JP2001178902A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To simplify control contents without lowering interest in a game machine such as a pachinko machine provided with a variable display device capable of fluctuation-displaying the plural pieces of identification information. SOLUTION: An operation port 3 and a large winning port 4 are provided on the game panel 2 of the pachinko machine 1 and the variable display device 13 provided with a display part 13a is incorporated at the center part of the game panel 2. Plural pattern columns are displayed at the display part 13a and the pattern column is constituted of the plural kinds of patterns. A main substrate 24 outputs time information to the variable display device 13 so as to start the fluctuation display of the patterns based on the generation of a prescribed trigger, stop the fluctuation display of the patterns after prescribed time and establish and display a prescribed pattern. The variable display device 13 switches the fluctuation form of the pattern at least once after fluctuation start until established display and also can change the timing of the changeover.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine having a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information on a display unit.

[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.

[0008] Further, it is conceivable to simplify the number of commands by making the fluctuation time of the symbol constant, but it is possible to suppress a decrease in interest due to the player being able to foresee the final stop symbol. You also need to do it.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and has as its object to provide a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine having a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of pieces of identification information on a display unit. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of remarkably simplifying the contents of control on the style output side without reducing interest.

[0010]

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

Means 1. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of pieces of identification information on a display unit, and a predetermined display to stop the variable display of the identification information after a predetermined period of time based on the occurrence of a predetermined trigger and to perform a final display with the predetermined identification information Means for outputting a form to the variable display device, and the variable display device switches the variation mode of the identification information at least once during the period from the occurrence of the predetermined trigger to the final display. And a control device capable of changing the timing of the switching.

According to the above-mentioned means, a plurality of identification information can be variably displayed on the display section of the variable display device. Also, a predetermined format is output from the format output means to the variable display device based on the occurrence of a predetermined trigger, and based on this, the display of the change of the identification information is stopped after a predetermined time, and the display is fixed with the predetermined identification information. Let me do. By the way, in the above means, the control means of the variable display device can switch the change mode of the identification information at least once during the period from the occurrence of the predetermined trigger to the confirmation display, and can change the timing of the switching. Therefore, even if the predetermined format output by the format output means is simple, it is difficult for the player to foresee predetermined identification information that is definitely displayed after a predetermined time.

Means 2. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of pieces of identification information on a display unit, and a predetermined display to stop the variable display of the identification information after a predetermined period of time based on the occurrence of a predetermined trigger and to perform a final display with the predetermined identification information And a format output unit that outputs a format to the variable display device, and the variable display device sequentially displays a plurality of variation patterns having different variation modes from the occurrence of the predetermined trigger to the final display. A gaming machine comprising: control means for performing a change display of the identification information based on execution of the change and changing each change period based on each change pattern. According to the above means, the control means of the variable display device performs the fluctuation display of the identification information based on a plurality of fluctuation patterns having different fluctuation modes from the occurrence of the predetermined trigger to the final display. Each fluctuation period based on the fluctuation pattern can be changed. For this reason, even if the predetermined format output by the format output means is simple, it is difficult for the player to foresee the predetermined identification information that is definitely displayed after a predetermined time.

Means 3. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of pieces of identification information on a display unit; and And a format output unit that outputs a format to the variable display device, and the variable display device sequentially displays a plurality of variation patterns having different variation modes from the occurrence of the predetermined trigger to the final display. A gaming machine comprising: control means for performing a change display of the identification information based on the execution of the change and changing a ratio of each change period based on each change pattern. According to the above means, the control means of the variable display device performs the fluctuation display of the identification information based on a plurality of fluctuation patterns having different fluctuation modes from the occurrence of the predetermined trigger to the final display. The ratio of each fluctuation period based on each fluctuation pattern can be changed. For this reason, even if the predetermined format output by the format output unit is simple,
Even if the variable display period is constant, it is difficult for the player to foresee predetermined identification information that is definitely displayed after a predetermined time.

Means 4. In any one of the means 1 to 3,
The gaming machine, wherein the control means adjusts a period from the occurrence of the predetermined trigger to the stop of the identification information at the time of the variable display so as to be constant.

Means 5 In the means 4, the change by the control means is a change in accordance with the identification information which is confirmed and displayed.

Means 6. In any one of the means 1 to 5,
The predetermined opportunity is in a stopped state of the identification information,
A gaming machine, which is command information for starting the change of the identification information.

