JP2005087473A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of excellently maintaining interest in a game without making a player get bored in a machine stand (machine kind) under playing. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine is constituted such that the ROM of a general control board stores two or more kinds of performance content patterns of different game performance contents, and every time the number of times of executing game performance based on the performance content pattern exceeds a threshold, the kind of the performance content patterns to be selected is increased. Then, a general CPU selects one from the performance content patterns allowed to be selected and makes respective control boards execute the game performance. Thus, the player gets a chance to see interesting new game performance which has not been existed before every time the number of times of execution exceeds an each threshold. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  In the present invention, when the start condition is satisfied, a predetermined game effect pattern is selected from a plurality of types of game effect patterns, and a predetermined game effect such as a display effect is executed based on the selected game effect pattern. Is related to the gaming machine.

In recent years, pachinko machines, which are a type of gaming machine, have been devised in order to have players play games on the same machine (model) for as long as possible. That is, in the pachinko machine, a plurality of types of game effect patterns with different contents of game effects are set and stored in advance, and the inside of the pachinko machine is triggered by the fact that the game ball has won the start winning opening (start condition is established). A game effect (display effect or the like) based on the game effect pattern selected from the game effect patterns is executed in the process. For example, in the pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1, a plurality of types of game effect patterns are stored in the ROM of the display control device, and a game with a specific display effect rich in entertainment that is not often seen by players. The effect pattern (rare game effect pattern) is selected in the case of a big hit for a predetermined number of times after the power is turned on. Therefore, according to the pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1, the specific display effect based on the rare game effect pattern appears several times in a short time, or does not appear at all even if it takes a long time. It is said that this can be prevented, and the interest of the player in the game can be favorably sustained.
JP 2003-93651 A (paragraph numbers [0003] [0007])

  However, the pachinko machine of Patent Document 1 has the following problems. That is, since the selection timing of the rare game effect pattern is limited to a predetermined number of jackpots after the power is turned on, if the player does not allocate a jackpot with a low probability of appearance even if it is a bowl, the player can A rich specific display effect cannot be seen, and eventually, the player may not be able to see the specific display effect that contributes to improving the interest of the game. On the other hand, if the big hit after power-on in the pachinko machine reaches the predetermined number as soon as possible, the rare game effect pattern may appear as soon as the game starts. And when the specific display effect is performed based on the rare game effect pattern that has appeared early in this way, the player will play with the model of the pachinko machine by seeing the display effect. I felt a sense of satisfaction, and I could get tired of continuing to play games with this model of pachinko machines.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and the object of the present invention is to make it possible to maintain a good interest in gaming without causing the player to get bored with the machine (model) being played. It is to provide a gaming machine.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is a game machine in which a game effect is executed based on a game effect pattern selected when the start condition is satisfied. A storage means for storing a game effect pattern; a selection means for selecting a game effect pattern for executing a game effect from each of the game effect patterns stored in the storage means when the start condition is satisfied; Counting means for counting the number of executions of game effects from the point in time, determination means for determining whether or not the count value of the counting means exceeds a preset threshold value, and each game effect pattern stored in the storage means Regarding a specific game effect pattern, if the determination result of the determination means is negative, the selection by the selection means is restricted while the determination result of the determination means is positive It is summarized as further comprising a control means for permitting selection by the selection means in the case.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the threshold value is set such that a plurality of threshold values form steps, and the count value of the counting means is set to one step threshold value. The gist is that each time the control means reaches, the control means increases the types of the game effect patterns that allow the selection means to select.

The gist of the invention described in claim 3 is that, in the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, the predetermined time point is a time point when the power of the gaming machine is turned on.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, a time measuring unit that measures a time during which no game is played, and a predetermined time that is measured in advance by the time measuring unit. The gist of the present invention is further provided with time determination means for determining whether or not the time has been reached, and initial setting means for initially setting the count value of the counting means when the determination result of the time determination means is affirmative. Yes.

  It is possible to maintain good interest in the game without causing the player to get tired of the machine (model) being played.

Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is embodied in a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as a “pachinko machine”) which is a kind of gaming machine will be described with reference to FIGS.
In FIG. 1, the front side of the pachinko machine 10 is schematically shown, and a vertical rectangular middle frame 12 for setting various game components is opened and closed on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 11 that forms the outline of the machine body. And is detachably assembled. On the front side of the middle frame 12, a front frame 14 and a top ball tray 15 each having a glass frame for protecting the game board 13 disposed inside the machine in a see-through manner are assembled so as to be openable and closable in a laterally open state. . The front side of the front frame 14 and the game area 13a of the game board 13 are turned on (flashing) or turned off in accordance with various game states (symbol fluctuation, big hit state, etc.), and a game effect based on the light emission decoration (light emission effect) An electric lamp 16 and a game board lamp 17 are provided. Below the outer frame 11 (lower part of the pachinko machine 10), a speaker 18 that outputs various sounds according to the state of the game and performs a game effect (sound effect) based on the sound output is disposed. A lower ball tray 19 and a launching device 20 are attached to the lower part of the middle frame 12.

  In the approximate center of the game area 13a of the game board 13, a variable display 21 having a display area H made of a liquid crystal screen is disposed. In the liquid crystal type variable display 21, a game effect (display effect) based on a varying image (or image display) is performed. In the variable display 21 (display area H), a symbol combination game in which a plurality of types of symbols (identification information) are varied in a plurality of columns and a symbol combination is derived is performed in relation to the display effect. Yes. In the symbol combination game according to the present embodiment, symbol combinations based on symbols in three columns are derived, and the symbol types in each column constituting the symbol combination are symbols simulating eight numbers of 1 to 8.

