JP2002325915A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can promote attractions of games in the type capable of altering the state thereof. SOLUTION: A game control means determines whether stopping patterns to be displayed on a variable display device should be those with a higher probability of varying, those with a medium probability of varying or others (normal patterns) based on specified random numbers. When the specific game state is ended, actually, the higher probability state, the medium probability state or the normal state is set based on the result of the determination. Information on the result of the higher probability state or the medium probability state is outputted outside the game machine as information output signal.

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 gaming machine which can be controlled to a state advantageous to a player such as a specific game state when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a winning area such as a winning opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are obtained. Are paid out to players.
Further, a variable display device whose display state can be changed is provided, a variable display is performed on the variable display device in accordance with a start winning, and a predetermined display mode is obtained when the display result on the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display mode. Some are configured to provide a gaming value to a player.

[0003] The game value means that the state of the variable prize ball device provided in the game area of the gaming machine is in an advantageous state for a player who is likely to win a hit ball, or in an advantageous state for the player. For example, or a condition that facilitates the establishment of the prize ball payout condition.

[0004] In the first class pachinko gaming machines, the fact that the display result of the variable display device for displaying a special symbol is a combination of predetermined specific display modes is usually called "big hit".
That. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the state shifts to a big hit game state in which a hit ball is easy to win. In each open period, a predetermined number (for example, 1
If there is a prize in the (0) special winning opening, the special winning opening is closed. The number of opening of the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 16 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and if the opening time elapses even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the winning opening is closed. If the predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the special winning opening) is not satisfied at the time when the special winning opening is closed, the big hit gaming state ends.

Further, in the variable display device, a symbol other than a symbol which is a final stop symbol (for example, a middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) is stopped and rocked in a state where the symbol continues for a predetermined time and coincides with the specific display mode. There is a possibility that a big hit may occur before the final result is displayed due to the state of being enlarged, reduced or deformed, or the fact that multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously with the same symbol, the position of the displayed symbol is switched, etc. (Hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) are referred to as reach effects. A variable display including a reach effect is called a reach variable display. By making the fluctuation pattern different from the fluctuation pattern in the normal state in the reach state, the interest of the game is enhanced. If the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device does not satisfy the condition for reaching the reach state, the result is "missing" and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

Further, there is also a gaming machine which can be controlled to a high probability state (probability change state = probable change state) in which the probability of a more advantageous game state (for example, a big hit) is improved when a predetermined condition is satisfied. is there. In such a gaming machine, a player plays a game while expecting that a predetermined condition for a probability change state is satisfied.

[0007]

The probability fluctuation state is intended to enhance the interest of the player.
No effect is given to the player as to whether it is in the probability fluctuation state or in the probability fluctuation state. Then, there is a possibility that the player alone may get bored.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of changing the state of the gaming machine, which can further enhance the interest of the game.

[0009]

A gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
Variable display device whose display state can be changed (variable display device 9)
A gaming machine that can provide a predetermined game value when the display result on the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display mode, wherein the specific display mode is displayed as a display result on the variable display device. There are a plurality of states with different probabilities, and the plurality of states are at least a first probability state, a second probability state in which the specific display mode is more likely to be displayed than the first probability state, and a second state. And a third probability state in which the specific display mode is more likely to be displayed than the probability state of the third state. (CPU5
6 (for example, the processing of steps S393 to S401), and information (for example, an information output signal) that can specify which of a plurality of states the probability state generated based on the determination result of the state determination means is. And a test signal) to output the state information to the outside of the gaming machine (for example, step S30).

The state determining means makes a determination based on, for example, satisfaction of a variable display start condition (eg, winning in the starting winning opening 14) which triggered the display of the specific display mode.

In the state information output processing, information indicating that the specific display mode has been displayed and information indicating which of the plurality of states the state is (for example, two big hits and three big hits) are output. It may be configured to perform processing.

On the condition that the specific display mode is displayed as a display result on the variable display device, it is possible to control to a specific game state which is advantageous to the player, and after the specific game state ends, the determination result of the state determination means is displayed. It may be configured to change the probability state based on this.

A game machine according to another aspect of the present invention is disadvantageous to a player by detecting start-up detecting means (for example, start-up ball detectors 205a to 205c) for detecting a game medium in a start-up area provided in a game area. A variable prize device (for example, a variable prize ball device 220) that performs a starting operation that is in a state that is advantageous to the player from a normal state, and a specific detecting means (for detecting a game medium in a specific region provided in the variable prize device) For example, a gaming machine capable of controlling the variable winning device to a specific game state more advantageous to the player than the starting operation by detecting the specific ball detector 248), and changing the internal structure of the variable winning device to a plurality of states. It is possible to
The plurality of states include at least a first state, a second state that is more advantageous to the player than the first state, and a third state that is more advantageous to the player than the second state. A state determining means (CPU 56 or the like, for example, the processing of steps S582 to S589) for determining which of the plurality of states is to be set according to the satisfaction of the condition, and is generated based on the determination result of the state determining means Status information output processing (eg, step S59) for outputting information (for example, an information output signal or a test signal) capable of specifying which of the plurality of states the performed state is to the outside of the gaming machine
Can be executed.

The state determining means makes a determination based on, for example, the detection of the specific detecting means which has triggered the generation of the specific game state.

[0015] After the specific game state ends, the state may be changed based on the determination result of the state determination means.

The state generated based on the determination result of the state determination means may be configured to be continued at least until the next specific game state occurs.

A numerical value updating means (for example, a counter for generating random 3 or random 5) for updating a numerical value is provided, and a state determining means extracts a numerical value from the numerical value updating means,
You may be comprised so that a decision may be made based on the extracted numerical value.

An information output board (for example, an information terminal board 34) for outputting information relating to the game, which is electrically connectable to an external device provided outside the gaming machine, is provided. It may be configured to perform a process of outputting information to the information output board.

A plurality of connecting means (for example, terminals 341 to 35) for electrically connecting the information output board to an external device are provided.
2) may be provided, and the connection means may be separately provided for each of a plurality of states determined by the state determination means.

Game control means (CPU) for controlling the progress of the game
56, etc.) and variable data storage means (for example, a backup RAM) provided in the game control means and capable of retaining stored data for a predetermined period even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. In the data storage means, data capable of specifying a state based on the determination result of the state determination means is stored, and after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, when the power supply is restored, the data is held in the variable data storage means. It may be configured to be able to recover the state based on the data that is stored.

In the variation data storage means, data capable of specifying the output state of state information (for example, an information output signal or a test signal) is stored, and when power supply to the game machine is stopped and power supply is restored Alternatively, the output state of the state information may be restored based on the data held in the variable data storage means.

[0022]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiment 1 Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine viewed from the front, FIG.
Is a front view showing the front of the game board. In the following embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example, but the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to, for example, an image-based gaming machine or a slot machine.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 comprises an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape and provided in a game frame so as to be openable and closable. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be freely openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanical components and the like are attached, and various components attached to them (excluding a game board described later). And a structure including:

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1
It has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2, there is a hit ball supply tray (upper tray) 3. A surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing a hitting ball are provided below the hitting ball supply tray 3. Glass door frame 2
A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back of the game board. The game board 6 is a structure that includes a plate-like body constituting the board and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front of the game board 6.

In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, there is provided a variable display device (special symbol display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each of which variably displays a symbol as identification information. The variable display device 9 includes, for example, “left”, “middle”,
There are three “right” variable display sections (symbol display areas).
Below the variable display device 9, a start winning port 14 is provided. The winning ball that has entered the start winning port 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the starting port switch 14a. In addition, a variable winning ball device 15 that performs opening and closing operations is provided below the starting winning port 14. Variable winning ball device 1
5 is opened by a solenoid 16.

An opening / closing plate 20 which is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific game state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. Opening / closing plate 20
Is a means for opening and closing the special winning opening. One of the winning balls guided to the back of the game board 6 from the opening / closing plate 20 (V winning area)
The winning ball entered is detected by the V winning switch 22, and the winning ball from the opening / closing plate 20 is detected by the count switch 23. On the back of the game board 6, there is also provided a solenoid 21A for switching the route in the special winning opening. In addition, a special symbol start memory display (hereinafter referred to as a start memory display) 18 including four LEDs for displaying the number of effective winning balls in the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of start memories, is provided below the variable display device 9. Is provided. Every time there is a valid start winning, the start memory display 18 increases the number of the lighted LEDs by one.
Each time the variable display of the variable display device 9 is started,
Reduce the number of lit LEDs by one.

When a game ball is won at the gate 32 and detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the display of the ordinary symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, the variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (the symbols become visible when lit). For example, when the right lamp is lit at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. Ordinary symbol display 10
In the vicinity of, the number of winning balls entering the gate 32 is displayed.
A normal symbol start storage display 41 having a display unit with three LEDs is provided. Each time there is a prize in the gate 32, the ordinary symbol start storage display 41 sets the LED to light up by one.
increase. Then, every time the variable display of the ordinary symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be turned on is decreased by one.

The game board 6 has a plurality of winning ports 24, 29,
30, 33, and 39 are provided, and winning prizes 24, 2 for game balls.
Winning to 9,30,33, respectively, winning opening switch 2
4a, 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a. At the left and right sides of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 which are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an out port 26 for absorbing hit balls which have not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided at upper left and right sides outside the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 2
8c is provided. Further, decorative LEDs are installed around each structure (such as a special winning opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative illuminant provided in the gaming machine.

In this example, the prize ball lamp 51 is turned on when there is a remaining prize ball near the left frame lamp 28b.
Is provided, and near the top frame lamp 28a, a ball-out lamp 52 that is turned on when the supply ball has run out is provided.
Further, FIG. 1 also shows a card unit 50 that is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 and that allows a ball to be lent by inserting a prepaid card.

The card unit 50 has a usable indicator lamp 151 for indicating whether or not the card is ready for use. If there is a fraction (less than 100 yen) in the balance information recorded in the card, the fraction is displayed. Fraction display switch 1 for displaying on a frequency display LED provided near hit ball supply tray 3
52, a connecting stand direction indicator 15 indicating which side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 the card unit 50 corresponds to
3. Card insertion indicator 154 indicating that a card has been inserted into card unit 50, card insertion slot 155 into which a card as a recording medium is inserted, and a card reader provided on the back of card insertion slot 155 A card unit lock 156 is provided to release the card unit 50 when checking the mechanism of the writer.

A game ball fired from the hitting ball launching device enters the game area 7 through the hitting ball rail, and then descends from the game area 7. When a hit ball enters the starting winning opening 14 and is detected by the starting opening switch 14a, the special display starts variable display (variation) on the variable display device 9 if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If it is not in a state where the variable display of the symbol can be started, the number of start storages is increased by one.

The variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of the special symbols at the time of stop is a big hit symbol (specific display result), the state shifts to the big hit gaming state. That is, the opening and closing plate 2
0 is released until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls is won. When a hit ball wins in the V winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V winning switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened.
Is released again. Generation of the continuation right is permitted a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

The combination of special symbols on the variable display device 9 at the time of stoppage is a big hit symbol with a probability variation (probably variable symbol).
, The probability of the next big hit increases. That is, it is a more advantageous state for the player, which is a probable change state.

When the ball hits the gate 32, the ordinary symbol display device 10 enters a state where the ordinary symbol is variably displayed. When the stop symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15
Is open for a predetermined time. Furthermore, in the probable state,
The probability that the stop symbol in the ordinary symbol display 10 hits the symbol will be increased, and the opening time and the number of times the variable winning ball device 15 will be opened will be increased. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a hit symbol or when the stop symbol of the special symbol is a positive variation symbol, and the like, from the disadvantageous state for the player. Change to an advantageous state. Note that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept that also includes changing from a closed state to an open state.

Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a back view of the gaming machine as viewed from the back.

As shown in FIG. 3, on the back side of the gaming machine, a variable display control unit 49 including a symbol control board 80 for controlling the variable display device 9, a game control board (mainly a game control microcomputer) on which a game control microcomputer and the like are mounted. (Substrate) 31 is provided. In addition, a payout control board 37 on which a payout control microcomputer for performing ball payout control and the like is mounted. Furthermore, various decorations L provided on the game board 6
ED, start memory display 18 and ordinary symbol start memory display 41, decorative lamp 25, top frame lamp 28a, left frame lamp 28b, right frame lamp 28c, prize ball lamp 51, and ball cut lamp provided on the frame side A lamp control board 35 on which a lamp control means for controlling lighting of the lamp 52 is mounted, and a sound control board 70 on which a sound control means for controlling sound generation from the speaker 27 are also provided. Also, DC3
A power supply board 910 on which a power supply circuit for generating 0 V, 21 V DC, 12 V DC and 5 V DC is mounted, and a launch control board 91 are provided.

A terminal board 160 provided with terminals for outputting various information to the outside of the gaming machine is provided above the back side of the gaming machine. Terminal board 160
At least, a ball-out terminal for introducing and outputting the output of the ball-out detection switch, a prize-ball terminal for externally outputting the prize-ball number signal, and a ball-end number signal for externally outputting the ball lending number signal. A ball lending terminal is provided. An information terminal board (information output board) 34 having terminals for outputting various information from the main board 31 to the outside of the gaming machine is provided near the center.

