JP2002346128A - Game machine, performance expression method thereof, storage medium, and server - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which enables players to sustain interests in games without any feeling of monotonousness, boredom, and the like. SOLUTION: In the game machine which has a game board where a display part is arranged to display screen images comprising a plurality of identifying information image areas for displaying identifying information images composed of a plurality of variable patterns to be variably displayed and stopped and displayed at a specified timing and a performance image areas for displaying performance images, at least two of layout patterns are set for the identifying information image areas after the game is made ready for win while one of the plurality of layout patterns is selected by a performance image displayed after the game is made ready for win.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, an effect expression method for the gaming machine, a storage medium, and a server.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In order to keep a player playing a pachinko game from getting tired and to grasp the state of the game, a pachinko game machine is provided with a display device having, for example, a CRT or a liquid crystal monitor. In this display device, usually, in order to incite the player's interest in the game, while the variable symbol is variably displayed in an identification information image area displaying an identification information image including a plurality of variable symbols such as numerical values, etc. An effect expression for displaying a background image such as a moving image having a certain narrative in an effect image region for displaying an image is performed.

[0003] In recent years, various stories and characters have been developed in this display device, such as, for example, the appearance of a protagonist of a dramatic picture or a person related thereto, or the appearance of professional wrestling or sumo wrestlers. are doing.

[0004] In addition, various so-called reach effects have been developed after reaching the reach. For example, the final variation symbol moves, expands, shrinks, or responds to the movement of the character. There are many effects such as deformation.

In this way, by associating the movement of the character with the movement or deformation of the fluctuating design, the fluctuating design can be integrated with the effect image, and the fluctuating design can be incorporated into the effect image. Of the image displayed on the screen can be doubled.

[0006] However, recently, players have also experienced various production methods, so their eyes are becoming more discerning, and it is no longer satisfactory simply by changing the variation mode of the variation symbol. By adopting a new production expression method that is not in one pattern, the production image displayed will be more enjoyable,
They want to be comfortable.

[0007]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has as its object the object that, after reaching, when various stories are developed in a production image area, By arranging the design at the optimal position in relation to the effect image, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating pattern is made denser, and the effect of the effect image of the effect image is maximized, and the effect image is formed into one pattern. This makes it possible to enjoy the fun of the production expression, maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous and tired of the game, and when the game is a big hit, the player It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine, an effect expression method of the gaming machine, a storage medium, and a server capable of enhancing the sense of fulfillment and achievement of the game and dramatically improving the interest.

[0008]

In order to achieve the above object, according to the present invention, at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set and attained. One of the plurality of arrangement patterns is selected by the effect image displayed later.

[0009] More specifically, the present invention provides the following. (1) Displaying a plurality of identification information image areas for displaying identification information images composed of a plurality of variable symbols which are provided on a game board, each of which is variably displayed, and which can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing, and an effect image A gaming machine having a display unit on which a screen image composed of an effect image area is displayed, wherein at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set, and after the reaching. According to the displayed effect image, one arrangement pattern is selected from a plurality of arrangement patterns.

According to the invention of (1), a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set,
The arrangement pattern of the fluctuating symbols is changed so as to be the most appropriate position according to the image displayed in the reach state, so that the impression of each effect image can be different and the reach effect can be impressed This can prevent the effect image from becoming one pattern.

[0011] Further, by appropriately arranging the variation symbols, the relationship between the effect image and the variation symbols becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized. , You can enjoy the fun of directing expression, and you can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game is a big hit, the player's sense of fulfillment And the sense of accomplishment can be enhanced, and the interest can be dramatically improved.

The present invention further provides the following. (2) a display unit provided on the game board and displaying a screen image composed of a moving image, a still image, or an image obtained by combining these images as appropriate according to a game situation developed on the game board;
And a control unit that transmits electronic data to the display unit, and the screen image is variably displayed,
A gaming machine including a plurality of identification information image areas displaying an identification information image composed of a plurality of variable symbols that can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing, and an effect image area displaying an effect image. Wherein at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area are set, and one of the plurality of arrangement patterns is selected by an effect image displayed after reaching. .

According to the invention of (2), a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set,
According to the image displayed in the reach state, the arrangement pattern of the fluctuating symbols is changed to be the most appropriate position, so the impression of each effect image will be different and the reach effect will be strongly impressed, It is possible to prevent the effect image from becoming one pattern, and furthermore, by such an effect, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating pattern becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized, The player can enjoy the fun of the directing expression, can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game is a big hit, the player It can enhance the sense of fulfillment and sense of accomplishment, and can dramatically improve interest.

The present invention further provides the following. (3) In the gaming machine according to (1) or (2), the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after reaching is:
It is characterized in that the pattern is a pattern aligned horizontally above or below the effect image area, or a pattern aligned vertically on the right or left side of the effect image area.

According to the invention of (3), the above-mentioned four types of patterns are prepared as arrangement patterns of the variable symbols.
After reaching, the optimal arrangement is selected from the above four types according to the effect image, so that the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating pattern becomes more dense, and the effect of the effect image of the effect image is maximized. Exhibited to the limit.

The present invention further provides the following. (4) a display unit provided on the game board and displaying a screen image composed of a moving image, a still image, or an image combining these, as appropriate, according to a game situation developed on the game board;
And a control unit for transmitting electronic data to the display unit, wherein the display unit includes a plurality of variable symbols, each of which is variably displayed and can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing. A plurality of identification information image areas for displaying an identification information image, and an effect image area for displaying an effect image, wherein the image is displayed as the screen image. Wherein at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area are set, and one of the plurality of arrangement patterns is selected by an effect image displayed after reaching. .

According to the invention of (4), a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set,
According to the image displayed in the reach state, the arrangement pattern of the fluctuating symbols is changed to be the most appropriate position, so the impression of each effect image will be different and the reach effect will be strongly impressed, It is possible to prevent the effect image from becoming one pattern, and furthermore, by such an effect, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating pattern becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized, The player can enjoy the fun of the directing expression, can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game is a big hit, the player It is possible to provide an effect expression method for a gaming machine that can enhance the sense of fulfillment and achievement of the game machine, and achieve a dramatic improvement in interest.

The present invention further provides the following. (5) A computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for displaying a screen image composed of a moving image, a still image, or an image obtained by combining the moving image, the still image, and the image as appropriate according to a gaming state of the gaming machine, The program is
The screen image includes an image including a plurality of identification information image regions each displaying an identification information image composed of a plurality of variation symbols that can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing and an effect image region displaying an effect image. And at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after the reach are set. Further, the effect image displayed after the reach reaches the plurality of arrangement patterns. The configuration is such that one arrangement pattern is selected from.

According to the invention of (5), a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set,
According to the image displayed in the reach state, the arrangement pattern of the fluctuating symbols is changed to be the most appropriate position, so the impression of each effect image will be different and the reach effect will be strongly impressed, It is possible to prevent the effect image from becoming one pattern, and furthermore, by such an effect, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating pattern becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized, The player can enjoy the fun of the directing expression, can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game is a big hit, the player It is possible to provide a recording medium capable of enhancing the sense of fulfillment and achievement of the game and dramatically improving the interest.

The present invention further provides the following. (6) A server for displaying a gaming machine image indicating a gaming machine on each terminal, and a screen composed of a moving image, a still image, or an image combining these as appropriate according to the situation of a game performed in the terminal. An image to be displayed, and each is variably displayed, an identification information image area displaying a plurality of identification information images composed of a plurality of variable symbols that can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing, and an effect image area displaying an effect image Is performed on the terminal device so as to display an image including, and at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after the reach is set, and the effect image displayed after the reach is set. The terminal is controlled to select one arrangement pattern from a plurality of arrangement patterns.

According to the invention of (6), a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set,
According to the image displayed in the reach state, the arrangement pattern of the fluctuating symbols is changed to be the most appropriate position, so the impression of each effect image will be different and the reach effect will be strongly impressed, It is possible to prevent the effect image from becoming one pattern, and furthermore, by such an effect, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating pattern becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized, The player can enjoy the fun of the directing expression, can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game is a big hit, the player It is possible to provide a server that can enhance the sense of fulfillment and achievement of the game, and can dramatically improve interest.

[Definition of Terms] In this specification, the term "identification information" refers to visually identifiable information such as characters, symbols, pictures or patterns (patterns). “Variable display” refers to a case where the identification information sequentially changes, for example, a case where a pattern “7” which is one identification information changes to a pattern “8” which is another identification information, or a case where the pattern “9” changes from another pattern “9”. In addition to the case of changing to the symbol "☆", the case where the identification information is moved and displayed while one identification information is displayed in the display area where the identification information can be displayed, for example, one symbol ""7" moves while being displayed in the display area. Furthermore, when the display mode of the identification information changes, for example, when one symbol “7” is deformed and displayed horizontally or vertically,
This concept includes a case where a symbol is displayed in an enlarged or reduced manner. Further, the case where the position (region) where the variable symbol is displayed changes also is referred to as variable display.

As described in “(3)”, the “arrangement pattern of the identification information image area” is a pattern that is horizontally aligned above or below the effect image area.
In addition to a pattern that is arranged in the vertical direction on the right or left side of the effect image area, a pattern in which fluctuating symbols are arranged obliquely across the effect image may be used. In addition, the identification information image area for displaying the fluctuating symbol that is stopped and displayed is arranged at an end of the effect image area, and the identification information image area for displaying the last fluctuating symbol that is stopped and displayed after being fluctuated and displayed, A pattern or the like arranged in the immediate vicinity of the character can be considered. The variable symbol arranged after reaching the reach state may be fixed at the first arranged position until the end of the reach state, or may move halfway in relation to the effect image. Therefore, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area means an arrangement pattern that includes the movement of the variable symbol from the time of reaching until the time of reaching. Note that the variation symbols displayed in the identification information image regions having different arrangement patterns may have different variations.

In the present invention, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area on the so-called normal screen before the reach is not particularly limited, but is fixed to a fixed arrangement pattern in order to emphasize the effect after the reach. Is desirable. In this case, after reaching, the plurality of identification information image areas move from the position before the reach to the selected predetermined stop position, but since a plurality of arrangement patterns are set, the effect is produced. The moving position of the identification information image area differs depending on the image. As a result, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming one pattern, and to strongly impress the production image after reaching the player, and to instill a sense of expectation for the newly developed story. it can.

The final variation symbol means a variation symbol which is stopped and displayed last among a plurality of variation symbols. The final variation symbol is not always the same variation symbol, and a different variation symbol may be the final variation symbol each time a plurality of variation symbols repeat the variation display and the stop display.

