JP2005192818A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of increasing the amusement of a game by making a player be highly interested in a performance by identification information. <P>SOLUTION: In the case that left, center and right patterns are "555" and a fourth pattern becomes red as big winning patterns, display ("Congratulation" for instance) for reporting the start of a big winning game or the start of a small winning game is performed and then the first round of the big winning game is executed. Then, when the first round is ended, the display for reporting that the big winning game is being executed is performed. In the case that the left, center and right patterns are "555" and the fourth pattern becomes green as small winning patterns, when the first round is ended, the display for reporting that the small winning game is executed (the small winning game is ended) is performed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention includes variable display means capable of variably displaying identification information that can identify each of the identification information. After a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, the identification information is stored based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player when variable display is started and the display result of variable display of identification information becomes a specific display result.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls (values) are played. Is paid out to the person. Furthermore, variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information is provided, so that when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result, it can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player. There is something configured.

  The specific game state means a state advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the specific gaming state is, for example, a state in which the state of the variable winning ball apparatus is advantageous for a player who is easy to win a ball (a big hit gaming state), or a state in which a right to be advantageous for a player has occurred. A state in which a predetermined game value is given, such as a state where conditions for paying out premium game media are easily established.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, the display result of the variable display means for variably displaying the special symbol as identification information (displaying a symbol that is visually recognized by the player among a plurality of types of symbols as time passes) A combination of specific display modes that have been defined (for example, a big hit symbol) is usually referred to as “big hit”. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus) is opened a predetermined number of times, and the state shifts to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state in which a hit ball is easy to win.

  And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. The number of times that the special winning opening can be opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 16 times, that is, 16 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. In addition, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V winning area provided in the big winning opening) is not established at the time when the big winning opening is closed, the number of rounds that can be opened is reached. Even if not, the big hit gaming state ends.

  In addition, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) on the variable display means continue for a predetermined time and stop, swing, and expand in a state that matches the specific display result. The possibility of big hits continues before the final result is displayed due to a reduced or deformed state, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol changing. An effect performed in a state in which the player is in a state (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. In the reach state, the interest of the game is enhanced by making the variation pattern different from the variation pattern in the normal state. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display means does not satisfy the condition for reaching the reach state, it becomes “displaced”, and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Some gaming machines perform a small hit game in which, when the identification information is displayed in a manner similar to the above-described reach mode, the game value is lower than the big hit, but is advantageous to the player (for example, , See Patent Document 1). Further, after the identification information is displayed in a manner similar to the reach manner, the variation may be further continued to generate a big hit.

JP-A-4-5981 (pages 13-14)

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, by the time the specific game state (big hit game state or small hit game state) starts, the player can grasp the subsequent game state, and a plurality of types of specific game states are prepared. Even if it is done, the interest of the player in the game is not so high.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance the interest of the game by giving the player a higher interest in the performance based on the identification information.

  A gaming machine according to the present invention is played by launching a game ball into a game area, and includes variable display means (for example, a variable display device 9) capable of variably displaying identification information that can identify each of them. Based on the establishment of the display start condition, variable display of identification information (for example, the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol) may be started (the fourth symbol may be changed to the variable state when the color is changed from the transparent state). The variable winning ball device (for example, a big winning opening) provided in the game area is predetermined on the condition that a specific display result (for example, a big winning symbol and a small winning symbol) is displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information. (For example, opening once or closing after a predetermined number of times and then repeating the opening), the display result of the variable display of the identification information is determined before the display result is displayed. Display result determining means (for example, a part of the game control means for executing the special symbol stop symbol setting process) and variable display control for causing the variable display means to execute variable display and displaying the display result determined by the display result determining means When the display result determined by the means (for example, the effect control means using the CPU for effect control) and the display result determining means is the first specific display result (for example, the small hit symbol) among the specific display results, After the first specific display result is displayed, the first specific game state control means (for example, the game control means) that executes the first specific control that opens the variable winning ball apparatus for the first period (for example, 6 seconds). In step S104, the portion for executing step S104 and the big opening opening process), and the display result determined by the display result determining means is the first specified display result. The second specific display result when the second specific display result is difficult to distinguish from the display result (for example, the left middle right symbol out of the jackpot symbol is other than “333” and “777”). Is displayed, and then the first specific control is executed, and further, the second specific control for repeatedly opening the variable winning ball apparatus for a second period (for example, 30 seconds) a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times) is performed. The second specific game state control means to be executed (for example, the part of the game control means that executes step S104 and the big prize opening opening process in the second and subsequent rounds of the big hit game), and the first specific control following the first specific control. (2) Notification means for notifying whether or not specific control is executed after the first specific control is executed by the first specific game state control means and the second specific game state control means (for example, variable display means 9 And acting Of the output control means, it is characterized in that it is provided with (a portion for displaying a big hit notification) shown in FIG. 9A based on reception of the effect control command.

  The display result determining means determines whether or not the display result of the variable display of the identification information is set as the second specific display result by lottery (for example, the processes of steps S55 and S56 are executed). When it is determined not to be the specific display result, it may be configured to determine by lottery whether or not to use the first specific display result (for example, the processes of steps S561 and S562 are executed).

  It is preferable that the second specific gaming state control means opens the variable winning ball apparatus in the second specific control for a second period (for example, 30 seconds) longer than the first period (for example, 6 seconds).

