JP2006230712A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce processing load on the operation control of a guide member inside a variable winning ball device in a game machine in which the variable winning ball device is turned to an open state in a start game state. <P>SOLUTION: A microcomputer 60 for game control updates the value of a position counter in a prescribed numerical range (1-4, for instance) at all times. When start port switches 11a and 11b detect a game ball, the start operation of opening the variable winning ball device 20 is started, and a movable member 25 is changed to a position for making the game ball easily enter a specific winning port 30 when the value of the position counter becomes "1". <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  According to the present invention, a player plays a game ball by launching a game ball into the game area, and detection of the start detection means for detecting the game ball in the start area provided in the game area makes the first disadvantageous to the player. A variable winning device that performs a starting operation that becomes a second state advantageous to the player from the state, the variable winning device is provided with a specific area and a non-specific area, and detects a game medium that has entered the specific area The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that controls the variable winning device to an advantageous gaming state in which the variable winning device is set to the second state in a specific manner that is more advantageous to the player than the starting operation by detection of the specific detection means.

  As a gaming machine, there is one in which a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player . Further, there is provided a variable display unit capable of changing the display state, and configured to give a predetermined game value to the player when the display result of the variable display unit becomes a predetermined specific display result. is there.

  Note that the game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball device provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine is advantageous for a player who is likely to win a ball, or the advantageous state for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In such a pachinko gaming machine, the fact that the display result of the variable display unit for displaying the special symbol (identification information) becomes a predetermined specific display result is usually referred to as “big hit”. When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. The number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. If a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended.

  In the variable display section, the symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) are stopped, swung, and enlarged in a state that continues for a predetermined time and matches the specific display result. The possibility of big hits continues before the final result is displayed due to a reduced or deformed state, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol changing. An effect performed in a state in which the player is in a state (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display portion is not the specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  In addition, when a game ball is won at the start winning opening in the pachinko gaming machine, the start game state is set, the variable winning ball device is opened, and the gaming ball wins in a specific area in the variable winning ball device (V winning). Then, an advantageous game state is generated, and in the advantageous game state, there is one configured to continuously open the variable winning ball apparatus. Continuous opening of the variable winning ball apparatus is performed for a predetermined number of rounds (opening cycles). Furthermore, some variable winning ball apparatuses are provided with a guide member (movable member) for making it easy to win a game ball in a specific area.

  There is also a gaming machine configured to randomly select an operation start timing and an operation mode of the guide member from a plurality of modes in the starting game state (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). In such a gaming machine, generally, when a game ball wins a start winning opening, a random number is extracted at a predetermined time, and the operation timing of the guide member is determined according to the extracted random number value, and the mode of operation To decide.

JP-A-8-206293 (paragraphs 0030-0033, FIG. 12) JP 2004-159871 A (paragraphs 0146-0148, FIG. 15)

  However, when the game ball is won at the start winning opening, a random number is extracted, and when it is configured to select the operation timing and operation mode of the guide member according to the extracted random number value, the operation timing and operation In order to determine each of the modes, a random number extraction process, a comparison process between the extracted random number value and a predetermined determination value, and an open mode selection process based on the result of the comparison process must be performed. The processing load for controlling the operation of the guide member is large.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a gaming machine that can reduce the processing load for controlling the operation of the guide member in the variable winning ball apparatus in the gaming machine that opens the variable winning ball apparatus in the starting game state. For the purpose.

  In the gaming machine according to the present invention, a player detects a game ball by launching a game ball in the game area and detects the game ball in a start area provided in the game area (for example, start port switches 11a and 12a). ) Is advantageous to the player from a first state that is disadvantageous to the player (for example, a state in which the game ball is difficult to enter, such as a state where the open / close pieces 23a and 23b of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are closed). (For example, a variable winning ball device 20) that performs a starting operation that makes it easy for a game ball to enter, such as a state in which the open / close pieces 23a and 23b of the variable winning ball device 20 are opened, The variable winning device is provided with a specific area (for example, a specific winning port 30) and a non-specific area (for example, non-specific ports 29A, 29B), and a specific detection means (detecting a game ball that has entered the specific area ( For example, by the detection of the specific winning switch 30a), the variable winning device is controlled to the advantageous state (for example, the second big hit gaming state) in which the variable winning device is in the second state in a specific manner that is more advantageous to the player than the starting operation. A gaming machine having advantageous gaming state control means (for example, a portion of the gaming control microcomputer 60 that executes the processing of steps S406 and S407), in which a game ball that has entered the variable winning device is easily guided to a specific area With respect to the gaming machine and the guiding means (for example, the movable member 25) that changes between the state (for example, the state shown in FIG. 4A) and the state that is difficult to be guided to the specific area (for example, the state shown in FIG. 4B). Counter means for updating numerical data in a predetermined numerical range (for example, 1 to 4) and storing the updated numerical data when power is supplied (for example, A position counter that updates the value in the range of 1 to 4 and a part for executing the processing of step S26 in the game control microcomputer 60), and a start determination means for determining whether or not the start detection means has detected a game ball ( For example, after the start determination means determines that the game ball is detected by the start detection means, the numerical data stored in the counter means is determined in advance. Determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined value (for example, “1” as an initial value) has been reached (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S403, particularly step S442 in the game control microcomputer 60); The determination means determines that the numerical data stored in the counter means has reached a predetermined value. Sometimes, the guidance control means (for example, step S403 in the game control microcomputer 60, particularly step S403), starts to change the guidance means from a predetermined position corresponding to the predetermined value (for example, starts to change to a state that is easily guided to a specific area). A portion for executing the processing of S445).

  Provided is an entry detecting means (for example, an accessory inflow switch 34a, 34b) for detecting a game ball that has entered the variable winning device, and the judging means stores the counter means on the condition that the entry detecting means has detected a game ball. It is determined whether or not the numerical data that has reached the predetermined value (for example, the processing of step S403 is started on the condition that it is detected that the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b are turned on in step S402). It may be configured as follows.

  An entry counting means for counting the game balls that have entered the variable winning device (for example, the portion that executes the processing of steps S443 and S452 in the gaming control microcomputer 60), and after being entered into the variable winning device, are discharged from the variable winning device. And a discharge counting means for counting the number of game balls (for example, a portion of the game control microcomputer 60 that executes the processing of steps S444 and S453), and the number of guidance control means is the same as the number of game balls counted by the entry counting means. After the game ball is counted by the discharge counting means, when the numerical data stored in the counter means reaches a predetermined value, the control of the guiding means is stopped and the operating position of the guiding means is stopped at a predetermined initial position. The initial position setting process (for example, the process of step S462) is executed (for example, “Y” in step S458). It became the condition of step S461, and executes processing of S462) may be configured so.

  When the start detection unit detects the game ball, the start determination unit invalidates the detection by the start detection unit (see FIG. 23, specifically, the game control microcomputer 60 does not detect the start port switches 11a and 11b). ), The detection by the start detection means is validated when the guidance control means performs the initial position setting process (see FIGS. 23 and 24, specifically, after the process of step S462 is executed, the start of step S400) It may be configured to enable execution of waiting-for-winning processing).

  After a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, a variable display device that starts variable display of a plurality of types of identification information based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition and derives and displays a display result (for example, FIG. 48) and a plurality of variable winning devices (for example, variable winning ball devices opened by the opening / closing plate 16 (big prize opening)) that are opened and closed by opening / closing members (for example, solenoids 16a, 24a, 24b). , And a variable winning ball device 20) and a specific game that is controlled to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player when a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display device. State control means (for example, the part that performs control to open the opening / closing plate 16 in the game control microcomputer 60) and that the variable display start condition is satisfied. Prior determination means for determining whether or not to display the specific display result as the display result of the variable display executed based on the display result before the display result is derived and displayed (for example, a special symbol display in the game control microcomputer 60) And the identification information determination means for determining the identification information to be displayed as the display result on the variable display device (for example, game) A part for determining whether or not the display result of the special symbol display 8 in the control microcomputer 60 is the first specific symbol and the second specific symbol), and determination that the specific display result is derived and displayed by the prior determination means One of the plurality of variable winning devices is controlled to be in an open state according to the identification information determined by the identification information determination means. Variable winning device selection determining means (for example, a part for executing processing for selecting the opening / closing plate 16 or the variable winning ball device 20 in the game control microcomputer 60) for determining a winning device, and the specific game state control means The variable winning device determined by the variable winning device selection determining means may be configured to control the open state.

  An entry counting means for counting the game balls that have entered the variable winning device (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S443 and S452 in the gaming control microcomputer 60) and discharging from the variable winning device after entering the variable winning device. The discharge counting means for counting the played game balls (for example, the part for executing the processing of steps S444 and S453 in the game control microcomputer 60) and the variable display after the predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied. A variable display device (for example, special symbol display 8, variable display device) that starts variable display of a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols, decorative symbols) based on the establishment of the start condition of 9) and when a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display device, Specific game state control means (for example, a part executing steps S304 to S308 in the game control microcomputer 60) for controlling to an advantageous specific game state (for example, the first big hit game state) and establishment of a predetermined transition condition Thus, the special game state control means (for example, the game control micro) for changing the game state from the normal state to the special game state in which the display result of the variable display of the identification information is likely to be the specific display result as compared with the normal state. When the gaming state is controlled to the advantageous gaming state by the advantageous gaming state control means when the gaming state is the special gaming state, the start of the variable display of the identification information is restricted even if the variable display start condition is satisfied. Variable display restricting means (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S51 in the game control microcomputer 60) However, on the condition that the gaming state is in a probable variation state, a modified example in which the special symbol variation display is not started if the second jackpot flag is set), and the variable display device for variable display of the identification information Due to the detection of the game ball by the start detection means during execution, variable display interruption control means (for example, in the game control microcomputer 60 in which the execution of variable display of the identification information is interrupted) is controlled. When the variable display of the identification information is controlled to be suspended by the variable display suspension control means), the display result of the suspended variable display of the identification information is a predetermined display. Preliminary notification execution means (for example, the game control microcomputer 60) for performing a preliminary notification for notifying that a result (for example, big hit, reach) will be obtained. And the number of games that are counted by the entry counting means when the variable display execution is controlled by the variable display interruption control means to be in the interrupted state. On the condition that the ball is counted by the discharge counting means, there may be provided interruption cancellation control means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S79 and S81 in the game control microcomputer 60) for releasing the interruption state. .

  When the start detection means detects the game ball, the notice effect control means for performing different notice effects according to the numerical data stored in the counter means (for example, the processing of step S723 in the effect control microcomputer 100 is executed). A portion, that is, a portion that receives any one of the first to fourth notification effect start designation commands and executes any notification effect shown in FIGS. 45 (A) to (D) may be provided.

  An entry counting means for counting the game balls that have entered the variable winning device (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S443 and S452 in the gaming control microcomputer 60) and discharging from the variable winning device after entering the variable winning device. And a discharge counting means for counting the number of game balls that have been played (for example, the portion of the game control microcomputer 60 that executes the processing of steps S444 and S453). When the same number of game balls are counted by the discharge counting means, the notification effect ends (for example, in the effect control microcomputer 100, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits based on the processing of steps S458 and S459). Upon receipt of the notification effect end designation command, step S 28 handle of the may be configured in part) to run.

  Notification effect changing means for changing the mode of notification effect according to the detection of the game ball by the entry detecting means (for example, in the effect control microcomputer 100, the game control microcomputer 60 is based on the processing of steps S481 and S482. And receiving the notification effect end designation command transmitted in step S727 may be provided.

  In the first aspect of the invention, after the start determination means determines that the game ball has been detected by the start detection means, the numerical data stored in the counter means has reached a predetermined value determined in advance. Determining means for determining whether or not, and when the determining means determines that the numerical data stored in the counter means has reached a predetermined value, guidance control means for starting to change the guiding means from a predetermined position corresponding to the predetermined value Therefore, based on only the numerical value held by the counter means, the operation timing and operation mode of the guidance means can be determined from a plurality of types, for controlling the operation of the guidance means. The processing load can be reduced.

  In the invention according to claim 2, the determining means is configured to start determining whether or not the numerical data stored in the counter means has become a predetermined value on condition that the entry detecting means has detected a game ball. Therefore, the determination process is not executed unless the game ball enters the variable winning device, and unnecessary control can be prevented.

  In the invention according to claim 3, the numerical data stored in the counter means becomes a predetermined value after the guidance control means counts the same number of game balls as the game balls counted by the entry counting means by the discharge counting means. Sometimes, it is configured to execute the initial position setting process for stopping the control of the guiding means and stopping the operation position of the guiding means at a predetermined initial position, so that the guiding means is at a position corresponding to the initial value. After the setting, the next starting operation can be started.

  In the invention according to claim 4, when the start detection means detects the game ball, the start detection means invalidates the detection by the start detection means, and the detection by the start detection means when the guidance control means performs the initial position setting process. Since the guidance means is set to a position corresponding to the initial value, the next starting operation can be started and the guidance means remains in an advantageous state for the player. The starting operation is not started, and it can be prevented from being unfair to the player.

  In the invention according to claim 5, when it is determined that the specific display result is derived and displayed by the prior determination means, the plurality of variable winning devices are selected according to the identification information determined by the identification information determination means. Since one variable winning device to be controlled to the open state is determined, and the determined variable winning device is controlled to be in the open state, the player can respond to the type of the identification information displayed and displayed. A game of launching a game ball into the game area aiming at any of the variable prize winning devices is performed, and the range of games can be expanded.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the gaming state is the special gaming state, the variable display device regulates the start of variable display of the identification information even if the variable display start condition is satisfied when controlled to the advantageous gaming state. The execution of the variable display of the identification information is interrupted and the variable display of the identification information is controlled to be suspended due to the detection of the game ball by the start detection means during the variable display of the identification information at When the display of the variable display of the interrupted identification information is a predetermined display result, a notice of advance notice is executed, and when the execution of the variable display is controlled to be suspended, the entry counting means Since it is configured to release the suspended state on condition that the same number of game balls as the counted game balls are counted by the discharge counting means, each of the plurality of game modes in each of the plurality of game modes is not disrupted. Special It is possible to prevent the controlled simultaneously to the playing state can be given also attracted the interest of the player for the variable display of the identification information is suspended

  In the seventh aspect of the invention, when the start detection means detects a game ball, the counter means includes a notice effect control means for performing different notice effects according to the numerical data stored therein, and the notice effect control means is provided. Therefore, the player can easily recognize the possibility of occurrence of the advantageous gaming state.

  In the invention described in claim 8, the notification effect control means is configured to end the notification effect when the same number of game balls as counted by the entry counting means are counted by the discharge counting means. Therefore, the notification effect can be terminated at an appropriate timing, and the notification effect can be prevented from being executed unnecessarily for a long time.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, since the notification effect changing means for changing the notification effect mode according to the detection of the game ball by the entry detecting means is provided, the player's advantage is improved by the change of the notification effect mode. It is possible to increase the expectation of occurrence of the gaming state.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 6 as viewed from the front.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. The lower part of the hitting ball supply tray 3 has an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and the speed at which the hitting ball launching device launches the game balls (ie, the strength of the spring that plays the game balls). And a hitting ball operating handle (operating knob) 5 for adjusting the height).

  The player can adjust the momentum of the game ball fired from the ball striking device by rotating the operation knob 5. For example, when the operation knob 5 is rotated to the right, the speed of the game ball fired from the ball hitting device gradually increases, and when the speed exceeds a predetermined speed, the shot game ball hits the ball hitting rail. The game area 7 is entered through, and the left area is entered from above the game area 7. When the operation knob 5 is further rotated to the right, the launched game ball enters the right region from above the game region 7. Therefore, by changing the amount of rotation with the operation knob 5 rotated to the right to some extent, the momentum of the game ball launched from the ball striking device can be adjusted, and the area where the game ball is to be shot can be changed. .

  A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 partitioned by guide rails is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  A variable winning ball apparatus 20 is disposed in the approximate center of the game area 7. On the left and right sides below the variable winning ball apparatus 20, left and right start winning ports 11, 12 incorporating start winning port switches 11a, 12a, respectively, are arranged. When a game ball wins the start winning opening 11, 12, the game ball is detected by the start winning opening switches 11a, 12a. In response to detection by the start winning port switches 11a and 12a, a start operation is performed in which the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened for a predetermined period. That is, the gaming state shifts to the starting gaming state.

  When the right winning prize opening 12 of the starting prize openings 11 and 12 is won, the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened once, and the left winning prize opening 11 of the starting prize openings 11 and 12 is won. In such a case, the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened twice. The state where the variable winning ball device 20 performs the opening operation in response to the detection of the winning of the start winning port switches 11a and 12a in this way is referred to as a start operation state (or start game state).

  Above the variable winning ball apparatus 20, there is provided a variable display apparatus 9 including a plurality of variable display sections each variably displaying a decorative symbol as identification information (variable display). The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”.

  Below the variable winning ball apparatus 20, a variable winning ball apparatus 15 that forms a start winning opening 13 is provided. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 13 is detected by the start opening switch 14 and guided to the back of the game board 6. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 15a.

  A special symbol display 8 including a variable display unit that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided at the lower right of the variable winning ball apparatus 20. The special symbol display 8 is composed of, for example, two 7-segment displays.

  Below the special symbol display 8 is a special symbol holding memory indicator composed of four LEDs for displaying the number of effective winning balls in which a game ball has entered the starting winning opening 13, that is, the starting memory number (also referred to as the holding memory number). 18 is provided. In other words, up to four of the starting memory numbers are displayed in the winning order. The special symbol hold memory display 18 increases the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 each time there is a start winning in the start winning opening 13. Then, each time the special symbol display 8 starts variable display, the special symbol hold storage indicator 18 decreases the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 (that is, turns off one LED). In this example, the special symbol hold storage display 18 shifts the lighting state every time variable display is started on the special symbol display 8. In this example, the upper limit number (up to 4) is provided for the starting memory number by winning to the start winning opening 13, but the upper limit number may be four or more.

  The left and right sides of the lower part of the variable winning ball device 15 are respectively provided with big winning holes in which the open / close plate 16 is opened by the solenoid 16a in a specific gaming state (big hit state). The opening / closing plate 16 is means for opening and closing the special winning opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 17. The winning ball that has entered the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 19.

  When a game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, a variable display (in this embodiment, “O” and “X”) of normal symbols is displayed on the normal symbol display 10 (in this embodiment). “O” and “X” are alternately lit). In this embodiment, if “◯” is lit at the end of variable display, it is a win, and if “x” is lit, it is off. In the case of winning, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this embodiment, the normal symbol hit probability is 12/13 as an example. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol hold storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of passing balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time the gate 32 passes, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increments the LED to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  Decorative lamps blinking and displayed during the game are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7, and there is an out port 26 for collecting the game balls that have not won a prize at the bottom.

  Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Furthermore, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (the special variable winning ball apparatus 17 or the like) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

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

  The game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through the ball striking rail, and then falls in the game area 7.

  When the hit ball enters the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 14, if the variable display of the symbol can be started, the special symbol starts variable display on the special symbol display 8 and the variable display device 9 The decorative pattern starts variable display. If it is not in a state where variable display of the symbol can be started, if the starting winning memory number is not the upper limit number, the starting winning memory number is increased by one. That is, the number of LEDs to be turned on in the special symbol storage memory display 18 is increased by one.

  The variable display of special symbols (“00” to “99”) on the special symbol display 8 stops when a predetermined time has elapsed. If the special symbol at the time of stoppage is a big hit symbol (specific display result: specifically, for example, the left and right symbols such as “33” and “77” are the same symbol), the game shifts to a big hit gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 16 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls wins. When a certain time elapses or when a predetermined number of game balls are detected by the count switch 19, the opening / closing plate 16 is controlled to be closed. The opening of the opening / closing plate 16, that is, the opening of the special winning opening is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  A predetermined area may be defined in the special winning opening, and a continuation right may be generated on condition that the game ball has won that area and the next winning prize opening may be opened. In that case, a switch (V switch) for detecting a game ball won in a predetermined area is provided.

  The special symbol at the time of stopping in the special symbol display 8 is a jackpot symbol with a probability variation (probability variation symbol: specifically, for example, a combination of symbols determined in advance among jackpot symbols such as “33” and “77”) If this is the case, the probability of the next big hit becomes high. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in the probability variation state. In the probability variation state, for example, the probability of the next big hit is about 2/630 (1/315) in the normal state that is not the probability variation state, but about 10/630 (1/63: normal) (About 5 times the state). Specifically, by increasing the number of jackpot determination values to be compared with the extracted value of the random number for jackpot determination, the probability of winning a jackpot is increased.

