JP2005131125A5 - - Google Patents

Description

Game machine

The present invention is pre-determined to determine the identity of the plurality of types can be identified, each with a variable display device variably displaying a display result of the variable display device for the derivation previously displayed on the basis of the establishment of a predetermined start condition Means, display control means for performing display control of the variable display device based on the determination result by the prior determination means, and identification based on the display result of the variable display device being a predetermined specific display result A variable winning device that can be changed between a first state advantageous to the player and a second state disadvantageous to the player in a mode, and a plurality of passing areas that are provided in the variable winning device and through which game balls can pass; Table the specific display result to the variable display device when the provided, that said specific display results display result of the identification information is variably displayed on the variable display device is determined by the pre-determination means After, it relates the variable winning device gaming machine for generating specific game state capable of executing a round for controlling the first state to a predetermined upper limit number of times at the specific embodiments.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine equipped with a variable display device that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition, a specific display result is displayed on the variable display device. Based on the function of generating the first big hit and opening the first big winning opening based on the fact that the game ball has passed the second specific area of the second big winning opening, the second big hit is generated and the second big hit Some have a function of opening a winning opening (see Patent Document 1).

  In addition, a function for opening the second grand prize opening based on the display of a specific display result on the variable display device, and the opening of the second big prize opening based on a game ball winning in a predetermined starting area. And a function for causing a big hit based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the second specific area of the second big prize opening, and opening the first big prize opening (see Patent Document 2). .

In addition, a function for generating a big hit based on the display of a specific display result on the variable display device and a function for generating a small hit based on the display of a reach display result on the variable display device are provided. (See Patent Document 3).
JP 2002-165981 A (pages 11-15, FIG. 2) JP 2003-144670 A (page 10-11, FIG. 3) JP-A-8-336644 (page 7, FIG. 4)

  In the above-described gaming machine of Patent Document 1, since the second big prize opening is opened regardless of the display result of the variable display device, the interest in gaming has not been improved. Further, in the gaming machine of Patent Document 2, when the second big prize opening is opened based on the display of the special display result on the variable display device, the big hit is made when the game ball does not pass through the second specific area. Therefore, there was no excitement when a special display result was displayed on the variable display device. In addition, in the gaming machine of Patent Document 3, since only a small prize ball is obtained even if a small hit occurs based on the reach display result displayed on the variable display device, the interest in gaming is improved. It wasn't something to do. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that enhances the interest of a player by providing a function of performing transition control to a plurality of types of specific gaming states.

In order to achieve the above-described object, in the invention according to claim 1, a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified on the basis of establishment of a predetermined start condition (for example, a game ball wins a start winning opening 13). (e.g., special symbol 9a to 9c) the variable display, variable display device (e.g., variable display device 8) and, prior determination means for determining a display result of the variable display device for the derivation previously displayed (e.g., the CPU56 A function for determining whether a special display result (whether or not to win) is performed based on the big hit determination random number when executing the special symbol normal processing (step S303), and the prior determination means display control means for, based on the determination result controls the display of the variable display device (e.g., display control CPU mounted to the display control board 80) and the display result of the variable display device is previously fixed The first state (for example, the second variable winning device) that is advantageous to the player in the specific mode (for example, the first mode) based on the specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol: “777”, etc.) 20 variable pieces 21 (open state) and a variable second prize state (for example, second variable) that can be changed to a second state disadvantageous to the player (for example, the closed state of the movable piece 21 of the second variable prize device 20). A winning device 20) and a plurality of passing areas (for example, a winning area including a V winning opening 28) provided in the variable winning device, through which the game ball can pass, and the variable display device by the prior determination means When it is determined that the display result of the identification information that is variably displayed is the specific display result, the specific display result is displayed on the variable display device, and then the variable winning device is displayed in the specific mode in the first mode. In the state of In a gaming machine that generates a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) that can be executed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, 15 times), the display result is referred to as the specific display result by the prior determination means. After the special display result is displayed on the variable display device when it is determined that different special display results (for example, reach display results), the variable winning device is more disadvantageous for the player than the specific mode. In a special mode (for example, the second mode), the game ball that has been controlled to the first state and won the variable winning device has a predetermined passing area (for example, V winning) among the plurality of passing areas. The specific gaming state is generated based on passing through the mouth 28).

  In the invention according to claim 1, the variable winning device is controlled to the first state even when a special display result different from the specific display result is displayed on the variable display device, and the game ball has a specific passing area. In order to generate a specific gaming state based on the passing, even when a special display result is displayed, the expectation for the specific gaming state is maintained over a long period of time depending on whether or not the game ball passes a specific passing area. Can be sustained. That is, even when the variable winning device is controlled to the first state in the special mode based on the display of the special display result on the variable display device, the variable winning device is controlled to the first state in the specific mode. Since there is a possibility that a specific gaming state occurs, it is possible to improve the expectation for a special display result.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a second type of ball game machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the ball game machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The bullet ball gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the bullet ball gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape provided in the gaming frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. And the board 6).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the ball game machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Below the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls to the game area 7. . A game board 6 is detachably attached to the front frame located on the back side of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been driven can flow down.

  Two speakers 48 for generating sound effects and sounds are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame lamp 40, a left frame lamp 41, and a right frame lamp 42 are provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7. In this embodiment, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls below the left speaker 48 is provided, and a ball that lights when the supply ball is cut below the right speaker 48. A cut lamp 52 is provided. Further, in the ball game machine 1 of this embodiment, a card unit 43 is provided adjacently to enable a ball lending by inserting a prepaid card. Further, a hitting ball launching device 45 that launches a game ball into the game area 7 using the rotational force of the drive motor is provided. The game ball launched from the hitting ball launching device 45 enters the game area 7 through the guide rail 16 and then descends the game area 7. Then, the game balls that have not won any winning opening are taken into the out opening 47 provided at the lower part of the gaming area 7 and guided to the back of the gaming board 6.