Further, storage contents holding means (for example, a backup RA which can hold the contents even when the power supply is stopped) included in each board (main board 31, payout control board 37, etc.)
A switch board 190 provided with a clear switch 921 as an operation means for clearing the backup data stored in M) is provided. Switch board 1
The 90 is provided with a clear switch 921 and a connector 922 connected to another substrate such as the main substrate 31.

The game balls stored in the storage tank 38 pass through the guide rail and reach a ball payout device covered with a prize ball case 40A. At the top of the ball payout device, a ball out switch 187 as a game medium out detecting means is provided. When the ball-out switch 187 detects the ball-out, the payout operation of the ball payout device stops. The ball out switch 187 is a switch for detecting the presence or absence of a game ball in the game ball passage. The ball out switch 167 for detecting a shortage of replenishment balls in the storage tank 38 is also provided at an upstream portion (in the storage tank 38) of the guide rail. (Adjacent portion). When the ball-out detection switch 167 detects a shortage of game balls, the replenishment mechanism provided on the game machine installation island supplies the game machines with game balls.

When a large number of game balls as a prize based on a prize or game balls based on a ball lending request are paid out and the hit ball supply tray 3 becomes full, and the game balls are further paid out, the game balls are transferred to the surplus ball tray 4. Be guided. When the game balls are further paid out, the full tank switch 48 (not shown in FIG. 3)
Turns on. In this state, the rotation of the payout motor in the ball payout device stops, the operation of the ball payout device stops, and the driving of the firing device also stops.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of the main board 31. FIG. 4 also shows the payout control board 37, the lamp control board 35, the sound control board 70, the emission control board 91, and the symbol control board 80.
The pachinko machine 1 is provided on the main board 31 according to the program.
, A gate switch 32a, a starting port switch 14a, a V winning switch 22, a count switch 23, a winning port switches 24a, 29a, 30a,
33a, 39a, full tank switch 48, ball out switch 187, prize ball count switch 301A, switch circuit 58 for giving signals from clear switch 921 to basic circuit 53, solenoid 16 for opening and closing variable prize ball device 15, opening and closing plate A solenoid 21 for opening and closing the solenoid 20 and a solenoid circuit 59 for driving a solenoid 21A for switching a path in the special winning opening in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53 are mounted.

Although not shown in FIG. 4, the count switch short-circuit signal is also transmitted to the basic circuit 53 via the switch circuit 58. Further, the gate switch 32a, the starting port switch 14a, the V winning switch 22, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 24a, 29a, 30a,
Switches such as the switches 33a and 39a, the full tank switch 48, the ball out switch 187, and the prize ball count switch 301A may be what are called sensors. That is, any name can be used as long as it is a game medium detecting means (game ball detecting means in this example) capable of detecting a game ball.

Also, according to the data given from the basic circuit 53, the jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot, the effective start information indicating the number of start winning balls used for starting the variable display of symbols on the variable display device 9, and the probability fluctuation are obtained. An information output circuit 64 for outputting an information output signal such as probability change information indicating occurrence to an external device such as a hall computer is mounted.

The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, and an R as storage means (means for storing variation data) used as a work memory.
AM55, a CPU 5 that performs a control operation according to a program
6 and an I / O port unit 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to have at least the RAM 55 therein.
The OM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally mounted or built-in.

A part or all of the RAM (may be a RAM with a built-in CPU) 55 is a backup RAM backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped,
Some or all of the contents of 55 are saved.

A hit ball launching device that hits and launches a game ball is driven by a drive motor 94 controlled by a circuit on a launch control board 91. Then, the driving force of the driving motor 94 is adjusted according to the operation amount of the operation knob 5. That is, the circuit on the firing control board 91 is controlled so that the hit ball is fired at a speed corresponding to the operation amount of the operation knob 5.

In this embodiment, the lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 35 is provided with the start memory display 18, the ordinary symbol start memory display 41 and the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board. While performing display control, display control of the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, the award ball lamp 51, and the ball out lamp 52 provided on the frame side is performed. The display control of the variable display device 9 for variably displaying a special symbol and the ordinary symbol display 10 for variably displaying an ordinary symbol is controlled by a symbol control board 80.
This is performed by display control means mounted on the device.

FIG. 5 shows the circuit configuration in the symbol control board 80 by using an LCD (liquid crystal display) 82 as an example of the variable display device 9, an ordinary symbol display 10, and an output port (port 0) of the main board 31. , 2) are block diagrams shown together with 570, 572 and output buffer circuits 620, 62A.
Output port (output port 2) 572 outputs 8-bit data, and output port 570 outputs a 1-bit strobe signal (INT signal).

The display control CPU 101 controls the control data R
It operates according to the program stored in the OM 102, and receives an INT signal from the main board 31 via the noise filter 107 and the input buffer circuit 105B, and receives a display control command via the input buffer circuit 105A. As the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B, for example, 74HC540 and 74HC14, which are general-purpose ICs, can be used. When the display control CPU 101 does not include an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B and the display control CPU 101.

Then, the display control CPU 101 controls display of a screen displayed on the LCD 82 according to the received display control command. Specifically, a command corresponding to the display control command is given to the VDP 103. VDP103
Reads necessary data from the character ROM 86. The VDP 103 controls the LCD 8 according to the input data.
2 to generate image data to be displayed on the LCD 2, and output R, G, B signals and a synchronization signal to the LCD 82.

FIG. 5 also shows a reset circuit 83 for resetting the VDP 103, an oscillation circuit 85 for supplying an operation clock to the VDP 103, and a character ROM 86 for storing frequently used image data. The frequently used image data stored in the character ROM 86 is, for example, a person, an animal, or an image composed of characters, figures, or symbols displayed on the LCD 82.

The input buffer circuits 105A and 105B
Signals can be passed only in the direction from the main board 31 to the symbol control board 80. Therefore, the symbol control board 8
There is no room for a signal to be transmitted from the 0 side to the main board 31 side. That is, the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B together with the input ports constitute irreversible information input means. Even if the circuit in the symbol control board 80 is tampered with, the signal output by the tampering is not transmitted to the main board 31 side.

Noise filter 10 for blocking high-frequency signals
For example, a three-terminal capacitor or a ferrite bead is used as 7, but even if the display control command includes noise between the substrates due to the presence of the noise filter 107, the effect is eliminated. Also, a noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 62A of the main board 31.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing components related to payout, such as components of the payout control board 37 and the ball payout device 97. As shown in FIG. 6, the detection signal from the full tank switch 48 is transmitted to the main board 3 via the relay board 71.
1 is input to the I / O port 57. Full tank switch 4
Reference numeral 8 denotes a switch for detecting whether the surplus ball tray 4 is full. Further, the detection signal from the ball cut switch 187 is also transmitted to the main board 31 via the relay board 72 and the relay board 71.
It is input to the / O port 57.

The CPU 56 of the main board 31 determines whether the detection signal from the ball out switch 187 indicates that the ball is out.
Alternatively, when the detection signal from the full tank switch 48 indicates the full tank state, a payout control command to instruct payout prohibition is transmitted. When receiving the payout control command instructing the payout prohibition, the payout control CPU 37 of the payout control board 37
1 stops the ball payout process.

Further, a detection signal from the award ball count switch 301A is also input to the I / O port 57 of the main board 31 via the relay board 72 and the relay board 71. The prize ball count switch 301A is provided in the payout mechanism of the ball payout device 97, and detects a prize ball payout ball actually paid out.

When there is a prize, the payout control board 37 has output ports (ports 0, 1) 570, 571 of the main board 31.
, A payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is input. The output port (output port 1) 571 outputs 8-bit data, and the output port 570 outputs a 1-bit strobe signal (INT signal). The payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is input to the I / O port 372a via the input buffer circuit 373A. The INT signal is input to the interrupt terminal of the payout control CPU 371 via the input buffer circuit 373B. The payout control CPU 371
A payout control command is input via the / O port 372a, and the ball payout device 97 is driven in accordance with the payout control command to perform award ball payout. In this embodiment, the payout control CPU 371 is a one-chip microcomputer and has at least a RAM.

In the main board 31, the output port 5
Buffer circuits 620 and 68A are provided outside 70 and 571. As the buffer circuits 620 and 68A, for example, 74HC250 and 7HC which are general-purpose CMOS-ICs
4HC14 is used. According to such a configuration, since a signal inputted from the outside to the inside of the main board 31 is blocked, a signal line to which a signal may be given from the payout control board 37 to the main board 31 is further reliably eliminated. be able to. Note that a noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 68A.

The payout control CPU 371 is connected to the output port 3
Via 72g, a ball lending number signal indicating the lending ball number is output to the terminal board 160, and a buzzer driving signal is output to the buzzer board 75. A buzzer is mounted on the buzzer board 75. Further, an error signal is output to the error display LED 374 via the output port 372e.

Further, the input port 3 of the payout control board 37
Detection signals from the winning ball count switch 301A and the ball lending count switch 301B are input to the relay board 72b via the relay board 72. Ball rental count switch 3
01B is provided in the payout mechanism portion of the ball payout device 97,
Detects the actual loaned ball. Dispensing control board 3
7 is transmitted to the payout motor 289 in the payout mechanism of the ball payout device 97 via the output port 372c and the relay board 72.

The card unit 50 is provided with a microcomputer for controlling the card unit. Also,
The card unit 50 is provided with a fraction display switch 152, a connection board direction indicator 153, a card insertion indicator lamp 154, and a card insertion slot 155 (see FIG. 1). The balance display board 74 is connected to a frequency display LED, a ball lending switch, and a return switch provided near the hit ball supply tray 3.

From the balance display board 74 to the card unit 50
In response to the operation of the player, a ball lending switch signal and a return switch signal are given via the payout control board 37. In addition, the balance display board 74 is provided from the card unit 50.
, A card balance display signal indicating the balance of the prepaid card and a ball lending possible display signal are given via the payout control board 37. Between the card unit 50 and the payout control board 37, a connection signal (VL signal) and a unit operation signal (B
RDY signal), ball lending request signal (BRQ signal), ball lending completion signal (EXS signal) and pachinko machine operation signal (P
RDY signal) is exchanged via the I / O port 372f.

When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on,
The payout control CPU 371 of the payout control board 37 outputs a PRDY signal to the card unit 50. The card unit control microcomputer outputs a VL signal. The payout control CPU 371 determines the connection state / non-connection state based on the input state of the VL signal. When the card is accepted in the card unit 50 and the ball lending switch is operated to input a ball lending switch signal, the microcomputer for controlling the card unit outputs a BRDY signal to the payout control board 37. When a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the microcomputer for controlling the card unit outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 37.

The payout control C of the payout control board 37
When the PU 371 raises the EXS signal to the card unit 50 and detects the fall of the BRQ signal from the card unit 50, it drives the payout motor 289 and pays out a predetermined number of loaned balls to the player. At this time, the distribution solenoid 310 is in a driving state. That is, the ball distribution member 311 is directed to the ball lending side. When the payout is completed, the payout control CPU 371 causes the EXS signal to the card unit 50 to fall. Thereafter, if the BRDY signal from the card unit 50 is not in the ON state, the winning ball payout control is executed.

As described above, all signals from the card unit 50 are input to the payout control board 37. Therefore, regarding the ball lending control, the card unit 5
No signal is input from 0 to the main board 31, and there is no room for a signal to be incorrectly input from the card unit 50 side to the basic circuit 53 of the main board 31.

In this embodiment, a power-off signal is also input from the power supply board 910 to the payout control board 37. The power-off signal is input to the non-maskable interrupt (NMI) terminal of the payout control CPU 371. Further, the payout control board 3
7 is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, at least a part of the contents of the RAM is stored for a predetermined period.

In this embodiment, the case where the card unit 50 is installed separately from the gaming machine and adjacent to the gaming machine is exemplified, but the card unit 50 is integrated with the gaming machine. You may. Also, the present invention can be applied to a case where a gaming machine rents a game ball corresponding to the amount of money when a coin is inserted.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the power supply board 910. The power supply board 910 includes a main board 31, a symbol control board 80, a sound control board 70, and a lamp control board 35.
And it is installed independently of the electric component control boards such as the payout control board 37 and generates voltages used by each electric component control board and mechanical components in the gaming machine. In this example, AC24
V, VSL (DC + 30V), DC + 21V, DC + 12
V and + 5V DC. A capacitor 916 serving as a backup power supply, that is, a memory holding unit is provided with a D
It is charged from C + 5V, that is, from a power supply line for driving an IC or the like on each substrate. Note that VSL is generated in the rectifier circuit 912 by rectifying and boosting 24 V AC by a rectifier. VSL is a solenoid drive power supply.

