JP2004148000A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To notify a player whether a specific game state will be continued or not in a mode advantageous to the player when a game ball enters a specific entrance hole by opening/closing of a blade member based on a start memory. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine comprises a memory means 31h for storing the information on establishment of a starting condition, a suspension display means 29a for notifying the number of start memories stored by the memory means 31h, a determining means 31i for determining whether the random numbers, information stored by the memory means 29a, extracted by a random number extracting means 31a coincide with prescribed determination values or not before controlling a variable winning device to shift the game state from a second state to a first state in a prescribed starting mode based on the establishment of the starting condition, and a display mode control means 80e for changing the display mode of the suspension display means 29a to a special display mode based on the result of determination of the determining means 31i. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine that plays a game by driving a game ball into a game area.
[0002]
[Prior art]
The second-type pachinko gaming machine as a gaming machine enters a starting gaming state when the gaming ball wins in the starting winning opening, and opens and closes the opening / closing piece. At this time, when a game ball wins in the variable winning device and the game ball enters a specific area in the variable winning device, a specific game state is generated. In the specific game state, the opening and closing pieces are continuously opened (hereinafter, also referred to as “round”) several times with an upper limit of a predetermined number of times.
The number of times this continuous release is performed is called the number of rounds. The round is performed a predetermined number of times on condition that game balls enter a specific area in the variable winning device. When a game ball enters a specific area in the variable winning device in the starting game state, the number of rounds that can be continued in the specific game state is determined based on a result of a lottery performed inside the gaming machine. Sometimes.
[0003]
The number of rounds that can be continued in the specific game state is notified to the player by being displayed on the display in the specific game state. In addition, the number of rounds that can be continued in the specific game state is reflected in the degree of the game value (for example, the number of game balls paid out) given to the player, so that the player has great expectation for determining the number of rounds. Embrace.
[0004]
In a round other than the last round, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, a game ball enters a specific area in the variable winning device), the right to continue the round is established and the next round is started. . When the predetermined condition for establishing the continuation right is that a game ball enters a specific area in the variable winning device, the internal structure of the gaming machine is changed to change the internal structure of the gaming machine in order to enhance the interest of the game. There are some which make it difficult for game balls to enter a specific area in the winning device. Changing the internal structure of the gaming machine means, for example, moving a variable member to make it easier for a game ball to enter a specific area in the variable winning device or to make it harder to win.
[0005]
As described above, the player plays the game while enjoying how to generate the specific game state and how to establish the right to continue the round in the specific game state.
[0006]
Here, there are, for example, the following two documents as conventional techniques.
In some conventional gaming machines, when the starting port sensor is turned on, the number of rounds is determined, and the determination result is displayed on a round number display (Patent Document 1).
[0007]
Further, in some conventional gaming machines, a start memory when a game ball enters a start port is notified according to an opening / closing mode of a blade member (Patent Document 2).
[0008]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-10-94643
[Patent Document 2]
JP-A-2002-177515
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the gaming machine according to the conventional technology, for example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1, since the number of rounds is simply displayed at the time of starting prize, the pleasure that can be provided to the player by advance notice is provided. There was room for improvement.
Further, in the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 2, since only the presence or absence of the starting memory and the number of the starting memories are notified to the player, the content of the information that can be notified to the player is scarce. There was no fun or fun that could be provided to the player.
[0010]
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of dramatically increasing the enjoyment and fun that can be given to a player with the occurrence of a specific gaming state.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The gaming machine according to the present invention performs a game by hitting a gaming ball into a gaming area (for example, the gaming area 3), and changes into a first state advantageous to the player and a second state disadvantageous to the player. A variable prize device (for example, a variable prize device 20) is provided, and based on establishment of a starting condition in which a game ball passes through a starting region (for example, a region where starting ball detectors 5a to 5c are provided) provided in a game region. A start game in which the variable winning device is controlled from the second state to the first state in a predetermined start mode (for example, a mode in which the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened once or twice) is performed, and is changed by the start game. The starting mode is determined based on the fact that the game ball that has won the prize device has entered a specific region (for example, a region where the specific ball detector 48 is disposed) among a plurality of regions provided in the variable prize device. Play In addition to generating a specific game state in which the round for controlling the variable prize device to the first state in a specific mode advantageous to a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, 15 times), a game in which the variable prize device wins during the round is generated. When the ball enters a specific area, the game proceeds to the next round, and during a round, the gaming machine that wins the variable prize device does not enter the specific area. Distributing means (for example, the variable members 43a to 43c) for distributing the game balls won to the winning device to a specific area and a normal area different from the specific area, and controlling the state of the distributing means during the specific game state (round game) When the state of the variable member is changed during the round as well as when the state of the In addition, the case where the variable member is not changed in the entire period is included, that is, the changed state of the variable member includes a state in which a game ball is always guided to a specific area and a state in which a game ball does not always enter a specific area. In the case where the state of the variable member is changed during the round game, for example, the game ball is intermittently changed to a specific area by changing the state of the variable member. By doing so, a high-probability round with a high probability of causing the game ball to enter the specific region (a round in which the game ball easily flows into the specific region until the end of the round. , Meaning a round that is easier to continue in the next round.) And a low-probability round (the round is less probable that the game ball will enter a specific area than the high-probability round). A round in which game balls do not easily flow into a specific area until the game ends. That is, it means a round that is difficult to continue in the next round. ) And information used for determining the number of rounds to be controlled by the drive control means to a high-probability round when the starting condition is satisfied. Information extracting means (for example, random number extracting means 31a) and determining means for determining the number of rounds based on information extracted when a starting condition that caused the occurrence of the specific game state when the specific game state occurs is satisfied ( For example, the condition determination unit 31b) and the information extracted when the new start condition is established during the execution of the start game and the execution of the start game based on the establishment of the new start condition and the new start condition are established A storage unit (for example, storage unit 31h) for storing at least until the start game being executed is completed, and a start condition stored by the storage unit. A storage notifying means (for example, a hold display means 29a) for notifying the number of standings, and whether the information stored in the storage means matches a predetermined determination value is determined based on a start condition which caused the information to be extracted. The determination means (for example, the determination means 31i) for determining before the start game based on the establishment is executed, and the notification mode of the storage notification means that the determination that the determination value matches the predetermined determination value is changed to the normal mode. A notification mode control unit (for example, a display mode control unit 80e) for performing notification in a special notification mode different from the notification mode is provided.
[0012]
Further, the gaming machine according to the present invention performs a game by hitting a game ball into a game area (for example, the game area 3), and switches between a first state advantageous to the player and a second state disadvantageous to the player. A variable prize device (for example, variable prize device 20) that changes is provided, and a start condition for a game ball to pass through a start region (for example, a region where starting ball detectors 5a to 5c are arranged) provided in the game region is established. A start game in which the variable winning device is controlled from the second state to the first state in a predetermined start mode (for example, a mode in which the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened once or twice) based on the start game is performed. The game is started based on the fact that a game ball that has won the variable prize device by a game has entered a specific region (for example, a region where the specific ball detector 48 is arranged) among a plurality of regions provided in the variable prize device. Mode In a gaming machine that generates a specific game state in which a round for controlling the variable winning device to the first state in a specific mode advantageous to the player can be executed up to a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 times), the start condition is satisfied. Information extraction means (for example, random number extraction means 31a) for extracting information used for determining a predetermined number of rounds, and when a starting condition that caused the occurrence of the specific game state when the specific game state occurs is satisfied Determining means (for example, condition determining means 31b) for determining the number of rounds based on the information extracted, and executing a start game based on the establishment of a new start condition when a new start condition is established during execution of the start game. Storage means (for example, storage means 31h) for storing information extracted when a new start condition is satisfied at least until the start game being executed is completed. And a storage notifying unit (for example, a hold display unit 29a) for notifying the number of satisfied start conditions stored by the storage unit, and determining whether or not the information stored in the storage unit matches a predetermined determination value. Judging means (eg, judging means 31i) for judging before the start game is executed based on the establishment of the starting condition that caused the extraction of the information, and judging means that the predetermined value is matched by the judging means. And a notification mode control unit (for example, a display mode control unit 80e) for notifying the notification mode of the storage notification unit in a special notification mode different from the normal notification mode.
[0013]
The number of rounds determined by the determining means includes at least a first round number (for example, five times) and a second round number (for example, 15 times) which is more advantageous to the player than the first round number. The determination includes whether the number of rounds is the second round number (eg, steps S123 and S124), and the predetermined determination value includes a determination value for determining that the number of rounds is the second round number. .
[0014]
The notification mode control unit includes a determination unit (for example, the determination unit 80d) that determines whether to perform the notification mode of the storage notification unit in the special display mode (for example, step S663).
[0015]
The notification mode control unit determines whether or not the notification mode of the storage notification unit is set to the special notification mode at a predetermined rate when the determination unit determines that it does not match the predetermined determination value (for example, step S801). ) Is provided (for example, a display mode determining unit 80c).
[0016]
The determination means and the determination means are configured by a common module (for example, a round number determination / determination module).
[0017]
A plurality of starting areas are provided (for example, starting winning openings 4a to 4c), and the plurality of starting areas are different from each other in a manner of controlling the variable winning device from the second state to the first state in the starting manner. Area (for example, the starting winning opening 4a, 4c) and a second starting area (for example, the starting winning opening 4b), and the storage notifying means determines that the starting condition is satisfied by the game ball passing through the first starting area. The determination is made separately from the establishment of the start condition by the game ball passing through the second start area.
[0018]
A variable display unit (for example, a variable display device 29) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information each of which can be identified and derives and displays a specific display mode indicating the number of rounds determined by the determination unit as a display result; Variable display control means for causing the variable display means to start variable display when the game ball passes through the area, and causing the variable display means to derive and display the specific display mode prior to the entry of the game ball into the specific area (for example, production Control means 80B).
[0019]
The game device further includes a notifying unit (for example, a notifying unit 80b) for notifying the player of the number of rounds determined based on the random number extracted by the random number extracting unit, and the notifying unit is based on the random number extracted by the random number extracting unit. A provisional notification means (for example, provisional derivation display means 80g) for notifying the number of rounds different from the determined number of rounds before the specific game state occurs, and a random number extraction means after the provisional notification means notifies the number of rounds different. True notification means (for example, re-display mode determination means 80h) for notifying the number of rounds determined based on the extracted random numbers may be included.
[0020]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming board 1 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the variable winning device 20 shown in FIG. 3 to 6 are perspective views of the variable winning device 20 of FIG. 3 and 4 are explanatory diagrams showing the internal structure of the variable winning device 20 in a high probability state described later, and FIGS. 5 and 6 are explanatory diagrams in a low probability state described later.
[0021]
A game board 1 shown in FIG. 1 is attached to a circular guide rail 2 for guiding a fired game ball, a game area 3 in which a game ball guided by the guide rail 2 proceeds, and a game area 3. Nail and windmills 8a to 8f that determine the course of the game ball, and general prize openings 7a to be a trigger for paying out a predetermined number of game balls by winning a game ball whose course is determined by the nail and windmill 8a to 8f. 7d, starting winning openings (starting regions) 4a to 4c, which are attached substantially at the center of the game area 3 and which trigger opening and closing of opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b to be described later when a game ball is won, and starting winning openings 4a to 4c. Starter ball detectors 5a to 5c provided inside to detect a winning game ball, and side lamps 10a and 10b having built-in side lamps 10a and 10b which are turned on when the game ball wins the start winning opening 4a to 4c. Flop ornament 9a, and includes a 9b, generally winning opening 7a to 7d, and outro 11 for collecting the game balls that did not win the starting winning opening 4a~4c and variable winning device 20.
[0022]
When a game ball is fired by the player, the game ball is guided by the guide rail 2 and proceeds to the game area 3. The course of the game ball that has advanced to the game area 3 is changed by nails and windmills 8a to 8f, and falls downward.
[0023]
When the falling game balls win the general winning openings 7a to 7d, the side lamps 10a and 10b are turned on and a predetermined number of game balls are paid out.
Further, when the falling game balls win the starting winning prize holes 4a to 4c and are detected by the starting ball detectors 5a to 5c, the side lamps 10a and 10b are turned on and a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. At the same time, the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b of the variable winning device 20 open and close once or twice, for example.
[0024]
Specifically, the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened and closed once, for example, when the starting winning opening 4a, 4c is won, and the opening and closing pieces 23a, 23b are opened and closed, for example, twice when winning the starting winning opening 4b.
[0025]
As described above, a mode in which the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b perform the opening / closing operation in response to the detection of the game ball by the starting ball detectors 5a to 5c is referred to as a starting mode. In addition, the fact that the game ball has won the start winning ports 4a to 4c and detected by the start ball detectors 5a to 5c is called establishment of the start condition.
[0026]
In this starting mode, while the open / close pieces 23a and 23b are open, a game ball wins in the variable prize device 20, and when the game ball enters the specific reception port 42 which is a specific area, the variable prize device 20 is activated. Is controlled to a specific mode that is more advantageous to the player than the starting mode.
On the other hand, if any of the general winning openings 7a to 7d, the starting winning openings 4a to 4c, and the variable winning device 20 are not won, they are collected through the outro 11.
[0027]
The state controlled in the specific mode in this manner is referred to as a specific game state.
