JP2006230671A - Pachinko game machine and simulation program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pachinko game machine which improves an interesting property by enhancing expectation of ordinary patterns and a simulation program. <P>SOLUTION: The pachinko game machine variably displays identification information on condition of the passage of a game ball through a prescribed area in a game area. The pachinko game machine holds display mode information concerning a prescribed display mode, on condition that a prescribed display mode is established as the result of variable display of ordinary patterns. The pachinko game machine controls blade members so as to put them in a first condition in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information from among the plurality of display mode information, on condition that the number of display mode information held reaches plural information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a ball game machine and a simulation program, and in particular, a ball game capable of variable winning that can be varied between a first state in which a game ball is easy to enter and a second state in which it is difficult to enter. The present invention relates to a machine and a simulation program.

  Conventionally, in a ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine, the main condition is that the game ball is received in a variable winning device (starting area) provided in a game area where the launched game ball can roll, Variable display control means is provided to control to display special symbols in a variable manner on the display area of the variable display device, and to perform control to derive and display special symbols for which variable display is performed. When the display mode is set, the game is shifted to a “hit game state” (so-called “hit”) which is advantageous to the player.

In addition, in such a ball game machine, generally, as shown in Patent Document 1, for example, a normal symbol is variably displayed in addition to a special symbol. The normal symbol will be variably displayed on the main condition that the game ball has passed a predetermined area in the game area. As described above, when the result of the variable symbol variable display becomes a predetermined display mode, the above-described variable winning device is controlled to the first state that is easy to accept. This variable winning device is normally controlled in a second state that is difficult to accept, and by controlling to the first state, it becomes easier to variably display special symbols. As a specific example, when the result of variable display of normal symbols is in a predetermined display mode, the variable winning device is set to the first state only once for 0.2 seconds according to the gaming state. It becomes the first state only once for 3 seconds.
JP 2000-296217 A

  However, in the above-described ball game machine, the variable winning device is in the first state based on the result of variable display of the normal symbol, and the special symbol is easily variably displayed. The first state is only once for 3 seconds, the first state is only once, and the time for the first state is short, and the variable winning device is in the first state. However, it is not easy for a player to win a game ball intentionally. For this reason, it is rare that a game is played with emphasis on the result of variable display of the normal symbol, and it is desired to enhance the expectation for the result of variable display of the normal symbol.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a ball game machine and a simulation program capable of improving the interest by enhancing the expectation for ordinary symbols. And

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.

  (1) a game board having a game area in which a game ball can roll, variable display means for variably displaying identification information on condition that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area in the game area of the game board; In the gaming area of the gaming board, a variable winning device that is displaceable between a first state in which a game ball is easily received and a second state in which a game ball is difficult to receive, and a result of variable display of the identification information being a predetermined display On the condition that the variable winning device is changed to the first state in a predetermined manner on the condition that the variable winning device is changed, the result of the variable display of the identification information is provided. Display mode information holding means for holding display mode information related to the predetermined display mode on the condition that the predetermined display mode has been obtained, and the variable winning device control means holds the display mode information means Therefore, on the condition that there are a plurality of display mode information held, it has a function of controlling the variable winning device to the first state in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information among the display mode information. A ball game machine characterized by

  (2) The ball and ball game machine according to (1), further including a release operation unit operable by a player, wherein the variable winning device control unit is configured to display the plurality of display modes according to an operation of the release operation unit. A bullet ball game machine having a function of controlling the variable winning device to the first state in a manner corresponding to information.

  (3) In the ball and ball game machine according to (1) or (2), a game operation means that can be operated by a player, and a result of variable display of the identification information according to the operation of the game operation means is predetermined. An information holding determining means for determining whether or not display mode information is held by the display mode information holding means when the display mode is set.

  (4) The bullet ball game machine according to any one of (1) to (3), further comprising a display mode information notification unit that performs notification regarding the display mode information held by the display mode information holding unit. Characteristic ball game machine.

  (5) Variable display control processing for performing control for variable display of identification information on condition that the game ball image has passed through a predetermined area in a game area where the game ball image can be displayed in a rolling manner, and the variable display control processing A process for performing control to display a variable winning device image that can be changed between a first state in which the game ball is easily received in the game area and a second state in which the game ball is difficult to be received, and variable display of the identification information. In the simulation program for causing a computer to execute variable winning device control processing for controlling the variable winning device image to the first state in a predetermined manner on the condition that the result has become a predetermined display mode, the identification information Display mode information for holding display mode information related to the predetermined display mode on the condition that the result of the variable display is a predetermined display mode. A mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information in the display mode information on condition that there are a plurality of display mode information held in the display mode information holding process in the holding process and the variable winning device control process A simulation program for causing a computer to execute a process of controlling the display of the variable winning device image in the first state.

  According to the invention described in (1) or (5), the display mode information relating to the predetermined display mode is maintained on the condition that the result of variable display of the identification information is the predetermined display mode. To do. Then, on condition that there are a plurality of stored display mode information, the variable winning device is controlled to a first state in which the game ball can be easily received in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information among the display mode information. To do. For this reason, by concentrating the control timing in the first state, it becomes easier for the player to win the game ball on the variable winning device as intended. Therefore, by providing such an opportunity, it is possible to improve the interest in the game by raising the sense of expectation for the identification information. Of course, the time for the first state becomes longer regardless of whether the time for the first state is short or long.

  According to the invention described in (2), the variable winning device is controlled to the first state in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information according to the operation of the release operation means that can be operated by the player. Therefore, the variable winning device can be controlled to the first state at the timing intended by the player, and the interest in the game can be improved by further enhancing the expectation for the identification information.

  According to the invention described in (3), when the result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a predetermined display mode in accordance with the operation of the game operation means that can be operated by the player, the display mode information is held. Determine whether or not. For this reason, a game can be performed in the game mode desired by the player.

  According to the invention described in (4), the notification regarding the held display mode information is performed. For this reason, by providing the player with an opportunity to recognize the display mode information such as the number of display mode information held and the time to shift to the first state, the expectation for the identification information is further enhanced. By doing so, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest of the game by raising the expectation for the identification information.

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

[Composition of gaming machine]
An overview of the gaming machine in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the embodiment described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a first type pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as “digital pachi”) is shown as a preferred embodiment for a gaming machine according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 fires a glass door 11, a wooden frame 12, a base door 13, a game board 14, a dish unit 21, a liquid crystal display device 32 for displaying an image, and a game ball. It includes a launching device 130, a substrate unit 400, a ball payout unit 500 that gives game value, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the glass door 11 described above is pivotally attached to the base door 13 so as to be openable and closable. Further, an opening 11a is formed in the center of the glass door 11, as shown in FIG. Further, a transparent protective glass 19 is disposed in the opening 11a. The protective glass 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of a game board 14 described later in a state where the glass door 11 is closed. In particular, the protective glass 19 may be disposed so as to face at least the entire area of the gaming area 15, but the front area 16 of the gaming board 14 that does not correspond to the gaming area 15 (hereinafter referred to as outside the gaming area 16). ) May be arranged so as to face each other.

  The glass door 11 is provided with a control panel 80 below the opening 11a. The control panel 80 includes a game ball lending operation unit 82, a menu operation unit 84 for menu screen display, menu selection, determination, and cancellation, a game operation unit 88 for operations related to the progress of the game, and the like. .

  As shown in FIG. 2, the dish unit 21 described above is disposed on the base door 13 so as to be positioned below the glass door 11. As shown in FIG. 1, the dish unit 21 is provided with an upper dish 20 above it. A lower plate 22 is provided below the upper plate 20. The upper plate 20 stores game balls to be launched into a game area 15 described later. The upper plate 20 and the lower plate 22 are provided with payout ports 20a and 22a for renting out game balls and paying out game balls (prize balls). When predetermined payout conditions are satisfied, The game balls stored in the ball payout unit 500 described later are discharged.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the launching device 130 described above is disposed on the base door 13 so as to be located on the side of the dish unit 21. As shown in FIG. 1, the launching device 130 is provided with a launching handle 26 that can be operated by a player. The launch handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable, and the pachinko game can be advanced by operating the launch handle 26 by the player. Further, on the back side of the firing handle 26, a firing motor (not shown), a ball feed solenoid (not shown) and the like are provided. Note that the player who plays the game is located on the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in which the operation of the launch handle 26 and the like is possible. That is, this pachinko gaming machine 10 can be played from the front.

  Further, a touch sensor (not shown), a firing stop switch (not shown), and the like are provided on the periphery of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the shooting handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the shooting motor according to the rotation angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. Fired sequentially on the board 14. Even when the launch handle 26 is being rotated, when the launch stop switch is operated, the game device 130 does not launch the game ball.

  It should be noted that the touch sensor provided on the firing handle 26 may be any sensor that can determine that the player has gripped the firing handle 26. It doesn't matter.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 14 described above is disposed in front of the base door 13 so as to be positioned behind the protective glass 19 in the glass door 11. The game board 14 is entirely formed of a plate-shaped resin having transparency. Examples of the resin having transparency include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. That is, part or all of the game board 14 is formed by the translucent member so that the rear can be visually recognized. The game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front surface of which the launched game ball can roll. As shown in FIG. 1, the game area 15 is surrounded by guide rails 30 and the like, and is an area in which a game ball can roll. The game area 15 of the game board 14 is provided with a plurality of obstacle nails (not shown). As described above, the game ball launched by the launching device 130 is guided by the guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14 and moves to the upper part of the game board 14, and then collides with the above-described obstacle nails. As a result, the player moves down toward the lower side of the game board 14 while changing its traveling direction. In addition, as will be described in detail later, the game board 14 can be exchanged for another game board by a game hall manager or the like, and by exchanging the game board, a variety of games can be provided. .

  In the center of the front surface of the game board 14, a start port 44, a shutter 40, and the like are provided. The variable display of the special symbol (an example of identification information) is executed on condition that a game ball has entered the start port 44. Further, as will be described in detail later, depending on the result of the variable display of this special symbol, a big hit gaming state (specific game state, so-called “hit”) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state is obtained. When the big hit game state is reached, the shutter 40 is controlled to be in an open state, and the game ball may be easily received in the big prize opening 39.