Means 7. In any one of the means 1 to 6,
The gaming machine, wherein the predetermined opportunity is command information for starting a re-change from pseudo stop of the identification information in a non-determined display state of the identification information. According to the above-described means, it is difficult for the player to foresee predetermined identification information that is definitely displayed even when re-change of the identification information is started.

Means 8 The gaming machine according to claim 7, characterized in that at the start of the re-change of the identification information, occurrence of a special gaming state advantageous to the player can be recognized. According to the above means, the player can recognize the occurrence of the special game state, so that the player can fully enjoy the fluctuation.

Means 9 In any one of the means 1 to 8,
The gaming machine, wherein the predetermined style includes time information.

Means 10. The gaming machine according to claim 9, further comprising: a determination signal output unit that outputs a determination signal to the variable display device in order to synchronize with the determination display timing based on the time information. According to the above means, the confirmation signal is output by the confirmation signal output means in synchronization with the timing of the confirmation display based on the time information.

Means 11. The gaming machine according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the time information is determined according to predetermined identification information that is fixedly displayed. According to the above means,
Since the time information is determined according to the predetermined identification information that is definitely displayed, appropriate fluctuations and effects according to the identification information that is definitely displayed are performed.

Means 12. The gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 11, wherein the variation mode includes a variation speed. According to the above-described means, the timing at which the fluctuation speed changes is switched, and the above-described operation is more reliably achieved.

Means 13. In any one of the means 1 to 12, the variation mode includes a variation number of the identification information per unit time.

Means 14. A gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 13, wherein the variation mode includes a mode that is not actually varied (for example, swinging).

Means 15. The gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 14, wherein the variation mode includes a mode in which it is difficult for the player to identify the identification information (for example, an ultra-high speed variation mode).

Means 16. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 15, wherein the control means adjusts at least a period or a ratio of a variation mode immediately before the final display. According to the above-described means, at least the period of the variation mode immediately before the confirmation display is adjusted, so that even if the player foresaw, it is overturned immediately before, and the control becomes significant. .

Means 17. In any one of the means 1 to 16, after the occurrence of the predetermined trigger, the variable display device displays pseudo identification information on the display unit and before the final display, and displays the pseudo identification information. Display control means for performing a predetermined effect display between the time and the final display, and the display control means adjusts a timing for displaying the pseudo identification information and a period for performing the predetermined effect display. A gaming machine characterized by being possible. According to the above means, even if the predetermined style output by the style output means is simple, the player can feel uncomfortable by the control by the pseudo identification information display control means and the effect display control means on the variable display device side. Can be avoided.

Means 18. In the means 17, in the gaming machine, the predetermined effect display is performed by displaying the pseudo identification information in a swing, vibration, shape change, fine movement, or stopped state. According to the above means, since the pseudo identification information is displayed in a rocking, vibration, shape change, fine movement or stopped state, some players have noticed that the display has not yet been completely confirmed at this time. In some cases, further fluctuations may be expected, and the game becomes thicker.

Means 19. In the means 17 or 18, the variable display device, after the occurrence of the predetermined trigger, before the pseudo identification information is displayed, the effect display means for performing an effect display different from the fluctuation display of the identification information, A gaming machine characterized by having. According to the above means, before the pseudo identification information is displayed, the effect display means performs another effect display different from the variable information display of the identification information. For this reason, the player can enjoy the effect display, and the effect display time and the like are appropriately adjusted, so that the effect can be executed without causing the player to feel uncomfortable.

Means 20. A gaming machine according to claim 19, wherein the effect display means performs a reach effect display for amplifying a sense of expectation.

Means 21. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 20, wherein the style output based on the occurrence of the predetermined trigger is one group for each occurrence of the trigger. According to the above means, only one group of forms is output for each occurrence of the trigger, so that the control contents of the form output means can be reliably simplified.

Means 22. In any one of the means 1 to 21, the gaming machine is characterized in that the predetermined style also includes information (symbol information) on predetermined identification information that is fixedly displayed. According to the above-mentioned means, information relating to the predetermined identification information which is definitely displayed is also output to the variable display device.

Means 23. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 22, wherein the predetermined style also includes information on a variable display pattern (variable display pattern information). According to the above means, information on the variable display pattern is also output to the variable display device.