The “specific game state” means a state that is advantageous to a player who has been given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the “specific game state” is, for example, a state where the state of the variable prize device 20 is more advantageous (meaning that it is more advantageous than the starting mode) for a player who is likely to win a game ball, and for a player. This is a state in which a predetermined game value has been given, such as a state in which the right to a further advantageous state has been generated, or a state in which the conditions for paying out game balls are easily satisfied.
[0028]
In the variable winning device 20 shown in FIGS. 2 to 6, when the mounting substrate 21 for mounting the main body of the variable winning device 20 on the surface of the game board 1 and the open / close pieces 23a and 23b provided on the mounting substrate 21 are opened. And a pair of left and right prize ball detectors 25a and 25b for detecting a game ball having a prize.
[0029]
Further, the variable winning device 20 includes an upper rolling plate 40 located above the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b and changing the course of the game ball, and upper rolling plates on both left and right sides of the upper rolling plate 40. An introduction port 37 is formed into which a game ball whose course has been changed at 40 is introduced.
Further, the variable winning device 20 includes a ball passage 26a, 26b for passing the game ball introduced into the introduction port 37 to the specific reception port 42 side, and a ball discharge port 27a, for discharging the game ball passing through the ball passage 26a, 26b. 27b.
[0030]
A ball receiver (also referred to as a variable member 43a, 43b) for receiving a game ball discharged from the ball discharge ports 27a, 27b is located below the ball discharge ports 27a, 27b. And a lower rolling plate 31 for changing the course of the game ball is located. In addition, a central portion 47 whose side surface is partially covered by the ball receiving portion 28 is located at the central portion of the variable winning device 20 main body.
[0031]
Below the central part 47, a variable member 43c that performs a periodic motion that draws an arc-shaped trajectory having the specific reception port 42 and the opening 32 that is a normal area located around the specific reception port 42; The game ball formed by combining the specific ball detector 48 provided in the inside and detecting the entry of the game ball and the concave portion provided at each end of the variable members 43a and 43b is stored. The storage unit 50 is located.
The variable winning device 20 includes a variable display device 29 described below. The variable display device 29 detects the number of prize balls detected by the prize ball detectors 25a and 25b, or that a specific game state is generated when a game ball enters the specific reception port 42 and is detected by the specific ball detector 48. In addition, the number of rounds in the specific game state, the number of start memories, and the like are displayed each time a game ball passes through the start winning openings 4a to 4c. The details of the round will be described later.
The starting memory is a memory such as information indicating that a game ball has passed any one of the starting winning ports 4a to 4c.
[0032]
Here, in the variable display device 29 shown in FIG. 2 or the like, when the number of storages to be started is “4” (circle “3” and star “1”), “777” (777) ( The symbols with the same left middle and right symbols are also referred to as double eyes.) In other words, the variable display device 29 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information each of which can be identified, and derives a specific display mode indicating the number of rounds that can be continued in the specific game state determined by the determination unit described later as a display result. To display.
Here, the asterisk indicates that the game ball that has won the variable prize device 20 when the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened in the start mode based on the start memory enters the specific reception port 42, and thus the specific game is performed. If a state occurs, the user is notified in advance that the maximum number of rounds in the specific game state is likely to be, for example, 15 (specific round), which is the largest among the settable upper limit times. Things.
[0033]
The display of the number of start memories may not be performed by the variable display device 29 but may be performed by using an LED or the like separately. In this case, the identification display may be realized by changing the emission color of the LED capable of emitting at least two colors, instead of the identification display of the circle and the star.
[0034]
Further, if LEDs capable of emitting three colors of RGB (red, green, blue) are used, for example, the number of rounds is displayed in different colors depending on whether the determination result is one, five, or fifteen. By doing so, it is possible to give a notice.
In addition, since blue and green in the LED are vulnerable to overvoltage, it is preferable to provide a zener diode on the circuit to improve the durability.
[0035]
The starting storage number can be stored in a storage unit described later in a state where it can be identified for each of the start winning ports 4a to 4c. In this case, the number of stored starts can be displayed on the variable display device 29 in a manner that can be identified for each of the start winning ports 4a to 4c.
As an example, the number of times of opening and closing of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b is determined by setting the starting memory number to be “4”, for example, the maximum number of “4” for the starting winning opening 4a and 4c and the maximum “4” for the starting winning opening 4b. Can be displayed in accordance with the condition.
[0036]
As another example, the starting memory number is, for example, a total of "4" for the starting winning opening 4a, a maximum of "4" for the starting winning opening 4c, and a maximum of "4" for the starting winning opening 4b. By doing so, the display corresponding to each of the start winning ports 4a to 4c can be performed.
Further, as another example, the starting memory number is set to the maximum "4" regardless of the starting winning ports 4a to 4c, and the starting memory based on the game ball which has won one of the starting winning ports 4a to 4c by a display mode such as color coding. It is also possible to identify whether there is any.
[0037]
As described above, the opening opening ports 23a and 23b of the starting winning ports 4a to 4c are different from each other. The opening and closing modes are different from each other, for example, when the game balls enter the starting winning openings 4a and 4c, the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened and closed once, and when the game balls enter the starting winning opening 4b and the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened twice. The number of times of opening and closing may be different from each other, such as opening and closing.
Alternatively, the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened for one second when a game ball wins in the starting winning opening 4a and 4c, and the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened for two seconds when a game ball wins in the starting winning opening 4b. The times may be different from each other.
[0038]
In addition to the notification of the start storage number by display, the notification may be performed by a sound output from a speaker or the like.
[0039]
In addition, when the game ball hit into the game area 3 wins any of the starting winning openings 4a to 4c, the variable display device 29 is designed to notify the result of the determination of the number of rounds in the specific game state triggered by the winning. Fluctuate.
[0040]
Next, when the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b open and close once or twice, the game ball wins in the variable winning device 20 and when passing through the ball passages 26a and 26b, the game is detected by the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b. When a ball is detected, this detection triggers, for example, the left and right symbols to stop in the symbol indicating the determination result of the number of rounds, and sets the symbol to the reach state.
[0041]
Note that the reach state refers to displaying a part of the symbol indicating the determination result of the number of rounds on a symbol excluding at least one of the left middle right symbol (left and right symbols excluding the middle symbol in the present embodiment). For example, this means that the right symbol is stopped at “7”, the middle symbol is changed, and the left symbol is stopped at “7”.
[0042]
In addition, the reach symbol means a symbol stopped on the variable display device 29 when it reaches the reach state. As the reach symbol, a symbol different from the symbol indicating the determination result of the number of rounds may be displayed in order to diversify the effect for the player. In this case, for example, during the specific game state (between the first round and the second round, etc.), the variable display is performed again, and the symbol indicating the determination result of the true number of rounds may be stopped.
[0043]
Thereafter, when the game ball that has won the variable winning device 20 enters the specific receiving port 42, the middle symbol is stopped so as to be in a cross before the occurrence of the specific gaming state, and the variable winning device 20 is specified from the starting mode. Control to the mode.
Here, for example, as a result of the determination by the determination means, when the number of rounds is one, “111” is stopped and displayed on the variable display device 29, and when the number of rounds is five, “333” is displayed on the variable display device 29. Is stopped, and when the number of rounds is 15, "777" is stopped and displayed on the variable display device 29.
Therefore, by visually recognizing the variable display device 29, the player can know whether the number of rounds determined by the determination unit is one, five, or fifteen.
[0044]
Further, the variable display device 29 may be configured by various display devices such as an LCD, a dot matrix type display device, or a 7-segment LED, and notifies various information by turning on a lamp or an LED. There may be. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which the determination result of the number of rounds is not notified to the player.
[0045]
The opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b of the variable winning device 20 are connected to solenoids 24a and 24b (FIG. 7) provided on the back of the game board 1 via a link mechanism. A ball passage (not shown) for discharging game balls is provided downstream of the specific ball detector 48 and the opening 32. The space above the upper rolling plate 40 is referred to as an upper winning space 22, and the space below the upper rolling plate 40 is referred to as a lower winning space 30.
[0046]
Here, in the normal state in which the start game state and the specific game state do not occur, the variable members 43a and 43b are closed to each other, and the storage unit 50 is formed. On the other hand, the variable member 43c performs an arc-shaped periodic motion.
[0047]
Next, based on the establishment of the starting condition, the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b are opened, and when a predetermined time has elapsed from the opening, the variable members 43a, 43b are opened mutually, and the formation of the storage section 50 is released. During this time, the variable member 43c is also performing an arc-shaped periodic motion.
When a game ball wins in the variable prize device 20 when the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are open, the course of the game ball is changed by the upper rolling disc 40 and proceeds to the ball passages 26a and 26b through the introduction port 37. Are discharged from the ball discharge ports 27a and 27b.
In this way, the game ball advances from the upper winning space 22 to the lower winning space 30 and is stored in the storage unit 50, the course is changed in the ball receiving unit 28, or the course is changed in the lower rolling plate 31. The flow of entering the specific reception port 42 or the opening 32 through any one of the above modes is formed.
[0048]
In the above-described starting mode, the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are closed after a lapse of a predetermined time from their opening. In addition, when game balls are stored in the storage unit 50, the formation of the storage unit 50 is canceled if the specific reception port 42 provided in the variable member 43c is located directly below the storage unit 50. At times, the game balls that have been stored up to that point often drop directly below and enter the specific reception port 42, so that the specific game state is likely to occur.
On the other hand, when the game ball is not stored in the storage unit 50, if the specific reception port 42 provided in the variable member 43c is located right and left directly below the storage unit 50, the game ball is not stored in the ball reception unit. When the path is changed by 28 or the lower rolling plate 31, the vehicle often enters the specific reception port 42, so that the specific game state is likely to occur.
[0049]
When a specific game state is generated by the game ball that has won the variable prize device 20 entering the specific reception port 42 and detected by the specific ball detector 48, as described below, the open / close piece 23a , 23b open and close continuously. On the other hand, when the specific game state does not occur, it is determined whether or not there is a start memory. As a result of the discrimination, if the start memory is stored, the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened / closed based on the starting memory. If the starting memory is not stored, the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are repeated until the game ball wins the winning opening 4a to 4c again. 23a and 23b remain closed.
[0050]
In the specific game state, the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b repeat opening / closing operations for a predetermined time at most, for example, 18 times (18 opening / closing cycles). If, for example, 10 game balls are detected by the winning ball detectors 25a, 25b before the opening / closing cycle is completed 18 times, the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b ends at that time.
[0051]
Here, in this embodiment, by changing the internal structure of the variable winning device 20 during the specific game state, a state in which the game ball easily wins the specific area as shown in FIGS. A high-probability state with a high probability) and a state where a game ball is unlikely to win in a specific area as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 (a low-probability state with a low probability of continuing a round) are controlled.
[0052]
Note that the internal structure of the variable winning device 20 in the normal state other than the specific game state or the start game state is referred to as a normal internal structure. In addition, a state in which the variable winning device 20 is neither a high probability state nor a low probability state as a normal internal structure is referred to as a normal probability state. In addition, instead of preparing two types of states of the internal structure of the variable winning device 20 such as a high probability state and a low probability state (excluding the normal probability state), three or more types may be prepared.
[0053]
As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in the high probability state in the specific game state, the variable members 43a and 43b are closed to form the storage section 50 during the opening and closing cycle of the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b. The variable member 43c may be movable, or may be stopped in a mode in which the specific receiving port 42 is located immediately below the storage unit 50.
[0054]
Then, at the end of the opening / closing cycle of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b, the variable member 43c is positioned so that the specific reception port 42 is located immediately below the storage section 50, and then the variable members 43a and 43b are opened to the left and right from each other. To release the storage of game balls.
[0055]
In this case, the stored game balls enter the specific reception port 42 and are easily detected by the specific ball detector 48, so that the round can be easily continued.
[0056]
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, in the low probability state during the specific game state, the variable member 43c is moved during the opening / closing cycle of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b and at the end of the opening / closing cycle. In this state, when the storage state of the game balls in the storage unit 50 that has been formed is released by opening the variable members 43a and 43b to each other left and right, the specific reception port 42 is located immediately below the storage unit 50. Both the case where it is located and the case where it is not located can occur.
[0057]
In this case, the case where the stored game ball enters the specific reception port 42 and is detected by the specific ball detector 48, and the case where the stored game ball does not enter the specific reception port 42 and is not detected by the specific ball detector 48. And it is relatively difficult to continue the round compared to the high probability state.
[0058]
5 and 6, the positions of the variable members 43a and 43b are fixed, and the variable member 43c performs an arc-shaped periodic motion. As a result, the variable members 43a and 43b and the variable member 43c Although the mode in which the relative position shift occurs and the game ball hardly flows into the specific ball detector 48 has been described, the mode in which the relative position shift occurs is not limited to this.
That is, the variable member 43c side may be fixed, and instead, the variable member 43a, 43b side may be cyclically moved in an arc shape. Alternatively, both the variable members 43a and 43b and the variable member 43c may be periodically moved asynchronously at different timings.
[0059]
In addition, regardless of whether or not the internal structure allows the game ball to easily enter the specific entrance 42, there is a possibility that the game ball will enter the specific entrance 42. It may enter and be detected by the specific ball detector 48. In this case, the continuation right of the 18 opening / closing cycles (the continuation right of the next round) is established.
When the continuation right is established, the opening / closing cycle of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in the next round is started again after a predetermined interval time has elapsed.
[0060]
The number of times the opening / closing cycle continues (the number of rounds) is allowed, for example, up to 15 times (15 rounds). The opening / closing operation of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in the starting mode is not included in the number of rounds.