[0026]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view schematically showing a gaming machine of the present invention. In the embodiments described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine is shown as a preferred embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12.
And a game board 14 incorporated in the main body frame 12 and a game board 1
4 and a window frame 16 of a main body frame 12 provided on a front surface of the window frame 1.
6, an upper plate 20 and a lower plate 22 provided on the front surface of the main body frame 12 and a firing handle 26 provided on the right side of the lower plate 22 are arranged.

A plurality of obstacle nails (not shown) are driven into the front of the game board 14. It should be noted that the game board 14 is formed of a resin material without using a configuration for driving nails, and a metal rod is formed on the game board 14 of this resin material.
It may be configured to be implanted so as to protrude in the front direction,
The present invention can also be applied to the above-described pachinko gaming device 10 (pachicon machine). In this specification, the pachinko gaming device 10 is a concept that includes a pachinko machine.

Further, the firing handle 26 is provided rotatably with respect to the main body frame 12, and the player can proceed with the pachinko game by operating the firing handle 26. On the back side of the firing handle 26, a firing motor 28 is provided. When the firing handle 26 is rotated clockwise by the player, power is supplied to the firing motor 28, and the game balls stored in the upper plate 20 are sequentially fired on the game board 14.

The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14 and moves to the upper portion of the game board 14, and thereafter, its traveling direction is changed by the collision with the plurality of obstacle nails described above. It falls toward the lower part of the game board 14 while changing.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged front view schematically showing the game board 14. Note that the same reference numerals are given to components corresponding to the components shown in FIG. 1 described above. FIG.
Shows the omission of the obstacle nail described above.

At a substantial center of the front of the game board 14, there is provided a display device 32 which is a display unit as described later. A display device 52 is provided at the center of the upper portion of the display device 32. The display device 52 is configured by, for example, a 7-segment display, and a normal symbol as display information is:
The display is variably displayed so that the change and the stop are repeated. On the left and right sides of the display device 32, ball passage detectors 55a and 55
b is provided. This ball passage detector 55a or 55
In b, when it is detected that the game ball has passed in the vicinity, the fluctuation display of the ordinary symbol is started on the display device 52 described above, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the fluctuation display of the ordinary symbol is stopped. The ordinary symbol is information including numbers and symbols, for example, numbers from “0” to “9” and symbols such as “☆”. This ordinary design is a predetermined design,
For example, when it is stopped and displayed as "7",
Solenoids 57 for driving movable pieces 58a and 58b provided on both left and right sides of a starting port 44 described later.
(Not shown) to drive the movable pieces 58a and 58b so that the game balls can easily enter the starting port 44,
The starting port 44 is set in an open state. When a predetermined time has elapsed after the opening of the starting port 44, the movable piece is driven to close the starting port 44 so that a game ball becomes difficult to enter.

4 are provided on both the left and right sides of the display device 52 described above.
There are provided three holding lamps 34a to 34d. Further, a general winning opening 50 is provided at an upper portion of the display device 52. Further, a winning port 38 for a game ball is provided at a lower portion of the game board 14. In the vicinity of the winning opening 38, a shutter 40 is provided so as to be freely opened and closed. Shutter 40
Is driven by a solenoid 48 (not shown) so as to be in an open state when the variable display game is in a big hit state.

On the left and right sides of the display device 32, general winning ports 54a and 54b are provided. further,
General winning ports 54c and 54d are provided on both left and right sides of the lower part of the display device 32. Special prize holes 56a and 56b are provided at the left and right ends of the game board 14, and special prize holes 56c and 56
d is provided.

A starting port having a ball detection sensor 42 that triggers a shift of a plurality of, for example, three pieces of identification information, symbols, which are displayed on the display device 32, to a variable display state when a variable display game to be described later is started. 44 are provided.
The above-mentioned winning opening 38, starting opening 44, general winning opening 54a-
When a game ball wins at 54d and the special winning openings 56a to 56d, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out to the lower plate 22 in accordance with the type of the winning opening.

Further, rolling guide members 60a and 60b for guiding the path of the game ball in a predetermined direction are provided on both left and right sides of the display device 32, respectively. Also, decorative lamps 36a are provided on the upper left and upper right sides of the game board 14 outside.
And 36b are provided.

The portion for displaying an effect image to be described later on the display device 32 may be formed of a liquid crystal display panel or a CRT. In the example described above, the display device 3
2 is a gaming board 14 of the pachinko gaming device 10 which is a gaming machine.
In the above, the case where the display device 32 is provided substantially at the center of the front surface is shown, but the display device 32 may be provided at any position of the gaming machine as long as the display device 32 can be seen by the player.

Further, in recent years, some pachislot gaming machines have a liquid crystal screen in addition to the symbol display means for displaying symbols. Such a pachislot gaming machine has the same structure as the pachinko gaming machine in the liquid crystal screen. The game effect screen is displayed to improve the interest.
Therefore, the present invention is applied to a pachislo gaming device having such a liquid crystal screen.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The above-described firing handle 26 is connected to the control circuit 6.
0 is connected to the interface circuit group 62, and the interface circuit group 62 is connected to the input / output bus 64. The angle signal indicating the rotation angle of the firing handle 26 is converted into a predetermined signal by the interface circuit group 62 and then supplied to the input / output bus 64. I / O bus 64
Are configured so that a data signal or an address signal is input / output to / from a central processing circuit (hereinafter, referred to as a CPU) 66. The ball detection sensor 42 is also connected to the interface circuit group 62 described above. When a game ball passes through the starting port 44, the ball detection sensor 42 supplies a detection signal to the interface circuit group 62. Further, the interface circuit group 62 includes the ball passage detector 5
5 is also connected, and the ball passage detector 55 supplies a detection signal to the interface circuit group 62 when detecting that the game ball has passed near it.

The input / output bus 64 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 68 and a RAM (Random Access Memory).
An access memory 70 is also connected. ROM68
Stores a control program for controlling the entire game flow of the pachinko gaming device. Furthermore, when the variable display game is executed on the display device 32, the ROM 68 stores image data of a variable symbol displayed and stopped, character image data of a moving object displayed as an effect screen, and a display device 32. Background image data and moving image video image data constituting the background, and sound data used for the game,
It stores initial data for executing the control program, a program for controlling a blinking operation pattern of the decoration lamp 36, and the like.

The above-mentioned symbol image data is transmitted to the display device 32.
Are used when the symbols are displayed in a variable manner or when the symbols are stopped and displayed, and include image data corresponding to various display modes, for example, an enlarged image, a reduced image, a deformed image, and the like. In addition, the character image data, the background image data, and the moving image image data including the moving object described above display a moving image, a still image, or an image obtained by combining them as a screen image on the display device 32 so as to produce a game. It is for. Further, the character image data composed of the moving object described above includes image data corresponding to each of the motions to display the motion of the character. Further, the sound data is also for producing a game, and is used for producing a sound such as a sound effect from a speaker 46 described later.

The RAM 70 stores the values of flags and variables used in the above-mentioned programs. For example, it stores new input data, accumulated reach data indicating a calculation result by the CPU 66 and a history of the game, an accumulated number of fluctuations, and an accumulated number of jackpots.

The CPU 66 serving as a control unit performs arithmetic processing by calling and executing a predetermined program.
Based on the result of the arithmetic processing, character image data of a moving object, background image data, moving image image data, variable design image data, and sound data are transmitted as electronic data and other controls are performed.

The CPU 66 reads out the image data of the variable symbol, which is the above-mentioned identification information, and
Is controlled so that the symbols are variably displayed, or the combination of symbols, which are a plurality of pieces of identification information, is stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing on the display device 32.

Further, an interface circuit group 72 is also connected to the input / output bus 64. The display device 32, the speaker 46, the firing motor 28, the solenoid 48, the holding lamp 34, and the decoration lamp 36 are connected to the interface circuit group 72.
2 supplies a drive signal and a drive power to control each of the above-described devices according to the result of the arithmetic processing in the CPU 66.

The screen image of the display device 32 as a display unit is
The image is composed of an identification image on which a changing symbol is displayed and an effect image on which an effect screen is displayed. These two images are superimposed and combined under the control of the CPU 66 to be displayed as one image.

As described above, by superimposing a plurality of images, for example, a design image and an effect image, and synthesizing them, it is possible to produce a scene in which the design fluctuates with the effect image as a background. It becomes possible.

The solenoid 48 is used to open and close the shutter 40 as described above.
Indicates the number of times the combination of symbols displayed on the display device 32 has become effective. The decorative lamp 36 is used to indicate to the player when the game has reached a jackpot or a reach. It blinks or lights up.

The above-mentioned CPU 66 constitutes a control unit, the display device 32 constitutes a display unit, and the pachinko gaming machine 10 constitutes a gaming machine.

In the following, it is assumed that the pachinko gaming device 10 has been activated, the variables used in the CPU 66 have been initialized to predetermined values, and the pachinko gaming device 10 is operating normally.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for detecting a game ball executed in the control circuit 60 described above. This subroutine is called at a predetermined timing from a previously executed control program for controlling the pachinko game of the pachinko game device 10 and is executed.

First, it is detected whether or not a game ball has entered the winning opening (step S11). The winning ports are, for example, the general winning ports 50 and 54a to 54d and the special winning ports 56a to 56d in the example shown in FIG. If it is determined in step S11 that a game ball has entered the winning opening, a process of paying out a predetermined number of game balls according to the type of the winning opening is executed (step S11).
12).

Next, it is determined whether a game ball has entered the starting port (step S13). This start is, for example, the start port 44 in the example shown in FIG. If it is determined in step S13 that a game ball has entered the starting port, a first variable display game described later is executed (step S14).

Further, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the ball passage detector (step S15). This ball passage detector is, for example, the ball passage detectors 55a and 55b in the example shown in FIG.

When it is determined in step S15 that the game ball has passed the ball passage detector, a process of displaying a variable symbol on the display device 52 is executed as described above (step S16). As described above, when the variably displayed normal symbol comes to a predetermined symbol when stopped, the movable pieces 58a and 58b are driven to open the starting port 44 so that the starting port 4 is opened.
This is to make it easier for game balls to enter 4.

Next, the variable display game according to the present invention will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for performing the variable display game process called and executed in step S14 described above. FIG. 6 shows that the variable symbols are all stopped after reaching the variable display game. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process until the process is performed. Also, FIG.
(C) and FIGS. 8A and 8B are explanatory diagrams showing an example of an image displayed on the display device when the variable display game is being played.

When this subroutine is called, the fixed screen displayed on the display device 32 is switched to the normal screen, and the variable display game is started. Here, the variable display game is a game imitating a game played in a slot machine, and displays a plurality of symbols as a plurality of pieces of identification information on the display device 32, and displays each of the symbols so that each symbol fluctuates. These symbols are displayed so as to stop sequentially at the timing of, and when the combination of symbols when all the symbols are stopped becomes a predetermined combination, to shift the pachinko game to a state advantageous to the player This is a game in which the change display and the stop display are executed as one process.