  The display result determined by the display result determining means is a third specific display result (for example, left middle right in the jackpot symbol) that can be easily distinguished from the first specific display result and the second specific display result among the specific display results. When the symbol is “333” or “777”), the third specific game state control means (for example, game control) that executes the second specific control after the third specific display result is displayed. Among the means, there may be provided a portion for executing step S104 and the process for opening the big prize opening in the first round and after of the big hit game performed when the left middle right symbol is “333” or “777” Good.

  When variable display of identification information is being performed, display control is performed by a notice effect means (for example, effect control means and effect control means) for giving a notice effect that a specific display result is displayed as a display result of the identification information. Variable notice device 9), and the notice effect means performs the notice effect with different probabilities when the first specific display result is displayed and when the second specific display result is displayed (for example, When the stop symbol is a big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol, the probability of determining to perform the notice effect at the time of the lottery is greater than when the stop symbol is a big hit symbol that is easily distinguishable from the small hit symbol. It may be configured to be higher).

  In the first aspect of the present invention, even when the first specific display result is displayed and the second specific control is not executed, even when the second specific display result is displayed and the second specific control is executed, the first specific display result is displayed. Since the control state of the gaming machine does not change until one specific control is completed, a greater game value is provided until the first specific control is completed after the specific display result is stopped and displayed to the player. Can maintain a sense of expectation.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the second specific display result that provides a greater game value to the player can be determined with priority.

  In the invention according to claim 3, since the value given to the player in the gaming state based on the display of the second specific display result is greater, the expectation that the second specific display result is displayed. As a result, the player's interest in the performance based on the identification information can be improved.

  In the invention according to claim 4, since the value given to the player in the gaming state based on the display of the third specific display result is greater, the expectation that the third specific display result is displayed. Can be made higher.

  In the fifth aspect of the invention, the player can predict that the second specific display result is displayed.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, an overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. Note that here, a gaming machine in which a player actually fires a game ball is taken as an example, but the present invention can also be applied to an image-type gaming machine such as a computer game.

  The pachinko 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 opened and closed. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that can be opened and closed on the game frame. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding game boards described later). Is a structure including

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, 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 firing the hitting ball are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface 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.

  Near the center of the game area 7, a variable display device 9 is provided that includes a plurality of variable display units each performing variable display of symbols as the identification information (synonymous with “variation of symbols”). The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The variable display unit may be a fixed area, but may move or change in size in the display area of the variable display device 9 while the game is in progress.

  The display area of the variable display device 9 is provided with a fourth symbol display area 42 for displaying the fourth symbol in addition to the symbol display area for variably displaying the left middle right special symbol. The left middle right special symbol corresponds to the first to third symbols. In this embodiment, when the first to third symbols are fixed (stopped display), the fourth symbol display area 42 is displayed in a predetermined color. That is, a predetermined stop color is displayed. During variable display of the first to third symbols, the fourth symbol display area 42 may be non-displayed (transparent, that is, a state in which the background is displayed), and various colors change with time. Display (variable display by color) may be performed. The display in which various colors change is, for example, that the display color of the fourth symbol display area 42 changes as red → green → yellow →.

  Further, the variable display device 9 displays the number of start winning memories (also referred to as “holding memories”) that have not been used yet for starting the variable display of the special symbols among the number of effective winning balls that have entered the starting winning opening 14. Two special symbol hold storage display areas (hold storage display areas) 18 are provided. Each time there is a valid start prize (start prize when the start prize memory number is less than 4), the reserved storage display area 18 for changing the display color (for example, changing from blue display to yellow display) increases by one. The state before the change may be colorless or transparent. Each time variable display on the variable display device 9 is started, the reserved storage display area 18 whose display color is changed is reduced by 1 (that is, the display color is returned to the original). Note that the return of the display color is also referred to as “erasing”. The change in display color due to the occurrence of an effective start winning is also referred to as “lighting”. In addition, you may make it provide the display (special symbol reservation memory display) which displays the number of reservation memory separately from the variable display apparatus 9. FIG.

  Below the variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 is provided as a start winning port 14. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a. A variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes is provided below the start winning opening 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16.

  An opening / closing plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is a means for opening and closing the special winning opening. The winning ball guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6 is detected by the count switch 23.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, a predetermined random number value is extracted if the normal symbol holding storage has not reached the upper limit. And if it is a state which can start the variable display in which a display state changes in the normal symbol display 10, the variable display of the display of the normal symbol display 10 will be started. If the normal symbol display 10 is not in a state where variable display whose display state changes can be started, the value of the normal symbol hold memory is incremented by one. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol reservation storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of normal symbol storage is provided. Each time there is a prize for the gate 32, the normal symbol hold storage display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Then, every time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. The special symbol and the normal symbol can be variably displayed on one variable display device. In that case, the special variable display unit and the normal variable display unit are realized by one variable display device.

  In this embodiment, the left and right lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized at the time of lighting) are alternately turned on, whereby the normal symbols are variably displayed, and the variable display continues for a predetermined time (for example, 29.2 seconds). Then, if the left lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a win. Whether or not to win is determined by whether or not the value of the random number extracted when the game ball wins the gate 32 matches a predetermined hit determination value. When the display result of the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is a win, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time so that the game ball is likely to win. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol.