Means 24. In the means 23, the variation display pattern includes a plurality of reach effect patterns prepared.

Means 25. A gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 24, further comprising a voice control means capable of switching a notification mode by voice in synchronization with the change by the control means.

Means 26. The gaming machine according to claim 25, wherein the voice control means switches a voice notification mode based on a command from the control means of the variable display device.

Means 27. A gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 26, further comprising a decoration display device control means capable of switching a notification mode by a decoration display device (for example, a lamp) in synchronization with the change by the control means.

Means 28. In the means 27, the decoration display device control means switches a notification mode of the decoration display device based on a command from the control means of the variable display device.

Means 29. A main control unit for performing main control;
In a gaming machine including a display control unit that performs display control based on a command from the main control unit, the display control unit includes:
Start control means for starting display control until termination based on a display control command from the main control unit, and end control for terminating display control by the start control means based on a display control command from the main control unit Means.
In addition, the start control means determines at least a display time and a determined display symbol based on the display control command, and starts display control according to the determined display time and the determined display symbol. In addition to switching the mode of the symbol in the non-determined display state at least once,
A gaming machine characterized in that the switching timing can be changed. According to the above means, the display control section performs display control based on a command from the main control section that 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. Also, by the start control means,
At least the display time and the display symbol are determined based on the display control command, and the display control is started according to the determined display time and the display symbol. Furthermore, the pattern in the non-determined display state is switched at least once during the display control, and the timing of the switching is changed. In this case, it is difficult to foresee the confirmed display symbol.

Means 30. The gaming machine according to claim 29, 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 31. In the means (30), 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 32. The gaming machine according to any one of means 29 to 31, wherein the display control includes a variable display pattern.

Means 33. In the means 32, the start control means includes a storage unit storing a plurality of variable display patterns.

Means 34. In the means 32 or 33, the variation display pattern includes a symbol variation mode.

Means 35. In the means 34, the symbol variation mode includes a variation speed.

Means 36. In any one of the means 29 to 35, 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 37. The gaming machine according to any one of means 29 to 36, wherein 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 38. In any one of the means 29 to 37, the main control unit may transmit the display control command to a start control unit of the display control unit when a predetermined condition regarding a variable display of a symbol is satisfied. A gaming machine characterized by:

Means 39. In any one of the means 29 to 38, 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 40. A gaming machine according to any one of the means 29 to 39, further comprising a voice control means capable of switching a notification mode by voice in synchronization with the change of the switching timing.

Means 41. A game machine according to claim 40, wherein said voice control means switches a voice notification mode based on a command from said display control unit.

Means 42. Any one of the means 29 to 41, further comprising a decoration display device control means capable of switching a notification mode by a decoration display device (for example, a lamp) in synchronization with the change of the switching timing. .

Means 43. In the means 42, the decoration display device control means switches a notification mode by the decoration display device based on a command from the display control unit.

[0055]

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 operating 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 the center 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.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each of the symbol rows 14 to 16 is basically composed of a plurality of (twelve) symbols 17A to 17L as identification information. 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 of (three) 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 section 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, the player is notified of the situation 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. 5A to 5D,
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-described symbol variations in the symbol rows 14 to 16, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the character is displayed on the display unit 13a separately from the symbols 17A to 17L.
Will be displayed. As the character in the present embodiment, it is set so that the source GC of a sushi restaurant is mainly displayed.

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.

Although 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 operating port 3, the game ball 5 is further moved to the operating port 3 during the display of the variation. 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 portions 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 gaming state of the pachinko machine 1 that changes according to the operation of the player, in the present embodiment, the game board 2 includes a through switch 20 and an operating 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) An opportunity to increase the probability that “7” is displayed on the 7-segment display unit 53 as compared with a normal case and open the blade 6 of the operating port 3 (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 the present 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 the present embodiment, once the big hit symbol is displayed in a pseudo manner, all the symbols 17A to 17L are again displayed.
In some cases, a re-variation process (re-lottery process) that fluctuates in a state in which the 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.

In the work RAM 84, the command buffer area 8 for storing a command from the main board 24 is stored.
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. By the way, this display command includes (1) symbols 17A to 17A after a predetermined time from the start of fluctuation.
Time information indicating that L is to be definitely displayed, display pattern information indicating a variation pattern represented by each reach pattern, and (2) symbol information indicating which symbol 17A to 17L is to be determined and displayed are 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, the 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 indicate what kind of time information suggests that the symbol change time is “10 seconds” or “40 seconds”, for example. Information indicating a variation pattern, such as executing a variation pattern (or any of the variation pattern groups).