  Therefore, the player can recognize a big hit or a loss from the symbol combination finally stopped (stopped display) in the symbol combination game performed on the variable display 21 (display area H). That is, when the symbols of all the columns stopped in the display area H are of the same type, the big hit can be recognized from the symbol combination ([222] [777] etc.). Hereinafter, a symbol combination that can recognize a big hit is referred to as a “hit combination”. And when it stops by a big hit combination, the big hit state which is advantageous for a player is provided to a player. Further, when the symbols of all the columns stopped in the display area H are of different types, or when the symbols of one column are different from the symbols of the other columns, the symbol combination ([234] [122] [767] Etc.) can be recognized. Hereinafter, a symbol combination that can recognize a deviation is referred to as an “outlier combination”. Further, in this embodiment, the symbol variation is temporarily displayed in the order of left column (left symbol) → right column (right symbol) → middle column (middle symbol) as viewed from the player side (hereinafter referred to as “temporarily stop”). ). Then, when the left symbol and the right symbol that have been stopped are of the same type, the reach can be recognized from the symbol combination ([1 ↓ 1] etc., “↓” indicates changing).

  Further, below the variable indicator 21, a start winning opening 23 having an opening / closing blade 22 that opens and closes by the operation of an actuator (solenoid, motor, etc.) (not shown) is disposed. Behind the start winning opening 23, a start opening sensor SE1 (shown in FIG. 2) for detecting a winning game ball is provided. Therefore, the start condition for the symbol combination game on the variable display 21 is given when the game ball start winning detection is detected by the start port sensor SE1. Also, below the start winning opening 23, a large winning opening 24 that opens and closes by the operation of an actuator (solenoid, motor, etc.) (not shown) is disposed. The special winning opening 24 opens and closes in association with the symbol combination finally stopped and displayed in the symbol combination game becoming a big hit combination. Therefore, when a big hit state is given, a plurality of game balls can be won to the big prize opening 24 by opening / closing the big prize opening 24, so that the player can acquire a large number of game balls (prize balls). You can get a chance.

Next, the control configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.
A main control board 25 for controlling the entire gaming machine is mounted on the back side of the pachinko machine 10. The main control board 25 executes various processes for controlling the entire gaming machine, and calculates various control commands according to the processing results. The main control board 25 outputs the control command as a predetermined control signal. In addition, a display control board 26 for controlling the variable display 21, an electric lamp 16, a lamp control board 27 for controlling the game board lamp 17, and a sound control board 28 for controlling the speaker 18 are mounted on the rear side of the machine. ing.

  On the rear side of the machine, a general control board 29 that controls the display control board 26, the lamp control board 27, and the sound control board 28 based on the control command output from the main control board 25 is mounted. The overall control board 29 executes various processes to control the control boards 26 to 28 in an integrated manner, and performs game effects (display effects, light effects, audio effects) according to the processing results. Various control commands for instructing control are processed. The overall control board 29 outputs the control command as a predetermined control signal. In the present embodiment, the main control board 25 is configured to function as main control means for controlling the entire gaming machine. On the other hand, the display control board 26, the lamp control board 27, the sound control board 28, and the overall control board 29 are sub-control means (dashed lines in FIG. 2) that can execute various controls based on the control signal output from the main control board 25. Enclosed in).

Hereinafter, specific configurations of the main control board 25 and the overall control board 29 will be described.
The main control board 25 includes a main CPU 25a, and a ROM 25b and a RAM 25c are connected to the main CPU 25a. The ROM 25b stores a control program for controlling the pachinko machine 10 and a plurality of types of effect patterns. The RAM 25c stores (sets) various types of information (various random values such as jackpot determination random numbers, reach determination random numbers, and production pattern distribution random numbers) that are appropriately rewritten during operation of the pachinko machine 10. It has become. The main CPU 25a sequentially updates the values of various random numbers such as the jackpot determination random number every predetermined cycle, sets the updated values in the RAM 25c, and rewrites the values before the update. The RAM 25c is connected to a power supply for backup of a power supply board (not shown), and is based on the power supply voltage (for example, DC voltage 5V) supplied from the backup power supply when the power supply voltage is cut off (at the time of voltage drop). Various types of information are stored and held.

  The effect pattern is predetermined for each effect pattern from the start of symbol variation (start of symbol combination game) to the stop of symbols (or symbol combinations) in all rows (termination of symbol combination game). This shows a pattern that is a base of the game effect within the time of the game effect. In this effect pattern, the game effect time is determined for each effect pattern, and the game effect time can be specified by the effect pattern. This effect pattern is developed so that it is out of effect for the jackpot effect (the effect that the symbol combination game is finally expanded to stop at the jackpot combination) (the symbol combination game is finally stopped at the error combination) Are stored in the ROM 25b. In addition, the reach effect that is the premise of the jackpot effect is executed, but eventually the stop reach effect that stops at the disjoint combination (for example, [818]) and the reach combination that does not execute the reach effect ( For example, it is classified as a non-reach effect that stops at [637]).

