JP2007014472A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which does not generate the unpleasantness while the time efficiency is improved by shortening the variation display time in a prescribed game situation. <P>SOLUTION: A pachinko machine 10 is equipped with an outer frame 11 to form a shell, an inner frame 12 supported at a side section of the outer frame 11 to be capable of opening and closing, and a game board fixed to the inner frame 12. A variation display device is disposed at the central part of the game board, wherein the variation displays of two or more types of symbols are respectively executed in two or more symbol display ranges. Two or more types of combination patterns of the symbols are provided to be stopped and displayed in the individual display ranges of the variation display device. Also, there are a first mode and a second mode to shorten the variation display time. It is so constituted that the combination pattern of the specific symbols out of the combination patterns of the symbols which can be selected in the first mode is omitted from the object of selection in the second mode and the symbols are not stopped and displayed in the combination of the symbols corresponding to the above combination pattern in the variation display device. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  In a pachinko machine as a kind of gaming machine, for example, a lottery for determining various gaming states is performed when a gaming ball enters the operation port, and on the variable display device based on the result of the lottery, Is displayed. Specifically, the variable display device includes a plurality of symbol display areas, and a plurality of types of symbols are variably displayed in each symbol display area. When the combination of symbols stopped and displayed in each symbol display area of the variable display device is a specific combination pattern determined in advance, a special gaming state (a jackpot state) advantageous to the player is generated. As an example of this mode, the variable display device includes three symbol display areas of left, middle, and right, and symbols with numbers 0 to 9 are sequentially displayed in each symbol display area. There are cases in which a special gaming state is generated when the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the symbol display area are a combination of the same symbols (double eyes). In the special game state, for example, a lot of game balls can be won and a lot of prize balls can be obtained by opening a variable winning device.

  In such a gaming machine, symbols that are variably displayed in each symbol display area are not stopped and displayed all at once, but symbols are stopped and displayed in order for each symbol display area. . In addition, when a symbol is stopped and displayed in the specific combination, as a preceding step, the symbol is stopped and displayed before the final stop symbol display region where the symbol is stopped and displayed last among a plurality of symbol display regions. In the previous stage symbol display area, symbols are stopped and displayed by a combination of reach symbols. For example, when symbols that are displayed in a variable manner in each of the left, middle, and right symbol display areas are stopped and displayed in the order of left → right → middle, and the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol display areas are the same It can be considered that the combination of symbols is a combination of reach symbols. As a result, a special gaming state can be expected when a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination of reach symbols in the preceding symbol display area, while a symbol is not a combination of reach symbols in the preceding symbol display area. When the stop display is made, it can be recognized that the big hit state does not occur at that time. In addition, even when a symbol is stopped and displayed by a combination of reach symbols in the previous stage symbol display area, the symbol may not be stopped and displayed by a specific combination (becomes off).

  In addition, for example, there are cases where a mode such as a high probability mode or a short time mode is provided, and in these modes, improvement in time efficiency is achieved by shortening the display time of the symbol variation (for example, Patent Document 1). In such a mode in which the variable display time is shortened, for example, the variable display time until the symbol in the previous-stage symbol display area is stopped and displayed is shortened compared to the normal mode. In particular, if the symbol in the previous stage symbol display area is stopped and displayed in a combination other than the reach symbol, it will be known that the symbol will be out of place at that time as described above. Immediately after the display, it may be possible to stop and display the symbols in the final stop symbol display area. For example, in the mode in which the variable display time is shortened, in the right symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed secondly among the left, middle and right symbol display areas after the variable display of the symbol is started. The time until the symbol is stopped and displayed is shortened. When the symbols are not stopped and displayed by the combination of reach symbols in the left and right symbol display areas, the symbols are immediately stopped and displayed in the middle symbol display area. In addition, when symbols are stopped and displayed in a specific combination, the last stop symbol display is displayed after the symbols in the previous stage symbol display area are stopped and displayed in order to leave a sense of excitement until the special gaming state is given. It is conceivable that the variable display time until the design of the area is stopped and displayed is not shortened.

Even if the symbols in the previous-stage symbol display area are stopped and displayed by a combination of reach symbols, if the symbols are not stopped and displayed by a specific combination (if they are out of reach), the previous-stage symbol display area It may be possible to improve the time efficiency by shortening the variable display time after the stop display of the symbol. For example, if a symbol that is different from the symbol that is stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol display area is stopped and displayed in the middle symbol display symbol display area, the symbol is stopped in the middle symbol display area immediately after the symbol is stopped and displayed in the right symbol display area. Is displayed. However, when such a configuration is adopted, the occurrence of a special gaming state will be revealed if the variable display time is not shortened after the stop display of the previous stage symbol display area. Therefore, for example, two patterns in the case of detach reach (for example, a symbol stopped and displayed in the middle symbol display area can be displayed immediately before and immediately after the symbol stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol display areas. If one pattern is selected (for example, in the former case), the variable display time after the symbol stop display in the previous stage symbol area will not be shortened. When the other pattern is selected (for example, in the latter case), it is conceivable that the symbol in the final stop symbol display area is stopped and displayed immediately after the symbol stop display in the preceding stage symbol area. For example, “2” or “2” displayed before or after the symbol with “3” in the middle symbol display area after the symbol with “3” is stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol display areas. When the symbol with “4” is stopped and displayed, the variable display after the symbol is stopped and displayed in the right symbol display area is not shortened. On the other hand, after a symbol with “3” is stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol display areas, symbols other than those with “2” or “4” (for example, “8”) are stopped in the middle symbol display area. When displayed, the symbol is stopped and displayed in the middle symbol display area immediately after the symbol is stopped and displayed in the right symbol display area. Thereby, while aiming at the improvement of time efficiency, the possibility of becoming simple game play can be avoided.
JP 2003-154110 A

  However, in the case of a detachment reach, if the symbol in the final stop symbol display area is stopped immediately after the symbol stop display in the previous stage symbol display area, the player must set the symbol in the previous stage symbol display area to the reach symbol combination. Because of the fact that they are stopped and displayed together, the expectation for the occurrence of a special gaming state may be held for a while, and at the next moment, the symbols of the final stop symbol sequence may be stopped and displayed, which may cause a sense of incongruity. .

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and in a predetermined gaming state, a game that does not cause a sense of incongruity while improving time efficiency by shortening the variable display time. The purpose is to provide a machine.

  In the following, each means suitable for solving the above-mentioned purpose will be described in terms of items. In addition, the effect etc. peculiar to the means to respond | correspond as needed are added.

Means 1. A variable display device in which a variable display of a plurality of types of symbols is performed in each of a plurality of symbol display areas;
Display control means for variably displaying symbols in each symbol display area of the variable display device, and sequentially stopping and displaying symbols in the symbol display area in the variable display;
Perform a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player at a predetermined opportunity, and if the winning lottery is won, give a special gaming state,
At least when the occurrence of the special gaming state is determined, the mode lottery is performed, and after completion of the special gaming state, the first mode or the first mode according to the result of the mode lottery, The variable display time from the start of the variable display to the stop display in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed at the end of the plurality of symbol display areas is set to be short. Set one of the two modes,
Game state control means for selecting any one of the combination patterns of symbols to be stopped and displayed in each symbol display area of the variable display device;
The pattern combination pattern is divided into at least first to fourth combination patterns,
If the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, the variable display device is stopped and displayed with a combination corresponding to one of the first to third combination patterns,
When winning in the winning / losing lottery, a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device,
In the variable display device, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to any of the second to fourth combination patterns, the symbol is variably displayed in the symbol display area where the stop display is finally performed. At a certain time, the symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific manner in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. Then, the symbols constituting the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is given are stopped and displayed,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the third combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbol that forms a specific combination mode is stopped and displayed.
When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbol is stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbol stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbols constituting the combination mode other than the specific combination mode are stopped and displayed.
The gaming state control means includes
When winning in the winning / no-win lottery, a pattern selection process for selecting the fourth combination pattern is performed,
During the first mode, if the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, a pattern selection process for selecting one of the first to third combination patterns is performed.
In the second mode, if the winning combination is not won, the second combination pattern is removed from the selection target, and either the first or third combination pattern is selected. Pattern selection process to
The gaming state control means or the display control means
A stop symbol determination process for determining a symbol according to the result of the pattern selection process;
According to the result of the pattern selection process and the set mode, a variation pattern determination process for determining a variation mode and a variation display time of the symbol at the time of variation display of the symbol,
The display control means includes
In the variable display device, after the symbol variation display is performed based on the symbol variation mode and variation display time determined by the variation pattern determination process, the symbol determined by the stop symbol determination process is stopped and displayed. A gaming machine that performs display control processing.

  When the symbol is stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the first combination pattern, the special gaming state is when the symbol is stopped and displayed in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed last. The player is interested in the subsequent variable display (until the symbol is stopped and displayed in the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed at the end). I will not hold you. For this reason, in the second mode, after the symbol is stopped and displayed in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed last, the symbol is immediately stopped and displayed immediately in the symbol display area. By stopping and displaying the symbols (ending the variable display), it is possible to improve the time efficiency and avoid the possibility that the player may have an emotion that he / she spends extra time.

  When a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern, that is, when a special gaming state is given, the symbol is displayed in a symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed last. If the variable display is immediately terminated after being stopped and displayed in a specific manner, the game may become unsavory. Therefore, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern, a sufficient variation display time (for example, the first display time) until the variation display ends after the symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. By taking the same time as in the mode (2), it is possible to fully enjoy the variable display that can give an uplifting feeling until the special gaming state is given even in the second mode.

  In addition, even when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the third combination pattern, after the symbol is stopped and displayed in the specific mode, the sufficient display time is taken after the display is stopped in the specific mode. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the possibility of a simple game such that it becomes clear that the special game state is given unless the change display is immediately finished.

  However, in the second mode, when a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern, if a sufficient variation display time is taken after the stop display in a specific mode, There is a risk that people may feel that they are spending extra time. It is also conceivable that the time efficiency cannot be sufficiently improved.

  On the other hand, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern, if the variable display is terminated immediately after the specific symbol is stopped and displayed, the symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. As a result, the player has an expectation for granting a special gaming state and pays attention to the variation display of the symbol. However, when the variation display ends immediately, a sense of incongruity occurs. There is a fear.

  In this respect, according to the means 1, during the second mode, the combination of symbols corresponding to the second combination pattern is not stopped and displayed by removing the second combination pattern from the selection target. It has become. That is, in the first mode, when it comes off, the combination pattern of the stop symbols is assigned to one of the first to third combination patterns, whereas in the second mode, the combination pattern is lost. If so, it is distributed to either the first or third combination pattern. This prevents a situation in which the symbol is stopped and displayed in the symbol display area where the symbol is immediately stopped and displayed immediately in spite of being stopped and displayed in a specific manner. For this reason, it is possible to prevent a problem that a sense of incongruity occurs due to the end of the variable display immediately after the stop display in the specific mode. As described above, by configuring so as not to select the second combination pattern during the second mode, it is possible to employ a configuration that can achieve the above-described effects, and as a result, improvement in time efficiency In this way, it is possible to avoid the possibility that a sense of incongruity will occur.

  The combination pattern of stop symbols may be divided into four or more. For example, a combination pattern of symbols selected when winning or winning lottery is selected, for example, a combination pattern of symbols selected when the first mode is given after the end of the special gaming state, and the end of the special gaming state You may divide into the pattern combination pattern selected when the 2nd mode is given later.

  In addition, when a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the third and fourth combination patterns, during the variation display of the symbol (in a combination corresponding to the first and second combination patterns) It may be configured such that a specific effect (which is not derived in the case of stop display) can be derived.

Mean 2. The gaming state control means includes
A stop pattern selection counter used in determining the combination pattern of the stop symbols;
Random number extraction means for extracting the value of the stop pattern selection counter at the predetermined opportunity;
At least a first threshold value storage means for storing a first threshold value that is a predetermined numerical value and a second threshold value that is a numerical value smaller than the first threshold value;
At least a second mode threshold value storage means in which a first threshold value that is a predetermined numerical value is stored;
In the first mode, if you do not win in the winning lottery,
A first classification determination process for determining whether or not at least the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is equal to or greater than a first threshold stored in the first mode threshold storage means;
It is determined whether or not the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold stored in the first mode threshold storage means and less than the first threshold. Perform the second classification determination process,
Based on the first and second classification determination processing,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold, select the third combination pattern,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to a second threshold and less than the first threshold, the second combination pattern is selected,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is less than the second threshold value, a pattern selection process for selecting the first combination pattern is performed,
In the second mode, if you do not win in the winning lottery,
Performing a first classification determination process for determining whether or not at least the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is equal to or greater than a first threshold value stored in the second mode storage means;
Based on the first classification determination process,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold, select the third combination pattern,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a pattern selection process for selecting the first combination pattern is performed if the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is less than a first threshold value.

  According to the means 2, during the second mode, the third combination pattern and the other combinations are not performed without performing the second classification determination process for dividing the second combination pattern into the other combination patterns. By performing only the first classification determination process that divides the combination pattern, the second combination pattern is excluded from the selection target, and the symbols are not stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern. .

  In addition to the configuration described in this means, for example, in the case where the winning combination is not selected, the combination pattern can be changed after any of the first to third combination patterns is selected. In this case, even if the second combination pattern is selected in the second mode, the display is stopped at the combination corresponding to the second combination pattern by changing to another combination pattern. It can be set as the structure which is not made to do. However, in this case, after determining the combination pattern, it is determined whether or not it is the second mode, and if it is determined that the second mode is selected, the selected combination pattern is the second set. Whether or not the pattern is a combination pattern is determined, and when it is determined that the pattern is the second combination pattern, it is necessary to perform many processes such as changing the combination pattern. In this respect, in this means, since the stop symbol category 2 is excluded from the selection target, it is not necessary to perform the processing as described above after determining the combination pattern, and as a result, the processing can be simplified. .

Means 3. A setting having a first threshold storage area capable of storing the first threshold stored in the first and second mode threshold storage means, and a second threshold storage area capable of storing the second threshold A value storage means,
In a stage before performing the first and second classification determination processes, a mode determination process for determining whether or not the first mode is being performed is performed,
Based on the result of the mode determination process, the threshold stored in either the first mode threshold storage means or the second mode threshold storage means is referred to in the first and second classification determination processes. The determined first threshold value is stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means, and the determined second threshold value is stored in the second threshold value storage area. Perform the setting process,
Of the first category determination process and the second category determination process, the second category determination process is performed before the first category determination process.
In the first mode, when the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means and the second threshold value storage area are stored. After performing the second segment determination process based on the second threshold value, the first segment determination based on the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means Process,
In the case where the winning lottery is not won in the second mode, the second classification determination process is skipped, and the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storing means is stored. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the first classification determination process is performed based on a threshold value.

  As described in the above means 2, the second classification determination process is not performed during the second mode. For this purpose, this means skips the second segment determination process and performs the first segment determination process. For example, when the second segment determination process is performed after the first segment determination process, the mode determination process needs to be performed again after the first segment determination process in order to skip the second segment determination process. Will occur. In this regard, according to the means 3, after the mode determination process and the threshold setting process are performed, the second combination pattern is excluded from the selection target by simply skipping the second classification determination process, and the first or third Either of the combination patterns can be selected. As a result, the processing can be simplified.

Means 4. A variable display device in which a variable display of a plurality of types of symbols is performed in each of a plurality of symbol display areas;
Display control means for variably displaying symbols in each symbol display area of the variable display device, and sequentially stopping and displaying symbols in the symbol display area in the variable display;
Perform a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player at a predetermined opportunity, and if the winning lottery is won, give a special gaming state,
At least when the occurrence of the special gaming state is determined, the mode lottery is performed, and after completion of the special gaming state, the first mode or the first mode according to the result of the mode lottery, The variable display time from the start of the variable display to the stop display in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed at the end of the plurality of symbol display areas is set to be short. Set one of the two modes,
Game state control means for selecting any one of the combination patterns of symbols to be stopped and displayed in each symbol display area of the variable display device;
The pattern combination pattern is divided into at least first to fourth combination patterns,
If the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, the variable display device is stopped and displayed with a combination corresponding to one of the first to third combination patterns,
When winning in the winning / losing lottery, a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device,
In the variable display device, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to any of the second to fourth combination patterns, the symbol is variably displayed in the symbol display area where the stop display is finally performed. At a certain time, the symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific manner in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. Then, the symbols constituting the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is given are stopped and displayed,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the third combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbol that forms a specific combination mode is stopped and displayed.
When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbol is stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbol stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbols constituting the combination mode other than the specific combination mode are stopped and displayed.
The gaming state control means includes
A stop pattern selection counter used in determining the combination pattern of the stop symbols;
Random number extraction means for extracting the value of the stop pattern selection counter at the predetermined opportunity;
A first mode threshold value storage means for storing a first threshold value that is a predetermined numerical value and a second threshold value that is a numerical value smaller than the first threshold value;
A second mode threshold storage means for storing a first threshold which is a predetermined numerical value;
A setting having a first threshold storage area capable of storing the first threshold stored in the first and second mode threshold storage means, and a second threshold storage area capable of storing the second threshold A value storage means,
Performs a success / failure determination process for determining whether or not the winning / failing lottery has been won,
When it is determined that the winning determination process is won, a pattern selection process for selecting a fourth combination pattern is performed,
When it is determined that the winning determination process is not won, a mode determination process for determining whether or not the first mode is being performed is performed,
During the first mode, the first threshold value stored in the first mode threshold value storage means is stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means, and the second threshold value storage is performed. The second threshold value stored in the first mode threshold value storage means is stored for the area, and the second threshold value is stored for the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means when in the second mode. Performing a threshold setting process for storing the first threshold stored in the two-mode threshold storage means;
When it is determined that the first mode is in the mode determination process,
The value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold value stored in the second threshold value storage area of the set value storage means and stored in the first threshold value storage area. 2nd classification judgment processing which judges whether it is less than the threshold value of 2,
In the second classification determination process, the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold stored in the second threshold storage area and stored in the first threshold storage area. If it is determined that it is less than the first threshold value, a pattern selection process for selecting the second combination pattern is performed,
On the other hand, in the second classification determination process, the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold stored in the second threshold storage area and is stored in the first threshold storage area. If it is determined that it is not less than the stored first threshold value, the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extracting means is stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means. 1st classification determination processing which determines whether it is more than the threshold value of 1,
If it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, a third Perform a pattern selection process to select a combination pattern,
On the other hand, if it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is not equal to or greater than the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, Perform pattern selection processing to select the first combination pattern,
When it is determined that the first mode is not in the mode determination process,
The value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is equal to or greater than the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the setting value storage means, skipping the second classification determination process. A first classification determination process is performed to determine whether or not
If it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, Perform pattern selection processing to select the combination pattern of
On the other hand, if it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is not equal to or greater than the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, Perform pattern selection processing to select the first combination pattern,
The gaming state control means or the display control means
A stop symbol determination process for determining a symbol according to the result of the pattern selection process;
According to the result of the pattern selection process and the set mode, a variation pattern determination process for determining a variation mode of the symbol and a variation display time of the symbol at the time of the variation display of the symbol,
The display control means includes
In the variable display device, after the symbol variation display is performed based on the symbol variation mode and variation display time determined by the variation pattern determination process, the symbol determined by the stop symbol determination process is stopped and displayed. A gaming machine that performs display control processing.

