JP2002346121A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine in which a player can easily recognize a starting storage number. SOLUTION: The display areas of a starting storage displaying portion 181, a special pattern displaying portion 182, a normal pattern displaying portion 183, and a normal pattern starting storage displaying portion 183 are assigned in a fixed way to a display area 150 of a variable display device 9. The display of each display area in the variable display device 9 is controlled by a display controlling means mounted in a display controlling substrate. A game controlling means mounted in a game controlling substrate transmits to the display controlling means a command related to the variable display of identification information in the variable display device 9, and a command showing the storage number of starting storage which stores the hold condition of the variable display start of identification information is transmitted to the display controlling means.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention provides a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, provided that the display result of the identification information on the variable display device has a predetermined specific display mode. And a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state.

[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, and the variable display device performs a variable display based on satisfaction of a condition such as winning of a game ball to a starting opening (start winning), and a display result of the variable display device is displayed. There is a configuration in which a predetermined game value is given to a player when a predetermined specific display mode is set.

[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 a pachinko gaming machine, when a display result of a variable display device for variably displaying identification information is a combination of predetermined specific display modes, it is generally called a "big hit". The identification information is, for example, a symbol, and a description will be given below using a symbol (also called a special symbol) as an example of the identification information. The variable display means that the display state of the variable display device changes, and is also referred to as a change hereinafter. 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. Then, in each open period, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning prizes is won, the winning prize opening is closed. The number of opening of the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 16 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and if the opening time elapses even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the winning opening is closed. 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.

[0005] Further, symbols other than the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol in the left and right middle symbols) which is finally stopped and displayed on the variable display device is continuously provided for a predetermined time and coincides with the specific display mode. Before the final result is displayed, such as when stopped, rocking, scaling or deforming in the state, or when multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched An effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit continues (hereinafter, these states are referred to as a reach state) is referred to as a reach effect. 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.

As described above, for example, a symbol change in the variable display device is started in response to a start winning, but even if a start winning occurs, the symbol change may not be immediately started. For this reason, the fact that there is a start winning is stored as a start memory, and when the state of the symbol change can be started, if there is the stored start winning, the symbol change is started based on the memory. . Then, how many start winnings are stored are notified to the player by a start storage display provided in the gaming machine.

[0007]

The starting memory display is often displayed by a number of lamps or LEDs corresponding to the upper limit of the starting memory. In that case, the number of lamps or LEDs corresponding to the number of start memories is turned on. In some cases, the number of startup memories is displayed in a part of the display area of the variable display device. However, when displaying in a part of the display area of the variable display device, special symbols are also changed in the variable display device. It will be difficult to do.
For example, there is a possibility that the player may mistakenly display the display of the number of starting memories as a special symbol.

Therefore, the present invention provides a gaming machine which allows a player to easily recognize the starting storage number even when information for notifying the player of the starting storage number is displayed on the variable display device. Aim.

[0009]

A gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
A variable display device (for example, variable display device 9) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information is provided, and a specific game state is provided on condition that a display result of the identification information on the variable display device is a predetermined specific display mode. The game machine includes a game control means (for example, CPU 56 etc.) for controlling the progress of the game, and a display control means (for example, display control CPU 101 etc.) for controlling the display of the variable display device. When the control means cannot start the variable display immediately after the condition for starting the variable display of the identification information in the variable display device is satisfied, the start storage means (for example, a start storage means for storing the satisfaction of the condition until the storage number reaches the upper limit value) RAM 55), and the variable display device includes a start storage number display area (for example, start storage display section 181) for displaying the storage number of the start storage means. The area is configured as a fixed area that is allocated in advance, and the game control means sets a start storage number specifying command capable of specifying the storage number of the start storage means and a command (variable display device) related to variable display of identification information. For example, a variation pattern designation command, a left / right middle display designation command, a special symbol stop command) can be transmitted to the display control means.

A gaming machine according to another aspect of the present invention includes a variable display device (for example, a variable display device 9) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, and a display result of the identification information on the variable display device is predetermined. A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state on the condition that the specific display mode has been set, and when the variable display cannot be started immediately even if the variable display start condition of the identification information on the variable display device is satisfied,
A start storage means (for example, a RAM 55) for storing the satisfaction of the condition until the number of storages reaches the upper limit value is provided, and the variable display device displays a start storage number display area (for example, a start storage display unit) for displaying the storage number of the start storage means. 181), and a display unit (for example, an instruction display 181A) that can specify that the start storage number is to be displayed in the start storage number display area.

The start storage number display area is constituted, for example, as a fixed area which is allocated in advance.

[0012] The start storage number display area may be configured to move based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0013] A display unit for specifying that the start storage number is to be displayed is displayed on, for example, a variable display device.

[0014] The display unit for identifiably indicating that the start storage number is to be displayed may be provided on a decorative member for decorating the variable display device.

A game control means (for example, CPU 56 etc.) for controlling the progress of the game and a display control means (for example, display control CPU 101 etc.) for controlling the display of the variable display device are provided. And a start storage number designation command capable of specifying the storage number of the start storage means may be transmitted to the display control means.

[0016] The game control means, with respect to the display control means,
At a time related to the start of variable display on the variable display device, a command capable of specifying a variable display period (for example, a variation pattern designation command) and a command capable of specifying a display result (for example, a left / right middle display designation command) are transmitted; A command (for example, a special symbol stop command) capable of specifying the end of the variable display can be transmitted at a time related to the end of the variable display, and the display control unit receives each command and performs a variable display operation on the variable display device. May be configured to be able to execute control for performing the following.

The command transmitted by the game control means to the display control means includes at least type information (for example, MODE data) indicating the type of the command, and the display control means specifies the number of starting storages by the type information indicating the type of the command. The command may be configured to be distinguishable from other commands.

[0018] The display control means includes a display section for specifying the display of the start storage number in the start storage number display area based on the stored image information, regardless of the command from the game control means. It may be configured to perform display control.

A luminous body control means (for example, a lamp control CPU 351) for controlling a luminous body (for example, a decorative lamp 25) provided in the game machine is provided, and the game control means transmits a start memory number designation command to the luminous body control. The illuminant control means may also be configured to perform control to change the light emission mode of the illuminant based on the reception of the start storage number designation command.

A sound control means (for example, CPU 701 for sound control) for controlling a sound generation means (for example, speaker 27) provided in the game machine is provided, and the game control means sends a start storage number designation command to the sound control means. And the sound control means may be configured to perform control to change the sound output mode of the sound generation means based on the reception of the start storage number designation command.

[0021] The game control means may be configured to transmit the start storage number designation command immediately after the start storage means stores the satisfaction of the variable display start condition.

It is preferable that the gaming machine displays the number of stored starts in the number-of-started-storage display area regardless of a change in the display state of another display area.

A display unit (for example, an instruction display 181A) for displaying the upper limit of the number of start storages may be provided.

In the image displayed on the variable display device,
For example, the identification information variably displayed and the information indicating the number of start storages are displayed as different sprite images.

In the variable display device, it is possible to display a display unit of the number of stored memories and a display unit for specifying that the number of stored memories is to be displayed in the number-of-started-memory display area so as to be superimposed on other displays. When the display unit of the number of start storages is not displayed, another display may be configured to be transparently displayed.

[0026]

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.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame which is openably and closably mounted inside the outer frame. 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.

Near the center of the game area 7, there is provided a variable display device 9 having a display area 150 including a variable display section for variably displaying symbols as identification information. In the display area 150, for example, “left”, “middle”,
There are three symbol display areas of "right". Further, in this embodiment, the variable display of the normal symbol is also performed in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9, and the special symbol start storage number (hereinafter, also simply referred to as the start storage number) and the normal symbol start storage number are displayed. The display is also performed. In addition, a decorative member (decorative decoration) for decorating the variable display device is provided around the variable display device 9.

Below the variable display device 9, there is a starting winning opening 1
4 are 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. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16.

An opening / closing plate 20 which is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific game state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball 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.

When a game ball is won at the gate 32 and detected by the gate switch 32a, a predetermined random number value is extracted unless the symbol start memory normally reaches the upper limit. And
If the variable display in which the display state changes on the ordinary symbol display unit can be started, the variable display of the display on the ordinary symbol display unit is started. If the variable display in which the display state changes on the ordinary symbol display unit cannot be started, the value of the ordinary symbol start memory is increased by one.

In this embodiment, variable display of a normal symbol is performed in a part of the display area 150 of the variable display device 9, and the variable display continues for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds). Then, when the winning symbol is stopped and displayed at the end of the variable display, the winning is achieved. Whether or not a hit is determined is based on whether or not the value of the random number extracted when the gaming ball has won the gate 32 matches a predetermined hit determination value. When the display result of the variable display of the normal symbol is a hit, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time, so that the game balls can easily win. That is, the variable winning ball device 1
The state 5 changes from an unfavorable state to an advantageous state for the player when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a hit symbol.

Further, in the probable change state, the probability that the stop symbol of the ordinary symbol hits the symbol is increased, and one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. It is even more advantageous.
Further, in a predetermined state such as a probable change state, the variable display period (variation time) of a normal symbol may be shortened, so that the player may be more advantageous.

The game board 6 has a plurality of winning ports 29, 30,
33, 39 are provided, winning holes 29, 30, 3 of the game ball
The prize for No. 3 is determined by winning port switches 29a and 30 respectively.
a, 33a, and 39a. Decorative lamps 25 blinking during the game are displayed on the left and right sides of the game area 7.
Is provided at the bottom, and there is an out port 26 for absorbing a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided at upper left and right sides outside the game area 7. A top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7. 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 addition to the decorative lamp 25 clearly shown in FIG. 1, decorative lamps and LEDs are installed in the peripheral portion of the variable display device 9 and the peripheral portion of the opening / closing plate 20.

In this example, the prize ball lamp 51 which is lit 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 unit 50 is in a usable state, and a link direction indicator for indicating which side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 the card unit 50 corresponds to. 153, a card insertion indicator 154 for indicating that a card is inserted into the card unit 50, a card insertion slot 155 for inserting a card as a recording medium, and a card reader provided on the back of the card insertion slot 155. A card unit lock 156 is provided to release the card unit 50 when checking the mechanism of the writer.

The 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 the hit ball enters the starting winning opening 14 and is detected by the starting opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the special symbol can be started, the display area 15 of the variable display device 9 is provided.
At 0, the special symbol starts variable display (fluctuation). 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 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of the special symbols at the time of stoppage is the big hit symbol (specific display mode), the state shifts to the big hit gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls is won. Then, when a hit ball wins in the V winning area while the opening and closing plate 20 is open and is detected by the V winning switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening and closing plate 20 is opened again.
Generation of the continuation right is permitted a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

If the combination of special symbols at the time of stoppage is a combination of a big hit symbol (probably changing symbol) with a fluctuation in probability, 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.

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 rear 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
Lamp control equipped with an ED, a decorative lamp 25, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, a right frame lamp 28c, a prize ball lamp 51, and a lamp control means for controlling lighting of the ball out lamp 52 provided on the frame side. A sound control board 70 on which sound control means for controlling sound generation from the board 35 and the speaker 27 is also provided. Also, DC30
A power supply board 910 and a launch control board 9 on which a power supply circuit for generating V, DC21V, DC12V and DC5V is mounted.
1 is provided.

A terminal board 160 having terminals for outputting various information to the outside of the gaming machine is provided above the gaming machine on the back side. 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. In the vicinity of the center, an information terminal board 34 having terminals for outputting various information from the main board 31 to the outside of the gaming machine is provided.