  FIG. 2 is a front view showing the game board 6. On the surface of the game board 6, a guide rail 16 for guiding the launched game ball is planted in a substantially circular shape, and a region partitioned by the guide rail 16 forms a game region 7. Near the upper center of the game area 7, a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols 9 a to 9 c), each of which can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition (for example, a hitting ball enters the start winning opening 13). ) Variable display (variable display) and a variable display device 8 for deriving and displaying the display result. The variable display device 8 of the present embodiment is configured by a liquid crystal display (LCD), and variably displays images called special symbols 9a to 9c.

  Note that the ball game machine 1 according to the present embodiment is variable when the advance determination means described later determines that the display result of the variable display device 8 is a predetermined display result (for example, “777”). After displaying the specific display result on the display device 8, a big hit game state is generated as a specific game state advantageous to the player. In the big hit gaming state, a second variable winning device 20 described later passes a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) in a predetermined first mode (for example, the movable piece 21 is controlled to open and close 18 times) or a predetermined number of games. Open control is performed until the ball wins.

  Next, the reach state will be described. In the present embodiment, the reach state means that when the stopped symbol constitutes a part of the jackpot symbol, the symbols that have not been stopped yet are variablely displayed (variable display) and all or one of them. This is a state in which the symbols of the part are variably displayed synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol.

  In this embodiment, a variable display device 8 having a plurality of predetermined display areas (three in this embodiment) has an effective line that is a hit when a predetermined symbol is stopped, A state in which variable display is being performed in a display area on the active line that has not been stopped when a predetermined symbol is stopped in a part of the display area on the active line (for example, left, middle, (In the right display area, the left and right display areas are part of the jackpot symbol (for example, “7”) is stopped and the right display area is still in variable display) , And all or a part of the display area on the active line is variably displayed synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol (for example, in all of the left, middle and right display areas) Variable display is done, always Refers to a state) the variable display is performed in a state where one symbol are aligned.

  In addition, when the variable display of the display area on the active line that has not been stopped in the reach state described above is stopped, the display result in which the design different from that of the other display area on the active line is displayed is displayed as a reach. It is called a result, and a display result in which the same symbol as that of the other display area on the active line is displayed is called a specific display result. In this embodiment, a second variable winning device 20 (to be described later) based on the display result of the variable display device 8 being a reach display result is different from the first mode described above (for example, the movable piece 21). Is controlled to open until a predetermined period (for example, 1 second) elapses.

  Note that the first aspect described above is not limited to the above-described control as long as it is more advantageous for the player than the second aspect. For example, in the first mode, the extension control of the opening time of the second variable winning device 20, the increase control of the number of opening times of the second variable winning device 20 per predetermined time, the movable range of the movable piece 21 in the second variable winning device 20. It is sufficient to make the state more advantageous to the player than in the second mode by executing control based on one or any combination of expansion control (the opening range of the movable piece 21 is wide).

  In addition, during the reach, an unusual effect may be performed with a lamp or sound. This production is called reach production. Further, in the case of reach, a character (an effect display imitating a person or the like, which is different from a design) may be displayed, or the background display mode may be changed. This change in character display and background display mode is called reach effect display.

  A first variable winning device 12 having a start winning opening 13 is arranged on the lower left side of the game area 7. The game ball that has won the start winning opening 13 (start winning prize) is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 62. When a game ball is detected by the start port switch 62, a predetermined random number value is extracted unless the start memory number of the special symbols 9a to 9c reaches the maximum value. If the variable display device 8 can start variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c (for example, the previous variable display end or the big hit gaming state end), the variable display device 8 can change the special symbols 9a to 9c. Display starts. That is, on the condition that the game ball has won the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 62, the variable display device 8 performs variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c, and displays and displays the display results. Further, the first variable winning device 12 is driven to open and close by a solenoid 68.

  A second variable winning device 20 is arranged below the variable display device 8 (near the center of the game area 7). The second variable prize-winning device 20 includes a pair of left and right movable pieces 21 that can be opened and closed with a solenoid 69 as a fulcrum. As described above, the second variable winning device 20 controls the opening and closing of the movable piece 21 based on the display result of the variable display device 8, and the first state in which the game ball can be received and the second state in which the game ball cannot be received. Change to the state.

  In this embodiment, control is performed to open the movable piece 21 by exciting the solenoid 69 as the first state in which the game ball can be received, and the movable piece 21 as the second state in which the game ball cannot be received. Is controlled to be closed. The first state in which the game ball can be received and the second state in which the game ball cannot be received are not limited to those described above, and the winning probability for the second variable winning device 20 is higher than that in the second state. The state that can be improved may be the first state. For example, a guiding member or the like may be provided, and the game ball may be guided to the winning area of the second variable winning device 20 by the guiding member when the first state is reached.

  On the upper part of the second variable winning device 20, a normal symbol display 15 composed of 7-segment LEDs is provided. The normal symbol display 15 can variably display a plurality of types of identification information called normal symbols based on the establishment of a predetermined condition. In this embodiment, the first variable winning device 12 is opened only once for a predetermined period (for example, 0.5 seconds) when the display result of the normal symbol when the variable display is stopped becomes a display result indicating winning. It becomes.