  As described above, the base door 13 on which the glass door 11, the game board 14, the dish unit 21, and the launching device 130 are disposed is pivotally attached to the wooden frame 12, as shown in FIG. An opening 13 a is formed at the center of the base door 13. For this reason, the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind the base door 13 can be viewed from the front through the transmissive game board 14 and the protective glass 19. Speakers 46L and 46R are disposed above the base door 13.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, a special symbol display device 33 is disposed in the center of the game board 14. The special symbol display device 33 is a display device capable of 7-segment display, and performs variable display of special symbols in a special symbol game. The special symbol in the special symbol display device 33 is configured by a single symbol sequence, but is not limited thereto, and may be configured by, for example, a plurality of symbol sequences. This special symbol is a symbol consisting of numbers, symbols, and the like. In this embodiment, numbers from “0” to “9” and a symbol “−” are used.

  “Variable display” is a concept that can be displayed in a variable manner. For example, a “variable display” that is actually displayed in a variable state, a “stop display” that is displayed in a stopped state, etc. It is. In addition, “variable display” can be “derivation display” in which identification information is displayed as a result of a special symbol game. Further, the period from the start of the variable display to the derivation display is referred to as one variable display.

  Further, in the special symbol display device 33, the special symbol is derived and displayed, and the special symbol thus derived and displayed is displayed in a specific display mode (for example, a mode in which any one of “0” to “9” is derived and displayed, On the basis of the so-called “hit display mode”), the gaming state is shifted to a jackpot gaming state (specific gaming state) advantageous to the player. In addition, when the special symbol derived and displayed is in a non-specific display mode (for example, a mode in which “-” is derived and displayed, a so-called “out-of-phase”), the game state does not shift to the big hit gaming state.

  In addition, the special symbol that is derived and displayed is a special display mode (for example, a mode in which “1”, “3”, “5”, “7”, “9” is derived and displayed, Based on the so-called “probability change jackpot display mode”), the gaming state is shifted to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player, and when the jackpot gaming state is ended, the game state is shifted to the probability changing state. On the other hand, the special symbol derived and displayed is a non-special display mode (for example, “0”, “2”, “4”, “6”, “8”) that is not a special display mode among the specific display modes. The game state is shifted to a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player based on the fact that the game is derived and displayed, so-called “ordinary big hit display mode”), and when the big hit gaming state ends, the player It will shift to the normal gaming state which is relatively disadvantageous.

  In the probability change state as described above, the probability of shifting to the big hit gaming state is improved relative to the normal gaming state. A game state that shifts to the big hit gaming state when the special symbol derived and displayed is in a special display mode, and shifts to the probable change state after the end of the big hit gaming state is referred to as a special big hit gaming state. Further, a game state that shifts to the big hit gaming state when the special symbol that is derived and displayed becomes a non-special display mode, and that shifts to the normal gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is referred to as a normal big hit gaming state.

  In addition, in the special big hit that becomes the probability change state after the big hit gaming state, the upper limit round number of round control in the big hit gaming state is 15 rounds. That is, the gaming state is shifted to the first jackpot gaming state that is relatively advantageous to the player. On the other hand, in a normal big hit that does not change to a probable state after the big hit gaming state, the upper limit number of rounds of round control in the big hit gaming state is two rounds.

  The liquid crystal display device 32 described above is disposed on the base door 13. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a for displaying an image relating to a game. The liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14 through the opening 13a. Further, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed so that the display area 32a overlaps the whole or a part of the game board 14 through the opening 13a in the depth direction from the back side. In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, as will be described in detail later, various games such as decorative symbols that are variably displayed in accordance with the variable symbol special display in the special symbol game, background images related to the game, effect images, etc. Will be displayed in a predetermined manner. That is, the liquid crystal display device 32 displays an effect image related to the game. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a for displaying an effect image relating to the game in a visually recognizable manner. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 performs variable display of decorative symbols (an example of identification information). In particular, as will be described in detail later, the liquid crystal display device 32 displays a notification image regarding the number of hits held in the normal symbol game. Note that the liquid crystal display device 32 in the present embodiment corresponds to an example of a display mode information notification unit.

  In addition, on the liquid crystal display device 32, decorative symbols corresponding to a plurality of symbol rows (three rows in the present embodiment) are variably displayed in accordance with the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display device 33. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 performs variable display of decorative symbols in each of a plurality of symbol rows (display rows). When the derivation display of the decoration symbol is performed in the plurality of symbol strings and the result of the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol display device 33 is a specific display mode, the combination of the plurality of decoration symbols derived and displayed is It becomes a specific combination (for example, a mode in which all of “0” to “9” are derived and displayed in each of a plurality of symbol rows, so-called “hit display mode”), and the game state is given to the player It will shift to an advantageous jackpot gaming state. Further, when the result of variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol display device 33 is the probability variation jackpot display mode, the combination of a plurality of derived symbols that are derived and displayed is a special combination (for example, a specific combination (for example, A mode in which one of “1”, “3”, “5”, “7”, and “9” is derived and displayed in each of a plurality of symbol sequences, so-called “probability big hit display mode”) Thus, when the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state advantageous to the player and the big hit gaming state is finished, the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state. On the other hand, when the result of variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol display device 33 is a normal jackpot display mode, the combination of the plurality of decorative symbols derived and displayed is not a special combination of the specific combinations. A special combination (for example, a mode in which each of a plurality of symbol rows is derived and displayed in a state where any one of “0”, “2”, “4”, “6”, “8” is aligned, so-called “ Normal jackpot display mode ”), and the game state is shifted to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player, and when the jackpot gaming state is completed, the game state is shifted to the normal gaming state. In addition to these decorative symbols, the liquid crystal display device 32 displays a background image, an effect image for effect, and the like.

  As described above, when a game is being played from the front of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the player, that is, when the glass door 11 is in a closed state, a liquid crystal display is provided on the back side of the permeable gaming board 14. Since the device 32 is provided and the protective glass 19 having transparency is provided on the front side of the game board 14, the image displayed on the display area 32a in the liquid crystal display device 32 has transparency. It becomes visible to the player through the board 14 and the protective glass 19.

  For this reason, as will be described in detail later, a liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed on the back surface of the gaming board 14 having transparency, and various presentations are performed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, so that a conventional gaming machine can be provided. It is possible to provide a novel display effect that was not found, and to improve the interest. Further, in the conventional gaming machine, there is a possibility that the size of the game area is reduced by increasing the size of the display area. Further, displaying various images without increasing the size of the display area may cause troublesome visual recognition for the player. Therefore, by executing a display effect as described later, it is possible to execute a variety of effects independent of the size of the display area in the liquid crystal display device 32, and to improve the interest. In addition, since a gap is provided between the game board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind the game board 14, an impact when the obstacle nail is adjusted is conducted to the liquid crystal display device 32. It is difficult to prevent the liquid crystal display device 32 from being damaged, and the product life of the liquid crystal display device 32 can be prolonged. It should be noted that the liquid crystal display device 32 may be provided with holes for arrangement of an accessory, a winning opening, a ball channel, a reel, and the like.

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

  The above-described wooden frame 12 is a wooden frame, and a base door 13 is pivotally mounted in front of the wooden frame 12 as shown in FIG. In addition, in this embodiment, although it was set as the structure which used the wooden wooden frame 12, it is not restricted to this, For example, another aspect may be sufficient, for example, as a structure using metal and resin frames. Also good. An opening 12 a is formed at the center of the wooden frame 12. In the opening 12a, the base door 13, the liquid crystal display device 32, a substrate unit 400 described later in detail, a ball paying unit 500, and the like are disposed.

  The substrate unit 400 described above is pivotally attached to the rear of the base door 13. The board unit 400 incorporates various boards (not shown) on which a circuit for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 10 is formed, and these boards are covered by a board case (not shown). Yes.

  The ball dispensing unit 500 described above is pivotally attached to the rear of the base door 13. The ball payout unit 500 includes a ball storage tank (not shown) for storing game balls and a ball passage case (not shown). Will be led to the outlets 20a and 22a.

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

  For example, a special symbol display device 33 is provided above the center in the game area 15 of the game board 14.

  In addition, a normal symbol display device 35 that performs variable display of normal symbols is provided on the right side of the special symbol display device 33. This normal symbol is information including numbers, symbols, and the like, for example, symbols such as “◯” and “x”.

  Further, above the game board 14, special symbol hold display devices 34a to 34d (indicated by reference numeral 34 in FIG. 4) for displaying the number of reserved symbols in the special symbol game, and a normal symbol hold for displaying the number of reserved symbols in the normal symbol game. A display device 37 is provided.

  Above the game area 15 of the game board 14, ball passage detectors 54 a and 54 b (an example of a predetermined area in the game area 15 of the game board 14) are provided. When the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b detect that a game ball has passed in the vicinity thereof, the normal symbol display (not shown) on the normal symbol display device 35 starts to be displayed, and a predetermined time has elapsed. After that, the variable symbol display is stopped. This normal symbol is information including numbers, symbols, and the like, for example, symbols such as “◯” and “x”. When this normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol, for example, “◯”, blade members (so-called normal electric accessories, hereinafter referred to as normal electric combination) provided on both the left and right sides of a starting port 44 described later. 48) is changed from the closed state to the opened state, so that the game ball can easily enter the start port 44. In addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 48 is in the open state, the blade member 48 is closed so that it is difficult for the game ball to enter the start port 44. Note that the start port 44 and the blade member 48 in the present embodiment are an example of a variable winning device that can be displaced in the game area 15 between a first state in which a game ball is easily received and a second state in which a game ball is difficult to be received. Equivalent to.

  Further, below the game area 15 of the game board 14, there are provided game ball general winning openings 56 a to 56 d.

  In addition, a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed with respect to the special prize opening 39 is provided below the game area 15 of the game board 14. As described above, when the special symbol derived and displayed is in a specific display mode, the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state, and the shutter 40 is in an open state (first state) in which the game ball can be easily received. It is driven to become. Further, the special winning opening has a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 4) and a general area (not shown) having a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 4). The shutter 40 is driven to the open state until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls pass through these areas or until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. In other words, in the open state, when a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls to the grand prize opening or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied, the big prize opening is put into a closed state (second state) where it is difficult to accept the game balls. To do. Subsequently, the shutter 40, which has been changed from the open state to the closed state, is driven to the open state again on condition that the game ball received in the big winning opening in the open state has passed the V · count sensor 102. . That is, the game ball received when the grand prize winning opening is in the open state passes the specific area provided in the big winning prize opening, and then is opened again after being closed.