The transformer 911 converts an AC voltage from an AC power supply to 24V. AC 24V voltage is applied to connector 9
15 is output. Further, the rectifier circuit 912 includes an AC24
A DC voltage of +30 V is generated from V and output to the DC-DC converter 913 and the connector 915. DC-D
C converter 913 includes one or more converters I
C922 (only one is shown in FIG. 7), and generates + 21V, + 12V, and + 5V based on VSL and outputs it to the connector 915. A relatively large-capacity capacitor 923 is connected to the input side of the converter IC 922. Therefore, when the power supply to the gaming machine from the outside is stopped, the DC voltage such as +30 V, +12 V, +5 V, etc., decreases relatively slowly. The connector 915 is connected to, for example, a relay board, and power of a voltage required for each electric component control board and the mechanical component is supplied from the relay board.

However, the power supply board 910 may be provided with each connector to each electric component control board, and the power supply board 910 may supply each voltage to each board without passing through the relay board. FIG. 7 shows one connector 9.
Although 15 is shown as a representative, a connector is provided for each electric component control board.

+5 V from DC-DC converter 913
The line branches to form a backup + 5V line. A large-capacity capacitor 916 is connected between the backup + 5V line and the ground level. The capacitor 916 is a backup RAM of the electric component control board when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped (RAM backed up by a power supply, that is, a backup storage unit that can be in a storage state even when the power supply is stopped).
Is a backup power supply that supplies power so that the storage state can be maintained. A backflow preventing diode 9 is provided between the + 5V line and the backup + 5V line.
17 is inserted. In this embodiment, +5 V for backup is applied to the main board 31 and the payout control board 3.
7 is supplied.

A power supply monitoring IC 902 as a power supply monitoring circuit is mounted on the power supply board 910. The power supply monitoring IC 902 detects the occurrence of a power supply stop to the gaming machine by introducing the VSL voltage and monitoring the VSL voltage. Specifically, the VSL voltage is a predetermined value (in this example, +
22V) or less, a power cutoff signal is output on the assumption that power supply has stopped. The power supply voltage to be monitored is preferably higher than the power supply voltage (+5 V in this example) of the circuit element mounted on each electric component control board. In this example, VSL, which is a voltage immediately after conversion from AC to DC, is used. Power supply monitoring IC
The power cut-off signal from 902 is supplied to the main board 31, the payout control board 37, and the like.

The predetermined value for the power supply monitoring IC 902 to detect the stop of power supply is lower than the normal voltage, but is a voltage at which the CPU on each electric component control board can operate for a while. The power supply monitoring IC 902 is a CPU
For driving circuit elements such as (+5 in this example)
V), and is configured to monitor the voltage immediately after conversion from AC to DC, so that the monitoring range can be extended for the voltage required by the CPU. Therefore, more precise monitoring can be performed. Further, when VSL (+30 V) is used as the monitoring voltage, the voltage supplied to various switches of the gaming machine is +12 V
Therefore, prevention of erroneous switch-on detection upon momentary power interruption can be expected. That is, by monitoring the voltage of the +30 V power supply, it is possible to detect a decrease in the voltage of +12 V generated after the generation of +30 V before the voltage starts to drop.

When the voltage of the +12 V power supply drops, the switch output comes to an on state. However, if the stop of the power supply is recognized by monitoring the +30 V power supply voltage that drops faster than +12 V, the switch output turns on. It is possible to enter a state of waiting for power supply recovery before entering a state in which the switch output is not detected.

Since the power supply monitoring IC 902 is mounted on the power supply board 910 separate from the electric component control board, the power supply monitoring circuit can supply a power cutoff signal to the plurality of electric component control boards. No matter how many electrical component control boards require a power-off signal, it is sufficient that only one power supply monitoring means is provided. Therefore, even if each electrical component control means in each electrical component control board performs recovery control described later, However, the cost of gaming machines does not increase much.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 7, the detection signal (power cutoff signal) of the power supply monitoring IC 902 is supplied to the respective electric component control boards (for example, the main board 31 and the payout control signal) via the buffer circuits 918 and 919. Although the signal is transmitted to the board 37), for example, a configuration may be employed in which one detection signal is transmitted to the relay board, and the same signal is distributed from the relay board to each electric component control board. Further, a buffer circuit may be provided according to the number of substrates that require a power-off signal. Further, regarding the power-off signal output to the main board 31 and the payout control board 37,
The monitoring voltage of the power monitoring circuit that outputs the power-off signal may be different.

The power cutoff signal from the power supply monitoring circuit (power supply monitoring means) of the power supply board 910
It is connected to the non-maskable interrupt terminal (XNMI terminal) of U56. Therefore, the CPU 56 sets the non-maskable interrupt (N
By the MI) process, it is possible to confirm that the power supply to the gaming machine has stopped.

While power is not supplied from the +5 V power supply which is the driving power supply of the CPU 56 and the like, at least a part of the RAM is backed up by the backup power supply supplied from the power supply board, and even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. The contents are saved. Then, when the + 5V power supply is restored, a reset signal is issued from the system reset circuit 65, and the CPU 56 returns to a normal operation state. At that time, since the necessary data is stored in the backup RAM, it is possible to restore the gaming state at the time of occurrence of the power failure or the like at the time of recovery from the power failure or the like.

Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG.
Is a flowchart showing main processing executed by game control means (CPU 56 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) on the main board 31. When the power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the CPU 56 starts the main processing after step S1. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to the interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and the stack pointer designated address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, the internal device registers are initialized (step S4). After initializing a built-in device (built-in peripheral circuit) CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) (step S5), the RAM is set to an accessible state (step S6).

CPU 56 used in this embodiment
Incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC).

CPU 5 used in this embodiment
6 has three types of maskable interrupt modes. When an interrupt that can be masked occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter on the stack.

The interruption mode 2 of the three types is
In this mode, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) 6 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device indicates the interrupt address. That is, the interrupt address is an address indicated by 2 bytes in which the upper address is the value of the specific register and the lower address is the interrupt vector. Therefore, an interrupt process can be set at an arbitrary (albeit skipped) even address. Each built-in device has a function of sending an interrupt vector when making an interrupt request. In step S2 of the initial setting process, the CPU 56 is set to the interrupt mode 2.

Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch 921 inputted via the input port 1 only once (step S7). If ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes a normal initialization process (steps S11 to S1).
5). When the clear switch 921 is on (when pressed), a low-level clear switch signal is output.

When the clear switch 921 is not in the ON state, when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, data protection processing for the backup RAM area (for example, processing for stopping power supply such as addition of parity data) is performed. It is confirmed whether or not it has been performed (step S8). In this embodiment, when the power supply is stopped, a process for protecting the data in the backup RAM area is performed. The case where such protection processing has been performed is regarded as backup. After confirming that such a protection process has not been performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process.

In this embodiment, the backup RAM
Whether or not there is backup data in the area is confirmed by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop processing. In this example, for example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state). .

When the backup is confirmed, the CPU 5
No. 6 performs data check (parity check in this example) of the backup RAM area (step S9). In the power supply stop processing executed when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a checksum is calculated, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. If power is restored after an unexpected power outage, etc., the backup RAM
Since the data of the area should be saved, the check result (comparison result) becomes normal (match). If the check result is not normal, it means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state at the time of stopping the power supply, the initialization processing executed at the time of turning on the power and not at the time of recovery from the stop of the power supply is executed.

If the check result is normal, the CPU 56
Performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the display control means to the state at the time of stopping the power supply (step S10). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the program returns to that address.

In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first sets R
An AM clear process is performed (step S11). In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right symbol buffer,
Special symbol process flag, payout command storage pointer,
A work area setting process of setting an initial value to a prize ball flag, a ball out flag, a payout stop flag, or the like, for selectively performing a process according to a control state (step S1)
2). Further, a process of transmitting a payout permission state designation command indicating that the payout from the ball payout device 97 is possible to the payout control board 37 is performed (step S1).
3). Further, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing other sub-boards (the lamp control board 35, the sound control board 70, and the symbol control board 80) to each sub-board is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating the initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9 (with respect to the symbol control board 80) or a command instructing to turn off the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball out lamp 52 (lamp control board 35)
Etc.).

Then, the register of the CTC provided in the CPU 56 is set so that the timer is interrupted periodically every 2 ms (step S15). That is,
A value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

Execution of initialization processing (steps S11 to S1)
When 5) is completed, the display random number updating process (step S17) and the initial value random number updating process (step S18) are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt is prohibited (step S16), and when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are completed, the interrupt is enabled. Is performed (step S19). The display random number is a random number for determining a symbol to be displayed on the variable display device 9, and the display random number update process is a process of updating a count value of a counter for generating a display random number. . The initial value random number updating process is a process of updating the count value of a counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value of a counter (a jackpot determination random number generation counter) for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit. In the game control process described later, when the count value of the big hit determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

When a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56
After performing the register save processing (step S20), the game control processing of steps S21 to S32 shown in FIG. 9 is executed. In the game control process, first, the CPU 56 inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 24a, 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a via the switch circuit 58. Then, these states are determined (switch processing: step S21).

Next, various abnormality diagnosis processes are performed by the self-diagnosis function provided inside the pachinko gaming machine 1, and an alarm is issued if necessary according to the result (error process: step S22).

Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each judgment random number such as a big hit judgment random number used for game control is performed (step S23).
The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number and the initial value random number (steps S24 and S25).

Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process (step S26). In the special symbol process control, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to a gaming state. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each processing according to the gaming state. Further, a normal symbol process is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process process, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. And the value of the normal symbol process flag is
It is updated during each process according to the game state.

Next, the CPU 56 sets a display control command relating to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and transmits the display control command (special symbol command control process: step S28). Further, a process of setting a display control command relating to a normal symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and transmitting the display control command is performed (ordinary symbol command control process: step S29).

Further, the CPU 56 performs an information output process for outputting data such as big hit information, start information, and probability fluctuation information supplied to the hall computer (step S30).

Further, the CPU 56 issues a drive command to the solenoid circuit 59 when a predetermined condition is satisfied (step S31). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16, 21 and 21A in response to a drive command in order to open or close the variable winning prize ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 20 and to switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. I do.

Then, the CPU 56 sets the winning opening switch 2
A prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of 4a, 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a is executed (step S32). Specifically, the winning opening switch 24
A payout control command indicating the number of prize balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to a winning detection based on the fact that a, 29a, 30a, 33a and 39a are turned on. Dispensing control board 3
The payout control CPU 371 mounted on 7 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls. Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S33), and the register is set to the interrupt permission state (step S3).
4).

With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms.
In this embodiment, the game control process is executed in the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set.
The game control process may be executed in the main process.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing an example of the left and right middle symbols variably displayed on the variable display device 9. As shown in FIG. In this example, there are 12 symbols as left and right middle symbols, and each of the 12 symbols corresponds to symbol numbers 1 to 12. Further, in this example, the symbol numbers 1, 2, 8, and 12 are medium-variable symbols, and the symbol numbers 3, 5, 7, and 11 are high-variable symbols. The medium-probability symbol is a symbol that generates a medium-probability state, and the high-probability symbol is a symbol that generates a high-probability state. The medium-probability state and the high-probability state will be described later.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows. (1) Random 1: Determines whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit determination = for special symbol determination) (2) Random 2-1 to 2-3: For left and right middle missing symbol determination (special left and right middle) (3) Random 3: Determine a symbol combination at the time of a big hit (for a big hit symbol) (4) Random 4: Determine a symbol variation pattern on the variable display device 9 (for a variation pattern determination)

In step S23, the CPU 56
The counter for generating the jackpot determination random number of (1) and the jackpot symbol random number of (3) is counted up (addition of 1). That is, these are the random numbers for determination, and the other random numbers are the random numbers for display. In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (4) above, such as random numbers relating to ordinary symbols and random numbers for initial values, are also used.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol processing program executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process process shown in FIG. 12 is a specific process of step S26 in the flowchart of FIG. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs a variation reduction timer subtraction process (step S310) and a start opening switch passage confirmation process (step S311), and then responds to the internal state (in this example, the special symbol process flag). Then, any one of steps S300 to S309 is performed.

The variation reduction timer subtraction process is a process of subtracting the number of variation reduction timers provided corresponding to the maximum storable number in the start memory (memory indicating that the startup port switch 14a has been turned on). Then, in a special symbol big hit determination process (step S301) described later, for example, in a low probability state (normal state), the start storage number is the maximum value of the start storage, In the state (medium probability state and high probability state), if the number of starting storages is “2” or more, it is determined to use a pattern in which the fluctuation time is shortened as the symbol fluctuation pattern. In addition, the starting port switch passage confirmation processing is performed by the starting port switch 1.
This is a process of acquiring and storing predetermined random numbers when 4a is turned on.

In steps S300 to S309, the following processing is performed.

Special symbol normal processing (step S300):
The starting memory number is checked, and if the starting memory number is not 0, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S301.

Special symbol big hit determination processing (step S30)
1): The contents of a buffer or the like for storing various random numbers stored when a start winning is made are shifted. As a result of the shift,
It is determined whether or not to make a big hit based on the contents of the pushed buffer. It should be noted that the buffer is prepared as many as the maximum number of start winning winnings that can be stored. Further, the content of the buffer pushed out by the shift is a content corresponding to the earliest start winning. Then, when it is determined that a big hit is to be made, a big hit flag is set. afterwards,
The value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S302.