  Further, in the high probability state (probability variation state) as an advantageous state (special game state) that is a game state that is more advantageous for the player, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is a winning symbol is higher than that in the normal state. As well as being increased, one or both of the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased compared to the normal state, which is more advantageous for the player. Further, in the probability variation state, the variable display period (also referred to as variation time) on the normal symbol display 10 may be shortened compared to the normal state, thereby making it more advantageous for the player. In the following description, it is assumed that the advantageous state is a probable variation state. However, the advantageous state is a state in which the variable display period of the special symbol variable display is shortened compared to the normal state, which is a so-called short-time state. Alternatively, in a gaming machine that can be controlled to a probable change state and can also be controlled to a short time state, both of these states may be used. In the short time state, one or both of the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be increased as compared to the normal state, or the fluctuation time in the normal symbol display 10 may be shortened. Good. In this embodiment, the normal state is a game state (a state of the gaming machine and a control state of the game control means) different from the advantageous state.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports (general winning ports) 29 and 30 as winning devices, and winning of game balls to the winning ports 29 and 30 is detected by winning port switches 29a and 30a, respectively. . Around the left and right sides of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 that are blinked and displayed during the game, and at the bottom there is an out mouth 26 that absorbs the hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects and sounds are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29 and 30, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29 and 30 is detected by winning hole switches 29a and 30a, respectively. Each of the winning ports 29 and 30 constitutes a winning area provided on the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning.

  A prize ball lamp 51 that is lit when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball break lamp 52 that is lit when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a. Is provided.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. When the hit ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a, the variable display device 9 starts variable display (variation) if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If the variable display of the symbol cannot be started, the number of reserved memories is increased by one.

  In the variable display device 9, for example, symbols “0” to “9” as special symbols are displayed in order, so that variable display is performed, and the left middle right symbol is stopped and displayed when a certain time has passed. . If the combination of the special symbols at the time of the stop is a jackpot symbol (specific display mode), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. The “hit symbol” is realized by the display colors of the first to third special symbols and the fourth symbol. The same symbol is displayed in the middle left and right symbol display area of the variable display device 9 and is stopped and displayed when the display color of the fourth symbol is a predetermined color. Assume that the combination of is a jackpot symbol. In the big hit gaming state, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, ten) of hitting balls wins, thereby opening the big winning opening. The opening / closing plate 20 is again opened until the predetermined number of times (for example, 16 rounds) has been opened. In this embodiment, in the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening is unconditionally opened a predetermined number of times, but the next round may be continued according to the establishment of the predetermined condition. For example, the next round may be continued on condition that a game ball has won a V winning area provided in the big winning opening.

  Further, when the same symbols are all stopped and displayed in the left, middle and right symbol display areas in the variable display device 9 and the display color of the fourth symbol is a predetermined color, the small hit is obtained. May occur. That is, when a small hit symbol is displayed on the variable display device 9, a small hit gaming state occurs. The “small hit symbol” satisfies the condition that the same symbol is stopped and displayed in the left middle right symbol display area in the variable display device 9 and the display color of the fourth symbol is a predetermined color. However, the display state is different from the display state of the jackpot symbol. For example, when “111” is displayed in the left middle right symbol display area and the stop color of the fourth symbol display area 42 is red, the big hit symbol is displayed. In the left middle right symbol display area, “ When “111” is displayed and the stop color of the fourth symbol display area 42 is yellow, the small hit symbol is displayed.

  In the small hit gaming state, the big prize opening is opened only once. Also, the opening time (for example, 6 seconds) of the big winning opening is shorter than the maximum opening time (for example, 30 seconds) of each round in the big hit gaming state (excluding the first round in a predetermined big hit game). In the small hit game, the big prize opening may always be opened for a fixed time (for example, 6 seconds), or as in the case of the big hit game, a predetermined open time (for example, 6 seconds). It may be closed when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins a big winning opening before the time elapses.

  In this embodiment, for example, 15 game balls are paid out as prizes when a game ball is won at the grand prize opening, and 7 when game balls are won at the winning holes 29 and 30. The game balls are paid out as prizes, and when the game balls win at the start winning opening 14, four game balls are paid out as prizes.

  When the combination of the special symbols in the variable display device 9 at the time of stop is a combination of jackpot symbols (probability variation symbols) with probability variation, the probability that the stop symbol becomes a jackpot symbol after the jackpot game based on the combination is increased. . That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in the probability variation state.

  FIG. 2 shows a circuit in a game control board (main board) 31 provided on a gaming machine (specifically, installed on the back of the gaming machine) on which a game control microcomputer or the like is mounted. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, a lamp driver board 35, an audio output board 70, and an effect control board 80 provided in the gaming machine (specifically, installed on the back side of the gaming machine). ing. The main board 31 includes a basic circuit (corresponding to a game control microcomputer: game control means) 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a start port switch 14a, a count switch 23, and a prize port switch. A switch circuit 58 for supplying signals from 29a and 30a to the basic circuit 53; a solenoid 16 for opening / closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15; and a solenoid circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21 for opening / closing the opening / closing plate 20 according to a command from the basic circuit 53; Is installed.

  The switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a may be what are called sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball is not limited.

  Further, according to the data given from the basic circuit 53, the jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot, the effective starting information indicating the number of starting winning balls used for starting the variable display of the symbols in the variable display device 9, the probability variation has occurred. An information output circuit 64 is provided for outputting an information output signal such as probability variation information indicating an error to an external device such as a hall computer via an information terminal board installed on the back of the gaming machine.

