JP2005211221A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine for reducing the anxiety of a player about whether a game state at the moment of power interruption is taken over to the game state at the moment of restoration from the power interruption. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is provided with: a first reporting means for reporting the game state to the player by using first reporting contents; and a storage means for storing information relating to the game state when power supplied to a command generation means becomes smaller than a first threshold. The game machine is further provided with: a second reporting means for reporting the game state to the player by using second reporting contents whose amount of data is smaller than data relating to the first reporting contents on the basis of the information relating to the game state stored in the storage means after the power supplied to the command generation means becomes larger than a second threshold until the first reporting means becomes able to report the game state; and an updating means for updating the second reporting contents on the basis of a prescribed command generated by the command generation means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention provides a first notifying means for notifying a player of a gaming state with a first notification content (a predetermined image or the like) based on a predetermined command generated according to the gaming state, and is supplied to the gaming machine. The present invention relates to a gaming machine comprising storage means for storing information relating to a gaming state when the electric power to be played is smaller than a first threshold.

  Conventionally, a main control board having a CPU (hereinafter referred to as a main CPU) that generates a predetermined command (for example, a big hit start interval command) according to a gaming state (for example, a big hit state), and a command output from the main CPU A gaming machine including a sub-control board having a CPU (hereinafter referred to as sub-CPU) that displays a predetermined image (such as a big hit effect image) on a display device is known.

  In addition, when a power failure or the like occurs and the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold, the gaming machine stores information (for example, the number of rounds) related to the gaming state (for example, the big hit state) When the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes larger than a predetermined threshold, the gaming state when the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes smaller than the predetermined threshold is restored based on the information related to the gaming state.

  At this time, when the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes larger than a predetermined threshold, the main CPU immediately returns to the gaming state when the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes smaller than the predetermined threshold. Even if the power supplied to the gaming machine exceeds a predetermined threshold, the sub CPU continues to read the image data for displaying the predetermined image on the display device (displays the predetermined image on the display device). Until it is possible to display a predetermined image corresponding to the command output from the main CPU.

Therefore, the gaming machine displays a power-recovery image (such as “power is being restored”) from when the power supplied to the gaming machine exceeds a predetermined threshold until the image data has been read. Then, after the reading of the image data is completed, the image during power recovery is switched to a normal image (for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2002-65965 A

  By the way, the main CPU generates a predetermined command according to the gaming state even while the sub CPU is reading the image data (while the sub CPU is displaying the power-recovered image). Therefore, the image displayed after the image during power recovery may be different from the image displayed when the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold.

  For example, even if an image related to super reach is displayed when the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold, the super reach is lost while the image data is being read. When it is finished, the image of losing is suddenly displayed after the image of power recovery.

  Therefore, the player takes over the gaming state when the power supplied to the gaming machine is smaller than a predetermined threshold value and to the gaming state after the power supplied to the gaming machine is larger than the predetermined threshold value. There was a problem of feeling uneasy about whether or not.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and the gaming state when the power supplied to the gaming machine is smaller than a predetermined threshold is the power supplied to the gaming machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can reduce the player's anxiety about whether or not the game state has been taken over after the threshold value is exceeded.

  The first feature of the present invention is that a command generating means (main CPU 32) for generating a predetermined command according to the gaming state, and a game based on the first notification content based on the predetermined command generated by the command generating means. First notifying means (sub CPU 42) for notifying the player of the state, and storage means for storing information on the gaming state when the power supplied to the command generating means is smaller than the first threshold ( Until the first notification means can notify the gaming state after the power supplied to the command generation means becomes larger than the second threshold. A second notification means (sub CPU 42) for notifying the player of the game state by the second notification content based on the information relating to the gaming state stored in the storage means; and a command Based on a predetermined command generated by the formation means, and summarized in that comprises an updating means for updating the second broadcast content (sub CPU 42).

  According to such a feature, the gaming machine can notify the gaming state after the supplied power becomes larger than the second threshold (after the supply of power is resumed). The second notification content is based on information relating to the gaming state stored when the supplied power becomes smaller than the first threshold (when the supply of power is stopped). When the gaming state is notified to the player and the second notification content is updated based on the predetermined command generated by the command control means, the supplied power becomes smaller than the first threshold value. It is possible to reduce the player's anxiety about whether or not the gaming state has been taken over to the gaming state after the supplied power becomes larger than the second threshold value.

  For example, even if the gaming machine is in the case of a big hit state, the power supply is resumed until the first notification means can notify the gaming state. The game state is notified to the player by the second notification content (for example, character information of “hit state”), and when the round moves to the next round, this is indicated. Game state when the supply of power is stopped by updating the second notification content based on the command for opening the big prize opening (updating the character information of “Round 9” to the character information of “Round 10”) However, it is possible to notify the player that the game state has been taken over after the supply of power is resumed.

  In addition, the first threshold value may be the same value as the second threshold value.

  The gist of the second feature of the present invention is that, in the first feature of the present invention, the second notification content is notification content having a data amount smaller than the data amount related to the first notification content.