For example, these 12 symbols are sequentially displayed on the display device 32 as one set of symbols consisting of 12 numbers of "1", "2", ..., "12", and the symbols are displayed. Is displayed so as to move, while the symbol itself is displayed so as to change. For example, on the display device 32, the symbol "1" is displayed so as to scroll from the top to the bottom of the display device 32, and then the symbol "2" is displayed so as to scroll from the top to the bottom. "3" is similarly displayed as scrolling from top to bottom. After the symbol "1" to the symbol "12" are displayed in such a manner, the symbol "1" is scrolled again, and the same display is sequentially repeated.

By displaying the symbols on the display device 32 in this manner, the symbols are scrolled from "1" to "2" and "2" to "3" so that the symbols are sequentially changed while being scrolled. 12 ", and then" 1 "is displayed again. The manner in which a symbol is displayed such that the symbol itself changes sequentially while moving the position of one symbol in this manner is called variable display. A mode in which a certain symbol is stopped and displayed is referred to as a stop display.

The symbols belonging to one set are displayed on the display device 3.
At the time of displaying the symbol 2, the symbol to be displayed is not limited to one symbol belonging to the set, and a plurality of symbols, for example, two or three symbols, may be simultaneously displayed. For example, when the symbol “5” is variably displayed on the display device 32, a portion or the whole of the symbol “4” is variably displayed below the symbol “5”, and the symbol “6” is displayed above the symbol “5”. May be variably displayed. The above-described symbol set is a concept corresponding to the symbol set displayed on one reel used in the slot machine.

Further, when the variable display game is executed on the display device 32, symbols belonging to each of the plurality of sets are displayed. For example, when each of the symbols belonging to three sets is to be displayed in the horizontal direction, the symbols belonging to one set are displayed on the left side of the display device 32, and the symbols belonging to the other set are displayed on the display device 32. The symbols which are displayed at the center and belong to the remaining sets are displayed on the right side of the display device 32.

By displaying the symbol as the identification information in this manner, a plurality of pieces of identification information are displayed on the display device 32 as the display section. For example, when the variable display is performed such that only one of the symbols belonging to one set is always displayed, the display device 32
, Three symbols, that is, one symbol is displayed on the left side, one symbol is displayed in the center, and one symbol is displayed on the right side. Further, the number of sets when the variable display game is executed is not limited to three, and symbols belonging to a plurality of sets other than three may be displayed on the display device 32.

As described above, by displaying the symbols in this manner, a plurality of symbols, that is, a plurality of pieces of identification information are displayed on the display device 32 which is a display unit. Further, as described above, a plurality of symbols belonging to one group may be displayed. For example, two symbols belonging to one group may be displayed so as to be simultaneously displayed in a variable manner. If a set is to be displayed, a total of six symbols are variably displayed on the display device 32.

After variably displaying symbols belonging to a plurality of sets,
When all the symbols that have been displayed in a variable manner are stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing, and when the combination of these symbols is stopped and displayed in accordance with the predetermined combination, the pachinko game is determined to have been won as the variable display game has been won. The state shifts to a state that is advantageous to the player.

For example, when symbols belonging to three sets are displayed on the display device 32, symbols belonging to one set are stopped and displayed at "7", and symbols belonging to other sets are also stopped and displayed at "7". When the symbols belonging to the remaining sets are also stopped and displayed at “7”, the combination of the symbols matches the predetermined combination “7” − “7” − “7”, and the variable display game has won the jackpot. As a result, the game shifts to a state where the pachinko game is advantageous to the player. When you transition to a state that is a big hit and a player advantage,
An electric current is supplied to the above-mentioned solenoid 48 to open the shutter 40 of the winning opening 38 provided on the front surface of the game board 14, thereby facilitating a game ball to enter the winning opening 38.

When the variable display game is being executed, an effect screen including a background image, a character image, and the like is also displayed on the display device 32. Note that the fixed screen described above refers to a screen displayed on the display device 32 when only the pachinko game is progressing on the pachinko game device 10 in which the variable display game executed on the display device 32 is not executed. Say.

Further, the normal screen refers to the time when the variable display game reaches a hit or a big hit after the variable display game is started on the display device 32 and the symbols displayed on the display device 32 are variably displayed. In the meantime,
It refers to an effect screen displayed on the display device 32.

When the above-described variable display game is started,
First, an internal lottery process is performed by the arithmetic process of the CPU 66 (step S200). The internal lottery process is a process in which all symbols belonging to a plurality of groups that have been variably displayed are stopped and displayed, and a symbol combination when a symbol is determined is determined in advance.
The process of changing and displaying the symbols is performed so that the symbols are stopped and displayed in the combination of symbols determined by the internal lottery process.

Next, the screen configuration information of the selected background image is generated in the RAM 70 (step S201). That is, after the internal lottery process is executed, the CPU 66 executes a control program for selecting a background image according to the result of the internal lottery process, the progress of the variable display game, and the like.
It is called from the ROM 68 and executed.

Next, based on the result obtained by the CPU 66, screen configuration information of the selected background image is generated in the RAM 70 by the CPU 66 as needed. As the background image, for example, as shown in FIG. 7A, a background image showing a scrapped factory in which a sniper and a gang confront each other with a gun, and the like can be given. Such images are
The selection is appropriately made by the CPU based on the progress of the variable game and the result of the internal lottery process.

Next, screen configuration information of the character image composed of the selected moving object is generated in the RAM 70 (step S202). That is, the screen configuration information of the character image selected by the CPU 66 is generated in the RAM 70 based on the execution result of the control program.

At this time, for example, 1/60 second, 1/3
By controlling the head position of the character image to be shifted by a predetermined moving amount at a constant interval (frame span) every 0 seconds or the like, the character image can be displayed with a motion. Note that the image showing the character does not always need to be always displayed on the display device.

In the present invention, the character image is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 (a), when an image showing a waste factory is displayed as a background image, , Gangs and the like.

Next, based on the execution result of the control program, the screen configuration information of the variable symbol, which is the identification information, is obtained.
It is generated in the RAM 70 by the CPU 66 (step S203). The arrangement pattern of the identification information image area for displaying the variable symbol is not particularly limited, and can be changed every time the variable display game is performed. In order to emphasize the effect, it is desirable that the image is fixed in a fixed arrangement pattern.

The screen configuration information of an image serving as each symbol constituting the above-mentioned variable symbol is, for example, 1/60 second or 1/60 second by the CPU 66 based on the control program described above.
At a fixed interval (frame span) every 30 seconds or the like, the leading position of the screen configuration information is shifted by a predetermined moving amount with respect to an image which is a variable symbol having the same identification information. By controlling the images to be sequentially generated in a predetermined order, it is possible to perform a variable display of a variable symbol.

Furthermore, by adjusting the frame span, the head position of the readout of the screen configuration information, and the like, the fluctuation speed of the fluctuation symbol can be controlled. It is also possible to make the fluctuation of the fluctuating design smooth, and to fuse the background image with the fluctuating design.

Note that the ROM 68 stores a plurality of image data having different shapes for the same variable symbol,
By reading the information from the CPU 66 as needed and transmitting it to the display device 32, it is also possible to display such that the shape of the fluctuating symbol changes over time during fluctuating display.

Next, in steps 201 to 203, based on the screen configuration information generated in the RAM 70,
Each image data corresponding to the screen configuration information is read from the ROM 68 by the CPU 66. Thereafter, the image data is converted into image data to be displayed on the display device 32 according to the information on the priority order, the position, and the like displayed in the screen configuration information, and then transmitted to the display device 32 and displayed (step S204).

The above-described processing in steps S201 to S204 is performed in steps S206 and S208 to be described later. After the left and right symbols are stopped and displayed, it is determined whether or not the left and right symbols are the same. (Step S
210), and is repeatedly executed until it is determined that reach is reached (identical). By repeatedly performing such a process, a variable symbol fixed to a predetermined arrangement pattern can be displayed in a variable manner, and a character image can be displayed so as to perform a predetermined operation.

Next, it is determined whether it is time to stop and display a symbol belonging to one of the three sets (step S205). If it is determined that it is not time to stop and display, the process returns to step S201. On the other hand, for example, when it is determined that it is the timing to stop and display the left variable symbol, the left variable symbol is stopped and displayed (step S206).

Next, it is determined whether or not it is time to stop and display a symbol belonging to one of the remaining two sets (step S207). If it is determined that it is not time to perform the stop display, the process proceeds to step S20.
Return to 1. On the other hand, for example, when it is determined that it is the timing to stop and display the right changing symbol, the right changing symbol is stopped and displayed (step S208).

Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the stopped right and left fluctuating symbols are the same (step S210). And when it is determined that the left and right fluctuating symbols are the same,
A subroutine of reach screen display processing shown in FIG. 6 is executed (step S29). The subroutine of the reach screen display processing will be described later in detail.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S210 that the left and right symbols are not the same, it is next determined whether or not it is time to stop and display the central symbol (step S211). If it is determined that it is not the timing to stop and display the central symbol, the process proceeds to step S20.
Return to 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is time to stop and display the central symbol, the central variable symbol is stopped and displayed (step S212), and the present subroutine ends.

In FIG. 5, three variable symbols are left,
The case where stop display is performed in the right and center order has been described, but the order in which the variable symbols are stop displayed in the variable display game is not particularly limited.

Next, a subroutine of reach screen display processing will be described with reference to FIG. When the subroutine of the reach screen display process is executed in step S29 of the variable display game process routine described above, first, FIG.
The screen configuration information of the selected background image is generated in the RAM 70 in the same manner as in step S201 shown in FIG.
291).

In the present invention, the background image selected in the reach state may be the same image as the background image on the normal screen, or may be a different image. Such a background image is not particularly limited. For example, a background image indicating an abandoned factory shown in FIG.
A background image showing the underpass shown in FIG. 7B, a background image showing the inside of the building shown in FIG. 7C, a background image showing the road shown in FIG. 8A, and a locomotive shown in FIG. And the like.

Next, as in step S202 shown in FIG. 5, the screen configuration information of the selected character image is
0 is generated (step S292). Note that the selected character image may be the same image as the character image on the normal screen, or may be a different image.

Next, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area,
Then, the image of the variable symbol is selected, and the screen configuration information is generated (step S293). In order to generate the screen configuration information of the fluctuating symbol in the reach state, in step S293, for example, when three fluctuating symbols are displayed, one fluctuating symbol is fluctuated and the remaining two fluctuating symbols are stopped and displayed. In this aspect, the image of the variable symbol is selected, and the screen configuration information is generated.

In the present invention, a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area in the reach state are set in advance. That is, according to the background image and the character image selected by executing steps S291 and S292, a program for selecting one layout pattern from a plurality of layout patterns and displaying a variable symbol with the one layout pattern is selected. Are stored in the ROM 68.

