JP2005278952A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable the dynamic display of the performances in the jackpot game status with the enlarged or reduced images by a transparent game board and a display means disposed behind it and also reduce the burden on the processing of the images with the CPU by eliminating the drop in the quality of picture in the image data associated with the enlargement or reduction of the images. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine has the transparent game board which is formed out of a transparent member partially or as a whole to be made see through behind it, a display means which is disposed behind the transparent game board to be visually recognized through the transparent game board and has the performance display enable area formed where the performance display is carried out according to the games, a memory means which stores a plurality of image data different in size for the images, though they show the same contents of the performance display and a display control means which selects the image data from among a plurality thereof according to the game status to be displayed in the performance display possible area. It also has a variable display game execution means which enables the shifting of the game to the game status advantageous for the players and the processing of the image data is applied to the performance display. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a bullet ball gaming machine provided with display means for effect display according to a game.

  Conventionally, there is a ball game machine as one of the game machines, and a pachinko game machine is known as a representative of this ball game machine.

  The pachinko gaming machine is a game for the purpose of launching a game ball on the game board and entering a predetermined winning opening, and acquiring more winning balls to be paid out in accordance with the winning. On the board, game members such as obstacle nails and windmills for changing the flow direction of the game ball, and electric opening / closing members provided at the winning opening are provided as appropriate.

  In such pachinko gaming machines, there is a pachinko gaming machine in which a liquid crystal display device is arranged in the approximate center of the game board so that various effect images can be displayed on the liquid crystal display device. As in a slot machine that is one of the above, a plurality of pieces of identification information consisting of symbols and the like are variably displayed and a gaming state that is advantageous to the player when stopped in a specific combination (hereinafter referred to as “specific combination”) There is a game form to be transferred to a so-called “variable display game”.

  In the “variable display game”, when a game ball fired on the game board by a player wins one of the winning openings called a start opening, an internal lottery is performed based on the winning, and a lottery result The plurality of identification information is variably displayed and stopped in the display area of the display device in response to the lottery result, and the plurality of identification information is stopped and displayed in a predetermined specific combination. In this case, the state shifts to a so-called “big hit gaming state” which is a state advantageous to the player. In this jackpot gaming state, a special gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “round”), in which a shutter provided at the grand prize winning port, which is also one of the winning prizes, is opened for a predetermined time or until a predetermined number of game balls are opened and then closed. (Referred to as Patent Document 1).

As an example of enhancing the interest of such a pachinko gaming machine, for example, an effect display displayed on the liquid crystal display device in the jackpot gaming state may be enlarged or reduced to give a change.
JP 2003-894 A

  However, in the conventional gaming machine represented by the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the liquid crystal display device is fixed at a predetermined size in the approximate center of the game board, so that the effect is performed within a limited display area within the liquid crystal display device. The display could not give the player a big impact that would make the game even more enjoyable, even if it was enlarged or reduced.

  Therefore, it is conceivable to enlarge the liquid crystal display device by enlarging the liquid crystal display device. However, when the liquid crystal display device is enlarged, the installation area of the obstacle nail and other game members is reduced, so that the behavior change of the game ball is changed. It becomes scarce and the original fun of pachinko machines is lost. In order to prevent image quality from degrading when an image is enlarged, image data with high-density pixels that can withstand enlarged display is prepared, and this is usually displayed by thinning-out processing. Although a method etc. can be considered, there is a possibility that the load on a processing device such as a CPU increases and the display speed decreases. Further, not only the processing efficiency is lowered, but there is a possibility that the problem of freeze of the processing device which is fatal for the pachinko gaming machine may be developed. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can solve the above-described problems, that is, a gaming machine that eliminates the image quality deterioration of image data due to image enlargement / reduction and that reduces the processing load on the CPU.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to guide the launched game ball from the upper side to the lower side, and a transparent game board in which a part or all of the game ball is formed of a transparent member and the back can be seen through, and the transparent game. The display means is arranged on the back side of the transparent game board so as to be visually recognized through the board, forms an effect displayable area and displays the effect according to the game, and is an image representing the same effect display content Storage means for storing a plurality of image data having different image sizes, and display control means for selecting necessary image data from the plurality of image data according to a game state and displaying the selected image data in the effect displayable area. .

  In the present invention according to claim 2, in the gaming machine according to claim 1, when a plurality of identification information is variably displayed and stopped in the variable display area, and the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific combination. Further, the present invention is characterized by comprising variable display game execution means capable of shifting to a gaming state advantageous to the player, and effect display is performed on the variable display game using the image.

  According to the present invention, an image representing the same effect display content is provided with a transparent game board whose back can be seen through and a display means disposed on the back side of the transparent game board and forming an effect displayable area. However, since multiple image data having different image sizes are used, there is no need for arithmetic processing for performing enlargement / reduction display, the display speed is improved, and the load on the control unit of the gaming machine is reduced. be able to. Therefore, when the processing speed of the control unit is reduced and the effect image is changed, it is possible to prevent the possibility that the changing speed is reduced and the screen is frozen.

  The gaming machine according to the present embodiment is capable of guiding the launched game ball from the upper side to the lower side, a transparent game board in which a part or all of the game ball is formed of a transparent member and the back can be seen through, and this transparent game It is an image representing the same effect display content as the display means arranged on the back side of the transparent game board so as to be visually recognized through the board and forming the effect displayable area and performing the effect display according to the game. A storage unit that stores a plurality of image data having different image sizes, and a display control unit that selects necessary image data from the plurality of image data according to a gaming state and displays the selected image data in the effect displayable area. Furthermore, when a plurality of identification information is variably displayed and stopped in the variable display area, and the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific combination, the game state is shifted to a game state advantageous to the player. Can be suitably implemented as a pachinko machine by contrast can with the variable display game machine having a game execution means effect displayed using the image.

  Note that “same” in “same effect display” does not necessarily mean the same until it completely matches, but it is sufficient to have substantially the same degree of seemingly the same.

  That is, the display means has a display area in which a plurality of variable display game areas in which variable display of identification information (variable display and stop display) is performed in a variable display game described later can be set, and the display area and the game It is arranged behind the game board so that it overlaps the game area on the board, and in this embodiment, there are obstacle nails and windmills that change the flow direction of the game ball, game ball winning gates and winning gates, etc. The installed game board is formed of transparent members such as various synthetic resins such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, methacrylic resin, and so that the entire area of this game board becomes the displayable display area. It is a pachinko gaming machine provided with a display device such as a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL (Electronic Luminescent).

  And, in such a pachinko gaming machine, for example, the effect display during the round game in the jackpot gaming state is an image representing the same effect content, but is enlarged in the effect display possible area which is enlarged with a different image size according to the gaming state Is displayed on the screen. Each image having a different image size is stored in a storage unit to be described later.

  Therefore, it is possible to perform an effect display with an unprecedented change using the entire game board, and to give the player a great impact for further enjoying the game.

  Here, the round game in the jackpot game state controlled by the jackpot game execution means means that a shutter provided in a jackpot which is one of the prize ports is inserted for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of game balls. The game is to be closed after it has been released, and in the jackpot game state, this round game can be repeated a predetermined number of times (hereinafter also referred to as “number of rounds”). In order to continue the round game, it is a condition that at least one game ball enters a predetermined ball entering zone (hereinafter also referred to as “V zone”) provided in the special winning opening.