  According to the means 4, the same effects as the above means 1 to 3 are obtained.

Means 5. The threshold value setting process performed before the first and second classification determination processes is
The second mode setting that is performed before the mode determination process and stores the first threshold value stored in the second mode threshold value storage means in the first threshold value storage area of the setting value storage means Processing,
When it is determined in the mode determination process that the current mode is the first mode, the first mode threshold value storage means is used instead of the first threshold value stored in the second mode setting process. The first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means and the second threshold value stored in the first mode threshold value storage means are stored in the set value storage means. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 4, comprising a first mode setting process for storing the second threshold storage area.

Means 6. The threshold value setting process performed before the first and second classification determination processes is
The first mode stored in the first mode threshold storage means for the first threshold storage area of the set value storage means when it is determined in the mode determination process that the first mode is being performed. A first mode setting process for storing a second threshold value stored in the first mode threshold value storage unit with respect to a second threshold value storage area of the setting value storage unit,
The first mode stored in the second mode threshold value storage means for the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means when it is determined in the mode determination process that the first mode is not in effect. The game machine according to claim 4, comprising a second mode setting process for storing a threshold value of the second mode.

Mean 7 In each symbol display area, a variable display is performed by periodically displaying a plurality of types of symbols in a specific order,
When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbol is the same as the symbol stopped and displayed in the specific mode after being stopped and displayed in the specific mode. Is stopped,
When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the third combination pattern in the variable display device, after the symbol is stopped and displayed in the specific mode, one symbol before the symbol stopped and displayed in the specific mode Or, the symbol that is displayed after one is stopped,
In the variable display device, when symbols are stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern, two or more symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then stopped in the specific mode The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 6, wherein a symbol displayed before or after two or more is stopped and displayed.

  According to the means 7, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the third combination pattern, the special game state is given in the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed last. Although the symbols are different from the symbols that are stopped and displayed, symbols that are close to the order in which the symbols are displayed are stopped and displayed, so that the player feels regrettable.

  On the other hand, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the second combination pattern, the symbol is displayed last in comparison with the case where the symbol is stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the third combination pattern. In the symbol display area where symbols are displayed in a stopped state, when the special game state is given, the symbols that are displayed in a stopped state and the symbols that are displayed in a distant order are stopped and displayed, so that the player gets the impression that it is too regrettable. There is no.

  Therefore, in the second mode, the second combination pattern that can give a less harsh impression is not selected, and the third combination pattern that can give a stronger impression than the second combination pattern is selected. With such a configuration, it is possible to sufficiently enjoy the fluctuation display that can hold a sense of excitement, while at the same time, it is possible to realize a game that can sufficiently improve time efficiency. In addition, as described above, there is no sense of incongruity in the game, so that the player can play the game comfortably and smoothly.

  Means 8. The first mode is a mode in which the success / failure lottery is performed with a normal probability set in advance as the probability of winning the special gaming state, and the second mode is more successful in the success / failure lottery than the normal probability mode. 8. The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 7, wherein the gaming machine is a mode in which a probability of playing is increased.

  According to the means 8, the possibility that the special game state is given in the second mode is increased. In the game after the special game state is given, the user has an interest in whether or not the second mode is given. Due to this, the player is not particularly interested in the display of fluctuations that are out of place, and if time is spent on display of fluctuations that are out of place, there is a risk that the interest will be reduced. In this regard, as described above, by adopting a configuration in which the second combination pattern is not selected in the second mode, the above-mentioned fear can be eliminated, and the player can play the game with good mood. it can.

Means 9. Operation means operated by a player;
Ball launching means for playing and launching a game ball as a game medium based on the operation of the operation means;
A game area where the launched game ball is guided,
A start ball entering device that is arranged in the game area and is switched between an open state that makes it easy to enter a game ball and a normal state that makes it difficult to enter the game ball than in the open state; Prepared,
With the predetermined opportunity to enter the starting ball entering device of the game ball,
The gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 8, characterized in that, during the second mode, the opening chance of the starting and entering device is increased as compared to the first mode.

  According to the means 9, in the second mode, it is easy for a game ball to enter the start ball entering device. Therefore, even if the variation display time is shortened, the next variation display is performed relatively quickly, so that it is possible to prevent the player from getting bored.

  In addition, as an example of the configuration of “the opening opportunity of the start ball entering device is increased”, for example, “the time from the start ball entering device to the open state until it is closed” is increased, Examples include a configuration in which “the probability that the start ball entering device is opened” increases. “An opening lottery that performs lottery for determining whether or not to open the starting ball landing device in response to a ball entering the opportunity corresponding port provided in the game area, and an opening lottery. Opening and closing means for opening the starting pitching device only for a predetermined time after a predetermined time when winning in the lottery of the means, in the second mode than in the first mode, Based on the lottery result of the opening lottery means, the time from when the starting pitching device is opened based on the lottery result is set short, and the starting pitching device is in the open state. It may be set that a long time is required until the normal state is established after being set. Further, instead of or in addition to this configuration, “in the second mode, the winning probability of the lottery by the open lottery means is set higher than in the first mode”. Also good.

  Further, it may be “provided with a payout means capable of paying out a predetermined number of game balls when at least a game ball enters the start ball entering device”. In this case, in the second mode, it becomes easy for a game ball to enter the variable ball entry means and to receive a prize ball. Therefore, in the second mode, there is no need to worry so much about the decrease of the ball, and the player can concentrate on the variable display on the variable display device. As described above, since the second mode is an attractive mode, the player is interested in whether or not the second mode is given even in the game after the special gaming state is given. As a result, the same effects as those of the means 8 are obtained.

  The basic configuration of various gaming machines to which the above means are applied is shown below.

  A. The game machine in each of the above means is a ball game machine equipped with a variable display device. As a more detailed mode example, “a start operation means (handle) operated by a player, a ball launching means (such as a launch motor) for playing and launching a game ball based on the operation of the operation means, and the fired A ball passage (ball guide passage of the rail unit) for guiding the game ball to a predetermined game area (for example, the game area is constituted by a game board surface), an operation port arranged in the game area, a variable display device, and a variable A winning device, and based on the fact that a winning of a game ball is detected at the operating port, the identification information (symbol) displayed on the variable display device is variably displayed and stopped after a predetermined time. A bullet ball game machine that opens the variable display device in a predetermined manner when the displayed identification information (design) is in a specific manner.

  Further, as an example in which the means 1 is added to the above configuration, a start operation means operated by a player, a ball launching means for playing and firing a game ball as a game medium based on the operation of the start operation means, A game area in which the launched game ball flows down, an operation port provided in the game area, and a first state that is arranged in the game area and makes the game ball impossible or difficult to enter A variable winning device whose state is switched between a second state in which a gaming ball can be entered or that can be easily entered, and at least a predetermined number of gaming balls when a gaming ball enters the variable winning device. A payout means that can be paid out, an identification information display device that displays the identification information in a variable manner, a lottery means for performing a lottery determination when a game ball enters the operation port, and an entry of the game ball into the operation port The identification information is variably displayed with the ball as an opportunity, and the lottery Special information that is advantageous to the player when the combination of the identification information control means for stopping and displaying the variable display of the identification information based on the result, and the combination of the identification information stopped and displayed by the identification information control means is special identification information. A gaming state control means having a special gaming state giving means for giving a gaming state, a variable display device that displays various effects according to the result of the lottery, and the variable based on a command from the gaming state control means A gaming machine comprising display control means for performing display control of a display device, the image information storage means capable of storing image information of an image displayed on the variable display device, and stored in the image information storage means And a re-display control unit capable of re-displaying an image already displayed on the variable display device on the variable display device based on the image information obtained. It is below.

  B. The gaming machine in each of the above means is a bullet ball gaming machine having a gaming area extending in a substantially vertical direction. As a more detailed example, the game machine in each of the above means is a ball game machine equipped with a variable display device. As a more detailed mode example, “a start operation means (handle) operated by a player, a ball launching means (such as a launch motor) for playing and launching a game ball based on the operation of the operation means, and the fired A ball path (ball guide path of the rail unit) for guiding a game ball to a predetermined game area extending in a substantially vertical direction (for example, the game area is constituted by a game board surface or the like), and an operation port disposed in the game area, A variable display device and a variable winning device, wherein the behavior of the game ball flowing down the game area can be visually recognized, and the variable display is based on the detection of the winning of the game ball to the operation port. The identification information (symbol) displayed on the device is variably displayed and stopped after a predetermined time. When the stopped-displayed identification information (symbol) is in a specific mode, the variable display device is opened in a predetermined mode. That pinball game machine "and the like.

  C. The gaming machine in each of the above means or each of the above ball game machines is a pachinko machine or a gaming machine equivalent to a pachinko machine.

  D. The gaming machine in each of the above means is a revolving type gaming machine such as a slot machine provided with a variable display device. As a more detailed mode example, “an identification information display device for confirming and stopping display of identification information after rotating a plurality of rotating bodies with a plurality of identification information, an effect mode etc. along with the rotation of the rotating body, etc. And a variable display device that can display the rotation of the rotating body due to the operation of the start operation means (specifically, the start lever) and the stop operation means (specifically, the stop button). A rotating game machine to which a game medium is given on condition that the rotating body is stopped due to or after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the identification information aligned on the active line at the time of the stop is specific identification information. '' Is mentioned.

  Further, as an example in which the means 1 is added to the above configuration, an identification information display device that displays the identification information in a variable manner, an insertion means for inserting a game medium when starting a game, a start operation means, Stop operation means for stopping the change display of information, lottery means for performing a winning / no-win lottery with the operation of the start operation means in a state where a game medium is inserted, and a state where a game medium is inserted Identification information control means for starting identification information fluctuation display based on the operation of the start operation means in, and stopping and displaying the identification information fluctuation display based on the operation of the stop operation means and the result of the success / failure lottery, And a game medium grant for giving a predetermined game medium when the identification information stopped and displayed by the identification information control means is a combination corresponding to the winning combination. And game state control provided with special game state giving means for giving a special game state advantageous to the player when the combination of the identification information stopped and displayed by the identification information control means is special identification information. Means, a variable display device that displays various effects according to the result of the lottery determination, and display control means that performs various display controls in the variable display device based on instructions from the gaming state control means. An image information storage means capable of storing image information of an image displayed on the variable display device, and based on the image information stored in the image information storage means, A configuration including a re-display control unit that can re-display the displayed image on the variable display device can be given.

  E. The gaming machine in each of the above means is a gaming machine of a type in which a slot machine equipped with a variable display device and a pachinko machine are fused (especially a gaming machine of a slot machine specification that uses a gaming ball as a gaming medium). As a more detailed mode example, “a rotation display device for confirming and stopping display of identification information after rotating a plurality of rotating bodies with a plurality of identification information, an effect mode etc. along with the rotation of the rotating body, etc. And a variable display device that can display the rotation of the rotating body due to the operation of the start operation means (specifically, the start lever) and the stop operation means (specifically, the stop button). The rotating body is stopped due to or after a predetermined time, and the game medium is given on the condition that the identification information aligned on the active line at the time of the stop is the specific identification information. Etc.) and a throwing-in device that loads a game ball from the ball tray, and a payout device that pays out the game ball to the ball tray, and when the game ball is thrown by the throwing device, Start operation hand Operation of, and the like is a gaming machine "that is valid.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as “pachinko machine”) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a state in which the front frame set 14 is removed from the pachinko machine 10 (however, in FIG. 2, the configuration in the game area on the surface of the game board 30 is shown blank for convenience).

  The pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and an inner frame 12 is supported on one side of the outer frame 11 so as to be opened and closed. The outer frame 11 is formed in a rectangular shape as a whole by, for example, a wooden plate material, and each plate material is assembled by a detachable fastener such as a small screw. The inner frame 12 can be opened forward with an opening / closing axis extending vertically to the left when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10.

  A lower tray unit 13 is attached to the inner frame 12 at the lowermost portion, and a front frame set 14 is attached to the inner frame 12 so as to be openable and closable, corresponding to the range excluding the lower tray unit 13. ing. Similar to the inner frame 12, the front frame set 14 can be opened forward with an opening / closing axis extending vertically to the left when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10.

  The lower tray unit 13 is provided with a lower tray 15 as a ball receiving tray at a substantially central portion, so that game balls discharged from the outlet 16 can be stored in the lower tray 15. Reference numeral 24 denotes a sound output port from the speaker, and reference numeral 25 denotes a ball release lever for discharging the game ball from the lower plate 15 downward.

  A handle (operation means, start operation means) 18 is provided on the right side of the lower plate 15 so as to project toward the near side and launch a game ball. An ashtray 26 is provided on the left side of the lower plate 15. On the other hand, an upper plate 19 serving as a ball receiving plate is provided above the lower plate 15. The upper plate 19 is a ball tray that temporarily stores the game balls and guides them to the game ball launching device (ball launching unit) while aligning them in a row.

  In FIG. 2, the inner frame 12 is mainly composed of a resin base 20 having a rectangular outer shape, and a substantially circular window hole 21 is formed at the center of the resin base 20. A game board 30 (see FIG. 3) is detachably mounted on the rear side of the resin base 20. The game board 30 is made of a rectangular plywood, and is attached in a state in which the peripheral edge thereof is in contact with the back side of the resin base 20 (inner frame 12). Accordingly, a substantially central portion of the front surface portion of the game board 30 is exposed to the front surface side of the inner frame 12 through the window hole 21 of the resin base 20. The resin base 20 is provided with an opening detection sensor 22 that detects opening of the front frame set 14. Although not shown, an open detection switch for detecting the opening of the inner frame 12 is also provided.

  Next, the configuration of the game board 30 will be described with reference to FIG. In the game board 30, a general winning port 31, a variable winning device 32, a first opportunity corresponding port (starting ball entering device, operating port) 33, a second opportunity corresponding port 34, a variable display unit 35, and the like are formed by router processing. It is arrange | positioned by the made through hole, and is attached with the wood screw etc. from the game board 30 front side. As is well known, when a game ball enters (wins) the general winning port 31, the variable winning device 32, and the first opportunity corresponding port 33, a predetermined switch is applied to the upper plate 19 (or the lower plate 15) by the output of a detection switch described later. Number of prize balls will be paid out. In addition, the game board 30 is provided with an out port 36, and a game ball that has not won a prize in various winning units (general winning port 31, variable winning device 32, first opportunity corresponding port 33) is the out port 36. It is guided through a ball discharge path (not shown). In addition, the game board 30 is provided with a large number of nails for appropriately dispersing and adjusting the falling direction of the game ball, and various members (functions) such as the windmill 27 are disposed.

  In the variable display unit 35, the normal symbol display device 41 that displays the normal symbol variably with the passage of the second trigger corresponding port 34 as a trigger and the color change display of the LED with the winning at the first trigger corresponding port 33 as a trigger ( A special display device 43 serving as an identification information display device that performs variable display) and a decorative symbol display device 42 serving as a variable display device that displays the decorative symbols in accordance with the variable display by the special display device 43 are provided.

  The normal symbol display device 41 is configured so that “O” or “X” can be lit and displayed as a normal symbol, and each time the game ball passes through the second opportunity corresponding port 34, for example, the normal symbol is changed from “O” to “ When “×” → “○” →... Is displayed at high speed (variation display), and the variation display stops for several seconds with the “○” symbol, the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is in an operating state for a predetermined time. (Opened). The display contents of the normal symbol display device 41 are directly controlled by a main control device 261 described later. In addition, when a new game ball passes through the second opportunity corresponding port 34 while the normal symbol display device 41 is displaying the normal symbol variation, the corresponding normal symbol variation display is performed at that time. The configuration is performed after the end of the variable display. That is, the variable display is on standby (held). The maximum number of the variable display to be held is determined for each model of the pachinko machine, but in this embodiment, it is held up to 4 times, and the hold number is lit and displayed by the hold lamp 44. Yes.

  Note that the normal symbol may be configured to be variably displayed on a part of the decorative symbol display device 42 (liquid crystal display device), in addition to the configuration to be variably displayed by switching the lighting modes of a plurality of lamps. Similarly, the hold lamp 44 may be configured to be displayed on a part of the decorative symbol display device 42. When the decorative symbol display device 42 is configured to display the normal symbol fluctuation display or the fluctuation hold display in this manner, the main control device 261 transmits a command related to the normal symbol to the display control device 45, which will be described later, for display control. The device 45 controls the decorative symbol display device 42. However, even in this case, an LED or the like that is directly controlled by the main controller 261 is separately provided, and a lottery result indicating whether or not to open the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is displayed by this LED. It is desirable that the display of the normal symbols on the decorative symbol display device 42 should be auxiliary. The reason is that, as will be described later, the main control device 261 is stored in a tightly sealed board box 263, and it is difficult to perform an act such as sending some illegal signal to the display control device 261. Because. That is, by adopting such a configuration, the display control device 45 (see FIG. 5 and the like) is illegally sent to the display control device 45 (see FIG. 5 and the like), and the display as if it has been won is illegally derived. On top of that, it is possible to relatively easily detect an illegal act such as forcibly opening the first opportunity corresponding port 33 and the like, and winning a ball even though it is not elected.

  The special display device 43 is provided on the right side of the normal symbol of the normal symbol display device 41, and is configured by a three-color light emitting diode (three-color LED) having emission colors of red, green, and blue. The display content of the special display device 43 is also directly controlled by the main control device 261. In the present embodiment, whether or not a big hit is determined is displayed definitely by the special display device 43. By adopting such a configuration, an illegal signal is sent to the display control device 45, for example, and the display as if it has been won by the decorative symbol display device 42 is illegally derived. In addition, it is possible to relatively easily detect an illegal act such as forcibly opening the big winning opening of the variable prize winning device 32 and acquiring a prize even though the winning prize is not won.

  The decorative symbol display device 42 is configured as a liquid crystal display device, and the display content is controlled by the display control device 45. That is, in the decorative symbol display device 42, auxiliary display is performed by the display control device 45 based on a command from the main control device 261 so as to correspond to the result displayed on the special display device 43. On the decorative symbol display device 42, for example, as shown in FIG. 25, three symbol rows of left, middle and right are displayed. Each symbol sequence is composed of a plurality of symbols, and these symbols are displayed periodically (variable display) in a specific order determined for each symbol sequence, then left symbol sequence → right symbol sequence → middle symbol sequence Are stopped and displayed in this order. In the present embodiment, the area in which the symbols in the middle symbol row are displayed in the display area of the decorative symbol display device 42 corresponds to the symbol display area in which the symbols are stopped and displayed last. In the decorative symbol display device 42, the area where the symbols of the left and right symbol columns are displayed corresponds to the symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbols are stopped and displayed last. In this embodiment, the decorative symbol display device 42 includes a large liquid crystal display of 8 inches. The variable display device unit 35 is provided with a center frame 47 so as to surround the decorative symbol display device 42.

