JP2006239251A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance the amusement of a game by executing the presentation with unexpectedness as previous notice presentation for previously notifying that a jackpot will be made using retained game balls. <P>SOLUTION: Game balls entering an entrance 201 are apportioned by an apportioning part 200, and a prescribed rate of the entering game balls are guided into a retaining tank 210, where the game balls are retained. When the previous notice presentation for previously notifying that the result of determination of a jackpot is (may be) the jackpot is executed, the game balls retained in the retaining tank 210 are released on a stage 230, and are flipped by flippers 171-174 which turn on the stage 230, so that the game balls are made to roll on the stage 230 for a prescribed period of time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention includes a variable display device that performs a game by launching a game ball into a game area, variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified, and derives and displays a display result. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a specific display result is derived and displayed.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display unit capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, which is advantageous for the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display unit becomes the specific display result. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state.

  The specific game state means a state advantageous to a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the specific gaming state is, for example, a state in which a special variable winning device is in an advantageous state for a player who easily hits a ball (a big hit gaming state), or a state in which a right to become an advantageous state for the player has occurred. In this state, a predetermined game value such as a state where conditions for paying out premium game media are easily established is given.

  In such a gaming machine, the display result of the variable display unit that displays the special symbol as the identification information becomes a combination of specific display modes (specific display result) that is determined in advance (usually “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. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. 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.

  Patent Document 1 listed below is a gaming machine that produces and displays game contents based on a lottery result triggered by winning a game ball at the start opening, and holds the game ball won at the start opening, A gaming machine is disclosed in which a held game ball is guided to a position corresponding to a lottery lottery result, the guided game ball is stopped, and the stopped game ball is held at a position corresponding to the lottery result of the number of rounds.

JP 2003-38789 A (paragraphs 0016-0022, 0026-0042)

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the big hit lottery result is out of order, the game balls that are put on hold are simply discharged, so that the game effect becomes monotonous. In addition, since the ratio of the big hit lottery results to the big win is not high, the monotonous effects are continuously executed, and the entertainment of the game cannot be enhanced.

  Therefore, the present invention uses a stored game ball to perform a surprising effect as a notice effect for notifying that a specific display result (big hit) is likely or possible. It is an object to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game.

  In the gaming machine according to the present invention, a game is performed by launching a game ball into a game area (for example, the game area 7), and a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols, ornaments synchronized with special symbols) can be identified. A variable display device (for example, the variable display device 9) that performs variable display (fluctuation) of symbols) to derive and display a display result (for example, a stop symbol) is provided. A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) that is controlled to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to the player when it is displayed (for example, stopped), and a game ball is placed in a gaming area in accordance with the player's operation Launching means (for example, a hitting ball launching device), an entrance (for example, entrance 201) that is provided in the game area and allows a game ball to flow down the game area, and a game ball that has entered the entrance Reserving means for storing (for example, a ball locking portion 131k provided at the tip of the movable iron core of the storage tank 210 and solenoid 131) and a pre-determining means for determining the display result of the variable display device before the derivation display (for example, a game Whether to execute a notice effect for notifying that the display result of the variable display device becomes the specific display result based on the determination result by the pre-decision means) and the part that executes step S56 in the control microcomputer 560 For example, a portion for executing step 208 in the game control microcomputer 560 and when the notice determining means determines to execute the notice effect (the variation pattern with the notice effect shown in FIG. 13 is shown). When determined, release the storage by the storage means and play the stored game balls Is a discharge means (for example, for effect control) that discharges onto a rolling plate (for example, stage 230) disposed at a position where it can be visually recognized (for example, a space in front of the variable display apparatus 9 and a position directly below the variable display apparatus 9). The microcomputer 100 performs a control to turn on the solenoid 131 in step S838), a movable member (for example, flippers 171 to 174) movable on the rolling plate, and rolling by controlling driving of the movable member. A movable control means (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 drives the solenoids 134A to 134D in step S852 or S854) to roll the game ball released on the board as a notice effect for a predetermined period (for example, a notice effect execution period). And a part for executing control).

  Of the game balls that have entered the entrance, a specific area (for example, the first introduction port 202A) in which a predetermined percentage of game balls can enter and a non-specific area in which game balls that have not entered the specific area can enter An area (for example, the second introduction port 202B) is formed, the game ball that has entered the specific area is stored by the storage means, and the game ball that has entered the non-specific area is returned to the game area (for example, as shown in FIG. 2) In other words, the game area 7 may be returned to the game area 7 by being discharged from the discharge port 207 through the passage 204. In addition, the game ball that has entered the specific area is discharged to the outside of the gaming machine without being returned to the gaming area (for example, discharged from the outlets 241, 242 to the outside of the gaming machine or formed in the storage tank 210. It may be configured to be discharged from the hole 212 to the outside of the gaming machine). Further, all or a part of the game balls that have entered the specific area may be configured such that the winning detection (for example, the detection of the gaming balls by the winning port switch 29a) is performed.

  Number selection means for selecting the number of game balls to be released by the release means (for example, a process in which the game control microcomputer 560 selects any one of the fluctuation patterns with one to three ball release effects in step S208. The number selection means includes a game ball as compared with a case where a smaller number (for example, one ball discharge) than a predetermined number (for example, two ball discharge) is selected as the number of game balls. The selection data (for example, judgment values) is allocated to a plurality of types so that a specific display result is obtained with higher probability when a number larger than a predetermined number (for example, three sphere releases) is selected. The number of game balls may be selected using the selected table data (for example, variation pattern determination table).

  The storage means is preferably formed so as to store the number of game balls so that the player can visually recognize it (for example, the storage tank 210 is formed of a transparent material).

  The detection means (for example, a full tank switch 39a) for detecting that the number of game balls stored by the storage means has reached a predetermined number (for example, full) is provided. When it is detected that the predetermined number has been detected (for example, when the full switch 39a is turned on), the determination is made so that it is determined that the notice effect is executed at a higher rate than when the detection means is not detecting. The determination table data (for example, the variation pattern determination table) to which the operation data (for example, the determination value) is allocated is used to determine whether or not to execute the notice effect (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 performs step S201). When it is confirmed that the full switch 39a is turned on at S202, the fluctuation pattern determination table for executing the high probability notice is used at S202. In particular to determine to determine the variation pattern with informational display with high probability at step S208) it may be configured so.

  The entrance area where the game ball on the rolling plate can enter (for example, the entrance pocket 180) and the state where the game ball can enter the entrance area (for example, the opening direction of the entrance pocket 180 is the game ball) A variable member (for example, vertically movable and rotatable) that changes between a state in which the direction is directed) and an impossible state (for example, a state in which the opening direction of the ball pocket 180 is not directed in a direction with a game ball) A lid 181) and variable member control means for variably controlling the variable member (for example, the portion in which the production control microcomputer 100 performs control to drive the solenoid 133 in step S838 and the rotary motor 140 in steps S855 and S856). And a variable member control means, when the decision result by the prior decision means is a specific display result, the decision result is Control table data to which control data (for example, a judgment value) is allocated so as to change the variable member to a state in which the game ball can enter the entrance area at a higher rate than when the result is not the fixed display result ( For example, the variable member is controlled using a variation pattern determination table (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 has a higher probability when the determination result of the big hit determination at step S56 is a big hit than when the determination result is out of place. To determine a variation pattern (“09H”, “0AH”, “13H”, “14H”) with a chance zone notice effect (step S208), and produce the effect control command (8009H, 800AH, 8013H, 8014H) of the variation pattern. This is transmitted to the control microcomputer 100 (step S209), and the production control microcomputer 100 Computer 100 executes the drive control of the rotary motor 140 to effect control command received is corresponding to or not at the time that one out when the jackpot (step S855, S856)) may be configured so.

  A discharge port (for example, the discharge ports 241 and 242) for discharging the game ball on the rolling plate to the outside of the gaming machine, and a guiding means for guiding the game ball on the rolling plate to the discharge port (for example, the central portion is high, An inclination formed on the stage 230 so that the left and right ends are lower, and detection means (for example, ball detection sensors 161 to 164) for detecting a game ball close to the movable member. Moves the movable member when a game ball is detected by the detection means until a predetermined period (for example, the execution period of the notice effect) elapses (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes steps S853 and S854). When the predetermined period has elapsed, the movable member is stopped (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 does not operate the solenoid 134A only in steps S853 and S854. Executing the drive control of the 134D) may be configured so.

  Period selection means for selecting a predetermined period (for example, rolling time) during which the movable control means rolls the game ball from a plurality of types of periods (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the rolling time “short”, “medium” in step S208). ”A portion that executes a process of selecting one of the fluctuation patterns accompanied by the“ long ”notice effect), and the period selection means selects the first period (for example, the rolling time“ short ”) as the predetermined period. Compared to the time, when the second period (for example, the rolling time “long”) longer than the first period is selected as the predetermined period, the selection data ( For example, a predetermined period may be selected from a plurality of types of periods using selection table data (for example, a variation pattern determination table) in which determination values are allocated to a plurality of types of periods. There.

  Operation means for moving the movable member in response to an operation by the player during the notice effect period (for example, during the button operation period in the chance zone B notice effect) (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 operates the operation buttons in steps S850 to S852). A portion for executing control for driving the solenoids 134A to 134D in response to turning on 120).

  The releasing means releases the game balls stored in the storage means again after releasing the game balls stored in the storage means as an additional release effect (for example, a notice effect of “additional release”) which is one aspect of the notice effect. However, when the determination result by the prior determination unit is the specific display result, the notice determination unit executes the additional discharge effect at a higher rate than when the determination result is not the specific display result. Using determination table data (for example, a variation pattern determination table) to which determination data (for example, a determination value) is allocated, it is determined whether or not to perform an additional release effect (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 varies). The variation pattern of “0BH” and “15H” in the pattern determination table may be determined with high probability).

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, an entrance provided for a game ball that is provided in the game area and flows down the game area, storage means for storing the game ball that has entered the entrance, and a display result of the variable display device are displayed. Predetermining means determined before the derivation display, and whether to execute a notice effect for notifying that the display result of the variable display device becomes the specific display result based on the determination result by the predetermining means When it is determined by the notice determining means and the notice determining means that the notice effect is to be executed, the storage by the storing means is released, and the stored game balls are placed on positions where the player can visually recognize the game balls. And a movable member that is movable on the rolling plate, and a movable control unit that causes the game ball released on the rolling plate to roll for a predetermined period as a notice effect by driving and controlling the movable member. Preparation Since it is, it is possible to perform an effect that a surprising with game ball that is stored, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  In the invention according to claim 2, when the number selection means selects a number larger than the predetermined number as the number of game balls, compared to when the number smaller than the predetermined number is selected as the number of game balls. Since it is configured to select the number of game balls using selection table data in which the selection data is allocated to a plurality of types so that the specific display result with higher probability, The degree of expectation for the specific display result can be made different for the player depending on the number of game balls released to the rolling plate, and the fun of the game can be further improved.

  In the invention according to claim 3, since the storage means is formed so that the player can store the number of game balls so that the player can visually recognize, it is easy for the player to know how much game balls are stored in the storage means. As a result, the game can be continued by the player based on the fact that the game ball remains in the storage means.

  The invention according to claim 4 further comprises detection means for detecting that the number of game balls stored by the storage means has reached a predetermined number, and the notice determination means sets the number of game balls to the predetermined number by the detection means. When it is detected, the determination table data to which the determination data is allocated is determined so as to execute the notice effect at a higher rate than when it is not detected by the detection means, Since it is configured to determine whether or not to execute the notice effect, if there are a lot of game balls remaining in the storage means, the player becomes even more difficult to stop the game, and the game continues to the player Can be made.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the entrance area in which the game ball on the rolling plate can enter, the variable member that changes between the state in which the game ball can enter the entrance area and the inaccessible state, and the variable Variable member control means for variably controlling the member, and the variable member control means is a variable member at a higher rate when the determination result by the predetermination means is the specific display result than when the determination result is not the specific display result. Is configured to control the variable member using the control table data to which the control data is allocated so that the game ball can enter the state where the game ball can enter the ball entering area. The expectation for the specific display result can be changed by the movement of the game ball on the board, and the interest of the game can be further improved.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, a discharge port for discharging the game ball on the rolling plate to the outside of the gaming machine, guidance means for guiding the game ball on the rolling plate to the discharge port, and a game close to the movable member Detection means for detecting a ball, and the movement control means moves the movable member when the game ball is detected by the detection means until the predetermined period elapses, and stops the movable member when the predetermined period elapses. Thus, the game ball can be rolled on the rolling plate until a predetermined period elapses.