  In order to shift to such a jackpot gaming state, it is necessary to win an internal lottery executed by the lottery means when a game ball has won a start opening which is one of the winning openings.

  The internal lottery is set to a predetermined lottery probability such as 1/320, for example, and the lottery result is notified on the display device by a combination of a plurality of pieces of identification information including symbols.

  In the present embodiment, the variable display game includes a variable display and a stop display of the plurality of identification information developed on the display device based on the internal lottery, and various presentation displays.

  The design as the identification information used in such a variable display game includes characters, symbols, patterns, patterns, etc. including numbers. In the display device, an identification information group in which a plurality of such identification information is collected is used. A plurality of columns (for example, three horizontal rows) can be displayed in the effect display area of a predetermined size. In the present embodiment, this effect display area may be referred to as a variable display game display area during execution of the variable display game.

  The variation display of the identification information is a form in which each identification information included in each identification information group is sequentially displayed. When the internal lottery result is a win, a plurality of identification information is a combination of the same symbols. The stop display by other combinations means that the lottery result is lost. When the identification information groups are displayed in three horizontal rows, the two identification information groups are stopped and displayed with the same design, and the state in which the remaining one identification information group is variably displayed is called reach.

  In the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment, the position and size of the effect display area in the jackpot gaming state is changed in the effect displayable area, but the position of the effect display area in the jackpot gaming state As the change in size, it is preferable to move the image data indicating the round for each round game with enlargement and reduction. That is, the position and size of the effect display area in the n-th round game are different from those in the (n−1) th game, and the position and size of the effect display area in the (n + 1) -th round game are different from those in the n-th game. Is even different. At this time, it is not always necessary for the (n-1) th time and the (n + 1) th time to be different, and the effect display area may not be displayed at the same position or size at least continuously. In this case, the change in the position of the effect display area can be freely set such as the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, and the diagonal direction, and the change in size can be freely set to abrupt or gradual expansion and reduction. it can.

  By the way, as a more desirable form of the position change of the effect display area, each round display is reduced and displayed in the list registration display in the band-shaped piece corresponding to the maximum number of round games, and the number of rounds already finished (n-1). (N-1) pieces corresponding to the end are displayed, and the piece for the nth round display area currently being executed is the final effect display area that is relatively related to the progress of the round game. It is better to move while enlarging.

  That is, the n-th round game and the position N of the final effect display area are determined on a one-to-one basis, and the player can see how many more round games can be enjoyed by looking at the reduced registration display. By looking at the position of the effect display area, it is possible to visually and intuitively know how many times the round game is included. For example, the effect display area is enlarged or moved in a spiral shape in accordance with the progress of the round game, and the finished round game is reduced and moved from the final effect display area to the list registration display. Etc. Particularly, when the maximum number of round games is set to 12, a reduced image corresponding to the number of round games completed is displayed on a reduced frame of 12 round game images, and an enlarged image of the currently playing round game When the effect display area is enlarged and moved clockwise, it is immediately determined that the enlarged image of the round game is the third round game at the position indicating 3 o'clock and the ninth round game at the position indicating 9 o'clock. I understand. When the enlarged image of each round game is finished, the enlarged image is reduced again and returned to the original reduced list registration display frame. In this case, the variable display game area (effect display area) for developing the variable display game may be displayed at an arbitrary position from the reduced belt-like initial state. For example, the variable display game area is reduced. In the initial state, it is arranged substantially at the lower center of the effect displayable area, and when the first jackpot gaming state occurs in the variable display game, it can be enlarged and moved to the 1 o'clock position as the effect display area.

  The above is considered to move the “frame” area as the first list area to the final effect display area, with the position and size moved with enlargement / reduction, but the image size while displaying the same effect display contents It can be considered that images are extracted from a plurality of pieces of image data having different sizes in order of increasing size, and are displayed at different coordinate positions from the frame image to the final image.

  The above-described moving display with enlargement / reduction is described as an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to the display of a round game. Specifically, the size of the image data is set to n stages having equal differences, This is a simple example in which the same image (similar image) is enlarged or reduced at equal intervals on a straight line from the initial image to the final image or from the final image to the initial image.

  The essence of this technology is as follows. If you register many similar images and call them as necessary, you can avoid image distortion due to enlargement / reduction processing and avoid the burden of CPU time for enlargement / reduction of images for interpolation and thinning. . When similar figures are stored in the order of size, and recalled in order, an enlarged / reduced movie display can be obtained easily and at high speed. Is obtained. The contents of the second to seventh effect display area sorting tables (see FIG. 5) are registered coordinates of equidistant points on the straight line connecting the coordinates shown in the initial image and the coordinates shown in the final image. It is. In addition, the size of the image at each position displayed at that time is proportionally distributed between the vertical and horizontal lengths of the image data displayed as the initial image and the vertical and horizontal lengths of the image data displayed as the final image, that is, all. The image of is similar. However, each piece of image data is not obtained by similar deformation of enlargement or reduction, but it is only necessary to change the perspective and capture the object with a camera having the same number of pixels as an image group.

  Especially in gaming machines, it is necessary to display a story using specific images and characters, and a large number of these similar images are stored in order of size, and only the required number of images are extracted in order. If the display coordinates are moved and superimposed on the background screen, a moving image scene with enlargement / reduction can be displayed easily and at high speed. If a similar image is prepared for the background image to be overlaid and processed in the same way, a more complicated moving image scene can be created.

  As an application of this embodiment, the size of the initial image is set to zero and various image data are expanded or reduced to one point from one point, the size of the image data is multi-step with different differences, The image can be scaled non-linearly at unequal intervals from the final image.

  According to the present invention, there is provided a transparent gaming board whose back can be seen through, and a display means that is disposed on the back side of the transparent gaming board and forms an effect displayable area. Because it is possible to change freely within the possible area, the same content display contents can be boldly expanded and reduced to execute effects with innovative changes, and the player can enjoy the game even more greatly. In addition, since a plurality of pieces of image data having different image sizes can be used even though the images represent the same effect display contents, there is no need for arithmetic processing for performing enlargement and reduction display, and for display The speed is improved and the load on the control unit of the gaming machine can be reduced. Therefore, when the processing speed of the control unit is reduced and the effect image is changed, it is possible to prevent the possibility that the changing speed is reduced and the screen is frozen.

  In the present embodiment, the effect display area is expanded and reduced within the effect displayable area for each round game, but it is desirable to change the effect image display in this effect display area for each round. .

  In other words, the round game is a game state that is very favorable in a game state advantageous to the player, while it can be said to be a simple game state in which a predetermined number of game balls are awarded to the big prize opening. Therefore, there is a possibility that the player may become bored, but by changing the content of the production for each round game, it can enhance the interest, and the player will be watching while expecting the content of the production that changes one after another, Enjoying the contents of the production is one of the excitement and fun of pachinko games. In addition, since the production display area is enlarged and reduced as the round game progresses, the change in production can be felt more greatly, and the player can enjoy a novel production effect that has never existed before, and the round game. It is possible to accurately grasp the progress of

  The effect display control means for controlling the position of the effect display area in the jackpot gaming state to change within the effect displayable area is carried out by a control unit in the main body of the pachinko gaming machine. That is, this control unit controls the entire pachinko game by including a CPU, a memory storing a game program for the entire pachinko game, and other rewritable memories, and the functions of the lottery means and the jackpot execution means are also included. I'm in charge.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described more specifically based on the drawings.