  When the start winning signal is input from the start port sensor SE1 (start condition is established), the main CPU 25a executes various processes related to the symbol combination game (hit determination, determination of stop symbol and effect pattern, etc.). It is like that. That is, when the start winning signal is input, the main CPU 25a reads the value of the big hit determination random number from the RAM 25c and stores (stores) it in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 25c. Then, the main CPU 25a compares the jackpot determination random number stored in the RAM 25c with the jackpot determination value stored in the ROM 25b immediately before the start of the symbol combination game to determine the jackpot. When the result of the big hit determination is an affirmative determination (the value of the big hit determination random number matches the big hit determination value), the main CPU 25a determines the big hit.

  When the big hit is determined, the main CPU 25a determines that the symbols (stopped symbols left, middle, right) that are finally stopped by the variable display 21 (display area H) are symbols of the same type in all rows. Decide to be. The determined stop symbol left, stop symbol, and stop symbol right are finally derived as a left symbol, a middle symbol, and a right symbol on the variable display 21 (display area H). Specifically, one of the jackpot combinations [111] [222] [333] [444] [555] [666] [777] [888] is stopped and displayed on the variable display 21 (display area H). Further, when the big hit is determined, the main CPU 25a determines one effect pattern from the effect patterns for the big hit effect.

  On the other hand, if the determination result of the jackpot determination is a negative determination (the value of the random number for determining the jackpot and the jackpot determination value do not match), the main CPU 25a determines a loss. Then, the main CPU 25a reads the reach determination random number value from the RAM 25c and stores (stores) it in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 25c. Then, the main CPU 25a compares the reach determination random number stored in the RAM 25c with the reach determination value stored in the ROM 25b to determine whether to execute a reach effect (hereinafter, “reach determination”). Show). When the determination result of reach determination is affirmative determination (the value of the reach determination random number and the reach determination value match), the main CPU 25a determines an effect pattern for the reach reach effect. On the other hand, when the determination result of the reach determination is a negative determination (the reach determination random number value and the reach determination value do not match), the main CPU 25a determines the effect pattern for the non-reach effect. Then, when the effect pattern for the outlier reach effect or the non-reach effect is determined, the main CPU 25a uses the variable display 21 (display area H) to finally stop the symbols (stop symbol left, middle, right), Decide not to have the same type of symbols in all rows.

  The main CPU 25a that has determined the stop symbol and the effect pattern outputs a predetermined control command to the overall control board 29 at a predetermined timing. Specifically, the main CPU 25a first designates an effect pattern and outputs an effect pattern designation command for instructing the start of symbol variation. Next, the main CPU 25a executes a left symbol designation command for designating the left symbol, a middle symbol designating command for designating the middle symbol for the stop, and a right symbol designating command for designating the right symbol for the stop symbol. → Output in the order of medium symbol designation command. After that, the main CPU 25a outputs an all symbol stop command for instructing to stop symbols in each column when the effect time set in the specified effect pattern has elapsed.

Next, the overall control board 29 will be described.
The overall control board 29 includes an overall CPU 29a, and a ROM 29b and a RAM 29c are connected to the overall CPU 29a. The ROM 29b stores a control program for comprehensively controlling the control boards 26 to 28 and a plurality of types of effect content patterns (game effect patterns) having different game effect contents. Further, the RAM 29c includes various random number values that are appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10, the number of executions (count value) KS of game effects based on the symbol combination game, and the measurement time T1 during which no game is being performed. It is memorized (set). Then, the overall CPU 29a stores the values of various random numbers after the update (effect content pattern distribution random numbers, etc.), the number of executions KS, the measurement time T1, and the like in the RAM 29c, and rewrites the values before the update to thereby change the values of the various random numbers. The number of executions KS and the measurement time T1 are updated. The production content pattern distribution random number is a random number for selecting the production content pattern EP.

  The plurality of types of effect content patterns are associated with the effect patterns for the jackpot effect and the offense effect that are classified and stored in the ROM 25b of the main control board 25, and the effect content pattern for the jackpot effect and the reach reach effect Production content patterns and non-reach production content patterns. Each effect content pattern is set and stored in a respective effect content pattern table for each effect content pattern for the jackpot effect, the outreach reach effect, and the non-reach effect effect.

  For example, an effect content pattern table for an outlier reach effect will be described. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, five kinds of effect content patterns EP1 to EP5 are set and stored in the effect content pattern table 30 for an outlier reach effect. Has been. Incidentally, the game effect contents of the effect content patterns EP1 to EP5 will be specifically described. The effect content pattern EP1 is a dog character, the effect content pattern EP2 is a cat character, and the effect content pattern EP3 is a horse character. It is a game production content. The effect content pattern EP4 is a game effect content in which a cow character and the effect content pattern EP5 are monkey characters.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the effect content patterns EP <b> 1 to EP <b> 5 are distributed and stored in a plurality (four types in the present embodiment) of pattern groups A to D in the effect content pattern table 30. Any one of these pattern groups A to D is selected by the overall CPU 29a, and each pattern group A to D is divided into groups according to the number of executions KS. ing. Specifically, the pattern group A is a pattern group selected when the number of executions KS does not exceed the first threshold value of 300 times, and the pattern group B has a number of executions KS of over 300 times. The pattern group is selected when the second threshold value of 600 times is not exceeded. The pattern group C is a pattern group selected when the number of executions KS exceeds 600 and does not exceed the third threshold value 900, and the pattern group D has the number of executions KS. The pattern group is selected when 900 times are exceeded. The pattern group A has production content patterns EP1 and EP2, the pattern group B has production content patterns EP1 to EP3, the pattern group C has production content patterns EP1 to EP4, and the pattern group D has production content patterns EP1 to EP5. Each is stored in the distribution. As described above, in this embodiment, the types of effect content patterns EP that are allowed to be selected by the overall CPU 29a are distributed and stored in order of pattern groups A → B → C → D.

