JP2006026230A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make a player more interested in an advantageous game state by making it hard to predict which game state a game machine is presently in. <P>SOLUTION: A background image in a variable display device is the image B when a special game state (a game state which can be a time-shortened state after a probability changing state) is started. If the background image is left as the image B when the special game state is terminated, the background image is returned to the image A after a timer for presentation becomes in the time-out state, and it is announced that the special game state is terminated. In a specific game state (the probability changing state or the time-shortened state), the background image in the variable display device is changed to the image B with a prescribed rate. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

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

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

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

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

  And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended.

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

  Further, when a special condition is established such that the display result of the variable display means is a special jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols, the probability of occurrence of a jackpot increases thereafter (also referred to as a probable variation state). There are gaming machines configured to transition. Furthermore, there is a gaming machine configured to shift to a special symbol variation time shortening (short time) state when the probability variation state ends (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the short time state, the variation time (variable display period) of the special symbol is shortened compared to the case where the special time state is not. The time-saving state continues until, for example, a predetermined number of special symbol changes ends or a big hit occurs.

JP 2004-33317 A (paragraphs 0031-0034, FIG. 5)

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the probability variation state ends, it always continues for a predetermined number of changes in the special symbol (except when a big hit occurs on the way). In other words, the conditions for transitioning to the time-saving state and the number of times the time-shorting state is continued (the number of changes in the special symbol in the time-saving state) are uniform, and the player can easily recognize at which point the time-shifting state is entered. , It can be easily recognized at which point the time saving state ends. That is, the player can easily predict the gaming state. As a result, even if the gaming machine is configured to be able to control the gaming state to an advantageous state such as a probability changing state and a short time state, there is a possibility that the player may not be interested in the short time state.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a gaming machine that makes it difficult to predict which gaming state the gaming machine is currently in and can improve the player's interest in advantageous states such as a probability variation state and a short-time state. Objective.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention includes variable display means (for example, a variable display device 9) capable of variably displaying identification information (for example, special symbols) that can identify each, and has predetermined execution conditions for variable display (for example, variable). After the winning of the game ball to the winning ball device 15 is established, the identification information based on the establishment of the variable display start condition (for example, the variable display device 9 is not variably displayed and is not in the big hit game) The variable display is started, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result (for example, a jackpot symbol), the gaming state is shifted to a specific gaming state (for example, the jackpot gaming state) advantageous for the player, When a predetermined transition condition (for example, a chance change or winning in a short time) is established, the gaming state is advantageous for the player over the normal state before the predetermined transition condition is established ( For example, it includes a transition means (for example, a part that executes steps S92, S102, and S111 in the game control means) that shifts to a probability change state or a short time state, and the transition means includes a first transition condition (for example, a predetermined transition condition) The ratio that the display result of the variable display of the identification information per predetermined time becomes a specific display result due to the establishment of the stop symbol as a short-time symbol and the lottery whether or not to enter the short-time state) in the normal state The game state is shifted to a first advantageous state (for example, a short time state) that is higher than a certain time, and a second transition condition (for example, a stop symbol is determined as a probable variation symbol among predetermined transition conditions). Or a lottery to determine whether or not to change to a certain change state), the game state is different from the first advantageous state, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information per predetermined time is a specific display result. A gaming machine that shifts a gaming state to a second advantageous state (for example, a probability variation state) that is higher than that in a normal state, wherein the first transition condition and the second transition condition Is established (for example, when the special symbol stop symbol is determined to be the short symbol at the time of probability change), the transition means shifts the gaming state to the second advantageous state (for example, game control). A portion of the means for shifting the gaming state to the probability changing state in response to the stop display of the probability change short symbol), and when the transition means shifts the gaming state to the second advantageous state by the advantageous state priority control means, Number setting means (for example, step S94 in the game control means) for setting a specific number of times (for example, the value of the time reduction number counter: 100 times) which is the number of variable display times of the identification information executable in the advantageous state A part for executing the process), a number updating means for updating the specific number of times each time variable display of the identification information is executed (for example, a part for executing the processes of steps S67, S74, S85 in the game control means), In the second advantageous state, every time variable display of the identification information is executed, an end condition determining means for determining whether or not an end condition for ending the second advantageous state is satisfied (for example, a diagram in the game control means) 12) and when the end condition determination means determines that the end condition is satisfied, the identification information can be variably displayed in the first advantageous state for a specific number of times. On the condition that the number of times that execution is possible has been reached, the transition means causes the advantageous state transition control means (for example, in the game control means to transition the gaming state to the first advantageous state). On the condition that the processing state of steps S82 and S83) and the gaming state is the second advantageous state, a predetermined effect (for example, FIG. 17B) is provided on the effect parts provided in the gaming machine. An advantageous state effect control means (for example, a portion of the effect control means for executing the processes of S841 and S842) and a predetermined period after the end condition is satisfied (for example, in the effect timer in step S825) Period determination means (for example, a portion of the effect control means for executing the process of S812) and a game state other than the second advantageous state, for determining whether or not the set period has elapsed. It is determined whether or not the production start condition is satisfied on the condition that the predetermined period has not elapsed by the means (for example, during the predetermined period after the special state ends) When it is determined that the production start condition is established by the production start condition judging means and the production start condition judging means in each variable display that is determined whether or not to select the character image used in the special state. It is characterized by comprising predetermined effect control means (for example, a portion of the effect control means for executing the processes of S824, S825, S812, and S813) that causes the effect parts to perform a predetermined effect.

  Display result determination means for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display of the identification information is a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S57 and S58 in the game control means); A specification that determines whether or not a specific period has elapsed from when it is determined by the display result determination means that the display result of variable display of identification information is not a specific display result (for example, when it is determined to be out of place) And the transition condition includes that the display result determination unit determines that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result (that is, the advantageous state corresponds to the specific game state). ), Whether or not the production start condition is satisfied when the production start condition determination unit determines that the specific period has not elapsed by the specific period determination unit. (A modified example in which the background image and the character image shown in FIG. 17B can be selected in each variable display executed during a predetermined period from when it is determined not to be a big hit) Good.

  There may be provided advantageous state end notification means (for example, a portion of the effect control means for executing the process of step S815) for notifying that the second advantageous state has ended.

  An advantageous state number notifying means for notifying the specific number of times in the first advantageous state (for example, an effect control means for controlling the display shown in FIG. 17D) may be provided.

  The first advantageous state is a variable display period shortened state that shortens the variable display period of the variable display of the identification information a predetermined number of times compared to the normal state, and the second advantageous state is a variable display of the identification information. Is a high probability state in which the probability that the display result is a specific display result is improved compared to that in the normal state, and includes a plurality of types including a smaller number of times (for example, 20 times) than the specific number set by the number setting means The number selection means for selecting the number of times (for example, the part for setting the probability variation number counter using the random 9 shown in FIG. 6 in the game control means: step S93), and the game state transition means is the second When shifting to the advantageous state, a special number which is the number of variable display times of the identification information executable in the second advantageous state is set based on the number of times selected by the number selection means. Another number setting means (for example, a part for executing the process of step S93 in the game control means) and special number updating means for updating the special number each time the variable display of the identification information is executed (for example, in the game control means) The end condition determination means becomes a predetermined number (for example, 0) indicating that the special information cannot be variably displayed in the second advantageous state. It may be configured that it is determined that the termination condition for the second advantageous state is satisfied (for example, the processing of steps S75 and S80 in the game control means).