  In this embodiment, when a big hit is made, the probability (probability change entry rate) of a probability change big hit is halved. Further, the probability variation state continues, for example, until the next big hit occurs.

  It is also possible to always make a probabilistic big hit (that is, there is no non-probable big hit) when it is a big hit. The probability variation state may be continued until the next big hit occurs or until a predetermined number of special symbols are variably displayed. Further, a lottery for determining whether to end the probability variation state may be performed using a random number, and the probability variation state may be terminated according to the lottery result.

  In the present embodiment, “to perform lottery using random numbers” specifically means that a comparison value to be compared with a random number extraction value and a lottery result associated with each comparison value Means that a lottery result associated with a comparison value having the same value as the random number extracted value is determined as a random number lottery result. For example, in the case of “the lottery to determine whether or not to end the probability variation state is performed using a random number”, it is compared with the extracted value of the random number for determining the probability variation end for determining whether or not to terminate the probability variation state. A comparison value is set, and a comparison value of the same value as the extracted value of the random number for probability variation end determination is used, using a probability variation end determination table in which each comparison value is associated with “probability variation end” or “probability variation continuation” as a lottery result. If “probability change end” is associated with, it is decided to end the probability change state, and if “probability change continuation” is associated with the comparison value equivalent to the extracted value of the probability change end determination random number, the probability change state is determined. Decided to continue.

  After the big hit gaming state is ended, for example, the state is shortened until execution of variable display of special symbols a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) is completed. The time-short state is a normal state in which the variation time of a special symbol (variable display period (also referred to as variation time): the period from the start of variable symbol special display until the display result is derived and displayed) is not a short-time state. It is shortened compared to the case. “Derived display” means that the display is stopped. Moreover, stopping and displaying a symbol is also referred to as “derivation”.

  In the short-time state, one or both of the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased as compared with the normal state, or the fluctuation time in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. May be. For example, the special symbol at the time of stopping in the special symbol display 8 is a jackpot symbol with a short time (a short-time symbol: specifically, for example, a combination of symbols determined in advance such as “22”, “88”) ), The time saving state is entered after the big hit gaming state is completed. In addition, the special symbol at the time of stopping in the special symbol display 8 is a jackpot symbol with probability fluctuation and short time (probable variation short symbol: specifically, for example, a predetermined combination of symbols such as “11”) ), The promiscuous state and the short time state are entered after the big hit gaming state ends. In other words, the gaming state after the big hit gaming state is one of a probability variation state, a time-short state, a probability variation / time-short state (a probability variation state and a time-short state), or a normal state (a normal state that is neither a probability variation state nor a time-short state). become.

  The decorative symbols variably displayed on the variable display device 9 are displayed by, for example, three symbols of the left middle right, and for example, ten numbers “0” to “9” are used for each of the left middle right symbols. The decorative symbol suggests “big hit” (simply called “big hit”) when the stop symbol is the same symbol (for example, “000”, “111”) in the middle left and right. This means a symbol (sometimes simply referred to as a “hit symbol”), and if it is a stop symbol other than that (eg, “012”, “767”), it may indicate “out” (simply “out”) ) Symbol (sometimes simply referred to as “outlier symbol”). In addition, in the case of some predetermined stop symbols (for example, “333” and “777”) among the stop symbols suggesting a big hit, “probable big hit” may be suggested (simply referred to as “probable big hit”). ) Symbol (sometimes simply referred to as “probability variation”). In addition, you may make it perform the display effect by the variable display apparatus 9 by identification information, such as a character. When performing a display effect by a character, for example, it may be possible to suggest a big hit by displaying a baseball player appearing and hitting a home run.

  In this embodiment, the decorative symbols are variably displayed in conjunction with the special symbols, and a display result that matches the display results of the special symbols is derived and displayed. For example, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the display result of the decorative symbol is a symbol that suggests a jackpot (that is, a jackpot symbol of the ornament symbol).

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32, the normal symbol display unit 10 enters a state in which the normal symbol is variably displayed. Further, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are based on the fact that a predetermined condition is satisfied (the stop symbol of the special symbol becomes a probabilistic symbol, the stop symbol of the special symbol becomes a short-time symbol). And the state changes from being unfavorable to the player to being advantageous.

  Next, the variable winning ball apparatus 20 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the variable winning device 20 has a mounting board 21 for mounting the variable winning ball device 20 on the surface of the game board 6, and an upper winning space 22 a is formed in the mounting board 21. . In the upper winning space 22a, a pair of left and right opening / closing pieces 23a and 23b are rotatably provided. The open / close pieces 23a and 23b are connected to the solenoids 24a and 24b via link mechanisms, respectively, and rotate in a direction to open the upper winning space 22a when the solenoids 24a and 24b are turned on. When the solenoids 24a and 24b are turned off, the upper winning space 22a is rotated in the closing direction. FIG. 3 shows the variable winning ball apparatus 20 in a state where the upper winning space 22a is opened.

  A game ball that has entered the upper winning space 22a passes through one of the right and left ball passages 33a and 33b and is detected by one of the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b provided in the ball passages 33a and 33b. Then, it is guided toward the center of the upper prize space 22a.

  In the bottom wall portion of the upper prize space 22a, a guide hole for guiding a game ball won in the upper prize space 22a to the lower prize space 22b is provided so as to be opened and closed. The guide hole is opened and closed by, for example, turning on / off a solenoid. The game ball dropped from the guide hole is sent to the lower winning space 22b from the lower entrances 27a and 27b through a ball passage (not shown) provided inside the variable winning ball apparatus 20.

  The game balls sent from the lower entrances 27 a and 27 b to the lower prize space 22 b roll toward the front of the gaming machine 1. A specific winning port 30 and non-specific ports 29A and 29B are provided at the lower part of the downstream end that rolls. A game ball won in the specific winning opening 30 is detected by the specific winning switch 30a and then also detected by the discharge switch 29a. A game ball that has not won the specific winning opening 30 flows into either the non-specific opening 29A or 29B and is detected by the discharge switch 29a. That is, the game balls that have flowed into the specific winning port 30 and the non-specific ports 29A and 29B are both guided to the discharge passage and detected by the discharge switch 29a provided in the discharge passage.

  Note that the fact that the game ball has won the specific winning opening 30 and has been detected by the specific winning switch 30a is also referred to as V winning.

  In addition, a guide member (movable member) 25 is provided for making it easy to win a game ball in the specific winning opening 30. As shown in FIG. 4, the movable member 25 is driven from the top to the bottom by the solenoid 25a to make it easy to win the game ball into the specific winning opening 30 (the game ball descends into the flow path of the game ball and wins the specific game ball). The state in which it is easy to guide to the mouth 30 (see FIG. 4A). Further, when not driven by the solenoid 25a, the game ball becomes difficult to win the specific winning opening 30 (a state in which the game ball does not hit the movable member 25, see FIG. 4A). In this way, the movable member 25 creates one of two states.

  Here, as the movable member 25, a guide member for facilitating winning of the game ball in the specific winning opening 30 is illustrated, but a blocking member for making it difficult to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30 may be used. . Also, here, the movable member 25 exemplifies a state in which the movable member 25 can take either a state in which it is easy to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30 or a state in which it is difficult to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30. However, you may use the movable member which can take more states (for example, 4 states) according to the ease of winning to the specific winning opening 30 of the game ball.

  Here, the specific gaming state in the gaming machine of this embodiment will be described. Based on the winning of the game ball in the start winning opening 13, the special symbol display 8 starts the variable display of the special symbol and the variable display device 9 starts the variable display of the decorative symbol. When the variable display period ends, the display result is derived in the special symbol display 8 and the variable display device 9, but when the display result is a jackpot symbol, the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state, and the opening / closing plate 16 It can be opened a predetermined time. Then, for example, 15 game balls are paid out as prize balls for each game ball won in the big prize opening. That is, the big winning opening is opened up to a predetermined number of times, and a large number of game balls can be won. The specific game state that is started when the big hit symbol is derived and displayed is referred to as a first big hit game state. Also, the transition to the first big hit gaming state is referred to as “first big hit”.

  Further, when a game ball wins the start winning opening 11 or the start winning opening 12, the game ball can enter the variable winning ball apparatus 20. When a game ball enters the variable winning ball apparatus 20 and further enters a specific winning opening 30 provided in the variable winning ball apparatus 20 (V winning), the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state, and the variable winning ball The operation of opening the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b for a predetermined time to open the device 20 is repeated a predetermined number of times. Then, for example, 15 game balls are paid out as prize balls for each game ball won in the variable prize ball device 20. That is, the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened up to a predetermined number of times, and a large number of game balls can be won. The specific game state started in response to the game ball entering the specific winning opening 30 is referred to as a second big hit game state. Also, shifting to the second big hit gaming state is referred to as “second big hit”.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the main board 31. FIG. 5 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. The main board 31 includes a basic circuit 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in accordance with a program, a specific winning switch 30a, a gate switch 32a, start-up switches 14, 11a, 12a, a discharge switch 29a, a count switch 19, and an accessory inflow switch. An input driver circuit (switch circuit) 58 for supplying a signal from 34a, 34b to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 15a for opening / closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, and solenoids 24a, 24b for opening / closing the variable winning ball apparatus 20, A solenoid 16a for opening and closing the opening / closing plate 16 and an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 25a for driving the movable member 25 in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53 are mounted.

  The specific winning switch 30a, the gate switch 32a, the start port switches 14, 11a, 12a, the discharge switch 29a, the count switch 19, the discharge switch 29a, and other switches may be referred to as sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball. Each switch of the specific winning switch 30a, the gate switch 32a, the start port switches 14, 11a, 12a, the count switch 19, and the discharge switch 29a (however, only in the second big hit gaming state) that performs winning detection is also winning detection means. . Further, the winning detection means may be configured to collectively detect the respective game balls that have won separately a plurality of winning openings. In addition, even if a pass gate such as the gate switch 32a is used, if a prize ball is to be paid out, a game ball enters the pass gate is a prize, and a switch ( For example, the gate switch 32a) serves as a winning detection means.

  The basic circuit 53 includes a game control microcomputer 60 and an I / O port unit 57. The game control microcomputer 60 is controlled according to a ROM 54 that stores a game control (game control) program and the like, a RAM 55 that is used as a work memory (variation data storage means that stores variation data), and a program. This is realized by the CPU 56 that performs the operation. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 60. That is, the game control microcomputer 60 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the RAM 55. For this reason, the ROM 54 may be externally attached. Further, the I / O port unit 57 may be built in the game control microcomputer. Note that the game control microcomputer 60 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 60 will be executed (or processed) hereinafter. The CPU 56 executes control according to the program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the power supply of the backup power supply is disabled). At least data (a special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control microcomputer 60 is stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control microcomputer 60 is necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like. It is data. However, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire area of the RAM 55 is backed up.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 displays the special symbol display 8, the special symbol hold storage display 18, the normal symbol display 10, the normal symbol hold storage display 41, and the abnormality notification display 67. Take control. The effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the variable display device 9 based on the effect control command received from the main board 31 via the relay board 77 to control the display of decorative symbols. I do.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the effect control board 80, the relay board 77, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 6, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer. On the effect control board 80, an effect control microcomputer 101 including an effect control CPU 100 and a RAM is mounted. The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control microcomputer 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and responds to a strobe signal (effect control INT signal) from the main board 31. The production control command is received via the input port 103. Further, the production control microcomputer 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the variable display device 9 using the LCD based on the production control command.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a signal direction regulating means. Signal direction restriction allows the signal input from the main board 31 to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (no signal passes in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). As a means, a unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. As the unidirectional circuit 74, for example, a diode or a transistor is used. FIG. 5 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit 74 is provided for each signal.

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

  In the lamp driver board 35, the bus input from the effect control microcomputer 101 is connected to the output port 352 via the bus receiver 351. A signal for driving each lamp output from the output port 352 is amplified by the lamp driver 354 and provided on the frame side or the panel side of the decorative lamp 25, the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the like. Supplied to each lamp. Further, a signal for driving each LED output from the output port 352 is amplified by the LED driving circuit 355 and supplied to each of the LEDs provided on the game board such as the prize ball LED 51 and the ball cut LED 52 and the game frame side. .

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

  The effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 are independent boards, but they may be installed in a single box on the back of the gaming machine, for example.

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

  As described above, in this embodiment, the lamp driver board 35 and the sound output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, and the effect control microcomputer 101 mounted on the effect control board 80 is provided in the gaming machine. The lamp driver LED 35 and the speaker 27 are controlled. A microcomputer is also mounted on the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70. From the main board 31, the production control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board are mounted. A control command is individually transmitted to each of the 70, and each microcomputer in the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 individually controls the electrical components based on the received control command. You may do it.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 60 on the main board 31. When power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the gaming control microcomputer 60 starts main processing after step S1. In the main process, the game control microcomputer 60 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the game control microcomputer 60 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, the built-in device register is initialized (step S4). Further, after initialization (step S5) of CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits), the RAM is set in an accessible state (step S6). The interrupt mode 2 is an address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the game control microcomputer 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device. Is a mode indicating an interrupt address.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 60 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (not shown) input via the input port only once (step S7). When ON is detected in the confirmation, the game control microcomputer 60 executes normal initialization processing (steps S11 to S14).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S8). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the game control microcomputer 60 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state).

  When it is confirmed that there is a backup, the game control microcomputer 60 performs a data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the game control microcomputer 60 returns the game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the main board 31 and the control state of other boards such as the effect control board 80 to the state when the power supply is stopped. Is performed (step S10). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored.

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

  In the initialization process, the game control microcomputer 60 first performs a RAM clear process (step S11). In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left / right symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, a payout stop flag A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag for selectively performing a process according to the control state is performed (step S12). Further, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub-boards (the payout control board 37 and the effect control board 80 in this embodiment) to each sub-board is executed (step S13). Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating the initial design of the decorative design displayed on the variable display device 9 (for the effect control board 80), a command for instructing the turn-off of the prize ball LED 51 and the ball break LED 52, and the like.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 60 sets a built-in CTC register so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 ms (step S14). That is, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S11 to S14) is completed, the game control microcomputer 60 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. To do. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16), and when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set ( Step S19). The display random number is a random number for determining the symbol displayed on the special symbol display 8, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. is there. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the initial value of the count value, such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). In a game control process described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt is prohibited. The display random number update process is also executed in the timer interrupt process described later, and thus conflicts with the process in the timer interrupt process. This is to avoid that. That is, if the timer interrupt is generated during the process of step S17 and the counter value for generating the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt process, the continuity of the count value is impaired. There is a case. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the process of step S17.

  When the timer interruption occurs, the game control microcomputer 60 executes the game control process of steps S21 to S37 shown in FIG. In the game control process, the game control microcomputer 60 first has the specific winning switch 30a, the gate switch 32a, the start port switches 14, 11a, 12a, the discharge switch 29a, the count switch 19, and the accessory via the switch circuit 58. The detection signals of the switches such as the inflow switches 34a and 34b are input, and their state is determined (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 60 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). In the display control process, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed in accordance with the contents of the output buffer set in steps S34 to S37.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 60 performs processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (step S23). , S24).

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control (step S25).

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit judgment)
(2) Random 2: Decide special symbols (for example, symbols with different left and right symbols) (for special symbol determination)
(3) Random 3: Determine a special symbol that generates a big hit (for big hit symbol determination)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach when a big hit is not generated (in this embodiment, whether or not to perform reach production with decorative symbols) (for reach determination)
(6) Random 6: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine initial value of random 6 (for determining random 6 initial value)

  In step S26 in the game control process shown in FIG. 8, the game control microcomputer 60 determines (1) the big hit determination random number, (3) the big hit symbol determination random number, and (6) the normal symbol determination. The counter for generating a random number for use is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (8) are also used.

  Further, a process of updating a position counter for determining an operation mode of the movable member 25 for setting whether to make the game ball easy to win or to make it difficult to win in the specific winning opening 30 is performed (step S26). ). The position counter is formed in the RAM 55. Note that “formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 60 performs a special symbol process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening (step S27). In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 performs normal symbol process processing (step S28). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 performs variable winning ball apparatus process processing (step S29). In the variable winning ball apparatus process process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the variable winning ball apparatus process flag for controlling the operation state of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 in a predetermined order. Then, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 60 performs a process of sending an effect control command for an effect control command related to the decorative symbol set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (decorative symbol command control process: step S30).

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S31).

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signal of the prize opening switch (step S32). Specifically, a winning opening switch (start opening switches 11a, 11b and 14, which are the conditions for paying out a winning ball, a count switch 19, and winning a game ball to a specific winning port and a non-specific opening at the time of the second big hit game. The payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on the fact that any of the discharge switches 29a) for detecting is turned on. A payout control microcomputer including a payout control CPU and a RAM mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls. The RAM may be built in the payout control microcomputer or may be externally attached.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 60 issues a drive command to the output circuit 59 when a predetermined condition is satisfied (output process: step S33). In order to open or close the variable winning ball devices 15 and 20 and the opening / closing plate 16 or to switch the game ball passage in the big winning opening, the output circuit 59 is operated by solenoids 15a, 16a, 24a in accordance with a drive command. , 24b, 25a are driven.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 outputs the normal symbol reserved memory number data corresponding to the storage state of the normal symbol start winning memory number to the normal symbol reserved memory number data setting output buffer (normal symbol start winning memory number buffer). ) And the special symbol reserved memory number data corresponding to the storage state of the special symbol start winning memory number is set in the output buffer (special symbol start winning memory number buffer) for setting the special symbol reserved memory number data. (Storage process: Step S34). It should be noted that, according to the reserved memory number data set in the output buffer, the driving signal is output in step S22, whereby the normal symbol reserved memory display 41 and the special symbol reserved memory display 18 are turned on / off. Is done.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 sets special symbol display control data for effect display of special symbols according to the value of the special symbol process flag in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. A control process is performed (step S35). In addition, according to the display control data set in the output buffer, a special signal effect display on the special symbol display 8 is executed by outputting a drive signal in step S22.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 sets the normal symbol display control data for displaying the normal symbol according to the value of the normal symbol process flag in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data. A control process is performed (step S36). In addition, according to the display control data set in the output buffer, the drive signal is output in step S22, whereby the normal symbol effect display on the normal symbol display 10 is executed.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 60 performs state display lamp display control processing for setting the game state display control data for notifying the game state such as the probability change state and the short time state in the output buffer for setting the game state display control data. This is performed (step S37). In addition, according to the display control data set in the output buffer, a driving signal is output in step S22, so that a gaming state indicator (not shown) for informing the gaming state is in a certain change state. A display or a display indicating that the time is short is executed. The gaming status indicator is constituted by, for example, a 7-segment indicator, and is installed in the gaming area 7, for example. Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S38).

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

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by the game control microcomputer 60. The special symbol process shown in FIG. 10 is a specific process of step S27 in the flowchart of FIG. When the game control microcomputer 60 performs the special symbol process, if the start opening switch 14 for detecting that the game ball has won the start winning opening 13 provided in the game board 6 is turned on. That is, if a start winning (first start winning) in which a game ball wins the start winning opening 13 has occurred (step S311), after performing the start opening switch passing process (step S312), according to the internal state, Any one of steps S300 to S308 is performed.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Waits until the variable symbol variable display can be started. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the number of reserved memories for the special symbol is confirmed. If the number of reserved memories is not 0, it is determined whether or not the result of variable symbol special display is a big hit. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): A stop symbol after variable display of the special symbol is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S302.

  Fluctuation time setting process (step S302): A fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time) is determined according to the value of random 4, and the fluctuation time in the fluctuation pattern is determined to be the fluctuation time of the variable symbol variable display. Also, a variation time timer that measures the variation time of the determined special symbol is started, and the variation display of the special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S303.

  Special symbol variation process (step S303): The variation time of the special symbol is monitored, and when the variation time elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S304. In addition, the number of undischarged items is monitored, and control for interrupting the special symbol variation display when the entry of the game ball into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is confirmed (the progress of the special symbol variation time is interrupted). Control for releasing the special symbol variation display is performed when it is confirmed that all of the entered game balls have been discharged from the variable winning ball apparatus 20.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): The special symbol on the special symbol display 8 is stopped. In addition, a decoration design stop command for instructing stop of the decorative design is transmitted to the effect control board 80. If the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  Big winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the big winning opening by the opening / closing plate 16 is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 16a is driven to open the special winning opening. In addition, the process timer sets the execution time of the big winning opening opening process (large winning opening open time), and sets the big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306.

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

  Big hit end process (step S307): Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 101 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 11, “EXT” indicates the second byte data (EXT data) in the effect control command having a two-byte configuration. “Time” indicates the variation time of the special symbol (variable display period of identification information).