  The variable winning device 32 is normally in a closed state in which a game ball cannot be won or difficult to win, and is in an open state in which a game ball is easy to win in the case of a big hit (occurrence of a special game state). More specifically, when a game ball wins the first opportunity corresponding port 33, the special display device 43 displays the three-color LED at a high speed, such as red → green → blue → red →. When a predetermined time elapses, it is determined and displayed in one of the colors. The high-speed color change display is, for example, that red, green, and blue are displayed in order every 4 msec. At this time, if the decision display is made in red or green (for example, stopped for a few seconds), which means that the lottery lottery is won, a big hit state occurs. In addition, when the special display device 43 determines and displays the three-color LEDs in red or green, a combination of specific symbols is supplementarily displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. The large winning opening of the variable winning device 32 is in a predetermined open state, and the game ball is configured to be in a state where it is easy to win (a big hit state). Specifically, the passage of a predetermined time or a predetermined number of winnings is defined as one round, and the big winning opening of the variable winning device 32 is repeatedly opened a predetermined number of times (a predetermined number of rounds).

  Further, when a game ball is newly won in the first opportunity corresponding port 33 during the variable display of the special display device 43, the corresponding variable display is performed after the end of the variable display at that time. It has a configuration. That is, the variable display is on standby (held). The maximum number of the variable display to be held is determined for each model of the pachinko machine, but in this embodiment, it is held up to 4 times, and the hold number is lit and displayed by the hold lamp 46. Yes.

  In addition, the game board 30 is provided with a rail unit 50 as a rail member for guiding the game ball launched from the game ball launching device to the upper part of the game board 30, and the game board 30 was fired as the handle 18 was rotated. The game ball is guided to a predetermined game area through the rail unit 50. The rail unit 50 has an inner rail component 51 and an outer rail component 52.

  A return ball preventing member 53 is attached to the tip end portion of the inner rail constituting portion 51 (the upper left portion in FIG. 3). This prevents a situation in which the game ball once guided from the ball guide passage between the inner rail constituting portion 51 and the outer rail constituting portion 52 to the upper portion of the game board 30 returns to the ball guide passage again. . Further, a return rubber 54 is attached to the outer rail constituting portion 52 at a position corresponding to the maximum flight portion of the game ball (upper right portion in FIG. 3: a portion corresponding to the tip portion of the outer rail constituting portion 52). . Therefore, the game ball launched at a predetermined momentum or more hits the return rubber 54 and is returned to, for example, the substantially central portion side of the game board 30.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 2, in the resin base 20, below the window hole 21 (game board 30), a launch rail 61 for guiding the game ball immediately after being launched from the game ball launcher is attached. The firing rail 61 is fixedly attached to the resin base 20 integrally with the metal plate 62 behind the firing rail 61, and is configured to extend linearly at a predetermined firing angle (launch angle). Therefore, the game ball launched by the turning operation of the handle 18 is first launched obliquely upward along the launch rail 61 and then guided to the game area through the ball guide passage of the rail unit 50 as described above. It has become.

  Further, there is a predetermined gap between the firing rail 61 and the rail unit 50, and a foul ball passage 63 is formed below the gap. Therefore, if the game ball launched from the game ball launching device does not reach the return ball prevention member 53 and returns as a foul ball in the ball guide passage, the foul ball passes through the foul ball passage 63 to the lower plate. 15 is discharged.

  Although detailed disclosure of the drawings is omitted, one game ball is supplied to the game ball launching device one by one from the ball outlet on the front frame set 14 side (ball outlet leading from the most downstream portion of the upper plate 19). Further, guide members 65 and 66 are provided near the base end portion of the firing rail 61 on the right side and the near side thereof, respectively. Thereby, the game ball supplied from the ball exit on the front frame set 14 side is always set at a predetermined launch position. Further, the game ball launching device is provided with a hitting ball, and the game ball is shot with the rotation of the hitting ball about the shaft portion.

  Further, reference numeral 67 in FIG. 2 denotes a discharge port that communicates with the upper plate 19, and the game ball is discharged to the upper plate 19 through the discharge port 67. An open / close shutter 68 is attached to the discharge port 67. The shutter 68 is rotatable about a shaft portion provided along the lower side thereof, and the shutter 68 is urged by a biasing force such as a spring when the front frame set 14 is opened (state shown in FIG. 2). 68 substantially closes the outlet 67. When the front frame set 14 is closed (the state shown in FIG. 1), the shutter 68 is pushed open by a ball passage rod (not shown) provided on the back surface of the front frame set 14. The discharge port 67 and the upper plate 19 are in communication with each other. Note that the game ball is discharged to the lower plate 15 in the open state of the front frame set 14.

  Next, the front frame set 14 will be described with reference to FIG. The front frame set 14 is formed with a substantially elliptical window 101 so that most of the game area (area formed in a substantially circular shape by the inner periphery of the rail unit 50) can be visually recognized from the outside. .

  The front frame set 14 is provided with light emitting means such as various lamps around the front frame set 14. These light emitting means play a role of enhancing the effect of the game during the game by changing and controlling the light emission mode such as lighting and blinking according to the change of the game state at the time of big hit or predetermined reach. For example, at the periphery of the window portion 101, an annular illumination portion 102 containing a light emitting means such as an LED is provided symmetrically, and at the center of the annular illumination portion 102 and at the top of the pachinko machine 10, Similarly, a central illumination unit 103 having a built-in light emitting means such as an LED is provided. In the pachinko machine 10, the central illumination unit 103 functions as a jackpot lamp, and lights and blinks when the jackpot is informed that the jackpot is being hit. Further, the upper plate 19 is also provided around the upper plate 19 with an upper plate illumination unit 104 having a built-in light emitting means such as an LED. In addition, on the left and right sides of the central illumination unit 103, there are provided a prize ball lamp 105 that is lit during the payout of a prize ball and an error display lamp 106 that is lit when a predetermined error occurs.

  In addition, a ball lending operation unit 120 is disposed below the window unit 101, and the ball lending operation unit 120 is provided with a ball lending button 121, a return button 122, and a frequency display unit 123. When a ball rental operation unit 120 is operated in a game hall or the like with a bill or a card inserted into a card unit (ball lending unit) disposed on the side of the pachinko machine 10, a game ball is operated according to the operation. Is lent out. The ball lending button 121 is operated to obtain a lending ball based on information recorded on a card or the like (recording medium), and the lending ball is supplied to the upper plate 19 as long as there is a remaining amount on the card or the like. Is done. The return button 122 is operated when requesting the return of a card or the like inserted into the card unit. The frequency display unit 123 displays remaining amount information such as a card. Note that the ball lending operation unit 120 is not necessary for a pachinko machine in which game balls are lent directly to the upper plate 19 from a ball lending device or the like without using a card unit, that is, a so-called cash machine. Therefore, a decorative seal or the like is attached to the installation portion of the ball rental operation unit 120. Thereby, the common use of the lending operation unit of the pachinko machine using the card unit and the cash machine is achieved.

  Although the disclosure of the drawings is omitted, a metal reinforcing plate is provided on the back side of the front frame set 14 so as to surround the window portion 101, and this reinforcing plate also functions as a metal frame for supporting glass. Have both. More specifically, a part of the reinforcing plate is folded back to form two rows of front and rear glass holding grooves, and a pair of front and rear glass 137 having a rectangular shape is held by each glass holding groove. Yes.

  Next, the configuration of the back surface of the pachinko machine 10 will be described in detail based on FIG.

  First, an overall outline of the back configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described. Various types of control boards are arranged on the pachinko machine 10 on the back side (actually the back side of the inner frame 12 and the game board 30) so as to be arranged vertically and horizontally, and partially overlapped in the front and back. Further, a game ball supply device (payout mechanism) for supplying game balls, a protective cover made of resin, and the like are attached. In this embodiment, various control boards are divided into two mounting bases to form two control board units, and these control board units are individually attached to the inner frame 12 or the back of the game board 30. Yes. In this case, the main board and the sound lamp control board are mounted on one mounting base to form a unit, and the dispensing control board, launch control board, and power supply board are mounted on the other mounting base to form a unit. Here, for convenience, the former unit is referred to as “first control board unit 201”, and the latter unit is referred to as “second control board unit 202”. Further, since the dispensing mechanism and the protective cover are integrated as one unit, and the resin portion is generally referred to as a back pack, the unit is referred to as a “back pack unit 203” here. The detailed configuration of each unit 201 to 203 will be described later.

  The first control board unit 201, the second control board unit 202, and the back pack unit 203 are configured to be detachable without using a tool or the like in units, and in addition to this, a part of the spindle part is also provided. It is the structure which can be opened and closed with respect to the inner frame 12 or the back surface of the game board 30.

  The locking mechanism of the front frame set 14 is integrated with the locking mechanism of the inner frame 12, and the main body of the integrated locking mechanism G <b> 1 is provided on the back side of the inner frame 12. Therefore, in FIG. 2, only the locking claws T1 and T2 protruding from the locking mechanism G1 to the front side of the inner frame 12 are shown. Then, the locking claws T1 and T2 are locked to the back side of the front frame set 14, whereby the front frame set 14 is locked.

  FIG. 5 is a rear view showing a configuration in a state where the game board 30 is assembled to the inner frame 12. As shown in the figure, the game board 30 is installed in a square frame-shaped installation area surrounded by the resin base 20, and a plurality of (four in this embodiment) locking fixtures provided on the inner frame 12. It is fixed by 211 and 212 so as not to drop off.

  A variable display device unit 35 is disposed in the center of the game board 30. In the variable display device unit 35, a frame cover 213 made of resin (for example, made of ABS) that covers the center frame 47 (see FIG. 3) from behind is provided to protrude rearward, and at the rear end of the frame cover 213, A decorative symbol display device 42 and a display control device 45, which are liquid crystal display devices, are detachably attached in a state where they are overlapped in the front-rear direction. In the frame cover 213, an LED control board for driving LEDs and the like built in the center frame 47 are disposed.

  A back frame set 215 is attached to the back surface of the game board 30 so as to surround the variable display device unit 35. The back frame set 215 is a thin resin molded product provided so as to stick to the back surface of the game board 30 and is formed with a game ball collecting mechanism for collecting game balls won in various winning ports. Specifically, below the back frame set 215, corresponding to the game board opening of the above-described general winning opening 31, variable winning apparatus 32, first opportunity corresponding opening 33 (see FIG. 3 respectively) and 1 on the downstream side. A collection passage 216 that collects at a place is formed. Further, a resin discharge passage board 217 is attached to the inner frame 12 below the game board 30, and a discharge passage 218 for guiding the discharge ball to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 is attached to the discharge passage board 217. Is formed. Therefore, as illustrated in phantom lines in FIG. 5, all the game balls won in the general winning opening 31 etc. gather through the collection passage 216 of the back frame set 215, and further the discharge passage 218 of the discharge passage board 217. Through the pachinko machine 10. In addition, the out port 36 (see FIG. 3) similarly communicates with the discharge passage 218, and the game balls that have not won any prize opening are discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 through the discharge passage 218.

  In the above configuration, with the lower end surface of the game board 30 as a boundary, a back frame set 215 (collection passage 216) is provided on the upper side, and a discharge passage board 217 (discharge passage 218) is provided on the lower side. The game board 30 is provided without overlapping (overlapping) in the front-rear direction.

  In addition, on the back surface of the game board 30, a winning detection mechanism for detecting the passage of game balls such as various winning holes is provided. Specifically, a prize opening switch 221 is provided at a position corresponding to the general prize opening 31 on the front side of the game board 30, and a count switch 223 is provided in the variable prize winning device 32. The count switch 223 is a switch that counts winning balls to the variable winning device 32. Further, a first opportunity corresponding port switch 224 is provided at a position corresponding to the first opportunity corresponding port 33, and a second opportunity corresponding port switch 225 is provided at a position corresponding to the second opportunity corresponding port 34.

  The prize opening switch 221 and the second opportunity corresponding port switch 225 are connected to the board relay board 226 through electric wiring (not shown), and this board relay board 226 is further connected to a main board (main controller 261) described later. Further, the count switch 223 is connected to the special winning opening relay board 227, and this special winning opening relay board 227 is also connected to the main board. On the other hand, the first opportunity corresponding port switch 224 is directly connected to the main board without passing through the relay board.

  Although not shown in the drawings, the variable prize winning device 32 is provided with a big prize opening solenoid that opens the big prize opening, and the first opportunity corresponding opening 33 has an electric combination equipped in the first opportunity corresponding opening 33. A first opportunity corresponding opening solenoid that opens the object is provided. In FIG. 5, reference numeral 228 denotes a set handle having a hitting ball and the like, and reference numeral 229 denotes a firing motor.

  The detection results detected by the winning detection mechanism are taken into a main board, which will be described later, and a payout command (the number of game balls to be paid out) corresponding to the winning situation is transmitted from the main board to the payout control board. The Then, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out by the output of the payout control board. In the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, a game ball winning is electrically sensed for each winning opening and the payout is immediately performed.

  The back frame set 215 is provided with an attachment mechanism for attaching the first control board unit 201. Further, an attachment mechanism for attaching the second control board unit 202 and the back pack unit 203 is provided on the back surface of the inner frame 12.

  In addition, in the rear configuration of the inner frame 12, at the lower right portion of the game board 30, a game ball distribution unit that distributes game balls paid out from a payout mechanism described later to any of the upper plate 19, the lower plate 15, or the discharge passage 218. 245 is provided. Further, a resin speaker box 246 surrounding the back of the speaker installed toward the lower plate 15 is attached to the lower end portion of the inner frame 12, and the speaker box 246 improves the sound quality in the low frequency range. It has been.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 4, the first control board unit 201 includes a main controller 261 and an audio lamp controller 262. Here, the main control device 261 includes a CPU that controls the main control, a ROM that stores a game program, a RAM that stores necessary data according to the progress of the game, a port that communicates with various devices, and various lotteries. A main board including a random number generator to be used, a clock pulse generation circuit used for time counting and synchronization, and the like, and a board box 263 (encapsulating means) made of a transparent resin material or the like. ). The substrate box 263 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base and a box cover that covers the opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are connected to each other by a sealing unit 264 (sealing means) so that the box box 263 is sealed.

  As the sealing unit 264 as the sealing means, any configuration can be applied as long as the box base and the box cover are connected so as not to be opened, but in this embodiment, five sealing members are connected. The box base and the box cover are connected so that they cannot be opened by inserting a locking claw into the long hole of the sealing member. The sealing process by the sealing unit 264 prevents unauthorized opening after the sealing, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if the unauthorized opening is performed. It is possible to perform the opening / sealing process again even after the operation. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting the locking claw into the long hole of at least one sealing member among the five sealing members constituting the sealing unit 264. And when opening the board | substrate box 263 by the malfunction of the accommodated main board | substrate etc., the connection of the sealing member in which the latching claw was inserted, and another sealing member is cut | disconnected. Thereafter, when the sealing process is performed again, the locking claws are inserted into the long holes of the other sealing members. If the history of opening the board box 263 is left in the board box 263, it can be easily found that the illegal opening has been performed by looking at the board box 263.

  The voice lamp control device 262 is a voice lamp control including a CPU that controls voice and lamp display according to instructions from the main control device 261 (main board) or the display control device 45, and other ROM, RAM, various ports, and the like. The audio lamp control board is also housed in a board box corresponding to the audio lamp control board. A power relay board 266 is mounted on the sound lamp control device 262, and power supplied from a power board described later is output to the display control device 45 and the sound lamp control device 262 via the power relay board 266. .

  The second control board unit 202 includes a payout control device 311, a launch control device 312, a power supply device 313, and a card unit connection board 314. The payout control device 311, the launch control device 312, and the power supply device 313 are provided with a control board including a central control CPU, ROM, RAM, various ports and the like as is well known. The payout of prize balls and rental balls is controlled by the substrate. Further, the launch motor 229 is controlled by the launch control board of the launch controller 312 in accordance with the operation of the handle 18 by the player, and a predetermined power supply voltage required by various control devices and the like is generated by the power board of the power supply 313. Is output. The card unit connection board 314 is electrically connected to the ball lending operation unit 120 on the front surface of the pachinko machine and a card unit (not shown), and receives a ball lending operation command by the player and outputs it to the payout control device 311. is there. Note that the card unit connection board 314 can be omitted in a cash machine in which game balls are lent directly to the upper plate from a ball lending device or the like without using a card unit.

  The payout control device 311, the firing control device 312, the power supply device 313, and the card unit connection substrate 314 are respectively configured to be accommodated in substrate boxes 315, 316, 317, and 318 made of a transparent resin material or the like. In particular, in the dispensing control device 311, similarly to the main control device 261 described above, the box base and the box cover constituting the substrate box 315 (encapsulating means) are connected by the sealing unit 319 (sealing means) so that they cannot be opened. Thus, the substrate box 315 is sealed.

  The payout control device 311 is provided with a state return switch 321. For example, when the state return switch 321 is pressed when a payout error occurs, such as a ball jam in the payout motor unit, the payout motor is rotated forward and reverse to eliminate the ball jam (return to the normal state).

  Further, the power supply device 313 is provided with a RAM erase switch 323. This pachinko machine 10 has a backup function, so that even if a power failure occurs, the pachinko machine 10 can maintain the state at the time of the power failure and return to the state at the time of the power failure when returning from the power failure (power recovery). it can. Therefore, if the power is turned off in a normal procedure (for example, at the end of the game hall), the state before the power is turned off is stored. If you want to return to the initial state when the power is turned on, hold down the RAM erase switch 323 and turn on the power. .

  Next, the configuration of the back pack unit 203 will be described. The back pack unit 203 is a unit in which a resin-formed back pack 351 and a game ball payout mechanism 352 are integrated.

  The back pack 351 is integrally formed of, for example, ABS resin, and has a protective cover portion 354 that protrudes rearward from the pachinko machine and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The protective cover portion 354 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the upper surface are closed and only the lower surface is opened, and has a size sufficient to surround at least the variable display device unit 35 (however, in the present embodiment, the sound lamp described above is used). The control device 262 is also enclosed.

  The payout mechanism 352 is disposed so as to bypass the protective cover 354. That is, a tank 355 opened upward is provided above the protective cover portion 354, and game balls supplied from island facilities of the game arcade are sequentially supplied to the tank 355. Below the tank 355, for example, a tank rail 356 that has two rows (two rows) of spherical passages and is gently inclined toward the downstream side is connected. A case rail 357 is connected. A payout device (payout means) 358 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 357, and a required number of game balls are paid out appropriately by a predetermined electrical configuration such as a payout motor 358a. The game balls paid out from the payout device 358 are supplied to the upper plate 19. The tank rail 356 is attached with a vibrator 360 that adds vibration to the tank rail 356. If a ball clog occurs near the tank rail 356, the vibrator 360 is driven to eliminate the ball clogging. Is planned.

  The payout mechanism 352 is provided with a payout relay board 381 that relays a payout command signal from the payout control device 311 to the payout device 358, and a power switch board 382 that takes in the main power from the outside. Yes. The power switch board 382 is supplied with, for example, AC 24V main power via a voltage converter, and the power switch 382a is switched on or off by switching operation of the power switch 382a.

