JP2005245621A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which keeps the players from being fed up with by offering the unique and novel games. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine has a game board having the playing area made up of a permeable member, a starter slot which offers the variable display of many pieces of identifying information, a display means disposed behind the game board and a display control means which controls the variable display of the many pieces of identifying information. When one game ball enters the starter slot, responding to the lottery by a lottery means, the display control means sets a plurality of variable display areas and work to carry out the variable display of the many pieces of identifying information in the respective variable display areas while displaying frame images where the many pieces of identifying information are arrayed inside respectively corresponding to the variable display areas set. The many pieces of identifying information are stopped or displayed from the results of the lottery by the lottery means in any of the plurality of variable display areas. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

Conventionally, in a pachinko gaming machine, a lottery for determining whether to win or lose is performed in response to the game ball entering the starting port, and if the result of the lottery is a big winner, the lottery The identification information is variably displayed based on the result of the identification information, and after the identification information is variably displayed, the identification information is stopped and displayed in a combination that results in a jackpot, and then a jackpot state occurs. A predetermined profit and / or advantageous state is provided to the player, such as paying out a game ball.

Conventionally, there is a pachinko gaming apparatus in which the order of identification information to be stopped and displayed is changed in response to a predetermined condition being satisfied (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
In such a pachinko gaming apparatus, for example, in the variable display of identification information, the order in which the identification information is always stopped and displayed is always stopped in the order of the left symbol, the center symbol, and the right symbol. Unlike a pachinko gaming machine with a constant value, it is possible to give diversity to variable display of identification information.

Japanese Patent No. 2622983

However, in the pachinko gaming apparatus described above, although the order in which the identification information is stopped and displayed is changed, the game content that the identification information is variably displayed by a certain number of identification information displayed in one display area is changed. Because it was not, it was lacking in novelty and was easily bored by players.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can provide a novel game that does not exist in the past and does not bore the player.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides the following.
(1) a game board having a game area in which a game ball can roll, wherein the game area is made of a permeable member;
A starting port provided in the gaming area, wherein a variable display of a plurality of identification information is performed when a gaming ball enters;
Gaming members provided in the gaming area;
It has a display area in which a plurality of variable display areas where variable display of a plurality of identification information is performed can be set, and the display area and the game area in the game board are arranged behind the game board. Display means;
Display control means for controlling the variable display of the plurality of identification information to the display means;
A gaming machine comprising lottery means for performing lottery to determine whether or not to generate a jackpot gaming state in response to a game ball entering the start opening,
The display control means sets a plurality of variable display areas in response to the fact that one game ball enters the start opening and the lottery means performs a lottery, and sets each of the set variable display areas. Correspondingly, a frame image in which the plurality of identification information is arranged inside is displayed and variable display of the plurality of identification information is performed in each variable display area,
A gaming machine, wherein a plurality of pieces of identification information are stopped and displayed based on a lottery result of the lottery means in any of the plurality of variable display areas.

According to the invention of (1), in response to the fact that one game ball has entered the start opening, a plurality of variable displays of identification information are performed simultaneously, and in any one of the variable display areas, The game information can be a novel game content that has not been achieved in the past, in which whether or not a big hit is indicated by the stop-displayed identification information. As a result, a gaming machine that does not bore the player can be provided.

Furthermore, since the identification information is arranged inside the frame image, the variable display of the identification information is distinguished for each frame in which the identification information is arranged even when a plurality of variable display of the identification information is performed simultaneously. It becomes possible to recognize.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(2) The gaming machine according to (1) above,
In response to the fact that one game ball has entered the start port and the lottery means has performed a lottery, the display control means is configured to display the plurality of variable display areas in each variable display area. After setting a part to overlap and performing variable display of a plurality of identification information in each variable display region, each variable display region is moved so as to be replaced in the front-rear direction, and the lottery means in the frontmost variable display region A plurality of pieces of identification information are stopped and displayed based on the lottery result.

According to the invention of (2), the frame image itself in which the identification information is arranged can be made a novel game content that does not appear to be variable display, and the fun of the game is dramatically improved. It becomes possible.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(3) The gaming machine according to (1) above,
In response to the fact that one game ball has entered the start port and the lottery means has performed a lottery, the display control means is configured to display the plurality of variable display areas in each variable display area. After setting the parts to overlap and performing variable display of multiple identification information in each variable display area, the variable display area is sequentially erased from the front side to the back side, and the remaining frontmost A plurality of pieces of identification information are stopped and displayed based on the lottery result of the lottery means in the variable display area.

According to the invention of (3), identification information stopped and displayed in a combination (for example, “7”-“7”-“7”, etc.) indicating a jackpot is included in any of the plurality of variable display areas. The player can be given a sense of urgency as to whether or not the variable display area in which the identification information is displayed is erased, so that the interest of the game can be dramatically improved. It becomes possible.

According to the configuration of the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can have a novel game content that does not exist in the past and does not bore the player.

Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Configuration of the ball game machine]
First, an overview of a ball game machine will be described with reference to FIGS. In the embodiment described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a first type pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as “digital pachi”) is shown as a preferred embodiment for a ball game machine according to the present invention. . FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12 having an opening 12a formed on the front surface, various components disposed inside the opening 12a in the main body frame 12, and a main body frame. The door 11 is pivotally attached to the front of the door 12 so as to be openable and closable. As shown in FIG. 1, this door 11 is for closing the opening 12a from the front, and a game is normally performed in the closed state.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26 and the like are disposed on the front surface of the main body frame 12. In general, a player who plays a game is located on the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in which the operation of the launch handle 26 and the like is possible. That is, this pachinko gaming machine 10 can be played from the front.

Further, inside the opening 12a of the main body frame 12, a liquid crystal display device 32 which is a display means for performing variable display of a plurality of identification information, which will be described later, and display of an effect image related to the game, the game board 14 and the like are various parts described above It is arranged as. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted in order to make an understanding easy about various components (not shown) other than the game board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG.