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

The game balls stored in the storage tank 38 pass through the guide rail and reach the ball dispensing device covered with the 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 further the game balls are 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 the 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, winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a,
39a, full tank switch 48, ball out switch 187,
Prize ball count switch 301A and clear switch 9
Switch circuit 5 for providing a signal from circuit 21 to basic circuit
8, a solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15,
A solenoid 21 for opening and closing the opening / closing plate 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 29a, 30a, 33a,
39a, full tank switch 48, ball out switch 187,
Switches such as the award ball count switch 301A may be called sensors. That is, a game medium detecting means capable of detecting a game ball (in this example, a game ball detecting means)
If so, its name does not matter. That what is called a switch may be what is called a sensor, that is, that the switch is an example of the game medium detecting means is the same in other embodiments.

According to the data provided 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 to start 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. Note that the CPU 56 is a ROM 54
Since the control is executed according to the program stored in the CPU, the execution (or processing) by the CPU 56 means that the CPU 56 executes the control according to the program. The same applies to the CPU mounted on a board other than the main board 31.

A part or all of the RAM (may be a RAM with a built-in CPU) 55 is a backup RAM that 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,
Some or all of the contents of 55 are saved.

A hit ball firing device that hits and fires a game ball is driven by a drive motor 94 controlled by a circuit on a firing 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 board 35
Lamp control means mounted on the game board controls display of the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board, and a top frame lamp 28a and a left frame lamp 28 provided on the frame side.
b, display control of the right frame lamp 28c, the prize ball lamp 51, and the ball out lamp 52. Note that each lamp may be an LED or another type of light emitter, and the LED used in this embodiment and other embodiments may be another type of light emitter. That is, lamps and LEDs are examples of light emitters. In addition, decorative lamps and LEDs installed around the variable display device 9 and around the opening and closing plate 20 are also controlled by the lamp control means. Therefore, the lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 35 corresponds to a light emitter control means for controlling the light emitter provided in the gaming machine. The display control of the variable display device 9 for performing variable display of a special symbol and the like is performed by a symbol control board 8.
0 is carried out by the display control means mounted on the device.

FIG. 5 shows a circuit configuration in the symbol control board 80 by using an LCD (liquid crystal display) 82 as an example of the display area 150 of the variable display device 9 and an output port (ports 0 and 2) of the main board 31. FIG. 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 the display of the 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 a signal transmitting / receiving portion of the main board 31 and the lamp control board 35.
In this embodiment, the top frame lamp 28a, the left and right frame lamps 28b and 28c provided outside the game area 7, and the lighting / extinguishing of the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board,
A lamp control command indicating turning on / off of the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball out lamp 52 is output from the main board 31 to the lamp control board 35.

As shown in FIG. 6, the lamp control commands relating to the lamp control are output ports (output ports 0, 3) 570, 5 of the I / O port unit 57 in the basic circuit 53.
73. Output port (output port 3) 57
3 outputs 8-bit data, and output port 570 is 1
It outputs a bit INT signal. In the lamp control board 35, a control command from the main board 31 is transmitted to the CPU for lamp control via input buffer circuits 355A and 355B.
351. When the lamp control CPU 351 does not include an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B and the lamp control CPU 351.

On the lamp control board 35, the CPU 351 for lamp control includes a top frame lamp 28a, left and right frame lamps 28b, 28c, defined in accordance with each control command.
In accordance with the lighting / light-off pattern of the decoration lamp 25, a lighting / light-off signal is output to the top frame lamp 28a, the left and right frame lamps 28b, 28c, and the decoration lamp 25. The light-on / light-off signal is transmitted from the top frame lamp 28a, the left and right frame lamps 28b,
c, output to the decorative lamp 25. The light-on / light-off pattern is stored in a built-in ROM or an external ROM of the lamp control CPU 351.

On the main board 31, the CPU 56
When there is an unpaid prize ball remaining number in the memory content of M55, a control command for instructing lighting of the prize ball lamp 51 is output. When the game ball 187 (see FIG. 3) no longer detects the game ball, the control command for instructing to turn on the ball out lamp 52 is output. In the lamp control board 35, each control command is input to the lamp control CPU 351 via the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B. The lamp control CPU 351 turns on / off the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball out lamp 52 according to the control commands.
It should be noted that the lighting / extinguishing pattern is determined by the lamp control CPU 35.
1 stored in an internal ROM or an external ROM.

As the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B, for example, 74HC54 which is a general-purpose CMOS-IC
0,74HC14 is used. Input buffer circuit 35
5A and 355B are connected to the lamp control board 35 from the main board 31.
The signal can be passed only in the direction toward. Therefore, there is no room for a signal to be transmitted from the lamp control board 35 side to the main board 31 side. For example, even if a circuit in the lamp control board 35 is tampered with, a signal output by the tampering is not transmitted to the main board 31 side. Note that a noise filter may be provided on the input side of the input buffer circuits 355A and 355B.

In the main board 31, the output port 5
Buffer circuits 620 and 63A are provided outside 70 and 573. As the buffer circuits 620 and 63A, for example, 74HC250 and 7HC which are general-purpose CMOS-ICs
4HC14 is used. According to such a configuration, since a signal input from the outside to the inside of the main board 31 is blocked, a signal line to which a signal may be supplied from the lamp control board 70 to the main board 31 is more reliably eliminated. be able to. Note that a noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 63A.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the signal control portion of the sound control command on the main board 31 and the sound control board 70. In this embodiment, a speaker 27 provided outside the game area 7 according to the progress of the game
Is output from the main board 31 to the sound control board 70.

As shown in FIG. 7, the sound control command is output from output ports (output ports 0, 4) 570, 574 of the I / O port unit 57 in the basic circuit 53.
Output port (output port 4) 574 outputs 8-bit data, and output port 570 outputs 1-bit I
An NT signal is output. In the sound control board 70, each signal from the main board 31 is input to the input buffer circuits 705A and 705A.
The sound is input to the CPU 701 for sound control via the terminal 05B. When the sound control CPU 701 does not include an I / O port, an I / O port is provided between the input buffer circuits 705A and 705B and the sound control CPU 701.

For example, the voice synthesis circuit 702 using a digital signal processor
A volume switching circuit 7 that generates a sound or a sound effect according to the instruction 1
03 is output. The volume switching circuit 703 includes a sound control CP
The output level of U 701 is set to a level corresponding to the set volume and output to volume amplifying circuit 704. The volume amplification circuit 704 outputs the amplified audio signal to the speaker 27.

The input buffer circuits 705A and 705B are, for example, 74HC54, a general-purpose CMOS-IC.
0,74HC14 is used. Input buffer circuit 70
5A and 705B can pass signals only in the direction from the main board 31 to the sound control board 70. Therefore, there is no room for a signal to be transmitted from the sound control board 70 side to the main board 31 side. Therefore, even if the circuit in the sound control board 70 is tampered with, the signal output by the tampering is not transmitted to the main board 31 side. Note that a noise filter may be provided on the input side of the input buffer circuits 705A and 705B.

In the main board 31, the output port 5
Buffer circuits 620 and 67A are provided outside 70 and 574. As the buffer circuits 620 and 67A, for example, 74HC250 and 7HC which are general-purpose CMOS-ICs
4HC14 is used. According to such a configuration, a signal input from the outside to the inside of the main board 31 is blocked, so that a signal line to which a signal may be supplied from the sound control board 70 to the main board 31 is more reliably eliminated. be able to. Note that a noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 67A.

FIG. 8 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. 8), 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 leading to each electric component control board, and the power supply board 910 may supply each voltage reaching each board without passing through the relay board. FIG. 8 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 + 12V power supply drops, the switch output comes to an on state. However, if the stop of the power supply is recognized by monitoring the + 30V power supply voltage that drops faster than + 12V, the switch output will turn 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.

Further, 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 off 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. 8, the detection signal (power-off 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) 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 is
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 being 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 interrupt 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 on, when the 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 game state restoring process, the PC is restored to the state before the power supply was stopped, and since various data (for example, a counter for generating each random number) is stored in the backup RAM, the power supply to the gaming machine is performed. If the power supply is restored within a predetermined time (the data retention period of the backup RAM) after the power supply stops, for example,
The count value of the counter for generating the random number for determination, the random number for display, and the random number for the initial value, which will be described later, is continued from the state before the power supply was stopped.

In the initialization processing, 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). When the display random number update processing and the initial value random number update processing are executed, the interrupt is prohibited. Therefore, during the execution of the random number update processing, a 2 ms timer interrupt described later occurs and the interrupt is generated. The random number update process is executed in the process, thereby preventing the count value from being inconsistent.

The display random number is a random number or the like for determining a symbol to be displayed on the variable display device 9. The display random number updating process is to update a count value of a counter for generating a display random number. This is the processing to be performed. 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 counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a random number generation counter for big hit determination).
Is a random number for determining the initial value of the count value (the value after the value is returned exceeding the maximum value).

When a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56
After performing the register evacuation process (step S20), the game control process of steps S21 to S32 shown in FIG. 10 is executed. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first
Through the switch circuit 58, detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input, and their 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 in the 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 in a predetermined order. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each processing 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
28).

Further, the CPU 56 performs an information output process of outputting data such as big hit information, start information, and probability variation 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 9a, 30a, 33a, and 39a is executed (step S32). Specifically, winning opening switches 29a, 30
A payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on the fact that a, 33a and 39a are turned on. The payout control CPU 371 mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls. afterwards,
The contents of the register are restored (step S33), and the interrupt permission state is set (step S34).

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. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of a special symbol processing program executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process process shown in FIG. 10 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 of the startup memory (memory 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, the value of the variation reduction timer is 0, and in the low probability state (normal state), the start storage number is the maximum value of the start storage, In this state, if the number of stored starts is “2” or more, it is determined that a pattern in which the fluctuation time is reduced is used as the pattern fluctuation pattern. The starting port switch passage confirmation processing is processing for acquiring and storing predetermined random numbers when the starting port switch 14a is turned on.

At 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 process (step S302):
The stop symbols of the left and right middle symbols, which are the display results of the special symbol variable display, 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): A variable display pattern of a special symbol, that is, a variable display pattern (variable pattern) is determined. Then, a process for outputting a display control command for notifying the determined variation pattern, the stop symbol, and the like to the symbol control board 80 and the like is performed. 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.

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 is performed to cause the lamp control means or the like to display an indication to notify 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. 12 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
When it is determined via the switch circuit 58 that the starting port switch 14a has been turned on (step S41), it is checked whether the number of stored start-ups has reached an upper limit value (20 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 S4).
3) Extract the value of each random number such as the big hit determination random number. Then, they are stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the value of the number of start storages (step S44).

Further, a process for a transmission request of the start storage number designation command is performed (step S45). The start storage number designation command is a display control command or the like transmitted to display control means or the like mounted on the symbol control board 80 to notify a new start storage number, and specifically, Processing for specifying a command transmission table, which will be described later, is performed. If the number of stored memories has reached the upper limit, the process of increasing the number of stored memories is not performed.

In the special symbol process at step S25, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the number of stored starts as shown in FIG. 13 (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.

Further, since the start storage number has been reduced by one, a process for requesting transmission of a start storage number designation command is performed to notify the display control means and the like of the new start storage number (step S65).

Then, the CPU 56 determines the hit / miss based on the value read in step S52, that is, the value of the extracted random number for jackpot determination (random number for special symbol determination) (step S54). Here, the random number for jackpot determination takes a value in the range of 0 to 316. Then, as shown in FIG. 14, in the normal state, for example, if the value is “3”, “big hit” is determined, and if the value is any other value, “missing” is determined. In the high probability state (probable change state), for example, the value is “3”,
If it is one of "7", "79", "103", and "107", it is determined as "big hit", and if it is any other value, it is determined as "out".