  A start opening 44 having a start winning ball sensor 116 (see FIG. 4) is provided above the shutter 40. When a game ball wins at the starting port 44, a special symbol game, which will be described later, is started, and the state shifts to a variable display state in which the special symbol is variably displayed. As the predetermined variable display start condition, in this embodiment, the main condition is that the game ball has won the start opening 44 (the game ball has passed through the start area). In other words, when a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied (provided that the game ball has passed through the start area), the special symbol is variably displayed. In the embodiment, the predetermined variable display start condition is that a game ball has won the start opening 44, but the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used.

  In addition, when a game ball wins the start opening 44 during the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the game ball wins the start opening 44 until the special symbol in the variable display is derived and displayed. Execution (start) of variable display of special symbols based on is suspended, that is, when a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied but a predetermined variable display start condition is not satisfied (a predetermined variable display hold condition is satisfied) In such a case, execution (start) of variable symbol special display is suspended until a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied. If the special symbol is derived and displayed in a state where the execution of the variable display of the special symbol is suspended, the execution of the variable display of the special symbol that is suspended is started. In addition, the special symbol variable display executed when the special symbol is derived and displayed is once. For example, in the state where execution of variable display of special symbols is held three times, when a special symbol is derived and displayed, one of the variable displays of special symbols held is executed once, and the remaining two symbols are displayed. The batch is held.

  Similarly, in the normal symbol game, when the game ball passes in the vicinity of the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b during the normal symbol variation display, until the normal symbol in the variation display is derived and displayed, Execution (start) of the variable symbol display based on the passage of the game ball to the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b is suspended. If the normal symbol is derived and displayed in the state where the execution of variable display of the normal symbol is suspended, the variable symbol of the held regular symbol is started after a predetermined time has elapsed. Further, the execution of variable display of the normal symbol executed when the normal symbol is derived and displayed is one time. The number of executions of the variable display of the held normal symbols (so-called “the number of holdings related to the normal symbol”, “the number of holdings in the normal symbol game”) is displayed by the normal symbol holding display device 37. In addition, an upper limit is also set for the number of times that execution of variable symbol display is suspended, for example, variable symbol variable display is suspended up to four times. When the variable display of the identification information in the normal symbol game is held in this way, the normal symbol hold display device 37 displays the number of the hold.

  In the present embodiment, it is configured to hold the variable symbol special display up to four times as an upper limit. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one or more times may be set as the upper limit. As such, it may be configured to suspend variable display of special symbols, and may be configured to suspend without setting an upper limit. Of course, you may comprise so that the variable display of a special symbol may not be suspended. In the present embodiment, the variable symbol display is suspended with the upper limit being four times. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the upper limit may be one or more times. As such, it may be configured to hold the variable display of the normal symbol, or may be configured to hold without setting an upper limit. Of course, you may comprise so that the variable display of a normal symbol may not be suspended.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment is shown in FIG.

  The pachinko gaming machine 10 is mainly composed of a main control circuit 60 as game control means and a sub control circuit 200 as effect control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the game. The sub-control circuit 200 controls effects according to the progress of the game.

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

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

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

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

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

  The main RAM 70 includes a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a high probability flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a presentation condition selection random number counter, a big prize opening number of times counter, and a big prize opening prize counter. , Normal symbol control status flag, Random counter for normal symbol judgment, Win flag, Normal electric winning prize counter, Waiting time timer, Big prize opening time timer, Data indicating the number of hold in special symbol game, etc. Variables, data for supplying commands to the sub-control circuit 200 described later, variables, and the like are positioned.

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

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

  The normal symbol control state flag indicates the control state of the normal symbol game. The normal symbol per-determination random number counter is for determining a hit in a normal symbol game. The winning flag is for determining whether or not the result of the normal symbol game is a winning. The ordinary electric winning prize counter is for counting the number of game balls won in the start opening 44 while the blade member 48 is in the open state.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The special prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the special prize opening 39. Note that the timer in the present embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

  The big prize opening number counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening 39 is opened (so-called “round number”) in the big hit gaming state. The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the big prize winning opening 39 during one round and have passed the V / count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserves is held when the game ball is won at the start opening 44, but when the variable symbol display cannot be executed, the variable symbol is held, but the variable special symbol display is held. Indicates the number of times.

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

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

  Various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a special symbol display device 33, a special symbol hold display device 34, a normal symbol display device 35, a normal symbol hold display. Device 37, game operation unit 88, V / count sensor 102, count sensor 104, general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, passing ball sensors 114, 115, starting winning ball sensor 116, ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118, A prize winning solenoid 120, a seesaw solenoid 122, a backup clear switch 124, and the like are connected.

  The special symbol display device 33 performs variable display of a special symbol as a special symbol in the special symbol game in accordance with a signal from the main control circuit 60.

  The special symbol hold display device 34 displays the number of reserved special symbols in the special symbol game in response to a signal from the main control circuit 60.

  The normal symbol display device 35 performs variable display of the normal symbol as identification information in the normal symbol game in response to a signal from the main control circuit 60. That is, the normal symbol display device 35 performs variable display of the normal symbol on the condition that the game ball has passed through the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b (predetermined region) in the game region 15. The normal symbol display device 35 in this embodiment is an example of variable display means.

  The normal symbol hold display device 37 displays the number of hold of variable display of normal symbols in the normal symbol game in response to a signal from the main control circuit 60.

  The game operation unit 88 is an example of a release operation unit and a game operation unit that can be operated by the player.

  The V / count sensor 102 is provided in a specific area in the special winning opening 39. The V / count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning opening 39.

  The count sensor 104 is provided in a general area different from the specific area in the special winning opening 39. The count sensor 104 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the general area at the special winning opening 39.

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

  The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 are provided in the ball passing detectors 54a and 54b. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the ball passing detectors 54a and 54b.

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

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

  The big prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 shown in FIG. 1 and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the big prize opening 39 open or closed.

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

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

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. Connected to the payout / launch control circuit 126 are a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150. Specifically, the payout / launch control circuit 126 has a CPU (not shown) for controlling the payout / launch control circuit 126 and a ROM (a program for causing the CPU to execute processing). And a RAM (not shown) which is a work area of the CPU. Further, a lending operation unit 82 is connected to the card unit 150, and an operation signal is supplied to the card unit 150 in accordance with the operation.

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

  In addition, the launching device 130 is provided with a device for launching a game ball such as the launching motor and the touch sensor described above. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is turned in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing motor according to the turning angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is fired. It is sequentially fired on the game board 14 by the motor. Note that such a launching device 130 is employed as an example of a launching unit that launches a game medium in response to a player's operation. Further, the payout / firing control circuit 126 is employed as an example of a firing control unit that controls driving of the firing unit.

  Further, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub-control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46 (46L and 46R in FIG. 1), a decorative lamp. Control of the lamp 132 including (not shown) is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the main control circuit 60 is configured not to supply commands to the sub control circuit 200 and to prevent signals from being supplied from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60. The present invention is not limited to this, and there is no problem even if it is configured such that signals can be transmitted from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60.

  The sub control circuit 200 includes a sub CPU 206, a program ROM 208 as a storage unit, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, a sound control circuit 230 for performing control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, The lamp control circuit 240 controls the lamp 132 including a decoration lamp. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60. In addition, a menu operation unit 84 and the like are connected to the sub control circuit 200, and an operation signal is supplied to the sub control circuit 200 according to the operation (operation state).

  A program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like are connected to the sub CPU 206. The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. The sub CPU 206 functions as various means described later.

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

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display.

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

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

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

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

  The display control circuit 250 is a circuit that performs display control of the liquid crystal display device 32, and includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP), an image data ROM that stores data for generating various image data, A frame buffer for buffering image data, a D / A converter for converting image data as an image signal, and the like are included.

  The display control circuit 250 is a device that can perform various processes for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 32 in accordance with data supplied from the sub CPU 206.

  In response to an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206, the display control circuit 250 displays various image data such as decorative design image data, background image data, and production image data indicating a decorative design on the liquid crystal display device 32. The image data to be stored is temporarily stored in the frame buffer. Then, the display control circuit 250 supplies the image data stored in the frame buffer to the D / A converter at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter converts image data as an image signal, and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing, whereby an image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the display control circuit 250 performs control to display an image on the liquid crystal display device 32.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC that performs control related to audio, an audio data ROM that stores various audio data, an amplifier (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals, and the like.

  The sound source IC controls sound generated from the speaker 46. The sound source IC selects one sound data from a plurality of sound data stored in the sound data ROM in accordance with a sound generation command supplied from the sub CPU 206. The sound source IC reads the selected sound data from the sound data ROM, converts the sound data into a predetermined sound signal, and supplies the sound signal to the AMP. The AMP amplifies the sound signal and generates sound from the speaker 46.

  The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit for supplying a lamp control signal, a decoration data ROM storing a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns, and the like.

[Description of display screen]
In addition, a display screen related to the special symbol game and the normal symbol game executed in the liquid crystal display device 32 in the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Description of special symbol game]
In the special symbol display device 33, the special symbol is variably displayed as shown in FIG. Specifically, in the case where the special symbol is derived and displayed, when a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variable display is executed. Then, on the condition that the special symbol that has been stopped and displayed is in a non-specific display mode (for example, a mode that does not change from “0” to “9”, “−”), the big hit gaming state The game state transitions to the big hit game state on the condition that the current game state such as the normal game state is maintained and has become a specific display mode (for example, “0” to “9”, etc.). Will be.

  In addition, on the display area 32a in the liquid crystal display device 32, variable display of a plurality of rows of decorative symbols for decorating the special symbols in the special symbol display device 33 is performed. Specifically, when the special symbol is derived and displayed, the decorative symbol is also derived and displayed as shown in FIG. And when the predetermined variable display start condition mentioned above is satisfied, the variable display of the decoration symbol is also executed as shown in FIG. Then, before the special symbol is derived and displayed, as shown in FIG. 5C, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed on the left column, and then the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed on the right column. Then, at the timing when the special symbol is derived and displayed, the middle row of decorative symbols is stopped and displayed, and the decorative symbols are derived and displayed.