The game board 14 is entirely made of a plate-shaped resin having transparency. Examples of the resin having transparency include various materials such as an acrylic resin, a polycarbonate resin, and a methacrylic resin. The game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front surface of which the launched game ball can roll. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by a guide rail 30 (specifically, an outer rail 30a shown in FIG. 3 to be described later) where a game ball can roll. A plurality of obstacle nails 13 are provided in the game area 15 of the game board 14.

The liquid crystal display device 32 described above is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a that enables variable display of a plurality of pieces of identification information and can display an effect image related to a game. The display area 32a is disposed so as to overlap all or part of the game board 14 from the back side. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32a overlaps the entire game area 15. However, the liquid crystal display device 32 is not limited to this, and for example, all or one of the game areas 15 is disposed. And the front surface area 16 of the game board 14 that does not correspond to the game area 15 (hereinafter referred to as the game area outer area 16) so as to overlap the part and the rear area of the game board 14. Good. In other words, the game board 14 only has to have a game area 15 in which a game ball can roll, and a part or all of the game area 15 is made of a permeable member.

The display area 32a in the liquid crystal display device 32, as will be described in detail later, includes various kinds of special symbols, which are identification information in special symbol games, ordinary symbols in ordinary symbol games, background images related to games, effect images for effects, etc. Is displayed.

The door 11 is provided with a protective plate 19 having transparency. The protection plate 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of the game board 14 with the door 11 closed. In particular, the protective plate 19 is disposed so as to face at least the entire game area 15 and a part of the game area outer area 16, but is not limited thereto, and for example, faces the entire game area outer area 16. It may be arranged in such a manner that it does not face the entire outer area 16 of the gaming area.

Thus, when the door 11 is in a closed state and a game is played from the front of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the player, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed on the back side of the gaming board 14 having transparency. In addition, since the protective plate 19 having transparency is disposed on the front side of the game board 14, the image displayed on the display area 32a in the liquid crystal display device 32 is displayed on the game board 14 and the protective plate 19 having transparency. It is made visible to the player via

Therefore, as will be described in detail later, it is possible to provide a novel display effect that was not found in conventional gaming machines, and to improve the interest. Further, in the conventional gaming machine, there is a possibility that the size of the game area is reduced by increasing the size of the display area. Further, displaying various images without increasing the size of the display area may cause troublesome visual recognition for the player. Therefore, by executing a display effect as described later, it is possible to execute a variety of effects independent of the size of the display area in the liquid crystal display device 32, and to improve the interest.

The launch handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12, and the player operates the launch handle 26 to advance the game. A firing solenoid (not shown) is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26.

A touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. Fired sequentially on the board 14.

Note that the touch sensor provided on the firing handle 26 may be any sensor that can determine that the player has gripped the firing handle 26. The type of sensor, such as an optical detection sensor or a thermal detection sensor, may be used. It doesn't matter.

An overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 configured as described above will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, the special symbol 92, which is identification information in the special symbol game, and the normal symbol 94, which is identification information in the normal symbol game, are mainly shown, and the other images are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 3, two guide rails 30 (30 a and 30 b) are provided on the front surface of the game board 14. These two guide rails 30 are composed of an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b that is disposed inside the outer rail 30a. The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14 and moves to the upper part of the game board 14. Thereafter, the game ball is collided with the above-described obstacle nails 13 (see FIG. 2). Falling down the game board 14 while changing the traveling direction.

The liquid crystal display device 32 described above is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a.

In the approximate center of the display area 32a, there are four variable display areas 37 in which variable display of the three special symbols 92, which are the identification information, is performed in response to the winning of one game ball in the starting port 44 described later. (37a-37d) is set. In addition, frame images 96a to 96d corresponding to each of the variable display areas 37a to 37d, in which three special symbols 92 are arranged, are displayed. These frame images 96a to 96d are images simulating a wooden frame.
A normal symbol 94 is displayed on the lower right side of the variable display area 37b. This normal symbol 94 is information consisting of several orders, symbols, and the like. When this normal symbol is stopped and displayed with a predetermined symbol (for example, “7”), the starting port 44 described later is opened and the game ball is released. Easy to enter.

When a game ball enters the start port 44, the variable display areas 37a to 37d are moved so that each of the variable display areas 37a to 37d is replaced in the front-rear direction after the special symbols are variably displayed. When the combination of the special symbols stopped and displayed in the variable display area 37 is a combination that is a big hit (for example, “7”-“7”-“7”, etc.), the game state is specified to be advantageous to the player It will shift to a gaming state (so-called jackpot). This special symbol is a symbol made up of numbers, symbols, and the like. In this embodiment, numbers from “0” to “9” are used.

“Variable display” is a concept that can be displayed in a variable manner. For example, a “variable display” that is actually displayed in a variable state, a “stop display” that is displayed in a stopped state, etc. It is. Further, “variable display” can be “derivation display” in which identification information is displayed as a result of variable display of identification information in the variable display area. Further, the period from the start of the variable display to the derivation display is referred to as one variable display. In the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the embodiment, after a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed and the identification information is derived and displayed, the variable display area 37 is moved in the front-rear direction, and the variable display area is stopped. As a result, a specific gaming state occurs according to a combination of a plurality of pieces of identification information that are stopped and displayed. The special symbol game is a game from the start of variable display of special symbols in the four variable display areas 37 to the stop of movement of the four variable display areas 37 in the front-rear direction.

On the liquid crystal display device 32, identification information corresponding to a plurality of symbol rows (three rows in the present embodiment) is variably displayed. In the present embodiment, the identification information is composed of a plurality of symbol strings. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the identification information may be composed of one symbol string.

In addition, a background image related to the game, a production effect image, and the like are displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 including a liquid crystal display panel is used as a portion for displaying an image. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) is used. It may be composed of a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, a segment LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like.