  A basic circuit 53 realized by a game control microcomputer includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, and storage means used as a work memory (variable data storage means for storing variable data). RAM 55, CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with programs, and I / O port unit 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to have at least the RAM 55 built in, and the ROM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached or built in. 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 is realized by a basic circuit 53 realized by a game control microcomputer, but is mainly realized by a CPU 56 that executes control according to a program in the game control microcomputer.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means realized by the effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 80 includes the normal symbol hold storage display 41 provided on the game board 6, the decoration lamp 25, and the like. Display control and display control of the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52 provided on the frame side. Each lamp may be an LED or other types of light emitters. That is, a lamp or LED is an example of a light emitter, and may hereinafter be collectively referred to as a lamp / LED. In addition, variable display device decoration LEDs (center decoration LEDs) are installed on the upper and left and right sides of the variable display device 9, and a large prize opening interior decoration LED is installed inside the special prize opening. Is provided with a large winning opening left decoration LED and a large winning opening right decoration LED. The effect control means also controls those light emitters.

  A drive signal for driving the lamp / LED is generated in the lamp driver substrate 35. The display control of the variable display device 9 for variably displaying the special symbol and the normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying the normal symbol is performed by the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a ROM (not shown), and an input driver according to a strobe signal (effect control INT signal) from the game control means of the main board 31. An effect control command is received from the game control means of the main board 31 via 102 and the input port 103. The effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 106 to perform display control of the variable display device 9 using the LCD based on the effect control command. The VDP 106 is sometimes called a GCL (Graphic Controller LSI). Further, the effect control CPU 101 performs display control of the normal symbol display 10 via the output port 104 and the lamp driving circuit 107. The effect control microcomputer includes an effect control CPU 101, a ROM, a RAM, and an I / O port.

  Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104 and the output driver 110. A bus (including an address bus, a data bus, and a control signal line such as a write / read signal) that is input / output to / from the effect control CPU 101 is extended to the lamp driver board 35 via the bus driver 105.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a bus that is input to and output from the effect control CPU 101 is connected to the output port 352 and the expansion port 353 via the bus receiver 351. A signal for driving each lamp output from the output port 352 is amplified by a lamp driver 354 and supplied to each lamp. A signal for driving each LED output from the output port 352 is amplified by the LED drive circuit 355 and supplied to each LED.

  In this embodiment, the lamps / LEDs provided in the gaming machine are controlled by effect control means including an effect CPU 101 mounted on the effect control board 80. Further, data for controlling the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED, and the like are stored in the ROM. The effect CPU 101 controls the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED, and the like based on the data stored in the ROM. Then, the lamp / LED is driven via the output port 352 mounted on the lamp driver substrate 35 and each drive circuit. Therefore, when changing the model, if the production control board 80 is replaced with a new one, the model change can be realized without replacing the lamp driver board 35.

  The effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 are independent boards, but are installed in a single box on the back of the gaming machine, for example. Further, the expansion port 353 is installed in consideration of the case where the number of lamps / LEDs and the like is increased when changing the model, but it may not be installed.

  In the audio output board 70, the sound number data from the effect control board 80 is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 by a digital signal processor, for example, via the input driver 702. The voice synthesis IC 703 reads data corresponding to the sound number data from the voice data ROM 704, generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the read data, and outputs them to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27.

  The data corresponding to the sound number data stored in the sound data ROM 704 is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a special symbol fluctuation time). When the voice number IC 703 receives the sound number data, the voice synthesis IC 703 performs sound output control according to the corresponding data in the voice data ROM 704. The sound output control according to the corresponding data is continued until the next sound number data is input. When the next sound number data is input, the speech synthesis IC 703 performs sound output control according to the data in the sound data ROM 704 corresponding to the newly input sound number data.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the game control means (CPU 56 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) on the main board 31. When the gaming machine is turned on and the input level of the reset terminal to which a reset signal is input becomes high, the CPU 56 performs a security check process that is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid. After execution, the main processing after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, the built-in device register is initialized (step S4). Further, after initialization (step S5) of CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits), the RAM is set in an accessible state (step S6). The interrupt mode 2 is an address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the game control microcomputer 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device. Is a mode indicating an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 confirms the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port only once (step S7). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S11 to S14).

  In this embodiment, the RAM 55 is backed up so that data does not change for a predetermined period even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S8). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the backup flag is set, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power outage or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). If the check result is not normal, an initialization process is executed that is executed when the power is turned on, not when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped (step S10). ). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S11). In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, a payout A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag such as a stop flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state is performed (step S12). Further, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub-boards (the payout control board 35 and the effect control board 80 in this embodiment) to each sub-board is executed (step S13). As the initialization command, there are a command indicating the initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9 (for the effect control board 80), a command for instructing turning off the winning ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52, and the like.

  Then, a CTC register set in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 ms (step S14). That is, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S11 to S14) is completed, the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. (Step S19). The display random number is a random number for determining a symbol displayed on the variable display device 9, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. . The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number determines the initial value of the count value, such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a jackpot symbol (a jackpot determination random number generation counter). It is a random number to do. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer controls itself a game display device such as a variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine. In a process for transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer or a game device control process), when the count value of the random number generation counter for jackpot determination makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter Is done.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the game control process of steps S20 to S33 shown in FIG. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether the power-off signal has been turned on) (step S20). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the winning port switch 29a, and the like are input via the switch circuit 58, and the state determination is performed (switch processing: 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). 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).