FIG. 15 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) (2) Random 2-1 to 2-3: For deciding a special symbol in the left and right middle (special left and right middle) (3) ) Random 3: Determines the combination of special symbols that generate a big hit (for big hit symbol determination) (4) Random 4: Determines the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol (for fluctuation pattern determination) (5) Random 5: Normal pattern (6) Random 6: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value) (7) Random 7: Initial value of random 5 (For random 5 initial value determination)

In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 56 determines (1) the random number for jackpot determination, (3) the random number for jackpot symbol determination, and (5) the normal symbol hit determination. The counter for generating the random number for use 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 or the random numbers for initial values. In addition, in order to enhance the game effect, random numbers related to ordinary symbols other than the random numbers (1) to (7) are also used.

When it is determined in step S54 shown in FIG. 13 that a big hit has occurred, a big hit symbol is determined according to the value of the random number (random 3) for the big hit symbol (step S54).
55). 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 special 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 checks whether or not the reach is determined (whether or not 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 fluctuation pattern of the symbol is determined based on the random number 4 (step S61).

If it is not decided to reach, it is confirmed whether or not it is in a probable change 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 variation mode of the symbol 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 special symbol variation mode, it is determined whether a reach effect is performed or not, and a combination of stop symbols is determined.

The processing shown in FIG. 13 is the same as the processing in 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 normal symbol process (step S) executed in the game control process shown in FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows 27). In the normal symbol process process, the CPU 56 executes one of the processes shown in steps S72 to S76 according to the value of the normal symbol process flag after executing the gate switch process of step S71.

As shown in FIG. 17, in the gate switch process, it is detected whether the gate switch 32a is turned on based on the passing of the ball through the gate 32, which is a condition for starting the symbol change (step S611). If the gate switch 32a is on, it is checked whether or not the normal symbol start memory has reached the maximum value ("4" in this example) (step S61).
2). If it has not reached, usually the value of the symbol start memory is +1
(Step S613). When the value of the normal symbol start memory changes, a display control command or the like for transmitting the change to the display control means is transmitted to the symbol control board 80 or the like. Then, the CPU 56 extracts the value of the random number (random 5) for determining a symbol hit per normal pattern and stores the value (S6).
14). Note that the normal symbol starting memory is the backup RA
M.

In the ordinary symbol change waiting process of step S72, if the value of the ordinary symbol start storage is other than 0, the CPU 56 updates the value of the ordinary symbol process flag. If the value of the normal symbol start memory is 0, nothing is performed.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the random number (random 5) for determining a normal symbol hit and the hit / los in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18, when the probability is high, the hit value is one of 3 to 12, and when the probability is low, the hit value is 3, 5 or 7. Ordinarily, if the value of the symbol hit determination random number matches the hit value, the hit is determined. In addition, the time of the high probability of the normal symbol coincides with the time of the probability change, for example.

In the ordinary symbol determination processing of step S73,
The CPU 56 reads out the value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the number of ordinary symbol start storages = 1,
Normally, the value of the symbol start memory is reduced by one, and the value of each random value storage area is shifted. That is, the value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the normal symbol start storage number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the normal symbol start storage number = n-1. Store.

Then, the CPU 56 determines a hit / miss based on the value of the extracted normal symbol hit determination random number. That is, the hit / miss is determined based on the relationship shown in FIG. Specifically, the value of the extracted normal symbol hit determination random number is the hit determination value shown in FIG. 18 (3, 5, 7 at low probability, 3 to 1 at high probability).
The hit is determined when any one of 2) is matched.

Also, in order to notify the symbol control board 80 of the stop symbol of the normal symbol, control for transmitting a display control command indicating the stop symbol is performed. Specifically, a display control command indicating a stop symbol is stored in a predetermined storage area (RAM), and data for a command transmission request is set. The data is referred to in the command control process (step S28) in the game control process. Alternatively, an address of a command transmission table (ROM) in which a display control command indicating a stop symbol is stored is designated to be recognizable in the command control processing. Next, control for transmitting a display control command indicating the start of normal symbol change is performed. Specifically, a display control command indicating a normal symbol change start is stored in a predetermined storage area (RAM), and data for a command transmission request is set. Alternatively, an address of a command transmission table (ROM) in which a display control command indicating a normal symbol change start is stored is designated.

Then, a normal symbol variation time timer is started. For example, at the time of a high probability, a value equivalent to 5.1 seconds is set in the normal symbol fluctuation time timer. At low probability,
Normally, a value corresponding to 29.2 seconds is set in the symbol fluctuation time timer. Also, the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the normal symbol change process.

Normally, the fluctuation of the symbol is controlled by the symbol control board 80.
Display control means (display control CPU 10
1). When the display control means receives the display control command indicating the start of the normal symbol change, the display control means starts the normal symbol change. Then, when a display control command indicating stop of normal symbol fluctuation described later is received, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is stopped, and the stop symbol that has been notified is displayed.

In the ordinary symbol change processing of step S74,
It is usually checked whether the symbol fluctuation time timer has timed out. If the timeout has occurred, the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the normal symbol stop processing.

In the normal symbol stop process of step S75, control is performed to transmit a display control command indicating a normal symbol change stop. If it is determined that the winning is determined to be a hit, the normal electric accessory hit flag is set, and the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the starting winning opening opening / closing process. In the start winning opening opening / closing process, control is performed to open the starting winning opening (variable winning ball device 15) a predetermined number of times for a predetermined period. When it is determined to be a loss, the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the normal symbol change waiting process.

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

FIG. 19 shows control commands (a lamp control command, a sound control command, a display control command, and a control command) transmitted from the main board 31 to the lamp control board 35, the payout control board 37, the sound control board 70, and the symbol control board 80. It is an explanatory view showing an example of the command form of (payout control command). In this embodiment, the command data of the control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command type), and the second byte represents EXT (specific instruction content). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always "1", and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always "0". As described above, the control commands transmitted to the lamp control board 35, the payout control board 37, the sound control board 70, and the symbol control board 80 are constituted by a plurality of command data, and can be distinguished from each other by the first bit. ing. The command form shown in FIG. 19 is an example, and another command form may be used. For example, a control command composed of one byte or three or more bytes may be used.

As shown in FIG. 20, the control command is 8
It is composed of bit control signals CD0 to CD7 (command data) and an INT signal (capture signal). The lamp control means, the payout control means, the sound control means, and the display control means mounted on the lamp control board 35, the payout control board 37, the sound control board 70, and the symbol control board 80 detect that the INT signal has risen. Then, a 1-byte data fetch process is started by the interrupt process.

FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a display control command sent to the symbol control board 80. The display control command has a 2-byte configuration of MODE and EXT. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the command 8000 (H)
８０8031 (H) is a display control command for designating a variation pattern of a special symbol. It should be noted that a command for designating a variation pattern (variation pattern designation command) also serves as a variation start instruction. Also, commands 8000 (H) to 8
018 (H) is used during low probability, and command 8
019 (H) to 8031 (H) are used during high probability.

The command 88XX (X = arbitrary value of 4 bits) is a display control command relating to a variation pattern of a normal symbol. The command 89XX is a display control command for designating a stop symbol of a normal symbol. Command 8AXX
(X = arbitrary value of 4 bits) is a display control command for instructing to stop variable display of a normal symbol.

Commands 91XX, 92XX and 93X
X is a display control command for designating a left middle right stop symbol of a special symbol. The command A0XX is a display control command for instructing to stop the variable display of the special symbol.
The command BXXX is a display control command sent from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game.

The commands C000 to EXXXX are display control commands relating to a change in special symbols and a display state irrespective of a jackpot game. Command E0XX of them
Is a display control command indicating the start storage number (special symbol start storage number). The display control means displays information on the special symbol start storage number in the display area 150 so that the player can recognize the number designated by “XX”. The command E1XX is a display control command indicating the number of ordinary symbols to be stored. The display control means displays information on the normal symbol start storage number in the display area 150 so that the player can recognize the number designated by “XX”.

As described above, the display control commands (variable pattern designation command, left / right middle design designation command, special design stop command, etc.) relating to the variable display of special symbols, the start storage designation command, and the normal symbol start storage designation command are: Since the MODE data (corresponding to the type information indicating the type of command) is different, that is, the type information included in the command is different, the display control means that receives the display control command uses the MODE data of the first byte. , The type of the display control command can be immediately identified. That is, it is possible to immediately identify the display control command relating to the variable display of the special symbol, the start memory designation command, and the normal symbol start memory designation command.

The start memory designating command indicating the special symbol start memory display number and the normal symbol start memory designating command indicating the normal symbol start memory display number are designed to increase or decrease the number of memories, not the number of memories themselves. It may be.

When the display control means of the symbol control board 80 receives the above-described display control command from the game control means of the main board 31, the display control means displays the display area 150 of the variable display unit 9 in accordance with the contents shown in FIG. Control to change the status.

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a lamp control command sent from the main board 31 to the lamp control board 35. MODE and EX lamp control commands
T is a 2-byte configuration. In the example shown in FIG. 22, commands 8000 (H) to 8031 (H) are lamp control commands for designating a control pattern of a lamp / LED (light emitting body provided in a game machine) corresponding to a variation pattern of a special symbol. It is. The command A0XX (X = arbitrary value of 4 bits) is a lamp control command for instructing a lamp / LED control pattern at the time of stopping variable display of a special symbol. The command BXXX is a lamp control command for instructing a lamp / LED control pattern from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. The command C000 is a lamp control command for instructing a lamp / LED control pattern during a customer waiting demonstration.

The commands 8XXX, AXXX, BX
XX and CXXX are ramp control commands sent from the game control means in accordance with the progress of the game, that is, lamp control commands instructing to notify the game state. When the lamp control means receives the above-described lamp control command from the game control means on the main board 31, the lamp control means changes the display state (lighting, turning off and blinking) of the lamp / LED according to the contents shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, the lamp control means
When a lamp control command instructing to notify the gaming state is received, a part of or all of the decoration lamp 25, the top frame lamp 28a, and the left and right frame lamps 28b and 28c is used to light the gaming state. / Light-off control. Note that the decorative lamp 25, the top frame lamp 28a, and the left and right frame lamps 28b and 28c may each be formed of a group of a plurality of light emitters. In this case, the decorative lamp 25, the top frame lamp 28a, and the left and right frame lamps 28
Informing the gaming state by using a part of b and 28c also means that, for example, a part of a plurality of light emitters constituting the decorative lamp 25 may be used.

Commands E200 and E201 are lamp control commands relating to the display state of the prize ball lamp 51, and commands E300 and E301 are lamp control commands relating to the display state of the ball out lamp 52. The ramp control means sends “E2” from the game control means of the main board 31.
01 ”when the lamp control command is received.
The display state of No. 1 is a predetermined display state where there is a prize ball remaining, and when a lamp control command of “E200” is received, the display state of the prize ball lamp 51 is a display state where there is no prize ball remaining. State.

In addition, the game control means of the main board 31 sends "E
When the lamp control command of “300” is received, the display state of the out-of-balloon lamp 52 is changed to the display state of the presence of a ball, and “E30” is displayed.
When the lamp control command of "1" is received,
The display state of No. 2 is set to a display state in which the ball is running out. That is,
Commands E200 and E201 are commands indicating that a luminous body provided for notifying a player or the like that there is a game ball of a non-winning ball is controlled.
300 and E301 are commands indicating that a light emitter provided for notifying a player or a game clerk that the supply ball has run out is controlled.