Stop symbol setting processing (step S302):
The stop symbols of the left and right middle symbols, which are the display results on the variable display device 9, are determined. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S303.

Variation pattern setting processing (step S30)
3): The pattern of the variable display of the symbol on the variable display device 9, that is, the variable pattern (variable display pattern) is determined. Then, a control command for notifying the determined fluctuation pattern, stop symbol, and the like is output to the symbol control board 80 and the like. Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S304.

Special symbol change processing (step S304):
It is confirmed whether or not the fluctuation time determined according to the fluctuation pattern has elapsed. If it has passed, step S305
Change the value of the special symbol process flag so as to shift to.

Special symbol symbol stop processing (step S30)
5): After a certain time (for example, 1.000 seconds) elapses,
If it is determined to be a big hit, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S306. If not, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S300.

Preliminary winning opening processing (step S30)
6): Control for opening the special winning opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 54 is driven to open the special winning opening. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to shift to step S307.

Processing during opening of the special winning opening (step S30)
7): Processing for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special winning opening is performed. If the closing condition of the special winning opening is satisfied, step S30
The value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to shift to 8.

The specific area effective time processing (step S30)
8): The presence or absence of the passage of the V winning switch 22 is monitored, and a process of confirming the establishment of the jackpot game state continuation condition is performed. If the condition of the continuation of the big hit game state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so that the process proceeds to step S307. If the big hit game state continuation condition is not satisfied within the predetermined effective time, or if all rounds have been completed, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to shift to step S309.

Big hit end processing (step S309): Control to make the lamp control means or the like perform a display for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed so as to shift to step S300.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the starting port switch passage confirmation processing (step S311). When a hit ball wins the starting winning port 14 provided on the game board, the starting port switch 14a is turned on. The CPU 56
If it is determined via the switch circuit 58 that the starting port switch 14a has been turned on (step S41), it is checked whether or not the number of stored starts has reached the upper limit (4 in this example) (step S42). If the start storage number has not reached the upper limit, the start storage number is increased by 1 (step S43),
The value of each random number such as the random number for jackpot determination is extracted. And
These are stored in the random number storage area corresponding to the value of the number of start storages (step S44). If the number of stored memories has reached the upper limit, the process of increasing the number of stored memories is not performed.

When the number of starting memories is increased by one,
A lamp control command for increasing the display number (the number of lit LEDs) of the start storage display 18 by one is transmitted to the lamp control board 35.

In the special symbol process of step S25, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the number of stored start positions as shown in FIG. 14 (step S51). If the start memory number is not 0, the value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the start memory; 1 (first start memory) is read (step S52), and the value of the start memory number is reduced by one.
In addition, the value of each random value storage area is shifted (step S53). That is, starting memory; n (n = 2,...,
Each value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to 4) is stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the start memory: n-1. The contents of the random number storage area corresponding to the starting storage number at that time are cleared. For example, if the starting memory number is 4, the contents of the special symbol random number storage area corresponding to the starting memory; 4 are cleared.

When the number of starting memories is reduced by one,
A lamp control command is transmitted to the lamp control board 35 to reduce the number of displays on the start storage display 18 by one.

Then, the CPU 56 determines the hit / miss based on the value read in step S52, that is, the value of the extracted big hit determination random number (special symbol determination random number) (step S54). Here, the big hit determination random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 299. Then, as shown in FIG. 15, in the normal state, for example, when the value is “3”, “big hit” is determined, and when the value is any other value, “miss” is determined. In the medium probability state (medium probability change), for example, the value is “3”, “79”,
If it is any of "107", it is determined as "big hit", and if it is any other value, it is determined as "out". In the high probability state (at the time of high probability change), for example, the values are “3”, “7”, “79”, “103”, “107”.
Is determined to be "big hit", and to any other value, it is determined to be "out".

That is, in the medium probability state, the probability of a big hit is improved as compared with the normal state. In the high probability state, the probability of a big hit is improved as compared to the medium probability state. In this example, the probability of a big hit in the medium probability state is three times that in the normal state. In the high probability state, the probability of a big hit is five times that in the normal state.

The high probability state is a state in which a high probability variable flag described later is set, and the medium probability state is a state in which a medium probability variable flag described later is set. The state where neither the high-probability variable flag nor the medium-probability variable flag is set is the normal state.

When it is determined that the big hit is a big hit, a big hit symbol is determined according to the value of the big hit symbol random number (random 3) (step S55). In this embodiment, each symbol of the symbol number set in the big hit symbol table according to the value of random 3 is determined as the big hit symbol. In the big hit symbol table, left and right middle symbol numbers corresponding to each of a plurality of combinations of big hit symbols are set. Further, a random number for variation pattern determination (random 4) is extracted, and the variation pattern of the symbol is determined based on the value of the random 4 (step S56).

If it is determined that there is a loss, the CPU 56
Determines the symbols to be stopped in the case of not being a big hit. In this embodiment, the left symbol is determined according to the value read in step S52, that is, the value of the extracted random 2-1 (step S57). Also, random 2-2
The middle symbol is determined according to the value (step S58). Then, the right symbol is determined according to the value of random 2-3 (step S59). Here, when the determined middle symbol matches the left and right symbols, the symbol corresponding to the value obtained by adding 1 to the value of the random number corresponding to the middle symbol is set as the stop symbol of the middle symbol so as not to match the big hit symbol. I do.

Further, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the reach is determined (whether the left and right stop symbols are aligned) (step S60). The value of the random number for pattern determination (random 4) is extracted, and the pattern variation pattern is determined based on the random number 4 (step S61).

If it is not decided to reach, it is checked whether or not the state is a probable change state (medium probability state or high probability state) (step S62). If it is in the probable change state, it is determined that the change pattern is to be the shortened change pattern at the time of the loss (step S63). If it is not in the probable variation state, it is determined that the variation pattern is to be the normal variation pattern at the time of the deviation (step S64). In addition, the variation pattern at the time of loss is a variation pattern in which the variation period of the symbol in the left and right is shorter than the normal variation pattern, for example, 4.0 seconds.

As described above, it is determined whether the symbol variation based on the winning start is the reach mode or the loss mode, and the combination of the respective stop symbols is determined. That is, as a symbol variation mode, it is determined whether a reach effect is performed or not, and a combination of stopped symbols is determined.

The processing shown in FIG. 14 corresponds to step S30 in the special symbol processing shown in FIG.
This corresponds to the processing when the processing of 1 to S303 is collectively shown. In this embodiment, a big hit occurs when the left and right middle symbols have the same stop symbols. Reach when only the left and right symbols are complete.

FIG. 16 shows a special symbol stop process (step S30) in the special symbol process process shown in FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows an example of 5). The special symbol stop process is executed when the period of the symbol change in the variable display device 9 elapses. In special symbol stop processing, CP
U56 performs a process of transmitting a confirmation command indicating the stop of the change of the symbol to the symbol control board 80 (Step S).
351). Then, the value of the variation counter is incremented by one (step S352). The change number counter is a counter formed in a RAM that is backed up by a power supply.

If the display result of the executed symbol change (stop symbol) is a big hit symbol (step S353), a special symbol process flag is set to shift to the big hit game state (special game state). Is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening pre-processing (step S306) (step S354), and the special symbol stop processing ends.

If the display result (stop symbol) of the executed symbol change is a lost symbol, it is checked whether or not the high-precision variable flag is on (step S355). Then, the value of the variation counter is checked (step S356), and the value of the variation counter is set to 100.
If the flag has become 00, the high-probability variable flag is reset (step S357). If the medium probability change flag is ON (step S359), if the value of the variation counter is 100, the medium probability change flag is reset (steps S360 and S361). Then, the special symbol process flag is set to the special symbol normal processing (step S3).
00) (step S361), and the special symbol stop processing ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, when no big hit occurs on the way, the medium probability state continues until the special symbol changes 100 times in the medium probability state, and the special symbol in the high probability state. The high-probability state continues until 10,000 changes are made. In other words, the medium-probability state and the high-probability state also have different degrees of advantage for the player with respect to the condition for continuing the state.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the big hit ending process in the special symbol process process shown in FIG. 12 (step S309).
6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the above. The big hit end processing is executed when the big hit game ends. In the big hit ending process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit symbol (the left and right aligned stop symbols on the variable display device 9) that triggered the big hit game is a highly probable variable symbol (step S393). If the symbol is a highly probable variable symbol, a high probable variation flag is set (step S394), and the variation counter is cleared to 0 (step S39).
5). Then, the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S396), and the big hit end process ends.

If the big hit symbol is a medium-probability variable symbol, a medium-probability variable flag is set (step S398), and the variation counter is cleared to 0 (step S399). Then, the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S396), and the big hit end process ends.

If the big hit symbol is a normal symbol (a symbol that is neither a high-probability variable symbol nor a medium-probability variable symbol), the high-probability variable flag and the medium-probability variable flag are reset (step S40).
0, S401). Then, the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S396), and the big hit end process ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, when the big hit symbol which has triggered the big hit game is a high probability variable symbol, the high probability variable flag is set and the state becomes a high probability state.
When the big hit symbol is a medium-probability variable symbol, the medium-probability variable flag is set and a medium probability state is set. In the high probability state, the probability of generating a big hit, that is, the probability of displaying a big hit symbol (specific display mode) on the variable display device 9 is:
It is higher than the normal state and the medium probability state. In the medium probability state, the probability of a big hit is higher than in the normal state (see FIG. 15).

As described above, since there are a plurality of states regarding the probability state, the player has a strong interest in which of the probability states will occur, and more strongly expects the high probability state to occur. In other words, a higher sense of expectation for the probability state can be given to the player.

In this embodiment, when the normal state is the first probability state, the second probability that the specific display mode (the big hit symbol as the stop symbol) is displayed is higher than the first probability state. The probability state corresponds to the medium probability state, and the third probability state having a higher probability of displaying the specific display mode than the second probability state corresponds to the high probability state.

The normal state is defined as a second probability state.
The first probability state may be a medium probability state, the third probability state may be a high probability state, the normal state may be a third probability state, the first probability state may be a medium probability state, and the second probability state may be a second probability state. It may be a high probability state. Although the gaming machine is configured in such a manner, it is possible to provide a new gaming ability that has not been provided in the past.

In this embodiment, the state determining means (specifically, realized by software), which is a part of the game control means, is displayed on the variable display device 9 based on a predetermined random number. The stop design is a high-precision variable design,
Whether to use medium probable design or other design (normal design)
(Step S5 in FIG. 14)
5). That is, it is determined which of the first to third probability states is to be set. Then, after the specific game state ends, the state is actually set to the high probability state, the medium probability state, or the normal state based on the determination result of the state determination means (see FIG. 17).

In this embodiment, the state determining means determines a stop symbol by a random number and, depending on the determined stop symbol, determines whether the state is a high probability state, a medium probability state, or a normal state. It is determined whether the state should be a high-probability state, a medium-probability state, or a normal state by random numbers, and a stop symbol may be determined according to the determination result.

The high-probability state is terminated when a big hit occurs due to a big hit symbol which is not a highly probable changing symbol, or when a symbol change in the variable display device 9 is performed 10,000 times. In addition, the medium probability state is set when a big hit occurs due to a big hit symbol that is not a medium-probability variable symbol, or when the symbol change in the variable display device 9 is 10%.
The process ends when the operation is performed 0 times. However, the conditions for the occurrence and termination of the probable change state described above are merely examples, and other conditions may be used.

For example, in this embodiment, when a big hit by a normal symbol occurs in the high probability state, the state returns to the normal state. In such a case, the state may change to the medium probability state. Also, if a big hit with a highly probable symbol occurs in the medium probability state, it changes to the high probability state,
Even if a big hit by a highly probable change symbol occurs in the normal state, the state may not be changed to the high probability state.

Further, in this embodiment, in the probable change state (the high probability state and the medium probability state), the probability that the stop symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10 becomes a hit symbol is increased, and the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 is increased. In the medium probability state, the probability that the stop symbol in the tactile symbol display 10 becomes a hit symbol is reduced in the medium probability state, or the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 is reduced. The number of times of opening may be reduced. Also, in this embodiment, the gaming machine is configured to be able to change to the first to third probability states with respect to the occurrence of the special symbol big hit symbol. You may be comprised so that it can be changed into the 1st-3rd probability state regarding the occurrence of a symbol hit symbol.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an information output signal output from the information terminal board 34. In the example shown in FIG. 18, starting port information indicating the number of winning game balls to the ordinary electric accessory (the variable winning ball device 15 in this embodiment),
The symbol determination number 1 information, which is the information on the number of times the special symbol has fluctuated in the variable display device 9, and the condition device is operating (in this embodiment, during the jackpot game, the large winning opening is repeatedly opened and closed. One) big hit information that indicates
Jackpot 2 information indicating that the state is in the high probability state and the condition device is operating (signal indicating that the specific display mode has been displayed and the high probability state can be specified);
Big hit 3 information indicating that it is in the medium probability state and that the condition device is operating (signal indicating that the specific display mode is displayed and that it is in the medium probability state),
Probability fluctuation 1 information indicating a high probability state, probability fluctuation 2 information indicating a medium probability state, ordinary symbol display 1
The symbol terminal number 3 information, which is information on the number of times the ordinary symbol fluctuates at 0, and the information on the number of occasions indicating that the ordinary electric accessory is in operation, are output as information output signals to the information terminal board 3.
4 to an external device outside the gaming machine (for example, a hall computer installed in a game arcade).

