JP2005328996A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine allowing a player to easily continue a game. <P>SOLUTION: When a display result on a variable display device variably displaying a plurality types of identification information, each being identifiable, becomes a specific display mode, this game machine is controlled into a specific game state advantageous for the player and, when a special condition is satisfied in the game, in a period till the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times, controlled into the special game state where the specific game state is easily produced. This game machine is changed over between a regular mode where selecting performance data out of a plurality of types of performance data are selected at a first selecting probability, and a special mode where the performance data are selected at a second electing probability different from the first selecting mode. In a specific period after finishing the special game state (S245-248), this machine is changed to a special mode at a high probability compared with periods other than the specific period (S251-255), selects the performance data according to the predetermined selecting probability according to the changed mode, and executes the game performance in the variable display using the selected performance data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a pachinko gaming machine, a coin gaming machine, a slot machine, or the like. Specifically, it has a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable, and it is advantageous for the player when the display result of the variable display becomes a predetermined specific display mode. In addition to being controlled to a specific gaming state, when a special condition is established in the game, it is controlled to a special gaming state in which the specific gaming state is likely to occur for a period until a variable display of identification information is executed a predetermined number of times. Related to the gaming machine.

What is conventionally known as this type of gaming machine is a probability variation state (hereinafter, referred to as “the probability variation state”) until a predetermined number of special symbol variations are displayed after the end of a specific gaming state such as a big hit gaming state. There is a gaming machine that is controlled to a special gaming state such as a probability variation state or a variable time reduction control state (hereinafter referred to as a short time state) (for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2004-033569 A (FIG. 16)

  However, in the conventional gaming machine as described above, when the special game state is ended, the state advantageous to the player who is likely to generate the specific game state is ended and the break is good, so the game is ended for the player. It was a perfect time to do.

  The present invention has been devised in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which it is difficult for a player to end a game when a special gaming state ends.

Specific examples of means for solving the problems and their effects

(1) It has a variable display device (for example, a variable display device 9) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols) each identifiable, and the display result of the variable display is predetermined. When a specific display mode (for example, a combination of special symbols such as “777”) (a combination of jackpot symbols) is controlled, a specific gaming state (for example, a jackpot gaming state) advantageous to the player is controlled. In addition, a special condition is established in the game (the display result of the variable display is a special display mode of the specific display mode (for example, a combination of odd symbols such as “777”) (Combination of probable big hit symbols))), the variation display of the identification information is a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times for the combination of probable big hit symbols, and 50 for the other big hit symbol combinations). A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) that is controlled to a special gaming state (for example, a short-time state) in which the specific gaming state is likely to occur during a period until it is executed,
Effect data selection means (for example, the game control microcomputer 53, S231 to S234) for selecting effect data according to a predetermined selection probability from a plurality of types of effect data determined in advance;
The effect execution means for executing the game effect in the variable display of the identification information using the effect data selected by the effect data selection means (for example, the game control microcomputer 53, S234, S236, the effect control microcomputer 800). When,
The effect data selecting means selects the effect data with a first selection probability determined in advance from a plurality of types of effect data, and the effect data with a second selection probability different from the first selection probability. Special mode to select (for example, mission mode, reach frequent mode, mode in which reach reliability is increased in mission mode, mode in which character or background changes, mode in which special symbol changes, or special symbol type increases or decreases Effect mode switching means (for example, the game control microcomputer 53, S201 to S206, S251 to S255),
The effect mode switching means may be configured so that, during a specific period after the special gaming state is finished (for example, when the display of change in the time-saving state reaches 100 times by S245 to S247, and the time-saving flag is turned off by S248). That is, at the end of the short-time state, the mode is switched to the special mode with a high probability (for example, a probability higher than 0% when the short-time state does not end) compared to the period other than the specific period (for example, S251). ~ S255).

  According to such a configuration, in the specific period after the special gaming state ends, the second selection probability that is higher than the predetermined first selection probability is higher than the period other than the specific period. Switching to the special mode for selecting effect data, the effect data is selected according to a predetermined selection probability corresponding to the mode from a plurality of types of effect data determined in advance, and using the selected effect data, the identification information The game effect in the variable display is executed.

  For this reason, in the specific period after the special game state ends, the game is switched to the special mode with a higher probability than the period other than the specific period, and the game is performed using the effect data selected with a selection probability different from the normal mode. Since the performance is executed, the player can be noticed. As a result, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to end the game when the special game state ends.

(2) The gaming machine has a predetermined execution condition (for example, when the starting winning memory number has not reached the upper limit number, the game ball has won the starting opening 14 and the starting opening switch 17 has been turned on. ) Is established (S137, S138), and the identification is made when a predetermined start condition (for example, the variation display device 9 does not execute the variation display of the special symbol when there is a start winning memory) is established. The execution of the variable display of information is started (S140 to S144),
A holding storage means (for example, game control microcomputer 53, RAM 55, S137, S138) that stores, as a holding change display, a variation display of identification information for which the execution condition is satisfied but the start condition is not yet satisfied;
Further includes hold memory determination means (for example, the game control microcomputer 53, S252) for determining whether or not the display result of the hold variation display stored in the hold storage means is the specific display mode;
The production mode switching means is determined when the display result of the hold variation display is in the specific display mode by the hold memory determining means (for example, when there is a start winning memory to be a big hit) The special mode is entered with a high probability (for example, a probability of 90% higher than a probability of 50% when there is no start winning memory as a big hit) compared to when it is determined that the specific display mode is not achieved. Switching (for example, see S253 to S255, the mode switching table in FIG. 11).

  According to such a configuration, after the predetermined execution condition is satisfied, the gaming machine starts executing the variation display of the identification information when the predetermined start condition is satisfied, and the execution condition is satisfied but is still started. The fluctuation display of the identification information that does not satisfy the condition is stored as the hold fluctuation display, it is determined whether the stored display result of the hold fluctuation display is in a specific display mode, and the display result of the hold fluctuation display is specified. When it is determined that the display mode is determined, it is switched to the special mode with a higher probability than when it is determined that the display mode is not specific.

  For this reason, when the mode is switched to the special mode, the probability that the display result is in a specific display mode is higher than when the mode is not switched to the special mode. As a result, it is possible to improve the player's expectation to enter the specific gaming state.

(3) Predetermining means (for example, the game control microcomputer 53, S223-3) that determines whether or not the display result of the variation display of the identification information is the specific display mode before the display result is derived and displayed. S225)
Effect notification means for notifying the player of the type of game effect that can be executed in a predetermined period (for example, any of effect patterns A and B);
The effect data selection means is configured so that the predetermination means performs the predetermined period after the effect notification means notifies the type of game effect (for example, after the effect pattern A is notified) until the predetermined period elapses. When it is determined that a specific display mode is to be selected, effect data (for example, a performance pattern A) for executing the type of game effect notified by the effect notification unit is selected, and the specific display mode is selected. When it is not determined to select the effect data (for example, effect pattern B) in which the type of game effect notified by the effect notification means is not executed,
The effect notification means notifies the type of the game effect at a higher probability in the special mode than in the normal mode.

  According to such a configuration, whether or not the display result of the variation display of the identification information is set to the specific display mode is determined before the display result is derived and displayed, and is higher in the special mode than in the normal mode. The type of game effect that can be executed in a predetermined period of time determined by the probability is notified to the player, and after the type of game effect is notified, the specific display mode is determined until the predetermined period elapses. When the effect data for which the notified type of game effect is executed is selected and the specific display mode is not determined, the notified type of game effect is not executed. Production data is selected.

  For this reason, in the special mode, the display result of the variable display becomes a specific display mode by executing the game effect using the effect data in which the same type of game effect as the notified game effect type is executed. Can be notified to the player. In the special mode, such a game effect is executed with a higher probability than in the normal mode, so that the interest of the game can be improved as compared with the normal mode.

  (4) The effect data selecting means selects effect data in which a predetermined reach effect is executed in the special mode with a higher probability than the normal mode.

  According to such a configuration, in the special mode, effect data for executing a predetermined reach effect is selected with a higher probability than in the normal mode. For this reason, in the special mode, the reach effect is executed with a higher probability than in the normal mode, so that the interest of the game can be improved as compared with the normal mode.

(5) The effect mode switching means switches from the special mode to the normal mode (for example, for game control) after a predetermined time (for example, 300 seconds) has elapsed after switching from the normal mode to the special mode. When the production mode is switched from the normal mode to the special mode by the microcomputer 53 in S255, an initial value (for example, a value corresponding to 300 seconds) is set in the special mode timer in S256, and the special mode is set in S201 to S205. When it is determined that the time set in the timer has elapsed, the effect mode is switched from the special mode to the normal mode in S206).
It further includes time notification means (for example, the game control microcomputer 53, S204, the effect control microcomputer 800) for notifying the remaining time of the predetermined time in an identifiable manner.

  According to such a configuration, when the predetermined time has elapsed after switching from the normal mode to the special mode, the special mode is switched to the normal mode, and the remaining time of the predetermined time is notified in an identifiable manner. For this reason, in the special mode, it is possible to inform the player of the time until switching from the special mode to the normal mode.

  (6) After the effect mode switching means has switched from the normal mode to the special mode and before switching from the special mode to the normal mode, the special mode is notified after switching to the normal mode. Informing means (for example, the gaming control microcomputer 53 selects a variation pattern for informing the player that the special mode is to be ended in the special mode, and then produces the effect. Before the mode is switched to the normal mode, a variation pattern for notifying the player that the special mode is to be extended is selected, and the player is instructed to end the special mode by the effect control microcomputer 800 according to the variation pattern. The production mode is switched to the normal mode. Before that, further comprising a.) To the effect that to extend the special mode is informed to the player.

  According to such a configuration, after switching from the normal mode to the special mode, before switching from the special mode to the normal mode, it is notified that the special mode is to be switched to the normal mode, and then switched to the special mode again. Informed. For this reason, it is possible to give the player the impression that the loser is revived and to improve the player's expectation that the special mode will continue.

(7) Fluctuation time determining means (for example, a game control microcomputer 53, S232, S234, S235) for determining the execution time of the variation display of the identification information is further provided,
In the variation time determination means, the expected value of the variation time of the variation display of the identification information executed in the special mode is longer than the expected value of the variation time of the variation display of the identification information performed in the normal mode. Thus, the execution time is determined.

  According to such a configuration, the execution time of the variation display of the identification information is determined, and the expected value of the variation display time of the identification information performed in the special mode is the same as the variation display of the identification information performed in the normal mode. The execution time is determined so as to be longer than the expected value of the variation time. For this reason, in the special mode, the execution time of the variable display in which the game effect can be performed is longer than that in the normal mode, so that the entertainment of the game can be further improved by the game effect.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following best mode, a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be other gaming machines such as a coin gaming machine and a slot machine, A specific game that has a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, and that is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display becomes a predetermined specific display mode A gaming machine that is controlled to a special gaming state in which the specific gaming state is likely to occur during a period until a variable display of identification information is executed a predetermined number of times when a special condition is established in the game. If so, it can be applied to all.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 as an example of a gaming machine according to the present invention. A game board 6 in which a game area 7 is formed is attached to the pachinko gaming machine 1. When the player operates the operation knob 5, game balls (so-called pachinko balls) stored in the hit ball supply tray 3 are launched one by one and are driven into the game area 7, and flow down the game area 7.