  In this example, each variation pattern of the special symbol is out of place, whether it is a probable big hit, whether it is a non-probable big hit, whether it is a reach, and reach when it is a reach A plurality of types are prepared according to differences in various production modes such as modes. In this embodiment, reach production is performed using decorative symbols.

  The “normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern that does not involve a reach mode. “Normal reach” is a variation pattern with a reach mode. “Reach A” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”. Further, the difference in reach mode means that a change mode (speed, rotation direction, etc.), a character, or the like of a different mode appears in the reach change time. For example, in “normal”, the reach mode is realized by only one type of change mode, whereas in “reach A”, a reach mode including a plurality of change modes with different speeds and directions of change is realized.

  Further, “reach B” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach” and “reach A”. “Reach C” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”, “reach A”, and “reach B”. In “Normal reach”, “Reach A”, “Reach B” and “Reach C”, the fluctuation result (stop symbol) will cause a big hit (big hit symbol) and the case will not cause a big hit. There are (outlier symbols).

  A shortened display pattern may be used. The shortened display pattern is a very short variation pattern in which the variation time of the left middle right symbol is 1.0 seconds, for example. Although not shown in FIG. 11, in addition to the reach effect, a variation pattern including presence / absence of another specific effect such as presence / absence of a notice effect or presence / absence of a re-change effect may be included. .

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the first start port switch passing process (step S312). In the first start port switch passing process, the game control microcomputer 60 checks whether or not the start winning memorized number has reached the maximum value of 4 (step S111). If the starting winning memory number has not reached 4, the value of the starting winning memory counter (holding memory counter) is increased by 1, and the starting winning memory number is increased by 1 (step S112). These are extracted and stored in the storage area corresponding to the value of the number of start winning prizes stored (step S113). Note that extracting a random number means reading a count value from a counter for generating a random number and setting the read count value as a random value. In step S113, random numbers 1 to 5 are extracted from the random numbers shown in FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the gaming control microcomputer 60 is in a state in which the variation of the special symbol can be started (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300) (step S300). S50), it is confirmed whether or not the second big hit flag is set (step S51).

  It should be noted that the case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is not a state where the special symbol is changed in the special symbol display 8, and the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit. This is a case where the big hit game based on the big hit that occurred when the display result is obtained is not being executed (ie, the first big hit game state).

  If the second big hit flag is not set, the game control microcomputer 60 checks the value of the start winning memory number (step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter storing the start winning memorized number is confirmed.

  The case where the second big hit flag is not set is a case where the big hit gaming state (second big hit gaming state) is not based on the game ball having won the specific winning opening 30. The second jackpot flag is set when shifting to the second jackpot gaming state, and is reset when the second jackpot gaming state ends. That is, in this embodiment, when the second big hit gaming state is being executed, the special symbol variation display is not started.

  Also, in step S51, on the condition that the gaming state is a probable variation state, the variation display of the special symbol may not be started if the second big hit flag is set. Whether or not it is in the probability variation state can be confirmed by whether or not the probability variation flag, which is an internal flag, is set. In other words, the game control microcomputer 60 may prevent the special symbol process from proceeding further when the game state is a probable change state and the second big hit game is being executed. In that case, even if the variable display start condition is satisfied, the variable display of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is not started. In other words, the variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is restricted.

  The probability variation flag is determined, for example, when the variable display with the probability variation symbol as a stop symbol ends and the first big hit game ends after the probability variation symbol is determined to be a predetermined probability variation symbol in the process of step S60. In step S307, the game control microcomputer 60 sets the jackpot end process. That is, the game control microcomputer 60 realizes special game state control means for shifting to a special game state in which the display result of the variable display of the identification information is likely to be the specific display result as compared with the normal state.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, the game control microcomputer 60 reads out each random value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 ( In step S53), the value of the number of stored start prizes is reduced by 1 and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective start winning memory numbers are extracted always matches the order of the starting winning memory numbers = 1, 2, 3, and 4. It has become. In this embodiment, each time the variable display start condition is satisfied, the contents of each storage area are shifted, so the order in which the random number values are extracted can be specified.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 60 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S55), and determines whether or not the first jackpot is determined (step S56). In the case of detachment, the reach determination random number is read from the storage area, and it is determined whether or not to reach (step S57). When it is determined that the first big hit is made, for example, the first big hit flag is set without performing the determination in step S57. The first big hit flag is referred to in step S59, which will be described later, and is reset when the first big hit game effect ends. Then, the game control microcomputer 60 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S58).

  In step S56, the jackpot probability at the time of probability change is taken into account whether or not the control state is the probability change state (a special game state in which the display result of variable display is likely to be a big hit symbol compared to the normal state). Alternatively, the judgment is made with the big hit probability at the time of uncertain change.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, when the game control microcomputer 60 determines the presence or absence of the first big hit, it determines the stop symbol of the special symbol according to the determination result. Specifically, when it is determined to be the first big hit in step S56 (Y in step S59), the big hit is determined according to the value of the big hit symbol determining random number (random 3) stored in the random number buffer area. A symbol is determined (step S60). If it is determined in step S56 to be a deviation (N in step S59), a deviation symbol is determined according to the value of the random symbol for random symbol determination (random 2) stored in the random number buffer area ( Step S61). Then, the game control microcomputer 60 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the variation time setting process (step S58).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the variation time setting process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the variation time setting process, the game control microcomputer 60 first determines a variation pattern according to the determination result of the presence / absence of the big hit or the presence / absence of reach in steps S56 to S57 (step S65). In this embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol is determined by determining the variation pattern. Note that after determining the variation time, the variation pattern in which the determined variation time is set may be selected from a plurality of variation patterns.

  In step S65, the game control microcomputer 60 uses the variation pattern determination table set in accordance with the determination result in step S56 and the variation pattern determination random number stored in the storage area. 11 to determine which of the variation patterns shown in FIG. As the variation pattern determination table, for example, for big hit, probable big hit, reach, and loss are prepared in advance, and the use table is set according to the determination results in steps S56 and S57.

  When the variation pattern is determined, the game control microcomputer 60 sets the address of the determined command transmission table for variation pattern designation to the pointer (step S66), and executes a command setting process as a subroutine (step S67).

  The effect control command is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 by executing the command set process. In this embodiment, each effect control command that can be transmitted to the effect control board 80 is stored in the command transmission table of the ROM 54. In the command set process, the game control microcomputer 60 sets the effect control command data stored at the address of the ROM 54 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the effect control command to be transmitted, in a predetermined area of the RAM 55. In the decorative symbol command control process in step S30, the effect control command data set in the RAM 55 is set in the output port, and an effect control INT signal indicating that the command is transmitted is output.

  When the special symbol variation time is determined in step S65, the game control microcomputer 60 sets variation time data indicating the determined variation time in the special symbol process timer and starts measuring the variation time (step S65). (S68) The measurement execution flag is set, and the special symbol display on the special symbol display 8 is started (step S69). Then, the game control microcomputer 60 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation process (step S70).

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol variation process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation process, the game control microcomputer 60 checks whether or not the progress of the special symbol variation display is interrupted (step S71). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the interruption flag is set. The interruption flag is a flag that is set when the progress of the special symbol variable display is interrupted and reset when the progress of the special symbol variable display is resumed.

  If the progress of the special symbol variation display is not interrupted, the game control microcomputer 60 checks whether or not the number of uncharged items is 0 (step S72). When the game control microcomputer 60 confirms whether or not the number of unreleased items is 0, for example, the value of the inflow ball counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 and the variable winning prize are obtained. The value of the discharge ball counter discharged from the ball device 20 is compared. When they are equal, it is determined that the number of undischarged items has become zero.

  If the number of unreleased items is 0 (N in step S72), the game control microcomputer 60 checks whether or not the special symbol process timer has timed out (step S73). When it is confirmed that the special symbol process timer has timed out and the variation time has ended (Y in step S73), the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S74).

  If the number of unreleased items is not 0 (N in step S72), the game control microcomputer 60 sets an interruption flag (step S75), and sets the address of the command transmission table for specifying the variable progress interruption to the pointer. (Step S76), a command set process which is a subroutine is executed (Step S77). Further, the discharge monitoring timer is started, and measurement of the time from when the game ball enters the variable winning ball device 20 is started (step S78). In this way, when the progress of the special symbol fluctuation display is not interrupted, the number of undischarged items is not 0 (the value of the discharge ball counter is 0 and the value of the inflow ball counter is not 0) ) Means that a game ball has entered the variable winning ball device 20, so that it is determined that there is a possibility of transition to the second big hit game state, and control for interrupting the progress of the special symbol variation display I do.

  The discharge monitoring timer is a period that is slightly longer than the period normally required from when a game ball enters the variable winning ball apparatus 20 until it is discharged, and confirms whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed. It is a timer used for. Since a plurality of game balls may enter the variable winning ball apparatus 20 in succession, after the discharge monitoring timer is started, the number of uncharged items increases (the value of the discharge ball counter increases). First, the value of the inflow ball counter increases). The discharge monitoring timer decrements the timer value by 1 before confirming whether it has timed out in step S85, which will be described later, or when a second big hit occurs or when the number of unreleased items has reached 0 It is reset.

  If it is determined in step S71 that the progress of the special symbol variation display has been interrupted, the gaming control microcomputer 60 indicates that the number of unreleased items is 0 (Y in step S79) and the second big hit If the flag is not set (N in Step S80), the interruption flag is reset (Step S81), the address of the command transmission table for designating the variable progress restart is set in the pointer (Step S82), and the command set which is a subroutine is set. Processing is executed (step S83). In this way, when the number of unreleased items becomes 0 when the progress of the special symbol variation display is interrupted, all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball device 20 have been discharged. For the sake of meaning, control for resuming the progress of the special symbol variation display is performed on the condition that the state has not shifted to the second big hit gaming state.

  If the second jackpot flag is set in step S80, it is considered that the state has shifted to the second jackpot gaming state, and the state of suspension of the special symbol variation display is continued. In this case, when all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are discharged in the final round in the second big hit gaming state, the second big hit gaming state is finished and the second big hit flag is reset, step S81. Subsequent processing is executed.

  When the special symbol variation display is interrupted, if the number of unreleased items is not 0 (N in Step S79) and the second big hit flag is not set (N in Step S84), the game control microcomputer 60 After subtracting 1 from the discharge monitoring timer, it is checked whether or not the discharge monitoring timer has timed out (step S85). If the time-out has occurred, the gaming control microcomputer 60 displays a predetermined display (eg, “0”) on the abnormality notification display 67 to indicate that the variable winning ball device 20 is jammed with a game ball. Abnormality notification indicating that an error has occurred is performed (step S86). Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 60 stops the game control in order to stop the progress of the game (step S87). Specifically, as a process for stopping game control, for example, a discharge error flag may be set. In the state where the discharge error flag is set, for example, the starting operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is stopped, and the other control (including control relating to payout of the game ball) is performed otherwise. . In this case, if the variable display of the special symbol is interrupted, it remains in the interrupted state. If a ball clogging error occurs after the second big hit occurs and before the second big hit game starts, the second big hit game is not started. Similarly, when a ball clogging error occurs between rounds during execution of the second big hit game, the next round game is not started.

  If a ball clogging error occurs between rounds during the execution of the second big hit game, the discharge error flag may be set after the second big hit game ends. That is, when a ball clogging error due to a discharge failure occurs during the execution of the second big hit game, the error state may be controlled after the second big hit game being executed ends.

  After the discharge error flag is set, when the game ball is detected by the discharge switch 29a and the number of unreleased items becomes 0, the discharge error flag is reset and the normal game state is restored.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stopping process, the game control microcomputer 60 sets the address of the command transmission table for designating decorative symbol stop to the pointer (step S91), and executes the command setting process which is a subroutine (step S92).

  Then, the game control microcomputer 60 stops displaying the special symbol with the determined stop symbol (step S93). Further, when the game control microcomputer 60 makes a big hit (Y in Step S94), the time before opening the big winning opening is set in the big winning opening control timer (Step S95), and the value of the special symbol process flag is set as the big winning. It is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process (step S96). On the other hand, when it is determined to be off (N in step S94), the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S97).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the display control process (step S22). In the display control process, the game control microcomputer 60 first stops driving signals for the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 ( Step S221).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 60 performs special display according to the display control data set in the output buffer (special symbol output buffer) for setting the special symbol display control data in the special symbol display control processing (see FIG. 19). A drive signal is output to the symbol display 8 (step S222).

  Specifically, if a stop symbol designation value is set as display control data, the special symbol display unit 8 displays the stop symbol of the current variable display or the previous variable display stop symbol on the special symbol display 8 according to the content. A drive signal for output is output. Further, if the change state designation value is set as the display control data, a drive signal for making the display state of the special symbol display 8 blink. If the specified number of times of opening display is set as the display control data, a driving signal for displaying the number of times of opening of the big winning opening during the second big hit is output to the special symbol display 8. If the turn-off designation value is set as the display control data, a driving signal for turning off the display of the number of times of opening of the big winning opening during the second big hit is output to the special symbol display 8.

  If the interruption state designation value is set as the display control data, the special symbol display 8 outputs a driving signal for displaying an arbitrary off symbol while the progression of the symbol variation is interrupted. For example, the display symbol to be displayed may be a predetermined symbol that is predetermined, or may be a symbol that is determined by random lottery. In addition, when the interruption state designation value is set as the display control data, the special symbol display 8 is set to blink the display state of the special symbol display 8 during the interruption of the progress of the symbol variation. A drive signal may be output. That is, a driving signal for keeping the same display state as when the symbol variation is in progress may be output.

  Further, if a notice state designation value is set as the display control data, a notice display (for example, the display result is displayed on the special symbol display 8 for notifying the display result of the change display during the interruption of the progress of the sign change). A driving signal for outputting a jackpot notice display for notifying that a jackpot display result is obtained and a reach notice display for notifying that the display result is accompanied by reach is output. In this embodiment, as the notice display, for example, a big hit notice display is performed by blinking display with the left and right symbols being “3” and “7”, and the left and right symbols are “1” and “9”. In such a state, the reach notice display may be performed by blinking display.

  The game control microcomputer 60 also includes other data setting output buffers (normal symbol output buffer, special symbol start winning memory buffer, normal symbol starting winning memory buffer, gaming state display control data setting The drive signal is output according to the setting contents of the output buffer (step S223).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the special symbol display control process. In the special symbol display control process, the game control microcomputer 60 uses a designated value for specifying the display content of the special symbol to be displayed on the special symbol display 8 according to the value indicated by the special symbol process flag. Executes processing to set in the output buffer. As described above, the drive signal is output in step S222 in accordance with the designated value set in the special symbol output buffer.

  In the special symbol display control process, the game control microcomputer 60 first reads a special symbol process flag (step S35a). Next, if the read special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S303 (special symbol variation processing) (Y in step S35b), the gaming control microcomputer 60 has interrupted the progress of the special symbol variation display. It is confirmed whether or not (step S35n). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the progress of the variation time in the variation display of the special symbol is suspended by confirming whether or not the suspension flag is set.

  If the progress of the special symbol variable display is being interrupted, the game control microcomputer 60 determines whether or not to execute the notice effect during the interruption (step S35o). A state designation value is selected (step S35p), and the selected notice state designation value is set in the special symbol output buffer (step S35q).

  In step S35o, whether or not to execute the notice effect is determined by a random lottery. Specifically, a comparison value to be compared with the extracted value of the random number for determination for determining whether or not to execute the notification effect is set, and “notify” or “not notify” is drawn for each comparison value. As a result, the associated notice determination table is used, and if “notify in advance” is associated with a comparison value equal to the extracted value of the random number for notice determination, the notice effect is decided to be executed, and the notice determination is performed. If “not notice” is associated with the comparison value having the same value as the extracted value of the random number for use, it is determined that the notice effect is not executed. Note that different notice determination tables may be used depending on whether the display result of the variable display during interruption is a big hit, a reach that does not become a big hit, or a loss without reaching a reach. In this case, for example, the notice determination table used when the display result of the variable display during interruption becomes a big hit is determined to be notified with high probability compared to other notice determination tables. A comparison value is set.

  In step S35p, for example, if the decorative symbol variably displayed corresponding to the special symbol is in the reach display state (if it is in a state after the reach is established), a notice state designation value for making a jackpot notice If the left and right symbols of the decorative symbol are not yet stopped (if the state is before the reach is established), a notice state designation value for performing a reach notice may be selected. In addition, when the left and right symbols of the decorative design are not yet stopped, for example, it is decided whether to make a big hit announcement or a reach announcement by random lottery, and select the notification state designation value according to the decision result You may make it do. When the reach is displayed with a special symbol (for example, when the special symbol consists of three symbols, left, middle, and right), if the special symbol is in the reach display state, select a notice state designation value for performing a big hit notice. If the left and right symbols of the special symbol are not stopped, the notice state designation value for performing the reach notice may be selected.

  On the other hand, when the notice effect is not executed, the interruption state designation value is selected (step S35r), and the selected interruption state designation value is set in the special symbol output buffer (step S35s). Then, the process ends without subtracting the special symbol process timer.

  If the progress of the special symbol variation display is not interrupted, the game control microcomputer 60 decrements the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S35c), selects the variation state designation value (step S35d), and selects the selected variation. The state designation value is set in the special symbol output buffer (step S35e). The variation state designation value is selected according to the variation period of the special symbol, and in this embodiment, the variation state designation value indicating the lighting state in the blinking display or the variation state indicating the unlit state in the blinking display in step S35d. The specified value is selected.

  The special symbol process flag read in step S35a is any of step S300 (special symbol normal process), step S301 (special symbol stop symbol setting process), step S302 (variable time setting process), and step S304 (special symbol stop process). If it is a value indicating that (step S35f), the game control microcomputer 60 selects a stop symbol designation value (step S35g), and sets the selected stop symbol designation value in the special symbol output buffer (step S35h). ).

  In this embodiment, if the value indicated by the special symbol process flag is a predetermined value in step S35f, the process proceeds to step S35g, and the stop symbol designation value is set every time in step S35h even when the symbol is stopped. However, it stores the value indicated by the special symbol process flag, determines whether or not the special symbol process flag has been updated in step S35f, and processes only when the special symbol process flag has been updated. You may make it transfer to step S35g. However, as in this embodiment, setting the stop symbol designation value in step S35h every time determines whether the value indicated by the special symbol process flag is stored or whether the special symbol process flag has been updated. Since processing is not required, the load on the game control microcomputer 60 can be reduced.

  The stop symbol designation value is selected according to the state of the special symbol process flag. Specifically, if the special symbol process flag is a value indicating one of steps S300 to S302, a stop symbol designation value indicating the stop symbol that was the display result of the previous variation display is selected in step S35g. The On the other hand, if the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S304, in step S35g, a stop symbol designation value indicating a stop symbol which is the display result of the current variable display is selected. In addition, when the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S302, and when the stop symbol designation value indicating the big hit symbol is selected as the stop symbol designation value indicating the stop symbol which was the display result of the previous variation display. May be replaced with a stop symbol designation value indicating a missing symbol.

  If the special symbol process flag read in step S35a is not a value indicating any of step S300 to step S304 (N in step S35f), that is, if it is a big hit gaming state, the gaming control microcomputer 60 will receive a big prize. A process for confirming whether or not the mouth open count display waiting timer is 0 is performed (step S35i).

  The big prize opening number of times display waiting timer is a timer that is set when, for example, the process proceeds from step S306 to step S307 and timed out when the next round starts.

  If the winning prize opening number display waiting timer is not 0 (N in step S35i), the game control microcomputer 60 subtracts 1 from the winning prize opening number display waiting timer (step S35j), and sets the turn-off designated value as a special value. Set in the symbol output buffer (step S35k). The turn-off specified value is a specified value for instructing the end of display of the number of times of winning of the special winning opening.

  If the big prize opening number of times display waiting timer is 0 (Y in step S35i), the game control microcomputer 60 selects the number-of-opening display designation value (step S351), and the selected number-of-opening number display designated value is special. Set in the symbol output buffer (step S35m).

  The specified number of times of opening display is selected according to the number of rounds in the big hit gaming state. Specifically, the open count display designated value indicating the number of rounds to be transferred is selected.

  In this embodiment, as described above, the special symbol process (step S27) and the special symbol display control process (step S35) are executed separately, but both are executed together. Also good. In addition, as for various processes executed in the special symbol process (step S27) and the special symbol display control process (step S35), only the process of updating the special symbol process flag is performed in the special symbol process. All may be performed by special symbol display control processing.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 will be described. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 20, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 through eight signal lines of the effect control signals D0 to D7. An effect control INT signal signal line for transmitting a strobe signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80. Although an example of the effect control command is shown in FIG. 20, the control command to the payout control board 37 is also transmitted through eight signal lines and one INT signal signal line.