[0061]
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic internal configuration of the main board 31, the lamp control board 75, the sound control board 70, the display control board 80, and the like, which will be described below.
[0062]
As shown in FIG. 7, the main board 31 is provided on the back surface of the gaming machine of FIG. 1 and controls the progress of the game, a basic circuit 53, a switch circuit 58, a solenoid circuit 59, a motor circuit 60, An information output circuit 64 is mounted.
[0063]
The basic circuit 53 outputs signals such as commands to the solenoid circuit 59, the motor circuit 60, and the information output circuit 64 in accordance with a signal or a program output from the motor position sensor 45 for detecting the position of the specific reception port 42 and the switch circuit 58. I do. The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54, a RAM 55, a CPU 56, and an I / O port (I / O) 57, which will be described later.
[0064]
The switch circuit 58 outputs detection signals from the specific ball detector 48, the starting ball detectors 5a to 5c, the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b, and the clear switch 921 to the basic circuit 53.
[0065]
The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 24a and 24b for moving the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b and the solenoid 35 for moving the variable members 43a and 43b in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53.
[0066]
The motor circuit 60 drives the motor 38 that moves the variable member 43c according to a command from the basic circuit 53.
[0067]
The information output circuit 64 outputs information indicating the occurrence of a specific game state to an external device (not shown) such as a hall computer in accordance with the data output from the basic circuit 53.
[0068]
Note that the clear switch 921 is used for storing backup data stored in a storage content holding means (for example, a backup RAM capable of holding the content even when the power supply is stopped) included in each board (the main board 31, the payout control board 77, and the like). Is provided on a switch board (not shown) as operation means for clearing the condition.
[0069]
The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means (means for storing variation data) used as a work memory, a CPU 56 and an I / O port for performing control operations according to the program. (I / O) 57.
[0070]
Although separately shown in FIG. 7, the ROM 54, the RAM 55, and the like may be built in the CPU 56. In this case, when a one-chip microcomputer is used as the CPU 56, the RAM 55, the ROM 54, and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally or internally provided in the one-chip microcomputer.
[0071]
Note that, for example, an I / O expander is used as an output port for a test signal included in the I / O port unit 57. In this case, for example, each test signal is output from each output port of the I / O expander to each corresponding pin of a test signal terminal (not shown).
[0072]
The RAM 55 is a backup RAM partially or wholly backed up by a backup power supply created on a power supply board (not shown). That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the content of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period.
[0073]
A game ball launching device that hits and launches game balls is driven by a drive motor 94 controlled by a circuit on a launch control board 91. The driving force of the driving motor 94 is adjusted according to the operation amount of the operation knob 5. That is, the circuit on the launch control board 91 is controlled so that the game ball is launched with an intensity corresponding to the operation amount of the operation knob 5.
[0074]
In this embodiment, the display control means mounted on the display control board 80 outputs a control signal to the variable display device 29 in accordance with a display control command transmitted from the main board 31 to perform display control.
[0075]
The display control unit, based on the command transmitted from the main board 31 instructing the start of the display control for deriving the display result, without receiving the display control command from the main board 31 at least until the timing of the reach state, The display of the variable display device 29 is controlled.
[0076]
The lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 75 sends control signals to various light emitting members such as the side lamps 10a and 10b, the accessory series lamp, and other frame decorative lamps according to the lamp control command transmitted from the main board 31. The output is used to control the operation of various light emitting members in a predetermined manner.
[0077]
The sound control means mounted on the sound control board 70 performs control including presence / absence of sound output from the speaker 27 according to a sound control command output from the main board 31.
[0078]
The payout control means mounted on the payout control board 77 controls the payout of game balls from the ball payout device 97 in accordance with the payout control command output from the main board 31.
Note that a counter for counting game balls may be provided in place of the payout control means. That is, without actually paying out the game balls, the payout may be counted up and the countdown may be made every time the game balls are shot out toward the game area 3 during the game. That is, a so-called enclosed type may be adopted.
[0079]
The lamp control means and the sound control means may be mounted on one board. Further, the display control means, the lamp control means, and the sound control means may be mounted on one board.
[0080]
Further, a part or all of various units controlled by the display control unit, the lamp control unit, and the sound control unit may be configured to be controlled by the main board 31 side. May be connected in a tree-like manner in which the lamp control board 75 and the sound control means 70 are at the lower level.
[0081]
FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining an outline of a circuit configuration in the display control board 80 of FIG. The circuit configuration of the sound control board 70 and the lamp control board 75 in FIG. 7 is the same as the circuit configuration of the display control board 80.
[0082]
FIG. 8 shows a three-terminal capacitor or a ferrite bead for cutting off high-frequency signals of 8-bit display control signals CD0 to CD7, which are display control commands transmitted from the main board 31, and a 1-bit strobe signal (INT signal). A noise filter 107 and an input buffer such as a 74HC540, which is a general-purpose IC that allows the display control signals CD0 to CD7 and the INT signal from which noise has been removed by the noise filter 107 to pass only in the direction from the main board 31 to the display control board 80. A circuit 105A and an input buffer circuit 105B such as 74HC14 which is a general-purpose IC, a display control CPU 101 for performing display control of the variable display device 29 in accordance with display control signals CD0 to CD7 received after receiving an INT signal, and a display control CPU 101. The program to operate is stored Shows a display control board 80 and a control data ROM102 was.
[0083]
It should be noted that the I / O port may be provided externally without being built in the display control CPU 101. Further, even if the noise is superimposed on the display control command when passing through the substrate, the noise filter 107 eliminates the influence.
Further, the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B constitute irreversible information input means together with the input ports, and even if a circuit in the display control board 80 is tampered with, a signal output by the tampering is applied to the main board. The transmission to the 31 side is prevented.
[0084]
FIG. 8 shows, in addition to the display control board 80, a main board 31 that outputs display control signals CD0 to CD7 and an INT signal to the display control board 80, and a variable display device whose display is controlled by the display control board 80. 29.
[0085]
The main board 31 includes an output port 572 (output port 2) for outputting display control signals CD0 to CD7, an output port 570 (output port 0) for outputting an INT signal, and a display control signal CD0 output from the output port 572. A buffer circuit 62A such as 74HC240 and a buffer circuit 620 such as 74HC14, which are general-purpose ICs for passing the INT signal output from the CD7 and the output port 570 only in the direction from the main board 31 to the display control board 80. ing.
[0086]
Incidentally, a noise filter may be provided on the output side of the buffer circuits 620 and 62A of the main board 31.
[0087]
First, when the display control signals CD0 to CD7 are output from the output port 572 of the main board 31 and the INT signal is output from the output port 570, the display control signals CD0 to CD7 and the INT signal are respectively supplied to the buffer circuit 620 and the buffer circuit 62A. Is transmitted to the display control board 80 after the transmission timing is adjusted.
[0088]
The display control signals CD0 to CD7 and the INT signal transmitted from the main board 31 have their noise removed by the noise filter 107 of the display control board 80, and are sent to the input buffer circuits 105A and 105B such as the 74HC14.
[0089]
Then, an INT signal output from the input buffer circuit 105B is input to the display control CPU 101, and thereafter, display control signals CD0 to CD7 output from the input buffer circuit 105A are input to the display control CPU 101 through the I / O port. You.
[0090]
The display control CPU 101 controls the display of the variable display device 29 in accordance with the received display control command, and outputs a test signal indicating the control state to a test signal terminal (not shown).
[0091]
For example, when a display control command specifying that “7” is to be displayed as information for reporting the number of rounds is received, the display control CPU 101 causes the variable display device 29 to display “7”. The display control is executed, and a test signal indicating the executed contents is output.
[0092]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control means (CPU 56) of the main board 31 and peripheral circuits such as the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 shown in FIG.
When the power of the gaming machine is turned on and the input level of the reset terminal becomes a high level, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initialization processing.
[0093]
In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets interrupt prohibition in order to prohibit input of signals and the like to the CPU 56 at the time of initial setting (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to an interrupt mode 2 to be described later (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, initialization of the built-in device register is performed (step S4). After the initialization of the timer / counter circuit (CTC) and the I / O port (parallel input / output port: PIO), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits), is performed, and the RAM is set to be accessible. (Step S6).
[0094]
The CPU 56 used in this embodiment also has a built-in PIO and CTC. The CTC has two external clock / timer trigger inputs CLK / TRG2,3 and two timer outputs ZC / TO0,1.
[0095]
The CPU 56 used in this embodiment has the following three types of maskable interrupt modes. When an interrupt that can be masked occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets an interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter on the stack.
[0096]
Interrupt mode 0: The built-in device that has issued the interrupt request sends an RST command (1 byte) or a CALL command (3 bytes) onto the internal data bus of the CPU 56. Therefore, the CPU 56 executes the instruction at the address corresponding to the RST instruction or the address specified by the CALL instruction. Upon reset, the CPU 56 automatically enters the interrupt mode 0. Therefore, when it is desired to set the mode to the interrupt mode 1 or the interrupt mode 2, it is necessary to perform a process for setting the mode to the interrupt mode 1 or the interrupt mode 2 during the initial setting process.
[0097]
Interrupt mode 1: In this mode, when an interrupt is accepted, the operation always jumps to address 0038 (h).
[0098]
Interrupt mode 2: A mode in which the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device indicates an interrupt address. It is. That is, the interrupt address is an address indicated by 2 bytes in which the upper address is the value of the specific register and the lower address is the interrupt vector. Therefore, an interrupt process can be set at an arbitrary (although discrete) even address. Each built-in device has a function of transmitting an interrupt vector when making an interrupt request.
[0099]
Therefore, when the interrupt mode 2 is set, it is possible to easily process an interrupt request from each built-in device, and to set an interrupt process at an arbitrary position in a program. . Further, unlike the interrupt mode 1, it is easy to prepare an interrupt process for each interrupt occurrence factor. As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 is set to the interrupt mode 2 in step S2 of the initial setting process.
[0100]
Next, the CPU 56 determines only once whether or not the state of the output signal of the clear switch 921 input via the input port is ON (step S7). If it is determined that the state of the output signal of the clear switch 921 is ON in the determination, the process proceeds to step S11.
[0101]
When the clear switch 921 is not turned on, it is determined whether or not the data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, the processing of stopping power supply such as the addition of parity data) has been performed when the power supply to the gaming machine has stopped. It is determined whether backup data exists (step S8). If it is determined that such protection processing has not been performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether or not backup data is present in the backup RAM area is determined, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop processing. In this example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is backup data (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, there is no backup data (OFF state). ).
[0102]
If it is determined that there is backup data, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) of the backup RAM area, and determines whether the check result is normal (step S9).
Specifically, in step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is restored after a power supply interruption such as a power failure occurs, the data in the backup RAM area is preserved, and as a result of the comparison, they match. The fact that they do not match means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state at the time of stopping the power supply, a normal initialization process (executed at the time of turning on the power and not at the time of recovery from the stop of the power supply) is executed.
[0103]
If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoring process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the display control means to the state at the time of stopping the power supply (step S10). ). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the program returns to that address.
[0104]
In this embodiment, whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is stored is determined by using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, one of the backup flag and the check data may be used as a trigger for executing the state restoration process.
[0105]
In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S11). In addition, a work area for setting an initial value in a predetermined work area (for example, a flag for selectively performing processing according to a control state such as a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, and a payout stop flag). A setting process is performed (step S12). Further, a payout possible state designation command indicating whether or not payout of award balls is possible is transmitted to the payout control board 77 (step S13). A process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the display control board 80 and the like to the display control board 80 and the like is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 29 (a command transmitted to the display control board 80) or a command instructing to turn off the side lamps 10a and 10b (a command issued to the lamp control board 75). Command to be transmitted).
[0106]
Then, the register of the CTC provided in the CPU 56 is set so that the timer is interrupted periodically, for example, every 2 mS (step S15). That is, a value corresponding to 2 mS is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.
The details of the operation relating to this step will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0107]
Next, in order to make the random number update process described below necessary, the interrupt disable state is set (step S16), and then the random number update process is performed (step S17). Thereafter, when the execution of the random number updating process is completed, the interrupt is permitted (step S19), and steps S16 to S19 are repeatedly executed.
[0108]
The random number update process is a process of updating the count value of a counter for extracting a random number. The random number may be, for example, a random number for determining the number of rounds in the specific game state, or the internal structure of the variable winning device 20 after the end of the specific game state, whether or not the game ball can easily enter the specific reception port 42. There is a random number for. In addition, those random numbers may be realized by one random number.
[0109]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the 2 mS timer interrupt processing executed by the CPU 56 of FIG.
When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 saves the register (step S20). After that, each processing of steps S21 to S35 is executed. Specifically, first, the CPU 56 inputs detection signals of switches of the specific ball detector 48, the starting ball detectors 5a to 5c, the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b, and the like via the switch circuit 58, and outputs the signals. State determination, that is, switch processing is performed (step S21).
[0110]
Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for extracting each random number is performed (step S22).
Each random number will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0111]
Further, the CPU 56 executes award ball processing for setting the number of award balls based on detection signals from the starting ball detectors 5a to 5c, the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b, and the like (step S23).
[0112]
Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls is sent to the payout control board 77 in response to a winning detection based on turning on of any of the starting ball detectors 5a to 5c, the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b, and the like. Output. The payout control means mounted on the payout control board 77 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.