A hall computer as an external device is
Based on the information included in the information output signal, the number of occurrences of big hits, the number of occurrences of high-probability states, the number of occurrences of medium-probability states, the number of symbol fluctuations, the number of times of actor actuation, etc., are tabulated, and their occurrence frequencies (occurrence rates ). Further, as another example of the external device, there is a display device provided on an upper portion of a gaming machine provided with a call lamp, a big hit occurrence number display device, and the like.

In this embodiment, the state information output means for outputting a signal capable of specifying whether the state is a normal state, a medium probability state, or a high probability state is a game control means (specifically, The information output means is realized by the information output circuit 64 and the information terminal board 34. In addition, the external device can specify that the gaming machine is in the normal state when the jackpot 2 information and the jackpot 3 information are not output.

When outputting each information output signal, the game control means, that is, the state information output means stores each information in the backup RAM and outputs information corresponding to the stored contents as an information output signal. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, if the power supply is restored within a predetermined period in which the storage content of the backup RAM is held, the power supply is performed by the game state restoration process (step S10 in FIG. 8). Information indicating the state before the stop can be output as an information output signal.

Further, the high-probability variable flag and the medium-probability variable flag are also stored in the backup RAM. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, if the power supply is restored within a predetermined period in which the storage content of the backup RAM is held, the probability state is changed to the state before the power supply was stopped by the game state restoration processing. Can be returned to. That is, the probability state based on the determination result of the state determination unit is stored in the fluctuation data storage unit capable of retaining the contents for a predetermined period even after the power supply is stopped, and is stored in the fluctuation data storage unit when the power supply is restored. The probability state can be restored based on the data.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of terminal arrangement on the information terminal board 34 serving as a relay board provided between the external device and the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31. In the example shown in FIG. 19, terminals 341 to 348 are provided as connection means for separately outputting the information output signals shown in FIG.
A connector 340 for transmitting each information output signal output from one information output circuit 64 is provided. Therefore, unnecessary signals in an external device (for example, a hall computer) outside the gaming machine can be prevented from being transmitted to the external device by not wiring the corresponding terminals on the information terminal board 34.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the information output circuit 34 on the main board 31. As shown in FIG. 20, each information output signal is supplied to the information terminal board 34 via the amplifier circuits 641 to 649 in the information output circuit 64.
Is output to Although a connector for outputting an information output signal is mounted on the main board 31, the connector is omitted in FIGS. 4 and 20.
FIG. 21 is a timing chart showing output examples of the symbol determination frequency 1 information, the jackpot 1 information, the jackpot 2 information, the jackpot 3 information, the probability variation 1 information, and the probability variation 2 information together with the state of the variation of the special symbol on the variable display device 9. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 21, the jackpot 1 information, the jackpot 2 information, and the jackpot 3 information are turned on 1.000 seconds after the change of the special symbol that has become the jackpot ends. In addition, when the change of the special symbol that has become a big hit ends and the big hit game ends, if the condition for setting the high probability state is satisfied, the probability change 1 information is turned on and the big hit 2 information The ON state continues. In addition, when the change of the special symbol that has become the big hit ends and the big hit game ends, if the condition for setting the medium probability state is satisfied, the probability change 2 information is turned on and the big hit 3 information The ON state continues. When the termination condition of the high probability state is satisfied, the probability variation 1 information is turned off,
When the end condition of the medium probability state is satisfied, the probability variation 2 information is turned off.

The on / off control of each information output signal is executed in the information output process (step S30) shown in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a timing chart showing an output example of the symbol determination number 2 information and the accessory number information. As shown in FIG. 22, the symbol determination frequency 2 information is normally in an ON state for a predetermined period (0.500 seconds in this example) from the end of the fluctuation of the symbol. In addition, the number-of-cassettes information is turned on when the normally-powered bonus (in this example, the variable winning ball device 15) is in the operating state (open state).

Each information output signal may be output to the outside of the gaming machine as a test signal for a test device as an external device for testing the gaming machine. For example, a connector 121 for outputting a test signal is provided on the main board 31 as shown in FIG. 23, and the above-described information output signals are output to the connector 121 or to both the connector 121 and the information terminal board 34. It is possible to

That is, in this embodiment, state information, which is a process for outputting to the outside of the gaming machine, information capable of specifying whether the state is a low-probability state, a medium-probability state, or a high-probability state. The output processing is performed by the game control means (specifically, the information output processing shown in FIG. 9), and the game control means outputs the information output from the information output circuit 64 in the state information output processing. A process for outputting a signal (see FIG. 20) and / or a test signal (see FIG. 23) is executed. When a test signal is output, a process for outputting the information may be performed in the information output process shown in FIG. 9, but a routine (for example, a test signal output process) different from the information output process may be provided.

When the test signal can be output,
The connector 121 may be fixedly provided on the main board 31. However, the connector 121 may be mounted only on a gaming machine used for testing, and the connector 121 may not be mounted on a gaming machine shipped as a product. . Alternatively, instead of using a structure for installing a connector, a terminal or the like may be installed, or only a conductor pattern to which a probe from a test apparatus can be connected may be provided. Note that the test signal is not limited to a mode in which information is transmitted by an ON state (for example, low level) and an OFF state (for example, high level), but is a form in which information is transmitted by a series of signal strings (for example, 8-bit data). There may be. In that case, the format of the transmitted signal may be serial data or parallel data. Further, a signal input from the test apparatus may be included as the test signal.

Further, when a test signal can be output to the test apparatus, a signal indicating more detailed internal information of the gaming machine may be output in addition to the test signal shown in FIG. . For example, a signal that can specify a stopped symbol may be output, or a signal that can specify the first to third states of a normal symbol may be output if any. This is not limited to the signal output to the test apparatus, but also applies to the information output signal that can be output to an external device such as a hall computer.

As described above, in this embodiment, the normal state is defined as the first probability state (low probability state), and the medium probability state in which the specific display mode is more likely to be displayed than the first probability state. A gaming machine that can be changed to a high-probability state in which the specific display mode is more likely to be displayed than the medium-probability state, and that can further enhance the interest of the game related to the probability variation, is realized. May be set to a medium probability state or a high probability state to realize a gaming machine having new gaming properties.

Embodiment 2 In the above-described embodiment, one operation area (the gate 32 in the above example) for generating a trigger for the operation of the ordinary electric accessory (the variable winning ball device 15 in the above example) is provided in the gaming machine. . Also, one ordinary electric accessory was installed in the gaming machine. However, a plurality of them may be provided.

FIG. 24 shows two variable winning ball devices 15A,
15B, and two gates 32A, 32
It is a front view showing the front of the game board of the game machine provided with 2B. Further, in this embodiment, two normal symbol displays 10A and 10B each of which includes two 7-segment LEDs for variably displaying a normal symbol, and two normal symbol start storage displays 41A and 41B are provided. I have.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of main board 31 of this embodiment. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 25, the game balls that have won the gates 32A and 32B are detected by the gate switches 32a and 32b. Then, the detection signal is transmitted to the main board 31 and transmitted to the CPU 56 via the switch circuit 58 and the I / O port 57. The two variable winning ball devices 15A and 15B are opened by the solenoids 16a and 16b. Then, the variable winning ball device 15A,
Game balls that have won the starting ports 14A and 14B of the 15B are detected by the starting port switches 14a and 14b. Then, the detection signal is transmitted to the main board 31 and transmitted to the CPU 56 via the switch circuit 58 and the I / O port 57.

The other structure of the game board 6 is the same as that of the above-described embodiment, but in this embodiment,
As shown in FIG. 25, two ordinary symbol indicators 10
A and 10B are controlled by the display control means mounted on the symbol control board 80.

The operation of the game control means mounted on the main board 31 is basically the same as in the above embodiment. That is, the main processing as shown in FIG. 8 is executed, the game control processing as shown in FIG.
The special symbol process as shown in FIG. 2 is executed.
However, since there are two gates, two ordinary symbol displays, and two variable winning ball devices, the control related to them is different from that in the above-described embodiment.

For example, when a game ball wins at the gate 32A and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the 7-segment LE is set.
The variable display of the display of the ordinary symbol display 10A by D is started. When the display result (stop symbol) on the ordinary symbol display device 10A is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol) as a predetermined specific display mode,
The variable winning prize ball device 15A is opened for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. When a game ball is won at the gate 32B and detected by the gate switch 32b, the variable display of the display of the ordinary symbol display 10B by the 7-segment LED is started. When the stop symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10B is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15B is opened for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. If there is a prize at the gate 32A, if the starting memory does not reach the upper limit, the normal symbol start memory display 41A increases the number of lit LEDs by 1, and if there is a prize at the gate 32B, the starting memory does not reach the upper limit. The symbol start memory display 41B increases the number of lighted LEDs by one. And ordinary symbol display 1
Each time the variable display of 0A, 10B is started, the corresponding ordinary symbol start storage display 41A, 41B turns on the LED.
By one.

It is to be noted that whether or not the stop symbol displayed on the ordinary symbol display devices 10A and 10B is a hit symbol is determined in the ordinary symbol process processing based on a predetermined random number. Specifically, the count value (numerical value) of the counter is updated by software, and the count value of the counter at the timing of determining whether or not to hit the stopped symbol is determined as the extracted random number, and the value of the random number is It is determined to be a hit if it matches a predetermined hit value. And the normal symbol display 10A
When the stop symbol is a winning symbol, the variable winning ball device 15A opens a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time, and when the stopping symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10B is a winning symbol, the variable winning ball device 15B is unlocked for a predetermined number of times. Open for a predetermined time.

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an information output signal output from the information terminal board 34. In the example shown in FIG. 18, start-up port 1 information and start-up port 2 information indicating the number of winning game balls in each of the ordinary electric auditors (in this embodiment, the variable prize ball devices 15A and 15B), and the variable display device 9 , Information on the number of times the special symbol fluctuates in the symbol, information on the number of symbols determined, information on the condition device being operated (in this embodiment, on a jackpot game) Big hit 2 information indicating that the device is in operation, medium probability state and condition Big hit 3 information indicating that the device is in operation, probability fluctuation 1 information indicating high probability state, medium probability state Probability fluctuation 2 information indicating that each is a normal symbol display 10
A and 10B, the number of symbols determined 2 information and the number of symbols determined 3 information, which are information on the number of changes in the ordinary symbols, and the number of information 1 and the number 2 of items indicating that each ordinary electric accessory is in operation. Information is output from the information terminal board 34 to the outside of the gaming machine (for example, a hall computer installed in a game arcade) as an information output signal.

The output timings of the number-of-cassettes 1 information and the number-of-cassettes 2 information are the same as the output timings of the number-of-cassettes information in the above embodiment (see FIG. 22). Also, the number of symbols determined 2 information and the number of symbols determined 3
The output timing of the information is the same as the output timing of the symbol determination frequency 2 information in the above embodiment (FIG. 2).
2).

When outputting each information output signal, the game control means stores each information in the backup RAM and outputs information corresponding to the stored content as an information output signal. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, if the power supply is restored within a predetermined period in which the storage content of the backup RAM is held, the power supply is performed by the game state restoration process (step S10 in FIG. 8). Information indicating the state before the stop can be output as an information output signal.

Further, a high-probability variable flag and a medium-probability variable flag are also stored in the backup RAM. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, if the power supply is restored within a predetermined period in which the storage content of the backup RAM is held, the probability state is changed to the state before the power supply was stopped by the game state restoration processing. Can be returned to. That is, the probability state based on the determination result of the state determination unit is stored in the fluctuation data storage unit capable of retaining the contents for a predetermined period even after the power supply is stopped, and is stored in the fluctuation data storage unit when the power supply is restored. The probability state can be restored based on the data.

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of terminal arrangement on the information terminal board 34. As shown in FIG. In the example shown in FIG.
6 are provided with terminals 341 to 352 as connection means for separately outputting each information output signal, and transmit each information output signal output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31. Connector 340 is provided. Therefore, unnecessary signals outside the gaming machine (for example, a hall computer) can be prevented from being transmitted outside the gaming machine by not wiring the corresponding terminals on the information terminal board 34.

In this embodiment, a signal (symbol determined number 2 information and symbol determined number 3 information) for recognizing the normal symbol determination is output to the outside of the gaming machine. , 10B, or a signal capable of recognizing the change period of the ordinary symbol in each of the ordinary symbol displays 10A, 10B may be output to the outside of the gaming machine. Further, information corresponding to the detection signals of the gate switches 32a and 32b may be output to the outside of the gaming machine as a normal symbol start signal.

