JP2001029584A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To keep sense of expectation of a game player who expects a previlege more than before by prolonging the time for stopping change in a group of patterns by intention of the game player. SOLUTION: A game machine such as a Pachinko machine has an operating part being operable by a game player and a stopping time prolonging means which prolongs the time for stopping change in a group of patterns when the operating part is operated while the change in the group of patterns is started and is stopped. When the game player operates an operating button (the operating part) while the change in the group of patterns is started and is stopped, a main control base (the stopping time prolonging means) prolongs the time for prolonging the change in the group of patterns based on a reach (li-zhi) pattern (steps S90 and S94). Therefore, as the time for changing the pattern is prolonged when it is required by intention of the game player, the game player can keep sense of expectation of the game player who expects a previlege more than before.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game machine provided with a display unit, and to a technique for displaying a group of symbols on the display unit by changing or stopping the symbols.

[0002]

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

In a conventional pachinko machine, when a symbol change is started, for example, the left symbol and the right symbol are stopped first, and then the middle symbol is stopped. If the left symbol and the right symbol stopped earlier become the same symbol, a moving image such as a still image or animation is displayed as "reach", and the symbol speed is changed in the middle fluctuation region by changing the fluctuation speed. And so on. The combination of the left symbol and the right symbol when the reach is reached in this way is called a "reach symbol", and a display pattern such as a symbol change performed on the display after the reach is reached is called a "reach pattern".

Here, some conventional pachinko machines are provided with a button for shortening a period from the start of symbol change to the stop of symbol change (hereinafter referred to as "symbol change period"). . If the player operates the button during the symbol change, the symbol change period is shortened only for the symbol change,
Stop the special symbol earlier than the normal symbol change. For this reason, the number of symbol fluctuations that can be executed per unit time can be increased, and as a result, the chance of winning a jackpot can be increased. In addition, other gaming machines provided with a button for shortening the symbol fluctuation period include a slot machine and the like.

[0005]

However, in the conventional pachinko machine, regardless of whether or not the symbol change period is shortened by operating the button, the player is assumed to stop at the shifted symbol immediately before stopping the change. Loses the expectation of expecting a bonus due to a jackpot or the like even during the symbol fluctuation period. In order to maintain the player's sense of expectation, for example, it is only necessary to perform a re-change to start the symbol change again after imitating that the player stops at the missing symbol. However, in this example, the fluctuation is made regardless of the player's intention, so that the fluctuation does not always occur when the player desires. Therefore, it is not possible to maintain a player's expectation of expecting a privilege for all re-changes. The present invention has been made in view of such a point, and by extending the time to stop the symbol change when desired by the player's intention, the expectation of the player who expects the privilege is more than before. The purpose is to be able to maintain.

[0006]

Means 1 for Solving the Problems Means 1 for solving the problems are as described in claim 1. Here, the terms described in claim 1 are interpreted as follows. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention. (1) “Pattern” refers to special patterns (characters (alphanumeric characters, kanji, etc.), symbols, codes, figures (characters, etc.), images, etc.), ordinary patterns, decorative patterns (background patterns), etc. Or a moving image such as an animation. (2) The “display unit” may be a single display (display device) or may be composed of a plurality of displays. The display may be a device that emits light (colors), such as a liquid crystal display, to display a design, or a display, such as a drum display, that displays a design represented on a display surface. Good. Further, it may be an entire screen displayed on the display, or a partial screen (for example, a variable area) composed of one or more. (3) “Privilege” means an advantageous gaming state given to a player, for example, shortening of a symbol variation period (hereinafter, referred to as “time reduction”), setting of the number of time reductions, and changing the probability of a jackpot (hereinafter, “ Probability variation ”), setting the number of probability variations,
There is a mode such as opening and closing of a lid and a blade (wing piece) provided in the winning opening, or a mode combining at least two of them. (4) The “operation unit” can be operated by the player's intention, and is constituted by one or a plurality of operation devices (operation devices). Examples of the operating device include not only a contact sensor (for example, a button, a switch, a touch panel, and a pressure sensor), but also a non-contact sensor (for example, an optical sensor or an infrared sensor), or a recognition system (a voice recognition system, an image recognition system). Etc.).

According to the means 1, if the operation unit is operated between the start of the change of the symbol group and the stop, the stop time postponing means postpones the time to stop the change of the symbol group. Since the symbol fluctuation period is extended when desired by the player's intention, the player can maintain a feeling of expecting a privilege more than before.

[0008]

Means for solving the problem 2 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 2. Here, the term "required condition" described in claim 2 is a condition that can be appropriately set according to the type, date and time, game state, etc. of the gaming machine, and the condition is either fixed or variable. You may. For example, during high probability, during working hours, when the number of reserved balls reaches the upper limit (so-called full tank), a game ball wins or passes through a predetermined area, during a jackpot game, for a certain period after the jackpot game ends. , Opening and closing members (winning opening lids and feathers,
Such as when a movable wing piece such as a tulip is open). This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention.