  In the center of the game area 7, as a device for variably displaying (also referred to as variable display or update display) a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each of the symbols and the like, special symbols (for example, 12 types from 0 to 11) A variation display device 9 for variably displaying symbols) is provided. The variable display device 9 also displays other images such as a character image for production and a background image.

  The special symbol variably displayed by the variability display device 9 may be any identification information as long as it is identification information such as numerals, characters, figures, patterns, characters, etc. Only, a pattern only, a character only, or a combination of these as appropriate. Here, the character refers to a person, an animal, or a figure formed from an object such as an object.

  The variable display device 9 is a display device composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) for displaying an image, and left, middle, and right variable display portions on which the special symbols are variably displayed are provided on the image. It is done. Special symbols that are individually variably displayed in a predetermined variation display mode such as scrolling in each of the left, middle, and right variation display portions are referred to as left, middle, and right symbols.

  For a plurality of types of special symbols displayed as the left, middle, and right symbols, the symbol arrangement order is predetermined for each of the left, middle, and right special symbols. Multiple types of special symbols are displayed in a variable manner according to the sequence of symbols. Special symbol number data is associated with each of the plural types of special symbols.

  The variable display device 9 is not limited to a liquid crystal display, but an LED such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), an FED (Field Emission Display), a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), a dot matrix, or a 7-segment LED (Light Emitting Diode). Other image display type display devices such as an EL (ElectroLuminescent display) and a fluorescent display tube (VFD) may be used. Further, it may be another mechanical fluctuation display device such as a rotary drum type that rotates and rotates a rotary drum having a plurality of kinds of symbols drawn on the outer periphery.

  When the variation display device 9 starts the variation display of the special symbol, the variation display of the left, middle and right symbols is started at the same time. Thereafter, the symbols are sequentially stopped and displayed in the order of left, right, and middle symbols, and the display result is derived and displayed. Such a time from the start of the variable display to the time when the display result is derived and displayed is referred to as a variable time (also referred to as a variable display time, a variable period, or a variable display period).

  Above the variable display device 9, a normal symbol display unit 10 capable of variably displaying normal symbols as a plurality of types of identification information is provided. The normal symbol display unit 10 includes a hit display unit 10a that can display a circle symbol that is a hit symbol, and a miss display unit 10b that can display a cross symbol that is a miss symbol. Ordinary symbols are variably displayed by lighting them alternately. Below the fluctuation display device 9, an electric starter 14 a having a start port 14 capable of receiving a game ball for starting the fluctuation display of the special symbol, and a game ball for starting the fluctuation display of the normal symbol And two passage openings 11 capable of accepting.

  When a game ball enters the passage port 11, the gate switch 12 detects the passage of the game ball (referred to as start passage), and in response to this, numerical data that becomes a random value is extracted and RAM (described later) as start passage storage data. Random Access Memory) 55.

  An upper limit value is set for the number of stored start passage storage data. If the start passage is detected in a state where the upper limit value is not reached, the execution condition for the normal symbol variation display is satisfied, and the start passage becomes effective. If the start passage is detected in a state where the upper limit value is reached, the execution condition is not satisfied and the start passage becomes invalid.

  When the start condition (the normal symbol fluctuation display is not being executed) that can start the normal symbol fluctuation display based on the start-pass memory data is satisfied, the normal symbol fluctuation display is started. Thus, when a plurality of start passage storage data is stored, the normal symbol variation display is sequentially executed based on the respective data. The number of start passage storage data for which the start condition is not satisfied is displayed by the number of LEDs lit on the passage storage display unit 15 provided above the variable display device 9.

  When the value of the start passage storage data matches the predetermined hit determination value, it is determined that the normal symbol is hit, and the hit symbol is derived and displayed as the normal symbol display result. On the other hand, when the value of the start passage storage data does not coincide with the hit determination value, it is determined that the normal symbol is lost, and the lost symbol is derived and displayed as a display result of the normal symbol.

  The starter electric accessory 14 a can be opened and closed by opening and closing a pair of left and right movable pieces driven by the solenoid 16. The starting electric accessory 14a is in an open state in which a game ball is likely to enter the start port 14 when the normal symbol variation display result is a hit, and when one game ball wins in the open state, It returns to the closed state where the game ball is difficult to enter. In addition, the starter electric accessory 14a returns to the closed state even if the game ball does not win if a predetermined opening period elapses after the opening state.

  When a game ball enters the start port 14, a game ball (start winning ball) is detected by the start port switch 17, and in response to this, numerical data that becomes a random value (count value of a random counter for jackpot determination and symbol determination) ) Is extracted and stored in the RAM 55, which will be described later, as start winning storage data (also referred to as hold data or hold storage data).

  In the best mode, an upper limit (4) is set to the number of start winning memories that is the number of stored start winning memory data. If the start winning is detected in a state where the upper limit is not reached, the execution condition of the special symbol variation display is established, and the corresponding start winning becomes valid. If the start winning is detected in a state where the upper limit is reached, the execution condition is not satisfied, and the start winning becomes invalid.

  Start condition that can start the change display of the special symbol based on the start winning memory data (when there is a start winning memory, the change display of the special symbol is not made and is not in the big hit game state) is established Then, the special symbol variation display is started. Thus, when a plurality of start winning memory data is stored, the special symbol variation display is sequentially executed based on the respective data, and the start winning memory data is digested. The number of start winning memory data for which the start condition is not satisfied is displayed as an image on the variable display device 9.

  When the start winning memory data is data indicating that it is a jackpot, it is determined that the display result of the special symbol variation display is a jackpot, and a combination of jackpot symbols as a specific display mode (for example, “777” or the like) A special symbol combination) is derived and displayed as a display result of the variable display. On the other hand, when the start winning memorized data is data indicating that it is out of date, it is determined that the display result of the variation display is out of date, and the combination of out of symbol is derived and displayed as the display result of the variation display of the special symbol.

  A variable winning ball apparatus 19 is provided below the starting electric accessory 14a. The variable winning ball device 19 includes a large winning opening 18 through which a game ball can be won and an opening / closing plate 20 that opens and closes the large winning opening 18. When the display result of the special symbol variation display is a combination of jackpot symbols, the jackpot gaming state is entered, and the opening / closing plate 20 is in a first state advantageous to the player from the closed state, which is a second state disadvantageous to the player. Is controlled to an open state. The opening / closing plate 20 is driven by a solenoid 21.

  A specific winning area and a normal winning area are provided inside the large winning opening 18 in the variable winning ball apparatus 19. A game ball that has won a specific winning area is called a V winning ball, which is detected by the V count switch 22 and then detected by the count switch 23. A game ball that has entered the normal winning area is detected only by the count switch 23.

  In the variable winning ball apparatus 19 in the big hit gaming state, when the number of gaming balls that have entered the big winning opening 18 reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10) in the first state where the big winning opening 18 is opened, or When the predetermined condition (e.g., 30 seconds), whichever comes first, is satisfied, the first state is temporarily ended, the opening / closing plate 20 is closed, and the second state is controlled. The

  Then, on the condition that the game ball entered during the period in which the variable winning ball device 19 is in the first state has won the specific winning area and has been detected by the V count switch 22, the variable winning ball at that time After the first state of the device 19 ends and becomes the second state, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again, and repeated continuation control is performed to place the variable winning ball device 19 in the first state. The upper limit number of executions of the repeated continuation control is determined to be 16 times, for example. In the repeated continuation control, the state where the variable winning ball device 19 is in the first state is referred to as a round.

  Further, the display result of the special symbol variation display is a predetermined special display mode (for example, odd-numbered tick eyes) in a specific display mode (a combination of jackpot symbols). ), After the end of the big hit gaming state, a probability variation state (hereinafter referred to as a probable variation state) and a variable time shortening control state (hereinafter referred to as a short time state) as special game states that are advantageous to the player different from the big hit gaming state. ) Is controlled.

  The probability variation state is also referred to as a probability improvement state, and is a state in which the probability of being a big hit fluctuates and becomes higher than the normal gaming state (game state other than the big hit gaming state, the probability variation state, and the short-time state). The probability variation state is continued until the next big hit occurs. The short time state is a state in which the variation time of the special symbol variation display is shorter than the variation time in the normal gaming state. For example, during the probability change state, after the probability change state or after the big hit gaming state, until the fluctuation display is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) or until the big hit gaming state is reached, the time is controlled to the short time state. The

  In the probability variation state and the short-time state, the big hit probability is improved and the number of variable displays per unit time is increased, so that the big hit gaming state is likely to occur. The big hit by the combination of the probable big hit symbol is called the probable big hit symbol, and the big hit by the non-probable big hit symbol combination other than the probable big hit symbol combination is called the non-probable big hit symbol. The probability variation state and the short time state are respectively realized by a probability variation control function and a variation time reduction control function of the game control microcomputer 53 described later.

  In addition, during the special symbol variation display, a reach state in which the left symbol and the right symbol are aligned in the same symbol (also referred to as a reach mode or a reach display mode) may occur. Here, the reach state is a display area that has already been derived and displayed at a stage where a display result has not yet been derived and displayed in some display areas in a plurality of display areas (also referred to as a variable display area or a variable display section). Is a display state that satisfies the condition that the display result is a specific display mode (combination of jackpot symbols).

  Moreover, what is defined as reach includes so-called full-rotation reach in which variable display is performed in a state where a specific display mode is maintained in all of the plurality of display areas. Furthermore, some reach is likely to generate a big hit when it appears, compared to the normal reach state. Such a specific reach state is called super reach.

  Also, during special symbol variation display, when the display result is a big hit symbol combination, the special symbol is temporarily stopped with a combination of non-probable big hit symbols or a probable big hit symbol combination (for example, the symbols are updated) The special symbol is displayed in a variably displayed state after the swaying motion (hereinafter referred to as a temporary stop). After that, the combination of the non-probable big hit symbol that is finally determined as the display result is displayed. Alternatively, re-variable display for deriving and displaying a combination of probability variation big hit symbols is performed. In this re-variable display, when the display result is a combination of jackpot symbols, it is possible to give the player a pleasure of whether to be a probable big hit symbol or a non-probable big hit symbol.

  The game area 7 is also provided with other structures such as a prize opening 24 which is a general prize opening. In addition, a winning opening switch 99 for detecting a winning game ball is provided inside the winning opening 24. At the lower end of the game area 7, there is provided an out port 26 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning port as out balls. Various lamps such as a decoration LED 42 and a decoration lamp 25 are provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7. Speakers 41, 41 that generate sound such as sound effects are provided on the left and right above the game area 7.

  With respect to the payout of the winning balls, for example, 15 winning balls, 5 winning balls, and 10 winning balls are paid out for each winning ball that has won the winning prize opening 18, the start opening 14, and the winning opening 24, respectively. The

  Further, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter referred to as a card unit) 50 that enables lending a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown). The prepaid card stores information for specifying the number of game balls that can be lent (for example, amount: number of game balls 25/100 yen). When the player inserts the prepaid card into the card unit 50 and performs a predetermined operation, the card unit 50 performs an operation out of the number of game balls that can be lent out by the information recorded on the prepaid card. A process for paying out a corresponding number of game balls is performed.