In this embodiment, a lamp control command (command E0XX) indicating the number of stored memories and a lamp control command (command E1
XX) is also transmitted from the main board 31 to the lamp control board 35. Upon receiving these commands, the lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 35 controls the display of the lamps / LEDs in a predetermined lighting pattern.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the content of a sound control command sent to the sound control board 70. The sound control command also has a 2-byte configuration of MODE and EXT. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the command 8XXX (X = arbitrary value of 4 bits) is a sound control command for designating a sound generation pattern in a special symbol fluctuation period. The commands 8000 (H) to 8031 (H) are sound control commands for designating a sound generation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol. The command BXXX (X = arbitrary value of 4 bits) is a sound control command for designating a sound generation pattern from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. Other commands are sound control commands that are not related to the change of the special symbol and the big hit game. When the sound control means of the sound control board 70 receives the above-mentioned sound control command from the game control means of the main board 31, it changes the sound output state according to the contents shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, a sound control command (command E0XX) indicating the number of stored memories and a sound control command (command E1XX) indicating the number of ordinary symbols to be stored.
Is also transmitted from the main board 31 to the sound control board 70. Upon receiving these commands, the sound control means mounted on the sound control board 70 performs sound output control in a predetermined pattern.

FIG. 24A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a transmission timing of a display control command relating to a change in a special symbol in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 sends a change start command (specifically, a change pattern designation command) to the symbol control board 80 when starting the change of the special symbol.
And a display control command indicating a fixed symbol (stop symbol) of the left and right middle symbol is transmitted.

Then, when the change of the special symbol is decided, that is, when the special symbol is stopped, a decision command (special symbol stop command) is sent to the symbol control board 80. Display control CP mounted on the symbol control board 80
U101 performs display control according to the fluctuation pattern specified by the fluctuation start command. The change start command includes information indicating the change time.

As described above, the game control means gives the display control means a display control command (variation start time) capable of specifying the variable display period at the time related to the start of the variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9. Command) and a command capable of specifying the display result (a display control command indicating a fixed symbol of the middle left and right symbols), and a command (determination command) capable of specifying the end of the variable display at a time related to the end of the variable display. ). Then, the display control means executes control for causing the variable display device 9 to perform a variable display operation of a special symbol upon receiving each command.

Accordingly, the game control means sends a change start command and a display control command indicating a fixed symbol (stop symbol) of the left and right middle symbols when the change is started, and transmits a fixed command when the change is stopped. Just need. Specifically, the display control during the change of the special symbol is performed by the display control means. Therefore, the burden on the game control means relating to the change of the special symbol is reduced.

FIG. 24B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transmission timing of each display control command relating to the big hit game executed when the display result of the special symbol is a predetermined big hit symbol. In this embodiment, the CPU of the main board 31
56 sends a big hit start display command to the display control board 80 at the start of the big hit game. After a lapse of a predetermined time, a one-round (1R) designation command (display command for opening the special winning opening) is transmitted. Display control CPU
When the big hit start display command is received, the 101 controls the big hit start display. When the first round designation command is received, the first round display is performed.

After that, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 sequentially sends display control commands indicating each round to the symbol control board 80. Display control C of the symbol control board 80
The PU 101 performs corresponding display control according to the display control commands.

When the big hit game ends, the CPU 56 of the main board 31 sends a big hit end display command to the symbol control board 80. Upon receiving the jackpot end display command, the display control CPU 101 sets the control state to a game waiting state after a predetermined time.

FIG. 24C is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the start storage number command and the display of the start storage display section in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9. FIG. 24 (C)
As shown in (5), the display of the start storage display section is changed based on the special symbol start storage number command.

When a control command is to be output from the game control means of the main board 31 to each of the sub-boards (the lamp control board 35, the payout control board 37, the sound control board 70, and the symbol control board 80), the command transmission table The settings are made. Alternatively, the address of the command transmission table formed in the ROM 54 is specified. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of the command transmission table. One command transmission table is composed of three bytes, and INT data described later is set in the first byte. Also, 2
In the command data 1 of the byte, MODE data of the first byte of the control command is set. Then, in the command data 2 of the third byte, EXT data of the second byte of the control command is set.

Although the EXT data itself may be set in the command data 2 area, the command data 2
Is a table (ROM) in which EXT data is stored.
54 are formed. ) May be set as data (buffer designation data) for designating an address. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG.
If bit 7 (work area reference bit) of the command data 2 is 0, it indicates that the EXT data itself is set in the command data 2. Such EXT data is data in which bit 7 is 0. Further, as shown in FIG. 26B, if the work area reference bit is 1, it indicates that the other 7 bits are offsets for specifying the address of the table in which the EXT data is stored. In the example shown in FIG. 26B, since bits 4 to 0 are used, 32 types of buffers can be designated. Also, 32
Types of buffers include, for example, a special symbol variation pattern buffer, a special symbol left symbol buffer, a special symbol middle symbol buffer, a special symbol right symbol buffer, and the like.

Also, the EXT data (“00 (H)” to “14 (H)”) of the command indicating the number of stored special symbol starts.
(H) ”) is stored in the command data 2, and MODE data (E0 (H)) is stored in the command data 1.
If zero types of command transmission tables are prepared in the ROM 54, a command (E0X) indicating the number of start symbols stored in the special symbol can be obtained.
X (H)) is simplified. That is, if the address of the command transmission table according to the displayed start storage number is designated, the game control means performs the command control process in the game control process shown in FIG. 10 based on the designated address. Thus, it is possible to easily recognize the contents of the command indicating the number of start storages to be transmitted. As for the normal symbol start storage number, the EXT data of the command indicating the normal symbol start storage number (“00
(H) ”to“ 04 (H) ”) are stored in the command data 2, and MODE data (E1
If four types of command transmission tables storing (H)) are prepared in the ROM 54, the control for transmitting the command (E1XX (H)) indicating the number of symbols to be normally stored is simplified.

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the INT data. Bit 0 in the INT data indicates whether or not a payout control command should be sent to the payout control board 37. If bit 0 is "1", it indicates that a payout control command should be sent. Therefore, the CPU 56 sets “01 (H)” in the INT data in, for example, the prize ball processing (step S32 of the game control processing).

Further, bit 1 in the INT data is
This indicates whether a display control command should be sent to the symbol control board 80 or not. If bit 1 is "1", it indicates that a display control command should be sent. Therefore, the CPU 56
Sets "02 (H)" in the INT data in, for example, the special symbol process process or the normal symbol process process (steps S26 and S27 of the game control process).

Bits 2 and 3 of the INT data are bits indicating whether or not a lamp control command and a sound control command are to be transmitted, respectively. In the symbol processing, etc., the command transmission table pointed by the pointer (for example, the special symbol command transmission pointer)
The INT data, command data 1 and command data 2 are set. When sending those commands,
The corresponding bit of the INT data is set to “1”, and MODE data and EXT data are set in the command data 1 and the command data 2.

In this embodiment, a plurality of command transmission tables are prepared for each control command, and the command transmission table to be used is set before the command transmission. Alternatively, the address of the command transmission table formed in the ROM 54 is specified. Further, a plurality of command transmission tables may be set in one table. For example, as shown in FIG. 28, one table including a plurality of command transmission tables capable of storing a plurality of display control commands is prepared.
For example, in the command control process, the CPU 56 reads INT from the command transmission table pointed by the pointer.
Data, command data 1 and command data 2 are read, and a display control command is transmitted. Then, the pointer is updated. Thereafter, the display control command transmission process is repeated until the command transmission table designated by the pointer indicates the end code. A part of a table prepared for each control command (for example, the payout control board 37)
Table in which the number-of-payouts designation command is set for
May be configured in a ring buffer format.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing an example of a command control process in the game control process shown in FIG. Command control processing includes command output processing and INT
This is a process including a signal output process. In the command control process, the CPU 56 first saves the address of the command transmission table in a stack or the like (step S33).
1). Then, the INT data of the command transmission table pointed to by the pointer is loaded into the argument 1 (step S).
332). Argument 1 is input information for a command transmission process described later. Further, the address indicating the command transmission table is incremented by 1 (step S333). Therefore, the address indicating the command transmission table matches the address of the command data 1. The display control command is set, for example, in the command transmission table shown in FIG.

Next, the CPU 56 sets the command data 1
Is read and set as argument 2 (step S334).
The argument 2 also becomes input information for a command transmission process described later. Then, a command transmission processing routine is called (step S335).

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a command transmission processing routine. In the command transmission processing routine, the CPU 56 first sets the data set in the argument 1, ie, the INT data, in the work area determined as the comparison value (step S351).
Next, the number of transmissions = 4 is set in the work area determined as the number of processes (step S352). Then, the address of port 1 is set to the IO address (step S353). In this embodiment, port 1
Is the address of an output port for outputting payout control command data, and the addresses of ports 2 to 4 are the addresses of output ports for outputting display control command data, lamp control command data, and sound control command data. And

Next, the CPU 56 shifts the comparison value one bit to the right (step S354). It is determined whether or not the carry bit has become 1 as a result of the shift processing (step S355). The fact that the carry bit has become 1 means that the rightmost bit in the INT data is “1”.
It means that it was. In this embodiment, four shift processes are performed. For example, when it is specified that a display control command should be transmitted, the carry bit becomes 1 in the second shift process.

When the carry bit becomes 1, the data set in the argument 2, in this case, the command data 1 (ie, MODE data) is output to the address set as the IO address (step S3
56). When the second shift processing is performed, the address of the port 2 is set in the IO address. At that time, the MODE data of the display control command is output to the port 2.

Next, the CPU 56 sets the IO address to 1
While adding (step S357), 1 is subtracted from the number of processes (step S358). If the port 2 is indicated before the addition, the IO address is set to the address of the port 3 by the addition processing for the IO address. Port 3 is a port for outputting a lamp control command. Then, the CPU 56 checks the value of the number of processes (step S359), and returns to step S354 if the value is not 0. The shift process is performed again in step S354.

In the second shift processing, the value of bit 1 in the INT data is pushed out, and the carry flag becomes "1" or "0" according to the value of bit 1. Therefore,
A check is made as to whether it is specified that a display control command should be sent. Similarly, by the third and fourth shift processes, it is checked whether or not it is specified that the lamp control command and the sound control command should be transmitted. As described above, when each shift process is performed, a command (payout control command, payout control command,
IO addresses corresponding to display control commands, lamp control commands, and sound control commands are set.

Therefore, when the carry flag becomes "1", the corresponding output port (port 1 to port 4)
Is sent to the control command. That is, a single common module can perform a process of transmitting a control command to the control unit of each sub-board.

In this way, since it is determined only by the shift processing to which control means of each sub-board the control command is to be output, it is determined to which control means the control command is to be output. Processing has been simplified.

Next, the CPU 56 reads the contents of the argument 1 storing the INT data before the start of the shift processing (step S360), and outputs the read data to the port 0 (step S361). In this embodiment,
The port 0 address is a port for outputting an INT signal for each control signal.
To 4 are a payout control INT signal and a display control IN, respectively.
A port for outputting a T signal, a lamp control INT signal, and a voice control INT signal. In the INT data, the bit corresponding to the output bit of the INT signal corresponding to the control command (payout control command, display control command, lamp control command, sound control command) output in the processing of steps S351 to S359 becomes “1”. Has become. Therefore, the INT signal corresponding to the control command (payout control command, display control command, lamp control command, sound control command) output to any of the ports 1 to 4 is turned off (low level).

Next, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined value in the weight counter (step S362), and decrements by one until the value becomes 0 (steps S363 and S36).
4). When the value of the wait counter becomes 0, clear data (00) is set (step S365), and the data is output to port 0 (step S366). Therefore, the INT signal is turned off. Then, a predetermined value is set in the weight counter (step S362), and the value is decremented by 1 until the value becomes 0 (steps S368 and S368).
369).