According to the means 2, the stop time extension means delays the timing of stopping the fluctuation of the symbol group only when the required condition is satisfied, and thus does not necessarily delay the timing of stopping the fluctuation of the symbol group. However, by operating the operation unit aiming at a time or the like that satisfies the required conditions, the player has a feeling of expectation that the time to stop the change of the symbol group is postponed.

[0010]

Means for solving the problem 3 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 3. Here, the terms described in claim 3 are interpreted as follows. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention. (1) The “operation status of the operation unit” includes an operation method (for example, operation order) of the operation unit, an operation timing (for example, operation timing), an operation state (for example, an operation time and which key is operated). And any other situations such as (2) “Symbol display pattern” means a pattern in which a symbol group is changed or stopped and displayed. The “plurality of symbol display patterns” have different patterns such as the length of the symbol variation period, the variation speed at which the symbol group varies, and the order in which symbols are stopped.

According to the means (3), the stop time postponing means changes or stops the symbol group on the display unit based on the symbol display pattern selected from the plurality of symbol display patterns in accordance with the operation status of the operation unit. To display. Depending on the selected symbol display pattern, for example, the symbol variation period becomes longer, the variation speed, the stop order of the symbols, and the like change, thereby diversifying. Therefore, the player has an expectation of expecting what kind of symbol display pattern will be obtained.

[0012]

Means 4 for solving the problem Means 4 for solving the problem are as described in claim 4. here,
The terms described in claim 4 in relation to the “privilege” are interpreted as follows. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention. (1) “Addition of privilege” means a mode in which a game state advantageous to the player has been given from the normal game state. (2) "Change of privilege" means a mode of changing the type of privilege, the size of the privilege, the condition, and the like.

According to the means (4), the timing of stopping the change of the symbol group in accordance with the operation state of the operation unit is postponed, and the privilege determining means adds and / or adds the privilege given to the player.
Or, the change of the privilege (hereinafter, simply referred to as “change of privilege”) is determined. Therefore, the player can play the game with a pleasure of seeing the changing symbol display pattern and a sense of expectation of expecting a change in the privilege.

[0014]

Means for solving the problem 5 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 5. Here, the term “notifying means” described in claim 5 includes not only means for visually notifying by a display unit or the like, but also means for audibly notifying by an acoustic member or the like, and tactile sense by a vibrating member or the like. It includes all notification means that can be transmitted by the five senses of human beings, such as notification means.

According to the means 5, since the notifying means notifies the state of the operation section, the time when the player can operate the operation section becomes clear. For this reason, the player can operate the operation unit while preparing or operating the operation unit.

[0016]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The present embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a first-type pachinko machine, which is one of gaming machines, and will be described with reference to FIGS. This embodiment shows an example in which when the player operates the operation unit, the timing of stopping the fluctuation of the symbol group based on the reach pattern is postponed. Hereinafter, the fluctuation of the symbol group will be referred to as “symbol fluctuation”, and the timing of stopping the symbol fluctuation will be referred to as “stop timing”.

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

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

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

Below the game board surface 12, an operation button 48, which corresponds to an operation unit and is operated by a player to postpone the stop time of symbol change, and a button for temporarily storing pachinko balls including prize balls. A tray 44, an ashtray 46 for holding cigarette butts, a handle 40 provided with a touch sensor 42 for detecting whether or not the player's hand is touching, and a sound provided inside the upper plate 38 which is a receiving bowl for award balls. (A sound effect, music, etc.). Further, a frame opening sensor 36 for detecting the opening of the glass frame 18 and the lamps 16 made of a luminous body arranged at an appropriate position according to the game content of the pachinko machine 10 and the like are also provided. Further, the upper plate 38 is provided with a ball lending switch 64 for commanding ball lending and a return switch 72 for commanding return of the prepaid card.

Next, a main control board 100 for realizing a pachinko game by the pachinko machine 10 and a main control board 1
Display command sent from 00 (eg command block)
FIG. 2 shows a schematic configuration of a display control board 200 that displays symbols on the special symbol display 22 in response to the request.
This will be described with reference to FIG. These main control boards 10
0 and the display control board 200 are provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 10, for example. In FIG. 2, a main control board 10 corresponding to the stop time extension means, the operation control means, and the privilege determination means
Numeral 0 is mainly composed of a CPU (processor) 110, a ROM 112 for storing a game control program and required game data (for example, a jackpot), a RAM 114 for storing various random numbers, data, input / output signals, etc., and various inputs. An input processing circuit 102 for receiving a signal sent from the device and converting it into a data format that can be processed in the main control board 100;
An output processing circuit 104 for operating various output devices in response to operation data sent from U110, and a display control for appropriately displaying (including lighting and blinking) various kinds of display bodies in response to display data sent from CPU110. The circuit 106 includes a communication control circuit 116 that sends required data to the display control board 200 and the like. All of these components are coupled to each other on bus 118.