  In the invention according to claim 7, the period selection means is higher when the second period longer than the first period is selected as the predetermined period, compared to when the first period is selected as the predetermined period. Since it is configured to select a predetermined period from a plurality of types of periods using selection table data in which the selection data is allocated to a plurality of types of periods so that a specific display result is obtained with a probability, a transfer is performed. Since the player can have different expectations for the specific display result depending on the rolling time of the game ball on the moving plate, the player can be more focused on the whereabouts of the game ball on the rolling plate. Interest can be further improved.

  In the invention described in claim 8, since the movable member is moved according to the operation by the player during the period of the notice effect, the interest of the game is improved by allowing the player to participate in the game. be able to.

  In the invention according to claim 9, the release means releases the game ball stored in the storage means again after releasing the game ball stored in the storage means as an additional release effect which is an aspect of the notice effect. When the determination result by the prior determination means is the specific display result, the determination data is allocated so that the additional release effect is executed at a higher rate than when the determination result is not the specific display result. The determination table data is used to determine whether or not to execute the additional discharge effect, so that the player can have an expectation that the additional discharge effect has been executed.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding a game board described later). Is a structure including

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

  Near the center of the game area 7 variably displayed and displayed a plurality of types of decorative patterns for presentation that can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition (for example, the hitting of the hit ball at the start winning opening 14). A variable display device 9 for deriving and displaying the result is arranged. In this embodiment, the variable display device 9 is constituted by a liquid crystal display device (LCD), and is configured such that decorative symbols are displayed and controlled in three display areas (decorative symbol display areas) of left, middle, and right. Yes. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result means stopping and displaying the symbol.

  In this embodiment, the symbols “0” to “9” are used as decorative symbols displayed in the three display areas of the variable display device 9. During the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbols, the decorative symbols “0” to “9” are displayed in numerical order.

  Various structures are provided around the variable display device 9, and these structures will be described in detail later (see FIGS. 2 to 7).

  On the right side of the variable display device 9, a special symbol display device (special symbol display device) 8 for variably displaying a special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, two 7-segment LEDs) capable of variably displaying numbers “00” to “99”, for example. The special symbol display 8 is configured to variably display the numbers “0” to “9” (implemented by one 7-segment LED) so that the player can easily grasp a specific stop symbol. May be.

  The variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (production) during the variable symbol display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by a production control microcomputer mounted on the production control board.

  At the bottom of the variable display device 9, a special symbol hold memory display comprising four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). 18 is provided. Every time there is an effective start prize, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In this example, since the special symbol display 8 and the special symbol hold memory display 18 are provided separately, the number of hold memories can be displayed even during variable display. In the display area of the variable display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be larger. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  Below the variable display device 9, there is provided a start winning opening 14 through which a game ball can be won. The game ball won in the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a. The start winning opening 14 is provided with a variable winning ball device 15 that performs an opening / closing operation. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16 (not shown in FIG. 1). When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it becomes easy for the game ball to win the start winning opening 14 (easy to start winning), which is advantageous for the player.

  Below the start winning opening 14, a special variable that is opened by the solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) that occurs when a special display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8. A winning device 20 is provided. The special variable winning device 20 includes an opening / closing plate 21 and forms a large winning opening. Of the game balls that have entered the big prize opening, game balls that have entered the V prize area are detected by the V prize switch 22 (not shown in FIG. 1). Of the game balls that have entered the big winning opening, the game balls that have not entered the V winning area are detected by the count switch 23 (not shown in FIG. 1). On the back of the game board 6, a solenoid 21A (not shown in FIG. 1) for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided on the left side of the special variable winning device 20. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When a game ball wins a gate (provided on the game board 6 but not shown) and is detected by the gate switch 32a (not shown in FIG. 1), variable display of the normal symbol display 10 starts. Is done. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized at the time of lighting). For example, if the upper lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol. On the right side of the special variable winning device 20, there is provided a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate, the normal symbol holding memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  At the lower part of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there is an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. Although not denoted by reference numerals, a top frame lamp, a left frame lamp, and a right frame lamp are provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp, the left frame lamp, the right frame lamp, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  In this embodiment, an operation button 120 is provided on the upper surface of the hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3 as an operation means that can be operated by the player. This button 120 is operated by the player during execution of a notice effect (chance zone B; see FIG. 13) described later. When the operation button 120 is pressed by the player, it is turned on when the electrode comes into contact with it, and an on signal (detection signal) is mounted on the board (in this embodiment, on the effect control board 80). The output control microcomputer 100 (see FIG. 9) is output. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operation button 120 is provided on the upper surface of the hit ball supply tray 3, but may be provided at another location (for example, directly above the hit ball operating handle 5).

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. If the game ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a (not shown in FIG. 1), if the special symbol variable display can be started (for example, the big hit game end or the previous variable display) The special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) of the special symbol and the variable display device 9 starts variable display of the decorative symbol. If the variable symbol special display cannot be started, the reserved memory number for the special symbol storage memory display 18 is increased by one.

  The variable symbol special display on the special symbol display 8 stops when a predetermined time has elapsed. When the special symbol at the time of stoppage becomes a jackpot symbol (specific display result), it shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the special variable prize-winning device 20 is opened until a certain time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls have won the big prize opening. It should be noted that one round in the big hit gaming state is a period from when the special variable winning device 20 is opened until a predetermined period elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, ten) of hitting balls wins a big winning opening. Then, when the special variable winning device 20 is opened, a hit ball enters the V winning area in the big winning opening, and when it is detected by the V winning switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the special variable winning device 20 is opened again. . The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  If the stop symbol at the time of special symbol change stop in the special symbol display 8 is a jackpot symbol with a probability variation (special display result: probability variation symbol), a higher probability than the normal gaming state when determining the jackpot It is controlled to a probability variation state (referring to a probability variation state, also referred to as a high probability state) that is determined to be a big hit by (ratio). That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in a probable change state.

  In this embodiment, in the probability changing state, the normal symbol display 10 has a higher probability that the stop symbol is a winning symbol than the normal gaming state, and the opening time and the number of times of opening in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased. One or both of them will be in an advantageous state for the player. Further, in the probability variation state, the variable symbol display time (variation time) of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 may be shorter than that in the normal gaming state, thereby making it more advantageous for the player.

  The special symbol variable display on the special symbol display 8 is synchronized with the decorative symbol variable display on the variable display device 9. Here, the synchronization means that the variable display period is the same. Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 8, it is stopped and displayed on the variable display device 9 with the left, right and right decorative symbols aligned. In the following, the stop display in the state in which the left, right and right decorative symbols are aligned on the variable display device 9 will be expressed as the big hit symbol of the decorative symbol is displayed.

  Further, when the probability variation symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 8, the odd display symbols (“1” “3” “5” “7” “9”) on the left middle right are arranged on the variable display device 9. The display is stopped in a state (for example, “777”). As described above, among the decorative symbols “0” to “9”, an odd number of decorative symbols that cause a probability variation state is referred to as a probability variation symbol, and an even number of decorative symbols that do not cause a probability variation state is referred to as a non-probability variation symbol. .

  Next, the reach display mode (reach) will be described. The reach display mode (reach) in this embodiment is a variable display (variable display) for decorative symbols that have not yet stopped when the stopped decorative symbols constitute part of the jackpot symbol. And all or part of the decorative symbols are in a state of being variably displayed synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol.

  For example, in the left, right and right display areas of the variable display device 9, the left and right display areas are displayed in a state in which a decorative symbol (for example, “7”) which is a part of the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed. The display area is still in a variable display state, and all or some of the symbols in the display area are synchronously variably displayed while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol (for example, variable display) The variable display is performed on all of the left, middle, and right display areas in the device 9, and the variable display is always performed in a state where the same symbols are aligned), which is the reach display mode or reach.

  In addition, during the reach, an unusual performance is performed with a lamp or sound. The effect and the reach display mode in the variable display device 9 are called reach effects. Further, in the case of reach, a character (an effect display imitating a person or the like, which is different from a design (decoration design etc.)) or a background display mode (for example, color) of the variable display device 9 is displayed. May be changed.

  Next, the structure provided around the variable display device 9 will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a structure provided around the variable display device 9. As shown in FIG. 2, above the variable display device 9, a distribution unit 200 is provided that distributes a predetermined game ball among the game balls launched from the hitting ball launching device and entering the game area 7 into two paths. ing. The game ball enters the distribution unit 200 from the entrance 201. A game ball that has entered the distribution unit 200 first proceeds to the upper stage of the distribution unit 200. The game ball that has traveled to the upper part of the sorting unit 200 turns there. A first introduction port 202A and a second introduction port 202B are formed in the upper stage of the distribution unit 200. The turning game ball enters either the first introduction port 202A or the second introduction port 202B.

  The game ball that has entered the first introduction port 202A passes through the passage 203 and is guided to the lower stage of the sorting unit 200 (on the storage tank 210 side). On the other hand, the game ball that has entered 202 </ b> B into the second introduction port is guided to the discharge port 207 through the passage 204, and discharged from the distribution unit 200 through the discharge port 207. The game ball discharged from the discharge port 207 is returned to the game area 7 again. In this way, the distribution unit 200 distributes the game balls that have entered the interior to a path for discharging the game balls to the outside and a path for storing the game balls inside.

  When the game ball enters the first introduction port 202A, it is detected by the count switch 33a. Each time the count switch 33a detects a game ball and is turned on, it outputs an on signal to the game control microcomputer 560. The game control microcomputer 560 (see FIG. 8) increments the value of the storage number counter formed in the RAM 55 by 1 each time an ON signal is input from the count switch 33a. With such a configuration, the game control microcomputer 560 recognizes the number of game balls that enter the storage tank 210.

  The game ball guided to the lower stage of the distribution unit 200 enters the winning slot 205 or the non-winning slot 206 formed in the lower stage. When a game ball enters the winning opening 205, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out based on detection by the winning opening switch 29a (the winning opening switch 29a is turned on). On the other hand, even if a game ball enters the non-winning slot 206, no winning hole switch is arranged on the non-winning slot 206 side, so no winning detection is performed and no winning ball is paid out. As described above, a predetermined percentage of the game balls that have entered the distribution unit 200 enter the winning slot 205, whereby a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out.

  When a game ball wins the winning opening 205, if the special symbol display 8 is capable of variable display of the special symbol (and variable display of the decorative symbol on the variable display device 9), variable display is started and variable. If the display is impossible, the number of reserved memories is increased by one. That is, the predetermined start condition is established not only by winning the start winning opening 14 but also by winning the winning opening 205.

  All game balls that have entered the winning opening 205 and the non-winning opening 206 are guided to the storage tank 210. The storage tank 210 is a container provided for storing game balls used for a notice effect described later. In this embodiment, it is provided above the variable display device 9. The game balls in the storage tank 210 are discharged from the discharge port 211 below the storage tank 210. However, as shown in the upper diagram of FIG. 2, when the solenoid 131 disposed in the vicinity of the discharge port 211 is in an off state (normal state), the ball locking portion 131k formed at the tip of the movable iron core of the solenoid 131. Protrudes inward from the inner wall of the outlet, so that the game ball is locked by the ball locking portion 131k. In other words, the game ball about to pass through the discharge port 211 is blocked by the ball locking portion 131k so that it cannot pass through. Thereby, the game ball is stored in the storage tank 210.

  When a predetermined number (for example, five) of game balls are stored in the storage tank 210, a sensing lever (not shown) presses the full switch 39a to turn on the full switch 39a. When the full tank switch 39a is turned on, the rate at which the notice effect is executed increases as described later (see FIG. 16). That is, when the solenoid 131 is turned on (excited), the ratio of releasing the stored game balls to the stage 230 increases.