As described above, the MODE data of the first byte of the control command is transmitted. Therefore, CPU5
No. 6 adds 1 to the value indicating the command transmission table in step S336 shown in FIG. Therefore, the area of the command data 2 in the third byte is specified. The CPU 56
The contents of the indicated command data 2 are loaded into the argument 2 (step S337). Further, it is determined whether the value of bit 7 (work area reference bit) of the command data 2 is “0” (step S339). If it is not 0, the start address of the command extension data address table is set in the pointer (step S339), and the address is calculated by adding the values of bits 6 to 0 of the command data 2 to the pointer (step S340). Then, the data of the area indicated by the address is loaded into the argument 2 (step S341).

In the command extension data address table, EXT data that can be transmitted to the control means of each sub-board is set sequentially. Therefore, by the above processing,
If the value of the work area reference bit is "1", the EXT data in the command extension data address table corresponding to the content of the command data 2 is loaded into the argument 2, and the value of the work area reference bit is "0". For example, the contents of the command data 2 are directly loaded into the argument 2. In addition,
Even when EXT data is read from the command extension data address table, bit 7 of that data is "0".

Next, the CPU 56 calls a command transmission processing routine (step S342). Therefore, M
EXT at the same timing as when sending ODE data
Data is sent. Thereafter, the CPU 56 returns the address of the command transmission table (step S34).
3) Update the value of the read pointer pointing to the command transmission table (step S344). Then, if there is another command to be transmitted (step S345), the process returns to step S331.

As described above, the 2-byte control command (dispensing control command, display control command, lamp control command, sound control command) is transmitted to the control means of each corresponding sub-board. When the control means of each sub-board detects the change in the level of the INT signal, the control command fetching process is started. In any of the control means, a new signal from the game control means is output before the fetching process is completed. It is not output to the signal line. That is, each control means such as the display control means performs a reliable command receiving process. The polarity of the INT signal may be reversed from that shown in FIG.

In the above-described control, the display control commands are transmitted in the order in which the transmission requests are generated. However, in the special symbol process process (see FIG. 11), the start-up switch passing confirmation process (step S311, specifically, Since the processing shown in FIG. 12 is executed first,
Since the processing in step S65 is executed before the determination of the stop symbol or the variation pattern in the processing shown in (1), the start storage number designation command is transmitted prior to other display control commands. That is, when the start winning is generated at the timing of transmitting the display control command related to the variable display on the variable display device 9, the command is transmitted in the order of the start storage number designation command and the display control command related to the variable display. In this embodiment, there are four display control commands transmitted at the time related to the start of the variable display, that is, a variation pattern designation command and left and right symbol designation commands. If the display control command is not configured to be transmitted in the order of the transmission request, even if it is controlled to preferentially transmit the start storage number designation command in the part that actually performs the processing of transmitting the display control command, Good.

In the game control process shown in FIG. 10, the special symbol process process and the command control process are always executed (interruption is prohibited until step S34, so that the next 2 ms timer interrupt is assumed. Occurs, after the execution of the processing of step S34.), And when the increase or decrease in the number of starting memories is recognized in the processing for confirming the passage of the starter switch in the special symbol process processing or the processing of step S65, The start memory number designation command is a command control process (step S28) in one game control process (2ms timer interrupt process).
Is transmitted reliably. In other words, the game control means can transmit the start storage number designation command immediately (within one game control process) at the time when the establishment of the variable display start condition is stored in the start storage means.

FIG. 31 shows the display area 15 of the variable display device 9.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display state of 0. In this embodiment, the display area 150 includes a start storage display section 181, a special symbol display section 182, an ordinary symbol display section 183, and an ordinary symbol start storage display section 183. As shown in FIG. 31, an instruction display 181 </ b> A indicating that the display is the start storage display is displayed on the start storage display 181. In addition, on the special symbol display section 182, an instruction display 182A indicating that it is a special symbol display section is displayed. Ordinary symbol display 18
3 is an instruction display 18 indicating that it is a normal symbol display section.
3A is displayed. And the normal symbol start storage display unit 1
At 84, an instruction display 184A indicating that it is a normal symbol start storage display section is displayed.

As described above, each instruction display 181A, 182
Since A, 183A and 184A are displayed, even if a plurality of types of display are made on one variable display device 9, the player can immediately identify the display content.

In this embodiment, an area for displaying “〇” and an area for displaying “x” are defined in the ordinary symbol display section 183, and the density of the ordinary symbol is increased by alternately increasing the density. Variable display is realized, for example,
At the end of the variable display period (variable period) of the normal symbol, if the left side (“〇”) is displayed dark, it is a hit. In addition,
Instead of realizing variable display by shading, one may be displayed and the other may be erased,
Variable display may be realized by changing the display color.

When the number of start memories of the special symbol is 4 or less, as shown in FIG.
In 1, one circle area is displayed. The number of circular areas corresponding to the number of start storages is displayed dark. Other circle areas are displayed lightly. In FIG. 31, the black circles are dark circles. FIG. 31 shows a state in which the special symbol is changing. Even when the special symbol is stopped, at least the start storage display unit 181 is displayed as shown in FIG. 31. When the number of stored memories is 0, all the circular regions are lightly displayed. That is, in this embodiment, the start storage display unit 181 is always displayed regardless of a change in the game state.

When the number of starting memories exceeds four, FIG.
As shown in (B), the start storage display unit 181 displays 20
Circle regions are displayed. In the meantime, the number of circular areas corresponding to the number of stored memories at that time is displayed darkly. It should be noted that instead of indicating the number of start storages by shading, the number obtained by subtracting the number of start storages from the number of circular regions (for example, FIG. 31)
In the case of (A), if the start storage number is "1", the subtracted number may be "3") to delete the circular area, or the display memory number display may be realized by changing the display color. It may be.

Further, the normal symbol start storage display section 184 displays four circular areas. In the meantime, the number of circular areas corresponding to the number of ordinary symbol start storages at that time is displayed darkly. It should be noted that, instead of indicating the number of ordinary symbol start storages by shading, the number obtained by subtracting the number of ordinary symbol start storages from the number of circle areas (for example, if the number of ordinary symbol start storage is “1”, the subtracted number is “3”). ) May be deleted, or the normal symbol start storage number display may be realized by changing the display color.

In the example shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B, the start storage display section 181, the special symbol display section 182, the ordinary symbol display section 183, and the ordinary symbol start storage display section 184 are respectively provided in the display area 150. Are fixed areas that are allocated in advance and are divided by a frame, but those areas may be moved. For example, as shown in FIG. 32, when the reach effect is started, the display area areas of the start storage number display section 181, the normal symbol display section 183, and the normal symbol start storage number display section 184 may be reduced. . In the example shown in FIG.
1. The ordinary symbol display section 183 and the ordinary symbol start storage number display section 184 are displayed collectively and downward in the display area 150. In the display example shown in FIG. 32, “普通” and “×” are alternately displayed on the ordinary symbol display unit 183. Further, in the start storage number display section 181 and the ordinary symbol start storage number display section 184, the respective storage numbers are displayed by numerical values. The display shown in FIG. 32 is continued, for example, until the big hit display ends or the big hit game ends.

As described above, after the start of the reach effect in which the player pays particular attention to the special symbol, the area of the special symbol display portion 182 becomes larger than before. Therefore, even if a display other than the display related to the special symbol variable display is performed in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9, the interest of the game brought by the special symbol variable display does not decrease so much. In addition, when the display area is small, the stored number is displayed as a numerical value on the start stored number display section 181 and the ordinary symbol start stored number display section 184.
It does not make it difficult for the player to recognize the number of memories.

[0200] Even if the display area of the start storage number display section 181 or the like is moved, the instruction display 181A or the like in the display area is always displayed. That is, the display control unit performs control to display the instruction display 181A and the like regardless of the display control command from the game control unit.

FIGS. 31 and 32 show a variable display device for variably displaying a special symbol and a normal symbol while the special symbol and the normal symbol starting memory number display portion 184 are being displayed while the special symbol is being variably displayed. Although the example displayed in FIG. 9 is shown, the start storage number display section 181 and the ordinary symbol start storage number display section 184 may always be displayed when power is supplied to the gaming machine. . That is, for example, even when a big hit game is being rendered on the variable display device 9 during a big hit game or during a demonstration display on the variable display device 9, the start storage number display section 181 and the normal symbol start storage number display The unit 184 may be displayed on the variable display device 9. When such control is performed, the start storage number display unit 181
As in the case where the normal symbol start storage number display section 184 is displayed on a lamp or LED other than the variable display device 9, the player can always visually recognize the state.

FIG. 33 shows display control means (display control CP).
9 is a flowchart illustrating main processing executed by U101 and peripheral circuits such as a ROM and a RAM. In the main process, the display control CPU 101 in the display control means first executes an initialization process for initializing a register, a RAM including a work area, an output port, and the like (step S701). Next, a process of updating a counter value for generating a random number is performed (step S702). Then, it is determined whether or not a display control command has been received from the main board 31 (step S703: command confirmation processing). In addition, a command execution process, such as a process of changing process data to be used, is performed according to the received display control command (step S704). The main substrate 3
The display control command from No. 1 is fetched by an interrupt process started in response to the input of the INT signal and stored in a reception command buffer formed in the RAM.

Thereafter, in this embodiment, the display control CPU 101 monitors the timer interrupt flag (step S
705). Then, as shown in FIG. 34, when a timer interrupt occurs, the display control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag (step S711). If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the display control CPU 101 clears the flag and performs a display control process process and a port output process (steps S706 and S707).

Next, the process of receiving a display control command from the main board 31 will be described. FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing a display control command received from the main board 31. In this example, a ring buffer type command reception buffer capable of storing six display control commands having a 2-byte configuration is used. Therefore, the command receiving buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of the receiving command buffers 1 to 12. Then, a command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the display control command receiving process (command receiving interrupt process) by the interrupt process. An INT signal for display control from the main board 31 is input to an interrupt terminal of the display control CPU 101. For example, when the INT signal from the main board 31 is turned on, the display control CPU 101 is interrupted. Then, the display control command receiving process shown in FIG. 36 is started.

In the process of receiving the display control command, the display control CPU 101 first saves each register on the stack (step S670). Note that, when an interrupt occurs, the display control CPU 101 automatically sets the interrupt prohibition state. However, if a CPU that does not automatically enter the interrupt prohibition state is used, the display control CPU 101 executes the processing before step S670. It is preferable to issue an interrupt prohibition command (DI command). Next, data is read from the input port assigned to the input of the display control command data (step S671). Then, it is confirmed whether or not this is the first byte of the display control command having the 2-byte configuration (step S).
672).

Whether it is the first byte or not is confirmed by checking whether the first bit of the received command is “1”. The first bit being “1” is supposed to be MODE data (the first byte) in the display control command having a 2-byte configuration (see FIG. 20). Therefore, if the first bit is “1”, the display control CPU 101 determines that a valid first byte has been received and stores the received command in the reception command buffer indicated by the command reception number counter in the reception buffer area (step S67
3).

If it is not the first byte of the display control command, it is confirmed whether or not the first byte has already been received (step S674). Whether or not the data has already been received is confirmed based on whether or not valid data is set in the reception buffer (reception command buffer).

When the first byte has already been received,
It is checked whether the first bit of the received 1 byte is “0”. And if the first bit is “0”,
Assuming that the valid second byte has been received, the received command is stored in the reception command buffer indicated by the command reception number counter +1 in the reception buffer area (step S675). The first bit being “0” should be the EXT data (the second byte) of the display control command having the 2-byte configuration (see FIG. 20). If the confirmation result in step S674 indicates that the first byte has already been received, the process ends if the first bit of the data received as the second byte is not “0”.

When the second byte of command data is stored in step S675, 2 is added to the command reception number counter (step S676). Then, it is checked whether or not the command reception counter is 12 or more (step S677), and if it is 12, the command reception number counter is cleared (step S678). Thereafter, the saved register is restored (step S679),
Interrupt permission is set (step S680).

