JP2006255018A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine wherein a special game starting time can be adjusted and which has enhanced enjoyment and amusement. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine with a pattern displaying unit is equipped with a main control section executing the lottery for determining whether or not to shift to a special game being triggered by game balls falling into a start winning hole and determining the stop pattern and the display pattern of a special pattern based on the result of the lottery and a sub control section determining the stop pattern and the display pattern of a decoration pattern according to the stop pattern and the display pattern of the determined special pattern and displaying a pattern fluctuation in a pattern display unit, and the sub control section executes pattern fluctuation processing from the starting of the pattern fluctuation of the decoration pattern to the determining of the decoration pattern and the special game starting processing from the determining of the decoration pattern to the starting of the special game as one processing in a lump when determined to shift to the special game. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine provided with a symbol display device.

  For example, a first type of ball game machine as an example of a gaming machine performs symbol variation (variable display) in a display area such as a liquid crystal display provided near the center of the gaming board. Symbol variation means displaying a plurality of symbols while varying them. Such a ball game machine has a so-called jackpot that gives a larger number of prize balls than usual when the special symbol when the symbol variation is stopped according to the result of the lottery becomes a specific aspect. It is known to shift to a special game called (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  The symbol change in the display area is not only displayed while changing the symbol, but if the other symbol is aligned, a special game state (so-called reach screen) is displayed longer than usual. The production is designed to increase expectations. In addition, the player's expectation is raised by performing control such as giving a story using a character to the image during the pattern change or changing the probability of transition to a special game.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, it has become common for ball game machines to visually produce a lottery result using a decorative design rather than a so-called special design. The ball game machine increases the degree of freedom of expression by performing using not a special symbol but a decorative symbol. In addition, the ball game machine divides the control processing into, for example, a main control board and a sub control board, and causes the sub control board to perform an effect process using a decorative design, so that the main process and the effect process in the ball game machine are performed. There is also a development advantage that development can be done separately.

  When using a decorative symbol, the special symbol has no role to play and is often displayed in a small display area. In this way, the role of design by design is often left to the decorative design. However, even if there is no directing role, the special symbol plays a role indicating whether or not to generate a special game according to the result of the lottery.

In conventional ball game machines, in order to increase the player's expectation, various forms of reach production are made, and the production time tends to be longer. Ballistic game machines are popular depending on how the sense of presence is enhanced by reach production, but it is also necessary to consider players who do not like long reach production. Conventionally, there has been known a ball game machine that shortens the effect time of symbol variation by a player's operation (for example, Patent Documents 2 to 4).
JP 2003-230714 A JP 2004-113359 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-024603 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-144706

  For example, when a special game is generated, a ball game machine performs a symbol variation process that displays the symbol variation from the start of the variation of the decorative symbol to the confirmation on a liquid crystal display etc., and performs a special game start processing that displays a jackpot screen and a demonstration screen. After going, start a special game. Note that the ball game machine uses the special game start time as the special game start time.

  Usually, the stop symbol and the display pattern of the special symbol are determined by the main control board. Further, the stop symbols and display patterns of the decorative symbols are determined by the sub control board. The display pattern referred to here is the display order from the start of change of the special symbol or the decorative symbol to the determination thereof, and represents the symbol variation time of the special symbol or the decorative symbol.

  By the way, the decorative design is displayed in conjunction with the special design. That is, since the symbol variation time of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is determined by the display pattern of the special symbol, as a result, the special game start time of the ball game machine is also determined by the display pattern of the special symbol.

  Therefore, unless a direct instruction is given to the main control board, it is not possible to change a certain special game start time determined by the display pattern of the special symbol. In addition, if the reach production time is increased in order to increase the player's expectation, there is a problem that the special game start time is delayed.

  Furthermore, many conventional ball game machines form a game state different from the normal mode, that is, a so-called time-saving mode. In the short time mode, the probability of winning a normal symbol is high, and the frequency of releasing the ordinary electric accessory is high, so that the winning frequency of the game ball at the start winning opening is high. In such a short-time mode, for example, when the special game is started, the winning probability of the normal symbol is decreased from a high probability to a low probability, so when the special game start time is delayed, the time to decrease the normal symbol winning probability from the high probability to the low probability is reduced. Becomes slower. Therefore, the conventional ball game machine has a problem that a lot of prize balls are paid out, which is disadvantageous to the hall.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of adjusting a special game start time and having improved playability and amusement.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is a gaming machine equipped with a symbol display device, and executes a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special game when a game ball is dropped into a start winning opening. The main control unit that determines the stop symbol and display pattern of the special symbol based on the lottery result, and determines the stop symbol and display pattern of the decorative symbol according to the determined stop symbol and display pattern of the special symbol A sub-control unit that displays a symbol variation on the symbol display device, and if it is determined to shift to a special game as a result of the lottery, the sub-control unit starts the symbol variation of the decorative symbol from the start of the symbol variation The symbol variation process until the final determination and the special game start process from the final determination of the decorative symbol to the start of the special game are collectively executed as one process.

  The gaming machine of the present invention collectively executes the symbol change processing from the start of the symbol change of the decorative symbol to the determination of the decorative symbol and the special game start processing from the determination of the decorative symbol to the start of the special game as a single process. By doing so, it is possible to set any time of the time required for the symbol variation process and the special game start process as the start time of the special game start process. For example, the start time of the symbol variation process can be set as the start time of the special game start process. Thus, the gaming machine of the present invention can adjust the special game start time.

  The sub-control unit may change the start position of the special game start process without changing the total time required for the symbol variation process and the special game start process.

  In addition, the present invention is a gaming machine equipped with a symbol display device, and executes a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special game triggered by the drop of the game ball into the start winning opening, and the lottery result A main control unit for determining the stop symbol and display pattern of the special symbol based on the symbol, and determining the stop symbol and display pattern of the decorative symbol in accordance with the determined stop symbol and display pattern of the special symbol to the symbol display device A sub-control unit that displays a change, and the sub-control unit determines the decorative symbol from the start of the symbol variation of the decorative symbol as a display pattern for generating a special game according to the lottery result A first pattern that is executed separately from the determination of the decorative symbol until the start of the special game after the decoration symbol is determined, and the symbol variation processing and the start of the special game Collectively and physical and selects either one of the second pattern to be executed as a single process.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention executes the first process of dividing the symbol change process from the start of the symbol change of the decorative symbol to the determination of the decorative symbol and the special game start process from the determination of the decorative symbol to the start of the special game. The special game start time can be shortened by selecting one of the following patterns as the display pattern and the second pattern for executing the symbol variation process and the special game start process as a single process. Can be delayed. As described above, the gaming machine according to the present invention can enhance amusement and entertainment.

  A sub-input unit for receiving an instruction from the player, and in response to the instruction from the sub-input unit, the start of the special game start process without changing the total time required for the symbol variation process and the special game start process; The position may be changed.

  In addition, what applied the component, expression, or arbitrary combination of the component of this invention to a method, an apparatus, a system, a computer program, a recording medium, a data structure, etc. is also effective as an aspect of this invention.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the special game start time can be adjusted and the game machine which improved the entertainment property and the entertainment property can be provided.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described based on the following embodiments with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a first type of ball game machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a pachinko machine) will be described as an example of the game machine, but any game machine equipped with a symbol display device may be used.