  In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 101 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the production control microcomputer 101, the production control INT signal corresponds to a capture signal that triggers the capture of production control command data.

  The effect control command is sent only once so that the effect control microcomputer 101 can recognize it. In this example, “recognizable” means that the level of the effect control INT signal changes, and that it is sent only once so as to be recognizable means that, for example, each of the first and second bytes of the effect control command data Accordingly, the production control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once. The effect control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80. In the example shown in FIG. 22, commands 8000 (H) to 8058 (H) are effect control commands for designating decorative pattern variation patterns that are variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in correspondence with special symbols.

  Command A000 (H) is an effect control command for instructing stop of variable display of decorative symbols. Command A100 (H) is an effect control command for instructing interruption of variable display of decorative symbols. Command A 101 (H) is an effect control command for instructing restart of variable display of decorative symbols.

  The command BXXX (H) is an effect control command that is sent from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. The commands D000 (H) to EXXXX (H) are effect control commands relating to the display state of the variable display device 9 that is not related to the variation of the decorative symbols and the big hit game.

  Command D000 (H) is an effect control command for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The command E400 (H) is an effect control command transmitted when the probability variation state ends and changes from the high probability state to the low probability state, and the command E401 (H) is low when the probability variation state starts. This is an effect control command transmitted when the probability state changes to the high probability state.

  Command E500 (H) is an effect control command that specifies the end of the notification effect. Commands E501 (H) to E504 (H) are effect control commands for designating the start of the first to fourth notification effects. Command E505 (H) is an effect control command that designates changing the aspect of a notification effect that has already been started.

  When the production control microcomputer 101 of the production control board 80 receives the production control command described above from the game control microcomputer 60 of the main board 31, the display state of the variable display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. At the same time, the lamp / LED display state is changed, and if necessary, the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. Control commands other than the example shown in FIG. 22 are also transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. For example, the display state of the prize ball LED 51 and the ball break LED 52 and a more detailed presentation control command related to the big hit game are also transmitted from the main board 31 to the presentation control board 80.

  FIG. 23 is a timing chart for explaining the starting operation based on winning in the starting winning ports 11 and 12. Here, an explanation will be given by taking as an example the control accompanying winning in the start winning opening 11. In the normal gaming state, the start valid period is valid until the start prize opening switch 11a is turned on and then turned off, and at least the start operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is started during the specific prize valid period. Until invalidation continues.

  As shown in FIG. 23, when there is an opening / closing operation due to a start prize, if the start prize port switch 11a is turned on and then turned off, the start valid period becomes invalid from the off time point, and the start prize port switch 11a is turned on. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the starting operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is started, and the specific winning validity period becomes valid from the start time.

  In the starting operation, the game control microcomputer 60 performs control to open the variable winning ball device 20 (opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b) twice at a predetermined interval. When a game ball flows into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 at the time of opening, the game ball that has flowed in is detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b. Thereafter, if the specific winning switch 30a is not turned on (detection of V winning) during the specific winning effective period of a predetermined time, the starting effective period is switched from invalid to effective. Further, if the specific prize switch 30a is not turned on (detection of V prize) during the specific prize valid period for a predetermined time, the specific prize valid period is switched from valid to invalid. Note that the game ball that has flowed into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is detected by the discharge switch 29a when discharged from the variable winning ball apparatus 20, regardless of whether or not it has been detected by the specific winning switch 30a.

  In this embodiment, the specific winning effective period is set to a variable time, that is, the specific winning effective period becomes effective when the starting operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is started, and the movable member 25 is connected to the specific winning opening 30. The time until the game ball becomes difficult to enter the specific prize opening 30 after the game ball easily enters is designated as the specific prize valid period. Thereafter, the specific winning validity period becomes invalid (even if a game ball wins the specific winning opening 30, the V winning is not made). As will be described later, since the time required for the movable member 25 to enter a state where it is difficult for a game ball to enter the specific winning opening 30 is a variable time, the specific winning validity period is also a variable time.

  However, when the movable member 25 is in a state in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the specific prize opening 30, the specific prize validity period may be set to a fixed time instead of changing the valid prize validity period from valid to invalid.

  FIG. 24 is a timing chart showing an operation example of the movable member 25. The gaming control microcomputer 60 constantly updates the value of the position counter within a predetermined numerical range (1 to 4 in this example) when power is supplied to the gaming machine. The position counter holds the updated value until the value is next updated.

  The game control microcomputer 60 is in a state in which a game ball can easily enter the specific winning opening 30 when the position counter value is updated to “1” as an initial value after the start winning opening switch 11a is turned on. To do. However, the state in which the game ball can easily enter the specific winning opening 30 is based on the fact that the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b detect the game ball and are turned on. That is, on the condition that at least one game ball has flowed into the variable winning ball apparatus 20, the movable member 25 is brought into a state in which it is easy for the gaming ball to enter the specific winning opening 30.

  The game control microcomputer 60 sends a notification effect start designation command (first to fourth notification effect start designation commands, ie, E501 (), to the effect control microcomputer 101 when the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b are turned on. The notification effect is started by transmitting any of the effect control commands H) to E504 (H) (see FIG. 22). The effect control microcomputer 101 uses the variable display device 9 to execute different notification effects according to the types of received notification effect start designation commands (first to fourth notification effect start designation commands). When the gaming control microcomputer 60 determines that all the gaming balls that have flowed into the variable winning ball device 20 have been discharged from the variable winning ball device 20, the gaming control microcomputer 101 sends a notification effect end designation command (E500). The notification effect is terminated by transmitting the effect control command (H) (see FIG. 22).

  In this example, the notification effect is started on the condition that the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b are turned on. However, the notification effect may be started when the start winning port switch 11a is turned on.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60, when all the game balls that have flowed into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are discharged from the variable winning ball apparatus 20, the position counter value returns to "1" as an initial value. Then, the movable member 25 is returned to a state where it is difficult for the game ball to enter the specific winning opening 30. In this embodiment, the specific winning validity period is invalidated at that time. If there is no V prize, the effective start period is returned to “valid” (see FIG. 23). If there is a V prize, the second jackpot game is started, and when the second jackpot game is finished, the start valid period is returned to “valid”. Note that when the movable member 25 is returned to a state where it is difficult for the game ball to enter the specific winning opening 30, all the game balls that have flowed into the variable winning ball device 20 are discharged from the variable winning ball device 20. May be used). In another time point, the start valid period is returned to “valid” on condition that the position counter value has returned to “1” as the initial value for the first time thereafter.

  In this embodiment, when the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b are turned on, and the value of the position counter is updated to a predetermined value (in this example, “1” as an initial value), The movable member 25 is controlled so that the game ball can easily enter the specific winning opening 30. The timing at which the start winning port switch 11a is turned on is determined according to the player's game ball launch timing and the flow situation of the game balls in the game area 7, and the value of the position counter at the timing at which the start winning port switch 11a is turned on is indefinite. is there. Therefore, the period during which the movable member 25 is controlled so that the game ball can easily enter the specific winning opening 30 is not constant and varies. In other words, the mode of the movable member 25 (specifically, the period during which the game ball is likely to enter the specific winning opening 30) can be changed into a plurality of modes simply by using the position counter that constantly updates the value. Can be changed.

  In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the movable member 25 is controlled in two states: a state in which a game ball easily enters the specific winning opening 30 and a state in which the game ball does not easily enter the specific winning opening 30. . In other words, the movable member 25 is controlled to be in one of a state in which a game ball easily enters the specific winning opening 30 and a state in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the specific winning opening 30. Specifically, in the period in which the movable member is on in FIG. 24, the state is controlled so that the game ball easily enters the specific winning opening 30 (the state illustrated in FIG. 4A), and in the other periods The game ball is controlled so that it is difficult for the game ball to enter the winning opening 30 (the state illustrated in FIG. 4B). However, the movable member 25 may be a member that can take at least four states, and the game control microcomputer 60 may control the position of the movable member 25 in accordance with the value of the position counter. That is, when the value of the position counter changes from n−1 to n (any of n = 1 to 4), the movable member 25 may be controlled to a position corresponding to the changed value.

  For example, the left and right members constituting the movable member 25 illustrated in FIG. 4 are each driven by a solenoid, and (1) the value of the position counter is 1 during the period in which the movable member is on in FIG. In the period, the position of only the left member is lowered, (2) in the period where the value of the position counter is 2, the position of the members on both sides is increased, and (3) in the period where the value of the position counter is 3, Control may be performed such that the position is lowered and (4) the position of the members on both sides is lowered during the period when the value of the position counter is 4.

  Moreover, the movable member 25 illustrated in FIG. 4 is an example, and is a member having another structure, for example, (1) a position at which a game ball enters the specific winning opening 30 with a low probability, and (2) a specific with a high probability. Guidance that can take four states: a position where a game ball enters the winning hole 30, (3) a position where no game ball enters the specific winning hole 30, and (4) a position where all game balls enter the specific winning hole 30. A member is used, and the guide member is a rotary solenoid and a mechanism that moves the guide member by an amount corresponding to the rotational position of the rotary solenoid (in this example, four types of rotational positions), and according to the value of the position counter The position (state) of the guide member may be controlled. The numbers in parentheses are values corresponding to the position counter values.

  When the position of the movable member (induction member) is changed in accordance with the value of the position counter during the period in which the movable member is on in FIG. 24, the variation in the position change of the movable member in the starting operation may be increased. And can further enhance the fun of the game. That is, the cycle of the position counter constituting the counter means (the time for which the numerical value makes one round) and the cycle of the operation of the movable member (guidance member) (operation modes that can be controlled ((1) to (4) in the above example)) After each control, the first operation mode (the time until control returns to (1) in the above example, that is, the total time controlled by the operation modes (1) to (4)) and By making them the same (1: 1), it is possible to increase the variation of the position change of the movable member in the starting operation only by using the position counter. However, the cycle of the position counter and the cycle of the operation of the movable member may be 2: 1 or 1: 2, for example, or not the same.

  Further, in the period in which the movable member is on in FIG. 24, the control order is not always changed in the order of (1) → (2) → (3) → (4). Also good. For example, if control is performed in the order of (1) → (2) → (3) → (4) in a certain starting operation, the next starting operation is in the order of (1) → (3) → (2) → (4). The variation of the position change of the movable member may be further increased by controlling.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the variable winning ball apparatus process process. The variable winning ball apparatus process shown in FIG. 25 is a specific process of step S29 in the game control process shown in FIG. In the variable winning ball apparatus process, the game control microcomputer 60 sets the V winning flag of the internal flag when the specific winning switch 30a is turned on (detection of V winning) if the specific winning validity period is in effect (step S491). After the setting (steps S492 and S493), any one of the processes of steps S400 to S409 is performed according to the value of the internal state (variable winning ball apparatus process flag).

  Start winning awaiting process (step S400): It is confirmed whether or not the start winning port switches 11a and 12a have detected a game ball (whether or not they are turned on). If any of the start winning opening switches is turned on and the first big hit game state is not controlled, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value according to step S401. If it is controlled to the first big hit gaming state, the starting operation is not executed. Even in such a case, the payout of the winning ball based on the detection of the game ball by the start winning award opening switch 11a, 12a may be performed.

  Variable winning ball apparatus opening waiting process (step S401): When the opening timing of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is reached, a starting operation, which is an operation of opening / closing the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b, is started by turning on the solenoids 24a, 24b. Then, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S402.

  Processing for waiting for the inflow of an accessory switch (step S402): Waits for the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b to detect (turn on) a game ball. When the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b are turned on, a notification effect start designation command is transmitted to the effect control control microcomputer 101. Thereafter, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value according to step S403.

  Position counter initial position wait process (step S403): Wait until the position counter reaches the initial position. That is, it waits for the value of the position counter to become the initial value. When the value of the position counter reaches the initial value, the movable member 25 is put into a state where the game ball can easily enter the specific winning opening 30, and the value of the variable winning ball device process flag is updated to a value according to step S404.

  Game ball discharge waiting process (step S404): It is determined whether all the game balls that have flowed into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 have been discharged from the variable winning ball apparatus 20. When all the game balls that have flowed into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are discharged from the variable winning ball apparatus 20, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value according to step S405.

  Specific winning valid period elapse waiting process (step S405): Wait until the value of the position counter reaches the initial value. When the value of the position counter has become the initial value, the value of the variable winning ball device process flag is updated to a value according to step S400 when no V winning is made. When V is won, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value according to step S406 in order to start the second big hit game. Here, the second big hit flag is set.

  Note that in the second big hit game, for example, game control in which the right to continue up to 16 rounds is allowed is executed. Specifically, in the second big hit gaming state, the gaming control microcomputer 60 performs on / off control of the solenoids 24a and 24b, so that the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b repeat the opening operation for a predetermined time 18 times (18 Open and close cycle). If ten winning balls are detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a, 34b before the opening / closing cycle ends 18 times, the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b is ended at that time. When the open / close cycle ends (after the open / close cycle ends, wait for a sufficient time for all the winning game balls to be detected by the discharge switch 29a), the continuation right is unconditionally generated if it is not the final round. However, the right to continue 18 open / close cycles may be established on the condition that the game ball is detected by the specific winning switch 30a during the open / close cycle. If the continuation right is established, the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b are opened again after a predetermined interval time has elapsed. That is, the next round is started. In the above-described embodiment, when a specific game state occurs when a game ball that has won a prize space in the start-up operation based on the start prize has won V, the open / close cycle has a maximum of 16 times (16 rounds). ) Is allowed.

  Large winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus) opening start processing (step S406): Control for opening the large winning opening (in this case, variable winning ball apparatus 20) is started. Specifically, the counter and flag are initialized, and the solenoids 24a and 24b are driven to start opening the variable winning ball apparatus 20. Also, a second big hit middle flag is set. Then, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value according to step S407.

  Processing during opening of a big winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus) (step S407): control for sending a presentation control command for round display to the effect control board 80 and closing of the big winning opening (in this case, the variable winning ball apparatus 20) Processing to confirm the establishment of the condition is performed. When the final closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value according to step S408. In a gaming machine configured to generate a continuation right on condition that a game ball in the specific winning opening 30 has been won, when the big winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus 20) is in an open state, Similarly to the start operation, the drive control of the movable member 25 based on the value of the position counter may be performed.

  Big hit end processing (step S408): Control is performed to cause the production control microcomputer 101 to perform display control for notifying the player that the second big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S400.

  In this embodiment, the V winning switch opened / closed by the opening / closing plate 16 (the large winning opening opened in the first big hit gaming state) is not provided with the V winning switch, but is opened / closed by the opening / closing plate 16. In a game machine in which a V winning switch is provided at the special winning opening, a process of monitoring the V winning switch provided in the special winning opening that is opened and closed by the opening / closing plate 16 while being controlled in the second specific gaming state. It is preferable to carry out. In this case, the game control microcomputer 60 repeats whether or not the count switch 19 and the V prize switch in the large prize opening opened and closed by the opening / closing plate 16 are turned on while being controlled in the second specific game state. After confirming and confirming that the count switch 19 or the V winning switch is turned on, a predetermined display (for example, “2”) is given to the abnormality notification display 67, and when it should not be detected (second specific game) While the control is in the state), the switch provided in the special winning opening informs that an abnormality detection error indicating that a game ball has been detected has occurred. Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 60 executes a process for stopping the game control in order to stop the progress of the game. For example, an abnormality detection error flag is set so that at least control relating to payout of the game ball is not executed. Note that the second big hit gaming state that is being executed may be stopped in response to the abnormality detection error flag being set.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a specific process example of the position counter update process (step S26) in the game control process shown in FIG. In the position counter update process, the game control microcomputer 60 increments the value of the sub-counter formed in the RAM 55 by 1 (step S111). The sub-counter has a counting range of 0 to 511, and when the value reaches 512, the game control microcomputer 60 returns the value of the sub-counter to zero. When the value of the sub-counter returns to 0, that is, when 512 is counted, the game control microcomputer 60 increments the value of the position counter formed in the RAM 55 by 1 (steps S112 and S113). When the value of the position counter reaches 5, the value is returned to 1 as an initial value (steps S114 and S115).

  In this embodiment, since the position counter update process is executed every 2 ms, the value of the position counter advances between 1 and 4 every 2 × 512 = 1024 ms (1.024 seconds).

  Hereinafter, a specific processing example of steps S400 to S405 in the variable winning ball apparatus process processing will be described. In the following processing, the case where the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened only once in the starting operation is taken as an example. In the starting operation, it is assumed that the opening time of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is longer than the time required for the position counter value to make one round (four steps).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the start prize waiting process in step S400. In the start winning waiting process, the game control microcomputer 60 is variable on condition that it is not in the first big hit game state (step S412) when the start port switch 11a or the start port switch 11b is turned on (step S411). A value corresponding to the time until the opening start timing is set in the opening waiting timer for determining the opening start timing of the winning ball apparatus 20 (step S413). Thereafter, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variable winning ball apparatus opening waiting process (step S414). Whether or not the game is in the first big hit gaming state is confirmed, for example, by the value of the special symbol process flag. Further, during the first big hit game, the first big hit game in-progress flag may be set to determine whether or not the first big hit game is in the first big hit game state.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the variable winning ball apparatus opening waiting process of step S401. In the variable winning ball apparatus release waiting process, the game control microcomputer 60 decrements the release wait timer value by -1 (step S421). When the release waiting timer reaches 0 (time is up), the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened (step S423). That is, the solenoids 24a and 24b are driven to open the open / close pieces 23a and 23b (a state in which the game ball can enter the upper winning space 22a). Further, a value corresponding to the opening time is set in the opening timer for determining the opening period of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 (step S424). Then, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value according to the waiting process for waiting for the inflow of the bonus item (step S425).

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the accessory inflow switch-on waiting process in step S402. In the bonus inflow switch-on waiting process, the game control microcomputer 60 decrements the value of the release timer by 1 (step S431). When the accessory inflow switch 33a or the accessory inflow switch 33b is turned on (step S432), the value of the inflow ball counter formed in the RAM 55 is incremented by 1 (step S433). Then, a notification effect start designation command corresponding to the value of the position counter at that time (if the value of the position counter is n, the nth notification effect start designation command: n = 1 to 4) is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 101. (Step S434). Then, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the position counter initial position waiting process (step S435). When the release timer reaches 0 before it is confirmed that the game ball has flowed into the variable winning ball device 20 before the accessory inflow switch 33a or the accessory inflow switch 33b is turned on, at that time, The variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the position counter initial position waiting process in step S403. In the position counter initial position waiting process, the game control microcomputer 60 decrements the value of the release timer by 1 (step S431). Further, it is determined whether or not the value of the position counter has become 1 (step S442), and if it is confirmed that it has become 1, the movable member 25 is driven so that the game ball can easily win the specific winning opening 30. (Step S445). Then, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the game ball discharge waiting process (step S446).

  If the value of the position counter is not 1, the game control microcomputer 60 executes inflow ball count processing (step S443) and discharge ball count processing (step S444). In the inflow ball counting process, the game control microcomputer 60 increments the value of the inflow ball counter by 1 each time the accessory inflow switch 33a and the accessory inflow switch 33b are turned on. In the discharge ball counting process, the value of the discharge ball counter formed in the RAM 55 is incremented by 1 each time the discharge switch 29a is turned on.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the game ball discharge waiting process in step S404. In the game ball discharge waiting process, if the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state (step S451), the game control microcomputer 60 executes the inflow ball count process and the discharge ball count process (steps S452 and S453). Then, the value of the release timer is decremented by 1 (step S454), and when the release timer reaches 0 (time up), the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed (steps S455 and S456). That is, the driving of the solenoids 24a and 24b is stopped, and the open / close pieces 23a and 23b are closed (the game ball does not enter the upper winning space 22a).

  If the release timer is not 0, the game control microcomputer 60 checks whether or not the value of the inflow number counter exceeds a predetermined value (step S481). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the number of game balls flowing into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 exceeds a predetermined value. When it exceeds the predetermined value, a notification effect change designation command (E506 (H) display control command) is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 101 (step S482). The fact that the number of inflows of game balls to the variable winning ball apparatus 20 exceeds a predetermined value means that the possibility of gaming balls to the specific winning opening 30 is increasing. In other words, it means that a V winning is likely to cause a second big hit game. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 60 confirms whether or not the number of inflows of game balls to the variable prize ball device 20 exceeds a predetermined value, thereby indicating the degree of possibility that the game balls will win the specific prize opening 30. If it is determined that the possibility of winning is high, the notification effect change designation command effect control microcomputer 101 is transmitted.