  According to such a feature, since the amount of data related to the second notification content is smaller than the data amount related to the first notification content, the gaming machine has received the first notification content after the supply of power has been resumed. The game state can be notified to the player by the second notification content until the gaming state can be notified by (during power recovery).

  For example, it is assumed that the time required to read data related to the first notification content is 7 seconds, whereas the time required to read data related to the second notification content is 2 seconds. That is, the gaming machine is able to notify the gaming state by the second notification content until it can notify the gaming state by the first notification content (for 5 seconds). The game state is notified to the player by the second notification content.

  It should be noted that a predetermined game (first notification content) displayed on the display device becomes a complex image, and a recent game in which the volume of image data related to the predetermined image (first notification content) tends to increase. In the machine, since it takes a long time to notify the gaming state by the second notification content, it is effective to apply the first feature of the present invention to the gaming machine in which the update means updates the second notification content. .

  The gist of the third feature of the present invention is that, in the first feature or the second feature of the present invention, the second notification content is composed of a combination of a plurality of character strings.

  According to this feature, the second notification content (for example, “Round 9”, “Round 10”) is a combination of a plurality of character strings (for example, a combination of “Round” and “9”, “Round” and “Round”). 10 ”), the gaming machine can reduce the amount of data related to the second notification content configured by the predetermined character information.

  That is, since the gaming machine can reduce the amount of data related to the second notification content, the time required for reading the data related to the second notification content can be shortened.

  According to the present invention, the gaming state when the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes smaller than the predetermined threshold is taken over to the gaming state after the power supplied to the gaming machine becomes larger than the predetermined threshold. It is possible to provide a gaming machine that reduces a player's anxiety about whether or not he / she is.

(Composition of gaming machine)
Hereinafter, a configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an external view of a gaming machine 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, a gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment is provided with an outer frame 1 provided for installing the gaming machine 10 in a game hall, and inside the outer frame 1 so as to be opened and closed. An inner frame 2, a game board 3 provided in front of the inner frame 2, and a launch handle 24 configured to launch a game ball toward a game area on the game board 3 by being rotated. The speakers 25L and 25R that output sound effects and voices for notifying the player that a predetermined gaming state has been reached, and that the predetermined gaming state has been turned on / off in a predetermined pattern Decorative lamps 26L and 26R are provided.

  Here, the predetermined game state is a “hit state” that starts on condition that a predetermined special symbol (hereinafter referred to as a stop symbol) is stopped and displayed as a result of execution of variable display of a special symbol. In the big hit determination to determine whether or not to shift the state to the big hit state, there is a high probability that it will be determined that the gaming state is changed to the big hit state, and the time during which the special symbol variable display is executed is shortened For example, “short-time state”.

  The gaming machine 10 is also provided with a card unit 20 configured so that when a prepaid card or the like is inserted, game balls are lent out according to the balance of the prepaid card.

  The game area on the game board 3 includes a special symbol display device 4, a starting port 6, a normal symbol operating gate 7, a big winning port 8, an out port 9, and a general winning port 16. .

  In the special symbol display device 4, variable display of the special symbol displayed in the display area is executed on condition that the game ball has passed through the starting area provided in the starting port 6. The special symbol variable display is executed based on a jackpot determination random number or the like extracted on the condition that the game ball has passed through the starting area.

  The starting port 6 is configured such that a jackpot determining random number value is extracted on condition that the game ball has passed through the starting region provided in the starting port 6.

  The normal symbol operating gate 7 has a random value for determining whether to open or close the pair of blades provided in the starting port 6 on the condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operating gate 7. It is configured to be extracted.

  The big winning opening 8 opens and closes under a predetermined condition when the gaming state becomes a big hit state, and when a gaming ball wins the big winning opening 8, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of gaming balls are used as winning balls. It is configured to be paid out.

  The out port 9 receives a game ball that has not won any of the start port 6, the big winning port 8, the general winning port 16, and the like.

  The general winning opening 16 is configured such that when a game ball wins the general winning opening 16, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 15 balls) are paid out as winning balls.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the control unit of the gaming machine 10 includes a main control circuit 30, a sub-control circuit 40, and a payout / launch control circuit 80.

  The main control circuit 30 includes an I / O 31, a main CPU 32, a main ROM 33, a main RAM 34, a command output port 35, and a backup power source 36.

  Further, the main control circuit 30 is provided with a V / count switch 28S for detecting a game ball that has passed a specific area (V zone) provided in the special winning opening 8, and a special winning opening 8. A count switch 29S for detecting a game ball that has passed through the general area, a general winning port switch 16S for detecting that a game ball has won the general winning port 16, and that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operating gate 7. A passing gate switch 7S for detecting the start, a start winning port switch 6S for detecting that the game ball has passed through the start area provided in the start port 6, and a pair of blades provided in the start port 6 are opened and closed. A start opening solenoid 6a, a large winning opening solenoid 8a that opens and closes the door of the large winning opening 8, and a seesaw that drives a seesaw that distributes game balls that have entered the large winning opening 8 into a specific area and a general area. A saw solenoid 8b, and backup clear switch 11 for initializing are connected to the information source is stored in the main RAM34 when it is turned on.