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the first transition condition and the second transition condition are both established, the gaming machine shifts the gaming state to the second advantageous state, and the end condition determining means When it is determined that the termination condition for the second advantageous state is satisfied, the specific number of times is an executable number indicating that variable display of the identification information can be performed in the first advantageous state. The advantageous state effect control means for causing the game component to perform a predetermined effect on the condition that the gaming state is shifted to the first advantageous state and the gaming state is the second advantageous state. And a period determining means for determining whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the end condition of the second advantageous state is satisfied, and a period determining means when the gaming state is other than the second advantageous state. It was determined that the specified period has not elapsed When the production start condition determining means for determining whether or not the production start condition is satisfied and the production start condition determining means determine that the production start condition is established, the predetermined production is performed on the production component. And a predetermined performance control means for performing the game, it is difficult to predict which gaming state the gaming machine is currently in, and the player's interest in the advantageous state can be improved. Even when the advantageous state ends, it is possible to prevent the player from losing a sense of expectation for the second advantageous state.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the specific period for determining whether or not the specific period has elapsed since the display result determination means determines that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is not the specific display result. A determination means, and the effect start condition determination means determines whether or not the effect start condition is satisfied when the specific period determination means determines that the specific period has not elapsed. Even without shifting to the state, it is possible to prevent the player from losing a sense of expectation for the second advantageous state for a predetermined period.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the advantageous state end notification means for notifying that the second advantageous state has ended is provided, the player finally recognizes that the second advantageous state has ended. Can be made.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, since the advantage state number notifying means for notifying the specific number of times in the first advantageous state is provided, the minimum variable display during the controlled advantageous state is provided to the player. The number of times can be notified.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the special number selected from a plurality of types of times reaches a predetermined number indicating that variable display of identification information cannot be performed in the second advantageous state. Since it is determined that the termination condition for the second advantageous state is satisfied, it is possible to make it more difficult for the player to grasp the time point of transition to the first advantageous state.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame is a front frame (not shown) that is installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (a game board 6 described later). ).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  Near the center of the game area 7, there is provided a variable display device (special symbol display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each variably displaying a symbol as identification information. The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. In addition, the variable display device 9 is provided with four special symbol start memory display areas (start memory display areas) 18 for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the start memory number. Each time there is a valid start prize, the display color changes (for example, changes from blue display to red display), and the start storage display area is increased by one. Each time the variable display of the variable display device 9 is started, the start memory number display area where the display color is changed is reduced by 1 (that is, the display color is returned to the original). In addition, you may provide the display (special symbol start memory display) which displays the start memory | storage number separately from the variable display apparatus 9. FIG.

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

  An open / close plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is a means for opening and closing a large winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus). Of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6, the winning ball entering one (V winning area: special area) is detected by the V winning switch 22, and the winning ball from the opening / closing board 20 is counted. 23. On the back of the game board 6, a solenoid 21A for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). For example, if the right lamp is lit when the variable display ends, it is a win. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls entered into the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39. The winning holes 29, 30, 33, and 39 for the game balls are awarded to the winning port switches 29a and 30a, respectively. , 33a, 39a. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. In addition, one winning opening switch for detecting a game ball won in each of a plurality of winning openings (ordinary winning openings) 29, 30, 33, 39 is provided, and the winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 is won. The game ball may also be detected by the winning opening switch. Around the left and right of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for absorbing a game ball that has not won a prize. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  In this example, a prize ball LED 51 that is lit while paying out a prize ball is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball break LED 52 that is lit when the refill ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a. It has been. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with lamps and LEDs as light emitters in various places. Further, a prepaid card unit (also referred to as a “card unit”) that enables lending a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

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

  The variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of special symbols at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins. When the game ball wins the V winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V winning switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  When the combination of special symbols in the variable display device 9 at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (probability variation symbol) that establishes the condition for shifting to the probability change state, the probability of the next jackpot increases after the jackpot game ends. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player whose game state is a probable change state. In addition, when the combination of special symbols is a jackpot symbol (time-short symbol) that establishes the condition for shifting to the short-time state, the gaming state shifts to the short-time state after the big-hit game ends. Furthermore, if the combination of special symbols is a jackpot symbol (probability variation short symbol) that establishes both the transition condition to the probability change state and the transition condition to the short-time state, first, after the jackpot game ends, The state is controlled to the probability variation state, and then the state is controlled to the time-short state when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

  In the probability variation state as the second advantageous state of the advantageous state (special game state) that is a gaming state advantageous to the player, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 will be a winning symbol is higher than that in the normal state. As well as being increased, one or both of the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased compared to the state other than the probability changing state, which is more advantageous for the player. Further, in the probability variation state, the variable display period (also referred to as variation time) on the normal symbol display 10 may be shortened compared to the normal state, thereby making it more advantageous for the player. However, in the probability variation state, the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 and the number of times of opening are not extended, and the fluctuation time in the normal symbol display 10 is not shortened (that is, the variable winning a prize only increases the probability of winning a special symbol). The advantage / disadvantage regarding the ball device 15 may be the same as in the normal state), or the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol may not be increased. Further, in the short time state as the first advantageous state, the variation time (variable display period) of the special symbol is shortened as compared with the normal state. Even in the short time state, one or both of the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased as compared with the normal state, or the fluctuation time in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. Also good. Furthermore, in the probability variation state, the variation time of the special symbol in the variable display device 9 may be shortened.

  In this embodiment, the display result of variable display of identification information per predetermined time compared to the normal state in the gaming state (the control state of the gaming machine, roughly divided into the normal state and the advantageous state) The advantageous state, which is a state in which the ratio of a big hit symbol can be increased, is a probability variation state (high probability) in which the probability that the display result of variable display of identification information is a big hit symbol is improved compared to the normal state. Probability state), and the variable display period 15 for shortening the variable display period of the variable display of the identification information a predetermined number of times compared to the normal state, but as an advantageous state, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 based on the normal symbol hit The open extended state in which the period of the open state is longer than that in the normal state (for example, the open time of 1.5 seconds in the normal state is changed to 5 seconds until the variable display of 100 special symbols is made. Such as the length to), it may be implemented advantageously state in other aspects.

  FIG. 2 shows a circuit in a game control board (main board) 31 provided on a gaming machine (specifically, installed on the back of the gaming machine) on which a game control microcomputer or the like is mounted. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, a lamp driver board 35, an audio output board 70, and an effect control board 80 that are mounted on the gaming machine. On the main board 31, a basic circuit (corresponding to a game control microcomputer: game control means) 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a start port switch 14a, a V winning switch 22, a count switch 23 , A switch circuit 58 for giving signals from the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a and the clear switch 921 to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 for opening / closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21 for opening / closing the opening / closing plate 20, and a large A solenoid circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21A for switching the path in the winning opening according to a command from the basic circuit 53 is mounted. The clear switch 921 is mounted on, for example, a power supply board installed in the gaming machine.

  The gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the V winning switch 22, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, and other switches may be referred to as sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball.

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

  A basic circuit 53 realized by a game control microcomputer includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, and storage means used as a work memory (variable data storage means for storing variable data). RAM 55, CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with programs, and I / O port unit 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to have at least the RAM 55 built in, and the ROM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached or built in. Since the CPU 56 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the CPU 56 executes (or performs processing) hereinafter, specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. is there. The same applies to CPUs mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31. The game control means is realized by a basic circuit 53 realized by a game control microcomputer, but is mainly realized by a CPU 56 that executes control according to a program in the game control microcomputer.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a nonvolatile storage means that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power source. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the power supply of the backup power supply is disabled). In particular, at least data (special symbol process flag, etc.) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. Note that the data according to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power supply is restored after a power failure or the like. . In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

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

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

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

  The VDP 106 controls the development of image data of special symbols, character images, and background images stored in a ROM (not shown) in a drawing area of a VRAM (not shown) in response to an instruction from the CPU 101 for effect control. At the same time, control is performed to output the image data of the drawing area to the variable display device 9.