First, in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, a general description of a pachinko machine will be given.
(Appearance on the front side)
FIG. 1 is an external view of an example showing the front side of a pachinko machine. The pachinko machine 100 is mainly composed of a game board (gauge board) that constitutes a game board surface and a game machine frame that supports and fixes the game board.

  The game board of the pachinko machine 100 includes a plurality of nails 101, windmills 102a and 102b, a normal symbol operating gate 103, a normal electric accessory 104, a center ornament part 105, a special symbol display device 106, a decorative symbol display device 107, and a normal symbol display. A device 108, an inner rail 109, an outer rail 110, and the like are provided as game parts. The game board is provided with a general winning port 111, a starting winning port 112, a big winning port 113, and an out port 114.

  The inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 are for guiding the launched game balls to the game area 115. The nail 101 and the windmills 102 a and 102 b are provided at predetermined positions in the game area 115. For example, the nail 101 and the windmills 102a and 102b enter the game area 115 to make the movement of the game ball moving from top to bottom irregular, or to the general winning port 111, the starting winning port 112, and the big winning port 113. The game ball is dropped (winning) or the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 is adjusted. In the following description, the intrusion and the passage are the same.

  The special symbol display device 106 is provided on the side of the inner rail 109, for example. The special symbol display device 106 is provided with, for example, a 7-segment LED 116 that displays a special symbol and four LEDs 117 that display the number of winnings of the game ball to the start winning opening 112. Here, the special symbol is a symbol indicating whether or not to generate a jackpot according to the result of the lottery performed with the winning of the game ball at the start winning port 112 as a trigger.

  In this embodiment, the 7-segment LED 116 is caused to emit light based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112, and the special symbols “3” and “7” corresponding to the jackpot and the special symbol “−” corresponding to the loss. Are variably displayed, and one of these three kinds of special symbols is displayed as a stop symbol.

  The four LEDs 117 for displaying the number of lottery results held based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112 are sequentially emitted each time the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, and when the special symbol variation display is started. Turns off sequentially. The four LEDs 117 correspond to the upper limit value of the number of holdings, and inform the player of the current number of holdings of the lottery result based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112 by the number of emitted lights.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of holds of the lottery result based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112 is set to four. If the number of reserves is four, even if a game ball wins at the start winning opening 112, a lottery based on winning at the start winning opening 112 of the game ball is not performed, and the winning at the start winning opening 112 is supported. Play as many prize balls as you want.

  The decorative symbol display device 107 is provided in the vicinity of the center of the game area 115 so as to be easily recognized by the player, and includes a liquid crystal display capable of displaying decorative symbols, for example. The decorative symbol display device 107 displays three decorative symbols displayed in a horizontal row in the decorative symbol display areas 118 a to 118 c of the liquid crystal display 118. Here, the decorative symbol is a symbol for visually producing the result of the lottery performed when the game ball is won at the start winning opening 112.

  In the present embodiment, the decorative symbols “0” to “9” and “A” to “F” are variably displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c of the liquid crystal display 118, and then one of these decorative symbols is displayed. Is displayed as a stop symbol. Then, when a combination of predetermined decorative symbols is displayed as a stop symbol in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c, it is a big hit. On the other hand, when the combination of the decorative symbols other than the predetermined symbols is displayed as the stop symbol in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c, it is lost.

  In the present embodiment, the contents (big hit, miss) of the stop symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 106 and the stop symbol displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 are matched. That is, in this embodiment, the special symbol and the decorative symbol are displayed in conjunction with each other so that no contradiction occurs when displaying the lottery result.

  The decorative symbol display device 107 displays not only a decorative symbol but also a background image as a background of the decorative symbol, a character image for giving the player a sense of expectation of jackpot. For example, after the decorative symbol display device 107 displays the decorative symbols in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c in a variable manner, the same stop symbol is displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118a and 118c to form a so-called reach state. Then, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays the character image, gives the player the expectation of jackpot, and then displays the stop symbol in the decorative symbol display area 118b.

  As described above, the decorative symbol display device 107 performs various displays (effects) so as to give the player a sense of expectation of jackpot. Further, the decorative symbol display device 107 may notify the player of the number of lottery results to be held based on winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112.

  The ordinary electric accessory 104 is provided below the decorative symbol display device 107, for example. The ordinary electric accessory 104 opens and closes to guide the game ball to the start winning opening 112. The big prize opening 113 is provided, for example, below the ordinary electric accessory 104. The big prize opening 113 is a big hit, and the special prize opening door 120 falls down and is opened when the game shifts to a special game.

  In the present embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed in the special game. For example, in a unit game, after the grand prize opening 113 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, about 30 seconds) or after a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) or more of game balls are dropped, the grand prize opening door 120 is closed. Is done. If at least one game ball falls into a specific area (so-called V zone) 121 provided inside the big prize opening 113 while the big prize opening 113 is opened, the process proceeds to the next unit game. In this way, a maximum of 15 unit games are repeated on condition that at least one or more game balls drop into the specific area 121 while the special winning opening 113 is opened.

  In the present embodiment, the specific area 121 is provided inside the special winning opening 113, but the specific area 121 is not necessarily provided. If the specific area 121 is not provided, 15 unit games are guaranteed in the special game.

  The center decorative component 105 is a molded product including a translucent part, for example, and is provided around the decorative design display device 107. The center decorative component 105 plays a role of protecting the decorative symbol display device 107 and decorating the pachinko machine 100. In addition, a through portion 105 a may be provided on the upper portion of the center decorative component 105. The game ball dropped into the through portion 105 a moves to the stage 105 b provided at the lower part of the center decorative component 105 via the flow path provided in the center decorative component 105.

  The normal symbol operation gate 103 is provided between the normal electric accessory 104 and the inner rail 109, for example. The normal symbol operation gate 103 is configured such that, for example, a game ball passes from top to bottom. The normal symbol display device 108 is provided with, for example, a seven-segment LED 122 that displays a normal symbol and four LEDs 123 that display the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103. Here, the normal symbol is a symbol indicating whether or not the normal electric accessory 104 is opened according to the result of the lottery performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 103.

  The normal symbol display device 108 causes the 7-segment LED 122 to emit light based on the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103, and the normal symbol “7” corresponding to the win and the normal symbol “−” corresponding to the loss. Are alternately displayed, and either “7” or “−” is displayed as a stop symbol. When the normal symbol “7” is displayed as the stop symbol, the normal electric accessory 104 is opened for a predetermined time. On the other hand, when the normal symbol “-” is displayed as the stop symbol, the ordinary electric accessory 104 is not opened.

  The four LEDs 123 that display the number of lottery results held based on the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 are increased by one each time the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 103. When starting the variable display, the number of light emission decreases by one. The four LEDs 123 correspond to the upper limit value of the number of holdings, and notify the player of the current number of holdings of the lottery result based on the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 by the number of emitted lights.

  The general winning opening 111 and the big winning opening 113 are for paying out a predetermined number of winning balls when a game ball is won. The out port 114 is provided at the lowermost part of the game area 115, for example, and collects game balls that have not won any of the general winning port 111, the starting winning port 112, and the big winning port 113. The collected game balls are released to the outside of the pachinko machine 100.