  The I / O 31 is an interface for input signals from the switches described above and output signals to the solenoids described above.

  The main CPU 32 performs each process in “system timer interrupt processing” (see FIG. 3A) and “main processing” (see FIG. 3B), which will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, the main CPU 32 constitutes command generation means for generating a predetermined command according to the gaming state.

  The main ROM 33 stores a program for performing each processing in “system timer interrupt processing” (see FIG. 3A), which will be described later, and “main processing” (see FIG. 3B). ing.

  The main RAM 34 is constituted by a DRAM or the like, and stores start-up memory (including a jackpot determination random number value) and the like. Further, when the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold (when power is interrupted), the main RAM 34 stores information relating to the gaming state at that time.

  The command output port 35 is a port for outputting each command generated by the main CPU 32 to the sub control circuit 40.

  The backup power source 36 supplies power to the main control circuit 30 for a predetermined time when the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold.

  The sub control circuit 40 includes a command input port 41, a sub CPU 42, a sub ROM 43, a sub RAM 44, an image control circuit 45, an audio control circuit 46, a lamp control circuit 47, and a backup power supply 48. Yes.

  The command input port 41 is a port to which each command output from the main control circuit 30 is input.

  The sub CPU 42 controls the image control circuit 45, the sound control circuit 46, and the lamp control circuit 47 based on each command (each command generated by the main CPU 32) output from the main control circuit 30.

  In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 42 is supplied to the main CPU 32 and a first notifying unit that notifies the player of the gaming state by the first notification content based on a predetermined command generated by the main CPU 32. Until the first notification means can notify the gaming state after the power to become larger than the second threshold, based on the information relating to the gaming state stored in the sub-RAM 44 Based on the second notification means for notifying the player of the gaming state with the second notification content having a data amount smaller than the data related to the notification content of the first notification, and a predetermined command generated by the main CPU 32, the second notification content And updating means for updating notification contents.

  The sub ROM 43 stores a program for controlling the image control circuit 45, the sound control circuit 46, and the lamp control circuit 47.

  The sub RAM 44 is constituted by a DRAM or the like, and stores each command (each command generated by the main CPU 32) output from the main control circuit 30. When the sub RAM 44 receives the power interruption command from the main control circuit 30, the sub RAM 44 stores information related to the gaming state at that time.

  In the present embodiment, the sub-RAM 44 constitutes storage means for storing information relating to the gaming state when the power supplied to the command generation means becomes smaller than the first threshold.

  The image control circuit 45 displays on the special symbol display device 4 an image (for example, a special symbol variable display or its effect image) for notifying the player of the gaming state according to the control data from the sub CPU 42.

  The sound control circuit 46 causes the speakers 25L and 25R to output sound (for example, sound effects) for notifying the player of the gaming state in accordance with control data from the sub CPU 42.

  The lamp control circuit 47 turns on / off the decoration lamps 26L and 26R in accordance with control data from the sub CPU 42 in a lighting / light-off pattern for notifying the player of the gaming state.

  The backup power supply 48 supplies power to the sub-control circuit for a predetermined time when an interruption command indicating that the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 has become smaller than a predetermined threshold is input from the main control circuit 30. 40.

  The payout / launch control circuit 80 has a predetermined number of games in response to a command from the main control circuit 30 that is output based on the winning of a game ball in the start opening 6, the big winning opening 8, the general winning opening 16, and the like. A payout device 81 that pays out a ball as a winning ball and a launch device 82 that fires a game ball toward a game area on the game board 3 are controlled.

  When the card unit 20 is connected to the payout / release control circuit 80 and a prepaid card is inserted into the card unit 20, the payout / fire control circuit 80 has a number of games corresponding to the balance of the prepaid card. The dispensing device 81 is controlled so that the ball is lent out.

(Machine machine operation)
Hereinafter, the operation of the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the main CPU 32 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 3A, in step 100, the main CPU 32 saves the information stored in the register.

  In step 110, the main CPU 32 updates values such as a jackpot determination random number value and a normal symbol determination random number value.

  In step 120, the main CPU 32 performs a switch input detection process. Specifically, the main CPU 32 confirms whether or not there is an input signal from each switch (start winning port switch 6S, passing gate switch 7S, general winning port switch 16S, V / count switch 28S and count switch 29S). To do. In addition, when there is an input signal, the main CPU 32 performs a predetermined process according to the input signal. Here, when there is an input signal from the start winning opening switch 6S, the main CPU 32 sets a special symbol storage command indicating the number of start memories (special symbols), and there is an input signal from the pass gate switch 7S. In this case, a normal symbol storage command indicating the number of start memories (normal symbols) is set, and when there is an input signal from the V / count switch 28S, a V display indicating that the game ball has passed through the specific area. Set the command.

  In step 130, the main CPU 32 updates the remaining fluctuation display time of the normal symbols and special symbols that are variably displayed, the remaining opening time of the start port 6 and the big prize winning port 8 in the open state, and the like.