  On the front surface of the card unit 50, for example, a connection table direction indicator indicating which side the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponds to, and that the card is inserted in the card unit 50 is shown. A card unit lock is provided for opening the card unit 50 when checking a card insertion indicator lamp, a card insertion slot into which a prepaid card is inserted, and a card reader / writer mechanism provided inside the card insertion slot.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a control circuit including various control boards in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Referring to FIG. 2, pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a main board (also referred to as game control board) 31, an effect control board 80, and a payout control board (also referred to as a prize ball control board) 37 as control circuits. Each of these control boards is equipped with a control microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a microcomputer).

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a power supply board 910 for supplying power for driving these control boards and the above-described various solenoids, various LEDs, lamps, and other electrical components. The main board 31, the effect control board 80, and the payout control board 37 are not only electric parts but also an electric part control board for controlling the electric parts.

  The power supply board 910 is supplied with AC 24V power. The power supply board 910 rectifies the alternating current to generate a direct current having a predetermined voltage, and supplies the direct current to the electrical components described above. Although not shown, 24 VAC is also supplied to the card unit 50.

  The main circuit board 31 controls game signals from various detectors such as a game control microcomputer 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in accordance with a game control program, and the winning port switches 12, 17, 22, 23, 99. A switch circuit to be supplied to the microcomputer 53, a solenoid circuit for driving the drive solenoids such as the various solenoids 16 and 21 in accordance with instructions from the game control microcomputer 53, and information output in accordance with data supplied from the game control microcomputer 53 An information output circuit for outputting a signal to an external device such as a hall computer through the board external terminal board 34 is provided.

  The information output signal includes jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot, effective starting information indicating the number of starting winning balls used for starting the variation display of symbols in the variation display device 9, probability variation information indicating that a probability variation has occurred, and the like. This is a signal for outputting information from the pachinko gaming machine 1 to an external device.

  The game control microcomputer 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing a control operation in accordance with the program, and an I / O port 57. Then, the CPU 56 reads out a game control program from the ROM 54, and the program is repeatedly executed periodically (for example, every 4 ms) according to a timer interrupt, whereby the game control microcomputer 53 executes various game controls. To do.

  On the effect control board 80, an effect control microcomputer 800 that controls the effect of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in accordance with the effect control program, an image display IC (Integrated Circuit) VDP (Video Display Processor), an image display A VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) used as a work area for image processing, a CGROM recording image data, a sound generator as an audio output IC, an audio data ROM, an audio amplification circuit, a lamp driver circuit, and the like are provided. .

  The effect control microcomputer 800 includes a ROM, a RAM, a CPU, and an I / O port, similarly to the game control microcomputer 53 described above. Then, the CPU reads out the effect control program from the ROM, and the effect control microcomputer 800 executes control of various game effects by periodically and repeatedly executing the program according to the timer interruption.

  In addition, the effect control board 80 includes a fluctuation display device 9 as a fluctuation display means, speakers 41 and 41 as sound output means, a normal symbol display section 10 (10a, 10b) as a light emission means, and a passage storage display section. 15, the decoration LED 42 and the decoration lamp 25 are connected.

  The payout control board 37 is provided with a payout control microcomputer 370 for controlling the payout of game balls and the release of game balls in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in accordance with a payout control program.

  The payout control microcomputer 370 includes a ROM, a RAM, a CPU, and an I / O port, similarly to the game control microcomputer 53 described above. Then, the CPU reads out a payout control program from the ROM, and the program is repeatedly executed periodically according to a timer interrupt, whereby the payout control microcomputer 370 executes the payout control of the game ball.

  Also, on the payout control board 37, a ball payout device 97 comprising a payout motor 289, a motor position sensor 295 and a payout number count switch 301, a full tank switch 48, a ball shortage switch 187, a ball shortage lamp 52, and a prize ball lamp 51 are provided. The touch sensor substrate 91, the frame external terminal board 160, and the like are connected. The operation knob 5, the touch ring 308, the firing motor 94, and the like are connected to the touch sensor substrate 91.

  Detection signals from the motor position sensor 295, the payout count switch 301, the full switch 48, the ball break switch 187, the touch ring 308, and the operation knob 5 are given to the payout control microcomputer 370. The payout motor 289, the ball-out lamp 52, the prize ball lamp 51, and the firing motor 94 are given control signals from the payout control microcomputer 370.

  The ball payout device 97 pays out the game balls one by one to the hitting ball supply tray 3 by driving a payout motor 289 that is a stepping motor in accordance with a command from the payout control microcomputer 370. The motor position sensor 295 is a sensor composed of a light emitting element and a light receiving element for detecting the rotational position of the payout motor, and detects that the game ball is clogged (so-called ball biting). The payout number count switch 301 is a sensor based on a proximity switch, and detects a game ball actually paid out from the ball payout device 97.

  The full tank switch 48 detects that the hitting ball supply tray 3 is full with the game balls that have been paid out. The ball break switch 187 detects the presence or absence of a game ball supplied to the ball payout device 97. The payout control microcomputer 370 stops the driving of the payout motor 289 when the detection signal from the full tank switch 48 indicates a full tank state or when the detection signal from the ball short switch 187 indicates a full ball state. . The ball break lamp 52 is a lamp that indicates that the game ball supplied to the ball payout device 97 has expired. The prize ball lamp 51 is a lamp indicating that a game ball has won and the prize ball has been paid out.

  The touch ring 308 detects that the player is touching the operation knob 5. When receiving the detection signal from the touch ring 308, the payout control microcomputer 370 outputs a drive signal that permits driving to the firing motor 94 that is the firing means via the touch sensor substrate 91.

  The launch motor 94 is driven in accordance with a drive signal from the payout control microcomputer 370 and launches game balls one by one toward the game area 7 in a hitting ball launching device that hits and launches game balls. The driving force of the firing motor 94 is adjusted by the dispensing control microcomputer 370 according to the operation amount of the operation knob 5.

  The frame external terminal board 160 outputs a prize ball information signal indicating the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control microcomputer 370 and a ball lending number signal indicating the number of balls lent. Further, a door opening switch 161 is connected to the frame external terminal plate 160. The frame external terminal board 160 outputs a signal output from the door opening switch 161 to the outside indicating that the front door of the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been opened.

  Further, the card unit 50 is connected to the payout control board 37 via the interface board 66. The power supply voltage AC24V used in the card unit 50 is supplied from the power supply board 910 via the payout control board 37 and the interface board 66. Further, a ball lending switch 62, a return switch 63, a ball lending LED 61, and a frequency display LED 60 provided in the vicinity of the hitting ball supply tray 3 are connected to the interface board 66.

  The ball lending switch 62 gives a ball lending switch signal to the card unit 50 in accordance with an operation by the player. The return switch 63 gives a return switch signal to the card unit 50 in accordance with an operation by the player. The ball lending LED 61 is lit to indicate that the ball lending is possible. The frequency display LED 60 displays the ball lending frequency recorded on the prepaid card. The frequency is displayed, for example, with 25 game balls (100 yen) as one unit.

  In addition, in order to perform the game as described above, the control contents executed by each control microcomputer are commanded (instruction, instruction, etc.) from the game control microcomputer 53 to the effect control microcomputer 800 and the payout control microcomputer 370, respectively. A command (control command) as an example of control command information to be specified is transmitted.

  Specifically, from the game control microcomputer 53 to the effect control microcomputer 800, an effect control command which is command information for controlling a device connected to the effect control board 80 controlled by the effect control microcomputer 800, For example, information such as a display control command, a sound control command, and a lamp control command is transmitted.

  Based on the received display control command, the effect control microcomputer 800 performs control for operating the variable display device 9 to execute the variable symbol variable display. Further, the production control microcomputer 800 performs control to output a predetermined sound effect from the speakers 41 and 41 based on the received sound control command. In addition, the effect control microcomputer 800 performs light emission control of various light emitters such as lamps and LEDs based on the received lamp control command.

  Information transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370 includes a signal from the game control microcomputer 53 as command information related to award ball payout control, and a signal from the card unit 50 as command information related to payout payout control. Is included. The payout control microcomputer 370 controls the ball payout device 97 based on the received signal to perform control for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls or balls.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 53 outputs a winning ball signal for paying out a predetermined number of winning balls based on the detection signals of the winning ball detection switch 99, the start port switch 17, the V count switch 22, and the count switch 23. This is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370.

  Further, the card unit 50 transmits a ball rental signal for paying out a predetermined number of balls to the payout control microcomputer 370 in accordance with the operation of the ball rental switch 62 by the player. The payout control microcomputer 370 controls the ball payout device 97 on the basis of the outputted prize ball signal or lending signal, and performs control for paying out a predetermined number of award balls or balls.

  The information transmitted from the main board 31 (game control microcomputer 53) to each control board includes a command indicating the content of the control command as described above and an INT signal indicating the timing of fetching the command. Here, the command is composed of 2-byte data, and 1-byte MODE data for instructing the type of the control mode and specific control contents in the control mode instructed by the MODE data are instructed. It is composed of 1-byte EXT data. The game control microcomputer 53 instructs the control contents by sequentially transmitting such 2-byte data to each control board as a command destination while indicating the capture timing by the INT signal.

  FIG. 2 shows an example in which the display control function, the sound control function, and the lamp control function are included in one microcomputer. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the display control function, the lamp control function, and the sound control function are included in the functions of different microcomputers. A control command may be received and various controls may be performed according to the command.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the main processing executed by the main board 31. When the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high, the CPU 56 starts main processing after step S (hereinafter simply referred to as S) 101. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, first, interrupts are prohibited by the CPU 56 in S101. Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 in S102, and the stack pointer designation address is set in S103. In step S104, the built-in device register is initialized.

  Next, after initialization of CTC (counter / timer circuit) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) is performed in S105, RAM 55 is set in an accessible state in S106. .

  The CPU 56 used in this embodiment also includes an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC). The CPU 56 is provided with the following three modes as maskable interrupt (also referred to as maskable interrupt) modes. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 is automatically set to an interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  In interrupt mode 0, the built-in device that issued the interrupt request sends an RST instruction (1 byte) or a CALL instruction (3 bytes) onto the internal data bus of the CPU 56. Therefore, the CPU 56 executes the instruction at the address corresponding to the RST instruction or the address specified by the CALL instruction. At reset, the interrupt mode is automatically set to 0. Therefore, when setting to the interrupt mode 1 or the interrupt mode 2, it is necessary to perform a process for setting the interrupt mode 1 or the interrupt mode 2 in the initial setting process.

  The interrupt mode 1 is a mode that always jumps to a predetermined address when an interrupt is accepted.

  The interrupt mode 2 is a mode in which the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register of the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device indicates the interrupt address. That is, the interrupt address is an address indicated by 2 bytes in which the upper address is the value of the specific register and the lower address is the interrupt vector. Therefore, interrupt processing can be set at any even address. Each built-in device has a function of transmitting an interrupt vector when an interrupt request is made.

  Therefore, when the interrupt mode 2 is set, an interrupt request from each built-in device can be easily processed, and interrupt processing can be set at an arbitrary position in the program. Furthermore, unlike the interrupt mode 1, it is easy to prepare each interrupt process for each interrupt generation factor. As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 is set to the interrupt mode 2 by S102 of the initial setting process.