  The gaming machine frame of the pachinko machine 100 is provided with an outer frame 124, a front frame 125, a transparent plate 126, a door 127, and a ball tray unit 128. The outer frame 124 has an opening and is a frame for fixing the pachinko machine 100 to a position where it should be installed. The front frame 125 is a frame body that matches the opening of the outer frame 124, and is attached to the outer frame 124 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like. The front frame 125 includes a mechanism for launching a game ball, a mechanism for detachably storing a game board, a mechanism for guiding or collecting the game ball, and the like. Furthermore, electric parts 130a to 130d such as game effect lamps that are turned on according to the state of the game are provided in the periphery of the front frame 125.

  The transparent plate 126 is for protecting the game board, and is, for example, a transparent glass plate. The player plays the game while seeing through the game area 115 of the game board through the transparent plate 126. The door 127 is for supporting the transparent plate 126, and is attached to the front frame 125 so as to be openable and closable by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The ball tray unit 128 is provided below the front frame 125, for example, and sends the game ball to a ball tray 128a for storing a certain amount of game balls, a mechanism for storing game balls, and a mechanism for launching game balls. For example, a ball removal mechanism for extracting a stored game ball into a ball exit storage box (so-called dollar box), a firing handle 131, an operation switch 132, and the like.

  In this embodiment, a push button type is adopted as the ball removing mechanism. When the ball removal button 128b is pressed by the player, a part of the bottom surface of the ball tray 128a is opened, and the game balls stored in the ball tray 128a are released to the outside.

The launch handle 131 is operated by the player when launching the game ball toward the game area 115. When the player turns the launch handle 131, the game ball is launched toward the game area 115 at a speed corresponding to the turning angle of the launch handle 131. The operation switch 132 is operated by the player, and executes the game effect by reflecting the operation content. In addition, speakers 133 for outputting sound effects are provided on both sides of the ball removal button 128b.
(Appearance on the back side)
FIG. 2 is an external view of an example showing the back side of the pachinko machine. The power switch 219 is a switch for turning on or off the power of the pachinko machine 100. The main control board 201 controls the entire operation of the pachinko machine 100, and processes all game operations such as a lottery when a game ball wins a winning prize opening 112 in particular. The sub control board 202 is connected to the decorative symbol display device 107. The sub-control board 202 controls the display contents of the decorative symbol display device 107, and changes the display contents according to the lottery result by the main control board 201 in particular.

The payout device 218 pays out the winning balls supplied from the winning ball tank 151 to the ball tray 128a in accordance with winning in each winning opening. The payout control board 206 controls the payout operation by the payout device 218. The launching device 152 launches the game balls stored in the ball tray 128a one by one to the game area 115. The launch control board 205 controls the launch operation of the launch device 152. The power supply unit 153 supplies power to each part of the pachinko machine 100.
(Outline of the game)
Here, an outline of the game in the pachinko machine 100 will be described. First, the player rotates the firing handle 131 clockwise with the game balls stored in the ball tray 128a. By turning the launch handle 131, the game ball is launched toward the game area 115 at a speed corresponding to the turning angle. The game balls that have entered the game area 115 move from top to bottom while making irregular movements by hitting the nail 101, the windmill 102a, etc. provided in the game area 115.

  When the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, a predetermined number (for example, four) of the prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a, and the special symbol display device 106 and the decorative symbol display device 107 change the special symbol and the decorative symbol. Start displaying. Thereafter, when a predetermined stop symbol is displayed on the special symbol display device 106 and a combination of predetermined stop symbols (for example, the same stop symbol) is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107, a special game start process described later is performed. The game shifts from the normal game to the special game.

  In the special game, the special prize opening door 120 falls and the special prize opening 113 is opened. Each time a game ball wins the opened big winning opening 113, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls are paid out. In this embodiment, when the big winning opening 113 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, about 30 seconds) or when a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) or more of the game balls are won, Then, the big prize opening door 120 stands and the big prize opening 113 closes.

  In the following description, when the grand prize opening 113 is opened for about 30 seconds or when 10 or more game balls are awarded, the grand prize opening door 120 rises and the big prize opening An example in which 113 closes will be described.

  If at least one game ball falls into the specific area 121 provided inside the big prize opening 113 while the big prize opening 113 is opened, the big prize opening 113 is opened again. If the specific area 121 is not provided, the special winning opening 113 is unconditionally opened again. Such opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 113 is performed up to 15 times. In the special game, a large amount of prize balls are paid out in a short time, which can give a great merit to the player.

  When the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol display device 108 starts normal symbol variation display. Thereafter, when a predetermined stop symbol is displayed on the normal symbol display device 108, the normal electric accessory 104 performs an opening / closing operation. For example, when the ordinary electric accessory 104 is opened, the game ball can win the start winning opening 112 without passing between nails (so-called life nails) above the start winning opening 112.

  Further, the pachinko machine 100 shifts to either the probability variation mode or the short time mode after the execution of the special game in accordance with the stop symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 106. In addition, the pachinko machine 100 notifies the player of which mode to shift to the probability variation mode or the short time mode by the combination of the stop symbols displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107.

  In the present embodiment, when the stop symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 106 is “7”, the mode shifts to the probability variation mode. In this embodiment, the stop symbol combinations “111”, “333”, “555”, “777”, “999”, “AAA”, “CCC”, or “EEE” displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 are displayed. ”To notify the player that the mode will shift to the probability variation mode.

  On the other hand, when the stop symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 106 is “3”, the mode shifts to the time reduction mode. In the present embodiment, the stop symbol combinations “000”, “222”, “444”, “666”, “888”, “BBB”, “DDD”, or “FFF” displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 are displayed. ”Informs the player that the mode will be shifted to the time reduction mode.

  The probability variation mode is a state in which after a big hit and a special game is executed, the probability that the big hit will be higher than in the normal mode is set. Further, in the probability variation mode, after the special game is executed, until the next special game, the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is made different from that in the normal mode so that the game ball can easily win the start winning opening 112. is doing.

  On the other hand, after the special game is executed with a big hit in the short-time mode, the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is made different from that in the normal mode until, for example, 100 games are executed. In this state, it is easy to win 112. In the time saving mode, when 100 games are executed, the normal mode is restored. Note that the number of games in the short-time mode may be changed according to the game situation. Here, the number of games refers to the number of lotteries that are performed in response to winning of a game ball at the start winning opening 112.

  In the case of shifting to the probability variation mode after the execution of the special game, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible until the next special game starts. Even when the mode is shifted to the time-saving mode, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible for a while after the execution of the special game.

When the game ball wins the general winning slot 111, a predetermined number (for example, four) of the prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a. Further, game balls that have not won any of the general winning opening 111, the starting winning opening 112, and the grand winning opening 113 flow into the out opening 114.
(System configuration)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the pachinko machine. The pachinko machine 100 includes a main control board 201, a sub-control board 202, a winning hole board 203, an LED drive board 204, a launch control board 205, a payout control board 206, a power receiving board 207, an electrical decoration board 208, and the like.

  The main control board 201 has a configuration in which a main CPU 201a, a ROM 201b, a RAM 201c, and an I / F (interface) circuit 201d are connected to each other via a bus 201e. The main CPU 201a reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. The main CPU 201a reads the program and data stored in the ROM 201b, and controls the entire pachinko machine 100 based on the program and data.