  In addition, a distribution determination value is associated with each effect content pattern EP1 to EP5 distributed and stored in each of the pattern groups A to D. Specifically, out of the two effect content patterns distributed and stored in the pattern group A, the effect determination pattern EP1-A is assigned to the effect content pattern EP1, and the apportionment determination value EP2-A is assigned to the effect content pattern EP2. Are associated with each other. Of the three effect content patterns distributed and stored in the pattern group B, the effect content pattern EP1 has the distribution determination value EP1-B, and the effect content pattern EP2 has the distribution determination value EP2-B. A distribution determination value EP3-B is associated with each content pattern EP3. Of the four effect content patterns distributed and stored in the pattern group C, the effect determination pattern EP1-C is assigned to the effect content pattern EP1, and the assignment determination value EP2-C is assigned to the effect content pattern EP2. The content pattern EP3 is associated with the distribution determination value EP3-C, and the effect content pattern EP4 is associated with the distribution determination value EP4-C. Of the five effect content patterns distributed and stored in the pattern group D, the effect content pattern EP1 has the distribution determination value EP1-D, and the effect content pattern EP2 has the distribution determination value EP2-D. The content pattern EP3 is associated with the distribution determination value EP3-D, the effect content pattern EP4 is associated with the distribution determination value EP4-D, and the effect content pattern EP5 is associated with the distribution determination value EP5-D.

  The distribution determination value (EP1-A, etc.) is one of the production content patterns among a plurality of production content patterns (for example, 2 in the case of pattern group A) that are distributed and stored in the pattern group. Used when selecting based on random lottery. In the present embodiment, the possible values of the production content pattern distribution random numbers are 250 integers, and in pattern group A, 200 integers are set as distribution determination values EP1-A, and the remaining Fifty integers are set as the distribution determination value EP2-A. In pattern group B, 150 integers are set as distribution determination values EP1-B, and among the remaining 100 integers, 50 integers are allocated as distribution determination values EP2-B and EP3-B. Each is set. In the pattern group C, 100 different integers are set as the distribution determination values EP1-C, and among the remaining 150 integers, 50 different integers are distributed determination values EP2-C, EP3-C, EP4-. Each is set as C. In the pattern group D, 50 different integers are set to the distribution determination values EP1-D, EP2-D, EP3-D, EP4-D, and EP5-D, respectively. In this way, when the pattern group selected by the overall CPU 29a shifts in the order of pattern groups A → B → C → D, the effect content pattern newly selected (for example, effect content pattern EP3 in pattern group B) ), 50 kinds of integers are set as distribution determination values (for example, distribution determination value EP3-B) corresponding to the effect content pattern. Incidentally, in FIG. 3, the numerical values shown in parentheses such as “(200)” on the right side of each distribution determination value (EP1-A, etc.) are the distribution determination values in the pattern groups (A to D). The ratio at which the associated production content pattern is selected is shown for reference.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the general CPU 29a receives an effect pattern designation command for reach effect from the main CPU 25a, first, the pattern group A corresponding to the number of executions KS among the pattern groups A to D is firstly selected. ~ D is selected. Then, among the plurality of effect content patterns EP included in the selected pattern groups AD, one effect content pattern EP1 to EP5 is assigned to the distribution determination value (EP1−EP1) associated with the effect content patterns EP1 to EP5. A) and the like are selected. Thus, in the present embodiment, the overall CPU 29a selects and determines an effect content pattern (game effect pattern) for executing the game effect from a plurality of effect content patterns (game effect patterns) stored in the ROM 29b. It is configured to function as selection means. The ROM 29b is configured as storage means for presetting and storing a plurality of effect content patterns (game effect patterns) having different game effect contents selected by the overall CPU 29a.

  In the ROM 29b, as in the case of the effect content pattern for the outlier reach effect, the effect content pattern for the big hit effect and the effect content pattern for the non-reach effect are each assigned to a plurality of pattern groups. The content pattern is distributed and stored together with the distribution determination value. Therefore, when the general CPU 29a receives the effect pattern designation command for the big hit effect from the main CPU 25a, the general CPU 29a selects any one of the effect content patterns for the big hit effect stored in the ROM 29b. It will be. Similarly, when an effect pattern designating command for a non-reach effect is input, one effect content pattern is selected from each effect content pattern for a non-reach effect stored in the ROM 29b. It will be.

  Then, as described above, the overall CPU 29a that has selected and determined the effect content pattern for executing the game effect outputs an effect content pattern specifying command for specifying the selected and determined effect content pattern EP to each of the control boards 26 to 28. . At that time, the overall CPU 29a also outputs various control commands (each (left, middle, right) symbol designation command, etc.) input from the main CPU 25a to the control boards 26 to 28 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the display effect of the variable display 21 (display area H) by the control of the display control board 26, the light emission effect of the electric lamp 16 and the game board lamp 17 by the control of the lamp control board 27, and the control of the sound control board 28. It is possible to synchronize the sound production of the speaker 18. That is, the game effect performed by the pachinko machine 10 can be synchronized. “Game effects are synchronized” means that each game effect is in the same tone, for example, when a display effect indicating “the dog is running” is being performed. In other words, a light emission effect (violently blinking) or a sound effect (such as the sound of a dog's cry) commensurate with (or related to) the display effect is performed.