(Configuration of pachinko machines)
1 is a perspective view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of each part constituting the pachinko gaming machine, FIG. 3 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine, and FIG. 4 is a view of the pachinko gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows a control circuit.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 for fixing the pachinko gaming machine 10 to a gaming machine installation base (game island) (not shown) provided in the game hall, A main body frame 12 disposed in the frame 11, a transparent game board 14 and other various parts (not shown) which are detachably attached to the main body frame 12, and one side pivotally attached to the main body frame 12 for opening and closing. A free front frame 16 and a display detachably attached to the back side of the main body frame 12 so as to be positioned on the back side of the transparent game board 14 so as to be visible through the transparent game board 14. And a liquid crystal display device 32 as means.

  The liquid crystal display device 32 only needs to be disposed so as to overlap all or part of the transparent game board 14 from the back side. In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed substantially over the transparent game board 14. It arrange | positions so that it may overlap. That is, it is arranged so as to overlap at least the entire game area 15 described later formed on the transparent game board 14. It should be noted that the transparent game board 14 that does not correspond to the game area 15 may be disposed so as to overlap all or a part of the front area (hereinafter referred to as “game area outer area 15a”).

  As described above, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed so as to overlap substantially the entire transparent game board 14 and can be seen through from the transparent game board 14, so that in this embodiment, at least on the transparent game board 14. An effect displayable area including the entire game area 15 is formed.

  In the effect displayable area, there is an effect display area (variable display game display area) 32a that enables variable display of identification information in a variable display game, which will be described later, and can display an effect image and a background image related to the game. It is formed. The effect display area 32a can also display a normal symbol 94 in a normal symbol game, which will be described later.

  Speakers 46R and 46L are attached to the upper part of the main body frame 12, and a firing handle 26 is attached to the lower right side. That is, a player who plays a game on the pachinko gaming machine 10 is positioned on the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 10 so as to be able to operate the launch handle 26 and the like, and is in a state of facing the transparent gaming board 14. .

  Further, on the back side of the firing handle 26, a launching device 130 (see FIG. 4) having a bullet ball device made of a solenoid or the like is provided. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the periphery of the launching handle 26. ) Is provided, and when the touch sensor is touched, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the shooting handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the shooting device 130 according to the rotation angle, and the game balls are sequentially supplied to the transparent game board 14. Fired. 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.

  In FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, reference numeral 21 denotes a tray unit attached to the lower front portion of the main body frame 12 so that an upper plate 20 and a lower plate 22 are formed and positioned below the front frame 16. It is arranged. The game balls stored in the upper plate 20 are supplied to the launching device 130, and the game balls exceeding the capacity of the upper plate 20 are supplied to the lower plate 22. Reference numeral 19 denotes a transparent protective plate made of glass or the like, and is attached to the opening of the front frame 16. Reference numeral 46 ′ denotes a cover for the speakers 46 </ b> R and 46 </ b> L, which is formed on the front frame 16. Reference numeral 132 denotes various lamps used for effect display and notification.

  The transparent game board 14 according to the present embodiment is formed of a transparent member using acrylic resin and is entirely transmissive, and arc guide rails 30a and 30b are provided on the front surface thereof. The inside surrounded by the rails 30a and 30b is a game area 15. The game ball launched by the operation of the launch handle 26 is guided by the guide rail 30a and flows down in the game area 15.

  Further, a plurality of obstacle nails 13 are driven on the transparent game board 14 as shown in FIG. 2, and the flow direction when the game ball flows down from the upper part to the lower part of the game area 15 is changed in a complicated manner. ing. In addition, it is good also as a structure which does not set it as the structure which drives the obstruction nail | claw 13, but protrudes in the front direction of the transparent game board 14 with the resin-made or metal rod-shaped body (what is called a pachikon machine). Note that the obstacle nail 13 is omitted in FIGS. 1 and 3.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the first game ball guiding member 3 and the second game ball guiding member 4 that greatly change the flow direction of the game ball are disposed at a substantially central position of the transparent game board 14 (game area 15). Are arranged in a vertically opposed state. In the present embodiment, as shown in the drawing, the effect display area (variable display game display area) 32a is defined between the first game ball guiding member 3 and the second game ball guiding member 4. The first game ball guiding member 3 and the second game guiding member 4 can also be formed of a transparent member. Further, the transparent game board 14 includes a plurality of general winning ports 5 that are awarded when a game ball enters, a starting port 6 as a specific winning port that triggers the start of the variable display game, and a variable display game. In the round game executed when winning, the winning prize opening 8 that can be opened for a predetermined time, and further, the general winning prize opening 5, the starting opening 6 that triggers the start of the variable display game, and the winning prize opening 8 are not entered. An out port 7 through which the game balls are discharged to the game area outer area 15a is provided.

  The big winning opening 8 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed. In the round game, the shutter 40 is in an open state in which a game ball can be easily received. Further, in this special winning opening 8, a specific area (not shown) called a V zone having a V count sensor 102 (see FIG. 4) and a general area (see FIG. 4) having a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 4). The shutter 40 is driven in an 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. The In other words, when either of the conditions for winning a predetermined number of game balls at the grand prize winning opening 8 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the big winning opening 8 is put into a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. Subsequently, the shutter 40, which has been changed from the open state to the closed state, is driven to the open state again on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 8 in the open state has passed through the V count sensor 102. In other words, on the condition that the game ball received when the grand prize winning opening 8 is in the open state passes through the V zone provided in the big winning prize opening 8, the game ball is opened again and then rounded. Can be continued.

  Further, the start opening 6 provided above the big winning opening 8 serves as a trigger for starting the variable display game as described above. When a game ball wins the start opening 6, a variable display game is provided. Is started, and a plurality of columns of identification information groups are variably displayed on the effect display area 32a. It should be noted that symbols as identification information used in the variable display game in the present embodiment are arithmetic numbers 0 to 9, and an identification information group in which a plurality of identification information is gathered is included in the effect display area 32a having a predetermined size. Can be displayed in three horizontal rows.

  The starting condition of the variable display game is that a game ball is won at the start port 6, and the variable display of the identification information group is performed every time the variable display start condition of the predetermined identification information group is satisfied. Become. In the present embodiment, the winning of the game ball at the start port 6 is set as the variable display start condition of the variable display game. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used.

  In addition, when the game ball enters the start port 6, the variable display game is being executed, and the variable display game can be held on condition that the upper limit hold number has not been reached. . That is, when a game ball wins the start opening 6 during the variable display of the identification information group in the variable display game, the game ball wins the start opening 6 until the identification information group in the variable display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the variation display of the identification information group based is suspended. Then, when the identification information of each identification information group is stopped and displayed in a state where execution of variable display of the identification information group is suspended, execution of variable display of the suspended identification information group is started. . Here, when the identification information is stopped and displayed, the variable display of the identification information group is executed once. For example, when the identification information group is suspended for three times and the identification information is stopped and displayed, one of the variable display of the identification information held is executed once, The two doses will be held thereafter.

  In addition, when winning in the general winning opening 5 and the big winning opening 8, for example, 10 game balls are paid out as winning balls for each winning entry and enter the start opening 6. For example, 5 game balls are paid out as winning balls for each winning.

