JP2001157744A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To simplify the contents to be controlled without decreasing excitement of a game in a game machine such as a Pachinko machine provided with a variable display which can make a variable display of a plurality of identifying information. SOLUTION: An operation hole 3 and a jackpot hole 4 are provided on the game board 2 of a Pachinko machine 1. A variable display 13 with a display section 13a is built onto the center of the game board 2. Plural columns of plural kinds of patterns are displayed on the display section 13a. A main substrate 24 outputs time information to the variable display 13 to start a variable display of patterns based on the occurrence of a special development and stop the variable display of patterns at special patterns for a final display after given time has passed. After the variable display is started, the variable display 13 stops to display mock patterns before a final display and then makes a special entertaining display during the time after mock patterns are stopped for display and till a final display.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko machine having a main control section and a display control section for performing display control based on a command from the main control section.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as one type of gaming machine, a pachinko machine equipped with a variable display device for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols or the like in a predetermined arrangement has been known.

In this pachinko machine, a "special game state (big hit state)" becomes a state advantageous to the player after the reach state according to the fixed display symbol (stop symbol) when the variable display is stopped on the variable display device. ”, A“ disengaged reach state ”that does not enter the special game state after passing through the reach state, or a“ disengaged state ”that does not go through the reach state and does not become the special game state. The stop symbols include a special game symbol for generating a special game state, a disconnect reach symbol for generating a disconnect reach, and a disconnect symbol for generating a disconnect state.

In the above-described pachinko machine, the main circuit board is changed based on that a game situation that changes according to the operation of the player satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, a game ball wins an operating port). Sends various commands to the control board of the variable display device. The command includes information on a stop symbol selected in accordance with a game situation on the main board side from the special game symbol (big hit symbol), a miss reach symbol, and a miss symbol. The commands also include information on a reach pattern when a reach effect is performed, information on notification of a jackpot, etc., and information on a re-change effect. In addition, the command includes information on the fluctuation time of the symbol for each symbol row (the time from the start of the fluctuation to the stop display), information on the reach effect time,
There is a wide variety of information such as information on various notification times such as jackpots and information on re-variation times.

On the variable display device side, the variable display of the symbol is started based on various commands, and the variable display and the effect display relating to the variable display are performed for a predetermined period of time. The display is stopped on the display device. In synchronization with the stop, the main board outputs a determination command to the control board of the variable display device.

Then, the stop symbols are "7" and "7".
The above-mentioned special game state is generated on condition that a predetermined big hit symbol such as “7” is required (for example, a zigzag pattern). More specifically, the special winning opening is opened for a predetermined time, and when the special winning opening is opened, a large number of premium balls are paid out to the player by causing game balls to win in the special winning opening.

[0007]

However, the above-mentioned prior art has the following problems. That is, in the related art, the time from the start of the change of the symbol to the final display is different depending on the change mode, the contents of each effect, and the like. For this reason, it was necessary to output to the variable display device a wide variety of commands relating to information on the stop symbols and effect information according to the respective times. As a result, the number of commands is significantly increased, and the control contents are complicated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine having a main control unit and a display control unit, in which the control contents of the main control unit are significantly simplified. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine which can be designed.

[0009]

Means effective to achieve the above object will be described below. The operation and the like will be described as necessary.

Means 1. In a gaming machine including a main control unit that performs main control and a display control unit that performs display control based on a command from the main control unit, the display control unit may be configured to respond to a display control command from the main control unit. Start control means for starting display control until the end of the display control, and end control means for ending display control by the start control means based on a display control command from the main control unit. A gaming machine.

According to the above-described means, the display control section performs display control based on a command from the main control section which performs the main control. By the way, in the above means, the start control unit of the display control unit starts the display control up to the end based on the display control command from the main control unit. That is, when there is a display control command from the main control unit, the display control unit starts the display control until the display control unit ends. Further, the end control means of the display control unit ends the display control by the start control means based on the display control command from the main control unit. For this reason, on the main board side, display control is performed on the display control unit side only by outputting a display control command at the start and end of the display control.

Means 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the start control means determines at least a display time based on the display control command, and starts display control according to the determined display time. According to the above means, at least the display time is determined by the start control means based on the display control command, and the display control according to the determined display time is started.

Means 3. In the means 1 and 2, the start control means determines at least a display symbol based on the display control command, and starts display control according to the determined display symbol. According to the above means, at least the display symbol is determined by the start control means based on the display control command, and the display control according to the determined display symbol is started.

Means 4. In the means 1, the start control means determines at least a display time and a display symbol based on the display control command, and comprehensively starts display control according to the determined display time and the display symbol. A gaming machine characterized by: According to the above means, at least the display time and the display symbol are determined by the start control means based on the display control command, and the display control is started comprehensively according to the determined display time and the display symbol.

Means 5 In the means 3 or 4, the start control means also determines a display time based on the display control command, and starts a display control according to the determined display time. A game machine capable of adjusting display control in accordance with the display time in accordance with the display time. According to the above means, the display control time is also determined by the start control means based on the display control command, and the display control according to the determined display time is started. Further, the display control according to the display time can be adjusted according to the display symbol.

Means 6. A game machine according to claim 5, wherein the start control means temporarily displays a symbol when the determined display time substantially elapses. According to the above means, the symbol is provisionally displayed by the start control means when the determined display time substantially elapses.

Means 7 In the means (6), when the display symbol satisfies a predetermined condition, a timing for temporarily displaying the symbol is advanced for a predetermined period. According to the above means, when the determined display symbol satisfies the predetermined condition, the timing at which the symbol is temporarily displayed is advanced by a predetermined period. Therefore, separate display control is possible from the temporary display to the end of the display time.

Means 8 In the means 7, when the display symbol satisfies the predetermined condition and when a certain condition is satisfied, the start control means executes the first specific display control during the predetermined period. A gaming machine characterized by: According to the above means, when the display symbol satisfies the predetermined condition, and when a certain condition is satisfied, the start control means controls the first specific display control for the predetermined period. Be executed.

Means 9 In the means 8, in the gaming machine, the first specific display control includes a display control for at least temporarily changing the temporarily displayed symbol. According to the above means, the display control for changing the symbol again is performed from the temporary display to the end of the display time, thereby increasing interest.

Means 10. In any one of the means 7 to 9, the display symbol satisfies the predetermined condition,
In addition, when a certain condition is not satisfied, the start control means executes the second specific display control during the predetermined period. According to the above means, when the display symbol satisfies the predetermined condition and the predetermined condition is not satisfied, the start control means executes the second specific display control during the predetermined period. Is done.

Means 11 In the means 10, the gaming machine is characterized in that the second specific display control includes a display control indicating that the temporarily displayed symbol becomes a display symbol as it is. According to the above-described means, when the second specific display control is executed, display control is performed to suggest that the temporarily displayed symbol becomes a display symbol as it is, thereby increasing interest.

Means 12. The gaming machine according to any one of means 6 to 11, wherein the provisional display includes pseudo stop display. According to the above-described means, when the temporary display is performed, the symbol is stopped and displayed in a pseudo manner.

Means 13. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 12, wherein the display control includes a variable display pattern.

Means 14. A game machine according to claim 13, wherein the start control means includes a storage unit storing a plurality of variable display patterns.

Means 15. In the means 13 or 14, the variation display pattern includes a symbol variation mode.

Means 16. In the means 15, the variation mode of the symbol includes all modes having a probability of variation at a stage before the symbol is determined and stopped and displayed.

Means 17. In the means 15 or 16, the variation display pattern includes an effect mode.

Means 18. In the means 17, in the gaming machine, the effect mode includes a reach effect mode.

Means 19. In the means 17 or 18, the effect mode includes a background effect mode.

Means 20. The gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 19, wherein the display symbol is a symbol that is displayed as a fixed stop.