In the game area 15 of the game board 14 described above, various types of accessories are formed. An example of various types of accessory will be described below with reference to FIG. 3, but is not limited thereto.

For example, rolling guide members 59 a and 59 b for guiding the path of the game ball in a predetermined direction are provided above the game area 15 of the game board 14. Further, at the lower part of the game board 14 in the game area 15, game ball general winning ports 56 a to 56 d are provided.

In the vicinity of the general winning ports 56a to 56d, a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed with respect to a large winning port (not shown) is provided. When the above-described specific gaming state (so-called big hit gaming state) occurs, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in an open state (first state) in which a game ball can be easily received. Further, the special winning opening has a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 4) and a general area (not shown) having a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 4). The shutter 40 is driven to the open state until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls pass through these areas or until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. In other words, when either of the conditions for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening or the elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the big prize opening is closed so that it is difficult to accept the game balls. Subsequently, the shutter 40, which has been changed from the open state to the closed state (second state), is once again on condition that the game ball received in the big winning opening in the open state has passed through the V-count sensor 102. Driven to the open state. That is, the game ball received when the grand prize winning opening is in the open state passes the specific area provided in the big winning prize opening, and then is opened again after being closed.

A start opening 44 having a start winning ball sensor 116 (see FIG. 4) is provided above the shutter 40. When a game ball wins at the start port 44, a special symbol game is started, and the state shifts to a variable display state in which multiple columns of identification information are displayed in a variable manner. As a condition for starting the special symbol game, in this embodiment, the main condition is that a game ball is won at the start opening 44. In the embodiment, the start condition of the special symbol game is that the game ball has won the start opening 44, but the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used. In addition, when a special ball game is being executed in the display area 32a, if a game ball is won at the start port 44, the special symbol game that is triggered by the game ball winning at the start port 44 is suspended. The reserved special symbol game may be started after the special symbol game that has been performed first is finished.

In addition, ball passage detectors 54a and 54b are provided between the general winning opening 56b and the general winning opening 56c. When these ball passage detectors 54a and 54b detect that a game ball has passed in the vicinity thereof, the normal symbol 94 is variably displayed on the display area 32a, and the normal symbol 94 variation display is started. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol variation display is stopped. When this normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol (for example, “7”), a blade of a so-called ordinary electric accessory provided with a starting port 44 described later and blade members 48 provided on both the left and right sides thereof. The member 48 changes from the closed state to the open state (third state), so that the game ball can easily enter the start port 44. Further, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 48 is opened, the blade member 48 is closed (fourth state) so that it is difficult for a game ball to enter the start port 44.

When a game ball wins or passes through the specific area and the general area in the start opening 44, the general winning openings 56a to 56d, and the large winning opening, the number of game balls set in advance according to the type of each winning opening. Is dispensed to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22. Furthermore, speakers 46 </ b> L and 46 </ b> R are disposed on the front surface of the door 11.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main control circuit 60 as game control means includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes according to a program stored in the main ROM 68. Thus, the main CPU 66 functions as various means described later.

A program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored in the main ROM 68. In addition, a jackpot determination table and an effect to be referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery are selected. Various tables such as an effect condition selection table to be referred to at the time are also stored. Specific programs and tables will be described later.

In the present embodiment, the main ROM 68 is used as a medium for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any other storage medium can be used as long as it is a computer-readable storage medium. For example, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded and recorded in the main RAM 70 after the power is turned on. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium. In this embodiment, the main CPU 66, the main ROM 68, and the main RAM 70 are provided separately. However, a one-chip microcomputer in which these are integrated may be used.

The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. Specific examples of data stored in the main RAM 70 include the following.

The main RAM 70 includes a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a high probability flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a loss symbol determination random number counter, and an effect condition selection random number counter. , A prize winning opening number counter, a prize winning prize counter, a waiting time timer, a prize winning opening time timer, data for supplying a command to the sub-control circuit 200 described later, variables, and the like are located.

The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game. The specific area passing flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area. The high probability flag indicates whether or not the probability of shifting to the specific gaming state is relatively increased.

The jackpot determination random number counter is for determining the jackpot of a special symbol. The hit determination random number counter is used to determine whether or not the start port 44 is opened. The jackpot symbol determination random number counter is for determining identification information derived and displayed when a jackpot of a special symbol is determined. The off-set symbol determination random number counter is used to determine identification information to be derived and displayed when it is not a big hit. The effect condition selection random number counter is for determining a variation display pattern of the identification information. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”, and various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed by extracting random numbers from the counters at a predetermined timing. In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided.

The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The big prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the big prize opening. Note that the timer in the present embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

The big prize opening number-of-times counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened in a specific gaming state (so-called round number). The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the big winning prize during one round and have passed the V / count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of holdings in the normal symbol game holds the variation display when the game ball passes through the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b but the normal symbol 94 cannot be displayed. It shows the number of fluctuations of the normal symbol 94 that is being held.

In addition, a special symbol storage area and a normal symbol storage area are positioned and stored in the main RAM 70.

The special symbol storage area stores data such as a jackpot determination random number value, a jackpot symbol random value, and clear data in a special symbol game.
The normal symbol storage area stores data such as a random number value for hit determination, a random number value for hit symbol, and clear data in variable display of the normal symbol.

In the present embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

The main control circuit 60 also has a command for a reset clock pulse generating circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse of a predetermined frequency, an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on, and a sub-control circuit 200 described later. IC for serial communication 72 is provided. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62, the initial reset circuit 64, and the serial communication IC 72 are connected to the main CPU 66. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) in order to execute a system timer interrupt process to be described later.

Various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the passage A ball sensor 114, a start winning ball sensor 116, a normal electric accessory solenoid 118, a big prize opening solenoid 120, a seesaw solenoid 122, and a backup clear switch 124 are connected.

The V / count sensor 102 is provided in a specific area in the special winning opening. The V / count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning opening.