[0113]
Subsequently, a symbol determination process including a process of displaying the number of rounds of the variable winning device 20 and a process of displaying the number of start storages by the storage unit is performed (step S25).
The details of the operation of this step will be described with reference to FIG.
[0114]
After that, an accessory processing process including an opening / closing process of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b and a command setting process for driving the variable members 43a to 43c is performed (step S26).
The details of the operation in this step will be described with reference to FIG.
[0115]
Further, the CPU 56 performs an information output process of outputting data such as information relating to a specific game state and information relating to a start game, which are supplied to the hall management computer (step S29).
[0116]
Then, the CPU 56 executes a storage process for checking an increase or decrease in the number of startup storages stored in the storage unit (step S30).
Details of the operation of this step will be described with reference to FIG.
[0117]
Further, various commands are transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control means 80 and the like (step S31). A test terminal process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be referred to outside the gaming machine is executed (step S32). Further, the solenoid circuit 59 is driven when a predetermined condition is established, as described later, in order to set the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b to an open state or a closed state, and to switch a game ball path in the variable winning device 20. Then, a drive command based on a drive flag to be described later is output (step S33). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 24a, 24b, 35 according to the drive command. Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S34), and the interrupt is permitted (step S35).
[0118]
With the above control, in this embodiment, the processing from step S21 to step S33 is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, some of the processes executed in the timer interrupt process may be executed in the main process.
[0119]
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the probability state table provided in the random number extracting means of the CPU 56 of FIG. Note that "low" means a low probability round, and "high" means a high probability round.
[0120]
The high-probability round is a round in which a game ball easily enters the specific reception port 42. Specifically, during the round (until the round ends), the specific ball detector 48 Since the probability that the ball is detected is high (for example, a probability that is not 100% but considerably high), it means a round in which it is easy to continue the round.
[0121]
The low-probability round is a round in which a game ball is difficult to enter the specific reception port 42. Specifically, the specific ball detector 48 plays a game during the round (until the round ends). Since the probability that a sphere is detected is low (for example, the probability is not 0% but very low), it means a round in which it is difficult to continue the round.
[0122]
As shown in FIG. 11, in the present embodiment, the probability state table 1 in which the number of determined rounds is one, the probability state table 2 in which the number of determined rounds is five, and the number of determined rounds A probability state table 3 for 15 times is prepared.
For example, “0 to 5” is assigned to the probability state table 1 as a determination value to be compared with random 1 (a random number for determining the number of rounds) shown in FIG. For example, “6 to 8” is assigned to the probability state table 2 as a determination value (second determination value) to be compared with random 1. Further, for example, “9, 10” is assigned to the probability state table 3 as a judgment value (first judgment value) to be compared with random 1.
[0123]
When the random 1 is any one of “0 to 5”, the probability state table 1 is selected, and all of the 1 to 15 rounds in the specific game state are controlled to the low probability round.
If the random 1 is any one of “6 to 8”, the probability state table 2 is selected, and 1 to 4 of the number of rounds in the specific game state are controlled to the high probability round, and the number of rounds in the specific game state Are controlled to the low probability round.
When the random 1 is any one of "9, 10", the probability state table 3 is selected, and 1 to 14 rounds in the specific game state are controlled to the high probability round, and the number of rounds in the specific game state is set. Are controlled in the low probability round. Note that the fifteenth round is the final round, and there is no transition to the next round.
[0124]
Here, regardless of the high probability state or the low probability state, for example, a game ball wins in the specific reception port 42 during the specific area valid period in which the detection of the game ball by the specific ball detector 48 is valid. In this case, the continuation right is generated even in the low probability state, and the continuation right is not generated even in the high probability state unless the gaming ball wins in the specific reception port 42 during the specific area valid period.
For this reason, the actual number of rounds at the end of the specific gaming state may be different from the determined number of rounds. That is, the number of rounds at the end of the actual specific gaming state may be larger or smaller than the determined round number.
In the specific area valid period, on / off switching control is performed each time the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened / closed.
[0125]
Here, instead of the mode of the specific game state in which the transition to the next round is controlled by the control for changing between the high probability state and the low probability state, the final round is, for example, the first round, the fifth round, and the fifteenth round. It is also possible to adopt a mode of a specific game state in which control is performed so as not to shift to the next round even if a game ball enters the specific reception port 42 in those final rounds.
Specifically, in the probability state table 1 shown in FIG. 11, only the first round is set to “high” and the second and subsequent rounds are not provided.
In the probability state table 2, the first to fifth rounds are set to “high”, and the sixth and subsequent rounds are changed so as not to be provided.
Further, in the probability state table 3, the first to fifteenth rounds are changed to “high”.
[0126]
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number touched in step S22 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: A random number for determining the number of rounds in the specific gaming state (for determining the number of rounds), for example, “0 to 10” is assigned. For example, the value is updated by adding “1” to the value of the random number counter every 2 mS.
(2) Random 2-1 to 2-3 (random 2): random numbers for determining a left-center / right-side lost symbol (for determining a lost symbol) of the variable winning device 20, for example, each of which is assigned “0 to 2”. . The random 2-1 is updated by adding “1” to the value of the random number counter every 2 ms and for the remaining interrupt processing time, for example. The random 2-1 is updated by adding “1” to the value of the random number counter every 2 ms and for the remaining interrupt processing time, for example. The random 2-2 is updated by adding “1” to the value of the random number counter every time the digit of the added random 2-1 changes. The random 2-3 is updated by adding “1” to the value of the random number counter every time the digit of the added random 2-2 changes.
[0127]
In step S22 in FIG. 10, the CPU 56 counts up (adds 1) a counter for generating the round number determination random number of (1). That is, it is the judgment random number, and the other random numbers are the display random numbers. In addition, in order to enhance the game effect, in addition to the random numbers in (1) and (2), a determination is made as to whether or not to notify the number of rounds different from the true number of rounds before the occurrence of the specific game state. Random numbers are also used.
[0128]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of the symbol determination process in step S25 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG.
[0129]
In the symbol determination process, first, if a detection signal has been output from any of the start-up opening detectors 5a to 5c, that is, if a start-up win has occurred in the start-up winning openings 4a to 4c by a game ball ( Step S311) After performing a start-up opening switch passing process (step S312) described later with reference to FIG. 14, steps S300 to S300 are performed according to the internal state (symbol determination process flag) indicating the destination step in the symbol determination process. One of the processes in S303 is performed. On the other hand, if the start winning prize in the starting winning prize openings 4a to 4c by the game ball has not occurred, any one of the steps S300 to S303 is performed without passing through the step S312.
[0130]
Symbol normal processing (step S300): Waits for a state where variable display of symbols can be started. When the state in which the variable display of symbols can be started is reached, the internal state (symbol determination process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S301. The details of the operation in step S300 will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0131]
Variable display processing (step S301): When the game ball has won one of the starting winning openings 4a to 4c, a symbol for displaying the number of rounds, a reach symbol, and a missing symbol are determined based on random 1 and 2. . After that, a command of an instruction to actually start changing the symbol is transmitted to the display control board 80. Thereafter, the internal state (symbol determination process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S302.
[0132]
Reach variable display processing (step S302): When a game ball is detected by the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b before a predetermined period elapses after the command is transmitted to the display control board 80 in step S301, the step is performed. A command for instructing a reach state with the reach symbol determined in the processing of S301 is transmitted to the display control board 80. Thereafter, the internal state (symbol determination process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S303.
[0133]
On the other hand, if a predetermined period elapses after a command is transmitted to the display control board 80 in step S301 without detecting a game ball by the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b, first, in order to stop at a lost symbol, A command for instructing to stop only the left and right symbols is transmitted to the display control board 80. Thereafter, the internal state (symbol determination process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S303. The details of the operation in step S302 will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0134]
Symbol stop processing (step S303): When a game ball that has won the variable prize device 20 enters the specific reception port 42, a command for instructing to stop the middle symbol with the same symbol as the left and right symbols is displayed and controlled to make it a double cross. It is transmitted to the substrate 80. On the other hand, if the game ball that has won the variable prize device 20 does not enter the specific entrance 42, a command for instructing the middle symbol to stop at the symbol determined in step S301 in order to make it a lost symbol is sent to the display control board 80. Send.
[0135]
FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the operation of the starting opening switch passing process shown in step S312 of the symbol determination process process shown in FIG.
In the starting port switch passage processing, first, the CPU 56 performs processing corresponding to the starting winning ports 4a to 4c (for example, control processing of the number of opening and closing of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b, a sound output from a speaker at that time). In order to perform the control processing of FIG. 22, data corresponding to the winning destination of the game ball set in the processing described later with reference to FIG. 22 is set (step S110).
[0136]
Subsequently, information relating to establishment of a starting condition based on winning of any one of the starting winning ports 4a to 4c of the game balls is stored in the storage means in order to determine whether or not it can be newly stored in the storage means. It is determined whether or not the number of stored startups has reached the maximum (here, “4”) (step S111).
[0137]
If the starting storage number stored in the storage means has not reached "4", the starting storage number is increased by 1 (step S112), and each random number such as a round number determination random number is extracted by the random number extraction means of the CPU 56. Then, these are stored in a storage area corresponding to the value of the number of start storages in such a manner that the number of opening / closing of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in the starting game can be specified (step S113).
[0138]
Extracting a random number means reading a count value from a random number counter and using the read count value as a random number value.
[0139]
Thereafter, a prize-winning effect setting process including a determination as to whether or not the random number extracted by the random number extracting means 31a matches a predetermined determination value is executed (step S115).
The operation of this step will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
[0140]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the winning effect setting process shown in step S115 of the starting port switch passing process shown in FIG.
In the prize-winning effect setting process, first, the CPU 56 sets a start prize presence flag indicating that there is a start prize to be referenced in the storage process (step S30) executed after the symbol determination process process ends (step S30). Step S121).
[0141]
Next, the CPU 56 reads a random number 1 (random number for round number determination) from the storage area (step S122), and executes a round number determination / determination module as described later with reference to FIG. That is, a round number determination / determination subroutine is called (step S123).
[0142]
If the determination unit of the CPU 56 determines that the number of rounds is a specific round such as 15 based on the value of random 1 in the round number determination / determination module (step S124), the data indicating the specific round designation command Is set in the RAM 55 as a winning command (step S126).
[0143]
On the other hand, when the round number determination module determines that the number of rounds is not a specific round based on the value of random 1 (step S124), data indicating a non-specific round designation command is set in the RAM 55 as a winning command (step S124). Step S135).
[0144]
In this embodiment, the left, middle, and right symbols are three types of “1”, “3”, and “7”, respectively, and the display of the symbols is sequentially changed on the variable display device 29 from “1”. The fluctuation of the symbol is realized. The display of the display symbol may change discontinuously. In addition, when the left and right are aligned, the game reaches the reach, and when the left middle right is aligned in the final stop symbol (fixed symbol) of the symbol, the number of rounds in the specific game state is displayed.
[0145]
Then, the data set as the winning command in the RAM 55 is stored in an area of the RAM 55 defined as a winning effect buffer so that it can be referred to in the storage processing shown in step S30 in FIG. 10 (step S136). . The command stored in the winning effect buffer is transmitted to the display control board 80 in the command transmission process shown in step S31 of FIG.
[0146]
FIG. 16 shows the number-of-rounds determination process by the determination means shown in step S123 of the winning-effect effect setting process shown in FIG. 15, and the number-of-rounds determination process by the condition determination means of the CPU 56 shown in step S56 of the symbol normal process shown in FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the embodiment.
In the round number determination / determination process, the CPU 56 first compares the extracted random 1 value with the first determination value (step S144), and as a result of the comparison, compares the extracted random 1 value with the first random value. It is determined whether or not the determination value is equal to 1 (step S145).
As a result of the determination in step S145, if the extracted random 1 value matches the first determination value, the number of rounds in the specific game state is set to 15 (step S146). On the other hand, when the extracted random 1 value does not match the first determination value, the extracted random 1 value is compared with the second determination value (step S147), and the comparison result is obtained. Then, it is determined whether or not the extracted value of random 1 matches the second determination value (step S148).
As a result of the determination in step S148, if the extracted value of random 1 matches the second determination value, the number of rounds in the specific game state is set to 5 (step S149). On the other hand, when the value of the extracted random 1 does not match the second determination value, the number of rounds in the specific game state is set to one (step S150).
Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124 in FIG. 15 or step S57 in FIG.
[0147]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of the symbol normal process shown in step S300 of the symbol determination process shown in FIG.
In the symbol normal processing, first, when the CPU 56 is in a state where the symbol can be changed (for example, the value of the symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300) (step S51), the CPU 56 stores the symbol in the storage unit. It is determined whether or not the value of the stored start storage number is 0 by referring to the count value of the start winning counter (step S52).
[0148]
Note that the case where the value of the symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the symbol is not changed on the variable display device 29 and the specific game state is not present.
[0149]
If the starting storage number stored in the storage means is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting storage number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S53). Then, the value of the starting storage number stored in the storage means is reduced by one, and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54).
[0150]
That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start storage number = n (here, n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the start storage number = n-1.
[0151]
Next, the CPU 56 reads the random number for round number determination from the storage area (step S55), and executes the round number determination / determination module described with reference to FIG. 16 (step S56).