  In order to prevent the storage tank 210 from storing a predetermined number (for example, 5) or more of game balls, as shown in the lower diagram of FIG. 2, predetermined locations (the winning port 205 and the non-winning port 206) of the storage tank 210 are used. It is also possible to form a hole 212 in the depth direction at the bottom) and discharge the game ball overflowed from the hole 212.

  When the solenoid 131 is turned on, as shown in the lower diagram of FIG. Be drawn. Thereby, the game ball stopped by the ball locking portion 131k can pass through the discharge port 211 and falls toward the guide rail 220.

  The game ball discharged from the discharge port 211 is detected by the count switch 34a. Each time the count switch 34a detects a game ball and is turned on, it outputs an on signal to the game control microcomputer 560. The game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the storage number counter formed in the RAM 55 every time an ON signal is input from the count switch 34a. With such a configuration, the game control microcomputer 560 recognizes the number of game balls discharged from the storage tank 210. The value of the storage number counter indicates the number of game balls currently stored in the storage tank 210 (storage number).

  In this embodiment, the distribution unit 200 and the storage tank 210 are both integrally formed of a transparent material (for example, acrylic resin). Therefore, the player can visually recognize the movement of the game balls in the distribution unit 200 and can also visually recognize the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 210 (storage number). Therefore, whether the player enters the first introduction port 202A and the game ball is guided to the storage tank 210 side, or whether the game ball enters the winning port 205 and the prize ball is paid out. As well as how many game balls are currently stored in the storage tank 210.

  The guide rail 220 provided on the right side of the variable display device 9 is a rail that guides the game ball falling from the storage rank 210 onto the stage 230, and is formed in a spiral shape in this embodiment. The game balls that have passed through the guide rail 220 are discharged at a predetermined speed onto a stage 230 that serves as a rolling plate that is provided horizontally directly below the variable display device 9.

  Next, the structure of the stage 230 and a plurality of movable members provided on the stage 230 will be described. FIG. 3 is a top view of the stage 230 as seen from directly above. In this embodiment, the stage 230 is regarded as a pinball base. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the stage 230 is disposed at a position that is visible to the player.

  As shown in FIG. 3, an elliptical frame 231 is formed on the periphery of the stage 230 so that a game ball rolling on the stage 230 does not fall out of the stage 230 (so as not to jump out). Further, the stage 230 is inclined such that the central portion when viewed from the front is high and becomes lower toward the left and right ends. Therefore, the game ball in the center portion of the stage 230 rolls down toward the left and right ends.

  A pair of flippers 171 and 172 are provided at the right end on the stage 230, and a pair of flippers 173 and 174 are also provided at the left end on the stage 230. The flippers 171 to 174 perform an operation of flipping (punching out) the game ball by rotating when the game ball rolling down approaches. Each of the flippers 171 to 174 is connected to a solenoid (solenoids 134A to 134D in FIG. 6) via a link mechanism, and when the solenoid is turned on (excited), the flippers 171 to 174 rotate a predetermined angle in the direction of launching a game ball. . In this manner, the game balls are bounced by the flippers 171 to 174 to roll (roll) on the stage 230. The flippers 171 to 174 rotate so as to return to their original positions when the solenoid is turned off.

  On the surface of the stage 230 and in front of the flippers 171 to 174 are provided ball detection sensors 161 to 164 that detect that a game ball has approached the flippers 171 to 174, respectively. The ball detection sensors 161 to 164 receive, for example, light on the stage 230 (light in the game store or light from the variable display device 9) through the transparent plate, and the game ball is directly above (on the transparent plate). When it is detected that the light is blocked and the amount of light received is reduced, it is recognized that the game ball is approaching just before the flippers 171 to 174. When the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 detect the game ball in this way, the detection signals are output to the production control microcomputer 100 (see FIG. 9). When the detection control microcomputer 100 receives the detection signals from the ball detection sensors 161 to 164, the effect control microcomputer 100 turns on the solenoids that drive the flippers 171 to 174 corresponding to the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 that output the detection signals. ˜174 is rotated. As a result, the flippers 171 to 174 can automatically play and launch the game ball approaching until just before.

  The production control microcomputer 100 automatically drives the flippers 171 to 174 based on the detection of the game balls by the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 for a predetermined period (specifically, a notice effect is executed). Only period). In other periods, the production control microcomputer 100 does not execute control to drive the flippers 171 to 174 even if the detection signals from the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 are input.

  A pair of flippers 171 and 172 provided at the right end on the stage 230 when viewed from the front are arranged with an interval through which the game ball can pass (interval longer than the diameter of the game ball). In addition, a pair of flippers 173 and 174 provided at the left end on the stage 230 are also arranged with an interval through which the game balls can pass (interval longer than the diameter of the game balls). Therefore, the game ball that has just come to the middle of the pair of flippers passes between the flippers without being played by the flippers.

  Each of the flippers 171 to 174 is also driven by the operation of the operation button 120 by the player when a predetermined notice effect is being executed. The strength with which the flippers 171 to 174 play the game ball is set to be greater than the strength with which the game ball repelled by the flipper at one end can reach the other end.

  Discharge ports 241 and 242 for discharging game balls on the stage 230 are provided at the left and right ends of the elliptical frame 231, respectively. The game balls that have been rolled down from the center portion of the stage 230 but were not played by the flippers 171 to 174 (including game balls that could not be played by the flippers 171 to 174) are discharged from the discharge ports 241 and 242. .

  A rotatable stopper 191 is provided between the edge of the discharge port 241 on the stage 230 side and between the flippers 171 and 172, and between the edge of the discharge port 242 on the stage 230 side and between the flippers 173 and 174, A rotatable stopper 192 is provided. The stoppers 191 and 192 are connected to solenoids (solenoids 132A and 132B in FIG. 4) via link mechanisms, respectively. When the solenoid is off, the stoppers 191 and 192 are horizontal with the stage 230 surface. In this state, the stoppers 191 and 192 allow the game balls rolling toward the discharge ports 241 and 242 to pass therethrough. When the solenoid is turned on (excited), the stoppers 191 and 192 rotate so as to protrude (stand) from the surface of the stage 230 at a right angle. When the stoppers 191 and 192 project at a right angle in this manner, the stoppers 191 and 192 stop the game ball rolling toward the discharge ports 241 and 242 and guide the game ball to one of the flippers 171 to 174. . This prevents the game ball from entering the outlets 241 and 242. When the solenoid is turned off again, the stoppers 191 and 192 rotate so as to return to the original horizontal state (sleep).

  As will be described later, the game ball is released onto the stage 230 when the notice effect is being executed. However, since the pair of flippers are arranged at a predetermined interval as described above, the flippers 171 to 174 are provided. The game ball may enter the outlets 241 and 242 only by moving, and there may be a situation in which the game ball does not exist on the stage 230 even though the notice effect is being executed. Therefore, in order to prevent such a situation from occurring, the stoppers 191 and 192 are set at a right angle during execution of a predetermined notice effect so as to prevent the game balls from being discharged from the discharge ports 241 and 242. Yes.

  At the center of the stage 230, a lid 181 that is movable in the vertical direction is provided. This lid 181 is also connected to a solenoid (solenoid 133 in FIG. 5) via a link mechanism. When the solenoid is off, the upper surface of the lid 181 is in a horizontal state with the surface of the stage 230. In this state, the game ball can roll on the lid 181. When the solenoid is turned on (excited), the lid 181 moves upward above the stage 230. When the lid 181 rises, a ball pocket 180 that opens in a specific direction appears, and a game ball can enter the ball pocket 180 (see FIG. 5).

  In this embodiment, the stage 230 is arranged in the space in front of the variable display device 9 so as not to interfere with the game balls flowing down the game area 7. Arranging at such a position reduces adverse effects on the winning rate to the start winning opening 14 and the like.

  Next, an operation for rotating the stoppers 191 and 192 will be described. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a driving mechanism of a stopper provided inside the stage. 4A shows a state when the stage 230 is viewed from above, and FIG. 4B shows a state when the stage 230 is viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 4, the stopper 191 is connected to the solenoid 132 </ b> A inside the stage 230 via the link mechanism 310, and the stopper 192 is connected to the solenoid 132 </ b> B inside the stage 230 via the link mechanism 320.

  The link mechanism 310 includes a flat plate-shaped connecting member 311 and an L-shaped connecting member 312. One end of the connecting member 311 is connected to the movable iron core of the solenoid 132 </ b> A at the connecting point 313, and the other end is connected to one end of the connecting member 312 at the connecting point 314. The other end of the connecting member 312 is connected to the end of the stopper 191 at the connecting point 316. Similarly, the link mechanism 320 includes a flat plate-shaped connecting member 321 and an L-shaped connecting member 322. One end of the connecting member 321 is connected to the movable iron core of the solenoid 132 </ b> B at the connecting point 323, and the other end is connected to one end of the connecting member 322 at the connecting point 324. The other end of the connecting member 322 is connected to the end of the stopper 192 at the connecting point 326.

  When the solenoids 132A and 132B are off, the movable iron cores of the solenoids 132A and 132B protrude toward the left and right ends of the stage 230, respectively. When the solenoids 132A and 132B are turned on (excited), the movable iron core is drawn toward the center of the stage 230 by the attractive force as shown in FIG. When the movable iron core is drawn, the connecting members 311 and 321 connected to them rotate around the fulcrums 315 and 325. When the connecting members 311 and 321 rotate, the connecting members 312 and 322 connected to them move in the center direction of the stage 230. When the connecting members 312 and 322 are moved, the stoppers 191 and 192 connected to the connecting members 312 and 322 are rotated about the fulcrums 317 and 327 so as to protrude from the surface of the stage 230 at a right angle.

  Next, an operation for moving the lid 181 (the incoming pocket 180) up and down will be described. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a driving mechanism of a ball pocket provided inside the stage. 5A shows a state where the stage 230 is viewed from above, and FIG. 5B shows a state where the stage 230 is viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 5, the lid 181 (support shaft 333) is connected to a solenoid 133 inside the stage 230 via a link mechanism 330.

  The link mechanism 330 includes a substantially U-shaped connecting member 331, two substantially L-shaped connecting members 332A and 332B, and a rod-shaped connecting member 338. The connecting member 331 has a short-side central portion connected to the movable iron core of the solenoid 133 at a connection point 334, and two long-side ends connected to one end of the connecting members 332A and 332B at connecting points 335A and 335B, respectively. Yes. The other ends of the connecting members 332A and 332B are connected to the ends of the connecting member 338 at connection points 339A and 339B, respectively. The central portion of the connecting member 338 is connected to the shaft 333 that supports the lid 181.

  When the solenoid 133 is off, the movable iron core of the solenoid 133 protrudes toward the right end of the stage 230. When the solenoid 133 is turned on (excited), the movable iron core is drawn toward the center of the stage 230 by the attractive force as shown in FIG. When the movable iron core is drawn, the connecting member 331 connected to the movable iron core moves toward the center of the stage 230. When the connecting member 331 moves, the connecting members 332A and 332B connected to the connecting member 331 rotate around the fulcrums 336A and 336B, respectively. When the connecting members 332A and 332B rotate, the connecting member 338 connected to them moves upward. When the connecting member 338 moves upward, the shaft 333 connected to the connecting member 338 also moves upward. As the shaft 333 moves upward, the lid 181 supported by the shaft 333 rises and protrudes from the surface of the stage 230.

  As shown in FIG. 5, an opening is formed in the lower portion of the lid 181. This opening portion forms the entrance pocket 180 as an entrance area into which a game ball rolling on the stage 230 can enter. Thus, the incoming pocket 180 appears only after the lid 181 is raised.

  Next, an operation for rotating the flippers 171 to 174 will be described. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a driving mechanism of a flipper provided inside the stage. 6A shows a state when the stage 230 is viewed from above, and FIG. 6B shows a state when the stage 230 is viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 6, the flippers 171 and 172 are connected to solenoids 134A and 134B inside the stage 230 via connecting members (link mechanisms) 341, respectively. The flippers 173 and 174 are connected to solenoids 134C and 134D inside the stage 230 via connecting members (link mechanisms) 343, respectively.