In step S293, by executing the above program, one arrangement pattern is selected from a plurality of arrangement patterns in accordance with the background image and the character image, and a variation symbol is displayed in one arrangement pattern. You. By doing so, the plurality of variable symbols move to the selected one stop position after reaching the reach. The arrangement pattern of the fluctuating symbols in the reach state will be described later in detail. Further, the image of the selected variable symbol may be the same image as the variable symbol on the normal screen, or may be a different image.

Next, in steps S291 to S293, each image data corresponding to the screen configuration information is read from the ROM 68 by the CPU 66 based on the screen configuration information generated in the RAM 70. Thereafter, the image data is converted into image data to be displayed on the display device 32 according to the information on the priority order, the position, and the like displayed in the screen configuration information, and then transmitted to the display device 32 and displayed (step S294).

Next, it is determined whether it is time to stop and display the final variation symbol (step S295).
If it is determined that it is not the timing to stop and display the final variation symbol, the process returns to step S291. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S295 that it is the timing to stop and display the final variable symbol, the image is selected in a manner to stop and display the final variable symbol, and the final variable symbol is stopped and displayed.

Next, in the normal state and the reach state,
Regarding the screen images displayed on the display unit, FIGS.
This will be described with reference to FIG. 8C and FIGS.
The story developed in the screen images shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is a story in which a sniper as an ally character and a gang as an enemy character battle in various places.

[0095] The ally character means a character that informs a player that the player will be in an advantageous state in a game by winning in a battle scene, and is usually a hero such as a story developed in a production image area. It is. Further, the enemy character means a character that informs the player that the player will be in a disadvantageous state or not in an advantageous state in the game by winning in the battle scene. Using a battle scene between an ally character and an enemy character as an effect image is one of the effective effect expression methods that encourages the excitement of the player.

FIG. 7A shows an example of a screen image in a normal state. In FIG. 7A, three identification information image areas are provided in a horizontal direction at the lower side of the screen, and a rendering image area is provided above the identification information image area. In each of the three identification information image areas, a variable symbol is variably displayed. In the effect image area, an image indicating an abandoned factory is displayed as a background image, a sniper is displayed on the right side of the screen as a character image, and a gang is displayed on the left side of the screen.

In the normal state, the sniper, which is an ally character, and the gang, which is an enemy character, fight with each other by shooting a gun. Although not shown in the figure, as the story progresses, a plurality of gangs appear, and each time the sniper shoots one gang, one variable symbol is stopped and displayed.

FIG. 7B shows an example of a screen image in the reach state. In FIG. 7B, three identification information image areas are provided in the horizontal direction on the upper side of the screen, and the effect image area is provided below the identification information image area. As described above, when the identification information image area is provided on the upper side of the screen, a horizontally elongated effect image area can be provided as compared with the case where the identification information image area is provided on the right or left side of the screen. Further, in the left and right identification information image areas of the three identification information image areas, the variable symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating “5”, and in the central identification information image area, the variable symbol is variably displayed. ing.

In the effect image area, the background image
An image indicating the abandoned factory is displayed. As a character image, a sniper is displayed on the right side of the screen, and 2 characters are displayed on the left side of the screen.
The gang of people is displayed. In the effect image shown in FIG. 7 (b), a story is developed in which the sniper runs underground and follows the two gangs. In addition,
In FIG. 7B, as described above, since the horizontally elongated effect image area is provided, an effect image in which the character runs in the horizontal direction can be displayed large over the entire effect image area. Further, by arranging the identification information image area above the effect image area, it is possible to realistically express the feeling that the sniper or the like is diving underground.

FIG. 7C shows another example of the screen image in the reach state. In FIG. 7C, three identification information image areas are provided in the vertical direction on the left side of the screen, and the effect image area is provided on the right side of the identification information image area. As described above, when the identification information image area is provided on the left side of the screen, a vertically long effect image area can be provided as compared with the case where the identification information image area is provided on the upper or lower side of the screen. Further, in the upper and lower identification information image areas of the three identification information image areas, the variable symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating “7”, and in the central identification information image area, the variable symbol is variably displayed. ing.

In the effect image area, the background image
A deep image showing the inside of the building is displayed, and as a character image, a sniper is displayed in the foreground, and a gang riding on a helicopter is displayed in the back. In the effect image shown in FIG. 7C, a story is developed in which a gang riding on the helicopter aims at the sniper inside the building, while the sniper responds while hiding behind a desk or the like. You. FIG.
In (c), as described above, since the vertically elongated effect image area is provided, an effect image having a depth can be displayed large over the entire effect image area. In addition, by providing the identification information image area near the character of interest, both the effect image and the fluctuating design can be visually recognized, and the user can check what pattern the fluctuating design stops at while enjoying the effect screen. be able to. That is, FIG.
In (c), the sniper is located near the changing symbol. For example, the screen changes little by little with the passage of time, and when the sniper is positioned closer to the final changing symbol, the sniper is shot by the gang, The variable symbol may be stopped at a missing symbol. By providing the identification information image area on the left side of the effect image area as the above image, it is possible to confirm what pattern the variable symbol stops at while enjoying the effect screen. Further, for example, in order to increase the moving distance of the helicopter, when the helicopter moves to the left, the identification information image area may be moved to the right of the effect image area.

FIG. 8A shows another example of the screen image in the reach state. In FIG. 8A, three identification information image areas are provided in the vertical direction on the right side of the screen, and the effect image area is provided on the left side of the identification information image area. As described above, when the identification information image area is provided on the right side of the screen, a vertically long effect image area can be provided as compared with the case where the identification information image area is provided on the upper or lower side of the screen. Further, in the upper and lower identification information image areas of the three identification information image areas, the variable symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating “4”, and in the central identification information image area, the variable symbol is variably displayed. ing.

In the effect image area, the background image
An image having a depth indicating a road is displayed. As a character image, a sniper in a passenger car is displayed in the foreground, and a gang in a passenger car is displayed in the back. In the effect image shown in FIG. 8A, a story is developed in which the sniper riding in the car follows the gang in the car. In FIG. 8A, as described above, since the vertically elongated effect image area is provided, an effect image having a depth can be displayed large in the entire effect image area. FIG. 7 (c)
As in the case of, by providing the identification information image area near the character of interest, it is possible to visually recognize both the effect image and the variable symbol, and stop at what symbol the variable symbol while enjoying the effect screen. Can be confirmed. That is, in FIG. 8A, since the gang is located near the changing symbol, the final changing symbol may stop at the big hit symbol when the gang is shot by the sniper. In this case, by providing the identification information image area on the right side of the effect image area, it is possible to confirm what symbol the variable symbol stops while enjoying the effect screen. Furthermore, for example, in order to more realistically express the appearance of the gangster car fleeing to the right and left, when the gangster car moves to the right, the identification information image area is positioned on the left side of the effect image area, and the gangster car When approaching to the left, a method of positioning the identification information image area to the right of the effect image area may be adopted.

FIG. 8B shows another example of the screen image in the reach state. In FIG. 8B, three identification information image areas are provided in the lower side of the screen in a horizontal direction, and the effect image area is provided above the identification information image area. As described above, when the identification information image area is provided on the lower side of the screen, a horizontally elongated effect image area can be provided as compared with the case where the identification information image area is provided on the right or left side of the screen. Further, in the left and right identification information image areas of the three identification information image areas, the variable symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating “8”, and in the central identification information image area, the variable symbol is variably displayed. ing.

In the effect image area, the background image
An image showing the locomotive is displayed, a sniper is displayed on the left side of the screen as a character image, and 2
The gang of people is displayed. In the effect image shown in FIG. 8B, a story that the sniper and the two gangs battle on a running locomotive is developed. In FIG. 8B, as described above, since the horizontally elongated effect image area is provided, the effect image in which the locomotive runs in the horizontal direction and the character battles on the locomotive is displayed as the above effect image. A large image can be displayed over the entire effect image area. Further, by positioning the identification information image area below the effect image area, it is possible to express a feeling that the train is running on a rail slightly higher than the ground.
In addition, in order to give a feeling that the train swings up and down, it may be expressed that the train moves up and down integrally with the changing symbol.

Normally, in a gaming machine, a display section on which a screen image is displayed has a predetermined size and an aspect ratio, and therefore, the position where the identification information image area is provided, that is, the arrangement pattern is fixed. In such a case, the size, the aspect ratio, and the like of the effect image area are fixed. However, in the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the size and the aspect ratio of the effect image area can be adjusted by the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area. Therefore, by changing the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area, it is possible to provide an effect image area having a size and an aspect ratio appropriate for the effect image, and, as described above, to render the effect image more realistically. It is possible to produce effect images with more variations. further,
In the present invention, since a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area are set, as described above, a variety of effect images can be displayed on a single gaming machine. As a result, the reach effect is strongly impressed, which can prevent the effect image from becoming one pattern,
Further, with such an effect, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating design becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized.

The arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after reaching the reach is not particularly limited. In addition to the arrangement patterns shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, for example, the arrangement pattern may be oblique so as to cross the effect image. An arrangement pattern in which the identification information image areas are arranged, an arrangement pattern in which the identification information image areas are densely arranged in the central portion of the effect image, and the like can be given.

However, according to the present invention, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after the reach is obtained is shown in FIGS.
As shown in the above, it is desirable that the arrangement pattern be arranged horizontally above or below the effect image area, or be arranged vertically on the right or left side of the effect image area. As an arrangement pattern of the variable symbol,
After the above-mentioned four types of patterns are prepared and reach, the optimal arrangement is selected from the above-mentioned four types according to the effect image, so that the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuating pattern is more dense. This is because the entertainment effect of the rendered image is maximized. Further, since the four types of arrangement patterns described above are patterns in which the identification information image area is arranged at the end of the screen image, the effect image area is not divided by the identification information image area.
As a result, the effect image area can be widened, and an effect image with a higher impact can be displayed for the player.

In FIG. 7, the identification information image area is provided on the lower side of the screen. However, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area on the so-called normal screen before the reach is not particularly limited. It may be on the upper side or on the right or left side of the screen. It is possible to set according to the effect image displayed as a normal screen. However, in order to emphasize the effect after reaching, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area on the normal screen does not change every time the variable display game is performed, and is fixed to a fixed arrangement pattern. desirable.

In FIGS. 7 (b) and 7 (c), the final variation symbol is displayed in a variably scrolling manner in the vertical direction, similarly to FIG. 7 (a). However, in FIG. 8, the final variation symbol is displayed. , Is displayed so as to scroll horizontally. As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to change not only the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area but also the change mode of the change symbol between the normal state and the reach state.