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

Next, the display control board 200 is
A display control program and required display data (for example, display information corresponding to a display command, a plurality of variation patterns including a loss variation pattern, a plurality of reach patterns, etc.), a display command, and a display. A RAM 204 for storing information, input / output signals, etc., a communication control circuit 206 for receiving data sent from the main control board 100, a character generator 212 for storing required patterns and receiving and generating commands, and a CPU 210 A VDP (Video Display Processor) 214 for displaying a symbol processed on the special symbol display 22 in response to the display information.
Etc. All of these components are
Are connected to each other.

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

In the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above, the processing procedures performed by the main control board 100 and the display control board 200 to realize the present invention are shown in FIGS.
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 shows the contents of the type 1 start-up processing, FIG. 4 shows the contents of the symbol change processing, FIG. 5 shows the contents of the fluctuation display processing, and FIGS. 6 and 7 show the contents of the reach processing. 9 shows the contents of the symbol display processing in the form of flowcharts. Among these processing procedures, the first-type start-up processing, the symbol change processing, the change display processing, and the reach processing are all performed by the ROM 1 in the main control board 100 shown in FIG.
Game control program stored in the CPU 11
0 is executed at an appropriate timing (for example, at a cycle of 4 milliseconds). The symbol display process is realized by the CPU 210 and the VDP 214 in the display control board 200 executing a program at an appropriate timing. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a command block. FIG.
FIG. 11 shows a display example of the special symbol display. In the following description, “addition” usually means increasing the number of reserved balls by one or the like, but includes a case where the number is increased by two or more as appropriate according to a game state or the like. On the other hand, “subtract” is the same as the case of addition except that the number of reserved balls is reduced. Also, the first type starting port 30 and the lower starting port 6
8 functions in the same manner, and the first type starting port 30 will be described as an example for simplicity.

The first-type starting port process shown in FIG. 3 realizes a pachinko ball winning determination with respect to the first-type starting port 30. First, it is determined whether or not a pachinko ball has won the first-type start port 30 (step S10). Specifically, in FIG. 4, when a detection signal is received from the starting port sensor 60, it is determined that a prize has been won (YES), and when no detection signal has been received, it is determined that a prize has not been won (NO). If the first kind opening 3
When a pachinko ball wins at 0, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls has reached an upper limit value (for example, 4) (full tank) [Step S]
12]. If the number of pending balls has not reached the upper limit (N
O), the number of reserved balls is added [Step S14]. The LED of the holding ball lamp 28 is turned on according to the added number of holding balls. After that, various random numbers are read and stored (step S16), and the first type start-up process is terminated. In addition,
When no pachinko ball has won the first-type start-up port 30 (NO in step S10) or when the number of reserved balls reaches the upper limit (YES in step S12), the first type is left as it is.
The seed starting port process ends.

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

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

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

After a display command is sent to the display control board 200 to start changing the symbol group [Step S44], a reach process is executed [Step S46]. The processing performed by the display control board 200 will be described later, and the specific contents of the reach processing will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 are connected by connectors A and B, and the processing is continued between these connectors.
The reach processing shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 realizes a variation based on the reach display and the reach pattern. First, the reach pattern random number RC stored in step S16 of FIG. 3 is read [step S70], and the reach pattern is determined [step S72]. The reach pattern corresponds to a symbol display pattern for displaying a symbol on the special symbol display 22.
A plurality is stored in M202. The reach pattern is determined, for example, in step S42 (or step S6 in FIG. 5).
This is performed according to Table 1 shown below based on the symbol to be stopped determined in step 0) and the reach pattern random number RC read in step S70. Table 1 shows the symbol relationship and 0
An example of setting a reach pattern random number RC that can take any numerical value from 1 to 10 is shown. The relationship between the symbols is the shift of the symbol between the reach symbol and the third symbol (for example, the middle symbol), and two symbols before, one symbol before, the same symbol, one symbol after, and 2 symbols in consideration of the fluctuation direction. After the symbol, it is divided into other symbols (for example, three symbols before and three symbols after). For example, if the third symbol is "6" when the reach symbol is symbol "7", the third symbol viewed from the reach symbol is "one symbol before".

[0031]

[Table 1]

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

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

After the reach pattern is determined, the symbol variation is continued based on the variation pattern (step S74), and thereafter, the reach symbol is displayed (step S76). The variation pattern is a pattern for realizing design variation such as a special symbol or displaying an animation (decorative symbol) or the like, and is determined using, for example, a random number or a data table. Among the symbol fluctuations, the normal fluctuation of the mode of rotating the reel, the forward / reverse fluctuation of the mode of swinging in any direction around a predetermined position on the screen, and all the symbols (left symbol, middle symbol, right symbol) are synchronized. There is a variation of all symbols in a mode of fluctuating while being performed. Further, the fluctuation pattern for realizing the symbol fluctuation includes a fluctuation speed, a fluctuation direction, a stop time, an order, and the like during the fluctuation when each of the fluctuations is performed in a plurality of fluctuation regions. In a case where the order of symbols to be stopped is different if the fluctuation patterns are different, there may be a sense of expectation of expecting a reach, a big hit or the like according to the order of stop.
1st design (for example, left design) and 2nd design (for example, right design)
Are displayed on the special symbol display 22, but may be displayed only on other displays or on both. In this way, the reach symbol and the like are also displayed on a display other than the special symbol display 22, so that it is easy to recognize what the reach symbol is. When displaying reach symbols,
Further, the player may be notified that the reach has been reached.
For example, the character "reach" or a predetermined animation is displayed, and a sound or a specific sound effect is output from the speaker 50.
There are modes such as vibrating the handle 40 touched by the player and the chair on which the player sits. In this way, the player can more reliably recognize that the reach has been reached.