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

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

  In this embodiment, the lamps / LEDs provided in the gaming machine are controlled by effect control means including an effect CPU 101 mounted on the effect control board 80. Further, data for controlling the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED and the like are stored in the ROM. The effect CPU 101 controls the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED, and the like based on the data stored in the ROM. Then, the lamp / LED is driven via the output port 352 mounted on the lamp driver substrate 35 and each drive circuit.

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

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

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

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

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch 921 input via the input port only once (step S7). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S11 to S14).

  If the clear switch 921 is not in the on state, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state).

  After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example) (step S9). In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power 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 when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

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

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is stored by using both the backup flag and the check data, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the state recovery process.

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

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

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

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the game control process of steps S20 to S33 shown in FIG. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether the power-off signal has been turned on) (step S20). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switch 24a are input via the switch circuit 58, and the state determination thereof is performed (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (step S22). The CPU 56 further performs processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (steps S23 and S24).

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit judgment)
(2) Random 2-1 to 2-3 (Random 2): For determining the left middle right of the special symbol (special symbol left middle right)
(3) Random 3: Determines the combination of special symbols that generate a big hit (for determining big hit symbols)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach when no big hit is generated (for reach determination)
(6) Random 6: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine initial value of random 6 (for determining random 6 initial value)
(9) Random 9: Determines the number of times of probability variation (number of fluctuations of special symbols in the probability variation state) (for determining the number of times of probability variation) In this embodiment, the probability variation continuation count is determined to be 10, 20, or 50 according to the value of random 9. Further, the probability variation continuation number may be determined to be a number of times (for example, 150 times) greater than 100, which is the number of time reductions (the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state) in this embodiment. If there is a probability variation continuation number greater than the time duration continuation number, it is not possible to shift to the time reduction state at the end of the probability variation time short state, which will be described later, so that variations in changes in the gaming state can be enriched.

  In step S22 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 56 generates a jackpot determination random number (1), a jackpot determination random number (3), and a determination random number per ordinary symbol (6). Counter is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In order to enhance the gaming effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (9) may be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S25). In the special symbol process control, corresponding processing is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S26). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting an effect control command related to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and sending the effect control command (special symbol command control process: step S27). Further, a process for sending an effect control command by setting an effect control command for the normal symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 is performed (normal symbol command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  In addition, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a (step S30). Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to detection of winning based on any one of the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. The payout control CPU mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

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

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  In this embodiment, there are twelve special symbols “0” to “11” in the middle left and right, respectively, and the special symbol display changes in order from “0” in the variable display device 9. Fluctuations are realized. Note that the display of the display symbols may change discontinuously during the change of the special symbols. In addition, when the final stop symbols (determined symbols) of the special symbols are aligned to the middle left and right, a big hit is obtained, and when the left and right are aligned, reach is achieved.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the special symbol stop symbol used in this embodiment and the gaming state to be controlled. In the example shown in FIG. 7, when the left middle right symbols of the special symbols are aligned at 1, 5, or 9, the gaming state (the control state of the gaming machine) shifts to the probability changing state after the big hit game is finished. Moreover, if it arranges at 11, after a big hit game is complete | finished, a game state will transfer to a time-short state. And if it arranges by 3 or 7, a game state will transfer to a time-short state and a time-short state after completion | finish of a big hit game. In this case, however, the probability variation state is given priority, and the state is shifted to the time reduction state at the end of the probability variation state.

  In the probability variation state, the probability that the result of the variation of the special symbol (the final stop symbol, also simply referred to as the stop symbol) becomes a big hit symbol is increased compared to the state that is not the probability variation state (low probability state). Hereinafter, this may be expressed as “a hit / displacement is determined with high probability in the probability variation state”. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the probability of a big hit symbol is increased 10 times in the probability variation state.

  In addition, when the probability variation state ends, control may be performed so as to shift to a special symbol variation time shortening (short time) state as the first advantageous state. In the short time state, the variation time (variable display period) of the special symbol is shortened compared to the case where the special time state is not. It should be noted that the mode of shortening (how much is shortened for each variation pattern, which variation pattern is to be shortened, etc.) may be the same as the mode in the probability variation state (including the probability variation short state). The short-time state continues until a predetermined number of special symbol changes or until a big hit occurs. In this embodiment, the predetermined number of times is 100, but the predetermined number of times may be selected from a plurality of types by lottery. In the short-time state, since the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, the frequency of the special symbol variation is increased (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory is accelerated), and as a result, the big hit game is performed. The possibility increases.

  The advantageous state includes a probability change state (second advantageous state) and a short time state (first advantageous state), and a gaming state that is not in an advantageous state (a state of the gaming machine) is a normal state. The high probability state is a probability variation state, and the low probability state includes a short time state and a normal state.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by the CPU 56. The special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 is a specific process of step S25 in the flowchart of FIG. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs a variable shortening timer subtraction process (step S310) to detect that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6. If the switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the start winning opening 14 is generated (step S311), the start opening switch passing process (step S312) is performed, and then according to the internal state. Any one of steps S300 to S308 is performed. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened. In the start switch passing process, it is checked whether the starting winning memory number (holding memory number) has reached the maximum value of 4, and if the holding memory number has not reached 4, the holding memory number is increased by 1 to determine the big hit Each random number (random 1 to random 5 and random 9) such as a random number for use is extracted, and stored in a storage area (special symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the reserved storage number. Note that extracting a random number means reading a count value from a counter for generating a random number and setting the read count value as a random value.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Waits until the variable symbol variable display can be started. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the number of reserved memories is confirmed. If the number of reserved memories is not 0, whether or not the result of variable symbol special display (stopped symbol) is made a big hit symbol (ie, big hit) by comparing a random 1 value with a predetermined big hit determination value. Decide whether or not. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): If it is determined to be a big hit, a stop symbol is determined according to a random 3 value. In this embodiment, the value of random 3 (any one of 0 to 11) corresponds to the symbol shown in FIG. When it is determined not to be a big hit, a stop symbol (out-of-line symbol) is determined according to random values 2-1 to 2-3. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S302.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): A variation pattern (variable display mode) of variable display of special symbols is determined according to a random 4 value. Also, a variation time timer corresponding to the variation pattern is started. At this time, the left middle right final stop symbol and the information for instructing the variation mode (variation pattern) are transmitted to the effect control board 80 as the effect control command. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S303.

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

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): Control is performed so that all symbols displayed on the variable display device 9 are stopped. Specifically, it sets to the state where the production control command which shows special symbol stop is transmitted. If the stop symbol is a big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

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

  Processing for opening a special prize opening (step S306): A process for sending a production control command for displaying a big prize round to the production control board 80, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition for the special prize opening, and the like are performed. When the closing condition for the last big prize opening is established, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307.

  Specific area valid time process (step S307): The presence / absence of passing through the V winning switch 22 is monitored, and a process of confirming that the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied is performed. If the condition for continuing the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state is updated to shift to step S305. In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time, or when all rounds are finished, the internal state is updated to shift to step S308.

  Big hit end processing (step S308): Control for causing the effect control means to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a change in the gaming state. FIG. 9 shows an example in which the probability change short symbol is finally stopped and displayed, and when the big hit gaming state is finished, it is controlled to the probability change state, and after 50 special symbol variations are finished, it is controlled to the time reduction state. Yes. Note that FIG. 9 also shows values of a probability variation counter and a time reduction counter described later. The time-count counter is incremented from the time when it is controlled to the probability variation state. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the probability variation count counter and the time reduction count counter are decremented by 1 every time variable display is performed.