  In step 140, the main CPU 32 outputs game information such as the number of game balls paid out as a winning ball and occurrence of jackpot, information on the operation of the correction function, and the like to a hall computer installed in the game hall.

  In step 150, the main CPU 32 outputs a signal for driving the start opening solenoid 6a, the large winning opening solenoid 8a, and the like for driving the starting opening 6 and the large winning opening 8.

  In step 160, the main CPU 32 outputs a command for instructing a stop symbol of the special symbol, a change display pattern of the special symbol, and the like to the sub-control circuit 40.

  In step 170, the main CPU 32 outputs a command for instructing to display an error such as running out of a ball or a full tray in a predetermined lamp.

  In step 180, the main CPU 32 instructs to pay out a predetermined game ball as a prize ball in accordance with the type of the prize slot into which the game ball has entered (the start slot 6, the big prize slot 8, and the general prize slot 16). Command to be output to the payout / firing control circuit 80.

  In step 190, the main CPU 32 restores the information saved in step 100 to the register.

  Next, the main process in the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 3B, in step 10, the main CPU 32 returns the various settings in the gaming machine 10 to the settings when the power was last turned off (or initializes the various settings in the gaming machine 10). ) (Initialization process). Details of the initialization process will be described later (FIG. 4).

  In step 20, the main CPU 32 performs a special symbol control process. Specifically, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not to shift the gaming state to the big hit state (big hit determination), determines a special symbol variation pattern, and controls the big winning opening 8 in the big hit state. Details of the special symbol control process will be described later (FIG. 5).

  In step 30, the main CPU 32 sets the result of the variable symbol normal display as a predetermined display result (the random value for determination per normal symbol included in the normal symbol start memory coincides with the predetermined determination value per normal symbol). If it is determined, a command for opening and closing the start port 6 according to a predetermined condition is set.

  In step 40, the main CPU 32 updates a value such as a random number for effect to determine the variable display effect content of the special symbol.

  The main CPU 32 repeats the processing from step 20 to step 40 described above.

  Next, initialization processing according to the present embodiment will be described. The initialization process is executed when the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 becomes smaller than the predetermined threshold from the state where the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 is smaller than the predetermined threshold. Interrupt processing. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an initialization process according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in step 10-1, access to the main RAM 34 is permitted.

  In step 10-2, the main CPU 32 confirms whether or not there is an input from the backup clear switch 11.

  In step 10-3, when there is an input from the backup clear switch 11, the main CPU 32 proceeds to the process of step 10-14, and when there is no input from the backup clear switch 11, the main CPU 32 proceeds to step 10-4. Move on to processing.

  In step 10-4, the main CPU 32 executes a power interruption detection flag check.

  In step 10-5, the main CPU 32 confirms whether or not the value of the power interruption detection flag confirmed in the power interruption detection flag check is the specified value (A5). When the value of the power detection flag is not the specified value (A5), the main CPU 32 proceeds to the processing of Step 10-15, and when the value of the power detection flag is the specified value (A5), Step 10-6. Move on to processing.

  In step 10-6, the main CPU 32 executes a work area damage check of the main RAM 34. Specifically, the main CPU 32 determines the work area damage calculated in the power interruption interrupt process (see FIG. 6) executed when the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold. It is confirmed whether the check value is the same as the work area damage check value calculated this time.

  In step 10-7, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the work area of the main RAM 34 is damaged based on the check value described above. When the work area of the main RAM 34 is damaged, the main CPU 32 proceeds to the process of step 10-15. When the work area of the main RAM 34 is not damaged, the main CPU 32 proceeds to the process of step 10-8.

  In step 10-8, the main CPU 32 executes a backup restoration process. Specifically, the main CPU 32 determines the gaming state when the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 is smaller than a predetermined threshold based on information relating to the gaming state stored in the work area of the main RAM 34. Execute processing to return to.

  In step 10-9, the main CPU 32 executes an operation setting process. Specifically, the main CPU 32 executes interrupt setting and the like.

  In step 10-10, the main CPU 32 confirms the interrupt state when the power interruption interrupt process is executed.

  In Step 10-11, the main CPU 32 confirms whether or not the interrupt state when the power interruption interrupt process is executed is an interrupt prohibited state. When the interrupt state when the power interruption interrupt process is executed is the interrupt prohibited state, the main CPU 32 proceeds to the process of step 10-13, and the state before the occurrence of the power interruption is the interrupt prohibited state. If not, the process proceeds to Step 10-12.

  In step 10-12, the main CPU 32 permits an interrupt such as a system timer interrupt process.

  In step 10-13, the main CPU 32 restores the information stored in the register of the main RAM 34, and restores the stack pointer stored when the power interruption processing is executed. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a gaming state at the time of power interruption and a power interruption return designation command indicating that the power has been recovered from the power interruption.

  The power failure recovery designation command includes a power interruption recovery specification command (normal state), a power interruption recovery specification command (probability change state), and a power interruption recovery specification command (time reduction) according to the gaming state at the time of power failure. Status) and power interruption recovery designation command (big hit status).