Further, each information output signal may be output to the outside of the gaming machine as a test signal for a test device for testing the gaming machine. For example, a connector for outputting a test signal is provided on the main board 31, and the connector includes:
Alternatively, each information output signal described above may be output to both the connector and the information terminal board 34. When the test signal can be output, a signal indicating more detailed internal information of the gaming machine may be output in addition to the test signal shown in FIG.

As described above, in this embodiment, the operation area (the gate 32 in this example) provided in the game area 7 is provided.
A, 32B) from a disadvantageous state (closed state) to an advantageous state (opened state) for a player based on a detection signal from an operation detecting means (gate sensors 32a, 32b in this example) for detecting a game ball. A variable winning prize device which can be changed (in this example, an ordinary electric accessory, that is, a variable winning prize ball device 15A, 15)
B), a gaming machine having a deciding means (included in the game control means in this example) for deciding which state of the plurality of variable prize apparatuses to change according to a detection signal from the operation detecting means. Since this is realized, a plurality of variable prize apparatuses can provide the player with more interesting game characteristics.

In this embodiment, the detection signal of the gate sensor 32a corresponds to a change in the state of the variable prize ball device 15A, and the detection signal of the gate sensor 32b corresponds to a change in the state of the variable prize ball device 15B. However, a single operation detecting unit may be provided, and a plurality of variable winning devices that can change to the open state based on a detection signal of the operation detecting unit may be provided. In that case, for example, any one of the variable winning devices is opened in a predetermined order based on a detection signal of the operation detecting means. Alternatively, all the variable winning devices are opened based on the detection signal of the operation detecting means. In this way, it is possible to make the variability of the variable prize apparatus more varied.

In the case where a plurality of operation detecting means are provided, the chance that the variable winning device changes to an advantageous state increases, so that a gaming machine more advantageous to the player can be realized. In this case, as in this embodiment, if each operation detecting means is associated with a variable winning device, when any of the operation detecting devices detects the game medium, one of the variable winning devices is opened. Since the game machine is in the state, a gaming machine having more amusement properties is realized.

In this embodiment, there is further provided a variable display device (in this example, ordinary symbol displays 10A and 10B) for performing variable display based on the detection of the operation detecting means, and the display result on the variable display device is determined in advance. It is possible to realize a gaming machine in which the variable winning device changes from a disadvantageous state to an advantageous state for a player on condition that the specific display mode is set. Through the effect of the variable display device, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the gaming machine having the plurality of variable winning devices. In this embodiment, a plurality of variable display devices are provided.
One variable display device may be provided.

[0179] Based on the fact that the display result on the variable display device is in a predetermined specific display mode, determining means for determining which of the plurality of variable winning devices is to be changed is provided. The interest of the game can be further improved. In that case, for example, "3"
If "7" is a hit symbol, the game control means including the determination means controls one variable winning device to an advantageous state for the player if the stop symbol is "3", and the stop symbol is "7". , The other variable winning device may be controlled to a state advantageous to the player.

The decision means included in the game control means makes the decision based on the numerical value extracted from the numerical value updating means (for example, a counter for generating a random number), so that the decision result can be made random.

Further, a variable winning device change signal output means capable of outputting a signal relating to the change of the variable winning device to the outside of the gaming machine is provided, and the variable winning device change signal output means detects a change for each variable winning device. Since the related signals (in this example, the number-of-completion-times 1 information and the number-of-completion-times 2 information) are output so as to be identifiable, it is possible to confirm a signal related to a change for each variable winning device outside the gaming machine. In this embodiment, the variable winning device change signal output means is an information output process in the game control means (step S2 in FIG. 9).
9), is realized by the information output circuit 64 and the information terminal board 34.

The variable winning device change signal output means includes:
It outputs a signal that can specify that the variable winning device has changed from a disadvantageous state to a favorable state for the player, and can specify that the variable winning device has changed from a favorable state to a disadvantageous state for the player. Output a signal. Therefore, outside the gaming machine, it can be confirmed that the variable winning device has changed to an advantageous state, and that the variable winning device has changed to an unfavorable state. In addition, the signal which can specify that the variable winning device has changed from the disadvantageous state to the advantageous state for the player corresponds to the change timing from the off state to the on state of the number-of-cassettes 1 information and the number-of-cassettes 2 information. However, the signal that can identify that the variable winning device has changed from a favorable state to a disadvantageous state for the player is:
This corresponds to the change timing from the ON state to the OFF state of the accessory number 1 information and the accessory number 2 information.

Further, since there is provided a variable display signal output means capable of outputting a signal relating to variable display (in this example, the symbol determination frequency 2 information and the symbol determination frequency 3 information) in the variable display device, it is provided outside the gaming machine. The status of the variable display device can be confirmed. In this embodiment, the variable display signal output means is realized by the information output processing (step S29 in FIG. 9) in the game control means, the information output circuit 64 and the information terminal board.

Further, when an operation detection signal output means capable of outputting a signal relating to the detection by the operation detection means (the above-described normal symbol start signal) is provided, the state of the operation detection means is determined outside the game machine. You can check.

The variable data storage means (back-up RA in this example) capable of retaining data for a predetermined period even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped is provided to the game control means.
M) is provided, and information corresponding to the state of each information output signal shown in FIG. 26 is stored in the variable data storage means. Therefore, after the power supply is stopped, if the power supply is restored within a predetermined period, The output state of the signal by the variable winning device changing means can be restored based on the contents held in the fluctuation data storage means. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, if the power is restored, a correct information output signal can be input to a hall computer or a test device outside the gaming machine.

Since the variable display signal output means and the operation detection signal output means are also stored in the fluctuation data storage means, if the power supply is stopped within a predetermined period after the power supply is stopped, the fluctuation data storage means is stored. Based on the contents held in the means, the output state of the signal by the variable winning device changing means can be restored.

Embodiment 3 In each of the above embodiments,
As the variable display device, the variable display device 9 for displaying a special symbol in the first-type pachinko gaming machine or the ordinary symbol display devices 10A and 10B for displaying the ordinary symbol has been described as an example, but the present invention provides a first-type pachinko gaming machine. The present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to other gaming machines whose display state can be changed.

Hereinafter, a second-type pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example of another gaming machine. First, the configuration of the game board 201 of the second type pachinko gaming machine will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 28 is a front view showing the game board 201. FIG.
In FIG. 8, on the surface of the game board 201, a guide rail 202 for guiding a shot game ball is installed in a substantially circular shape, and an area defined by the guide rail 202 is a game area 2
03 is formed. Near the center of the game area 203,
The variable winning ball device 220 is arranged. Below the variable winning ball device 220, starting ball detectors 205a to 205a, respectively.
Left, middle, and right start winning ports 204a to 204c having a built-in 205c (start detecting means) are arranged. When a game ball wins in the start winning ports 204a to 204c, the game ball is detected by the start ball detectors 205a to 205c. In response to the detection, the variable winning ball device 220 opens for a predetermined period.

When the player wins the right and left start winning openings 204a and 204c among the start winning openings 204a to 204c, the variable winning ball device 220 is opened once, and the central one of the start winning openings 204a to 204c is started. Winner 204b
, The variable winning ball device 220 is opened twice. Also, as described above, the starting ball detectors 205a to 205a
The state in which the variable winning ball device 220 performs the opening operation in response to the winning detection of 5c is referred to as a starting operation state. Game area 2
In addition to the configuration described above, the windmill lamp 207
a and 207b, windmills 206a and 206b, windmills 208a and 208b, and side lamps 210a and 210b.
Are provided with side lamp decorations 209a, 209b, out ports 211, and the like.

Next, the variable winning ball device 220 will be described with reference to FIGS. 29 and 30. As shown in FIG. 29, the variable prize ball device 220
Mounting board 22 for mounting on the surface of the game board 201
1 and an upper winning space 222 is formed in the mounting substrate 221. In the upper winning space 222, a pair of left and right opening / closing pieces 223a and 223b are rotatably provided. The opening / closing pieces 223a and 223b are connected to solenoids 224a and 224b via link mechanisms, respectively, and rotate in a direction to open the upper winning space 222 when the solenoids 224a and 224b are turned on. Further, when the solenoids 224a and 224b are turned off, the upper prize space 222 is rotated in a closing direction.

On the bottom wall portion of the upper winning space 222, a pair of left and right winning ball detectors 225a and 225b for detecting game balls winning in the upper winning space 222 are provided. The winning balls detected by the winning ball detectors 225a and 225b pass through the winning ball detectors 225a and 225b.
Ball passages 226 formed on both left and right sides of the mounting board 221
a, 226b, and is fed into the lower winning space 230 from the ball discharge ports 227a, 227b.

The configuration of the variable prize ball device 220 shown in FIGS. 29 and 30 is an example, and any variable prize ball device capable of changing the internal structure to a plurality of states can be used. There may be.

On the rear wall in the upper winning space 222, a winning number display 228 for displaying the number of winning balls detected by the winning ball detectors 225a and 225b, and a continuation number for displaying the number of rounds continued in a specific game state. Number display 2
29 are provided. As described later, a symbol corresponding to the probability state is also displayed at a predetermined time on the winning number display 228 and the continuation number display 229. That is, the winning number display 228 and the continuation number display 22
Reference numeral 9 also serves as a variable display device for displaying identification information. Of course, the variable display device for displaying the identification information includes the winning number indicator 228 and the continuation number indicator 22.
9 may be provided separately.

In the lower winning space 230, a ball discharge port 227 is provided.
a, a lower rolling plate 231 for rolling the winning balls sent from the a and 227b backward, an opening 232 formed at the downstream end of the lower rolling plate 231, an opening / closing plate 234 for opening and closing the opening 232; A rotating drum 236 that rotates at a position above the opening / closing plate 234 and an upper rolling plate 240 disposed behind an upper end of the rotating drum 236 are provided. Opening / closing plate 23
The solenoid 235 is connected to the solenoid 4.
Is turned on, it moves forward in the direction in which the opening 232 is closed. Further, when the solenoid 235 is turned off, it moves backward in a direction to open the opening 232.

Each connecting gear 237a is connected to the rotating drum 236.
Also, the motor 238 is connected via .about.237c so that the motor 238 always rotates in one direction (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 30) at a constant speed in accordance with the driving of the motor 238. However,
It is also possible for the motor 238 to rotate in the opposite direction.

[0196] The peripheral surface of the rotary drum 236 has
Permanent magnets 239a to 239c are installed at three places in the middle and right horizontal rows. Therefore, when the opening 232 is closed by the opening / closing plate 234, the rotating drum 236 opens.
The game balls stopped above are attracted by the magnetic force of the permanent magnets 239a to 239c, and the attracted game balls are sent to the upper rolling plate 240 with the rotation.

At the rear side of the upper rolling plate 240, each of the inclined portions 240a,
0b are formed, and ball passages 241a and 241b are formed downstream of the inclined portions 240a and 240b (on both left and right sides) to feed the game balls rolled on the inclined portions 240a and 240b onto the lower rolling plate 31 again. Have been. In addition, the inclined part 2
40a and 240b are also slightly inclined downward toward the rear side. In addition, a specific reception port 242 as a specific area is provided at the rear center of the upper rolling plate 240.
2 is a pair of left and right movable members 243a, 243b.
Is provided.

Rotary shafts 244a and 244b are integrally attached to the movable members 243a and 243b, respectively.
At the rear end of the rotating shafts 244a and 244b, a solenoid 24 is provided.
5 are connected to each other by the interlocking portions 246a, 246a of the connecting member 246.
6b are integrally attached. In addition, the connecting member 2
46 is a plunger 245 constituting the solenoid 245
a of the rotating shafts 244a and 244b (the movable member 2).
43a, 243b).
When the solenoid 245 is turned on, the movable members 243a and 243b rotate in a direction to block the front of the specific reception port 242 (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 29). Further, when the solenoid 245 is turned off, it rotates in a direction to release the cutoff in front of the specific reception port 242.

On the outer periphery of the specific reception port 242, a decoration L
A plurality of ED indicators 247 are provided. Further, a specific ball detector 248 is provided inside the specific reception port 242 as specific detection means for detecting a winning ball that has entered the specific reception port 242. On the downstream side of the specific ball detector 248, a ball passage (not shown) for discharging the detected ball through a position below the open / close plate 234 is formed. In the following description, the game ball wins the specific reception 242 and the specific ball detector 2
The detection at 48 is also referred to as V winning.

In the above configuration, the movable member 243
a, 243b is maintained at a position where it does not block the front of the specific reception port 242 (while retracted to the top),
The variable prize ball device 220 is in a state where it is difficult for game balls to win in a specific area. Also, by opening and closing the opening 232 with the opening / closing plate 234, it is possible to make it difficult for the game ball to win a specific area.