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to make the stop symbol a jackpot symbol (for jackpot determination)
(2) Random 2: For determining the stop color when the special symbol is left and right and the fourth symbol is off (special symbol left middle right and the fourth symbol is determined)
(3) Random 3: Determines the combination of the special symbol that generates a big hit or a small hit and the stop color combination of the fourth symbol (for determining the winning symbol)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach when the stop symbol is not a jackpot symbol (for reach determination)
(6) Random 6: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine initial value of random 6 (for determining random 6 initial value)
(9) Random 9: Decide whether or not to make a small hit if not a big hit (for small hit determination)
(10) Random 10: Determine initial value of random 9 (for determining random 9 initial value)

  In step S22 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 56 determines (1) big hit determination random number, (3) hit symbol determination random number, (6) normal symbol determination random number, and (9 ) Is incremented (added by 1) to generate a small hit determination random number. That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than the random number of said (1)-(10).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S25). In the special symbol process control, corresponding processing is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming 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. Further, 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 10 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 symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and sending the effect control command (special symbol command control process: step S27). Further, a process for sending an effect control command by setting an effect control command for the normal symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 is performed (normal symbol command control process: step S28).

  Further, 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 (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the start opening switch 14a, the prize opening switches 29a and 30a, and the count switch 23 (step S30). Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection by the switch. The payout control CPU mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

  And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in a pending | holding memory | storage number (step S31). In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S32). Further, when a predetermined condition is established, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 59 (step S33). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16 and 21 in response to a drive command in order to open the variable winning ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 20 in an open state or a closed state. Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34).

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process 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, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol among combinations of stop symbols that are stopped and displayed after variable display in the variable display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the combination of the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol becomes a big hit symbol or the small hit symbol depending on the stop color of the fourth symbol when the left middle right symbol is stopped and displayed together. Will be determined. For example, if the left middle right symbol is “000” and the stop color of the fourth symbol is red or green, it is a small hit symbol, and the left middle right symbol is “000” and the stop color of the fourth symbol is “000”. The case of yellow is a big hit symbol.

  As shown in FIG. 7, among the big hit symbols by the combination of the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol, if the stop color of the fourth symbol is the same for any symbol, it is always a big hit. There is a combination of left middle right symbols ("333" and "777"). In addition, there are combinations of left middle right symbols that may be big hits or small hits when the same symbols are aligned (other than “333” and “777”). In this embodiment, if the player has a big hit symbol other than “333” and “777” in the left middle right symbol, the small hit symbol as the first specific display result (the combination of the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol) This corresponds to the second specific display result that is difficult to identify. A jackpot symbol with a left middle right symbol of “333” or “777” corresponds to a third specific display result that can be easily distinguished from the first specific display result and the second specific display result. In this example, the jackpot symbol with the left middle right symbol of “333” or “777” is a probability variation jackpot symbol that causes a probability variation, but this need not be the case. In addition, the specific display result that is difficult to identify is unknown whether it is the first specific display result or the second specific display result only from the display result of the special symbol. Such a combination of symbols (first symbol to fourth symbol).

  In this embodiment, there are 10 left, right and right special symbols, “0” to “9”, and the variable display device 9 changes the display of the special symbols in order from “0”. Variations in special symbols are realized. Note that the display of the display symbols may change discontinuously during the change of the special symbols. Reach is reached when the left and right final stop symbols (determined symbols) of special symbols are aligned.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 is a specific process of step S25 in the flowchart of FIG. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs a variable shortening timer subtraction process (step S310) to detect that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6. If the switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the start winning opening 14 is generated (step S311), a start opening switch passing process (step S312) is performed. Thereafter, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Waiting for a state where variable symbol special display can be started (for example, a state in which special symbol variable display is not currently being variably displayed and neither is a big hit gaming state). When the special symbol variable display can be started, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting processing (step S301): The stop symbol of the left middle right symbol after the variable display of the special symbol and the stop color of the fourth symbol are determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S302.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): The variation pattern (variable display mode) of variable symbol special display is determined according to, for example, the value of the variation pattern determination random number. Also, a variable time timer is started. At this time, control for transmitting an effect control command for instructing the stop color and variation mode (variation pattern) of the left middle right final stop symbol and the fourth symbol to the effect control board 80 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S303. In addition, when the effect control means receives the effect control command for instructing the variation mode, the variable display device 9 performs control for starting the variation (variable display) of the special symbol.

  Special symbol variation process (step S303): When a predetermined time (the time indicated by the variation time timer in step S302) elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S304.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): Control is performed so that all symbols displayed on the variable display device 9 are stopped. Specifically, control for transmitting an effect control command indicating a special symbol stop is performed. If the stop symbol is a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300. When the effect control means receives the effect control command indicating the special symbol stop, the variable display device 9 stops and displays the stop symbol instructed by the effect control command indicating the left middle right final stop symbol on the variable display device 9. At the same time, control is performed to display the stop color instructed by the effect control command indicating the fourth symbol in the fourth symbol display area 42.

  Big winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the big winning opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. In addition, the process timer sets the execution time of the special winning opening opening process. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306.