  In step 10-14, the main CPU 32 initializes the work area of the main RAM 34.

  In step 10-15, the main CPU 32 executes an operation setting process. Specifically, the main CPU 32 executes interrupt setting and the like.

  In step 10-16, the main CPU 32 permits an interrupt such as a system timer interrupt process.

  Next, the special symbol control process according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a special symbol control process according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in step 20-1, the main CPU 32 executes a process of loading the control state flag of the special symbol game. The control state flag of the special symbol game is a flag indicating a game state in the special symbol game, and the main CPU 32 performs steps 20-2 to 20-10 based on the control state flag of the special symbol game. It is discriminated whether or not to execute each process.

  In step 20-2, when the control state flag of the special symbol game is a value (00) indicating the special symbol memory check process and the number of start memories is “1” or more, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the big hit determination is disturbed. The jackpot determination is performed based on the numerical value, and the stop symbol of the special symbol and the variable display pattern of the special symbol are determined based on the result. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a variable display pattern designation command (special symbol) for designating the variable display pattern of the determined special symbol. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management process in the control state flag of the special symbol game, and sets the variable display time corresponding to the variable display pattern in the waiting time timer.

  In step 20-3, the main CPU 32 determines that the control state flag of the special symbol game is a value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the variable display time is set is “0”. In some cases, a value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process is set in the control state flag of the special symbol game, and a special symbol confirmation command indicating that the special symbol variable display is ended is set. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a waiting time after determination (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer.

  In step 20-4, the main CPU 32 determines that the control state flag is a value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process, the value of the waiting time timer in which the waiting time after determination is set is “0”, When the result of the jackpot determination performed in 20-2 is to shift the gaming state to the jackpot state, a value (03) indicating the jackpot start interval management process is set in the control state flag and the jackpot start interval The time corresponding to (for example, 10 seconds) is set in the waiting time timer. Further, the main CPU 32 outputs a big hit start command indicating that the big hit state starts to the sub CPU 42. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a value (08) indicating a special symbol game end process when the result of the jackpot determination performed in step 20-2 does not shift the gaming state to the jackpot state (in the case of losing). Set to control status flag.

  In Step 20-5, the main CPU 32 sets the special symbol game control state flag to a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management process, and sets the time corresponding to the big hit interval to “0”. In the case of "", the big prize opening solenoid 8a is controlled so as to open the big prize opening 8, and the big prize opening opening command indicating the remaining number of rounds in the big hit state is set. In addition, the main CPU 32 sets a value (04) indicating the special winning opening process during opening to the control state flag of the special symbol game, and sets the opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the special winning opening opening time timer. .

  In Step 20-6, when the control state flag of the special symbol game is a value (04) indicating the process for opening the big winning opening, the main CPU 32 sets the value of the big winning opening opening time timer in which the opening upper limit time is set. It is confirmed whether or not any of the condition that the game is “0” or the condition that ten or more game balls have entered the big winning opening 8 is satisfied. Further, the main CPU 32 controls the big prize opening solenoid 8a so as to close the big prize opening 8 when any of the above-mentioned conditions is established. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a value (05) indicating the special winning game residual ball monitoring process to the control state flag of the special symbol game, and uses the special winning game residual ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) as a waiting time timer. set.

  In step 20-7, the main CPU 32 sets the special symbol game control state flag to a value (05) indicating the winning ball remaining ball monitoring process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the winning ball remaining ball monitoring time is set. Is “0”, the condition that the game ball has not passed through the specific area provided in the big prize opening 8, or the value of the big prize opening number counter is “15” or more (final round) ), It is confirmed whether any of the conditions is satisfied. The special winning opening opening number counter is a counter for counting the number of rounds in the big hit state. The main CPU 32 sets a value (07) indicating the big hit end interval process to the control state flag of the special symbol game and ends the big hit if any of the above conditions is satisfied. The time corresponding to the interval is set in the waiting time timer. Further, when none of the above conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 32 sets a value (06) indicating a waiting time management process before reopening the big prize opening in the control state flag of the special symbol game. In addition, the time corresponding to the interval between rounds is set in the waiting time timer.

  In step 20-8, the main CPU 32 sets the special symbol game control state flag to a value (06) indicating the waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening, and sets the time corresponding to the interval between rounds. When the value of the timer is “0”, “1” is added to the value of the big prize opening number counter, and a big prize opening opening command indicating the number of remaining rounds in the big hit state is set. In addition, the main CPU 32 sets a value (04) indicating the special winning opening process during opening to the control state flag of the special symbol game, and sets the opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the special winning opening opening time timer. .

  In step 20-9, the main CPU 32 sets the special symbol game control state flag to a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval is set is “0”. If "," a value (08) indicating the special symbol game end process is set in the control state flag of the special symbol game, and a jackpot end command is set.

  Next, the power interruption interrupt processing according to the present embodiment will be described. The power interruption interrupt process is an interrupt process executed when the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold (when power is interrupted). FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a power interruption interrupt process according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in step 200, the main CPU 32 saves information stored in the register of the main RAM 34.