  The ROM 201b stores programs and data necessary for the main CPU 201a to control the entire pachinko machine 100. The RAM 201c is used as a work area when the main CPU 201a performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The I / F circuit 201d performs timing transmission / reception when signals are transmitted / received among the main control board 201, sub control board 202, winning hole board 203, LED drive board 204, launch control board 205, and payout control board 206. Control and so on. However, a signal is transmitted from the main control board 201 to the sub control board 202 between the main control board 201 and the sub control board 202, but a signal is transmitted from the sub control board 202 to the main control board 201. Not done. That is, only one-way transmission from the main control board 201 to the sub control board 202 is possible between the main control board 201 and the sub control board 202.

  Further, the I / F circuit 201 d receives supply of predetermined power from the power supply device 209 included in the pachinko machine 100 via the power receiving board 207. The main control board 201 can perform various processes described later with the power from the power supply device 209.

  Next, the sub control board 202 includes a sub CPU 202a, a ROM 202b, a RAM 202c, an image control processor 202d, an image data ROM 202e, a video RAM 202f, a sound source circuit 202g, an amplifier 202h, and an I / F circuit 202i. It is the composition which has.

  The sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image control processor 202d, sound source circuit 202g, and I / F circuit 202i are connected to each other via a bus 202j. The image data ROM 202e and the video RAM 202f are connected to the image control processor 202d. The amplifier 202h is connected to the sound source circuit 202g.

  The sub CPU 202a reads, interprets, and executes instructions constituting the program. Then, the sub CPU 202a reads the program and data stored in the ROM 202b, and controls the sub control board 202, in particular, controls the effects for the player based on the program and data.

  The ROM 202b stores programs and data necessary for the sub CPU 202a to control the sub control board 202. The RAM 202c is used as a work area when the sub CPU 202a performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The image control processor 202d is connected to the decorative symbol display device 107. The image data ROM 202e stores image data such as decorative symbols, characters, characters, and backgrounds displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107. The video RAM 202f is a memory used when the image control processor 202d creates an image to be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107. Image data read from the image data ROM 202e is developed in the video RAM 202f. Then, the image control processor 202d displays an image based on the image data developed in the video RAM 202f on the decorative design display device 107.

  The sound source circuit 202g generates a sound signal corresponding to the game effect. The sound source circuit 202g is connected to the speaker 133 via the amplifier 202h. The sound effect based on the sound signal generated by the sound source circuit 202g is amplified by the amplifier 202h and output from the speaker 133.

  In the block diagram of FIG. 3, in addition to the decorative symbol display device 107 and the speaker 133, an electrical decoration component 130 that is turned on or off according to the state of the game is included as the effect peripheral device. The illumination component 130 is, for example, an illumination component (for example, an LED) that lights when a reach state is formed, an illumination component that lights during execution of a special game, an illumination component that lights during a prize ball, or the like. The effect peripheral device is controlled by the sub-control board 202, and outputs according to the effect of the game.

  The I / F circuit 202 i performs timing control when receiving a signal from the main control board 201. The I / F circuit 202i detects the operation of the operation switch 132 and transmits a detection signal to the sub CPU 202a. Thereby, the sub CPU 202a recognizes the operation content of the operation switch 132.

  In addition, the I / F circuit 202i is connected to an electrical decoration board 208. Further, the I / F circuit 202 i is supplied with predetermined power from the power supply device 209 included in the pachinko machine 100 via the power receiving board 207. The sub-control board 202 can perform various processes to be described later with power from the power supply device 209.

  Next, the electric decoration component 130 is connected to the electric decoration board 208. In addition, the electric decoration board 208 supplies the electric power supplied from the power supply device 209 included in the pachinko machine 100 via the power reception board 207 to the electric decoration component 130. The illumination component 130 is turned on or off by the electric power supplied from the illumination board 208.

  Next, the winning opening board 203 has a start winning opening switch 210 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 112, and a normal symbol operating gate switch 211 for detecting the passage of the gaming ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103. A general winning opening switch 212 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the general winning opening 111, a large winning opening switch 213 for detecting a winning of a gaming ball to the large winning opening 113, and the large winning opening 113 are provided. A specific area detection switch 214 that detects the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 is connected. The winning hole board 203 is based on the signals transmitted from the start winning hole switch 210, the normal symbol operating gate switch 211, the general winning hole switch 212, the large winning hole switch 213, and the specific area detection switch 214, which winning hole the game ball has. Alternatively, it is identified whether it has passed through the area, and a signal indicating the identified result is transmitted to the main control board 201.

  Further, the prize-winning board 203 has a normal electric accessory solenoid 215 for opening the ordinary electric accessory 104, a big prize opening solenoid 216 for opening the big prize opening 113, and a game in the big prize opening 113. A specific area solenoid 217 for controlling the movement of the sphere is connected. Specifically, the specific area solenoid 217 makes it easy to pass the game ball to the specific area 121 until the specific area detection switch 214 detects the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121, When the passage of the game ball is detected, the state in which the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 becomes easy is canceled.

  When the prize-winning board 203 receives the normal electric accessory release instruction signal from the main control board 201, it outputs a current for driving the normal electric accessory 104 to the normal electric accessory solenoid 215. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 performs an opening / closing operation. In addition, when the winning a prize mouth opening instruction signal is received from the main control board 201, the winning a prize mouth board 203 outputs a current for driving the big prize opening door 120 to the big prize opening solenoid 216. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened.

  On the other hand, when the prize winning hole board 203 receives the big prize opening closing instruction signal from the main control board 201, it stops outputting the current for driving the big prize winning door 120. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  Further, when the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 is detected by the specific area detection switch 214 and a specific area control instruction signal is received from the main control board 201, the prize opening board 203 detects that the game ball has passed to the specific area 121. A current for releasing the easy state is output to the specific area solenoid 217.

  Next, the special symbol display device 106 and the normal symbol display device 108 are connected to the LED drive board 204. When the LED drive board 204 receives the special symbol display instruction signal from the main control board 201, the LED drive board 204 emits the 7-segment LED 116 and the four LEDs 117 arranged in the special symbol display device 106 based on the special symbol display instruction signal. Let

  In addition, when the LED drive board 204 receives the normal symbol display instruction signal from the main control board 201, the LED drive board 204 changes the 7-segment LED 122 and the four LEDs 123 arranged in the normal symbol display device 108 based on the normal symbol display instruction signal. Make it emit light.

  Next, the launch control board 205 is connected to a launch handle 131 for launching a game ball into the game area 105. The launch control board 205 detects that the launch handle 131 has been turned by the player, and sends a launch operation detection signal indicating the detection result to the main control board 201. As a result, the main control board 201 recognizes that the firing handle 131 has been rotated.

  The main control board 201 transmits a launch permission signal to the launch control board 205 when a certain amount or more of game balls are not stored in the ball tray 128a. Upon receiving the launch permission signal, the launch control board 205 controls the launch handle 131 so that the game ball is launched toward the game area 115.

  On the other hand, the main control board 201 transmits a launch non-permission signal to the launch control board 205 when a certain amount or more of the game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a. When the launch control board 205 receives the launch non-permission signal, the launch control board 205 controls the launch handle 131 so that the game ball is not launched toward the game area 115.