The count sensor 104 is provided in a general area different from the specific area in the special winning opening. The count sensor 104 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the general area at the special winning opening.

The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 are provided in the general winning ports 56a to 56d. The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the general winning ports 56 a to 56 d.

The passing ball sensor 114 is provided in each of the ball passing detectors 54a and 54b. The passing ball sensor 114 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the ball passing detectors 54a and 54b.

The start winning ball sensor 116 is provided at the start port 44. The start winning ball sensor 116 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball wins the start opening 44.

The normal electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to the blade member 48 via a link member (not shown), and makes the blade member 48 open or closed according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. .

The big prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 shown in FIG. 3 and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the big prize opening state open or closed.

The seesaw solenoid 122 is connected to a seesaw provided in the shutter 40 in the shape of a plate, and displaces the seesaw according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to change the inclination of the seesaw. As a result of tilting the seesaw, the seesaw is switched so as to easily pass through the specific region or to pass through the general region.

The backup clear switch 124 is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 and has a function of clearing backup data in the event of a power failure or the like in accordance with the operation of the game hall manager.

The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. The payout / launch control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150.

The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130. The payout device 128 is employed as an example of a payout means for paying out the game ball when the launched game ball passes through a predetermined area.

In addition, the launching device 130 is provided with a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid and the touch sensor described above. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is fired. The game board 14 is sequentially fired by the solenoid.

Further, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, control of the lamp 132, and the like in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. This sub control circuit functions as a display control means for controlling the variable display of a plurality of identification information for the liquid crystal display device 32 (display means).

In the present embodiment, the command is supplied from the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200 and the signal cannot be supplied from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60. Not limited to this, the sub control circuit 200 may be configured to transmit a signal to the main control circuit 60.

The sub control circuit 200 as the effect control means is generated from the sub CPU 206 for performing display control on the display means, the program ROM 208, the work RAM 210, the display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and the speaker 46. A voice control circuit 230 that controls the voice and a lamp control circuit 240 that controls the lamp 132 are configured. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

A program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like are connected to the sub CPU 206. The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. In particular, the sub CPU 206 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32.

The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effect of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. A specific program will be described later.

The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display. The effect display is executed according to variable display of a plurality of identification information.

In this embodiment, the program ROM 208 is used as a storage unit for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any other storage medium can be used as long as it is a computer-readable storage medium. For example, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Of course, the main ROM 68 may be used as the storage means. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the work RAM 210 or the like. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

In the present embodiment, the main control circuit 60 including the main CPU 66 and the main ROM 68 and the sub control circuit 200 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208 are separately configured. However, the configuration is not limited thereto, and the main CPU 66 and the main ROM 68 are not limited thereto. In this case, the program stored in the program ROM 208 may be stored in the main ROM 68 and executed by the main CPU 66. Of course, it may be configured only by the sub control circuit 200 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208. In this case, the program stored in the main ROM 68 is stored in the program ROM 208 and executed by the sub CPU 206. You may comprise.

The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. For example, various variables and the like such as an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern are positioned.

In the present embodiment, the work RAM 210 is used as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

The display control circuit 250 includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212, an image data ROM 216 that stores various image data, a D / A converter 218 that converts image data as an image signal, and a reset signal when the power is turned on. Is formed from an initial reset circuit 220 for generating.

The VDP 212 described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM 216 storing the image data, the D / A converter 218 that converts the image data into an image signal, and the initial reset circuit 220.

The VDP 212 includes a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, a pallet circuit, and the like, and is a device that can perform various processes for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, an image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing.

In the image data ROM 216, various image data such as identification information image data indicating identification information, background image data, effect image data, and normal symbol image data indicating a normal symbol are separately stored. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

In response to an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206, the VDP 212 receives various kinds of information such as identification information image data indicating identification information, normal symbol image data indicating normal symbols, background image data, and effect image data from the image data ROM 216. Image data is read and image data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is generated. The VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores the image data in a buffer, and supplies the data to the D / A converter 218 at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter 218 converts the image data as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32, thereby causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image.

The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that controls audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals.

The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit 220, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 46.

The sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern and selects one piece of audio data from a plurality of pieces of audio data stored in the audio data ROM 234. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 reads the selected audio data from the audio data ROM 234 and supplies it to the sound source IC 232. The sound source IC 232 that has received the sound data converts the sound data into a predetermined sound signal and supplies the sound signal to the AMP 236. The AMP 236 amplifies the sound signal and generates sound from the speaker 46 (46L and 46R).

The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 for supplying a lamp control signal and a decoration data ROM 244 in which a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns are stored.

[Description of display screen]
As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the embodiment has four variable display areas 37 (37a to 37d) set in response to the winning of the game ball at the start port 44, and each variable display area. In 37, after the special symbol is variably displayed and the special symbol is derived and displayed, the variable display area is moved in the front-rear direction.

Hereinafter, an example of a display screen displayed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
5-12 is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

As shown in FIG. 5, when the special symbol game is not being executed, the variable display area is not set in the display area 32a, and no special symbol or frame image is displayed. At this time, when the game ball 90 a wins the start opening 44, as shown in FIG. 6, four variable display areas 37 (37 a to 37 d) and a part of the rear variable display area 37 in each variable display area 37. It is set so that it overlaps, and the variable display of the special symbol 92 is started in each variable display area 37. Also, as shown in FIG. 6, frame images 96 (96a to 96d) are displayed so as to surround each of the set variable display areas 37.

Then, as shown in FIG. 7, the variable display of the special symbol 92 ends in each variable display area 37, and the special symbol 92 is derived and displayed. In this case, in the foreground variable display area 37a, the three special symbols derived and displayed are a combination of three special symbols indicating the jackpot ("7"-"7"-"7"). After the derivation display of the special symbol 92 is performed in each display area 37, each variable display area 37 is moved in the front-rear direction, and as shown by the white arrow in the figure, the last variable display area 37d is displayed. It moves to the forefront, and the variable display areas 37b to 37d move backward, respectively, so that the mode shown in FIG. 8 is obtained.