As described above, in the gaming machine and the effect rendering method of the gaming machine of the present invention, a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set, and the arrangement pattern is adjusted to the image displayed in the reaching state. , Since the arrangement pattern of the fluctuating symbols is changed so as to be the most appropriate position, this makes it possible to make the impression of each effect image different and to impress the reach effect,
It is possible to prevent the effect image from becoming one pattern.

Further, by appropriately arranging the fluctuation symbols, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuation symbols becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized. , You can enjoy the fun of directing expressions, and you can keep your interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game. And the sense of accomplishment can be enhanced, and the interest can be dramatically improved.

In the above-described embodiment, the program for controlling the pachinko game, the program for detecting the game ball shown in FIG. 4, and the program for executing the variable display game shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. Although the case where the information is stored in the ROM 68 or the RAM 70 of the gaming device 10 is shown, in a case where a pachinko game can be performed by an operator operating a terminal communicably connected to the server, The server and the terminal may have the programs described above and data used in these programs.

When the server and the terminal are configured as described above, the server can control the pachinko game, the program for detecting the game ball shown in FIG. 4, the program for detecting the game ball shown in FIG. The program for executing the variable display game shown in FIG. 6 is stored in advance, and these programs are transmitted to the terminal at a predetermined timing.

On the other hand, the terminal device stores the transmitted program once, reads out the stored program as appropriate, and executes the stored program to advance the pachinko game. In addition, a program for controlling a pachinko game, a program for detecting a game ball shown in FIG.
Also, a program for executing the variable display game shown in FIG. 6 may be executed on the server side, and an instruction generated according to the execution result may be transmitted to the terminal as a control signal or control information. In this case, the terminal selects or generates an image for performing the pachinko game according to the transmitted control signal or control information, and displays the image on the display unit.

FIG. 9 is a front view showing an example of a terminal having the above-described configuration.

In the example shown in FIG. 9, the terminal 100
Is a general-purpose personal computer, and the terminal 100
The input operation of the player is input from an input device 102 connected to the input device 102, for example, a keyboard. Also, the terminal 10
0 control unit 130 includes a CPU 108, R
The control unit 13 includes an OM 110, a RAM 112, and the like.
At 0, a program for controlling a pachinko game and a program for controlling a variable display game are executed.

The control unit 130 also has a communication interface circuit 120 (not shown), and the control unit 130 communicates with a server described later via the communication interface circuit 120, and The pachinko game is controlled based on the transmitted control signal or control information, the program, and the data, and the variable display game is controlled.

Further, on the display device 116 connected to the terminal device 100, a game machine image simulating a pachinko game device as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed, and the pachinko game is performed on the game machine image. is there. On the gaming machine image, the display unit 132 on which the above-described variable display game is executed is displayed as an image. This display unit 132
In, the image of the symbol as the identification information as described above is displayed.

As will be described later, when the subroutine shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 or the subroutine shown in FIG. 16, FIG. 18 or FIG. In, at least two arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set, and one arrangement pattern is selected from a plurality of arrangement patterns by the effect image displayed after reaching. It will be.

FIG. 10 is a front view showing another example of the terminal. The components corresponding to those shown in FIG. 9 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The example of FIG. 10 shows a portable terminal 140, in which an input device 10 provided in the terminal 140 is provided.
2. For example, an input operation of the player is input from a switch. In addition, the control unit 130 (not shown) is connected to the terminal 140.
And a CPU 10 as described later.
8, a ROM 110, a RAM 112, and the like. A program for controlling a pachinko game or a variable display game is executed in the control unit 130.

The control unit 130 also has a communication interface circuit 120 (not shown).
Performs communication with a server described later via the communication interface circuit 120, and controls a pachinko game or a variable display game based on a control signal or control information, a program, or data transmitted from the server.

Further, the display device 116 provided on the upper surface of the terminal 140 is composed of a liquid crystal display panel, and as shown in FIG. 10, a game machine image imitating a pachinko game machine is displayed. Pachinko games are played on the image. On this gaming machine image, the display unit 13 on which the above-described variable display game is executed
2 is displayed as an image. On the display unit 132, an image of a symbol, which is identification information as described above, is displayed.

When the subroutine shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 or the subroutine shown in FIG. 16, FIG. 18 or FIG. Since at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after the setting are set, and one of the plurality of arrangement patterns is selected by the effect image displayed after reaching, the arrangement pattern is selected. is there.

As described above, the terminal 10 shown in FIG.
0, the display device 116 is configured separately from the control unit 130, and various control signals or control information such as a display control signal transmitted from the server are transmitted to the terminal 100.
The control unit 130 generates a display signal based on the supplied control signal or control information, and supplies the generated display signal to the display device 116.

On the other hand, the terminal 140 shown in FIG. 10 is integrally formed with the display device 116, and a control signal or control information such as a display control signal transmitted from the server is transmitted to the control unit of the terminal 140. 130, and the control unit 130
Generates a display signal based on the supplied control signal or control information, and supplies the generated display signal to the display device 116. The embodiment described below can be applied whether the control unit of the terminal and the display device are separate or integrated.

FIG. 11 shows the terminal 100 or 14 described above.
It is a block diagram showing a configuration of 0 (hereinafter, referred to as a pachinko gaming terminal device). FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a server 80 connected to this pachinko gaming terminal device via a communication line and supplying various control signals or control information and data to the pachinko gaming terminal device.
In the pachinko gaming terminal device shown in FIG. 11, the same reference numerals are given to components corresponding to the components shown in FIG.

Input device 1 for inputting player's operation
02, for example, a keyboard and a switch are connected to the interface circuit 104 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100, and the interface circuit 104 is connected to the input / output bus 10
6 is connected. Through this input / output bus 106, a data signal or an address signal is input / output to / from a central processing circuit (hereinafter, referred to as CPU) 108. A ROM (Read Only Memory) 110 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 112 are also connected to the input / output bus 106. ROM 110 and RA
M112 is a program or display device 11 as described later.
6 stores data of an image to be displayed.

Further, an interface circuit group 114 is also connected to the input / output bus 106. The interface circuit group 114 includes a display device 116 and a speaker 11.
8 are connected, and the interface circuit group 114
Supplies a display signal and an audio signal to each of the display device 116 and the speaker 118 according to the result of the arithmetic processing in the CPU 108.

Furthermore, a communication interface circuit 120 is also connected to the input / output bus 106. The communication interface circuit 120 is for communicating with a server 80 described below via a communication line such as a public telephone line network or a local area network (LAN).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12, the server 80 has a hard disk drive 88, a CPU 82,
It comprises an OM 84, a RAM 86, and a communication interface circuit 90. The hard disk drive 88 includes a program for communicating with the pachinko gaming terminal, a program for receiving information issued from the pachinko gaming terminal, a program for controlling the pachinko gaming, and a variable display game. The program to be controlled is stored. Communication interface circuit 90
Is a public telephone line network or a local area network (L
AN) for communication with the above-mentioned pachinko gaming terminal devices 100 and 140 via a communication line.

In the case of the above-described configuration, a game machine image simulating the pachinko gaming device shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is displayed on the display device 116 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100, and the game board surface is displayed. Hold lamp, decoration lamp,
Images indicating devices such as the display unit 132 for performing the variable display game and the display unit 152 for displaying ordinary symbols, and images indicating game balls are displayed on the display device 116. In the display unit 132 for executing the variable display game, when the variable display game is executed, a symbol image serving as identification information is displayed.

The subroutine executed by each of the pachinko gaming terminal device and the server will now be described with reference to FIGS.
3 is shown.

In the following, it is assumed that the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 and the server 80 are activated in advance and are operating in a steady state. Also, the CPU 108 described above
And variables used in the CPU 82 are assumed to be initialized to predetermined values. In the following description, devices such as a winning port, a starting port, a ball passing detector, and a game ball are displayed as images on the display device 116.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show various programs stored in a storage medium such as the hard disk drive 88 of the server 80 at a predetermined timing such as when the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 is started. 80 is supplied to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, and when the program supplied in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 is to be executed, the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, and the server 80
3 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in each of FIG.

FIG. 13 shows a pachinko gaming terminal device 100.
Or 140 is a subroutine executed at a predetermined timing from the main routine. It is assumed that the main routine includes a program required for communicating with the server 80, such as a program for determining whether communication with the server 80 is possible or not, in advance.

First, a program for executing a pachinko game and image data necessary for the progress of a pachinko game in the pachinko game terminal device are downloaded from the server 80 (step S31).

Next, the pachinko game is started by the player operating the input device 102, and the game program is executed (step S32). This game program is a game program that controls pachinko games,
And a program for executing the variable display game shown in FIG. 3 described above. The necessary image data is a game machine image imitating a pachinko game machine, a background image, and an image of a fluctuating design. And an image such as a character image on the display device 116.

When a game program is executed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, it is detected that the player has operated the input device 102. When it is detected that the player has operated the input device 102, as described above, the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 14 is used.
A game device image imitating a pachinko game device is displayed on the 0 display device 116, and a display unit 132 for displaying a variable display game is also displayed on the game device image. Further, when the player operates the input device 102 to fire the game ball, an image of the game ball that can be visually recognized as the game ball moves on the game board is displayed on the game machine image.

Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the winning opening (step S33). The winning openings are image portions corresponding to the above-described general winning openings 50 and 54a to 54d and the special winning openings 56a to 56d shown in FIG.

When it is determined that a game ball has entered the winning opening, a process of paying out a number of game balls according to the type of the winning opening is executed (step S34). This step S3
4 is performed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140.
In the case of displaying the number of game balls at any position on the display device 116, the number of game balls
2 may be stored.

Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the starting port (step S35). This start is, for example, an image portion corresponding to the start port 44 shown in FIG. 2 described above.

If it is determined in step S35 that a game ball has entered the starting port, a variable display game processing routine similar to the above-described subroutine shown in FIG. 5 is called and executed (step S36). Note that when the variable display game processing routine is executed, a background image, an image of a variable design, and a character image are displayed on the display unit 132 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10.

Further, in the variable display game, the reach state is reached, and the reach screen display processing routine shown in FIG. 6 is executed, so that at least the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after the reach is displayed on the display unit 132. According to the effect image that is set in two ways and displayed after reaching, one arrangement pattern is selected from a plurality of arrangement patterns.

Further, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the ball passage detector (step S37). This ball passage detector is, for example, the ball passage detector 55 shown in FIG.
This is an image portion corresponding to a and 55b. If it is determined in this step S37 that the game ball has passed the ball passage detector, a process of variably displaying a normal symbol on the display device 52 is executed (step S38).

As described above, when the variably displayed ordinary symbol comes to a predetermined symbol when stopped,
The movable pieces 58a and 58b are driven to display an image that can be visually recognized so that the starting port 44 is opened.
The processing is performed to make it easier for the game ball to enter.