  Further, ball passage detection gates 55, 55 are provided on the left and right sides of the starting port 6, and when the ball passage detection gate 55 detects the passage of a game ball, as shown in FIG. When the normal symbol 94 fluctuates at a predetermined position of the display device 32 and is stopped and displayed with a predetermined symbol such as a circle as shown, for example, a solenoid 118 (see FIG. 4) is attached to the start port 6. The movable piece 58 (the so-called electric tulip called a tulip) is driven in the opening direction from the closed state in the initial state so that the game ball can easily enter the start port 6. When a predetermined time has elapsed, the movable piece 58 is closed again, and the game ball returns to a state where it is difficult to enter the starting port 6. In this embodiment, such change display and stop display of the normal symbol 94 are referred to as a normal symbol game.

  Furthermore, a path 9 for winning game balls is provided on the back surface of the transparent game board 14, and the game balls that have entered the general winning opening 5, the start opening 6 and the big winning opening 8 pass through the passage 9. Collected. The game ball passing through the passage 9 can be visually recognized by the player through the transparent game board 14.

  With the above configuration, the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment includes the transparent gaming board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32 arranged so as to be seen through from the transparent gaming board 14 over almost the entire area of the transparent gaming board 14. It is an abbreviation for the transparent game board 14 that allows various display of various images to be displayed freely, while playing a pachinko game aiming for winning a prize ball by launching a game ball as usual and enjoying a variety of effects according to the game. It is possible to display in every part of the whole area, and it is possible to entertain the player with a great production effect and improve the interest.

  In particular, in this embodiment, when the game state is changed to the big hit game state by a variable display game, which will be described later, the position and size of the image to be displayed are freely changed. It is possible to display effects with innovative changes, and to give a great impact that the player can enjoy the game even more. Display means for effect display according to such a game, storage means for storing a plurality of image data having different image sizes, and display of the effect by selecting necessary image data from a plurality of image data according to the game state The display control means displayed in the area will be described in detail later.

(Electric configuration of pachinko machines)
A block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment is shown in FIG.

  As shown in the figure, a 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, including the effect display control means.

  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 when performing are stored.

  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 symbol determination random number counter, a missed symbol determination random number counter, an effect condition selection random number counter, and the number of times a big winning opening is opened. There is a counter Rc, a special winning opening winning counter Vc, a waiting time timer, a special winning opening opening time timer, a variable display game, data indicating the number of holds in a normal symbol game, and the like. Further, variables relating to output, data for supplying commands to a sub-control circuit 200 described later, variables, and the like are stored.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the variable display 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 to relatively increase the probability of shifting to the jackpot gaming state.

  The jackpot determining random number counter is for determining the jackpot of the variable display game. The jackpot symbol determination random number counter is for determining a symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol”) as identification information related to the jackpot that is stopped and displayed when the jackpot is determined in the variable display game. The off-set symbol determination random number counter is for determining identification information to be stopped 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. Further, although it is out of place, a reach determination random number counter for determining whether or not to reach 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 8. 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 counter Rc (see FIG. 24) indicates the number of times the big prize opening 8 is opened in the big hit gaming state, that is, the number of round games (so-called round number). Further, the grand prize winning prize counter Vc (see FIG. 24) indicates the number of game balls that won the big prize winning opening 8 during one round and passed the V count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. In addition, the data indicating the number of holdings in the variable display game holds the variation display when the game ball wins the starting port 6 but the variation display of the identification information cannot be executed. This indicates the number of times the information has changed. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved games in the normal symbol game holds the variation display when the game ball passes through the ball passage detection gate 55 but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed. The number of fluctuations of the normal symbol 94 is shown.

  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 big hit determination random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, and clear data corresponding to one variable display in the variable display game. The special symbol storage area is special from the special symbol storage area (0). There is a symbol storage area (4). In the special symbol storage area (0), data corresponding to the variable display currently being executed is stored. The special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (4) store data (starting storage information) corresponding to the variable display executed after the currently executed variable display is completed. . That is, when all the data in the special symbol storage area (0) to the special symbol storage area (4) is clear data, the current variable display is not executed, and the hold for executing the variable display is also performed. It will not be. When the variable display of the current identification information is finished, each data of the special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (4) is transferred from the special symbol storage area (0) to the special symbol storage area ( 3), and clear data is stored in the special symbol storage area (4). As a result, the special symbol storage area is updated. On the other hand, the normal symbol storage area also includes the normal symbol storage area (0) to the normal symbol storage area (4), as in the special symbol storage area. Further, as in the special symbol storage area, update control of the normal symbol storage area is performed. The main RAM 70 in the present embodiment corresponds to an example of a start storage unit.

  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. The serial communication IC 72 corresponds to transmission means for transmitting various commands to the sub control circuit 200 (various means included in the sub control circuit 200).

  Also, various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a V count sensor 102, a count sensor 104, a general winning ball sensor 106, a passing ball sensor 114, a starting winning ball A sensor 116, a normal electric accessory solenoid 118, a special prize opening solenoid 120, a seesaw solenoid 122, and a backup clear switch 124 are connected.

  Here, the V count sensor 102 is provided in the V zone in the special winning opening 8. The V count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the V zone at the special winning opening 8.

  The count sensor 104 is provided in a general pitching zone different from the V zone in the special winning opening 8. The count sensor 104 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through the general entry zone at the special winning opening 8.

  The general winning ball sensor 106 is provided in the general winning opening 5. The general winning ball sensor 106 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through each of the general winning ports 5.

  The passing ball sensor 114 is provided in each of the ball passing detection gates 55. The passing ball sensor 114 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through the ball passing detection gate 55.

  The start winning ball sensor 116 is provided at the start port 6. 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 6.

  The ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to a movable piece 58 attached to the start port 6 via a link member (not shown), and is movable according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. Is in an open state or a closed state.

  The special prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to a shutter 40 (see FIG. 3) that opens and closes the special prize opening 8, and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. Is in an open state or a closed state.

  The seesaw solenoid 122 has a plate shape and is connected to a seesaw (not shown) provided inside the shutter 40. The seesaw solenoid 122 is displaced in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to change the inclination of the seesaw. . As a result of the tilting of the seesaw, the game ball is switched so that the game ball can easily pass through the V zone or the general entrance zone.

  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 interruption 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 / firing control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out a game ball as a prize ball, a launch device 130 that fires a game ball, 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.

  In addition, the launching device 130 is provided with a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid (or launching motor) or the touch sensor described above.

  Furthermore, 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 various lamps 132, and the like in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. In this embodiment, it also functions as a display means for controlling the position of the effect display area 32a in the jackpot gaming state to change within the effect displayable area.

  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 display control means includes a sub CPU 206 as a display control means for performing display control on the display means, a program ROM 208 as a storage means, a work RAM 210, and a display control for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32. The circuit 250, the sound control circuit 230 for controlling the sound generated from the speakers 46R and 46L, and the lamp control circuit 240 for controlling the various lamps 132, and the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60. The performance according to is performed.

  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 on the liquid crystal display device 32 and functions as various means described later, including the display means, display control means, and variable display game execution means.

  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. .