  After the variable winning ball device 20 is in the closed state, the game control microcomputer 60 executes a discharge ball counting process (step S457). However, for a while after the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed (the game ball that has entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 immediately before the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed reaches the installation position of the accessory inflow switches 33a and 33b). It is preferable that the inflow sphere counting process is also executed during the time before When the value of the discharge ball counter becomes equal to the value of the inflow ball counter, that is, when all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball device 20 are discharged, the notification effect end designation command is used for effect control. It transmits to the microcomputer 101 (step S459). Then, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the specific winning valid period elapse waiting process (step S446).

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the specific winning validity period elapse waiting process in step S405. In the specific winning validity period waiting process, the game control microcomputer 60 determines whether or not the value of the position counter has changed from 4 to 1 (step S461). When the value of the position counter becomes 1, the driving of the solenoid 25a is stopped, and the movable member 25 is set to a position where it is difficult for the game ball to win a specific winning opening (step S462). That is, an initial position setting process for stopping the position (operating position) of the movable member 25 at a predetermined initial position is executed. Then, when the V winning flag is not set, the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the start winning waiting process, and when the V winning flag is set, the variable winning ball is set. The value of the ball device process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (step S463). When the value of the variable winning ball apparatus process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the start winning wait process, the variable winning ball apparatus process process enters a state in which the start winning wait process is executed. The period has been effectively changed. Note that the game control microcomputer 60 may change the internal flag indicating the start valid period to the reset state (state indicating “invalid”) and the set state (state indicating “valid”).

  Next, the operation of the production control microcomputer 101 will be described. FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the production control microcomputer 101. In the main process, an initialization process is first performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a 2 ms timer for determining the start interval of effect control (step S701). Thereafter, the production control microcomputer 101 proceeds to a loop process for confirming monitoring of the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the production control microcomputer 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 101 clears the flag (step S703), and executes the following effect control process.

  In this embodiment, the timer interrupt takes every 2 ms. That is, the effect control process is activated every 2 ms. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific effect control process is executed in the main process, but the effect control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 101 first clears the interrupt flag (step S703) and analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis execution process: step S704). Next, the effect control microcomputer 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. Moreover, the notification effect control process which performs the notification effect using the variable display apparatus 9 is performed (step S706). And the process which updates a random number counter is performed (step S707). Thereafter, the process returns to the process of checking the timer interrupt flag in step S702.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, any one of steps S800 to S806 is performed according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Ornamental symbol normal processing (step S800): Waiting for a variation pattern command to be transmitted. When the variation pattern command is received, the effect control microcomputer 101 changes the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation pattern determination process.

  Decoration pattern variation pattern determination processing (step S801): The variation pattern of the decoration pattern is determined based on information stored in the variation pattern data storage area.

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

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

  Decoration symbol stop process (step S804): If an effect control command (decoration symbol stop effect control command) instructing all symbols to be stopped is received at the end of the variation time, the decoration symbol change is stopped and the stop symbol is displayed. Control.

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

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

  FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of process data set for each variation pattern table. The process data is composed of data obtained by collecting a plurality of combinations of process timer set values and presentation control execution data. The effect control execution data includes display control execution data and lamp control execution data. As the display control execution data, data indicating the display state of the variable display device 9 during the decorative symbol variation period is set. For example, the display control execution data 1 is set with data indicating the display state of the variable display device 9 at the start of variable display. The lamp control execution data is set with data indicating the lamp / LED display state during the decorative symbol variation period. For example, in the lamp control execution data 1, data indicating the lamp / LED display state at the start of variable display is set. When the timing for switching the display state (for example, the timing at which a new character appears on the variable display device 9 or the timing at which the lamp / LED is switched from the lit state to the unlit state) arrives during the decorative symbol variation period. The microcomputer 101 controls the display state of the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED according to the next effect control execution data in the process data. In the process timer set value, a time corresponding to the switching timing is set.

  In this way, the production control microcomputer 101 controls the production means based on the program and process data stored in the ROM, and a plurality of production means (in this embodiment, the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED). A program related to the control is stored in a ROM mounted on the effect control board 80. And ROM which stores those programs can be comprised as one ROM. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced. Of the process data stored in the ROM, the process timer set value is shared. Therefore, the ROM capacity of the effect control board 80 can be reduced. Note that the effect control execution data may be one effect control execution data as long as the display control execution data and the lamp control execution data can be shared. As described above, in this embodiment, at least a part of data related to the control of a plurality of rendering means (in this embodiment, data excluding data stored in the audio data ROM 704) is stored in the same ROM. can do.

  The process data shown in FIG. 35 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. Further, process data is prepared according to each of the decorative pattern variation patterns. Note that the decorative pattern variation pattern is different from the special symbol variation pattern. However, the variation pattern of the decorative design includes at least a variation pattern corresponding to each variation pattern shown in FIG.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation pattern determination process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative pattern variation pattern determination process, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines a decorative pattern variation pattern based on the EXT data stored in the variation pattern data storage area (step S822). When it is confirmed in the command analysis process (step S704) that the variation pattern command is received, the effect control microcomputer 101 stores the variation pattern command EXT data in the variation pattern data storage area.

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 101 uniquely determines at least a part of the decorative pattern variation pattern. For example, among the variation patterns of a plurality of types of decorative symbols prepared in advance, among the variation patterns of a plurality of types of decorative symbols that match the variation time specified by the EXT data and the pre-determined result (big hit, miss, reach, etc.) To select a variation pattern to be executed. As described above, the production control microcomputer 101, for example, changes the decoration design such as the content of the design of the decorative design (for example, which character is used for the production), the presence / absence of execution of the notice effect, and the content of the production. At least some of the aspects are uniquely determined.

  Then, the production control microcomputer 101 updates the production control process flag to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S802) (step S824).

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation starting process, the effect control microcomputer 101 first selects process data corresponding to the variable pattern of the decorative symbol variable display (step S831). Then, a process timer corresponding to the effect execution data 1 in the selected process data is started (step S832). Further, LCD control is performed based on the display control execution data 1 in the process data (step S833). For example, a signal corresponding to the content of the display control execution data 1 is given to the variable display device 9 using an LCD. Note that a ROM address may be set in the display control execution data, and more detailed control data may be stored in an area starting from the address, and LCD control may be performed according to the control data. Further, lamp / LED control is performed based on the lamp control execution data 1 in the process data (step S834). For example, a signal corresponding to the content of the lamp control execution data 1 is given to each lamp / LED. Note that the ROM address is set in the lamp control execution data, and more detailed control data is stored in an area starting from the address, and the lamp / LED control is performed according to the control data. Good.

  Further, the sound number data corresponding to the variation pattern is output to the sound output board 70 (step S835). In the voice output board 70, the voice synthesis IC 703 reads data corresponding to the sound number data from the voice data ROM 704, generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the read data, and outputs them to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 707 to the speaker 27.

  Thereafter, a variation time timer (a timer corresponding to the variation time of the decorative symbol) is started (step S836), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the processing during the decorative symbol variation (step S837).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the decorative pattern variation process, the effect control microcomputer 101 checks whether or not the decorative variation interruption flag is set (step S841). The decoration variation interruption flag is a flag that is set when the progress of the variation display of the decorative symbol is interrupted, and is reset when the progression of the variation display of the decorative symbol is resumed.

  If the decoration variation interruption flag is not set, the effect control microcomputer 101 checks whether or not the interruption designation flag is set (step S842). The production control microcomputer 101 sets the interruption designation flag when it is confirmed in the command analysis process that the fluctuation progress interruption designation command (the production control command of A100 (H)) has been received. That is, the interruption designation flag is a flag indicating whether or not a change progress interruption designation command has been received.

  If the interruption designation flag is set, the production control microcomputer 101 stops the progress of the process timer (step S843) and stops the progress of the variable time timer (step S844). Further, the interruption designation flag is reset (step S845), and the decoration variation interruption flag is set (step S846). That is, if the change progress interruption designation command is received, control for interrupting the decorative pattern change display is performed.

  On the other hand, if the decoration variation interruption flag is set, the production control microcomputer 101 checks whether or not the resumption designation flag is set (step S847). The production control microcomputer 101 sets a resume designation flag when it is confirmed in the command analysis process that a variation progress resumption designation command (a production control command of A101 (H)) has been received. That is, the restart designation flag is a flag indicating whether or not a variable progress resume designation command has been received.

  If the resumption designation flag is set, the production control microcomputer 101 resumes the progress of the process timer (step S848) and the progression of the variable time timer (step S849). Further, the restart designation flag is reset (step S850), and the decoration variation interruption flag is reset (step S851). That is, if the change progress resumption designation command has been received, control for resuming the decorative symbol display is performed.

  If the interruption designation flag is not set in step S842, the effect control microcomputer 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S852). If time-out occurs, the presentation control execution data in the process data is switched (step S853). That is, in the process data, the next set process timer is started (step S854), and LCD control is performed based on the next set display control execution data (step S855). Further, lamp / LED control is performed based on the lamp control execution data set next in the process data (step S856).

  If the variable time timer has timed out (step S857), the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol stop waiting process (step S858).

  If the resumption designation flag is not set in step S847, the effect control microcomputer 101 executes effect control during suspension of the decorative symbol variation display (step S859). Specifically, LCD control is performed on the basis of display control execution data prepared in advance for use when interrupting the variation display of the decorative symbols, and also prepared in advance for use when interrupting the variation display of the decorative symbols. The lamp / LED control is performed based on the lamp control execution data. By the control at the time of interruption, for example, the off symbol is stopped and displayed on the variable display device 9 or the high-speed fluctuation display is displayed on the variable display device 9.

  Note that, after the process timer is started in step S832 or step S854, for example, the timer value is periodically updated in a timer update process (not shown in FIG. 33) in the effect control process. If control for stopping the progress of the timer (step S843: for example, setting of a process timer stop flag) is performed, control for restarting the progress of the timer thereafter (step S848: for example of setting of the process timer stop flag) The process timer is not updated in the timer update process until (reset) is performed.

  Similarly, after the variable time timer is started in step S836, for example, the timer value is periodically updated in a timer update process (not shown in FIG. 33) in the effect control process. If control for stopping the progress of the timer (step S844: for example, setting of a variable time timer stop flag) is performed, then control for restarting the progress of the timer (step S849: for example, stopping the variable time timer) The variable time timer is not updated in the timer update process until the flag is reset).

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol stop process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol stop process, the effect control microcomputer 101 checks whether or not an effect control command (decorative symbol stop effect control command) instructing the decorative symbol stop is received (step S861). If the effect control command for instructing the decoration symbol stop is received, control is performed to stop the decoration symbol at the stop symbol determined by itself (step S862). Note that the stop symbol is determined so that, for example, in step S801, the effect control microcomputer 101 becomes a symbol corresponding to the display result of the special symbol indicated by the variation pattern command.

  When the big hit symbol is displayed as the stop symbol of the decorative symbol in step S862 (Y in step S863), the production control microcomputer 101 corresponds to the big hit display process (step S805). The set value is set (step S864).

  In the case where the jackpot symbol is not displayed as the decorative symbol stop symbol in step S862 (when the loss symbol is displayed), the effect control microcomputer 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to the ornament symbol normal process (step S800). The corresponding value is set (step S865).

  Next, the relationship between the special symbol and the decorative symbol variation state in the gaming machine of this embodiment will be described in detail. That is, the relationship between the special symbol display 8 and the variable display device 9 will be described.

  FIG. 40 is a timing chart showing a specific example of the variation state of the special symbol and the decorative symbol when there is a start winning at the start winning opening 13. Here, the start based on the start winnings (second start winnings) to the start winning ports 11 and 12 when the special symbol variation display based on the start winnings (first start winnings) is being executed at the start winning port 13. A case will be described as an example in which an operation is executed and a game ball enters (a winning combination) into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 during the starting operation.

  When the first start winning is generated, the game control microcomputer 60 executes a first start port switch passing process. And if the microcomputer 60 for game control is in the state which can perform the variable display of a special symbol, it will perform a prior | preceding determination (refer step S56-S63), and will change for 10 second based on the result, for example. A variation pattern command indicating that the display result is out of time is transmitted (see steps S64 and S65). Further, the game control microcomputer 60 starts the special symbol variation display (special diagram variation A) according to the first start winning (see steps S66 and S67).

  When receiving the variation pattern command based on the first start winning prize, the production control microcomputer 101 determines the variation pattern of the decorative pattern from which the display result is lost in the variation time of 10 seconds based on the received variation pattern command. (Refer to step S822), the decorative pattern variation display (decoration variation A) is executed according to the determined variation pattern.

  When the game control microcomputer 60 detects the inflow of a game ball into the variable winning ball device 20 (the winning combination winning) by using the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b during the execution of the special drawing variation A, the special drawing variation A is detected. (See, for example, steps S75 and S35n), and a change progress stop designation command for instructing to interrupt the change display of the decorative symbols is transmitted (see steps S76 and S77).

  The game control microcomputer 60 controls the special symbol display unit 8 to stop the special symbol display 8 while the special symbol variation A is interrupted, or to continuously display the high-speed variation display on the special symbol display unit 8. (See steps S35s and S22b).

  When the change progress interruption designation command is received, the production control microcomputer 101 interrupts the decoration change A (see, for example, steps S615, S616, steps S842 to S846, S841, and S847).

  While the decoration variation A is interrupted, the effect control microcomputer 101 continuously controls the variable display device 9 to stop and display the symbol suggesting the shifted symbol or causes the variable display device 9 to continuously display the high-speed variation display. Control is performed (see step S859).

  After interrupting the special figure variation A, the game control microcomputer 60 restarts the special figure variation A when all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are detected (discharge confirmation) by the discharge switch 29a ( For example, refer to Steps S81 and S35n), and transmit a variation progress resumption designation command for instructing to resume the variation display of decorative symbols (see Steps S82 and S83).

  When receiving the change progress restart designation command, the effect control microcomputer 101 restarts the decoration change A (see, for example, steps S617, S618, steps S841, S847 to S851).

  After that, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits a symbol stop command to the effect control board 80 when the fluctuation period of the special figure fluctuation A ends and the end timing of the special figure fluctuation A arrives. End the variation A. On the other hand, when the production control microcomputer 101 receives the symbol stop command, it ends the decoration variation A.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits the variation pattern command when the variation of the special symbol is started, and transmits the symbol stop command when the variation is stopped. In addition, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits a change progress interruption command when the special symbol change is interrupted, and transmits a change progress restart command when the change is resumed. Therefore, the synchronization between the special design and the decorative design can be ensured.

  FIG. 41 is a timing chart showing another specific example of the variation state of the special symbol and the decorative symbol when there is a start winning in the start winning opening 13. Here, the start based on the start winnings (second start winnings) to the start winning ports 11 and 12 when the special symbol variation display based on the start winnings (first start winnings) is being executed at the start winning port 13. An example will be described in which an operation is executed, a game ball enters the variable winning ball apparatus 20 during the starting operation (a winning combination), and a V winning is generated to execute the second big hit game.

  When the first start winning is generated, the game control microcomputer 60 executes a first start port switch passing process. And if the microcomputer 60 for game control is in the state which can perform the variable display of a special symbol, it will perform a prior | preceding determination (refer step S56-S63), and will change for 10 second based on the result, for example. A variation pattern command indicating that the display result is out of time is transmitted (see steps S64 and S65). Further, the game control microcomputer 60 starts the special symbol variation display (special diagram variation A) according to the first start winning (see steps S66 and S67).

  When receiving the variation pattern command based on the first start winning prize, the production control microcomputer 101 determines the variation pattern of the decorative pattern from which the display result is lost in the variation time of 10 seconds based on the received variation pattern command. (Refer to step S822), the decorative pattern variation display (decoration variation A) is executed according to the determined variation pattern.

  When the game control microcomputer 60 detects the inflow of a game ball into the variable winning ball device 20 (the winning combination winning) by using the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b during the execution of the special drawing variation A, the special drawing variation A is detected. (See, for example, steps S75 and S35n), and a change progress stop designation command for instructing to interrupt the change display of the decorative symbols is transmitted (see steps S76 and S77).

  The game control microcomputer 60 controls the special symbol display unit 8 to stop the special symbol display 8 while the special symbol variation A is interrupted, or to continuously display the high-speed variation display on the special symbol display unit 8. (See steps S35s and S22b).

  When the change progress interruption designation command is received, the production control microcomputer 101 interrupts the decoration change A (see, for example, steps S615, S616, steps S842 to S846, S841, and S847).

  While the decoration variation A is interrupted, the effect control microcomputer 101 continuously controls the variable display device 9 to stop and display the symbol suggesting the shifted symbol or causes the variable display device 9 to continuously display the high-speed variation display. Control is performed (see step S859).

  Even after the special figure variation A is interrupted, the game control microcomputer 60 detects (discharge confirmation) all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 by the discharge switch 29a (for example, in step S79). In the case of the second big hit gaming state, the interrupted state is continued (see, for example, Y in step S80). After that, when it is confirmed that the second big hit gaming state has ended (for example, refer to N in Step S80), the special figure variation A is resumed (for example, Steps S81 and S35n), and the decorative symbol variation display is resumed. A change progress resumption designation command for instructing is transmitted (see steps S82 and S83).

  When receiving the change progress restart designation command, the effect control microcomputer 101 restarts the decoration change A (see, for example, steps S617, S618, steps S841, S847 to S851).

  After that, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits a symbol stop command to the effect control board 80 when the fluctuation period of the special figure fluctuation A ends and the end timing of the special figure fluctuation A arrives. End the variation A. On the other hand, when the production control microcomputer 101 receives the symbol stop command, it ends the decoration variation A.

  As described above, the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball device 20 and the game balls that have been discharged after entering the variable winning ball device 20 are monitored, and variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9 is performed. When a game ball is detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b during execution, the execution of the special symbol variable display is controlled to be interrupted, and the execution of the special symbol variable display is controlled to the interrupted state. Since the suspended state is canceled on condition that all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 have been detected by the discharge switch 29a, a plurality of game modes can be obtained without causing confusion to the player. It is possible to prevent simultaneous control of the respective big hit gaming states in.

  That is, when one big hit game state is generated, the other big hit game state is forcibly terminated, or when one big hit game state is generated, the transition condition to the other big hit game state If it is configured not to shift to the other jackpot gaming state even if it is established, the player may be confused.

  However, in the above-described embodiment, the execution of the special symbol variable display is interrupted when the second big hit gaming state is likely to occur, and then the second big hit gaming state may occur. Since the execution of the variable display of the special symbol is resumed when the game runs out, the player can be controlled to the first big hit game state and the second big hit game state at the same time without confusing the player. Can be prevented.

  It is to be noted that the simultaneous control of the first big hit game state and the second big hit game state is prevented so that the game state is not excessively advantageous for the player and the game contents This is to prevent complications.

  In the above-described embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b during execution of variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9, execution of variable display of the special symbol is interrupted. The first specific gaming state and the second specific gaming state are more likely to occur at the same time (compared to the state where only the first start prize has occurred). It is possible to prevent a transition to the first specific gaming state when the state is high. Therefore, it can be avoided as much as possible that the measure for preventing the transition to the first specific gaming state is performed, and it is possible to prevent the game from being interrupted unnecessarily.

  Note that when the game ball is detected by the start winning port switch 11a, 12a, not when the game ball is detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a, 34b, the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. You may comprise so that it may control. That is, when a game ball is detected by the start winning a prize opening switch 11a, 12a during execution of variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9, the execution of the variable symbol special display is interrupted. You may comprise. Even in the case of such a configuration, the transition to the first specific gaming state is based on the fact that the first specific gaming state and the second specific gaming state are likely to occur at the same time. Can be prevented. In addition, since the change display of the special symbol is interrupted in response to the occurrence of the start prize at the first start prize opening, a game mode (for example, start operation or V prize prize) based on the occurrence of the start prize at the first start prize opening. Or not). Thus, the player can be focused on any one of the plurality of game modes.

  As described above, when a game ball is detected by the start winning port switches 11a and 12a during execution of variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9, the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. In the case of control, until the start operation of the variable winning ball device 20 based on the detection of the game ball by the start winning port switch 11a, 12a (the operation of opening / closing the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b) ends (specifically, During a predetermined period, from when the start operation is started to when the game ball that has entered the variable winning ball device 20 at the end of the start operation reaches the accessory inflow switch 34a, 34b) When a game ball is not detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b, it is desirable to cancel the suspended state. In this way, it is possible to avoid as much as possible that the measures for preventing the transition to the first specific gaming state are performed unnecessarily, and to prevent the game from being interrupted unnecessarily. it can.