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

  If the reserved memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S54), and the value of the reserved memory number is set. 1 is reduced (the value of the start winning storage counter is reduced by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S55). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes. That is, in this example, every time the variable display start condition is satisfied, the CPU 56 executes a process of shifting the contents of each storage area.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S56), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S57). When it is determined to be a big hit (step S58), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S59). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S60). The jackpot determination module is a program that determines that a jackpot is determined when the jackpot determination random number matches a predetermined jackpot determination value.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an internal flag (a flag using one area of the RAM) and an effect control command used in the special symbol process. As shown in FIG. 11, in the special state, the probability variation time-short flag and the probability variation flag are set (ON state). When the special state ends, a special state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as an effect control command. The special state is synonymous with the probability change short state. In the probability variation state, the probability variation flag is set, and when the probability variation state ends, a probability variation state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as an effect control command. In the time reduction state, the time reduction flag is set, and when the time reduction state ends, a time reduction state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as an effect control command.

  12 and 13 are flowcharts showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) that is executed when the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command (special symbol stop command) indicating the special symbol stop (step S61).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the stop symbol is a big hit symbol (step S62). If it is a big hit symbol, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation time short flag is set (step S63). If it is set, the probability variation time short flag and the probability variation flag are reset (step S64). Also, a special state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 to notify that the special state has ended (step S65). If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0, since the change of one special symbol is completed, the time reduction counter is decremented by 1 (steps S66 and S67), and the process proceeds to step S82. The time reduction counter is a counter in which the number of times (variable displayable number) indicating how many times the special symbol is changed will end the time reduction state is set. If the value of the time reduction counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S89.

  If the probability variation time-short flag is not set (step S63), if the probability variation flag is set, the probability variation flag is reset to terminate the probability variation state and notify that the probability variation state has ended. A state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S69). If the time reduction flag is set, the time reduction flag is reset to end the time reduction state, and a time reduction state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 to notify that the time reduction state has ended (step S70). ).

  If the stop symbol is not a big hit symbol (step S62), it indicates a probability change state or a special state (short state during probability change: a state where a big hit occurs in the short symbol during probability change and is preferentially controlled to the probability change state). It is confirmed whether or not the flag is set (step S71). If set, the value of the probability variation counter is decremented by 1 (step S72). The probability variation counter is a counter in which the number of times (variable displayable number) indicating how many times the special symbol is changed will end the probability variation state is set. In addition, when the probability change time short flag is set (flag indicating that the probability change time short state), the value of the time reduction number counter is also decremented by 1 (steps S73 and S74). However, if it is already 0, no subtraction is performed. When the probability change time / short flag is set, the gaming state is actually a probability change state, but the time / count counter is also decremented by one. If it is confirmed in step S71 that the probability variation flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S84.

  When the value of the probability variation counter reaches 0, the probability variation flag is reset and the probability variation state is terminated (steps S75 and S77). In addition, when the probability change time reduction flag is set, the condition for shifting from the probability change state to the time reduction state is satisfied at this time (strictly, the value of the probability change time reduction counter is not 0). Then, after resetting the probability change time short flag (step S80) and transmitting a special state end command to the effect control board 80 (step S81), the process proceeds to step S82.

  In step S82, on the condition that the time reduction counter has not yet become 0, the time reduction flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S83). Then, control goes to a step S89.

  In step S84, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set. If it is set, the value of the time reduction counter is decremented by 1 (step S85). When the value of the time reduction counter reaches 0 (step S86), the time reduction flag is reset to end the time reduction state (step S87), and the effect control board 80 is notified that the time reduction state has ended. In order to do so, a time-short state end command is transmitted as an effect control command (step S88).

  In step S89, if the special symbol change stop symbol is a big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  In this embodiment, when a big hit occurs in the special state (probability change short state), if the value of the time reduction counter is not 0, the game state is shifted to the short time state after the big hit game is finished. You may make it transfer to a state.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a jackpot end process executed when the jackpot game is ended. In the jackpot ending process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the special symbol stop symbol (which is a jackpot symbol) causing the jackpot game is a short symbol at the time of probability change (step S91). If it is the probability variation time short symbol, the probability variation flag and the probability variation time short flag are set (step S92), and predetermined values are set in the probability variation number counter and the time variation number counter (steps S93 and S94). In this embodiment, the probability variation counter is set to 10, 20, or 50 as the probability variation counter according to random 9 (extracted at the start winning or variation start and stored in the RAM 55). 100 is set in the time reduction counter. In addition, in order to notify the effect control means of the end of the big hit game state and the transition to the special game state (probability change state or short time state), a specific big hit end display designation effect control command (special big hit end display command) Is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S95). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S96).

  If the stop symbol of the special symbol is not the probability change time short symbol, it is checked whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probability change symbol (step S101). If it is a probability variation symbol, only the probability variation flag is set (step S102), and a predetermined value is set in the probability variation counter (step 103). In addition, a probabilistic big hit end display command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as an effect control command (step S104). Then, control goes to a step S96.

  When the stop symbol of the special symbol is not a probability variation symbol, it is confirmed whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol is a time-short symbol (step S110). If it is a time-short symbol, a time-short flag is set (step S111), and a predetermined value is set in the time-short count counter (step 112). In addition, a time and bonus hit end display command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 as an effect control command (step S113). Then, control goes to a step S96. If the special symbol stop symbol is not a time-short symbol, in order to notify the end of the jackpot gaming state, a process of transmitting an effect control command specifying non-specific jackpot end display is performed (step S120). Then, control goes to a step S96.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the CPU 101 for effect control. In the main process, first, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a timer for determining the start interval of effect control, and the like (step S701). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to a loop process for checking the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In this embodiment, the timer interrupt takes every 33 ms. That is, the effect control process is started every 33 ms. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific effect control process is executed in the main process, but the effect control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (specifically, an effect control process flag) is selected and executed from among the processes corresponding to the control state. And the process which updates the random number counter for producing | generating the random number used in presentation control is performed (step S706). Further, when it is necessary to change the display content of the variable display device 9, a VDP control process for instructing the display content after the change to the VDP 106 is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process returns to the process of checking the timer interrupt flag in step S702. The game control means outputs a capture signal for instructing the capture of the command together with the effect control command, and the capture signal is input to the interrupt terminal of the effect control CPU 101. The effect control CPU 101 The effect control command is received by the embedded process.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, any one of steps S800 to S806 is performed according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not an effect control command (variation pattern command) capable of specifying the fluctuation time is received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is set when it is confirmed by command analysis processing that a variation pattern designation effect control command has been received (step S623).

  Preliminary selection process (step S801): The mode of the background image (a ground image excluding special symbols and character images) displayed on the display unit of the variable display device 9 is determined, and the determined background image is variably displayed. 9 is controlled to display on the screen. In addition, for example, whether or not to perform a notice effect using a character image (an effect for informing in advance that a special symbol stop symbol becomes a big hit symbol or reach will occur) The type of the notice effect may be determined.

  All symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that variation of the left middle right symbol is started.

  Symbol variation processing (step S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. In addition, stop control of the left and right symbols is performed.

  All symbol stop waiting setting process (step S804): If an effect control command (special symbol stop effect control command) for instructing stop of all symbols is received at the end of the variation time, the symbol variation is stopped and the stop symbol ( Control to display the fixed symbol).