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns and image data. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display, and the image data relates to a plurality of effect patterns having the same image density. The effect display by the sub-control circuit 200 is executed in accordance with the progress of the variable display game including the change display and stop display of the identification information. In this embodiment, the effect display area 32a in the jackpot game state is moved for each round game. A list of effect patterns and a plurality of pieces of image data having different image sizes while displaying the same effect display contents, and the arrangement of the effect display areas 32a at this time are relatively related to the progress order of the round game. An effect pattern to be moved while enlarging from the registered display frame to the final effect display area for each round game is stored in the program ROM 208 and executed according to an effect display area distribution table to be described later. An effect pattern for changing the effect image display in the effect display area 32a for each round game is also stored in the program ROM 208 and executed according to the effect determination table.

  In the sub-control circuit 200 according to the present embodiment, the program ROM 208 is used as a storage unit that stores programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a computer-readable storage medium including the control unit is used. As long as it is different, 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.

  Furthermore, 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 main control circuit including the main CPU 66 and the main ROM 68 is provided. 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 as display control means, 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 power source. It comprises an initial reset circuit 220 that generates a reset signal when it is turned on.

  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. The VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image in the effect display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. By storing a plurality of pieces of image data having different image sizes while being images representing the same effect display contents in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, the image is reduced to the effect display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing. Alternatively, an enlarged image is displayed.

  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.

  The VDP 212 also receives identification information image data indicating identification information, normal symbol image data indicating normal symbols, background image data, effect image data, etc. from the image data ROM 216 in accordance with an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206. Various image data are read out, and image data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is generated. In particular, in the present embodiment, an effect display area distribution table in which the arrangement locations of the effect display areas 32a that are relatively related to the progression order (number of rounds) of the round game are defined in the effect available display area ( (See FIG. 5) and during a round game, an effect display in a round game is performed at a predetermined position in accordance with an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206 while referring to the effect display area distribution table. ing. Further, the VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores it in the buffer, and supplies it 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 production display area distribution table)
In the present embodiment, an effect display area distribution table stored in the program ROM 208 of the sub control circuit 200 will be described with reference to FIG. Even when the variation pattern allocation table described below is not stored in the program ROM 208, data and programs having such functions may be stored in the program ROM 208.

  In the program ROM 208, as shown in FIG. 5, the arrangement location and size of the effect display area 32a that expands and contracts in accordance with the progress order of each round game when the big hit game state occurs in the variable display game. An effect display area distribution table for determination is stored. In the effect display area distribution table, the image data to be displayed for the number of round games (1-12) and the effect display area arrangement location are the initial image, the second image, the third image,..., The seventh image. , The final image is associated. What is stored in the table is the position coordinates of the upper left of each image to be displayed on the liquid crystal. FIG. 6 shows images of different sizes corresponding to display positions stored in the program ROM as simple image examples. Image data to be displayed as an initial image, a second image, a third image,... Gradually increase, and the image displayed in the initial image is a strip-shaped list registration display section shown at the bottom of the effect display area of FIG. Corresponding to the size of one frame of X, the size of the final image corresponds to the frame for each round game indicated by the one-dot chain line in FIG. 6, that is, the size of the effect display area 32a.

  As described above, when the game state shifts to the jackpot game state, a round game is executed, but the effect display area 32a gradually expands to a location (1 ′ to 15 ′) corresponding to the number of round games (1 to 15). To do.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 6, the initial image of each image data is one frame of the strip-shaped list registration display part X, whereas the final display position looks like the clock display in the effect displayable area, When the arrangement place of the effect display area 32a is set to 12 places from the 1 o'clock position to the 12 o'clock position, and the round game is the first (number of rounds is 1), the leftmost of the strip-shaped list registration display portion X The image data located in one frame is enlarged and moved to the effect display area 32a at the 1 o'clock position (see FIG. 8).

  Similarly, when the round game is the second time (round number is 2), the effect display area 32a is enlarged and moved to the 2 o'clock position (see FIG. 9), and when the round game is the third time (round number is 3). Is enlarged and moved to the 3 o'clock position (see FIG. 10). If the round game is 12th (the number of rounds is 12), the effect display area 32a is enlarged and moved to the 12 o'clock position (see FIG. 10). (See FIG. 11). If the round game further progresses and the round game is the 13th round (the number of rounds is 13), the round game is the 14th round (round) to the position of 1 o'clock, that is, the last image position in the top row 1 of the effect display area sorting table. If the number is 14), the position is 2 o'clock, that is, the final image position in the second row of the effect display area sorting table, and if the round game is 15th (15 rounds), the position is 3 o'clock, that is, the effect The effect display area 32a is enlarged and moved to the final image position in the third row of the display area sorting table. At this time, if the number of rounds exceeds 12, the color tone of the effect display area 32a may be changed so far.

  When each round game ends, the image data that has been displayed in an enlarged manner is reduced and moved from the final image to the seventh image, the sixth image,..., The second image, and the initial image. The returned frame is displayed in another color that can be distinguished from the end.

  In this way, while the image is gradually enlarged as the round game progresses, and the dynamic effect that the position of the effect display area 32a is changed, the interest in the game is improved, and during the round game. The number of round games is visually and intuitively determined by the position of the effect display area 32a, and the number of round games that have been completed during a normal game after the round game has been completed It will be displayed in the list registration display part X, so that the player can easily grasp the progress status of the jackpot gaming state. Also, in each round game, the fun of the jackpot game is further improved by changing the contents of the effect display. Moreover, the size of the effect display area 32a is different from the initial state located substantially below the center of the effect displayable area, so that the image becomes larger and easy to see.

(Description of display screen)
In addition, regarding the variable display game executed by the above-described configuration, an effect display execution screen, which is a feature of the present invention, will be described with reference to FIGS.

  For example, when a game ball enters the start port 6 in a state where execution of variable display of the identification information group is not suspended, three rows of identification information are displayed on the effect display area 32a as shown in FIG. The group is displayed in a variable manner. At this time, the effect by the character image is displayed along with the variable display. Then, when winning is made by internal lottery by random lottery and the identification information is stopped and displayed in a combination of “777” as shown in FIG. 7B, for example, according to a command supplied from the main control circuit 60, The sub-control circuit 200 functions as effect display control means and controls effect display. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the effect display area 32a is enlarged and moved to the final position of 1 o'clock, and the effect display corresponding to the first round game is executed at this position. Then, as the round game progresses to the second time, the third time, and the twelfth time, as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, and 11, the effect display area 32a has a final position at 2 o'clock, a final position at 3 o'clock, It is enlarged and moved to the final position at 12 o'clock.

  In addition, as described above, when the round game progresses and the round game is the 13th, the round game is returned to the final position at 1 o'clock, and when the round game is the 14th, the round game is the 15th round ( In the case of (last round number), the effect display area 32a moves to the final position at 3 o'clock. In the present embodiment, as shown in the drawing, in each round game, the contents of the effects are changed when the position of the effect display area 32a is changed. Here, the style of the character image is changed.

  At the end of each round game, the enlarged image data is reduced and moved from the final image to the initial image, and is displayed in a different color that can be determined for completion in the belt-shaped registration area. If the continuation of the round game is put on hold during the round game, another color indicating reservation is displayed in the reserved registration area.

  The player can witness the dynamic movement of the effect display area 32a using substantially the entire area of the transparent game board 14, and can enjoy the effect contents according to the progress of the round game, and the player can enter the jackpot game state. In addition to the joy and satisfaction of the transition, in the jackpot game state, you will be in touch with the production display with a novel change that has never been before, the interest for pachinko games will improve, and you will be further attracted to pachinko games .