After displaying the reach symbol, the operation button 48
Is activated and the notification is made [step S78]. "Enabling the operation button 48" means, for example, that the main control board 100 effectively receives a detection signal output from the operation button 48 and performs a required process. "Notify"
For example, the validity is displayed as a symbol on the special symbol display 22 (notifying means), or a predetermined animation is displayed. Alternatively, the fact that the reach has been reached may be notified to the player in a similar manner. In this case, the speaker 50, the handle 40, the chair, and the like also correspond to the notification means.

Then, a part of a command block (hereinafter, referred to as "block data") corresponding to the reach pattern determined in step S72 is set (step S8).
0]. Here, a configuration example of a command block corresponding to a display command sent from the main control board 100 to the display control board 200 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 (A)
The command block 300 shown in FIG.
, A symbol number 302 for specifying a special symbol to be displayed, a symbol display position 304 for specifying a position (coordinates) for displaying the special symbol specified by the symbol number 302, a special symbol display 2
2, an animation number 306 for specifying a design change, an animation, etc., to be displayed, and an animation number 30 thereof
An animation timer 30 for specifying a symbol (for one screen) constituting a symbol variation, an animation, etc. specified in 6
8. It has a checksum 310 used to determine the validity of the data. In this example, the symbol data 302 and the symbol display position 30 correspond to the block data.
4, animation number 306, and the like.

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

Returning to FIG. 6, after setting the block data in step S80, another part of the command block 300 is set to display the current screen (step S8).
2], when the command block 300 is sent to the display control board 200 [Step S84], the image is processed and the above-mentioned one screen is displayed on the special symbol display 22. Command block 3
00, the animation timer 30
8 and checksum 310. For example, if steps S82 and S84 are executed 30 times per second with a substantially continuous design, it is possible to realize the design change and / or the animation display of the special design using the afterimage effect of the human eye.

Turning to FIG. 7, for the operation button 48 which is activated and notified in step S78, the validity / invalidity of the operation button 48 is alternately switched every time a switching period (for example, 0.5 seconds) elapses (step S86). (Step S88). When the player operates the operation button 48 (YES in step S90), the operation button 4
8 is determined (step S92). If the operation button 48 is valid (YES), the stop time in the remaining fluctuating area that is still fluctuating (hereinafter, simply referred to as “residual fluctuating area”) is postponed (step S94). If the process of step S92 is omitted, the stop time of the symbol change is always postponed if the player operates the operation button 48. By performing such control, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege can be further increased.

In order to postpone the stop time of the symbol change in step S94, there is an arbitrary method such as increasing the symbol change period or accelerating the change speed. More specifically, this is realized by resetting (updating) the block data and sending the reset block data to the display control board 200. When the player operates the effective operation button 48 in this way, the stop time of the symbol change is postponed, and the symbol change can be continued. As the resetting of the block data, the reach pattern may be changed in accordance with the timing at which the operation button 48 is further operated. For example, reach pattern random number R
One reach pattern is selected from a plurality of reach patterns (symbol display patterns) based on a random number such as C or a data table. By doing so, the stop time of the symbol change is postponed, and the mode of the symbol change also changes. This can be similarly applied to an operation state such as an operation state (for example, an operation time or a key operated). When the stop time is postponed in this way, the player finally expects the third symbol to stop at the big hit symbol and expects a privilege from the big hit game or the like. In particular, if the variation speed is accelerated by operating the operation button 48 when the third symbol is to be stopped at the missing symbol, the player who thinks that the variation has been avoided in the current lottery is expected to expect a privilege. Increase. In addition, since an effect that is likely to be a big hit depending on the changed reach pattern is displayed on the special symbol display 22, the expectation of the player expecting the privilege is further increased.

Step S82 as long as there are remaining symbols
Through S94 to continuously display the symbol variation, animation, and the like on the special symbol display 22 [Step S9
8]. Thereafter, when the remaining symbols run out (step S9).
(NO at 6), the operation button 48 is invalidated and notified (step S100), and the symbol variation in the residual variation region is stopped (step S102), and then the reach process is terminated. When step S100 is executed, the operation button 48 becomes invalid, and the invalidity is displayed as a symbol or the like on the special symbol display 22 or a predetermined animation is displayed. Alternatively, the invalidity is notified to the player or the like by the speaker 50, the handle 40, the chair, or the like. Step S102
Due to the stop of the fluctuation, the third symbol (for example, the middle symbol) is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 22.