In FIG. 8, the variable display area 37 shown in FIG. 7 is moved in the front-rear direction, and the variable display areas 37d, 37a, 37b, and 37c are arranged in this order from the front side to the back side. Has been. Then, the movement of the variable display area 37 in the front-rear direction is continued, and the rearmost variable display area 37c moves to the forefront as indicated by the white arrow in the figure, and the variable display areas 37d, 37a, 37b Each moves rearward and becomes the mode shown in FIG.

In FIG. 9, the variable display area 37 shown in FIG. 8 is moved in the front-rear direction, and the variable display areas 37c, 37d, 37a, and 37b are arranged in this order from the front side to the back side. Has been. Then, the movement of the variable display area 37 in the front-rear direction is continued, and as shown by the white arrow in the figure, the rearmost variable display area 38b moves to the forefront, and the variable display areas 37c, 37d, 37a are respectively It moves rearward and becomes the mode shown in FIG.

In FIG. 10, the variable display area 37 shown in FIG. 9 is moved in the front-rear direction, and the variable display areas 37b, 37c, 37d, and 37a are arranged in this order from the near side to the far side. Has been. Then, the movement of the variable display area 37 in the front-rear direction is continued, and as shown by the white arrow in the figure, the rearmost variable display area 38a moves to the forefront, and the variable display areas 37b, 37c, 37d are respectively It moves rearward and becomes the mode shown in FIG.

FIG. 11 shows a state in which the variable display area 37 shown in FIG. 10 is moved in the front-rear direction, and the variable display areas 37a, 37b, 37c, and 37d are arranged in this order from the front side to the back side. Has been. At this time, when the movement of the variable display area 37 in the front-rear direction is finished and the special symbol 92 displayed in each variable display area 37 is stopped and displayed, the variable display area 37 is stopped and displayed in the foremost variable display area 37a. Since the special symbol combination that is a big hit (“7”-“7”-“7”) is a frame image 96a and a special symbol 92 arranged in the frame image 96a, as shown in FIG. The enlarged display is made and the occurrence of the big hit state is shown to the player.

[Game machine operation]
The processes executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 are shown in FIGS. 13 to 15 and FIGS. 17 to 22 below. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 15) performed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 13, initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, and work area initialization is executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 15, a special symbol control process relating to the progress of the special symbol game and the identification information displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is executed (step S15). As described above, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the process in step S15 is repeatedly executed.

[System timer interrupt processing]
Further, the main CPU 66 may interrupt the main process and execute the system timer interrupt process even when the main process is being executed. The following system timer interrupt process is executed in response to a clock pulse generated from the reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). This system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 14, the main CPU 66 executes a random number update process so as to increase the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, and the like by “1” (step S42). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 18, an input detection process for detecting the winning or passing of game balls such as the starting port 44, the ball passage detector 54, and the general winning ports 56a to 56d is executed (step S43). . In this processing, the main CPU 66 stores in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 data for paying out the game balls (winning the game balls) on the condition that the game balls have won the various winning ports. A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, a big prize opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs, etc. Various timer update processes are executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor or the like (step S46). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

In step S47, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 200. Specifically, these various commands include a demo display command, a derived symbol designation command indicating the type of identification information derived and displayed in the left column, middle column, and right column, and a variation indicating a variation display pattern of the identification information. Includes pattern specification commands. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.
The variation pattern designation command includes a command indicating the variation pattern of the identification information in the variable display of the identification information, and a command indicating the movement pattern in the front-rear direction of the variable display region performed after the variable display of the identification information is completed. included.

In the process of step S49, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126. Further, the main CPU 66 supplies the payout / firing control circuit 126 with a prize ball control command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls as a result of the game balls winning in various winning holes. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is returned to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S15 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 15, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S72 to step S80 indicate the control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

First, as shown in FIG. 15, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S70.

In steps S72 to S80 described later, as will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag. This control state flag indicates the state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes in steps S72 to S80 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined according to a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching this predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 17, when the control state flag is a value (00) indicating the special symbol storage check, the main CPU 66 checks whether the start storage information exists, and the start storage information is If it exists, the jackpot determination, the derived identification information, the variation pattern of the identification information, etc. are determined. The start storage information, which will be described in detail later, is information stored in the main RAM 70 in response to the winning of a game ball in the start port 44. In the subroutine S504 shown in FIG. Information to be stored. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag, and sets the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the current process in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S73 is executed after the fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern determined this time has elapsed. On the other hand, if the start memory information does not exist, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variable display is being executed. If not, the demonstration screen is displayed. The process of S72 is terminated. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S73.

In step S73, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag to a value (01) indicating special symbol change time management, and when the change time has elapsed, sets the value (02) indicating special symbol display time management to the control state flag. And a waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) is set in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the processing of step S74 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S74.

In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, the setting of step S75 is performed. Therefore, the main CPU 66 that executes step S74 controls to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player on the condition that the result of variable display of the plurality of identification information on the liquid crystal display device 32 is a combination of specific identification information. Will be performed. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S80. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S75.

In step S75, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control state flag indicates the big hit start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the big hit start interval has elapsed, Based on the data read from the ROM 68, the variables positioned in the main RAM 70 are updated. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is being opened to the control state flag, and sets an open upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the special winning opening open timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S77. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

In step S76, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the special prize opening number counter to “0” when the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the big prize opening reopening waiting time management and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. Update the memory so that it increases by 1 ″. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S77. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S77.

In step S77, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control status flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets the special ball remaining ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S78 is executed after the winning ball residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. Note that the main CPU 66 does not execute the above-described processing when none of the conditions is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S78.