Means 21. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 20, wherein the start control means starts one of a plurality of display controls according to the determined display time. According to the above means, any one of a plurality of types of display control according to the determined display time is executed by the start control means. For this reason, the game content is increased in thickness.

Means 22. In any one of the means 1 to 21, the start control means starts one of a plurality of display controls corresponding to the determined one display time. According to the above means, a plurality of types of display control are performed even for one display time, and the game content is increased in thickness.

Means 23. In any one of the means 1 to 22, the main control unit transmits the display control command to a start control unit of the display control unit when a predetermined condition relating to a variable display of a symbol is satisfied. A gaming machine characterized by:

Means 24. In any one of the means 1 to 23, a display control command from the main control unit for terminating the display control by the start control unit is transmitted to the display control unit in synchronization with the timing when the display control is terminated. A gaming machine characterized by being performed.

Means 25. A main control unit for performing main control;
A gaming machine comprising: a variable display pattern storage unit that stores a variable display pattern consisting of a predetermined display time; and a display control unit that performs display control based on the variable display pattern based on a command from the main control unit. A display control unit configured to derive a variable display pattern corresponding to the display control command based on a display control command from the main control unit; and a display control command from the main control unit. Display symbol determining means for determining a display symbol based on the display symbol, adjusting means for adjusting the derived variable display pattern according to the display symbol determined by the display symbol determining means, and determination by the display symbol determining means. When the displayed display symbol satisfies a predetermined condition, comprises a display time adjusting means for adjusting the display time of the variable display pattern,
When the display symbol determined by the display symbol determination means satisfies a predetermined condition and the specified condition is satisfied, the first specific variable display pattern is included in the variable display pattern. In the case where the display symbol determined by the display symbol determination means satisfies a predetermined condition and the specified condition is not satisfied, the second specific variable display pattern is included. In this case, furthermore, in this case, the once displayed symbol is maintained, and further, the displayed symbol is determined based on a display control command from the main control unit.

Means 26. The gaming machine according to claim 25, wherein the display control command causing the derivation of the variable display pattern is transmitted to the display control unit when a predetermined condition regarding the variable display of the symbol is satisfied.

Means 27. In the means 25 or 26, the display control command for fixing the display symbol is transmitted to the display control unit in synchronization with the end time of the display time before adjustment. .

[0038]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS (First Embodiment) A first embodiment of a pachinko game machine (hereinafter simply referred to as "pachinko machine") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. I do.

As is well known, the pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame, and a front frame provided at a front portion of the outer frame and openable and closable on one side of the outer frame. A glass door frame is provided on the front side of the front frame so as to be freely opened and closed. The game board 2 is detachably mounted on the rear side of the front frame (in the back of the glass door frame and inside the outer frame). This game board 2 includes an inner rail, an outer rail, and the like.
The game balls 5 fired by the game ball firing device are guided to the upper portion of the game board 2. In addition, on the lower side of the glass door frame, a front decoration frame is provided on the front frame so as to be openable and closable, and the front decoration frame is provided with an upper tray. On the other hand, a lower tray is provided at a position lower than the upper tray at a lower portion of the front frame, and a handle constituting a game ball launching device is provided.

As shown in FIG. 1, the game board 2 of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with an operation port 3 and a special winning port 4. The operating port 3 includes a passage for the game ball 5, and a blade 6 is supported at the entrance of the passage so as to be openable and closable. A seesaw 7 is provided at the back of the special winning opening 4, and a V
The zone 8 is provided with a winning passage 9 on the left side (the right and left may be reversed). Then, the game ball 5 that has won the special winning opening 4 rolls on the seesaw 7 and is guided to a winning ball processing device (not shown) through one of the V zone 8 and the winning passage 9. In addition, a shutter 11 is provided in front of the special winning opening 4. The shutter 11 is operated by a special winning opening solenoid 12 provided on the side of the special winning opening 4 to open and close the special winning opening 4. More specifically, when the solenoid 12 is excited, the shutter 11 is tilted substantially horizontally, thereby opening the special winning opening 4. Further, when the solenoid 12 is de-energized, the shutter 11 becomes substantially vertical, whereby the special winning opening 4 is closed.

A seesaw solenoid 10 is provided on one side of the special winning opening 4. The seesaw solenoid 10 is normally in a non-excited state. In this state, the seesaw 7 is tilted so that the game balls 5 pass through the V zone 8. In addition, when the seesaw solenoid 10 is excited, the seesaw 7 is tilted so that the game balls 5 pass through the winning passage 9. In the present embodiment, when at least one game ball 5 passes through the V zone 8 with the shutter 11 in the open state, the seesaw solenoid 10 is excited. When the shutter 11 is closed, the seesaw solenoid 10 is de-energized.

A special symbol display device (hereinafter, simply referred to as a “display device”) 13 as a variable display device is incorporated in a central portion of the game board 2. The display device 13 is a display unit 1 composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) (= liquid crystal monitor).
3a, where a plurality of symbol rows are displayed.
As shown in FIG. 2, in the present embodiment, three symbol rows of a left symbol row 14, a middle symbol row 15, and a right symbol row 16 are displayed as these symbol rows. May be displayed. The display section 13a is provided with a display area constituting a big hit line at a lower portion thereof.

As shown in FIG. 1, an ordinary symbol display device 51 is provided above the special symbol display device 13. The ordinary symbol display device 51 includes a light emitting diode (LE).
D), and a 7-segment display unit 53 composed of LEDs, which is a normal symbol display unit.

Further, a pair of passing gates 54 are provided on both left and right sides of the special symbol display device 13. When the game ball 5 passes through the passing gate 54, the ordinary symbol display device 51 operates. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 51 variably displays the numbers from “0” to “9” and causes the 7-segment display unit 53 to display the numbers in a segment, and the number is a predetermined value (in the present embodiment, “ 7)), the blade 6 of the working port 3 is opened for a predetermined number of seconds. Due to this opening, it is relatively easy to win a prize in the operating port 3.
The normal symbol display device 51 can store the number of times the game ball 5 has passed through the pass gate 54 up to four times.
The number of reservations is displayed at 2. Therefore, even if the game balls 5 pass through the passage gate 54 in a state where the four holding lamps 52 are lit, they are not counted as the holding balls, and
As long as 2 is lit, the normal symbol display device 51 is operated the number of times corresponding to the number of holdings even if the game ball 5 does not pass through the passing gate 54.

Each of the symbol rows 14 to 16 is basically composed of a plurality of (12) symbols 17A to 17L as identification information, as shown in FIGS. Each of the patterns 17A to 17L is basically configured by a combination of a picture of a fish or the like placed on a plate and a number of “1” to “12”, and “1” to “12”. The numbers are arranged in ascending order. More specifically, "one" is a picture of "Thailand", "two" is a picture of "quail", and "three" is "kappa"
, "Four" is a picture of flounder, "five" is a picture of "pudding", "six" is a picture of "sazae", and "seven" is a "girl"
Picture, "eight" is a picture of "octopus", and "9" is a "fox"
, "Ten" is a picture of "whale", "11" is a picture of "bamboo shoot", and "12" is a picture of "crab". These symbols 17A to 17L can be any of a big hit symbol, a missing reach symbol, and a missing symbol as a special game symbol (these will be described later).

In each of the symbol rows 14 to 16, symbols 17A to 17L are displayed as if they were placed on a plurality (three) of rotary tables in a sushi bar.
Are displayed rotatably with the table. For convenience of rotation display, each of the symbol rows 14 to 16 includes a plurality of symbols 17A to 1A irrelevant to the jackpot line, in addition to the symbols 17A to 17L arranged and displayed on the jackpot line.
7L is displayed (for example, the symbols 17A to 17L that can be arranged next to the jackpot line, the symbols 17A to 17L already arranged in the jackpot line, and the like). However, the present invention is not limited to such a display mode. For example, one symbol 17A is provided for each symbol row 14 to 16.
To 17L may be displayed.