In the reach processing shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the operation button 48 is controlled so that it can be operated any number of times. However, the number of times the operation button 48 can be operated is limited to a predetermined number (for example, once). It may be controlled. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the number of operations is possible before and after step S92, and if the number of operations exceeds the above-described predetermined number, control may be performed so as to proceed to step S98. In this way, the player operates the operation button 48 with a sense of expectation and tension within a predetermined number of times in order to extend the stop time. In addition, a period (hereinafter, referred to as an “extension period”) for extending the symbol change stop time may be changed according to the number of times the operation button 48 is operated. For example, as the number of operations increases, the extension period is shortened, lengthened, or made random. In this case, the extension period differs depending on the number of operations, so that the player operates the operation button 48 to obtain an appropriate extension period in order to acquire a privilege. Therefore, the player can operate the operation buttons 48 with a sense of expectation. This is the same even when the required condition is satisfied and the condition is changed according to the type (content) of the condition. For example, if the probability is high, the extension period is lengthened, and if the time is short, the extension period is shortened.

Further, in addition to the processing in step S94,
When the valid operation button 48 is operated by the player (YES in step S92), the random number RA for jackpot determination, the random number RD for probability variation, and the like may be read and stored in the RAM 114 [step S96]. Since the value stored in step S16 of FIG. 3 is updated by execution of step S96, whether or not a jackpot or a probability change is finally changed (steps S28 in FIG. 4, FIG. 5). Step S48). Therefore, a jackpot or a probability change may occur depending on the timing at which the player operates the operation button 48 (addition of privilege), and the type of the jackpot may change (change of privilege). Examples of the type of jackpot change include a mode in which the jackpot with a small number of rounds changes to a jackpot with a large number of rounds, and vice versa.
In this way, the player can operate the operation buttons 48 with the pleasure of seeing the changing symbol fluctuations and the like, and with the expectation of expecting the change of the privilege. Benefits to add and / or change are not limited to jackpot games and probability changes,
The number of times saved and the number of times of change in probability may be added / changed, or at least two of the above benefits may be arbitrarily combined.

When the reach process is completed, the process returns to FIG. 5, and it is determined whether or not the probability is changed (step S48). In particular,
The determination is made based on whether or not the random number RD for probability fluctuation stored in step S16 of FIG. 3 matches a predetermined value. If it is determined that there is a probability variation (YES), the probability variation process is performed [Step S50], and then the variation display process ends.
The details of the probability variation process are well known and will not be described. When the probability variation processing is executed, the probability of stopping at the big hit symbol after the change and becoming a big hit increases after the current big hit game ends until the next big hit, and the symbol changing period of the special symbol is shortened. Also, the probability of hitting after stopping at the hit symbol after fluctuation increases,
The symbol fluctuation period of the ordinary symbol is shortened. On the other hand, when it is not determined that there is a probability variation (NO in step S48), the variation display process is terminated. Here, step S6
If it is not a reach symbol in step 2 (NO), the symbol group starts to fluctuate as in step S44 [step S6
4], after changing the symbol based on the loss variation pattern, stop at the loss symbol [Step S66], and proceed to Step S48. In the above steps S64 and S66, corresponding display commands (command block 300)
Is transmitted to the display control board 200 to be realized.

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

Next, a symbol display process in which the display control board 200 receiving the display command (for example, the command block 300) sent from the main control board 100 edits the symbol and displays the symbol on the special symbol display 22 will be described. This will be described with reference to FIG. The command block 300
Are stored in a reception buffer provided in the RAM 204 or the like shown in FIG. 2 by an interruption program executed for each reception interruption. The reception buffer has a capacity that can store the command block 300 and other reception data. In the symbol display process shown in FIG. 9, first, the CPU 210 reads the command block 300 stored in the reception buffer [Step S110], acquires display data based on the read command block 300, and stores it in the RAM 204 [Step S112]. More specifically, the relationship between the command block 300 and the display data is defined, and the display data is acquired with reference to a data table stored in the ROM 202 or the like. This display data is a data element (parameter) for performing symbol editing, for example, a reach pattern or block data (symbol number 30).
2, symbol display position 304, animation number 30
6) or the animation timer 308 or the like. The display data 210 thus obtained is obtained.
Transmits the display data to the VDP 214.

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

Next, in the example in which the respective processes shown in FIG. 3 to FIG. 7 and FIG. 9 are executed to display the symbols on the special symbol display 22, FIG. This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG.
The example shown in FIG. 11 shows an example of a case where a “big hit” occurs, and illustration and description of a case of “missing” that occurs many times are omitted. The display area of the special symbol display 22 includes three variable areas a2, a4, and a6, and a symbol is changed in each of the variable areas.