  Further, the back pack unit 203 is provided with an opening 391 for the external relay terminal plate 230, and the external relay terminal plate 230 can be removed and operated even when the back pack unit 203 is fixed. .

  With the configuration described above, the main controller 261 (substrate box 263) can be removed by first opening the back pack unit 203, then opening the first control substrate unit 201, and fixing the main controller 261. It can be done at last by including the complicated process of releasing the fixture. For this reason, a deterrent effect can be expected against fraudulent acts such as removal of the main controller 261 (board box 263).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the main control device 261 is stored in the tightly sealed board box 263, and therefore, an illegal act such as sending some illegal signal to the main control device 261. It is difficult. For this reason, it is difficult to illegally turn on the LED of the special display device 43 that is directly controlled by the main control device 261 in a jackpot of “red” or “green”. Accordingly, the decorative symbol display device 42 is displayed as if it has been a big hit, and the big winning opening is forcibly opened using a cell or the like, and a winning ball is obtained even though it is not a big hit. Even when such an illegal act is performed, such an illegal act can be easily found by confirming the lighting state of the special display device 43.

  The physical structure of the pachinko machine 10 has been described above. Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10. The main control device 261 (main substrate) of the pachinko machine 10 is equipped with a CPU 501 as a one-chip microcomputer that is an arithmetic device. The CPU 501 includes a ROM 502 that stores various control programs executed by the CPU 501 and fixed value data, and a RAM 503 that is a memory that temporarily stores various data when the control program stored in the ROM 502 is executed. Various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data transmission / reception circuit are incorporated. In the present embodiment, the main control device 261 corresponds to the gaming state control means.

  The RAM 503 has a configuration in which data can be retained (backed up) by being supplied with a backup voltage from the power supply device 313 even after the pachinko machine 10 is turned off. The RAM 503 temporarily stores various data and the like. In addition to the memory and area, a backup area 503a is provided.

  In the backup area 503a, when the power is cut off due to a power failure or the like, the power of the pachinko machine 10 is restored to the state before the power is turned off when the power is turned on again. (Similarly) is an area for storing stack pointers, values of registers, I / O, and the like. Writing to the backup area 503a is executed when the power is turned off by NMI interrupt processing (see FIG. 17). Conversely, returning of each value written to the backup area 503a includes turning on the power (including turning on the power due to power failure cancellation). The same applies to the following power recovery process (see FIG. 8). Note that a power failure signal SK1 output from a power failure monitoring circuit 542, which will be described later, is input to the NMI terminal (non-maskable interrupt terminal) of the CPU 501 when a power failure occurs due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like. Due to the occurrence, the power failure process (NMI interrupt process) of FIG. 17 is immediately executed.

  An input / output port 505 is connected to the CPU 501 incorporating the ROM 502 and RAM 503 via a bus line 504 including an address bus and a data bus. A RAM erase switch circuit 543, a payout control device 311, a display control device 45, a special display device 43, a normal symbol display device 41, and other switches (not shown) are connected to the input / output port 505. With this configuration, the special display device 43 and the normal symbol display device 41 described above are directly controlled by the main control device 261. On the other hand, the decorative symbol display device 42 is controlled via the display control device 45.

  The payout control device 311 controls payout of prize balls and rental balls by a payout motor 358a. The CPU 511 that is an arithmetic unit includes a ROM 512 that stores a control program executed by the CPU 511, fixed value data, and the like, and a RAM 513 that is used as a work memory or the like.

  The RAM 513 of the payout control device 311 is configured to hold (backup) data by supplying a backup voltage from the power supply device 313 even after the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, like the RAM 503 of the main control device 261 described above. The RAM 513 is provided with a backup area 513a in addition to a memory and an area for temporarily storing various data.

  The backup area 513a has a stack pointer, each register at the time of power-off, each register This is an area for storing values such as I / O. The writing to the backup area 513a is executed when the power is turned off by the NMI interrupt processing (see FIG. 17). Conversely, the restoration of each value written in the backup area 513a is the power recovery processing at the time of turning on the power (see FIG. 18). ) Is executed.

  An input / output port 515 is connected to the CPU 511 incorporating the ROM 512 and the RAM 513 through a bus line 514 including an address bus and a data bus. A RAM erase switch circuit 543, a main control device 261, a firing control device 312, a payout motor 358a, and the like are connected to the input / output port 515, respectively.

  The launch control device 312 permits or prohibits the launch of the gaming machine by the launch motor 229, and the launch motor 229 is permitted to drive when a predetermined condition is met. Specifically, a firing permission signal is output from the payout control device 311, a sensor signal is detected that the player is touching the handle 18, and a firing stop switch that stops firing is operated. On the condition that it is not done, the launch motor 229 is driven, and the game ball is launched at an intensity corresponding to the operation amount of the handle 18.

  The display control device 45 controls the variation display of the decorative symbols on the decorative symbol display device 42. The display control device 45 includes a CPU 521, a program ROM 522, a work RAM 523, a video RAM 524, a character ROM 525, an image controller 526, an input port 527, two output ports 528 and 529, and bus lines 530 and 531. And. The output of the main controller 261 is connected to the input port 527. Further, the CPU 521, the program ROM 522, the work RAM 523, and the image controller 526 are connected to the input port 527 and one output port 528 is connected via the bus line 530. An audio lamp control device 262 is connected to the output port 528. Further, the other output port 529 is connected to the image controller 526 through a bus line 531, and the decorative symbol display device 42 which is a liquid crystal display device is connected to the output port 529. In the present embodiment, the display control device 45 corresponds to display control means.

  The CPU 521 of the display control device 45 controls the display of the decorative symbol display device 42 based on the display command transmitted from the main control device 261. In the present embodiment, the main control device 261 displays whether or not the special display device 43 is definitely a big hit. In the decorative symbol display device 42 controlled by the display control device 45, Display according to the display of the special display device 43 is performed. In other words, the display command is a command sent to the display control device 45 in order to cause the decorative symbol display device 42 to perform an auxiliary display in accordance with the display performed on the special display device 43. The program ROM 522 is a memory that stores various control programs executed by the CPU 521 and fixed value data, and the work RAM 523 is a memory that temporarily stores work data and flags used when the CPU 521 executes various programs. It is. This is provided with a counter buffer for storing various counter values to be described later.

  The video RAM 524 is a memory for storing display data to be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42, and the display content of the decorative symbol display device 42 is changed by rewriting the contents of the video RAM 524. The character ROM 525 is a memory for storing character data such as symbols displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. The image controller 526 adjusts the timings of the CPU 521, the video RAM 524, and the output port 529 to intervene in reading and writing data, and also reads display data stored in the video RAM 524 at a predetermined timing to the decorative symbol display device 42. It is what is displayed.

  The power supply device 313 includes a power supply unit 541 that supplies power to each part of the pachinko machine 10, a power failure monitoring circuit 542 that monitors power interruption due to a power failure, and a RAM erase switch circuit 543 connected to the RAM erase switch 323. And has. The power supply unit 541 supplies necessary operation power to the main control device 261, the payout control device 311 and the like through a power supply path (not shown). As its outline, the power supply unit 541 takes in AC 24 volt power supplied from the outside, generates + 12V power for driving various switches and motors, + 5V power for logic, backup power for RAM backup, etc. These + 12V power supply, + 5V power supply and backup power supply are supplied to the main control device 261, the payout control device 311 and the like. Note that operation power (+12 V power, +5 V power, etc.) is supplied to the launch control device 312 via the payout control device 311.

  The power failure monitoring circuit 542 is a circuit that outputs a power failure signal SK1 to each NMI terminal of the CPU 501 of the main control device 261 and the CPU 511 of the payout control device 311 when the power is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like. The power failure monitoring circuit 542 monitors the DC stable voltage of 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply unit 541, and determines that a power failure (power failure) has occurred when this voltage is less than 22 volts. The power failure signal SK1 is output to the main controller 261 and the payout controller 311. Based on the output of the power failure signal SK1, the main control device 261 and the payout control device 311 recognize the occurrence of the power failure and execute the power failure processing (NMI interrupt processing in FIG. 17).

  The power supply unit 541 normally outputs an output of 5 volts, which is a drive voltage of the control system, for a time sufficient to execute the process at the time of a power failure even after the DC stable voltage of 24 volts becomes less than 22 volts. Configured to maintain the value. Therefore, the main control device 261 and the payout control device 311 can normally execute and complete the power failure process.

  The RAM erase switch circuit 543 is a circuit that takes in the switch signal of the RAM erase switch 323 and clears backup data in the RAM 503 of the main controller 261 and the RAM 513 of the payout controller 311 in accordance with the state of the switch 323. When the RAM erase switch 323 is pressed, the RAM erase switch circuit 543 outputs a RAM erase signal SK2 to the main controller 261 and the payout controller 311. When the power of the pachinko machine 10 is turned on with the RAM erase switch 323 pressed (including power-on due to power failure cancellation), the data in the respective RAMs 503 and 513 are cleared in the main controller 261 and the payout controller 311. The

  By the way, as shown in FIG. 25, the decorative symbol display device (liquid crystal display device) 42 has three symbol rows, left, middle and right, and the symbols (decorative symbols) are displayed in a variable manner for each symbol row. Is done. In the present embodiment, the decorative symbols are composed of numbers from “0” to “9”, for example, and the decorative symbols are displayed in ascending or descending order of the numbers to form a series of symbol strings. And a variable display is performed by displaying a decorative symbol in order with periodicity.

  In the left symbol row, the decorative symbols are displayed in descending order (in the order of decreasing numbers), and in the middle symbol column and the right symbol column, the decorative symbols are similarly displayed in ascending order (in the order of increasing numbers). Then, the variable display stops in the order of left symbol sequence → right symbol sequence → middle symbol sequence. When the jackpot is confirmed by the main control device 261, a message to that effect is displayed on the special display device 43, and a decorative symbol is a combination of the jackpot symbol on the decorative symbol display device 42 (in the present embodiment, the left symbol). A special game animation is displayed as a jackpot (the jackpot state is started).

  Further, in the present embodiment, since the variable display stops in the order of left symbol row → right symbol row → middle symbol row, when the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of jackpot symbols, as a previous stage The same decorative symbol is stopped and displayed in the left symbol column and the right symbol column. Hereinafter, such a combination in which the decorative symbols in the left symbol row and the right symbol row are the same is also referred to as a reach symbol combination. As described above, the reach symbol combination is stopped and displayed as a pre-stage of the jackpot symbol combination, so that a sense of expectation for the occurrence of the jackpot state can be realized. Even when the combination of reach symbols is stopped and displayed, there may be a combination of disjoint symbols (a combination in which the decorative symbols in the middle symbol row and the decorative symbols in the left and right symbol rows are different). In this embodiment, the combination of reach symbols corresponds to a specific mode.

  As described above, the reach state occurs when the combination of reach symbols is stopped and displayed. In the reach state in the present embodiment, the symbols in the middle symbol row are simply scrolled as in the case of normal fluctuation. In addition to “Normal Reach”, “Super Reach” and “Premium Reach” are also available. Normal reach is a reach pattern in which special effects are not displayed except for changes in decorative symbols. Super Reach is a reach pattern in which characters and the like are displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42 in addition to the decorative symbol during the variation display of the decorative symbol (after the reach state is established), thereby giving the player a sense of expectation. is there. In addition, premium reach is selected only when a big hit state occurs, and a character with a pattern different from that of super reach is displayed in addition to the decorative symbol during the decorative symbol variation display (after the reach state is established). Etc. are displayed, and this is a reach pattern that gives the player a great sense of expectation. In other words, if the premium reach is displayed, the player can recognize that the jackpot state occurs at that time.

  Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described.

  In the present embodiment, the CPU 501 in the main control device 261 performs lottery (big hit lottery) using various counter information in the game. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, a jackpot random number counter C1 used for jackpot lottery, a mode determination counter C2 used to determine transition to the high probability mode or the low probability mode when jackpot, and a decorative symbol display device 42. Stop pattern selection counter C3 as a stop pattern selection counter used for reach lottery when changing 42 out of place, random number initial value counter CINI used for initial value setting of jackpot random number counter C1, and variation of decorative symbol display device 42 Fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2 used for pattern selection, jackpot decoration symbol counter CH used for setting a jackpot symbol, and left, middle and right used for setting each off symbol in the left, middle and right columns The off-point symbol counters CL, CM, and CR are used. The stop pattern selection counter C3 and the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are also used when determining the variation display time in the special display device 43.

  Among these counters, the counters C1, C2, C3, CINI, CS1, CS2, and CH are loop counters that each add 1 to the previous value and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Further, the out symbol counters CL, CM, CR are configured such that register values are added using an R register (refresh register) in the CPU 501, and as a result, numerical values change randomly. Each counter is periodically updated, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a counter buffer set in a predetermined area of the RAM 503 (except for the random number initial value counter CINI). In addition, the RAM 503 is provided with a holding ball storage area as a storage area composed of one execution area and four holding areas (holding first to fourth holding areas). The values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the mode determination counter C2, and the stop pattern selection counter C3 are stored in time series in accordance with the winning histories of the game balls to the one-time opportunity corresponding port 33.

  The respective counters will be described in detail. The jackpot random number counter C1 is configured so that, for example, 1 is sequentially added within a range of 0 to 676, and after reaching the maximum value (that is, 676), it returns to 0. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 676), and is updated once for each timer interruption and is repeatedly updated within the remaining time of normal processing. The jackpot random number counter C1 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 is stored in the jackpot random number counter buffer of the RAM 503. Then, at the timing when the game ball wins the first opportunity corresponding port 33, the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 stored in the jackpot random number counter buffer is stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503.

  There are two types of random numbers that are jackpots, low probability mode and high probability mode. The high probability mode is a state where the combination of a predetermined probability variation symbol (probability variation symbol) is a big hit and the subsequent jackpot probability is increased as added value (probability variation state). The low probability mode (normal time) and Is said to be when it is not in such a probable state. In the following description, a case where a jackpot is achieved by a combination of probability variation symbols is referred to as “probability variation jackpot”, and a case where a jackpot is achieved by a combination other than a probability variation symbol (normal symbol) is referred to as “normal jackpot”. Further, in the high probability mode, the variable display time on the decorative symbol display device 42 and the special display device 43 is shortened, and the game is advanced with a good tempo. In the description of the high-probability mode, the short-time mode, etc., a description such as “variable display time is shortened” is used for convenience, but actually, a short variable display time is set when determining the variation pattern. As a result, the variable display time is only shortened.

  In the present embodiment, the number of random number values that are jackpots in the low probability mode is 2, and the value is “337,673”, and the number of random number values that are jackpots in the high probability mode is 10. The value is “67, 131, 199, 269, 337, 401, 463, 523, 601, 661”. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 22, a jackpot table in which values corresponding to jackpots (hereinafter referred to as “jackpot determination values”) are stored in advance is provided, and the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 corresponds to the jackpot. It is referred to when determining whether or not it is a value. In the jackpot table, jackpot determination values are stored individually corresponding to numbers (hereinafter referred to as “address numbers”) set in ascending order from “1” in the jackpot table. In addition, as described above, since the number of random numbers (big hit probability) that is a big hit differs between the high probability mode and the low probability mode, the high probability big hit table referenced in the high probability mode is used as the big hit table. (See FIG. 22A) and a low probability jackpot table (see FIG. 22B) referred to in the low probability mode. As shown in FIG. 22A, in the high probability jackpot table, the jackpot determination value “67” corresponding to the address number “1”, the jackpot determination value “131” corresponding to the address number “2”, and the address The jackpot determination value “199” corresponding to the number “3”, the jackpot determination value “269” corresponding to the address number “4”, the jackpot determination value “337” corresponding to the address number “5”, and the address number “ Jackpot determination value “401” corresponding to address number “7”, jackpot determination value “463” corresponding to address number “7”, jackpot determination value “523” corresponding to address number “8”, and address number “9” corresponding to address number “8”. The jackpot determination value “601” is stored in correspondence with the address number, and the jackpot determination value “661” is stored in correspondence with the address number “10”. Further, as shown in FIG. 22B, in the low probability jackpot table, the jackpot determination value “337” corresponding to the address number “1” and the jackpot determination value “673” corresponding to the address number “2” are stored. Is remembered.

  Although not shown, the normal symbol random number counter C4 is used for the lottery of the normal symbol display device 41. The normal symbol random number counter C4 is configured as a loop counter that is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 250, for example, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 250). The normal symbol random number counter C4 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 is acquired when the game ball passes through the second trigger corresponding port 34 on either the left or right side. Is done. The number of random number values to be won is 149, and the range is “5 to 153”. Then, when the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 to be won is acquired, after the variable display is performed for a predetermined time on the normal symbol display device 41, the symbol corresponding to the winning (in this example, “◯”) is stopped and displayed. Then, the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is activated for a predetermined time. In the high probability mode, the time until the lottery result is displayed on the normal symbol display device 41 (normal symbol variation display time) is shortened, and the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is activated ( It takes longer time. As a result, the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is frequently opened, and the big hit lottery is continuously performed. In addition to or instead of such a configuration, in the high probability mode, the number of values of the normal symbol random number counter C4 corresponding to the winning is set to be larger than that in the low probability mode to increase the winning probability. Also good.

  In this embodiment, when a big hit is made by a combination of symbols other than the probability variation symbol (normal symbol), after the big hit state is finished, a predetermined predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) of change display is supported. Then, the short time mode is executed. The time reduction mode is a state in which the variable display time is reduced in the normal symbol display device 41, the decorative symbol display device 42, and the special display device 43 as in the high probability mode. Furthermore, when the symbol corresponding to the winning in the normal symbol display device 41 (“◯” in this example) is stopped, the time for the first opportunity corresponding port 33 to be in an operating state becomes longer. In addition to or instead of such a configuration, in the short time mode, the number of values of the normal symbol random number counter C4 corresponding to the winning is set to be larger than that in the low probability mode, and the winning probability may be increased. Good. However, the jackpot probability in the time reduction mode (the number of values of the jackpot random number counter C1 corresponding to the jackpot) is the same as in the low probability mode.

  For example, the mode determination counter C2 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 9, for example, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 9) and then returns to 0. In the present embodiment, the mode determination counter C2 determines whether or not to shift to the jackpot high probability mode. Specifically, if the counter value is an odd number such as “1, 3, 5, 7, 9”, the transition to the high probability mode is determined, and if the counter value is an even number such as “0, 2, 4, 6, 8”. Transition to the low probability mode is determined. Although the term “transition” is used here, the high probability mode is continued if the counter value is odd when originally in the high probability mode, and the counter value is even when originally in the low probability mode. If so, the low probability mode is continued. The mode determination counter C2 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and the value of the mode determination counter C2 is stored in the mode determination counter buffer of the RAM 503. The value of the mode determination counter C2 stored in the mode determination counter buffer is stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the first opportunity corresponding port 33.