  Further, when the general CPU 29a inputs an effect pattern designation command from the main CPU 25a, the execution number KS of the game effect (in this case, the symbol combination game) is updated (+1). In this regard, the general CPU 29a It is also configured to function as counting means for counting the number of executions KS. The overall CPU 29a outputs an execution frequency designation command for designating the execution frequency KS to the display control board 26. Further, the overall CPU 29a determines whether or not the updated number of executions KS exceeds a threshold value (for example, 300 times), and selects a predetermined effect content pattern EP included in each pattern group A to D based on the determination result. It is supposed to be. Therefore, in the present embodiment, determination means is configured to determine whether or not the execution number (count value) KS exceeds a predetermined threshold by the overall CPU 29a.

  In addition, as can be understood from FIG. 3, when the number of executions KS is 300 times or less, the production CPU 21a is allowed to select the production content patterns EP1 and EP2 based on the comparison determination result with the threshold value (300 times). The game content effect patterns EP3 to EP5 are specific game effect patterns whose selection is restricted. In addition, when the number of executions KS is 301 times or more and 600 times or less, the game effect patterns EP1 to EP3 are allowed to be selected by the overall CPU 29a based on the comparison determination result with the threshold value (600 times). The effect content patterns EP4 and EP5 are set as specific game effect patterns whose selection is restricted. When the number of executions KS is 601 or more and 900 or less, the game content patterns EP1 to EP4 are allowed to be selected by the overall CPU 29a based on the result of comparison with the threshold value (900 times). The effect content pattern EP5 is a specific game effect pattern whose selection is restricted. When the number of executions KS is 901 times or more, all the effect content patterns EP1 to EP5 set and stored for the offending effect are set as game effect patterns that are allowed to be selected by the overall CPU 29a. Thus, if the result of comparison with the threshold is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a selects an effect content pattern (specific game effect pattern) for which selection by the overall CPU 29a has been restricted until the determination time. It is also configured to function as an allowable control means.

  The general CPU 29a measures the time when the control command is not input from the main CPU 25a, that is, the time when the game is not performed, and the measured time T1 reaches a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) TS. (Hereinafter, referred to as [time passage allowance determination]). That is, the overall CPU 29a functions as a time measuring unit that measures a time during which no game is played, and a time determining unit that determines whether or not the measured time T1 has reached a predetermined time TS. ing. If the determination result of the passage of time determination is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a performs an initial setting of the number of executions KS (KS = 0) and displays a demo command so as to perform a demonstration effect in the display area H. 26 is output. Therefore, in this respect, the overall CPU 29a also functions as an initial setting means for performing the initial setting (KS = 0) of the number of executions (count value) KS when the determination result by the time passage determination is affirmative. It is said that. In addition, this demonstration production is intended to outline the title name, manufacturer name, etc. of the pachinko machine 10, and the fact that the demonstration production is being executed in the pachinko machine 10 during the predetermined time TS or more. Indicates that no game is taking place.

Next, the display control board 26, the lamp control board 27, and the sound control board 28 will be described.
The display control board 26 includes a sub CPU 26a, and a ROM 26b and a RAM 26c are connected to the sub CPU 26a. The ROM 26b stores a plurality of types of display execution data for display effects, various image information, and the like. This effect execution data is information for the sub CPU 26a to control the display contents (design variation, character movement, background of the display area H, etc.) of the variable display 21 (display area H). The RAM 26c stores (sets) various information that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10.

  Accordingly, when the sub CPU 26a inputs the effect content pattern designation command output from the overall control board 29 (general CPU 29a), the effect execution data corresponding to the designated effect content pattern EP is read from the ROM 26b, and the effect execution data is stored in the effect execution data. Based on this, the display content of the variable display 21 (display area H) is controlled. By this control, a display effect is performed on the variable display 21 (display area H). Further, when the sub CPU 26a inputs the execution number designation command, the sub CPU 26a calculates the remaining number of executions until the selection of the effect content pattern EP whose selection is currently restricted is permitted. Then, based on the calculation result, the sub CPU 26a controls the number of executions of the remaining game effects to be displayed on a part of the variable display 21 (display area H) (for example, the upper right of the display area H). Therefore, in this respect, the variable display 21 (display area H) is configured to function as a notification means for displaying (notifying) the number of executions of the remaining game effects.

  The lamp control board 27 includes a sub CPU 27a, and a ROM 27b and a RAM 27c are connected to the sub CPU 27a. The ROM 27b stores effect execution data for a plurality of types of light emission effects. This effect execution data is information for the sub CPU 27a to control the light emission modes (lighting start timing, lighting time, etc.) of the electric lamp 16 and the game board lamp 17. The RAM 27c stores (sets) various information that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10. Accordingly, when the sub CPU 27a inputs the effect content pattern designation command output from the overall control board 29 (general CPU 29a), the effect execution data corresponding to the designated effect content pattern EP is read out from the ROM 27b and is used as the effect execution data. Based on this, the light emission modes of the electric lamp 16 and the game board lamp 17 are controlled. Then, with this control, the lighting lamp 16 and the game board lamp 17 produce a light emission effect.