  One end of the connecting member 341 is connected to the end of the movable core of the solenoid 134A at the connection point 341A, and the other end is connected to the end of the movable core of the solenoid 134B at the connection point 342A. The connecting member 341 is connected to the flipper 171 at one bending point 341B, and is connected to the flipper 172 at the other bending point 342B. Similarly, one end of the connecting member 343 is connected to the end of the movable core of the solenoid 134C at the connection point 343A, and the other end is connected to the end of the movable core of the solenoid 134D at the connection point 344A. The connecting member 343 is connected to the flipper 173 at one bending point 343B and is connected to the flipper 174 at the other bending point 344B.

  When the solenoids 134A and 134B are off, the movable iron cores of the solenoids 134A and 134B protrude toward the right end of the stage 230. When either solenoid 134A or solenoid 134B is turned on (excited), the movable iron core is pulled toward the center of stage 230 by the attractive force as shown in FIG. When the movable iron core is drawn, the connecting member 341 connected thereto moves toward the center of the stage 230. When the connecting member 341 moves, the flippers 171 and 172 connected to the connecting member 341 rotate in the direction of launching the game ball by the force transmitted from the connecting points 341B and 342B, respectively. Similarly, when the solenoids 134C and 134D are off, the movable iron cores of the solenoids 134C and 134D protrude toward the left end of the stage 230. When either solenoid 134C or solenoid 134D is turned on (excited), the movable iron core is drawn toward the center of stage 230 by the attractive force, as shown in FIG. When the movable iron core is drawn, the connecting member 343 connected to the movable iron core moves toward the center of the stage 230. When the connecting member 343 moves, the flippers 173 and 174 connected to the connecting member 343 rotate in the direction of launching the game ball by the force transmitted from the connecting points 343B and 344B, respectively.

  Next, the operation of rotating the lid 181 (the incoming pocket 180) will be described. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the rotation driving mechanism of the ball pocket. 7A shows a state where the stage 230 is viewed from above, and FIG. 7B shows a state where the stage 230 is viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 7, a lid 181 is attached to one end of a cylindrical shaft 333, and a rotating body 400 is attached to the other end. The rotating body 400 is formed with a gear portion 401 and a disc 402. In addition, a rotation motor 140 for rotating the shaft 333 is installed inside the stage 230. A gear 142 is attached to the end of the rotating shaft 141 of the rotary motor 140.

  The gear portion 401 of the rotating body 400 and the gear 142 on the rotary motor 140 side are meshed with each other. Accordingly, when the rotary motor 140 rotates and the gear 142 rotates, the gear portion 401 of the rotating body 400 also rotates. When the gear unit 401 rotates, the shaft 333 rotates in synchronism with it, and the lid 181 also rotates.

  A radial notch 403 is formed in the disc 402 of the rotating body 400. In addition, a rotational position sensor 150 that detects the rotational position of the disc 402, that is, the rotational position of the lid 181 is provided inside the stage 230. The rotational position sensor 150 is disposed such that an irradiation unit that emits light and a light receiving unit that receives light sandwich the disc 402. In the rotational position sensor 150, the irradiation unit irradiates light toward the disc 402. If the notch 403 of the disc 402 is positioned exactly at the position where the irradiating unit irradiates light, the light receiving unit can receive the light emitted from the irradiating unit. At this time, the rotational position sensor 150 outputs a reference position signal to the effect control microcomputer 100. As a result, the production control microcomputer 100 recognizes that the disc 402 (that is, the lid 181) is at the reference rotational position (angle).

  When the disc 402 is at the reference rotational position, the ball pocket 180 is open in a specific direction. Specifically, the entrance pocket 180 faces rightward (flippers 171 and 172) when viewed from the front. The rotation motor 140 rotates based on a drive signal from the effect control microcomputer 100. As the rotation shaft 141 of the rotation motor 140 rotates in the forward direction, the disk 402 and the lid 181 also rotate. When the disc 402 and the lid 181 are rotated halfway, the rotation motor 140 stops rotating in response to the stop of the drive signal from the effect control microcomputer 100. At this time, the incoming pocket 180 is opened in a direction opposite to the specific direction. Specifically, the entrance pocket 180 faces leftward (in the direction of the flippers 173 and 174) when viewed from the front. The production control microcomputer 100 determines that the disc 402 and the lid 181 have made a half rotation from, for example, the rotational speed and the rotational time of the disc 402 according to the rotational speed of the rotary motor 140 measured in advance.

  Again, when the rotating shaft 141 of the rotary motor 140 rotates in the forward direction, the disk 402 and the lid 181 also rotate. When the disc 402 and the lid 181 are rotated halfway, the rotation motor 140 stops rotating in response to the stop of the drive signal from the effect control microcomputer 100. At this time, the incoming pocket 180 is opened in a specific direction (left direction when viewed from the front). The effect control microcomputer 100 determines that the disc 402 and the lid 181 are further rotated halfway based on, for example, a reference position signal from the rotation position sensor 150.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration in the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 8 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A basic circuit (corresponding to game control means) 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, and a game control microcomputer 560 having a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program. And an I / O port unit 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. Further, the I / O port unit 57 may be incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 also includes an I / O port unit.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54. Therefore, hereinafter, the game control microcomputer 560 executes (or performs processing) specifically. Is that the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31. The game control means is realized by a basic circuit 53 including a game control microcomputer 560.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 that supplies detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the V winning switch 22, the winning port switch 29a, the count switches 33a and 34a, and the full switch 39a to the basic circuit 53. Is also mounted on the main board 31 and drives the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable prize-winning device 20, the solenoid 21A for switching the path in the big prize opening, and the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable prize-winning device 17 in accordance with commands from the basic circuit 53. A solenoid circuit 59 is also mounted on the main board 31 to generate a big hit gaming state in accordance with a system reset circuit (not shown) for resetting the game control microcomputer 560 when the power is turned on or data supplied from the basic circuit 53 Information such as jackpot information indicating Information output circuit 64 for outputting an output signal to an external device such as a hall computer also mounted on the main substrate 31.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 performs display control of the special symbol display 8 that variably displays the special symbol, and also performs display control of the normal symbol display 10 that variably displays the normal symbol. Further, the game control microcomputer 560 controls the display state of the special symbol hold storage display 18 and also controls the display state of the normal symbol hold storage display 41.

  The hitting ball launching device for hitting and launching the game ball includes a launch motor 94 controlled by a circuit on the interface board 66, and the game ball is launched toward the game area 7 by the rotation of the launch motor 94. A drive signal (shooting motor signal) for driving the firing motor 94 is transmitted from the card unit 50 to the firing motor 94 via the interface board 66 and the touch sensor board 90. In addition, the touch sensor detects that the player is touching the operation knob (hitting ball handle) 5, and a control signal from the touch sensor is input to an AND circuit mounted on the touch sensor substrate 90. The AND circuit outputs a drive signal to the firing motor 94 when the firing motor signal from the interface board 66 and the control signal from the touch sensor are input (when both the firing motor signal and the control signal are on). .

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the variable display device 9 that receives and variably displays the decorative design is performed.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the microcomputer is not mounted on the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, but a microcomputer may be mounted. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 has an effect control microcomputer 100 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM. The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control microcomputer 100 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and a strobe signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77. In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control microcomputer 100 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the variable display device 9 using the LCD based on the effect 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 regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit is installed. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 9 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal.

  Further, the effect control microcomputer 100 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the input / output port 105. In addition, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs sound number data to the sound output board 70 via the input / output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input / output driver 351. The lamp driver 352 amplifies a signal for driving the lamp and supplies the amplified signal to various lamps.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input / output driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the sound number 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. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

  The signal for driving the lamp and the sound number data are transmitted bidirectionally between the effect control microcomputer 100, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 (a response signal is transmitted from the signal receiving side to the transmitting side). Communication).

  The effect control microcomputer 100 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM stores character image data frequently used among images displayed on the variable display device 9, specifically, a person, a character, a figure, a symbol, or the like (including decorative designs) in advance. Is. The effect control microcomputer 100 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control of the variable display device 9 based on data input from the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the variable display device 9 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100 and maps the VRAM therein. The VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data generated by the VDP. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the variable display device 9.

  On the performance control board 80, a solenoid 131 for releasing the stored game balls onto the stage 230, solenoids 132A and 132B for rotating the stoppers 191 and 192, and a lid 181 (entrance pocket 180) are moved up and down. A solenoid circuit 130 for driving the solenoid 133 for moving and the solenoids 134A to 134D for rotating the flippers 171 to 174 in accordance with instructions from the microcomputer 100 for effect control is mounted.

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs a drive signal to the rotary motor 140 via the input / output port 110, and inputs a reference position signal from the rotational position sensor 150 via the input / output port 110. In addition, the production control microcomputer 100 inputs detection signals from the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 via the input port 111. Furthermore, the production control microcomputer 100 inputs an ON signal from the operation button 120 via the input port 108. As will be described later, the production control microcomputer 100 executes drive control of the flippers 171 to 174 in response to an ON signal from the operation button 120.

  Next, game control processing executed by the game control microcomputer 560 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. For example, when a timer interrupt set to occur every 2 ms occurs during the execution of the main process, the game control microcomputer 560 plays a game in a timer interrupt process activated in response to the occurrence of the timer interrupt. Control processing (game control microcomputer 560 controls itself for game devices such as variable display device 9, variable winning ball device 15 and ball payout device provided in the gaming machine, or other micro A process of transmitting a command signal for causing the computer to control, also referred to as a gaming device control process) is executed.

  In the main process, the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are repeatedly executed. The display random number is a random number for determining a symbol displayed on the special symbol display 8, and in this embodiment, there are a plurality of types of display random numbers. The display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a 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 the determination random number update process in the game control process, the value of the big hit determination random number generation counter is incremented by one. When the number of steps from the minimum value to the maximum value is incremented), an initial value is set in the counter.

  In the timer interrupt process, the game control microcomputer 560 performs the register saving process (step S20), and then performs the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the V winning switch 22, the winning port switch 29a, Detection signals of the count switches 33a and 34a and the full tank switch 39a are input, and their state is determined (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a random number for jackpot determination used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S22). The game control microcomputer 560 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: step S23, S24).

  Furthermore, the game control microcomputer 560 performs a special symbol process (step S25). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special variable winning device 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.

  The game control microcomputer 560 performs normal symbol process processing (step S26). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is 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. By executing the normal symbol process, the display control of the normal symbol display 10 and the opening / closing control of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are executed.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 performs a process of sending an effect control command related to the display control of the variable display device 9 (special symbol command control process: step S27).

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 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 S28).

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the start opening switch 14a, the count switch 23, the V prize winning switch 22 and the prize opening switch 29a (step S29). ). Specifically, for payout control mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on any of the start opening switch 14a, the count switch 23, the V winning switch 22 and the winning opening switch 29a being turned on. A payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in response to a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a test terminal process which is a process for generating and outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the game machine to be confirmed outside the game machine (step S30). Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 59 (step S31). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16, 21, and 21A in response to a drive command in order to open or close the variable winning ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 21 or to switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. To do. Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S32), the interrupt permission state is set (step S33), and the process ends.

  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. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S25) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 is executed.

  When the game control microcomputer 560 performs the special symbol process, if the start opening switch 14a for detecting that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6 is turned on. Or, if the winning hole switch 29a for detecting that the game ball has won the winning hole 205 provided in the allocating unit 200 is turned on, that is, the gaming ball is placed in the start winning hole 14 or the winning hole 205. If a start winning to win is generated (step S311), the value of the reserved storage counter indicating the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1 (step S313) on condition that the number of reserved memories has not reached the upper limit (step S312). . Thereafter, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state (specifically, the value of the special symbol process flag).

  When the value of the hold storage counter is increased by 1, the game control microcomputer 560 extracts the counter value for generating the big hit determination random number and the like, and uses them as the extracted random number value. The process of storing in the storage area in the pending storage buffer corresponding to the value of is executed. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the reserved storage number are secured. Note that a counter and a reserved storage buffer for generating a big hit determination random number and the like are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): When the microcomputer 560 for game control is in a state where variable symbol special display can be started, the number of numerical data stored in the reserved memory buffer (the number of reserved memories) is confirmed. The number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the hold storage counter. If the count value of the holding storage counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable symbol special display is set as the specific display result (whether or not the jackpot is determined). A big hit flag is set for a specific display result. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): A special symbol stop symbol after variable display is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S302.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): Depending on the value of the variation pattern determination random number (one of the display random numbers) extracted when the start winning occurs, the variation pattern of variable display of the special symbol (corresponding to the variation time here) To select from a plurality of predetermined variation patterns. Also, based on the determined variation pattern, after setting the variable display time until the special symbol is variably displayed and derived and displayed in the special symbol process timer, the special symbol process timer is started. At this time, information (variation pattern command) for instructing the variation pattern is transmitted to the effect control board 80. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S303.