As shown in FIG. 4A, in the display unit 13a of the display device 13, the symbol fluctuation (rotation fluctuation) of each of the symbol rows 14 to 16 is based on the winning of the game ball 5 to the operating port 3. Be started. In addition, jackpot design, outreach design,
One of the missed symbols is selected, and this is set as a stop symbol. The stop symbol is a symbol displayed when each symbol row 14 to 16 stops changing symbols. In the present embodiment, the symbol variation is the left symbol row 14, the right symbol row 1
6. Stopping is performed in the order of the middle symbol row 15, but this is only an example and may be stopped in another order.

FIG. 4 (b) is a diagram showing a jackpot notification screen on the display unit 13a. When a jackpot state occurs, it is notified to the player again. As shown in the drawing, the jackpot symbol is a symbol for generating a jackpot state as a special game state advantageous to the player after the reach state. Specifically, when the fluctuation of all the symbol rows 14 to 16 is stopped, the combination of the displayed symbols 17A to 17L is a predetermined jackpot combination, that is, the symbols 17A to 1 of the same type.
Combination of the same pattern 17A-17L when 7L is arranged along the big hit line (for example, as shown in the figure,
The pattern may be "one", "one", or "one" symbol 17A). The symbol constituting this combination is a "big hit symbol". When the jackpot combination is established, the special electric accessory is activated (the big winning prize opening 4 is opened), and it becomes possible to obtain a jackpot state advantageous to the player, that is, to acquire more prize balls.

As shown in FIGS. 5 (a) to 5 (d),
The reach state refers to a state immediately before the jackpot (of course, the state may not reach the jackpot). The reach state includes a state in which the symbol change of the right symbol row 16 stops on the big hit line with the same type of symbol as the stop symbol of the left symbol row 14. In the example shown in the figure, the big hit line is located so as to extend in the horizontal direction at the lower part of the display unit 13a, and the left and right lines that stop on the same line.
The symbols 17A to 17L of both the right symbol rows 14 and 16 are both symbols 17A with "1".

As described above, in the above-mentioned reach state,
The pattern fluctuation of the middle symbol row 15 is finally the left and right symbol row 1
The same type of symbols as the 4 and 16 stop symbols (big hit symbols)
In addition to those that stop in the big hit state and stop in different types of symbols (this is referred to as "missing reach pattern"), those that do not enter the big hit state (hereinafter, referred to as "missing reach state") are included. . Further, in the state where the same type of symbols 17A to 17L are arranged along the jackpot line, all the symbol columns fluctuate at once, and thereafter all the symbol columns 14 to 1
The case where the symbols 17A to 17L of No. 6 simultaneously stop (also referred to as full rotation reach) may be included.

Further, in addition to the above-mentioned symbol variation in each of the symbol rows 14 to 16, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, a character different from the symbols 17A to 17L is displayed on the display unit 13a.
Will be displayed. As a character in the present embodiment, a sushi bar Genji GC is set.

In the reach state, various reach patterns are set. As a reach pattern,
As shown in FIG. 5, “normal reach (see FIG. 5 (a))”, “grip reach (see FIG. 5 (b))”, “purchase reach (see FIG. 5 (c))”, “delivery reach (see FIG. 5
(See (d)). " Among these reach patterns, reach patterns other than “normal reach” are so-called “super reach”. When the “Super Reach” operation starts,
The expected value at which the big hit state occurs (big hit expected value) is higher than in the case of “normal reach”. Also in the “super reach”, the jackpot expectation value differs depending on each reach pattern. These reach patterns correspond to the variable display device 1
It is determined based on the reach type determination counter set on the third side. Note that the processing operation (effect contents) of each reach pattern is not a characteristic part of the present embodiment, and therefore, further description will be omitted.

It has already been described that the symbol variation of each of the symbol rows 14 to 16 is started based on the winning of the game ball 5 to the operation port 3. When a prize is won, as in the case of passing through the passage gate 54, the corresponding variable display is performed after the current variable display ends. That is, the variable display is on standby (held). The maximum number of the variable display to be suspended is determined for each model of the pachinko machine. In the present embodiment, the maximum number of suspensions is set to four, but this is not a limitation.

As shown in FIG. 1, the special symbol display device 13
, Above the display unit 13a, the holding lamps 18a, 18b, 18 made of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are provided.
c and 18d are incorporated. The holding lamp 18a
The number of ~ 18d is the same as the above-mentioned maximum number of reservations (in this case, four). The hold lamps 18a to 18d are turned on each time the variable display is held, and are turned off with the execution of the variable display corresponding to the hold.

In addition, in addition to the above, various other lamps and electric decoration members for enhancing the gaming effect are attached to a plurality of places of the pachinko machine 1. The lighting state (extinguished, lit, blinking, etc.) of these illuminated members and the like can be changed according to the progress of the game. Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a speaker (not shown) that generates a sound effect in accordance with the progress of the game.

In order to detect the game state of the pachinko machine 1 which changes according to the operation of the player, in the present embodiment, the game board 2 has a through switch 20 and an operation port switch 2.
1. V-zone switch 22 and count switch 23
Etc. are respectively attached. Through switch 20
Detects that the game ball has passed through the passage gate 54, and the operating port switch 21 detects that the gaming ball 5 has won the operating port 3. The V-zone switch 22 detects a winning in the V-zone 8 of the large winning opening 4 of the game ball 5, and the count switch 23 detects a winning in the large winning opening 4 of the gaming ball 5.

In this embodiment, each of the switches 20 to 23
Based on the detection result, the solenoids 10, 12, the special symbol display device 13, each of the holding lamps 18a to 18d, the normal symbol display device 51 (7-segment display unit 53 and the holding lamp 52),
A control device (main substrate) 24 is provided as a main control unit for controlling the driving of each of the blades 6 and the like. The control device 24 includes a main control unit including a read-only memory (ROM), a central processing unit (CPU), a random access memory (RAM), and the like. The ROM stores a predetermined control program and initial data in advance.
Various arithmetic processes are executed in accordance with the control program or the like.
The RAM temporarily stores the calculation result of the CPU in a symbol random number buffer, a symbol random number area, a stopped symbol area, and the like.

In the present embodiment, the CPU
One of the controls by the (main board 24) is a mode switching control. In the present embodiment, a game mode (game state)
As a normal mode and a probability variation mode (= high probability mode; hereinafter, referred to as “probable variation mode”). That is, for example, there are a normal mode in which a jackpot game state is generated with a relatively low probability of about 1/300, and a probable mode in which a jackpot game state is generated with a high probability of about 1/60, which is about 5 times as large. .

In general, the concept of the probable change mode is as follows: (1) The probability that “7” is displayed on the 7-segment display unit 53 is increased as compared with the normal case, and the blade 6 of the operating port 3 is opened. (2) shortening the time for changing the number in the 7-segment display unit 53, (3) increasing the opening time of the blade 6 (and / or increasing the number of winnings), (4) special The change time of the symbols 17A to 17L on the display unit 13a of the symbol display device 13 is shortened, and (5) the jackpot probability is higher than that in the normal mode. Of these (1) to (5), only (5), that is, only that the jackpot probability is simply increased is executed.

In this embodiment, when the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the normal mode is set. After that, when the jackpot game state is established, either the certainty change mode or the normal mode is selected. Then, after the end of the jackpot state, the selected mode is executed. More specifically, in the present embodiment, the fixed display symbols 17A to 17L (big hit symbols) at the time of the jackpot gaming state are odd numbers (“one”, “three”, “five”, “seven”,
In the case of “9”, “11”, the game mode after the end of the jackpot state is set to the probability change mode, and the fixed display symbols 17A to 17H (jackpot symbols) at the time of the jackpot game state are even numbers (“ Two, Four, Six, Eight,
In the case of “ten”, “twelfth”), the game mode after the end of the big hit state is set to the normal mode. Therefore, it can be said that the values of the finally determined and displayed symbols 17A to 17L differ depending on the types of the symbols 17A to 17L.