Next, the symbol information is transmitted. 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 sent 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 in 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 changing the symbol variation time to “20 seconds” and the table C of 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.

Also, when the pattern code of the display command relating to the display pattern information is “04”, the time information for changing the symbol variation time to “40 seconds” and the table D in FIG. 8 as the variation pattern are referred to. 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 substrate 24 side, one of the pattern codes is selected and determined, and the variable display device 1 is selected.
Output to 3. In the present embodiment, an appropriate pattern code is selected and determined from the above-mentioned pattern codes based on the symbol (symbol information) to be fixed and stopped at that time, and is output to the variable display device 13. In other words, when the finalized symbol is a completely off symbol, it is assumed that only a normal variation is performed, and the pattern code “0” is used to refer to either Table A or Table B.
"1" or "02" is output. Also,
When the confirmed symbol is the off-reach symbol, a pattern code of “03” or “0” is set as a pattern to reach in order to take into account either table C or D.
4 "is output. Furthermore, when the confirmed symbol is a jackpot symbol or a one-frame out-of-reach reach symbol (so-called sad reach symbol) before and after the jackpot symbol,
To take Table D into consideration, the pattern code "0
4 "is output.

Here, as in the present embodiment, when a suitable one is selected and determined from the above-mentioned pattern codes based on a symbol to be fixed and stopped (fixed symbol), the same time data is output. Even in this case, the timing at which the pseudo symbol is stopped and displayed (the middle symbol row 1 that is stopped last)
5)
By appropriately adjusting the time of the effect display such as the re-change, 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 middle is displayed several seconds before the confirmed display (for example, three seconds before). The symbol in the symbol row 15 is pseudo-stopped, and a re-variation process is performed for a few seconds thereafter. When it is determined not to perform the re-variation, the symbol of the middle symbol row 15 is pseudo-stopped several seconds (for example, three seconds before) the final display, and the symbol is swung (displayed while shaking) for several seconds thereafter. Yes) process. Further, in the case where the confirmed symbol of this time is a reach symbol, the symbol of the middle symbol row 15 is pseudo-stopped several seconds before (for example, 3 seconds before) the finalized display, and the swing process is performed for several seconds thereafter. At the same time, if the final symbol is off this time, the symbol in the middle symbol row 15 is pseudo-stopped almost immediately before the final display (for example, one second before), and the swinging process is performed for one second thereafter. However, the above example is merely an example, and the timing of the display of the stop of the pseudo 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 (described below). The same applies to the case where the pattern code is selected and determined irrespective of the fixed symbol.

[0098] Of course, a configuration may be adopted in which 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" 40 seconds ". in this case,
For example, display processing may be performed such that the reach processing is fluctuated as selected and determined, and the pseudo stop display is once performed for the reach symbol, and then the display is changed again, and finally the deviated symbol is finally displayed for confirmation, thereby responding to a long time. Conversely, when the time information is relatively short (for example, when the pattern code is “0”).
1 "or" 02 "), and even if the confirmed symbol is a jackpot symbol or a reach symbol, the variation 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.

[0099] 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.

Then, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13
Makes the symbols pseudo stop in the order of left → right → middle symbol sequence after a predetermined time from the start of the change. 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 according 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 after 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. Then, thereafter, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13
Executes a notification effect for a predetermined time.

Further, in the present embodiment, in performing various reach effects, control is performed so that the player does not foresee which symbol of the middle symbol row 15 which is the target of the reach will be pseudo-stop-displayed. It has become.

The control will be described more specifically with reference to the timing chart of FIG. In the figure,
The pattern code of the display pattern information of the display command is "04" (that is, the time information is 40 seconds (t3-t
0)) and the symbol information is (a) minus one frame of unreasonable out-of-reach reach symbols (for example, “seven”, “six”, “seven”)
Symbol), (b) jackpot symbol (for example, "seven""seven"
It is assumed that the symbol information is a symbol indicating that the image is to be definitely displayed as a (7) symbol (c) plus a one-frame regrettable out-of-reach symbol (eg, a symbol of “7”, “8”, “7”). Further, it is assumed that “purchase reach” is selected and determined as the variation pattern by referring to the table D.