The display control command has a 2-byte structure, and the first byte (MODE) and the second byte (EXT) can be immediately distinguished on the receiving side. In other words, the receiving side can immediately detect whether the data as MODE or the data as EXT has been received by the first bit. Therefore, as described above, it can be easily determined whether or not appropriate data has been received. This means that the payout control command,
The same applies to the lamp control command and the sound control command.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the display control process (step S706) in the main process shown in FIG. In the display control process,
Step S800 according to the value of the display control process flag
To S804. In each process, the following processes are performed.

Variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a display control command (variation pattern designation command) capable of specifying the variation time has been received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a flag indicating that the variation pattern designation command has been received has been set. Such a flag is
This is set when the received command stored in the received command buffer is a fluctuation pattern designation command.

All symbols change start process (step S80)
1): Control is performed so that the change of the middle left and right symbols is started.

Symbol change processing (step S802): The switching timing of each change state (change speed) constituting the change pattern is controlled, and the end of the change time is monitored. Also, stop control of the left and right symbols is performed.

All symbols stop wait setting process (step S80)
3): At the end of the fluctuation time, if a display control command (confirmation command) for instructing stop of all the symbols has been received, the control for stopping the fluctuation of the symbols and displaying the stopped symbol (confirmed symbol) is performed.

Big hit display processing (step S804): After the end of the fluctuation time, the control of the probability big hit display or the normal big hit display is performed.

FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the process data. The process data is constituted by data in which a plurality of combinations of the process timer set value and the display control execution table are collected. Each display control execution table describes each variation mode constituting the variation pattern. In the process timer set value, a variation time in the variation mode is set. Display control CPU 101
Refers to the process data and controls the symbols to be variably displayed in the variation mode set in the display control execution table for the time set in the process timer set value.

The process data shown in FIG. 38 is stored in the ROM of the symbol control board 80. Further, the process data is prepared according to each variation pattern.

FIG. 39 shows the display area 15 of the variable display device 9.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for describing a method of combining a background image displayed at 0 and a design or the like. The VDP 103 mounted on the symbol control board 80 generally has a function of superimposing a sprite image on a background image and performing display control. The sprite is for generating an image to be superimposed on the background image, and therefore, generally has a small screen size and is suitable for use for displaying a pattern or the like. The background image is suitable for displaying a large-sized image. Therefore, VDP10
In general, as shown in FIG. 39, a special symbol variably displayed is generated as a sprite image, and an image in which the sprite image is superimposed on a background image is generated.

What is characteristic in this embodiment is that an image (four circular regions) indicating the number of special symbols to be stored is formed as a second sprite image. The second sprite image is superimposed by the VDP 103 on the upper side of the sprite image that realizes the image of the special symbol.
A sprite image for realizing a special symbol image is superimposed on the background image. Also, the start memory display unit 1
A frame portion 81 and an instruction display 181A are formed as a part of the background image. That is, the VDP 103 generates a background image including the frame portion of the start storage display unit 181 and the instruction display 181A. Also, a special symbol in the middle of the left and right is generated as a sprite image, and an image indicating the number of special symbol starting memories is generated as a second sprite image.
Then, the frame portion of the start storage display unit 181 and the instruction display 1 are displayed.
An image obtained by superimposing a sprite image and a second sprite image on a background image including the image 81A is developed in a VRAM or the like, and then a video signal is generated and an LCD 82 is formed (see FIG. 5).
Output to Note that image information for forming the instruction display 181A is stored in the ROM in the display control means.

As described above, using the sprite image superimposing function of the VDP 103, the start storage display unit 18
Since the frame portion 1, the image showing the number of special symbol start storages, and the instruction display 181 </ b> A are displayed in the display area 150, even if the start storage display section 181 is displayed in the display area of the variable display device 9, the control is performed. Easy.

Although only the start storage display section 181 and the special symbol display section 182 are shown in FIG. 39, the ordinary symbol display section 183 and the ordinary symbol display section 164 are also shown.
The image is displayed using the sprite image superimposing function of the VDP 103. That is, the normal symbol display section 18
3, the ordinary symbol is generated as a sprite image, and the frame portion of the ordinary symbol display portion 183 and the instruction display 183 are displayed.
A is generated as a background image. Further, in the normal symbol start storage display unit 184, an image indicating the number of ordinary symbol start storage units is generated as a sprite image, and the frame portion of the normal symbol start storage display unit 184 and the instruction display 184A are generated as background images.

FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the special symbol start storage display processing executed by the display control CPU 101. The special symbol start storage display processing is, for example, a subroutine called from the command execution processing (step S704 in FIG. 33) according to the received display control command. That is, when it is recognized in the command execution process that the start memory number designation command has been received,
A special symbol start storage display process is executed.

In the special symbol start storage display processing, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not a reach effect or a big hit is being displayed (step S741). Whether or not a reach effect or a big hit is being displayed can be known by a display control process flag or an internal flag relating to an operation state. If a reach effect or a big hit is being displayed, the sprite image corresponding to the start storage display unit 181 displays a numerical value as shown in FIG. 32 (the displayed value is the number specified by the start memory number designation command). To the VDP 103 (Step S74)
2). In the background image, as shown in FIG. 32, the frame of the start storage display unit 181 and the instruction display 181A are displayed.
Is also instructed to generate

If the reach effect is not being displayed or the big hit is not being displayed, it is checked whether or not the number of stored start-ups exceeds four (step S743). If the number is equal to or less than 4, the VDP 103 is instructed to perform a display (display using four circular areas) on the number of stored starts as shown in FIG. 31A (step S744). In the background image, FIG.
As shown in the figure, an instruction to generate the frame portion of the start storage display unit 181 and the instruction display 181A is also given.

If the number of stored memories exceeds four, FIG.
The display (20) regarding the number of starting memories as shown in FIG.
Instruct the VDP 103 to perform the display by the number of circular areas (step S745). In the background image, as shown in FIG.
An instruction to generate the frame portion 1 and the instruction display 181A is also given.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the ordinary symbol start storage display processing executed by the display control CPU 101. The normal symbol start storage display process is, for example, a subroutine called from the command execution process (step S704 in FIG. 33) according to the received display control command. That is, when it is recognized in the command execution process that the normal symbol start storage number designation command has been received, the normal symbol start storage display process is executed.

In the normal symbol start storage display processing, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not a reach effect or a big hit is being displayed (step S751). If the reach effect or the big hit is being displayed, the VDP 103 instructs the sprite image to display a numerical value as shown in FIG. 32 (the displayed numerical value is the number specified by the normal symbol start storage number specifying command). Instruct (Step S
752). Note that, in the background image, as shown in FIG. 32, an instruction to generate the frame portion of the ordinary symbol start storage display unit 184 and the instruction display 184A is also given.

If the reach effect or the big hit is not being displayed, the VDP 103 displays the normal symbol start storage number as shown in FIGS. 31 (A) and 31 (B) (display with four circular areas). (Step S75)
3). Note that, in the background image, FIGS.
As shown in the figure, an instruction to generate the frame portion of the normal symbol start storage display portion 184 and the instruction display 184A is also given.

By the processing of the display control CPU 101 and the sprite image superimposing function of the VDP 103, the display as shown in FIGS. 31A, 31B and 32 is realized.

FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the main processing executed by the lamp control means (lamp control CPU 351 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) mounted on the lamp control board 35. In the main process, the lamp control CPU 351 of the lamp control means first executes an initialization process for initializing a register, a RAM including a work area, an output port, and the like (step S44).
1). Next, it is determined whether a lamp control command has been received from the main board 31 (step S442: command confirmation processing). In addition, a command execution process, such as a process of changing lamp data to be used, is performed according to the received lamp control command (step S443). In addition,
As in the case of the display control means, the lamp control command from the main board 31 is fetched by an interrupt process started in response to the input of the INT signal and stored in an input buffer formed in the RAM.

Thereafter, in this embodiment, the lamp control CPU 351 shifts to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S444). And FIG.
As shown in FIG. 3, when a timer interrupt occurs, the lamp control CPU 351 sets a timer interrupt flag (step S450). If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main processing, the CPU 351 for the lamp control
Clears the flag (step S44)
5), a lamp process update process and a port output process are performed (steps S446, S447).

In this embodiment, the lighting patterns of the lamps / LEDs that are controlled to flash according to the progress of the game are RO
It is controlled according to the lamp data stored in M.
The ramp data is prepared for each type of control pattern (for each control command indicating the type of variation pattern designation shown in FIG. 22 and each other control command related to game effects sent from the game control means according to the game progress status). Have been. In each lamp data, data indicating that the lamp / LED is to be turned on or off, and data indicating a period of turning on or off (process timer value) are set. That is, the data indicating the lighting pattern of the light emitter is stored in the control data area.

In the ramp process update process, a process of subtracting the value of the timer in which the value corresponding to the process timer value is initially set is performed, and when the timer times out, the data set to the next address in the ramp data is updated. The lamp / LED is determined to be turned off or lit accordingly, and a process timer value according to the determination result is set in the timer. Also, when the process timer value is set to the timer, it is the time when the switching of the light-on / off is performed.
Data for turning on or off the LED is output to the corresponding output port.

In this embodiment, it is assumed that the timer interrupt is performed every 2 ms. That is, the ramp process update process and the port output process are activated every 2 ms.

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing an address map of the ROM mounted on the lamp control board 35. ROM
In the area, an initialization data table is stored at the forefront. Next, a command upper byte table is stored. The command upper byte table stores the address of the program storing the process corresponding to the upper byte (MODE data) of the lamp control command, and the MODE.
An address table corresponding to data is set.
For example, in the command execution process (step S443), the contents of the command upper byte table are referred to according to the MODE data of the received lamp control command, and the corresponding process (program) is executed. In that process, data in the lamp data selection table stored next to the command upper byte table is specified according to the address table and the lower byte (EXT data) of the received lamp control command. Then, the lamp data indicated by the specified data is selected.

For example, if the lamp control command received from the main board 31 is 8000 (variable lamp designation # 1), the lamp control command 80
The data (4 bytes) corresponding to (H) is referred to. The upper two bytes of the data are the addresses where the processing when the lamp control command whose upper byte is 80 (H) is received is stored. And in that process,
Lower 2 in the data of the command upper byte table
The data of the lamp data selection table indicated by the sum of the contents of the byte and the EXT data of the received lamp control command is specified. Therefore, the lower two bytes in the command upper byte table referred to when the upper byte of the received lamp control command is 80 (H) correspond to the head address of the ramp data selection table relating to the variable lamp designation.

[0239] Further, a main processing program is stored, followed by programs for initialization processing, command recognition processing, and command execution processing. Next, a specific lamp / LED processing program is stored. The specific lamp / LED processing program is a program that executes processing when a lamp control command is received. Also stored are a lamp process update process, a port output process, a command reception interrupt process, and a timer interrupt process.

In this embodiment, data indicating the lighting pattern of the lamp / LED is stored in the lamp data in the control data area. Then, in the lamp process updating process (step S446) in the main process, turning on / off of the lamp / LED is controlled with reference to the lamp data.

Further, in this embodiment, a start storage number designation command indicating the number of start storages of a special symbol is also transmitted to the lamp control means as a lamp control command. Therefore, the lamp control means can recognize the number of stored memories, and can change the light emission mode (lighting, extinguishing, and blinking) of the lamp / LED according to the number of stored memories. For example, a specific one of the lamps / LEDs provided in the gaming machine blinks according to the number of stored memories, and the blinking interval is shortened as the number of stored memories increases. In the command execution process (step S443), if it is recognized that the start storage number designation command has been received, the lamp control CPU 351 performs the control by the received start storage number designation command. The subroutine may be configured to execute a subroutine corresponding to the number of start storages.
Each subroutine according to the number of starting memories is
It is configured to execute a process of blinking the LED at a blinking interval corresponding to the number of start memories.