  Further, a gate 10 a is arranged on the lower left side of the variable display device 8, and a gate 10 b is arranged on the lower right side of the variable display device 8. The gate 10a is provided with a gate switch 61 to detect a game ball that has passed through the gate 10a. When a game ball is detected by the gate switch 61, a predetermined random number value is extracted unless the starting memory number of the normal symbol has reached the maximum value. If the normal symbol display 15 can start variable display of the normal symbol (for example, the previous variable display end), the normal symbol display 15 starts variable display of the normal symbol. That is, on the condition that the game ball passes through the gate 10a and is detected by the gate switch 61, the normal symbol display 15 performs variable display of the normal symbol, and the display result is derived and displayed.

  On the left side of the game area, special symbol start memory indicators 11a to 11d, which are constituted by four lamps and display the number of effective winnings won in the start winning opening 13, that is, the start memory number of the special symbols 9a to 9c, are provided. ing. The special symbol start memory indicators 11a to 11d turn on the lamp every time there is an effective start prize (a start prize when the number of start symbols of the special symbols 9a to 9c is less than 4), and the variable display device 8 causes the special symbol to be displayed. Each time the variable display of 9a to 9c is started, one lit lamp is turned off. In this embodiment, the special symbol start memory display 11a is turned on when the number of start memories of the special symbols 9a to 9c is 1, and the special symbol start memory display when the number of start memories of the special symbols 9a to 9c is 2. The devices 11a and 11b are turned on. That is, the number of lamps to be lit is increased as the number of starting memories of the special symbols 9a to 9c increases. The variable display device 8 is configured to reduce the number of lamps to be turned on each time variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c is started.

  Further, on the right side of the game area, there are provided normal symbol start memory indicators 14a to 14d which are constituted by four lamps and display the number of effective passages that have passed through the gate 10a, that is, the start memory number of normal symbols. The normal symbol start memory indicators 14a to 14d turn on the lamp each time the game ball passes the gate 10a when the passage of the gate 10a is effective (when the normal symbol start memory number is less than 4). Each time the variable display of the normal symbol is started on the symbol display 15, one lamp that is lit is extinguished. In this embodiment, when the normal symbol start memory number is 1, the normal symbol start memory indicator 14a is turned on, and when the normal symbol start memory number is 2, the normal symbol start memory indicators 14a and 14b are turned on. Let In other words, the number of lamps to be lit is increased as the number of starting memories for normal symbols increases. The number of lamps to be lit is reduced every time the normal symbol display 15 starts variable display of the normal symbols.

  In this embodiment, the special symbol start memory indicators 11a to 11d and the normal symbol start memory indicators 14a to 14d are constituted by four lamps, and the maximum number of special symbols 9a to 9d and the normal symbol start memory is increased. The value is 4, but is not limited to this. For example, the maximum value of the starting memory number of both or one of the special symbols 9a to 9c and the normal symbol may be 20. In this case, the special symbol starting memory indicator 11 and the normal symbol starting memory indicator 14 are used. Alternatively, the number of lamps constituting the lamp may be set to 20, or the start memory number may be displayed by a 7-segment LED, the variable display device 8, or the like.

  Next, the second variable winning device 20 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. In the second variable winning device 20 of this embodiment, an upper winning area 22 and a lower winning area 29 are formed with the upper stage 23 as a boundary. A pair of left and right movable pieces 21 are provided on the left and right sides of the upper winning area 22 so as to be opened and closed by a solenoid 69 with the lower portion as a fulcrum, and the movable pieces 21 are opened on the left and right sides of the upper winning area 22. Accordingly, a count switch 63 is provided for detecting a game ball won in the second variable winning device 20 based on the above, in other words, a game ball won in the upper winning area 22. The upper stage 23 is configured by a member having an inclined surface shape that guides the game ball won in the upper winning area 22 to the center and then rolls backward, and an opening is formed on the rear side of the center of the upper stage 23. Thus, the game ball rolling on the upper stage 23 can fall into the lower winning area 29.

  A movable member 24 having a concave movable stage 25 is provided in the approximate center of the upper winning area 22. The movable member 24 is connected to a pair of left and right rotating shaft members 27 that rotate as the motor 66 is driven, and the rotating stage member 27 rotates in the center direction so that the movable stage 25 is positioned below the upper stage 23. The movable stage 25 is movably provided at the storage position and the storage release position where the movable shaft 25 is positioned above the upper stage 23 by rotating the rotary shaft member 27 outward. Normally, the movable stage 25 stops at the storage release position, and the game ball rolling on the upper stage 23 falls into the lower winning area 29. However, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the movable stage 25 is The game ball rolling on the upper stage 23 by stopping at the ball storage position is stored in the upper part of the movable stage 25 without falling into the lower prize area 29. Since the movable stage 25 is arranged in a state of being inclined rearward, the game balls stored in the movable stage 25 are prevented from returning backward from the movable stage 25.

  The lower winning area 29 is provided with a lower stage 30 that receives the game ball dropped from the upper stage 23 and rolls it forward. Below the lower stage 30 is provided a V winning opening 28 that moves in the left-right direction at a constant speed as the motor 67 is driven, and the V winning opening 28 is a game ball that has won the V winning opening 28 (V winning). A V winning switch 64 is provided for detecting. When the predetermined condition described above is satisfied and the movable stage 25 stops at the ball storage position, the V winning opening 28 is stopped at the center. Further, behind the lower stage 30, the movable stage 25 stops at the ball storage position, stores the game balls in the movable stage 25, and then stops at the storage release position, so that the lower winning area 29 is reached from the rear of the movable stage 25. A guiding area 26 is provided for guiding the game ball that has fallen to the V winning opening 28. When the movable stage 25 is not stopped at the ball storage position, the game ball rolling on the upper stage 23 falls directly on the lower stage 30 and therefore does not pass through the guiding area 26. As described above, the game ball guided to the V winning opening 28 by the guiding area 26 is configured to be easier to win the V winning opening 28 than the gaming ball not guided to the V winning opening 28 by the guiding area 26. Yes.