  Special symbol variation processing (step S303): When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting processing elapses (the special symbol process timer set in step S302 times out), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is changed. The value is updated according to step S304.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): The variable symbol display on the special symbol indicator 8 is stopped and the stop symbol is displayed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S305. Otherwise, the internal state is updated to a value according to step S300.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the large winning opening is started. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable prize winning device 20 to open the big prize opening. To do. In addition, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the process timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S306.

  Processing during opening of the big prize opening (step S306): Control for sending the presentation control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the presentation control board 80, processing for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. When the closing condition of the big winning opening is established, the presence / absence of the game ball passing through the V winning area provided in the big winning opening is monitored to check whether the big winning gaming state continuation condition is established. If the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state is updated to a value corresponding to step S305. In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time, or when all rounds are finished, the internal state is updated to a value according to step S307.

  Big hit end processing (step S307): Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 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 to a value corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80. In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte configuration. 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.

  In the example shown in FIG. 12, commands 8000 (H) to 8016 (H) are effect control commands for designating decorative pattern variation patterns that are variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to the variable symbol special display. . The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation.

  The command 8100 (H) is an effect control command for designating that the display result of the variable display device 9 is a normal jackpot symbol (that is, a non-probable variation of the jackpot symbol), and the command 8101 (H) is a variable display. This is an effect control command for designating that the display result of the device 9 is a probability variation jackpot symbol (that is, a probability variation symbol of the jackpot symbol), and the command 8002 (H) is a symbol out of the display result of the variable display device 9. This is an effect control command for designating.

  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.

  The command B000 (H) is an effect control command for designating the start of a big hit game by the big prize opening. Command B1XX (H) is an effect control command for designating a round display during a big hit game. Note that the number of rounds displayed in “XX” is set. Command B2XX (H) is an effect control command for designating the number of winning balls (the number of detected winnings of the count switch 23) of the big winning opening during each round. The number of winning balls (count number) is set in “XX”. Command B300 (H) is an effect control command for designating the end of the big hit game.

  Command D000 (H) is an effect control command for designating a customer waiting demonstration. The command E401 (H) is an effect control command for designating the display state (for example, background or color) of the variable display device 9 when the gaming state becomes the normal gaming state (low probability state). H) is an effect control command for designating a display state (for example, background or color) of the variable display device 9 when the gaming state is changed to a probability change state (high probability state).

  When the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31, it corresponds to the contents shown in FIG. The display state of the variable display device 9 is changed, the display state of the lamp is changed, sound number data is output to the audio output board 70, and a command signal for driving a predetermined solenoid is output to the solenoid circuit 130. To do. An effect control command other than the effect control command shown in FIG. 12 is also transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. For example, a more detailed presentation control command related to the big hit game is also transmitted from the main board 31 to the presentation control board 80.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 13, “EXT” indicates EXT data of the second byte in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “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 a loss or a big hit, whether to reach, whether to reach, whether to perform a notice effect, whether to give a notice effect A plurality of types are prepared in accordance with differences in various production modes such as the previous notice production mode.

  Here, the “normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern without a reach mode. “Normal reach” is a variation pattern with a simple reach mode. “Reach A” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”. Further, the difference in reach form means that a change in a different form (speed, direction of rotation, etc.) is performed or a character or the like 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, the “notice” is a notice effect for notifying (pre-notifying) the player in advance that there is a possibility of being a big hit or that is likely. In this embodiment, the player is notified that there is a possibility of a big hit by releasing the game balls stored in the storage tank 210 onto the stage 230.

  Specifically, “X released balls” means that X gaming balls are released on the stage 230. The number of game balls released is one, two, or three. The “rolling time” means a time for rolling the game balls released onto the stage 230 by moving the flippers 171 to 174. Three types of “rolling time”, “short”, “medium”, and “long”, are prepared according to the length.

  The number of game balls to be released is not limited to one to three, but a notice effect for releasing four or more game balls may be prepared, and the rolling time is “ Instead of the three types of “short”, “medium”, and “long”, four or more types of notice effects may be prepared.

  In the “chance zone A”, the lid 181 at the center of the stage 230 is raised so that the ball entering pocket 180 appears, and the flippers 171 to 174 automatically play the game ball so that the game ball enters the ball entering pocket 180. It is a notice effect that makes a big hit (or a possibility of a big hit). In “Chance Zone B”, the lid 181 at the center of the stage 230 is raised to make the entrance pocket 180 appear, and the entrance pockets are formed when the flippers 171 to 174 play the game balls according to the operation of the operation buttons 120 by the player. If the game ball enters 180, it is a notice effect that makes a big hit (the possibility of a big hit is high). The “additional release” is a notice effect that releases the game balls stored in the storage tank 210 onto the stage 230 and then releases the game balls stored in the storage tank 210 onto the stage 230 again.

  The production modes of “chance zones A and B” and “additional release” will be described in detail later (see FIGS. 18 and 19).

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal processing, the game control microcomputer 560 can start the variation of the special symbol (when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300, that is, the special symbol indicator If the special symbol variation display is not performed in step 8 and the game is not in the big hit game (step S51), the start winning memory number (holding memory number) is confirmed (step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter is confirmed.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S53), and the starting winning memory number 1 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.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S55), and executes the jackpot determination processing module (step S56). The jackpot determination module is a program that executes a process of comparing a jackpot determination value determined in advance with a random number value for jackpot determination and determining that the jackpot determination value is a jackpot if they match. Here, in the jackpot determination, when the gaming state is a probabilistic state (high probability state), the probability that a big hit will be higher than when the gaming state is a non-probable variation state (normal gaming state and short-time state). Has been. Specifically, a high-probability jackpot determination table in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and a low-probability jackpot determination table in which the number of jackpot determination values is set smaller than the high-probability jackpot determination table are provided. Keep it. Then, the gaming control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probable change state, and when the gaming state is a probable change state, performs a jackpot determination process using a high probability jackpot determination table, When the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the low probability jackpot determination table. With such a configuration, the probability that a big hit is higher in the probability changing state than in the normal gaming state.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is set in the process of winning the jackpot game with a probable change symbol (big hit end process: step S307), and the process of winning the big hit game with a non-probable variable symbol and finishing the jackpot game (big hit) End processing: reset in step S307). In addition, when the probability variation state continues only while the variation of the special symbol is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) after the probability variation big hit game is over, the probability variation state is also reset when the predetermined number of variations are performed. The

  When it is determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination process (step S57), the game control microcomputer 560 sets a big hit flag (step S58). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S59).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S101). When the big hit flag is set, the big hit symbol determining random number (random 3) is read from the random number storage buffer, and the big hit symbol is determined according to the read big hit symbol determining random number (step S102). In this embodiment, each symbol of the symbol number set in the jackpot symbol table corresponding to the value of random 3 is determined as a jackpot symbol.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the jackpot symbol determined in step S102 is a probability variation symbol (step S103). When the jackpot symbol is a probability variation symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a probability variation jackpot designation command (8101 (H)) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S104). When the jackpot symbol is not a probability variation symbol but a non-probability variation symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a normal jackpot designation command (8100 (H)) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S105). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S302) (step S108).

  When the big hit flag is not set, the game control microcomputer 560 reads out the random symbol for determining symbols (random 2) from the random number storage buffer, and displays the symbol according to the read out symbol determining random number. Determination is made (step S106). In this embodiment, each symbol of the symbol number set in the missing symbol table corresponding to the value of random 2 is determined as a missing symbol. Next, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a miss designation command (8102 (H)) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S107). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S302) (step S108).

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a variation pattern determination table. The variation pattern determination table is a table used when determining a variation pattern in the variation pattern setting process (step S302). As shown in FIG. 16, the variation pattern determination table has three game balls stored in the storage tank 210 when the number (the number of storage) is zero, one, two, and three. It is divided into the above time and when it is full. Moreover, it is divided into the time of a loss and the time of a big hit. Therefore, the variation pattern determination table is divided into 10. When the gaming state is in the probabilistic state, another table is used.

  In the variation pattern determination table, a predetermined number of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern shown in FIG. The variation patterns “00H”... “15H” indicate the EXT data of the variation pattern, and the numbers in the squares indicate the number of determination values assigned to each variation pattern. The total number of determination values assigned to each variation pattern is 150. 150 coincides with the range of the random number for determining the variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the fluctuation pattern (“00H” to “0BH”) is a fluctuation pattern at the time of loss, and the fluctuation pattern (“0CH” to “15H”) is a fluctuation at the time of big hit. It is a pattern. Therefore, the determination value is assigned to the fluctuation pattern (“00H” to “0BH”) at the time of the loss in the fluctuation pattern determination table for loss, and the change pattern determination table for the big hit indicates in the fluctuation pattern determination table for the big hit. Determination values are assigned to the fluctuation patterns (“0CH” to “15H”).

  When the number of storage is 0, the notice effect that releases the game ball cannot be executed. Therefore, the table of “when the number of storage is 0” has a variation pattern (“03H” to “15H”) is not assigned a judgment value. When the number of storage is one, it is not possible to execute a notice effect that releases two or three game balls. Therefore, such a notice effect is executed for the table when “the number of storage is one”. No determination value is assigned to the variation pattern (“06H” to “08H”, “0BH”, “10H” to “12H”, “15H”). Further, when the number of storage is 2, it is not possible to execute a notice effect that releases three game balls. Therefore, such a notice effect is executed for the table when “the number of storage is two”. No judgment value is assigned to the variation pattern (“08H”, “12H”).

  When the storage number is full, the rate of executing the notice effect (releasing the game ball) is higher than when the storage number is not full (when the storage number is 1, 2, 3 or more). . Specifically, in the “out of” table of “when the number of storage is full”, the determination assigned to the variation pattern (no-notification pattern (“00H” to “02H”)) without the notice effect. The total of the values is 85 (70 + 5 + 10), and the total of the judgment values assigned to the variation pattern (notification pattern (“03H” to “0BH”)) with the notice effect is 65, The table for “out” for “when there is 1”, “when the number of storage is 2” and “when the number of storage is 3 or more” includes a variation pattern (no-notification pattern (“00H ”To“ 02H ”)) is 115 (100 + 5 + 10), and the total of the determination values assigned to the variation pattern (notification pattern (“ 03H ”to“ 0BH ”)) with the notice effect is given. Total is 35Therefore, when “the number of storage is full”, the notice effect is executed at a ratio of 65/150, whereas “when the number of storage is one”, “when the number of storage is two” and “storage” When the number is three or more, only the notice effect is executed at a ratio of 35/150. Thus, by increasing the ratio of executing the notice effect when the number of storage is full, the game balls stored in the storage tank 210 can be released quickly. In addition, when a large number of game balls remain in the storage tank 210, the player expects the occurrence of the notice effect, so that it becomes difficult to stop the game, so that the player can continue the game.

  The player expects a big hit when the notice effect is executed. Here, as shown in FIG. 16, by changing the number of determination values to be assigned to the variation pattern accompanied by the notice effect, the expectation degree of jackpot (reliability of jackpot) according to the number of game balls released in the notice effect. Are different. The “big hit reliability” refers to the degree to which a player can be trusted if a big hit is made when a notice effect is executed. Therefore, when the reliability is high, it means that the ratio of the big hit when the notice effect is executed is relatively high, and when the reliability is low, it is the big hit when the notice effect is executed. Is a relatively low percentage.