Assume that the display command is output at timing t0 as shown in FIG.

In this case, based on the display command, the variable display device 13 starts changing symbols,
After a lapse of a predetermined period, the symbols 17A to 17L are pseudo-stopped in the order of the left symbol row 14 and the right symbol row 16. When the second right symbol row 16 is stopped and displayed (timing t1)
, A reach state occurs. In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, in any of the cases (a) to (c) in the drawings, the period from the timing t0 of the start of the fluctuation to the timing t1 of the reach is assumed to be constant (for example, 5 seconds). . And after this, that is, both right and left symbol rows 14, 1
After the pseudo stop of No. 6, a reach effect based on the reach pattern (purchase reach in the present embodiment) selected and determined in the table D is executed by the variable display device 13.

At this time, in any of the cases shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C, the period from the timing t1 of the occurrence of the reach to the timing t2 at which the symbol of the middle symbol row 15 is pseudo-stopped is constant (for example, 30 seconds). During this period, the symbols will fluctuate at first so fast that the player cannot identify them, then at medium speed, which is somewhat more discernible than at high speed, and finally at very slow speed. In particular, in the last change at a low speed, it is configured such that it takes exactly one second for the symbol to change by one frame. In the purchase reach according to the present embodiment, the fluctuation display at a low speed is started from the symbol four frames before the big hit symbol. For example,
When the reach state occurs in the symbol "7" and the symbol "7", the variation at a low speed is started from the symbol "3C" 17C.

For this reason, in the case of FIG. 11A in which the middle symbol row 15 is stopped at the symbol 17F of “6” one frame before the big hit symbol (“7”), the fluctuation period at low speed is three. That's 3 seconds of a frame. Also, in the case of FIG. 9B in which the middle symbol row 15 is stopped at the same symbol “17G” as the big hit symbol (“seven”), the fluctuation period at low speed is 4 seconds for four frames. Further, in the case of FIG. 10C in which the middle symbol row 15 is stopped at the symbol 17H of the “8” next to the big hit symbol (“seven”), the fluctuation period at low speed is equivalent to 5 frames. 5 seconds.

As described above, the fluctuation periods at the high speed and the medium speed are different between (a), (b), and (c) because the fluctuation periods at the low speed are different. That is, in the case of FIG. 9A, the high-speed fluctuation period is “13 seconds”,
The fluctuation period at the medium speed is set to “14 seconds”, and in the case of FIG.
2.5 seconds "and the fluctuation period at the medium speed are set to" 13.5 seconds ", respectively, and in the case of FIG. 10C, the fluctuation period at the high speed is" 12 seconds "and the fluctuation period at the medium speed is set. The fluctuation period is set to “13 seconds”. However, in the present embodiment, the fluctuation periods at the high speed and the medium speed are very similar to each other so that it is difficult for the player to recognize the difference.

The timing t2 (the timing t2 is originally determined arbitrarily on the variable display device 13 side as described above, but in the present embodiment, it is a fixed timing: for example, the timing t3 to be described later. Seconds before), the symbols 17A to 17L of the middle symbol row 15, which is the final stopped symbol row, are pseudo-stopped. That is, in the case of FIG. 11A, the middle symbol row 15 is the symbol 17F of “six”.
In the case of FIG. 3B, the middle symbol row 15 is a symbol 17G of “seven”, and in the case of FIG. Stopped and displayed.
At this time, as described above, the high-speed fluctuation period and the medium-speed fluctuation period in the cases of FIGS. (A) to (c) are similar to each other.
It becomes difficult to foresee what symbol 5 is stopped and displayed.

[0110] Then, for a predetermined period of time, "seven", "six", "seven" (in the case of (a)) displayed as a pseudo stop,
"Seven""Seven""Seven" (in the case of (b)), "Seven""Eight"
The symbol of “seven” (in the case of (c)) is swingably displayed.
Note that, during the swinging period, notification by voice (for example, music reminiscent of disappointment, or blessing music at the time of a jackpot) may be performed. In this case, the separately provided audio control board is used for the variable display device 13.
The sound may be controlled based on a separate command output (transmitted) from the CPU, or a swing period and a swing start timing may be set in advance, and the sound may be controlled based on a signal from the main board 24 side. It may be that.