  The audio control board 28 includes a sub CPU 28a, and a ROM 28b and a RAM 28c are connected to the sub CPU 28a. The ROM 28b stores effect execution data for a plurality of types of sound effects. This effect execution data is information for the sub CPU 28a to control the sound mode of the speaker 18 (type of sound effect, time of sound output once, volume, etc.). The RAM 28c stores (sets) various information that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10. Accordingly, when the sub CPU 28a inputs the effect content pattern designation command output from the overall control board 29 (general CPU 29a), the effect execution data corresponding to the designated effect content pattern EP is read from the ROM 28b and is used as the effect execution data. Based on this, the sound mode of the speaker 18 is controlled. Then, the sound effect is performed on the speaker 18 by this control.

  Hereinafter, control processing executed by the overall CPU 29a of the overall control board 29 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. FIG. 4 shows an execution number initial setting process related to the initial setting of the execution number KS, and FIG. 5 shows a loss reach pattern determination process related to the selection determination of the effect content pattern EP for the loss reach effect.

First, the execution count initial setting process will be described with reference to FIG.
First, the overall CPU 29a determines whether or not this pachinko machine 10 is playing (step S10). If the determination result is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a has input some control command (such as an effect pattern designation command) from the main CPU 25a, and therefore the overall CPU 29a performs initial setting (T1 = 0) of the measurement time T1. (Step S11), and the execution number initial setting process is terminated. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S10 is negative, the overall CPU 29a has not input any control command from the main CPU 25a, so the overall CPU 29a determines whether or not the measurement time T1 has reached the predetermined time TS. Determination is made (step S12). If the determination result is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a has not input any control command from the main CPU 25a for a predetermined time TS or longer (ie, no game is being performed), so the number of executions KS is initially set (KS = 0) (step S13), and the execution count initial setting process is terminated. That is, when the measurement time T1 reaches the predetermined time TS, the general CPU 29a considers that the player has finished the game, and has the next player update the number of executions KS by his game. Then, the execution number KS is initially set (KS = 0). Therefore, when the start condition is established in the game by the next player and the outlier reach effect is performed, the overall CPU 29a selects the effect content patterns EP1 and EP2 included in the pattern group A. On the other hand, if the determination result of step S12 is negative, the overall CPU 29a ends the execution count initial setting process.

Next, the loss reach pattern determination process will be described with reference to FIG.
First, the overall CPU 29a determines whether or not an effect pattern specifying command for specifying an effect pattern for reach effect is input from the main control board 25 (main CPU 25a) (step S20). If the determination result is negative, the overall CPU 29a has not input any effect pattern designation command, or inputs an effect pattern designation command for designating an effect pattern for a big hit effect or a non-reach effect. As a result, the reach reach pattern determination process ends. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S20 is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a updates (+1) the number of executions KS (step S21) and determines whether the number of executions KS is 300 or less. (Step S22). If this determination result is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a selects (determines) effect content patterns EP1 and EP2 included in the pattern group A (step S23), and the process proceeds to step S29 described later. When the determination result in step S22 is negative, since the execution count KS exceeds 300, the overall CPU 29a determines whether the execution count KS is 301 times or more and 600 times or less. Determination is made (step S24). If the determination result is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a selects (decides) any of the effect content patterns EP1 to EP3 included in the pattern group B (step S25), and the process proceeds to step S29. .

  If the determination result in step S24 is negative, the overall CPU 29a determines whether the execution count KS is 601 or more and 900 or less because the execution count KS has exceeded 600. (Step S26). If the determination result is affirmative, the overall CPU 29a selects (determines) any of the effect content patterns EP1 to EP4 included in the pattern group C (step S27), and the process proceeds to step S29. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S26 is negative, the execution CPU KS has exceeded 900 times, so the overall CPU 29a selects (determines) any of the effect content patterns EP1 to EP5 included in the pattern group D. (Step S28), the process proceeds to Step S29. In step S29, the overall CPU 29a outputs to the control boards 26 to 28 (sub CPUs 26a to 28a) an effect content pattern designation command for designating the selected effect content pattern EP for the outlier reach effect. Thereafter, the overall CPU 29a ends the detachment reach pattern determination process.

  Next, in the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment configured as described above, a description is given from when the start condition is established until the symbol combination is derived to the variable display 21 (display area H) by the symbol combination game. To do.

  First, as a premise, it is assumed that the main CPU 25a determines that the symbol combination to be displayed on the variable display 21 (display area H) is the symbol combination of the reach (for example, [757]). In addition, the number of executions KS of the symbol combination game (game effect) before the current symbol combination game is executed is 300 times (= first threshold) (at this time, the remaining in the display area H) Is displayed as “1”) Then, based on the current symbol combination game, the overall CPU 29a selects the effect content pattern EP3 included in the pattern group B. Further, in the pachinko machine 10, it is assumed that the game by the player is intermittently performed, and the measurement time (time when the game is not performed) T1 is not measured (T1 = 0).