  In step 210, the main CPU 32 stores whether the interrupt state is an interrupt permission state or an interrupt prohibition state.

  In step 220, the main CPU 32 stores a stack pointer indicating an address relating to an unprocessed process.

  In step 230, the main CPU 32 calculates a work area damage check value of the main RAM 34.

  In step 240, the main CPU 32 stores the power interruption detection flag (A5) and sets a power interruption command.

  In step 250, the main CPU 32 prohibits access to the main RAM 34. Thereafter, the power interruption processing is terminated when the power supplied by the backup power source 36 is stopped.

  Next, power-on processing according to the present embodiment will be described. The power-on process indicates that the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 has changed from a state where the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 is smaller than a predetermined threshold to a state where the power supplied to the main control circuit 30 is larger than the predetermined threshold. This is a process executed by the sub CPU when a power interruption return command is input. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing power-on processing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in step 300, the sub CPU 42 performs the third image data (part of the first notification data) relating to the image displayed on the special symbol display device 4 at the normal time and at the time of power recovery. Is started on the sub-RAM 44. The third image data refers to the number of start memories (special symbols) and start memories (normal symbols), V data indicating that a game ball has passed through a specific area, special symbols, normal symbols, and other image data. It is.

  In step 301, the sub CPU 42 starts a process of reading the second image data (second notification data) related to the image displayed on the special symbol display device 4 onto the sub RAM 44 only at the time of power failure recovery. The second image data is an image related to character information (for example, characters of “hit state” and “round 10”) that tentatively informs the player of the game state (eg, big hit state, number of rounds). It is data.

  In step 302, the sub CPU 42 sets a load time (for example, 7 seconds) necessary for reading the first image data (first notification data) related to the image displayed on the special symbol display device 4 only in the normal time. Set to load time timer. Note that the first image data is image data related to an effect image that informs the player of the gaming state (for example, the big hit state, the number of rounds).

  In step 303, when the power interruption command is input, the sub CPU 42, based on the information on the gaming state stored in the sub RAM 44 and the type of power interruption return command received from the main control circuit 30, the game The special symbol display device 4 displays a power interruption return image (second notification content) indicating that the state and the power interruption state are being restored. At this time, the sub CPU 42 displays the power interruption recovery image on the special symbol display device 4 based on the read second image data and third image data.

  Specifically, when the type of power interruption return command is an initialization command, the sub CPU 42 displays character information of “power interruption recovery”, “normal state”, and “demo state” on the special symbol display device 4. To display. In addition, when the type of power failure recovery command is a power failure recovery designation command (probability change state), the sub CPU 42 specially provides character information of “power recovery in progress”, “probability change state”, and “50 times after probability change”. It is displayed on the symbol display device 4.

  In addition, the sub CPU 42 includes information relating to the gaming state stored in the sub RAM 44, the gaming state specified by the power interruption return designation command and the gaming state specified by the information relating to the gaming state stored in the sub RAM 44. If the character information is different due to damage, etc., character information relating to the gaming state designated by the power interruption return designation command is displayed on the special symbol display device 4.

  In step 304, the sub CPU 42 starts a process of reading the first image data relating to the image (first notification content) displayed on the special symbol display device 4 only in the normal state onto the sub RAM 44.

  In step 305, the sub CPU 42 confirms whether there is a command received from the main control circuit 30.

  In step 306, if there is a command received from the main control circuit 30, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to step 307, and if there is no command received from the main control circuit 30, proceeds to step 308.

  In step 307, the sub CPU 42 changes the power interruption recovery image according to the command received from the main control circuit 30. The relationship between the type of command received from the main control circuit 30 and the image that is changed according to the command received from the main control circuit 30 will be described later (see FIG. 8).

  In step 308, the sub CPU 42 confirms whether or not the load time set in the load time timer is "0". Further, when the load time is “0”, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to the process of step 309, and when the load time is not “0”, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to the process of step 306.

  In step 309, the sub CPU 42 confirms the last command received from the main control circuit 30.

  In step 310, when the last command received from the main control circuit 30 is an initialization command, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to the processing of step 315, and the last command received from the main control circuit 30 is not an initialization command. In the case, the process proceeds to step 311.

  In step 311, if the last command received from the main control circuit 30 is a variable display pattern designation command, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to the processing of step 313, and the last command received from the main control circuit 30 is variably displayed. If it is not a pattern designation command, the process proceeds to step 312. That is, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to the process of step 313 when the special symbol variable display is being performed, and proceeds to the process of step 312 when the special symbol variable display is not being performed. Move on.

  In step 312, the sub CPU 42 changes the power interruption recovery image to the normal image. At this time, the sub CPU 42 displays the normal time image on the special symbol display device 4 based on the read first image data and third image data. That is, the sub CPU 42 deletes the second image data read on the sub RAM 44.