Next, it is determined whether or not the game has been completed (step S39). To determine whether the game has ended,
It is determined that the game has ended when it is detected that the player has operated the input device 102 to end the game, or when it is determined that a predetermined number of game balls have been fired on the game board surface. It is. If it is determined that the game is not over, the process returns to step S32 described above.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the game has ended, the game result indicating the number of game balls fired or the number of game balls refunded and the like, and game end information indicating the end of the game are transmitted to the server 80. (Step S40), this subroutine ends.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in the server 80 corresponding to the terminal-side processing routine executed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 shown in FIG.

First, it is determined whether or not the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 has been activated and is in a communicable state (step S51). If it is determined that the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 has not been activated, the process returns to step S51.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 has been activated, various programs and various image data are transmitted to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 (step S52). The processing in step S52 is the same as that in step S52 in FIG.
This corresponds to the process 31.

As described above, in step S52, the programs transmitted to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 include a game program for controlling a pachinko game and a program for executing the above-described variable display game shown in FIG. And, and various image data includes a gaming machine image imitating a pachinko gaming device,
This is for displaying a background image, an image of a variable design, a character image, and the like on the display device 116.

Next, it is determined whether or not the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 has transmitted a game result or information indicating that the game has been completed (step S53). This step S53 corresponds to step S40 in FIG. 13 described above. In step S53, the game result and the game end information are displayed in the pachinko game terminal device 100 or 1
If it is determined that the data has not been transmitted from 40, the process returns to step S53. In the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, step S shown in FIG.
While the processes of S32 to S39 are being executed, the server 80
In this case, the processing of step S53 described above is repeatedly executed.

On the other hand, in step S53, the game result and the game end information are displayed in the pachinko game terminal device 100 or 1
If it is determined that the game result is transmitted from the game server 40, the game result and the game end information are received (step S54), and the present subroutine is ended.

In the case of the above-described configuration, a program for executing a pachinko game and various image data are always transmitted from the server 80 before the game is started in the pachinko game terminal device 100 or 140. Therefore, when the program or the image data is updated in the server 80, the player can always enjoy the latest game.

Further, in the case of such a configuration, in the display section 132 displayed on the display device 116 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 as a terminal, the identification information image area after the reach is reached. Is set in at least two ways, and a program for selecting one of the plurality of arrangement patterns from the plurality of arrangement patterns based on the effect image displayed after reaching is reached.
Is stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as a hard disk drive 88.

By adopting such a configuration, a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set, and the pattern is changed so as to be the most appropriate position according to the image displayed in the reaching state. Since the arrangement pattern of the symbols is changed, the impression of each effect image can be made different, and the reach effect can be impressed, thereby preventing the effect image from becoming one pattern.

[0159] By appropriately arranging the variable symbols, the relationship between the effect image and the variable symbols becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized. , You can enjoy the fun of directing expression, and you can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game becomes a big hit, the player's fullness And the sense of accomplishment can be enhanced, and the interest can be dramatically improved.

Next, a program for controlling the pachinko game and a program for executing the variable display game are stored in the ROM 1 of the pachinko game terminal device 100 or 140.
10 is stored in advance, and only the various image data required as the pachinko game progresses is transmitted from the server 80 as appropriate, the pachinko game terminal device 100 or 140 and the server 80 execute the image data. The subroutine shown in FIG. 15, FIG. 16 and FIG.

FIG. 15 shows a pachinko gaming terminal device 100.
Or a subroutine executed in 140, and in the following description, it is assumed that the subroutine is read from the ROM 110 at a predetermined timing from the main routine and executed. It is assumed that the main routine includes a program required for communicating with the server 80, such as a program for determining whether communication with the server 80 is possible or not, in advance. The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 15 is the same as the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 13 except for step S31, and steps that perform the same processing are denoted by the same reference numerals.

First, a pachinko game is started by a player's operation, and a game program is executed (step S32). The game program includes a game program for controlling a pachinko game, and a program for executing a variable display game described later, and further includes a game machine image imitating a pachinko game device, a background image, and a fluctuation image. The display device 116 displays a pattern image, a character image, and the like.
Is to be displayed.

When the game program is executed on the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, it is detected that the player has operated the input device 102. When it is detected that the player has operated the input device 102, as described above, the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 14 is used.
On the display device 116, a game machine image imitating a pachinko game machine is displayed, and a display unit 132 for displaying a variable display game is also displayed on the game machine image.

Further, when the player operates the input device 102 to shoot a game ball, an image of the game ball, which can be visually recognized as the game ball moves on the game board, is displayed on the image of the game machine.

Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the winning opening (step S33). The winning openings are image portions corresponding to the above-described general winning openings 50 and 54a to 54d and the special winning openings 56a to 56d shown in FIG.

If it is determined that a game ball has entered the winning opening, a process of paying out a number of game balls according to the type of the winning opening is executed (step S34). This step S3
4 is performed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140.
In the case of displaying the number of game balls at some position on the display device 116, the number of game balls
May be stored.

Next, it is determined whether a game ball has entered the starting port (step S35). This starting port is, for example, an image portion corresponding to the starting port 44 shown in FIG. 2 described above.

In step S35, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the starting port, a variable display game processing routine described later is called and executed (step S3).
6). Note that, in this case, the variable display game processing routine is executed, and when the reach screen display processing routine is executed in the variable display game processing routine, the reach is displayed on the display unit 132 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. Since at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after the setting are set, and one of the plurality of arrangement patterns is selected by the effect image displayed after reaching, the arrangement pattern is selected. is there.

Further, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the ball passage detector (step S37). This ball passage detector is, for example, the ball passage detector 55 shown in FIG.
This is an image portion corresponding to a and 55b.

If it is determined in step S37 that the game ball has passed the ball passage detector, the display device 5
In step 2, a process for changing and displaying the ordinary symbols is executed (step S38). As described above, when the fluctuation-displayed ordinary symbol comes to a predetermined symbol when stopped, the movable pieces 58a and 58b are driven to start the opening 44.
Is displayed so as to be in an open state, so that a game ball can easily enter the starting port 44.

Next, it is determined whether or not the game has been completed (step S39). To determine whether the game has ended,
It is determined that the game has ended when it is detected that the player has operated the input device 102 to end the game, or when it is determined that a predetermined number of game balls have been fired on the game board surface. It is. If it is determined that the game is not over, the process returns to step S32 described above.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the game is over, the game result indicating the number of launched game balls, the number of reclaimed game balls, and the like, and game end information indicating that the game is over are transmitted to the server 80. (Step S40), this subroutine ends.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for processing the variable display game called and executed in step S36 described above. Note that FIG.
In the flowchart shown in FIG. 5, steps that perform the same processing as the steps in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

First, information indicating that this subroutine has been called and the execution of the variable display game has been started is stored in the server 8.
0 (step S61).

Next, an image of a variable symbol, which is an identification information image required in the variable display game, a background image,
Image data serving as a character image, a control program, and the like are received from the server 80 (step S62).

Next, an internal lottery process is performed by the CPU 108 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 (step S200). The internal lottery process is a process in which all symbols belonging to a plurality of groups that are variably displayed are stopped and displayed, and a symbol combination when the symbol is determined is determined in advance. As described later, the CPU 108 performs the internal lottery process. The process of changing and displaying the symbols is performed so that the symbols are stopped and displayed on the display unit 132 in the determined combination of symbols.

Next, the control program is executed by the CPU 108, and based on the result, the background image is selected, the screen configuration information of the background image is generated (step S201), and the character image is selected. Then, the screen configuration information of the character image is generated (step S202), and the screen configuration information of the variable symbol, which is the identification information, is generated (step S203).

Then, based on the generated screen configuration information, necessary image data is read out of the image data received in S62, and is read out as image data to be displayed on the display unit 132. Is displayed (step S204).

By executing steps S201 to S204 described above, a normal image including a background image and a character image is displayed on display section 132 displayed on display device 116.

Next, it is determined whether it is time to stop and display a symbol belonging to one of the three sets (step S205). If it is determined that it is not time to stop and display, the process returns to step S201. On the other hand, for example, when it is determined that it is the timing to stop and display the left variable symbol, the left variable symbol is stopped and displayed (step S206).

Next, it is determined whether or not it is time to stop and display the symbols belonging to one of the remaining two sets (step S207). If it is determined that it is not time to perform the stop display, the process proceeds to step S20.
Return to 1. On the other hand, for example, when it is determined that it is the timing to stop and display the right changing symbol, the right changing symbol is stopped and displayed (step S208).

Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the stopped right and left fluctuating symbols are the same (step S210). And when it is determined that the left and right fluctuating symbols are the same,
A subroutine of reach screen display processing shown in FIG. 6 is executed (step S29). Note that the subroutine of the reach screen display processing is substantially the same as the reach screen display processing routine shown in FIG. 6 and has already been described.
The description here is omitted.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S210 that the left and right symbols are not the same, then it is determined whether or not it is time to stop and display the central symbol (step S211). If it is determined that it is not the timing to stop and display the central symbol, the process proceeds to step S20.
Return to 1.

On the other hand, when it is determined that it is the time to stop and display the central symbol, the central variable symbol is stopped and displayed (step S212). And step S
If it is determined that the process of step 212 has been executed or that the reach screen display processing routine has been completed, information indicating that the variable display game has ended and result information of the variable display game are transmitted to the server 80 (step S64) ), End this subroutine.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in the server 80 corresponding to the terminal-side processing routine executed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 as shown in FIG. The server 80 has been activated in advance, and the subroutine shown in FIG. 17 is called from a previously executed main routine and executed.

First, it is determined whether or not information indicating that the variable display game has been started has been received in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 (step S71).
When it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has started has not been received, this subroutine is immediately ended.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has been started has been received, a variable design image, a background image, and a character image which are identification information images required in the variable display game are displayed. Is transmitted to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 (step S72). This step S72 corresponds to the process of step S62 shown in FIG. 16 described above.

Next, it is determined whether or not information indicating that the variable display game has been completed has been received (step S75).
The process in step S75 is a process corresponding to the process in step S64 in FIG. 16 described above. Step S75
In step S7, if it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has ended has not been received, the process proceeds to step S7.
Return to 5. On the other hand, when it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has ended has been received, the present subroutine ends.

In the case of the above-described configuration, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after the reach is displayed on the display unit 132 displayed on the display device 116 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 as the terminal. Is set in at least two ways, and by the effect image displayed after reaching, so that one arrangement pattern is selected from among a plurality of arrangement patterns, such as an image of a variable symbol that is an identification information image, The server 80 transmits image data serving as a background image, a character image, a control program, and the like to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, and the server 80 controls the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 as a terminal. It is.

With such a configuration, a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching can be set, and the pattern can be changed to the most appropriate position according to the image displayed in the reaching state. Since the arrangement pattern of the symbols is changed, the impression of each effect image can be made different, and the reach effect can be impressed, thereby preventing the effect image from becoming one pattern.