  Next, when the payout control board 206 receives the prize ball number signal from the main control board 201, it controls the payout operation of the payout device 218 so that the number of prize balls according to the prize ball number signal is paid out to the ball tray 128a. To do. As a result, the payout device 218 pays out a winning ball corresponding to the winning. The prize opening board 203, the LED drive board 204, the launch control board 205, and the payout control board 206 operate based on the power supplied from the power supply device 209 via the power receiving board 207.

Next, when the power switch 219 is turned on, the power receiving board 207 is supplied with power from the power supply device 209, and the power is supplied to the main control board 201, the sub control board 202, the prize opening board 203, and the LED driving board. 204, the firing control board 205, the payout control board 206, and the illumination board 208. The power receiving board 207 and the power supply device 209 correspond to the power supply unit 153 in FIG.
(Functional configuration)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the pachinko machine. The main control unit 300 corresponds to the function of the main control board 201 and mainly controls the overall operation of the pachinko machine 100 and the basic operation of the game. The sub-control unit 400 corresponds to a function of the sub-control board 202, and mainly controls staging operations such as decorative display variation display and electrical decoration.

  The main control unit 300 transmits instructions or information regarding various controls to the sub-control unit 400. On the other hand, the sub control unit 400 does not transmit a feedback instruction or information to the main control unit 300. In the pachinko machine 100, one-way communication from the main control unit 300 to the sub control unit 400 is usually performed.

  The main control unit 300 includes a general winning processing unit 301, a start winning processing unit 302, an operation processing unit 303, a large winning processing unit 304, an area passing processing unit 305, a display processing unit 306, a special symbol lottery execution unit 307, and a normal symbol lottery. The configuration includes an execution unit 308, a special game execution unit 309, a special symbol hold storage unit 310, a normal symbol hold storage unit 311, and a probability change execution unit 312.

  When receiving the general winning information indicating that a winning from the winning opening board 203 to the general winning opening 111 is received, the general winning processing unit 301 transmits a payout instruction such as the number of prize balls to the payout control board 206. When the start winning processing unit 302 receives start winning information indicating that there is a winning from the winning opening board 203 to the starting winning opening 112, the start winning processing section 302 transmits a payout instruction such as the number of prize balls to the payout control board 206 and starts. A winning signal is transmitted to a special symbol lottery execution unit 307 that executes a lottery with respect to winning in the winning opening 112 (hereinafter referred to as start winning).

  The special symbol lottery execution unit 307 executes the lottery upon receipt of the winning signal. The special symbol lottery execution unit 307 includes a random number determination unit 320 that determines a random number in response to the start winning, a success / failure determination unit 321 that acquires a random number and determines whether or not the lottery is successful, and a special symbol stop symbol corresponding to whether the lottery is successful This is a configuration including a special symbol determining unit 322 for determining, and a special symbol pattern determining unit 323 for determining a display pattern of the special symbol.

  The special symbol is composed of numbers, symbols, marks, and the like, for example. In this embodiment, a special symbol is constituted by the numbers “3” and “7” corresponding to the jackpot and the symbol “−” corresponding to the loss.

  The random number determination unit 320 determines a count value in a predetermined count range (for example, 0 to 65535) as a random number every time a winning signal is received from the start winning processing unit 302 and stores the random number in the special symbol hold storage unit 310. To do. The special symbol reservation storage unit 310 has a storage area that can store a predetermined number (for example, a maximum of four) of random numbers as the upper limit of the number of reservations. When a predetermined number of random numbers are stored, the special symbol storage unit 310 does not store the random numbers until the storage area becomes empty. If the symbol variation is not performed when the random number is determined, the random number determination unit 320 does not store the random number in the special symbol storage unit 310 and transmits the random number to the success / failure determination unit 321.

  The success / failure determination unit 321 determines whether the lottery result corresponds to a big hit or a loss according to the random number stored in the special symbol hold storage unit 310 or the random number received from the random number determination unit 320. The lottery results are defined in the form of numerical ranges in the success / failure table held by the success / failure determination unit 321. In the success / failure table, a predetermined numerical value range (for example, 0 to 2000) is set as a jackpot value range, and a range other than the predetermined numerical value range (for example, 2001 to 65535) is set as a loss value range. A part of the jackpot value in the predetermined numerical range is set as a jackpot value with probability variation.

  The special symbol determination unit 322 determines a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result by the success / failure determination unit 321. For example, the special symbol determination unit 322 determines “7” as a stop symbol if the lottery result is a jackpot with probability variation, “3” if it is a jackpot, and “-” if it is a loss.

  The special symbol pattern determination unit 323 determines a display pattern representing a special symbol display pattern. In other words, the special symbol pattern determination unit 323 determines the symbol variation time of the special symbol. The special symbol determining unit 322 and the special symbol pattern determining unit 323 determine a count value within a predetermined count range (for example, 0 to 255) as a random number, and use it as a special symbol determining random number and a display pattern determining random number. It may be.

  The determination of the success / failure by the determination unit 321, the determination of the special symbol stoppage by the special symbol determination unit 322, and the determination of the special symbol display pattern by the special symbol pattern determination unit 323, the symbol variation based on the previous lottery result ends. This is performed when an effect based on the current lottery result is started. These determinations may be made when the random number determination unit 320 determines a random number.

  Display of the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol storage unit 310, the determination result by the success / failure determination unit 321, the stop symbol determined by the special symbol determination unit 322, and the special symbol determined by the special symbol pattern determination unit 323 The pattern is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400.

  The display processing unit 306 causes the special symbol display device 106 to display the special symbols according to the determined special symbol display pattern and stop symbol. For example, the display processing unit 306 follows the special symbol display pattern and the stop symbol, and the special symbol “3” and “7” corresponding to the jackpot and the special symbol “ “−” Is cyclically displayed in a cyclic manner, and “3” is displayed as a stop symbol from 58 seconds to 60 seconds.

  Note that the special symbol may be displayed other than the special symbol display device 106, for example, may be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107. The display processing unit 306 emits or turns off the four LEDs 117 so as to represent the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol storage unit 310.

  The sub-control unit 400 includes a decorative symbol determination unit 401, a decorative symbol pattern determination unit 402, a decorative symbol pattern storage unit 403, a display processing unit 404, and a sub input processing unit 405.

  The decorative symbol determination unit 401 determines the stop symbol of the decorative symbol according to the determination result by the success / failure determination unit 321. Note that the decorative symbol determination unit 401 may determine the stop symbol of the decorative symbol based on the special symbol stop symbol determined by the special symbol determination unit 322. The decorative symbol determination unit 401 has a table in which a lottery result or a special symbol stop symbol and a decorative symbol stop symbol are associated with each other, and determines a decorative symbol stop symbol based on this table.

  In this table, the special symbol “7” is associated with the decorative symbol “777”, and the special symbol “3” is associated with the decorative symbol “111”, “888”, etc. in which three numbers or alphabets other than 7 are arranged. As described above, the correspondence between the special symbol and the decorative symbol does not have to be 1: 1, and a plurality of decorative symbols may be associated with one special symbol. In this case, the decorative symbol determination unit 401 selects an arbitrary decorative symbol from a plurality of decorative symbols associated with the special symbol.

  The decorative symbol pattern determining unit 402 determines the decorative symbol display pattern according to the determination result by the success / failure determining unit 321. In other words, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 402 determines a display pattern that represents the display order of the symbol variation of the decorative symbol. Specifically, the decorative symbol pattern determination unit 402 determines the decorative symbol image, the decorative symbol variation pattern, and the variation display effect pattern according to the display pattern representing the special symbol display pattern.