  In addition, the decorative symbol that is derived and displayed has a relationship with the special symbol that is derived and displayed. Specifically, when the special symbol is “−”, the decorative symbol is in a non-specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are not arranged), and the special symbol is “0” to “9”. In the case of, the decorative symbol is in a specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are arranged). That is, all the columns are stopped and displayed, and the derived and displayed decorative symbols of the plurality of columns are, as shown in FIG. 5D, non-specific display modes (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are not arranged) Then, the special symbol is derived and displayed as “−”, and the current gaming state such as the normal gaming state is maintained. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5 (E), when the decorative symbols of a plurality of rows are in a specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are arranged), the special symbol is derived from “0” to “9”. The game state is displayed and the game state is shifted to the big hit game state.

[Description of normal symbol game]
In the normal symbol display device 35, as shown in FIG. 3, the normal symbol as identification information is variably displayed. Specifically, when the normal symbol derivation display is performed, when a predetermined normal symbol variable display start condition (for example, passing of a game ball to the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b) is satisfied, the normal symbol is displayed. The variable display is executed. Then, on the condition that the normal symbol that is displayed in a stopped state and that is derived and displayed is in a non-specific display mode (for example, “×”), the normal symbol game is lost, and a specific display mode (for example, “ It is a win in a normal symbol game on the condition that “

  In the case of winning in the normal symbol game, the blade member 48 is released or the winning is held (held). Here, the opening of the blade member 48 corresponds to one hit game. In addition, as will be described in detail later, the selection of whether the blade member 48 is opened or is held is determined depending on the operation of the game operation unit 88. When the winning is held in this way, the number of held games held in the normal symbol game is stored (held) in the memory as display mode information, and as shown in FIG. In the device 32, the number of hit games held is displayed as a notification image (for example, a star image). In addition, an effective image indicating that the winning is suspended is displayed as a notification image. In the case where the setting is made so that the winning is not suspended, an invalid image is displayed as shown in FIG.

  Also, when the number of hit game holds reaches a predetermined number (for example, three), the number of hit game holds in the normal symbol game is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 as shown in FIG. 6B. A notification image (for example, a star image or the like) indicating that has reached the predetermined number is displayed. Further, in this case, an operation promotion image indicating that the winning games corresponding to the number of held winning games is collectively executed by the operation of the game operation unit 88 is displayed as a notification image.

  Then, when the game operation unit 88 is operated at the timing (period), as shown in FIG. 6C, it corresponds to the number of held game holds (for example, 3). The hit game is executed collectively. Thus, for example, when the wing member 48 is released once for 0.2 seconds in one hit game, the bat member corresponding to the number of game holds for four times, that is, the wing member 48 is 0. .Opening is performed 4 times for 2 seconds.

  As described above, the display mode information regarding the change to the predetermined display mode is held on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information is the predetermined display mode. Then, on condition that there are a plurality of stored display mode information, the variable winning device is controlled to a first state in which the game ball can be easily received in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information among the display mode information. To do. For this reason, by concentrating the control timing in the first state, it becomes easier for the player to win the game ball on the variable winning device as intended. Therefore, by providing such an opportunity, it is possible to improve the interest in the game by raising the sense of expectation for the identification information. Of course, the time for the first state becomes longer regardless of whether the time for the first state is short or long.

  Further, the variable winning device is controlled to the first state in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information in accordance with the operation of the release operation means operable by the player. Therefore, the variable winning device can be controlled to the first state at the timing intended by the player, and the interest in the game can be improved by further enhancing the expectation for the identification information.

  Further, in accordance with the operation of the game operation means that can be operated by the player, when the result of variable display of the identification information becomes a predetermined display mode, it is determined whether or not to hold the display mode information. For this reason, a game can be performed in the game mode desired by the player.

  In the present embodiment, as a winning game corresponding to a plurality of game hold numbers, the blade member 48 is opened and closed as many times as the number of game hold numbers (for example, 0.2 seconds × 4). However, the blade member 48 may be opened at a time corresponding to the plurality of game holding numbers at once (for example, 0.8 seconds). In addition, for example, in the case of a mode corresponding to a plurality of game holding numbers, not only the number corresponding to purely increases, but the more reserved number, the more advantageous (for example, 1) Individual hold, 0.2 second x 1 time, 2 hold, 0.2 second x 2 times, 3 hold, 0.4 second x 3 times, 4 hold, 0.6 seconds x 4 times Such).

  In the present embodiment, in the liquid crystal display device 32, there is a winning game holding number, an effective image, an image indicating that the winning game holding number has reached a predetermined number, an operation promotion image, and a winning game corresponding to the winning game hold number. The image indicating that the image is executed is notified as the notification image. However, the notification is not limited thereto. For example, the notification may be performed not only by the image but also by sound, light emission from the lamp, and the like. That is, the notification regarding the held display mode information is performed.

  In this way, notification regarding the display mode information being held is performed. For this reason, by providing the player with an opportunity to recognize the display mode information such as the number of display mode information held and the time to shift to the first state, the expectation for the identification information is further enhanced. By doing so, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

[Game machine operation]
The processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 and FIGS. 12 to 25 below. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 10) performed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 7, initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, and work area initialization is executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 9, a special symbol control process related to the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbol displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 and the special symbol display device 33, and the decorative symbol is executed (step S15). . Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 10, normal symbol control processing relating to the progress of the normal symbol game and the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display device 35 is executed (step S16). Thus, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the processes in step S15 and step S16 are repeatedly executed.

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

  First, as shown in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 executes a random number update process so as to increase the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, and the like by “1” (step S42). Then, the main CPU 66 executes an input detection process for detecting the winning or passing of the game ball to the start port 44 or the like (step S43). In this processing, the main CPU 66 stores in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 data for paying out the game balls (winning the game balls) on the condition that the game balls have won the various winning ports. A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, a big prize opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs, etc. Various timer update processes are executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor, or the like (step S46). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

  In step S47, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 200. Specifically, these various commands include a demo display command, a derived symbol designation command indicating the type of special symbol derived and displayed, a variation pattern designation command indicating a variation display pattern of the special symbol, and the like. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.

  In the process of step S49, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126. Specifically, the main CPU 66 supplies to the payout / firing control circuit 126 a prize ball control command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls as a result of the game balls winning in various winning holes. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S50.

  In the process of step S50, the main CPU 66 executes a switch input process. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 9, processing corresponding to the operation of various operation switches is executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is restored to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Switch input processing]
The subroutine executed in step S50 in FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 9, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the first operation valid condition is satisfied (step S301). As a specific example of the first operation effective condition, the main condition is that the number of hits held is “0”. When the main CPU 66 determines that the first operation valid condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S302. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 determines that the first operation valid condition is not satisfied, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S304.

  In step S302, it is determined whether a setting change operation has been performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a setting change operation has been performed in accordance with a predetermined operation by the game operation unit 88 (a predetermined operation signal from the game operation unit 88). If the main CPU 66 determines that a setting change operation has been performed, the main CPU 66 changes the hold state flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 (step S303), and moves the process to step S304. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that no setting change operation has been performed, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S304 without executing step S303.

  Thus, by changing the setting, a determination is made in step S541, which will be described later. Therefore, when the normal symbol game is won in accordance with the operation of the game operation unit 88, the number of hit game holds (display mode information) ), It is determined whether or not to hold the winning game.

  In step S303, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a hold state flag change command indicating that the hold state flag has been changed, in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the hold state flag change command stored in this way is supplied as a hold state flag change command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. . As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize the hold state flag, and as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the notification image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32, so that the winning hold function is effective. Whether it is invalid or not.

  In step S304, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the second operation valid condition is satisfied (step S301). As a specific example of the second operation effective condition, for example, the main condition is that the number of hits held is not less than a predetermined number (a plurality, for example, 3). When the main CPU 66 determines that the second operation valid condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S305. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the second operation valid condition is not satisfied, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S305, it is determined whether or not a hold release operation has been performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a hold release operation has been performed in response to a predetermined operation by the game operation unit 88 (a predetermined operation signal from the game operation unit 88). If the main CPU 66 determines that a hold release operation has been performed, the main CPU 66 turns on the hold release flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 (step S306), and ends this subroutine. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the setting change operation has not been performed, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine without executing step S306.

  Thus, by changing the setting, a determination is made in step S544, which will be described later, and therefore, in accordance with the operation of the game operation unit 88, the number of hit game hold numbers (display mode information) held in the normal symbol game The blade member 48 is controlled to be in the first state in a mode corresponding to a plurality of winning game hold numbers (display mode information).

  In step S 306, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a hold release operation command indicating that the hold release operation has been performed in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The stored data indicating the hold release operation command is supplied as a hold release operation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize that the hold release operation has been performed, and a notification image indicating that the hold release operation has been performed is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S15 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 10, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S72 to step S80 indicate the control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 10, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

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

  In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. As will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 12, the main CPU 66 checks the number of holdings when the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check, and determines the big hit if there is a holding number. , Derived special symbol, variation pattern of special symbol, etc. are determined. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag, and sets the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the current process in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S73 is executed after the fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern determined this time has elapsed. On the other hand, when there is no pending number, a demonstration display process for displaying a demonstration screen is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S73.

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

  In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, the setting of step S75 is performed. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S80. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S75.

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

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

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

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

  In step S79, a big hit end interval process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set to flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S80. Then, the main CPU 66 performs control to shift to a probability variation state when the big hit symbol is a probability variation symbol, and performs control to shift to the normal gaming state when the big hit symbol is a non-probability variation symbol. Become. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S80.