  Specifically, in the variation pattern determination table for loss, a relatively large number of judgment values are assigned to the variation pattern (“03H” to “05H”) accompanied by one ball release notice effect, and the ball release Fluctuation patterns with two notice effects ("06H" and "07H") are assigned fewer judgment values than the change patterns from "03H" to "05H", and are accompanied by three notice effects with ball discharge. The smallest variation value (0 in the example shown in FIG. 16) is assigned to the variation pattern (“08H”). Accordingly, when the determination result is “out of” in the big hit determination, a relatively large amount of the announcement effect of one sphere release occurs, but the announcement effect of two sphere releases rarely occurs, and three sphere releases The notice effect does not occur at all (that is, when a notice effect with three ball releases occurs, it is always (100%) big hit).

  On the other hand, in the variation pattern determination table for big hits, determination values are allocated relatively evenly to variation patterns (0DH to 12H ”) accompanied by one to three ball release notice effects. Accordingly, when the determination result is “big hit” in the big hit determination, one to three ballistic announcement effects are equally generated. In this way, when the notice effect that occurs at the time of “hit” is uniform, the reliability of the big hit becomes lower as the notice effect that occurs more often at the time of “out”, so the number of game balls to be released is less The smaller the number, the lower the reliability of the jackpot. Conversely, a notice effect with a large number of released game balls does not occur so much, but when it occurs, the reliability of the big hit becomes very high.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 16, by varying the number of determination values assigned to the variation pattern accompanied by the notice effect, the expectation of jackpot (the reliability of the jackpot) varies depending on the rolling time of the game ball in the notice effect. It is

  Specifically, in the variation pattern determination table for loss, a relatively large number of judgment values are assigned to a variation pattern (“03H”) accompanied by a notice effect with a short rolling time, and a notice during the rolling time is given. The variation pattern (“04H”) accompanied by an effect is assigned a smaller determination value than the variation pattern “03H”, and the variation pattern (“05H”) accompanied by a notice effect of the rolling time length is the most. A judgment value with a small number is assigned. Therefore, when the determination result is “out of” in the big hit determination, a relatively short notice effect with a short rolling time occurs, and a notice effect with a long rolling time occurs occasionally. It will rarely occur.

  On the other hand, in the variation pattern determination table for big hits, the variation values (0DH to 0FH ”) accompanied by the notice effect with a short rolling time to a long time are allotted determination values evenly to some extent. Therefore, when the determination result is “big hit” in the big hit determination, the notice effect with the short rolling time to the long time is generated evenly. In this way, when the notice effect that occurs at the time of “big hit” is uniform, the reliability of the big hit becomes lower as the notice effect that occurs more often at the time of “out of place”, so the rolling time of the game ball is shorter The reliability of the big hit becomes lower. Conversely, a notice effect with a long rolling time of the game ball does not occur so much, but when it occurs, the reliability of the big hit becomes very high.

  When the probability that the determination result of the big hit determination is “big hit” is, for example, 1/400 in the normal gaming state, the probability of being “out” is 399/400. Therefore, the occurrence rate of the notice effect at the time of “out of play” has a greater influence on the reliability of the big win than the occurrence rate of the notice effect at the time of “hit”. Therefore, the number of determination values to be assigned to the variation pattern accompanied by the notice effect in the variation pattern determination table for loss greatly affects the reliability of the jackpot.

  As shown in FIG. 16, in the variation pattern determination table for loss, the number of determination values assigned to the variation pattern (“0BH”) with the “additional release” notice effect is very small (see FIG. 16). In the example shown, 1). Therefore, even when the “additional release” notice effect is executed, the reliability of the jackpot is very high.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not the full switch 39a is on (step S201), and if it is on, the variation pattern determination table for high-probability notice execution ( That is, it is determined to use the “table when the number of storage is full” shown in FIG. 16 (step S202).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the value of the storage number counter formed in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (step S203). The value of the storage number counter indicates the number of game balls currently stored in the storage tank 210 (storage number). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 determines to use a variation pattern determination table corresponding to the value of the storage number counter, that is, the current number of stored balls (step S204). For example, when the number of storage balls is 0, it is decided to use the table “when the number of storage is 0” shown in FIG. 16, and when the number of storage balls is 1, the “storage” shown in FIG. When the number of storage balls is two, it is decided to use the table of “when the number of storage is two” shown in FIG. When the number is 3 or more, it is decided to use the table “when the number of storage is 3 or more” shown in FIG.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S205). When the big hit flag is set, the game control microcomputer 560 determines to use the big hit variation pattern determination table (step S206). If the big hit flag is not set, it is decided to use the deviation variation pattern determination table (step S207).

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number storage buffer, and determines the variation pattern of the decorative pattern using the variation pattern determination table based on the read variation pattern determination random number value (step). S208). Specifically, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random value is determined as the variation pattern of the decorative design executed by the variable display device 9.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) designating the variation pattern according to the determined variation pattern (variation time) (step S209).

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the variation time in the special symbol process timer (step S210). Thereafter, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S303 (step S211).

  Next, the display mode of the variable display device 9 and the operation of the various movable members on the stage 230 when the chance zone notification that is one mode of the notification effect is executed will be described.

  FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing a presentation aspect of a chance zone notice effect. In FIG. 18, the screen of the variable display device 9 shows a state seen from the front, and the stage 230 shows a state seen from directly above. The arrows in the variable display device 9 indicate a state in which the decorative symbols are variably displayed (varied). In addition, characters “CHANCE” and “OUT” are drawn on the upper surface of the lid 181 disposed at the center of the stage 230. The direction in which the characters “CHANCE” are drawn indicates the direction in which the entrance pocket 180 opens when the lid 181 is raised. The direction in which the characters “OUT” are drawn indicates the direction in which the ball pocket 180 is not opened even when the lid 181 is raised.

  When the variable display device 9 is ready to start variable display of decorative symbols, variable display of decorative symbols is started. Thereafter, when the execution timing of the notice effect is reached, the left and right decorative symbols in the variable display device 9 stop at the same symbol (“7” in the example of FIG. 18) and stop, and the “CHANCE” is displayed on the screen. The text “Enter the zone!” Is displayed. Here, “CHANCE zone” refers to the entrance pocket 180. Then, when the solenoid 131 is turned on, the game balls stored in the storage tank 210 are discharged through the guide rail 220 onto the stage 230. Thereafter, the lid 181 rises as the solenoid 133 is turned on. In the example shown in FIG. 18, four game balls are released (in the example shown in FIG. 13, the number of released balls is up to three, but may be four or more). At this time, in order to prevent the game balls on the stage 230 from being discharged from the discharge ports 241, 242, the stoppers 191, 192 are rotated so as to project at right angles to the surface of the stage 230, so that the game balls are discharged. The passage to the outlets 241 and 242 is prevented from proceeding.

  When the game ball is released onto the stage 230, the game ball is bounced by the flippers 171 to 174. Thereby, the game ball can be rolled on the stage 230. Here, in the chance zone A notice effect (“09H” and “13H” shown in FIG. 13), the flippers 171 to 174 are automatically moved. That is, the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 detect that the game ball has approached the flippers 171 to 174, and output a detection signal indicating the detection to the effect control microcomputer 100. Then, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs a command signal to the solenoid circuit 130 based on the detection signal, whereby a drive signal is output from the solenoid circuit 130 to the solenoid corresponding to the ball detection sensor that detects the ball. When the drive signal is input, the solenoid is turned on to rotate the flipper.

  Further, in the chance zone B notice effect (“0AH” “14H” shown in FIG. 13), the flippers 171 to 174 are moved according to the operation of the operation button 120 by the player. That is, when the player presses the operation button 120, an ON signal is output from the operation button 120 to the effect control microcomputer 100. Then, when the production control microcomputer 100 outputs a command signal to the solenoid circuit 130 based on the ON signal, a drive signal is output from the solenoid circuit 130 to the solenoid. When the drive signal is input, the solenoid is turned on to rotate the flipper. In the example shown in FIG. 1, since only one operation button 120 is provided, when the player presses the operation button, all the flippers 171 to 174 move, but it corresponds to a pair of flippers. By providing two operation buttons, it is possible to move only a pair of flippers according to the player's operation. Further, when the flippers 171 to 174 are moved in accordance with the operation of the operation button 120 by the player as described above, the characters that convey the fact are displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9, so that the player can operate the flippers 171 to 174. The user is prompted to operate the button 120.

  The opening direction of the entrance pocket 180 is such that a game ball enters the entrance pocket 180 when the judgment result of the big hit determination is a big hit, and the entrance pocket 180 when the judgment result of the big hit judgment is out of place. The rotational position of the ball pocket 180 is controlled so that a game ball does not enter.

  In other words, if the determination result is a big hit in the big hit determination (step S56), the game control microcomputer 560 uses the change pattern effect control command (8013H or 8014H) accompanied by the notice announcement of the chance zone at the time of the big hit. The data is transmitted to the microcomputer 100 (step S209). The effect control microcomputer 100 executes a chance zone notice at the time of a big hit based on the effect control command. Specifically, when the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 detect the approach of the game ball to the flippers 171 to 174, the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 output detection signals to the effect control microcomputer 100. The effect control microcomputer 100 recognizes that a game ball exists on the side of the ball detection sensor that has detected the game ball based on the detection signal, and that the game ball is about to be played by the flipper. Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 outputs a drive signal to the rotation motor 150 to rotate the entrance pocket 180 so that the entrance pocket 180 is directed in that direction. By controlling the rotational position of the entrance pocket 180 as described above, it is possible to match the occurrence of the big hit and the entrance of the game ball into the entrance pocket 180 (chance zone).

  Similarly, if the determination result is out of place in the big hit determination (step S56), the game control microcomputer 560 performs the effect control of the effect control command (8009H or 800AH) of the variation pattern accompanied by the advance notice of the chance zone at the time of loss. To the microcomputer 100 (step S209). The effect control microcomputer 100 executes a chance zone notice at the time of losing based on the effect control command. Specifically, when the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 detect the approach of the game ball to the flippers 171 to 174, the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 output detection signals to the effect control microcomputer 100. The effect control microcomputer 100 recognizes that a game ball exists on the side of the ball detection sensor that has detected the game ball based on the detection signal, and that the game ball is about to be played by the flipper. Then, the production control microcomputer 100 controls the rotation of the entrance pocket 180 by outputting a drive signal to the rotary motor 150 so that the entrance pocket 180 is directed in the opposite direction. By controlling the rotational position of the entrance pocket 180 as described above, it is possible to prevent a game ball from entering the entrance pocket 180 (chance zone) in the event of a loss.

  In the example shown in FIG. 18, a game ball enters (wins) the winning pocket 180, and the characters “CHANCE zone win!” Are displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9 based on the game ball. Although not described above, a switch for detecting that a game ball has entered is provided in the entrance pocket 180. The production control microcomputer 100 executes display control for displaying the characters “CHANCE CANCER WON!” On the variable display device 9 in response to turning on the switch (detection of a game ball).

  Then, the variable display device 9 stops the variable display of the decorative symbol, and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 18, a state in which the left middle right decorative symbol stops at the same symbol (“777”) and is a big hit is shown. After that, the big hit game is started.

  Next, the display mode of the variable display device 9 and the operation of various movable members on the stage 230 at the time of execution of the additional discharge notification that is one mode of the notification effect will be described.

  FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an effect aspect of a notice effect of additional discharge. As in the case shown in FIG. 18, also in FIG. 19, the screen of the variable display device 9 shows a state seen from the front, and the stage 230 shows a state seen from directly above. The arrows in the variable display device 9 indicate a state in which the decorative symbols are variably displayed (varied).

  When the variable display device 9 is ready to start variable display of decorative symbols, variable display of decorative symbols is started. Thereafter, when the execution timing of the notice effect is reached, the left and right decorative symbols on the variable display device 9 are stopped at the same symbol (“7” in the example of FIG. 19), thereby reaching a reach state. Then, when the solenoid 131 is turned on, the game balls stored in the storage tank 210 are discharged through the guide rail 220 onto the stage 230. In the example shown in FIG. 19, four game balls are released (in the example shown in FIG. 13, the number of released balls is up to three, but may be four or more). At this time, in order to prevent the game balls on the stage 230 from being discharged from the discharge ports 241, 242, the stoppers 191, 192 are rotated so as to project at right angles to the surface of the stage 230, so that the game balls are discharged. The passage to the outlets 241 and 242 is prevented from proceeding.