  Processing for opening a special prize opening (step S306): A process for sending a production control command for displaying a big prize round to the production control board 80, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition for the special prize opening, and the like are performed. When the closing condition of the special winning opening is established, the process of closing the special winning opening by stopping the driving of the solenoid 21 is performed. In addition, when there is a remaining round in the small hit game or in the big hit game state, after executing a delay process so that an interval period of a predetermined length can be made between the rounds, the internal state is shifted to step S305. Update to When all rounds are finished in the big hit gaming state, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307.

  Big hit end processing (step S307): Control for causing the effect control means to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 9 shows a case where a big hit symbol (by combination of the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol) difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol (by the combination of the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol) is stopped and displayed. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display state of the variable display apparatus 9 with the case where a winning symbol is stopped and displayed. As shown in FIG. 9 (A), for example, when the left middle right symbol is “555” and the fourth symbol is red as the big hit symbol (see FIG. 7), the big hit game starts or the small hit symbol The first round is executed after a display notifying the start of the game (for example, “congratulations”). And when the 1st round is complete | finished, the display for alert | reporting that the jackpot game is performed is performed.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 9B, for example, when the left middle right symbol is “555” and the fourth symbol is green as the small hit symbol (see FIG. 7), the big hit game is started. Alternatively, after a display (for example, “congratulations”) for informing the start of the small hit game is made, the first round is executed. And when the 1st round is complete | finished, the display for alert | reporting that the small hit game was performed (the small hit game was complete | finished) is performed.

  As will be described later, in the big hit game that is started when the big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the first round big prize opening time is the opening time in the small hit game. The same. Therefore, it is difficult for the player to determine whether the big hit game or the small hit game is being performed from the start time of the big prize opening. In the second and subsequent rounds in the big hit game, the big winning opening is opened for a regular opening time (for example, 30 seconds). Also, it is started when a big hit symbol that can be easily distinguished from the small hit symbol (for example, when the left middle right symbol is “333” or “777”, the stop color of the fourth symbol does not matter) is stopped and displayed. In the big hit game, from the first round, the big prize opening is opened only for the regular opening time.

  Therefore, the control of the big winning opening in the first round in the big hit game which is started when the big hit symbol which is difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol is stopped is displayed in the variable winning ball apparatus shorter than the second period. This corresponds to the first specific control that is opened for one period. Further, the control of the big winning opening after the second round in the big hit game corresponds to the second specific control in which the control for opening the variable winning ball apparatus for a second period is repeated up to a predetermined time. Then, in the big hit game that is started when the big hit symbol that can be easily distinguished from the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the second specific control for opening the variable winning ball apparatus for the second period is performed from the first round. .

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the special symbol can be changed (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300) (step S300). S51). If so, the value of the start winning memory number is confirmed (step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter is confirmed. The case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the symbol is not changed in the variable display device 9 and the game is not a big hit game.

  Also, the value of the start winning counter (start winning memorized number) is 1 when a start winning (winning to the start winning port 14) occurs when the start winning memorized number does not reach 4 in the start opening switch passing process. Has been increased. Further, the CPU 56 extracts the value of each random number such as a big hit determination random number and the like in the storage area corresponding to the value of the starting winning memory number (special) when the starting winning memory number increases in the starting port switch passing process. Stored in the symbol determination buffer). Note that extracting a random number means reading a count value from a counter for generating a random number and setting the read count value as a random value.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads out each random value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S53). The value of the winning memory number is reduced by 1 and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective start winning memory numbers are extracted always matches the order of the starting winning memory numbers = 1, 2, 3, and 4. It has become.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer, and determines whether or not to make the jackpot, that is, whether or not the stop symbol is to be the jackpot symbol (step S55). When it is determined to be a big hit (step S56), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S57). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S58). One or a plurality of numerical values corresponding to the jackpot are determined in the range of 0 to 316 in advance. The CPU 56 compares the numerical values with the jackpot determination random number, and if they match (or if there is a match among a plurality of numerical values), determines that it is a big hit. When it is decided to win, the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the variable display device 9, so that the CPU 56 eventually turns the stop symbol in the variable display device 9 into the big hit symbol by lottery based on the random number for determining the big hit. It is decided whether or not to do.

  If it is not determined to be a big hit in step S56, a random number for random determination (random 9) is read from the random number storage buffer, and it is determined whether or not the stop symbol is to be a small hit symbol (step S561). When it is determined to be a small hit (step S562), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag (step S563). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S58). One or more numerical values corresponding to the small hits are determined in the range of 0 to 78 in advance. The CPU 56 compares these numerical values with the random numbers for determining small hits, and if they match (or if there is a match among a plurality of numerical values), determines that the small hit is made. If it is determined to be a small hit, the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the variable display device 9, so that the CPU 56 eventually displays the stop symbol in the variable display device 9 by lottery based on the random number for determining the small hit. Whether or not to make a small hit design is determined.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S61). When the big hit flag is set, the big hit symbol is determined according to the value of the random symbol for random determination (random 3) (random 3 read in step S53) (step S62). In this embodiment, according to the value of random 3, the stop color of each symbol of the symbol number set in the jackpot symbol table (formed in the ROM 54) and the fourth symbol is determined as a jackpot symbol. . In the jackpot symbol table, data capable of specifying each of the combinations of the stop colors of the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol which are a plurality of types of jackpot symbols (see FIG. 7) is set. Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S65).