  In step S80, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 stores and updates the data indicating the number of holdings (starting storage information) to be decreased by “1”. Then, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S72. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the big hit determination result is lost in the case of not being in the big hit gaming state. By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S80 shown in FIG. 10 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the big hit gaming state, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 10 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Further, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S77 shown in FIG. The processing of step S78 and step S76 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the specific game is executed. When a specific game is being executed and the end condition (specific game end condition) for the big hit gaming state is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, and “08” are set in this order. Thus, the processing from step S77 to step S80 shown in FIG. 10 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the big hit gaming state is terminated. It should be noted that in this specific game end condition, there is no passing of a game ball to a specific area (so-called “puncture”) until a predetermined time elapses, or the maximum hit round maximum continuation number (upper limit round number, for example, In this embodiment, the big hit gaming state is terminated on the condition that 2 or 15 rounds) are completed.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 12, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101), and the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is not determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. In step S102, it is determined whether or not the reserved number is “0”. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number is “0”, the process proceeds to step S103, and the reserved number is stored. If it is not determined that the data indicating “0” is “0”, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S103, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub-control circuit 200 in the main RAM 70 in order to perform a demonstration display. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize that the customer waiting state (predetermined waiting state) has been reached. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

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

  In step S105, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the high probability flag, and selects one jackpot determination table from a plurality of jackpot determination tables having different numbers of jackpot determination values (big hit determination values) based on the read high probability flag. . For example, in the jackpot determination table at normal time, two jackpot determination values are set, but in the jackpot determination table at high probability, ten jackpot determination values are set, and based on the high probability flag By selecting the jackpot determination table, the probability of shifting to the jackpot gaming state is different. Thus, when the high probability flag is a predetermined value (for example, “77”), that is, when the gaming state is a probable variation state, the probability of transition to the big hit gaming state (specify the result of variable symbol special display) The probability of the display mode is improved over the normal time. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the selected jackpot determination table. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to enter a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player. In other words, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a predetermined jackpot transition condition is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106.

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

  In step S107, a jackpot symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol random number value extracted at the time of starting winning, determines a special symbol based on the jackpot symbol random value, and stores data indicating the special symbol in the main RAM 70 in a predetermined manner. Store in the area. In particular, when the main CPU 66 determines the special symbol as a special display mode (a display mode in which the jackpot symbol becomes a probable variation symbol), the main CPU 66 performs control to shift to the probable variation state in step S79 described above. The data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied to the special symbol display device 33. As a result, the special symbol is derived and displayed on the special symbol display device 33. Further, the data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied as a derived symbol designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 of FIG. As a result, in the sub-control circuit 200, the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol is derived and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S108, a missing symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines the off symbol as a special symbol and stores data indicating the special symbol in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied to the special symbol display device 33. As a result, the special symbol is derived and displayed on the special symbol display device 33. Further, the data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied as a derived symbol designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 of FIG. As a result, in the sub-control circuit 200, the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol is derived and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S109, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining a variation pattern based on the special symbol determined in steps S107 and S108. The main CPU 66 determines a variation pattern based on the rendering condition selection random number extracted from the rendering condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores the variation pattern in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The main CPU 66 determines the variation display mode (in particular, the variation display time) of the special symbol based on the data indicating such a variation pattern. The data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is supplied to the special symbol display device 33. As a result, the special symbol display device 33 variably displays the variation pattern determined by the special symbol. Further, the data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is supplied as a variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 of FIG. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110.

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

[Normal symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S16 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 13, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S202 to step S206 indicate the normal symbol control state flags corresponding to those steps, and correspond to the numerical values according to the numerical values of the normal symbol control state flags. One step is executed, and the normal symbol game proceeds.

  First, as shown in FIG. 13, a process of loading a normal symbol control state flag is executed (step S201). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the normal symbol control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S202.

  In step S202 to step S206, which will be described later, as will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the normal symbol control state flag. This normal symbol control state flag indicates the game state of the normal symbol game, and enables one of the processes in steps S202 to S206 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined in accordance with a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S202, a normal symbol memory check process is executed. Although the details will be described with reference to FIG. 14, when the normal symbol control state flag is a value (00) indicating the normal symbol storage check, the main CPU 66 checks the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol, and there is a reserved number. In such a case, a hit determination is performed. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management in the normal symbol control state flag, and sets the variation time determined in the current process in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S203 is executed after the variation time determined this time has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S203.

  In step S203, normal symbol variation time monitoring processing is executed. As will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 15, the main CPU 66 indicates normal symbol display time monitoring when the normal symbol control state flag is a value (01) indicating normal symbol variation time management and the variation time has elapsed. The value (02) is set in the normal symbol control state flag, and the waiting time after determination (for example, 0.5 seconds) is set in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S204 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S204.

  In step S204, a normal symbol display time monitoring process is executed. Although details will be described with reference to FIG. 16, the main CPU 66 determines whether the normal symbol control state flag is a value (02) indicating normal symbol display time monitoring, and whether or not it is a hit when the waiting time after determination has elapsed. to decide. If the main CPU 66 is a win, the main CPU 66 executes the normal electric combination opening setting process, and sets a value (03) indicating the normal electric combination release to the normal symbol control state flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S205. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game when it is not a win. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S206. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S205.

  In step S205, an ordinary electric accessory release process is executed. As will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 18, when the normal symbol control state flag is a value (03) indicating that the normal electric role is released, the main CPU 66 receives a predetermined number of start winnings while the normal electric role is being released. It is determined whether or not any of the condition that the normal electric utility opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to bring the blade member 48 that is a normal electric accessory into a closed state when any one of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game to the normal symbol control state flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S206. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S206.

  In step S206, a normal symbol game end process is executed. As will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 19, when the normal symbol control state flag is a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game, the main CPU 66 decreases the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol by “1”. The memory is updated as follows. The main CPU 66 updates the normal symbol storage area in order to perform the next normal symbol variation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a normal symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S201. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S202 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol control state flag is a value (00) indicating the normal symbol storage check (step S511), and the normal symbol control state flag is the normal symbol storage check. If it is determined that the normal symbol control state flag is not a value indicating a normal symbol storage check, the present subroutine is terminated. In step S512, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the reserved number related to the normal symbol is “0”, and if it is determined that the reserved number related to the normal symbol is “0”, the normal symbol is determined. Demo display processing is executed (step S513). In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a normal symbol demo display command to the normal symbol display device 35 in the main RAM 70 in order to perform normal symbol demo display. Accordingly, the normal symbol display device 35 executes the normal symbol demonstration effect. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. The number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol is increased by “1” up to a predetermined number (for example, “4”) when it is detected that a game ball has passed in the vicinity of the ball passage detector 54. When the variable display of the normal symbol is finished, “1” is subtracted. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that the number of reserved symbols for the normal symbol is “0”, the main CPU 66 moves the process to step S514.

  In step S514, a normal symbol hit determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores the normal symbol per-determining random number extracted when the normal symbol starting region passes (by passing the game ball in the vicinity of the ball passage detector 54) and the main ROM 68. Refer to the judgment value per normal symbol. Then, as a result of the reference, when the random value for determination per normal symbol matches the determination value per normal symbol as a result of the reference, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a hit symbol (for example, “◯” symbol) and sets the hit flag. Store “77”. On the other hand, as a result of the reference, if the random value for determination per normal symbol does not match the determination value per normal symbol as a result of the reference, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating an off symbol (for example, “×” symbol) and sets the hit flag. “00” is stored. The winning symbol and the off symbol stored in this way are supplied to the normal symbol display device 35 as a derived normal symbol designation command. Thereby, the normal symbol display device 35 performs variable display of the normal symbol. Further, the winning symbol and the off symbol are supplied as a normal symbol designating command derived from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 of FIG. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize a hit / miss in the normal symbol game. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S516.

  In step S516, the normal symbol variation pattern command data and the normal symbol waiting time timer are set. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines the normal symbol variation pattern based on the determination result of whether or not it is a win and the current gaming state of the special symbol game, and the normal symbol variation pattern indicating the normal symbol variation pattern. Set command data. When the gaming state is the probability variation state, the normal symbol variation pattern is determined so that the normal symbol is derived and displayed in a shorter time than when the gaming state is the normal gaming state (for example, 5 in the probability variation state). Seconds, 30 seconds in a normal gaming state, etc.). The normal symbol fluctuation pattern command data stored in this way is supplied to the normal symbol display device 35 as a normal symbol fluctuation pattern designation command. Accordingly, the normal symbol display device 35 performs variable display of the normal symbol with the determined variation pattern. Further, the normal symbol variation pattern data is supplied as a normal symbol variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 of FIG. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize the variation pattern in the normal symbol game. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S518.

  In step S518, a process of setting a value (01) indicating normal symbol variation time management as the normal symbol control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating normal symbol variation time management in the normal symbol control state flag. And the process which clears the storage area used for the fluctuation | variation display of the normal symbol this time is performed (step S519). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol change time monitoring process]
The subroutine executed in step S203 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 15, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol control state flag is a value (01) indicating normal symbol variation time management (step S531), and the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”. Whether or not (step S532). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the normal symbol control state flag is a value indicating the normal symbol variation time management and the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S533. Transfer. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 does not determine that the normal symbol control state flag is a value indicating normal symbol variation time management, or does not determine that the normal symbol wait time timer is “0”. This subroutine is finished.

  In step S533, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (02) indicating normal symbol display time monitoring as the normal symbol control state flag. Then, the main CPU 66 executes processing for setting a waiting time after determination (for example, 0.5 seconds) in the waiting time timer (step S534). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol display time monitoring process]
The subroutine executed in step S204 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 16, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol control state flag is a value (02) indicating normal symbol display time monitoring (step S541), and the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”. Is determined (step S542). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the normal symbol control state flag is a value indicating normal symbol display time monitoring and the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S543. Transfer. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 does not determine that the normal symbol control state flag is a value indicating normal symbol display time monitoring, or does not determine that the normal symbol wait time timer is “0”. This subroutine is finished.

  In step S543, it is determined whether or not the hit flag is “77”. In this process, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the winning flag is “77”, the process proceeds to step S544. If the main CPU 66 determines that the winning flag is “77”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S545. Move processing to.

  In step S544, a process of setting a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game as the normal symbol control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating the end of the normal symbol game in the normal symbol control state flag. Thereby, the blade member 48 is maintained in a closed state. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, in step S545, ordinary power combination opening setting processing is executed. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 17, the main CPU 66 executes various processes such as opening the blade member 48. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S550.