[0152]
If the condition determination means determines that the number of rounds is set to, for example, 15 (step S57), the CPU 56 sets a specific round flag used to ensure that the number of rounds can be derived and displayed, for example, 15 times. (Step S58). Note that the contents of the specific round flag are added to the display control command, and are transmitted to the display control means in the command transmission processing of step S31 of the timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. Then, the value of the symbol determination process flag is updated so that the process can shift to the variable display process (step S59). Thereafter, the process proceeds from the symbol determination process of FIG. 13 to the accessory process of step S26 of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG.
[0153]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the reach variable display process shown in step S302 of the symbol determination process shown in FIG.
In the variable reach display process, first, the CPU 56 determines whether or not a game ball has been detected by the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b (step S61).
[0154]
Subsequently, regardless of the result of the determination in step S61, it is determined whether or not the specific area is valid (steps S62 and S66).
[0155]
If the result of determination in step S62 is that the specific area is valid, the process moves from the symbol determination process of FIG. 13 to the accessory process of step S26 of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. On the other hand, if it is not during the specific area validity period, it is determined that the vehicle stops at a lost symbol (step S68).
Specifically, the left symbol is determined according to the value of the random 2-1 read in step S53, the middle symbol is determined according to the value of the random 2-2, and the right symbol is determined according to the value of the random 2-3. In addition, here, when all the random 2-1 to 2-3 become the same value by accident, the right symbol is shifted by one symbol so that the left and right symbols do not match, and the shifted symbol is shifted without reaching. To be displayed. Then, the process proceeds to step S63 for performing a process of updating the value of the symbol determination process flag so that the process can shift to the symbol stop process.
[0156]
Further, as a result of the determination as to whether or not the specific area is in the valid period in step S66, if the specific area is not in the valid period, the process proceeds from step S26 of the timer interrupting process shown in FIG. Move to the role processing process. On the other hand, when the specific area is in the valid period, it is determined to reach (step S67). Specifically, the left and right symbols are determined based on the value of the random number for randomizing the number of rounds (random 1) (random 1 read in step S53 of the symbol normal process shown in FIG. 17). Further, based on the value of the random number for random determination of the number of rounds (random 1) (random 1 read out in step S53 of the symbol normal process shown in FIG. 17), the middle symbol when the game ball enters the specific entrance 42 is also determined. I do.
[0157]
Next, the value of the symbol determination process flag is updated so that the process can shift to the symbol stop processing (step S63).
[0158]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the storage process shown in step 30 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG.
In the storage process, first, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the count value of the start storage counter is the same as the count value of the previous start storage counter (step S161).
[0159]
If the count value of the start storage counter and the count value of the previous start storage counter are not the same, that is, if a change has occurred in the start storage number stored in the storage means, the start storage designation according to the start storage number The address of the command transmission table is set in the pointer so that the address can be referred to immediately (step S162), and the command setting process is executed (step S163).
[0160]
Then, the count value of the start storage counter is set to the previous start storage counter (step S164).
[0161]
The display control command is transmitted to the display control board 80 by executing the command set processing. In this embodiment, each display control command transmitted to the display control means is stored in the command transmission table of the ROM 54 (FIG. 7).
[0162]
In the command set process, the CPU 56 sets the display control command data stored at the address of the ROM 54 indicated by the pointer to an output port for outputting the display control command data, and indicates that the command is to be transmitted. It outputs a display control INT signal.
[0163]
When the start winning flag is set in step S121 of the winning effect setting process shown in FIG. 15 (step S165), it corresponds to the data corresponding to the winning command stored in the winning effect buffer. The address of the winning command transmission table thus set is set in the pointer (step S166), and the command setting process is executed (step S167).
[0164]
By the above processing, when the number of start storages stored in the storage means increases or decreases, a display control command for designating the number of start storages can be transmitted to the display control means mounted on the display control board 80. become.
When the start storage number stored in the storage unit increases, the display control command of the specific round designation command or the non-specific round designation command is changed by executing the command transmission process shown in step S31 of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. Sent.
[0165]
Note that the number of rounds determined at the time of occurrence of the start winning (the number of rounds determined in step S123 of the winning effect setting process shown in FIG. 15) is a condition for starting the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b. Is determined by the determination means in order to give a preliminary notice of the number of rounds in the specific game state through displaying a “star” on the hold display means based on the establishment of When the game ball that has won the variable prize device 20 by actually opening and closing the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b enters the specific reception port 42, for example, the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are set in order to notify the number of rounds in the specific game state. Prior to release, the number of rounds is determined by the condition determining means (round number determination processing in step S56 of the symbol normal processing shown in FIG. 17).
[0166]
Then, the display result of the actual variable display is derived based on the determination result of the condition determining means (each determination result in steps S67 and S68 of the reach variable display process shown in FIG. 18).
[0167]
However, the random number value used when the number of rounds is determined by the condition determining means is the same as the random number value used when the number of rounds is determined by the determining means.
Therefore, the result of determining the number of rounds is the same as the result of determining the number of rounds.
[0168]
This is because the processing of step S113 in FIG. 14, which is processing for extracting a random number used for determination by the determination means, and the symbol normal processing shown in FIG. 17 are completed within one timer interrupt processing. Is not changed.
The reason for performing such processing is that once extracted random numbers are stored in the storage area, and even if the random numbers are obtained by reading out the random numbers stored in the storage area again, each random number is This is because even if they are extracted, they have the same random value.
[0169]
In addition, the command transmission unit of the game control unit 31 transmits a start storage number designation command as a start storage number command prior to transmission of a determination result command including information on a specific round flag which is a determination result of the number of rounds. (The processing of steps S162 and S163 of the storage processing shown in FIG. 19 is executed before the processing of steps S166 and S167).
Therefore, the display control unit can determine whether to change the display mode of the hold display unit to the special display mode described later based on the number of rounds determined by the determination unit.
[0170]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the accessory process in step S26 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG.
In the accessory process process, first, the CPU 56 performs a specific area passage process that is a process of determining whether or not a game ball has passed the specific reception port 42 (step S320). In the specific area passing process, a process of generating a specific game state when it is determined that a game ball has passed through the specific reception port 42 during the normal state, and that a game ball has passed through the specific reception port 42 during the specific game state. The processing includes a transition to the next round when the determination is made.
The operation of this step will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
[0171]
Next, a starting port winning process including a process of determining whether or not the game ball has passed any of the starting winning ports 4a to 4c is performed (step S340).
The operation of this step will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
[0172]
Then, any one of steps 306 to S310 and S319 is performed in accordance with the internal state (government process flag) indicating the transfer destination step in the bonus process.
[0173]
Big winning opening pre-opening process (step S306): As described below, this process is a process performed before opening the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in the starting mode.
If the setting process (step S333 of the starting-port winning process shown in FIG. 22) has not been performed in the starting-port winning process, the process proceeds to the information output process of step S29 of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG.
On the other hand, in the case where the setting process (step S333 of the starting-port winning process shown in FIG. 22) is performed in the starting-port winning process, prior to opening the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b as a starting mode, it will be described later. In accordance with the result set in step S333 of the start-up winning process shown in FIG. 22, a flag capable of specifying the number of times the solenoids 24a and 24b are driven and a flag capable of specifying the drive timing of the solenoid 35 are generated. .
[0174]
Further, the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b are turned on so that the game balls can be detected by the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b (specifically, the game control means detects the output of the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b). Will be enabled.) After that, the internal state (accessory process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S307.
[0175]
The winning ball detectors 25a and 25b may be always on regardless of whether they are in the normal state, in the starting game state, or in the specific game state.
[0176]
Big winning opening opening process (step S307): This process is performed when opening the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in a start mode, and drives the solenoids 24a and 24b in accordance with the flag generated in step S306. Reset the flag. After that, the internal state (the accessory process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S308.
[0177]
Processing after opening the special winning opening (step S308): This processing is performed after opening the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in a start mode. The solenoid 35 is driven according to the flag generated in step S306, and the flag is reset. I do. Next, the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b are turned off. Thereafter, when it is determined in step S320 that the game ball has passed through the specific reception port 42, the internal state (the accessory process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S309. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S320 that the game ball has not passed through the specific reception port 42, the internal state (the accessory process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S306.
[0178]
Big hit jackpot opening processing (step S309): This processing is performed before the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened in a specific mode. In order to change between the high probability state and the low probability state, the number of rounds is reduced. The drive timing of the solenoid 35 is set according to the determination result. Next, the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b are turned on so that the gaming balls can be detected by the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b. Thereafter, the internal state (the accessory process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S310.
[0179]
Big hit big winning opening opening process (step S310): This process is a process performed when opening the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in a specific manner as described below.
In the jackpot big winning opening opening process, first, it is determined whether or not the specific area is valid. When the process first shifts to this step in the round, it is determined that the specific area valid period is not in progress because the specific area valid period has not yet been started. Therefore, the specific area valid period is started.
[0180]
On the other hand, if it is not the first time to shift to this step in the round, the following determination processing is performed without performing the processing for starting the specific area effective period.
Subsequently, it is determined whether the specific area validity period has ended. If the result of the determination is that the specific area validity period has expired, the right to continue the round is not generated, and therefore, the internal state (principal process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S319.
[0181]
On the other hand, if the specific area validity period has not expired, it is determined whether or not ten game balls have been detected by the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b. When it is determined that 10 balls have not been detected, it is determined whether or not the time for opening and closing the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b, for example, 18 times has ended.
As a result of the determination, when the time for opening and closing the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b, for example, 18 times has not ended, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered the specific reception port 42, and the game ball has entered the specific reception port 42. If it is determined that the process has not been performed, the process proceeds to the information output process of step S29 of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 10 without changing the internal state (the accessory process flag). When it is determined that the game ball has entered the specific reception port 42, the storage state of the storage unit 50 is released, and then the setting processing is performed in the specific area passing processing (step S325 of the specific area passing processing shown in FIG. 21). Under the condition that S326) is performed, the internal state (the accessory process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S309, and the process proceeds to the information output process of step S29 of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG.
On the other hand, when the setting process (steps S325 and S326 of the specific region passing process shown in FIG. 21) is not performed in the specific region passing process, or because the game ball has not entered the specific reception port 42, the specific ball detector 48 If no game ball has been detected, the internal state (principal process flag) is updated so that the process can proceed to step S319, and the process proceeds to the information output process in step S29 of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG.
On the other hand, as a result of the discrimination, when 10 balls are detected, or when the time for opening and closing the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b for example 18 times ends, the variable members 43a and 43b are opened mutually to release the storage state of the storage unit 50.
Thereafter, the processing according to whether or not the game ball enters the specific reception port 42 is the same as described above.
[0182]
Processing after opening the jackpot big winning opening (step S319): This processing is performed after the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b are opened in a specific mode in the final round, and a display notifying the player that the specific game state has ended. The control for causing the display control means to perform the control is performed. Then, the internal state (principal process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306.
[0183]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the operation of the specific area passage processing shown in step S320 of the accessory processing shown in FIG.
In the specific area passage process, first, it is determined whether or not the specific area is in the validity period so that it is unnecessary to perform the process of determining whether or not the game ball has entered the specific reception port 42 shown in step S322. Is determined (step S321).
[0184]
If the result of determination in step S321 is that it is not during the specific area validity period, this processing ends, and the flow moves to step S340 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is during the specific area validity period, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered the specific reception port 42 (step S322).
[0185]
If the result of determination in step S322 is that the gaming ball has not entered the specific reception port 42, this processing ends, and the flow moves to step S340 in FIG. On the other hand, when the game ball has entered the specific reception port 42, it is determined whether or not the determined final round is being performed (step S323).
[0186]
If the result of determination in step S323 is that the game is in the final round, the processing shown in FIG. 21 ends, and the flow moves to step S340 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is not during the last round, it is determined whether or not the specific game state has occurred in order to determine whether the game state is the start game state or the specific game state (step S324).
[0187]
If the result of determination in step S324 is that the game is in the specific game state, for example, if the number of rounds is determined to be 15, the game is in the middle of any of rounds 1 to 14, so before the opening of the next round After the command is set, this processing ends, and the routine goes to step S340 in FIG. 20 (step S325).
[0188]
On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S324 is that the game is not in the specific game state, various settings such as an image pattern for a specific game state and a ramp command used in step S306 in FIG. The process proceeds to S340 (step S326).
[0189]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the operation of the starting opening winning process shown in step S340 of the accessory process shown in FIG.
In the starting opening winning process, first, it is determined whether or not the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b can be opened and closed in the starting mode (step S334).
For example, during a start game or during a specific game state, it is determined that the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b cannot be opened and closed in the start mode.
As a result of the determination in step S334, if the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b cannot be opened / closed in the start mode, the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b are not opened / closed. The process proceeds to the information output process in step S29 of the timer interrupt process. On the other hand, if the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b can be opened and closed in the start mode, it is determined whether various random numbers are stored in the storage area (step S335).
If various random numbers are not stored in the storage area as a result of the determination in step S335, the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are not opened / closed. The process moves to the information output process of step S29. On the other hand, when various random numbers are stored in the storage area, various random numbers stored from the earliest in the storage area are read out, and it is determined whether or not the various random numbers have won the game ball in the starting winning opening 4b. Is performed (step S331).
[0190]
If the result of the determination in step S331 is that no gaming ball has been won in the starting winning opening 4b, various random numbers stored from the earliest in the storage area are read out, and the various random numbers are stored in the starting winning opening 4a or 4c. It is determined whether or not the ball has won (step S332).
[0191]
If the result of determination in step S332 is that no gaming ball has won the starting winning opening 4a or 4c, the starting opening winning process ends.