  Big hit display process (step S805): After the end of the fluctuation time, the control of the probability variable big hit display or the normal big hit display is performed.

  Process during jackpot game (step S806): Control during jackpot game is performed. For example, when an effect control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a background image displayed on the display unit of the variable display device 9. As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in the special state (probability change short state), a background image different from the other game states is used. Therefore, the player can recognize that the player is in a special state from the background image. However, in this embodiment, the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used at a predetermined rate even in a gaming state other than the special state. Further, a background image as shown in FIG. 17C is used to notify the player that the special state has ended. Note that the background image as shown in FIG. 17C may be displayed on the display unit of the variable display device 9 immediately after the special state ends, but is displayed after a lapse of time after the special state ends. Sometimes it is done. Further, a background image as shown in FIG. 17D is used to notify the player that the time is short. In this embodiment, the background image as shown in FIG. 17D is not always used in the time-saving state. Therefore, the player cannot immediately know that the gaming state is the short-time state. In principle, there are character images that can be selected in a special state (probability change short state), an effect mode by a lamp / LED, and a sound effect announcement effect by a speaker 27, and such an effect is a gaming state other than the special state ( It is also possible to make it difficult to grasp that the gaming state is a short-time state, etc. by making it possible to select with low probability even in a short-time state).

  FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing a relationship between a random number (in this case, any value from 0 to 6) used in effect control and the effect control content. In the left column of FIG. 18, if the random value is 0, 2, 4, or 6 when the special state ends, the background image shown in FIG. If the random number value is 1, 3 or 5, it is indicated that the background image shown in FIG. 17B is not used after the end of the special state. Further, in the right column of FIG. 18, if the random value is 0 or 2, even in a specific state (in this embodiment, the probability variation state (not including the probability variation time short state) and the time variation state), that is, It is shown that the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used for a predetermined period even in an advantageous state that is not a special state. The relationship shown in FIG. 18 is stored as a table in the ROM.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the advance notice selection process (step S801). In the notice selection process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the effect timer is operating (step S811). The effect timer is, for example, a timer that uses an internal timer of the effect control CPU 101, and is used for a predetermined period (for example, 1 minute or 5) in which the background image shown in FIG. Minutes) or a timer for measuring a predetermined period in which the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used in a specific state. Each predetermined period may be the same or different.

  When the effect timer is operating and the effect timer is up (step S812), control is performed to return the background image to that shown in FIG. 17A (step S813). Even if the effect timer expires, it is assumed that the effect timer is in operation until the effect control CPU 101 confirms that. In order to return the background image to the one shown in FIG. 17A, specifically, the effect control CPU 101 sends the image data of the background image shown in FIG. Instructs to expand (for example, stored in ROM). If the effect timer is set at the end of the special state, the background image is displayed for a predetermined time in order to notify the player that the special state has ended (FIG. 17C). The control for making it shown in (4) is performed (steps S814 and S815). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 instructs the VDP 106 to develop the image data of the background image (for example, stored in the ROM) shown in FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S843.

  If the performance timer is not in operation, it is confirmed whether or not the special state has ended (step S821). Whether or not the special state has ended is confirmed by whether or not a special state end command has been received from the game control means. When the special state ends, the value of the random number counter is set to a random number (step S822), and whether or not the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used even after the special state ends according to the relationship shown in FIG. Determination is made (step S823). If it is determined that the background image is used, the effect timer is started (steps S824 and S825). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S843. If it is determined that the background image is not used, control is performed to return the background image to that shown in FIG. 17A (step S826). Further, control is performed to make the background image shown in FIG. 17C for a predetermined time (step S827). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S843.

  If it is confirmed in step S821 that it is not the end of the special state, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not the specific state has been started (step S831). The start of the specific state is confirmed, for example, by whether or not a probability variable big hit end display command or a short time big hit end display command is received from the game control means. When the specific state is started, the value of the random number counter is set as a random number (step S832). According to the relationship shown in FIG. 18, it is determined whether or not the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used even if it is not in the special state (step S833). If it is determined that the background image is to be used, control is performed to change the background image to that shown in FIG. 17B (step S835). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 instructs the VDP 106 to develop the image data of the background image (for example, stored in the ROM) shown in FIG. Then, the effect timer is started (step S836). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S843. Note that the time until the effect timer expires is, for example, a time during which variable display of special symbols can be executed a plurality of times. Therefore, the variable display of the special symbol is executed a plurality of times from the start of the effect timer in steps S825 and S836 until the effect timer expires (step S812).

  When the special state is started, the effect control CPU 101 performs control for changing the background image to that shown in FIG. 17B (step S841). Whether or not the special state is started is confirmed by whether or not a special jackpot end display command is received from the game control means. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S843.

  In step S843, the effect control CPU 101 changes the value of the effect control process flag to a value indicating all symbol variation start processing.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is the special state, the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used. Even after the special state ends, the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used at a predetermined rate (see the left column in FIG. 18). In addition, when the gaming state becomes a specific state, that is, when the special state (probability change short state) is not won, but the probability change state or short time state is won, a predetermined ratio is also shown in FIG. The background image is used (see the right column of FIG. 18). In this embodiment, winning means that the game control means determines a jackpot symbol to be in that state as a result of lottery using a random number (random 3) in the special symbol stop symbol setting process in step S301. Means that

  Accordingly, the player can guess that the gaming state is the special state based on the fact that the background image shown in FIG. 17B is displayed on the variable display device 9, but the guess is not always true. Absent. Even if the background image shown in FIG. 17B is displayed on the variable display device 9, the special state may have already ended or may not be in the special state. Therefore, it is difficult for the player to grasp that the gaming state is the special state, and as a result, it is possible to give the player a new interest. In this embodiment, since the possibility that the background image shown in FIG. 17B is in a special state is notified, the display of the background image shown in FIG. 17B is selected. The process for this is a notice selection process. In this embodiment, the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used as the background image with a probability of 100% in the special state, but the special state has a certain ratio (low ratio). Alternatively, the background image shown in FIG. 17A may be used.

  In addition, when the background image shown in FIG. 17B is used even after the special state is finished, the fact that the special state is finished is notified thereafter (step S815). The correct gaming state is notified to the person.

  Also, at the time when the process of step S815 is executed, that is, when the effect timer measures the predetermined period, if the time-count counter in the game control means is not 0 (the condition for shifting to the time-saving state is satisfied). In such a case, instead of the process in step S815 or in addition to the process in step S815, the short-time continuation number notification as shown in FIG. When performing such control, for example, the game control means transmits to the effect control means an effect control command that can specify the value of the time-count counter at the start of each variable display. The effect control CPU 101 in the effect control means can use such an effect control command to notify the number of time-continuations as shown in FIG. 17D (the number of times variable display can be executed in the time-short state). Note that the notification of the number of time reductions as shown in FIG. 17D may be performed once (in the first fluctuation) or always in the time reduction state. Further, it may be executed at the start of the special state or during the special state. As shown in FIG. 17D, the player can know that the advantageous state continues with the minimum number of fluctuations (for example, when the notification is made at the start of the special state).

  Further, in this embodiment, the player can play the game state by producing the background image (background image shown in FIG. 17B) over a predetermined period (specifically, by selecting the image data of the background image). However, it may be a variable display period corresponding to a predetermined number of times or a number of times selected by lottery. ), The background image shown in FIG. 17B is not always displayed, and it is determined whether or not to select the background image shown in FIG. 17B in each of a plurality of variable displays executed in a predetermined period. If it is determined to be selected, the background image shown in FIG. 17B may be used in the variable display at that time. That is, whether or not to select the image data of the background image used in the special state in each variable display after the big hit in the gaming state other than the special state, in other words, the background image used in the special state It may be determined whether a condition for selecting image data is satisfied.