  In step S550, a process of setting an initial value (0) to the ordinary electric winning prize counter is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets an initial value “0” in the ordinary electric winning prize counter when the blade member 48 is in an open state. Thus, as will be described later, when the blade member 48 is in the open state, the blade member 48 is changed from the open state to the closed state on the condition that the number of game balls won in the start port 44 has reached a predetermined number. Will be controlled. Then, a value (03) indicating that the normal power combination is released is set in the normal symbol control state flag (step S550). In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating that the normal electric utility is released in the normal symbol control state flag. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal power release setting processing]
The subroutine executed in step S545 in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether or not the hold state flag is ON (step S601). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the hold state flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and determines whether or not the hold state flag is on. If the main CPU 66 determines that the hold state flag is on, it moves the process to step S602. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the hold state flag is off, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S606.

  In step S606, a normal power combination release setting corresponding to the number of pieces per hold is made. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs the normal electric power release setting corresponding to the number of pieces per hold based on the gaming state. That is, the main CPU 66 controls the blade member 48 to the first state in a predetermined manner on the condition that the result of the variable symbol display of the normal symbols is in the predetermined display manner.

  Specifically, when the main CPU 66 is in a certain change state, for example, the blade member 48 is opened for 2 seconds, closed for 1 second, opened for 2 seconds, closed for 1 second, and opened. Is set to a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and data indicating a normal electric utility release command (once at the time of change of probability) is set. On the other hand, when the current game state is normal (normal game state, big hit game state), the main CPU 66 is configured to store the predetermined value of the main RAM 70 in order to drive the blade member 48 for 0.2 seconds. Data indicating a normal power release command (usually once) is set in the area. Further, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating an opening time corresponding to one hit according to the gaming state in the normal electric service opening time timer. In addition, the main CPU 66 sets an initial value (for example, “0”) in the ordinary electric winning prize counter regardless of the gaming state. The data indicating the command stored in this way drives the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 by the processing of step S46 in FIG. 8 to place the blade member 48 in an open state or a closed state. Further, the data indicating the command stored in this way is supplied to the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. As a result, even in the sub control circuit 200, it is possible to recognize that the blade member 48 is in the open state or the closed state by driving the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 66 that executes step S606 corresponds to an example of a variable winning device control unit. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, in step S602, an open storage process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 increases the number of hits held in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by “1”. Further, the main CPU 66 also sets data indicating the gaming state in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 so that it can be recognized whether the current gaming state is a probable change state or a normal time. As a specific example, when the current gaming state is a probable change state, the main CPU 66 increases the data indicating the probable change state by “1” (for example, “1” was previously set). In this case, set “2”). Thereby, the opening control of the blade member 48 corresponding to the gaming state in the case of winning can be performed. In this way, the main CPU 66 relates to the fact that the predetermined display mode has been obtained on the condition that the result of variable display of the identification information (ordinary symbol) has reached a predetermined display mode (for example, “◯”). Display mode information (such as data indicating the number of hits and game status) is held. Note that the main CPU 66 that executes this processing and the main RAM 70 in which the number of hits stored is equivalent to an example of a display mode information holding unit. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S603.

  In step S603, it is determined whether or not a predetermined number of suspensions have been made. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the number of hits held in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and determines whether or not a predetermined number (for example, three) has been put on hold. If the main CPU 66 determines that a predetermined number of pieces (for example, three) are on hold, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S604. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 determines that a predetermined number (for example, three) is not on hold, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S604, it is determined whether or not the hold release flag is on. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the hold release flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 and determines whether or not the hold release flag is on. That is, when the game operation unit 88 is operated in step S305 and step S306, the hold release flag is on. If the main CPU 66 determines that the hold release flag is on, it moves the process to step S605. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 determines that the hold release flag is OFF, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S605, a normal power combination release setting corresponding to the number of reserved units to be released is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs the normal electric charge release setting corresponding to the number of reserved pieces per discharge. That is, the main CPU 66 controls the blade member 48 to the first state in a predetermined manner on the condition that the result of the variable symbol display of the normal symbols is in the predetermined display manner.

  Specifically, the main CPU 66 reads the number of hits held in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 and the data indicating the gaming state as a result of being held in step S602. Then, the main CPU 66 uses a normal electric power in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 to drive the blade member 48 in a manner corresponding to the number of reserved pieces to be released based on the number of reserved pieces and the data indicating the gaming state. Data indicating the release command (hold release) is set. For example, the main CPU 66 sets the blade member 48 in the open state for 0.2 seconds when the number of hits held is “3”, the data indicating the normal time is “1”, and the data indicating the probability variation state is “2”. , The closed state is driven to 1 second (normal time once), the open state is driven for 2 seconds, the closed state is 1 second, the open state is 2 seconds, the closed state is driven for 1 second, and the open state is driven to 2 seconds (probable change) 1 time), open state for 2 seconds, closed state for 1 second, open state for 2 seconds, closed state for 1 second, open state for 2 seconds. Is set to the data indicating the normal power release command (hold release). Further, the main CPU 66 sets the data indicating the opening time corresponding to the number of reserved pieces per discharge in the normal electric utility opening time timer. Further, the main CPU 66 sets an initial value (for example, “0”) in the ordinary electric winning prize counter. The data indicating the command stored in this way drives the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 by the processing of step S46 in FIG. 8 to place the blade member 48 in an open state or a closed state. Further, the data indicating the command stored in this way is supplied to the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. As a result, even in the sub control circuit 200, it is possible to recognize that the blade member 48 is in the open state or the closed state by driving the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118.

  That is, as described above, when the hold release flag is turned on in step S306 (according to the operation of the game operation unit 88), the number of held holds is a predetermined number (a plurality, for example, 3). In step S605, the blade member 48 is controlled to be in the first state in a manner corresponding to a plurality of per-holding numbers out of the per-holding numbers. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 66 that executes step S605 corresponds to an example of a variable winning device control unit.

  As described above, the display mode information regarding the change to the predetermined display mode is held on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information is the predetermined display mode. Then, on condition that there are a plurality of stored display mode information, the variable winning device is controlled to a first state in which the game ball can be easily received in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information among the display mode information. To do. For this reason, by concentrating the control timing in the first state, it becomes easier for the player to win the game ball on the variable winning device as intended. Therefore, by providing such an opportunity, it is possible to improve the interest in the game by raising the sense of expectation for the identification information. Of course, the time for the first state becomes longer regardless of whether the time for the first state is short or long.

  Further, the variable winning device is controlled to the first state in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information in accordance with the operation of the release operation means operable by the player. Therefore, the variable winning device can be controlled to the first state at the timing intended by the player, and the interest in the game can be improved by further enhancing the expectation for the identification information.

  In addition, the main CPU 66 reduces the number of hits held in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the number of hits held per discharge. Then, the main CPU 66 turns off the hold release flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  Further, as described above, when the hold state flag is turned on in step S303, the winning in the normal symbol game is held as the number of hits in step S602. On the other hand, when the hold state flag is turned off in step S303, the normal symbol release control setting process corresponding to one hit is executed in step S606 without executing step S602. That is, the main CPU 66 holds display mode information indicating that the predetermined display mode is obtained when the result of variable display of the normal symbol is in a predetermined display mode according to the operation of the game operation unit 88. It will be decided whether or not. In this way, in accordance with the operation of the game operation means that can be operated by the player, when the result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a predetermined display mode, it is determined whether or not to hold the display mode information. For this reason, a game can be performed in the game mode desired by the player. The main CPU 66 that executes steps S302 and S303 corresponds to an example of an information holding determination unit.

[Regular power release processing]
The subroutine executed in step S205 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 18, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol control state flag is a value (03) indicating that the normal power combination is released (step S561). In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the normal symbol control state flag is a value (03) indicating that the normal symbol control state is released, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S562, and the normal symbol control state flag indicates that the normal symbol control state flag is released. If it is not determined that the value is indicative of, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S562, it is determined whether or not the ordinary electronic winning prize counter is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the ordinary electric winning prize counter, and if it is determined that the ordinary electric winning prize counter is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the process proceeds to step S564. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the ordinary electronic winning prize counter is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S563. Note that the number of game balls won in the start port 44 is counted and increased by “1” when the vane member 48 is in the open state by the processing of step S43 in FIG. Updated to For this reason, when the number of game balls won in the start port 44 reaches a predetermined number, the process is shifted to the process of step S564. The predetermined number corresponds to the number of reserved pieces per discharge, and is the product of the number of reserved pieces per discharge and “4”. Specifically, when the per-holding number is “1”, the predetermined number is “4”, when the per-holding number is “3”, the predetermined number is “12”, and the per-holding number is “4”. The predetermined number is “16”.

  In step S563, it is determined whether or not the normal electric utility opening time timer is “0”. In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the normal electric utility opening time timer is “0”, it moves the process to step S564. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that the normal electric utility opening time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine. If step S605 and step S606 described above are not executed, the normal power release time timer is “0” from the beginning, and the process proceeds to step S564.

  In step S564, the main CPU 66 executes processing for setting a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol in the normal symbol control state flag. Then, an ordinary electronic combination closing setting process is executed (step S565). In this process, the main CPU 66 updates the variables positioned in the main RAM 70 based on the data read from the main ROM 68 in order to drive the blade member 48 to the closed state. The variables stored in this manner make the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 closed by the process of step S46 of FIG. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. When Steps S605 and S606 described above are not executed, the blade member 48 is in a closed state from the beginning, and therefore the normal electric combination closing setting process need not be executed.

  As described above, the display mode information regarding the change to the predetermined display mode is held on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information is the predetermined display mode. Then, on condition that there are a plurality of stored display mode information, the variable winning device is controlled to a first state in which the game ball can be easily received in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information among the display mode information. To do. For this reason, by concentrating the control timing in the first state, it becomes easier for the player to win the game ball on the variable winning device as intended. Therefore, by providing such an opportunity, it is possible to improve the interest in the game by raising the sense of expectation for the identification information. Of course, the time for the first state becomes longer regardless of whether the time for the first state is short or long.

[Normal symbol game end processing]
The subroutine executed in step S206 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 19, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol control state flag is a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game (step S571), and the normal symbol control state flag ends the normal symbol game. If it is determined that the normal symbol control state flag is not a value indicating the end of the normal symbol game, the present subroutine is terminated.