  Further, the stop pattern selection counter C3 is configured to increment one by one within a range of 0 to 238, for example, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 238). In this embodiment, the stop pattern selection counter C3, for example, after the reach has occurred, the final stop symbol (in this example, the symbol in the middle symbol row) is a symbol in the left and right symbol sequence (reach symbol) that constitutes a combination of reach symbols. Reach occurs when “rear-rear-reach” is stopped by a combination that is deviated by only one before and after “reach”, and “reach other than front-rear-reach”, where the final stop symbol is stopped by a combination other than the front and rear of the reach after the reach has occurred. “Do n’t complete” is drawn. The stop pattern selection counter C3 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 is stored in the stop pattern selection counter buffer of the RAM 503. The value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 stored in the stop pattern selection counter buffer is stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the first opportunity corresponding port 33. In the present embodiment, each time the stop pattern selection counter C3 is updated, the value is stored in the stop pattern selection counter buffer, and stored in the stop pattern selection counter buffer at the timing when the game ball wins the first opportunity corresponding port 33. The function of storing the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 in the reserved ball storage area corresponds to the random number extraction means. As will be described in detail later, in the present embodiment, these “rear out-of-front reach” are selected according to each gaming state such as during the high probability mode and during the low probability mode (in the time reduction mode, in a state where there is a hold and in a state where there is no hold). “,“ Reach other than front / rear out of reach ”, and“ complete out ”are selected in different ratios. In the present embodiment, a combination in which the final stop symbol is shifted by one before and after the reach symbol after the reach occurs corresponds to a specific combination mode.

  The variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are used for variation pattern selection. In detail, the effect and variation time in the decorative symbol display device 42 are determined by the determined variation pattern, and the special display device 43 is used. The variation time is determined. More specifically, one of the two variation type counters CS1 and CS2 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 198, for example, and reaches 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 198). The other variation type counter CS2 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 240, for example, and reaches the maximum value (that is, 240) and then returns to 0. In the following description, CS1 is also referred to as “first variation type counter”, and CS2 is also referred to as “second variation type counter”. This is also shown in FIG. The first variation type counter CS1 determines the reach type (reach pattern) of the decorative symbols such as normal reach, super reach, premium reach, and other rough symbol variation modes, and the second variation type counter CS2 finally stops after the reach occurs. A more detailed symbol variation mode such as an elapsed time (in other words, the number of variation symbols) until the symbol (in this embodiment, the middle symbol) stops is determined. Accordingly, a variety of variation patterns can be easily realized by combining these variation type counters CS1 and CS2. It is also possible to determine the symbol variation mode only by the first variation type counter CS1, or to determine the symbol variation mode similarly by combining the first variation type counter CS1 and the stop symbol.

  Further, the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and are repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer values of CS1 and CS2 are acquired when determining the variation pattern at the start of variation.

  The jackpot decorative symbol counter CH is used to determine a symbol (big jackpot symbol) when the decorative symbol display device 42 stops changing when the jackpot is won. The jackpot decoration symbol counter CH is updated periodically (once every timer interruption), and the value of the jackpot decoration symbol counter CH is stored in the jackpot decoration symbol counter buffer of the RAM 503. As combinations of jackpot symbols in the present embodiment, five combinations of probability variation symbols and five combinations of normal symbols are set. Accordingly, five (0 to 4) counter values are prepared as the jackpot decorative symbol counter CH. In other words, the jackpot decorative symbol counter CH is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 4, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 4) and then returns to 0. Then, when the mode decision counter C2 decides to shift to the high probability mode, for example, if the counter value is 0, it is “1”, and if it is “3”, it is “3”. For example, the combination of the probabilistic symbols is determined such that a “5” doublet, a 3 “7” doublet, and a “9” doublet “4”. Further, when the mode determination counter C2 determines to shift to the low probability mode, for example, if the counter value is 0, “0” based on a table (not shown) (a table that associates the counter value with the decorative design). 1 for “1”, 2 for “4”, 3 for “6”, 4 for “8”, etc. Usually, the combination of symbols is determined.

  In the present embodiment, the jackpot decoration symbol counter CH is stored in the jackpot decoration symbol counter buffer of the RAM 503. However, the jackpot decoration symbol counter CH is not stored in the buffer but the occurrence of the jackpot state is determined by the jackpot random number counter C1. A configuration may be employed in which the decoration design counter CH value for the big hit is referred to (extracted) when determining the decoration design.

  The left, middle, and right off symbol counters CL, CM, and CR display the left row decorative symbol, middle row decorative symbol, and right column decorative symbol stop symbols (combinations of out symbols) when the big hit lottery is off. Since any one of 10 decorative symbols is displayed in each column, 10 (0 to 9) counter values are prepared for each column. The stop symbol of the left symbol row is determined by the off symbol counter CL, the stop symbol of the middle symbol row is determined by the off symbol counter CM, and the stop symbol of the right symbol row is determined by the off symbol counter CR.

  In the present embodiment, the value of each counter CL, CM, CR is updated at random by using the value of the R register built in the CPU 501. That is, when each outlier symbol counter CL, CM, CR is updated, the lower 3 bits of the R register are added to the previous value, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value, 10 is subtracted to determine the current value. The Each outlier symbol counter CL, CM, CR is updated so that the update times do not overlap, and the combination of these outlier symbol counters CL, CM, CR is the front / rear outreach symbol buffer of RAM 503, the reach symbol buffer other than front / rear out, and It is stored in one of the completely off symbol buffers.

  In addition, the magnitude | size and range of each counter are only examples, and can be changed arbitrarily. However, it is desirable that the big hit random number counter C1, the stop pattern selection counter C3, and the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are all different prime numbers and are not synchronized in any case.

  Next, each control process executed by the CPU 501 in the main controller 261 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The processing of the CPU 501 is broadly divided into a main process that is started when the power is turned on, a timer interrupt process that is started periodically (in this embodiment, at a cycle of 2 msec), and a stop signal to the NMI terminal (non-maskable terminal). For convenience of explanation, the timer interrupt process and the NMI interrupt process will be described first, and then the main process will be described.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. This process is executed by the CPU 501 of the main controller 261 every 2 msec, for example.

  In FIG. 15, first, in step S701, reading processing of various winning switches is executed. That is, the state of various switches (except for the RAM erase switch 323) connected to the main controller 261 is read, and the state of the switch is determined and the detection information (winning detection information) is stored.

  Thereafter, in step S702, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value (676 in this embodiment). Then, the update value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 503. In the subsequent step S703, the big hit random number counter C1, the mode determination counter C2, the stop pattern selection counter C3, and the big hit decoration symbol counter CH are updated. Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the mode determination counter C2, the stop pattern selection counter C3, and the jackpot hour decoration symbol counter CH are each incremented by 1 and their counter values are the maximum values (in this embodiment, 676, When 9,238,4) is reached, it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated values of the counters C1, C2, C3, and CH are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 503.

  Thereafter, in step S704, a start winning process associated with winning in the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is executed. This start winning process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 16. In step S801, whether or not the game ball has won the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is determined based on the detection information of the first opportunity corresponding port switch 224. If it is determined that the game ball has won the first opportunity corresponding port 33, in the subsequent step S802, it is determined whether or not the number N of starting reserved balls is less than the upper limit value (4 in the present embodiment). The process proceeds to step S803 on the condition that there is a winning at the first opportunity corresponding port 33 and the number N of starting reserved balls is smaller than 4, and the number N of starting reserved balls is incremented.

  In subsequent step S804, a random number related to the success or failure is acquired. Specifically, the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the mode determination counter C2, and the stop pattern selection counter C3 updated in step S703 are stored in the first area among the free storage areas of the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503. Then, after the start winning process, the CPU 501 once ends the timer interruption process.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the NMI interrupt process. This process is executed by the CPU 501 of the main controller 261 when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like. By this NMI interruption, the state of the main controller 261 at the time of power-off is stored in the backup area 503a of the RAM 503.

  That is, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, the power failure signal SK1 is output from the power failure monitoring circuit 542 to the NMI terminal of the CPU 501 in the main controller 261. Then, the CPU 501 interrupts the control being executed and starts the NMI interrupt process of FIG. The NMI interrupt processing in FIG. 17 is stored in the ROM 502 of the main controller 261. For a predetermined time after the power failure signal SK1 is output, current is supplied from the power supply unit 541 so that the processing of the main control device 261 can be executed, and the NMI interrupt processing is executed within the predetermined time.

  In the NMI interrupt processing of FIG. 17, first, in step S901, the used register is saved in the backup area 503a of the RAM 503, and in the subsequent step S902, the value of the stack pointer is stored in the backup area 503a. Further, in step S903, the information on the occurrence of power interruption is set in the backup area 503a, and in step S904, a power interruption notification command indicating that the power has been interrupted is transmitted to another control device.

  In step S905, a RAM determination value is calculated and stored in the backup area 503a. The RAM determination value is, for example, a checksum value at the work area address of the RAM 503. In step S906, RAM access is prohibited. After that, an infinite loop is entered in preparation for the case where the power supply is completely shut down and processing cannot be executed.

  The NMI interrupt process is also executed in the payout control device 311 in the same manner, and the state of the payout control device 311 when the power is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like is stored in the backup area 513a of the RAM 513. Similarly, the power is supplied from the power supply unit 541 so that the processing of the payout control device 311 can be executed for a predetermined time after the power failure signal SK1 is output. That is, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, the power failure signal SK1 is output from the power failure monitoring circuit 542 to the NMI terminal of the CPU 511 in the payout control device 311 and the CPU 511 interrupts the control being executed. The NMI interrupt process of FIG. 17 is started. The contents are as described in FIG. 17 (however, the transmission of the power-off notification command in step S904 is excluded).

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a main process executed by the CPU 501 in the main control device 261. This main process is started upon reset when the power is turned on.

  First, in step S101, an initial setting process associated with power-on is executed. Specifically, in order to set a predetermined value in the stack pointer and wait for the sub-side control device (sound lamp control device 262, payout control device 311 etc.) to become operable, for example, Wait processing is performed for about 1 second. In step S102, a payout permission command is transmitted to the payout control device 311. In subsequent step S103, RAM access is permitted.

  Thereafter, data backup processing is executed for the RAM 503 in the CPU 501. That is, in step S104, it is determined whether or not the RAM erase switch 323 provided in the power supply device 313 is pressed (ON). In subsequent step S105, the information on occurrence of power interruption is set in the backup area 503a of the RAM 503. It is determined whether or not. In step S106, a RAM determination value is calculated. In subsequent step S107, it is determined whether or not the RAM determination value matches the RAM determination value stored when the power is turned off, that is, the validity of the backup. The RAM determination value is a checksum value at a work area address of the RAM 503, for example. Note that it is possible to determine the effectiveness of backup based on whether or not the keywords written in a predetermined area of the RAM 503 are correctly stored.

  As described above, the pachinko machine 10 is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch 323 when it is desired to return to the initial state when the power is turned on, for example, at the start of business in the game hall. Therefore, if the RAM erase switch 323 is ON, the process proceeds to a RAM initialization process (step S114, etc.). Similarly, when the information on occurrence of power interruption is not set, or when a backup abnormality is confirmed by a RAM determination value (checksum value or the like), the process proceeds to initialization processing of the RAM 503 (step S114 or the like). That is, in step S114, the used area of the RAM 503 is cleared to 0, and in the subsequent step S115, initialization processing of the RAM 503 is executed. In step S116, interrupt permission is set, and the process proceeds to normal processing described later.

  On the other hand, if the RAM erase switch 323 has not been pressed, the power-off occurrence information is set, and the RAM judgment value (checksum value, etc.) is normal. Execute the process (process when power is restored). That is, in step S108, the stack pointer before the power interruption is restored, and in step S109, the information on the occurrence of the power interruption is cleared. In step S110, a command for returning the control device on the sub side to the gaming state at the time of power-off is transmitted, and in step S111, the used register is returned from the backup area 503a of the RAM 503. Further, in steps S112 and S113, the interrupt permission / non-permission is returned to the state before power-off, and then the address before power-off is returned.

  Next, the flow of normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an outline, the processing of steps S201 to S208 is executed as a periodic processing with a period of 4 msec, and the counter update processing of steps S210 and S211 is executed with the remaining time.

  In FIG. 9, first, in step S201, output data such as a command updated in the previous process is transmitted to each control device on the sub side (external output process). For example, a variation pattern command, a symbol command, a determination command, and the like are transmitted to the display control device 45 when the decoration symbol display device 42 displays the variation of the decoration symbol. Details of the external output processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S301, it is determined whether or not a variation start flag indicating the start of variation display is set. This variation start flag is set in a variation start process described later (FIG. 14: step S640). As will be described in detail later, in the change start process, a change pattern and a design command including information on the change time are respectively determined.

  If it is determined immediately after the start of variation (step S301: YES), the variation start flag is reset in step S302, and then a variation pattern command is transmitted in step S303. Then, after setting a variation pattern command transmission flag indicating transmission of a variation pattern command in step S304, the process proceeds to step S316. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not immediately after the start of fluctuation (step S301: NO), the process proceeds to step S305.

  In step S305, it is determined whether or not the variation pattern command transmission flag is set. Based on this determination, it is determined whether or not a variation pattern command has been transmitted in the previous process. If a positive determination is made here, a symbol command of the left symbol row is transmitted in step S306. Then, in step S307, a left symbol command transmission flag indicating transmission of a symbol command in the left symbol row is set. In step S308, the fluctuation pattern command transmission flag is reset, and then the process proceeds to step S316.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S305, the process proceeds to step S309 to determine whether or not the left symbol command transmission flag is set. Based on this determination, it is determined whether or not the symbol command of the left symbol row has been transmitted in the previous process. If the determination is affirmative, a symbol command in the right symbol sequence is transmitted in step S310. Then, in step S311, a right symbol command transmission flag indicating transmission of a symbol command in the right symbol row is set. In step S312, the left symbol command transmission flag is reset, and then the process proceeds to step S316.

  If a negative determination is made in step S309, the process proceeds to step S313 to determine whether or not the right symbol command transmission flag is set. Based on this determination, it is determined whether or not the symbol command in the right symbol sequence has been transmitted in the previous process. If the determination is affirmative, in step S314, a symbol command for the middle symbol string is transmitted. Then, after the right symbol command transmission flag is reset in step S315, the process proceeds to step S316. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S313, the process proceeds to step S316 as it is.

  In step S316, other processing is performed. Specifically, when the determination command is set, the determination command is transmitted. Also, the presence / absence of winning detection information is determined, and if there is winning detection information, a winning ball payout command corresponding to the number of acquired game balls is transmitted to the payout control device 311.

  According to the above-described external output processing, when the decoration symbol changes, one time each of the normal processing in the order of the variation pattern command → the symbol command of the left symbol sequence → the symbol command of the right symbol sequence → the symbol command of the middle symbol sequence ( That is, one command is sent every 4 msec), and the decision command is sent at the timing when the fluctuation time has elapsed.

  Further, the display control device 45 that has input the variation pattern command, the symbol command, the determination command, etc. determines the display mode of the decorative symbol display device 42 based on the various commands, and the display mode is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. It is supposed to be displayed. More specifically, the decorative symbols are displayed for a predetermined time based on the variation pattern command. Then, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed based on the symbol command. In addition, after the determination display of the special display device 43, the determination command is transmitted to the display control device 45 as described above. This determination command is transmitted between the main special display device 43 and the auxiliary decorative symbol display device 42. It is intended for complete synchronization. That is, in order to achieve complete synchronization, it is desirable to transmit the determination command as described above. However, if the configuration is such that both the main control device 261 and the display control device 45 can grasp the variation time, the determination command is transmitted. It is good also as a structure which does not transmit.

  Now, returning to the description of FIG. 9, in the next step S202, the fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2 are updated. Specifically, the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are incremented by 1, and are cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum values (198 and 240 in this embodiment). Then, the update values of the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 503. In the subsequent step S203, updating of each off symbol counter CL, CM, CR of each symbol row is executed.

  Here, the update process of the out symbol counter CL, CM, CR will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 11, in step S401, it is determined whether or not it is time to update the out symbol counter CL in the left symbol row, and step S401. In step S402, which shifts to a negative determination in step S402, it is determined whether or not it is time to update the symbol symbol CR out of the right symbol row. It should be noted that the off symbol counters CL, CR, CM of the left symbol row, the right symbol row, and the middle symbol row are updated one by one in a single update process. Accordingly, if the out-of-middle symbol counter CM in the previous update process has been updated, an affirmative determination is made in step S401. Further, when the out symbol counter CL of the left symbol row is updated in the previous update process, an affirmative determination is made in step S402. If it is the time to update the left symbol sequence (YES in step S401), the process proceeds to step S403, and the left symbol sequence outlier symbol counter CL is updated. If the update timing of the right symbol sequence (YES in step S402), the process proceeds to step S404 to update the outlier symbol counter CR of the right symbol sequence. Further, if the update timing of the middle symbol row (both NO in steps S401 and S402), the process proceeds to step S405, and the outlier symbol counter CM of the middle symbol row is updated. In updating the out-of-step symbol counters CL, CR, and CM in steps S403 to S405, the value of the lower 3 bits of the R register is added to the previous counter value, and 10 is subtracted when the addition result exceeds the maximum value. Then, the calculation result is set as the current value of the off symbol counters CL, CR, and CM.

  According to the update process of the off symbol counters CL, CR, and CM, the off symbol counters CL, CR, and CM in the left symbol row, the middle symbol row, and the right symbol row are sequentially updated one by one in one update process. The update times of the counter values do not overlap. As a result, every time the update process is executed three times, the set symbol counters CL, CM, and CR are updated for one set.

  Thereafter, in step S406, it is determined whether or not the combination of the updated outlier symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is a reach symbol combination (the value of CL and the value of CR are the same value). If it is a combination of symbols (S406 is YES), in step S407, whether or not it is a combination of symbols that is out of front and back (the CL value, the CR value, and the CM value are shifted one after the other). Is determined. If the off symbol counters CL, CM, CR are a combination of front and rear symbols (S407 is YES), the process proceeds to step S408, and the combination of the off symbol counters CL, CM, CR at that time is the front / rear out of reach of the work RAM 523. Store in the symbol buffer. If the off symbol counters CL, CM, CR are a combination of symbols other than front / back off (S407 is NO), the process proceeds to step S409, and the combination of the off symbol counters CL, CM, CR at that time is stored in the work RAM 523. Stores in reach symbol buffer except for front and rear deviation.

  If the combination of the out symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is not a reach symbol combination (NO in S406), the process proceeds to step S410, and the combination of the out symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is a completely out symbol combination. It is determined whether or not it is a combination (a value different from the CL value and the CR value), and if it is a combination of completely deviating symbols (YES in S410), the process proceeds to step S411, and the deviation at that time The combination of the symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is stored in the completely out symbol buffer of the work RAM 523. If a negative determination is made in step S410, the symbols are aligned on the left, middle, and right, that is, it corresponds to a combination of jackpot symbols. In such a case, the out symbol counters CL, CM, CR are stored in the buffer. The present process is terminated as it is.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 9, in step S <b> 204 after the off symbol counter update process, the prize ball counting signal received from the payout control device 311 is read. Next, in step S205, the payout abnormality signal received from the payout control device 311 is read. Thereafter, in step S206, variation processing is executed. By this variation processing, the special display device 43 is controlled, and jackpot determination and setting of a variation pattern of the decorative symbol in the decorative symbol display device 42 are performed. However, details of the variation process will be described later.