  Next, in S107, the state of the output signal of the clear switch input via the input port is confirmed only once. If it is detected in the confirmation that the device is in the on state, normal initialization processing is executed by the processing from S113 to S116.

  When the clear switch is on (when the clear switch is pressed), a low level clear switch signal is output. At the input port, the clear switch signal is on at a high level. Further, for example, the game clerk can easily execute the initialization process by starting the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, turning on the power switch) while the clear switch is turned on. it can. That is, RAM clear or the like can be performed.

  If the clear switch is not in the on state, the data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, processing when the game power supply is stopped such that parity data is disabled) is stopped when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped by S108. It is confirmed whether it has been done. In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, processing for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. If it is confirmed that such protection processing has been performed, it is determined that there is a backup. When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, initialization processing is executed.

  Whether or not the protection process has been performed is, for example, a value (in accordance with the fact that the backup monitoring timer value stored in the backup RAM area in the game power supply stop process executes the data protection process in the backup RAM area) For example, it is confirmed by whether or not 2). Also, for example, a flag indicating that the data protection process has been executed is set in the backup flag area in the process at the time of game power supply stop, and if it is confirmed that the flag is set in S108, it is determined that there is a backup. Good.

  If it is determined that there is a backup, a data check (parity check in this embodiment) of the backup RAM area is performed in S109. In this embodiment, clear data (00h) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer.

  In addition, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1.

  The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the value of each bit in the contents of the checksum data area is inverted, and the inverted data is used as the checksum.

  In the game power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In S109, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched).

  That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state at the time of power supply stop, the processing from S113 to S116 performs the initialization process executed at the time of power-on not at the time of recovery from the stop of power supply. Executed.

  If the check result is normal, a game state restoration process is performed to return the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the display control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer in S110, and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) in S111. . The work area is backed up by a backup power source.

  In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. By the processing of S110 and S111, the saved contents remain as they are in the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The portion that should not be initialized is, for example, a portion in which data (such as a special symbol process flag) indicating a gaming state before stopping power supply or data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  In S112, the start address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer, and an initialization command, which is a control command indicating that power supply is restored, is transmitted to the sub-board according to the contents. It is controlled so that The sub-boards are the above-described effect control board 80 and the payout control board 37. Then, the process proceeds to S117.

  In the initialization process, first, a RAM clear process is performed in S113. The entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, data of a count value of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. For example, if the data of the count value of the random counter for jackpot determination is left as it is, the count value of the random counter for jackpot determination is the jackpot even if the initialization process is executed by unauthorized means. It is difficult to aim for a timing that matches the judgment value.

  In S114, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer, and in S115, the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area. By the processing of S114 and S115, for example, a random counter for normal symbol determination, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a total number of winning balls storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, an award ball flag, an out of ball flag, a withdrawal stop An initial value is set to a flag such as a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state.

  Also, in S116, the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer, and a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents to the sub board is executed. The Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9.

  In step S117, the CTC register built in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, as an initial value, for example, a value corresponding to 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register). In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 4 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process is completed from S110 to S117, the display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are repeatedly executed in S119 and S120. When the display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are executed, the interrupt is prohibited by S118, and when the display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are completed, the process proceeds to S121. Interrupt enabled state.

  Note that the display symbol random number is a random number used for variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9, and specifically, is a count value of each random counter for reach determination and variation pattern selection. The display symbol random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the random counter for generating the display symbol random number.

  The reach determination random counter is a counter that generates a random number for reach determination for determining whether or not to reach. The random counter for selecting a variation pattern is a counter that generates a random number for selecting a variation pattern.

  The initial value determining random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value of a random counter (random counter for determining a big hit) for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit. is there. The initial value determining random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the random counter for generating the initial value determining random number. In a game control process to be described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random counter makes one round from the previously set initial value, the initial value extracted this time is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display symbol random number update process and the initial value determination random number update process are executed, the interrupt prohibited state is set in the timer interrupt process described later. This is to avoid contention with the processing in the timer interrupt processing.

  That is, if a timer interrupt occurs during the processing of S119 and S120, and the count value of the random counter for generating the display symbol random number and the initial value determining random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of values may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if interrupts are disabled during the processing of S119 and S120.

  Next, the game control process will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the timer interrupt processing executed by the main board 31. When a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main process, specifically, during the execution of the loop process from S118 to S121, the game control process is executed in the timer interrupt process activated in response to the occurrence of the timer interrupt.

  In the timer interrupt process, first, in S122, a power-off process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed. Next, in S123, detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 12, the start port switch 17, the count switch 23, the V count switch 22, and the winning ball detection switch 99 are input via the switch circuit 58, and their states are set. A determination is made. Specifically, if the state of the input port for inputting the detection signal of each switch is ON, the value of a switch timer provided corresponding to each switch is incremented by one.

  Next, in S124, a random number update process for updating the count value of each random counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination and symbol determination random numbers used for game control is performed. Further, by S125 and S126, initial value determination random number update processing and display design random number update processing for updating the count value of the random counter for generating the initial value determination random number and the display design random number are performed, respectively.

  Next, a special symbol process is performed in S127. In the special symbol process, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for executing control related to the variable display on the display control device 9 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. In this special symbol process, for example, the variable display device 9 displays the variation of the special symbol in response to the start winning at the start port 14 and controls to open the large winning port 18 when a big hit is made. Done.

  Then, the normal symbol process is performed in S128. In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display unit 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. In this normal symbol process, for example, the normal symbol display unit 10 executes the normal symbol variation display in response to the start passage to the passage port 11, and controls to open the start port 14 when it is a hit. Done.

  Next, in S129, a special symbol command control process for setting a control command related to game control and display control in the special symbol process process in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and transmitting the control command is performed. Then, through S130, normal symbol command control processing is performed in which control commands relating to game control and display control in normal symbol process processing are set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and a symbol control command is transmitted.

  Next, in S131, for example, information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start winning information, probability change information and the like supplied to the hall management computer is performed.

  In the next S132, a winning ball process for setting the number of winning balls based on detection signals from the start port switch 17, the count switch 23, the winning ball detection switch 99, and the like is executed. Specifically, a payout control signal such as a prize ball control signal indicating the number of prize balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on the detection signal being turned on. The payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control signal such as a prize ball control signal indicating the number of prize balls.

  Next, in S133, a storage process for checking increase / decrease in the number of start winning memories is executed. And the test terminal process which is a process which outputs the test signal for enabling the control state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to be confirmed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed by S134. In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. In S135, the contents related to the solenoid in the RAM area are output to the output port. Thereafter, in S136, the interrupt enabled state is set, the timer interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the process when the interrupt occurs.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started periodically (for example, every 4 ms). In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. In the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed in the main process. It may be executed when it is determined that the flag is set. Further, the processing from S123 to S135 (excluding S131 and S134) corresponds to game control processing for controlling the progress of the game.

  Next, the special symbol process will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol process in the timer interrupt process executed by the main board 31. The special symbol process shown in FIG. 5 is a specific process of S127 in the timer interrupt process described in FIG.

  First, in S137, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the detection signal from the start port switch 17 for detecting that a game ball has won the start port 14 is in an ON state. When the detection signal from the start port switch 17 is in the ON state, that is, when the game ball has won a start at the start port 14, the start port switch passing process is executed in S138.

  In the start port switch passing process, the count value of the start port winning memory counter is incremented by 1 when the start winning memory number (also referred to as the holding memory number) that is the count value of the starting port winning memory counter has not reached the upper limit value. Then, the count value of the random counter for jackpot determination and the count value of the random counter for symbol determination are extracted and stored in the jackpot determination buffer and the winning symbol buffer of the RAM 55 as start winning storage data, respectively. .

  The order is set in advance in the big hit determination buffer and the winning symbol buffer, and the start winning storage data is stored in order from the previous big hit determining buffer and the winning symbol buffer. And the count value of the extracted random counter for jackpot determination and symbol determination is stored in the foremost jackpot determination buffer and winning symbol buffer in which the start winning storage data is not stored.

  The big hit determination random counter is a counter for generating a random value used for randomly determining whether to win or not, and for example, counts from 0 to a predetermined upper limit value. It is a numerical data updating means that repeats counting up from 0 after counting up. This count value is incremented by 1 every predetermined period (for example, 4 ms).

  The random counter for symbol determination is a counter for generating a random value used to randomly determine the big hit symbol when it is determined that the big hit is determined in the big hit determination. It is a numerical data updating means that functions.

  Next, a special mode timing process is executed in S139. In the special mode timing process, the time elapsed since entering the special mode is counted, and when the predetermined time has elapsed, a process of switching the effect mode to the normal mode is executed. The special mode timing process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  The effect mode is a game effect mode in a special symbol variation display. The production mode includes a normal mode and a special mode. The normal mode is an effect mode in which the game effect is a normal effect. The special mode is an effect mode in which the game effect is a special effect. The special effect is a game effect that is more interesting than the normal effect. In the present embodiment, the special effect is a mission effect. A special mode in which a game effect is a mission effect is called a mission mode.

  A mission effect is executed in advance when a game effect that informs the player in advance of the type of effect pattern before the effect is started is executed, and when the display result of the special symbol variation display is a combination of jackpot symbols. When a game effect is executed according to an effect pattern of the same or different type, and the display result of the special symbol variation display is set as a combination of symbols, the effect pattern of a type different from the previously notified type is followed. It is a special effect that executes a game effect. An effect pattern is data that defines the progress of a game effect.

  In the present embodiment, as a game effect in one variation display, a game effect that notifies the effect pattern and a game effect that follows the same or different type of effect pattern as the notified effect pattern are executed. However, the mission effect includes an effect of informing in advance the type of game effect over a plurality of variable displays and executing the game effect over a plurality of variable displays.

  In the mission mode, the effect pattern selected in the normal mode is selected with a probability of 0%, and the effect pattern not selected in the normal mode is selected with a predetermined probability different from 0%.

  In the present embodiment, the special mode is the mission mode. However, the special mode is not limited to this. The special mode is a reach frequent mode, a mode in which the reliability of the reach is high in the mission mode, a mode in which the character or background changes, a special mode. It may be a mode in which the symbol type changes or a mode in which the special symbol type increases or decreases.

  The reach frequent occurrence mode is an effect mode in which a reach effect that is executed more frequently than the normal mode is executed as a special effect. In the reach frequent occurrence mode, an effect pattern for reach production is selected with a higher probability than in the normal mode.

  In the mission mode, the reach reliability is high. In the mission mode, a reach effect is executed as a special effect with a high probability that the display result of the variation display of the special symbol will be a combination of the big hit symbol when executed. It is a production mode.

  In the mission mode where the reach reliability is high, when the display result of the special symbol variation display is a combination of jackpot symbols, the probability that the reach effect is selected in the normal mode is higher, Reach production is selected.

  The mode in which the character and the background change is an effect mode in which a special effect in which the character and the background change from the character and the background in the normal effect in the normal mode is executed.

  In the mode in which the character and the background change, the effect pattern including the character and the background selected in the normal mode is selected with a probability of 0%, and the character and the background that are not selected in the normal mode are included. The effect pattern is selected with a predetermined probability different from 0%.