  When the game ball is released onto the stage 230, the game ball is bounced by the flippers 171 to 174. In the additional release notice effect ("0BH" and "16H" shown in FIG. 13), the flippers 171 to 174 are automatically moved. Thereby, the game ball can be rolled on the stage 230.

  When the predetermined period has elapsed, the production control microcomputer 100 stops the movement of the flippers 171 to 174 and rotates the stoppers 191 and 192 so as to be in a horizontal state on the surface of the stage 230. Thereby, all the game balls on the stage 230 are discharged from the discharge ports 241 and 242. Then, the words “Sorry!” Are displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9. With such a display, the player will be disappointed to recognize that he did not win. However, in the additional release notice effect, the game ball is additionally released again thereafter. That is, as shown in FIG. 19, the characters “Add sphere! Enter the CHANCE zone!” Are displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9 and the solenoid 131 is turned on and stored in the storage tank 210. The game balls that are present are released again onto the stage 230. Further, when the solenoid 133 is turned on, the lid 181 rises. By starting such a notice effect of additional discharge, the player recognizes that there is a high possibility of winning a big hit, and has a big hit expectation.

  When the game ball is released onto the stage 230, the production control microcomputer 100 automatically moves the flippers 171 to 174 to roll the game ball. Note that the flippers 171 to 174 may be moved in accordance with the operation of the operation button 120 by the player.

  The opening direction of the entrance pocket 180 is such that a game ball enters the entrance pocket 180 when the judgment result of the big hit determination is a big hit, and the entrance pocket 180 when the judgment result of the big hit judgment is out of place. The rotational position of the ball pocket 180 is controlled so that a game ball does not enter.

  In the example shown in FIG. 19, a game ball enters (wins) the winning pocket 180, and the characters “CHANCE zone win!” Are displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9 based on the game ball.

  Then, the variable display device 9 stops the variable display of the decorative symbol, and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. The example shown in FIG. 19 shows a state in which the left middle right decorative symbol stops at the same symbol (“777”) and is a big hit. After that, the big hit game is started.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80. The production control microcomputer 100 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main process, first, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a timer for determining the start interval of effect control, and the like (step S701). Thereafter, the effect control microcomputer 100 proceeds to a loop process for confirming the monitoring of the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interruption occurs, the production control microcomputer 100 sets a timer interruption flag in the timer interruption process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 100 clears the flag (step S703), and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the 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. Furthermore, a random number update process for updating the count value of a counter for generating random numbers such as a design determining random number, an effect count determining random number, and a design number determining random number is executed (step S706). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs one of steps S800 to S805 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not an effect control command (fluctuation pattern command) specifying a fluctuation pattern has been received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is a command analysis process executed by the production control microcomputer 100 to receive a production control command (any one of 8000 (H) to 8016 (H)) for designating the variation pattern of the decorative pattern in the variable display device 9. It is set when it is confirmed that it has been done.

  Decoration symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the ornament symbol is started. In addition, a value corresponding to the variation time is set in the variation time timer, the process table to be used is selected, and the process timer setting value set at the beginning of the process table is set in the process timer.

  Decoration symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. Note that a notice effect is also executed in the decorative symbol variation process.

  Decoration symbol variation stop process (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the ornament symbol and to derive and display the stop symbol (definite symbol) in response to the time-out of the variation time timer.

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, the big hit display is controlled.

  Big hit game processing (step S805): Display control during big hit game is performed. For example, when receiving a presentation control command for opening a grand prize opening indicating that the special prize opening is to be opened or a display when the special prize opening is open indicating that the grand prize opening is open, display control of the number of rounds, etc. Do.

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data, and solenoid control execution data are collected. In the display control execution data, each variation mode constituting the variation pattern is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the change mode. The effect control microcomputer 100 refers to the process table, and performs control for variably displaying the decorative symbols in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  In addition, when the time set in the process timer set value elapses, the effect control microcomputer 100 changes the lighting state of various lamps based on the lamp control execution data, and the time set in the process timer set value. When the time has elapsed, the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. Further, when the time set in the process timer set value elapses, drive control for driving various solenoids is performed based on the solenoid control execution data.

  The process data shown in FIG. 22 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process. In the decorative design variation start process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first selects a process table corresponding to the decorative design variation pattern to be used (step S821). Then, the process timer set value in the process data 1 of the selected process table is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S822).

  Next, the production control microcomputer 100 performs display control of the LCD (variable display device 9) according to the contents of the display control execution data 1 in the process data 1 (step S823). Specifically, a control signal is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the variable display device 9. The VDP 109 reads out image data from the CGROM based on a control signal from the effect control microcomputer 100, develops the image data in the VRAM, and displays the developed image on the variable display device 9. In addition, the production control microcomputer 100 controls lighting / extinguishing of various lamps according to the contents of the lamp control execution data 1 in the process data 1 (step S824). More specifically, a control signal is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform lighting / extinguishing control of various lamps according to the variation pattern. The lamp driver 352 turns on / off various lamps based on a control signal from the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs the sound number data 1 in the process data 1 to the sound output board 70 in order to cause the speaker 27 to perform sound output according to the variation pattern (step S825). The voice synthesis IC 703 reads voice data from the voice data ROM 704 based on the sound number data from the effect control microcomputer 100, amplifies the read voice data by the amplification circuit 705, and outputs the voice to the speaker 27. In this embodiment, since the solenoid is not driven at the start of the decorative symbol variation, the effect control microcomputer 100 does not execute the solenoid drive control.

  Thereafter, the production control microcomputer 100 starts a variation time timer (a timer corresponding to the variation time of the decorative design) (step S826), and updates the value of the production control process flag to a value indicating the processing during the decorative design variation. (Step S827).

  24 and 25 are flowcharts showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation processing, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the variation time timer has timed out (step S831). If the variation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value indicating the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S832).

  If the variation time timer has not timed out, the production control microcomputer 100 decrements the process timer by 1 (step S833) and decrements the variation time timer by 1 (step S834). Then, the production control microcomputer 100 performs display control of the LCD (variable display device 9) according to the contents of the display control execution data n in the process data n (step S835). Further, the production control microcomputer 100 controls lighting / extinguishing of various lamps according to the contents of the lamp control execution data n in the process data n (step S836). Further, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs the sound number data n in the process data n to the sound output board 70 in order to cause the speaker 27 to perform sound output according to the variation pattern (step S837).

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 executes drive control of various solenoids (131, 132A, 132B, 133) according to the contents of the solenoid control execution data n in the process data n (step S838). Specifically, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs a control signal for instructing on / off of a predetermined solenoid to the solenoid circuit 130. Based on the control signal from the effect control microcomputer 100, the solenoid circuit 130 outputs a drive signal to the predetermined solenoid or stops the drive signal output to the predetermined solenoid. The solenoid is turned on / off according to the input state of the drive signal from the solenoid circuit 130 to move the movable iron core in a predetermined direction.

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S839), and switches the process data if the process timer has timed out (step S840). That is, the process data is switched to the next set process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data, and solenoid control execution data) in the process table. Then, the process timer setting value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S841).

  Next, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines whether or not the elapsed time after the start of the change is during the button operation period in the notice effect of the chance zone B by checking the value of the change time timer (step S850). . If it is during the button operation period, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the operation button 120 is pressed by the player, that is, whether or not the operation button 120 is turned on (step S851). If the operation button 120 is turned on, the production control microcomputer 100 executes drive control of the flipper driving solenoids 134A to 134D in response to the operation button 120 being turned on (step S852).

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the lid 181 is currently raised and the ball pocket 180 is open (whether the solenoid 133 is driven) (step S855). If the ball pocket 180 is open, the drive control of the rotary motor 140 is executed according to whether it is a big hit or not (step S856). That is, the control of the opening direction of the entrance pocket 180 as described in FIG. 18 is executed.

  If the elapsed time after the start of fluctuation is not during the button operation in step 850, the production control microcomputer 100 detects whether the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 are turned on by detecting the game balls (step 850). If it is on (S853), the drive control of the solenoids 134A to 134D for driving the flippers is executed in response to the on of the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 (step S854).

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the lid 181 is currently raised and the ball pocket 180 is open (whether the solenoid 133 is driven) (step S855). If the ball pocket 180 is open, the drive control of the rotary motor 140 is executed according to whether it is a big hit or not (step S856).

  As described above, in this embodiment, the game balls that have entered the entrance 201 are distributed by the sorting unit 200, and a predetermined proportion of the game balls that have entered are introduced into the storage tank 210. When the game ball is stored in the storage tank 210 and a notice effect for notifying that the determination result of the jackpot determination (step S56) is or is likely to be a jackpot, The game balls stored in 210 are discharged onto the stage 230, and the game balls are rolled on the stage 230 for a predetermined period by flipping the game balls with flippers 171 to 174 that rotate on the stage 230. ing. According to such a configuration, an unexpected effect can be executed using the stored game balls, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  In this embodiment, a larger number of game balls to be released is selected than when a smaller number of game balls to be released on the stage 230 is selected when the notice effect is executed. The number of decision values set in association with each variation pattern in the variation pattern determination table is adjusted so that the time is a big hit with a high probability, and the variation pattern is determined using the variation pattern determination table. Since it is configured so as to be selected, the player can have different expectations for the big hit depending on the number of game balls released on the stage 230, and the fun of the game can be further improved.

  In this embodiment, the storage tank 210 is formed of a transparent material so that the player can visually recognize the number of stored game balls. It is possible to easily recognize how many balls are stored, and as a result, when a large number of game balls remain in the storage tank 210, there is a possibility that a highly reliable notice effect will be executed. The player can continue the game. In the gaming machine shown in the prior art, the game balls won at the start winning opening are stored, and the game balls are released every time a big hit determination (big hit lottery) based on the start win is executed. If there is no memory (holding memory), the stored game balls will be lost. For this reason, the game may be stopped when the start winning memory is lost. On the other hand, in the gaming machine in this embodiment, the game ball is entered from the entrance 201 different from the start winning opening 14 and stored in the storage tank 210, so that even if there is no start winning memory, the storage tank 210 There is a high possibility that game balls are stored, and by allowing the player to visually recognize that a large number of game balls are stored in the storage tank 210, the game can be continued even if the start winning memory is lost. Become.

  In this embodiment, the full tank switch 39a detects that the game ball stored in the storage tank 210 is full, and the full tank switch 39a detects that the game ball is full. Is configured to determine the variation pattern using the variation pattern determination table for high-probability notice execution, so that when the game ball of the storage tank 210 is full, the notice effect is executed with high probability. As a result, the game ball can be released quickly, and the game can be made difficult to stop by making the player expect the execution of the notice effect.

  In this embodiment, the lid 181 provided on the stage 230 is raised to open the entrance pocket 180 into which the game ball can enter, and the determination result of the big hit determination (step S56) is not the big hit. Accordingly, by controlling the rotational position of the rotary motor 140, the opening direction of the ball pocket 180 is changed, so that the game ball can easily enter (win) in the ball pocket 180 in the case of a big hit. Therefore, the degree of expectation for the big hit can be changed by the movement of the game ball on the stage 230, and the interest of the game can be further improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, ball detection sensors 161 to 164 for detecting game balls close to the flippers 171 to 174 are provided, and when the game balls are detected by the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 until a predetermined period elapses. Since the flippers 171 to 174 are moved and the flippers 171 to 174 are stopped when a predetermined period elapses, the game balls are discharged from the outlets 241 and 242 to the outside of the stage 230. The game ball can be rolled on the stage 230 until the time has elapsed. Note that if the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 do not detect a game ball, the flippers 171 to 174 may cause the game ball to swing without being played. In this case, there is a possibility that the game balls on the stage 230 are lost before the game balls are discharged from the discharge ports 241 and 242 and the time for the notice effect elapses. If the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 detect the game balls close to the flippers 171 to 174, the above situation can be prevented from occurring.