[0192]
On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S331 is that a game ball has won the starting winning opening 4b, or if the result of the determination in step S332 is that a game ball has won the starting winning opening 4a or 4c, Before-opening data is set according to the winning place of the ball, and new data next to the determination target can be referred to, and then the starting-port winning process ends (step S333).
[0193]
FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of a display control command (display control signal) transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control board 80. As shown in FIG. 23, in this embodiment, the display control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 through eight signal lines for transmitting the display control signals D0 to D7. A signal line for a display control INT signal for transmitting a strobe signal (display control INT signal) is also provided between the main board 31 and the display control board 80.
[0194]
Although an example of the display control command is shown in FIG. 23, a control command to another electrical component control board is also transmitted by eight signal lines and one INT signal signal line.
[0195]
FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram of the output timing of the display control command and the display control INT signal to the signal line shown in FIG.
In this embodiment, the display control command has a 2-byte configuration, and MODE data indicating the classification of the command is assigned to the first byte, and EXT data indicating the type of the command is assigned to the second byte.
[0196]
The first bit (bit 7) of MODE data is always "1", and the first bit (bit 7) of EXT data is always "0". Such a command form is an example, and another command form may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.
[0197]
The 8-bit display control command data of the display control command is output in synchronization with the display control INT signal. The display control means mounted on the display control board 80 detects that the display control INT signal has risen, and starts a process of taking in 1-byte data by an interrupt process. Therefore, from the point of view of the display control means, the display control INT signal corresponds to a capture signal that triggers the capture of the display control command data.
[0198]
The display control command is sent only once so that it can be recognized by the display control means. Recognizable means in this example that the level of the display control INT signal changes, and sent only once so that it can be recognized means, for example, that each of the first and second bytes of the display control command data Accordingly, the display control INT signal is output only once in a pulse form (rectangular wave form). Note that the display control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to the polarity shown in FIG.
[0199]
The game control means 31 and the display control board 80 store the correspondence between MODE data and EXT data and the contents of display control commands.
[0200]
The game control means 31 transmits MODE data and EXT data corresponding to the command to be transmitted to the display control board 80. When the display control means of the display control board 80 receives the display control command from the game control means, it changes the display state of the variable display device 29 according to the contents corresponding to the MODE data and the EXT data of the display control command.
[0201]
Note that control commands other than the display control command are also transmitted from the game control means to the display control means. For example, a control command or the like indicating the number of start storages to be displayed on the hold display unit 29a and a more detailed display control command in the specific game state are also transmitted from the game control unit 31 to the display control unit.
[0202]
Also, a lamp control command and a sound control command in the same form as the display control command are transmitted to the lamp control means and the sound control means. The lamp control means changes the display state of the lamp / LED when receiving the lamp control command, and the sound control means performs control to change the sound output mode from the speaker 27 when receiving the sound control command.
[0203]
The identification information designation command that can specify the display result of the identification information is realized by a left symbol designation, middle symbol designation, right symbol designation display control command, and the variable display end designation command indicating the end of the variable display is a symbol. This is realized by a stop display control command.
[0204]
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a main process (display control main) executed by the display control CPU 101 shown in FIG.
[0205]
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the operation of the timer interrupt process according to step S702 of the main process shown in FIG.
In the main process, first, the display control CPU 101 executes an initialization process for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a 2 mS timer for determining an activation interval of the display control ( Step S701). Thereafter, the process proceeds to a loop process for determining whether to monitor the timer interrupt flag (step S702).
[0206]
As shown in FIG. 26, when a timer interrupt occurs, a timer interrupt flag is set (step S711).
In the main processing, if the timer interrupt flag is set, the flag is cleared (step S703).
[0207]
In this embodiment, the timer interruption is performed, for example, every 2 mS. That is, the display control process is started, for example, every 2 mS. Further, in this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific display control process is executed in the main process. However, the display control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process.
[0208]
Next, the received display control command is analyzed (step S704). This step will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0209]
Next, a display control process such as the number of rounds is performed (step S705). This step will be described later with reference to FIG.
Then, a process of updating the random number counter for determining whether or not to set the specific display mode as described later is executed (step S706). After that, the processing shifts to the processing of determining the timer interrupt flag in step S702.
[0210]
FIG. 27 is a schematic configuration diagram of a reception command buffer for storing a display control command from the main board 31.
In this example, a ring buffer type reception command buffer capable of storing a maximum of six 2-byte display control commands, for example, is shown, and is constituted by a 12-byte area of the reception command buffers 1 to 12.
[0211]
Then, a received command number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The received command number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. It is not always necessary to use the ring buffer format. For example, three symbol designating command storage areas (2 × 3 = 6 byte receiving command buffer) and one other command storing area (2 × 1 = 2) A buffer configuration such as a byte reception command buffer) may be used.
[0212]
Similarly, the sound control means and the lamp control means may have a buffer format other than the ring buffer format. In this case, the display control unit, the sound control unit, and the lamp control unit are controlled based on the latest command stored in the storage area. Thus, it is possible to quickly respond to an instruction from the main board 31.
[0213]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the operation of the command analysis processing shown in step S704 of the main processing shown in FIG.
In the command analysis processing, first, the display control CPU 101 determines whether or not the display control command transmitted from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer (step S611).
[0214]
Whether or not it is stored is determined by comparing the value of the received command number counter with the read pointer. The case where they match is the case where the received command is not stored.
[0215]
When the received command is stored in the received command buffer, the received command is read from the received command buffer (step S612). After reading, "1" is added to the value of the read pointer.
[0216]
If the received display control command is a display control command for designating the number of storages to be started (step S630), whether to change the display mode of the hold display mode to the special display mode is determined by the determination mode of the display mode control module. (Step S631).
The operation of this step will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
Here, the special display mode mainly means that, when it is determined that random 1 is a random number indicating a specific round, as a result of displaying an asterisk on the hold display means, that fact is included in the starting storage number. In addition, this is a display mode for notifying the player of the advance notice.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the random number 1 is a random number indicating that it is not a specific round, a normal display for notifying the player of the number of starting storages as a result of displaying a circle on the hold display means. There are aspects.
In the present embodiment, for example, an asterisk is displayed on the variable display device 29 as a special display mode. On the other hand, for example, a circle is displayed on the variable display device 29 as a normal display mode.
Therefore, when the star is displayed on the variable display device 29, if a specific game state occurs when a game ball enters the specific reception port 42 mainly due to a start mode based on the start memory, At this time, it can be understood that the upper limit of the number of rounds is likely to be 15, for example. When a circle is displayed on the variable display device 29, it is unlikely that the upper limit of the number of rounds when the specific gaming state occurs is, for example, 15 times, that is, it is possible that the upper limit is, for example, 1 or 5 times. Is high, it is possible to recognize whether or not the specific game state progresses in an advantageous manner for the player.
[0217]
As will be described later, when the random number is determined to match the predetermined determination value, the display mode of the hold display means is changed to, for example, an asterisk compared to when it is determined that the random number does not match the predetermined determination value. The probability that the decision to change to a higher value is made higher is made.
[0218]
Next, the start storage number in the RAM is updated to the number specified by the display control command (step S632). In addition, the updated start storage number is displayed on the variable display device 29 according to the determination result in step S630 (step S633). A specific description will be given later. Further, “1” is added to the value of the notice random number counter, and the flow shifts to step S611 (step S634).
[0219]
The advance random number counter is a counter used to determine a random number for determining whether to change the display mode of the hold display unit to the special display mode. In this embodiment, the count value of the notice random number counter takes, for example, a value in the range of 0 to 8, and when the count value exceeds 8, the value is returned to 0.
[0220]
If the received command read in step S612 is another display control command, a flag corresponding to the received command is set (step S659). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S611.
[0221]
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the operation of the display control process shown in step S705 of the main process shown in FIG.
In the display control process, any one of steps S802 and S804 to S806 described below is performed according to the value of the display control process flag.
[0222]
All symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that the variation of the left middle right symbol is started. Thereafter, the internal state (display control process flag) indicating the destination step in the display control process is changed so that the process can proceed to step S804.
In addition, in the all symbol stop waiting setting process shown in step S804 described below, when the middle symbol is stopped at the same symbol as the left and right symbols so as to be in the same pattern, it is determined whether to stop at the symbol indicating the true number of rounds. A decision is made as to whether or not.
If it is determined not to stop at the symbol indicating the true number of rounds, the variable display is restarted in the specific game state display process shown at step S806 described later so that the symbol can be stopped at the symbol indicating the true number of rounds. The internal state (display control process flag) is changed after the generation of the variable restart flag for performing the operation so that the process can proceed to step S804.
Also, it is determined whether or not the received display control command includes information indicating the content of the specific round flag set in step S58 of the symbol normal process shown in FIG. It is ensured that the number of times can be derived and displayed.
[0223]
All symbols stop wait setting process (step S804): a command to stop at the missing symbol, a command to stop the middle symbol at the same symbol as the left and right symbols so as to be in a line, or a timer built into the display control CPU 101 In accordance with the time-out, control is performed so as to stop at an out-of-design, stop at a crossing, or stop at an out-of-reach design. Thereafter, when the operation is stopped at the same time, the internal state (display control process flag) is changed so that the process can proceed to step S805. On the other hand, when the vehicle stops at the missing symbol, the internal state (display control process flag) is changed so that the process can proceed to step S802, and then the process proceeds to step S706 of the display control main shown in FIG.
[0224]
Big hit display process (step S805): If the game stops at the double-crossing in step S804, control is performed so as to display a specific game state. Thereafter, the internal state (display control process flag) is changed so that the process can proceed to step S806.
[0225]
Big hit game processing (step S806): Control during the specific game state. For example, when a display control command for display before opening of the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b and display for opening of the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.
[0226]
Thereafter, if the variable restart flag has been generated in step S802, it means that the game has not stopped at the symbol indicating the true number of rounds before the start of the specific game state. Therefore, in order to stop at the symbol indicating the true number of rounds, the variable display of the variable display device 29 is restarted and displayed with the true number of rounds. On the other hand, if the variable restart flag has not been generated in step S802, it means that the game has stopped at the symbol indicating the true number of rounds, so that the end of the specific game state is displayed on the variable display device 29, and then the internal state ( Display control process flag) so that the process can proceed to step S802.
[0227]
FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the operation of step S631 of the command analysis processing shown in FIG.
Prior to the description of FIG. 30, various notices indicating that the possibility of a specific round is high, including a case where the display mode of the hold display unit is changed to the special display mode, will be described.
[0228]
In the present embodiment, when the random number indicated by random 1 is a value indicating that the number of rounds in the specific game state is 15 (specifically, the determination result command including information on the specific round flag from the game control means) The data table used when the display control CPU 101 determines whether or not to change the display mode of the hold display means to the special display mode is changed between when the display mode is received and when it is not.
[0229]
When the random number indicated by Random 1 is a value indicating that the number of rounds in the specific game state is 15, the display mode of the hold display unit is changed to the special display mode, Random numbers are set to change with high probability. In this case, although the probability is low, the star may not be displayed on the variable display device 29 even when the random number indicated by the random 1 indicates that the number of rounds in the specific game state is 15 times. However, even if the random number indicated by Random 1 indicates that the number of rounds in the specific game state is not 15, the star may be displayed on the variable display device 29. It is possible to spread and prevent the player from getting bored.
[0230]
Specifically, in the data table used when the number of rounds in the specific game state is 15 as the random number indicated by Random 1, for example, numerical values of “0, 3, 5, 7” are displayed with “star”. It is set as a judgment value for notification, and when a random number (for example, any one of “0 to 8”) is extracted, if the random number matches any of the judgment values in the data table, “ It is decided to display "star". In this case, it is determined that the “star” is displayed with a probability of “6/9”.
[0231]
The data table used when the random number indicated by Random 1 is not a value indicating that the number of rounds in the specific game state is 15 is determined to display “star” with a probability of “2/9”, for example. The judgment value is determined in advance.
[0232]
In addition, there is a notice by a method other than a method of changing the display mode of the number of start storages displayed on the variable display device 29 to a special display mode. That is, for example, in addition to the advance notice performed by displaying a star on the variable display device 29, the advance notice performed by outputting a sound from the speaker, the advance notice performed by blinking or lighting the side lamps 10a and 10b, or the like. There is a notice given by combining.
[0233]
These notices are also designed to increase the degree of combination in accordance with the reliability of the actual round. That is, a specific round is more likely to occur when sound is output from the speaker in addition to this display than when a star is simply displayed on the variable display device 29, and when the side lamps 10a and 10b are blinked. Has set random numbers so that it is more likely to be a specific round.
[0234]
It should be noted that, on condition that the number of start memories is plural, it is also possible to execute the notice in combination each time the number of start memories is consumed. That is, for example, at the time of the display related to the start memory determined to be the specific round, the star is simply displayed on the variable display device 29. Then, when the start memory number is exhausted, a sound is output from the speaker in addition to the display of the star. Further, when the starting memory number is exhausted, the side lamps 10a and 10b blink in addition to the display of the star and the output of the sound from the speaker. As described above, the notice may be continuously given.
[0235]
Further, when the number of start memories is, for example, two or more, the start memories may be displayed once with a circle and then changed to a star. That is, the advance notice time does not necessarily have to be performed when the start memory is displayed. In this case, for example, all circles can be changed to stars, so that so-called aiming can be selectively prevented.