In step S78, a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (05) indicating that the control state flag indicates the residual ball monitoring in the special winning opening, and when the monitoring time for the residual winning ball in the special winning slot has elapsed, It is determined whether or not a condition that the ball has not passed or a condition that the special winning opening opening number counter is “15” or more (the final round) is satisfied. When any of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S79 is executed. On the other hand, when neither of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating management of the special winning opening reopening waiting time in the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S76 is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S79.

In step S79, a big hit end interval process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 controls the value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set the status flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S80. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S80.

In step S80, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next variable display. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S72. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the result of the big hit determination is lost in the case of not being in the specific gaming state. By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S80 shown in FIG. 15 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the specific gaming state, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 15 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the specific gaming state is executed. Further, when the control to the specific gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S77 shown in FIG. The processing of step S78 and step S76 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the specific game is executed. When the specific game is being executed and the end condition (specific game end condition) for the specific game state is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, and “08” are set in this order. Thus, the processing from step S77 to step S80 shown in FIG. 15 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the specific gaming state is ended. It should be noted that the specific game end condition is that the game ball has not passed through the specific area until the predetermined time has elapsed (so-called “punk”), or the maximum number of consecutive big hit rounds (in this embodiment, The specific gaming state will be terminated on the condition that (15 rounds) has been completed.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 15 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101), and the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is not determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. Then, in step S102, it is determined whether or not the startup storage information exists. If it is determined that the startup storage information exists, the process proceeds to step S112, and it is determined that the startup storage information does not exist. In step S104, the process proceeds to step S104.

In step S112, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not variable symbol special display is being executed. If it is determined that variable display is being executed, this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that variable display is not being executed, a demo display process is executed (step S103). In the process of step S103, the main CPU 66 stores in the main RAM 70 a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub control circuit 200 in order to perform a demonstration display. As a result, the display of the demonstration screen is executed in the sub-control circuit 200. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

In step S104, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S105.

In step S105, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination table stored in a predetermined area of the main ROM 68. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to enter a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106.

In step S106, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the result of the reference in step S105. If the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big hit, it moves the process to step S107, and if it does not determine that it is a big hit, moves the process to step S108.

In step S107, a jackpot symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol random value extracted at the time of starting winning, and determines identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column based on the jackpot symbol random value, Data indicating the identification information is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column stored in this manner is derived from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. Supplied as a symbol designating command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

In step S108, a missing symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random symbol value for determining a symbol out of the random symbol counter for determining a symbol out of symbol, and determines identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column based on the random symbol value for symbol determination. Then, data indicating the identification information is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column stored in this manner is derived from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. Supplied as a symbol designating command. By executing such processing, that is, the result of the special symbol game is determined.
If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

In step S109, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining a variation pattern based on the identification information of the left column, the middle column, and the right column determined in steps S107 and S108. The main CPU 66 determines a variation pattern based on the rendering condition selection random number extracted from the rendering condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores the variation pattern in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is supplied as a variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110. As described above, the variation pattern designation command includes a variation pattern of identification information and a command indicating a movement pattern in the front-rear direction of the variable display area performed after the variable display of identification information is completed.

In step S110, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern in the waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 calculates the fluctuation effect time based on the fluctuation pattern determined by the process of step S109 and the fluctuation effect time table indicating the fluctuation effect time of the fluctuation pattern, and the fluctuation effect time. Is stored in the waiting time timer. Then, a process of clearing the storage area used for the current variation display is executed (step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Input detection processing]
The subroutine executed in step S43 in FIG. 14 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 18, the main CPU 66 executes prize ball related switch check processing (step S231). In this process, the main CPU 66 receives various sensors such as the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the starting winning ball sensor 116, which are switches related to the winning ball. It is detected whether a predetermined detection signal is supplied. Then, the main CPU 66 that has performed the detection processing of these predetermined signals determines the number of prize balls according to the sensor that has supplied the signal, and stores it in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S232.

In step S232, special symbol related switch input processing is executed. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 19, it is detected whether a predetermined signal is supplied from the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, and the start winning ball sensor 116 related to the identification information as a special symbol. The main CPU 66 that has performed the detection processing of these predetermined signals executes processing as described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S233.

In step S233, normal symbol related switch input processing is executed. In this process, the passing ball sensor 114 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main CPU 66. The main CPU 66 having received these predetermined signals performs processing such as normal symbol start-up storage. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Special symbol related switch input processing]
The subroutine executed in step S232 in FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 19, it is determined whether there is a count switch input (step S261). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that there is a count switch input in accordance with a predetermined signal supplied from the count sensor 104, the main CPU 66 stores and updates the large winning award winning counter to be incremented by "1". A count switch detection process is executed (step S262). On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that there is a count switch input, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S263.

In step S263, it is determined whether there is a V / count switch input. In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that there is a V / count switch input in accordance with a predetermined signal supplied from the V / count sensor 102, the main CPU 66 sets a flag indicating that the specific area has been passed. A V / count switch detection process is executed to store and update the grand prize winning prize counter to be incremented by “1” (step S264). On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that there is a V / count switch input, the process proceeds to step S265.

In step S265, it is determined whether or not there is a start port switch input. In this process, the main CPU 66 receives the predetermined signal supplied from the start winning ball sensor 116 and determines whether or not there is a start port switch input. If the main CPU 66 determines that there is a start port switch input, it moves the process to step S266. If it does not determine that there is a start port switch input, the main CPU 66 ends this subroutine.

In step S266, a start port detection time process is executed, and when this process ends, this subroutine ends. As will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 20, the main CPU 66 performs processing such as extracting the jackpot determination random number value and the jackpot symbol random number value and storing them in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Start-up port detection process]
The subroutine executed in step S266 in FIG. 19 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 20, the main CPU 66 extracts a jackpot determination random number value from the jackpot determination random number counter, and extracts a jackpot symbol random number value from the jackpot symbol determination random number counter (step S503). Then, the main CPU 66 stores the extracted jackpot determination random number value and the jackpot symbol random number value as start-up storage information in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 (step S504). The data indicating the jackpot determination random number value and the jackpot symbol random number value stored in this way is read out by the main CPU 66 in the processing such as step S105 in FIG. The type of identification information to be determined is determined. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Operation of sub-control circuit]
On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 receives various commands transmitted from the main control circuit 60, and executes a command reception process as shown in FIG.