  Further, the effect for making it difficult to grasp the game state is not limited to the background image. For example, an effect by a character image displayed on the variable display device 9 may be used. In that case, the effect control means in principle corresponds to the character image displayed on the variable display device 9 in the special state for a predetermined period (for example, the time set in the effect timer) after the special state ends. May be a variable display period corresponding to the predetermined number of times or the number of times selected by lottery.) In each variable display executed during that time, the character image is selected and displayed on the variable display device 9. Performs control to display, or is a big hit, but does not shift to a special state for a predetermined period (for example, it corresponds to the time set in the production timer, but it is selected by a predetermined number of times or by lottery The variable display period may be as many as the number of times that the variable display is performed.) In each variable display executed in the meantime, the character image is selected and the variable display device 9 is selected. Performs control to display. Even in that case, in each variable display, whether the image data of the character image used in the special state is selected, in other words, whether the condition for selecting the image data of the character image used in the special state is satisfied. You may make it determine. Furthermore, the effect for making it difficult to grasp the game state is not limited to the display, but may be other effect parts (speaker 27, lamp / LED, etc.) provided in the gaming machine.

  Furthermore, the production control means is a predetermined period from the time when it is decided not to make a big hit (for example, it corresponds to the time measured by the production timer or the like, but the predetermined number of times or the number of times selected by lottery The variable display device can select a background image and a character image shown in FIG. 17B that are used in a special state in principle in each variable display executed during that period. 9 may be controlled. In that case, you may make it measure a predetermined period from when it is decided not to be a big hit in the predetermined period after the special state is complete | finished.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the above embodiment, the probability variation continuation number is fixed (for example, 10, 20, or 50), but the probability variation continuation number may be a non-fixed value. Hereinafter, a second embodiment in which the probability variation continuation count is set to a non-fixed value will be described.

  FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number used in the game control means in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, random 9 takes a value in the range of 0 to 49 and is used as a random number for determining whether or not to end the probability variation state. In the probability change state, the game control means ends the probability change state, for example, when the random 9 matches one predetermined value. Therefore, the probability variation state ends (probability variation puncture) with a probability of 1/50.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process process according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 21, in this embodiment, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to end the special state and the probability variation state before executing the jackpot determination in steps S56 and S57, and performs processing for ending. (Steps S551 to S558).

  Specifically, when the probability variation flag is set (step S551), the random number for probability variation end (random 9) is read from the storage area (step S552), and the value of the read random 9 is the probability variation end value. (Step S553), if they match, if the probability variation time short flag is set, the probability variation flag and the probability variation time short flag are reset and the special state (probability variation time short state) is terminated. The special state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S554). If the probability variation time-short flag is not set but the probability variation flag is set, the probability variation flag is reset to end the probability variation state, and a probability variation state end command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S555).

  Then, when the special state is ended (step S556), on the condition that the time reduction counter is not 0, the time reduction flag is set and the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state (steps S557 and S558). Hereinafter, of the determinations of whether or not to end the special state and the probability variation state in steps S552 and S553, the determination of whether or not to end the special state may be referred to as puncture lottery.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process process according to the second embodiment. The difference from the special symbol stopping process in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 12 is that the probability variation counter updating process or the like is not executed (steps S71, S72 and S75 to S79 do not exist). Other processes of the special symbol stop process are the same as the processes in the first embodiment.

  Further, the other processes executed by the game control means are the same as the processes in the first embodiment, but in this embodiment, the probability variation counter is not used in the probability variation time-short state. Therefore, the processing of steps S93 and S103 shown in FIG. 14 is not executed.

  FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an effect (lottery effect) executed in response to a punk lottery. If the special state is not terminated as a result of the puncture lottery, after performing a display effect in which the ball rotates the roulette from the display state shown in FIG. 23 (A) for a predetermined time, as shown in FIG. 23 (B), The display effect is such that the ball stops in the shaded area. In addition, when the special state is ended as a result of the puncture lottery, after a display effect is performed such that the ball rotates around the roulette for a predetermined time, the ball stops in the non-hatched area as shown in FIG. Such display effects are performed. Such an effect is executed in a part of the display area of the variable display device 9 as shown in FIG. Further, image data for realizing the display effects shown in FIGS. 23A to 23C is stored in a ROM referred to by the VDP 106.

  FIG. 24A is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between a random number (in this case, any value from 0 to 6) used by the effect control means and the lottery effect in this embodiment. In the left column of FIG. 24 (A), a lottery effect is executed if the random value is 0 or 3 during the special state, and the random value is 1, 2 or 4-6. If there is, it indicates that the lottery effect is not executed. Also, in the right column of FIG. 24 (A), in the gaming state other than the special state, if the random value is 0, it indicates that the lottery effect is executed, and if the random value is 1 to 6, the lottery effect is executed. Indicates that the performance is not executed. The relationship shown in FIG. 24A is stored as a table in the ROM.

  When in the special state, the punk lottery itself is always executed for each variable display by the game control means. In addition, the punk lottery itself is not executed in the gaming state other than the special state and the probability change state, but the lottery effect is not executed at the predetermined rate by executing the lottery effect at the predetermined rate and in the special state. By doing so, it can be difficult for the player to determine whether or not the gaming state is in a special state. Note that, during the special state, a lottery effect is executed at a higher rate than when it is not (see FIG. 24A), so that the player guesses that the gaming state is likely to be the special state. I can.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the notice selection process (step S801 in FIG. 16) in this embodiment. In the notice selection process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the lottery effect start timer is operating (step S850). In this embodiment, if the lottery effect is not performed when the special state ends, the lottery effect is performed in order to notify that the special state has ended after a predetermined time. It is a timer for measuring the predetermined period. As the lottery effect start timer, for example, a built-in timer of the effect control CPU 101 is used. If the lottery effect start timer is operating, it is checked whether or not the lottery effect start timer has expired (step S851). Even if the lottery effect start timer expires, it is assumed that the lottery effect start timer is in operation until the effect control CPU 101 confirms that.

  If the lottery effect start timer is not up, the process proceeds to step S856. Therefore, when the lottery effect start timer is operating, the lottery effect is not executed. This is because when the lottery effect start timer expires, the lottery effect is executed to notify that the special state has ended. If the lottery effect start timer is not operating, the value of the random number counter is set to a random number (step S852). In accordance with the relationship shown in FIG. 24A, it is determined whether or not a lottery effect is performed (step S853).

  When it is determined that a lottery effect is to be performed, a process for starting the lottery effect is performed (step S854), and an effect end timer is started (step S855). Then, control goes to a step S856. The effect end timer is, for example, a timer using a built-in timer of the effect control CPU 101, and is a timer for defining a lottery effect period. It is assumed that when the built-in timer as the production end timer expires, a timer interrupt is applied. In addition, the process for starting the lottery effect is specifically the image data (for example, stored in the ROM) of the background image shown in FIG. This is a process of instructing to expand. Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 instructs the position of the ball after movement to the VDP 106 in the VDP control process of step S707. The VDP 106 displays an image such as a roulette at a predetermined position in the display area of the variable display device 9 and appropriately changes the display position of the ball according to the instruction.

  When it is determined that the lottery effect is not performed, if a special state end command is received from the game control means, a lottery effect start timer is started (steps S857 and S858). Then, control goes to a step S856.