Instead of changing all the circles to stars, character information such as “chance” can be displayed on the variable display device 29. In this case, the aiming can be selectively prevented by not displaying a star mark thereafter. Note that the selection of the notice time may be performed using, for example, a random number, similarly to the selection of the notice type.
[0236]
When changing from a circle to a star, a sound may be output from a speaker, or the side lamps 10a and 10b may be flashed, so that the player can easily notice the change.
[0237]
Note that the lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 35 and the sound control means mounted on the sound control board 70 also independently make a decision regarding a notice, similarly to the display control means. In this embodiment, since the same control command as the display control command is transmitted to the lamp control means and the sound control means, the lamp control means and the sound control means perform the effect control synchronized with the control of the display control means. It can be performed.
[0238]
Next, each step of FIG. 30 executed to perform the above-described display of the star mark and the like will be described. In the notice determination processing, first, the display control CPU 101 selects which of a plurality of notice determination tables in the RAM 102 is to be used (step S662).
[0239]
Subsequently, in order to determine whether or not to perform the advance notice, the extracted random numbers for the advance notice determination are compared with the advance notice determination values set in the selected advance notice determination table (step S663).
[0240]
As a result of the comparison in step S663, if the random number value for the announcement determination does not match the announcement determination value, the process proceeds to step S632 in FIG. On the other hand, when the random number value for the announcement determination and the announcement judgment value match, the extracted random number is compared with the judgment value set in the announcement type judgment table in the RAM 102 to obtain an asterisk. The type of notice, such as whether to display only or output sound from the speaker as described below, is determined and stored in the notice type buffer (step S665).
[0241]
When all the random numbers in the plurality of start memories are read out at the time of determining the number of rounds, the execution timing of the notice is also selected, and the selection result of the execution timing is stored in the notice timing buffer. Thereafter, the notice lottery completion flag may be set so that the duplicate notice selection processing is not performed.
Further, in the present embodiment, it is possible to perform not only an effect based on visible information using the variable display device 29 but also an effect based on auditory information using sound from a speaker or an effect based on a combination thereof. Specifically, in step S31 of FIG. 10, a command for production is transmitted to the sound control board 70 and the lamp control board 75, and the display control unit 80 transmits a command for production to the sound control board 70 and the lamp control board 75. Various effects can be performed by transmitting commands.
[0242]
FIG. 31 is a block diagram of a part related to changing the display mode of the hold display unit to the special display mode among the units shown in FIG.
The game control unit 31A (provided on the main board 31) includes a random number extraction unit 31a, a condition determination unit 31b, a command transmission unit 31d, a storage unit 31h (storage area), and a determination unit, which will be individually described below. 31i, a storage number determination unit 31q, a symbol control unit 31p, and a drive control unit 53a.
[0243]
The drive control means 53a is the same as the basic circuit 53 of FIG. 7, and when the start condition is satisfied, a signal is sent to the solenoids 24a and 24b and the motor 38 (FIG. 7) to drive the variable members 43a to 43c. And outputs a signal to the solenoid 35 to open and close the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b.
[0244]
The random number extracting means 31a extracts a random number for use in determining the number of rounds in which the solenoid 35 controls the high probability round when the starting condition is satisfied, and outputs the extracted random number to the storage means 31h. is there.
When the number of start storages stored in the storage unit 31h is “0” as a result of the determination by the storage number determination unit 31q, the random number extraction unit 31a performs not only the storage unit 31h but also the determination unit 31i. The random number extracted in parallel with the condition determining means 31b may be output.
[0245]
The storage unit 31h stores information indicating the establishment of the start condition, random numbers extracted by the random number extraction unit 31a upon the establishment of the start condition, or information indicating the determination result of the random number by the determination unit 31i described below. After a lapse of a predetermined time from the closing operation of the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b (after the end of the starting game), the stored contents such as the random numbers related to the starting game are erased.
[0246]
The storage number determination unit 31q determines whether or not the start storage number stored in the storage unit 31h has reached a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”) when the start condition is satisfied.
[0247]
The determining means 31i acquires the latest random number extracted by the random number extracting means 31a (may be temporarily stored in the storage means 31h), and determines whether or not this random number matches a predetermined determination value. This determination is made before opening and closing the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in a predetermined start mode, and the result of the determination is output to the command transmitting means 31d.
The determining unit 31i obtains all random numbers extracted by the random number extracting unit 31a and stored in the storage unit 31h, and determines whether or not these random numbers match a predetermined determination value by a predetermined start-up time. This is performed before opening / closing the opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b in the mode, and the order in which the determined number of rounds is stored in the storage unit 31h is added to the effect control unit 80B (the display control board 80 or the like). Output to the command transmission means 31d.
Here, the predetermined determination value includes a determination value for determining that the number of rounds is, for example, 15 times.
[0248]
The condition determining means 31b acquires the random number extracted by the random number extracting means 31a (may be temporarily stored in the storage means 31h), and controls the number of rounds to control the high probability round based on the random number. Is determined when the detection signal from the specific ball detector 48 is input.
The condition determining means 31b may acquire at least only the random number stored at least from the earliest among the random numbers stored in the storage means 31h.
[0249]
In the starting state, a control signal for stopping the variable display of the variable display device 29 is output to the command transmitting means 31d in accordance with the detection signal from the specific ball detector 48.
[0250]
The symbol control unit 31p outputs a control signal for variably displaying the variable display device 29 to the command transmission unit 31d in a normal state, when the start condition is satisfied or the start condition is satisfied.
[0251]
In addition, the symbol control means 31p causes the variable display device 29 to display the variable display device 29 in accordance with a detection signal output from one of the winning ball detectors 25a and 25b when a game ball enters the variable winning device 20 based on the establishment of the starting condition. The control signal for variably displaying the reach is output to the command transmitting means 31d.
[0252]
The command transmission unit 31d transmits a determination result command including the determination result determined by the determination unit 31i to the display mode control unit 80e and the effect mode determination unit 80a, or receives a command from the symbol control unit 31p or the condition determination unit 31b. The display control command based on the control signal is transmitted to the effect mode determination unit 80a.
[0253]
The effect control unit 80B includes an effect mode determination unit 80a, a notification unit 80b, and a display mode control unit 80e described below.
[0254]
The display mode control unit 80e includes a determination unit 80d that determines whether to change the display mode of the hold display unit 29a by using the data table described above, and a number of rounds in the determination result command transmitted from the command transmission unit 31d. And a display mode determining unit 80c that determines whether or not to change the display mode of the hold display unit 29a when information indicating that the display mode is changed to 15 rounds (specific round) is not added.
When changing the display mode of the hold display unit 29a, the determination unit 80d and the display mode determination unit 80c display the storage display corresponding to the 15th round, for example, a star on the hold display unit 29a, and change the display mode of the hold display unit 29a. When the display mode is not changed, the stored display corresponding to the 15th round is displayed on the hold display unit 29a, for example, with a circle. When the display mode of the hold display unit 29a is changed, not only the storage display corresponding to the 15th round but also all the storage displays may be indicated by stars.
The display mode determining means 80c has a built-in counter that counts up (+1) when a determination result command is received, and counts down (-1) when a symbol determination command for starting variable display described later is received. By doing so, the starting storage number and the position at which the star mark is displayed may be recognized based on the count value of the counter.
[0255]
The production mode determining unit 80a determines in advance control of a notification mode of a predetermined notification executed by the production unit 29C (the lamp control board 75, the sound control board 70, and the like) based on the command transmitted from the command transmission unit 31d. The determination is made by selecting from a plurality of types, and the determination result is output to the notifying means 80b.
[0256]
In the first place, the effect mode determination means 80a stores a determination value for selecting whether or not to perform the predetermined notification, and performs the predetermined notification based on the determination value and a random number generated internally. It is determined whether or not to perform the control for performing the control.
[0257]
The notifying unit 80b controls the notifying unit 29C to notify the number of rounds and the like, which is the result of the determination by the condition determining unit 31b, based on the determination result output from the effect mode determining unit 80a. Specifically, the variable display device 29 starts variable display when the game ball passes through the start winning holes 4a to 4c, and the variable display device 29 specifies the variable display device 29 before the game ball enters the specific reception port 42. The display mode is derived and displayed.
[0258]
In addition, the notifying unit 80b sends the number of rounds different from the number of rounds determined by the condition determining unit 31b to the effecting unit 29C before the specific game state occurs, according to the determination result output from the effecting mode determining unit 80a. Temporary display means for deriving and informing as a display result, variable display is resumed after the display result is derived by the temporary display means, and the number of rounds determined by the condition determining means 31b is derived to the effect means 29C as the display result. And a re-display mode determining means.
[0259]
By the way, as described above, in the present embodiment, for example, the high probability state is controlled up to the fourth round, and the low probability state is controlled after the fifth round. However, for example, the high probability state and the low probability state alternate. May be controlled.
[0260]
FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the probability state table of the modification shown in FIG.
When the probability state table 1 is selected, 1, 2, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, 14 times are controlled to the low probability round, and 3, 4, 7, 8, 11, 12, 15 times. Is controlled in a high probability round. In other words, the high probability state and the low probability state are controlled alternately twice.
[0261]
When the probability state table 2 is selected, 1 to 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 times are controlled to high probability rounds, and 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 times are set to low probability rounds. Is controlled. That is, up to four rounds are controlled as high probability rounds, and after five rounds, low probability rounds and high probability rounds are controlled alternately once each.
[0262]
When the probability state table 3 is selected, 1 to 12, 14 times are controlled to the high probability round, and 13, 15 times are controlled to the low probability round. That is, the high probability round is controlled up to the eleventh round, and the high probability round and the low probability round are alternately controlled once each after the twelfth round.
[0263]
Here, "1" is displayed on the variable display device 29 when the probability state table 1 is selected, and "3" is displayed on the variable display device 29 when the probability state table 2 is selected. When the probability state table 3 is selected, "7" is displayed.
[0264]
By pasting a pattern table as shown in FIG. 32 in the vicinity of the game board 1, the player visually recognizes the pattern table and the variable display device 29 to determine whether each round is a low-probability round. You can know if this is a probability round.
[0265]
The information indicating the variable display process includes, for example, information indicating a variable display period, information indicating each piece of identification information displayed during the variable display, or information indicating a mode of the variable display effect.
[0266]
When information indicating the process of variable display is output, a different signal may be output depending on the mode. For example, different signals may be output to the outside of the gaming machine in the case where the variable display is performed by the scroll display and in the case where the variable display is performed by performing the display in which the identification information passes by the scroll display and then performing the reverse display after performing the display.
[0267]
Further, a signal indicating error information such as a missing control command may be output to the outside of the gaming machine as a test signal.
[0268]
The notification timing of the number of rounds by the variable display device 29 is not limited to before the start of the specific game state, but may be another timing, for example, after the end of a predetermined round. Further, information on whether or not to continue the round may be notified for each round. Further, for example, before the start of the specific game state, a symbol indicating the number of rounds different from the upper limit number of rounds of the determination result determined by the determination unit 31i may be displayed. In this case, for example, during the specific game state, the variable display device 29 may be variably displayed again to stop the symbol indicating the true round upper limit number.
[0269]
Furthermore, in the specific game state, whether or not the state of the internal structure is such that the game ball easily enters the specific area is determined, for example, in each state (for example, at the beginning of the round) (in the specific area passing rate). The low-probability state signal and the specific-region-passing-rate high-probability state signal) may be output to the outside of the gaming machine.
[0270]
Further, when the state of the internal structure changes, a signal indicating whether the game ball easily enters or hardly enters the specific area (specific area passing rate low probability state signal, specific area passing The high probability state signal) may be output to the outside of the gaming machine.
[0271]
Although not specifically mentioned, when the high-probability state or the low-probability state is maintained and a transition is made to the next round, a test signal indicating whether the state is the high-probability state or the low-probability state between the rounds (Specific area pass rate low probability state signal or specific area pass rate high probability state signal) is continuously output.
[0272]
That is, the game control means determines whether the state is the high probability state or the low probability state in the specific game state, during the period in which the state is maintained and during the round in which the state continues. And output continuously.
[0273]
Therefore, in a certain round, even if there is a period in which the game ball is hard to flow into the specific area, the game ball is likely to flow into the specific area with a high probability when viewed as a whole round. Means that the round is a "high probability round".
[0274]
For example, in one round, when performing a control in which a state in which a game ball easily flows into a specific area and a state in which the game ball hardly flows in by a change in the state of the variable member are performed, control is performed so that the game ball easily flows into the specific area. A round whose total period is relatively long compared to other rounds is referred to as a “high probability round”, and conversely, the total period during which game balls are controlled to easily flow into a specific area is compared with other rounds Then, a relatively short round may be referred to as a “low probability round”.
[0275]
Further, for example, in each round, when the state is controlled in such a manner that game balls easily flow into the specific area from the start of the round until a predetermined period elapses, the game balls easily flow into the specific area. A round in which the predetermined period controlled in the state is relatively longer than the other rounds is referred to as a “high probability round”, and conversely, the predetermined period in which the game ball is easily controlled to flow into the specific area is the other period. A round relatively shorter than the round may be referred to as a “low probability round”.
[0276]
Further, for example, a pattern of a state change of the variable member executed in each round (a change pattern of the internal structure of the variable winning device from the start to the end of the round. This includes a case where the variable member is stopped at a predetermined position. .) For each of them, for example, a plurality of attempts are made to determine whether or not a game ball flows into a specific area until the end of the round. Each round in which a state change is performed in a pattern may be determined to be a “high-probability round” or a “low-probability round”.
