the probable variation notification symbol. be able to. For example, when a command indicating the end of the change is not received when the change time elapses, it can be determined that some abnormality has occurred in the communication.

Also, instead of sending a command indicating the fluctuation time at the start of the fluctuation, At the end of the fluctuation period, a command indicating that may be sent. That is, a command indicating the end of the fluctuation period may be transmitted after the command indicating the end of the fluctuation (symbol determination) is transmitted. Even with such a configuration, the fluctuation control of the ordinary symbol and the probable variation notification symbol can be performed more reliably.

FIG. 38 shows the change of the special symbol on the variable display section 9, the open / close state of the special winning opening, and the judgment symbol display 4.
FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing a relationship between the variable display states 1 and 2; In this embodiment, as shown in the special symbol process processing flowchart of FIG. 18 and as shown in the timing chart of FIG. 38, from the determination of the special symbol to the opening of the special winning opening for the first time. In between, a probable change notification effect is being performed.

However, the probable change notification effect may be performed in another period. For example, it may be performed from the first opening of the special winning opening of a predetermined number of times to the end of the last opening. FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process process in the case where a probable change notification effect is performed during such a period.

In this case, the special symbol is determined, and at the beginning of the special winning opening opening process, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 is started.
Sends a sub-display control command to start the probable change notification to the sub-display control board 140 (step S30)
7). Then, after the processing during the opening of the special winning opening is completed, a sub display control command for stopping the notification of the probability change is sent to the sub display control board 140 (step S309).
It should be noted that a predetermined period is set from when the special symbol is fixed to when the special winning opening is first opened.

When the special symbol process is executed as shown in FIG. 39, as shown in the timing chart of FIG.
The certainty change notification effect is performed from when the first winning opening is opened to when the last opening is completed.

Further, the certainty change notification effect may be performed, for example, in a period from the last closing of the special winning opening to the start of the change of the next special symbol. FIG.
Is a flowchart showing a special symbol process process in the case where a probable change notification effect is performed during such a period.

In this case, after completion of the processing during opening of the special winning opening, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 sends a sub-display control command to start a positive change notification to the sub-display control board 140 (step S309). . Then, in step S300, when the change of the special symbol is started, the sub display control board 140 is sent a sub display control command to stop the positive change notification. When the special symbol process processing is executed as shown in FIG. 41, as shown in the timing chart of FIG. 42, in the probability variation notification effect, the fluctuation of the next special symbol is started after the closing of the special winning opening last. Until it is done.

In each of the above embodiments, the sub-display control board 140 is provided separately from the display control board 80, but they may be realized by one board. Further, the variable display 10 for variably displaying a normal symbol includes a sub display control board 80.
The variable display unit 9 for variably displaying a special symbol and the judgment symbol display 41 for the notification of a certainty change are controlled by the CPU 101 of the display control board 80. You may comprise.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, the judgment symbol display 41 is provided, and the notification of the probable big hit is made by the variable display on the judgment symbol display 41. May be performed. FIG.
Is the main board 3 in the case of performing the notification of the probability change jackpot.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a peripheral substrate 1 and a peripheral substrate. In this example, the judgment symbol display 41 and the sub display control board 1
40 is not provided. The variable display 10 is controlled by the CPU 56 of the main board 31.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the first display control means for controlling the derivation and display of the display result related to the content determined by the specific game state determination means (big hit determination means) in the game control means, and the special game state determination means The second display control means for controlling the display related to the contents determined by the means (in this example, the probability change determining means) is the display control CP of the display control board 80.
This is realized by U101.

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a display control command from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 in this case. As shown in FIG. 44, the commands indicating the start of the probability change notification and the end of the probability change notification are included in the display control command to the display control board 80. Also in this case, the probability change notification effect is, for example, from the first opening of the special winning opening to the end of the final winning opening until the special winning opening is first opened until the special winning opening is opened. , Or between the last closing of the special winning opening and the start of the change of the next special symbol.

In this case, a command indicating the end of the probable change notification can be shared with another display control command. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 45, a certainty-change notification effect is performed from the time when the special symbol is determined to the time when the special winning opening is first opened, but the display control CPU 101 sets the first special winning opening to open. Is received (for example, a display control command instructing "first round"), it is recognized that a command indicating the end of the probable change notification is received. However, in practice, a command indicating the end of the probability change notification is sent to the main board 3.
Since it is not necessary to send the command from one, the number of commands to be sent can be reduced.

In the case where the probability change notification effect is performed from the first opening of the special winning opening to the end of the final opening, for example, the display control command indicating the end of the big hit game is changed. This can also be used as a command indicating the end of notification. Then, in the case where the certain variation notification effect is performed from the last closing of the special winning opening until the change of the next special symbol is started, for example, the display control command indicating the start of the change of the special symbol is definitely changed. This can also be used as a command indicating the end of notification. In any case, the command indicating the end of the probable change notification need not be sent from the main board 31.

When a command indicating the end of the notification period is used together with a command indicating the end of the probability change notification, another display control command (a display control command indicating the "first round", a signal indicating the end of the big hit game). The display control command, the display control command indicating the start of the change of the special symbol, etc.) may also be used as the command indicating the end of the notification period.

FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a probable change notification effect using the variable display section 9. As shown in FIG. In this example, when the display control CPU 101 of the display control board 80 receives the command indicating the start of the probable change notification, the display control CPU 101 displays the maze as shown in FIG. Then, if the character proceeds along the maze (see (B) and (C)) and receives a command to start a certainty change notification (stable change), the character is displayed as if it reached the goal (see (D)). ), A display to inform that it is a probability change big hit is made (see (E)).

The probabilistic change notification effect shown in FIG. 46 is merely an example, and the variable display section 9 variably displays a design for probabilistic notification different from the special symbol, and the display result indicates that the probable change is a big hit. The notification may be performed, or another notification method may be used. In the case of notifying that it is a probability changing big hit by the display result, at the end of the fluctuation period, for example, a symbol for reporting the probability changing big hit is stopped and displayed. Regardless of which notification method is employed, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 transmits a display control command indicating the start of the certainty-change notification at the start of the certainty-change notification production, and ends the certainty-change notification at the end of the certainty-change notification production period. Is transmitted (or another display control command that is also used as the command), the game control means can reliably manage the certainty change notification effect.

Also, a symbol for probabilistic change notification which is different from the special symbol is variably displayed on the variable display section 9, a display result indicating the probable change is stopped when a probable change is a big hit, and a non-probable change is displayed when a probable change is a large hit. When the display result is configured to be stopped and displayed, as shown in FIG. 47 (A), the CPU 56 of the main board 31 sends a probable change notification symbol stop command when stopping the variable display of the probable change notification design. And
Thereafter, a command indicating the end of the probable change notification may be transmitted. When configured as such, the display control CPU
When the command 101 indicating the end of the probability change notification is received, the variable display unit 9 deletes the symbol for the probability change notification and returns the display state of the variable display unit 9 to the display of the big hit game.

In such a configuration, the game control means can reliably manage the start of change, stop of change, and the end of the display period of the symbol for sure change notification. Even in this case, the game control means does not send a command indicating the end of the probability change notification, and the display control CPU 101
May be configured such that, when a display control command indicating the opening of the first special winning opening (for example, a display control command indicating the “first round”) is received, it is recognized that a command indicating the end of the probability change notification is received. (See FIG. 47B).

[0148] Then, the probability variation notification effect is performed by the symbol variation, and also in the case of using the probability variation notification symbol stop command and the command indicating the termination of the probability variation notification (or a command used in combination therewith), the first opening of the special winning opening is also performed. Even if the symbol for probable change notification is changed from the time of opening until the last opening is completed, or from the last closing of the special winning opening to the start of the next special symbol change Good.

At this time, if the symbol for the probability change notification changes from the first opening of the special winning opening to the end of the final opening, the display control CPU 101 is executed.
Receives the command indicating the end of the probability change notification (or a command used as the same), deletes the symbol for the probability change notification, and returns the display state of the variable display section 9 to the display state for the end of the big hit game. In the case where the symbol for notification of certainty change is performed between the time when the special winning opening is finally closed and the time when the next special symbol is changed, the display control CPU 10 is used.
When receiving a command indicating the end of the probability change notification (or a command that is also used as the command), the symbol 1 deletes the symbol for the probability change notification and returns the display state of the variable display unit 9 to the state at the start of the special symbol change.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the special game state is a probable change state in which the probability of generating a big hit (specific game state) is high. The present invention can be applied to a time-saving state in which the symbol fluctuation time is shortened.

[0151]

According to the present invention, the game machine is provided with the first display control means for controlling the derivation display of the display result relating to the content determined by the specific game state determination means, and the content determined by the special game state determination means. Second display control means for controlling related display, and the game control means issues a display start command to the second display control means at a timing at which display based on the content determined by the special game state determination means is started. Since the display end command is sent at the timing of sending and ending the display, the game control means can manage the notification effect regarding the special game state, and deviate from the predetermined special game state notification condition. There is an effect that does not do. Further, according to such a configuration, even when the special game state notification effect is controlled by the sub-display control board, the game control means can manage the special game state notification effect.

The game control means transmits a display start command to the second display control means at a timing at which the variable display is started, transmits a display stop command at a timing at which the variable display is stopped, and terminates the stop display. When configured to transmit a display end command at the timing of causing the game, the game control means can reliably manage the start of change, stop of change, and the end of the display period of the symbol for special game state notification. it can.

The game control means releases the display start command and the display end command a predetermined number of times so that the game balls can easily win in the specific game state after the display control of the display result is performed by the first display control means. When the winning opening is configured to be transmitted before the stage is first opened, when performing the special game state notification effect from the time when the variable display of the special symbol is completed, the game control means is set to the special game state. It is possible to manage the information production.

In the case where the game control means is configured to transmit the display start command and the display end command between the time when the special winning opening first opens and the time when the special winning opening closes last, during the big hit game When a special game state notification effect is performed, the game control means can manage the special game state notification effect.