  Thereafter, in step S207, a big prize opening / closing process for opening or closing the big prize opening of the variable prize winning device 32 in the case of the big win state is executed. That is, it is determined whether the big winning opening is opened for each round in the big win state, and whether the maximum opening time of the big winning opening has passed or whether a predetermined number of game balls have been won in the big winning opening. When either of these conditions is satisfied, the special winning opening is closed.

  In step S208, normal symbol display control by the normal symbol display device 41 is executed. Briefly, on the condition that the game ball has passed through the second opportunity corresponding port 34, the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 is acquired each time, and the acquired value of C4 is a value corresponding to the winning. In this case, the normal symbol display device 41 stops displaying the normal symbol as the winning symbol, and then the first opportunity corresponding port 33 is opened for a predetermined time. Although the explanation is omitted, the normal symbol random number counter C4 is also subjected to the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 15 in the same manner as the big hit random number counter C1, the mode determination counter C2, the stop pattern selection counter C3, and the big hit hour decorative symbol counter CH. It has been updated.

  Thereafter, in step S209, it is determined whether or not the next normal process execution timing has been reached, that is, whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the previous normal process. Then, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are repeatedly updated within the remaining time until the next normal processing execution timing (steps S210 and S211). That is, in step S210, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value (676 in this embodiment).

  In step S211, the fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2 are updated (same as step S202). Specifically, the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are incremented by 1, and are cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum values (198 and 240 in this embodiment). Then, the change values of the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 503.

  Here, since the execution time of each process of steps S201 to S208 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant and varies. Therefore, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the big hit random number counter C1) can be updated at random by repeatedly executing the update of the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time. .

  Next, the variation process of step S206 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In FIG. 12, it is determined in step S501 whether or not a big hit is being made. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a jackpot flag (see step S609 in FIG. 13) that is set when a jackpot, which will be described later, is set. If it is determined that the game is a big hit, the process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the game is not a big prize, the color change display (variable display) is being performed by the special display device 43 in step S502. It is determined whether or not. If it is determined that the display is not fluctuating, the process proceeds to step S503, where it is determined whether or not the number N of starting reserved balls is greater than zero. And when the number N of starting reservation balls is 0, this process is complete | finished as it is.

  If neither the big hit or the variable display is being displayed and if the number N of starting reserved balls is greater than 0, the process proceeds to step S504. In step S504, 1 is subtracted from the number N of starting reserved balls. In step S505, a process for shifting the data stored in the reserved ball storage area is executed. This data shift process is a process for sequentially shifting the data stored in the reserved first to fourth areas of the reserved ball storage area to the execution area side. The reserved first area → the execution area, the reserved second area → The data in each area is shifted such as the first hold area, the third hold area → the second hold area, the fourth hold area → the third hold area.

  Thereafter, in step S506, a change start process is executed. Here, the details of the variation start process will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 13 and 14. In addition, as described above, the combination pattern of the stop symbol of the decorative symbol in the present embodiment includes “combination of completely out of symbol”, “combination of symbols other than front and rear off”, and “combination of front and rear out of symbol”. , “Ordinary symbol combination” and “probability variation symbol combination”. These stop symbol combination pattern categories (stop symbol categories) are indicated by numerical values “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, and “5” in the variation start process. Based on the result of the lottery, one of these numerical values is selected and referred to when setting the symbol command. In addition, as will be described in detail later, stop symbol category 1 indicates "completely deviated symbol combination", stop symbol category 2 indicates "design combination other than front and rear error", and stop symbol category 3 indicates “combination of front and rear symbols”, stop symbol 4 indicates “normal symbol combination”, and stop symbol 5 indicates “probability symbol combination”. Show. In this embodiment, stop mode section 1 corresponds to the first combination pattern, stop mode section 2 corresponds to the second combination pattern, and stop mode section 3 corresponds to the third combination pattern. The stop mode sections 4 and 5 correspond to the fourth combination pattern.

  In the present embodiment, the ROM 502 is provided with a threshold value storage area in which the first threshold value δ1 and the second threshold value δ2 that are referred to when selecting the stop symbol category are stored. In the present embodiment, the threshold storage area is a high-accuracy storage area that stores a threshold set corresponding to the high probability mode, a time-saving storage area that stores a threshold set corresponding to the time-shortening mode, Hold useful storage area for storing the threshold set when there is a hold in the low probability mode other than the time reduction mode, and set when there is no hold in the low probability mode other than the time reduction mode And a reserved useless storage area for storing the threshold value, and a different threshold value is stored in each storage area. For this reason, the ratio of the stop symbol division selected by each game state (mode) differs. In the present embodiment, the high-accuracy storage area of the threshold storage area corresponds to the second mode threshold storage means, and the time-saving storage area, the reserved useful storage area, and the reserved useless storage area are the first mode threshold storage. Corresponds to means.

  Further, the RAM 503 is provided with a set value storage area having a first threshold storage area capable of storing the first threshold δ1 and a second threshold storage area capable of storing the second threshold δ2. . In this setting value storage area, the threshold value stored in the storage area corresponding to each gaming state in the storage area of the threshold value storage area is stored. When the stop symbol category is selected, the first threshold value δ1 and the second threshold value δ2 stored in the set value storage area are taken into consideration. In the present embodiment, the set value storage area corresponds to the set value storage means.

  First, in step S601, the low-probability jackpot table (see FIG. 22B) is referred to in a process described later (such as a process for determining whether or not the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 is a value corresponding to the jackpot). Set to

  In step S602, it is determined whether or not a high probability flag (see step S611) that is set when a shift to a high probability mode, which will be described later in detail, is set is set. Here, if an affirmative determination is made, that is, if the high probability mode is in progress, the process proceeds to step S603 to set the high probability jackpot table (see FIG. 22A) to be referred to in the processing described later. . That is, in step S603, the setting once referred to the low probability jackpot table is reset so that the high probability jackpot table is referenced.

  After step S603 or when a negative determination is made in step S602 (not in the high probability mode), the process proceeds to step S604, and the number of times of success / failure determination for setting the number of executions of the failure determination for determining whether or not the jackpot is determined. Perform the setting process. As will be described in detail later, whether or not to determine whether or not the jackpot is won corresponds to the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area and the jackpot stored in the jackpot table. This is done by determining whether or not the value of the random number (the jackpot determination value) is the same value. In the present embodiment, since the number of jackpot determination values is different between the high probability mode and the low probability mode, naturally, the number of times of determining whether or not the game is true also differs. Therefore, the number of times of determination of success / failure is set in the success / failure determination number setting process. That is, in the success / failure determination number setting process, the number of jackpot determination values stored in the jackpot table set in step S601 or step S603 is stored in the determination count storage area D. In this embodiment, since the jackpot determination value is stored corresponding to the address numbers in order from 1, the largest address number is read from the jackpot table, and the address number (numerical value) is stored in the jackpot determination count storage area D. By storing, it is possible to store how many jackpot determination values exist in the jackpot determination count storage area D. For example, “10” is stored in the jackpot determination count storage area D when the high probability jackpot table is set, and “2” is stored when the low probability jackpot table is set.

  Thereafter, calculation processing is performed in step S605. In the calculation process, the jackpot determination value corresponding to the address number stored in the jackpot determination count storage area D is read from the jackpot table set in step S601 or step S603. For example, when the low probability jackpot table is set to be referenced and “2” is stored in the jackpot determination count storage area D, the address number “ The jackpot determination value “673” corresponding to “2” is read out. Subsequently, the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area is read. Then, the read jackpot determination value is subtracted from the value of the read jackpot random number counter C1.

  Then, the process proceeds to step S606, and it is determined whether or not the calculation value calculated in the calculation process of step S605 is “0”. Here, when it is determined that the calculated value is “0” (YES in step S606), it is “big hit”, whereas when it is determined that the calculated value is not “0” (NO in step S606). ) Is “out”.

  If a negative determination is made in step S606 (C1 value−big hit determination value ≠ 0), that is, if it is “out”, the process proceeds to step S607, and the numerical value stored in the big hit determination count storage area D (hereinafter, this is (Referred to as “D value”). In step S608, it is determined whether or not the D value is “0”. If a negative determination is made here (D value ≠ 0), the processing returns to step S605. That is, the success / failure determination made up of the calculation process in step S605 and the determination process in step S606 is repeatedly executed up to the number (number of times) stored in the big hit determination number storage area D in step S604. In the present embodiment, a series of processes including the calculation process in step S605 and the determination process in step S606 corresponds to the success / failure determination process. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S608, the process proceeds to step S621 (see FIG. 14) described later.

  If the determination in step S606 is affirmative (the value of C1−the jackpot determination value = 0), that is, “big jackpot”, a jackpot flag indicating that the jackpot is being hit is set in step S609. The jackpot flag is reset after the jackpot state ends.

  Thereafter, in step S610, it is determined whether or not the probability variation jackpot. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the mode determination counter C2 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area is “1, 3, 5, 7, 9” (whether it is an odd number). is doing. When an affirmative determination is made here, that is, when it is a probable big hit, the process proceeds to step S611, where a high probability flag indicating that the high probability mode is being set is set (when the high probability flag is already set). Leave it set as it is). After that, in step S612, “12” indicating that it is a probable big hit is stored in the special display storage area E that is referred to when the variable display of the special display device 43, which will be described later in detail, is stopped (displayed). (See step S508). Further, in step S613, “5” indicating the combination of the probable variation symbols is stored in the stop symbol classification storage area F which is referred to when determining the stop symbol combination (design command) of the decorative symbol, and then in step S637 (FIG. 6). 14).

  On the other hand, when a negative determination is made in step S610 (when the value of C2 is an even number of “0, 2, 4, 6, 8”), the process proceeds to step S614, and the time reduction indicating that the time reduction mode is in effect. Set the flag. Note that this time-short flag is reset when the time-short mode ends (in this example, after the end of the big hit state and when 100 times of variable display are finished). Thereafter, in step S615, if the high probability flag is set, the high probability flag is reset. Next, in step S616, “11” indicating that it is a normal big hit is stored in the special display storage area E. Furthermore, in step S617, “4” indicating the combination of normal symbols is stored in the stop symbol classification storage area, and then the process proceeds to step S637 (see FIG. 14).

  If the determination in step S608 is affirmative, that is, if “displacement” is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S621 in FIG. 14 to store “10” in the special display storage area E. .

  Subsequently, in step S622, the first threshold value δ1 (“236” in this example) stored in the high-accuracy storage area of the threshold value storage area shown in FIG. 23 is set as the first threshold value in the determination value storage area. Set (store) in the threshold storage area. As a result, when the stop symbol category is selected, the first threshold value δ1 set corresponding to the high probability mode is taken into consideration. In the present embodiment, the setting process in step S622 corresponds to a threshold setting process (second mode setting process).

  Next, in step S623, it is determined whether or not a high probability flag (see step S611 above) is set. In the present embodiment, this step S623 corresponds to mode determination processing. When a negative determination is made here, that is, when the high probability mode is not being executed, the process proceeds to step S624, and a first setting flag referred to in setting the threshold is set.

  Subsequently, in step S625, it is determined whether or not the time reduction flag (see step S614 above) is set. When an affirmative determination is made here, that is, when the time reduction mode is in effect, the process proceeds to step S631 described later. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S625, that is, if the time reduction mode is not in effect, the second setting flag is set in step S626, and the first setting flag is reset in step S627.

  After step S627, it is determined in step S628 whether or not the number N of starting reserved balls is other than zero. When an affirmative determination is made here, that is, when the variable display is suspended, the process proceeds to step S631 described later. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S628, that is, if the variable display is not suspended, the third setting flag is set in step S629, the second setting flag is reset in step S630, and step S631 is set. Migrate to

  In step S631, threshold setting processing in the low probability mode is performed. In this low probability mode threshold value setting process, first, it is confirmed which of the first to third setting flags is set. When the first setting flag is set, that is, in the time reduction mode, the first threshold value δ1 (in this example, stored in the time reduction storage area of the threshold storage area shown in FIG. 23). “233”) is stored in the first threshold storage area of the determination value storage area, and the second threshold δ2 (“227” in this example) is stored in the second threshold storage area. Thereby, when the stop symbol classification is selected, the first threshold value δ1 and the second threshold value δ2 corresponding to the time reduction mode are taken into consideration.

  When the second setting flag is set, that is, when the variable display is suspended, the first threshold value δ1 (in this example, stored in the reserved useful storage area of the threshold value storage area shown in FIG. 23). “237”) is stored in the first threshold storage area of the determination value storage area, and the second threshold δ2 (“220” in this example) is stored in the second threshold storage area. As a result, when the stop symbol category is selected, the first threshold value δ1 and the second threshold value δ2 corresponding to the state of “with hold” are taken into consideration.

  When the third setting flag is set, that is, when the variable display is not suspended, the first threshold value δ1 (in this example) stored in the reserved storage area of the threshold storage area shown in FIG. “232”) is stored in the first threshold storage area of the determination value storage area, and the second threshold δ2 (“200” in this example) is stored in the second threshold storage area. As a result, when the stop symbol category is selected, the first threshold value δ1 and the second threshold value δ2 corresponding to the “no hold” state are taken into consideration. The first threshold value δ1 is overwritten with the first threshold value δ1 set in step S622. Further, the first to third setting flags in the set state are reset in this process. In the present embodiment, the setting process in step S631 corresponds to a threshold setting process (first mode setting process).

  Now, after the threshold setting process at the time of low probability mode in step S631, a combination pattern of stop symbols (stop symbol category) at the time of deviation variation is selected. In selecting the stop symbol category, the low probability mode is selected. The threshold values (first threshold value δ1, second threshold value δ2) stored in the determination value storage area in the hour threshold setting process or the like are referred to. As described above, when in the low probability mode, the first threshold value δ1 and the second threshold value δ2 are stored in the determination value storage area (see step S631), and the high probability mode is in effect. In this case, only the first threshold value δ1 is stored in the determination value storage area (see step S622). Then, in the following processing, it is determined which stop symbol classification corresponds to the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area, depending on whether the value exceeds or falls below the threshold. A stop symbol classification (combination of stop symbols) is selected according to the determination. More specifically, in the low probability mode (including during the short time mode), if the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area is equal to or greater than the first threshold value δ1, the operation is stopped. Select symbol category 3 (combination of front and rear symbols), select stop symbol category 2 (combination of symbols other than front and rear) if the second threshold value δ2 is greater than or equal to the first threshold value δ1, and the second If it is less than the threshold value δ2, stop mode category 1 (combination of completely out-of-band symbols) is selected (see FIGS. 24B to 24D). As described above, even in the low probability mode, the values of the first threshold value δ1 and the second threshold value δ2 depending on whether the mode is the time reduction mode, when there is a hold, and when there is no hold. Are different (see FIG. 23), the ratio of the selected stop symbol categories 1 to 3 is different in each gaming state.

  On the other hand, in correspondence with the high probability mode, only the first threshold value δ1 is stored in the determination value storage area (since the second threshold value δ2 is not stored), so in the low probability mode, While the stop symbol division is divided into three, the stop symbol division is divided into two in the high probability mode. More specifically, in the high probability mode, if the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area is greater than or equal to the first threshold value δ1, the stop symbol classification 3 Symbol combination) is selected, and if it is less than the first threshold value δ1, stop mode category 1 (combination of completely out of symbol) is selected (see FIG. 24A). Thus, in the high probability mode, there is no value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 corresponding to the stop mode category 2 (combination of outside symbols other than front and back deviation). Other combinations of symbols) will not be selected.

  Also, as described above, in step S622 and step S631, a storage area corresponding to the gaming state (mode) at that time is selected from the storage areas provided in the threshold storage area, and the threshold value of the selected storage area is set. These are stored in the threshold value storage area of the set value storage area. That is, when the process of selecting the stop symbol classification is performed, the threshold value set corresponding to the gaming state at that time is already stored in the determination value storage area. For this reason, in the process of selecting the stop symbol classification, it is only necessary to consider the threshold value stored in the threshold value storage area of the determination value storage area, and the process can be simplified.

  Returning to the description of the flowchart of FIG. 14, after the threshold setting process in the low probability mode in step S631, in step S632, “2” indicating a combination of symbols other than front and rear deviation is stored in the stop symbol classification storage area F. . Then, in step S633, it is determined whether or not the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area corresponds to the stop symbol category 2 (a combination of symbols other than front and rear deviation). More specifically, the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 is greater than or equal to the value stored in the second threshold storage area of the set value storage area (that is, the second threshold δ2) and stored in the first threshold storage area. It is determined whether or not it is less than the set value (that is, the first threshold value δ1). For example, in the case of “in the time-saving mode”, as shown in FIG. 24B, an affirmative determination is made when the value of C3 is “227” or more and less than “233” (227 to 232). In the case of “with hold” in the low probability mode, as shown in FIG. 24C, when the value of C3 is “220” or more and less than “237” (220 to 236). A positive determination is made. In the case of “no hold” in the low probability mode, as shown in FIG. 24D, when the value of C3 is “200” or more and less than “232” (200 to 231), an affirmative determination is made. Is done. In the present embodiment, the determination process in step S633 corresponds to a second segment determination process.

  If a negative determination is made in step S633, or if an affirmative determination is made in step S623 (in the high probability mode), “3” indicating the combination of out-of-front and back symbols in the stop symbol classification storage area F in step S634. "Is stored (overwritten). As described here, when an affirmative determination is made in step S623, the process directly goes to step S634, and the process of storing “2” in the stop symbol classification storage area F in step S632, And the process of determining whether or not the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 in step S633 corresponds to the stop symbol category 2 is skipped. As described above, the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 corresponding to the stop symbol category 2 originally does not exist during the high probability mode. For this reason, step S632 and step S633 are skipped during the high probability mode. Thereby, when it is in high probability mode, stop symbol classification 2 is not selected (it is not a combination of symbols other than front and back deviation).

  After step S634, it is determined whether or not the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area in step S635 corresponds to stop symbol category 3 (combination of front and rear symbols). . More specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the stop pattern selection counter C3 is equal to or greater than the value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage area (that is, the first threshold value δ1). For example, in the case of “in high probability mode”, as shown in FIG. 24A, the determination is positive when the value of C3 is “236” or more (236 to 238). Further, in the case of “during time reduction mode”, an affirmative determination is made when the value of C3 is “233” or more (233 to 238), as shown in FIG. In the low probability mode and in the “pending” state, as shown in FIG. 24C, the determination is positive when the value of C3 is “237” or more (237, 238). When the state is “no hold” in the low probability mode, as shown in FIG. 24D, the determination is positive when the value of C3 is “232” or more (232 to 238). In the present embodiment, the determination process in step S635 corresponds to a first classification determination process.