  If the big hit flag is not set, it is checked whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S63). If the small hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S66. If the small hit flag is set, the small hit symbol is determined according to a random value of 3 (step S64). Depending on the value of random 3, the stop color of each symbol of the symbol number set in the small hit symbol table (formed in the ROM 54) and the fourth symbol is determined as the small hit symbol. In the small hit symbol table, data capable of specifying each of the combinations of stop colors of the left middle right symbol and the fourth symbol (see FIG. 7), which are a plurality of types of small hit symbols, is set.

  If it is decided not to make a small hit, it is determined whether or not to reach based on the random 5 value read from the storage area in step S53, that is, the value stored in the random value buffer (the random number for reach determination). (Steps S66 and S672). A table in which values that can be taken by random 5 and information on whether or not to reach according to each value is set is stored in ROM 54, and CPU 56 uses the table and the value of random 5 to reach and Decide whether or not to do. If it is decided to reach, the left middle right symbol is decided according to the value of random 2 (step S69). Note that the left and right symbols are matched, and the middle symbol is selected so as not to match the left and right symbols. Then, the process proceeds to step S65.

  When it is decided not to reach in step S68, a stop symbol in the case of a loss is determined (step S70). Specifically, the left middle right symbol is determined according to the value read in step S53, that is, the extracted random 2 value. The left and right symbols are selected so that the left and right symbols do not match. Then, the process proceeds to step S65.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the pre-opening process for the special winning opening in the special symbol process (step S305). In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, the CPU 56 checks whether it is before the start of the first round (step S101). Whether or not it is before the start of the first round is confirmed, for example, by providing a counter area indicating the number of rounds in the RAM and checking the counter value. If it is before the start of the first round, a display control command indicating the start of the big hit is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S102). When the effect control CPU 101 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the display control command indicating the start of the big hit, the variable display device 9 informs the player that the big hit game or the small hit game is started. Is displayed (see (notification) in FIG. 9). At the same time, the control for notifying the player that the big hit game or the small hit game is started by the lamp / LED and voice is started.

  Further, a display control command indicating the number of rounds (in this case “1”) is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S103). Further, control is performed to open the large winning opening (opening / closing plate 20) as the variable winning ball apparatus (step S104). Specifically, a big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from a small hit symbol (in this example, when the left middle right symbol is other than “333” and “777”) is stopped and the big hit game is started. When a small hit game is started, a short time (for example, 6 seconds) is set in the opening time timer, and a big hit symbol that is easy to distinguish from the small hit symbol (in this example, the left middle right symbol is “333” or When “777” is displayed in a stopped state, a long time (for example, 30 seconds) is set in the open time timer. And the control which drives the solenoid 21 for opening a special winning opening is performed. Thereafter, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S306. Note that the opening time timer is monitored in the special winning opening opening process. That is, when the opening time timer expires in the process during opening of the special winning opening, it is determined that the round has ended, and it is determined that the closing condition for the special winning opening has been established. It should be noted that the closing condition of the grand prize opening is also established by winning a predetermined number of game balls into the big prize opening.

  If it is not before the start of the first round, it is confirmed whether it is before the start of the second round (that is, after execution of the first round) (step S111). If it is before the start of the second round, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a big hit game is being played (step S112).

  When the big hit game is being played, a display control command indicating the big hit continuation is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S113). When the display control command indicating the big hit continuation is received, the effect control CPU 101 performs display for notifying the player that the big hit game is being performed on the variable display device 9 (see the big hit notification in FIG. 9). )reference). At the same time, control is started to notify the player that a big hit game is being played by the lamp / LED and voice. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S103. In the case of the second round and thereafter, in step S104, a long time (for example, 30 seconds) is set in the release time timer regardless of the type of jackpot symbol.

  If the big hit game is not being played, a display control command indicating the end of the small hit is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S114). Thereafter, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S300 (step S115). When the display control command indicating the end of the small hit is received, the effect control CPU 101 performs a display for notifying the player that the end of the small hit has ended on the variable display device 9 (see (small hit game in FIG. 9). (Refer to “Notification of that”). At the same time, the control for notifying the player that the end of the small hit is completed by the lamp / LED and sound is started.

  If it is not before the second round, the process immediately proceeds to step S103.

  In this embodiment, even if a big hit symbol that can be easily distinguished from the small hit symbol is stopped on the variable display device 9 and the big hit game is started, the big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed. In the same way as when the big hit game is started and when the small hit game is started, a display for notifying the player that the big hit game or the small hit game is started before the first round is started. (See (notification) in FIG. 9), but if a big hit symbol that is easily distinguishable from the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the display immediately notifies the player that the big hit game has started. May be performed.

  With the control described above, it is difficult for the player to determine whether a small hit or a big hit has occurred even if the symbol derived and displayed on the variable display device 9 (stop display) is a big hit symbol. A situation arises. In other words, when a big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from a small hit symbol is stopped and displayed, if such a stop symbol cannot be determined to be a big hit symbol, the player will continue to play the small hit symbol until the first round is over. It cannot be determined whether a win or a big win has occurred. Then, the player has a strong interest not only in the stop symbol on the variable display device 9, but also in the performance executed in the subsequent game (big hit game or small hit game). In other words, a gaming machine is realized in which the player can be interested in the performance even after the stop symbol is derived in the variable display device 9.