  In step S856, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to all symbol variation start processing.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an effect end timer interrupt process based on a timer interrupt that occurs due to the effect end timer being timed up. In the effect end timer interruption process, the effect control CPU 101 instructs the VDP 106 to display the image shown in FIG. 23B or FIG. If it is not in the special state at the start of), it is instructed to display the image shown in FIG. However, it is instructed to display the image shown in FIG. 23B at a predetermined rate (low rate) (steps S861, S865). Whether to display the image shown in FIG. 23B or the image shown in FIG. 23C is determined by, for example, generating a random number and comparing the value of the random number and the determination value. That is, it can be determined by lottery using random numbers.

  If a special state is entered at the start of variable display (the state before receiving the command if a special state end command is received), it is determined whether a special state end command has been received at that time. (Step S862). If the special state end command is received, the effect control CPU 101 displays the image shown in FIG. 23C on the VDP 106 in order to notify the player of the end of the special state. An instruction is given (step S863). If the special state end command has not been received, the effect control CPU 101 is shown in FIG. 23B for the VDP 106 in order to notify the player that the special state is continuing. An instruction to display an image is given (step S864). The VDP 106 reads out the image shown in FIG. 23B or FIG. 23C from the ROM and displays it on the variable display device 9 in accordance with an instruction from the effect control CPU 101.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a state in which a lottery effect is executed. In the example shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B, a lottery effect is executed at a predetermined rate both in the special state and not in the special state. Compared to the case, the execution frequency of the lottery effect is low (see FIG. 24). FIG. 27A shows an example of a case where it is decided to perform a lottery effect when the special state ends. FIG. 27B shows an example when it is decided not to perform the lottery effect when the special state ends. In that case, the lottery effect is always executed when the lottery effect start timer expires.

  In this embodiment, the lottery effect is executed according to the relationship shown in FIG. 24A (that is, the table in which the relationship is set), but the relationship shown in FIG. 24A is an example. Other relationships may be used. For example, in the table shown in FIG. 24B, in the gaming state other than the special state, the lottery effect is executed / not executed for each of the probability changing state, the short time state, and the other state (normal state). Is set. Therefore, the production control means can perform control for fine lottery production according to each game state. Even when the table shown in FIG. 24B is used, in the game state other than the special state, the effect control means performs the lottery effect as in the case of using the table shown in FIG. When it is determined to execute, the image shown in FIG. 23B is displayed at a predetermined rate (low rate).

  In addition, in the case where the table shown in FIG. 24A or the table shown in FIG. 24B is used, in the process of step S865, for example, a random number is generated and the value of the random number is determined. Or the determination value, that is, the image shown in FIG. 23B (referred to as a non-puncture effect) is displayed by lottery using random numbers, or the image shown in FIG. It is determined whether to display (referred to as a punk effect), but as shown in FIG. 24C, whether to perform a non-punk effect or a punk effect may be set on the table. .

  Moreover, in the process of step S865, it is not determined whether to perform a non-puncture effect or a puncture effect by lottery. For example, a predetermined period (time by timer measurement or variable display for a predetermined number of times) after the special state ends It is also possible to always execute the non-punk effect in the period) and always execute the puncture effect after the predetermined period has elapsed. In this case (from the end of the special state), the lottery effect may be executed constantly or at a high rate within a predetermined period.

  As described above, in this embodiment, in the gaming machine configured to determine whether or not to end the special state by lottery, the player is asked whether or not to end the special state by a predetermined effect. Inform. However, even if the lottery itself is executed, the lottery effect may not be executed. Moreover, even if it is not a special state, a lottery effect is performed at a low frequency. Therefore, the player can guess whether or not the special state is ended by the lottery effect, but the guess is not always true. As a result, it is possible to provide a new interest for the player to guess whether or not the special state has ended. Further, it is possible to improve the player's expectation that the special state will continue.

  Further, if the lottery effect is not performed at the end of the special state, the lottery effect is subsequently performed to notify that the special state has ended (step S863). The correct gaming state is notified.

  In this embodiment, a lottery effect is executed at a predetermined rate in any gaming state (since the process of step S852 in FIG. 25 is executed without the gaming state being a condition), but other than the special state In the gaming state, a lottery effect may be executed within a predetermined period (for example, 5 minutes or 10 variable display execution periods) after the special state ends. In that case, if the effect shown in FIG. 23C is not selected within the predetermined period, the special state is ended by executing the effect shown in FIG. 23C when the predetermined period ends. You may make it alert | report that it is doing. In other words, when the end condition of the second advantageous state is satisfied, a determination unit is provided for determining whether or not the effect start condition is satisfied within a predetermined period, and the determination unit determines that the effect start condition is satisfied. The lottery effect is sometimes executed, and the advantageous state end notification means notifies that the second advantageous state has ended when the determination means does not determine that the effect start condition is satisfied within a predetermined period. Also good.

  In this embodiment, in the gaming state other than the special state, the image shown in FIG. 23B is displayed with the same probability regardless of the gaming state or the image shown in FIG. 23C is displayed. However, the probability may be changed according to the gaming state (for example, the short time state or the normal state). In other words, in the game state other than the second advantageous state, the effect start condition determining means for determining whether or not the effect start condition is satisfied may include each determination means corresponding to the game state. Each determination means, for example, selects whether to display the image shown in FIG. 23 (B) or the image shown in FIG. 23 (C) with different probabilities depending on the gaming state. To do.

  In this embodiment, whether or not to perform the lottery effect is determined by lottery. That is, the lottery effect is executed at random, but every predetermined variable (for example, every 10 variable displays are performed). The lottery effect may be executed once.

  Further, after notifying that the special state has ended (after executing the processing of step S863), the time-count counter in the game control means is not 0 (when the condition for shifting to the time-saving state is satisfied) ), For example, a time-short continuous number of times notification as shown in FIG.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the game control means determines the jackpot symbol by random 3, and is controlled to the probability variation time short state, the probability variation state or the time variation state based on the determined symbol, but the probability variation time short state, probability variation It may be determined whether or not to control to the state or the short time state, and then the stop symbol may be determined. For example, the game control means uses a random number generation counter that can take a range of values from 0 to 100 or more, and uses the count value of the random number generation counter as a random number value in advance. The gaming state is determined by comparing the determination value determined corresponding to each of the normal states and the random number value. In such a gaming machine, the player cannot guess the gaming state by the special symbol stopped and displayed on the variable display device 9, and it is difficult for the player to understand the start of the special state. .

  In each of the above embodiments, in the first embodiment, the continuation period of the probability variation state and the continuation period of the probability variation state in the probability variation short time state are selected from a predetermined number of times (see step S93). However, in the second embodiment, it is determined whether or not the end condition is satisfied by lottery without setting the continuable period (see steps S552 and 553). A so-called probability variation puncture.), The gaming machine may be configured to execute both the cut-off and probability variation puncture control. That is, you may have control of both 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment. Note that in the gaming machine having both the control of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the random number for determining the probability variation number shown in FIG. 6 and the probability variation end determination factor shown in FIG. Both random numbers are used.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the first advantageous state is the time-shortening state and the second advantageous state is the probabilistic state. However, each of the first advantageous state and the second advantageous state is a gaming machine. Any of the advantageous states that can be determined in step S1 may be used. For example, the first advantageous state may be a certain variation state, and the second advantageous state may be a time-short state. Further, the second advantageous state may be a certain change state, and the first advantageous state may be an open extended state (or vice versa). In other words, as long as the first advantageous state and the second advantageous state are not the same, the first advantageous state and the second advantageous state may be any advantageous state. Further, the advantageous state is not limited to the probability variation state, the time reduction state, and the open extension state. Furthermore, the first advantageous state and the second advantageous state may be combined with a plurality of advantageous states on condition that they are not in the same gaming state. As an example, the second advantageous state may be a certain variation state, and the first advantageous state may be a combination of a short-time state and an open extension state, or the second advantageous state may be a certain variation state and an open extension state. As a combined state, the first advantageous state may be a state in which the short time state and the open extended state are combined.