  The decorative symbol pattern storage unit 403 stores various images such as a decorative symbol image, a background image, and a character image, and these images can be changed in any display form within the screen of the decorative symbol display device 107. A plurality of variation patterns that determine whether to perform and a plurality of effect patterns that determine how to reach or produce the reach operation are stored.

  The decorative symbol image is associated with the special symbol stop symbol. The variation pattern and the effect pattern are associated with a special symbol display pattern. The decorative symbol pattern determination unit 402 determines a variation pattern that represents the display order of symbol variations of the decorative symbol up to the stop symbol and an effect pattern in the display sequence. The symbol variation time of the decorative symbol is set equal to the symbol variation time of the special symbol.

  The display processing unit 404 causes the decorative symbol display device 107 to display the decorative symbol display variation in accordance with the determined decorative symbol display pattern and stop symbol, and then causes the decorative symbol display device 107 to display the decorative symbol stop symbol. .

  The sub input processing unit 405 receives the operation content of the operation switch 132 by the player. In the example of FIG. 1, one example of the operation switch 132 is shown, but a plurality of operation switches 132 may be provided. The operation switch 132 is formed by any one or a combination of mechanical buttons, infrared sensors, touch sensors, and the like.

  When the display processing unit 306 of the main control unit 300 starts the variation display of the special symbol, the display processing unit 306 transmits a variation start instruction to the display processing unit 404 of the sub-control unit 400 and starts counting the symbol variation time. When the display processing unit 404 of the sub-control unit 400 receives the change start instruction, the display processing unit 404 starts changing the decorative symbol display.

  The display processing unit 306 displays the special symbol stop symbol on the special symbol display device 106 based on the timing when the special symbol variable display ends, and transmits the variable display stop instruction to the display processing unit 404. When the display processing unit 404 receives a change display stop instruction, the display processing unit 404 displays a stop symbol of the decorative symbol on the decorative symbol display device 107. Thereby, the display process by one lottery result is complete | finished.

  When the acquired random number is a jackpot value, the success / failure determination unit 321 transmits a special game start instruction to the special game execution unit 309 after displaying the stop symbol. The special game execution unit 309 includes a special game processing unit 330, a continuation determination unit 331, and a probability variation determination unit 332.

  The special game processing unit 330 transmits an instruction to open the big prize opening 113 to the big prize processing unit 304. The special prize processing unit 304 opens the special prize winning port 113 based on the release instruction received from the special game processing unit 330. The game ball that has won the opened big prize opening 113 is detected by the big prize opening switch 213. When a game ball wins in the opened big winning opening 113, the big prize processing unit 304 transmits a payout instruction such as the number of prize balls to the payout control board 206 and the number of game balls won in one unit game. Count. The big prize processing unit 304 ends one unit game after the big prize opening 113 is opened for a predetermined time or after a predetermined number or more of game balls have won.

  When the area passing processing unit 305 receives information indicating the passing of the game ball from the specific area detection switch 214 to the specific area 121, the area passing processing unit 305 transmits the information to the continuation determining unit 331 of the special game executing unit 309. The continuation determination unit 331 instructs the special game processing unit 330 to shift to the next unit game when the passage of one or more game balls to the specific area 121 is detected in one unit game. The special game processing unit 330 repeats the unit game for a maximum of 15 times on the condition that the continuation determination unit 331 instructs the transition to the next unit game.

  The probability determination unit 332 determines whether to shift to the probability variation mode or the short time mode after execution of the special game according to the determination result by the success / failure determination unit 321, and transmits the determination result to the probability change execution unit 312. To do. The probability variation determination unit 332 determines that the transition to the probability variation mode should be made when the special symbol stop symbol is “7”, for example.

  When the probability change execution unit 312 receives the determination result indicating that the mode should be shifted to the probability variation mode from the probability determination unit 332, the probability variation execution unit 312 changes the success / failure table held by the success / failure determination unit 321 for the probability variation mode. For example, in the probability variation mode, a numerical range of 4000 to 6000, 8000 to 10000, etc. is added to the range of the jackpot value (for example, 0 to 2000). As a result, the probability variation execution unit 312 increases the jackpot probability in the probability variation mode compared to that in the normal mode.

  When receiving the information indicating the passing of the game ball from the normal symbol operation gate switch 211 to the normal symbol operation gate 103, the operation processing unit 303 transmits a general winning signal to the normal symbol lottery execution unit 308. When receiving the general winning signal, the normal symbol lottery execution unit 308 acquires a random number and stores it in the normal symbol holding storage unit 311. The normal symbol lottery execution unit 308 determines a count value within a predetermined count range (for example, 0 to 9) as a random number, and stores the random number in the normal symbol hold storage unit 311.

  The normal symbol hold storage unit 311 has a storage area that can store a predetermined number (for example, up to four) of random numbers as the upper limit of the number of holds. When the predetermined number of random numbers are stored, the normal symbol storage unit 311 does not store the random numbers until the storage area becomes empty. The normal symbol lottery execution unit 308 reads a random number from the normal symbol hold storage unit 311 and determines whether or not it is correct. In the success / failure table held by the normal symbol lottery execution unit 308, for example, “7” is defined as a winning value, and numbers other than “7” are defined as lost values. The normal symbol lottery execution unit 308 determines whether the normal symbol is correct based on whether the read random number is a winning value or a lost value. The lottery result of the normal symbol is transmitted to the display processing unit 306 and the operation processing unit 303.

The display processing unit 306 displays the normal symbol “7” corresponding to the win and the normal symbol “−” corresponding to the loss on the normal symbol display device 108 based on the received lottery result of the normal symbol. When the lottery result of the received normal symbol is a win, the ordinary electric actor 104 is opened for a predetermined time, while when the lottery result of the received ordinary symbol is lost, the operation processing unit 303 displays the ordinary electric actor 104. Do not open.
(Transition from normal games to special games)
FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an example illustrating a process of determining and holding a random number. Proceeding to step S10, the start winning processing section 302 determines whether or not there has been a winning at the start winning opening 112. The start winning processing unit 302 repeats the process of step S10 until there is a winning at the start winning opening 112 (N in S10). If there is a winning at the start winning opening 112 (Y in S10), the process proceeds to step S12, and the random number determination unit 320 determines whether or not the symbol is changing.

  If the symbol is not changing (N in S12), the process proceeds to step S14, and the random number determination unit 320 determines a random number. Then, the process proceeds to step S28 of FIG. 6 described later, and the success / failure determination unit 321 determines whether or not the lottery is successful based on a random number.

  On the other hand, if the symbol is changing (Y in S12), the process proceeds to step S16, and the random number determination unit 320 determines whether or not the special symbol hold storage unit 310 can hold the random number. If the random number of the upper limit (for example, 4) of the holding number is not held in the special symbol holding storage unit 310 during symbol variation, the random number determination unit 320 determines that the random number can be held.

  If the random number cannot be suspended (N in S16), the random number determination unit 320 does not determine the random number for the start winning and returns to step S10. If the random number cannot be reserved, the special symbol storage unit 310 may not store the random number. If the random number can be suspended (Y in S16), the process proceeds to step S18, and the random number determination unit 320 determines the random number. And it progresses to step S20, the random number determination part 320 stores the determined random number in the special symbol holding | maintenance memory | storage part 310, and returns to step S10.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an example showing a process of shifting from a normal game to a special game. In the following description, the symbol variation in step S12 is referred to as “previous symbol variation”, and the symbol variation following “previous symbol variation” is referred to as “current symbol variation”.