Further, by appropriately arranging the variable symbols, the relationship between the effect image and the variable symbols becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized. , You can enjoy the fun of directing expressions, and you can keep your interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game. And the sense of accomplishment can be enhanced, and the interest can be dramatically improved.

When the image of the variable symbol, the background image, the character image and the display method thereof are updated in the server 80, the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 1 is updated.
40 is always a new image data and control program, etc.
It will be transmitted from the server 80. Therefore, the player can enjoy the latest effect screen on the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140.

Further, only the game program for controlling the pachinko game and the program for executing the variable display game are transmitted from the server, and the data of the image of the variable design, the background image, and the character image are stored in the pachinko game terminal device 100. Or, if the required image data is stored in advance in the ROM 110 of the 140 and the required image data is read from the ROM 110 as appropriate, the pachinko gaming terminal device 100
Or 140 and the subroutine executed in the server 80 are shown in FIGS.

FIG. 18 shows a subroutine executed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 in the above-described configuration. The pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 has been activated in advance, and the above-described subroutine shown in FIG. 15 is read from the ROM 110 at a predetermined timing from the main routine and executed, and the subroutine shown in FIG. It is assumed that the program is read from the ROM 110 and executed in step S36 in FIG. Also, in the subroutine shown in FIG. 18, steps that perform the same processing as the processing of the subroutine shown in FIG. 16 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

First, the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 transmits information indicating that the variable display game has been started to the server 80 (step S61).

Next, a control program such as a game program for controlling a pachinko game or a program for executing a variable display game is received from the server 80, and the received control program is executed (step S81).

Next, an internal lottery process is executed by the CPU 108 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 (step S200). The internal lottery process is a process in which all symbols belonging to a plurality of groups that are variably displayed are stopped and displayed, and a symbol combination when the symbol is determined is determined in advance. As described later, the CPU 108 performs the internal lottery process. The process of changing and displaying the symbols is performed so that the symbols are stopped and displayed on the display unit 132 in the determined combination of symbols.

Next, the control program is executed by the CPU 108, and based on the result, a background image is selected, screen configuration information of the background image is generated (step S201), and a character image is selected. Then, the screen configuration information of the character image is generated (step S202), and the screen configuration information of the variable symbol, which is the identification information, is generated (step S203).

Then, based on the generated screen configuration information, necessary image data is read out of the image data received in S62, and is read out as image data to be displayed on the display unit 132. Is displayed (step S204).

By executing steps S201 to S204 described above, a normal image including a background image and a character image is displayed on display section 132 displayed on display device 116.

Next, it is determined whether it is time to stop and display a symbol belonging to one of the three sets (step S205). If it is determined that it is not time to stop and display, the process returns to step S201. On the other hand, for example, when it is determined that it is the timing to stop and display the left variable symbol, the left variable symbol is stopped and displayed (step S206).

Next, it is determined whether it is time to stop and display a symbol belonging to one of the remaining two sets (step S207). If it is determined that it is not time to perform the stop display, the process proceeds to step S20.
Return to 1. On the other hand, for example, when it is determined that it is the timing to stop and display the right changing symbol, the right changing symbol is stopped and displayed (step S208).

Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the stopped left and right moving symbols are the same (step S210). And when it is determined that the left and right fluctuating symbols are the same,
A subroutine of reach screen display processing shown in FIG. 6 is executed (step S29). Note that the subroutine of the reach screen display processing is substantially the same as the reach screen display processing routine shown in FIG. 6 and has already been described.
The description here is omitted.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S210 that the left and right symbols are not the same, then it is determined whether or not it is time to stop and display the central symbol (step S211). If it is determined that it is not the timing to stop and display the central symbol, the process proceeds to step S20.
Return to 1.

On the other hand, if it is determined that it is time to stop and display the central symbol, the central variable symbol is stopped and displayed (step S212). And step S
If it is determined that the process of step 212 has been executed or that the reach screen display processing routine has been completed, information indicating that the variable display game has ended and result information of the variable display game are transmitted to the server 80 (step S64) ), End this subroutine.

FIG. 19 is a subroutine executed by the server 80 corresponding to the variable display game processing routine executed by the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 shown in FIG. The server 80 has been activated in advance, and the subroutine shown in FIG. 19 is called from a previously executed main routine and executed. Note that, in the subroutine shown in FIG. 19, steps that perform the same processing as the processing of the subroutine shown in FIG. 17 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

First, it is determined whether or not information indicating that the variable display game has been started has been received in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 (step S71).
The processing in step S71 is processing corresponding to step S61 shown in FIG. 18 described above. When it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has started has not been received, this subroutine is immediately ended.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has been started has been received, a control program such as a game program for controlling a pachinko game or a program for executing the variable display game is used for the pachinko game. Transmit to the terminal device 100 or 140 (step S9
1). This step S91 corresponds to the process of step S81 shown in FIG. 18 described above.

Next, it is determined whether or not information indicating that the variable display game has ended has been received (step S75).
The processing in step S75 is processing corresponding to the processing in step S64 in FIG. 18 described above. Step S75
In step S7, if it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has ended has not been received, the process proceeds to step S7.
Return to 5. On the other hand, when it is determined that the information indicating that the variable display game has ended has been received, the present subroutine ends.

[0210] In the case of the above-described configuration, the display section 132 displayed on the display device 116 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, which is a terminal, displays the identification information image area after the reach. At least two types of arrangement patterns are set, and a program for selecting one arrangement pattern from among a plurality of arrangement patterns based on the effect image displayed after reaching is reached.
0 is stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as a hard disk drive 88.

[0211] With this configuration, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after reaching is set in a plurality of ways, and is changed to the most appropriate position according to the image displayed in the reach state. Since the arrangement pattern of the symbols is changed, the impression of each effect image can be made different, and the reach effect can be impressed, thereby preventing the effect image from becoming one pattern.

Further, by appropriately arranging the fluctuation symbols, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuation symbols becomes closer, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized. , You can enjoy the fun of directing expression, and you can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game becomes a big hit, the player's fullness And the sense of accomplishment can be enhanced, and the interest can be dramatically improved.

When the variable display game is started, the control program for executing the variable display game is always downloaded, so that the player can enjoy the latest variable display game, Since it is not necessary to download the data of the background image and the character image, the pachinko gaming terminal device 10 is required.
The effect image can be promptly displayed on the display device 116 of 0 or 140.

Next, the server stores programs such as a program for controlling a pachinko game and a program for executing a variable display game, and stores image data required for the pachinko game and the variable display game for the pachinko game. The case where the data is stored in the ROM 110 of the terminal device 100 or 140 will be described below.

In such a configuration, the pachinko game progress is performed by the server 80, and the pachinko game terminal device 100 or 140 transmits a control signal or a control signal transmitted in accordance with the progress of the pachinko game performed in the server 80. An image is selected according to the control information, and the selected image is displayed on the display device 116.

In such a configuration, subroutines executed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 and the server 80 are shown in FIGS.
2 and FIG.

FIG. 20 shows a pachinko gaming terminal device 100.
Or a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in 140. In the following description, a main routine (not shown) is executed when the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 is activated, and communication with the server 80 is performed in this main routine. It is assumed that this subroutine is called and executed after confirming that the state is possible.

First, the image data transmitted from the server 80 is received (step S101). Note that the image data in this case is image data not only relating to a variable display game to be described later but also relating to pachinko games such as a game board and a game ball. If the image data is stored in the ROM 110 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 in advance, the processing in step S101 may be omitted.

Next, it is determined whether or not the player has operated the input device 102 (step S102). When it is determined that the player has operated the input device 102, operation information corresponding to the operation of the player is transmitted to the server 80 (step S103).

After executing the processing of step S103, or when it is determined that the player has not operated the input device 102, it is determined whether or not command information has been issued from the server 80 (step S104).

When it is determined that the command information is issued from the server 80, the command information is received, and it is determined whether or not the command information is the end command information (step S10).
5).

If it is determined that the command information is not the end command information, an image corresponding to the received command information is selected, and the selected image is displayed on the display device 116 (step S1).
06). After this process, the process returns to step S102 described above. In step S104, the server 8
When it is determined that no command information is issued from 0, the process returns to step S102 described above.

When it is determined in step S105 that the received command information is end command information, the present subroutine is terminated.

The instruction information received in step S104 described above corresponds to steps S122 and S122 in FIG.
124, S126, S128, S130, S132 and S134. The pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 selects desired image data from the ROM 110 according to the information. The display device 1 reads out the read image data and displays the read image data.
The image is displayed on the image 16.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in server 80 in correspondence with the above-described subroutine of FIG. The server 80 has been activated in advance, and the subroutine shown in FIG. 21 is called from a previously executed main routine and executed.

First, image data is transmitted to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, which is a terminal (step S111). This step corresponds to step S10 described above.
As described above, this image data is image data not only relating to the variable display game but also relating to pachinko games such as game boards and game balls.

Next, the operation information issued from the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 is received (step S).
112). This step corresponds to step S103 described above.
This is processing corresponding to.

Pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140
When the operation information issued from is received, it is determined whether or not the received operation information is game ball launch operation information (step S113).

When it is determined that the operation information is game ball launch operation information, a pachinko game process described later is executed (step S114). In step S112 described above, when the operation information issued from the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 is not received, the process of step S114 is immediately executed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S113 that the operation information is not game ball launch operation information, or if the process of step S114 is executed, step S1 is executed.
The command information generated by the pachinko gaming process executed in 14 is transmitted to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 14.
0 (step S115). This step S1
The process of No. 15 is a process corresponding to step S104 described above.

Then, it is determined whether or not the transmitted command information is end command information (step S116). When it is determined that the transmitted instruction information is not the end instruction information,
The process returns to step S112 described above.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the pachinko game process called in step S114 described above.

First, it is determined whether or not the image of the game ball is moved and displayed (step S121). When it is determined that the image of the game ball is moved and displayed, the position of the movement destination of the game ball in the image is calculated to display the image of the game ball so that the game ball can be visually recognized as moving, and the position is calculated. Generated as position information (step S12
2).

Next, it is determined whether or not the ball is in the winning opening, that is, whether or not the position of the game ball image calculated in step S121 is near the position of the image indicating the winning opening (step S121). Step S123). The winning openings are image portions corresponding to the above-described general winning openings 50 and 54a to 54d and the special winning openings 56a to 56d shown in FIG.

When it is determined that the calculated position is near the position of the winning opening, a process of paying out game balls is executed (step S124). In the process of paying out game balls, a predetermined number of game balls are stored in the RAM 86 in accordance with the type of winning opening, and information on the number of game balls indicating the number of game balls is stored in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100. Alternatively, it is a process of generating the information to be transmitted to 140.