  If the normal symbol control state flag is determined to be a value indicating the end of the normal symbol game by the process of step S571, the main CPU 66 executes a process of subtracting "1" from the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol (step S572). ). Then, the main CPU 66 performs a process of shifting (storing) each of the data of the normal symbol storage area (1) to the normal symbol storage area (4) from the normal symbol storage area (0) to the normal symbol storage area (3). This is executed (step S573), and a process of setting clear data in the normal symbol storage area (4) is executed (step S574). As a result, updating of the data in the normal symbol storage area, that is, updating of the number of holds related to the normal symbol is executed. The data set in the normal symbol storage area (0) is used for the next normal symbol hit determination. Subsequently, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (00) indicating a normal symbol storage check as the normal symbol control state flag (step S575). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Sub control circuit main processing]
On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 executes the sub-control circuit main process. The sub control circuit main process will be described with reference to FIG. The sub-control circuit main process is a process that starts when the power is turned on. In other words, the sub-control circuit main process is performed regardless of whether the power supply is intentionally shut off or unintentionally shut off (the state in which initial setting described later is performed or a predetermined return condition is satisfied and backup recovery is performed. This is a process that is started when the power is turned on, regardless of whether or not it is to be performed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 20, the sub CPU 206 executes initial setting processing such as RAM access permission and work area initialization (step S201). That is, the sub CPU 206 performs a predetermined initial setting for normally playing the game based on the power being turned on. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 206 that executes step S201 corresponds to an example of an initial setting unit. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S202.

  In step S202, the sub CPU 206 executes random number update processing. In this process, the sub CPU 206 updates random number values of various random number counters positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S203.

  In step S203, the sub CPU 206 executes command analysis processing. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 24, the received command is analyzed, and processing corresponding to the analyzed command is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S204.

  In step S204, the sub CPU 206 executes display control processing. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 25, the sub CPU 206 performs image display control in the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Then, the sub CPU 206 executes a sound control process for controlling sound generated from the speaker 46 (step S205) and a lamp control process for controlling light emission of various lamps 132 (step S206). When this process ends, the process is moved again to step S202.

  Thus, in the sub-control circuit main process, after the initial setting process in step S201 is completed, the processes from step S202 to step S206 are repeatedly executed.

[Command interrupt processing]
Further, the sub control circuit 200 executes the command interrupt process at a predetermined timing (for example, a timing at which a command is received). This command interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 21, the sub CPU 206 saves the register (step S 221), and stores various received commands received from the main control circuit 60 in a command buffer positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. (Step S222). Then, the sub CPU 206 restores the register saved in step S221 (step S223). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[VDP interrupt processing]
Further, the sub control circuit 200 executes the VDP interrupt process at a predetermined timing (for example, at a certain period such as a vertical synchronization timing (1/60 s) in the display device). This VDP interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 22, the sub CPU 206 saves the register (step S231) and increments the VDP counter positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210 by "1", that is, increments (step). S232). This VDP counter is a counter for displaying an image, and counts the timing for displaying the image. Specifically, the VDP counter is incremented by “1” every time this process called at each vertical synchronization timing is executed. Thus, in the display control process (see FIG. 25) described later, the sub CPU 206 supplies data for performing display control to the display control circuit 250 every time the VDP counter increases by “2”. That is, the sub CPU 206 that executes this process counts the timing for displaying an image. Then, the sub CPU 206 restores the register saved in step S231 (step S233). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Timer interrupt processing]
In the sub control circuit 200, the timer interrupt process is executed at a predetermined timing (for example, every 2 ms, etc.). This timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 23, the sub CPU 206 saves the register (step S241) and executes various timer update processes (step S242). The sub CPU 206 executes switch input processing (step S243). In this process, the sub CPU 206 executes various processes according to the player's operation. Then, the sub CPU 206 restores the register saved in step S241 (step S244). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Command analysis processing]
The subroutine executed in step S203 in FIG. 20 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 24, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not there is a reception command (step S401). In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not there is a received command depending on whether or not the command is stored in the command buffer in step S222 of the command interrupt process (see FIG. 21). In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that there is a received command, it reads the command data from the command buffer positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210 (step S402), and moves the process to step S403. On the other hand, when determining that there is no received command, the sub CPU 206 ends this subroutine.

  That is, the sub CPU 206 that executes step S402 performs various commands transmitted by the main control circuit 60 (for example, a prize opening opening command, a demo display command, a variation pattern designation command for performing full rotation reach (full rotation). Reach pattern command), and a change pattern designation command (multiple line reach pattern command) indicating that multi-line reach is to be performed. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 206 that executes step S402 corresponds to an example of a command receiving unit.

  In step S403, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received based on the command data read in step S402. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that a variation pattern designation command has been received, it moves the process to step S404. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the variation pattern designation command, it moves the process to step S406.

  In step S404, the sub CPU 206 executes effect pattern determination processing. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines various effect patterns such as a decorative pattern variation pattern and an image effect pattern for displaying a background image. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S406, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a derived symbol designation command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a derived symbol designation command has been received based on the command data read in step S402. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has received the derived symbol designation command, it moves the process to step S407. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the derived symbol designation command, it moves the process to step S408.

  In step S407, data corresponding to the derived symbol is set. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines a decoration symbol to be derived and displayed in response to the derived symbol designation command, and sets the determined derived decoration symbol in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S408, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a normal power combination release command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the normal power combination release command has been received based on the command data read in step S402. In addition, as described above, this normal power combination release command is a command indicating the number of hits and the data indicating the gaming state. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the normal power combination release command has been received, it moves the process to step S409. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the normal power release command, it moves the process to step S410.

  In step S409, data corresponding to the normal power combination release command is set. In this process, the sub CPU 206 sets data corresponding to the normal power release command in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. As a specific example, when the sub CPU 206 receives the normal power release command (hold release), as shown in FIG. 6C, based on the data indicating the number of hits and the gaming state, In the liquid crystal display device 32, an image indicating opening control of the blade member 48 is displayed as a notification image in a manner corresponding to the number of hits. That is, the liquid crystal display device 32 performs notification regarding the held display mode information. For this reason, by providing the player with an opportunity to recognize the display mode information such as the number of display mode information held and the time to shift to the first state, the expectation for the identification information is further enhanced. By doing so, it is possible to improve the interest of the game. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S410, the main CPU 66 sets effect control data corresponding to the received command, and ends this subroutine. As a specific example, the sub CPU 206 displays various notification images in response to a hold state flag change command, a hold release operation command, and the like.

[Display control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S204 in FIG. 20 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 25, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the VDP counter is “2” (step S351). In this process, the sub CPU 206 reads the VDP counter value from the VDP counter counted in step S232 of the above-described VDP interrupt process (see FIG. 22), and determines whether it is “2”. That is, as described above, in the VDP interrupt process, the VDP counter is incremented by “1” every 1/60 s, so the sub CPU 206 determines whether 1/30 s has elapsed. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the VDP counter is “2”, it moves the process to step S352. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the VDP counter is not “2”, this sub-routine is terminated.

  In step S352, the sub CPU 206 executes control data output processing. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 supplies control data for displaying an image to the display control circuit 250. For example, the sub CPU 206 supplies control data indicating production such as data indicating image data to the display control circuit 250. Then, the sub CPU 206 sets “0” in the VDP counter (step S353). Then, the sub CPU 206 supplies a bank switching instruction to the display control circuit 250 (step S354). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Other Embodiments]
In the present embodiment, when three or more pieces of display mode information are held, the blade member 48 is controlled in a mode corresponding to all of the held display mode information. However, the blade member 48 may not be controlled in a manner corresponding to a part of the display mode information, for example, two of the three or more.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not to retain the display mode information when the result of variable display of the normal symbol becomes a predetermined display mode according to the operation. For example, you may make it determine whether to hold | maintain display mode information at random, without responding to operation. Of course, it may not be determined whether to hold the display mode information, such as always holding the display mode information or not always holding the display mode information.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the blade member 48 is controlled to the first state in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information according to the player's operation. The blade member 48 may be controlled to the first state at random in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information without responding to the player's operation.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the notification regarding the held display mode information is performed. However, the notification is not limited to this, and for example, the notification regarding the held display mode information may not be performed.

[Composition of game board]
In the above-described embodiment, the entire game board 14 is configured by a member having transparency. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used. An example of a specific configuration of the game board will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 26, a plurality of obstacle nails and the like are omitted for easy understanding.

  For example, a part of the game board may be configured with a member that does not have permeability. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 26A, the game board 314 is configured by combining a member 314a having permeability and a member 314b (for example, wood) having no flat permeability. May be. Of course, as shown in FIG. 26 (A), not only the member 314a having permeability and the member 314b having no permeability are simply combined, but also as shown in FIG. It is good also as a structure which couple | bonds the member 315a which has transparency so that it may surround with the member 315b which does not have permeability.

  For example, you may comprise so that the process which shields a part of game board which has permeability | transmittance may be performed. For example, as shown in FIG. 26C, a part 316b of the game board 316 having transparency may be painted with a color having light shielding properties. As a result, as shown by reference numeral 316a, it is possible to configure a game board 316 that is partially transparent. Of course, instead of coating, a blasting process or a light scattering process for forming a fine rough surface by sandpaper may be performed to make it appear as if visible light is scattered and light is emitted.

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

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

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

  As shown in FIG. 27, the door 311 is provided with a display device 332, on which various effect images are displayed. The display device 332 includes a touch panel 351 for detecting a coordinate position touched by a player, transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355 as protective covers, and a transparent liquid crystal display device between the transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355. And a liquid crystal display device 354 to be stacked. The display device 332 (liquid crystal display device 354) can display a highly transmissive image in the display area. Note that the liquid crystal display device 354 not only displays a highly transmissive image in the display area, but also performs variable display of special symbols, variable display of normal symbols, display of effect images for effects, and the like.

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

  A obstacle nail 313 is driven into the game board 314. A game area 315 is provided between the game board 314 and the door 311, and a game ball 317 launched into the game area 315 can roll.

  The display device 332 includes a touch panel 351, transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355, a liquid crystal display device 354, a liquid crystal backlight 352, and the like. There is no problem even if only the liquid crystal display device 354 is provided without including the touch panel 351, the transparent acrylic plates 353 and 355, the liquid crystal backlight 352, and the like.

  As described above, the liquid crystal display device 354 is disposed in front of the game board 314 so that the display area and the whole or part of the game area 315 in the game board 314 overlap with each other, and an image with high transparency is displayed on the display area. Since display is possible, all or a part of the game area 315 is displayed through the liquid crystal display device 354 so that the image can be viewed from the front. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 354 is a device that is provided in front of the game board 314, has a display area that can be seen through the game board 314 and displays an effect image related to the game.