  In each of the embodiments described above, when a game ball is detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b during execution of variable display of special symbols on the variable display device 9, or on the variable display device 9. When a game ball is detected by the start winning opening switch 11a, 12a during execution of the variable display of the special symbol, it is configured to control the interrupted state in which the execution of the variable display of the special symbol is interrupted. When the start operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is started based on the start winnings to the winning mouth switch 11a, 12a, the execution of the special symbol variable display may be controlled to be interrupted. In this case, for example, before the drive signal is output to the solenoids 24a and 24b in order to perform the start operation based on the start winnings to the start winning port switches 11a and 12a, the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. What is necessary is just to comprise so that it may control. With this configuration, when the first specific gaming state and the second specific gaming state are likely to occur at the same time, it is possible to prevent the transition to the first specific gaming state. , It can be avoided as much as possible that a measure for preventing the transition to the first specific gaming state is performed, and it is possible to prevent the game from being interrupted unnecessarily.

  In addition, when the game ball is detected by the start winning award opening switch 11a, 12a, and when the game ball is detected by the accessory inflow switch 34a, 34b depending on the remaining change time of the special symbol. The case of controlling to the suspended state may be separated. Specifically, if there is little remaining variation time of the special symbol being executed, the game is controlled to be interrupted when the game ball is detected by the start winning award opening switch 11a, 12a, and the remaining variation time of the special symbol When the game ball is detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b, it may be controlled to be suspended.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, when a game ball is detected by the start winning port switch 11a, 12a during execution of variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9, or the accessory inflow switch 34a, When the game ball is detected by 34b, it is configured to control the interrupted state in which the execution of the variable symbol special display is interrupted, but after the game ball is detected by the start winning port switches 11a and 12a, Alternatively, after the game ball is detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b, before the execution of the variable display of the special symbol is controlled to be suspended, the variable symbol special symbol is stopped and displayed with the big hit symbol, and the first If it is decided to shift to the big hit game, even if a game ball is detected by the V winning switch 25 thereafter, the specific win is invalidated and the second big hit Technique may be set so as not to run. If the transition to the first big hit game is determined, if the game ball is detected by the start winning port switch 11a, 12a and before the start operation of the variable winning ball device 20 is started, the start operation is started. May not be performed.

  In addition, as described above, when the first big hit game state is set, execution of the starting operation by the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is prohibited, so that the first big hit game state and the second big hit game state occur simultaneously. This can be surely prevented.

  In addition, as described above, when a game ball is detected by the switches 19 and 22a in the big winning opening during the execution of the second big hit control, an abnormality detection of the game ball has occurred during the execution of the second big hit control. By performing anomaly detection error notification indicating a state of fraud (for example, a state where a flashy production is performed during the execution of the second jackpot control, the player's action is inconspicuous, and a large amount of game balls are paid out Since it becomes difficult to understand that the game ball is paid out due to illegal winning, the game is illegally entered into the big winning opening that is opened when the first big hit is made during execution of the second big hit. This makes it possible for a game clerk to recognize that an abnormality is detected based on the action of putting a ball.

  Further, as described above, when a game ball is detected by the switches 19 and 22a in the big winning opening during the execution of the second big hit control, by stopping the progress of the game, an illegal action (for example, the second big hit hit, for example) During the execution of the control, a flashy presentation is performed, the player's act is not noticeable, and a lot of game balls are paid out, so that the game balls are paid out by illegal winning Because it becomes difficult to understand, an act of illegally putting a game ball into a big winning opening that is released when the first big hit is made.) Dispensing of game media based on an abnormality detection based on, etc. Can be prevented. Note that “stopping the progress of the game” means, for example, stopping the execution of the second jackpot control or stopping the game control process.

  Further, as described above, when a predetermined period of time elapses without counting by the discharge switch 29a after the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are counted by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b, this is indicated. By notifying, an illegal act (for example, an act of using a magnet or the like to stop the game ball that has entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 and illegally guiding the game ball toward the specific winning switch 30a) or a clogged ball. It is possible to make a game clerk recognize that an undetected abnormality based on the above has occurred.

  Further, as described above, when the game ball that has entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is counted by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b and then not counted by the discharge switch 29a, the game progresses. By stopping the game, an illegal act (for example, an act of using a magnet or the like to stop the game ball that has entered the variable winning ball device 20 and illegally guiding the gaming ball toward the specific winning switch 30a) or a ball. It is possible to prevent a game medium from being paid out even though an undetected abnormality based on clogging or the like has occurred.

  Further, as described above, when the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display 8 is interrupted, for example, the special symbol is stopped in a display mode other than the display result (for example, off symbol) on the special symbol display 8. Since it is configured to display, it is possible to reliably prevent misunderstanding that the condition for shifting to the first big hit gaming state is satisfied, and to prevent the player from being confused. it can.

  Further, as described above, when the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display 8 is interrupted, for example, the state when the special symbol is variably displayed on the special symbol display 8 is continuously displayed. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent misunderstanding that the condition for shifting to the first big hit gaming state is satisfied, and to prevent the player from being confused. .

  In addition, as described above, when the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display 8 is interrupted, for example, a notice for notifying the display result of the special symbol variable display interrupted on the special symbol display 8 As a result, the special symbol display 8 that interrupts the variable symbol display can be used effectively without confusing the player, and expectation for the occurrence of the second big hit gaming state. In addition to the variable display of the special symbols that have been interrupted, it is possible to attract the player's interest.

  In the above-described embodiment, the notice notification is executed using the special symbol display unit 8 in which variable display is interrupted. However, the notice notification is performed by a display device other than the special symbol display unit 8. May be. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to give a notice in advance using a predetermined display device controlled by the game control microcomputer 60, the variable display device 9, or the like.

  Although the round game has been executed up to 16 rounds in the second big hit game state, the maximum number of round games that can be continued may be determined by lottery. In addition, when the maximum number of round games is determined by lottery, the advance notice of the maximum number of round games will be given when the special symbol variation display is interrupted and controlled in the second big hit game state. You may comprise so that a display may be performed with the special symbol indicator 8. FIG.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing another example of the special symbol display control process (see FIG. 19). In the special symbol display control process, the game control microcomputer 60 stops the progress of the special symbol variation display (step S35n). If the second big hit game control is being performed (step S35t), for example, A random number for determining the maximum number of rounds is extracted, and it is determined whether or not the maximum number of rounds is to be notified according to the extraction result (step S35u).

  When notifying the maximum number of rounds, the game control microcomputer 60 determines the maximum number of rounds to be notified in accordance with the extraction result of the already extracted random number for determining the maximum number of rounds, and determines the determined maximum number of rounds. Select a round number notice designated value for displaying a notice of advance notice (including a case where the noticed maximum number of rounds differs from the actual maximum number of rounds) (step S35v), and select the number of rounds The designated notice value is set in the special symbol output buffer (step S35w).

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 60 is used to determine the maximum number of rounds at the time of starting winning (when determined as Y in step S101) or when an accessory is inflow (when determined as Y in step S104). The random number is extracted, and the maximum number of round games is determined according to the extracted value of the random number for determining the maximum number of rounds when a specific winning is found (when determined as Y in step S108). Therefore, in this example, the extracted value of the random number for determining the maximum number of rounds extracted at the time of starting winning prize or at the inflow of the character is determined when determining the maximum number of round games and when determining the maximum number of rounds to be notified. Used in both.

  If the special symbol display control process is executed as described above, the notice of the maximum number of rounds (for example, “8”) is displayed on the special symbol display 8 by the process of step S223 in the display control process (see FIG. 18). , “10”, “16”, etc.).

  As described above, the special symbol display 8 performs a notice display for announcing the maximum number of round games when the variation display of the special symbol is interrupted and is controlled to the second big hit game state. If constituted, various game effects can be performed and the interest of the game can be improved.

  In the example shown in FIG. 42, when the second big hit game state is controlled, a notice display for giving notice of the maximum number of round games is performed. It may be performed before being controlled to the big hit game state. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 60 does not make the determination in step S35t, but in step S35v, the random number for determining the maximum number of rounds already extracted at the time of starting winning or inflow of the bonus is obtained. The number of rounds to be notified in advance is determined, and a round for displaying a notice that the determined maximum number of rounds will be reached (including the case where the maximum number of predicted rounds differs from the actual maximum number of rounds) The number notice designation value may be selected and the round number notice designation value selected in step S35w may be set in the special symbol output buffer. If comprised in this way, when the 2nd big hit game state occurs after that, the maximum number of round games performed in the 2nd big hit game state can be displayed in advance.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when an abnormality is detected by a switch in the big winning opening that is opened when the first big hit game state is set in the second big hit game state, error notification is performed. The game is configured to stop the progress of the game. Similarly, when the game is in the first big hit game state, an abnormality is caused by a switch in the variable winning ball apparatus 20 that is released when the second start winning is generated. When the detection is made, an error notification may be performed and the progress of the game may be stopped.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an abnormality monitoring process executed when the game is in the first big hit gaming state. This abnormality monitoring process is executed, for example, in steps S305 to S308 in the special symbol process. In the abnormality monitoring process, the game control microcomputer 60 monitors whether any of the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b, the specific winning switch 30a, or the discharge switch 29a is turned on (steps S151 to S153). When any one of the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b, the specific winning switch 30a, and the discharge switch 29a is turned on, a predetermined display (for example, “1”) is performed on the abnormality notification display 67, thereby the first big hit game. The fact that an abnormality detection error 1 indicating that abnormal detection has been confirmed is generated (step S154). Thereafter, in order to stop the progress of the game, control for stopping the game control is performed (step S155). For example, the abnormality detection error 1 flag is set, and at least the control relating to payout of the game ball is stopped. Note that the first big hit game being executed may be stopped in response to the abnormality detection error 1 flag being set.

  As described above, when an abnormality is detected by the switch in the variable winning ball apparatus 20 that is opened when the second start winning is generated in the first big hit gaming state, an error notification is performed. If it is configured, a fraudulent act (for example, during the execution of the first jackpot control, a flashy production is performed, the player's act is inconspicuous, and a large amount of game balls are paid out) Since it becomes difficult to understand that the game ball is paid out due to the illegal winning, the act of illegally putting the gaming ball into the variable winning ball device 20 that is released when the second big hit is made during the execution of the first big hit .) Etc., it is possible to make a game store clerk recognize that an abnormality is detected based on the above.

  As described above, when an abnormality is detected by the switch in the variable winning ball apparatus 20 that is opened when the second start winning is generated in the first big hit gaming state, the game progresses. If it is configured to stop the game medium, it is possible to prevent the game medium from being paid out based on the abnormality detection based on fraud. Here, “stopping the progress of the game” means, for example, stopping the execution of the first big hit control or stopping the game control process.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the maximum number of start winning prizes corresponding to the special symbol is four, but it may be three or less or five or more. Furthermore, the upper limit of the number of starting winning prizes may be changed by the establishment of a predetermined condition. Specifically, for example, the maximum number is 4 at normal time, but when a big hit occurs, it is conceivable to have a maximum of 15 until the big hit gaming state ends.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the special symbol display 8 displays a notice display for notifying the display result of the fluctuation display while the progress of the symbol fluctuation is interrupted, and the maximum number of round games at the second big hit. Although the notice display for the advance notice is made, the execution condition of the notice display for notifying the display result of the change display and the maximum number of round games are notified in advance while the progress of the pattern change is interrupted. If the execution conditions of the notice display for both are satisfied, both notices may be given, or only one of the notices may be given by lottery using a random number or the like. You may make it perform the notice of the higher priority given. Moreover, you may be made to give priority to the notice of the result which is advantageous to a player among the display result of a variable display, and the maximum number of round games. For example, when the display result of the variable display is a big hit, priority is given to the big jackpot notice that the display result of the variable display is a big hit, and the maximum number of round games is 16 times, which is the maximum value. In such a case, the notice display for notifying the maximum number of round games may be executed with priority.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the special symbol display 8 controls the game control microcomputer 60 to display a notice display for notifying the display result of the fluctuation display during the interruption of the progress of the symbol fluctuation. Although the notice display for notifying the maximum number of round games in the two big hits is performed, these displays may be performed on the variable display device 9 under the control of the microcomputer 101 for effect control. That is, the variable display device 9 is configured to perform a notice display for notifying the display result of the fluctuation display while the progress of the symbol fluctuation is interrupted, a notice display of the maximum number of round games in the second big hit, and the like. May be. In this case, each notice display is an effect display using various characters (for example, a person / animal / vehicle for a notice effect) different from the pattern used in the change display (notice effect for notifying the display result of the change display). If there is a notice display of the maximum number of round games, such as a display that uses a balloon to indicate that the character is saying “Big hits” or “Reach”, for example, the character will continue to “Up to 8 times” ”May be performed by a display or the like representing a state where“ When configured as described above, in each of the above-described embodiments, when it is determined to display a notice (for example, when it is determined Y in step S35o or Y is determined in step S35u). In addition, the game control microcomputer 60 performs the corresponding notice effect (the notice effect of the display result of the special symbol or the notice effect of the maximum number of round games at the second big hit) from the effect control microcomputer 101. The production control command may be transmitted. Then, in response to the reception of the effect control command for effecting the notice effect, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines the content of the relevant notice effect (for example, by random lottery from a plurality of kinds of notice effects prepared in advance). The notice effect to be executed is determined), and the control for performing the notice effect on the variable display device 9 may be executed. It should be noted that the presentation control microcomputer 101 may determine whether or not to give the notice presentation based on the presentation control command from the game control microcomputer 60.

  Here, the relationship between the variation state of the special symbol and the decorative symbol when the variable display device 9 is configured to perform the notice effect will be described with reference to FIG. That is, the relationship between the display states of the special symbol display 8 and the variable display device 9 will be described. Here, it is assumed that a notice effect is performed on both the special symbol display 8 and the variable display device 9.

  FIG. 44 is a timing chart showing a specific example of the variation state of the special symbol and the decorative symbol when there is a start winning in the start winning opening 13. Here, the start based on the start winnings (second start winnings) to the start winning ports 11 and 12 when the special symbol variation display based on the start winnings (first start winnings) is being executed at the start winning port 13. A case will be described as an example in which an operation is executed and a game ball enters (a winning combination) into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 during the starting operation.

  When the first start winning is generated, the game control microcomputer 60 executes a first start port switch passing process. And if the microcomputer 60 for game control is in the state which can perform the variable display of a special symbol, it will perform a prior | preceding determination (refer step S56-S63), and will change for 10 second based on the result, for example. A variation pattern command indicating that the display result is out of time is transmitted (see steps S64 and S65). Further, the game control microcomputer 60 starts the special symbol variation display (special diagram variation A) according to the first start winning (see steps S66 and S67).

  When receiving the variation pattern command based on the first start winning prize, the production control microcomputer 101 determines the variation pattern of the decorative pattern from which the display result is lost in the variation time of 10 seconds based on the received variation pattern command. (Refer to step S822), the decorative pattern variation display (decoration variation A) is executed according to the determined variation pattern.

  When the game control microcomputer 60 detects the inflow of a game ball into the variable winning ball device 20 (the winning combination winning) by using the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b during the execution of the special drawing variation A, the special drawing variation A is detected. (See, for example, steps S75 and S35n), and a change progress stop designation command for instructing to interrupt the change display of the decorative symbols is transmitted (see steps S76 and S77).

  In this example, the game control microcomputer 60 performs control for displaying a notice on the special symbol display 8 while the special figure variation A is interrupted. For example, by displaying the left and right symbols of “3” and “7” in a blinking manner or by sequentially blinking each segment of the 7-segment LED one by one, the display result of the special figure variation A becomes a big hit. A jackpot notice is displayed to warn of the possibility.

  Upon receiving the change progress interruption designation command, the effect control microcomputer 101 extracts a random number for determining the notice effect, and notifies that the display result of the decoration change A may be a big hit according to the extracted random number. Decide whether or not to perform the jackpot notice effect. When it is determined to perform the big hit announcement effect, the production control microcomputer 101 determines which of the multiple types of announcement effects prepared in advance is to be executed. Then, the decoration variation A is interrupted, and control for causing the variable display device 9 to display the big hit announcement effect during the interruption of the decoration variation A is performed. When deciding whether or not to execute the jackpot notice effect, for example, the display result of the decoration variation A is confirmed based on the received variation pattern command, and if the jackpot display result is obtained, the probability is high. It may be decided to execute the jackpot notice effect with a low probability when it is determined that the jackpot notice effect is to be executed.

  For the jackpot notice effect, for example, a character may appear on the variable display device 9 or a character may appear, and a state in which the character says “may be a big hit” may be displayed. In addition, during execution of the big hit announcement effect, a state in which the decorative symbols are displayed in a variable manner in a part of the display area of the variable display device 9 (actually interrupted, but whether the fluctuation continues) May be displayed).

  After interrupting the special figure variation A, the game control microcomputer 60 ends the notice display when all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are detected (discharge confirmation) by the discharge switch 29a. Then, the special figure variation A is resumed (see, for example, steps S81 and S35n), and a variation progression restart designation command for instructing to resume the variation display of the decorative symbols is transmitted (see steps S82 and S83).

  When the change progress restart designation command is received, the effect control microcomputer 101 ends the notice effect. Then, the decoration variation A is resumed (see, for example, steps S617, S618, steps S841, S847 to S851).

  After that, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits a symbol stop command to the effect control board 80 when the fluctuation period of the special figure fluctuation A ends and the end timing of the special figure fluctuation A arrives. End the variation A. On the other hand, when the production control microcomputer 101 receives the symbol stop command, it ends the decoration variation A.

  As described above, in this example, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits a change progress suspension command when the special symbol change is interrupted, and transmits a change progress restart command when the change is resumed. Then, the production control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not to perform the announcement effect in response to the reception of the change progress interruption command, and determines which type of announcement effect is to be performed when it is determined to perform the announcement effect. The notice effect is performed according to the determination result. If comprised in this way, a notice effect can be performed with the variable display apparatus 9 by control of the microcomputer 101 for effect control.

  In the above example, when the production control microcomputer 101 decides to perform the notice production, if the decorative symbol that is variably displayed is already in the reach display state (after reach establishment) Decide to make a jackpot notice (if it is in a state), and decide to make a reach notice if the left and right symbols of the decorative pattern are not yet stopped (if the state has not been reached) May be.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, various notifications are made on the variable display device 9 under the control of the effect control microcomputer 101. You may make it alert | report by the display apparatus which the microcomputer 60 for control controls. In this case, the game control microcomputer 60 may control the variable display device 9 to perform the above notification, and the game control microcomputer 60 controls a display device separate from the variable display device 9. Thus, the above notification may be performed.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, various abnormality notifications (step S86, step S109b, step S154) are performed by the abnormality notification display 67 under the control of the game control microcomputer 60. The abnormality notification display 67 may be performed by a microcomputer mounted on a board other than the main board 31 such as the production control microcomputer 101. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, various abnormality notifications (step S86, step S109b, step S154) are performed by displaying on the abnormality notification display 67, but these abnormality notifications are displayed on the lamp. You may make it carry out by lighting and blinking, and the audio | voice output from the speaker 27. FIG.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, a notice display (notice effect) for notifying the display result of the fluctuation display while the progress of the symbol fluctuation is interrupted, or a notice of the maximum number of round games at the second big hit. The notice display (notice effect) is configured to display the special symbol that matches the notice content, the maximum number of round games (true notice effect), and the notice content. Including special symbol display results and the maximum number of round games (fake notice effect: so-called Gase notice effect). The false notice effect may be executed, for example, in the same effect manner as the true notice effect. In other words, it is only necessary to make it difficult to know whether the effect is a false notice effect or a true notice effect only by the appearance of the notice effect.

  Next, a specific example of the notification effect will be described. FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a notification effect. As shown in FIG. 45, when the production control microcomputer 101 performs a notification effect, a notification effect screen 9A is displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9, and the notification effect is executed on the notification effect screen 9A. 45A to 45D, the first to fourth notification effects started in response to the reception of the first to fourth notification effect start designation commands from the game control microcomputer 60, respectively. The production mode is shown. In the example shown in FIG. 45, display is performed such that a display object such as the sun moves in the notification effect screen 9A.

  Since the first to fourth notification effect start designation commands are transmitted when the value of the position counter is 1 to 4, respectively, the effect modes shown in FIGS. This corresponds to the production mode according to the value type.

  In addition, FIG. 46 shows notification effects that are executed after that when a notification effect start change command is received from the game control microcomputer 60 while each of the first to fourth notification effects is being executed. An effect mode is shown. For example, if the notification effect start change command is received from the technique control microcomputer 60 while the first notification effect shown in FIG. 45A is being performed, the effect control microcomputer 101 displays the notification effect. The mode is changed to the mode shown in FIG. The same applies to the second to fourth notification effects.