Further, in this embodiment, after the big hit symbol is once displayed in a pseudo manner, all the symbols 17A to 17L are again displayed.
A re-variation process (re-lottery process) that fluctuates in a state in which is completed is performed. This is a case where once all symbols are stopped and displayed, it is a symbol that generates a jackpot state, and as described above, an even number (“two”,
If the pattern is “four”, “six”, “eight”, “ten”, “twelfth”, the odd numbers (“one”, “three”, “five”) are displayed again by changing the display. , "Seven", "Nine", "Eleven")
This provides an apparent chance for the player. This process is executed only at the time of a big hit and when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Of course, even when the re-fluctuation process is performed, there is a possibility that the display is finally determined and displayed with an even number of symbols.

In the present embodiment, not the main board 24 but the control board of the variable display device 13 is configured so that various displays on the display section 13a are controlled. Here, the electrical configuration of the variable display device 13 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.
As shown in the figure, the variable display device 13 (display control unit)
Based on an interface 81 that sequentially receives commands sent from the main board 24 and a control program and various information stored in a program ROM 82, screen configuration information such as a normal fluctuation, a reach state, and a jackpot notification state are displayed. A CPU 83 for generating the work, a work RAM 84 for temporarily storing the processing results and the like in the CPU 83, and a CPU 83
RAM 85 for storing the screen configuration information generated by
And a display section (liquid crystal monitor) 13a for extracting image data from the image data ROM 86 based on the screen configuration information of the video RAM 85 and displaying an image of the entire screen such as a normal fluctuation, a reach state, and a jackpot notification state. .

The interface 81 is connected to the main board 24
Receives the command (command) transmitted from. These commands are transmitted to the work R by the CPU 83.
It is stored in a command buffer area 84a provided in the AM 84.

The CPU 83 operates according to a control program stored in the program RAM 82. Specifically, the command is monitored, a task corresponding to the command is generated, and the task is stored in the work RAM 84. By executing the task, screen configuration information such as a normal fluctuation, a reach state, and a big hit state is generated in the work RAM 84, and the screen configuration information is written to the video RAM 85.
The screen configuration information is generated for each vertical operation signal (VSYNC) of the display unit (liquid crystal monitor) 13a.

The work RAM 84 has a command buffer area 8 for storing commands from the main board 24.
4a, a task buffer area 84b in which generated tasks are stored, a symbol image instruction at the time of normal fluctuation or a reach state, an arrangement position thereof, a display priority order, and the like are collectively written to the video RAM 85. A sprite chain area 84c in which information is stored is set.

The VDP 87 is an image data processor having a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, a pallet circuit and the like for performing image processing. That is, based on the image configuration information stored in the video RAM 85, the image data stored in the image data ROM 86 is called to generate an image to be displayed on the screen. The generated image is output to the display unit 13a. The image data ROM 86 stores various images such as a so-called background image, images of the symbols 17A to 17L, and character images.

Next, the operation and effects of the pachinko machine 1 configured as described above will be described. When the control device (main board 24) detects that the game ball 5 has won the operating port 3 based on the detection signal from the operating port switch 21, the corresponding holding lamp 18a to
18d (for example, the third holding lamp 18c if the two holding lamps 18a and 18b have been turned on so far) is turned on, and the value of the holding counter is incremented by "1". However, the holding lamp 18
This is excluded when all of a to 18d are turned on.

The control device (main board) 24 stores the value (data) of each counter such as an internal random number counter, a jackpot symbol counter, a missed reach symbol counter, and a missed symbol counter in each random number area. Then, at a predetermined timing (immediately if the symbol fluctuation has not been performed before, or if the symbol fluctuation or the big hit control has been performed until then, a predetermined time after the fluctuation or the like ends). After a lapse of time (a few seconds), the corresponding hold lamp 18
a-18d are turned off, the value of the hold counter is decremented, and a symbol change is executed based on data stored in each area or the like.

At this time, the main board 24 outputs (transmits) a display command as a display control command to the variable display device 13 in response to the change. That is, in the above-mentioned means 23 and 26, "the case where the predetermined condition regarding the variable display of the symbol is satisfied" corresponds to this timing (at the start of the variable display of the symbol) in the present embodiment. Now,
The display command includes (1) time information for confirming and displaying the symbols 17A to 17L after a predetermined time from the start of the variation, display pattern information including a variation pattern represented by each reach pattern, and (2) any symbol. 17A
Symbol information indicating whether to confirm and display at ~ 17L is included. Here, the symbol information includes a big hit symbol, a missed reach symbol, a missed symbol, and these are determined based on the above-described internal random number counter, a big hit symbol counter, a missed reach symbol counter, a missed symbol counter, and the like. It is.

The display command in the present embodiment has a two-byte configuration, and is sequentially and continuously transmitted to the variable display device 13 side. The first byte at the head of the display command having the 2-byte configuration is configured by keyword information indicating what information is to be transmitted. The latter one byte is composed of content information such as a pattern code corresponding to specific instruction content.

For example, in the present embodiment, a display command transmitted first is display pattern information.
In this case, the first byte is composed of keyword information indicating that display pattern information (suggesting time information and a variation pattern) is to be transmitted, and the second byte is
It is composed of pattern code information such as "01" and "02". Here, the pattern code information such as “01”, “02”, and the like indicates what kind of time information suggests that the symbol change time is, for example, “10 seconds” or “30 seconds”. Information indicating a variation pattern, such as executing a variation pattern (or any of the variation pattern groups).

What is subsequently transmitted is the symbol information. That is, in the case where the symbols of the three symbol rows 14 to 16 are determined in the order of left → right → middle as in the present embodiment, first, the display command transmitted next to the display pattern information is the second display command. As the symbol information, the first byte is constituted by keyword information indicating that the symbol information of the left symbol row 14 is to be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is constituted by pattern code information indicating the symbol to be confirmed and displayed. . Also, as the symbol information as the display command transmitted third, the first byte is the right symbol column 1 from now on.
The second byte is composed of pattern code information indicating a symbol to be confirmed and displayed. In addition, 4
The symbol information that is the display command transmitted first is 1
The byte is composed of keyword information indicating that the symbol information of the middle symbol row 15 is to be transmitted from now on, and the second byte is composed of pattern code information indicating the symbol to be finally displayed. In this way, three pieces of display information relating to the fixed symbol are transmitted one after another. That is, 1
When the symbol changes twice, the data consisting of the 2-byte data is transmitted one byte at a time, for a total of 8 (1 × 2 +
Data transmission is performed 3 × 2) times.

In the above embodiment, the symbol information corresponding to each of the left, right, and middle symbol rows 14 to 16 is transmitted. For example, it is necessary to confirm and display nine symbols. In this case, the present invention can be applied even when the number of symbols is appropriately changed, for example, data transmission is performed 1 × 2 + 9 × 2 = 20 times.

On the other hand, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13 which has received the group of display commands (the data group transmitted at the time of one symbol change) starts the symbol change based on the command, and first, the pseudo stop. Until that time, various effects based on the fluctuation pattern are performed. Examples of the effect include, for example, a reach effect.

Now, based on the display pattern information among the above display commands, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13
For example, referring to a table as shown in FIG. 7, a predetermined pattern is selected and determined from each of the above-described variation patterns, and an effect based on the determined pattern is displayed in time data from the start of the variation to the final display. Run for a few seconds. In the example shown here, the program ROM 82 of the variable display device 13 stores four tables (tables A to D) shown in FIG. 8 in addition to the tables shown in FIG. For example, when the pattern code of the display command related to the display pattern information is “01”, time information indicating that the variation time of the symbol is “5 seconds” and pattern information indicating that the table A in FIG. Is performed based on Here, the variable display device 13 has a predetermined random number counter,
The random number counter updates the value every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) and takes a value from 0 to CC. And table A
Is taken into account, the normal fluctuation is executed for 5 seconds, regardless of the count value at that time.