  In addition, the player can visually and intuitively know how many rounds the game is based on the position of the effect display area 32a. Whether or not a round game is reserved is indicated by a belt-like round registration display, so that the progress status of the jackpot game state can be easily grasped, and the game can be smoothly advanced. In addition, even in-game personnel on the game hall side, it becomes easier to grasp the progress of the game of the player, so that a so-called dollar box for receiving a winning ball can be prepared immediately, which can lead to improvement of the service. it can.

  Incidentally, as described in the present embodiment, the effect display area 32a may be moved not only in the clockwise direction but also in a spiral shape, for example, in a spiral shape.

  Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12, when the number of round games is an odd number, the effect display area 32a is alternately placed on the upper side (lower side) of the transparent game board 14, and when it is an even number, the lower side (upper side) is alternated. The image may be enlarged or reduced. That is, the position of the effect display area 32a is not necessarily different for each round game during the jackpot game state.

(Machine machine operation)
The processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is shown in FIGS. 13 to 15 and FIGS. 17 to 23 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 process)
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 variable display 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 6, the ball passing detection gate 55, and the general winning port 5 is executed (step S43). In this process, the main CPU 66 stores, in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, data indicating that the game ball is paid out as a prize ball on the condition that the game ball has been won at 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 8 that is opened when a big hit occurs, 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.

  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 value of the control state flag Is executed, and the variable display game proceeds.

  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 S72.

  In steps S72 to S80, which 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, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the game state of the variable display game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step 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. As will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 17, the main CPU 66 checks the number of holdings when the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check, and determines the big hit if there is a holding number. Then, the derivation identification information that is stopped and displayed, the variation pattern of the identification information, etc. are determined. 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, when there is no pending number, a demonstration screen is displayed. 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. Accordingly, the main CPU 66 executing step S74 performs control to the big hit gaming state advantageous to the player on the condition that the result of variable display of the identification information on the liquid crystal display device 32 is a combination of specific identification information. It will be. The main CPU 66 executing step S74 corresponds to an example of a gaming state control unit. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the variable display 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 process, the main CPU 66 sets the main status in order to open the big winning opening 8 when the control state flag is a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management and 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 8 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 monitoring of the winning ball in the winning prize mouth, and when the monitoring time of the remaining ball in the winning game mouth 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 Rc 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 variable display 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, variable display game end processing is executed. In this processing, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the variable display game, the main CPU 66 stores and updates the data indicating the number of holdings so as to decrease by “1”. Then, the main CPU 66 stores data indicating the start memory number designation command in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the start memory number designation command stored in this way is supplied as the start memory number 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 of FIG. . As will be described in detail later, the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the received start memory number designation command. Further, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. 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 variable display game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the result of the big hit determination is lost in the case of not being the big hit 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 status 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 big hit 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 big hit gaming state is executed. Furthermore, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flags in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S77 shown in FIG. The process of step S78 and step S76 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the specific game is executed. When a specific game is being executed and the end condition for the big hit game state (the big hit game end condition) is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, “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 big hit gaming state is terminated. 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 “puncture”), or the maximum number of round games to be continued (in this embodiment, The big hit gaming state will be terminated on the condition that 15 rounds) have been completed.

(Special symbol memory check process)
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. In step S102, it is determined whether or not the reserved number is “0”. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number is “0”, the process proceeds to step S103, and the reserved number is stored. If it is not determined that the data indicating “0” is “0”, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S103, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub control circuit 200 in the main RAM 70 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 big hit gaming state 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 stopped 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 of FIG. Supplied as a designating command of identification information to be made. 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 an out symbol from the random symbol counter for determining an out symbol, and determines identification information corresponding to the left column, the middle column, and the right column based on the random symbol value for determining the out symbol. 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 stopped 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 of FIG. Supplied as a designating command of identification information to be made. By executing such processing, that is, the result of variable display of the identification information is determined.

  When the left column and the right column are the same identification information, and the left column and the middle column are the same identification information, the main CPU 66 sets the middle column identification information as a predetermined number of frames (for example, (3 frames) is determined to be corrected, and control is performed so as not to be a big hit. That is, by this step, the result of variable display of identification information is determined before the result of variable display of identification information is derived and displayed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  Note that the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the variable display of the identification information is reached in order to determine the identification information to be stopped and displayed by executing step S107 or step S108. That is, the main CPU 66 that executes step S107 or step S108 in the present embodiment corresponds to reach determination means for determining whether or not the variable display of the identification information becomes reach.

  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.

  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 uses the fluctuation effect time. The indicated value 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 is supplied with predetermined detection signals from various sensors such as the V count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensor 106, and the starting winning ball sensor 116 which are switches related to the winning ball. Detect whether or not 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 response to a predetermined signal supplied from the count sensor 104, the main CPU 66 updates the memory so as to increase the big prize winning prize counter Vc by “1”. A process at the time of detecting the count switch to be executed 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 establishes a flag indicating that the specific area has been passed and wins a big prize. A process at the time of detecting the V count switch is executed to store and update the mouth prize winning counter Vc so as to increase 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. That is, the CPU 66 that executes step S265 in the present embodiment corresponds to an example of a start area detection unit that detects a game ball that has passed through the start port 6 provided in the game area 15 in the transparent game board 14.

  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, when the main CPU 66 determines that the data indicating the number of holds is smaller than “4”, the main CPU 66 extracts a jackpot determination random number value and a jackpot symbol random number value, and the main RAM 70 Is stored in a predetermined area. The main CPU 66 performs a notice execution lottery and sets various commands in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

(Process when starting port is detected)
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 reads the starting memory number (so-called “data indicating the holding number” described above) from the starting memory number counter, and whether or not the starting memory number is “4” or more. Is determined (step S501). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the start memory number is “4” or more, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine. In other words, when the number of reserves reaches the upper limit number, the game ball is won at the start port 6, but this subroutine is ended without storing the start memory information. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the starting memory number is smaller than “4”, the main CPU 66 increments the starting memory number counter by “1” (step S502), and moves the process to step S503.

  In step S503, the main CPU 66 extracts a jackpot determination random number from the jackpot determination random number counter, and extracts a jackpot symbol random number from the jackpot determination random number counter. 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. As described above, the main CPU 66 satisfies a predetermined variable display start condition that allows variable display of the identification information when a predetermined variable display hold condition is satisfied when a game ball enters the start port 6. Until this time, the starting storage information for determining the result of variable display of the identification information is stored with a predetermined number as an upper limit. The main CPU 66 that executes steps S503 and S504 in the present embodiment corresponds to an example of a start storage unit. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S505.

  In step S505, the main CPU 66 executes processing for comparing the extracted jackpot determination random number value with the jackpot determination value. Then, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the jackpot determination random number value is the same as the jackpot determination value (step S506). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the jackpot determination random number value is the same as the jackpot determination value, the main CPU 66 shifts the process to step S508. In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the jackpot determination random number value is not the same as the jackpot determination value, the main CPU 66 shifts the process to step S507. As described above, the main CPU 66 that executes steps S505 and S506 stores the start memory information stored in step S504 as specific start memory information indicating that the result of variable display of the identification information is a combination of specific identification information. It will be determined whether or not. Note that the main CPU 66 that executes steps S505 and S506 in the present embodiment corresponds to an example of a prior determination unit.