  As described above, the gaming control microcomputer 60 confirms whether or not the number of gaming balls flowing into the variable winning ball device 20 exceeds a predetermined value, so that the gaming balls may win the specific winning opening 30. When it is determined that the possibility of winning is high, a notification effect change designation command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 101. Therefore, the fact that the state of the notification effect has changed to the state shown in FIG. 46 indicates that the possibility that the game ball has won the specific winning opening 30 has increased. The player can recognize that the possibility that the game ball will win the specific winning opening 30 is increased by the change of the notification effect mode to the mode shown in FIG.

  Here, the notification effect change designation command is transmitted when the number of game balls flowing into the variable winning ball apparatus 20 exceeds a predetermined value. However, many game balls are variable winning ball apparatuses. If it is determined that the player has entered the game 20, the game control microcomputer 60 transmits a second notification effect change designation command, and the effect control microcomputer 101 responds to the reception of the second notification effect change designation command. Then, the mode of the notification effect may be further changed from the mode shown in FIG. In this case, the player can recognize that the possibility that the game ball will win the specific winning opening 30 is further increased by the further change in the mode of the notification effect.

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the notification effect control process (step S706) in the main process shown in FIG. In the notification effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 101 first checks whether the notification effect is being performed (step S721). If the notification effect is not in progress, it is checked whether any of the first to fourth notification effect start designation commands has been received from the game control microcomputer 60 (step S722). When any one of the first to fourth notification effect start designation commands is received, control for starting the notification effect is performed (step S723).

  Specifically, the VDP 109 is instructed to display the notification effect screen 9 </ b> A on the display screen of the variable display device 9. Further, according to the type of the received notification effect start designation command (any one of the first to fourth notification effect start specification commands), a display item in a predetermined effect mode (see FIG. 45) is displayed on the notification effect screen 9A. Instruct to display. In response to the instruction, the VDP 109 displays the notification effect screen 9A on the variable display device 9 and displays a display object on the notification effect screen 9A in any of the modes (A) to (D) shown in FIG. Display.

  When the notification effect is being performed, the effect control microcomputer 101 confirms whether or not the notification effect stop designation command has been received from the game control microcomputer 60 (step S724). When the notification effect stop designation command is received, the notification effect is stopped (step S728). Specifically, the VDP 109 is instructed to delete the notification effect screen 9A. The VDP 109 deletes the notification effect screen 9A in the variable display device 9 in response to the instruction.

  If the notification effect stop designation command has not been received, the notification effect is continued (step S725). That is, the VDP 109 is instructed to move a display object in the notification effect screen 9A by a predetermined amount.

  Then, the production control microcomputer 101 confirms whether or not the notification production change designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 60 (step S726). When the notification effect change designation command is received, the notification effect mode is changed. That is, the VDP 109 is instructed to change the effect mode to any of the modes in FIGS. 46A to 46D (step S727). When the first notification effect shown in FIG. 45A is being executed, the effect control microcomputer 101 instructs the effect control microcomputer 101 to change to the effect mode shown in FIG. When the first notification effect shown in FIG. 45 (B) has been executed, an instruction is given to change to the effect mode shown in FIG. 46 (B). When the first notification effect shown in FIG. 45 (C) is being executed, an instruction is given to change to the effect mode shown in FIG. 46 (C). If the first notification effect shown in FIG. 45 (D) has been executed, an instruction is given to change to the effect mode shown in FIG. 46 (D). In response to the instruction, the VDP 109 displays the changed effect mode (any one of FIGS. 46A to 46D) on the notification effect screen 9A.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10 are configured by a 7-segment display, and the special symbol hold storage display 18 and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 are constituted by LEDs. The variable display device 9 is configured by an LCD, but various display devices such as a 7-segment display, an LED, a lamp, and a dot matrix can be applied to each display device.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the game ball that has entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is discharged only by the discharge switch 29a. That is, all the game balls discharged from the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are detected by the discharge switch 29a regardless of whether or not they are detected by the specific winning switch 30a, but are not detected by the specific winning switch 30a. Only the gaming ball may be detected by the discharge switch 29a, and the specific winning switch 30a may be used for detecting the gaming ball discharged from the variable winning ball device 20. In that case, a discharge path for game balls that have won the specific winning opening 30 and a discharge path for game balls that have not won the specific winning opening 30 are provided separately, and the discharge of game balls that have not won the specific winning opening 30. What is necessary is just to install the discharge switch 29a on a path | route.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the number of game balls that have not been discharged after entering the variable winning ball device 20 is monitored, and the number of game items that have not been discharged during the special symbol variation is monitored. Is no longer 0 (N in Step S72), the change display is interrupted, and after that, when the number of unreleased items becomes 0 (Y in Step S79), the change display is resumed. The number of game balls that have entered the game (number of action items entered) and the number of game balls that have been discharged from the variable winning ball device 20 (number of game object discharges) are monitored, respectively. , It may be determined whether to interrupt the variation of the special symbol or whether to resume the variation of the special symbol. In that case, for example, the number of game balls detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b is stored in the RAM 55 as an accessory entry number, and the number of game balls detected by the discharge switch 29a is stored in the RAM 55 as an accessory discharge number. The game control microcomputer 60 compares the number of accessory entry and the number of accessory discharge stored in the RAM 55 during the change of the special symbol, and the accessory entry number becomes larger than the accessory discharge number. (When the number of bonuses entering is added), it is determined that a game ball has entered the variable winning ball device 20, and the variation of the special symbol is interrupted. What is necessary is just to determine that all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus 20 are discharged when the same value is reached, and to resume the variation of the special symbol.

  In addition, as described above, when it is configured to determine whether to interrupt or restart the change of the special symbol by comparing the number of accessory entries and the number of accessory discharges, A predetermined period (for example, a period slightly longer than a period normally required from when a game ball enters the variable winning ball apparatus 20 to when it is discharged) from when the object entry number was last added, In the event that the number of accessory entries and the number of accessory discharges do not become the same value even after the elapse of a period, an error notification is given (see step S86) and a ball clogging error has occurred. The progress may be stopped (see step S87).

  When a ball clogging error occurs and the progress of the game is stopped as described above, when an error cancel button (not shown) provided in the gaming machine is pressed by a game clerk or the like, In addition to clearing the accessory entry number and the accessory discharge number stored in the RAM 55, the error state is canceled (the discharge error flag is reset), and the progress of the game is resumed. It should be noted that the error state is similarly released when the progress of the game is stopped in step S87 described above. In this case, when the error cancel button is pressed by a game clerk or the like, the number of unreleased items is cleared, the error state is canceled, and the progress of the game is resumed.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the variable winning ball apparatus 20 is controlled to the second state in which the open / close pieces 23a, 23b are opened and the first state in which the open / close pieces 23a, 23b are closed. However, the “second state” may be another control state as long as it is advantageous to the player, and the “first state” may be other if it is disadvantageous to the player. It may be the control state. For example, the “second state” may be a state in which the state of the movable member is changed so that it is easy to win the variable winning ball apparatus 20 and the game ball is guided into the variable winning ball apparatus 20. Further, for example, as the “first state”, the state of the movable member may be changed so that it is difficult to win the variable winning ball apparatus 20, and the gaming ball may not be guided to the variable winning ball apparatus 20.

  In addition, a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined game value can be given to a player when a special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the special symbol display 8 based on the start winning combination becomes a predetermined symbol combination, If the gaming machine has both functions of a pachinko gaming machine that can be given a predetermined gaming value to a player when there is a prize in a predetermined area of the electric game to be released from the beginning, the gaming machine of other configuration Even so, the present invention can be applied.

  In this embodiment, the following gaming machines are also disclosed.

  That is, a player plays a game by launching a game medium into the game area, and after a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, a plurality of types of identification information ( For example, a variable display device (for example, special symbol display device 8 or variable display device 9) that starts variable display of special symbols or decorative symbols and derives and displays the display results is provided. First specific game state control means (for example, a game control microcomputer) that controls to a first specific game state (for example, a first jackpot game state) that is advantageous to the player when a symbol or a symbol that suggests a jackpot is derived and displayed. 60 is a part for executing the processing of steps S304 to S308), and the game medium is detected in the start area provided in the game area A variable winning ball device 20 such as a first state that is disadvantageous for the player (for example, a state in which the open / close pieces 23a and 23b of the variable winning ball device 20 are closed) is detected by the motion detection means (for example, the start opening switches 11a and 12a). In a second state that is advantageous to the player (for example, when the open / close pieces 23a and 23b of the variable winning ball device 20 are opened), the gaming ball wins the variable winning ball device 20. A variable winning device (for example, variable winning ball device 20) that performs a starting operation (e.g., an operation for opening and closing the open / close pieces 23a and 23b), and the variable winning device is provided with a specific area and a non-specific area. And can be varied in a specific manner that is more advantageous for the player than the starting operation by detection of specific detection means (for example, a specific prize switch 30a) that detects the game medium that has entered the specific area. Second specific game state control means for controlling to the second specific game state (for example, second big hit game state) for controlling the award apparatus to the second state (for example, a part for executing the process of step S109 in the game control microcomputer 60) ) And an entry counting means for counting game media that have entered the variable winning device (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S104 to S105 in the gaming control microcomputer 60), and entering the variable winning device. After that, a discharge counting means for counting the game media discharged from the variable winning device (for example, a portion for executing the processing of steps S106 to S107 in the game control microcomputer 60), and variable display of the identification information on the variable display device Due to the fact that the game medium is detected by the start detection means during execution of (for example, When there is detection by the start port switches 11a, 12a, when there is detection by the accessory inflow switch), variable display interruption control means (for example, controlling the execution of variable display of the identification information to a suspended state) The portion of the game control microcomputer 60 that executes the processing of steps S72 and S75) and the variable display of the identification information are controlled to be suspended by the variable display suspension control means. The notification result executing means for executing the notification for notifying that the display result of the display results in a predetermined result (for example, jackpot, reach) (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S35p, S35q, S22a in the game control microcomputer 60) ), And when the variable display execution is controlled to be suspended by the variable display suspension control means, On the condition that the same number of game media as counted by the number means are counted by the discharge counting means, the suspension release control means for releasing the suspended state (for example, the processing of steps S79 and S81 in the game control microcomputer 60) A gaming machine equipped with

  For example, the gaming machines described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-165981 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-254286 are configured so as not to be simultaneously controlled to respective specific game states in a plurality of game modes. . For example, in the gaming machine described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-165981, the specific game state in one game mode is terminated and the specific game state in the other game mode is controlled. In addition, in the gaming machine described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-254286, when the transition condition to the specific game state in one game mode is satisfied, the game state is controlled to the specific game state in the other game mode. Then, control is performed so as not to shift to the specific game state in one game mode. Then, since the specific gaming state being executed is suddenly ended or the transition to the specific gaming state is not performed even if the transition condition is satisfied, the player may be confused. However, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, it is possible to prevent simultaneous control of each specific gaming state in a plurality of gaming modes without causing confusion to the player, and the identification information that has been interrupted The variable display can also attract the player's interest.

When the variable display interruption control means detects a game medium by the start detection means (for example, when a game ball is detected by the start port switches 11a and 12a), the variable display interruption control means interrupts execution of variable display of identification information Game machines to control. According to such a configuration, the transition to the first specific gaming state is prevented based on the fact that the first specific gaming state and the second specific gaming state are likely to occur at the same time. Can do. In addition, the player can be focused on any of a plurality of game modes.
Note that the interruption release control means until the start operation of the variable winning device (for example, the variable winning ball device 20) based on the detection of the game medium by the start detecting means (for example, the operation of opening and closing the open / close pieces 23a and 23b) is completed ( Specifically, it is a predetermined period, from the start of the start operation until the game ball that has entered the variable winning ball device 20 at the end of the start operation reaches the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b. If the game medium is not counted by the entry counting means until the period elapses, the suspended state may be released.

  When the variable display interruption control means counts the game medium that has entered the variable prize device by the entry counting means after the start detection means detects the game medium (for example, N in steps S104, S105, and S72), the identification is performed. A gaming machine that performs control (for example, step S75) in a suspended state in which execution of variable information display is suspended. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent transition to the first specific gaming state when the first specific gaming state and the second specific gaming state are more likely to occur at the same time. it can. Therefore, it can be avoided as much as possible that the measure for preventing the transition to the first specific gaming state is performed, and it is possible to prevent the game from being interrupted unnecessarily.

  A start operation prohibition control means for prohibiting execution of the start operation by the variable winning device (for example, a portion for executing the process of step S102 in the game control microcomputer 60) when controlled to the first specific game state is provided. Gaming machine. According to such a configuration, it is possible to reliably prevent the first specific gaming state and the second specific gaming state from occurring at the same time.

  A special variable winning device (for example, a special variable winning ball device 17) which is provided in the game area and is controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player when being controlled to the first specific gaming state, and a special variable winning device is awarded. Special variable winning detection means (for example, count switch 19 and V winning switch 25) for detecting the played game medium, and whether the count result of the game medium by the entry counting means has changed when controlled to the first specific gaming state Entry count monitoring means for monitoring whether or not (for example, the portion of the game control microcomputer 60 that executes the process of step S151) and the game medium by the special variable winning detection means when controlled to the second specific gaming state Special variable prize detection monitoring means for monitoring whether or not a game has been detected (for example, step S in the game control microcomputer 60) 09a) and when the change in the counting result of the game medium by the entry counting means is confirmed by the entry counting monitoring means (for example, Y in step S151), or specially variable by the special variable winning detection detection monitoring means When the detection of the game medium by the winning detection means is confirmed (for example, Y of step S109a), the abnormality detection notification means for notifying that effect (for example, the processing of step S109b or step S154 in the game control microcomputer 60 is executed). A gaming machine equipped with (part). According to such a configuration, it is possible to make a game store clerk or the like recognize that an abnormality is detected based on fraud.

  A special variable winning device (for example, a special variable winning ball device 17) which is provided in the game area and is controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player when being controlled to the first specific gaming state, and a special variable winning device is awarded. Special variable winning detection means (for example, count switch 19 and V winning switch 25) for detecting the played game medium, and whether the count result of the game medium by the entry counting means has changed when controlled to the first specific gaming state Entry count monitoring means for monitoring whether or not (for example, the portion of the game control microcomputer 60 that executes the process of step S151) and the game medium by the special variable winning detection means when controlled to the second specific gaming state Special variable prize detection monitoring means for monitoring whether or not a game has been detected (for example, step S in the game control microcomputer 60) 09a) and when the change in the counting result of the game medium by the entry counting means is confirmed by the entry counting monitoring means (for example, Y in step S151), or specially variable by the special variable winning detection detection monitoring means When the detection of the game medium by the winning detection means is confirmed (for example, Y in step S109a), the progress of the game is stopped (for example, the first or second big hit control being executed is stopped. For example, the game control is performed. When the progress of the game is stopped, for example, an abnormal loop that only monitors whether or not the error state has been released is entered, and when the error is released, the normal control state is set. The abnormality detection game stop means (for example, step S109c or step S155 in the game control microcomputer 60 is executed). Parts) and a game machine provided with a. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent game media from being paid out based on abnormality detection based on fraud.

  When a predetermined period of time elapses without the same number of game media counted by the entry counting means as the number of game media entered into the variable winning device (for example, Y in step S85) A gaming machine provided with undetected abnormality notifying means (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S86 in the gaming control microcomputer 60). According to such a configuration, it is possible to make a game store clerk or the like recognize that an undetected abnormality based on cheating or a ball jam is occurring.

  When a predetermined period of time elapses without the same number of game media that have entered the variable winning device as the number of game media counted by the entry counting means (for example, Y in step S85), A gaming machine provided with undetected abnormal game stopping means for stopping the progress (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S87 in the gaming control microcomputer 60). According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the game medium from being paid out despite the occurrence of an undetected abnormality based on an illegal act or a clogged ball.

  When variable display of the identification information on the variable display device is interrupted by the variable display interruption control means, the stop display that stops and displays the identification information in a display mode (for example, off-line design) other than the specific display result on the variable display device. A gaming machine provided with a control means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S35r, S35s, S22b in the gaming control microcomputer 60). According to such a configuration, it is possible to reliably prevent misunderstanding that the condition for shifting to the first specific gaming state is satisfied, and to prevent the player from being confused.

  Based on variable display control means for controlling variable display of identification information in the variable display device (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S302 to S304 in the game control microcomputer 60) and that the variable display execution condition is satisfied. Variable display data for selecting variable display data indicating variable display time from start of variable display of identification information in variable display device to display and display of display result from a plurality of predetermined variable display data Timer update for updating a timer for measuring variable display time based on variable display data selected by the selection means (for example, the portion of the game control microcomputer 60 that executes the process of step S63) and the variable display data selection means Means (for example, in the game control microcomputer 60) And the variable display time determination means for determining whether or not the variable display time has elapsed by the timer updated by the timer update means (for example, the process of step S73 in the game control microcomputer 60) The variable display control means derives and displays the display result of the identification information on the variable display device when the variable display time determination means determines that the variable display time has elapsed. (For example, step S93), the variable display interruption control means interrupts the timer update by the timer update means, and controls the interruption state in which the execution of variable display of the identification information is interrupted (for example, it is determined as Y in step S35n and is special). In step S75, an interruption flag is set so that the process of subtracting the symbol process timer is not executed), The release control means resumes the timer update by the timer update means and releases the interrupted state (for example, interrupted in step S81 so that the process of subtracting the special symbol process timer is executed in step S35n is determined to be N). The variable display control means continues the display state for continuing the variable display state of the identification information on the variable display device when the timer update by the timer update means is interrupted and controlled to the interrupted state. A gaming machine including control means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S35r, S35s, and S22b in the gaming control microcomputer 60). According to such a configuration, it is possible to reliably prevent misunderstanding that the condition for shifting to the first specific gaming state is satisfied, and to prevent the player from being confused.

  In the second specific gaming state, a round game in which the variable winning device is in the second state in a specific state until a predetermined transition condition (for example, winning of a predetermined number of game balls or a predetermined period of time elapses) is satisfied. The number of times (for example, 16 rounds) is controlled to be executable, and when the variable display of the identification information on the variable display device is interrupted by the variable display interruption control means, any number of round games is continued in the second specific gaming state. A gaming machine provided with a round advance notice means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S35v, S35w, and S22b in the game control microcomputer 60) for notifying whether or not it is possible. According to such a structure, various game effects can be performed and the interest of the game can be improved.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 60 as the guidance control means determines that the numerical data stored in the counter means (specifically, the value of the position counter) has reached a predetermined value. On the other hand, the guidance means has started to change from a predetermined position corresponding to the predetermined value so that the game ball can easily win the specific winning opening 30, but conversely, the predetermined position where the game ball easily wins the specific winning opening 30. Then, it may be changed so that it becomes difficult to win a prize. In other words, when the determination means determines that the numerical data stored in the counter means has reached a predetermined value, the guiding control means moves the guiding means to a predetermined position corresponding to the predetermined value (for example, the game ball is in a specific area). The game ball may start to change to a state where it is likely to be guided to a specific area, or the guide means is in a predetermined position corresponding to a predetermined value (for example, a state where the game ball is easily guided to the specific area) ) May start changing to a state in which the game ball is difficult to be guided to the specific area.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
FIG. 48 is a front view showing an example of a gaming machine of a gaming machine according to another embodiment (second embodiment). In the gaming machine shown in FIG. 48, the start winning ports 11 and 12 are not provided, and only one start winning port 13 is provided. As in the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1 (the gaming machine of the first embodiment), the game ball that has won the start winning opening 13 is detected by the start opening switch 13a. In FIG. 48, the top frame lamp, the left frame lamp, and the right frame lamp are shown as a frame lamp 28. Further, similarly to the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1, the game board 6 is provided with a variable display device 9 and a special symbol display 8.

  As shown in FIG. 49, the variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes a pair of left and right open / close pieces 23a and 23b that are pivotally supported. The open / close pieces 23a and 23b are connected to solenoids 24a and 24b (not shown in FIG. 49) via a link mechanism, and in a normal state in which the solenoids 24a and 24b are turned off (a game ball is a variable winning ball device). When the solenoids 24a and 24b are turned on, the tilted state (the state where the game ball can enter the variable winning ball apparatus 20) is entered.

  When the open / close pieces 23a and 23b are inclined, the left and right openings that were closed by the open / close pieces 23a and 23b are opened. Then, the game balls picked up by the open / close pieces 23a and 23b can enter the upper winning space 22a through the openings.

  In the variable winning ball apparatus 20, the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b are arranged in the vicinity of the opening. The accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b detect game balls (winning balls) that have entered the upper winning space 22a through the openings.