  The mode in which the type of special symbol is changed is an effect mode in which a special effect in which variable display is executed using a special symbol of a type different from the type of special symbol in the normal mode is executed.

  In the case of the mode in which the type of the special symbol is changed, the effect pattern (variation pattern) of the special symbol using the special symbol used in the normal mode is selected with a probability of 0%. The effect pattern of the variation display of the special symbol using the special symbol that is not used is selected with a predetermined probability different from 0%.

  The mode in which the number of special symbols is increased or decreased is an effect mode in which a special effect in which variable display is performed using a special symbol of a type that is increased or decreased from the number of special symbol types in the normal mode is executed.

  In the mode in which the number of special symbols increases / decreases, the special pattern variation display effect pattern using the special symbol type used in the normal mode is selected with a probability of 0%, and is used in the normal mode. The effect pattern of the variable display of the special symbol of the type obtained by increasing or decreasing the type of the special symbol to be selected is selected with a predetermined probability different from 0%.

  Then, one of the processes from S140 to S148 is executed according to the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag. The special symbol process flag is a flag indicating which module from S140 to S148 is to be executed when the special symbol process is executed for each timer interrupt. The special symbol process code indicating the next module is updated accordingly.

  If the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 00h, the special symbol normal process is executed in S140. In the special symbol normal process, when the start winning memory number is other than 0, the start winning memory buffer including the jackpot determination buffer storing the winning winning memory data and the winning symbol buffer is shifted and the start stored previously The big hit determination of the winning memory data is performed, and the special symbol process flag is updated to 01h which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special symbol stop symbol setting process.

  In the special symbol normal process, when the start winning memorized number is 0, the special symbol process flag remains 00h. That is, the next time the special symbol process is executed, the special symbol normal process is performed again.

  In the shift of the start prize storage buffer, specifically, the start prize storage buffer for variable display in which the start prize storage data stored in the first start prize storage buffer is ready to start the variable display from now on. Is remembered. Similarly, the start winning memory data stored in the second, third and fourth start winning memory buffers are stored in the first, second and third start winning memory buffers, respectively. In addition, the fourth start winning storage buffer is cleared.

  In the big hit determination, if the start winning memorized data stored in the big hit determination buffer for variable display coincides with the big hit determination value, the big hit designated value (for example, 02h) is set in the big hit flag and matches the big hit determination value If not, the big hit designated value is not set and the clear data (00h) is left. The big hit flag is a flag indicating whether or not the variable display executed in the variable display device 9 is a combination of the big hit symbols.

  The jackpot determination value is set to, for example, one numerical value in a normal gaming state other than the probability variation state, and is set to a plurality of numerical values in the probability variation state. As a result, in the case of the probability variation state, the probability of occurrence of the big hit is improved as compared with the case of the normal gaming state.

  When the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 01h, a special symbol stop symbol setting process is executed in S141. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, when the big hit flag is the big hit designated value, the aforementioned big hit symbol is set. If it is not the big hit specified value, the off symbol is set. Thereafter, the special symbol process flag is updated to 02h which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the variation pattern setting process.

  In setting the jackpot symbol, special symbol number data (for example, any value from 0 to 11) corresponding to the value stored in the winning symbol buffer for variable display is set in the special symbol buffer. Further, in the setting of the off symbol, special symbol number data (for example, 12) indicating a loss is set in the winning symbol buffer and the special symbol buffer.

  If the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 02h, the variation pattern setting process is executed in S155. In the variation pattern setting process, the variation pattern is determined according to the count value of the variation pattern random counter and the big hit flag and stored in the variation pattern buffer.

  At the end of the variation pattern setting process, the special symbol process flag is updated to 03h which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special symbol variation process, and the count value corresponding to the variation time of the determined variation pattern is updated. Set the initial value to the variable time timer. The variation time timer is a timer for measuring the remaining time of the variation time of the variation display in the variation display device 9.

  In the present embodiment, the function of the variable time timer is realized using a special symbol process timer. The special symbol process timer is a timer used in the special symbol process, and is used for measuring the predetermined time when the process proceeds to the next process when the predetermined time has elapsed.

  The variation time timer may be a timer for measuring the elapsed time of variation display in the variation display device. In this case, the remaining time of the variable display is a time obtained by subtracting the elapsed time from the variable time. In other words, the function of the variation time timer is not limited as long as it can identify the point in time of the variation display.

  The variation pattern determined in the variation pattern setting process and stored in the variation pattern buffer is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as a variation pattern command indicating the variation pattern determined in the special symbol command control process described above.

  In addition, the special symbol number data determined in the special symbol stop symbol setting process and stored in the special symbol buffer is the special symbol command indicating the special symbol number data determined in the special symbol command control process, respectively. 80. In the effect control board 80, when the variation pattern command is received, control for starting the variation display of the special symbol is performed.

  If the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 03h, the special symbol variation process is executed in S143. In the special symbol variation process, the end of the variation time is determined, and if it is terminated, the setting at the end of the special symbol variation display is performed.

  Specifically, the count value of the variation time timer set in the variation pattern setting process is decremented by 1 every time the special symbol variation process is executed in the timer interrupt process, and it is determined whether or not the value has become zero. That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed since the start of the variation display. As described above, since the timer interrupt process is executed at a constant cycle (for example, every 4 ms), 4 ms is counted every time the variable time timer is decremented by 1. The same applies to the special symbol process timer.

  When it is determined that the count value of the variable time timer has reached 0, a special symbol confirmation command is set and the special symbol process flag is updated to 04h, which is a special symbol process code value indicating special symbol stop processing. To do. Also, a special symbol stop symbol display time (for example, 0.6 seconds), which is a time during which the stopped special symbol is displayed, is set as an initial value of the count value of the special symbol process timer.

  The special symbol confirmation command is a control signal for transmitting to the effect control board 80 that the variation time has elapsed. The set special symbol confirmation command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 in the special symbol command control process described above. In the effect control board 80, when a special symbol confirmation command is received, control for deriving and displaying the display result of the special symbol variation display is performed.

  If the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 04h, the special symbol stop process is executed in S144. In the special symbol stop process, the end of the special symbol stop symbol display time is determined, and if it is ended, the setting at the end of the special symbol stop is performed.

  Specifically, the count value of the special symbol process timer set in the special symbol variation process is decremented by 1 every time the special symbol stop process is executed in the timer interrupt process, and it is determined whether or not it has become zero. . That is, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed since the display result was derived and displayed.

  When it is determined that the count value of the special symbol process timer has reached 0, a special symbol process code value indicating a special symbol process pre-opening process is set and a special symbol process pre-release command is set. It is updated to 05h. The set pre-open prize opening command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 in the special symbol command control process described above.

  Also, the first jackpot effect time (for example, 6 seconds), which is the first effect time when a big hit occurs, is set as the initial value of the count value of the special symbol process timer. Further, clear data (00h) is set in the big hit flag, the probability variation flag, the time reduction flag, and the like.

  The probability variation flag is a flag indicating whether or not the state is controlled to the probability variation state. When the probability variation state is the specified value at the high probability, the probability variation state is indicated. When the probability variation flag is the specified value at the low probability (off state) Indicates that it is not in a probable state. When the probability variation flag is a specified value at high probability (on state), the probability that it is determined to be a big hit in the variation display of the special symbol is improved.

  The time-short flag is a flag indicating whether or not the time-short state is controlled. When the time-short operation is a specified value (on state), it indicates the time-short state, and when it is clear data (off state) Indicates that it is not in a time-short state. When the time reduction flag is in the on state, the fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation display is shortened.

  If the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 05h, the pre-opening process for the big prize opening is executed in S145. In the pre-opening process for the special winning opening, the count value of the special symbol process timer is subtracted to determine the end of the first big hit stage production time. In order to open the 18 open / close plates 20, the control data of the solenoid 21 is set, and 1 is added to the count value of the special winning opening opening number counter. By setting the control data of the solenoid 21, the solenoid 21 is driven according to the control data in the solenoid output process described above. Then, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened.

  As the setting at the end of opening the big prize opening, the big prize opening opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds), which is the time for opening the big prize opening 18, is set as the initial value of the count value of the special symbol process timer. . Also, the special symbol process flag is updated to 06h, which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special winning opening opening process.

  When the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 06h, the special winning opening opening process is executed in S146. In the process during opening of the special winning opening, after passing through the specific winning area and monitoring through the normal winning area, the special symbol process timer count value of the special symbol process timer is executed by the timer interrupt process. Each time, 1 is subtracted to determine the end of the opening time of the special winning opening. And if it is completion | finish, after setting at the time of completion | finish in the big winning opening, the control data of the solenoid 21 will be set in order to close the opening / closing plate 20 of the big winning opening 18.

  In the passing monitoring of the specific winning area, when the passing of the game ball in the specific winning area is detected by the V count switch 22, a specific winning area passing command is set.

  Further, in the normal winning area passing monitoring, every time the passing of the normal winning area or the specific winning area is detected by the count switch 23, the number of game balls passed is counted to be 10. Clear the special symbol process timer. In addition, a count display command is set every time a game ball passes.

  As the setting at the end of opening of the big prize opening, a special area effective time (for example, 1.996 seconds) which is an effective time for passing the game ball to the specific prize area after closing the big prize opening 18 is special. Set as the initial value of the design process timer count value. Also, the special symbol process flag is updated to 07h, which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the specific area valid time processing. In addition, a command after opening the big prize opening is set.

  The set special winning area passing command, count display command, and special winning opening after opening command are each transmitted to the effect control board 80 in the special symbol command control process described above.

  If the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 07h, the specific area valid time process is executed in S147. In the specific area valid time process, after passing through the specific winning area, the count value of the special symbol process timer is decremented by 1 every time the specific area valid time process is executed in the timer interrupt process, and the specific area valid time is processed. When the end of the time is determined, and if it is the end, the setting at the end of the specific area effective time is performed.

  As the setting at the end of the specific area valid time, when the game ball has passed to the specific winning area and the count value of the special winning opening opening number counter is less than a predetermined number (for example, 16), this specific The pre-opening time (for example, 0.004 seconds), which is the time from the end of the area effective time processing to the end of the next pre-opening pre-opening processing, is the initial value of the special symbol process timer count value. Set as.

  Also, the special symbol process flag is updated to 05h, which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the pre-opening process for the special winning opening. In addition, a command before opening the big prize opening is set. The set pre-open prize opening command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 in the special symbol command control process described above.

  On the other hand, when there is no game ball passing through the specific winning area, or when the count value of the big winning opening opening number counter is equal to or larger than a predetermined number, the final big hit, which is the performance time when the big hit gaming state ends. The production time (for example, 13.5 seconds) is set as the initial value of the count value of the special symbol process timer.

  Also, the special symbol process flag is updated to 08h which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the big hit end process. Further, a big hit end command is set, and clear data (00h) is set in the big prize opening number counter.

  The set jackpot end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 in the special symbol command control process described above. In the effect control board 80, when a jackpot end command is received, control is performed to execute an effect display at the end of the jackpot gaming state.

  When the value of the special symbol process code indicated by the special symbol process flag is 08h, the jackpot end process is executed in S148. In the jackpot end process, the count value of the special symbol process timer is decremented by 1 every time the jackpot end process is executed in the timer interrupt process, and the end of the final jackpot effect time is determined. And if it is the end, the setting at the time of jackpot end is performed.