  In step S22, the success / failure determination unit 321 determines whether or not the previous symbol variation has ended. The success / failure determination unit 321 repeatedly performs the process of step S22 until the previous symbol variation ends (N in S22).

  If the previous symbol variation has been completed (Y in S22), the process proceeds to step S23, and the success / failure determination unit 321 determines whether or not a random number is stored in the special symbol storage unit 310. When the suspension is not made (N in S23), the process returns to step S22. On the other hand, if it is on hold (Y in S23), the success / failure determination unit 321 proceeds to step S24.

  In step S24, the success / failure determination unit 321 reads the first random number stored first as a lottery result among the random numbers held in the special symbol hold storage unit 310, and the random number is read from the special symbol hold storage unit 310. to erase.

  In step S26, if the second and subsequent random numbers are reserved in the special symbol storage unit 310, the success / failure determination unit 321 shifts the second and subsequent random numbers to the previous storage area. In step S28, the success / failure determination unit 321 determines whether or not the lottery is successful based on the read random number, as will be described later. Subsequently, an effect based on the current lottery result is determined.

  In step S30, the display processing unit 306 and the display processing unit 404 cause the special symbol display device 106 and the decorative symbol display device 107 to variably display the special symbol and the decorative symbol of this time. Proceeding to step S32, the success / failure determination unit 321 determines whether or not the lottery determination result in step S28 is a big hit. If the lottery determination result is not a big hit (N in S32), the process returns to step S10.

  On the other hand, if the lottery determination result is a big hit (Y in S32), the process proceeds to step S36, and the display processing unit 404 performs a special game start process. Progressing to step S38 following step S36, a special game is started. The processes of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are performed in parallel.

  Next, the success / failure determination process in step S28 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 are flowcharts of an example showing details of the success / failure determination process. The flowchart of FIG. 7 includes a process for determining whether or not the lottery is successful in the main control unit 300 and a process for determining the display content of the symbol variation. Further, the flowchart of FIG. 8 includes processing for determining the display content of the symbol variation in the sub-control unit 400.

  In step S50, the success / failure determination unit 321 determines whether the random number read in step S24 or the random number determined in step S14 is a jackpot value. When the random number corresponds to the jackpot value (Y in S50), the process proceeds to step S51, and the probability variation determination unit 332 determines whether the random number is a jackpot value with probability variation.

  If the random number corresponds to the jackpot value with probability variation (Y in S51), the special symbol determination unit 322 and the special symbol pattern determination unit 323 proceed to step S52, and display the special symbol stop symbol and display pattern for the jackpot with probability variation. decide.

  On the other hand, if the random number does not correspond to the jackpot value with probability variation (N in S51), the special symbol determination unit 322 and the special symbol pattern determination unit 323 proceed to step S53, and the special symbol stop symbol and display pattern for the normal jackpot To decide.

  If the random number corresponds to the loss value (N in S50), the special symbol determination unit 322 and the special symbol pattern determination unit 323 proceed to step S54, and determine the stop symbol and display pattern of the special symbol for loss. The lottery result, the special symbol stop symbol, and the display pattern are transmitted to the sub-control unit 400.

  Proceeding to step S60 following step S52, S53 or S54, the decorative design determining unit 401 determines the stop symbol of the decorative symbol based on the lottery result or the stop symbol of the special symbol. Proceeding to step S61, the decorative symbol pattern determination unit 402 determines whether or not to give a decorative symbol to the reach based on the display pattern of the special symbol. This determination may be made based on the time length of the special symbol display pattern.

  When the reach design of the decorative symbol is performed (Y in S61), the decorative symbol pattern determination unit 402 proceeds to step S62 and determines whether or not the super reach effect is performed. This determination may be made based on the time length of the special symbol display pattern. In the case where the decorative design is to produce a super-reach effect (Y in S62), the process proceeds to step S63, where the decorative design pattern determination unit 402 determines the display pattern of the decorative design for super reach. When the super-reach effect is not performed on the decorative symbol (N in S62), the process proceeds to step S64, where the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 402 determines the display pattern of the decorative symbol for reach. In step S61, if the decorative design does not reach (N in S61), the process proceeds to step S65, where the decorative design pattern determination unit 402 determines the display pattern of the decorative design without reach. The decorative symbol display patterns in steps S63, S64, and S65 define a series of display orders from the start of the decorative symbol variation to the final determination of the decorative symbols.

  Next, the decorative symbols displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 will be described. FIG. 9 is a screen transition diagram of an example of a decorative symbol displayed on the decorative symbol display device. The screen in FIG. 9A shows a state where three numbers are rotating. The screen of FIG. 9B shows a state in which only the left numeric string is stopped.

  The screen of FIG. 9C shows a state in which the same decorative design stops on the left and right numeric strings, and the middle numeric string rotates. The screen shown in FIG. 9C is in a reach state where a big hit is given if the decorative pattern in the middle is “2”.

  Therefore, on the screen of FIG. 9D, the player is informed that it is in the reach state. Subsequently, on the screen of FIG. 9 (e), after the decorative symbol is reduced and displayed on the lower left of the decorative symbol display device 107, a character image is displayed, and a reach effect that gives the player a sense of expectation of jackpot is performed.

  In the screen of FIG. 9 (f), “2” is stopped in the middle numeric string, and the decorative symbol is temporarily determined. In the screen of FIG. 9 (f), for example, three decorative symbols are displayed in a shaking manner to indicate provisional confirmation. On the screen of FIG. 9 (g), rotation starts with the same decorative symbols arranged in a horizontal row, and a so-called re-lottery effect is performed. The screen of FIG. 9 (h) shows a state where the decorative design is fixed.

  Fig.9 (a)-FIG.9 (h) represent an example of the design fluctuation | variation of the decoration design when a lottery result is a big hit. When the lottery result is lost, the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is determined so that the same decorative symbol does not stop in the three numeric strings.

  When the lottery result is a jackpot, the special game start process shown in FIG. 10 is performed following the symbol change process from the start of the change of the decorative pattern of FIG. 9A to the determination of the decorative pattern of FIG. 9H. . FIG. 10 is a screen transition diagram of an example of a screen displayed on the decorative symbol display device during the special game start process.

  FIG. 10A is an image diagram of a jackpot screen displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 after the screen of FIG. 9H. In the screen of FIG. 10A, for example, by displaying “Large Bonus” or the like, the player is informed of the transition to the special game. Subsequently, a special game demonstration screen is displayed on the screen of FIG. After the special game start process of FIG. 10, the pachinko machine 100 shifts to a special game.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the temporal transition of the symbol variation process, the special game start process, and the special game when the lottery result is a big hit. FIG. 11A shows an example in which the time for the symbol variation process for decorative symbols is 50 seconds and the time for the special game start process is 10 seconds. In FIG. 11A, the decorative symbol design variation process and the special game start process are distinguished and executed as two processes.