Next, whether or not a game ball has entered the starting port,
That is, it is determined whether or not the position of the image of the game ball calculated in step S121 is near the position of the image indicating the starting port (step S125). The starting port is, for example, an image portion corresponding to the starting port 44 shown in FIG. 2 described above.

When it is determined that the calculated position is near the position of the starting port, a process for starting a variable display game described later is executed (step S126). In the process of starting the variable display game, an internal lottery process for determining a combination of identification information to be displayed on the display unit 132 when a symbol as identification information is determined is executed.
The variable display game process shown in FIG.

Next, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the ball passage detector, ie, whether or not the position of the image of the game ball calculated in step S121 is near the position of the image indicating the ball passage detector. (Step S127). The ball passage detector is, for example, an image portion corresponding to the ball passage detectors 55a and 55b shown in FIG.

In this step S127, when it is determined that the game ball has passed in the vicinity of the ball passage detector, the image of the ordinary symbol to be fluctuated and displayed on the display device 152 displayed on the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 is displayed. Then, the selected image information indicating the selected image is generated (step S128).

Next, it is determined whether or not the displayed ordinary symbol has stopped at a predetermined symbol on the display section 152 displayed on the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 (step S129).

When it is determined that the normal symbol has stopped at the predetermined symbol, the image of the movable piece is selected so that the above-described image in which the opening is opened is displayed, and the selected image information indicating the selected image is displayed. Is generated (step S130).
When this selected image information is issued to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, the display device 116 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 displays an image that can be visually recognized as if the movable piece is open. It is done. Note that the movable piece is, for example, as shown in FIG.
Are image portions corresponding to the movable pieces 58a and 58b shown in FIG.

Next, it is determined whether to display the decorative lamp on or off (step S131). If it is determined that the decorative lamp is to be turned on or off, an image corresponding to each state is selected, and selected image information indicating the selected image is generated (step S13).
2). This decorative lamp is, for example, an image portion corresponding to the decorative lamps 36a and 36b shown in FIG. The above-described selected image information is transmitted to the pachinko gaming terminal device 1
00 or 140, the display device 116
In the image portions of the decorative lamps 36a and 36b displayed in the above, an image that can be visually recognized as being turned on or an image that can be visually recognized as being turned off is displayed.

Next, it is determined whether or not the game has been completed (step S133). When it is determined that the game has ended, game end information is generated (step S134), and this subroutine ends. In addition, whether or not the game has ended, or when the player operating the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 has performed an operation to end the game, the number of game balls fired on the game board surface is a predetermined number or more If it becomes
It is determined that the game has ended.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for processing the variable display game called and executed in step S126 described above.

First, a background image to be displayed on the display unit 132 of the display device 116 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, an image of a variable symbol, and a character image are selected (steps S141, S142 and S143). .

Next, it is determined whether or not it is time to stop and display the symbol as one piece of identification information, for example, the symbol on the left (step S144). An image for which symbols are to be stopped and displayed is selected (step S145). next,
Further, it is determined whether or not it is time to stop and display the right symbol (step S146). If it is determined that it is time to stop and display the symbol, an image to stop and display the variable symbol is selected (step S147).

Next, it is determined whether the stopped right and left fluctuating symbols are the same (step S148).
Further, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to stop and display the central symbol (step S150), and if it is the timing to stop and display, the image for stopping and displaying the variable symbol is selected (step S151). On the other hand, if the stopped right and left fluctuating symbols are the same, a reach screen display processing routine substantially similar to that of FIG. 6 is executed (step S149). Note that the reach screen display processing routine has already been described, and a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, steps S141 to S14 described above are performed.
3, the screen configuration information of the image selected in S145, S147, and S150 is generated (step S152). The server 80 transmits the screen configuration information generated in step S152 described above to the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, which is a terminal, as command information in step S115 in FIG. 21 described above.

On the other hand, after receiving the command information transmitted from server 80 in step S104 of FIG. 20 described above, pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 converts the screen configuration information indicated by the received command information into step S106. The image data is stored in the ROM 110 or R
Read from the AM 112 and display unit 13 of the display device 116
2, the read image is displayed.

By doing so, the display unit 13 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, which is a terminal device, is provided.
2, the server 80 sets at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after the reach, and displays one of a plurality of arrangement patterns by the effect image displayed after the reach. The screen can be controlled so that the arrangement pattern is selected.

Next, it is determined whether or not all the symbols have stopped (step S153). When it is determined that all the symbols have stopped, variable display game end information is generated (step S154), and this subroutine ends.

The subroutine shown in FIG. 23 is not only called when the variable display game start process of step S126 shown in FIG. 22 is executed, but also from the start to the end of the variable display game. In between, it is called and executed at a predetermined timing.

In the case of the above configuration, the display section 132 displayed on the display device 116 of the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140, which is a terminal, displays the identification information image area after reaching the reach. The server 80 sets the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 such that at least two arrangement patterns are set and one of the plurality of arrangement patterns is selected by the effect image displayed after reaching. Or 140 is controlled.

With such a configuration, a plurality of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching can be set, and the pattern can be changed to the most appropriate position according to the image displayed in the reaching state. Since the arrangement pattern of the symbols is changed, the impression of each effect image can be made different, and the reach effect can be impressed, thereby preventing the effect image from becoming one pattern.

Further, by appropriately arranging the variable symbols, the relationship between the effect image and the variable symbols becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized, thereby enabling the player to , You can enjoy the fun of directing expressions, and you can keep your interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game. And the sense of accomplishment can be enhanced, and the interest can be dramatically improved.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 to 23 described above, only the display portion 132 displayed on the image of the gaming machine simulating the pachinko gaming device displayed on the display device 116 has the variable symbol. Image and background image,
Although the case where the character image is displayed is shown, the image of the variable design, the background image,
A character image may be displayed.

Whether or not the above-described effect expression method according to the present invention has been provided to a player can be determined by confirming that the entertainment in pachinko games has been enhanced. . For example, economic phenomena such as a store that adopts a pachinko gaming device as described above flourishes, or phenomena in which information permeates through media such as being reputed when published in a magazine or the like It will appear as.

[0258]

According to the present invention, the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after reaching is set in a plurality of ways, and is changed to the most appropriate position according to the image displayed in the reach state. Change the arrangement pattern of
This makes it possible to make the impression of each effect image different, and to impress the reach effect, thereby preventing the effect image from being formed into one pattern.

Further, by appropriately arranging the fluctuation symbols, the relationship between the effect image and the fluctuation symbols becomes more dense, and the entertainment of the effect image is maximized. , You can enjoy the fun of directing expression, and you can maintain the interest in the game without feeling monotonous or tired of the game, and when the game is a big hit, the player's sense of fulfillment And the sense of accomplishment can be enhanced, and the interest can be dramatically improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view schematically showing a pachinko gaming device according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged front view schematically showing a game board surface of the pachinko gaming device according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of processing for detecting a game ball executed in the pachinko gaming device.

5 is a step S1 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 4;
6 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a variable display game process called and executed in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a reach screen display processing routine in a variable display game processing subroutine.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an image of an effect screen according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an image of an effect screen according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing an example of a pachinko game terminal.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing another example of the pachinko gaming terminal.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming terminal device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the server according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in the pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine executed in the server 80 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15: Pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140
5 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in the step S1.

FIG. 16: Pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140
3 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for performing a process of a variable display game executed in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in server 80 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140.
3 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for performing a process of a variable display game executed in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in server 80 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

20. Pachinko gaming terminal device 100 or 140
5 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in the step S1.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed in server 80 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a step S11 in the flowchart of FIG. 20;
It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the pachinko game process called in 4 in FIG.

FIG. 23 is a step S12 in the flowchart of FIG. 21;
It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the pachinko game process called in 6 in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 Pachinko gaming device (gaming machine) 32 Display device (display unit) 60 Control circuit 66 CPU (Control unit) 64 I / O bus 68 ROM 70 RAM 80 Server 100 Pachinko gaming terminal device (terminal device) 132 Display unit 140 Pachinko game Terminal device (terminal device)

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of identification information image areas which are provided on a game board, each of which is variably displayed, and which displays an identification information image composed of a plurality of variable symbols which can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing; A gaming machine having a display unit on which a screen image composed of an effect image area to be displayed is displayed, wherein at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set, and A gaming machine, wherein one arrangement pattern is selected from a plurality of arrangement patterns according to an effect image displayed after the game. 2. A display unit provided on a game board and displaying a screen image composed of a moving image, a still image, or an image combining these, as appropriate, according to a game situation developed on the game board; A control unit for transmitting electronic data to a display unit, and the screen image is displayed in a variable manner, and displays an identification information image including a plurality of variable symbols that can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing. A game machine including a plurality of identification information image areas and an effect image area for displaying an effect image, wherein at least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area after reaching are set, and
A gaming machine, wherein one arrangement pattern is selected from among a plurality of arrangement patterns according to an effect image displayed after reaching the reach. 3. The arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after the reach has been reached, the pattern is horizontally aligned above or below the effected image area, or vertically aligned on the right or left side of the effected image area. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine has a pattern of performing a game. 4. A display unit provided on the game board and displaying a screen image composed of a moving image, a still image, or an image obtained by combining these images as appropriate according to a game situation developed on the game board; It is an effect expression method of a gaming machine having a control unit that transmits electronic data to a display unit, and, on the display unit, each of the display units is variably displayed, from a plurality of variably designed symbols that can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing. A plurality of identification information image areas for displaying the identification information image, and an effect expression method of a gaming machine for displaying an image including an effect image area for displaying an effect image as the screen image, At least two types of arrangement patterns of the identification information image area are set, and one of the plurality of arrangement patterns is provided by the effect image displayed after reaching. The effect expression method of a gaming machine, wherein is selected. 5. A computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for displaying a screen image composed of a moving image, a still image, or an image obtained by combining the moving image, the static image, or an image according to a game situation of a gaming machine, The control program includes a plurality of identification information image regions each displaying an identification information image composed of a plurality of variation symbols that can be variably displayed and stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing, and a rendering image region that displays a rendering image. A program for displaying an image as the screen image, and the arrangement pattern of the identification information image area after reaching is at least 2
Computer-readable storage medium characterized in that one arrangement pattern is selected from among a plurality of arrangement patterns by an effect image that is set as set and displayed after reaching the reach. . 6. A server for displaying a gaming machine image indicating a gaming machine on each terminal, wherein the server displays a moving image, a still image, or an image combining these according to the situation of a game performed in the terminal. Display a screen image, and
Control for displaying an image including an identification information image area displaying a plurality of identification information images each including a plurality of variable symbols, each of which is variably displayed and can be stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing, and an effect image area for displaying an effect image To the terminal, set at least two patterns of arrangement of the identification information image area after reaching, and,
A server for controlling a terminal to select one arrangement pattern from among a plurality of arrangement patterns, based on an effect image displayed after reaching.