  In the above-mentioned big hit gaming state, the second variable winning device 20 is controlled to open and close in the above-described first mode. Then, when the movable ball 21 of the second variable winning device 20 is in the open state, the game ball wins a specific winning area (V winning opening 28) and is detected by the V winning switch 64, the big hit gaming state is continued. Rights are generated. That is, after the movable piece 21 of the second variable winning device 20 is closed, the movable piece 21 is again opened. In the big hit gaming state, a plurality of rounds with an upper limit of a predetermined number of times (15 in this embodiment) are executed. In addition, it is one round from the movable piece 21 of the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 20 becoming an open state until the movable piece 21 becomes a closed state.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the continuation right of the big hit gaming state is likely to occur, that is, the high probability round that the game ball is likely to win the V winning opening 28, and the continuation right of the big hit gaming state is difficult to occur. The game ball has a function of controlling the transition to a low-probability round in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the V winning opening 28. The number of executions of the high-probability round (the number of executions of the high-probability round) is set to 0, 2, 6, 14, and is determined as any one when the game ball wins the start winning opening 13. When the number of executions of the high probability round is reached in the big hit gaming state, the low probability round is executed for the subsequent rounds. In other words, the number of round executions in the jackpot gaming state (number of jackpot round executions) is the total number of executions of the high-probability round and the low-probability round. In this embodiment, the number of jackpot round executions is 1 3, 7 and 15 times. If a game ball wins the V winning opening 28 during execution of the low probability round, a continuation right is generated, but the next round to be executed is a low probability round.

  In this embodiment, until the number of executions of the high probability round described above is reached, the internal structure of the second variable prize-winning device 20 is controlled so as to easily win the game ball in the V winning opening 28, and the high probability round When the number of executions is reached and the low probability round is executed in the subsequent rounds, the game ball is controlled so that it is difficult to win the V winning opening 28. For example, in the high-probability round, the movable stage 25 is stopped at the ball storage position so that a game ball can be stored in the movable stage 25, and the V winning opening 28 is stopped at the center. When a predetermined number of game balls have been detected or a predetermined number of game balls have been detected by the count switch 63, control is performed to move to the storage release position. In the low probability round, the movable stage 25 is always stopped at the storage release position and the V winning opening 28 is controlled to move in the left-right direction.

  As described above, in the high probability round, when the game ball stored in the movable stage 25 falls into the lower prize area 29, the game ball is guided to the center of the lower stage 30 by passing through the guidance area 26, and the center. The game ball is in a state in which it is easy to win a prize at the V winning opening 28 that is stopped. On the other hand, in the low probability round, the game ball is not stored in the movable stage 25 and falls directly onto the lower stage 30 from the upper stage 23, so that it is not guided to the center of the lower stage 30. Further, since the V winning opening 28 moves in the left-right direction, it is difficult for the game ball to win the V winning opening 28.

  In this embodiment, the number of executions of the high-probability round is determined when a game ball wins at the start winning opening 13, and when the number of executions of the high-probability round is reached in the big hit gaming state, Is executed. In other words, when the number of executions of the high probability round is reached, the game ball is won in the V winning opening 28 by changing the internal structure of the second variable prize-winning device 20 in rounds subsequent to the next round to be executed. It is configured to control to a difficult state.

  Note that the jackpot gaming state may be forcibly terminated by performing a soft reset after reaching the number of rounds executed in the jackpot gaming state without changing the internal structure. For example, the CPU 56 mounted on the main board 31 extracts a random number for determining the number of times of execution at the time of starting winning, and determines that the display result of the variable display device 8 is the specific display result in the special symbol normal process (step S303). The number of rounds executed in the jackpot gaming state determined based on what has been done is determined. When it is determined in the jackpot end process (step S313) that the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game state has been reached, the specific game state is ended, and the special symbol normal process (step S303) is performed. You may make it control so that it may perform.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of the circuit configuration of the ball game machine 1 according to the present embodiment. A basic circuit 53 for controlling the ball game machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The basic circuit 53 transmits a control signal to a ROM 54 that stores a game control program, a RAM 55 that is used as a work memory, a CPU 56 that controls a game signal according to the program, a display control board 80, and the like. An I / O port unit 57 is included. Since the CPU 56 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the CPU 56 executes (or performs processing) hereinafter, specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. is there. The same applies to CPUs mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31. The game control means used in this embodiment is a peripheral circuit such as the CPU 56, ROM 54, RAM 55, I / O port 57, etc. mounted on the main board 31.