  Furthermore, when the special symbol is changed in the variable display device 9, an effect (notice effect) for notifying the player that the stop symbol becomes a big hit symbol may be performed. The notice effect is realized by, for example, displaying a predetermined character image on the variable display device 9 or changing the display mode of the displayed character image. The notice effect is executed at a high rate (may be 100%) when the stop symbol is a big hit symbol, and the appearance rate is low even when the stop symbol is an outlier symbol or a small hit symbol. However, it is executed at a certain rate.

  In order to execute such a notice effect, the game control means determines whether or not to give a notice effect by lottery (for example, a random number is generated and determined according to the random number), and the result is controlled as an effect control command. Notify the means. Alternatively, the effect control means determines, for example, by lottery (for example, by generating a random number and determining according to the random number) whether or not to perform a notice effect when receiving an effect control command indicating a variation pattern.

  Then, the game control means or the effect control means, when the stop symbol is a big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol, compared to the case where the stop symbol is a big hit symbol that is easily distinguishable from the small hit symbol at the time of lottery. Increase the probability of deciding to perform a notice effect. If such a control is performed, it is difficult for the player to recognize that a big hit gaming state occurs when a big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from a small hit symbol is displayed, but the gaming machine has a notice effect. By increasing the occurrence frequency, it is possible to cause the player to predict that a big hit gaming state will occur.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the small hit symbol, the big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol, and the small hit symbol are easily distinguished by the left and right middle symbols that are variably displayed and the fourth symbol that displays the stop color. However, the realization method is not limited to the method of combining the left and right middle symbols that are variably displayed and the fourth symbol that displays the stop color. For example, the fourth symbol may be variably displayed, or the small hit symbol, the big hit symbol that is difficult to distinguish from the small hit symbol, and the big hit symbol that is easily distinguishable from the small hit symbol may be realized by using only the left and right middle symbols. .

  Furthermore, the symbol displayed on the variable display device 9 is used as a decorative symbol, and a special symbol for finally determining whether or not a big hit is displayed on the variable display device 9 without displaying it on a different display means (hereinafter referred to as special display means). You may make it display on. In this case, for example, a display result that generates a big hit (a display result that generates a big hit / small hit) by a display result that is the same as a display result that generates a big hit and a display result that generates only a big hit are defined. When the display result that generates the small hit is derived and displayed, whether the big hit is generated or the small hit is generated is divided depending on the variation of the decorative pattern. Also by such a method, it is possible to realize the first specific display result that causes a small hit and the second specific display result that is difficult to distinguish from the first display result. In addition, a third specific display result that can be easily distinguished from the first specific display result and the second specific display result can be realized.

  The pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment mainly has a predetermined game value given to a player when a special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display unit 9 based on the start winning is a combination of the predetermined symbols. The first type pachinko gaming machine that can be granted, the second type pachinko that can be given a predetermined game value to the player if there is a winning in a predetermined area of the electric game that is released based on the start winning A third-class pachinko machine where a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric combination that is released when a stop symbol of a symbol that is variably displayed based on a starting prize is a combination of a predetermined pattern The present invention can be applied even to a gaming machine. Furthermore, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and the present invention can also be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

  The present invention is applicable to a pachinko gaming machine or the like provided with variable display means capable of variably displaying identification information that can identify each.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a big hit symbol and a small hit symbol. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display state of a variable display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop symbol setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the big winning opening opening pre-processing.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachinko machine 9 Variable display device 31 Main board 42 4th symbol display area 56 CPU
80 Production control board 101 Production control CPU

Claims (5)

A game is performed by launching a game ball into the game area, and includes variable display means capable of variably displaying identification information for identifying each, and variably displaying identification information based on establishment of a predetermined variable display start condition. A game machine that opens the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area in a predetermined manner on the condition that the specific display result is displayed as the display result of the variable display of the identification information,
Display result determining means for determining the display result of the variable display of the identification information before the display result is displayed;
Variable display control means for causing the variable display means to perform variable display and displaying the display result determined by the display result determining means;
When the display result determined by the display result determining means is the first specific display result among the specific display results, the variable winning ball apparatus is changed to the first after the first specific display result is displayed. First specific gaming state control means for executing first specific control that is released for a period of one;
When the display result determined by the display result determining means is the second specific display result that is difficult to distinguish from the first specific display result among the specific display results, the second specific display result Is displayed, and the second specific gaming state is executed in which the first specific control is executed, and further, the second specific control in which the variable winning ball apparatus is opened for a second period repeatedly for a predetermined time limit. Control means;
Whether the second specific control is executed subsequent to the first specific control is determined by the first specific game state control means and the second specific game state control means. And a notifying means for notifying after the game machine. The display result determination means determines whether or not the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the second specific display result by lottery, and determines not to be the second specific display result as a result of the lottery. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first specific display results is determined by lottery. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the second specific game state control means opens the variable winning ball device in a second specific control for a second period longer than the first period. When the display result determined by the display result determining means is the third specific display result that is easy to distinguish from the first specific display result and the second specific display result among the specific display results, The gaming machine according to claim 3, further comprising third specific gaming state control means for executing the second specific control after the three specific display results are displayed. When the variable display of the identification information is performed, a notice effect means for performing a notice effect for notifying that the specific display result is displayed as the display result of the identification information is provided.
5. The notice effect unit performs the notice effect with different probabilities when the first specific display result is displayed and when the second specific display result is displayed. A gaming machine according to any one of the above.

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