When the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is "02", the time information for changing the symbol variation time to "10 seconds" and the table B in FIG. 8 as the variation pattern are referred to. Is performed based on the pattern information. Here, when the table B is taken into consideration, if the count value at that time is not less than 0 and less than C1, the normal fluctuation is performed, and
If it is less than the normal fluctuation, the slip fluctuation processing (temporary high-speed fluctuation) when the right symbol row 16 is stopped is executed.

Further, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is “03”, the time information for setting the symbol variation time to “20 seconds” and the table C in FIG. 8 as the variation pattern are referred to. Is performed based on the pattern information. Here, when the table C is taken into consideration, when the count value at that time is 0 or more and less than C2, the delivery reach processing fluctuation is executed,
In the case of C2 or more and less than C3, grip reach process variation is executed, and in the case of C3 or more and less than C4, purchase reach process variation plus slip variation process of the right symbol row 16 is executed.
When the number is four or more and less than CC, the normal reach processing variation is executed.

In addition, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is “04”, reference is made to the time information for changing the symbol variation time to “30 seconds” and the table D in FIG. 8 as the variation pattern. The change is executed based on the pattern information indicating that the change is performed. Here, when the table D is taken into consideration, when the count value at that time is not less than 0 and less than C5, the delivery reach processing fluctuation is executed,
In the case of C5 or more and less than C6, the grip reach process variation is executed, in the case of C6 or more and less than C7, the purchase reach process variation is executed, and in the case of C7 or more and less than C8, the normal reach process variation is executed. In the case of CC or less, the purchase reach processing fluctuation plus the slip fluctuation processing of the right symbol row 16 will be executed.

Here, on the main board 24 side, one of the above pattern codes is selected and determined, and the variable display device 1 is selected.
Output to 3. At this time, the pattern code is selected and determined irrespective of the fixed symbol. In this case, even if the time information is relatively long (for example, the pattern code is "03" or "04"), and the determined symbol is a missing symbol (a symbol that is neither a big hit symbol nor a reach symbol), The fluctuation time is “20 seconds” or “30 seconds”. In this case, for example, the selected reach processing fluctuation is performed, and after pseudo stop display is once performed in the reach symbol, the display is changed again, and as a result, display control is performed so as to finally confirm and display with the off symbol, so as to correspond to a long time. Is also good. Conversely, if the time information is relatively short (for example, the pattern code is “01” or “02”) and the confirmed symbol is a big hit symbol or a reach symbol, the fluctuation time is “5”. Seconds "or" 10 seconds ". In this case, a so-called reach effect may not be performed, and a jackpot symbol or a reach symbol may be definitely displayed.

Of course, an appropriate pattern code may be selected and determined from the above-mentioned pattern codes (symbol information) to be fixed and stopped at that time, and output to the variable display device 13. For example, when the finalized symbol is a completely out-of-band symbol, it is assumed that only a normal variation is performed, and "01" or "02" is used as the pattern code in order to refer to either Table A or Table B.
May be output. Also, in this case, if the confirmed symbol is the off-reach symbol, a "03" or "04" is output as a pattern code to perform either of the tables C or D as a reach effect, If the confirmed symbol is a jackpot symbol,
Either “03” or “04” may be output as the pattern code in order to take into account either table C or D.

Here, when a suitable pattern is selected and determined from the above-mentioned pattern codes based on the symbol to be fixed and determined (determined symbol), the timing at which the pseudo symbol is stopped and displayed, the swing and the re-variation By appropriately adjusting the effect display time and the like, various changes and effects can be executed without causing the player to feel uncomfortable.
For example, if the current confirmed symbol is a big hit symbol, it is determined whether or not to perform the re-variation. If it is determined that the re-variation is to be performed, the symbol is displayed several seconds (for example, 5 seconds) before the confirmed display. Is pseudo-stopped, and a re-variation process is performed for a few seconds thereafter. If it is determined that re-variation is not to be performed, the symbol is pseudo-stopped several seconds before (for example, 5 seconds before) the final display, and the symbol is swung (displayed while shaking) for several seconds thereafter. . Furthermore, in the case where the current fixed symbol is a deviated reach symbol, the symbol is pseudo-stopped several seconds before (for example, 5 seconds before) the final display, and the swing process is performed for the next few seconds. At the same time, in the case where the final symbol is out of place, the symbol is pseudo-stopped almost immediately before the final display (for example, one second before),
Perform swing processing for 2 seconds. However, the above-mentioned example is merely an example, and the stop display timing of the simulated symbol and the time of the effect display such as the swing and the re-variation can be arbitrarily adjusted on the variable display device 13 side. The same applies to the case where a pattern code is selected and determined irrespective of that.

Note that, with respect to the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern, effects such as re-variation, reach notice, and jackpot notice may be performed as effects other than reach effect and slip change. Here, the “notification” may be any indication as long as it is possible to suggest that the predetermined game state is likely to be generated by the effect, or that the effect will affect the occurrence rate of the predetermined game state by the effect. Therefore, there is no problem even if the predetermined game state does not occur.

The CPU 83 of the variable display device 13
Makes the symbol pseudo stop after a predetermined time from the start of the fluctuation.
The pseudo stop timing and the pseudo stop symbol are determined by the variable display device 13 irrespective of the main board 24 as described above.

Thereafter, the main board 24 changes its timing based on its own timer at a timing corresponding to the time information (for example, when the time information is "20 seconds", "20 seconds" after the start of the fluctuation). The confirmation command is output to the display device 13. On the other hand, after a predetermined time from the pseudo stop (at the time when the fluctuation based on the time information is completed), the CPU 83 causes the symbol corresponding to the symbol information to be fixedly stopped and displayed. At this time, as a result, the symbol is confirmed and displayed in synchronization with the output confirmed command.
After that, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13 executes the notification effect for a predetermined time.

First, such a series of flows will be described more specifically with reference to the timing chart of FIG. FIG. 5 shows a case where a jackpot state is generated as a result, and (a) a case where the re-variation process is not executed and (b) a case where the re-variation process is executed. As shown in FIG.
Is output at The pattern code of the display pattern information of the display command is “04” (that is, the time information is 30 seconds (t2−t0)), and the symbol information is a big hit symbol (for example, “seven,” “seven,” “seven”). It is assumed that the symbol information is the symbol information that is to be confirmed and displayed in the symbol 17G).

In this case, based on the display command, the variable display device 13 starts changing the symbol,
Symbols 17A to 17L in the order of the left symbol row 14 and the right symbol row 16
Pseudo stop. Naturally, in this case, since the reach state occurs, the reach effect based on the reach pattern selected and determined in the table D is executed by the variable display device 13 after the pseudo stop of the left and right symbol rows 14 and 16.

At timing t1 (the timing t1 is arbitrarily determined on the variable display device 13 side as described above: for example, 5 seconds before a timing t2 described later), the symbols 17A to 17L in the middle symbol row 15 are displayed. Is also pseudo-stopped. At this time, if the re-variation process is not performed (in the case of FIG. 9A), the big hit symbol (for example, the symbol “7”, “7”, or “7”) that is the symbol to be definitely displayed is displayed.
7G), a pseudo stop is displayed. As described above, when the game is pseudo-stopped with the big hit symbol, the player may have an impression that the big hit symbol to which the probability change mode is given is definitely displayed (however, it is not yet fixedly displayed on the control). ). Then, during the predetermined time, the symbols 17A to 17L displayed as the pseudo stop are rocked. During the swing period, a jackpot notification by voice (for example, playing a fanfare) may be performed. in this case,
The separately provided voice control board may control the voice based on a separate command from the variable display device 13 or set a swing period in advance, and control the voice based on a signal from the main board 24 side. May be controlled.