  In addition, signals from the gate switch 61, the start port switch 62, the count switch 63, the V winning switch 64, the clear switch 65, the full switch (not shown), and the count switch short circuit signal (not shown) are given to the basic circuit 53. A solenoid circuit 33 for driving a switch circuit 32, a solenoid 68 for opening / closing the first variable prize-winning device 12, a solenoid 69 for opening / closing the movable piece 21 provided in the second variable prize-winning device 20, and the like according to a command from the basic circuit 53, A motor 66 that drives the rotary shaft member 27, a motor 67 that moves the V winning opening 28 to the left and right, etc., according to a command from the basic circuit 53, a system reset for resetting the basic circuit 53 when the power is turned on Circuit (not shown), according to the data given from the basic circuit 53 An information output circuit 35 for outputting an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  The display control means (display control CPU (not shown)) provided on the display control board 80 based on commands from game control means (peripheral circuits such as the CPU 56 and ROM 54, RAM 55) provided on the main board 31. RAM (not shown), ROM (not shown), I / O port unit (not shown), and other peripheral circuits control the display of the variable display device 8 to control the display of the variable display device 8. . Further, in this embodiment, sound control means (display control CPU (not shown), RAM (not shown), ROM (not shown), I / O port section (not shown) provided on the display control board 80 are provided. The sound output control of the speaker 48 is controlled by a peripheral circuit such as a peripheral circuit such as a lamp control means (display control CPU (not shown), RAM (not shown)) provided on the display control board 80. (Not shown), ROM (not shown), I / O port (not shown), etc., provided in the ball game machine 1 by a function of controlling lamps / LEDs provided in the ball game machine 1 by peripheral circuits. The light emission control of the lamp / LED is performed. Note that the display control means, audio control means, and lamp control means may be collectively referred to as effect control means. Also, a display control command (control signal) is transmitted from the main board 31 as command information related to display control of the variable display device 8, lamp / LED lighting control, and control of effects such as generation of game sounds.

  Next, the gaming operation performed in the ball game machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. A game ball launched from the hitting ball launching device 45 by the player operating the hitting operation handle 5 enters the game area 7 through the guide rail 16, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 62, the big hit determination random number and the execution number determination random number are extracted as predetermined random number values. The big hit determination random number is numerical data for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display device 8 is set as the specific display result based on whether or not it matches a predetermined determination value determined in advance by a pre-determination means described later. It is. The execution number determination random number is numerical data for determining the number of executions of the high-probability round executed in the big hit gaming state executed when the big hit determination random number matches a predetermined determination value.

  If the variable display device 8 can start variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c (for example, the end of the previous variable display or the end of the big hit gaming state), the variable display device 8 can display the special symbols 9a to 9c. Start variable display of. If the special symbols 9a to 9c cannot be variably displayed, the starting memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c on the variable display device 8 stops when a certain time has elapsed. When the special symbols 9a to 9c at the time of stop become a big hit symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a big hit gaming state. That is, the movable piece 21 of the second variable prize-winning device 20 is detected by the count switch 63 until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses in the first mode described above, or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls. Control to open until it is done. Then, when a game ball wins the V winning opening 28 and is detected by the V winning switch 64 while the second variable winning device 20 is opened, a continuation right is generated and the second variable winning device 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  When the special symbols 9a to 9c in the variable display device 8 at the time of stoppage are jackpot symbols with a probability variation (first specific display result: probability variation symbols), the probability of winning next after the jackpot gaming state is increased. . That is, it becomes a more advantageous state (special game state) for the player, which is the probability variation state.

  In addition, the bullet ball game machine 1 of this embodiment is controlled to a normal game state different from a special game state and a specific game state (for example, a big hit game state) which will be described later at a normal time when no special control is performed. And the specific display result which will be in a specific game state includes the first specific display result (probability variation symbol) and the second specific display result (non-probability variation symbol) other than the first specific display result. The gaming machine 1 enters the specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) after displaying the first specific display result on the variable display device 8 when the pre-determining means described later determines that the display result is the first specific display result. It also has a function of controlling to a probable change state as a special game state in which the display result is more likely to be a specific display result than the normal game state (the probability of winning is high) after the big hit game state.

  In addition, you may make it make a more advantageous state for a player by controlling to a short time state as a special game state. In the short time state, the variable display device 8 and the normal symbol display 15 have variable display times (variable display time) until the variable display (variable display) of the special symbols 9a to 9c on the variable display device 8 is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times). (Variation time) is shortened from the normal gaming state. Further, in the first variable winning device 12, one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening are set higher than the normal gaming state. When the opening time or the number of times of opening of the first variable winning device 12 is increased from the normal gaming state, it becomes easy to generate a starting winning in the starting winning port 13, and the special symbols 9a to 9a in the variable display device 8 within a predetermined period. Since the number of variable displays of 9c increases and the probability that the special symbols 9a to 9c will hit the symbol or reach display result is higher than the normal gaming state, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player.

  Further, the special game state is not limited to the above, and the game control that is advantageous to the player may be set to the special game state. Hereinafter, this game control will be described separately for those not directly related to the jackpot and those directly related to the jackpot. That is, the special game state added to the specific game state may be a special game state different from the specific game state, or may be a special game state including the specific game state. First, game controls that are not directly related to the jackpot include special symbol 9a-9c or normal symbol time reduction (short time) control or probability variation (probability change) control, electric role (for example, the first variable prize) Control of extension of the opening period of the device 12 or the second variable winning device 20), control of expansion of the start passage area with respect to the special symbol or the normal symbol (for example, the special symbol 9a to 9c for the winning opening installed in the game board 6) Control to change the setting as the starting winning opening), increase control of the number of prize balls (for example, control to increase the number of prize balls accompanying the prize from 13 in the normal gaming state to 15), or improve the passing rate to a predetermined area Control (for example, a control for providing a hitting ball restricting device upstream of the start winning opening 13 and improving the start winning rate by the operation of the hitting ball restricting device) can be in a special gaming state. Variable display based on When the present invention is applied to the third type ball game machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric accessory that is released when the symbol of the symbol to be stopped becomes a combination of the predetermined symbol The winning rate improvement control for a specific area may be in a special gaming state. On the other hand, the game control directly related to the jackpot is accompanied by control for improving the upper limit number of rounds, control for improving the upper limit number of counts, control for opening / extending the second variable winning device 20, or winning the second variable winning device 20. The increase control of the number of prize balls can be set to a special game state. Needless to say, the above-described game control can be combined into a special game state. Furthermore, the entry into the special gaming state (establishment of the predetermined condition) and the end timing are not limited to those described in the present embodiment, but a random number, a game history (for example, time, reach number, predetermined winning opening) The number of winnings, the number of passing, etc.), winnings, and subgames (including those that can be selected by the player themselves, such as janken), or any one or any combination is entered or terminated Anything can be set as a trigger.