  Further, in this embodiment, when a short time is selected as the rolling time, compared to when a long time is selected as the rolling time for rolling the game ball on the stage 230 when the notice effect is executed. In the variation pattern determination table, the number of determination values set in association with each variation pattern is adjusted so that the probability becomes a big hit with higher probability, and the variation pattern is selected using the variation pattern determination table. Thus, the player can have different expectations for the big hits according to the rolling time of the game ball on the stage 230, and the fun of the game can be further improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, the flippers 171 to 174 are configured to move in accordance with the operation of the operation button 120 by the player during the button operation period in the notice effect of the chance zone B. It is possible to participate in the game, thereby improving the interest of the game.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, an additional release effect, that is, a game ball stored in the storage tank 210 is released onto the stage 230 as a highly reliable notification effect with a big hit, and then the game ball on the stage 230 is discharged. Then, by executing the announcement effect that releases the game ball onto the stage 230 again, it is possible to make the player have a big expectation that the announcement effect of the additional release has been executed. In particular, in the announcement effect of additional release, after the game ball released first is discharged, the player is disappointed once, and then the game ball is released again so that the player has a big hit expectation again. Therefore, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  In the above embodiment, the stage 230 and other movable members are applied to the pinball. However, the stage 230 and other movable members may be applied to a baseball game, a soccer game, and the like.

  FIG. 26 is a top view of the stage 230 as viewed from above when applied to a baseball game. In the example shown in FIG. 26, the stage 230 is regarded as a ground of a baseball field (baseball board). The game ball is regarded as a baseball, and the flipper 175 is regarded as a baseball bat. A ball detection sensor 165 that detects a game ball close to the flipper 175 is also provided. In this case, when the game ball released from the guide rail 220 approaches the flipper 175 (home base), the ball detection sensor 165 detects the game ball, moves the flipper 175, and moves the game ball to the ground (stage). 230). Further, the flipper 175 may be moved in accordance with the operation of the operation button 120 by the player, and may be configured to operate to hit the game ball. On the ground, there is a ball entrance (winning entrance) with “OUT”, “HIT”, “HOMERUN” drawn on it. You may make it perform. Further, if a game ball enters the entrance of “HOMERUN”, it may be a big hit (the possibility increases).

  FIG. 27 is a top view of the stage 230 as viewed from above when applied to a soccer game. In the example shown in FIG. 27, the stage 230 is regarded as a ground (pitch, field) of a soccer field. The game balls are regarded as soccer balls, and the flippers 176A to 176F are regarded as soccer players. In addition, ball detection sensors 166A to 166F that detect game balls close to the flippers 176A to 176F are also installed. In this case, when the game balls released from the guide rail 220 approach the flippers 176A to 176F (players), the ball detection sensors 166A to 166F detect the game balls and move the flippers 176A to 176F to play the game. It operates to bounce (kick back) the ball on the ground (stage 230). Further, the flippers 176A to 176F may be moved in accordance with the operation of the operation button 120 by the player, and the game ball may be rebounded. A goal is provided on the ground, and a predetermined effect may be executed or a prize ball paid out in response to a game ball entering the goal. Further, when a game ball enters the goal, it may be a big hit (the possibility increases).

  In the above embodiment, the game balls that have entered from the entrance 201 are distributed to the predetermined path by the sorting unit 200, but all the game balls that have entered from the entrance 201 are stored in the storage tank 210. May be. Moreover, although the distribution part 200 and the storage tank 210 were arrange | positioned at the upper part of the variable display apparatus 9, you may arrange | position at another location (for example, lower part of the game area | region 7). The stage 230 is also arranged in the space in front of the variable display device 9 and directly below the variable display device 9, but may be arranged in another location. However, it is preferably arranged at a position that does not interfere with the game ball flowing down the game area 7.

  In addition, the number of game balls released as a notice effect is 1, 2, or 3, but may be 4 or more. A plurality of game balls may be released also in the chance zone A, B notice effect. Also, in the additional release notice effect, a plurality of game balls may be released again after a plurality of game balls are released.

  The solenoids 131, 132A, 132B, 133, and 134A to 134D are driven and controlled by the production control microcomputer 100, but may be configured to be driven and controlled by the game control microcomputer 560. Good. In this case, signals from the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 and the rotational position sensor 150 are also input to the game control microcomputer 560. In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 executes the rotational position control of the rotary motor 140.

  In addition, the ball detection sensors 161 to 164 provided as proximity switches detect the approach of a game ball according to the amount of light received, but are not limited to such a configuration, and are magnetic proximity switches. May be. That is, the approach of the game ball may be detected by sensing that the magnetic field changes as the game ball approaches.

  Further, whether or not to execute the notice effect is determined based on whether or not the game control microcomputer 560 has determined the variation pattern accompanied by the notice effect using the variation pattern determination table, but is not limited to such a configuration. Instead, the effect control microcomputer 100 may be configured to determine whether to execute the notice effect using a predetermined random number in consideration of a change pattern (change time, reach timing, etc.).

  In addition, characters “CHANCE” and “OUT” are drawn on the upper surface of the lid 181, and the entrance pocket 180 is opened only in the direction in which the characters “CHANCE” are drawn. The entrance pocket may also be open in the direction in which is drawn. That is, the entrance pocket may be opened in both the “CHANCE” and “OUT” directions. In this case, in the processing of step S856, when the big hit determination result is “big hit”, the game ball is inserted toward “CHANCE”, and when the big hit determination result is “out of”, “OUT” The rotational position of the rotary motor 140 is controlled so that the game ball enters the direction.

  In addition, the release of the game ball onto the stage 230 was performed as a jackpot notice effect, but the jackpot symbol re-drawn effect that is executed after the jackpot is determined (determines whether the jackpot symbol is a probable or non-probable symbol) May be performed as an effect). For example, after the left, middle and right decorative symbols are aligned with the same symbol and a big hit is made, the characters “Enter the chance zone!” Are displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9 and the stored game balls are staged. 230 is released. Further, the lid 181 is raised to open the entrance pocket 180 in a predetermined direction. Then, if the game ball on the stage 230 is flipped by the flippers 171 to 174 and the game ball enters the entrance pocket 180, the probability change big hit (the big hit with the probability change symbol) is configured. That is, based on the fact that the display result derived and displayed on the variable display device 9 is the special display result (probable variation symbol) of the specific display result (big hit symbol), the predetermining means is specified at a higher rate than the normal state. A gaming machine that is controlled to a high-probability gaming state (probability change state, special gaming state) to be determined as a display result, and when a specific display result is determined by a predetermining means, the specific display result is special Display result determining means (step S102) for determining whether to make a display result or a non-special display result (non-probable variable symbol) is provided, and the variable member control means is determined to make a special display result by the display result determining means. When this is done, the variable member is configured to change to a state in which the game ball can enter the entrance area.

  In addition, the release of the game ball onto the stage 230 is performed as a mission effect (an effect that gives the player a mission (mission, mission) and gives the player a profit (makes a big hit) if the mission is achieved) May be. For example, a character (mission) “display a chance zone!” Is displayed on the screen of the variable display device 9 and the stored game balls are released onto the stage 230. Further, the lid 181 is raised to open the entrance pocket 180 in a predetermined direction. Then, if the game ball on the stage 230 is flipped by the flippers 171 to 174 and the game ball enters the entrance pocket 180, it is configured to be a big hit. That is, when it is determined by the predetermining means that the specific display result is determined, the game apparatus includes a ball instructing means for instructing the player to enter the game ball into the ball entering area. When it is determined that the specific display result is obtained by the means, the variable member is configured to be changed to a state in which the game ball can enter the ball entering area.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment can be given a predetermined game value to a player mainly when the stop symbol of the special symbol variably displayed on the variable display unit based on the start winning becomes the predetermined symbol. A pachinko machine that can be given a predetermined gaming value to a player when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on a start prize, or a start prize The present invention can be applied even to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continues when a winning is given to a predetermined electric combination that is released when a stop symbol of a variably displayed symbol becomes a predetermined symbol combination. . Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine that inserts game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game, or a game machine that inserts game balls instead of game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game.

  The present invention can be used for a game such as a pachinko gaming machine, and in particular, can be used for a gaming machine capable of notifying a player that a big hit gaming state or the like will occur.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko gaming machine from the front. It is a front view which shows the structure provided in the periphery of the variable display apparatus. It is the top view which looked at the stage from right above. It is a perspective view which shows the drive mechanism of the stopper provided in the inside of a stage. It is a perspective view which shows the drive mechanism of the entrance pocket provided in the stage. It is a perspective view which shows the drive mechanism of the flipper provided in the inside of a stage. It is a perspective view which shows the rotation drive mechanism of a ball pocket. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board | substrate, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol stop symbol setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the production | presentation aspect of the notice effect of a chance zone. It is explanatory drawing which shows the production | presentation aspect of the notice effect of additional discharge. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during decoration design change. It is the top view which looked at the stage when applied to a baseball game from right above. It is the top view which looked at the stage when applied to a soccer game from right above.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display device 14 Start winning opening 15 Variable winning device 31 Main board 33a, 34a Count switch 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 120 Operation button 131, 132A, 132B, 133 134A to 134D Solenoid 140 Rotating motor 150 Rotation position sensor 161 to 164 Ball detection sensor 171 to 174 Flipper 180 Ball pocket 181 Lid 191 and 192 Stopper 200 Distributing section 210 Storage tank 230 Stage 241 and 242 Discharge port 560 Micro for game control Computer

Claims (9)

A game is performed by launching a game ball into the game area, and a variable display device is provided for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying a display result, and specific display on the variable display device A gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a result is derived and displayed,
Launching means for launching a game ball into the game area in response to a player's operation;
An entrance that is provided in the game area and into which a game ball flowing down the game area can enter;
Storage means for storing game balls that have entered the entrance;
Pre-determining means for determining the display result of the variable display device before the derived display;
A notice determining means for determining whether or not to execute a notice effect for notifying that the display result of the variable display device becomes a specific display result based on the decision result by the prior decision means;
When it is determined by the notice determining means that the notice effect is to be executed, the storage by the storing means is canceled and the stored game balls are released onto a rolling plate arranged at a position where the player can visually recognize the game balls. Release means;
A movable member movable on the rolling plate;
A game machine comprising: movable control means for driving the movable member to roll the game ball released on the rolling plate for a predetermined period as a notice effect. Comprising number selection means for selecting the number of game balls released by the release means;
The number selection means is specified with a higher probability when a number greater than the predetermined number is selected as the number of game balls, compared to when a number smaller than the predetermined number is selected as the number of game balls. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the number of game balls is selected using selection table data in which selection data is allocated to a plurality of types so that a display result is obtained. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the storage means stores the number of game balls so that the player can visually recognize the number. A detecting means for detecting that the number of game balls stored by the storing means has reached a predetermined number;
The notice determination means determines that the notice effect is executed at a higher rate when the detection means detects that the number of game balls has reached the predetermined number than when the number is not detected by the detection means. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein it is determined whether or not a notice effect is executed using determination table data to which determination data is allocated. The entrance area where game balls on the rolling plate can enter,
A variable member that changes between a state in which a game ball can enter the ball entering area and a state in which the game ball cannot enter,
Variable member control means for variably controlling the variable member,
The variable member control means, when the determination result by the pre-decision means is a specific display result, enters the game ball into the entrance area at a higher rate than when the determination result is not the specific display result. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the variable member is controlled using control table data to which control data is allocated so as to change the state to a state in which the control can be performed. A discharge port for discharging the game ball on the rolling plate to the outside of the gaming machine;
Guiding means for guiding the game ball on the rolling plate to the discharge port;
Detecting means for detecting a game ball proximate to the movable member,
The movement control means moves the movable member when the game ball is detected by the detection means until the predetermined period elapses, and stops the movable member when the predetermined period elapses. A gaming machine according to any one of the above. A period selection means for selecting a predetermined period during which the movable control means rolls the game ball from a plurality of types of periods;
The period selection means has a higher probability of a specific display result when a second period longer than the first period is selected as the predetermined period compared to when the first period is selected as the predetermined period. The game according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the predetermined period is selected from a plurality of types of periods using selection table data in which the selection data is allocated to a plurality of types of periods. Machine. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising operation means for moving the movable member in response to an operation by the player during the period of the notice effect. The release means releases the game balls stored in the storage means again after releasing the game balls stored in the storage means as an additional release effect which is one aspect of the notice effect,
When the determination result by the prior determination means is a specific display result, the notice determination means is assigned with determination data so that the additional discharge effect is executed at a higher rate than when the determination result is not the specific display result. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not to execute the additional discharge effect.

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