Here, an example in which the blinking interval of a specific lamp / LED is increased or decreased according to the increase or decrease of the number of start storages is described. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. By controlling the light emitting mode of the light emitting body provided in the gaming machine in response to the change, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

FIG. 45 shows the sound control means (the sound control CPU 7).
3 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by peripheral circuits 01 and peripheral circuits such as a ROM and a RAM. In the main processing, the sound control CPU 701 of the sound control means first executes an initialization processing for initializing a register, a RAM including a work area, an output port, and the like (step S46).
1). Next, it is determined whether a sound control command has been received from the main board 31 (step S462: command confirmation processing). In addition, a command execution process, such as a process of changing audio data to be used, is performed according to the received sound control command (step S463). The main substrate 31
Is received by an interrupt process started in response to the input of the INT signal, and is stored in an input buffer formed in the RAM.

Thereafter, in this embodiment, the sound control C
The PU 701 monitors the timer interrupt flag (Step S4
64). Then, as shown in FIG. 46, when a timer interrupt occurs, the sound control CPU
701 sets a timer interrupt flag (Step S
470). If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main processing, the sound control CPU 701 clears the flag (step S465), and performs the audio process update processing and the port output processing (steps S466, S467).

In this embodiment, the sound pattern output from the speaker 27 according to the progress of the game is controlled according to the sound data stored in the ROM. The voice data is prepared for each type of control pattern (for each sound control command shown in FIG. 23).

The voice synthesizing circuit 702 includes a transfer request signal (SIRQ) and a serial clock signal (SIC
K), a serial data signal (SI) and a transfer end signal (SRDY). Voice synthesis circuit 702
When SIRQ goes low, SI is fetched one bit at a time in synchronization with SICK, and when SRDY goes low, data consisting of each SI
Is interpreted as two audio data.

In each audio data, data corresponding to a serial data signal output to the audio synthesis circuit 702 and data indicating a duration (process timer value) of a sound generated according to the data are set. I have. That is,
The control data includes a sound generating means (a speaker 2 in this example).
Data indicating the output pattern from 7) is stored.

In the audio process updating process, a timer value is initialized in which a value corresponding to the process timer value is subtracted, and when the timer times out, the data set to the next address in the audio data is deleted. Accordingly, it is determined to change to the output sound, and a process timer value according to the determination result is set in the timer. Further, when the process timer value is set in the timer, the output sound is switched, so in the port output process (step S467), the output sound is output via the output port for outputting data to the sound synthesis circuit 702.
Data corresponding to the new output sound is output to the voice synthesis circuit 702.

More specifically, the sound control CPU 701 turns on SIRQ (low level) in the port output process.
Then, the data (voice command) read from the ROM (voice command data area) is synchronized with SICK to SI
And when the output is completed, SRDY is set to the low level. When receiving the data by the SI, the voice synthesis circuit 702 generates a sound according to the received data.

In this embodiment, it is assumed that the timer interruption is performed every 2 ms. That is, the voice process updating process and the port output process are activated every 2 ms.

FIG. 47 is a view showing the R mounted on the sound control board 70.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an OM address map. In the ROM area, a command upper byte table is stored at the forefront. In the command upper byte table, an address of a program storing a process corresponding to the upper byte (MODE data) of the sound control command and an address table corresponding to the MODE data are set. For example, in the command execution process (step S463), the contents of the command upper byte table are referred to according to the MODE data of the received sound control command, and the corresponding process (program) is executed. In the process, data in the audio data selection table stored next to the command upper byte table in the control data area is specified according to the address table and the lower byte (EXT data) of the received sound control command. . Then, the audio data indicated by the specified data is selected.

For example, if the sound control command received from the main board 31 is 8000 (fluctuating sound designation # 1), the data (4 bytes) corresponding to 80 (H) in the command upper byte table is referred to. Is done. The upper two bytes of the data are the addresses where the processing when the sound control command whose upper byte is 80 (H) is received, that is, the audio address selection processing is stored. Then, in the process, the data of the audio data selection table indicated by the sum of the contents of the lower two bytes in the data of the command upper byte table and the EXT data of the received sound control command is specified. Therefore, the lower two bytes in the command upper byte table referred to when the upper byte of the received sound control command is 80 (H) correspond to the head address of the audio data selection table relating to the changing sound designation. In this embodiment, M
Regardless of the value of the ODE data, the same audio address selection processing is executed.

Further, a main processing program is stored, followed by programs for initialization processing, command recognition processing, and command execution processing. Next, a voice address selection program is stored. Further, in the control program area, a voice process update process, a port output process, a command reception interrupt process, and a timer interrupt process are stored.

In this embodiment, the speech synthesis circuit 702
Is stored in the voice command data in the control data area. Then, in the voice process update process (step S466) in the main process, the voice data is referred to, and the output sound is controlled with reference to the voice command data. Therefore, when it is desired to change the output sound pattern, it is only necessary to change the voice data or voice command data, and it is not necessary to change the main processing program.

Further, in this embodiment, a start memory number designation command indicating the number of start memories of a special symbol is also transmitted to the sound control means as a sound control command. Therefore, the sound control means can recognize the number of stored memories,
The sound output mode can be changed in accordance with the number of start memories. For example, the sound control means performs control so that sound is output from the speaker 27 in a normal sound output pattern which is determined in a normal state (except during a special symbol change and during a big hit game). The sound output pattern is changed according to the number of stored memories.

In such a control, if it is recognized in the command execution process (step S463) that the start storage number designation command has been received, the sound control C
The PU 701 may be configured to execute a subroutine corresponding to the start storage number specified by the received start storage number designation command. Each of the subroutines according to the number of start memories stores the speaker 2 in a sound output pattern corresponding to the number of start memories.
Reference is made to audio data (see FIG. 47) in which data is set so as to generate a sound from 7.
That is, voice data corresponding to each of the start storage numbers (1 to 20 in this example) is stored in the ROM, and a process timer set value for realizing a sound output pattern and voice command data are stored in each voice data. ing.

As described above, by controlling to change the sound output mode of the sound output means (the speaker 27 in this embodiment) provided in the gaming machine according to the content of the start storage number designation command, The entertainment of the game can be further enhanced.

Embodiment 2 In the above-described embodiment (Embodiment 1), when the number of start storages exceeds 4, the start storage display section 181 in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9.
FIG. 3 shows an example in which 20 circular regions are displayed (FIG. 3).
1 (B)), for example, as shown in FIG. 48, when the number of stored storages exceeds 4, the number of stored storages may be numerically displayed. If a configuration is adopted in which a numerical value is displayed when the number of stored memories has increased, the player can easily recognize the number of stored memories even when the number of stored memories has increased.

Embodiment 3 In each of the above-described embodiments (Embodiments 1 and 2), a clear display area (frame as a section) is provided as the start storage display unit 181, but as shown in FIG. Instead of providing a section as 181, a display capable of recognizing the number of start storages and an instruction display 181 </ b> A may be displayed in a part of the display area 150. It should be noted that among the plurality of circular regions, the circular regions (indicated by black circles in FIG. 49) corresponding to the number of start storages are images that are colored or displayed darkly, but those that are not are outlined. Only the image is formed. In this case, the instruction display 181A and the circle area indicating the number of start storages can be realized by the second sprite image. The second sprite image is generated by the VDP 103
It is superimposed on the sprite image that realizes the special symbol image. A sprite image for realizing a special symbol image is superimposed on the background image. Therefore, the number of circular regions corresponding to the number of starting memories is displayed on the uppermost side (the side visually recognized by the player). In addition, inside the circular area in which only the outline is formed as an image, a special symbol or background is displayed so as to be visually recognized by the player.

That is, in this embodiment, in the circular area other than the circular area corresponding to the number of starting storages (the circular area surrounded by three broken lines in the example shown in FIG. 49), the special symbol or background is transparently displayed. Is done. In other words, the display control means can specify in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9 that the start storage number is to be displayed in the display section (circular area in this example) of the start storage number and the start storage number display area. (In this example, the instruction display 181A) can be superimposed on another display (background image or identification information), and when the display unit of the starting storage number is not displayed. Display control is performed to make other displays transparent.

Therefore, even if a display as the start storage display section 181 is not provided and a display capable of recognizing the start storage number and an instruction display 181A are displayed in a part of the display area 150, the special symbols and background are difficult to see. It will not be. In addition,
A circular area other than the circular area corresponding to the starting storage number may not be displayed at all. In addition, FIG. 49 shows only the display relating to the special symbol and the number of starting memories of the special symbol. However, the display relating to the ordinary symbol and the number of ordinary symbols starting to be stored is not provided with these sections, and is not included in the display area 150. It may be displayed in the section.

Embodiment 4 In each of the above embodiments,
Indication display 181 for instructing that the number is the starting storage number
A is displayed in the display area 150, but the instruction display 181 is displayed.
A may be displayed outside the display area 150. For example, as shown in FIG. 50, a sticker or the like on which information indicating that the number of starting symbols for a special symbol is stored is attached to a decorative member (front ornament) 9A for decorating the variable display device 9. In this case, it is desirable that a seal or the like be placed on the upper side, lower side, left side, right side, or the like of the decorative member 9A so as not to hinder the player from visually recognizing the change of the special symbol. FIG. 50 shows an example in which it is installed on the upper side. Further, as a method of forming the instruction display 181A, a method in which a sticker on which the instruction content is printed is attached to a table decoration, a method in which the instruction content is printed on the table decoration, or a method in which the instruction decoration is formed on the table decoration is adopted. can do.

Embodiment 5 In each of the above embodiments,
The information on the number of starting symbols stored in the special symbol is displayed in a form in which the number can be directly grasped, for example, as a colored area or a numerical value displayed as a color, but is displayed as an indicator as shown in FIG. May be. In the example shown in FIG. 51, the colored portion (the black display portion in FIG. 51) increases when the number of start storages increases, and the colored portion shrinks when the number of start storages decreases. The display of the indicator in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9 is the same as in the above embodiments.

Embodiment 6 FIG. The possibility of reaching or the possibility of a big hit may be linked to the number of stored start times. For example, as shown in FIG. 52, when the number of start storages reaches a specific value (3 in the example shown in FIG. 52), the possibility of reaching or increasing a jackpot may be increased.
In this case, when the number of stored starts is "3", the game control means performs control to increase the possibility of reaching, instead of the processing of steps S57 to S59 shown in FIG. Alternatively, the number of the big hit determination values is increased in the process of step S54. It should be noted that the information about the number of start storages is displayed in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9 in the same manner as in the above-described embodiments.

In this embodiment, the player is more interested in the display of the number of starting memories because the possibility of reaching or a big hit increases when the number of starting memories reaches a specific value. . Then, since the information about the number of starting memories is displayed in the display area 150 similarly to the special symbol, the player can easily visually recognize both the information about the number of starting memories and the special symbol. In addition, the display corresponding to the number of start storage numbers (in the example shown in FIG.
Among the three circles, the display color corresponding to a specific value (3 in the example shown in FIG. 52) may be different from the display color of other displays.

As described above, in each of the above embodiments,
The variable display device 9 includes a start storage display section 181 as a start storage number display area for displaying the storage number of the start storage means,
The start storage display unit 181 includes an instruction display 181A as a display unit that can specify that the start storage number is to be displayed, and the start storage display control unit displays information indicating the start storage number on the start storage display unit 181. Perform control. Note that the start storage means is realized by one area of the RAM on the main board 31, and the start storage display control means is realized by the display control means. Then, the start storage display control means always displays the start storage number irrespective of a change in the game state, and displays the information indicating the start storage number as the start storage display section 181 as a fixed area previously allocated. (See FIG. 31).