  When the display result of the special symbols 9a to 9c when the variable display device 8 is stopped is the reach display result, the second variable winning device 20 is controlled to open and close in the above-described second mode. That is, the movable piece 21 of the second variable winning device 20 is controlled to be in an open state until a predetermined period (for example, 1 second) elapses in the second mode. When a game ball that has won a prize when the movable piece 21 of the second variable prize-winning device 20 is in an open state, a specific gaming state is generated when the V-winning slot 28 wins. In this embodiment, the number of executions of the high-probability round executed in the specific gaming state when a game ball wins the V winning opening 28 is determined, and until the determined number of executions of the high-probability round elapses. In the first mode, the movable piece 21 of the variable winning device 20 is controlled to be opened and closed until a predetermined period elapses or until a predetermined number of game balls are detected by the count switch 63.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an interrupt process (2m timer interrupt process) executed every 2 mS in the main process executed by the CPU 56. In a predetermined register (time constant register) of the CTC provided in the CPU 56, a value corresponding to 2 mS is set as a predetermined value. For this reason, a timer interrupt occurs every 2 mS, and the CPU 56 executes the processes of steps S20 to S35 shown in FIG.

  In the 2m timer interrupt process, the CPU 56 performs the game saving process of steps S21 to S34 after performing the register saving process (step S20). In the game control process, the CPU 56 first has a gate switch 61 provided in the gate 10a, a start port switch 62 provided in the start winning port 13, a count switch 63 provided in the second variable winning device 20, and a V winning port. The detection signals of the switches such as the V winning switch 64 provided at 28 are input, and their state is determined (step S21).

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (step S22). Next, the CPU 56 further performs processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (steps S23 and S24). A jackpot determination random number for determining whether or not the jackpot gaming state is set and a display result (a jackpot symbol) of the special symbols 9a to 9c derived and displayed on the variable display device 8 when the jackpot gaming state is entered. A random number for determining whether or not to win in the normal symbol display 15, a random number for determining the number of executions for determining the number of executions of the high probability round executed in the big hit gaming state, , Is a random number for determination, a random pattern for determining the variation pattern of the special symbols 9a to 9c, and a loss symbol for determining the display results (missing symbols) of the special symbols 9a to 9c when the big hit gaming state is not achieved. The determination random number and the reach determination random number for determining whether or not to reach when the big hit gaming state is not achieved are display random numbers.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S25). In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the ball game machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S26). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 15 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting an effect control command related to the special symbols 9a to 9c in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and transmitting the effect control command (special symbol command control process: step S27). In addition, a process for transmitting an effect control command by setting an effect control command related to the normal symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 is performed (normal symbol command control process: step S28). Furthermore, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (Sstep S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the prize opening switches of a plurality of prize openings provided in the game board 6 (step S30). Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is transmitted to the payout control board 36 in response to winning detection based on the fact that any of the plurality of winning opening switches is turned on. A payout control CPU (not shown) mounted on the payout control board 36 drives the ball payout device 44 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a storage process for checking increase / decrease in the number of numerical data stored in the RAM 55 (step S31). Further, a test terminal process, which is a process of outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the ball game machine 1 to be confirmed outside the ball game machine 1, is executed (step S32). Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 33 (step S33). In order to put the first variable winning device 12 or the second variable winning device 20 into an open state or a closed state, the solenoid circuit 33 drives one of the solenoids according to a drive command. Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S34), and the interrupt permission state is set (step S35).

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

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the special symbol process executed in step 25 of the 2 ms timer interrupt process shown in FIG. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 executes the start determination process (step S301) and the V winning determination process (step S302), and then performs any one of steps S303 to S313 according to the internal state. Execute.

  In the start determination process (step S301), the CPU 56 checks whether the numerical data storage number (starting storage number) stored in the RAM 55 has reached the upper limit, and stores the numerical data storage number stored in the RAM 55. If the maximum value is not reached, the number of numerical data stored in the RAM 55 is increased by one. Each numerical data such as a big hit determination random number and an execution frequency determination random number is obtained from numerical data update means (for example, the function of updating (counting up) the numerical data of the CPU 56 (big hit determination random number, etc.): step S22). (Random number) values are extracted and stored in the RAM 55. Note that extracting numeric data (random numbers) means reading a count value from a counter for generating numeric data (random numbers) and using the read count value as a value of the numeric data (random number value).

  In the V winning determination process (step S302), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the V winning switch 64 is turned on. When the V winning switch 64 is turned on, it is determined whether or not the big hit gaming state is in effect. Confirm. When it is not in the big hit gaming state, a random number for determining the number of executions is extracted, and the number of executions of the high probability round executed in the big hit gaming state is determined. During the big hit gaming state, the round number counter that counts the number of rounds in the big hit gaming state is incremented by 1, and the round number counter has executed 15 rounds that is the maximum number of rounds executed in the big hit gaming state When the value becomes a value indicating that, the process of forcibly terminating the big hit gaming state is executed.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S303): Wait until the variable symbols of special symbols 9a to 9c can be displayed. When the CPU 56 is in a state where variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c can be started, the CPU 56 checks the number of numerical data stored in the RAM 55 (starting storage number). That is, it is confirmed whether or not there is a start memory. If the number of numerical data stored is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win as a result of variable display of special symbols 9a to 9c (whether or not to give a specific display result). The number of executions of the high probability round is determined based on the random number for determining the number of times. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S304.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting processing (step S304): The stop symbols of the special symbols 9a to 9c after variable display are determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S305.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S305): A variable display variation pattern (variable display pattern) of special symbols 9a to 9c is selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns (variable display) according to the value of the variation pattern determination random number extracted at the time of starting winning. Pattern). Also, based on the determined variation pattern, after setting the variable display time (variation time) until the special symbols 9a to 9c are variably displayed and displayed in the special symbol process timer, the special symbol process timer is set to Start it. At this time, information (special symbol designation command) for instructing a stop symbol of special symbols 9a to 9c and information (variation pattern command) for instructing a variation mode (variation pattern) are transmitted to the display control board 80. Is done. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306. The variation pattern command that indicates the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process is transmitted to the display control board 80 in the special symbol command control process (step S27).