  Further, in each of the embodiments described above, one effect control means controls the display means such as the variable display device 9, the lamp / LED, and the sound generation means, but the effect control means includes a plurality of microcomputers each including a microcomputer. It may be realized by a control means. For example, display control means for controlling display means such as the variable display device 9, light emitter control means for controlling lamps / LEDs, and sound control means for controlling sound generation means may be provided separately.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 28, the display state of the special symbol display 41 as a variable display device that variably displays the special symbol may be controlled by the game control means mounted on the main board 13. In that case, for example, a number from 0 to 11 (various numbers such as 0 to 99 may be variably displayed to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol) on the game board 6. A special symbol display 41 by a simple and small display capable of displaying is provided. In addition, the variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (for production) during the variable symbol display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 41. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80.

  In such a configuration, the relationship between the stop symbol of the special symbol display 41 and the gaming state may be determined as shown in FIG. 7, for example, and the combination of the stop symbols of the variable display device 9 may be made random. . In this case, random means not to associate the combination of the stopped symbols and the gaming state, for example, the same combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed when the gaming state is changed to the probable state. It is also used when changing the gaming state to a short time state. Since the player pays attention to the variable display of the symbols on the variable display device 9 that is more conspicuous than the special symbol display device 41, even if there is a correspondence between the stop symbol of the special symbol display device 41 and the game state, the variable display device 9 If the combination of stop symbols is random, it will be difficult to grasp what gaming state will be entered.

  In each of the above embodiments, the shift means shortens the variable display period for shortening the variable display period for the variable display of the identification information a predetermined number of times as compared with the normal state due to the establishment of the first shift condition. State, a high probability state in which the probability that the display result of variable display of identification information is a specific display result is improved compared to that in the normal state, and a period in which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state You may make it transfer to the 1st advantageous state containing the state (for example, time-short state and open extension state) of the open extension state extended longer than a certain time. With such a configuration, the advantageous state can be changed.

  Further, the transition means is in a state of one or more of the variable display period shortened state, the high probability state and the open extended state (for example, the probability change state and the open extended state) due to the establishment of the second transition condition. It may be configured to shift to a second advantageous state including With such a configuration, the second advantageous state can be changed.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to each of the above embodiments has a predetermined game value given to the player when the special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display device 9 based on the start winning combination is a combination of the predetermined symbols. It is a pachinko machine that can be granted, and it was a card reader (CR) type pachinko machine that lends a ball using a prepaid card, but only a CR-type pachinko machine that lends a ball using a prepaid card In addition, it can be applied to a pachinko machine that lends a ball with cash. Furthermore, pachinko machines that allow players to be given a predetermined gaming value when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on the start prize, and stop of symbols that are variably displayed based on the start prize The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continues when a predetermined electric prize is released when a symbol becomes a combination of predetermined symbols.

  The present invention comprises variable display means capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each, and after a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, start of variable display corresponding to the execution condition Start variable display of multiple types of identification information based on the establishment of the condition, and shift to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of multiple types of identification information becomes a specific display result. In a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that can shift to an advantageous state that is more advantageous to the player than a normal state before the predetermined transition condition is satisfied when the predetermined transition condition is satisfied, the variable display device It can apply in order to increase the variation of the production performed in the etc.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the stop symbol of a special symbol, and a game state. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a timing diagram for demonstrating an example of the change of a gaming state. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal process in a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the internal flag and presentation control command which are used in a special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end process in the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control process process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the background image displayed on the display part of a variable display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the random number used in effect control, and the effect control content. It is a flowchart which shows a notice selection process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of each random number. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a special symbol stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a lottery effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the random number which an effect control means uses, and a lottery effect. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a notice selection process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect end timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a mode that a lottery effect is performed. It is a block diagram which shows the other circuit structural example of a game control board.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachinko machine 9 Variable display device 15 Variable winning ball device 31 Main board 56 CPU
80 Production control board 101 Production control CPU

Claims (5)

Equipped with variable display means that can variably display identification information that can identify each of them. After a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, variable information display is started based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition. And
When the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result, the gaming state is shifted to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player,
A transition means for transitioning the gaming state to an advantageous state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state before the predetermined transition condition is satisfied when the predetermined transition condition is satisfied;
Compared to the case where the ratio of the display result of the variable display of the identification information per predetermined time to the specific display result is the normal state due to the establishment of the first transition condition among the predetermined transition conditions. A gaming state that is different from the first advantageous state by transition of the gaming state to a first advantageous state that is higher than the first advantageous state due to establishment of a second transition condition among the predetermined transition conditions, A gaming machine that shifts a gaming state to a second advantageous state in which a ratio of a display result of variable display of identification information per predetermined time to a specific display result is higher than that in the normal state. And
Advantageous state priority control means for causing the transition means to transition the gaming state to the second advantageous state when both the first transition condition and the second transition condition are satisfied;
When the transition means shifts the gaming state to the second advantageous state by the advantageous state priority control means, a specific number is set that is the number of variable display times of identification information that can be executed in the first advantageous state. Frequency setting means;
Each time the variable display of the identification information is executed, the number updating means for updating the specific number
End condition determination means for determining whether or not an end condition for ending the second advantageous state is satisfied each time variable display of identification information is executed in the second advantageous state;
When the end condition determining means determines that the end condition is satisfied, the specific number of times is an executable number indicating that variable display of identification information can be executed in the first advantageous state. On the condition, advantageous state transition control means for causing the transition means to shift the gaming state to the first advantageous state,
On the condition that the gaming state is the second advantageous state, advantageous state effect control means for performing a predetermined effect on the effect parts provided in the gaming machine,
Period determining means for determining whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the end condition was satisfied;
An effect of determining whether or not an effect start condition has been satisfied on the condition that the predetermined period has not elapsed when the period determination means is in a gaming state other than the second advantageous state. Starting condition determination means;
A game machine comprising: a predetermined effect control unit that causes the effect component to perform the predetermined effect when the effect start condition determining unit determines that the effect start condition is satisfied. Display result determination means for determining whether or not the display result of variable display of identification information is a specific display result;
Specific period determining means for determining whether or not a specific period has elapsed since it was determined that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is not a specific display result by the display result determining means,
The transition condition includes that it is determined that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is a specific display result by at least the display result determination unit,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect start condition determining means determines whether or not an effect start condition is satisfied when the specific period determining means determines that the specific period has not elapsed. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising an advantageous state end informing means for informing that the second advantageous state has ended. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising advantageous state number notifying means for notifying the specific number of times in the first advantageous state. The first advantageous state is a variable display period shortened state that shortens the variable display period of the variable display of the identification information a predetermined number of times compared to the normal state, and the second advantageous state is a variable display of the identification information. A high probability state in which the probability that the display result of is the specific display result is improved compared to the normal state,
A number selection means for selecting the number of times from a plurality of types of times including a number less than the specific number of times set by the number of times setting means;
When the shift means shifts to the second advantageous state, a special number that is the number of variable display times of the identification information that can be executed in the second advantageous state is set based on the number of times selected by the number selection means. A special number setting means,
A special number update means for updating the special number each time variable display of identification information is executed,
The end condition determining means determines that the end condition of the second advantageous state is satisfied when the special number reaches a predetermined number indicating that variable display of the identification information cannot be performed in the second advantageous state. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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