When the pachinko ball wins the starting port sensor 60, the special symbol display 22 starts symbol variation in the variation areas a2, a4 and a6 based on the variation pattern as shown in FIG. 6 step S74). After that, when the reach is reached (step S76 in FIG. 6), FIG.
As shown in 0 (B), the reach symbol is displayed in the variable areas a2 and a6 on the special symbol display 22, and the symbol variation is continued in the variable area a4. In the example of FIG.
The left symbol b2 and the right symbol b6 are stopped at the special symbol "7" as reach symbols at 2 and a6, respectively. When the operation button 48 is first activated (step S7 in FIG. 6)
8) The special symbol display 22 displays a valid display section c2 and an invalid display section c4. When the operation button 48 is valid, as shown in FIG. 10 (C), the valid display part c2 is a black character on a white background, and the invalid display part c4 is a white character on a black background. When the operation button 48 becomes invalid after a further switching period (steps S86 and S88 in FIG. 7), as shown in FIG. 11A, the valid display portion c2 becomes a black background and white characters, and the invalid display portion c4 becomes a white background. Become black letters. The states of the valid display section c2 and the invalid display section c4 alternate between the state of FIG. 10C and the state of FIG. 11A every time the switching period elapses. By displaying and notifying the validity / invalidity of the operation button 48 on the special symbol display 22 in this way, a player or the like can more reliably recognize the state of the operation button 48. Note that the validity / invalidity of the operation button 48 is not limited to the mode in which the characters are displayed in black characters on a white background and the characters in black backgrounds, and may be displayed in another mode. Other modes include, for example, high and low brightness, arbitrary two colors, and patterns of characters and the like, and it is interesting to change them over time.

If the player operates the operation button 48 while the operation button 48 is enabled (YE in steps S90 and S92)
S), as shown in FIG. 11 (B), in order to postpone the stop time of the symbol change, the change speed is accelerated and the change is continued. The player who sees this thinks that the “losing” has been avoided in the current lottery, and finally expects the middle symbol b4 (third symbol) to stop at the big hit symbol and expect the benefits from the big hit game and the like. Increase. On the other hand, if the player operates when the operation button 48 is invalid (steps S90, S9)
2 NO), since the stop time of the symbol fluctuation is not extended,
The possibility of stopping at a missing symbol increases. Thereafter, when the symbol change period in which the stop time is postponed elapses, the symbol change in the change area a4 is stopped and the medium symbol b4 is displayed. FIG.
In the example of 1 (C), the special symbol “7” is stopped as the middle symbol b4, and becomes a big hit together with the left symbol b2 and the right symbol b6, so that it is a “big hit”. In the case of "missing", symbols other than the special symbol "7" are stopped as the middle symbol b4.

According to the above embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. (1) According to claim 1, when the player operates the operation button 48 (operation unit) during the period from the start of the symbol change to the stop, the main control board 100 (stop time postponing means) is based on the reach pattern. Postponing the stop time of the symbol change {Steps S90 and S94 in FIG. 7}. Therefore, since the symbol fluctuation period is extended by the player's intention, the player can maintain an expectation of expecting a privilege more than before. (2) According to the second aspect, the main control board 10 is provided only when the operation button 48 is valid (when a required condition is satisfied).
Since 0 indicates the postponement of the symbol change {step S92 in FIG. 7}, the stop time of the symbol change cannot always be postponed. However, by operating the operation button 48 aiming at the time when the operation button 48 is effective, the player has a feeling of expectation that the stop time of the symbol change is postponed. (3) According to the third aspect, the main control board 100 includes a plurality of reach patterns (symbol display patterns) according to the timing of operating the operation button 48 (the operation status of the operation unit).
The symbol is changed on the special symbol display 22 based on the reach pattern selected from among the symbols {step S9 in FIG.
4｝. Depending on the selected reach pattern, the pattern is diversified, for example, the symbol variation period is lengthened, the variation speed is accelerated, or the symbol stop order is changed. Therefore, the player has an expectation of expecting what kind of reach pattern will be obtained. (4) Corresponding to claim 4, in accordance with the timing at which the operation button 48 is operated, the stop time of the symbol change is postponed and {Steps S90 and S94 in FIG. 7}, and the main control board 100 (privilege determination means) A change in the privilege given to the player is determined {Step S96 in FIG. 7}. That is, depending on the determined addition of benefits and / or changes in benefits,
Players have more opportunities to get benefits. Therefore, the player can play the game with the pleasure of seeing the changing reach pattern and the expectation of expecting the change of the privilege. (5) According to claim 5, the main control board 100 (operation control means) controls the operation of the operation button 48 to be enabled or disabled, and the current state is the special symbol display 22 (notification means).
Are displayed and notified {step S78 in FIG. 6, steps S88 and S100 in FIG. 7}. Since the timing at which the player can operate the operation button 48 becomes clear, the player can operate the operation button 48 while preparing or operating the operation button 48 at the desired timing.

[Other embodiments] The above-described pachinko machine 1
In 0 (gaming machine), the structure, shape, size, material, arrangement, operating conditions, and the like of other parts are not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, each of the following embodiments to which the above embodiment is applied may be implemented. (1) In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10. Instead of this form, a game machine other than a pachinko machine (for example, a slot machine, a pachislot machine, an arrange ball machine, a sparrow ball game machine, a video game machine, etc.) having a display portion capable of displaying symbols The present invention can be similarly applied to Even when the present invention is applied to other gaming machines, when the player operates the operation unit, the stop time of the symbol change can be postponed, so that the expectation of the player expecting the privilege can be maintained more than before.