  The special symbol process flag is updated to 00h, which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special symbol normal process, as the setting at the time of the big hit. Further, when a big hit occurs in the probability variation symbol, specifically, when the special symbol number data stored in the winning symbol buffer for variation display described above is data indicating a probability variation big symbol symbol (for example, odd number), The probability variation flag is set to the specified value at high probability. Further, the time reduction flag is set to a time reduction operation designated value.

  As described above, by updating the special symbol process flag, game control relating to the special symbols is executed in order according to the conditions. That is, the start winning memory data is stored when the execution condition of the special symbol variation display is satisfied (that is, when there is a start winning and the start winning memory number does not reach the upper limit).

  Then, when the start condition of the special symbol variation display is satisfied (that is, when the previous variation display is completed and the start winning memory data is stored and not in the big hit gaming state), the corresponding start winning memory data is stored. Accordingly, a display result and a variation pattern of the variation display are set, and after the variation display is executed in the variation display device 9 based on the display result and variation pattern of the variation display, the display result of the variation display is derived and displayed.

  Also, on condition that the display result is a combination of jackpot symbols, as control in the jackpot gaming state, control for opening the jackpot 18 or control of effect display in the variable display device 9 in the jackpot gaming state is executed Is done.

  After one of the processes from S140 to S148 is executed, the special symbol process is terminated and the process returns to the timer interrupt process.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the special mode timing process in the special symbol process executed by the main board 31. The special mode timing process is a process executed in S139 of the special symbol process described with reference to FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 6, first, in S201, it is determined whether or not the effect mode is the special mode. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the effect mode flag indicating the state of the effect mode is a value indicating the special mode. If it is determined that the mode is not the special mode, the special mode timing process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode is the special mode, the process proceeds to S202.

  Next, in S202, it is determined whether or not the count value of the special mode timer is zero. The special mode timer is a timer for measuring the time that has elapsed since the production mode is switched to the special mode. In the present embodiment, when the effect mode is switched to the special mode in S255 of FIG. 9 described later, an initial value (for example, a value corresponding to 300 seconds) is set in the special mode timer in S256.

  If it is determined in S202 that the count value of the special mode timer is not 0, the count value of the special mode timer is decremented by 1 in S203, and the time corresponding to the count value of the special mode timer is notified in S204. Is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 800.

  Since the special mode timing process is executed in the special symbol process in the timer interrupt process described above, it is executed every predetermined timer interrupt cycle (4 ms in this embodiment). For this reason, each time the special mode timer is decremented by 1, it is possible to measure the time of the timer interrupt cycle (4 ms in this embodiment).

  In S205, it is determined whether or not the count value of the special mode timer is zero. If it is determined in S205 that the count value of the special mode timer is not 0, the special mode timing process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S202 or S205 that the count value of the special mode timer is 0, the effect mode is switched from the special mode to the normal mode in S206. Specifically, the special mode flag is changed to a value indicating the normal mode. Thereafter, the special mode timing process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol normal process in the special symbol process executed by the main board 31. The special symbol normal process is a process executed in S140 of the special symbol process described with reference to FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 7, first, in S221, it is determined whether or not the number of stored start prizes is zero. If it is determined that the number of starting winning prizes is 0, the special symbol process flag is set to 00h, which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special symbol normal process, in S228, that is, as it is. Thereafter, the special symbol normal process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process. Therefore, the next time the special symbol process is executed, the special symbol normal process is executed again.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S221 that the start winning memorized number is not 0, the big hit flag is turned off (clear data) in S222. Then, in S223, the start winning storage buffer described above is shifted. Next, in S224, a big hit determination is performed. Specifically, as described above, it is determined whether or not the start winning memory data stored in the big hit determination buffer of the start winning storage buffer for variable display to start the variable display from now matches the big hit determination value. The

  Then, in S225, it is determined whether or not the determination result in S224 is a big hit. If it is determined that it is a big hit, the big hit flag is turned on (a big hit designated value) in S226. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not a big hit, the big hit flag remains in the OFF state set in S222.

  Next, in S227, the special symbol process flag is updated to 01h which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special symbol stop symbol setting process. Thereafter, the special symbol normal process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the variation pattern setting process in the special symbol process executed by the main board 31. The variation pattern setting process is a process executed in S142 of the special symbol process described with reference to FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 8, first, in S231, the count value of the random counter for reach determination is read. Next, in S232, the count value of the random counter for selecting the variation pattern is read out.

  In S233, the count value of the random counter for special effect selection is read. The special effect selection random counter is used to select the combination of the effect pattern type and the effect pattern type to be executed in advance to the player before starting the effect in the mission effect described above. It is a counter for generating a random value to be used, and is a numerical data updating means that functions in the same manner as a big hit determination random counter.

  Then, by S234, using the variation pattern selection table of FIG. 9 described later, the count value of the random counter for reach determination, the count value of the random counter for variation pattern selection, the count value of the random counter for selection of special effects, A variation pattern is selected based on the big hit flag and the effect mode flag.

  FIG. 9 is a variation pattern selection table used for selecting a variation pattern in the variation pattern setting process.

  Referring to FIG. 9, when the effect mode flag is a value indicating the normal mode and the big hit flag is the big hit designated value, the fluctuation pattern is selected based on the count value of the random counter for changing the pattern. Is done. When the count value of the random counter for selecting the variation pattern is a value from 0 to 49, the variation pattern for executing the reach A as the reach effect is selected. When the value is between 50 and 99, a variation pattern for executing reach B as the reach effect is selected.

  In addition, when the effect mode flag is a value indicating the normal mode, if the big hit flag is a clear data, that is, a value indicating a loss, is the reach determined based on the count value of the random counter for reach determination? It is determined whether or not. When the count value of the random counter for reach determination is a value from 0 to 9, it is determined to be reach. On the other hand, when the count value of the random counter for reach determination is a value from 10 to 99, it is determined not to reach.

  When it is determined to be reach, the variation pattern is selected based on the count value of the random counter for variation pattern selection. When the count value of the random counter for selecting the variation pattern is a value from 0 to 24, the variation pattern for executing the reach A as the reach effect is selected. When the count value of the random counter for selecting the variation pattern is a value from 25 to 99, the variation pattern for executing reach B as the reach effect is selected. On the other hand, when it is determined not to reach, a variation pattern of normal variation is selected. The fluctuation pattern of normal fluctuation is a fluctuation pattern that does not execute reach production.

  Further, when the effect mode flag is a value indicating the special mode and the big hit flag is a big hit designated value, the variation pattern is selected based on the count value of the random counter for special effect selection.

  When the count value of the random counter for selecting a special effect is a value from 0 to 39, the effect of informing that the effect pattern type to be executed is the effect pattern A and the effect of the effect pattern A to be executed A variation pattern for executing a mission effect (notification A execution A) including is selected.

  When the value is between 40 and 79, a mission effect (notification B execution B) including an effect informing that the type of effect pattern to be executed is effect pattern B and an effect of effect pattern B being executed. ) Is selected.

  Further, when the value is 80 to 89, a mission effect (notification A execution B) including an effect informing that the effect pattern type to be executed is effect pattern A and an effect of effect pattern B to be executed. ) Is selected.

  When the value is between 90 and 99, a mission effect (notification B execution A) including an effect informing that the effect pattern type to be executed is effect pattern B and an effect of effect pattern A being executed. ) Is selected.

  Further, when the effect mode flag is a value indicating the special mode and the jackpot flag is a clear data, that is, a value indicating a loss, the variation pattern is based on the count value of the random counter for selecting the special effect. Selected.

  When the count value of the random counter for selecting the special effect is a value from 0 to 49, the effect of informing that the effect pattern type to be executed is the effect pattern A and the effect of the effect pattern B to be executed A variation pattern for executing a mission effect (notification A execution B) including is selected.

  When the value is between 50 and 99, a mission effect (notification B execution A) including an effect informing that the type of effect pattern to be executed is effect pattern B and an effect of effect pattern A being executed. ) Is selected.

  Thus, in the normal mode, one of the normal effects of the reach effect of reach A, the reach effect of reach B, or the effect that does not execute the reach effect is selected. In the special mode, any one of the special effects of the mission effect (notification A execution B), the mission effect (notification B execution B), the mission effect (notification A execution B), or the mission effect (notification B execution A). A production is selected.

  It should be noted that a variation pattern for executing the mission effect (notification A execution A), a variation pattern for executing the mission effect (notification B execution B), a variation pattern for executing the mission effect (notification A execution B), and a mission effect (notification) The average value considering the execution probability of each variation time based on the variation pattern for executing B execution A), that is, the expected variation value in the special mode is the variation pattern for executing the reach effect of reach A, and The average value considering the execution probabilities of the fluctuation display fluctuation times based on the fluctuation pattern for executing the reach effect of reach B, that is, longer than the expected value of the fluctuation time in the normal mode is set. .

  Thereby, in the special mode, it is possible to set the time required for the production longer than in the normal mode. Then, by making the expected value of the effect time in the special mode longer than the expected value of the effect time in the normal mode, it is possible to improve the interest of the game by the effect.

  Returning to FIG. 8, in S235, the variation time data corresponding to the variation pattern selected in S234 is set as an initial value in the special symbol process timer. Next, in S236, a variation pattern command corresponding to the variation pattern selected in S234 is set. Further, in S237, a special symbol command indicating the special symbol number data set in the winning symbol buffer is set by executing the special symbol stop symbol setting processing of the special symbol process processing of FIG.

  The set variation pattern command and special symbol command are transmitted to the effect control board 80 by the special symbol command control processing of the timer interrupt processing of FIG. 4 described above. In the effect control board 80, the special symbol variation display is executed by the variation display device 9 in a manner corresponding to the received variation pattern command by the effect control microcomputer 800, and in a manner corresponding to the variation pattern command. A game effect is executed.

  Then, when the display result is a combination of jackpot symbols when the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern command has passed by the production control microcomputer 800, a combination of special symbols designated by the received special symbol command Is derived and displayed on the variable display device 9 and the display result is out of reach, the special combination of the randomly determined special symbols of the out of reach is derived and displayed on the variable display device 9 and the display result is out of order. In this case, a combination of randomly selected special symbols is derived and displayed on the fluctuation display device 9.

  Next, in S238, the special symbol process flag is updated to 04h which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special symbol variation process. After S238, the variation pattern setting process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol stop process in the special symbol process executed by the main board 31. The special symbol stop process is a process executed in S144 of the special symbol process described with reference to FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 10, first, in S241, it is determined whether or not the count value of the special symbol process timer is zero. Here, it is the variation time of the special symbol that is counted by the special symbol process timer.

  If it is determined in S241 that the count value of the special symbol process timer is not 0, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the special symbol process timer in S242. In the present embodiment, 4 ms is counted each time the count value of the special symbol process timer is decremented by 1, as described above.

  Next, in S243, it is determined whether or not the count value of the special symbol process timer is zero. If it is determined that the number is not 0, the special symbol stop process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S241 or S243 that the count value of the special symbol process timer is 0, that is, if the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed, the process proceeds to S244.