  Therefore, the start time of the special game start process (special game start time) is after 50 seconds, which is the time of the symbol variation process, has elapsed. That is, the special game start time is fixedly determined according to the time of the symbol variation process. In addition, since the time of the symbol variation process is determined by the display pattern of the special symbol, the time of the symbol variation processing of the decorative symbol determined by the display pattern of the special symbol unless an instruction is given directly to the main control unit 300 Cannot be shortened.

  Therefore, in the pachinko machine 100 of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 11 (b), the special game start time is advanced by collectively executing the decorative symbol design variation process and the special game start process as one process. be able to. Specifically, the method of collectively executing the decorative symbol design variation process and the special game start process as a single process is realized by, for example, the process of determining the decorative symbol display pattern in steps S63 and S64. In steps S63 and S64, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 402 may determine a decorative symbol display pattern for performing the symbol variation processing and the special game start processing as a single process.

  In the case of FIG. 11B, the start time of the special game start process can be advanced by setting the time of the symbol change process of the decorative symbols to 40 seconds and the time of the special game start process to 20 seconds. Note that the total time required for the decorative symbol change process and the special game start process is the same as in FIGS. 11A and 11B. As described above, the pachinko machine 100 according to the present invention can make the player feel that the start of the special game has been accelerated without changing the time from the start of the symbol change of the decorative pattern to the start of the special game. .

  In addition, as described above, in the conventional pachinko machine 100, the probability of winning a normal symbol is changed from a low probability to a high probability in the probability variation mode or the short time mode, and the opening frequency of the normal electric accessory 104 is increased. The frequency of winning at the starting prize opening increases. In the probability variation mode or the short time mode, for example, the winning probability of the normal symbol is reduced from a high probability to a low probability at the start of the special game. In the short time mode, after a predetermined number of games are executed, the winning probability of the normal symbol may be lowered from a high probability to a low probability.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a temporal transition in which the probability of winning a normal symbol changes from a high probability to a low probability in the probability variation mode or the short time mode. In FIG. 12A, as shown in FIG. 11A, when the decorative symbol variation process and the special game start process are distinguished and executed as two processes, the normal symbol winning probability is reduced from a high probability to a low probability. It shows an example of dropping the probability.

  In the case of FIG. 12 (a), since the special game start time is fixed after the time of the symbol change process for the decorative symbols has elapsed, the time for dropping the winning probability of the normal symbol from the high probability to the low probability cannot be accelerated. .

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11B, FIG. 12B shows that when the decorative symbol change process and the special game start process are executed as a single process, the normal symbol winning probability is high. This represents an example of dropping from a low probability. In the case of FIG. 12B, since the special game start time can be advanced, the time for dropping the winning probability of the normal symbol from the high probability to the low probability can be accelerated.

  For this reason, the hall in which the pachinko machine 100 of the present invention is installed can shorten the time to drop the winning probability of the normal symbol from the high probability to the low probability, so that it is possible to prevent the excessive prize balls from being paid out. It should be noted that how much the time of the symbol change process for the decorative symbols is shortened to advance the special game start time can be changed according to various situations.

  For example, when the number of jackpots per day is 10 or more in total, the time for symbol variation processing is set to 30 seconds and the time for jackpot processing is advanced by 20 seconds. And in the jackpot processing, it is possible to output a special effect for 20 seconds that has been advanced. Here, the special effects refer to fireworks, “congratulations” characters, character effects, and the like.

  In addition, when the number of consecutive jackpots is 3 times or more, the time of symbol variation processing is set to 10 seconds and the time of jackpot processing is set to 50 seconds. In the big hit process, a special effect for 50 seconds can be output.

  The pachinko machine 100 according to the second embodiment is the same as the pachinko machine 100 according to the first embodiment except for a part thereof, and thus description thereof is omitted as appropriate. In the pachinko machine 100 according to the second embodiment, the first pattern that is executed as two processes by distinguishing the decorative symbol variation process and the special game start process shown in FIG. 11A and the decorative symbol shown in FIG. 11B. Any one of the second pattern that executes the symbol variation process and the special game start process as a single process is selected as a display pattern for the decorative symbol.

  As described above, the pachinko machine 100 according to the present invention can make the start of the special game feel early without changing the time from the start of the symbol change of the decorative design to the start of the special game.

  The present invention is not limited to the specifically disclosed embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

It is an external view of an example showing the front side of the pachinko machine. It is an external view of an example showing the back side of a pachinko machine. It is a block diagram of an example showing the system configuration of the pachinko machine. It is an example block diagram showing the functional structure of the pachinko machine. It is a flowchart of an example which shows the process of determining and suspending random numbers. It is a flowchart of an example which shows the process which transfers to a special game from a normal game. It is a flowchart (1/2) of an example which shows the detail of a success / failure determination process. It is a flowchart (2/2) of an example which shows the detail of a success / failure determination process. It is a screen transition diagram of an example of the decorative symbol displayed on the decorative symbol display device. It is a screen transition figure of an example of the screen displayed on a decoration symbol display device at the time of special game start processing. It is explanatory drawing showing the time transition of the symbol change process, special game start process, and special game when a lottery result is a big hit. It is explanatory drawing showing the time transition in which the winning probability of a normal symbol changes from a high probability to a low probability in the probability variation mode or the short time mode.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Pachinko machine 103 Normal symbol action gate 104 Normal electric accessory 106 Special symbol display device 107 Decoration symbol display device 108 Normal symbol display device 111 General prize opening 112 Start prize opening 113 Grand prize opening 118 Liquid crystal display 118a-118c Decoration symbol display area 132 operation switch 201 main control board 202 sub control board 300 main control part 306 display processing part 307 special symbol lottery execution part 320 random number determination part 321 success / failure determination part 322 special symbol determination part 323 special symbol pattern determination part 400 sub control part 401 decoration Symbol determining unit 402 Decorative symbol pattern determining unit 403 Decorative symbol pattern storage unit 404 Display processing unit 405 Sub input processing unit

Claims (3)

A gaming machine equipped with a symbol display device,
A main control unit that executes a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special game in response to a drop of the game ball into the start winning opening, and determines a stop symbol and a display pattern of the special symbol based on the lottery result; and ,
A sub-control unit that determines the stop symbol and display pattern of the decorative symbol according to the determined special symbol stop symbol and display pattern, and displays the symbol variation on the symbol display device,
As a result of the lottery, if it is decided to shift to the special game, the sub-control unit performs the special game after the symbol change process from the start of the symbol change of the decorative symbol to the determination of the decorative symbol and after the decoration symbol is determined. A game machine characterized in that special game start processing up to the start of the game is collectively executed as one process.   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the sub-control unit changes a start position of the special game start process without changing a total time required for the symbol variation process and the special game start process. A gaming machine equipped with a symbol display device,
A main control unit that executes a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special game in response to a drop of the game ball into the start winning opening, and determines a stop symbol and a display pattern of the special symbol based on the lottery result; and ,
A sub-control unit that determines the stop symbol and display pattern of the decorative symbol according to the determined special symbol stop symbol and display pattern, and displays the symbol variation on the symbol display device,
The sub-control unit, as a display pattern for generating a special game according to the result of the lottery, a symbol variation process from the start of symbol variation of the decorative symbol to the determination of the decorative symbol, and confirmation of the decorative symbol A first pattern that executes separately the special game start process from the start to the start of the special game; and a second pattern that executes the symbol variation process and the special game start process collectively as one process A game machine characterized by selecting any one of the above.

Images