  Under the premise as described above, when an effect pattern designation command is input from the main CPU 25a, the overall CPU 29a determines to execute a reach effect that deviates from the effect pattern designation command, and updates the execution count KS (KS = 301). ) As a result, the overall CPU 29a has increased the number of executions KS beyond 300, which is the first threshold value, to 301 (at this time, the remaining number of executions displayed in the display area H is “0”). Updated (changed), one of the effect content patterns EP1 to EP3 included in the pattern group B is selected based on the effect content pattern table 30 for the miss reach effect shown in FIG. Here, the overall CPU 29a reads the value of the effect content pattern distribution random number from the RAM 29c, and selects the effect content pattern EP3 because the read value is included in the distribution determination value EP3-B. That is, the selection of the effect content pattern (specific game effect pattern) EP3 whose selection is restricted until the execution number KS exceeds 300 is allowed. Next, the overall CPU 29a outputs an effect content pattern designation command for designating the effect content pattern EP3 to the sub CPUs 26a to 28a of the control boards 26 to 28.

  Then, each sub CPU26a-28a which input the said effect content pattern designation | designated command performs the game effect based on the effect execution data corresponding to effect content pattern EP3. That is, in the variable display 21 (display area H), a display effect in which a horse character runs around, a light emitting effect reminiscent of gallop in an electric lamp 16 and a game board lamp 17, and a horse cry or running from a speaker 18. The sound production such as the sound being played is executed synchronously. Then, at the end of the game effect as described above, [757], which is an outlier combination, is stopped and displayed in the display area H.

  As described above, even if the out-of-combination combination is derived by the symbol combination game, the player who has been able to see only the game effect based on the effect content pattern EP1 or the effect content pattern EP2 so far has one execution number KS. By updating each time so as to exceed a predetermined threshold (300 times), it becomes possible to see a game effect based on a new effect content pattern EP3 that has never been seen before. Therefore, the player plays a game for a long time with one pachinko machine 10 in order to see an interesting new game effect.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) In the above embodiment, when the number of executions KS of the symbol combination game exceeds the threshold value (300 times, 600 times, 900 times), a new effect content pattern (specification that has not been seen until now) (Game effect pattern) The chance to see a game effect based on EP is obtained. Therefore, the player plays a game for a long time by using one pachinko machine 10 because he / she plays the game while having a desire to see such an interesting new game production.

  (2) Each time the number of executions KS of the symbol combination game exceeds a threshold value (300 times, 600 times, 900 times) of one stage, the types of effect content patterns EP that can be selected increase. Even if a new game effect is seen by exceeding the threshold value of one stage, a new game effect can be seen when the execution number KS exceeds the threshold value of the next stage. Accordingly, since the player can have a strong feeling that the execution number KS exceeds the threshold value of the next stage, the player can play the game for a longer time with one pachinko machine 10.

  (3) Since the general CPU 29a that does not have a backup function is configured to function as a counting means, the symbol combination game can be executed without performing special processing (for example, ram clear) when the pachinko machine 10 is turned on. The number of executions KS can be set to an initial setting (KS = 0).

  (4) When the game has not been performed for a predetermined time TS, such as when the player has ended the game, the symbol combination game execution count KS is initially set (KS = 0). That is, the pattern groups A to D selected by the overall CPU 29a are the pattern group A in the initial state. Therefore, since a new player who subsequently plays a game can update the execution number KS by his / her game without inheriting the game state (the execution number KS or the like) based on the previous player's game, All players can play games with fun and fairness.

  (5) The variable display 21 (display area H) displays the number of times of execution of the remaining symbol combination game (game effect) until the selection of a new effect content pattern EP is permitted (the number of times that is the difference between the threshold value and the number of executions KS). It was made to display with. Accordingly, the player can easily recognize how many times the symbol combination game (game effect) is executed later, a new game effect based on the new effect content pattern EP can be seen. . Therefore, the player's passion for watching new game effects can be further strengthened.

The present embodiment may be changed to another embodiment (another example) as follows.
In the embodiment described above, the player can operate the measurement stop button as a time measurement adjustment means that can temporarily stop the measurement of the measurement time T1 by the overall CPU 29a and store the measurement time T1 in the RAM 29c. You may provide in a part (for example, upper ball tray 15) by the side of a machine surface. With this configuration, when the player suspends the game for a predetermined time TS or longer (for example, resting on a toilet, resting on a meal, etc.), the current number of executions KS and measurement time are pressed by pressing the measurement stop button. T1 can be held. When the player resumes the game, the stopped state is released, and the player can play the game from the continuation of the execution number KS before the suspension. Therefore, the player can suspend the game without worrying that the execution count KS is initially set (KS = 0) by pressing the measurement stop button.

  In the embodiment, the number of executions of the remaining symbol combination game (game effect) until the selection of a new effect content pattern EP is allowed is displayed on the variable display 21 (display area H). It is also possible to display both the number of executions of the symbol combination game and the current number of executions KS that allow selection of a new effect content pattern EP defined by the above.

  In the embodiment, the number of executions of the remaining symbol combination game (game effect) until the selection of a new effect content pattern EP is allowed is displayed on a part of the variable display 21 (display area H). However, a display device for displaying the number of executions of the remaining game effects may be provided separately. In addition, a voice notification from the speaker 18 may be given to the player.

  In the embodiment, when the measurement time T1 exceeds the predetermined time TS, the symbol combination game execution count KS is initially set (KS = 0). However, the execution count KS is set to the predetermined count. Only subtraction may be performed. For example, when the execution number KS is 650 before the measurement time T1 exceeds the predetermined time TS, the execution number KS is controlled to be 301 when the measurement time T1 reaches the predetermined time TS. The CPU 29a may subtract 349 times. Note that the number of subtractions by the overall CPU 29a may be set arbitrarily.