(2) In the above embodiment, the operation button 4
The period in which 8 is valid is defined as the post-reach symbol fluctuation period (step S78 in FIG. 6 to S100 in FIG. 7). Instead of (or in addition to) this mode, the operation button is similarly operated for an arbitrary period such as a period from the start of the symbol change to a reach, a period of the jackpot game, a symbol change period of the ordinary symbol, and the like. 48 may be a valid period. In addition, the variation is not limited to one variation region (FIG. 10C).
Etc.), and a symbol variation period involving an arbitrary variation such as a variation in a plurality of variation regions or a variation in all symbols. Furthermore, the operation button 48 may be always enabled for each of the above-described periods (all or part of the period), or may be enabled when required conditions are satisfied. The required conditions include, for example, during high probability, during working hours,
The opening / closing member (the lid 74 of the special winning opening 34, a movable wing piece such as a wing or a tulip) may be open during a full tank, during a jackpot game, or for a certain period after the jackpot game ends. For example, when the present invention is applied to the period from the start of the symbol change to the reaching of the reach, when the player operates the operation button 48, the stop time of the symbol change by the change pattern can be postponed (step S74 in FIG. 6). ). Therefore, when the player operates the operation button 48 (operation unit), the stop time of the symbol change based on the change pattern can be postponed, so that the player's expectation of the reach and the benefits after the reach can be maintained more than before. can do.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, the present invention is applied to the design change, animation, and the like of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 22 as the display unit. Instead of (or in addition to) this mode, other modes for displaying the symbols in a substantially continuous or discontinuous mode, or the normal symbol display 24
The present invention may be similarly applied to a design change of a normal design, an animation, and the like performed in the above. Even in these modes, when the player operates the operation button 48, the stop time of the symbol change is postponed, so that the expectation of the player expecting the privilege can be maintained more than before. In addition, the present invention can be similarly applied to a display other than a symbol change or an animation for determining whether or not a big hit has occurred. In this case, when the player operates the operation button 48, the symbol displayed on the special symbol display 22 (display unit) changes, so that the player can enjoy the special symbol indicator 22 more enjoyably than before. Can be

(4) In the above embodiment, light emission (color development)
The special symbol display 22 for displaying the symbol is applied as a display unit. Instead of this mode, a mechanical display such as a drum display that displays a symbol shown on the display surface can be applied as the display unit. For example, a drum display has one or a plurality of rotating bodies, and a plurality of symbols are appropriately arranged and displayed on a surface (that is, a display surface) of the rotating body. The portion where the player can recognize the symbol represented on the rotating body in this way corresponds to the display area. Then, the rotation of the rotating body is controlled by a driving body such as a motor in the forward rotation, the reverse rotation, the forward / reverse rotation, the rotation speed, and the like, thereby realizing the fluctuation of the symbol group. Even when such a mechanical display is applied as the display unit, the stop time of the symbol change can be postponed, so that the expectation of the player expecting the privilege can be maintained. In the above embodiment, the display area of the special symbol display 22 (display unit) is provided with three variable areas a2, a4, and a6, and is applied to an example in which symbol fluctuation is performed in each of the variable areas (FIGS. 10 and 11). reference).
Instead of this mode, the present invention may be applied to an example in which an arbitrary number (1, 2, or 4 or more) of variable regions are provided, and the symbol is changed in an arbitrary variable region. In this case, the operation of the operation button 48 may be validated for all the variable regions, some specified variable regions, or only the variable regions that satisfy the required conditions. Even when applied to these fluctuation areas, the stop time of the symbol fluctuation can be postponed, so that the expectation of the player who expects the privilege can be maintained.

(5) In the above embodiment, the player could operate the operation button 48 only during a part of the symbol fluctuation period (step S78 in FIG. 6 to step S100 in FIG. 7). Instead of (or in addition to) this mode, the operation button 48 may be made valid as long as the required conditions are satisfied even during the entire period of the symbol fluctuation period or a period other than the symbol fluctuation period. This allows the player to operate the operation buttons 48 in order to obtain a better gaming state or a special privilege, so that the player can have a thrill and a sense of expectation.

(6) In the above embodiment, the current state of the operation buttons 48, that is, valid / invalid is notified (FIG. 6).
Step S78, and step S88 in FIG. 7). Instead of this mode, a period (time) until the operation button 48 becomes valid / invalid may be notified in the following manner. (6a) A mode in which the time until the operation button 48 becomes effective is notified. For example, the time until it becomes effective is displayed on the special symbol display 22 while counting up (or counting down). This allows the player and the like to know when the operation buttons 48 will be valid, so that the player or the like can prepare to operate the operation buttons 48. (6b) A mode of notifying the time until the operation button 48 becomes invalid. For example, the special symbol display 22 displays the time until it becomes invalid while raising (or lowering) the level. This makes it possible to know when the operation button 48 becomes invalid, so that a player or the like can set a timing for operating the operation button 48. (6c) The validity / invalidity is displayed on the upper part of the special symbol display 22 by the validity display part c2 and the invalidity display part c4, but may be displayed by switching between “valid” and “invalid” at almost the same position. The display may be performed by another display or light-emitting body. For example, a light emitter (for example, an LED or a light bulb) is incorporated in the operation button 48 so that the operation button 48 is turned on / flashing in an effective state and turned off in an invalid state. This also applies to the case where specific lamps 16 are used. Furthermore, a sound or a specific sound effect may be output from the speaker 50, or the handle 40 touched by the player or the chair on which the player sits may be vibrated so that the player can recognize the validity / invalidity.