FIG. 31 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of a game control board (main board) 31 installed on the back of the gaming machine. FIG. 31 also shows a payout control board 37, a lamp control board 35, a sound control board 70, a firing control board 91, and a symbol control board (hereinafter, also referred to as a display control board) 80. A basic circuit 53 for controlling a pachinko gaming machine according to a program is provided on the main board 31.
And specific ball detector 248, starting ball detectors 205a to 205
5c, a switch circuit 58 for providing detection signals from the winning ball detectors 225a and 225b and the clear switch 921 to the basic circuit 53 is mounted.

Further, the main board 31 is provided with each solenoid 22.
4a, 224b, 235, and 245 in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53;
A motor circuit 60 that drives the motor 38 in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53 is mounted. Further, an information output circuit 64 for outputting an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating occurrence of a jackpot to an external device such as a hall computer in accordance with data provided from the basic circuit 53 is mounted.

The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, and an R as storage means (means for storing variation data) used as a work memory.
AM55, a CPU 5 that performs a control operation according to a program
6 and an I / O port unit 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to have at least the RAM 55 therein.
The OM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally mounted or built-in.

A part or all of the RAM (may be a RAM with a built-in CPU) 55 is a backup RAM backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped,
Some or all of the contents of 55 are saved.

In this embodiment, the lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 35 includes side lamps 210a and 210b and windmill lamps 207a and 207.
b. Output control signals to various light emitting members such as the LED display 247 and other frame decorative lamps to control the operations of the various light emitting members in a predetermined manner. The display control of the winning number display 228 and the continuation number display 229 constituting the variable display device is performed by display control means mounted on the display control board 80. Hereinafter, the winning number display 228 and the continuation number display 229 will be referred to as variable display devices 228 and 229.
It may be expressed as In addition, sound control means mounted on the sound control board 70 controls the speaker 27. A ball payout device 9 for paying out game balls as prizes
7 is controlled by payout control means mounted on the payout control board 37. The lamp control means and the sound control means may be mounted on one board. Further, the display control means, the lamp control means, and the sound control means may be mounted on one board.

Also, as in the first and second embodiments,
A power supply board 910 on which a backup power supply is mounted and an information terminal board 34 are also provided on the back of the gaming machine.

FIG. 32 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration in the display control board 80 together with the variable display devices 228 and 229, the output ports (ports 0 and 2) 570 and 572 of the main board 51, and the output buffer circuits 620 and 62A. It is.
Output port (output port 2) 572 outputs 8-bit data, and output port 570 outputs a 1-bit strobe signal (INT signal).

The display control CPU 101 controls the control data R
It operates according to the program stored in the OM 102, and receives an INT signal from the main board 51 via the noise filter 107 and the input buffer circuit 105B, and receives a display control command via the input buffer circuit 105A. As the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B, for example, 74HC540 and 74HC14, which are general-purpose ICs, can be used. When the display control CPU 101 does not include an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B and the display control CPU 101. Then, the display control CPU 101, according to the received display control command,
The display of the variable display devices 228 and 229 is controlled.

The input buffer circuits 105A and 105B
The signal can be passed only in the direction from the main board 51 to the display control board 80. Therefore, the display control board 8
There is no room for a signal to be transmitted from the 0 side to the main board 51 side. That is, the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B together with the input ports constitute irreversible information input means. Even if a circuit in the display control board 80 is tampered with, a signal output by the tampering is not transmitted to the main board 51 side.

Noise filter 10 for blocking high-frequency signals
For example, a three-terminal capacitor or a ferrite bead is used as 7, but even if the display control command includes noise between the substrates due to the presence of the noise filter 107, the effect is eliminated. Also, a noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 62A of the main board 51.

Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. Game control means (CPU 56 and RO
When the power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the peripheral circuits such as the M and the RAM start the same main processing as the processing shown in FIG.

When the execution of the initialization process in the main process (steps S11 to S15) is completed and a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 performs a register save process (step S50), and then executes the steps shown in FIG. S51-
The game control process of S62 is executed. In the game control process, first, the CPU 56
Specific ball detector 248, starting ball detectors 205a to 205c
Further, the detection signals of the switches of the winning ball detectors 225a and 225b are inputted, and their states are determined (switch processing: step S51).

Next, various abnormality diagnosis processes are performed by the self-diagnosis function provided in the pachinko gaming machine, and an alarm is issued if necessary according to the result (error process: step S52).

Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating a random number is performed (step S53).
Further, the CPU 56 performs a process process (step S55). In the process control, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine in a predetermined order according to a gaming state. Then, the value of the process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting the display control command in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and transmitting the display control command (command control process: step S
57). Further, the CPU 56 performs an information output process of outputting data such as jackpot information and start information supplied to the hall management computer (step S5).
9).

The CPU 56 issues a drive command to the solenoid circuit 59 when a predetermined condition is satisfied (step S60). Further, a signal for instructing driving of the motor 38 is given to the motor circuit 60 (step S61).

Then, the CPU 56 sets the winning ball detector 22
A prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals such as 5a and 225b is executed (step S62). More specifically, the payout control board 37 is controlled in accordance with the winning detection based on the turning on of the winning ball detectors 225a and 225b.
A payout control command indicating the number of winning balls. Dispensing control CPU 371 mounted on the dispensing control board 37
Drives the ball payout device 97 in response to a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls. Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S63), and the state is set to the interrupt permission state (step S64).

According to the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms.
In this embodiment, the game control process is executed in the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set.
The game control process may be executed in the main process.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of a process processing program executed by the CPU 56.
The process shown in FIG. 34 is a specific process of step S55 in the flowchart of FIG.

[0220] In the process processing, the CPU 56 executes step S in accordance with the internal state (process flag in this example).
One of the processes from 500 to S508 is performed. In steps S500 to S508, the following processing is performed.

Normal processing (step S500): It is checked whether or not the starting ball detectors 205a to 205c have detected game balls. If there is a detection by the starting ball detectors 205a to 205c, the process proceeds to step S501. Change the value of a flag.

Start Operation Process (Step S501): Control for opening the variable winning prize ball device 220 for a predetermined period and a predetermined number of times is performed, and a specific ball valid period is set (set by software). Then, when the opening period of the variable prize ball device 220 has elapsed, a process for closing the variable prize ball device 220 is performed, and then step S5 is performed.
The value of the process flag is changed so as to shift to 02.

The specific game state determination processing (step S50)
2): It is checked whether or not there is a V winning during the specific ball validity period. If there is a V prize, as a big hit occurrence, after the elapse of the specific ball validity period, a lottery of a probability state described later is performed,
The value of the process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S503. If there is no V winning, step S5
The value of the process flag is changed so as to shift to 00.
If there is a V prize, a lottery of the maximum number of continuous rounds in the big hit game (specific game state) may be performed.

Pre-round start processing (step S50)
3): A command for instructing a round start is transmitted to the display control board 80 and the lamp control board 35. Thereafter, the value of the process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S504.

In-round processing (step S504): Either the opening / closing cycle is completed 18 times or the winning ball detector 22
It is monitored whether or not ten winning balls are detected by 5a and 225b. If the open / close cycle is completed 18 times, or if 10 winning balls are detected by the winning ball detectors 225a and 225b before the 18 open / close cycles are completed, the process flag is set so as to shift to step S505. Change the value of.

V Winning Confirmation Process (Step S505): If the maximum number of continuous rounds has not been reached, it is checked whether or not there is a V winning, and if there is a V winning, the value of the process flag is shifted to step S503. change. If there is no V winning, the value of the process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S506. Also, when the maximum number of continuous rounds has been reached, the value of the process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S506.

Specific game state end processing (step S50)
6): A command for instructing the end of the specific game state is transmitted to the display control board 80 and the lamp control board 35. Further, control is performed to notify the probability state determined in step S502. Specifically, the symbol change in the variable display devices 228 and 229 for notifying the display control board 80 of the probability state (in this example,
It is assumed that numbers “1” to “9” are variably displayed. ) And a display control command indicating a stop symbol are transmitted. Thereafter, the value of the process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S507.

Process during symbol fluctuation (step S507): After the fluctuation period of the symbol fluctuation has elapsed, the value of the process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S508.

Symbol stop processing (step S508): A display control command for instructing stop of symbol change is transmitted to the display control board 80. In addition, an internal flag relating to the probability state (a high-probability variable flag or a medium-probability variable flag described later) is set. Thereafter, the value of the process flag is changed so as to proceed to step S500.

FIG. 35A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of random numbers used for the lottery of the probability state. In step S502 described above, the CPU 56 extracts the value of the random 5 by reading the count value of the counter (numerical value updating means) for generating the random 5. In addition,
The counter for generating the random number 5 is, for example, as shown in FIG.
3 is updated in step S53 shown in FIG. In the case where the maximum number of continuous rounds in the specific game state is determined by using a random number, a random number different from the random number 5 is used.

FIG. 35B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the value of the extracted random 5 and the probability state. In step S506 described above, the CPU 56 notifies the display control board 80 of a stop symbol corresponding to the extracted value of the random number 5 by a display control command. In step S508, a probability state corresponding to the value of the extracted random 5 is set in the internal flag.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing an example of step S508 (symbol stop processing) in the process processing. In the symbol stop process, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting a confirmation command indicating a symbol change stop to the display control board 80 (step S581). Next, it is confirmed whether or not the state is already in the probability change state (high-probability state, medium-probability state, or low-probability state) (step S58)
2). If it is in the probable change state, the high probable change flag, the medium probability flag, and the low probability flag are reset (step S58).
3). Then, the process flag is set to the normal processing (step S
500) (step S586), and
The symbol stop end processing ends.

If the variable display device 22 is not in the probability change state,
The stop symbol displayed at 8,229 is a highly probable symbol ("1", "3" or "7" in this example, see FIG. 35 (B)).
It is determined whether or not (step S584). If it is a high-probability variable symbol, a high-probability variable flag is set (step S585). Then, the process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the normal process (step S500) (step S586), and the symbol stop end process ends.

If the stopped symbol is a medium probability variable symbol (step S587), a medium probability variable flag is set (step S587). Then, the process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the normal process (step S500) (step S586), and the symbol stop end process ends.

If the stopped symbol is a low-probability symbol (a symbol that is neither a high-probability variable symbol nor a medium-probability variable symbol), a low-probability variable flag is set (step S589). Then, the process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the normal process (step S500) (step S586), and the symbol stop end process ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, the state determining means (specifically, realized by software), which is a part of the game control means, is based on a predetermined random number. , It is determined whether the state is a high probability state, a medium probability state, or a low probability state. And after the specific game state ends,
The game control means actually sets the high probability state, the medium probability state, or the low probability state based on the determination result of the state determination means. The high probability state is a state in which the high probability variable flag is set, the medium probability state is a state in which the medium probability variable flag is set, and the low probability state is a state in which the low probability variable flag is set. It is.

Then, when the next specific game state occurs, the probable change state (high probability state, medium probability state, or low probability state) ends.

In this embodiment, after the specific game state is completed, the notification is made by the change of the symbols on the variable display devices 228, 229. However, the setting of the probability state based on the determination by the state determination means is specified. Although the notification is performed after the end of the gaming state, the notification regarding the probability state may be performed before the specific gaming state.

FIG. 37 is a timing chart for explaining a change in the state of the variable winning ball measure 220 in accordance with the set state of the high-probability change flag, the medium-probability change flag, and the low-probability change flag. As shown in FIG. 37 (A), in the low probability state, the variable winning prize ball device 2 is changed according to the detection of the game ball by the starting ball detector.
20 (specifically, the opening / closing pieces 223a and 223b) are opened for a predetermined period by the solenoids 224a and 224b, and the opening 235 is closed by the solenoid 235 for a predetermined period. Further, the movable members 243a and 243b are maintained at a position where the front of the specific reception port 242 is not blocked (retracted to the upper portion). Therefore, since the game balls are not received by the movable members 243a and 243b in front of the specific reception port 242, it is relatively difficult for the game balls to win the specific reception port 242. That is, it is relatively difficult to win the V prize.

As shown in FIG. 37B, in the medium probability state, the variable winning prize ball device 220 (specifically, the opening / closing pieces 223a and 223b) responds to the detection of the game ball by the starting ball detector.
Are opened for a predetermined period by the solenoids 224a and 224b, and the opening 235 is closed by the solenoid 235 for a predetermined period. However, the predetermined period in the closed state is longer than in the low probability state. In the closed state of the opening 32,
The game balls stopped on the opening plate 34 are attracted by the magnetic force of the permanent magnets 239a to 239c of the rotating drum 236 and sent to the upper rolling plate 240 with the rotating operation of the rotating drum 236, so that a V prize is possible. become.
Since the predetermined period in the closed state is longer than that in the low-probability state, the medium-probability state is a state in which V winning is easier than in the low-probability state. Further, the movable members 243a and 243b are moved to a position where the front of the specific reception port 242 is shut off (moved from above to below) by the solenoid 245, and the state is maintained for a predetermined period. Accordingly, the game balls are moved in front of the specific reception port 242 by the movable members 243a and 243.
A period that is accepted by b occurs, which also makes the medium-probability state easier to win V than the low-probability state.