Of course, the same can be said for the above-described reach effect and the sound effect at the time of fluctuation. For example, the configuration may be such that a high-speed sound is emitted during a high-speed change, a medium-speed sound is output during a medium-speed change, and a low-speed sound is output during a low-speed change. In this case, a separate command may be transmitted from the variable display device 13 to the voice control board for voice control so that voice control in accordance with the switching of the speed is executed.

Further, such a concept can be embodied in a decorative display device (for example, a lamp). For example,
The configuration may be such that the high-speed blinking mode is executed during the high-speed fluctuation, the medium-speed blinking mode is executed during the medium-speed fluctuation, and the low-speed blinking mode is executed during the low-speed fluctuation. In this case, a separate command may be transmitted from the variable display device 13 to the lamp control board for lamp control so as to execute lamp blinking control or the like in accordance with the switching of the speed.

Also, of course, in the display section 13a,
The fact that the jackpot is a big hit or a disappointment may be notified by the background, the character, or the like.

Further, in the case of the above (b), a re-variation display may be performed instead of the swing display. In particular,
When the pseudo stop display is performed with an even number of big hit symbols, a re-change is performed, so that the player again has a chance to be given the certainty change mode.

Thereafter, the main board 24 outputs a decision command at a timing t3 at which a predetermined time (40 seconds) based on the time information has elapsed. Also,
The symbol is actually fixedly displayed on the variable display device 13 in synchronization with the timing t3.

Thereafter, the variable display device 13 executes the notification effect until the timing t4 (for example, 2 seconds). For example, in the case of a big hit (b) in the symbol to which the probability change mode is given, the user is notified of the fact (for example, the character of “probably big hit” is displayed). Also,
Stopped at a regrettable design of one frame before and after (a)
In the case of (c), the user is notified of the fact (for example, the character of “fortunately” is displayed). 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. In this case, a characteristic point is that "a notification unit for notifying a gaming state is provided for a predetermined period after the final display". In addition,
The notifying means can be provided on the main display board 24 side even if the variable display device 1 is provided.
It may be provided on the third side.

In addition, the timing at which the symbol is pseudo-stopped (eg, timings t1 and t2) does not need to be uniform, and is basically set arbitrarily on the variable display device 13 side. For example, it is confirmed and displayed with a jackpot symbol,
If the re-fluctuation process is not performed, the symbol in the middle symbol row 15 may be pseudo-stop-displayed at the timing immediately before the timing t3 when the final display is performed.

Further, in the above example of the timing chart, when the fluctuation starts at the timing t0, the timing t3
(In the case of “40 seconds after the start of the change”), the configuration has been described. Of course, in the present embodiment, there are a plurality of time information patterns. The corresponding pseudo stop timing, and
It is possible to adjust the effect display time such as swinging and re-fluctuation.

As described in detail above, according to the present embodiment, the main board 24 is started when the symbols 17A to 17L change.
, 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.
It is composed of time information indicating that L is definitely displayed, display pattern information suggesting a variation pattern, and (2) symbol information indicating which symbol 17A to 17L is to be determined and displayed.

In this manner, only one group of display commands is output from the main board 24 at the time of one symbol change (consequently, only two commands, that is, the start and the end of the change, are transmitted). Even so, the variable display device 13 itself performs 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. Also,
The variable display device 13 performs various effect displays such as rocking and re-fluctuation between the time when the pseudo symbol is stopped and the time when the pseudo symbol is displayed. Therefore, when the pseudo symbol is stopped and displayed,
By appropriately adjusting the time of effect display such as swinging and re-fluctuation, various changes and effects can be executed without causing the player to feel uncomfortable. As a result, the content of control can be significantly simplified without lowering the interest for the player.

Further, in the present embodiment, 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 it is necessary to control these on the main board side, 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.

In the present embodiment, when an effect based on a predetermined display pattern based on a predetermined display command (for example, a fluctuation pattern of purchase reach with time information of 40 seconds) is performed according to a stop symbol. The fluctuation period at high speed, the fluctuation period at medium speed, and the fluctuation period at low speed (the ratio of each period) are different from each other. For this reason, even if the display command is simple, it is difficult for the player to foresee the symbols 17A to 17L of the middle symbol row 15 that are finally finally displayed or pseudo stop-displayed.
In particular, in the present embodiment, since the fluctuation periods at the high speed and the medium speed are very similar to each other, it is also difficult to foresee the stop symbol based on the different fluctuation periods of these fluctuation speeds. As a result, it is possible to avoid a problem such as a decrease in amusement caused by the player being able to foresee the stop symbol.