  Special symbol variation processing (step S306): When a predetermined time has elapsed (the special symbol process timer set in step S305 has timed out), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S307.

  Special symbol stop process (step S307): Control is performed so that the special symbols 9a to 9c variably displayed on the variable display device 8 are stopped. Specifically, it is set to a state in which an effect control command (confirmation command) indicating a special symbol stop is transmitted. If the display result of the special symbols 9a to 9c becomes a big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S311 and the display results of the special symbols 9a to 9c are reach-displayed. If the result is obtained, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S308. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S303.

  Opening / closing member opening / closing pre-processing (step S308): Waiting for the movable piece 21 to be in an openable / closable state. Specifically, the motor 66 is driven to stop the movable stage 25 at the storage release position, and the time until the movable piece 21 is opened / closed is set in the pre-open / close timer. The opening / closing time of the piece 21 is set in the opening / closing timer. Then, the internal state is updated to shift to step S309.

  Opening / closing member opening / closing process (step S309): The movable piece 21 is controlled to be opened / closed by exciting the solenoid 69, and the internal state is updated to shift to step S310 when the opening / closing timer times out.

  Opening / closing member opening / closing process (step S310): The movable piece 21 is controlled to be closed. Thereafter, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S303.

  Big hit pre-processing (step S311): When the V winning switch 64 is turned on, the process waits until the movable piece 21 can be opened and closed. Specifically, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the determined number of executions of the high probability round has been reached, and when it is determined that the number has not been reached, the motor 66 is driven to move the movable stage 25 to the ball storage position. And the driving of the motor 67 that moves the V winning opening 28 in the left-right direction is stopped. After the pre-open / close timer times out, the open / close time of the movable piece 21 is set in the open / close timer. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S312.

  Big hit middle processing (step S312): Exciting the solenoid 69 opens and closes the movable piece 21. When the opening of the movable piece 21 is completed, that is, when the opening / closing timer times out or ten game balls are won in the second variable winning device 20, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S313.

  Big hit post-processing (step S313): The movable piece 21 is controlled to a closed state. Thereafter, the motor 66 is driven to stop the movable stage 25 at the storage release position. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S303.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the game ball wins the start winning opening 13 (for example, when the start determination process is executed), the execution number determination random number for determining the execution number of the high probability round. Is extracted, and when it is determined in the special symbol normal process (step S303) that the display result of the variable display device 8 is the specific display result (winning), a high probability is determined based on the execution number determination random number. The number of round executions is determined. Specifically, when a game ball wins the start winning opening 13, the execution number determination random number is extracted and stored in the RAM 55 in the start determination process (step S 301) described above. When it is determined in the special symbol normal process (step S303) that the display result of the variable display device 8 is the specific display result (winning), the execution frequency determination random number stored in the RAM 55 is stored. And the number of executions of the high probability round is determined based on the execution number determination table.

  Further, when the second variable winning device 20 is opened in the above-described second mode based on the reach display result derived and displayed on the variable display device 8, when the game ball wins the V winning opening 28. The random number for determining the number of executions is extracted, and the number of executions of the high-probability round is determined based on the execution number determination table. In this embodiment, the round execution frequency data is set so that the number of times of execution of the high-probability round is greater when the game ball is won at the start winning opening 13 than when the game ball is won at the V winning opening 28. The number of executions of the high probability round is determined using the configured execution number determination table. An example of the execution count determination table used in this embodiment is shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the execution number determination table used in this embodiment is such that the reach display result is displayed on the variable display device 8 when a game ball has won the start winning opening 13 (at the time of starting winning). Based on this, the second variable winning device 20 is controlled to be in an open state, and at this time, the game ball that has won the second variable winning device 20 wins the V winning opening 28 (at the time of V winning) separately. It is configured. In this embodiment, the number of executions of the high-probability round is set to 0, 2, 6, and 14, and a predetermined range of determination values is assigned to each.

  In the execution number determination table selected at the time of starting winning, the determination value is distributed so that the number of executions of the high probability round is increased. That is, the determination data is configured so that more determination values are included as the number of executions of the high probability round increases.

  On the other hand, in the execution number determination table selected at the time of winning V, a determination value is assigned so that the number of executions of the high probability round decreases, and the included determination value decreases as the number of executions of the high probability round increases. It consists of judgment data.

  Thus, the number of executions of the high probability round determined based on the execution number determination table when it is determined in the special symbol normal process (step S303) that the display result of the variable display device 8 is the specific display result. Is configured so that more rounds are executed. Therefore, when the specific display result is displayed on the variable display device 8, the big hit gaming state is based on the winning of the game ball in the V winning opening 28. More rounds will be executed compared to Therefore, it is possible to execute a plurality of types of specific game states.