[Command reception processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 21, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that a variation pattern designation command has been received from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S345. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the variation pattern designation command from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S348.

In step S345, the sub CPU 206 refers to the variation pattern / effect determination table and selects an effect pattern. Then, the sub CPU 206 sets data indicating the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, respectively. As a result, an effect based on the selected effect pattern is executed in step S385 described later. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

In step S348, the sub CPU 206 executes control corresponding to the other received command. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Variable display processing]
In the sub control circuit 200, variable display processing different from command reception processing or the like is executed at a predetermined timing. Hereinafter, the variable display process in the normal gaming state will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 22, the sub CPU 206 executes a process of setting a plurality of variable display areas (step S381). In this process, as shown in FIG. 6, the sub CPU 206 executes a process of setting a plurality (four) of variable display areas 37 on the display area 32a. When this process is executed, the sub CPU 206 moves the process to step S382.

In step S382, the sub CPU 206 executes processing for displaying a frame image corresponding to each of the plurality of variable display areas set in step S381. In this process, the sub CPU 206 executes a process of displaying frame images 96a to 96d corresponding to the four variable display areas 37a to 37d shown in FIG. If this process is executed, the sub CPU 206 moves the process to step S383.

In step S383, the sub CPU 206 sets data indicating the variation pattern of the identification information in the work RAM 210. This variation pattern of the identification information is based on the variation pattern designation command described above. Then, the sub CPU 206 supplies data indicating the variation pattern to the VDP 212 at a predetermined timing. When this process is executed, the sub CPU 206 shifts the process to step S384.

In step S384, the sub CPU 206 executes the process of step S383 and waits until variable display of the special symbol ends after variable symbol special display is started in each of the plurality of variable display areas. As shown in FIGS. 7 to 11, a process of moving each variable display area 37 in the front-rear direction is executed. The sub CPU 206 moves the special symbol 92 displayed in each variable display region 37 and the frame image 96 in which the special symbol 92 is arranged in accordance with the movement of each variable display region 37 in the front-rear direction. Execute.

When the process of step S384 is executed, the sub CPU 206 next stops each variable display area 37 being moved, and also stops and displays the special symbol 92 and the frame image 96 displayed in each variable display area 37. Execute the process. When the process of step S385 is executed, this subroutine is terminated.

[Other Embodiments]
In the present embodiment, the case where the pachinko gaming machine is provided with one display means (liquid crystal display device 32) has been described, but the number of display means provided in the gaming machine of the present invention is not particularly limited.
In the present embodiment, the case where the variable display area in which the identification information is derived and displayed moves in the front and rear direction in the special symbol game has been described. However, in the present invention, for example, the following special symbol is used. It can also be a game.
23 to 26 are explanatory diagrams showing other examples of display screens displayed in the pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention.

In FIG. 23, in a special symbol game performed in response to the winning of a game ball at the start opening 44, four variable display areas 137 (137a to 137d) are set, and variable display of special symbols is performed in each variable display area 137. It is shown that the special symbol derivation display is performed after. Further, frame images 196a to 196d corresponding to the four variable display areas 137a to 137d are displayed, respectively. In the foreground variable display region 137a, the three special symbols that are derived and displayed are combinations of three special symbols that indicate jackpots ("7"-"7"-"7").

After the identification information is derived and displayed in each variable display area 137, as shown in FIG. 23, the frontmost variable display area 137a, the special symbol 92 displayed in the variable display area 137a, and the frame image 196a are displayed. Is erased.

Then, as shown in FIG. 24, among the three variable display areas 137b to 137d, the frontmost variable display area 137b, the special symbol 92 displayed in the variable display area 137b, and the frame image 196b are erased. Then, as shown in FIG. 25, among the two variable display areas 137c and 137d, the frontmost variable display area 137c, the special symbol 92 displayed in the variable display area 137c, and the frame image 196c Will also be erased.

As shown in FIG. 26, only the variable display area 137d, the special symbol 92 displayed in the variable display area 137d, and the frame image 196d exist on the display area 32a. The combination of the special symbols 92 displayed in the variable display area 137d is “3”-“4”-“5”, which does not match the special symbol combination that is a big hit. Become.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case has been described in which each variable display area is moved after the variable display of the identification information is performed in each of the plurality of set variable display areas. The order in which the variable display of information and the movement of the variable display area are performed is not particularly limited. For example, the variable display area is moved after the variable display of the identification information is started in each of the plurality of variable display areas. And after each variable display area stops, the derivation display of the identification information may be performed.

Further, in the present invention, the identification information only needs to be stopped and displayed based on the lottery result in any of the plurality of variable display areas, and the gaming machine is necessarily configured to move or delete the variable display area. It does not have to be.
For example, a variable display area in which identification information is variably displayed in a plurality of fixed variable display areas, and the identification information is stopped and displayed in each variable display area, and then stopped in combination with identification information based on a lottery result. The gaming machine may be configured so as to be notified.

Further, in the present embodiment, the variation display of the identification information is started at a predetermined timing. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and after the identification information is displayed in a shaking manner (after the so-called fluctuation variation display), the predetermined information is displayed. The change display of the identification information may be started at the timing. That is, the variation display of the identification information does not include the variation display of the identification information, and the variation display of the identification information is not started even when the variation of the variation is performed.

[Composition of game board]
In the above-described embodiment, the entire game board 14 is configured by a member having transparency. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used. An example of a specific configuration of the game board will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 27, a plurality of obstacle nails 13 and the like are omitted for easy understanding.