In addition, in this embodiment, not only the fluctuation period at high speed, the fluctuation period at medium speed, and the fluctuation period at low speed (ratio of each period) are different from each other, but also the timing of pseudo stop, The swing period and the like can also be arbitrarily changed on the variable display device 13 side. For this reason, the above-described effects can be more reliably achieved.

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.

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.

In the above embodiment, “5 seconds”
Four types (plural types) of time data of “10 seconds”, “20 seconds”, and “40 seconds” are provided, but only one type of time data may be provided. For example, as the time data, the time from the start of the change to the final display may be set to “30 seconds” each time.

(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 determines which variation pattern is to be adopted in the table ( 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, similar to the first embodiment, the pattern code may be determined according to the fixed symbol, or the pattern code may be selected and determined irrespective of the fixed symbol. In the former case, for example, if the confirmed symbol is a big hit symbol or a lost reach symbol, a configuration may be considered in which 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. 10, a predetermined pattern is selected and determined from the time data (the time from the start of the change to the final display) and each of the above-described 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”, time information indicating that the symbol change time is “10 seconds” and pattern information indicating that the normal change is to be performed as the change pattern are included. Is performed based on Therefore, when the pattern code “02” is output, the variable display device 13 performs the normal fluctuation for 10 seconds.

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 “25 seconds” and the pattern information that the normal reach variation is performed as the variation pattern are 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 symbol variation time is “40 seconds” and the pattern that the purchase reach variation is performed as the variation 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.

(Third Embodiment) Next, a third 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 and the like will be omitted, and the following mainly describes the differences.

In the first embodiment, when a predetermined reach pattern (purchase reach) is executed,
In the flow from the start of the fluctuation to the output of the fixed command, the emphasis is mainly on the difference in the timing of switching the fluctuation speed (the fluctuation period at each fluctuation speed) from the occurrence of the reach to the pseudo stop of the symbols in the middle symbol row 15. Explained. In contrast,
In the present embodiment, there is a characteristic point in a case where the big hit symbol is stopped as a pseudo stop symbol and a re-variation process is performed. Therefore, description will be made below with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

In the figure, the pattern code of the display pattern information of the display command is “04” (that is, the time information is 40 seconds (t3−t0)), and the symbol information is (a) to (c). ) Is symbol information indicating that the jackpot symbol (for example, a symbol of “seven”, “seven”, or “seven”) to which the probable change mode is given is definitely displayed. Further, the variable display device 13 selects and determines “purchase reach” as a variation pattern by referring to the table D, and assigns a normal mode as a pseudo stop symbol by referring to a separate table ( Even-numbered jackpot symbols (without probabilistic mode)
It is assumed that “six” and “six” symbols have been selected and determined.

Assume that the display command is output at timing t0 as shown in FIG.

In this case, based on the display command, the variable display device 13 starts changing symbols,
After the elapse of the predetermined period, the symbols 17A to 17L (for example, “six” and “six”) in the order of the left symbol row 14, the right symbol row 16, and the middle symbol row 15
The symbol “F” (17F) is pseudo-stopped. At this time, in any of the cases (a) to (c), the period from the fluctuation start timing t0 to the timing t2 at which the symbol of the middle symbol row 15 is pseudo-stopped is constant (for example, 30).
Second).

As described above, at the timing t2 (the timing t2 is arbitrarily determined on the variable display device 13 side as described above: for example, 10 seconds before a timing t3 described later), the middle symbol which is the final stopped symbol row Row 15
Symbols 17A to 17L are pseudo-stopped.

Then, a predetermined time (timing t)
21-Timing t2: for example, for 2 seconds), the symbols 17F of the “six”, “six”, and “six” that are pseudo-stop-displayed are displayed in a swinging manner. Note that during the swing period, notification by sound (for example, a blessing music at the time of a jackpot, or a sound that creates an atmosphere that might be changed again from now on) may be performed. In this case, the separately provided voice control board may control the voice based on a separate command output (transmitted) from the variable display device 13, or set the swing period and the swing start timing in advance. In addition, the sound may be controlled based on a signal from the main board 24 side. Also, of course, on the display unit 13a, it may be possible to notify that a big hit has been made by a background, characters, or the like.