  In step 313, the sub CPU 42 checks whether or not a special symbol confirmation command has been input. When the special symbol confirmation command has been input, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to processing in step 314. That is, the sub CPU 42 proceeds to the process of step 314 when the variable symbol variable display is completed.

  In step 314, the sub CPU 42 changes the power interruption return image to the normal image.

At this time, the sub CPU 42 displays the normal time image on the special symbol display device 4 based on the read first image data and third image data. That is, the sub CPU 42 deletes the second image data read on the sub RAM 44.

  In step 315, the sub CPU 42 checks whether or not the sub RAM 44 is normal. The sub CPU 42 proceeds to the process of step 316 when the sub RAM 44 is normal, and proceeds to the process of step 317 when the sub RAM 44 is not normal.

  In step 316, the sub CPU 42 displays the demo image on the special symbol display device 4.

  In step 317, the sub CPU 42 displays an error display on the special symbol display device 4.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the types of commands and images displayed based on the commands according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, when the sub CPU 42 receives the initialization command, character information indicating the gaming state (for example, character information of “demo state” and “normal state”) is displayed on the special symbol display device 4. At the same time, the special symbol, the normal symbol, the starting memory number (special symbol) and the starting memory number (normal symbol) are displayed on the special symbol display device 4.

  When the sub CPU 42 receives the power interruption return designation command, the gaming state when the power interruption command is received (normal state, probability change state, short-time state or big hit state) according to the type of power interruption restoration designation command (normal state, probability change state, short time state or big hit state) For example, the character information of “big hit state” and “symbol variation state” is displayed on the special symbol display device 4, and the special symbol, normal symbol, starting memory number (special symbol), and starting memory number (normal symbol) are displayed. It is displayed on the special symbol display device 4. In addition, when the power interruption command is received, if “remaining number of time-saving state or probability change state” and “V display” are displayed, these are displayed on the special symbol display device 4.

  When the sub CPU 42 receives the variable display pattern designation command (special symbol), the character information of “symbol variation state” is displayed on the special symbol display device 4 and the fluctuation variation of the special symbol (second notification content). , Specific variable display) is displayed on the special symbol display device 4. At this time, when the “remaining number in the short-time state or the probability variation state” is displayed, the “remaining number in the short-time state or the probability variation state” is subtracted “once” and displayed on the special symbol display device 4.

  In this embodiment, the special symbol used for the fluctuation of the special symbol is the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 4 immediately before the fluctuation of the special symbol is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the special symbol other than the special symbol (special symbol specified by the special symbol confirmation command) to be displayed on the special symbol display device 4 as a result of the fluctuation of the special symbol. If it is. Thereby, the player can have a sense of expectation for the special symbol (whether or not a big hit state is generated) that is displayed on the special symbol display device 4 as a result of the fluctuation fluctuation of the special symbol.

  When the sub CPU 42 receives the special symbol confirmation command, the character information of “symbol variation state” is deleted from the special symbol display device 4 and the special symbol designated by the special symbol confirmation command is the special symbol display device 4. Is displayed.

  Hereinafter, similarly, a jackpot start interval command, a bonus winning opening command, a jackpot end interval command, a demo display command, a variable display pattern designation command (ordinary symbol), a game state designation command, a special symbol memory command, and a normal symbol memory command Is received by the sub CPU 42, the power interruption return image displayed on the special symbol display device 4 is changed according to the received command.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing character strings constituting character information according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the character information in the power interruption return image (second notification content) is constituted by a combination of the character strings. That is, this character string constitutes second image data used only at the time of power failure recovery.

  Below, the image displayed on the special symbol display apparatus 4 in the big hit state in a present Example is demonstrated. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an image (normal time) related to the big hit state displayed on the special symbol display device 4 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in the big hit state (normal time), the number of starting memories (special symbol) in the display area 4a, the number of starting memories (normal symbol) in the display area 4b, the special symbol in the display area 4c, and the display area 4d. The normal symbol and the V display are displayed in the display area 4e. These images are displayed based on the third image data.

  Further, the special symbol display device 4 displays an effect image (background image in the figure) and the number of rounds for producing a big hit state. These images are displayed based on the first image data.

  Next, a description will be given of an image (an image at the time of power interruption return) when the power interruption occurs after the image interruption in FIG. 10 is displayed on the special symbol display device 4. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an image (at the time of power interruption recovery) related to the big hit state displayed on the special symbol display device 4 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in the big hit state (at the time of power interruption recovery), the number of starting memories (special symbol) in the display area 4a, the number of starting memories (ordinary symbol) in the display area 4b, and the special symbol and display in the display area 4c A normal symbol is displayed in the area 4d, and a V display is displayed in the display area 4e. These images are displayed based on the third image data.

  In addition, the special symbol display device 4 displays character information indicating that the power interruption is being restored ("power interruption recovery") and character information indicating the gaming state ("big hit state" and "round 10"). The These images are displayed based on the second image data.