  In the present embodiment, the configuration is such that a plurality of control circuits of the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200 are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another configuration may be used, for example, as shown in FIG. In addition, the sub control circuit 200 and the main control circuit 60 may be configured as one board.

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

  In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to the pachinko gaming machine as shown in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 29, the game machine 600 controls a game machine main body 604 that controls the progress of the game, displays various images, and generates various sounds. The display device 602 is electrically connected to display various images, and the operation unit 606 is electrically connected to the game machine body 604 and can be operated by the player. The game machine body 604 has a control unit (not shown) that performs the control as described above. Further, the game machine body 604 is detachable from an information storage medium (for example, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, etc.) storing a program for causing the control unit to perform the control as described above.

  In the embodiment described above, the present invention can also be applied to a simulation program for causing a computer to execute various processes. This simulation program is a program for causing a computer to function as various means in the above-described embodiment.

[Simulation Program Embodiment]
A simulation program simulating a pachinko game will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram showing a computer that executes the simulation program.

  As shown in FIG. 30, a computer 300A includes a computer main body 302, a display device 304 that displays an image in a display area 304a, and a keyboard 306 as an operation unit. A display device 304 and a keyboard 306 are electrically connected to the computer main body 302. In the present embodiment, the keyboard 306 is configured as the operation unit. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be other modes as long as it can be operated, for example, a mouse, a controller, or the like.

  The computer main body 302 includes a control circuit (not shown). This control circuit includes a control unit (not shown) composed of a CPU, a storage unit (not shown) for storing various data, programs, etc., a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a ROM cartridge, etc., and a computer 300A. And a drive device (not shown) for reading data from a removable storage medium. Further, the control circuit includes an interface circuit (not shown) for controlling external devices such as the display device 304 and the keyboard 306.

  In this embodiment, a personal computer is used as the computer. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be in another mode. For example, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), etc. It may be a portable terminal device.

  In the present embodiment, a simulation program simulating a pachinko game in the above-described embodiment will be described. Specifically, this simulation program is for causing a computer to execute the following processing (steps).

  (A1) A variable display control process for performing control to cause variable display of identification information on condition that the game ball image has passed through a predetermined area in the game area where the game ball image can be displayed in a rolling manner.

  (A2) In the variable display control process, a process of performing control to display a variable winning device image that can be changed between a first state in which the game ball is easily received in the game area and a second state in which the game ball is difficult to be received.

  (A3) A variable winning device control process for controlling the variable winning device image to the first state in a predetermined manner on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information is in a predetermined display manner.

  (A4) Display mode information holding processing for holding display mode information related to the predetermined display mode on the condition that the result of variable display of the identification information is a predetermined display mode.

  (A5) In the variable winning device control process, in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information in the display mode information on condition that there are a plurality of display mode information held in the display mode information holding process. Processing for performing control to display the variable winning device image in the first state.

  (A6) A process of controlling the variable winning device image to the first state in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information in accordance with an operation of the release operation means that can be operated by the player.

  (A7) Whether the display mode information is held in the display mode information holding process when the result of variable display of the identification information becomes a predetermined display mode according to the operation of the game operation means operable by the player Information retention determination process for determining whether or not.

  (A8) Display mode information notification process for performing notification regarding the display mode information held in the display mode information holding process.

  As described above, by causing the computer 300A to execute the processes such as (A1) to (A5), the predetermined display mode is obtained on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the predetermined display mode. Display mode information about the event is held. Then, on condition that there are a plurality of stored display mode information, the variable winning device is controlled to a first state in which the game ball can be easily received in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information among the display mode information. To do. For this reason, by concentrating the control timing in the first state, it becomes easier for the player to win the game ball on the variable winning device as intended. Therefore, by providing such an opportunity, it is possible to improve the interest in the game by raising the sense of expectation for the identification information. Of course, the time for the first state becomes longer regardless of whether the time for the first state is short or long.

  Further, by causing the computer 300A to execute the process (A6), the variable winning device is set to the first state in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information according to the operation of the release operation means operable by the player. To control. Therefore, the variable winning device can be controlled to the first state at the timing intended by the player, and the interest in the game can be improved by further enhancing the expectation for the identification information.

  In addition, by causing the computer 300A to execute the process (A7), a display when the result of variable display of the identification information is in a predetermined display mode according to the operation of the game operation means that can be operated by the player is displayed. It is determined whether or not to hold the mode information. For this reason, a game can be performed in the game mode desired by the player.

  In addition, by causing the computer 300A to execute the process (A8), a notification regarding the held display mode information is performed. For this reason, by providing the player with an opportunity to recognize the display mode information such as the number of display mode information held and the time to shift to the first state, the expectation for the identification information is further enhanced. By doing so, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  In this embodiment, the control unit is configured to function as various means according to a simulation program stored in a storage medium that can be inserted into and removed from the computer 300A, such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or ROM cartridge. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the program is installed in the storage unit built in the computer 300A from the storage medium described above, and the above-described implementation is performed according to the simulation program stored in the storage unit built in the computer 300A. You may comprise so that a control part may function as various means in a form.

  In the above-described embodiment, the computer 300A is configured to execute various types of processing. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the processing is performed separately from other computers (for example, game servers). You may comprise so that it may be divided and performed.

  A simulation program executed using another computer will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram showing a game system that executes a simulation program.

  As shown in FIG. 31, a network 300 is connected to computers 300A, 300B,... And a game server 400, which is another computer. That is, these computers 300A, 300B,... Are communicably connected to the game server 400. The game server 400 includes a control unit (not shown) and a storage unit (not shown) that stores a program, and the control unit executes various processes according to the program stored in the storage unit. To do.

  In this case, the processing specifically described in the above-described embodiment may be configured to be separately executed by the computers 300A, 300B,... And the game server 400.

  If an example of the simulation program imitating the pachinko game in this embodiment is given, the simulation program for executing the processes (A3) to (A7) described above is stored in the storage unit of the game server 400, and the above-described (A1), A simulation program for executing the processes (A2) and (A8) is stored in the storage unit of the computers 300A, 300B,. Thereby, the control unit of the game server 400 executes the processes (A3) to (A7), and the control units of the computers 300A, 300B,... Execute the processes (A1), (A2), and (A8). Will be. Of course, the above-described processing is an example, and various processing may be executed by another device.

  In the present embodiment, each of the computers 300A, 300B,... And the game server 400 is configured to execute various processes included in the simulation program. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and various types of processes are included. A simulation program for executing the process is stored in the game server 400, and the simulation program is transferred from the game server 400 to the computers 300A, 300B,... In response to a download request supplied from the computers 300A, 300B,. By downloading, the computer 300A, 300B,... May be configured to execute a simulation program.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. That is, the present invention mainly displays a game board having a game area in which a game ball can roll and variable display of identification information on condition that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area in the game area of the game board. Variable display means for performing, a variable winning device displaceable between a first state in which game balls are easily received and a second state in which game balls are difficult to be received in the game area of the game board, and variable display of the identification information In the bullet ball game machine, comprising the variable winning device control means for controlling the variable winning device to the first state in a predetermined manner, on the condition that the result of has become a predetermined display mode, the identification information Display mode information holding means for holding display mode information related to the predetermined display mode on the condition that the result of the variable display is a predetermined display mode, the variable winning device control unit The table The variable winning device is controlled to the first state in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information among the display mode information on condition that there are a plurality of display mode information held by the mode information holding unit. A game board, variable display means, variable winning device, variable winning device control means, display mode information holding means, release operating means, game operating means, information holding determining means, display The specific configuration of the aspect information notification unit and the like can be appropriately changed in design.

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

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

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 14 Game board 26 Launch handle 32 Liquid crystal display device 32a Display area 33 Special symbol display device 35 Normal symbol display device 39 Big prize opening 40 Shutter 44 Start port 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
88 Game operation section 116 Start winning ball sensor 120 Large winning opening solenoid 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
250 Display control circuit

Claims (5)

A game board having a game area in which a game ball can roll;
Variable display means for variably displaying identification information on the condition that a game ball has passed through a predetermined area in the game area of the game board;
A variable winning device that is displaceable between a first state in which game balls are easily received and a second state in which game balls are difficult to be received in the game area of the game board;
A ball game including variable winning device control means for controlling the variable winning device to the first state in a predetermined manner on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information is in a predetermined display manner In the machine
A display mode information holding means for holding display mode information related to the predetermined display mode on the condition that the result of variable display of the identification information is a predetermined display mode;
The variable winning device control means, on condition that there are a plurality of display mode information held by the display mode information holding means, in the mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information of the display mode information. A bullet ball game machine having a function of controlling the device to the first state. In the ball game machine according to claim 1,
Provided with a release operation means operable by the player,
The variable winning device control means has a function of controlling the variable winning device to the first state in a mode corresponding to the plurality of display mode information according to an operation of the release operation unit. A ball game machine to play. In the bullet ball game machine according to claim 1 or 2,
Game operation means operable by a player;
Information holding decision for determining whether or not display mode information is held by the display mode information holding unit when the result of variable display of the identification information becomes a predetermined display mode in accordance with the operation of the game operating unit And a ball game machine. In the bullet ball game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
A bullet ball game machine comprising display mode information notifying means for notifying the display mode information held by the display mode information holding means. A variable display control process for performing control to perform variable display of identification information on condition that the game ball image has passed through a predetermined area in the game area in which the game ball image can be displayed in a rolling manner
In the variable display control process, a process for performing control to display a variable winning device image that can be changed between a first state in which the game ball is easily received in the game area and a second state in which the game ball is difficult to be received;
On the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information is in a predetermined display mode, the computer is caused to execute a variable winning device control process for controlling the variable winning device image to the first state in a predetermined mode. In the simulation program,
A display mode information holding process for holding display mode information related to the predetermined display mode on the condition that the result of the variable display of the identification information is a predetermined display mode;
In the variable winning device control process, on the condition that there are a plurality of display mode information held in the display mode information holding process, the variable winning in a mode corresponding to a plurality of display mode information of the display mode information. A simulation program for causing a computer to execute a process of performing control to display an apparatus image in the first state.

Images