  In step S507, the main CPU 66 extracts the notice random number value from the notice random number counter, and determines whether or not the notice execution lottery is won. When the extracted random number for notice is “0” or less, the main CPU 66 determines that the notice execution lottery has been won. On the other hand, if the extracted random number for notice is “1” or more, the main CPU 66 determines that the notice execution lottery has not been won. This notice random number counter is updated as an integer from “0” to “199”. Therefore, the probability of winning the notice execution lottery in step S507 is “1/200”. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S509.

  On the other hand, in step S508, the main CPU 66 extracts the random number for notice from the random number for notice and determines whether or not the notice execution lottery has been won. When the extracted random number for notice is “99” or less, the main CPU 66 determines that the notice execution lottery has been won. On the other hand, if the extracted random number for notice is “100” or more, the main CPU 66 determines that the notice execution lottery has not been won. Note that, as described above, since the notice random number counter is updated as an integer from “0” to “199”, the probability of winning the notice execution lottery in step S508 is “1/2”. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S509.

  In step S509, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a notice execution lottery has been won. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the advance notice lottery is won based on the result of the advance notice lottery in step S507 or step S508. When the main CPU 66 determines that the advance notice lottery has been won, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S511. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the advance notice lottery has not been won, the process moves to step S510.

  In step S <b> 510, the main CPU 66 reads data indicating the starting memory number, and sets data indicating a starting memory number designation command based on the data in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the start memory number designation command set in this way is supplied as a start memory number 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. . As will be described later, the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect and a notification regarding the start memory number in accordance with the received start memory number designation command. In addition, the start memory number designation command includes data based on the jackpot determination random number value and the jackpot symbol random number extracted in step S503 (for example, whether or not the random number value is shifted to the jackpot gaming state, identification information) Or the like, whether or not the result of the variable display is reached), and the sub-control circuit 200 (sub CPU 206) supplies the start memory number designation command from the main control circuit 60 to the sub-control circuit 200. For example, it is possible to recognize whether or not the random value is shifted to the big hit gaming state, whether or not the result of variable display of the identification information is reach. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S511, as in step S510, the main CPU 66 reads data indicating the start memory number, and sets data indicating a start memory number designation command based on the data in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. As a result, as described later, in accordance with the received start memory number designation command, effects and notifications regarding the start memory number are executed. Further, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a notice command in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the notice command set in this way is supplied as a notice 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 of FIG. 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, it is determined whether or not a start memory number designation command has been received (step S341). In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has received the start memory number designation command from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S342. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the start memory number designation command from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S343.

  In step S342, the sub CPU 206 executes a pending number update process. In this process, the sub CPU 206 sets start memory information, data indicating the start memory number before the update, and data indicating the start memory number after the update in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. Then, the sub CPU 206 determines the start memory number based on the start memory number designation command received from the main control circuit 60, and updates the data indicating the start memory number positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. In this process, the update is performed regardless of the increase / decrease of the reserved number. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, in step S343, 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 S344. 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 S346.

  In step S344, the sub CPU 206 executes reach determination processing. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the variation pattern is a reach based on the variation pattern. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S345.

  In step S345, the sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern with reference to the variation pattern, the reach determination result, and the effect determination table. In this process, the sub CPU 206 refers to the variation pattern included in the variation pattern designation command supplied from the main control circuit 60, the determination result that determines whether or not the reach is reached in step S344, and the effect determination table. . When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S346, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a notice command has been received. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the advance command has been received, in step S347 the advance command data indicating that the advance command has been received is set in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, and this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the notice command has not been received, it moves the process to step S348.

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

(Hold display effect processing)
In the sub-control circuit 200, a hold display effect process different from the command reception process is executed at a predetermined timing. The hold display effect process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 22, it is determined whether or not a predetermined variable display hold condition is satisfied (step S361). As described above, the predetermined variable display hold condition is that when the game ball enters the start port 6, the number of hold does not reach the upper limit and the identification information changes. In the sub control circuit 200, the sub CPU 206 satisfies a predetermined variable display hold condition depending on whether or not the start memory number has been received without increasing the start memory number. It will be judged whether or not. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined variable display hold condition is satisfied, the sub CPU 206 shifts the processing to step 362. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined variable display hold condition is not satisfied, the sub CPU 206 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S362, the sub CPU 206 executes a process of extracting a random number value for determining the hold display effect pattern. In this process, the sub CPU 206 extracts a random number for determining the hold display effect pattern from the random display counter for determining the hold display effect pattern. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S363.

  In step S363, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a notice command has been received. The sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a notice command has been received depending on whether or not notice command data is set in step S346. If the sub CPU 206 determines that a notice command has been received from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S364. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the notice command, it moves the process to step S365.

  In step S364, the sub CPU 206 executes a process of determining a hold display effect pattern based on a notice effect determination table with a notice. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the start storage information is the specific start storage information, whether or not the identification information is the reach start storage information, and whether or not the hold display effect pattern determination disorder extracted in step S362. Based on the numerical value, the hold display effect pattern is selected. Subsequently, the sub CPU 206 sets data indicating the hold display effect pattern thus selected in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. As a result, the sub CPU 206 performs a hold display effect based on the data indicating the set hold display effect pattern in step 366 described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S366.

  In step S365, the sub CPU 206 executes a process for determining a hold display effect pattern based on a notice effect determination table without a notice. In this process, as in step S364, the sub CPU 206 extracts whether or not the start storage information is the specific start storage information and whether or not the identification information is the start storage information that reaches, in step S362. A hold display effect pattern is selected based on the random number value for determining the hold display effect pattern. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S366.

  In step S366, the sub CPU 206 executes a hold display process at a predetermined timing. In this process, the sub CPU 206 supplies the data set in step S364 or step S365 to the VDP 212. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

(Variation start processing)
Further, the sub control circuit 200 executes a variation start process different from the command reception process, the hold display effect process, and the like at a predetermined timing. This variation start process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 23, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the startup storage information remains (step S381). In this process, the sub CPU 206 reads data indicating the number of starting memories, and determines whether or not the starting memory information remains depending on whether or not the data is “0”. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the start memory information remains, the sub CPU 206 shifts the processing to step S382. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the starting storage information does not remain, the sub CPU 206 shifts the processing to step S383.

  In step S382, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a predetermined variable display hold condition is satisfied. As described above, the predetermined variable display hold condition is a condition in which the identification information fluctuates without reaching the upper limit when the game ball enters the start port 6. If the sub CPU 206 determines that a predetermined variable display hold condition is satisfied, the sub CPU 206 ends the present subroutine. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined variable display hold condition is not satisfied, it moves the process to step S384.

  On the other hand, in step S383, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the game ball has won the start opening 6. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the game ball has won the start opening 6 depending on whether or not the start memory number has changed from “0” to “1”. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the game ball has won the start opening 6, the process proceeds to step S384. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the game ball has not won the start opening 6, the sub CPU 206 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S384, the sub CPU 206 executes variation start processing. In this process, the sub CPU 206 sets data indicating the variation pattern of the identification information in the work RAM 210. The variation pattern of this identification information is based on a variation pattern designation command. Then, the sub CPU 206 supplies data indicating the variation pattern to the VDP 212 at a predetermined timing. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

(Big hit effect display processing)
Further, the sub control circuit 200 executes a big hit effect display process when the big hit gaming state is generated. This jackpot effect display process will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the big hit gaming state is generated (see FIG. 7B), as shown in FIG. 24, the main CPU 66 displays the winning prize opening number counter Rc to display the effect of the first round game. 1 is substituted (step S401). That is, it is 1 if the number of rounds is the first. Next, in order to clear the number of balls entered into the big winning opening 8, the big winning opening winning counter Vc is cleared (step S402).