Thereafter, at timing t21, the CPU 83 of the variable display device 13 sets
Sixteen symbols are re-fluctuated in a state of being aligned all at once. At this time, in the cases shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the speed of the fluctuation at the time of the re-variation is initially a middle speed, then a low speed, and the motor is stopped and rocked for a predetermined time. In the case of FIG. 9C, the fluctuation speed at the time of the re-variation is low from the beginning (the middle-speed period is zero), is then swung for a predetermined time, and then is changed again at a very high speed for a predetermined time. (A)-
Which of the patterns (c) is adopted is determined on the variable display device 13 side. Then, from the main board 24,
At a timing t3 when a predetermined time (40 seconds) based on the time information has elapsed, a confirmation command is output. The variable display device 13 is synchronized with the timing t3.
, The symbol (the symbol “17”, “seven”, “seven” 17G) is actually confirmed and displayed.

At this time, while the swing period is the same in both cases (a) and (b), the fluctuation period at the medium speed and the fluctuation period at the low speed are different (case (a)). , The medium speed period is 8 seconds and the low speed period is 3 seconds.
The slow period is 4 seconds in seconds). In the case (c), the medium speed period is zero, the low speed period is 7 seconds, and the swing period is 5 seconds.
The fluctuation speed itself is completely different from the former two, for example, the second and the ultra high speed period are 3 seconds. For this reason, it is difficult for the player to foresee which symbol is to be definitely displayed after the re-fluctuation (especially, whether it is definitely displayed in an even symbol or odd symbol).

Thereafter, the variable display device 13 executes the notification effect until the timing t4 (for example, 2 seconds). For example, in the case where a symbol to which the probability change mode is applied becomes a big hit as in the above example, the fact is notified (for example, a character of “probably variable big hit” is displayed). Also, in the above example, a specific example in which the symbol to which the probable change mode is given by the re-variation process is a big hit is shown. However, as a result of the re-variation, there is a case where only the even number of the big hit symbols is still confirmed and displayed. Is also good. In this case, the user is notified of the fact (for example, the character “normal jackpot” is displayed). Further, 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.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is difficult for a player to foresee what kind of symbol is to be confirmed and displayed even when the re-variation process is performed. For this reason, at the time of re-change, it is possible to avoid a problem such as a decrease in amusement caused by the player being able to foresee the fixed symbol.

When the re-variation processing is performed,
The information indicating that re-variation is performed may be included in the fluctuation pattern, or it is determined whether or not to perform the re-variation process on the variable display device side only when the symbol information is a big hit symbol,
The re-variation process may be performed based on the determination result.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the display command is output (transmitted), the command is not transmitted from the main board 24 until the finalization command is output. Only when this is performed, a configuration may be adopted in which a re-variation display command is separately transmitted from the main board 24 at the start of the re-fluctuation.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the above embodiment, and may be implemented as follows, for example.

(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, the concept of the probability 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 working port 3 is opened. (2) shortening the time period for changing the number in the 7-segment display section 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 changing mode, in addition to the mode that is continued until the next big hit, the one that is continued 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 probability change mode, a 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, electroluminescence (EL), a fluorescent display tube or the like may be used other than the liquid crystal display described above.

(G) A pachinko machine of a type different from that of the above embodiment can be embodied. 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.
Of course, odd symbols 17A, 17C, 17E, 17G,
When the display is temporarily stopped at 17I and 17K and the re-variation display is performed, the display may be finally stopped and displayed in an even-numbered design.

(I) Applying the concept of 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.

[0163]

As described in detail above, according to the present invention,
In a game 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, it is possible to remarkably simplify the control contents on the style output side without lowering interest. It has the effect.

[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 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.

FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining a command output timing and the like with respect to elapse of time in the third 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 variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of pieces of identification information on a display unit, based on the occurrence of a predetermined trigger, stopping the variable display of the identification information after a predetermined time, and confirming the display with the predetermined identification information. Output means for outputting a predetermined format to the variable display device, and the variable display device performs the identification information at least once between the occurrence of the predetermined trigger and the final display. A game machine comprising control means for switching a variation mode of the above and changing the timing of the switching.