  If a negative determination is made in step S635, “1” indicating the combination of completely out of symbol is stored (overwritten) in the stop symbol classification storage area F in step S636. Then, after “1” is stored in the stop symbol classification storage area in step S635, if an affirmative determination is made in step S633 or an affirmative determination is made in step S635, the process proceeds to step S637. In the present embodiment, the storage process of step S613, step S617, step S632, step S634, and step S636 corresponds to the pattern selection process.

  In step S637, symbol command setting processing as stop symbol determination processing is performed. More specifically, when “5” indicating a combination of probability variation symbols is set in the stop symbol classification storage area F, a combination of probability variation symbols consisting of “1, 3, 5, 7, 9” is selected. Set the symbol command (allocated to the symbol command of the left symbol row, middle symbol row, right symbol row). In addition, when “4” indicating a combination of normal symbols is set in the stop symbol classification storage area F, a combination of normal symbols consisting of “0, 2, 4, 6, 8” double stitches is selected. Set to. Specifically, when “5” is set in the stop symbol classification storage area F, the value of the big hit decoration symbol counter CH stored in the big bonus decoration symbol counter buffer is read. Further, by referring to a table (not shown) (a table for associating counter values and decorative symbols) based on the read CH value, the combination of probability variation symbols (“0, 2, 4, 6, 8” as described above). ”Of any of the lozenges”. Further, when “4” is set in the stop symbol classification storage area F, the value of the jackpot decoration symbol counter CH stored in the jackpot decoration symbol counter buffer is read. Further, referring to a table (not shown) (a table for associating counter values and decorative symbols) based on the read CH value, the combination of the normal symbols (“0, 2, 4, 6, 8” as described above). ”Of any of the lozenges”.

  In addition, when “3” indicating the combination of back and forth symbols is set in the stop symbol category storage area F, the combination of front and back symbols stored in the front and back reach symbol buffer of the RAM 503 is set in the symbol command. To do. Further, when “2” indicating a combination of symbols other than front / rear detachment is set in the stop symbol classification storage area F, a combination of symbols other than front / rear detachment stored in the reach symbol buffer other than front / rear detachment of the work RAM 523 is set. Set the symbol command. In addition, when “1” indicating a combination of completely disconnected symbols is set in the stop symbol classification storage area F, the combination of completely disconnected symbols stored in the completely disconnected symbol buffer of the work RAM 523 is set in the symbol command. To do.

  After step S637, variation pattern determination processing is performed in step S638. More specifically, the values of the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 stored in the counter buffer of the RAM 503 are confirmed, and based on the values of the first and second variation type counters CS1 and CS2, the decorative pattern variation pattern And the variation pattern is set as a variation pattern command. The relationship between the numerical value of the first variation type counter CS1 and the variation type (reach pattern), and the relationship between the numerical value of the second variation type counter CS2 and the variation display time are shown in a table (CS1 and CS2 values and variation patterns not shown). The correspondence table) is specified in advance. Also, when determining the variable display time, check whether it is in the high probability mode or the short time mode, and if it is in the high probability mode or the short time mode, the variable display time is It is set shorter than usual. In addition, even if it is not in the high probability mode and not in the time reduction mode, a configuration in which the variable display time is shortened may be employed in a state where there is a hold (for example, three or more).

  In this embodiment, when a “big hit” occurs (in the case of stop symbol classification “4”, “5”), one of normal reach, super reach and premium reach is selected, ”Occurs (in the case of stop symbol category“ 3 ”), either normal reach or super reach is selected, and“ reach other than forward / backward deviation ”occurs (in the case of stop symbol category“ 2 ”) Normal reach is selected for. In addition, when it is “completely off” (in the case of the stop symbol category “1”), none of normal reach, super reach, and premium reach is selected.

  After the variation pattern determination process in step S638, a variation display start process is performed in step S639. Specifically, color change display (variable display) on the special display device 43 is started. The special display device 43 is a three-color LED as described above, and changes color to green if the lit color is red, blue if it is green, and red if it is blue. Thereafter, in step S640, a variation start flag (see steps S301 and S302) indicating the start of variation display is set, and then the variation start process is terminated.

  Here, the variation display mode of the decorative symbol display device 42 performed based on the variation pattern command and the symbol command determined in the variation start process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the variation display mode of the decorative symbol display device 42 that can be selected in the low probability mode will be described.

  In the present embodiment, when the decorative symbol display is performed on the decorative symbol display device 42, as shown in FIG. 25A, the numbers as the decorative symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and a character performing gymnastics is displayed. The

  FIG. 25B is a display mode example of the decorative symbol display device 42 when the decorative symbols (decorative symbols in the left, middle, and right symbol rows) are completely out of place and stopped and displayed in combination. In this way, in the case of complete detachment, the symbols in the right symbol column and the left symbol column are not the same, so the symbol in the right symbol column will be disengaged when it is stopped (right / middle / left). It can be seen that the symbols of are not the same). In the present embodiment, after the display as shown in FIG. 25 (b) is made, the decoration symbol is completely removed and the combination of symbols is stopped and displayed, and the character continues to exercise until the end of the variable display. The

  FIG. 25C is a diagram for explaining a display mode example of the decorative symbol display device 42 when a decorative symbol (decorative symbol in the left / right symbol column) is stopped and displayed by a combination of reach symbols. In the present embodiment, when the reach symbol is stopped and displayed, the character starts to run in order to make a long jump.

  FIG. 25D illustrates an example of a display mode of the decorative symbol display device 42 when the decorative symbol (decorative symbol of the left / middle / right symbol column) is stopped and displayed by the combination of the jackpot symbol (probability variable symbol). FIG. In the present embodiment, the same decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in the left, middle, and right symbol rows, and a display is made so that the character wins the long jump.

  FIG. 25 (e) shows a case where a decorative symbol (decorative symbol in the left / middle / right symbol row) is stopped and displayed in a combination of front and rear symbols, and super reach is derived during the variable display. It is a figure explaining the example of a display mode of the decoration design display apparatus 42 in the case of being. In the present embodiment, during the variation display, in addition to the character that makes a long jump, a character (cheerleader) that supports the character is displayed so that the player can expect a big hit. . In the middle symbol row, the numbers in the left and right symbol rows (decorative symbol) and the number shifted by one (decorative symbol) are stopped and displayed, but the character succeeds in the long jump but cannot win. Made.

  FIG. 25 (f) is a diagram for explaining an example of the display mode of the decorative symbol display device 42 when the decorative symbol (decorative symbol of the left / middle / right symbol column) is stopped and displayed with a combination of symbols other than front and rear deviation. is there. In the present embodiment, in the middle symbol row, the numbers in the left and right symbol rows (decorative symbols) and the numbers shifted by two or more (decorative symbols) are stopped and displayed, and the long jump jump is displayed. Note that during the variable display, a particularly unusual display effect (display of a cheerleader or the like) is not performed.

  Next, a variation display mode of the decorative symbol display device 42 that can be selected in the high probability mode will be described.

  As described above, during the high probability mode, the decorative symbol variation display time is shortened. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 25 (b), when the decorative symbol is completely out of place and stopped and displayed in combination, the variable display time until the decorative symbol in the left / right symbol row is stopped and displayed. Is shortened, and the time until the decorative symbol in the middle symbol row is stopped is shortened. After the decorative symbol in the left and right symbol rows is stopped, the decorative symbol in the middle symbol row is immediately stopped. Is done. Thus, the time efficiency is improved by shortening the variable display time.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (d), when the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed in combination with the jackpot symbol (probability variable symbol), the variable display time until the decorative symbol in the left / right symbol column is stopped and displayed. Although it is shortened, the time until the decorative symbol in the middle symbol row after that is stopped and displayed is not shortened. Thereby, while improving the time efficiency, the player can fully enjoy the exhilaration feeling that the big hit state may occur after reaching the reach state.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (e), even when the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed by combining the front and rear symbols, the variable display time until the decorative symbol in the left / right symbol row is stopped and displayed is shortened. However, the time until the decorative symbol in the middle symbol row is stopped and displayed is not shortened. As a result, while improving time efficiency, it is possible to avoid a situation where it becomes clear that if the variable display time after the decorative symbol of the right symbol row is stopped and displayed is not shortened, it will be a big hit. it can.

  Further, as described in the above variation start process, the decorative symbols are not stopped and displayed by a combination of symbols other than front and rear deviation during the high probability mode. That is, although the reach state as shown in FIG. 25 (f) occurs, the display effect (display of the cheerleader etc.) is not particularly changed after that, and the number (decoration) of the middle symbol sequence is not performed. The display of the stop symbol such that the symbol (decoration) and the numbers (decorative symbols) in the left and right symbol columns are relatively large (two or more) are not displayed.

  Even during the time reduction mode, the decorative symbol variation display time is shortened in the same manner as in the high probability mode. However, during the time-saving mode, the decorative symbols may be stopped and displayed with a combination of symbols other than front and rear deviation (when the stopped symbol category 2 is selected). In this case, the decoration of the left and right symbol rows Although the variable display time until the symbol is stopped and displayed is shortened, the time until the decorative symbol of the middle symbol row after that is stopped and displayed is not shortened.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 12, if step S502 is YES, that is, if the fluctuation display is being performed, the process proceeds to step S507, where it is determined whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed. In step S508, which is shifted when an affirmative determination is made in step S507, determination display by the special display device 43 is performed. More specifically, based on the numerical values stored in the special display storage area E, a table (not shown) (a table that associates numerical values stored in the special display storage area E with the variable display stop mode of the special display device 43). Referring to Fig. 5, the stop mode of the variable display of the special display device 43 is determined. That is, when “10” is stored in the special display storage area E, a blue color indicating detachment is determined and displayed (for example, lit only for a few seconds), and “11” is stored in the special display storage area E. In this case, the green indicating the normal jackpot with the transition to the low probability mode is determined and displayed (for example, lighted only for a few seconds), and when “12” is stored in the special display storage area E, the high probability mode The red color indicating the probability variation jackpot accompanying the transition to is determined and displayed (for example, lit only for a few seconds).

  Again, such a determination display by the special display device 43 is the main display, and the display of the decorative symbols by the decorative symbol display device 42 is only auxiliary. In the next step S509, a determination command is set, and then this process is terminated. In this manner, the determination command is set at the timing when the variable display on the special display device 43 ends, and the determination command is output to the display control device 45 in the next external output process (see step S201). Then, the display control device 45 that has received the determination command stops displaying the decorative symbol variation display. Thereby, the timing of the variation stop of the decorative symbol and the timing of the variation stop of the LED in the special display device 43 can be matched.

  On the other hand, in step S510, which is shifted when a negative determination is made in step S507, color change display (fluctuation display) of the LED of the special display device 43 is performed. Specifically, if the current lighting color is red, the color is changed to green, blue if it is green, and red if it is blue. Thereby, the color change display (variation display) of the LED of the special display device 43 is realized at the timing of the variation processing, that is, every 4 ms.

  Next, payout control executed by the CPU 511 in the payout control device 311 will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the main process of the payout control device 311. This main process is started upon reset when the power is turned on.

  First, in step S1001, an initial setting process associated with power-on is executed. Specifically, a predetermined value set in advance is set in the stack pointer, and an interrupt mode is set. In step S1002, the process waits until a payout permission command transmitted from main controller 261 is received. When the payout permission command is received, the process proceeds to step S1003 to allow RAM access, and in step S1004, an external interrupt vector is set.

  Thereafter, a data backup process is executed for the RAM 513 in the CPU 511. That is, in step S1005, it is determined whether or not the RAM erase switch 323 provided in the power supply device 313 is pressed (ON), and in the subsequent step S1006, information on occurrence of power interruption is set in the backup area 513a of the RAM 513. It is determined whether or not. In step S1007, a RAM determination value is calculated. In subsequent step S1008, it is determined whether or not the RAM determination value matches the RAM determination value stored when the power is turned off, that is, the validity of the backup. The RAM determination value is, for example, a checksum value at a work area address in the RAM 513. Note that it is possible to determine the effectiveness of backup based on whether or not the keywords written in a predetermined area of the RAM 513 are correctly stored.

  If the RAM erase switch 323 is ON, the process proceeds to a RAM initialization process (step S1015, etc.). Similarly, when the occurrence information of power interruption is not set, or when a backup abnormality is confirmed by the RAM determination value (checksum value or the like), the process proceeds to initialization processing of the RAM 513 (step S1015 or the like). That is, in step S1015, the entire area of the RAM 513 is cleared to 0, and in the subsequent step S1016, initialization processing of the RAM 513 is executed. In step S1017, the CPU peripheral device is initialized, and in step S1018, interrupt permission is set, and the process proceeds to a payout control process described later.

  On the other hand, if the RAM erase switch 323 has not been pressed, the power-off occurrence information is set, and the RAM judgment value (checksum value, etc.) is normal. Execute the process (process when power is restored). That is, in step S1009, the stack pointer before the power interruption is restored, and in step S1010, the information on the occurrence of the power interruption is cleared. In step S1011, the CPU peripheral device is initialized, and in step S1012, the register used is restored from the backup area 513a of the RAM 513. Further, in steps S1013 and S1014, the interrupt permission / non-permission is returned to the state before the power interruption, and then the address before the power interruption is returned.

  Next, the flow of the payout control process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In FIG. 19, in step S1101, a command from the main control device 261 is acquired, and the total number of prize balls is stored. In step S1102, launch permission is set for the launch control apparatus 312. In step S1103, the state return switch 321 is checked, and if it is determined that the state return operation has started, the state return operation is executed.

  Thereafter, in step S1104, setting of the lower pan full tank state or the lower pan full tank release state is executed in accordance with the change in the state of the lower pan 15. That is, when the lower pan 15 is detected based on the detection signal of the lower pan full switch, when the lower pan is full, the lower pan full state is set, and when the lower pan full is not reached , Set the lower pan full release state. In step S1105, setting of a tank ball absence state or a tank ball absence release state is executed in accordance with a change in the state of the tank 355. In other words, the tank ball no switch state is determined based on the detection signal of the tank ball no switch, and the special setting for the absence of the tank ball and the setting for the no tank ball state are executed. Perform configuration.

  Thereafter, in step S1106, the presence / absence of a state to be notified is determined. If there is a state to be notified, the 7-segment LED provided in the payout control device 311 is notified.

  In steps S1107 to S1109, prize ball payout processing is executed. In this case, if the prize ball is not paid out and the total number of prize balls stored in step S1101 is not 0 (both NO in steps S1107 and S1108), the process proceeds to step S1109 and a prize ball control process (described later). FIG. 20) is started. Further, if the prize ball cannot be paid out or the total number of prize balls is 0 (YES in any of steps S1107 and S1108), the process proceeds to a lending payout process.

  Thereafter, in steps S1110 to S1112, a rental ball payout process is executed. In this case, if it is not possible to pay out the rented ball and if a rented ball payout request from the card unit is received (step S1110 is NO, S1111 is YES), the process proceeds to step S1112 and a renting control process (described later). FIG. 21) is started. Further, if a rental ball cannot be paid out or a rental ball payout request is not received (YES in step S1110 or NO in S1111), the subsequent ball removal process is executed.

  In step S1113, the state return switch 321 is checked to check that the ball removal is not disabled and that the ball removal operation is not started, and the payout motor 358a is driven to execute the ball removal process. In the subsequent step S1114, the control of the vibrator 360 (vibration motor control) is executed on condition that the ball is clogged. Thereafter, the process returns to the top of the payout control process.

  Here, in the prize ball control process shown in FIG. 20, in step S1201, the payout motor 358a is driven to execute the prize ball payout. In the subsequent step S1202, it is determined from the detection result of the dispensing rotation sensor whether the rotation of the dispensing motor 358a is normal. If the rotation of the payout motor 358a is not normal, the process proceeds to step S1203, the payout motor 358a is driven to execute a retry process, and the stop process of the payout motor 358a is executed. Thereafter, the process returns to the payout control process of FIG.

  If the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal, the process advances to step S1204 to determine whether or not the game ball is normally counted based on the detection result of the payout count switch. If the game ball count is not normal, the process advances to step S1205 to drive the payout motor 358a to execute a retry process and execute a stop process of the payout motor 358a, and then return to the payout control process of FIG.

  If the game ball count is normal, the process advances to step S1206 to determine whether or not the game ball count by the payout count switch has reached the total number of prize balls and the payout has been completed. If the payout has been completed, a stop process of the payout motor 358a is executed in step S1207, and then the process returns to the payout control process of FIG.

  In the ball lending control process shown in FIG. 21, in step S1301, the payout motor 358a is driven to pay out the lending ball. In the subsequent step S1302, whether the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal is determined based on the detection result of the payout rotation sensor. If the rotation of the payout motor 358a is not normal, the process advances to step S1303 to drive the payout motor 358a to execute a retry process and execute a stop process of the payout motor 358a, and then return to the payout control process in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal, the process proceeds to step S1304, and whether or not the game ball is normally counted is determined based on the detection result of the payout count switch. If the game ball count is not normal, the process advances to step S1305 to drive the payout motor 358a to execute a retry process and execute a stop process of the payout motor 358a, and then return to the payout control process of FIG.

  Further, if the game ball count is normal, the process proceeds to step S1306, where it is determined whether or not the game ball count by the payout count switch has reached a predetermined number of rented balls (25) and the payout is completed. If the payout has been completed, a stop process for the payout motor 358a is executed in step S1307, and then the process returns to the payout control process in FIG.

  As described above in detail, in the present embodiment, in the high probability mode, when a symbol (decoration symbol) is completely out of place and stopped and displayed in combination with a symbol, the symbol in the right symbol row is stopped and displayed. Immediately, the symbols in the middle symbol row are stopped and displayed. Thereby, it is possible to improve the time efficiency and to avoid the possibility that the player feels that he / she is spending extra time.

  Further, in the high probability mode, when the symbols are stopped and displayed by the combination of jackpot symbols, the variable display after the symbols in the right symbol row are stopped and displayed is not shortened. As a result, even during the high probability mode, it is possible to fully enjoy the variable display that can give a sense of excitement until the special gaming state is given.

  Further, even when the symbols are stopped and displayed in a combination of symbols that are out of front and back during the high probability mode, the fluctuation display after the symbols in the right symbol row are stopped and displayed is not shortened. As a result, there is a risk that after the symbols in the right symbol row are stopped and displayed, if the symbols in the middle symbol row are not stopped and displayed immediately, it will become a big game. It can be avoided.

  In addition, when a symbol is stopped and displayed with a combination of symbols other than front and back, the symbol corresponding to the jackpot in the middle symbol row (left and right symbols) is compared to when the symbol is stopped and displayed with a combination of back and forth symbols. Since the symbols that are greatly deviated from the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the column) are stopped and displayed, the player may feel that the symbol is not very fragile when the symbols in the middle symbol row are stopped or displayed immediately before. I do not receive it. Therefore, in the present embodiment, during the high probability mode, the stop symbol category 2 is removed from the selection target, so that the symbols are not stopped and displayed by a combination of symbols other than front and rear. As a result, it is possible to suppress the possibility of feeling that the player is spending extra time and to sufficiently improve the time efficiency.