[0277]
In this case, if the trial result in the round in which the state changes in a certain pattern indicates that game balls have flowed into the specific area at a rate exceeding, for example, 90% before the end of the round, A round in which a state change is executed in the pattern may be referred to as a “high probability round”.
[0278]
Also, if the trial result in the round in which the state changes in another certain pattern indicates that the round has been completed without a game ball flowing into the specific area, for example, at a rate exceeding 90%, The round in which the state change is performed in that pattern may be referred to as a “low probability round”.
[0279]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which all rounds in the specific game state are high probability rounds (timer interrupt setting processing shown in FIG. 10), but all rounds are low probability rounds. Of course, there may be cases where In the last round, the round is not continued in the next round.
[0280]
For this reason, when the final round is a high probability round, although the internal structure of the variable winning device 20 is such that the game ball easily passes through the specific area, the game ball is detected by the specific ball detector 48. The configuration is not performed, or the detection by the specific ball detector 48 is ignored.
[0281]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the high-probability round and the low-probability round have been described. However, a configuration in which a plurality of types of high-probability rounds may be provided or a configuration in which a plurality of types of low-probability rounds are provided may be employed.
[0282]
In this case, for example, a plurality of types may be provided depending on a difference in the operation of the variable member, or a plurality of types may be provided depending on a difference in the probability of continuing the round.
[0283]
More specifically, as a result of a trial of each round in which the variable members operating when executing a round game and the content of the operation are different, a round in which the probability of continuing the round exceeds 50% is defined as a high probability round, and a 50% A plurality of types, such as a high probability round having a 70% probability of continuing the round, a high probability round of 80%, and a high probability round of 90%, such that a round that continues the round only with the following probability is a low probability round. May be provided (the same applies to the low probability round).
[0284]
Further, even if the probabilities of continuing the rounds are the same, a plurality of types of high-probability rounds and low-probability rounds having different variable members that operate when executing a round game and the contents of the operations may be provided.
[0285]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the allocating means for allocating a game ball won to the variable prize device to a specific area and a normal area different from the specific area, and the allocating means during the specific game state. By controlling the state, a high-probability round in which the probability that the game ball enters the specific area is high, and a low-probability round in which the probability that the game ball enters the specific area is lower than the high-probability round A drive control means for controlling any one of the information processing means, an information extraction means for extracting information used to determine the number of rounds to be controlled by the drive control means in a high-probability round when the starting condition is satisfied, and Determining means for determining the number of rounds based on the information extracted when the start condition that caused the occurrence of the specific game state is satisfied; Storage means for executing the start game based on the establishment of the new start condition when the dynamic condition is established and storing information extracted when the new start condition is established at least until the start game being executed is completed; The storage notifying means for notifying the number of established start conditions stored by the storage means, and whether or not the information stored in the storage means matches a predetermined determination value, is a cause of extracting the information. The determination means for determining before the start game based on the establishment of the start condition is executed, and the notification mode of the storage notification means that the determination that the determination means matches the predetermined determination value is set to the normal notification mode. Since a notification mode control means for notifying in a different special notification mode is provided, it is advantageous for a player when a game ball enters a specific reception port by opening and closing the blade member based on the start memory. Specific gaming state becomes possible to notify whether to proceed in a manner, it is possible to dramatically increase a fun and interesting that can be given to the player with the occurrence of a specific game state.
For this reason, for example, it is possible to give the player an opportunity to perform so-called aiming, and the player's playability is improved.
[0286]
According to the second aspect of the present invention, the information extracting means for extracting information used for determining the predetermined number of rounds when the start condition is satisfied, and the specific game state is caused when the specific game state occurs. Determining means for determining the number of rounds based on the information extracted when the start condition is satisfied; and executing and newly executing the start game based on the establishment of the new start condition when a new start condition is established during execution of the start game. Storage means for storing at least information extracted when a start condition is satisfied until the start game being executed is completed; storage notifying means for notifying the number of satisfied start conditions stored by the storage means; Before the start game is executed, it is determined whether or not the information stored in the means matches the predetermined determination value based on the establishment of the start condition that caused the information to be extracted. Determining means, and a notification mode control means for notifying the notification mode of the storage notifying means in a special notification mode different from the normal notification mode that the determination means has determined that the predetermined value is matched. With the provision of the opening / closing of the blade member based on the starting memory, it becomes possible to notify whether or not the specific game state progresses in a manner advantageous to the player when the game ball enters the specific reception port, It is possible to dramatically increase the enjoyment and fun that can be given to the player with the occurrence of the game state.
For this reason, for example, it is possible to give the player an opportunity to perform so-called aiming, and the player's playability is improved.
[0287]
In the invention according to claim 3, the number of rounds determined by the determining means includes at least a first round number and a second round number which is more advantageous to the player than the first round number. Includes a determination whether or not the number of rounds is the second round number, and the predetermined determination value includes a determination value for determining that the number of rounds is the second round number. The notification can be made, and the expectation of the player can be improved.
[0288]
According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the notification mode control unit includes the determination unit that determines whether or not to perform the notification mode of the storage notification unit in the special display mode. Therefore, for example, the number of rounds is the second round number. Nevertheless, it is possible not to change the display mode to the special display mode, and it is possible to achieve a wide variety of effects.
[0289]
In the invention according to claim 5, the notification mode control means determines that the notification mode of the storage notification means is set to the special notification mode at a predetermined rate when the determination module determines that the value does not match the predetermined determination value. Is provided, it is possible to change the display mode to the special display mode even though the number of rounds is the first round number, and it is possible to achieve a wide variety of effects. In addition to this, by securing many opportunities to change the display mode to the special display mode, it is possible to improve the interest for the player.
[0290]
In the invention described in claim 6, since the determination means and the determination means are constituted by a common module, the interest in the player can be improved without increasing the program amount.
[0291]
In the invention according to claim 7, a plurality of starting areas are provided, and the plurality of starting areas are different from each other in a manner of controlling the variable winning device from the second state to the first state in the starting state. And a second starting area, wherein the storage notifying means establishes a starting condition when the game ball passes through the first starting area and establishes a starting condition when the game ball passes through the second starting area. Is notified separately, so that the player can easily understand the progress of the game.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming board 1 of a gaming machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front view of the variable winning device 20 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the variable winning device 20 of FIG.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the variable winning device 20 of FIG.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the variable winning device 20 of FIG.
6 is a perspective view of the variable winning device 20 of FIG.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic internal configuration of a main board 31, a lamp control board 75, a sound control board 70, a display control board 80, and the like in FIG.
8 is a block diagram for describing an outline of a circuit configuration in a display control board 80 of FIG. 7;
9 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by a game control means (CPU 56) of the main board 31 and peripheral circuits such as a ROM 54 and a RAM 55 shown in FIG.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation of a timer interrupt setting process executed by a CPU 56 of FIG. 7;
11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a probability state table provided in a random number extracting unit of the CPU 56 in FIG. 7;
12 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number touched in step S22 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of the symbol determination process shown in step S25 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation of a starting opening switch passing process shown in step S312 of the symbol determination process shown in FIG.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation of a winning effect effect setting process shown in step S115 of the starting port switch passing process shown in FIG.
16 is an operation of the number-of-rounds determination process by the determination means shown in step S123 of the winning effect setting process shown in FIG. 15 and the number-of-rounds determination process by the condition determination means of the CPU 56 shown in step S56 of the symbol normal process shown in FIG. FIG.
17 is a flowchart showing an operation of a symbol normal process shown in step S300 of the symbol determination process shown in FIG.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation of a reach variable display process shown in step S302 of the symbol determination process shown in FIG.
19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the storage process shown in step S30 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG.
20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the accessory process in step S26 of the timer interrupt setting process shown in FIG.
21 is a flowchart showing an operation of a specific area passage process shown in step S320 of the accessory process shown in FIG. 20.
22 is a flowchart showing an operation of a start-up winning process shown in step S340 of the accessory process shown in FIG. 20.
FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of a display control command (display control signal) transmitted from the main board 31 to the display control board 80.
24 is a schematic diagram of output timings of a display control command and a display control INT signal to a signal line shown in FIG. 23;
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the display control CPU 101 shown in FIG. 8;
26 is a flowchart showing an operation of a timer interrupt process according to step S702 of the main process shown in FIG.
FIG. 27 is a schematic configuration diagram of a reception command buffer for storing a display control command from the main board 31.
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an operation of a command analysis process shown in step S704 of the main process shown in FIG.
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing an operation of a display control process shown in step S705 of the main process shown in FIG.
30 is a flowchart showing an operation of step S631 of the command analysis processing shown in FIG.
31 is a block diagram of a part related to changing the display mode of the hold display unit to the special display mode among the units shown in FIG. 7;
FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a probability state table according to the modification shown in FIG. 11;
[Explanation of symbols]
1 game board
29 Variable display device
31 Main board
35 Lamp control board
56 CPU
70 sound control board
80 Display control board
101 Display control CPU

Claims (7)

A variable prize device that performs a game by hitting a game ball into the game area and changes between a first state advantageous to the player and a second state disadvantageous to the player,
Performing a start game in which the variable winning device is controlled from a second state to a first state in a predetermined start mode based on satisfaction of a start condition in which a game ball passes through a start area provided in the game area; In a specific mode that is more advantageous to the player than the start mode based on the fact that a game ball that has won the variable prize device by the starting game has entered a specific area among a plurality of areas provided in the variable prize apparatus. A specific game state in which the round for controlling the variable winning device to the first state can be executed up to a predetermined upper limit number is generated, and a game ball that has won the variable winning device during the round has entered the specific region. When the game machine shifts to the next round and ends the specific gaming state when the gaming ball that has won the variable prize device during the round does not enter the specific area. Te,
Allocating means for allocating a gaming ball having won the variable prize device to the specific area and a normal area different from the specific area,
By controlling the state of the allocating means during the specific game state, a high-probability round having a high probability of causing a game ball to enter a specific area, and causing the game ball to enter a specific area as compared to the high-probability round Drive control means for controlling to one of rounds including a low-probability round with a low probability,
Information extraction means for extracting information used for determining the number of rounds to be controlled by the drive control means to the high probability round when the start condition is satisfied,
Determining means for determining the number of rounds based on information extracted when a start condition that caused the occurrence of the specific game state is satisfied when the specific game state occurs;
When a new start condition is satisfied during execution of the start game, execution of a start game based on the establishment of the new start condition and at least information extracted when the new start condition is satisfied during the execution of the start game. Storage means for storing until the start game ends,
Storage notifying means for notifying the number of satisfied start conditions stored by the storing means,
Judgment means for judging whether or not the information stored in the storage means matches a predetermined judgment value before a start game is executed based on establishment of a start condition which caused extraction of the information. When,
And a notification mode control unit configured to notify the storage mode of the storage unit by a special notification mode different from a normal notification mode when the determination unit determines that the determination result matches the predetermined determination value. A gaming machine. A variable prize device that performs a game by hitting a game ball into the game area and changes between a first state advantageous to the player and a second state disadvantageous to the player,
Performing a start game in which the variable winning device is controlled from a second state to a first state in a predetermined start mode based on satisfaction of a start condition in which a game ball passes through a start area provided in the game area; In a specific mode that is more advantageous to the player than the start mode based on the fact that a game ball that has won the variable prize device by the start game has entered a specific area among a plurality of areas provided in the variable prize apparatus. In a gaming machine for generating a specific gaming state capable of executing a round for controlling the variable winning device to the first state up to a predetermined number of rounds,
Information extraction means for extracting information used for determining the predetermined number of rounds when the start condition is satisfied,
Determining means for determining the number of rounds based on information extracted when a start condition that caused the occurrence of the specific game state is satisfied when the specific game state occurs;
When a new start condition is satisfied during execution of the start game, execution of a start game based on the establishment of the new start condition and at least information extracted when the new start condition is satisfied during the execution of the start game. Storage means for storing until the start game ends,
Storage notifying means for notifying the number of satisfied start conditions stored by the storing means,
Judgment means for judging whether or not the information stored in the storage means matches a predetermined judgment value before a start game is executed based on establishment of a start condition which caused extraction of the information. When,
And a notification mode control unit configured to notify the storage mode of the storage unit by a special notification mode different from a normal notification mode when the determination unit determines that the determination result matches the predetermined determination value. A gaming machine. The number of rounds determined by the determining means includes at least a first round number and a second round number that is more advantageous to the player than the first round number,
The determination by the determining means includes determining whether the number of rounds is the second round number, and the predetermined determination value is a determination value for determining that the round number is the second round number. The gaming machine according to claim 1, comprising: 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the notification mode control unit includes a determination unit configured to determine whether or not to perform the notification mode of the storage notification unit in a special display mode. 5. The notification mode control means determines a notification mode of the storage notification means to be a special notification mode at a predetermined rate when the determination section determines that the storage mode does not match a predetermined determination value. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising means. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the determination unit and the determination unit are configured by a common module. A plurality of the start areas are provided, and the plurality of the start areas are different from each other in a manner in which the variable winning device is controlled from a second state to a first state in a start state from a second state. Area and
The storage notifying unit is configured to separately notify a start condition established when a game ball passes through the first start region and a start condition established when a game ball passes through the second start region. Item 7. The gaming machine according to any one of Items 1 to 6.

Images