  Next, in S244, it is determined whether or not the time reduction flag is on. If it is on, the process proceeds to S261. On the other hand, if it is in the on state, it is determined in S245 whether or not the count value of the variation counter is zero. The variation counter is a counter for counting the number of special symbol variations displayed after the jackpot gaming state is completed, and a predetermined number of times (this embodiment is executed in S274 of the jackpot termination process in FIG. 12 described later). In the form, 100 times) is set as the initial value.

  If it is determined in S245 that the count value of the variation counter is not 0, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the variation counter in S246. In S247, it is determined whether or not the count value of the variation counter is zero. If it is determined that the value is not 0, the process proceeds to S261. On the other hand, if it is determined in S245 or S247 that the count value of the variation counter is 0, the process proceeds to S248. If the process proceeds to S248, the time reduction flag is turned off.

  Next, in S251, it is determined whether or not the effect mode flag is a value indicating the special mode. If it is determined that the value indicates the special mode, the process proceeds to S261. On the other hand, when it is determined that the value is not a value indicating the special mode, that is, when the effect mode is the normal mode, a big win as to whether or not there is start winning memory data to be a big hit in the starting winning memory data in S252. A determination is made.

  Next, in S253, using the mode switching table of FIG. 11 described later, whether or not to switch the effect mode based on the big win determination result of the start winning memory in S252 and the count value of the random counter for mode switching. It is determined. The random counter for mode switching is a counter that generates a random number for determining whether or not to switch the effect mode.

  FIG. 11 is a mode switching table used for determining whether or not to switch the effect mode in the special symbol stop process.

  Referring to FIG. 11, when there is start winning memory data as a big hit in starting winning memory data, if the count value of the random counter for mode switching is a value from 0 to 89, the effect mode is switched. It is determined. When the value is between 90 and 99, it is determined that the effect mode is not switched.

  On the other hand, when there is no start winning memory data as a big hit in the starting winning memory data, if the count value of the random counter for mode switching is a value from 0 to 49, it is determined to switch the effect mode. When the value is between 50 and 99, it is determined that the effect mode is not switched.

  Returning to FIG. 10, it is determined in S254 whether or not it is determined to switch the effect mode in S253. If it is determined that it is determined not to switch the effect mode, the process proceeds to S261.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S254 that it is determined to switch the effect mode in S253, the effect mode is switched to the special mode in S255. Specifically, the effect mode flag is changed from a value indicating the normal mode to a value indicating the special mode. In S256, a value corresponding to the time for controlling to the special mode (300 seconds in this embodiment) is set as the initial value of the count value of the special mode timer. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S261.

  The time for controlling to the special mode is not limited to a fixed value, and may be determined based on a random value, for example. Further, it may be a time determined according to the number of start winning memories, or may be a time according to the number of start winning memory data to be a big hit included in the start winning memory data.

  Then, in S261, it is determined whether or not the big hit flag is on. If it is determined that the jackpot flag is not in the on state, that is, if the display result of the special symbol variation display is not a combination of the jackpot symbol, the special symbol process code indicates the special symbol normal process by S269. It is updated to 00h which is the value of. Thereafter, the special symbol stop process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S261 that the big hit flag is on, that is, if a combination of big hit symbols is derived and displayed as a display result of the special symbol variation display, the initial big hit effect time described above is obtained in S262. Is set as the initial value of the count value of the special symbol process timer. Then, through S263, the special symbol process flag is updated to 05h which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the pre-opening process for the special winning opening.

  Next, in S264, a pre-winner opening command is set, and in S265, the count value of the variation counter is cleared. In S266, S267, and S268, the big hit flag, the probability variation flag, and the time reduction flag are turned off, respectively. Thereafter, the special symbol stop process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot end process in the special symbol process executed by the main board 31. The big hit end process is a process executed in S148 of the special symbol process described with reference to FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 12, first, in S271, it is determined whether or not the count value of the special symbol process timer is zero. If it is determined that it is not 0, the count value of the special symbol process timer is decremented by 1 in S272, and it is determined whether or not the count value of the special symbol process timer is 0 in S273. If it is determined that it is not 0, the jackpot end processing ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  If it is determined in S271 or S273 that the count value of the special symbol process timer is 0, a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 100 times) is set as the initial value of the count value of the variation counter in S274. The

  Next, in S275, the probability variation flag is set to the specified value at the time of high probability, and in S276, the time reduction flag is set to the on state. In S277, the special symbol process flag is updated to 00h, which is the value of the special symbol process code indicating the special symbol normal process. Thereafter, the jackpot end process ends, and the process returns to the special symbol process.

  Next, main effects obtained by this embodiment will be described together.

  (1) As explained with reference to FIG. 1, the variable display device 9 can variably display a plurality of types of special symbols that can be identified. Further, as described with reference to FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state when the display result of the variable display becomes a big hit symbol combination. In addition, as described in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a jackpot game during a period until a predetermined number of fluctuation displays are executed when a combination of probability variation big hit symbols is derived and displayed as a display result of fluctuation display. It is controlled to the short state when the state is likely to occur.

  Further, as described in S231 to S234 of FIG. 8, the game control microcomputer 53 selects a variation pattern from a plurality of predetermined variation patterns according to a predetermined selection probability. Further, as described in S234 and S236 of FIG. 8, the game control microcomputer 53 and the effect control microcomputer 800 execute the game effect in the special symbol change display using the selected change pattern.

  Further, as described in S201 to S206 in FIG. 6, S251 to S255 in FIG. 10, and the variation pattern selection table in FIG. 9, the game control microcomputer 53 selects from among a plurality of types of variation patterns. A normal mode in which the variation pattern is selected with a selection probability determined in the variation pattern selection table and a special mode in which the variation pattern is selected with a selection probability different from the selection probability in the normal mode are switched.

  Further, as described in S245 to S255 in FIG. 10, the period until the next variable display is started after the time-short state is ended by the game control microcomputer 53 as compared to the period other than that period. Switch to special mode with high probability.

  According to such a configuration, the selection probability that is higher than the selection probability in the normal mode in the period until the next variable display is started after the completion of the time reduction state, compared with the period other than that period. The effect data is switched to the special mode in which the change pattern is selected, and the change pattern is selected from a plurality of predetermined change patterns according to a predetermined selection probability corresponding to the effect mode. Is used to execute the game effect in the special symbol variation display.

  For this reason, in the period from the end of the short-time state to the start of the next variable display, the mode is switched to the special mode with a higher probability than the period other than that period, and the selection probability is different from the normal mode. Since the game effect is executed using the changed pattern, it is possible to draw attention to the player and make it difficult for the player to end the game when the time-short state ends. As a result, it is difficult for the player to end the game when the time-short state ends.

  (2) As described in FIG. 1 and S137, S138, and S140 to S144 in FIG. 5, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, when the start winning memory number has not reached the upper limit number, the game ball is placed in the start port 14. After the execution condition that the start opening switch 17 is turned on after the winning is established and the start winning memory is stored, the start condition in which the variable display of the special symbol is not executed in the variable display device 9 is established. The execution of the symbol variation display is started.

  Also, as described in S137 and S138 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 53 determines the display result of the variable symbol display of the special symbols for which the execution condition is satisfied but the start condition is not yet satisfied. The count value of the random counter for determining the big hit and determining the symbol is stored in the RAM 55 as the start winning memory.

  Further, as described in S252 of FIG. 10, the game control microcomputer 53 determines whether or not the display result of the variable display of the start winning memory stored in the RAM 55 is a combination of the big hit symbols.

  Further, as described in S253 to S255 in FIG. 10 and the mode switching table in FIG. 11, the game control microcomputer 53 determines that the display result of the variable display of the start winning memory is a combination of jackpot symbols. Sometimes, the mode is switched to the special mode with a probability of 90%, which is higher than the probability of 50% when it is determined that the jackpot symbol combination is not obtained.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, after the predetermined execution condition is satisfied, the predetermined start condition is satisfied, whereby the special symbol variation display is started, and the execution condition is satisfied, but the start condition is still satisfied. The variation display of the special symbol that has not been stored is stored as the start winning memory, and it is determined whether or not the display result of the stored variation display of the start winning memory is a combination of the jackpot symbol, the display result of the variation display of the start winning memory Is determined to be a jackpot symbol combination, the special mode is switched with a higher probability than when it is determined not to be a jackpot symbol combination.

  For this reason, when the mode is switched to the special mode, the probability that the display result is a combination of jackpot symbols is higher than when the mode is not switched to the special mode. As a result, it is possible to improve the player's expectation that a big hit gaming state will be achieved.

  (3) As described in S223 to S225 of FIG. 7, before the display result is derived and displayed by the game control microcomputer 53 whether or not the display result of the special symbol variation display is a combination of the big hit symbol To be determined.

  In addition, as described in S234 of FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, any of the effect patterns A and B can be used as the types of game effects that can be executed during the variable display period by the game control microcomputer 53 and the effect control microcomputer 800. Kaga is notified to the player.

  Also, as described in S234 of FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, after the game display type is notified by the game control microcomputer 53 and the effect control microcomputer 800, the big hit is made until the variable display period elapses. When it is determined that the combination of symbols is determined, an effect pattern in which the notified type of game effect is executed is selected, and when it is not determined that the combination of jackpot symbols is determined, it is notified. Production data for which a certain type of game production is not executed is selected.

  Also, as described in S234 of FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, in the special mode, the type of game effect is notified with a probability of 100%, which is higher than the probability of 0% in the normal mode. That is, in the special mode (mission mode), the normal game effect is not executed and only the mission effect is executed.

  In this way, it is determined before the display result is derived and displayed whether the display result of the variation display of the special symbol is the combination of the jackpot symbol, and in the special mode, the variation is performed with higher probability than the normal mode. When the player is informed of the types of game effects that can be executed during the display period, and after the types of game effects are notified, the combination of jackpot symbols is determined by the time the variable display period elapses. When an effect pattern in which the notified type of game effect is executed is selected, and when it is not determined to be a combination of jackpot symbols, an effect pattern in which the notified type of game effect is not executed is selected. The

  For this reason, in the special mode, by executing a game effect using an effect pattern in which the same type of game effect as the notified game effect type is executed, the display result of the variable display becomes a combination of jackpot symbols Can be notified to the player. In the special mode, such a game effect is executed with a higher probability than in the normal mode, so that the interest of the game can be improved as compared with the normal mode.

  (4) As described in S139 of FIG. 5, in the special mode, an effect pattern in which a predetermined reach effect is executed is selected with a higher probability than in the normal mode.

  For this reason, in the special mode, the reach effect is executed with a higher probability than in the normal mode, so that the interest of the game can be improved as compared with the normal mode.

  (5) After switching from the normal mode to the special mode by the game control microcomputer 53 and the effect control microcomputer 800 as described in S255 and S256 of FIG. 10 and S201 to S206 of FIG. When the time (for example, 300 seconds) has elapsed, the special mode is switched to the normal mode.

  Further, as described in S204 of FIG. 6, the remaining time of the predetermined time is notified by the game control microcomputer 53 and the effect control microcomputer 800 so as to be specified. If the remaining time is notified in an identifiable manner, the notification is made so that the player can specify the remaining time of the predetermined time by directly informing the remaining time until switching to the normal mode. Alternatively, it may be informed so that the player can specify the remaining time of the predetermined time by informing the elapsed time since switching to the special mode indirectly.