After that, the main board 24 outputs a determination command at a timing t2 when a predetermined time based on the time information has elapsed. Further, in synchronization with the timing t2, the symbol is actually fixedly displayed on the variable display device 13.

Thereafter, the variable display device 13 executes the notification effect until the timing t3. For example, when a symbol to which the probability change mode is given becomes a big hit, the fact is notified. Further, when a big hit occurs in the symbol to which the normal mode is given, the fact is notified on the display unit 13a of the variable display device 13. The jackpot notification by voice is also performed in synchronization with this. In this case, sound control may be performed continuously to the sound at the time of swinging, or different kinds of sound control may be performed.

On the other hand, in the case where the re-variation process is performed and the probable change mode is given (in the case of FIG. 10B, the pattern code of “04” is transmitted in the same manner as above). Is the timing t1 (for example, 5 at the timing t2).
(Seconds before), a pseudo stop symbol is displayed in a different type of jackpot symbol (for example, an even symbol such as the symbol “17” of “2”, “2”, “2”) different from the symbol to be finally displayed. The pseudo stop symbol is also arbitrarily determined on the variable display device 13 side. In this way, when the game is pseudo-stopped with the big hit symbol, the player may have an impression that the big hit symbol has once been fixed and displayed (however, the fixed display has not yet been made on the control). Then, the variable display device 13 performs a re-variation process. That is, the symbols 17A to 17L displayed as the pseudo stop are changed and displayed again in a state where all the symbols 17A to 17L are aligned.

Thereafter, from the main board 24, at a timing t2 when a predetermined time based on the time information has elapsed, at a timing t2.
A confirmation command is output. Also, the timing t2
Synchronously with the symbol, the symbol is actually fixedly displayed on the variable display device 13 (for example, with the symbol “7”, “7”, and “7”).

Thereafter, the variable display device 13 executes the notification effect until the timing t3. For example, when a symbol to which the probability change mode is given becomes a big hit, the fact is notified.

In the above example, an example has been described in which, when the re-variation process is performed, the odd-numbered symbol to which the probable-variation mode is given is definitely displayed. However, it is needless to say that the re-variation process is performed. However, there is a case where the display is fixed and displayed with an even number of symbols, and as a result, only the normal mode is given. Also, even if the pseudo stop is once performed with an odd number of big hit symbols, the re-variation processing may be executed at all. Furthermore, even when the pseudo stop display is performed with an even number of big hit symbols, only the swing may be performed and the re-variation process may not be performed.

At the same time, the timing t1 at which the symbol is pseudo-stopped need not be uniform, and is basically set arbitrarily on the variable display device 13 side. For example, when the final display is performed with the big hit symbol and the re-variation process is not performed, the pseudo stop display may be performed at the timing immediately before the final display timing t2.

In the example of the timing chart shown in FIG. 9, the case where the big hit occurs is mainly described. However, the same control as described above is performed even at times other than the big hit.

Further, in the above example of the timing chart, when the fluctuation starts at the timing t0, the timing t2
In the present embodiment, of course, a plurality of time information patterns exist. In this case, a pseudo stop timing according to each time information, It is possible to adjust the effect display time such as re-variation.

For example, FIGS. 10A and 10B show a case where the display command is output at timing t0, and the pattern code of the display pattern information of the display command is “03” (that is, the time information). Is 20
Second (t5−t0)), and the symbol information is symbol information indicating that the symbol is definitely displayed in a missing reach symbol (for example, a symbol of “seven”, “eight”, or “seven”).

In this case, based on the display command, the variable display device 13 starts changing the symbol,
Symbols 17A to 17L in the order of the left symbol row 14 and the right symbol row 16
Pseudo stop. Naturally, in this case, the reach state occurs. Therefore, after the pseudo stop of both the left and right symbol rows 14 and 16, the reach effect based on the reach pattern selected and determined in the table C is executed by the variable display device 13. At this time, in the case of (a), a reach effect based on, for example, a normal reach is executed, and in the case of (b),
For example, a reach effect based on a reach pattern such as delivery reach, grip reach, or purchase reach is executed.

In the case of (a), the timing t4
a, in the case of (b), at the timing t4b (the timings t4a and t4b are the variable display device 1).
Arbitrarily determined on the third side: for example, 5 seconds or 3 seconds before a timing t5 described later), the symbols 17A to 17L of the middle symbol row 15 are pseudo-stopped. At this time, a process such as a swing may be performed before the timing t5, no process may be performed, or a re-variation process may be performed (however, the control is not performed yet). Is not confirmed).

Thereafter, from the main board 24, at a timing t5 when a predetermined time based on the time information elapses,
A confirmation command is output. Further, the timing t5
In synchronization with the symbol, the symbol is actually fixedly displayed on the variable display device 13.

On the other hand, for example, in FIG.
This is a case where the display command is output at timing t0, the pattern code of the display pattern information of the display command is “02” (that is, the time information is 10 seconds (t8−t0)), and the symbol information is It is assumed that the symbol information is determined to be definitely displayed in a missing symbol (for example, a symbol of “three”, “four”, or “one”).

In this case, for example, at the timing t7 (the timing t7 is arbitrarily determined on the variable display device 13 side: for example, two seconds before a timing t8 described later), a pseudo stop display is performed with a missing symbol. . This may give the player the impression that the reach state has not occurred, let alone the jackpot state (however,
It has not been confirmed yet on control). Then, thereafter, in the variable display device 13, timings t7 to t8
A process such as rocking may be performed during this period, no process may be performed, or a re-variation process may be performed in some cases.

Thereafter, from the main board 24, at a timing t8 when a predetermined time based on the time information has elapsed, at a timing t8.
A confirmation command is output. Also, the timing t8
In synchronization with the symbol, the symbol is actually fixedly displayed on the variable display device 13.

Thereafter, the variable display device 13 executes a notification effect until the timing t6 or t9. For example, when a jackpot state is reached, a jackpot notification is performed, and when a hit has occurred after reaching the reach state, it is reported that it was regrettable. Further, when the vehicle is disengaged without even reaching the reach state, the disappointment is notified on the display unit 13a of the variable display device 13.

As described in detail above, according to the present embodiment, when the symbols 17A to 17L start to change, the main board 24
, A group of display commands (a group of data sent at the time of one symbol change) is output to the variable display device 13, and after a predetermined time, the symbol change display is stopped, and as a result, the symbol is fixedly displayed with the predetermined symbol. Can be Here, the display commands are (1) symbols 17A to 17A after a predetermined time from the start of the change.
Display pattern information including time information and a variation pattern for confirming L, and (2) any symbol 1
7A to 17L and the symbol information indicating whether to confirm and display.

As described above, only one group of display commands is output from the main board 24 during one symbol change (only two commands, that is, the start of change and the time of confirmation) are transmitted.
Even with such a configuration, the variable display device 13 itself performs the pseudo stop and various effect controls, so that the player can enjoy the game without feeling uncomfortable. In other words, after the start of the variable display and before the final display, the variable display device 13 causes the display unit 13a to pseudo stop and display the pseudo symbol selected and determined by itself according to each game mode.
During this time, effects based on the fluctuation patterns determined based on the tables A to D are performed. Further, the variable display device 13 performs various effect displays such as swinging and re-fluctuation between the time when the pseudo symbol is stopped and the time when the pseudo symbol is displayed. Therefore,
By appropriately adjusting the timing at which the pseudo symbol is stopped and displayed, and the time of the effect display such as swing and re-variation, it is possible to execute various changes and effects without causing a sense of incongruity to the player. Become. As a result, the content of control can be significantly simplified without lowering the interest for the player.