  Next, in the present embodiment, an image in which the special symbol variable display (normal time) is performed on the special symbol display device 4 when the gaming state is the probability variation state will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing variable display (normal time) of special symbols displayed on the special symbol display device 4 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in the variable display of special symbols (normal time), the number of starting memories (special symbols) in the display area 4a, the number of starting memories (ordinary symbols) in the display area 4b, and the special symbols in the display area 4c, Normal symbols are displayed in the display area 4d. These images are displayed based on the third image data.

  In addition, the special symbol display device 4 displays an effect image (background image in the figure) for effecting variable display of the special symbol and the remaining variable display count in the probability variation state. These images are displayed based on the first image data.

  Next, a description will be given of an image (an image at the time of power interruption return) when the power interruption occurs after the image interruption in FIG. 12 is displayed on the special symbol display device 4. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing variable display of special symbols (at the time of power failure recovery) displayed on the special symbol display device 4 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, in the variable display of special symbols (when power interruption is restored), the number of starting memories (special symbols) in the display area 4a, the number of starting memories (ordinary symbols) in the display area 4b, and the special number in the display area 4c. Normal symbols are displayed in the symbol and display area 4d. It is assumed that the special symbol displayed in the display area 4c fluctuates. These images are displayed based on the third image data. As described above, the special symbol displayed in the display area c immediately before the fluctuation of the special symbol is used is used for the fluctuation of the special symbol.

  In addition, the special symbol display device 4 includes character information indicating that the power interruption is being restored (“power interruption recovery is in progress”) and character information indicating the gaming state (“design is changing” and “50 times after the probability change”). Is displayed. These images are displayed based on the second image data.

(Actions and effects of gaming machines)
According to the gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment, the gaming machine 10 is in a period from when the supplied power becomes larger than the second threshold (at the time of power recovery) until the power recovery is completed (the first The first notification content is based on information relating to the gaming state stored when the power supplied is smaller than the first threshold (until the reading of image data is completed) The game state is notified to the player by the second notification content (FIGS. 11 and 13) having a smaller data amount than that of (FIGS. 10 and 12), and the second notification is made based on various commands (see FIG. 8). By updating the contents, it is possible to reduce the player's anxiety about whether or not the gaming state at the time of power interruption is succeeded to the gaming state at the time of power interruption recovery.

  The second notification content (for example, “Round 9”, “Round 10”) is a combination of a plurality of character strings (for example, a combination of “Round” and “9”, a combination of “Round” and “10”). ), The gaming machine 10 can reduce the amount of data related to the second notification content.

1 is an external view of a gaming machine 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a gaming machine 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the main CPU32 which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the initialization process which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol control process which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the electric power interruption interruption process which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the power-on process which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the kind of command which concerns on one Example of this invention, and the image displayed based on a command. It is a figure which shows the character kind which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the image displayed on the special symbol display apparatus 4 which concerns on one Example of this invention (the 1). It is a figure which shows the image displayed on the special symbol display apparatus 4 which concerns on one Example of this invention (the 2). It is a figure which shows the image displayed on the special symbol display apparatus 4 which concerns on one Example of this invention (the 3). It is a figure which shows the image displayed on the special symbol display apparatus 4 which concerns on one Example of this invention (the 4).

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Outer frame, 2 ... Inner frame, 3 ... Game board, 4 ... Special symbol display device, 6 ... Start port, 6a ... Start port solenoid, 6S ... Start Winning mouth switch, 7 ... Normal symbol operating gate, 7S ... Passing gate switch, 8 ... Large winning port, 8a ... Large winning port solenoid, 8b ... Seesaw solenoid, 9 ... Out Mouth, 10 ... gaming machine, 11 ... backup clear switch, 16 ... general winning port, 16S ... general winning port switch, 20 ... card unit, 24 ... launch handle, 25L and 25R ... speaker, 26L and 26R ... decorative lamp, 28S ... V / count switch, 29S ... count switch, 30 ... main control circuit, 31 ... I / O, 32 ...・ Main CPU, 33 ... Mei ROM, 34 ... main RAM, 35 ... command output port, 36 ... backup power supply, 40 ... sub-control circuit, 41 ... command input port, 42 ... sub CPU, 43 ... Sub ROM 44 ... Sub RAM 45 ... Image control circuit 46 ... Audio control circuit 47 ... Lamp control circuit 48 ... Backup power supply 80 ... Discharge / launch control Circuit 81 ... Dispensing device 82 ... Launching device

Claims (3)

Command generating means for generating a predetermined command according to the gaming state, and first notification for notifying the player of the gaming state by the first notification content based on the predetermined command generated by the command generating means And a storage means for storing information relating to the gaming state when the power supplied to the command generation means is smaller than a first threshold,
The electric power supplied to the command generation unit is stored in the storage unit until the first notification unit can notify the gaming state after the power supplied to the command generation unit becomes larger than the second threshold. Based on information relating to the gaming state, a second notifying means for notifying the player of the gaming state by the second notification content;
A gaming machine comprising: an updating unit that updates the second notification content based on the predetermined command generated by the command generating unit.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the second notification content is notification content having a smaller data amount than data related to the first notification content. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the second notification content is configured by a combination of a plurality of character strings.

Images