The game control means is configured to transmit a display start command and a display end command between the time when the special winning opening is finally closed and the time when the first display control means starts variable display. In this case, the game control means can manage the special game state notification effect when performing the special game state notification effect after the end of the big hit game until the next change of the special symbol is started.

In the case where the display end command is configured to be also used as a control command related to a display other than the display related to the content determined by the special game state determining means, the number of commands transmitted by the game control means is reduced. It is possible,
The load on the game control means can be reduced.

In the case where the first display control means and the second display control means are formed on the same substrate, the game control means issues a command to the first display control means and the second display control means. Can be sent to one board,
The load on the game control means can be reduced.

If the command output means of the game control means is configured to output a command only once at a time when control is necessary, the processing relating to command transmission of the game control means is simple, and The load on the means can be reduced.

[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 of a sub display 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 normal symbol processing process.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a gate switch process.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a hit / fall of a hit determination random number for a normal symbol.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol determination process.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol change process.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol stop process.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a process of determining that a hit ball has won a start winning opening.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a process of determining a stop symbol for variable display and a process of determining a reach type.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a jackpot determination process.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process process.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an all symbol variation start process in the special symbol process process.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an all symbol stop waiting process in the special symbol process process.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a probable change notification process in a special symbol process process.

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a special symbol.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a probability change notification symbol.

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a sub display control command.

FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of sub-display control command data.

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of a sub display control command.

FIG. 27 is a timing chart showing an example of transmission timing of a sub display control command.

FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a display control command.

FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of display control command data.

FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of a display control command.

FIG. 31 is a timing chart showing an example of a display control command transmission timing.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a sub-display control command output portion in the data output process.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by a sub display control CPU.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a timer interruption process in the sub display control CPU.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a sub display control command reading process.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a probability change notification symbol display process.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol display process.

FIG. 38 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the change of the special symbol, the open / close state of the special winning opening, and the variable display state of the judgment symbol display.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing special symbol process processing in another embodiment.

FIG. 40: Variation of a special symbol in another embodiment,
It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between the open / close state of the special winning opening and the variable display state of the judgment symbol display.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process process according to still another embodiment.

FIG. 42 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the change of the special symbol, the open / close state of the special winning opening, and the variable display state of the judgment symbol display in still another embodiment.

FIG. 43 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration and the like on a main board when the probability change notification effect control is performed on a display control board.

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of display control command data.

FIG. 45 is a timing chart showing a relationship between a change in a special symbol, a state of opening and closing a special winning opening, and a state of probable variation notification effect when the probability variation notification effect control is performed by the display control board.

FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a certainty-changing notification effect using a variable display unit.

FIG. 47 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the change of the special symbol, the open / close state of the special winning award, and the variable display state of the positive change notification symbol when performing the variable probability notification effect with the fluctuation of the variable probability notification symbol in the variable display section.

[Explanation of symbols]

 9 Variable display unit 10 Variable display 31 Game control board (main board) 41 Judge symbol display 53 Basic circuit 56 CPU 80 Display control board 101 Display control CPU 140 Sub display control board 141 Sub display control CPU

Claims (8)

[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 gaming machine controllable to a specific gaming state advantageous to a player on condition that the display result of the identification information is a predetermined specific display mode, comprising: a game control unit configured to control a progress of the game; The game control means, a specific game state determination means to determine whether to enter a specific game state, a special game state determination means to determine whether to enter a special game state in which the specific game state is likely to occur, Command output means for outputting a command including information relating to the display based on the determination contents of the specific game state determination means and the special game state determination means, and after starting the variable display on the variable display section, determining the specific game state First display control means for controlling the derivation display of the display result relating to the content determined by the means, and display content different from the display content by the first display control means. And second display control means for controlling display related to the content determined by the special game state determination means, wherein the game control means determines the special game state determination with respect to the second display control means. A game machine wherein a display start command is output to the command output means at a timing at which display based on the content determined by the means is started, and a display end command is output to the command output means at a timing to end the display. 2. The second display control means is capable of performing control to derive and display a display result after starting variable display relating to the content determined by the special game state determination means, and wherein the game control means A display start command is transmitted to the second display control means at a timing to start the variable display, a display stop command is transmitted at a timing to stop the variable display, and a display end command is transmitted to a timing to end the stop display. The gaming machine according to claim 1. 3. The game control means sends a display start command and a display end command a predetermined number of times after the first display control means controls display of a display result so that a game ball can easily win in a specific game state. 3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the large winning opening to be opened is transmitted before the first opening.
The gaming machine described. 4. A game control means for opening a display start command and a display end command a predetermined number of times so that a game ball can be easily won in a specific game state. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the game machine transmits the information to the game machine. 5. A game control means for displaying a display start command and a display end command on a first display after a large winning opening that opens a predetermined number of times so that a game ball can easily win in a specific game state is finally closed. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the transmission is performed before the control means starts the variable display. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the display end command is also used as a control command relating to a display other than the display relating to the content determined by the special game state determining means. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first display control means and the second display control means are formed on the same substrate. 8. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the command output means of the game control means outputs the command only once at a timing when control is required.