  In the embodiment, the initial setting (KS = 0) of the number of executions KS of the symbol combination game may not be performed. That is, the number of executions KS may be the cumulative number of symbol combination games executed since the power was turned on. Even with this configuration, regardless of the number of executions of the jackpot game effect, the player can see a new game effect when the number of executions KS of the symbol combination game exceeds the threshold value. Therefore, it is possible to give all the players a chance to see new game effects fairly and at an appropriate frequency.

-In the said embodiment, you may make it perform the initial setting (KS = 0) of execution frequency KS of a symbol combination game after the end of a big hit game.
In the above embodiment, the overall CPU 29a functions as a counting unit, but the main CPU 25a having a backup function may function as the counting unit. With this configuration, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is unexpectedly turned off (for example, a power failure in a game hall), the player can execute the symbol combination game before the power is turned off when the power is turned on again. The game can be resumed from the number of times KS.

  In the above embodiment, each time the symbol combination game execution count KS exceeds the threshold, the number of types of effect content patterns that are allowed to be selected is increased. Good. For example, if the pattern group selected by the overall CPU 29a shifts in the order of pattern groups A → B → C → D, the type of effect content pattern that is allowed to be selected increases every time the pattern group is shifted from 1 → 2 → 3. You may do it.

  In the embodiment, each threshold value (300 times, 600 times, 900 times) of the number of times KS of the symbol combination game is executed is every 300 times, but each threshold value is set to be every 200 times or 400 times. May be. That is, each threshold value may be set to an arbitrary number of executions. Further, although three threshold values are provided, the number of threshold values may be arbitrarily changed.

  In the above embodiment, even if the pattern groups A to D are changed (pattern groups A → B → C → D), the effect content pattern EP stored in the pattern groups A to D before the change is changed. All the subsequent pattern groups A to D are configured to always be distributed and stored. For example, in the pattern group B, only the production content patterns EP2 and EP3 may be distributed and stored. That is, when the pattern group A shifts to the pattern group B, the overall CPU 29a may restrict the selection of the effect content pattern EP1.

  In the embodiment, when the pattern group selected by the overall CPU 29a shifts in the order of pattern group A → B → C → D, an effect content pattern that can be newly selected (for example, the effect content pattern in pattern group B) In the distribution determination value (for example, distribution determination value EP3-B) corresponding to EP3), 50 kinds of integers are set. However, the integers set in the distribution determination value need not be 50. For example, in the case of pattern group B, 140 integers are set as the distribution determination value, 80 integers are set as the distribution determination value EP2-B, and 30 integers are set as the distribution determination value EP3-B. It may be.

  In the embodiment described above, five types of effect content patterns EP1 to EP5 are set, but the type of effect content pattern EP may be arbitrarily changed. The production content patterns EP1 to EP5 relate to animal characters (dogs, cats, horses, cows, monkeys), but may relate to characters of designs other than animals.

Next, the technical idea that can be grasped from the above embodiment and other examples will be described below.
(A) Any one of claims 1 to 4 further comprising a notifying means for notifying the number of executions of the remaining game effects until the control means allows the selection means to select the specific game effect pattern. A gaming machine according to claim 1.

  (B) Notification for notifying the number of executions of the game effect for allowing selection of the specific game effect pattern defined by the threshold and the number of executions of the game effect at the current time defined by the count value The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising means.

  (C) The time measurement adjustment means for temporarily stopping or resuming the time measurement in the time measurement means based on an operation by the player, further comprising a time measurement adjustment means according to claim 4 or the technical thoughts (a) and (b). Gaming machine.

The front view which shows the machine surface side of a pachinko machine. The block diagram which shows the control structure of a pachinko gaming machine. Production content pattern table for outlier reach production. 6 is a flowchart for explaining execution number initial setting processing. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an outlier reach pattern determination process.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine (game machine), 21 ... Variable display (notification means), 25 ... Main control board, 29 ... Overall control board, 29a ... Overall CPU (selection means, determination means, counting means, control means, time) Measurement means, time determination means, initial setting means), 29b... ROM (storage means), EP, EP1 to EP5 ... effect content pattern (game effect pattern), H ... display area (notification means), KS ... number of executions (total) (Numerical value), T1 ... measurement time, TS ... predetermined time.

Claims (4)

In the gaming machine in which the game effect is executed based on the game effect pattern selected when the start condition is satisfied,
Storage means for storing a plurality of types of game effect patterns having different game effect contents;
A selection means for selecting a game effect pattern for executing a game effect from among the game effect patterns stored in the storage means, triggered by the establishment of the start condition;
Counting means for counting the number of executions of the game effect from a predetermined time;
Determination means for determining whether or not the count value of the counting means exceeds a preset threshold;
Regarding a specific game effect pattern stored in the storage means, when the determination result of the determination means is negative, the selection by the selection means is restricted while the determination result of the determination means is A gaming machine comprising control means for allowing selection by the selection means in the case of an affirmative determination. The threshold value is set so that a plurality of threshold values form steps, and the control means allows the selection means to select each time the count value of the counting means reaches a threshold value of one step. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the number of types of patterns is increased. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined time is a time when the power of the gaming machine is turned on. Time measuring means for measuring a time during which a game is not performed, time determining means for determining whether or not a measurement time of the time measuring means has reached a predetermined time, and a determination result of the time determining means The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising initial setting means for initially setting a count value of the counting means in the case of an affirmative determination.

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