In addition, as compared with the prior art, which requires a wide variety of data relating to the stop symbol and the variation pattern with respect to the time information, and these need to be controlled on the main board side, in the present embodiment, the number of data is one. It is only necessary to transmit one group of display commands only at the start of the change in the symbol change. For this reason, the control content of the main board 24 can be significantly simplified.

Further, in the present embodiment, a plurality of types of time information are prepared, and the period from the start of the change of the symbol to the final display can be arbitrarily set on the main board 24 side. For this reason, for example, even when an effect display based on the same reach pattern is executed, various variations according to the effect time can be provided, and a variation rich in interest can be provided.
An effect can be performed. Also, even if the symbol that is confirmed and displayed is a deviated symbol, by performing a simulated reach effect, performing a sliding change, rocking and re-changing, the player feels that it has been delayed. It is possible to carry out fluctuations and effects without hugging. Further, even in this case, as described above, the amount of time information can be significantly reduced as compared with the conventional case, so that the control content can be significantly simplified.

In the present embodiment, the symbol to be pseudo-stopped is displayed not in a completely stopped state but in a non-stopped state (swinging state). For this reason, some players may notice that the display has not yet been completely confirmed at this point, and the thickness of the game is increased. In addition, since the symbol to be pseudo-stopped is displayed in a swinging state, some players may realize that the final display has not yet been completely confirmed at this time, and further fluctuation may be expected. The thickness increases. Note that, instead of swinging, a vibration or a fine movement state may be set. Also, it may be displayed in a completely stopped state.

Further, the pseudo stop symbol is displayed in such a manner as to derive an impression as if the pseudo stop symbol is a fixed display.
Therefore, regardless of the nature of the case where the final display is performed after that, by appropriately changing the period from the start of the change to the time when the pseudo stop is performed, the player can determine that the change times are different. Can have a great sense.
As a result, it is possible to more reliably suppress a decrease in interest.

Although not described in detail in the above example,
The period from the start of the variable display of the symbol until the pseudo symbol is displayed by the pseudo stop may be longer than the time from the pseudo stop to the final display (that is, the period of the predetermined effect display),
It may be short or equivalent. Further, the period of the effect display may be different depending on whether the big hit state or the reach state occurs or not. That is, when the big hit state occurs, the period of the predetermined effect display may be longer, shorter, or equal to the case where no big hit occurs. Further, when the finalized symbol is a big hit symbol or a lost reach symbol, a dedicated table corresponding to the symbol may be referred to.

Further, in the above embodiment, “5 seconds”
Although four types (a plurality of types) of time data of “10 seconds”, “20 seconds”, and “30 seconds” are provided, only one type of time data may be provided. For example, it is assumed that the time from the start of the change to the confirmation display is set to “30 seconds” as the time data every time. In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, the fluctuation starts (timing t0).
The time from the display to the final display (timing t2) is always constant, but the variable display device 13 can adjust the pseudo stop timing and the effect processing period such as the swing. For example, in FIG. 11A, when the reach effect is executed and the jackpot state is not generated as a result,
In (b), the case where even the reach state does not occur and the state comes off is shown. Assume that a display command is output at timing t0 as shown in FIG. It is assumed that the display pattern information of the display command in this case is (a) information indicating that a fluctuation effect based on some reach pattern is performed, and (b) information indicating that a normal fluctuation is performed. The design information of the display command includes (a) out-of-reach designs (for example, "seven", "six", and "seven" designs) and (b) out-of-design designs (for example, "three,""four," and "one" designs). It is assumed that the information is to be displayed for confirmation.

On the basis of the display command, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13 starts to change the symbol, and the symbols 17A to 17A in the order of the left symbol row 14 and the right symbol row 16.
7L is pseudo-stopped. Here, in the case of (a), since the reach state occurs, the reach effect based on the reach pattern selected and determined is executed after the pseudo stop of the left and right symbol rows 14 and 16.

Then, at the timing t1a, the symbols 17A to 17L of the middle symbol row 15 are pseudo-stopped.
At this time, in the case of FIG. 11A, the pseudo stop display is performed in the off-reach symbol, but the timings t1a to t1
Processing such as swinging may be performed during the time up to 2, or no operation processing may be performed. Even when no operation processing is performed, since the symbols are displayed in a fixed manner, "predetermined effect display" is performed even in such a case. Thereby, the player may have an impression that the reach state has occurred, but the final display has not been confirmed and displayed with the jackpot symbol (however, the final display has not been performed in terms of control). Also, the variable display device 13 may perform the re-variation process on the middle symbol row 15 again.

Thereafter, from the main board 24, at a timing t2 when a predetermined time based on the time information has passed, at a timing t2.
A confirmation command is output. Also, the timing t2
In synchronism with the symbol, the symbol is actually confirmed and displayed on the variable display device 13, while in the case of FIG. 3B, the symbol is displayed as a false stop at the timing t1b. As a result, the player can have the impression that the reach state has not occurred, not to mention the jackpot state (however, the control has not yet been confirmed and displayed). Then, thereafter, at the variable display device 13, the timing t
During the period from 1b to t2, processing such as swinging may be performed, no processing may be performed, or the above-described re-variation processing may be performed. afterwards,
From the main board 24, at a timing t2 when a predetermined time based on the time information has elapsed, a determination command is output. Further, in synchronization with the timing t2, the symbol is actually fixedly displayed on the variable display device 13.

Thereafter, the variable display device 13 executes a notification effect until the timing t3. For example, in the case where the connection is deviated after reaching the reach state, the user is notified that he / she has missed. In addition, when the vehicle is disengaged without even reaching the reach state, the disappointment is notified on the display unit 13a of the variable display device 13.

As described above, even if the time information is fixed, that is, if the fluctuation is started at the timing t0, the display is always fixed at the timing t2, the pseudo stop display is performed. When it is done, and
By adjusting the effect and the like from the pseudo stop to the confirmation display, it is possible to cope not only when the big hit state occurs but also when the head comes off and when it comes off. In this case, the time information is the same every time, so that the control content relating to the time information is significantly simplified.

(Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of a pachinko machine will be described with reference to the drawings. However, in the present embodiment, the description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted, and the following description will focus mainly on the differences.

In the first embodiment, the main board 24 side outputs a pattern code focusing on time data, and the variable display device 13 uses a table to determine which variation pattern is to be adopted. The configuration is determined based on Tables A to D). On the other hand, the present embodiment is characterized in that the time data and the variation pattern are uniquely determined in advance on the main board 24 side, and a pattern code based on the data is output to the variable display device 13. In this case, similarly to the first embodiment, the pattern code may be selected and determined irrespective of the fixed symbol, or, of course, the pattern code may be determined according to the fixed symbol. In the latter case, for example, if the confirmed symbol is a big hit symbol or a missed reach symbol, it may be configured so that pattern codes such as "01" and "02" are not selected and determined.

Now, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13
For example, referring to a table as shown in FIG. 12, a predetermined pattern is selected and determined from the time data (the time from the start of the change to the confirmation display) and the above-described respective change patterns, and an effect based on the determined pattern is performed. Is executed for the number of seconds of the time data. In the example shown in FIG.
For example, when the pattern code of the display command related to the display pattern information is “01”, the fluctuation is based on the time information that the fluctuation time of the symbol is “5 seconds” and the pattern information that the normal fluctuation is performed as the fluctuation pattern. Is executed. Therefore, when the pattern code “01” is output, the variable display device 13 performs the normal fluctuation for 5 seconds.

When the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is "02", the time information that the symbol variation time is "10 seconds" and the pattern information that the normal variation is performed as the variation pattern are described. Is performed based on Therefore, when the pattern code “02” is output, the variable display device 13 performs the normal fluctuation for 10 seconds. As described above, even when a relatively short-time normal fluctuation such as “5 seconds” or “10 seconds” is performed, a fixed jackpot symbol or an out-of-reach reach symbol may be definitely displayed.