  A rolling plate is provided below the accessory inflow switches 34a and 34b. The rolling plate has, for example, a mortar shape with a depressed central portion, and the game ball can roll toward the central portion of the rolling plate while turning on the rolling plate. In this embodiment, three openings 211, 222, and 232 through which game balls can pass are formed on the rolling plate. The openings 211, 222, and 232 communicate with the flow paths 214, 224, and 234, respectively.

  FIG. 50A is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the middle (center) flow-down path 214. As shown in FIG. 50A, the flow path 214 is provided with a path passing sphere detector 213 immediately below the opening 212. In addition, a rolling passage 218 is formed below the downflow path 214, and rolling speed suppression members 215 and 216 are provided between the downflow path 214 and the rolling passage 218.

  As indicated by a broken line in FIG. 50A, a game ball flowing down the flow path 214 is detected by a path passing ball detector 213. The game ball that has flowed down the flow path collides with the rolling speed suppressing members 215 and 216 and falls into the rolling path 218 while the falling speed is reduced. The rolling passage 218 rolls the game ball that has fallen from the flow-down path 214 forward. When the game ball rolls on the rolling passage 218 and reaches the downstream end, the game ball falls toward the specific winning port 30 or the non-specific ports 29A and 29B formed therebelow.

  FIG. 50B is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the left and right flow paths 224 and 234. The left flow path 224 is provided with a path passing sphere detector 223 immediately below the opening 221, and the right flow path 234 is provided with a path passing sphere detector 233 immediately below the opening 231. A rolling passage 228 is formed below the downflow path 224, and rolling speed suppression members 225 and 226 are provided between the downflow path 224 and the left rolling passage 228. A rolling passage 238 is formed below the flow path 234, and rolling speed suppression members 235 and 236 are provided between the flow path 234 and the rolling path 238.

  As indicated by broken lines in FIG. 50 (B), game balls flowing down the left and right flow paths 224 and 234 are detected by path-passing ball detectors 223 and 233, respectively. The game ball that has flowed down the left flow path 224 is slowed down by the rolling speed restraining members 225 and 226, and the game ball that has flowed down the right flow path 234 is slowed down by the rolling speed restraining members 235 and 236. Is done.

  The specific winning opening 30 is disposed below the downstream end of the inner rolling passage 218. Below the downstream ends of the left and right rolling passages 228 and 238 are non-specific ports 29A and 29B. Therefore, the game ball that rolls in the inner rolling passage 218 is easier to enter the specific winning opening 30 than the game ball that rolls in the left and right rolling passages 228 and 238. However, since the width of the rolling passage 218 is formed wider than the width of the specific winning opening 30, not all the game balls rolling on the rolling passage 218 enter the specific winning opening 30. As described above, the probability that the game ball enters the specific winning opening 30 differs depending on whether the game ball has passed through the middle flow path 214 or the left and right flow paths 224 and 234.

  When the game ball wins the specific winning opening 30 (V winning), it is detected by the specific winning switch 30a and becomes the second big hit. As in the case of the above embodiment, in the second big hit gaming state, for example, the gaming control microcomputer 60 performs on / off control of the solenoids 24a, 24b, so that the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b are predetermined. The time opening operation is repeated 18 times (18 open / close cycles). If five winning balls are detected by the accessory inflow switches 34a, 34b before the opening / closing cycle ends 18 times, the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b is ended at that time. When the open / close cycle ends (after the open / close cycle, wait for a sufficient amount of time for all the winning game balls to be detected by the discharge switch 29a), the game balls are detected by the specific winning switch 30a during the open / close cycle. On the condition that this has been done, the right to continue 18 open / close cycles is established. If the continuation right is established, the opening / closing pieces 23a, 23b are opened again after a predetermined interval time has elapsed. In the first big hit game state, the game control microcomputer 60 opens the open / close plate 16 until a predetermined time elapses or ten hit balls are won. When a predetermined time elapses or when a predetermined number of game balls are detected by the count switch 19, the game control microcomputer 60 controls the open / close plate 16 to be closed. The opening of the opening / closing plate 16, that is, the opening of the special winning opening is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds). However, a continuation right is generated on the condition that a game ball has won a specific area (V prize area) defined in the big prize opening, and the next round's big prize opening is opened. Therefore, a switch (V switch) for detecting a game ball won in the specific area is provided. As described above, the number of game balls (maximum winning number) that satisfies the cycle end condition differs between the first jackpot game state and the second jackpot game state. The maximum winning number is stored in the ROM 54 in advance.

  As in the case of the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 49, a movable member 25 is provided that is driven in the vertical direction by a solenoid 25a (not shown in FIG. 49). The movable member 25 is in a state that makes it easy to win the game ball into the specific winning port 30 (a state in which the game ball easily descends into the flow path of the game ball and guides the game ball to the specific winning port 30, see FIG. 4A). One of two states is created: a state in which it is difficult to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30 (a state in which the game ball does not hit the movable member 25, see FIG. 4B).

  Here, as the movable member 25, a guide member for making it easy to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30 is illustrated, but a blocking member for making it difficult to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30 may be used. . Also, here, the movable member 25 exemplifies a state in which the movable member 25 can take either a state in which it is easy to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30 or a state in which it is difficult to win the game ball in the specific winning opening 30. However, a movable member that can take more states (for example, four states) depending on the degree of ease with which the game ball can win the specific winning opening 30 may be used.

  The circuit configuration of the main board 31 and other boards is the same as that shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, although the controlled objects (solenoids and switches) are slightly different.

  In this embodiment as well, in the same way as in the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 60 determines whether the display result of the special symbol display 8 is the big hit symbol when the game ball wins the start winning opening 13. Whether or not to determine whether or not to display the special symbol display result as the first specific symbol as the specific display result or the second specific symbol as the specific display result The determination is made, and the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display 8 and the decorative symbol variable display on the variable display device 9 are started.

  As in the case of the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 60 determines whether the display result of the special symbol is the first specific symbol or the second specific symbol by lottery using a random number. That is, the first determination value (may be plural) corresponding to the first specific symbol and the second determination value (may be plural) corresponding to the second specific symbol are stored in the ROM 54 in advance. If the extracted random number value (for example, using a big hit determination random number) matches the first determination value, the display result of the special symbol is determined to be the first specific symbol, and if the extracted random number value matches the second determination value, the special symbol is determined. Is determined to be the second specific symbol. It should be noted that a prior determination process for determining whether or not the display result of the special symbol display 8 is a jackpot symbol, and a process for determining whether or not the display result of the special symbol is the first specific symbol or the second specific symbol. You may do it at the same time. That is, it is good also as a prior determination process with the process which determines whether the display result of a special symbol is made into the 1st specific symbol or the 2nd specific symbol.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 60 shifts the gaming state to the first big hit gaming state when the predetermined first specific symbol is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8. The game control in the first big hit gaming state is the same as in the first embodiment. That is, the game control microcomputer 60 selects one variable winning device that is controlled to be in an open state from the plurality of variable winning devices according to the determined stop symbol (in this case, the opening / closing plate 16). And the selected variable winning device is controlled to be opened. When the game control microcomputer 60 derives and displays the first specific symbol on the special symbol display 8, the effect control microcomputer 101 causes the variable display device 9 to recall the display of the first specific symbol. Control to stop and display a decorative pattern (for example, “5”, “5”, “5” for “5”, “5” as the first specific symbol).

  Further, when a predetermined second specific symbol is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8, the game control microcomputer 60 starts a starting operation in which the open / close pieces 23a and 23b are opened a predetermined number of times. When the game control microcomputer 60 derives and displays the second specific symbol on the special symbol display 8, the effect control microcomputer 101 causes the variable display device 9 to recall the display of the second specific symbol. Control to stop and display a decorative symbol (for example, “1”, “1”, “1” for “1”, “1” as the second specific symbol). The mode of the starting operation is the same as in the case of the first embodiment. That is, using the position counter, the game ball is controlled in various manners so that it is easy to win the specific winning opening 30. Then, when a game ball wins the specific winning opening 30 in the starting operation, as in the case of the first embodiment, the state shifts to the second big hit game state in which the variable winning ball device 20 is opened. In this way, that is, the game control microcomputer 60 selects one variable winning device to be controlled in an open state from a plurality of variable winning devices according to the determined stop symbol (in this case, The variable winning ball device 20) controls the selected variable winning device to the open state.

  The game control microcomputer 60 determines in advance the number of times that the big winning opening can be opened in the first jackpot gaming state and the second jackpot gaming state by lottery or the like when starting variable display, and according to the decision result. Thus, the symbol derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8 may be determined.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 60 is configured so that the number of game balls to be paid out (for example, 15) in accordance with the winning to the big winning opening opened by the solenoid 16a in the first big hit gaming state and the second big hit gaming state. You may make it differ from the number of game balls (for example, 13) paid out according to the winning to a big winning opening. That is, when a winning at the big winning opening is detected in the first big hit gaming state, a payout control command indicating, for example, the number of 15 winning balls is output to the payout control board 37, and the big win in the second big hit gaming state. When a winning in the mouth is detected, a payout control command indicating, for example, the number of 13 prize balls is transmitted to the payout control board 37. A payout control microcomputer including a payout control CPU and a RAM mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls. The data indicating the number of winning balls is stored in the ROM 54 of the game control microcomputer 60. When the game control microcomputer 60 transmits a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls, the number of winning balls is read from the ROM 54. read out. Therefore, when the number of prize balls is changed between the first big hit game state and the second big hit game state, the number of prize balls (for example, 15 and 13) corresponding to each case is stored in the ROM 55.

  Thus, also in this embodiment, when the start determination means determines that a game ball has been detected by the start detection means, the counter means updates the numerical value within a predetermined numerical range and holds the updated numerical value. When the numerical value held by the counter means is determined and the numerical value held by the counter means is determined to be a predetermined initial value, the guidance means starts to change to a state in which the game ball is easily guided to the specific area. Since the mode of the guiding means is changed according to the numerical value held by the counter means, the operation timing and the operating mode of the guiding means are determined from a plurality of types based only on the numerical value held by the counter means. It is possible to reduce the processing burden for controlling the operation of the guiding means.

  Further, in this embodiment, after the variable display execution condition (for example, the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 13) is established, the variable display start condition (for example, the special symbol display 8 and the variable display device 9) A variable display device (for example, a variable display device 9) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, decorative symbols) that can be identified based on the fact that variable display and the completion of the first big hit gaming state have been established. ) And a plurality of variable winning devices that are opened and closed by opening and closing members (for example, the opening and closing pieces 23a and 23b, the opening and closing plate 16) (for example, the variable winning ball device 20 serving as a large winning opening and a large winning opening opened by the opening and closing plate 16). ) And value giving means for giving a game value to the player based on winning in the variable winning device (for example, a prize ball in step S32 in the game controlling microcomputer 60) A specific display result (for example, display symbols arranged in the same design) consisting of a combination of a predetermined identification information and a display result of variable display of identification information by a variable display device Result), a specific game state control means (for example, step S305 in the game control microcomputer 60) that generates a specific game state (for example, the first big hit game state) for controlling the variable prize-winning device to the open state. The specific display result is displayed as the display result of the variable display that is executed based on the fact that the pre-opening process for the winning opening and the process for opening the large winning opening in step S306) and the variable display start condition are satisfied. Prior determination means for determining whether or not the display result is derived and displayed (for example, a game control microcomputer) 60), identification information determination means (for example, a game control microcomputer 60) for determining identification information to be displayed as a display result on the variable display device, and determination that the specific display result is displayed by the prior determination means. When it is made, variable winning device selection determining means (for example, selecting and determining one variable winning device to be controlled to be opened from a plurality of variable winning devices according to the identification information determined by the identification information determining means (for example, The gaming machine is configured such that the special game state control means controls the large winning opening selected and determined by the variable winning apparatus selection determining means to the open state. Note that the variable winning device to be controlled to the open state may be determined, and then the identification information to be displayed as the display result on the variable display device may be determined according to the determined variable winning device. With such a configuration, the variable winning device to be opened is changed according to the identification information displayed on the variable display device when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result. Since the player's game technique also changes, it is possible to improve the game interest of the player.

  In addition, based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied after the variable display execution condition is satisfied, a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable, and a plurality of open / close members Based on the combination of the predetermined prize winning information, the value giving means for giving the player a game value based on the winning to the variable prize winning device, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information by the variable display device. Specific game state control means for generating a specific game state for controlling the variable prize-winning device to an open state and a variable display executed based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied. Prior determination means for determining whether or not to display a specific display result as a display result before the display result is derived and displayed, and identification to be displayed as a display result on a variable display device When the determination to display the specific display result is made by the identification information determination means for determining the information and the prior determination means, each of the plurality of variable prize-winning devices according to the identification information determined by the identification information determination means The specific game state control means controls each variable winning device to the open state for the number of times determined by the variable winning device opening number determining means. Note that the number of times of opening at each of the plurality of variable winning devices may be determined, and identification information to be displayed as a display result on the variable display device may be determined according to the determined number of times of opening at each variable winning device. According to such a configuration, the number of releases at each variable winning device changes according to the identification information displayed on the variable display device when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result. Since the game technique of the player in the game state also changes, it is possible to improve the game interest of the player.

  Further, the value giving means further includes payout control means (for example, a payout control microcomputer mounted on the payout control board 37) for controlling payout means (for example, payout device 97) for paying out the prize balls. Depending on which variable winning device the game ball has won by the control means, a different number of winning balls (for example, 15 for the first type special variable winning ball device 7, 15 for the second type special variable winning ball device 5). 13) may be controlled to pay out from the payout means. According to such a configuration, the number of prize balls paid out from the payout means differs according to the identification information displayed on the variable display device when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result. It is possible to improve the gaming interest of the player.

  In addition, the specific game state control means ends the release state when the number of winnings to the variable winning device controlled to the open state reaches the maximum winning number, and as data indicating the maximum winning number for each variable winning device Storage means (for example, ROM 55) in which data indicating different numbers is stored is included. According to such a configuration, when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result, the maximum number of winnings differs according to the difference of the variable winning device to be opened. Can be improved.

  In this embodiment, the specific game state control means allows the game ball to pass through a specific area (for example, the specific prize opening 30) provided in the variable winning device in the second big hit game state (for example, V prize). The variable winning device includes a flow path (for example, flow paths 214, 224, and 228) that can guide the game ball in a specific area. Has a different path structure. According to such a configuration, it is possible to vary the continuation rate of the specific display state in various ways, and it is possible to improve the gaming interest of the player.

  The present invention can be applied to a pachinko gaming machine or the like, and more particularly to a pachinko gaming machine having a variable winning device that performs a starting operation from a first state that is disadvantageous to the player to a second state that is advantageous to the player. It is preferably applied.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko machine from the front. It is the front view which looked at the game board from the front. It is a front view which shows the structural example of a variable winning ball apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a movable member. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st start port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop symbol setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a change time setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a display control process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol display control process. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a timing diagram which shows starting operation | movement. It is a timing diagram which shows the operation example of a movable member. It is a flowchart which shows a variable winning ball apparatus process process. It is a flowchart which shows a position counter update process. It is a flowchart which shows a start prize waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a variable winning ball apparatus release process. It is a flowchart which shows an accessory inflow switch on waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a position counter initial position waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a game ball discharge waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a specific area effective period progress waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of 1 structure of process data. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design fluctuation pattern determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration symbol stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the variable display timing of a special symbol and a decoration symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other specific example of the variable display timing of a special symbol and a decoration symbol. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a special symbol display control process. It is a flowchart which shows an abnormality monitoring process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other specific example of the variable display timing of a special symbol and a decoration symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of alerting | reporting effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of alerting | reporting effect. It is a flowchart which shows alerting | reporting effect control processing. It is a front view which shows an example of the game machine of the game machine of 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a variable winning ball apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of the structure of the flow-down path | route 214. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display device 11,12 Start winning opening 11a, 12a 2nd starting opening switch 14 First start opening switch 16 Opening / closing plate 20 Variable winning ball apparatus 25 Movable member 24a, 24b Solenoid 25a Solenoid 29a Discharge switch 29A, 29B Non-specific port 30 Specific winning port 31 Game control board (main board)
34a, 34b Inflow switch for game object 60 Microcomputer for game control 80 Production control board 101 Microcomputer for production control

Claims (9)

The player performs a game by firing a game ball in the game area, and the detection of the start detection means for detecting the game ball in the start area provided in the game area, the first state that is disadvantageous for the player A variable winning device that performs a starting operation that is in a second state that is advantageous to the player is provided. The variable winning device is provided with a specific area and a non-specific area, and detects a game ball that has entered the specific area. A gaming machine having advantageous game state control means for controlling the variable prize-winning device to the advantageous game state for making the second state in a specific manner that is more advantageous for the player than the starting operation by detection of the specific detection means. There,
Guidance means for changing a game ball that has entered the variable prize-winning device into a state that is easily guided to the specific area and a state that is difficult to be guided to the specific area;
Counter means for updating the numerical data in a predetermined numerical range and storing the updated numerical data when power is supplied to the gaming machine;
Start determination means for determining whether or not the start detection means has detected a game ball;
Determination means for determining whether or not the numerical data stored in the counter means has reached a predetermined value after the start determination means determines that a game ball has been detected by the start detection means;
And a guidance control unit that starts changing the guidance unit from a predetermined position corresponding to the predetermined value when the determination unit determines that the numerical data stored in the counter unit has reached the predetermined value. A gaming machine characterized by that. Provided with an entry detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the variable winning device,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit starts determining whether the numerical data stored in the counter unit has reached the predetermined value on condition that the entry detection unit has detected a game ball. Entry counting means for counting game balls that have entered the variable winning device;
A discharge counting means for counting game balls discharged from the variable winning device after entering the variable winning device;
When the numerical data stored in the counter means reaches a predetermined value after the same number of game balls as counted by the entry counting means are counted by the discharge counting means, the guidance control means The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an initial position setting process is executed to stop the control and stop the operation position of the guiding means at a predetermined initial position. The start determination means disables detection by the start detection means when the start detection means detects a game ball, and enables detection by the start detection means when the guidance control means performs initial position setting processing. 3. The gaming machine according to 3. After a predetermined variable display execution condition is established, a variable display device that starts variable display of a plurality of types of identification information based on the establishment of the variable display start condition and derives and displays the display result;
A plurality of variable winning devices that are opened and closed by an opening and closing member;
Specific game state control means for controlling to a specific game state advantageous to the player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device;
Pre-determination means for determining whether or not to display the specific display result as a display result of variable display executed based on the establishment of the variable display start condition, before the display result is derived and displayed;
Identification information determining means for determining identification information to be displayed as the display result on the variable display device;
When it is determined by the prior determination means that the specific display result is derived and displayed, an open state is selected from the plurality of variable winning devices according to the identification information determined by the identification information determination means. Variable winning device selection determining means for determining one variable winning device to be controlled,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the specific game state control means controls the variable winning device determined by the variable winning device selection determining means to an open state. Entry counting means for counting game balls that have entered the variable winning device;
A discharge counting means for counting game balls discharged from the variable winning device after entering the variable winning device;
After a predetermined variable display execution condition is established, a variable display device that starts variable display of a plurality of types of identification information based on the establishment of the variable display start condition and derives and displays the display result;
Specific game state control means for controlling to a specific game state advantageous to the player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device;
Special gaming state control means for shifting the gaming state from the normal state to the special gaming state in which the display result of the variable display of the identification information is likely to be the specific display result as a result of establishment of a predetermined transition condition. When,
When the gaming state is the special gaming state, when controlled to the advantageous gaming state by the advantageous gaming state control means, a variable display that regulates the start of variable display of identification information even if the variable display start condition is satisfied Regulatory measures,
Variable display for controlling the suspended state in which execution of variable display of the identification information is interrupted due to detection of a game ball by the start detection means during execution of variable display of identification information on the variable display device Interruption control means;
When the variable display of the identification information is controlled to be in a suspended state by the variable display interruption control means, a notice for notifying that the display result of the suspended variable display of the identification information becomes a predetermined display result is executed. Notice notification executing means for
On condition that the number of game balls counted by the entry counting means is counted by the discharge counting means when execution of variable display is controlled to be suspended by the variable display interruption control means. A gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising interruption cancellation control means for canceling the interruption state. 6. The notification effect control means for performing different notification effects according to the numerical data stored in the counter means when the start detection means detects a game ball. Game machines. Entry counting means for counting game balls that have entered the variable winning device;
A discharge counting means for counting game balls discharged from the variable winning device after entering the variable winning device;
The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein the notification effect control means ends the notification effect when the same number of game balls as counted by the entry counting means are counted by the discharge counting means. The gaming machine according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising notification effect changing means for changing a mode of the notification effect in response to detection of a game ball by the entry detection means.

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