  As described above, when the predetermined time has elapsed after switching from the normal mode to the special mode, the special mode is switched to the normal mode, and the remaining time of the predetermined time is notified in an identifiable manner. For this reason, in the special mode, it is possible to inform the player of the time until switching from the special mode to the normal mode.

  (6) As described in S234 in FIG. 8, the special mode is changed from the normal mode to the special mode after the game control microcomputer 53 and the effect control microcomputer 800 are switched to the special mode. Is notified that the mode is to be switched to the normal mode, and then is notified that the mode is to be switched to the special mode again.

  Thus, after switching from the normal mode to the special mode, before switching from the special mode to the normal mode, it is notified that the special mode will be switched to the normal mode, and then notified that the special mode will be switched again. For this reason, when the special mode is switched to the normal mode, it is possible to give the player a revived impression that makes the player think that the special mode is switched to the special mode and then the game to continue the special mode. The expectation of the person can be improved.

  (7) As described in S232, S234, and S235 of FIG. 8, the execution time of the special symbol variation display is determined.

  In addition, as described with reference to FIG. 9, the expected value of the variation display time of the special symbol change display executed in the special mode is longer than the expected value of the change time of the special symbol change display executed in the normal mode. As described above, the execution time is determined by selecting the variation pattern.

  As described above, in the special mode, the execution time of the variable display capable of performing the game effect is longer than that in the normal mode. For this reason, the interest of the game can be improved by the game effect.

  Next, modifications and feature points of the embodiment described above are listed below.

  (1) In the above-described embodiment, when the time saving state ends, that is, when the special gaming state ends, if there is start winning memory data that is a big hit in the starting winning memory data, The production mode is switched to the special mode with a higher probability than when there is no start prize data to be performed.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the special gaming state ends, the effect mode is set to the special mode with a predetermined probability regardless of whether or not there is start winning memory data to be a big hit in the starting winning memory data. You may make it switch to. The predetermined probability may be 100%.

  Even in this case, it is possible to improve the player's sense of expectation for the occurrence of the specific game state or the special game state by executing the special effect. As a result, it is possible to make it easier for the player to continue the game when the special game state ends.

  (2) In the embodiment described above, the effect mode is switched to the special mode when the time saving state ends, that is, when the special game state ends. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the effect mode may be switched to the special mode at times other than when the special game state ends.

  In this case, when the special gaming state ends, the effect mode is switched to the special mode with a higher probability than when the special gaming state ends. Even in this case, it is possible to improve the player's expectation for the occurrence of the specific game state or the special game state by executing the special effect in the special mode. As a result, it is possible to make it easier for the player to continue the game when the special game state ends.

  Further, “when the special game state is not ended” is preferably a time when it is determined to be controlled to a specific game state advantageous to the player. For example, before or during the start of variable display in which the display result of the variable display is determined to be a combination of jackpot symbols, or it is determined to be a combination of jackpot symbols in one or more start winning memories For example, when there is a start winning memory with a variable display.

  By doing so, it is possible to further improve the player's expectation for the occurrence of the specific gaming state by switching to the special mode.

  (3) In the above-described embodiment, the probability change state is continued until the next big hit occurs. However, the probability change state is not limited to this, and the probability change state is displayed in a predetermined manner after the big hit gaming state ends. It may be a so-called frequency cut probability change that continues until the number of times (for example, 10 times) is performed or until the next big hit occurs.

  And, it has a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable, and it is advantageous for the player when the display result of the variable display becomes a predetermined specific display mode. When controlled to a specific gaming state and the display result of the variable display becomes a special display mode of the specific display mode, the variable display is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 10) after the specific gaming state ends. This embodiment can be applied to a gaming machine that is controlled to a probability variation state (so-called number-of-times probability variation) in which the specific gaming state is likely to occur during a period until it is executed.

  (4) In the above-described embodiment, when a special condition is satisfied, a special game state in which a specific game state is likely to occur during a period until a special symbol change display is executed a predetermined number of times. Explained the short state. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the special gaming state may be the above-described special symbol number-of-times cut-change state, or the normal symbol time-short state, or the normal symbol-number-of-times change state. Further, the start electric machine opening time may be extended by extending the opening time of the start electric machine 14a so that a specific gaming state is likely to occur.

  In the above-described embodiment, the period during which the special gaming state is controlled is the period until the special symbol variable display is executed a predetermined number of times. However, the predetermined number of times is not limited to one value, and may be a plurality of values according to conditions. For example, when the jackpot symbol combination is 777, the predetermined number may be 100 times, and when the jackpot symbol combination is an even number of special symbol combinations, the predetermined number may be 50 times.

  In the embodiment described above, the special condition is that the display result of the special symbol variation display is a combination of the jackpot symbol. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the special condition may be a condition other than the jackpot symbol combination.

  (5) In the embodiment described above, as the effect data selecting means for selecting effect data according to a predetermined selection probability from a plurality of types of effect data determined in advance, S234 in FIG. The microcomputer 53 performs processing for selecting a variation pattern according to a predetermined selection probability from a plurality of types of variation patterns determined in advance.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the effect data selection means may be a process of selecting a variation pattern by the game control microcomputer 53 and / or the effect control microcomputer 800, or a game effect effect pattern. Or a means for performing a process for determining whether or not to reach a reach state, or a process for selecting a jackpot notice for notifying that a jackpot gaming state is set. Alternatively, it may be a process of selecting a background in the game effect. Moreover, the process which selects the process which combined these processes suitably according to the composite probability which compounded each selection probability may be sufficient.

  (6) In the above-described embodiment, the special effect in the special mode is an effect that is more interesting than the normal effect in the normal mode. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the special effect in the special mode may be different from the normal effect in the normal mode.

  Even in this way, the player can be focused on the special effects. In general, in a gaming machine, the probability that a specific game state or a special game state is generated after an effect different from the normal effect is set high. For this reason, it is possible to improve the player's sense of expectation for occurrence of a specific game state or a special game state by executing a special effect different from the normal effect. As a result, when the special game state ends, the effect mode is switched to the special mode, so that the player can easily continue the game.

  (7) Before the effect mode is switched to the normal mode, the player is informed that the special mode is to be ended before the effect mode is switched to the normal mode, and thereafter, before the effect mode is switched to the normal mode. The player may be notified that the special mode is to be extended.

  For example, in S234 of the variation pattern setting process of FIG. 8, when the count value of the special mode timer reaches a predetermined value, the variation pattern for notifying the player that the special mode is to be terminated is selected, and thereafter When the count value of the special mode timer reaches another predetermined value before becoming 0, a variation pattern for notifying the player that the special mode is to be extended is selected.

  Thereby, the effect control microcomputer 800 notifies the player that the special mode is to be ended after the effect mode is switched to the special mode after the effect mode is switched to the normal mode in accordance with the change pattern command indicating the change pattern. Then, before the effect mode is switched to the normal mode, the player is notified that the special mode is to be extended.

  Further, the control signal is not limited to the variation pattern command as long as it is a control signal for informing the effect control microcomputer 800 that the special mode is to be ended and the special mode is to be extended. It is also possible to use a dedicated command for informing the user that the process is to be terminated and a dedicated command for informing the user that the special mode is to be extended.

  (8) In the above-described embodiment, the function of the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been described, but the gaming machine control method in which the computer executes the processes shown in FIGS. 3 to 8, 10, and 12, FIG. The invention can be understood as a game control program for causing a computer to execute the processes shown in FIGS. 3 to 8, 10, and 12, and a computer-readable recording medium on which the game control program is recorded.

  (9) It should be understood that the embodiment disclosed herein is illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as an example of the gaming machine according to the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the control circuit containing the various control boards in a pachinko game machine. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the main process performed by the main board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the timer interruption process performed by the main board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the special symbol process process in the timer interruption process performed by the main board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the special mode time measurement process in the special symbol process process performed by the main board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the special symbol normal process in the special symbol process process performed by the main board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the fluctuation pattern setting process in the special symbol process process performed by the main board | substrate. It is a fluctuation pattern selection table used for selecting a fluctuation pattern in a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the special symbol stop process in the special symbol process process performed by the main board | substrate. It is a mode switching table used for determining whether or not to switch the effect mode in the special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the jackpot end process in the special symbol process process performed by the main board | substrate.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine, 9 Fluctuation display device, 14 start opening, 17 start opening switch, 53 Game control microcomputer, 800 Production control microcomputer.

Claims (7)

A specific game that has a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, and that is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display becomes a predetermined specific display mode A gaming machine that is controlled to a special gaming state in which the specific gaming state is likely to occur during a period until a variable display of identification information is executed a predetermined number of times when a special condition is established in the game. Because
Effect data selection means for selecting effect data according to a predetermined selection probability from a plurality of types of effect data determined in advance,
Using the effect data selected by the effect data selection means, effect execution means for executing a game effect in the variable display of identification information;
The effect data selecting means selects the effect data with a first selection probability determined in advance from a plurality of types of effect data, and the effect data with a second selection probability different from the first selection probability. Including production mode switching means for switching between the special mode to be selected,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect mode switching means switches to the special mode with a higher probability in a specific period after the special gaming state is ended than in a period other than the specific period. After the predetermined execution condition is satisfied, the gaming machine starts execution of the variation display of the identification information when the predetermined start condition is satisfied,
A holding storage means for storing a fluctuation display of identification information for which the execution condition is satisfied but the start condition is not yet satisfied, as a holding fluctuation display;
And further includes hold storage determination means for determining whether or not the display result of the hold variation display stored in the hold storage means is the specific display mode,
The effect mode switching means is determined not to be the specific display mode when the hold memory determination unit determines that the display result of the hold variation display is the specific display mode. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game machine is switched to the special mode with a higher probability than sometimes. Predetermining means for determining whether or not the display result of the variation display of the identification information is the specific display mode before the display result is derived and displayed;
Further comprising effect notification means for notifying the player of the types of game effects that can be executed in a predetermined period,
The effect data selection means is determined to be the specific display mode by the prior determination means after the predetermined period elapses after the type of game effect is notified by the effect notification means. When the effect notification means is selected and the effect data for executing the type of game effect notified by the effect notification means is selected, and it is determined by the effect notification means that the specific display mode is not determined. Select the production data that does not execute the type of game production,
3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect informing means notifies the type of the game effect with a higher probability in the special mode than in the normal mode.   3. The effect data selecting means selects effect data in which a predetermined reach effect is executed with a higher probability in the special mode than in the normal mode. The gaming machine described in 1. The effect mode switching means switches from the special mode to the normal mode after a predetermined time has elapsed after switching from the normal mode to the special mode,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising time notifying means for notifying the remaining time of the predetermined time in an identifiable manner.   After the effect mode switching means switches from the normal mode to the special mode, before switching from the special mode to the normal mode, notifies that the special mode is switched to the normal mode, and then switches to the special mode again. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising notification means for notifying the effect. It further comprises a fluctuation time determining means for determining the execution time of the fluctuation display of the identification information,
In the variation time determination means, the expected value of the variation time of the variation display of the identification information executed in the special mode is longer than the expected value of the variation time of the variation display of the identification information performed in the normal mode. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the execution time is determined as described above.

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