  As described above, in this embodiment, even when the display result of the variable display device 8 does not become the specific display result, the second variable winning device 20 is controlled to be in the open state, and the second variable winning device. When a game ball that has been won when 20 is in the open state wins the V winning opening 28, a big hit gaming state is generated. Therefore, the second variable is based on the reach display result displayed on the variable display device 8. Since it is possible to generate a big hit as a specific gaming state that is more advantageous for the player based on the fact that the game ball has won the V winning opening 28 from the small hit that makes the winning device 20 open, the variable display device Even if the display result of 8 is lost, the expectation for the big hit can be maintained for a long time.

In addition, a game ball that has won the variable winning device 20 is a specific passing area (for example, V winning opening 28) and a normal area different from the specified passing area (for example, the V winning opening 28 of the lower winning area 29). A different area that is guided to the back of the game board 6 and can be discharged), a distribution means (for example, the movable stage 25), and a distribution means by controlling the distribution means into a specific passing area. High probability round with high probability of winning (for example, after the game stage is stored in the movable stage 25 by stopping the movable stage 25 at the ball storage position, the game ball is guided by moving the movable stage 25 to the storage release position. A low probability round (e.g., a round in which the game ball is passed to the V winning opening 28) and a low probability of winning a game ball in a specific passing area compared to a high probability round (e.g. By stopping the movable stage 25 at the storage release position, the game ball rolling the upper stage 23 is dropped on the lower stage 30 without being stored in the movable stage 25 and the V winning opening 28 is moved in the left-right direction. And a distribution control means (for example, a function of the CPU 56 that controls the motor 66 to control the driving of the game ball rolling on the lower stage 30). And the execution number determination means (for example, the CPU 56) for determining the number of execution times (for example, 0, 2, 6, 14 times) of the high probability round. When the game ball wins a start winning, a random number for determining the number of executions is extracted in a start determination process (step S301), and a special symbol normal process (step (303) When the determination that the display result of the variable display device 8 is the specific display result is made in step 303), the execution number of the high probability round is determined based on the execution number determination random number and the execution number determination table) And an execution number determination means for determining whether or not the number of executions of the high probability round determined by the execution number determination means has been reached (for example, the high probability round in the function of the CPU 56 and the big hit pre-processing (step S311)) includes a number of executions determining whether or not portions reached), a distribution control means, a high probability until it is determined that reaches the execution times the number-size constant means to the execution count of the high-probability round The round after the determination that the number of executions of the high-probability round has been reached is controlled to be a low-probability round (for example, high in the big hit pre-processing (step S311)) When it is determined that the probability round execution count has been reached, the motor 66 is driven so that the movable stage 25 is stopped at the storage release position and controlled to a low probability round).

  In addition, round upper limit execution number determination means for determining an upper limit execution number that is an upper limit of the number of round executions in a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) The random number for determining the number of executions is extracted in (Step S301), and the random number for determining the number of executions is determined when it is determined in the special symbol normal process (Step S303) that the display result of the variable display device 8 is the specific display result. And a round upper limit number determination means for determining whether or not the upper limit execution number determined by the round upper limit execution number determination means has been reached (for example, a part for determining the round execution number based on the execution number determination table) It is a function of the CPU 56, and it is determined whether or not the number of round executions has been reached in the jackpot end process (step S313). And a control for ending the specific gaming state when it is determined that the upper limit number of times has been reached by the round upper limit number determination means (for example, the big hit round execution in the big hit end process (step S313)) It may be configured to perform special symbol normal processing (control to shift to step S303) when the number of times is reached.

  In addition, when a game ball passes a specific passing area (for example, V winning opening 28) during execution of a round in a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state), a round in the specific gaming state is made to shift to the next round. When the game ball does not pass through the specific passing area during execution of the game, the specific game state is terminated (for example, the V winning switch is a function of the CPU 56 and is in the big win game state in the V winning determination process (step S302)). The special symbol process flag is updated so that the big hit pre-processing (step S311) is executed based on the fact that 64 is turned on, and the V winning switch 64 is not turned on during the big hit gaming state. The special symbol process flag may be configured to update the special symbol process flag so that the special symbol normal process (step S303) is executed.

It is the front view which looked at the bullet ball game machine concerning this embodiment from the front. It is the front of the game board which concerns on this embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the outline | summary of the circuit structure of the ball game machine which concerns on this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the execution frequency determination table.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ball game machine 8 Variable display apparatus 12 1st variable prize-winning apparatus 13 Start prize opening 20 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 28 V prize-winning slot 56 CPU
80 Display control board

Claims (1)

And pre-determining means for determining each of the identification information of a plurality of types can be identified and variable display, variable display device, a display result of the variable display device for the derivation previously displayed on the basis of the establishment of a predetermined start condition, the Display control means for performing display control of the variable display device based on the determination result by the prior determination means, and the player in a specific manner based on the display result of the variable display device being a predetermined specific display result A variable winning device that can be changed between a first state that is advantageous to the player and a second state that is disadvantageous to the player, and a plurality of passing areas that are provided in the variable winning device and through which a game ball can pass. after displaying the specific display result to the variable display device when it is determined that said specific display results display result of the identification information is variably displayed on the variable display device by the articles before determining means, In serial variable winning device game machine for generating specific game state capable of executing a round for controlling the first state to a predetermined upper limit number of times at the specific embodiments,
When the prior determination means determines that the display result is a special display result different from the specific display result, after the special display result is displayed on the variable display device, the variable winning device is A game ball that has been controlled to the first state in a special mode that is more disadvantageous to the player than the specific mode and has won the variable winning device has passed a predetermined specific pass region among the plurality of pass regions. A gaming machine characterized in that the specific gaming state is generated based on the above.