For example, a part of the game board may be configured with a member that does not have permeability. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 27A, a game board 314 is formed by combining a member 314a having permeability and a member 314b (for example, wood) having no flat permeability. May be. Of course, as shown in FIG. 27A, not only the member 314a having transparency and the member 314b having no permeability are simply combined, but also as shown in FIG. It is good also as a structure which couple | bonds the member 315a which has transparency so that it may surround with the member 315b which does not have permeability.

For example, you may comprise so that the process which shields a part of game board which has permeability | transmittance may be performed. For example, as shown in FIG. 27C, a part 316b of the game board 316 having transparency may be painted with a color having light shielding properties. As a result, as shown by reference numeral 316a, it is possible to configure a game board 316 that is partially transparent. Of course, instead of coating, a blasting process or a light scattering process for forming a fine rough surface by sandpaper may be performed to make it appear as if visible light is scattered and light is emitted.

That is, the game board should just have a part at least partially permeable. In other words, if the display area 32a located at the rear of all or part of the game area 15 is configured so that an image can be viewed from the front through the vicinity of all or part of the game area 15. Good.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the gaming board 14 having transparency is used in part or in whole. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used, for example, games that do not have transparency. A board may be used.

[Configuration of display device]
A configuration using a gaming board that does not have transparency will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 28, the door 311 is provided with a display device 332, on which various effect images are displayed. The display device 332 includes a touch panel 351 that detects a coordinate position touched by a player, transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355 that are protective covers, and ITO (Indium Tin Oxide, between the transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355). And a liquid crystal display device 354 composed of a transparent liquid crystal display device such as indium tin oxide. The display device 332 (liquid crystal display device 354) can display a highly transmissive image in the display area. The liquid crystal display device 354 not only displays a highly transmissive image in the display area, but also a variable display of a plurality of identification information, a variable display of normal symbols, a display of a production effect image, a display of a collision image, etc. I do.

Further, above and below the liquid crystal display device 354, a liquid crystal backlight 352 serving as an illumination device as a backlight of the liquid crystal display device 354 is provided. Further, the liquid crystal backlight 352 is controlled to be lit when power is supplied. For this reason, the liquid crystal backlight 392 is always driven at the time of power supply, whereby the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 354 can be clearly seen by the player. The liquid crystal backlight 352 is mainly a cold cathode tube, but the present invention is not limited to this.

A obstacle nail 313 is driven into the game board 314. A game area 315 is provided between the game board 314 and the door 311, and the game ball 316 launched into the game area 315 can roll.

The display device 332 includes a touch panel 351, transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355, a liquid crystal display device 354, a liquid crystal backlight 352, and the like. You may comprise only the liquid crystal display device 354, without providing the touchscreen 351, the transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355, the liquid crystal backlight 352 grade | etc.,.

In order to control the display device 332 and the liquid crystal display device 354, a scale conversion circuit 222 is provided between the VDP 212 and the D / A converter 218 as shown in FIG. The scale conversion circuit 222 receives the image data stored in the displayable storage area 100 and supplied from the VDP 212, converts the image data as image data having a predetermined magnification, and supplies the converted image data to the D / A converter 218.

As described above, the liquid crystal display device 354 is disposed in front of the game board 314 so that the display area and the whole or part of the game area 315 in the game board 314 overlap with each other, and an image with high transparency is displayed on the display area. Since display is possible, the image is displayed so as to be visible from the front through the vicinity of all or part of the game area 315.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of control circuits including a main control circuit 60 as a game control means and a sub control circuit 200 as an effect control means are provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 30, the sub-control circuit 200 and the main control circuit 60 may be configured on a single board. That is, the game control means and the effect control means may be configured integrally.

In the above-described embodiment, the first type pachinko gaming machine is given as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the second type pachinko gaming machine referred to as a wing mono, Hikoki mono, or a right type. It may be a three-type pachinko gaming machine or another mode.

It should be noted that the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention only list the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the game board in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the door and game board which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 14 Game board 15 Game area 26 Launch handle 32 Liquid crystal display device 32a Display area 40 Shutter 44 Start port 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
90 gaming ball 92 special symbol 94 normal symbol 116 starting winning ball sensor 120 large winning opening solenoid 200 sub control circuit 206 sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
212 Image data processor 216 Image data ROM
250 Display control circuit

Claims (3)

A game board having a game area in which a game ball can roll, wherein the game area is made of a permeable member;
A start port provided in the gaming area, wherein a plurality of identification information is variably displayed when a game ball enters;
A gaming member provided in the gaming area;
It has a display area in which a plurality of variable display areas where variable display of a plurality of identification information is performed can be set, and the display area and the game area in the game board are arranged behind the game board Display means;
Display control means for controlling the variable display of the plurality of identification information to the display means;
A gaming machine comprising lottery means for performing a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a jackpot gaming state in response to a game ball entering the start opening,
The display control means sets a plurality of variable display areas in response to the fact that one game ball enters the start opening and the lottery means performs a lottery, and sets each of the set variable display areas. Correspondingly, displaying a frame image in which the plurality of identification information is arranged inside, and performing variable display of the plurality of identification information in each variable display region,
A gaming machine, wherein a plurality of identification information is stopped and displayed in any one of the plurality of variable display areas based on a lottery result of the lottery means. In response to the fact that one game ball enters the start port and the lottery means has performed the lottery, the display control unit is configured to display the plurality of variable display areas in each variable display area. After the plurality of identification information is variably displayed in each variable display area, the lottery means is moved in the frontmost variable display area by moving each variable display area in the front-rear direction. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of pieces of identification information are stopped and displayed based on the lottery result. In response to the fact that one game ball enters the start port and the lottery means has performed the lottery, the display control unit is configured to display the plurality of variable display areas in each variable display area. After setting the parts to overlap and performing variable display of multiple identification information in each variable display area, the variable display area is sequentially erased from the front side to the back side, and the remaining frontmost The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of pieces of identification information are stopped and displayed in a variable display area based on a lottery result of the lottery means.

Images