Further, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is “06”, the time information that the symbol variation time is set to “25 seconds” and the pattern information that the normal reach variation is performed as the variation pattern Is performed based on Therefore, "0
When the pattern code “6” is output, the variable display device 13 performs normal reach fluctuation for 25 seconds.

In addition, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is “07”, the time information that the fluctuation time of the symbol is “25 seconds” and the pattern that the delivery reach fluctuation is performed as the fluctuation pattern The fluctuation is performed based on the information. Therefore, when the pattern code “07” is output, the variable display device 13 performs the delivery reach change for 25 seconds.

In addition, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is “08”, the time information that the symbol variation time is “25 seconds” and the pattern that the grip reach variation is performed as the variation pattern The fluctuation is performed based on the information. Therefore, when the pattern code “08” is output, the variable display device 13 performs the grip reach change for 25 seconds.

Further, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is "09",
Time information that the symbol change time is set to “25 seconds”,
The fluctuation is executed based on the pattern information indicating that the purchase reach fluctuation is performed as the fluctuation pattern. Therefore, "0
When the pattern code “9” is output, the variable display device 13 performs purchase reach fluctuation for 25 seconds.

In addition, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is “FF”, the time information that the fluctuation time of the symbol is “40 seconds” and the pattern that the purchase reach fluctuation is performed as the fluctuation pattern The fluctuation is performed based on the information. Therefore, "FF"
When the pattern code is output, the variable display device 13 changes the purchase reach for 40 seconds.

As described above, according to the second embodiment,
Basically, the same operation and effect as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Further, in the present embodiment, there is a feature that not only the time information but also the fluctuation pattern are uniquely determined on the main substrate 24 side in advance. Therefore, unlike the first embodiment, there is no need to provide a table or the like on the variable display device 13 side. In this sense, the content of control on the variable display device 13 side can be simplified.

The present invention is not limited to the contents described in the above embodiment, but may be implemented as follows.

(A) In the above embodiment, the symbols 17A to 17A
17L is constituted by a combination of a picture of a fish or the like and a number from "1" to "12", and this is used as identification information, but any information can be recognized as long as it is recognized by a player. Good. For example, it may be a pattern consisting only of numbers or a pattern consisting only of pictures and symbols. Further, the information is not limited to the design, and may be identification information such as light of a lamp.

(B) In the above embodiment, as a concept of the probability change mode, (1) the probability that “7” is displayed on the 7-segment display unit 53 is increased as compared with the normal case, and the blade 6 of the working port 3 is opened. (2) shortening the time for changing the number in the 7-segment display unit 53, (3) increasing the opening time of the blade 6 (and / or increasing the number of winnings), (4) ) Display 13a of special symbol display device 13
Shortening the fluctuation time of the symbols 17A to 17L,
(5) Among the fact that the jackpot expectation value is higher than that in the normal mode, only (5), that is, only that the jackpot probability is simply increased is executed.

On the other hand, (1) to (4) including (5)
Satisfying at least one of the above may be regarded as the probability change mode. That is, any combination of (1) to (4) (for example, (1) and (2), (1) and (3),
(1) and (4), (2) and (3), (2) and (4),
(3) and (4), (1) and (2) and (3), (1) and (2) and (4), (1) and (3) and (4), (2) and (3) ) And (4), (1) and (2), (3) and (4)), and (5) may be taken as the probability change mode.

(C) As the probability change mode, besides the one that continues until the next big hit, the one that continues until the next big hit or the predetermined number of symbols 17A-1
It is also possible to adopt one that is continued until the fluctuation stop of 7L is performed.

(D) Further, in addition to or instead of the probable change mode, the time reduction mode ((1) to (1) of (b) above)
The present invention is also applicable to gaming machines that can adopt the mode (arbitrary combination of (4)). For example, the present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine in which a normal mode is given when a big hit occurs in an even symbol and a time reduction mode is given when a big hit occurs in an odd symbol. Further, the present invention may be embodied in a type of pachinko machine in which the game mode is not switched.

(E) The re-variation processing may not be performed.

(F) As the display device 13, a CRT, a dot matrix, an LED, an electroluminescence (EL), a fluorescent display tube or the like may be used in addition to the liquid crystal display described above.

(G) The present invention can also be embodied in a pachinko machine or the like of a type different from the above embodiment. For example, the pachinko machine may be implemented as a pachinko machine that enters a special game state on condition that a game ball is won in a predetermined area after a big hit symbol is displayed. In addition to the pachinko machines, the present invention can be implemented as various types of gaming machines such as areaches, sparrow balls, slot machines, and the like. In the slot machine, for example, a symbol is changed by operating an operation lever in a state where a symbol is inserted and a symbol valid line is determined, and the symbol is stopped and determined by operating a stop button or the like. belongs to. Therefore, as a basic concept of the slot machine, a symbol display means for displaying a fixed symbol after variably displaying a symbol row composed of a plurality of symbols is provided. The fluctuation is started, and the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the stop operation means (for example, the stop button) or by the lapse of a predetermined time. A slot machine provided with a special game state generating means for generating a special game state advantageous to the player.

(H) Odd symbols 17A, 17C, 17E,
When the display is once stopped at 17G, 17I, and 17K, when the re-variation display is performed, the display may be finally stopped at an odd symbol without fail. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the symbol to which the odd angle change mode is given causes the player to be completely disappointed despite the fact that a big hit state has occurred.

(I) Applying the concept of the re-fluctuation, at the time of occurrence of one predetermined trigger (winning of one game ball into the operating port 3: turning off one of the holding lamps 18a to 18d) It may be configured such that a plurality of (for example, two) changes are performed. For example, assuming that a time of 30 seconds is given as the time information until the determination, the normal fluctuation (of course, the reach fluctuation) of 13 seconds may be performed twice during this time. By performing such control, the player can feel as if he / she enjoyed the variable display a plurality of times with one prize, and can further improve the interest.

[0139]

As described in detail above, according to the present invention,
In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine equipped with a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of pieces of identification information on a display unit, there is an excellent effect that control contents can be simplified without lowering interest.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a pachinko machine according to a first embodiment.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams each showing an example of a display state of a display unit.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating types of symbols that can be displayed on a display unit.

FIG. 4A is a diagram showing a fluctuation state of a symbol array on a display unit, and FIG. 4B is a diagram showing a jackpot notification screen on the display unit.

5A is a diagram illustrating a normal reach state on the display unit, FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a grip reach state, FIG. 5C is a diagram illustrating a purchase reach state, and FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a main substrate and a variable display device.

FIG. 7 is a table showing a relationship between time data and patterns with respect to pattern codes stored in a program ROM of the variable display device.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing tables A to D showing a relationship of a variation pattern to a count value.

FIG. 9 is a timing chart for explaining command output timing and the like with respect to the passage of time;

FIG. 10 is a timing chart for explaining a command output timing and the like with the passage of time;

FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining command output timing and the like with respect to the passage of time.

FIG. 12 is a table showing a relationship between time data and a variation pattern with respect to a pattern code stored in a program ROM of the variable display device according to the second embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine, 2 ... Game board, 3 ... Operation opening, 4 ... Big winning opening, 5 ... Game ball, 13 ... Variable display device, 13a ... Display part, 14 ... Left symbol row, 15 ... Medium symbol row, 16 ... Right symbol row, 17A-17L ... Symbol, 24 ... Control device.

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A gaming machine comprising: a main control unit that performs main control; and a display control unit that performs display control based on a command from the main control unit. Start control means for starting display control until termination based on the display control command of the above, and end control means for terminating display control by the start control means based on a display control command from the main control unit. A gaming machine characterized by the following.