  Next, the sub CPU 206 determines the effect display area 32a at the designated position corresponding to the numerical value of the special winning opening opening number counter Rc (step S403). At this time, the sub CPU 206 refers to the effect display area distribution table shown in FIG. That is, as shown in FIGS. 8 to 11, the coordinates for displaying the image from the initial image to the final image corresponding to the number of rounds are extracted from the number of rounds in the effect display area sorting table, and the enlarged images are displayed in the order of the effect display area 32a. The position where is stored is determined. Then, at each position, the effect display in the round game is executed in the effect display area 32a (step S404). Here, the character is displayed in various ways. The subroutine executed in step S404 in FIG. 24 will be further described with reference to FIG.

  When this process ends, the main CPU 66 next determines whether or not there is a ball in the V zone (step S405). If there is a winning in the V zone among the winnings at the winning prize opening 8, the winning prize winning counter Vc is incremented (step S406). In step S405, if there is no entry into the V zone, the process proceeds to step S407, and a predetermined time (here, 30 seconds) elapses after the shutter 40 is opened as a condition for closing the shutter 40 of the special winning opening 8. It is determined whether or not a predetermined number (10) of balls have been entered in the special winning opening 8. If the predetermined time has not yet elapsed and there is no predetermined number of balls, the process returns to step S405. If the predetermined time has elapsed or the predetermined number of balls have been entered, the process proceeds to step S4071 and the effect image is returned from the effect display area 32a to the belt-shaped list registration display in accordance with the end of the round game. The subroutine executed in step S4071 in FIG. 24 will be further described with reference to FIG. Next, the process proceeds to S408, and in step S408, it is determined from the numerical value of the grand prize winning prize winning counter Vc whether or not there is a special entry into the V zone among the winning prizes in the big winning opening 8. If not, this routine is ended, and the main CPU 66 ends the big hit gaming state without proceeding to the next round game. If there is a ball entering the V zone in step S408, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S409 and increments the big winning opening opening number counter Rc.

  Then, in step S409, it is determined whether or not the special winning opening opening number counter Rc has reached 16. If less than 16, the process returns to step S402 to continue the round game and output a command signal to the sub CPU 206. Upon receiving the command signal, the sub CPU 206 makes it possible to determine the effect display area 32a at a position commensurate with the number of continued round games.

  In step S409, the main CPU 66 determines that the final round game has ended when the incremented winning prize opening number counter Rc reaches 16, and ends the big hit gaming state.

  The big hit effect display process executed by the sub-control circuit 200 is accompanied by enlargement / reduction display of image data. The image data enlargement / reduction display processing will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 26, centering on FIG.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the enlargement and reduction of the image are the eight steps shown in FIG. 5, and the display position pointer moves in each step in order, and the display position and display image are determined by the display position pointer. FIG. 26 is an example of simple image data, which is an example of the same simple image data displayed at the final position of the effect display area 32a from the initial position which is the band-shaped list registration display portion X. Each image data is not obtained by enlarging or reducing from a single image, but forms the same image stepwise with the same pixel density.

  The effect display start / end processing of FIG. 25 is called from step S404 and step S4071 of FIG. This subroutine has two effects, an effect display start entrance (step S601) called from step S404 in FIG. 24 and an effect display end entrance (step S603) called from step S4071 in FIG. When the effect display starts, the image data is gradually enlarged and displayed from the list registration display portion X to the final effect display area 32a. When called up from step S602, the display position pointer increases from the initial image to the final image in order. (1 → 8). When the reverse effect display ends, the image data is gradually reduced and displayed from the final effect display area 32a to the list registration display portion X. In step S604, the display position pointer is sequentially moved from the final display area to the initial image. It is set to decrease (8 → 1). However, the final image reduced to the list registration display unit X is changed in color from the original image so that the list registration display unit X can intuitively determine that the round game has already ended.

  In step S605, position coordinates having display position pointer values (1 to 8: enlargement, 8 to 1: reduction) are extracted from the round column of the round game indicated by the Rc counter from the effect display area distribution table of FIG. Further, the image data having the display position pointer is extracted from the image table of FIG. In step S606, using the work area corresponding to the game area 15, the image data extracted in step S605 is embedded in the position coordinates extracted from the horizontal column of the round game, and is sent to the VDB as an overlaid display image. In step S607, it is determined whether the value of the display position pointer is an end value (8 for enlargement, 1 for reduction). If it is the end value, the enlargement or reduction of the image data is complete. Return to. If it is not an end value, the process proceeds to step S608. In step S608, the display position pointer is updated, the interrupt return destination (interrupt address) is set to step S605, the interrupt timer is set, and this process is interrupted (terminated). For example, when it is desired to complete enlargement or reduction in 0.5 seconds, since there are 8 images in this example, the time of about 1/7 may be set in the timer. When the set time comes, the display position pointer is updated, and step S605 is activated by a time-out interrupt. Therefore, the next size of image data is displayed, and the repetition of the above steps gradually increases the value of the final pointer. Or a small image is displayed.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but only a specific example is illustrated here, and the present invention is not particularly limited. That is, the present invention mainly provides a transparent game board that can guide the flow of the launched game ball from the upper side to the lower side, a part or all of which is formed of a transparent member and can be seen through the back, and the transparent game. The display means is arranged on the back side of the transparent game board so as to be visually recognized through the board, forms an effect displayable area and displays the effect according to the game, and is an image representing the same effect display content A storage means for storing a plurality of image data having different image sizes, and a display control means for selecting necessary image data from the plurality of image data according to a gaming state and displaying the selected image data in the effect displayable area; The specific configuration of the display unit, the storage unit, the display control unit, and the like can be appropriately changed in design.

  The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only 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. 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 principal part of the same pachinko gaming machine. 1 is a front view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram showing a main control circuit and a sub control circuit of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the presentation display area distribution table in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the position of the expansion / contraction movement of the effect display area in the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the modification of the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing which concerns on the summary performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing which concerns on the summary performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the image data which concerns on the summary performed in the pachinko game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

8 Grand Prize Winners 10 Pachinko machines (game machines)
14 Transparent game board 15 Game area 32 Liquid crystal display device (display means)
32a Production display area 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU

Claims (2)

A transparent game board that allows the launched game ball to flow down from the upper side to the lower side, part or all of which is formed by a transparent member and the back can be seen through,
Display means arranged on the back side of the transparent game board so as to be visually recognized through the transparent game board, forming an effect displayable area and performing an effect display according to the game;
Storage means for storing a plurality of image data having different image sizes while being images representing the same effect display content;
Display control means for selecting necessary image data from the plurality of image data according to a gaming state and displaying the selected image data in the effect displayable area;
A gaming machine comprising:   A variable display game execution means that allows a plurality of identification information to be displayed in a variable manner and stopped in the variable display area, and that when the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific combination, can shift to a gaming state advantageous to the player. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the variable display game is effect-displayed using the image.

Images