(7) In the above embodiment, the operation button 4
8 was applied as an operation unit. Instead of this mode, a non-contact sensor (for example, an optical sensor or an infrared sensor) as well as a contact sensor (for example, a switch, a touch panel, a pressure sensor, etc.) other than the operation button 48 may be applied as the operation unit. When the contact sensor is applied, the operation of the player can be performed reliably, and when the non-contact sensor is applied, the mechanical operation is eliminated, so that the number of failures can be reduced. In addition, a voice recognition system for recognizing a player's voice picked up by a microphone with the main control board 100 or the like to detect a player's operation, or a game where an image captured by a camera is image-recognized by the display control board 200 or the like. An image recognition system or the like that detects a user's operation may be applied. Even with these operation units, the operation of the player can be detected more reliably.

(8) In the above embodiment, the ROM 202
Was applied as a recording unit. Instead of (or in addition to) this form, the RAM 204, the character generator 21
2, the main control board 100 or the communication control circuit 116,
RO in hall computer that can communicate through 206
M, RAM, disk media such as a flexible disk, hard disk, and magneto-optical disk that can be accessed by a disk device, cards such as a prepaid card, an IC card, and a paper card that can be accessed by a card device, or characters that can be accessed by a reading device A printed matter on which a character or a symbol is printed may be applied. Even with such a recording device or recording medium, it is possible to appropriately store (record) a symbol, a plurality of symbol display patterns, and the like.

(9) In the above embodiment, the procedure of transmitting the data (for example, the command block 300) for each screen from the main control board 100 to the display control board 200 is repeated, so that the symbol variation based on the symbol display pattern, etc. The present invention was applied to a pachinko machine 10 for performing the following (see FIG. 7 and the like). Instead of this embodiment, the present invention can be applied to a pachinko machine that transmits the data of the symbol display pattern from the main control board 100 to the display control board 200 only once every time a symbol change or the like is performed. When the player operates the operation button 48, the main control board 100 transmits the data of the symbol display pattern to the display control board 200 only once and continues the symbol change. That is, when the player operates the operation button 48, a new symbol change or the like is started.
In this case, from the main control board 100 to the display control board 20
The amount of data transmitted to 0 is greatly reduced from one screen to each symbol display pattern. Therefore, the main control board 1
Since the man-hours required for designing the program and the like required for 00 can be greatly reduced, the cost of the pachinko machine can also be reduced. Further, a new symbol change or the like is started when desired by the player's will, so that the expectation of expecting a privilege can be further maintained.

[0061]

According to the present invention, the symbol fluctuation period is extended when desired by the player, so that the player can maintain a feeling of expecting a privilege more than before.

[Brief description of the drawings]

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of a reach process following FIG. 6;

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

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

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a special symbol display.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example of the special symbol display following FIG. 10;

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 10 Pachinko machine (gaming machine) 14 Composite device 22 Special symbol display (display unit) 24 Normal symbol display 30 First type start port 32 Gate 48 Operation button (operation unit) 58 Gate sensor 60, 66 Starting port sensor 68 Lower part Starting port 100 Main control board (stop time extension means, operation control means, privilege determination means) 110 CPU 112 ROM 114 RAM 200 Display control board 202 ROM (recording unit) 204 RAM 210 CPU 212 Character generator 214 VDP

Claims (5)

[Claims] An operation unit operable by a player, comprising: a display unit for displaying a symbol group composed of a plurality of symbols by changing or stopping the symbol group, and providing a privilege to the player when the symbol group is stopped at a specific symbol after the change. And a stop time postponing means for postponing the time at which the change of the symbol group is stopped when the operation unit is operated between the start of the change of the symbol group and the stop. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the stop time delaying means delays the timing of stopping the fluctuation of the symbol group when a required condition is satisfied. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a recording unit capable of recording a plurality of symbol display patterns for changing or stopping the symbol group and displaying the symbol group. The postponing means is a gaming machine that displays a symbol group on a display unit by changing or stopping the symbol group based on a symbol display pattern selected from the plurality of symbol display patterns. 4. A gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a bonus determining means for determining whether to add a bonus to the player and / or to change the bonus in accordance with an operation state of the operation unit. Gaming machine with. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein: an operation control unit that controls an operation of an operation unit to be enabled or disabled; and an operation control unit that is controlled by the operation control unit. A gaming machine having a notifying unit for notifying a state;