  Further, in the high probability mode, even though the symbols in the left and right symbol sequences are stopped and displayed by the combination of the reach symbols, the situation that the symbols are immediately stopped and displayed in the middle symbol sequence does not occur. For this reason, the player is expected to generate a big hit state by stopping display with a combination of reach symbols, and tries to watch the subsequent fluctuation display, but the fluctuation display is immediately terminated. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a possibility that the user feels uncomfortable. As a result, while improving the time efficiency during the high probability mode, it is possible to suppress the possibility that a sense of incongruity will occur, and the player can play the game comfortably and smoothly.

  Also, in the high probability mode, the probability that a jackpot state will be given is increased (in this example, five times the probability in the low probability mode), so that the player will naturally be given a jackpot state soon. Go play. Therefore, the interest in whether or not the high probability mode is given in the game after the jackpot state is given is greater than the interest in whether or not the jackpot state is given. Due to this, the player is less interested in the display of fluctuations that are out of place, and if time is spent on the display of fluctuations that are out of place, there is a possibility that the interest will be lowered. In this respect, by adopting a configuration in which the stop symbol category 2 is not selected in the high probability mode as in the present embodiment, the above-mentioned fear can be dispelled, and the player can play the game with good mood. .

  Further, during the high probability mode, a determination process (see FIG. 14: step S633) is performed as a second classification determination process that divides into the stop symbol category 2 and the other stop symbol categories (stop symbol category 1 or 3). Without performing the determination process (see FIG. 14: step S635) as the first classification determination process, which is divided into the stop symbol category 3 and the other stop symbol categories (stop symbol category 1), the stop symbol category 2 Is removed from the selection target, and the symbols are not stopped and displayed by a combination of symbols other than front and rear.

  In addition to the configuration of the present embodiment, for example, in the variation start process for starting the variation display that is out of place, the stop symbol category can be changed after any of the stop symbol categories 1 to 3 is selected. Then, even if stop symbol category 2 is selected once in high probability mode, by changing to other stop symbol category (stop symbol category 1 or 3), the symbols can be combined other than front and back. It is possible to configure so that the stop display is not performed. However, in this case, after determining the stop symbol class, it is determined whether or not it is the high probability mode. When it is determined that the high probability mode is selected, the selected stop symbol class is the stop symbol class. It is necessary to perform a number of processes such as changing the stop symbol category when it is determined whether the symbol is 2 or not, and when it is determined that it is the stop symbol category 2. In this respect, in the present embodiment, in the high probability mode, since the stop symbol category 2 is not selected, it is not necessary to perform the above-described processing after the stop symbol category is determined. Can be achieved.

  In addition, for example, when the second segment determination process is performed after the first segment determination process, the mode is set after the first segment determination process to skip the second segment determination process when in the high probability mode. It is necessary to perform the process for determining again. In this regard, in the present embodiment, the first segment determination process is performed after the second segment determination process, and the high probability mode and the low probability mode are separated in order to set the threshold (FIG. 14: In step S623), when the high probability mode is being used, the second segment determination process is skipped. For this reason, it is not necessary to perform a process for determining the mode after the first classification determination process, and as a result, the process can be simplified.

  As mentioned above, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment at all, and it cannot be overemphasized that it can implement with a various form, unless it deviates from the meaning of this invention.

  (A) In the above embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the symbols are not stopped and displayed by a combination of symbols other than forward and backward deviation only in the high probability mode (stop symbol category 2 is not selected). May be configured not to be stopped and displayed by a combination of symbols other than back and forth. In this case, there is a risk that a sense of incongruity may occur immediately because the symbols in the middle symbol row are stopped and displayed immediately, even though the symbols are stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol rows in combination with the reach symbols. It can be avoided. In this case, the high probability mode and the short time mode correspond to the second mode.

  In addition, when adopting a configuration in which the variable display time is shortened in a state where there is a hold in the low probability mode (except during the time reduction mode), even if the hold is in a state, the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination of symbols other than back and forth. It may be configured not to be performed.

  (B) In the above embodiment, a gaming machine to which the time reduction mode is given as one kind of the low probability mode is adopted, but a gaming machine without the time reduction mode may be adopted. Also, a gaming machine that has a time reduction mode but no high probability mode may be adopted. In this case, during the time reduction mode, the symbols are configured not to be stopped and displayed by a combination of symbols other than the back and forth. In this case, the time reduction mode corresponds to the second mode.

  (C) In the above-described embodiment, the combination of the stop symbols of the decorative symbols is determined in the main controller 261. However, the present invention is not particularly limited to such a configuration. For example, the main control device 261 determines the stop symbol classification and sets the stop symbol classification (“1” to “5”) in the symbol command. And the structure that the display control apparatus 45 determines the combination of a decoration symbol based on a symbol command may be employ | adopted. In this case, the control burden on the main controller 261 can be reduced. When such a configuration is adopted, display control is performed for the big-hit decoration symbol counter C5, left / middle / right-off symbol counters CL, CM, CR, and a counter buffer for temporarily storing these counter values. The device 45 is provided.

  (D) In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the setting is made in correspondence with the high probability mode in step S622, which is the previous stage in which it is determined whether or not the high probability flag in step S623 of the variation start process is set. Although the set threshold value is stored in the set value storage area, after the affirmative determination is made in step S623, the threshold value set corresponding to the high probability mode may be stored in the set value storage area. Good.

  (E) In the above embodiment, the combination pattern of stop symbols (stop symbol classification) is “combination of completely out of symbol”, “combination of symbols other than front and back out”, “combination of out of front and back symbols”, “ It is divided into five categories, “usually jackpot symbol combinations” and “probable variation jackpot symbol combinations”, but it is not particularly limited to this method, and it is possible to design freely for each model. it can. For example, the “combination of symbols other than front and rear deviation” may be further divided into two.

  (F) In the above embodiment, in the variable display when the symbol is stopped and displayed by a combination of symbols that are out of front and back, or when the symbol is stopped and displayed by a combination of jackpot symbols, the middle symbol row corresponds to the jackpot Adopts a configuration in which the variable display is displayed in slow motion from the time when the symbol displayed before the symbol (the same symbol as the symbol stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol rows) is displayed until it is stopped. May be.

  (G) In the above embodiment, in the variation process shown in FIG. 12, it is determined whether or not the variation time has elapsed (step S507). If the variation time has not elapsed (step S507: NO), the color The display was changed (step S510). Since this variation processing is repeatedly executed at 4 msec, the three-color LEDs constituting the special display device 43 are configured to change colors and display every 4 ms.

  However, if the timing of color change is too early, the player cannot recognize each color (red, green, blue) of the LED, and the player may appear to be lighting the LED in white. Therefore, after the negative determination is made in step S507, a step of determining the elapse of a predetermined time may be inserted before the execution of step S510, for example. For example, when a negative determination is made in step S507, a step for determining the passage of several hundred msec is further inserted, and step S510 is executed only when a positive determination is made in this step. In this way, a color change display is made every few hundreds of milliseconds, and the player can reliably recognize the color change of red → green → blue → red →. You will be able to experience it.

  (H) In the above embodiment, the display control device 45 is electrically connected to the main control device 261, and the sound lamp control device 262 is electrically connected to the display control device 45.

  On the other hand, the sound lamp control device 262 may be electrically connected to the main control device 261, and the display control device 45 may be electrically connected to the sound lamp control device 262.

  (I) You may implement as a pachinko machine etc. of a different type from the said embodiment. For example, once a big hit, a pachinko machine that raises the expected value of the big hit until a big hit state occurs (for example, two times or three times) including that (for example, a two-time right item, a three-time right item) May also be implemented. Further, it may be implemented as a pachinko machine that enters a special gaming state on the condition that a game ball is awarded in a predetermined area after the big hit symbol is displayed. Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to a pachinko machine called a blade. In addition to pachinko machines, the present invention can also be implemented as various game machines such as an arrangement ball machine or a sparrow ball similar to it. However, these gaming machines are equipped with a variable display device such as a liquid crystal display device or a dot matrix display device.

  (J) As a gaming machine other than a pachinko machine, it can of course be implemented as a slot machine as a swivel type gaming machine equipped with an auxiliary display device (liquid crystal display device, dot matrix display device) as a variable display device. The slot machine includes a rotating body with a plurality of symbols. For example, when a coin is inserted and the operating lever is operated in a state where the symbol effective line is determined, the symbol fluctuates, and the stop button It is a well-known thing that the symbol is stopped by operating. In this case, the auxiliary display device displays various effects as the rotating body rotates.

  Moreover, you may implement as a game machine which the pachinko machine and the slot machine united. As a specific example, an identification information string composed of a plurality of identification information (specifically, a reel and identification information is a symbol attached to the reel) is variably displayed (specifically, a rotation of the reel). And a variable display means for finally stopping and displaying the identification information. The fluctuation of the identification information is started due to the operation of the start operation means (for example, the operation lever), and the stop operation means (for example, the stop button) is operated. Due to the fact that the variation of the identification information is stopped due to the elapse of a predetermined time, a special gaming state generating means for generating a special gaming state advantageous to the player based on the lottery result made at that time is provided as a game medium. In addition to using game balls, a predetermined number of game balls are required at the start of variation of the identification information, and many game balls are paid out when a special game state occurs.

It is a front view which shows the pachinko machine in one embodiment. It is a front view which shows the inner frame etc. in the state which open | released the front frame set. It is a front view which shows the structure of a game board. It is a rear view which shows the structure of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view which shows the structure of an inner frame and a game board. It is a block diagram which shows the main electrical structures of a pachinko machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the various counters used for game control. It is a flowchart which shows the main process by the main controller. It is a flowchart which shows a normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an external output process. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of an off symbol counter. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation | variation start process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation | variation start process. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a start winning process. It is a flowchart which shows a NMI interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process of the payout control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows payout control processing. It is a flowchart which shows prize ball control. It is a flowchart which shows ball rental control. It is a figure which shows a jackpot table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the correspondence of a game state and a threshold value. It is explanatory drawing which shows the correspondence of a threshold value and the value of a stop pattern selection counter. It is a figure which shows the display mode in a decoration symbol display apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 33 ... 1st opportunity corresponding port as starting ball entry means, 42 ... Decoration symbol display device as variable display device, 45 ... Display control device as display control means, 261 ... Game state Main control device as control means.

Claims (4)

A variable display device in which a variable display of a plurality of types of symbols is performed in each of a plurality of symbol display areas;
Display control means for variably displaying symbols in each symbol display area of the variable display device, and sequentially stopping and displaying symbols in the symbol display area in the variable display;
Perform a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player at a predetermined opportunity, and if the winning lottery is won, give a special gaming state,
At least when the occurrence of the special gaming state is determined, the mode lottery is performed, and after completion of the special gaming state, the first mode or the first mode according to the result of the mode lottery, The variable display time from the start of the variable display to the stop display in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed at the end of the plurality of symbol display areas is set to be short. Set one of the two modes,
Game state control means for selecting any one of the combination patterns of symbols to be stopped and displayed in each symbol display area of the variable display device;
The pattern combination pattern is divided into at least first to fourth combination patterns,
If the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, the variable display device is stopped and displayed with a combination corresponding to one of the first to third combination patterns,
When winning in the winning / losing lottery, a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device,
In the variable display device, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to any of the second to fourth combination patterns, the symbol is variably displayed in the symbol display area where the stop display is finally performed. At a certain time, the symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific manner in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. Then, the symbols constituting the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is given are stopped and displayed,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the third combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbol that forms a specific combination mode is stopped and displayed.
When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbol is stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbol stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbols constituting the combination mode other than the specific combination mode are stopped and displayed.
The gaming state control means includes
When winning in the winning / no-win lottery, a pattern selection process for selecting the fourth combination pattern is performed,
During the first mode, if the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, a pattern selection process for selecting one of the first to third combination patterns is performed.
In the second mode, if the winning combination is not won, the second combination pattern is removed from the selection target, and either the first or third combination pattern is selected. Pattern selection process to
The gaming state control means or the display control means
A stop symbol determination process for determining a symbol according to the result of the pattern selection process;
According to the result of the pattern selection process and the set mode, a variation pattern determination process for determining a variation mode and a variation display time of the symbol at the time of variation display of the symbol,
The display control means includes
In the variable display device, after the symbol variation display is performed based on the symbol variation mode and variation display time determined by the variation pattern determination process, the symbol determined by the stop symbol determination process is stopped and displayed. A gaming machine that performs display control processing. The gaming state control means includes
A stop pattern selection counter used in determining the combination pattern of the stop symbols;
Random number extraction means for extracting the value of the stop pattern selection counter at the predetermined opportunity;
At least a first threshold value storage means for storing a first threshold value that is a predetermined numerical value and a second threshold value that is a numerical value smaller than the first threshold value;
At least a second mode threshold value storage means in which a first threshold value that is a predetermined numerical value is stored;
In the first mode, if you do not win in the winning lottery,
A first classification determination process for determining whether or not at least the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is equal to or greater than a first threshold stored in the first mode threshold storage means;
It is determined whether or not the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold stored in the first mode threshold storage means and less than the first threshold. Perform the second classification determination process,
Based on the first and second classification determination processing,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold, select the third combination pattern,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to a second threshold and less than the first threshold, the second combination pattern is selected,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is less than the second threshold value, a pattern selection process for selecting the first combination pattern is performed,
In the second mode, if you do not win in the winning lottery,
A first classification determination process is performed to determine whether or not at least the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction unit is equal to or greater than a first threshold stored in the second mode threshold storage unit. ,
Based on the first classification determination process,
If the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold, select the third combination pattern,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein if the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction unit is less than a first threshold value, a pattern selection process for selecting the first combination pattern is performed. . A setting having a first threshold storage area capable of storing the first threshold stored in the first and second mode threshold storage means, and a second threshold storage area capable of storing the second threshold A value storage means,
In a stage before performing the first and second classification determination processes, a mode determination process for determining whether or not the first mode is being performed is performed,
Based on the result of the mode determination process, the threshold stored in either the first mode threshold storage means or the second mode threshold storage means is referred to in the first and second classification determination processes. The determined first threshold value is stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means, and the determined second threshold value is stored in the second threshold value storage area. Perform the setting process,
Of the first category determination process and the second category determination process, the second category determination process is performed before the first category determination process.
In the first mode, when the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means and the second threshold value storage area are stored. After performing the second segment determination process based on the second threshold value, the first segment determination based on the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means Process,
In the case where the winning lottery is not won in the second mode, the second classification determination process is skipped, and the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storing means is stored. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the first classification determination process is performed based on a threshold value. A variable display device in which a variable display of a plurality of types of symbols is performed in each of a plurality of symbol display areas;
Display control means for variably displaying symbols in each symbol display area of the variable display device, and sequentially stopping and displaying symbols in the symbol display area in the variable display;
Perform a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player at a predetermined opportunity, and if the winning lottery is won, give a special gaming state,
At least when the occurrence of the special gaming state is determined, the mode lottery is performed, and after completion of the special gaming state, the first mode or the first mode according to the result of the mode lottery, The variable display time from the start of the variable display to the stop display in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area where the symbol is stopped and displayed at the end of the plurality of symbol display areas is set to be short. Set one of the two modes,
Game state control means for selecting any one of the combination patterns of symbols to be stopped and displayed in each symbol display area of the variable display device;
The pattern combination pattern is divided into at least first to fourth combination patterns,
If the winning / not-winning lottery is not won, the variable display device is stopped and displayed with a combination corresponding to one of the first to third combination patterns,
When winning in the winning / losing lottery, a symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device,
In the variable display device, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to any of the second to fourth combination patterns, the symbol is variably displayed in the symbol display area where the stop display is finally performed. At a certain time, the symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific manner in the symbol display area other than the symbol display area,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in the combination corresponding to the fourth combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. Then, the symbols constituting the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is given are stopped and displayed,
When the symbols are stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the third combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbols are stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbols stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbol that forms a specific combination mode is stopped and displayed.
When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination corresponding to the second combination pattern in the variable display device, the symbol is stopped and displayed in the specific mode and then combined with the symbol stopped and displayed in the specific mode. In the combination mode indicating that the special gaming state is not granted, the symbols constituting the combination mode other than the specific combination mode are stopped and displayed.
The gaming state control means includes
A stop pattern selection counter used in determining the combination pattern of the stop symbols;
Random number extraction means for extracting the value of the stop pattern selection counter at the predetermined opportunity;
A first mode threshold value storage means for storing a first threshold value that is a predetermined numerical value and a second threshold value that is a numerical value smaller than the first threshold value;
A second mode threshold storage means for storing a first threshold which is a predetermined numerical value;
A setting having a first threshold storage area capable of storing the first threshold stored in the first and second mode threshold storage means, and a second threshold storage area capable of storing the second threshold A value storage means,
Performs a success / failure determination process for determining whether or not the winning / failing lottery has been won,
When it is determined that the winning determination process is won, a pattern selection process for selecting a fourth combination pattern is performed,
When it is determined that the winning determination process is not won, a mode determination process for determining whether or not the first mode is being performed is performed,
During the first mode, the first threshold value stored in the first mode threshold value storage means is stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means, and the second threshold value storage is performed. The second threshold value stored in the first mode threshold value storage means is stored for the area, and the second threshold value is stored for the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means when in the second mode. Performing a threshold setting process for storing the first threshold stored in the two-mode threshold storage means;
When it is determined that the first mode is in the mode determination process,
The value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold value stored in the second threshold value storage area of the set value storage means and stored in the first threshold value storage area. 2nd classification judgment processing which judges whether it is less than the threshold value of 2,
In the second classification determination process, the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold stored in the second threshold storage area and stored in the first threshold storage area. If it is determined that it is less than the first threshold value, a pattern selection process for selecting the second combination pattern is performed,
On the other hand, in the second classification determination process, the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the second threshold stored in the second threshold storage area and is stored in the first threshold storage area. If it is determined that it is not less than the stored first threshold value, the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extracting means is stored in the first threshold value storage area of the set value storage means. 1st classification determination processing which determines whether it is more than the threshold value of 1,
If it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, a third Perform a pattern selection process to select a combination pattern,
On the other hand, if it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is not equal to or greater than the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, Perform pattern selection processing to select the first combination pattern,
When it is determined that the first mode is not in the mode determination process,
The value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is equal to or greater than the first threshold value stored in the first threshold value storage area of the setting value storage means, skipping the second classification determination process. A first classification determination process is performed to determine whether or not
If it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is greater than or equal to the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, Perform pattern selection processing to select the combination pattern of
On the other hand, if it is determined in the first classification determination process that the value of the stop pattern selection counter extracted by the random number extraction means is not equal to or greater than the first threshold stored in the first threshold storage area, Perform pattern selection processing to select the first combination pattern,
The gaming state control means or the display control means
A stop symbol determination process for determining a symbol according to the result of the pattern selection process;
According to the result of the pattern selection process and the set mode, a variation pattern determination process for determining a variation mode of the symbol and a variation display time of the symbol at the time of the variation display of the symbol,
The display control means includes
In the variable display device, after the symbol variation display is performed based on the symbol variation mode and variation display time determined by the variation pattern determination process, the symbol determined by the stop symbol determination process is stopped and displayed. A gaming machine that performs display control processing.

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