[0267] Further, the start storage / display control means responds to the satisfaction of a predetermined condition (such as establishment of a reach or occurrence of a big hit).
Control is also performed to change the display mode of the information indicating the start storage number in the start storage display unit 181. In the example shown in FIG. 31, when the number of stored memories is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number (“4” in the example shown in FIG. 31), the number of stored memories is notified by a circular area as if the lamp were turned on. Possible display is performed, and when a predetermined number is exceeded, numerical display is performed.

Since the instruction display 181A also displays information indicating the upper limit of the number of stored starts (see FIG. 31), the player can easily compare the number of stored starts with the upper limit. be able to. Note that a display unit that displays information indicating the upper limit number of start storage numbers and a display unit that can specify that the start storage number is to be displayed may be different display units. In addition, the start storage display control means can specify that the start storage number is to be displayed in the start storage number display area based on the stored image information regardless of the display control command from the game control means. Control for displaying the instruction display 181A is performed.

The start memory display control unit 181 displays the start memory display unit 181 in the display area 150 when predetermined conditions such as the start of the reach effect and the occurrence of a big hit are satisfied.
Is also controlled. Further, the start memory display control means includes an instruction display 181A as a display unit operable to specify that the number of start memories is displayed in the start memory number display area.
Is displayed in the display area 150 of the variable display device 9.

[0270] The pachinko gaming machine 1 of each of the above embodiments mainly provides a predetermined game when the stop symbol of the special symbol variably displayed on the variable display device 9 based on the start winning prize is a predetermined symbol combination. Although it was a first-class pachinko gaming machine in which a value can be given to a player, a predetermined game value can be given to a player when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric accessory that is opened based on a starting prize. A second type of pachinko game machine, or a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize to a predetermined electric accessory which is opened when a stop symbol of a symbol variably displayed based on a start prize is a predetermined symbol combination. The present invention can be applied to a third-type pachinko gaming machine.

[0271]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the variable display cannot be started immediately by the game control means even if the condition for starting the variable display of the identification information on the variable display device is satisfied by the game control means. When the number of storages includes a start storage unit that stores the satisfaction of a condition until the number of storages reaches an upper limit value, the variable display device includes a start storage number display area that displays the number of storages of the start storage unit, and a start storage number display. The area is configured as a fixed area that is allocated in advance, and the game control means executes a start storage number designation command capable of specifying the storage number of the start storage means and a command related to variable display of identification information on the variable display device. Since it is configured to be able to transmit to the display control means, it is possible to make the player easily recognize the start storage number, and it is necessary for the game control means to directly display the start storage number. An effect which can reduce the burden of the game control unit instead.

According to the invention of claim 2, the variable display device includes a start storage number display area for displaying the storage number of the start storage means, and displays the start storage number in the start storage number display area. Is provided with a display unit that can specify the number of start-ups, so that the player can easily recognize the number of stored start-ups.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the start storage number display area is configured as a fixed area which is allocated in advance, it is easy for the player to confirm the start storage number.

In the invention according to claim 4, since the start storage number display area is configured to move based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition, the start storage number display area interferes with other displays on the variable display device. Can not be.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the display section for specifying the display of the number of start storage numbers is configured to be displayed on the variable display device, the start storage number can be increased without increasing the number of parts. It is possible to realize a display unit that indicates that the number is to be displayed.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, since the display unit for specifying the display of the number of start storages is provided on the decorative member for decorating the variable display device, the display of the start storage number is displayed. A display unit that can be specified can be easily realized.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the game control means is configured to be able to transmit a start storage number designation command capable of specifying the storage number of the start storage means to the display control means. There is no need for the means to directly display the starting storage number, and the burden on the game control means can be reduced.

[0278] According to the invention of claim 8, the game control means specifies to the display control means a command capable of specifying a variable display period and a display result at a time related to the start of variable display on the variable display device. And a command capable of specifying the end of the variable display at a time related to the end of the variable display. The display control means receives each command and variably displays the command on the variable display device. Since it is configured to be able to execute the control for performing the operation, the burden of the variable display control on the game control means is reduced.

[0279] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the command transmitted from the game control means to the display control means includes at least type information indicating the type of the command, and the display control means uses the type information indicating the type of command to store start-up data. Since the number designation command is configured to be distinguishable from other commands, the type of command can be easily determined by simple processing, and the processing content to be executed can be quickly grasped. .

[0280] According to the tenth aspect, the display control means displays the start storage number in the start storage number display area based on the stored image information regardless of the command from the game control means. Is configured to perform a control to display a display unit that can specify the display unit, so that the display control of the display control unit can be simplified.

[0281] According to the eleventh aspect, the game control means also transmits a start memory number designation command to the light emitter control means, and the light emitter control means receives the start memory number designation command and receives the start memory number designation command. Since the control for changing the light emission mode is performed, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the game control means also transmits a start storage number designation command to the sound control means,
The sound control means is configured to perform control for changing the sound output mode of the sound generation means based on the reception start number designation command, so that the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, since the game control means is configured to transmit the start storage number designation command as soon as the condition for starting the variable display is stored in the start storage means, The number is quickly reported to the player.

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the start memory number is displayed in the start memory number display area irrespective of a change in the display state of the other display area. The starting memory number can be recognized.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, since the display unit for displaying the upper limit number of the starting storage number is provided, the player
It is possible to easily compare the starting storage number at that time with the upper limit number.

According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image displayed on the variable display device, the identification information variably displayed and the information indicating the start storage number are displayed as different sprite images. The information indicating the number of storages can be controlled independently, and the display control is easy even if the number of startup storages is displayed on the variable display device.

According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the variable display device, the display unit of the number of stored startups and the display unit for specifying the display of the number of stored startups in the startup storage number display area are provided with another display. When the display unit of the starting storage number is not displayed, the other display is configured to be transparently displayed, so that the display area of the variable display device can be effectively used. it can.

[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 showing a circuit configuration in a symbol control board.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration in a lamp control board.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration in a voice control board.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a power supply board.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by a CPU on a main board.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a 2 ms timer interrupt process.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process process.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a starting port switch passage confirmation process.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process of determining a stop symbol for variable display and a process of determining a reach type.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a process of determining whether or not to make a big hit.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a random number.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol process process.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a gate switch process.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing a relationship between a random number for determination and a hit / miss.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a command form of a control command.

FIG. 20 is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal that constitute a control command.

FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the content of a display control command.

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a lamp control command.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the content of a sound control command.

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of transmission timing of a display control command from the main board.

FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command transmission table.

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of command data 2 and another configuration example.

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of INT data.

FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command transmission table.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a command control process.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a command transmission processing routine.

FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display state of a display area of the variable display device.

FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display state of a display area of the variable display device.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating main processing executed by a display control CPU.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process.

FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reception command buffer.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a command reception interrupt process.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a display control process.

FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of process data.

FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram for describing a method of combining a background image with a design or the like.

FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing a special symbol start storage display process.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol start storage display process.

FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by a lamp control CPU.

FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process executed by the lamp control CPU.

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing an address map of a ROM mounted on the lamp control board.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by a voice control CPU.

FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process executed by the voice control CPU.

FIG. 47 is an explanatory diagram showing an address map of a ROM mounted on the sound control board.

FIG. 48 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of the variable display device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 49 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of the variable display device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 50 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of the variable display device according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 51 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of the variable display device according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 52 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of the variable display device according to the sixth embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 pachinko gaming machine 9 variable display device 9A decoration member 31 main board 35 lamp control board 56 CPU 70 sound control board 80 symbol control board 101 display control CPU 150 display area 181 start storage display section 182 special symbol display section 183 ordinary symbol display Unit 184 Normal symbol start storage display unit 181A to 184A Instruction display 351 Lamp control CPU 701 Sound control CPU

Claims (17)

[Claims] 1. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, wherein a specific game state is set on condition that a display result of the identification information on the variable display device is a predetermined specific display mode. A controllable gaming machine, comprising: game control means for controlling the progress of a game; and display control means for performing display control of the variable display device, wherein the game control means includes identification information of the variable display device. When the variable display cannot be started immediately even if the variable display start condition is satisfied, the variable display device includes a start storage unit that stores the satisfaction of the condition until the storage number reaches an upper limit value. A start storage number display area for displaying a storage number of the means, wherein the start storage number display area is configured as a fixed area that is allocated in advance; Gaming machine, characterized in that the command associated with the variable display of the identification information in identifiable start memory number designating command and the variable display device to store the number of dynamic storage means can be transmitted to the display control unit. 2. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, wherein a specific game state is set on condition that a display result of the identification information on the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display mode. A controllable gaming machine, when the variable display cannot be started immediately even if the variable display start condition of the identification information in the variable display device is satisfied,
A start storage unit that stores the satisfaction of the condition until the number of storages reaches an upper limit value; the variable display device includes a start storage number display area that displays a storage number of the start storage unit; A gaming machine, comprising: a display unit that can specify that a start storage number is to be displayed in a display area. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the start storage number display area is configured as a fixed area that is allocated in advance. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the start storage number display area moves based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein a display unit for indicating that the start storage number is to be displayed is displayed on a variable display device. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein a display unit for indicating that the start storage number is to be displayed is provided on a decorative member for decorating the variable display device. 7. Game control means for controlling the progress of the game,
Display control means for performing display control of the variable display device, wherein the game control means includes a start storage means, and transmits a start storage number designation command capable of specifying the storage number of the start storage means to the display control means. Claims 2 to 6 are possible
A gaming machine according to any one of the above. 8. The game control means transmits a command capable of specifying a variable display period and a command capable of specifying a display result to the display control means at a time related to the start of variable display on the variable display device. A command capable of specifying the end of the variable display can be transmitted at a time related to the end of the variable display. The display control means receives the commands and causes the variable display device to perform a variable display operation. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is capable of performing control. 9. A command transmitted from the game control means to the display control means includes at least type information indicating a type of the command, and the display control means determines whether or not a command for specifying the number of start storages by the type information indicating the type of the command. 9. The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein the gaming machine can be distinguished from other commands. 10. A display control means for identifiably indicating that a start storage number is to be displayed in a start storage number display area based on stored image information regardless of a command from the game control means. 8. A control for displaying a part.
A gaming machine according to any one of claims 9 to 9. 11. A luminous body control means for controlling a luminous body provided in a gaming machine, wherein the game control means transmits a start storage number designation command also to the luminous body control means, 11. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the means performs control for changing a light emission mode of the light emitter based on the reception of the start storage number designation command. 12. A sound control means for controlling a sound generation means provided in the gaming machine, wherein the game control means also transmits a start storage number designation command to the sound control means, wherein the sound control means 12. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein control for changing a sound output mode of a sound generating means is performed based on reception of the start storage number designation command. 13. The game control means according to claim 1, wherein the start storage number designation command is transmitted immediately after the satisfaction of the condition for starting the variable display is stored in the start storage means. The gaming machine described in Crab. 14. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the start storage number is displayed in the start storage number display area irrespective of a change in a display state of another display area. 15. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit for displaying an upper limit of the number of starting memories. 16. An image displayed on the variable display device, wherein the identification information variably displayed and the information indicating the number of start storages are displayed as different sprite images. A gaming machine according to claim 1. 17. The variable display device, wherein a display unit of the number of stored start-ups and a display unit for specifying that the number of stored start-ups is displayed in the start-up storage number display area can be displayed so as to be superimposed on another display. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein the other display is transparently displayed when the display unit of the start storage number is not displayed.