As shown in FIG. 37 (C), in the high probability state, the variable winning prize ball device 220 (specifically, the opening / closing pieces 223a, 223b) responds to the detection of the game ball by the starting ball detector.
Are opened for a predetermined period by the solenoids 224a and 224b, and the opening 235 is closed by the solenoid 235 for a predetermined period. For a predetermined period of time in the closed state,
Longer than in the medium probability state. Therefore, the high probability state is
V winning is more easily achieved than in the medium probability state. The movable members 243a and 243b are controlled by the solenoid 245.
Is maintained at a position that blocks the front of the specific entrance 242. Therefore, also from this, the high probability state is a state in which the V winning is easier than the medium probability state.

Therefore, in this embodiment, if the low-probability state is the first state, the second state more advantageous to the player than the first state corresponds to the medium-probability state, and the second state is more advantageous than the second state. The third state that is advantageous to the player also corresponds to the high probability state.

The variable winning ball device 220 may be opened a plurality of times depending on the detection of the starting ball detector.
FIG. 7 illustrates a case in which it is opened only once. The low-probability state is a state in which it is more difficult to win V than in the normal state which is not a probable state (high-probability state, medium-probability state, or low-probability state), and the normal state is more difficult to win V than the medium-probability state. Although the state is the state, the low probability state may be the same state as the normal state.

Also, in this embodiment, the gaming machine is described as being in a probable change state in which the ease of winning a V changes after the end of the specific game state, but the probable change state is set for each round in the specific game state. May be controlled. That is,
The ease of winning a V-prize may be changed for each round. For example, a lottery may be performed using a predetermined random number or the like before the start of the specific gaming state, and a round in which a V prize is difficult to win, a V prize in which the prize is easy to win, and a round in which a V prize is easy to perform may be determined according to the lottery result. . Alternatively, a lottery may be performed before the start of each round. Note that, as in the above-described example (see FIG. 37), for example, the closing period of the opening 232 is increased or decreased, or the movable members 243a and 243b receive the V prize easily and the V prize difficulty. The period for blocking the front of the entrance 242 may be increased or decreased.

FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an information output signal output from the information terminal board 34 in this embodiment. In the example shown in FIG.
a, opening port 1 information, starting port 2 information, and starting port 3 information indicating the winning number of game balls to a, 204b, 204c, special electric accessory operating information indicating that the special electric accessory device is operating, and conditions. Jackpot information indicating that the device is operating,
Probability fluctuation 1 information indicating a high probability state, probability fluctuation 2 information indicating a medium probability state, probability fluctuation 3 information indicating a low probability state, and the fact that the electric accessory is in operation The information on the number of times of the accessory is displayed as an information output signal from the information terminal board 34 to the outside of the game machine (for example, a hall computer installed in a game arcade).

In this embodiment, the state information output means for outputting a signal capable of specifying whether the state is a low-probability normal state, a medium-probability state, or a high-probability state is:
A game control unit (specifically, a portion that executes the information output process shown in FIG. 33) is realized, and the information output unit is realized by the information output circuit 64 and the information terminal board 34.

When outputting each information output signal, the game control means stores each information in the backup RAM,
Information corresponding to the stored content is output as an information output signal. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, if the power supply is restored within a predetermined period in which the storage content of the backup RAM is held, the power supply is performed by the game state restoration process (step S10 in FIG. 8). Information indicating the state before the stop can be output as an information output signal.

Further, the high-probability change flag, the medium-probability change flag, and the low-probability change flag are also stored in the backup RAM. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, if the power supply is restored within a predetermined period in which the storage content of the backup RAM is held, the probability state is changed to the state before the power supply was stopped by the game state restoration processing. Can be returned to. That is, the state based on the determination result of the state determination unit is stored in the variable data storage unit capable of retaining the contents for a predetermined period even when the power supply is stopped, and is stored in the variable data storage unit when the power supply is restored. The state can be restored based on the data.

As in the first and second embodiments, the information terminal board 34 is provided with each terminal as connection means for separately outputting each information output signal, and is provided with a main board. A connector for transmitting each information output signal output from the information output circuit 64 is provided.

Further, similarly to the first and second embodiments, each information output signal can be output as a test signal to the outside of the gaming machine.

That is, in this embodiment, state information, which is a process for outputting to the outside of the gaming machine, information that can specify whether the state is a low-probability state, a medium-probability state, or a high-probability state. The output processing is performed by the game control means (specifically, the information output processing shown in FIG. 33). In the state information output processing, the game control means outputs the information output from the information output circuit 64. A process for outputting a signal (see FIG. 38) and / or a test signal is executed. When outputting a test signal, a process for outputting the information may be performed in the information output process shown in FIG. 38, but a routine (for example, a test signal output process) different from the information output process may be provided.

[0252]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, there are a plurality of states in which the probability that the specific display mode is displayed as a display result on the variable display device is different, and the plurality of states are different. , At least, the first probability state, the second probability state that the specific display mode is more likely to be displayed than the first probability state, and the probability that the specific display mode is displayed than the second probability state And a state determining means for determining which of a plurality of states is to be set according to the satisfaction of a predetermined condition, and a probability generated based on a determination result of the state determining means. Since the state information output processing for outputting a signal capable of specifying which of the plurality of states is the state to the outside of the gaming machine is configured to be executable, at least the first, second, Plurality of third probability states It is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by the probability state, probability state is effective it can be grasped easily whether the in any state in the gaming machine external be a plurality.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the state determining means is configured to make the determination based on the establishment of the variable display start condition which triggered the display of the specific display mode. It is possible to obtain a decision trigger of the state decision means.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the status information output process, a process is performed to output information indicating that the specific display mode has been displayed and which of the plurality of statuses is present. It is configured as
The fact that the specific display mode is displayed and the probability state can be grasped outside the gaming machine, and the information can be used efficiently.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to control to a specific game state which is advantageous to the player on condition that the specific display mode is displayed as a display result on the variable display device, and after the specific game state ends. Since the probability state is changed based on the determination result of the state determination means, the interest of the game after the end of the specific game state can be enhanced.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the gaming machine can change the internal structure of the variable winning device into a plurality of states, and the plurality of states include at least a first state and a first state.
A second state that is more advantageous to the player than the first state;
A third state, which is more advantageous to the player than the second state, and a state determining means for determining which of the plurality of states is to be set according to the satisfaction of the predetermined condition, The state information output process for outputting to the outside of the gaming machine a signal capable of specifying which of a plurality of states the state that occurred based on the determination result of the plurality of states is configured to be executable. By changing the internal structure of the variable winning device to a plurality of states of first, second, and third states, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game, and even if there are a plurality of states, any of them outside the gaming machine can be improved. There is an effect that it can be easily grasped whether or not it is in the state.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the state determining means is configured to make the determination based on the detection of the specific detecting means which has triggered the generation of the specific game state. An opportunity for determination by the determination means can be obtained.

In the invention according to claim 7, since the state is changed based on the determination result of the state determining means after the specific game state ends, the interest of the game after the specific game state ends is enhanced. Can be improved.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the state generated based on the determination result of the state determination means is configured to be continued at least until the next specific game state occurs, so that an advantageous state is provided. It can be continuously given to the player.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the state determining means is configured to extract a numerical value from the numerical value updating means and make a determination based on the extracted numerical value. And a variety of game characteristics are realized.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information output board for outputting information relating to the game, which is electrically connectable to an external device provided outside the game machine, Since the processing for outputting the information to the output board is performed, the information can be easily supplied to the external device.

According to the eleventh aspect, the information output board is provided with a plurality of connection means for electrically connecting to an external device, and the connection means is provided for each of the plurality of states determined by the state determination means. Since it is configured to be provided separately, unnecessary information can be prevented from being input to the external device.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, data capable of specifying a state based on the determination result of the state determining means is stored in the fluctuation data storage means, and after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the power supply is restored In such a case, the state can be restored based on the data held in the variable data storage means, so even if a power supply stop state occurs, the state is restored after the power supply is restored. The player is not disadvantaged.

[0264] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the fluctuation data storage means stores data capable of specifying the output state of the state information, and when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and then the power supply is restored, the fluctuation data is stored. Since the output state of the state information can be restored based on the data held in the data storage means, if the power supply stop state occurs, erroneous information is restored after the power supply is restored. Is output to the outside of the gaming machine.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine viewed from the front.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing the front of the game board with the glass door frame removed.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the gaming machine as viewed from the rear.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of a game control board (main board).

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a symbol control board.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a payout control board.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a power supply board.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by a CPU on a main board.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a 2 ms timer interrupt process.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a symbol variably displayed on the variable display device.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a random number.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process process.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a start-up switch passing confirmation process.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a process of determining a stop symbol for variable display and a process of determining a reach type.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a process of determining whether or not to make a big hit;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop process in the special symbol process process.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a big hit end process in the special symbol process process.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an information output signal output from the information terminal board.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of terminal arrangement on an information terminal substrate.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an information output circuit on a main board.

FIG. 21 is a timing chart showing an output example of an information output signal.

FIG. 22 is a timing chart showing an output example of an information output signal.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an output example of a test signal.

FIG. 24 is a front view showing the front surface of the game board according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a game control board (main board).

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an information output signal output from the information terminal board.

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of terminal arrangement on the information terminal board.

FIG. 28 is a front view showing the configuration of the game board according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a front view showing the variable winning ball device.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing various components of the variable winning ball device.

FIG. 31 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a game control board (main board).

FIG. 32 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a display control board.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a 2 ms timer interrupt process.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a process process.

FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of random numbers.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a symbol stop process in the process process.

FIG. 37 is a timing chart for explaining a change in the state of the variable winning ball measure.

FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an information output signal output from the information terminal board.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Pachinko gaming machine 9 Variable display device 31 Main board 34 Information terminal board 56 CPU 80 Symbol control board (display control board) 204a-204c Starting winning opening 205a-205c Starting ball detector 220 Variable winning ball device 223a, 223b Opening / closing piece 232 Opening 243a, 243b Movable member

Claims (13)

[Claims] 1. A gaming machine comprising a variable display device whose display state can be changed, wherein a predetermined game value can be given when a display result on the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display mode. There are a plurality of states having different probabilities that the specific display mode is displayed as a display result on the variable display device, and the plurality of states are at least a first probability state and a more specific display than the first probability state. The second probability state in which the mode is displayed is higher, and the third probability state in which the specific display mode is higher in probability than the second probability state is displayed. It is provided with state determining means for determining which of the plurality of states is to be set, and which of the plurality of states is a probability state generated based on a determination result of the state determining means. Special Gaming machine, wherein the available information and can execute the status information output process for outputting to the gaming machine outside. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the state determination means makes the determination based on the satisfaction of a variable display start condition that triggered the display of the specific display mode. 3. The status information output process includes a process of outputting information indicating that the specific display mode has been displayed and specifying which of the plurality of statuses the status is. The gaming machine according to claim 2. 4. It is possible to control to a specific game state advantageous to a player on condition that a specific display mode is displayed as a display result on the variable display device. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the probability state is changed based on a result of the determination. 5. A variable prize device that performs a start operation from a state disadvantageous to a player to a state advantageous to a player by detecting start-up detecting means for detecting a game medium in a start-up area provided in the game area. The variable prize device can be controlled to a specific game state that is more advantageous to the player than the starting operation by detecting a specific detection unit that detects a game medium in a specific area provided in the variable prize device. In a gaming machine, it is possible to change the internal structure of the variable winning device to a plurality of states, the plurality of states are at least the first state, more advantageous to the player than the first state A second state, and a third state which is more advantageous to the player than the second state, and determines which of the plurality of states is to be set according to the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. State information output means for outputting to the outside of the gaming machine information capable of specifying which of the plurality of states the state generated based on the determination result of the state determination means is provided. A gaming machine capable of executing processing. 6. The game machine according to claim 5, wherein the state determination means makes the determination based on detection of the specific detection means which has triggered the generation of the specific game state. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein the state is changed based on a result determined by the state determining means after the specific game state ends. 8. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the state generated based on the determination result of the state determining means is continued at least until the next specific gaming state occurs. 9. A numerical value updating means for updating a numerical value, wherein the state determining means extracts a numerical value from the numerical value updating means,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the determination is performed based on the extracted numerical value. 10. An information output board for outputting information related to a game, the information output board being electrically connectable to an external device provided outside the gaming machine. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine performs a process of outputting information. 11. The information output board is provided with a plurality of connection means for electrically connecting to an external device, and the connection means is provided separately for each of a plurality of states determined by the state determination means. The gaming machine according to claim 10. 12. A game control means for controlling the progress of a game, and variable data provided in the game control means and capable of holding stored data for a predetermined period even if power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Storage means, the fluctuation data storage means stores data capable of specifying a state based on the determination result of the state determination means, after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, when the power supply is restored 12. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein said state can be restored based on data held in said fluctuation data storage means. 13. The fluctuation data storage means stores data capable of specifying the output state of the state information. When the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is restored, the fluctuation data storage means is provided. The gaming machine according to claim 12, wherein the output state of the state information can be restored based on the data held in the game machine.